Slaley, Northumberland

Sealey Parish Council July 2010 minutes

Members of the public attended a special meeting to hear NCC's Countryside Support Team Manager and members of the Trail Riders Fellowship answer concerns about four unsurfaced 'U' roads in the parish being designated as BOATs. See pages 616 - 618.

Minutes of Slaley Parish Council, Monday July 12th 2010,
in Slaley Commemoration Hall.

A special meeting between 7.30 and 8.30 p.m. to discuss four green lanes, which are subject to a Draft Map Modification Order as BOATs on 11/5/10. Representations or objections to the DMMO should be received at County Hall by July 23rd.
U8127 to BOAT No 37 – Blue Gables. U8091 to BOAT No 36 – Healey Cleugh.
U8079 to BOAT No 34 – High Clear. U8074 to BOAT No 33 – Shield Hall
Present:
David Brookes, NCC Countryside Support Team Manager. Tony Whitehead, Chairman & Rights of Way Officer, Northumbria Trail Riders Fellowship + two local members of the TRF.
Police Constable Steve Ridley of the Neighbourhood Team.
Members of Slaley Parish Council: Councillor I.C. Hancock in the Chair. Councillors Mrs C. A. Brooks & Mrs L. Norris. Clerk Mrs P. Wilson.
Members of the Public present for this item: Jackie Hughes, High Clear; George & Doreen Hall, High Clear; Jill & Denis Lumley farm The Cleugh land; Vicky Hutchinson West Burnside; Mrs A Dodds, Shield Hall; Mr & Mrs Lee, Peth Foot; Michael Elphick; David Short; Tom Warde-Aldam; Russell Stephenson; Mildred Robson; Horse riders: Sandra Innes, Lesley Woodhouse, John & Susan Flynn, Vicky Bell, Brian & Kate Wilson.
Apologies: John McEvoy & Carol Robinson The Cleugh.

Councillor Hancock explained the reason for the meeting and introduced David Brookes (DB).
DB explained the 1950’s Definitive Map and Statement and the review of the DM&S. Road classifications ‘A’, ‘B’, ‘C’ & ‘U’ were discussed with special emphasis on unclassified routes.
The List of Streets (our four green lanes) includes U roads which are presumed by the Highway Authority to carry vehicular rights. Central Government advised that these routes need clarification and the Council is engaged in a county wide programme to determine the status of these routes and where appropriate record them on the Definitive Map and Statement. Evidence to support the contention that routes should be included on the Definitive Map and Statement as BOAT’s includes their inclusion on the List of Streets and on Rural District Handover Maps and Restricted Ribbon Development Act maps. It would be unlikely that inclusion on the list of streets only would be sufficient on the balance of probability to confirm an Order that had been made. Where the Council makes an Order to record a route and it receives objections or representations it must be sent to the Secretary of State for determination with all the available evidence from the Highways Authority and objectors.
Q. What form can our objections take?
DB Historical evidence – for example, has the route been stopped up through the Magistrates Court or is there any other documentary evidence that public rights do not exist that the Council is not aware of. NCC evidence indicates that it is reasonable to allege that the routes do carry vehicular rights and this is why Orders have been made. Before confirming Orders the Council or the Secretary of State will need to be satisfied that the evidence supports confirmation on the balance of probability.
Q. High Clear BOAT No 34 - children walking or on horses have no chance of escape when confronted with vehicles especially in middle section on blind corners. If vehicles are encouraged then the route will be closed to walkers and horse riders.
DB This route is already shown on the OS map as an “other Route with Public Access” and vehicle users know that they can use it. My personal evidence suggests very occasional 4 x 4 usage but more frequent motor-cycles. Safety issues will be looked at if substantiated problems arise. Evidence suggested very light use.
Angry Statement from many - Usage has increased since the DMMO was made and is escalating weekly. The public gave many examples.
Councillor Hancock Statement: Traffic Regulation Orders (TROs) could be placed on the roads since they are already recorded as public roads.
DB. NCC would need to be satisfied that there was a danger, damage or a relevant reason before a TRO could be put in place. TRO’s are expensive and not entered into lightly.
Tony Whitehead (TW) gave a presentation by the Trail Riders Fellowship (TRF).
The TRF promotes safe use of un-surfaced routes. In Northumberland its 100 + members have a Code of Conduct they promote safe sustainable use. Groups of no more than 6 riders and a maximum speed of 25 mph. No routes are used in bad weather and riding round and round in circles is not encouraged. Use a route no more than twice in any 24 hours – once in each direction.
The public gave many examples where this is not what happens in reality.
TW continued Inform me of registration numbers, description of riders and or their machines and I will try to identify these riders through out network.
Q Why do you want to ride these lanes when there are adequate hard surfaced roads available?
TW To enjoy the countryside and we prefer NOT to ride on hard surfaces.
Q Why do your members not find a purposeful site in the countryside and ride there.
TW We do not want to ride round and round at a Motor X meeting. In England and Wales only 3% of the RoW network is open to vehicular traffic.
DB explained the Natural Environment & Rural Communities Act 2006 (NERC). This Act extinguished rights for motor vehicles over many routes but there were a number of exceptions including routes that are recorded on Highway Authorities ‘List of Streets’.
Member of the TRF: As a member of the TRF we are forced to use certain routes more often as other routes are closed to us through TROs.
The public was annoyed with this statement and said that not all instances were with responsible drivers. Examples were given some bad one good – mother and daughter on horseback met two trail bikers who switched off their engines and walked their machines past the horses.
TW confirmed that the response of horses towards motor vehicles must dictate the situation. The width of the route must also dictate the speed.
DB Informed the meeting that anyone could object or make representations on an Order made by the Council. Usually for an Order not to be confirmed there would need to be substantive reasons and objections on safety and environmental grounds are not relevant to what rights exist on a route. However, representations can be made whatever the reason and the Council would have to forward the Order and representations to the Secretary of State who would decide what evidence was relevant.
Q Maintenance of the routes was questioned especially the financial implications. Natural widths and usable widths were argued over.
DB DB agreed that the Council does not have adequate resources to maintain public rights of way to the standards some expect. Where a width of a right of way is known that has to be recorded in the Definitive Map and Statement. The recorded width of a route may not be the same as the useable width.
No 34 High Clear – Infrequent use at present = sustain current level of use.
No 36 Cleugh – Public Bridleway at the end (parish boundary) not anticipating any usage = no work is necessary unless a complaint is made.
No 33 Shield Hall – west and east portions of route are hard surfaced and sustainable however the central section is steep sided and narrow with evidence of running water – this is most likely to cause problems.
No 37 Blue Gables – Councillor Hancock mentioned that the mains water is piped up the green lane very near the surface and concern was that the water supply would be damaged by an increase of use. DB said that any damage would be repaired by Northumbria Water = sustain current level of use.
DB talked of BOATs in Slaley Forest which had been damaged by 4x4s and the repairs to the Gingleshaugh, Low Lead Road and Blanchland Road The routes were repaired because they were becoming un-useable by walkers and horseriders and had to be sustainable for all types of user. The Byways and Bridleways Trust,was critical of the work undertaken.
The Public voiced concern over new routes in Slaley Forest where previously nothing had been recorded. Forestry trees being removed to make way for new routes.
DB said that the trees had been felled as a normal part of the FC's felling programme and the line of the BOAT had not been replanted. He explained the 1771 Bulbeck Common Enclosure award where all the parish roads were recorded, their width and their positions shown on the accompanying map. This is primarily the Historical evidence used to reopen these old routes prior to the NERC Act.
Police: PC Steve Ridley explained how the Police could help and how the general public could help the police. Registration numbers of trailers bringing unregistered trail bikes into the area was vital to the police. Warning signs that vehicles are using routes are displayed in the area.
The Public returned to the question of who and how to object.
DB talked of substantial evidence, for example, previous Orders to extinguish routes that the Council’s own research had not unearthed. Sustainability is not an objection. The NERC Act recognised the absurdity of opening routes from the 18th/19th centuries for today’s traffic, but some situations, like the present one, were excluded from the Act.
Public: To whom can complaints be made about the NCC's procedures?
DB The Minister at Defra.
TW Not everyone agreed with the NERC Act and the TRF and LARA are campaigning to have it repealed.
Cllr Hancock closed the meeting by thanking everyone for their attendance and gave a general reminder that if you object you need to write. If that does not work then we have the right to request a TRO, though this would be at the discretion of NCC.

Monthly Meeting.
1. Apologies: Ms M Palmer, S. Davison, Mrs A. S. Robson
Present: Councillor I.C. Hancock in the Chair. Councillors Mrs C. A. Brooks, & Mrs L. Norris. Clerk Mrs P. Wilson. County Councillor: Absent. Public: None Courant Reporter: Rebecca Dixon. Slaley Notes: None. Community Trust: None. Northumbria Police: None.

2. Declaration of Interests and Hospitality Record.
The Clerk, Mrs P. Wilson for agenda item 12a.

3. Minutes of June Parish Council Meeting (circulated pages 607-612 + appendix 1 page 613, appendix 2 page 614 & appendix 3 page 615).
Proposed as a true record by Cllr. L. Norris and seconded by Cllr. CA Brooks. The minutes were approved and signed.

4. Matters Arising.
a) 4b 14/6/10; 4d 10/5/10; 8a 12/4/10 Parks Side bungalows parking - Mel Richardson reported that this year’s Capital budget already set therefore 2/3 additional parking bays at Parks Side could be put forward for funding through the 2011/12 Capital budget.
b) 4c 14/6/10; 6a (i) 0/5/10: Funding accumulated through planning permission for sport and play requested from Val Knowles. The £13,272 from Two Castles was initially incorrectly coded with the result that we have until November 2011 to spend the money otherwise it is returned to the developer. Reply received that planning application 20090082 was not subject to a financial contribution because it was an annex to the main building for use by the family only.
c) 4g 14/6/10; 9b 10/5/10 Village speed sign not working reported by telephone to VMS 17th May, June 3rd, June 28th and by e-mail on 2/7/10. The reply from Glynn Hutton, VMS sales manager informed the Clerk that VMS no longer had the contract with Northumbria Camera Partnership, the contract is now with Traffic Direct Limited. However Alan Bawn e-mailed the fact that Slaley PC purchased our equipment from VMS not the Camera Partnership. Glynn Hutton was subsequently e-mailed and asked that the speed sign be repaired. The sign was removed during the afternoon of Wednesday July 7th.
d) 16a 14/6/10 Clerk e-mailed the Election Office at NCC to ask for a 2010 Register of Electors This has now been received. The accompanying letter indicates that the PC is unable to disclose information from the Register to any person.
e) 16c 14/6/10 Reply from NCC Highways, Mel Richardson that he would be able to attend the October PC meeting to discuss a replacement village tree planting scheme.
f) 16 g 14/6/10 A3 size posters advertising Luxury Holiday Homes for sale placed on highway signs request to have the posters removed has been sent to Kevin Allen.

5. Correspondence.
Hard Copies:
a) Letter from St. Mary’s PCC Project Manager with a copy of Invoice No 328 totalling £1411.18 (Vat 210.18) for disabled access work carried out on the Lych Gate. Slaley PC had agreed to pay £650 + the Vat (4b 14/12/09 & 13b 14/12/09; 15 9/11/09 & appendix 5/091109; Public Meeting Wednesday 14 October 2009 advertised through Slaley Notes; 4c 12/10/09; 6 14/9/09; 4a 13/7/09 & appendix 1/130709; 4b 8/6/09; 4d 11/5/09; 7b 20/4/09. Cheque for £1411.18 issued and invoice St. Mary’s PCC £551.00 towards the total payment. Clerk asked to make sure the PCC is aware that the grant was from the TC Beacon Grant and not the Precept.
b) Invitation to comment on the new Sustainable Community Strategy (SCS) for Northumberland. Circulated and asked to read the attached three pages before considering the attached document. It was agreed that no further time should allocated to the SCS, since there is nothing to add to the evidence we provided over a three year period for the previous version of the document.
c) NCC Rural Business Survey – the County Council’s economic prosperity and strategic services overview and scrutiny Committee will consider the RBS presented by Centre of Rural Economy at Newcastle University and discuss its key findings at their meeting on Monday 26th July at 10 a.m. at County Hall. Representative from the County’s Parish Councils are invited. A copy of the Centre’s “key findings” pamphlet was also enclosed. No Attendance from Slaley.
d) Letter from David Brookes requesting an application for a Magistrates Court Order to extinguish/divert a highway for BOAT No 40 Slaley / BOAT No 16 Healey. Request for PC’s comments by August 20th. Slaley PC agrees with the proposal.
e) CPRE Overview Summer 2010; Clerks & Councils Direct July 2010; CAN News Summer issue July 2010 + copy of 58 page booklet entitled “Being a Good Employer” – a guide for parish and town councillors. Quality hardwood Bus shelters advertising leaflet’ Sovereign playground equipment catalogue.
E-mails:
a) 15/6/10 from Brian Massey re combined CF reply to Local Charter questionnaire not possible as no-one available at NCC to come out to our CF and talk.
b) 15/6/10 1st of two from County Durham Planning Policy - Core Strategy Issues & Options Consultation Paper. *
c) 15/6/10 2nd from County Durham Planning Policy Team, Jason Mckewon – Core Strategy Issues & Options Paper. *
d) 15/6/10 from Steve Stewart, Chief Exec of NCC Government cuts in grants
e) 15/6/10 RSN Weekly Rural Focus for 14/6/10; 24/6/10 for 21/6/10; 29/6/10 for 28/6/10; 5/7/10 for 5/7/10
f) 15/6/10 NCC Regeneration Service Funding Bulletin No 23 (17 pages).
g) 16/6/10 from David Francis Coalition Government Briefing 11/6/2010. Clerk suggested Councillors read.
h) 24/6/10 NCC Regeneration Service Funding Bulletin No 24, 25 & 26 on 6/7/10
i) 26/6/10: Reply to NCC Gary McBride re point of contact for bus timetables and Bus service Posters remain as the Clerk.
j) 29/6/10 NHS North of Tyne – pharmaceutical needs assessment (PNA) - 27 page questionnaire Clerk completed on behalf of both Slaley & Healey PCs
k) 1/7/10 from Brian Massey re Lost Dog in Slaley forest.
l) 5/7/10 from Mike Bird Date of Joint NCC / parish Council meeting – West Area – Tuesday October 12th at 6 p.m. venue to be confirmed.
m) 6/7/10 Durham CC – Core Strategy *
n) 6/7/10 Durham CC – Green Belt Assessment *
o) 10/7/10 from David Francis Library consultation – Cllr Brooks to complete.
p) 10/7/10 Durham CC - Plan Poll survey. * Clerk to e-mail and ask why Slaley is getting these.
q) 10/7/10 from Jackie Green, CT, informing the PC that two-planted tubs had been delivered to Townhead by Hollybush Nurseries. * Clerk to reply with the Ivy comment from Alex Evison. Community Trust now in dialogue with Alan Bawn and Kevin Allen regarding a replacement Ladycross sign for Parks Side and also in talks about the damaged pavement outside Ashtree House.
r) 12/7/10 Standards Committee agenda & invitation to PC chairman to attend
s) 12/7/10 ADAPT newsletter giving 7 trips in next 3 months. ADAPT suggest Slaley & surrounding parishes form a Travel Club which could be used by young mothers who do not drive, teenagers during the summer holidays, disabled or elderly trips etc. Renewal of membership was not done in April 2010 – looking back in minutes there is no record of the form being received.
t) NALC survey about why we do not subscribe to DIS

6. Financial Report.
Cheques to be signed
Cheque No 413 Alex Evison grass cutting June £89.65 & July £89.65 = £179.30
Cheque No 414 Armel Ltd disabled access work carried out on St. Mary’s Lych Gate £1411.18 – PC to re-invoice St. Mary’s PCC £551 for the balance (see 5a above)
Cheque No 415 ADAPT Membership £10.00
Proposed by Cllr. L. Norris and seconded by Cllr. CA Brooks the cheques were signed.
b) Interim cheques None
c) Audit: Records available to public 21st June – July 16th
Audit date 23rd July 2010
d) Notification of Vat claim refunded £169.99
e) Bank Statement funds on June 24th standing at £6,894.64

7. Current Planning Applications.
20100015: Certificate of lawfulness for proposed timber stables block / store. Moorlands, Lead Road. Pending
Decisions from Planning Authority
None.

8. Report of meeting 29/6/10 to discuss possible netted games/play area within school grounds. (circulated as appendix 1/120710, page 622)
Clerk has not yet been able to speak with John Moor ex Headteacher at Newbrough First School. Mr Moor was the promoter of a £200,000.00 sport and play area at Newbrough.

9. Parish Plan Action Plan - July Update (circulated as appendix 2/120710, page 623)
No alterations of additions made.

10. Wooley Road Bus Shelter (see agenda item 14 14/6/10)
Mel Richardson presently on holiday but has been speaking to Margaret Field at County Hall about the bus shelter. Clerk to contact Margaret direct.

11. August walk-about route.
Because the old Observation Post is currently not available for a guided tour the proposed BOAT between Shield Hall and Peth Foot was agreed upon. Councillors to meet at Commemoration Hall and two vehicles park safely somewhere near Shield Hall. Clerk to contact Mrs Dodds about the parking.

12. AOB
a) A dead tree opposite Lawn House was reported to the Clerk as dangerous by NEDL while they were trimming back branches from the electricity cable. Clerk wrote to Mr. Graham 19/6/10 and asked if the tree could be removed. Mr Graham was also informed that the letter would be copied to NCC Highways and Slaley PC. NCC Kevin Allen telephoned me today and said the NCC tree surgeon had been out this-morning and the tree is dead and very dangerous he is contacting Mr. Graham tomorrow to have it removed.
b) Due to Clerk and Councillor holidays the September meeting brought forward one week to Monday September 6th.

13. Date of August monthly meeting.
Monday August 9th.

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

Slaley Parish Council June 2010 Minutes

The Parish Council looks into the Housing Developers Funds for Sport & Play at Slaley, see agenda item 4c.

Minutes of Slaley Parish Council, Monday June 14th 2010,
in Slaley Commemoration Hall.

1. Apologies: Cllr. I.C. Hancock.
Present: Councillor Mrs C. A. Brooks in the Chair. Councillors Ms M Palmer, S. Davison, Mrs A. S. Robson & Mrs L. Norris. Clerk Mrs P. Wilson. County Councillor: Absent. Public: Jean Elphick. Courant Reporter: Rebecca Dixon. Slaley Notes: Michael Elphick. Apologies Community Trust Chairman Norman Watson. Northumbria Police: Sergeant Neil Cockburn.

2. Declaration of Interests and Hospitality Record.
None.

3. Minutes of May Parish Council Meeting (circulated pages 603-606).
Proposed as a true record by Cllr. L. Norris and seconded by Cllr. A.S. Robson. The minutes were approved and signed.

4. Matters Arising.
a) 4a 10/5/10; 4a 12/4/10; 4b 8/3/10; 12 15/2/10: Parish Plan Action Plan – Speeding Review. Clerk met Mel Richardson at Parks Side on 11 /5/10. Action - Paul McKenna Traffic Engineer visited the school to see first hand the problem on 10/6/10. He feels little else can be done until funds become available to increase parking capacity.
b) 4d 10/5/10; 8a 12/4/10 Parks Side bungalows parking - Clerk met with Mel Richardson on site. 2/3 additional parking bays at Parks Side would be funded through Capital - to be discussed with Dick Fraser.
c) 6a (i) 0/5/10 Funding accumulated through planning permission for sport and play requested from Val Knowles. Reply received 21/5/10 stated that no monies had been received from Two Castles. Val asked for our evidence that funds were due. Clerk spent two full days researching press cuttings, e-mails, letters, public meeting reports, Play Area Sub-committee reports and minutes to find the evidence, which was scanned and e-mailed to Val. Eventually on May 25th a breakdown of the S106 Housing Developer Funds for Area 6 Hexhamshire and Slaley was received. Currently there is: Play - £9,022 (This money can be spent in Hexhamshire/Slaley) and relates to new residential properties in both parishes. Slaley is responsible for Cocklake £1,388 & Blackburn £2,082. Sport - £5,122 (this money can be spent in Hexhamshire/Slaley/the wider Hexham area for Sport). Slaley is responsible for Cocklake £788 & Blackburn £1,182
When the Two Castles monies are received there will be an additional £9,000 to spend on Play in Slaley only and £4,272 to spend in Hexhamshire/Slaley/the wider Hexham area for Sport.
When the new buildings are occupied at Slaley House and Tree Tops further funding will be available. The Clerk asked if the new annex building at Pine tops was subject to funding, this is being looked into.
A S106 Housing Developer Funds application pack has been received it has a deadline of 30/7/10 for a panel meeting on 19/8/10. Initial comments from Cllr Hancock acknowledges that we are a long way from applying for funding. Definition between sport and play was defined by Val in an e-mail dated 5/6/10 – generally play involves a playground with equipment and sport is where there is some sort of field/pitch with markings i.e. tennis and basketball are sport. With regards to a play area within a school each case would be looked at on merit and there would have to be sufficient evidence of community use. Val suggest we contact Kathie Keady at North Country Leisure regarding sports/games and Chris Affleck for play. See meeting on June 29th agenda item 11 below and 4d immediately below.
d) 6a (ii) 10/5/10 a netted games area on the school grounds letter to Marge Rastall, Chair of Governors asking for initial reaction produced an immediate reply dated 12/5/10 indicating they wished to discuss the feasibility of this and proposed Nigel Sanger as the Governor representative. To this end a meeting has been arranged for Tuesday June 29th (see agenda item 11 below and 4c immediately above)
e) 7a 10/5/10 NCC acknowledged the e-mail on 11/5/10 regarding the rusty holes on the Townhead ‘Slaley Hall sign post by placing yellow tape over the holes. The pole was actually replaced 10/6/10.
f) 9a 10/5/10 Mobile post office problems have continued - Clerk contacted the Hexham Courant and an article was printed on page 3 of May 22nd issue. It was confirmed that the upgraded router was the problem and eventually had to be replaced with the old router. Martin Nichol is reported as saying “I have told Post Office they can’t have the van back until they know what went wrong this time because we can’t have the same thing happening and have the van off the road or not fully functional again”.
g) 9b 10/5/10 Village speed sign not working reported to VMS 17th May and again on June 3rd together with a request to transfer the sign to the Townfoot pole. There has been no reply – Clerk will keep trying for service.

5. Public Participation.
None.

6. Community Trust Report.
Report circulated and attached as appendix 1/140610

7. Matters for Discussion with County Councillor
None.

8. Correspondence.
Hard Copy
a) Footpath proposed diversion at Peel Flatt - Information sent by e-mail 21/5/10. Comments by 5/7/10. Concern that the new route takes a diagonal direction across a field and includes new wickets at several points. However, if this is the wish of the landowner then the PC has no objections. Clerk to check.
b) NCC Invitation to attend Communities & Place Overview & Scrutiny Committee Meeting 21/6/10 at Morpeth. No Councillor wished to attend.
c) Tynedale Sports Council AGM 21/6/10 6.30 p.m. No Councillor wished to attend.
d) North Pennines AONB Partnership – Annual Forum & Geodiversity Action Plan Launch 9/7/10 at Slaggyford. No Councillor wished to attend.
e) North Pennines AONB Partnership Building Design Guide and Planning Guidelines Consultation available for 8 weeks from May 10th on www.northpenninesaonb.org.uk
f) Tynedale Hospice at Home is a local charity providing care and support for patients in the Tynedale area who have life limiting illness. The service is provided free of charge. Request for financial aid. (In November 2009 we gave a £100 grant (cheque No 388) to Tynedale Community Hospice. Consider a request when setting the Precept for 2011/12
g) Sutcliffe Play – Community play Areas advertising brochure; Lloyds TSB changes to your terms and conditions.
E-mail:
a) 14/5/10: NCC - Colin Robinson – Employment Land Review (ELR) – Site Assessment Form to be completed by June 18th – Has Slaley any sites which could be used as potential employment development opportunities? Clerk has drafted a news item for Slaley notes and news-sheet asking the public if they as landowners and local stakeholders wish to submit details of sites to get in touch with her for details.
b) 14/5/10: David Francis – Local Food Suport package for village Shops
c) 14/5/10: David Francis – New Dog Laws for Northumberland Consultation (see agenda item 13 below)
d) 15/5/10: Reply from Webfusion 4c 12/4/10& 9 8/3/10 re lack of invoice and web site closed. Apparently the billing system was set in place in December 2009 in future we have to log in for our invoice at https:billing.webfusion.co.uk Not the apology we were expecting, a copy sent to Michael Elphick.
e) 21.5.10: David Francis –Charter review. (see agenda item 12 below)
f) 21.5.10: RSN – Letter to PM fairer funding for rural services.
g) 21/5/10: David Francis – Invitation to Votes ands Voices Leadership Programme Events.
h) 21/5/10: NALC – Events Bulletin
i) 21/5/10: RSC Rural Focus weekly 17/5/10 & 1/6/10
j) 21/5/10: NCC timetable of meetings 2010/2011 May – May
k) 25/5/10: Felicity Blanks – Rural Affordable Housing Dissertation – Clerk sent the standard reply.
l) 25/5/10: Lauren Hopkins, Marketing Co-ordinator from The Lord Crewe Arms Hotel asked for contact names for advertising – gave Vicky Hutchinson for show schedule, Carolyn & Joan for News Sheet and Jamie Warde-Aldam for ‘The Hotspur’.
m) 26/5/10: David Francis – Charter Review. Reminder of June meetings.
n) 26/5/10: David Francis – 11 pages of policies of new coalition Government.
o) 3/6/10: RSN Parish Newsletter June – Cockerels should be banned!
p) 3/6/10: Regeneration Services Funding Bulletin Issue No 22 – 11 pages.
q) 3/6/10: West Area Committee Minutes May 2010 see 122 c budget for ditching and drainage.
r) 7/6/10: David Francis – NALC communications toolkit
s) 14/6/10: David Francis – NALC County Committee Membership comments by 15/7/10.
t) 14/7/10: Cllr Bob Jackson – The role of NALC with NCC and in particular to The Charter. (relevant to agenda item 12).

9. Financial Report.
a) Cheques to be signed
Cheque No 411 Alex Evison grass cutting May £
Cheque No 412 NALC Annual Subscription £114.57
Proposed by Cllr. A.S. Robson and seconded by Cllr. M. Palmer the cheques were signed.
b) Interim cheques None
c) Audit: Display Notices June 7th – June 20th (on notice board)
Internal audit June 7th – June 20th (successfully completed)
Records available to public 21st June – July 16th
Audit date 23rd July 2010
d) Vat claim for refund completed at £169.99

10. Current Planning Applications.
20100015: Certificate of lawfulness for proposed timber stables block / store. Moorlands, Lead road. Pending
Decisions from Planning Authority
20100206: Single storey side and rear extension with chimney. Overdale, Slaley. Granted.

11. Meeting Tuesday June 29th with School Governor Representative, County Councillor & Community Trust Representative to discuss possible netted games/play area within school grounds.
Note agenda items 4c & 4d above. The initial meeting on 29/6/10 is a meeting for further discussion and to explore possibilities. Any agreement on lease terms (ground-rent) would then be subject to funding, estimates for construction, future maintenance of equipment and public opinion and support.

12. The Charter – see e-mail 21/5/10 – meeting 3/6/10 – questionnaire to be completed by 16/7/10
NCC hard copy of the review of Local Council Charter was received – notification of this by e-mail. Cllr Hancock produced a draft reply this was discussed, slightly amended in sections and agreed. Agreed copy attached as appendix 2/140610

13. Parish Plan, Action Plan - Dog Fouling Review
a) See e-mail above 14/5/10: David Francis – New Dog Laws for Northumberland Consultation. Cllr Brooks had viewed the NCC survey on line and discussed possible replies. She volunteered to complete the survey.
b) Diana Mulholland telephoned the Clerk 8/6/10 to say the dog bin was without a plastic bag and had not been emptied for a number of weeks. Clerk telephoned NCC and then Keith Grey’s department at Hexham. A lady volunteered to pass the message to Refuse Manager Peter Daley and ask that the bin be emptied as soon as possible. Clerk saw the men on Thursday and asked that the dog bin be emptied. Unfortunately she had forgotten to check that it had been emptied.

14. Parish Plan Action Plan – Annual Heritage Report (circulated as appendix 3/140610)
The Clerk apologised for the missing photographs and text from the Trygill Art Walk. Cllr Norris felt that the farm sign at Woodnook Farm was worthy of inclusion – Clerk to take a photograph and record. The parish water tanks were discussed their positions explained and their ownership questioned. Concern over the ownership of the redundant bus shelter on the Wooley Road was voiced. Cllr Norris reminded the meeting that the PC had decided not to spend money on the building so the obvious action was to have it taken down before it became the PC’s responsibility under The Charter for 2011. The Clerk to ask highways about this and the bus shelter to be an agenda item at the July meeting.
Ownership of the old Observation Corps Shelter was also discussed and the Councillors reported a desire for a guided tour of the building if that was possible for its August walk-about. Clerk to contact the MoD.

15. BOATs update. –
a) E-mail from Vicky Hutchinson 14/5/10 regarding 4x4 vehicles tearing out gorse bushes etc on the green lane. This was reported to Alex Bell copy to Slaley PC. The user groups were obviously waiting for confirmation that they could use this lane and immediately arrived to clear the route for use (see below). A subsequent telephone call on 26/5/10 to Cllr. Hancock Vicky informed him that the official notification had been received.
b) List of Streets confirmed as BOATs 11/5/10.
U8127 to BOAT No 37 – Blue Gables
U8091 to BOAT No 36 – Healey Cleugh
U8079 to BOAT No 34 – High Clear
U8074 to BOAT No 33 – Shield Hall
Representations or objections should be received by July 23rd. It was agreed that this be an agenda item at the July meeting. Regardless of damage or personal circumstances Sergeant Cockburn confirmed that once a road always a road and the only option available was to place a TRO on the route when it became impassable for other users or was a proven danger.
c) E-mail received asking for the telephone police number 03456043043 be given to local people who use the Slaley Forest & Blanchland Moor area and ask that all reports of irresponsible behaviour be made to that number. Cllr Hancock has already put something in the June newsletter. Clerk typed out a letter and this was circulated by e-mail to various known horse riders, walkers etc. Hard copies were also distributed to parishioners where the e-mail address was not known. Since this letter went out a report of unlicensed trail bikes has still been submitted to the PC – Sergeant Cockburn advised the Clerk to report this by e-mail to him.
d) E-mails and telephone calls from other concerned parishioners to Clerk and Cllr Brooks.

16. AOB
a) Clerk telephoned Election Office at NCC to ask why the 2010 Register of Electors had not been sent. Apparently it is illegal, and has been for over a decade, to have these registers on display or available to the public. If we as a parish council wish for a copy they can be supplied by an e-mail request to elections@northumberland.gov.uk. Apparently when setting the precept we are expected to contact the office and they will inform us of the number of electors in the parish. Cllr Hancock telephoned and spoke with ‘Mick’ and asked how it was possible that web sites offer electoral roll information. According to NCC the information is not accurate as it is not taken from the electoral offices.
b) NEDL notice of electricity supply interruption on Thursday June 17th from 0830 to 1630 hours. – Presumably to cut down more branches. Most of village does not have this interruption.
c) Slaley Village Shop received complaints that a healthy tree between Claremont & Ashtree House was to be taken down because it is cracking the footpath surface. Margaret had mentioned this to Kevin Allen (NCC) and he was aware of its removal. Clerk telephoned Kevin and asked for details. Whilst it is a full and healthy tree the high voltage cable runs right through the middle of it and during the safety inspection it was deemed dangerous. Other branches overhanging the village street needed removing and the footpath and kerbs were lifting because of this tree therefore NCC highways gave permission for this tree to be removed. Cllr. Hancock viewed the tree on Tuesday June 8th and he agreed with the decision. However, he felt that a discussion at a future PC meeting would be useful and possibly a progressive tree replacement plan. Clerk contacted John Alderton, NCC Tree Officer, he had no authority on trees growing on highways land. Mr. Adlerton was involved with tree preservation for planning applications. He suggested that the local highways engineer be invited to any future discussion on replacement village tree planting.
A letter was received from the resident at Highfield House, he was very concerned that the tree was being removed due to its damage to a garden wall and the pavement. A reply was agreed and sent by e-mail. The tree was removed on Friday June 10th and its neighbour, between The Vicarage and Ashtree House, dramatically cut back.
d) A parishioner’s sister saw on the NCC web site that the policy determining the age limit for social housing has been reduced to 55 years of age. Clerk e-mailed Chris Brinton 3/6/10 asking if this automatically placed younger people, previously rejected because of age, to the top of the list. A reply was received 8/6/10 from Claire Hancock – the revised policy comes into operation on 1/7/10 a telephone number was provided and this has been forwarded to the sister.
e) Invitation to an open day at Marley Cote Walls on Sunday 20/6/10 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. to see the robot milking system.
f) Mrs L. Foster telephoned the Clerk to say that the shopping trips organised through Age Concern have been finished due to lack of funding. The Clerk asked Mrs Foster if she had read about the Dial-a-ride through ADAPT. There was information about ADAPT’s Day Trips in the Hexhamshire Parish Magazine of December 08/Janauary 09. Mrs Foster said that the Age Concern trips used the ADAPT transport and were probably the same.
g) A3 size posters advertising Luxury Holiday Homes for sale at Springhouse Caravan Park have been attached to highway signs between the A68 through Healey parish and along the route of the B6306 in Slaley parish. Clerk confirmed with Enforcement Officer, Richard Stewart that no planning permission had been granted. Mr Stewart suggested that the matter be reported on the NCC Customer Care Line for the Highways Engineer who covers this area.
h) Part of the B6306 received its replacement resurfacing on Friday June 11th resulting from the inferior resurfacing of September 2008. It was reported that already a substantial pothole has appeared approximately 100 yards north of Jameson’s Well and Troughs on the north-bound carriageway. Clerk to report this to highways immediately.
i) Sergeant Cockburn reported that locally ‘Farmwatch’ was working well, although chickens had been stolen from Blanchland. Crime in general and poaching were discussed. Gun-shots in the country were generally accepted as crop-scarers, sporting activity on estates or clay shooting However, if the general public were concerned with gun-shots, feeling it was too late at night for legitimate activity they should be encouraged to report them to the police. Prosecuted Poachers automatically loose their gun license.
j) It was reported that taxis are once again using the U8080 as the road to Slaley Hall. Recently spotted between 10.30 and 11 p.m. Sergeant Cockburn was asked if Northumbria Police could organise a spot check one evening to remind the users of the TRO in place.

17. Date of July monthly meeting.
Monday July 12th 2010

There being no further business the meeting closed at 9.30 p.m.

Slaley Parish Council May 2010 Meeting

The Speeding Review comes to a close for the time being, see agenda item 4a.

Minutes of Slaley Parish Council, Monday May 10th 2010, in Slaley Commemoration Hall following the AGM and the Annual Parish Meeting.

1. Apologies: Cllr. S. Davison.
Present: Councillor I.C. Hancock in the Chair. Councillors Mrs C. A. Brooks, Ms M Palmer, Mrs A. S. Robson & Mrs L. Norris. Clerk Mrs P. Wilson. County Councillor: Colin W Horncastle. Public: Community Sergeant Neil Cockburn. Courant Reporter: Apologies Rebecca Dixon. Slaley Notes: Michael Elphick. Community Trust Chairman: Norman Watson

2. Declaration of Interests and Hospitality Record.
None

3. Minutes of April Parish Council meeting (circulated pages 596-599 + appendix 1 page 600, appendix 2 page 601, appendix 3 page 602)
Proposed as a true record by Cllr. Mrs C.A. Brooks and seconded by Cllr. Mrs L. Norris. The minutes were approved and signed.

4. Matters Arising
a) 4a 12/4/10; 4b 8/3/10; 12 15/2/10: Parish Plan Action Plan – Speeding Review. The PC reply from Alan Bawn to try and establish what needs to be done for flashing 20 mph to be activated outside the school at drop off and collection times was not terribly helpful. Basically a trial of 6 pilot, 20 mph flashing signs are being tested. The list for the West Area Committee included Slaley village. If Slaley wished to go ahead with traffic calming measures (priority chicanes or road humps) a scheme could be costed. A copy of this was sent to Chair of Governors, Marge Rastall. Cllr. Mrs A Robson suggested an article in the parish newssheet asking people to park vehicles in their drive rather than the public highway. Cllr. Mrs A Robson also reported that the school letter to the Rose & Crown asking for permission for drop off parking could not be answered because there was currently no tenants only Caretakers. Any correspondence should be sent to the brewery direct.
b) 4b 12/4/10; 8k 8/3/10; NALC Standing Orders. Cllr Hancock is looking at these new suggestions and making a comparison to our existing Standing Orders. Cllr Hancock has identified four amendments: Power of well-being; Freedom of Information Act; Liaison with Councillors & Financial Matters. The amendments will be report by e-mail.
c) 7 12/4/10; 7a 8/3/10 Councillor Horncastle’s offer to resurface the play-yard was not linked specifically to community use. The surface was in fact lifting in places and holed in others making it dangerous for the children. The cost is estimated at £6,000, any money remaining will go towards a covered area for Little Badgers Childcare.
d) 8a 12/4/10 the forecourt at Parkside bungalows owned by NCC Highways. County Councillor Horncastle suggests speaking with Colin Charlton & Dick Fraser - see e-mail 6q below.
e) 8c 12/4/10 RNID – Do local libraries carry the information? A reply from Michelle Watson at Hexham Library said they did not and should. The Clerk forwarded Jenny Terry’s correspondence details.
f) 8i 12/4/10: Northumberland Sport – Consultation to 28/5/10 – access to school sports facilities. Cllr Brooks reported that there was nothing relevant to Slaley. Hexham has good facilities, the Wentworth sports ground and indoor facilities including the new swimming pool. Kingswood who owns Dukeshouse Camp School will have several pitches for football which will be open to the public.
g) 8u 12/4/10 E-mail reply to request for the PC to have an indication of the approximate number of Carers in our parish. Kelly Railton estimated there were approximately 150 carers in Slaley and Hexhamshire. The Councillors to look at the web site.
h) 13 12/4/10 Annual Litter Pick on Sunday April 25th between 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. was supported by 10 people (3 non-PC members of the parish & 7 PC members & their family). Four-year-old Scarlet Coney won the prize for the most amusing item.
i) 16a 12/4/10 The Litter Bin at the Millennium seat Bill Bates investigated and the bin is simply being emptied incorrectly and not being replaced upon its brackets. Clerk to send a Thank You letter.
j) 16 b 12/4/10 The bag of litter placed near the dog bin was part of jammed litter bins etc after a teenage party at a private home in the village. Cllr IC Hancock to put something in the parish news reminding people that bin men will not take away bags of rubbish left lying around.
k) 16c 12/4/10 Street lights at Reaston View are both off. Neil Johnston confirmed by e-mail that Reaston View lights have been adopted by Development Control and would be repaired. They have been and are now working well.

5. Public Participation
None.

6. Correspondence
Hard Copy:
a) Funding accumulated through planning permission for sport and play was questioned at the Community Trust AGM by Mrs Scott. Following a request from Cllr. IC Hancock The Clerk contacted CC Colin Horncastle and asked about the legality of a designated play area open to the public on school grounds. The reply was that for obvious health and safety reasons the general public is not allowed to intermix with the schoolchildren during school hours. Visitors to the school have a strict protocol to follow, visitor badges, singing in and out etc. The conversation gradually arrived at a netted games area on the school grounds and a letter has been sent to Marge Rastall, Chair of Governors asking for initial reaction. A letter has also been sent to Val Knowles, NCC, asking for an exact indication of funds available to us at this time.
b) Came and Company – PC Insurance due 1/6/10. Information sent via e-mail. Renewal Premium is £284.22. The Councillors agreed to renew.
c) Thank You letter from Core Music for the £50 grant.
d) Parliamentary Elections 6/5/10 notices placed on notice board.
e) Verbal report from NCC highways KA that the owner of the vandalised water tanks on the U8078 are owned by Mr & Mrs Garvey of Wooley Park. It was agreed that the Clerk would write and ask when the tank would be repaired.
f) Dave Richardson NCC Highways & Transport – 2010 Surface dressing May – August 2010 – C279 & U8078. The U8078 was patched during April.
g) CAN Spring meeting information; SMP Playgrounds advertising leaflets; Tynedale Hospice at Home April 2010 newsletter & Volunteer request; Society of Local Council Clerks Regional Conference 8/6/10 Shotton Hall; Clerks & Councils Direct May 2010; Landscape Led Natural Play Design with Record RSS advertising leaflet; Marmax products advertising brochure all from recycled materials (interesting)
E-mail:
a) 13/4/10: Aaron Wilson (no relation) a student at Gloucestershire University asked for an answer to 10 questions on Empowerment. Clerk completed the questions.
b) 15/4/10: David Francis – NALC website members area.
c) 20/4/10 Request from Alan Jones (NALC) re Rural Affordable Housing Project – Clerk forwarded a copy of reply to students (during 2009) Amy Coply & …. A similar request from Melanie Hall of CAN in Hexham Community Centre was also sent a copy and finally Tessa Lynn of Reading University.
d) 21/4/10: NSP publication People and Places 7/4/10
e) 21/4/10 & 10/5/10: Weekly Rural Focus 19/4/10 & 10/5/10
f) 24/4/10: CAN - Meet the Funders May & June dates.
g) 24/4/10 D Francis NALC Communications Briefing – Governance and Accountability for Local Councils a Practitioners Guide (England) 2010. Chairman & Clerk to look and possibly downloaded the guide?
h) 24/4/10 Parish Council training rescheduled dated to 26th May.
i) 26/4/10: Weekly Rural Focus
j) 26/4/10: NALC E-Bulletin
k) 26/4/10 New rates for traveling expenses.
l) 28/4/10: CAN e:news April 3rd bulletin.
m) 29/4/10 David Francis – ‘The Charter on our AGM agenda’ – consultation questionnaire imminent.
n) 30/4/10: NSP Matters Arising Issue 2, April 2010, 12 pages.
o) 4/5/10: David Francis Parish & Town Council Questionnaire ‘Survey of sporting and recreational facilities’. Not having any recreational green spaces in the parish Slaley goes straight to question 20. Cllr. Hancock suggested the following answer. This was agreed.

a) there is public access outside school hours to the school playing field ;
(b) an equipped children's playground is a specific aim in the parish plan but is currently unachievable because no site is available;
(c) use of a children's playground at Slaley Hall Hotel was offered to the village (by which management? does present management know? do we know if it is used by local people? )
(c) the nearest public equipped children's playground is at Whitley Chapel, ????? miles away.
(d) neither of these facilities could be safely reached by children on their own.
(e) the geography of the village limits the location of realistic sites for a playground - nearly all houses in the village are on a single long street that is a through route for traffic and at each end of the street is a T junction with an equally busy road.

p) 4/5/10: RSN monthly newsletter.
q) 4/5/10: West Area Committee meeting 6 p.m. at Slaley – Clerk is offering to meeting Colin Charlton & Dick Fraser beforehand and discuss the parking problem at Parkside.
r) 6/5/10: Flood fair on 22/5/10 at Rothbury.
s) 6/5/10: David Francis - NEREO Advisory Services

7. Financial Report
a) Cheques to be signed
Cheque No 409 Alex Evison grass cutting April £219.65*
Cheque No 410 Broker Network Limited (Came & Co) Insurance £284.22
Proposed by Cllr. I.C. Hancock & seconded by Cllr. Mrs L. Norris the cheques were signed. *Alex reported the rusty holes on the Townhead ‘Slaley Hall sign post also small black pipe cover which has been loose for at least two years.
b) Interim cheques None
c) Audit: Display Notices June 7th – June 20th
Internal audit June 7th – June 20th
Records available to public 21st June – July 16th
Audit date 23rd July 2010

8. Current Planning Applications
20100206: Single storey side and rear extension with chimney. Overdale, Slaley. No objections.
20100015: Certificate of lawfulness for proposed timber stables block / store. Moorlands, Lead road. Pending
Decisions from Planning Authority
None.

9. A.O.B.
a) Mobile post office arrived at Slaley 8.30 a.m. on Saturday1st May without any cash. Monday was a bank holiday therefore the next visit was Wednesday May 5th and the computer was down. The operator had been unable to alert Martin at Stocksfield or to get an engineer to say what the problem was. He suspected it was a broadband failure. Monday May 10th Martin from Stocksfield PO telephoned a.m. to say further problems. A new router ‘Horizon –0n-line’ was installed Saturday May 8th afternoon. Today it is not working or it was not at Bardon Mill driver telephoned for an engineer but was unable to get an answer. Martin suggested the Hexham Courant. Martin also said the van would be carrying money on Saturday May 1st it was a broadband failure responsible for no money transactions not the fact that the van had no money.
Clerk to check if the problem has been resolved today and if not contact the Hexham Courant.
b) It has been reported to the Clerk that the speed sign is not working. PC needs to contact and ask why the sign has not been transferred to the Townfoot pole.
c) Dog Dirt reported 15/16 April near Parks Side bungalows.
d) Hedges encroaching onto footpath at Greyholm & The Haining Clerk to write standard letter.
e) Microlight activity has stated again Cllr Hancock reminded those concerned to keep a record of days when flying is taking place.

10. BOATs Update.
A copy of the draft report which will be considered by members of the Rights of Way Committee on 21/5/10. Some of the routes left open require progress reports every 6 months. It does not say who will be undertaking these reports.

11. Date of June meeting
Monday 14th June 2010 (Apologies from Cllr Hancock).

There being no further business the meeting closed at 9.30 p.m.

April 2010 minutes of Slaley Parish Council

The Councillors continue to try and find a solution to speeding in the village. Read more under agenda item 4a.

Minutes of Slaley Parish Council, Monday April 12th 2010, in Slaley Commemoration Hall 7.30 p.m.

1. Apologies: Cllrs. Ms M Palmer & Mrs A. S. Robson.
Present: Councillor I.C. Hancock in the Chair. Councillors, Mrs C. A. Brooks, S. Davison & Mrs L. Norris. Clerk Mrs P. Wilson. County Councillor: None.
Public: None. Courant Reporter: Rebecca Dixon. Slaley Notes & Community Trust Executive Committee Member: Michael Elphick.

2. Declaration of Interests and Hospitality Record.
None

3. Minutes of March Parish Council Meeting (circulated pages 588-591 + appendix 1 page 592, appendix 2 page 593, appendix 3 page 594 & appendix 4 page 595).
Proposed as a true record by Cllr. C.A. Brooks and seconded by Cllr. L. Norris. The minutes were approved and signed.

4. Matters Arising.
a) 4b 8/3/10; 12 15/2/10: Parish Plan Action Plan – Speeding Review. Notes from the meeting on Wednesday March 17th at 2 p.m. attached as appendix 1/120410 page 600.
A copy of Slaley School Travel Plan is attached as appendix 2/120410 page 601.
Additional information is provided in an e-mailed dated February 12th 2009 when the School Clerk informed the PC Clerk that improvement money intended on additional parking spaces for staff had been used for a leaking roof. See agenda items 9h & 9i of February 9th 2009 minutes, page 500.
The Chair of Governors has written to the Rose & Crown tenants asking if the car park could be used for quick drop off vehicles but there was no reply on Thursday April 1st. The PC agreed to send a letter of support.
The PC also agreed to encourage parishioners through Slaley Notes and the news-sheet to keep the highway clear of parked vehicles near the school during term time.
The PC also agreed and has written to Alan Bawn to try and establish what needs to be done for flashing 20 mph to be activated outside the school at drop off and collection times. Mr. Bawn is on holiday until 15/4/10
b) 8k 8/3/10; NALC Standing Orders. Cllr Hancock is looking at these new suggestions and making a comparison to our existing Standing Orders. Cllr Hancock will report by e-mail what action if any we need to take.
c) 9 8/3/10 Further problems with the Webfusion account. Michael Elphick informed the Clerk by e-mail 22/3/10 that he had made several telephone calls because the website was no longer available although late payment of the account was registered. A letter of complaint was sent and a reimbursement to Mr Elphick for his telephone use is suggested. Mr Elphick to check his telephone account and inform the Clerk of the costs. The matter has now been resolved.
d) 15b 8/3/10 The requested update on the additional street light outside Parkside bungalows produced a letter saying we should receive a reply within 15 working days. A telephone call from Neil Johnson confirmed that the additional street light was in fact lit on Tuesday March 30th.

5. Public Participation.
None.

6. Community Trust Report
None this month. AGM will be Wednesday April 21st.

7. Matters for Discussion with County Councillor
Reference 7a 8/3/10 regarding meeting with school. Councillor Horncastle commented that he was surprised to learn that grounds are already open to public (see appendix 1/080310. The PC wanted to clarify if the offer to resurface the play-yard linked to community use.
see 4a above. 20 mph flashing lights at the school HELP
see 8a below. Funding for parking spaces at Milecastle owned bungalows?
Clerk to forward these matters to CC C.W. Horncastle.

8. Correspondence.
E-mails:
a) E-mail 9/3/10 re shortage of parking spaces at Parkside bungalows. Clerk instructed to write to Milecastle Housing – letter sent 24/3/10. Reply received & circulated by e-mail 31/3/10. Milecastle state that the forecourt at Parkside is owned by NCC highways. Does the County Councillor have any funding for this?
b) E-mail 11/3/10 Subscribe to DIS or DIS Extra. – Felt No Need for this.
c) E-mail 11/3/10 RNID (hard of hearing) meeting at Haltwhistle 13/4/10. – Do local libraries carry the information? Clerk to check.
d) E-mail 11/3/10 Anti Social behavior meeting 17/3/10
e) E-mail 12/3/10 revised Derwent Reservoir Cycle route information.
f) E-mail 12/3/10 NHS electronic health records.
g) E-mail 13/3/10 BBC Antiques Master programme request for candidates – copy sent to Albert Weir.
h) E-mail 16/3/10 Final alterations to the Derwent Reservoir cycle route.
i) E-mail 22/3/10 Northumberland Sport – Consultation to 28/5/10 – access to school sports facilities. Cllr Brooks to read and report.
j) E-mail 24/3/10 View People and Places on line.
k) E-mail 24/3/10 Weekly Rural Focus.
l) E-mail 26/3/10 Putting People First Newsletter.
m) E-mail 26/3/10 Sustainable Communities Action Update.
n) E-mail 31/3/10 Putting People First newsletter.
o) E-mail 31/3/10 CAN news spring issue - hard copy to follow.
p) E-mail 31/3/10 NHS news release more on electron records (same as f above)
q) E-mail 31/3/10 NALC Conference & Exhibition – Cllr A Robson indicated she may be willing to attend the York exhibition on Thursday September 9th if the PC covered costs. It was agreed that given the economic climate at the moment the PC funds would be better spent on other things.
r) E-mail 7/4/10 Allotments & Leisure Gardeners Meeting 30/1/10
s) E-mail 7/4/10 Weekly Rural Focus 6/4/10
t) E-mail 10/4/10 West Area Committee 13/4/10 papers
u) E-mail 10/4/10 Funding request from Carers Northumberland. Clerk to request, without breaching any confidences if the PC could have an indication of the approximate number of Carers in our parish.
v) E-mail 12/4/10 RSC – weekly rural focus 12/4/10
w) E-mail 12/4/10 RSN – April newsletter.
x) E-mail 12/4/10 SMP Playgrounds information.
Hard Copy:
a) NCC General Election Notices & Polling Stations (placed on notice board)
b) NCC The Charter April 2010 Scanned and e-mailed 12/3/10
c) NALC Training Clerks/Councillor & Chairmen. May 11/20/27 at Bywell CH – It was decided against any of these training events.
d) NCC Environmental Clean Up. Clerk to organise pick up of litter after Slaley’s event.
d) Thank You letter from Tynedale Sports Council for grant.
e) The Boundary Committee: Electoral Review of Northumberland – final recommendations. + an eight page, 36 question questionnaire. The Councillors felt that completion of the questionnaire was unnecessary.
f) Funding request from Core Music – scanned & e-mailed 31/3/10 - Cllr. A Robson has used their service and would support a grant. It was agreed to give a £50 grant.
g) CPRE Overview Spring 2010; Glasdon product exhibition Newcastle 27/28 April
North Pennines AONB Northern Rocks & Packhorse trails advertising material; CAN News + Meet the Funders + Rock Report; Northumberland Theatre Company - grant aid request; Glasdon products advertising leaflets with a card asking if we want these leaflets by e-mail in future. The Councillors do not wish to have the products sent by e-mail.

9. Financial Report.
a) Cheques to be signed
Cheque No 407 Core Music £50.00
Proposed by Cllr C.A. Brooks & seconded by Cllr. L. Norris the cheque was signed.
b) Interim cheques No 405 for Commemoration hall bookings £63.00
No 406 for P. Wilson's Annual expenditure for Parish Council £227.87 Signed by Cllrs L. Norris & I. C. Hancock.
c) Audit: Display Notices June 7th – June 20th
Internal audit June 7th – June 20th
Records available to public 21st June – July 16th
Audit date 23rd July 2010
d) Confirmation of first-half of 10/11 Precept paid into bank account. £3518.00
e) A trial balance sheet was presented. The accounts are 1p out, on checking it appears that cheque number 386, Alex Evison September grass cutting, was made out for £85.66p instead of £85.65p as per the invoice. The Councillors agreed to alter the accounts by an additional 1p added to the grass cutting total. A balance sheet will be circulated by e-mail.
f) The 2009/10 grant for Slaley Show, cheque No 392, for £325 has not been presented to the bank. The Clerk checked with Jim Bailey, Chairman of Slaley Show who confirmed that the cheque had not been received. It was agreed to issue a replacement cheque. Therefore cheque No 408 was duly written and signed.

10. Current Planning Applications.
20100015: Certificate of lawfulness for proposed timber stables block / store. Moorlands, Lead road. Pending
Decisions from Planning Authority
20090906: Certificate of lawfulness for proposed single-storey rear extension. Middle Grange, Slaley Village. Granted
20090918: Refused permission of demolition of outbuildings & construction of car port to side of dwelling, South Cottage, High Clear, is going to appeal.

11. Annual Highways Report for AGM
Cllr Hancock’s report and photographs received.

12. Meeting Reports for AGM (Chairman’s, County Councillor, BOATs, Representative on the Commemoration Hall Management Committee, Community Trust)
The reports to be requested.

13. Date for Annual Litter Pick
Sunday April 25th was chosen 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. with a prize for the most amusing item. Cllr Brooks raised concern over a Sunday because of the traffic.

14. Parish Plan Action Plan April 2010 Update
Several additions were made. Attached as appendix 3/120410, page 602.

15. BOATs update.
a) YDGLA newsletter asking members to write to Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority saying why we think a 12 month ban is needed. Lack of knowledge of this particular BOAT caused Slaley Councillors to feel unable to comment upon the route.
b) Correspondence from AVAG continues as its formal complaint to Brussels near completion.

16. AOB
a) The Litter Bin at the Millennium seat looks damaged. Clerk to ask Bill Bates to investigate. If Bill is retired ask Stewart Bell.
b) A bag of litter has been placed near the dog bin. Councillors to check that it is removed with the normal collection.
c) Street lights at Reaston View are both off. It was reported that neither highways street lighting division or Two Castle claim ownership of these lights. Clerk to ask Neil Johnston who owns.
d) The placing of yellow danger signs on all electric poles was reported. It was not know which department covered the cost. Rebecca Dixon was to investigate this through the Hexham Courant.
e) Cllr Hancock saw highways staff today replacing the posts of the village sign at Townfoot. Michael Elphick said Community Trust member Jackie Green had organised this with Kevin Allen

17. Date of Annual Parish Meeting, Annual General Meeting and May monthly meeting. Monday May 10th.
There being no further business the meeting closed at 9.15 p.m.

Slaley Parish Council March 2010 minutes

The Speeding review has resulted in a meetng on March 17th, read more on agenda item 4b.

Minutes of Slaley Parish Council, Monday March 8th 2010, in Slaley Commemoration Hall 7.30 p.m.

1. Apologies: Cllrs. S. Davison & Mrs A. S. Robson.
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: None. Courant Reporter: None. Slaley Notes & Community Trust Executive Committee Member: Apologies Michael & Jean Elphick.

2. Declaration of Interests and Hospitality Record.
None

3. Minutes of February Parish Council Meeting (circulated pages 582-585 + appendix 1 page 586, appendix 2 page 587). Proposed as a true record by Cllr. C.A. Brooks and seconded by Cllr. L. Norris. The minutes were approved and signed.

4. Matters Arising.
a) 8 w 15/2/10: Glasscycle – bottle smashing machine and glass cullet collection service. A demonstration was held at Saley Commemoration Hall on Monday March 1st. Despite numerous invitations to inn-keepers, neighbouring parish councils, and the general public (the latter through Slaley Notes). Only 1 member of the public, JR, MW, BJ, ME, AW of the CHMC & the Parish Council Clerk attended. Everyone agreed the machine was quiet and extremely effective. However, it would need safe storage and usage and was more appropriate for business use than public. It was suggested that Slaley Hall should be given a demonstration and apologies were given that none of the several inns/catering establishments had attended.
b) 12 15/2/10: Parish Plan Action Plan – Speeding Review. A meeting has been arranged for Wednesday March 17th at 2 p.m. between Slaley School Chair of Governors, Marge Rastall; the two Acting Headteachers Julie Hay & Rachel O'Neil; Sergeant Neil Cockburn & Cllr Ian C Hancock for a round the table initial discussion to investigation workable solutions to the problem of speeding traffic outside the school especially during drop-off and collection times.
c) As part of the process organising this meeting the Clerk telephoned the contact telephone number for our Neighbourhood Beat Manager. The man who answered was unable to give the name and contact details of our NBM, but he did say someone would contact us, which they did. Cllr Hancock in the meantime tried to establish via the website who our contact was - two names were given but both were out of date. Northumbria Police telephoned the Clerk one evening for feedback on our recent request. The Clerk asked that when NBM staff change, the affected Parish Councils are informed by email, with the new contact details. This suggestion was to be passed on.
d) Thank You letter from Air Ambulance for the £35 cheque (see 4d & 8a 15/2/10). Ask Slaley Notes to mention this.

5. Public Participation.
None.

6. Community Trust Report
None.

7. Matters for Discussion with County Councillor.
a) Cllr Horncastle had met the Acting Headteachers at Slaley School on Friday March 5th and was very surprised to discover that the school grounds were in fact open to the public. (see 7f 9/11/09; 4c 14/9/09; 4c 10/8/09; 7b 13/7/09; 11 8/6/09; 5 11/5/09). Report attached as appendix 1/080310, page 592.
b) Cllr Horncastle was asked if he had any input with the BOATs consultation undertaken by David Broookes (copied in on Slaley PC reply). Cllr Horncastle had spoken with Peter Jackson leader of the Conservatives at NCC about the recent BOATs consultation and the concerns of some members in Cllr. Horncastle’s area.
c) The NCC budget had finally been agreed without any cuts to the Highways allocation.
d) The West Area Highways manager has requested funding for a ditching programme.
e) A further review of Senior Management would be taken.
f) A Review of Local Government Buildings is underway. There are currently 700 (including schools) throughout the County.
g) The floral display budget has a reprieve with only 33% cutbacks in place of the proposed 66%.
h) Community Forums were also under discussion.

8. Correspondence.
a) Two telephone calls re redundant water tank metal covers removed, presumed stolen, on the U8078 south of Holly Hill crossroads. Reported to NCC highways 22/2/10. Kevin Allen replied 25/2/10 that Northumbria Water been instructed to make an emergency response. A report in the Hexham Courant instigated a telephone call from someone at NCC asking which authority I had spoken to and what action had happened.
b) Telephone call from Gwen Ridley thanking the PC for organising the Post Christmas Meal at Slaley Hall.
c) Clerk saw Alex Evison and verbally asked him to quote for the parish grass cutting for the 2010 season (his computer is currently out of action). A hard copy was available for the meeting. The quote was a 5% increase on previous years. The Councillors agreed to accept this quote.
d) BDO Audit Briefing Winter 2010 – Notes for forthcoming audit.
e) NCC (postage 59p) 5 copies of A5 full colour 8 page booklets entitled 1,2,3 ways to compost your garden waste in 2010.
f) NCC can provide Hanging Baskets in 2010 at a cost of £24 per basket. They want an indication of quantity by March 26th.
g) Tynedale Sports Council request for financial contribution. Body of letter says they have a Grant of £2,000 from Tynedale Council. How can this be TC was disbanded April 2009. £50 has been given in previous years and this was agreed for 2010.
h) E-mail 17/2/10: More from Haydon Bridge PC regarding The Charter and transfer of responsibilities.
i) E-mail 27/2/10: NALC 2 page letter, 18 page draft outline of the Development Strategy and Business Plan 2010 – 2015 + 19 pages of consultation document.
j) E-mail 2/3/10 North County Leisure – Sport’s development team looking to develop sport & physical activity in local communities. Circulated to Councillors + Catherine Lincoln, Rachel Scott & Hayley Wilson at School.
k) E-mail 4/3/10: NALC Standing Orders. Cllr Hancock to look at these new suggestions and make a comparison to our existing Standing Orders. He suggested that we might need to purchase the recommended booklet. We should record adoption of the new SO’s as part of our Risk Assessment.
l) E-mail 4/3/10: NALC County Committee minutes – NALC currently discussing The Charter review.
m) E-mail 7/3/10 People and Places March 2010.
n) E-mail 7/3/10 RSN March newsletter
o) E-mail 7/3/10 NCC off-Street parking charges
p) E-mail 8/3/10 Spinal Injuries Association – Great British Fish & Chip Supper Friday 21st May 2010 – circulated to The Hotspur & Slaley News sheet editors.
q) E-mail 8/3/10 NCC temporary road closures for 28/3/10 during the TVCC Derwent Cycle Race.
q) Wicksteed advertising brochure; Clerks & Councils Direct march 2010, Pro-Teq surfacing UK advertising brochure.

9. Financial Report.
Cheques to be signed
Cheque No 403 P. Wilson. 6 months salary October 2009 - March 2010
Cheque No 403 P. Wilson Annual expenditure for BOATs Joint Committee quarter share £22.05
Cheque No 404 Tynedale Sports Council £50.00 (see 8g above)
Proposed by Cllr C.A. Brooks & seconded by Cllr. L. Norris the cheque was signed.
The schedule and cheque will be circulated mid month for P. Wilson's Annual expenditure for Parish Council.
Interim cheque No 402 on 3/3/10 £100.20 for Webfusion by Cllrs L. Norris & I. C. Hancock.
Problem with the Webfusion account. Michael Elphick helped the Clerk sort out this problem. Late payment of the account was made without affecting the web site.

10. Current Planning Applications.
20100015: Certificate of lawfulness for proposed timber stables block / store. Moorlands, Lead road. Does ‘general permitted development’ now allow this? Previously refused on application 20000055. Stables were erected last year why was this not on application 20090515?
20090906: Certificate of lawfulness for proposed single-storey rear extension. Middle Grange, Slaley Village. Pending
Decisions from Planning Authority
20090918: Demolition of outbuildings and construction of car port to side of dwelling. South Cottage, High Clear. E-mailed decision 18/2/10 REFUSED
20090928: Amendments to previously approved application 20090396 use of silage clamp building for livestock housing, Flothers Farm. Granted
20090902: Extension to Livestock Building. Flothers Farm. Granted
** Emails to planning officer Anna Hiddich's re Moorlands bounced back to the Clerk. When contact was regained she said that Jessica Taylor of a consultancy was looking after the backlog of planning applications for the West Area Office

11. Annual Highways Report – agree routes
The routes as e-mailed and attached as appendix 2/080310, page 593. The routes were agreed subject to agreement by Cllr Davison.

12. Annual Risk Assessment
Circulated and attached as appendix 3/080310, page 594, changes were made and page 3 was not available until the new audit form is received.

13. Annual Asset & Investment Register
Circulated and attached as appendix 4/080310, page 595. It was agreed to increase each item by 2%.

14. BOATs update.
a) A letter of response to the NCC recommendations from Slaley PC was drafted, circulated for comment and then sent indicating that the PC was not happy with the lack of concern for wildlife and endangered bird species.
b) Members of the 4 Parishes BOATs Joint-Committee met and agreed a response to the NCC recommendations, this was circulated for comment and then sent after receipt of the 4 individual PC replies.
c) Report of underage children using the Slaley network of BOATs on Sunday 7th causing problems on the main U8078. Apparently two police cars were seen during the morning. Clerk asked Blanchland PC if they had any reports?

15. AOB
a) Copy of SaturDads information tabled for the meeting. The invitation is sent monthly to the Clerk’s son. It appears that NCC is part funding these activities.
b) An update on the additional street light outside Parkside bungalows was requested.
c) Clerk to write to NEDL and report that expected tree trimming at West Cornerfield, South Farm (village) and Heatherden House, Trygill had not taken place as expected on Monday October 26th 2009 when the electricity was off from 0900 hours to 1700 hours. Is there an explanation of why these trees were not trimmed? What work was done?
d) It was considered unlikely that the extra grit at Parkside would be needed until next winter so the Clerk offered to have it removed and stored.

16. Date of April 2010 meeting.
Monday April 12th.

There being no further business the meeting closed at 9.25 p.m.

Slaley Parish Council February 2010 minutes

A Speeding review as part of the Parish Plan Action Plan was undertaken. Read more in agenda item 12

Minutes of Slaley Parish Council, Monday February 15th 2010, in Slaley Commemoration Hall 7.30 p.m. (Postponed from February 8th due to Clerk’s illness)

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

2. Declaration of Interests and Hospitality Record.
None

3. Minutes of January Parish Council Meeting (circulated pages 575-579 + appendix 1 page 580, appendix 2 page 581). Proposed as a true record by Cllr. C.A. Brooks and seconded by Cllr. M. Palmer. The minutes were approved and signed.

4. Matters Arising.
a) 4e 18/1/10; 16 d 14/12/09: Increased parking on the single-track entrance into South Park causing an obstruction was reported to Milecastle Housing. Reply dated 3/2/10 saying a letter has been sent asking that visitor cars should not obstruct the highway.
b) 7b 18/1/10; 7a 14/12/09 & 17 b 9/11/09: Planning Permission 20050557: Renewal of temporary planning permission for permanent use of land as outdoor pursuits area etc. CC Horncastle checked and permission was permanent.
c) 8 aa) Local Transport Plan available on line for comment. Cllr. Hancock completed what he felt was a limited questionnaire.
d) 14b 18/1/10 Nigel Pickering asked if his payment for clearing snow and ice from the highway in Parkside bungalows could be a £25 donation to Air Ambulance. This request was e-mailed to Councillors. The request was agreed.

5. Public Participation.
None.

6. Community Trust Report
Report circulated and attached as appendix 1/080210, page 586. Mr Elphick and the Councillors discussed the 2009 non-publication of the Parish Reports Booklet. No comments have been received by either the PC or the CT from the public regarding its absence in 2009. The Chairman reported to Mr. Elphick that the PC would not object to the publication being missed.

7. Matters for Discussion with County Councillor
Post Office Network Re-organisation – One Year On meeting on 26th January at 2 p.m. Cllr Hornastle reported to the Clerk by telephone that many parish councilors had been present at this meeting and all had their own problems with the Post Office provision. The PO staff said the complaints had been taken on board.
Secondly Cllr Horncastle also wished to indicate that there were problems associated with the adopted NALC ‘Parish Councils Charter’ because many PCs had not appreciated its importance when it was circulated and agreed over the past three years. (see page 2 of appendix 4/091109, page 578, for Slaley PC involvement with the early stages of The Charter)
Thirdly the NCC budget continues to cause problems and is still not agreed apparently there is one more meeting to reach an agreement and if this does not happen the Government will set the County budget.

8. Correspondence.
a) A complaint made to Clerk 19/1/10 by parents walking to school about dog dirt on the footpath since the snow had melted. Clerk given the go ahead, from Cllr Hancock, to speak with Stuart Bell and ask that the dirt be cleaned up and the footpath disinfected. Stuart collected a bucket full of dirt and Sam Bailey followed on with a brush and disinfectant. Clerk saw Stuart and thanked him and asked for his account. He also asked to give a donation to charity and was happy with Air Ambulance. The Councillors agreed to give £10.
b) Request from Air Ambulance for financial help.
c) NCC Hackney Carriage & Private Hire Licensing Policy – meeting Hexham Auction Mart 10/2/10.
d) Northumberland Fire & Rescue Service – new community fire stations at Seahouses, Prudhoe & Haltwhistle. Meeting at Prudhoe 17/2/10.
e) NSPCC Helpline – raise awareness amongst Councillors and others that this free 24-hour service offers support an advice to any adult worried about a child.
f) Victim Support request for financial assistance- scanned and e-mailed 12/2/10
g) E-mail 21/1/10: NALC national training strategy survey reminder. Cllr Norris had not felt able to complete this survey on the PCs behalf.
h) E-mail 21/1/10: Royal Garden Party Invitation.
i) E-mail 25/1/10 regarding another cracked windscreen on the mobile post office vehicle – no service at Slaley on Monday January 25th.
j) E-mail 27/1/10: Burial Fees for Parish Councils
k) E-mail 27/1/10: North Pennines AONB Consultation. Cllr Hancock to look at this on the PCs behalf.
l) E-mail 27/1/10: RSN Service Provision in Market Towns
m) E-mail 30/1/10 NALC Leadership Academies
n) E-mail 30/1/10 Environment Agency’s Flood Management Plan.
o) E-mail 30/1/10 People and Places Economic Edition.
p) E-mail 30/1/10: Winter Services Briefing Note (8 pages) from NCC Communities & Place Overview & Scrutiny Committee.
q) E-mail 5/2/10: NHS request for local channels of communication – Cllr Brooks to reply for Slaley as one of the monthly News sheet editors.
r) E-mail 6/2/10: RSN February newsletter.
s) E-mail 6/2/10: Rural Services Community – New Features.
t) E-mail 6/2/10: Request for volunteers to sit on Northumbria Police Strategic Independent Advisory Group (SIAG).
u) E-mail 6/2/10: Putting People First Annual Conference – March 23rd
v) E-mail 11/2/10: RSN Local Food Study – Evidence of Good Prasctice.
w) E-mail 11/2/10: Glasscycle – bottle smashing machine and glass cullet collection service. Circulated to Commemoration Hall Committee Members who showed interest. A reply e-mail sent 15/2/10 asking for cost details and a demonstration. A reply on 15/2/10 with two possible demonstration dates this week was considered too early. The Clerk to reply suggestion the first week of March and ask for a contact telephone number of someone who uses this machine/service.
x) E-mail 11/2/10: Lay Interim Chair & Committee members for NHS Newcastle & North Tyneside or Northumberland Care Trust.
y) E-mail 11/2/10: West Area Committee agenda 16/2/10
z) Adapt News January 2010; Marshalls driveway leaflet.

9. Financial Report.
Cheques to be signed
Cheque No 401 Donation to Great North Air Ambulance in lieu of work by Nigel Pickering & Stuart Bell £35 (see 4d & 8a)
Proposed by Cllr C.A. Brooks & seconded by Cllr. L. Norris the cheque was signed.
Interim cheque No 400 on 22/1/10 for 31 attendees at Slaley Hall Post Christmas lunch @ £15 per head signed by Cllrs L. Norris & I. C. Hancock

10. Current Planning Applications.
20100015: Certificate of lawfulness for proposed timber stables block / store. Moorlands, Lead road. Does ‘general permitted development’ now allow this? Previously refused on application 20000055. Stables were erected last year why was this not on application 20090515?
20090906: Certificate of lawfulness for proposed single-storey rear extension. Middle Grange, Slaley Village. No objections
20090918: Demolition of outbuildings and construction of car port to side of dwelling. South Cottage, High Clear. No objections
20090928: Amendments to previously approved application 20090396 use of silage clamp building for livestock housing, Flothers Farm. Will present silage pit and slurry lagoon be large enough?
20090902: Extension to Livestock Building. Flothers Farm. No Objections
Decisions from Planning Authority
20090787: Re-consultation as amended Outline. Construction of one residential unit. Winter House, Slaley Refused
20090410: Two storey extension to side. Linnel Hill. Granted
20090162: Outline Construction of 78 holiday lodges Slaley Hall Withrawn

11. Community Forum meeting at Slaley on Wednesday 27th January.
A draft report of this meeting is attached as appendix 2/150210, page 587. Cllr Brooks wondered if some of the people recorded as public were in fact Councillors and had been recorded in the wrong place.
With limited space in the News-sheet Cllr. Hancock had asked Cllr. Massey if the draft minutes could be pasted on the Slaley web site. Cllr Massey had asked for this to be postponed pending his return to Hexhamshire.

12. Parish Plan Action Plan – Speeding Review
Parked cars in village are the cause of many speeding problems. Comments have been received in particular, about the safety aspects of car parking near the school. Cllr. Davison reported by e-mail instances of double parking at or near the school at peak collection times. Cllr. Palmer and Clerk, P Wilson confirmed this was regular especially when some vehicles are half on the footpath and confessed to having done so themselves when collecting children. Using the non-parking section was also used when a quick pick-up of children was needed. Other road users are increasing speed to get past the long line of parked vehicles where the only passing places are private gateways. After discussion it was agreed to contact the Chair of Governors and the Acting Head to discuss if a Police highway investigation would provide some workable solutions to the problem.
Clerk & Chairman to draft a letter.

13. BOATs update.
a) The NCC report on the BOATs consultation was received 27/1/10. Deadline for comments is during March. The use of TROs is being suggested by NCC to regulate the damage on some of the more vulnerable routes. Cllr Hancock will draft a brief summary of the report and circulate.
b) Copy correspondence from AVAG which explains the lack of continuity and therefore lack of local knowledge by local Police covering our BOATs network area. As the Police will be the monitoring force behind the proposed TROs, the prospect of policing the routes appears likely to falter before it commences.
c) The Sunday morning group of 5/6 trail bikes have been reported by several people as performing wheelies and standing on the pedals rather than sitting on the seats on the B6306 and through Slaley village. The same group returns during the afternoon and perform much the same acrobats although in the afternoon they are filthy with mud.

14. AOB
a) An e-mail reminder of the August 2009 letter to planning department for a copy of the 2009 conditions of occupancy of the Holiday Villas at Slaley Hall has been sent.

15. Date of March 2010 meeting.
Monday March 8th
There being no further business the meeting ended at 9.15 p.m.

Slaley Parish Council January 2010 Minutes

An alternative to the Post Christmas lunch at Slaley Hall was suggested for January 2011. Read all about it under agenda item 11.

Minutes of Slaley Parish Council, Monday January 18th 2010, in Slaley Commemoration Hall 7.30 p.m. (Postponed from January 11th due to adverse weather conditions).

Apologies: Cllr. Mrs L. Norris, Mrs A. S. Robson & S. Davison.
1. Present: Councillor I.C. Hancock in the Chair. Councillors, Mrs C. A. Brooks & Ms M Palmer. Clerk Mrs P. Wilson. County Councillor Colin W Horncastle from 9 p.m.
Public: None. Courant Reporter: None. Slaley Notes & Community Trust Executive Committee Member: Michael Elphick.

2. Declaration of Interests and Hospitality Record.
Clerk, P Wilson, declared an interest in planning application 20091004.

3. Minutes of December Parish Council Meeting (circulated pages 569-572 + appendix 1 page 573, appendix 2 page 574).
Proposed as a true record by Cllr. A.S. Robson and seconded by Cllr. C.A. Brooks the minutes were approved and signed.

4. Matters Arising.
a) 8b 14/12/09: NCC Housing Developer Funds for Outdoor Sport and Play – four application rounds in 2010. Clerk wrote to Val Knowles and asked if Slaley funds are still ring-fenced for Slaley. Reply stated that records show developments in Slaley with contributions due to be collected. Cllr Hancock asked that this be forwarded to CC Horncastle for help and also we look for past correspondence confirming that monies were held.
b) 10 14/12/09: 20090410: Two storey extension to side. Linnel Hill. E-mail sent asking if this is still to be determined. E-mail reply from planning officer, Jenny Green, confirming that the application is still ongoing with minor changes having been made.
c) 13 14/12/09 & 4d (ii) 9/11/09: Precept amount increase for web site design: Michael Elphick is examining several different formats; he intends to set up one or two sites on his own site for people to try. He proposes that Zen Internet should host the new site. He suggested that the new arrangements begin in February 2010 when the annual payment is due. Initial indications are that Zen annual charge will be in the region of £60. This was verbally agreed.
d) 16 c 14/12/09 Clerk asked villagers if trees were cut back when the electric company switched off the power in village. Rita Ridley said not outside South Farm but she thought yes elsewhere.
e) 16 d 14/12/09: Increased parking on the single-track entrance into South Park causing an obstruction was reported to Milecastle Housing & Local Community Police Officer. Has there been an improvement? PW has certainly noticed many vehicles parked on the village street.

5. Public Participation.
Mr Elphick gave a general thank you to the winter services team who have kept the B6306 road clear and treated the ‘C’ roads making them passable. The parishioners living on the ‘U’ roads were not so fortunate. The possibility of having a parish data base of e-mails was discussed for use by the parish clerk when important information needs to be circulated like the dumpy bag of grit delivered to Parkside for the use of everyone. The Chairman had ascertained from David Francis that this would not be a problem under the Data Protection Act. However, while this might be feasible, it was pointed out that anyone capable of receiving emails would also be able consult the village website, where the information could be posted.

6. Community Trust Report
None.

7. Matters for Discussion with County Councillor.
a) See 8b above.
b) 7a 14/12/09 & 17 b 9/11/09: Planning Permission 20050557: Renewal of temporary planning permission for permanent use of land as outdoor pursuits area etc. CC Horncastle was to check if the permission had been temporary or permanent. No Answer received to date.

8. Correspondence.
a) NCC letter re Post Office Network Reorganisation – One Year On. This was scanned and circulated to Councillors. It was agreed that a copy of our minutes and problems be sent to Councillor Glen Sanderson. The meeting on 26th January at 2 p.m. may not be possible to attend.
b) NCC letter saying the Northumberland News is now available on the Council’s website.
c) Northumberland Fire & rescue Service: Letter re Modernisation: Working to maximize the well-being of our communities. An e-mail was sent asking if parishioners has received a copy of this. The negative answer indicates that this response is because Slaley PC completed a survey on the Service
d) E-mail 15/12/09: NALC asking for help in deciding the best way of proving events for PCs. Councillors Linda Norris (Slaley) and Monica Gibb (Healey) having attended events were asked to complete representing their respective PCs.
e) E-mail 16/12/09: NSP Community Forum Update. Community Action Plan mentioned. The appendix does not mention our Five Parishes Rural Community Forum.
f) E-mail 16/12/09: From David Francis the direct information service (17 pages long) subscription form (2 pages). Comments such as PCs will have a direct say over how their neighbourhood is policed – we know from experience that this is not correct.
g) E-mail 18/12/09: The Food & Environment Research Agency requested via David Francis information on bee keepers. Slaley notes were asked to mention this.
h) E-mail 21/12/09: Draft Landscape Character Assessment view and respond on-line between 21/12/09 – 18/1/10. Councillors asked to complete themselves.
i) E-mail 26/12/09: public meetings re NCC budget at Haltwhistle 12/1/10 & Ponteland 13/1/10 + separate additional information.
j) E-mail 26/12/09: From Daid Francis - assess the likely impact on budget cuts and consider the likely outlook for increasing pressures on PC budgets.
k) E-mail 2/1/10: From Mike Bird with an internet access address for relevant budget meeting papers.
l) E-mail 2/1/10: From Haydon Bridge PC re transfer of services to PCs and the reply from NCC to Haydon Bridge that they could continue to provide certain services at a cost to the individual parish residents.
m) E-mail 4/1/10: RSN re a new free service for Community Groups – The Asset Transfer Unit.
n) E-mail 5/1/10: NCC Scratch card competition ‘Don’t bin it, bring it!’ – small electrical items to household waste recovery center.
o) E-mail 5/1/10: NHS hospital car parking charges letter and 38 page consultation document for completion by 23/2/10. Clerk to look at this.
p) E-mail 8/1/10: from Janis Irvine thanking PC for grant and offering PC members to visit St. Mary’s to view the notice which details the full works.
q) E-mail 8/1/10 NHS message to old people keep warm
r) E-mail 8/1/10 NCC priorities – information re rock salt and NCC help line pasted on web site.
s) E-mail 11/1/10 now two meetings at NCC on 26/1/10 Winter Services and Post Office.
t) E-mail 11/1/10 Regional Minutes from 17/10/09 with frequent mention of Allotments.
u) E-mail 11/1/10 RSN Parish Newsletter
v) E-mail 11/1/10 Refuse lorry drivers said one thing on Monday and it appear the Thursday drivers did something different/
w) E-mail 11/1/10 Members area of the NALC website.
x) E-mail 11/1/10 NALC Local Council Awards 20910 reminder
y) E-mail 11/1/10 Thank You letter from Whitley Chapel YFC for grant
z) E-mail 14/1/10 Sustainable Communities Amendment Bill, second request to lobby MP
aa) E-mail 18/1/10 Local Transport Plan available on line for comment. Cllr Hancock to look at this.
ab) E-mail 19/1/10 Swine Flu update January 15th.
ac) Christmas card from David & Shirley Woodard; CAN Annual report 08/09 + CAN financial aid request + CAN News Vol 29. No 6; CPRE Overview Winter 2009,Clerk & Councils Direct January 2010; Notts Sport Ltd advertising leaflets.

9. Financial Report.
Cheques to be signed
Cheque No 399 One Dumpy bag of rock salt from Matthew Charlton £84.99
Proposed by Cllr CA Brooks & seconded by Cllr M. Palmer the cheque was signed.

10. Current Planning Applications.
20091004: Application for prior notification of proposed agricultural building to be used as livestock housing/storage Reaston Hill, Slaley. James Wilson received a letter saying the Planning Officer assigned to the case would inspect the site and if by 7/1/10 James had not heard from the planning department he may proceed with the development. The application was advertised in the Hexham Courant but no plans for the application were received by Slaley PC. Parish Clerk declared an interest in this application. County Councillor to request an explanation.
20090906: Certificate of lawfulness for proposed single storey rear extension. Middle Grange, Slaley Village. No objections
20090918: Demolition of outbuildings and construction of car port to side of dwelling. South Cottage, High Clear. No objections
20090928: Amendments to previously approved application 20090396 use of silage clamp building for livestock housing, Flothers Farm. Will present silage pit and slurry lagoon be large enough?
20090902: Extension to Livestock Building. Flothers Farm. No Objections
20090787: Re-consultation as amended Outline. Construction of one residential unit. Winter House, Slaley Objections
20090787: Construction of one residential unit. Winter House, Slaley.
A note from NCC arrived with a copy of new ownership certificates. Objections.
20090410: Two storey extension to side. Linnel Hill. Pending
Decisions from Planning Authority

11. Slaley Hall Post-Christmas Meal for the Over 60’s – January 2010 Arrangements.
31 people confirmed. After discussion it was decided to go ahead with this as many of the confirmed numbers were widows and there enjoyed was looked forward to. Cllr Linda Norris will contact Mr & Mrs Hammett who need transport.
Cllr M Palmer suggested that she would be prepared to cook a meal at Slaley Commemoration Hall for future years. Mr. Elphick offered to show a film after the meal making it a parish event. Cllr Palmer was thanked for this offer. It will be discussed again in September when the Post Christmas Lunch will be on the agenda.

12. Community Forum meeting at Slaley on Wednesday 27th January
We need to have a copy of the report of inferior B6306 resurface work, agenda item 5, on January 12th 2009 minutes.
Poster placed in Village Shop and mentioned in Slaley Notes.
Agenda and minutes of preliminary meeting attached as appendix 1/180110 page 580.
E-mails received today from Susi Goncu and Brian Massey re speakers and invitations.
Mr. Elphick asked if the public would be able to raise questions for discussion not on the agenda. The Clerk replied that the questions could be raised but an answer may not be provided at the meeting if it was not an Agenda item.

13. Parish Plan Action Plan January 2010 Update circulated as appendix 2/180110 (page 581) See 4d(iii) 9/11/09 and 15 e below:

14. AOB
a) Drain cover displaced again on C265. Clerk informed NCC highways by e-mail 5/1/10.
b) Salt in yellow salt bin at Parks Side elderly bungalows for use at mobile Post Office and the elderly, has all been used by villagers. Clerk e-mailed 5/1/10 and asked NCC Highways to refill.
After discussion with PC Chairman, Ian C Hancock, Nigel Pickering was asked if he could clear the highway in Parks Side bungalows. This was satisfactorily done by his JCB.
c) Ordered a 1 tone dumpy bag of rock salt from Matthew Charlton to be delivered to Parks Side bungalows (Building Dept, order 604911) and placed near the yellow salt bin for use by parishioners. Cost is £85 including Vat. Clerk paid by credit card.
d) Mobile Post Office Provision between Christmas and New Year at Slaley. Last at Slaley Wednesday December 23rd. Thursday 24th no service from 12.30 nationwide and the Slaley service is late afternoon on a Thursday. Friday 25th Christmas Day. Saturday 26th Boxing Day. Sunday 27th No service. Monday 28th No service holiday in lieu of Boxing Day being on a Saturday. Tuesday 29th No service at Slaley on a Tuesday. Wednesday December 30th service as usual after SEVEN days without any provision. Mr Hayden of Townhead walked down Slaley village to the mobile Post Office for an 8.30 a.m. start on Wednesday December 30th. He found two other villagers waiting. The mobile Post Office van did not arrive until 8.55 a.m. The driver blamed a technical fault that had obliged him to return to Stocksfield. The question was raised of what technical fault could be discovered whilst driving between Stocksfield and Slaley.
PLUS e-mail 6/1/10 to Cllr Hancock Stocksfield PO tel Clerk to ask about road conditions at 8.45 a.m. vehicles still to dig out, then again at 9.07 to say not coming.
e) After talks with Linda Foster it must be reported to interested parties that all users of the Age Concern trips must first undergo a face to face interview with project worker Christine Aitchison this interview included medication and medial issues before anyone of age 50 and above can put their name forward for the service. This enables medical action should there be an accident or if anyone was taken ill. People who are fit and healthy and able to look after themselves must also have this interview. Interested parties should initially contact Project Co-ordinator Karen Moses at Age Concern Prudhoe 01661 836011 between 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. The trips are only advertised to the people who have had the interview and that is why so few people know when the trips are taking place or where the trips are going.
f) What looked like an abandoned vehicle near the Townhead junction was reported to the police on 8/1/10. PC Iain Robertson telephone Clerk back and said vehicle belonged to a local person. Did the PC wish the Police to deal with it or would the PC act. The owner of the vehicle was contacted and asked if the vehicle could be moved further from the junction. This was done. Several vehicles have used the same area over night but the others have been moved early in the morning and did not prohibit the gritting and clearing of the junction. Several other vehicles in the village have caused problems. The PC agreed that the following statement should be made in the monthly newssheet “In general we survived the snow very well. Some concerns about parked vehicles causing difficulties for winter services were noted. Thank You to everyone who cleared snow, shopped for their neighbours or kept the village highway clear of obstruction”.
g) Pot holes to be reported: B6306 Dipton Cut & Travellers Rest corner. U8080 north west section. U8078 between High Clear Lane and Holly Hill. C265 Kellas road at East Burnside and Holly Cottage.

15. BOATs Update
BOAT No 71 had been confirmed between points P & Q previously an unclassified road No U8065. Receipt of notification acknowledged to Alex Bell.

16. Date of February 2010 meeting.
Monday February 8th

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

Healey Parish Council

Healey Parish Council meeting of December 2009

Minutes of Healey Parish Council Meeting, Wednesday 9th December 2009, 7.30 p.m. in Barley Hill Community Hall.

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

2. Declaration of Interest and Hospitality record.
None.

3. Minutes of September 9th 2009 meeting (circulated pages 45-49) Appendix 1 page 50, appendix 2 page 51. Interim Report (5) Sept 10th – Oct 12th (circulated pages 52-53) Interim Report (6) Oct 13th - Nov 9th (circulated pages 54-56) Appendix 1 page 57, appendix 2 page 58 & appendix 3 page 59. Proposed as a true record by Cllr Gibbs the minutes and interim reports were signed and dated.

4. Matters Arising
a) Request for BHCH Deed of Trust and copy of 2009 AGM (see agenda item 13b of September minutes). It appears that the DoT is mislaid. Cllr J Raine to contact Mr Swinburn a former member of the management committee and ask if and where the DoT exists. Should this request prove negative the Clerk to write to the Charity Commission for a copy. Without the DoT further suggestions for the Hall and its grounds cannot be discussed. The request for an outside and inner porch light was agreed as imperative partially due to Cllr Warde-Aldam falling on the steps as he entered the building. Cllr Rain was informed that the Parish Council would cover the cost through its Beacon Grant. It was also suggested that a 2009 AGM meeting be held as soon as possible with the public invited and the officers elected. The various telephone discussions and e-mails may constitute interim meetings. However, the roof was obviously leaking and the floor was wet, also part of the electrical system was ineffective. Cllr Raine reported that he had some felt to repair the damaged roof. Cllr Raine also indicated that discussions with the Management Committee had decided to remove the damaged Notice Board and not to replace it, volume of traffic meant the site was dangerous for people to pull in and read notices. The entrance to BHCH had been cleared of much of the overgrowth and Cllr Raine was thanked for this.

5. Doomsday Project Update (1a Int/6, 1a Int/5, 6 9/9/09; 1a Int/4, 1a Int/3, 4a 20/5/09, 1a Int/2, 1e Int/1, 5c 23/2/09, 4a 10/12/08; 5a 10/9/08).
Twice e-mail address has been requested through Slaley Notes. It would seem that the people of the parish are not interested in having a ‘Facebook’ type web page. This type of site is receiving some very bad publicity at present and was therefore no longer considered appropriate. There is £216.00 (see 4a 20/5/09 page 38) remaining in the account and the Chairman and the Treasurer of the original Doomsday Committee have suggested the funds are transferred to a living project. Cllr Warde-Aldam volunteered to speak with J W-A regarding the formation of a new committee which could engage the people of the parish and move forward. The ‘Minsteracres Peace Garden’ project (see 7a Interim Report 6) was considered but, without further information was rejected. The draft annual update of the Slaley “Where to Buy Locally” leaflet was examined. Cllr Raine suggested that Healey facilities and services could be incorporated into the Slaley booklet. Circulation was discussed and especially circulation in the Minsteracres area of the parish. It was finally agreed that a second Parish Council Notice Board should be placed on the Minsteracres drive. Cllr Raine to make initial request to Father Frank, then Clerk to confirm with a formal request. Clerk to request a quote for an oak notice board similar in size to the Healey Notice Board from Ged Collins who repaired the Healey notice board.

6. Public Participation
None

7. Correspondence.
Hard Copy:
a) Kiln Pit Hill Wind Farm traffic management plan and construction information. (informed by e-mail 23/11/09)
b) NHS Swine Flu Vaccination Posters and booklets (informed by e-mail 23/11/09
c) NCC letter from Steven Mason re Local Government Finance Act + Northumberland Charter for Local Councils from Bill Batey + NCC appendix of Healey implications (None) (given to T. W-A on 17/11/09 at Interim planning meeting.
d) NHS Provider Board Meeting 18/12/09 at The Manors, Prudhoe - poster and map
e) Marmax products the collection of Outdoor furnishings, brochure and price list.
f) LCR Winter 2009 catalogue.
g) Parish Council parcel currently at Healey Church porch waiting collection – content unknown.
E-mail 12/11/09 from D. Francis re Postal Scam and advising Councillors not to call the Parcel Delivery Service.
E-mail 14/11/09 from D Francis re NALC County Committee short of 5 people from West area.
E-mail 16/11/09 from D Francis re NCC Regeneration Service Funding Bulletin (13 pages)
E-mail 17/11/09 re Invitation to Fusiliers return 8/12.
E-mail 20/11/09 re RSN monthly newsletter.
E-mail 21/11/09 re Statement of Gambling Policy
E-mail 27/11/09 Sustainable Communities Act Amendment Bill
E-mail 30/11/09 West Area Committee meeting 8/12/09, West Wylam.
E-mail 2/12/09 Putting People First
E-mail 7/12/09 NSP quarterly newsletter ‘Maters Arising’
E-mail 8/12/09 Invitation to Central Tynedale CF meeting 15/12/09 re car parking in Hexham.

8. Matters for Discussion with County Councillor Colin W Horncastle.
Cllr Horncastle not present. Issues arising from meeting between PCs and NCC officials at the West Area Committee on 27/10/09. P Wilson represented Healey at this meeting see appendix 3 Int/6. See especially third and last paragraphs on reading documents and reporting - this is the new service delivery system. Cllr Johnson said that depending upon subject matter and general interests some documents were easier to read and consider than others.

9. Planning Applications
20090815: Insertion of French doors and windows on west elevation. Pikewell House, Healey. No objections
20090800: Listed Building consent for installation of velux conservation rooflights to gin gang and corner building. Fotherley Buildings, Riding Mill. No objections
20090572: Listed Building Consent for construction of single storey garden room extension. The Olde Mill House, Newfield Farm, Minsteracres. No objections
20090542: Change of use from agricultural land to garden/vegetable plot – Pikewell House, Healey, Riding Mill. NE44 6BW No objections
Decision from Planning Authority
09/00182/CCD: Extension to clubhouse, new steel framed storage building, new water treatment installation and new disabled ramp and access at Derwent Sailing Club. Questioned a disabled lift rather than the large access ramp. Permitted
20090746: Construction of new 3.3km multi-user path to include a section of boardwalk, and a new visitor car park, North side of Derwent Reservoir from Dam past Crokley Bank Farm to Millshields car park. Objections. Application withdrawn Cllr informed by e-mail 26/11/09
Meeting to discuss this planning application on 19/10/09 report attached as appendix 1/Int/6
20090660: Listed Building Consent: Construction of extension to provide double garage with home office accommodation in roof space attached to dwelling with glazed link, and reforming and repositioning of French doors in southern gable of existing dwelling. The Olde Estate Yard, Minsteracres. Concerns (see (i) below. DMC heard 3/12/09 at Hexham Council Chamber (Cllrs told by e-mail 25/11/09) Refused
20090703: Construction of extension to provide double garage with home office accommodation in roof space attached to dwelling with glazed link, and reforming and repositioning of French doors in southern gable of existing dwelling. The Olde Estate Yard, Minsteracres. Concerns. DMC heard 3/12/09 at Hexham Council Chamber (Cllrs told by e-mail 25/11/09) Refused
*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.
(i) Interim planning meeting 17/11/09 report attached as appendix 1/091209 page 64

10. Financial Report
a) No Cheques to be signed
b) Financial Report as at 9/12/09 was circulated as appendix 2/091209

11. Precept for 2010/11 (attached as appendix 2/091209) page 65
a) BHCH balance sheet as at 2009 circulated. Because there were no meeting minutes to indicate that financial help was needed with proposed improvements it appeared that no additional financial aid was needed.
b) Cllr Adamson reminded the Council of his father’s request in September 2008 for assistance at Healey Churchyard for grass cutting during the growing season, leaf clearing and hedge cutting. (see agenda item 11 10/9/08 minutes). The Council had not taken any action on this. Clerk to contact Tony Bramley and ascertain his interest and rates. Cllr Adamson to provide Clerk with Ross Adamson’s current e-mail address then the level of assistance and availability of tools including lawnmower can be established.
c) Clerk instructed to write to Tony Bramley, Briardene, Minsteracres, DH8 9RU and ask if he is interested in quoting for the churchyard work.
d) Cllr Johnson had been asked why the PC gave a grant to St. John’s at Healey and not St. Elizabeth’s at Minsteracres. The grant given to St. John’s was towards the upkeep of the parish churchyard. St. Elizabeth’s was a RC churchyard and no request for financial assistance had been received from them.
e) PW also reminded the Council that with the demise of the District Council’s financial help for parish/community halls and parish churchyards was being returned to parish level and David Francis has recommended that Parish Councils work closely with Hall Management Committees and PCCs to help safeguard these valuable assets.
f) The precept was agreed with the same headings as last year and to include two new headings: Healey Churchyard maintenance £250.00 and Community Forum expenditure £25.00. The total Precept for the year will be £1800.

12. Community Forum Report.
a) Report from November 24th meeting: Discussion topics for 27/1/10 attached as appendix 3/091209, page 66
b) Invitation to Healey parish ‘community’ to the January 27th (Wednesday) 2010 ‘Five Rural Parishes Community Forum’ meeting at Slaley Commemoration Hall. Method of circulation in Healey parish is difficult. Clerk to e-mail known parishioners and ask them to spread the word.
c) Next meeting will be approximately 3/4 months May followed by September because of heating and lighting in BHCH it was agreed that Healey be the venue for a summer meeting.
d) Richard Powell has identified Michael Connelly as the community safety coordinator for West Northumberland. Do we want him to attend a Healey PC meeting to discuss the problems in the rural car parking areas around the reservoir and at BHCH? It was decided not at the moment the Police are very active in the area at present.

13. A.O.B.
The portrait and newspaper article hanging in BHCH was questioned. The Clerk volunteered to take the newspaper cutting and retype to try and establish whom the lady was and more importantly her connection to BHCH.

14. BOATs Update.
Latest newsletter from GLEAM and YDGLA received. They are suggesting we might consider Nuisance.

15. Date of next meeting.
Wednesday March 10th at 7.30 p.m.

February Parish Council meeting postponed!

The February meeting of Slaley Parish Council has had to be postponed (on account of the Clerk's illness). It is hoped to re-schedule this for next Monday, February 15th.

Further announcements will be posted here.

Slaley Parish Council December 2009 minutes

No street light at Parkside bungalows. Read more on agenda item 4a

Minutes of Slaley Parish Council, Monday December 14th 2009, in Slaley Commemoration Hall 7.30 p.m.

1. Apologies: None
Present: Councillor I.C. Hancock in the Chair. Councillors S. Davison, Mrs C. A. Brooks, Mrs L. Norris, Mrs A. S. Robson & Ms M Palmer. Clerk Mrs P. Wilson.
Public: None. Courant Reporter: None. Slaley Notes & Community Trust Executive Committee Member: Michael Elphick.

2. Declaration of Interests and Hospitality Record.
None.

3. Minutes of November Parish Council Meeting (circulated pages 569- 574 + appendix 1 page 575, appendix 2 page 576, appendix 3 page 577, appendix 4 page 578 & appendix 5 page 579). Proposed as a true record by Cllr. A.S. Robson and seconded by Cllr. C.A. Brooks the minutes were approved and signed.

4. Matters Arising.
a) 4a 9/11/09 Lighting at Parkside. A replacement for the existing street light outside No 6 Parkside was needed, unfortunately due to red tape the old lamp was disconnected before the new lamp was ready for connection. Therefore the elderly residents were without a street light for many days. Following a visit to the mobile Post Office on the evening of Monday December 7th, the Clerk made a complaint to Neil Johnston (NCC Highways) that the whole site was in darkness and there were bollards blocking access along the footpath. We were told that replacement of the light was being carried out for NCC Highways while the additional light requested by the PC was to be installed by NCC Street Lighting. The two departments had not spoken to each other despite the fact that the workmen who will install the additional light had been on and off site several times during the past six weeks. The Chairman and Clerk met Christopher Bolt on site on Wednesday 9th December and agreed the position and the price. An order has since been issued. After Mr. Bolt and his chief Mr. Phillips were told that the matter had been reported to the Hexham Courant, the replacement lamp outside Number 6 Parkside was quickly connected and became operational on Friday evening. The second light will not be connected until sometime in 2010.
b) 15 9/11/09; 4c 12/10/09; 6 14/9/09; 4a 13/7/09 & appendix 1/130709 Disability Access at proposed works at St. Mary the Virgin Church Slaley. A breakdown of work and costs received and circulated by e-mail 8/12/09
c) 13 9/11/09 Audited accounts for Slaley Community Trust and St. Mary the Virgin received and circulated.

5. Public Participation.
None.

6. Community Trust Report
No official monthly report.
Catherine Lincoln, on behalf of Community Trust, e-mailed for key dates for inclusion in a parish list that will be posted on web site. It is hoped that this will avoid clashes with events of interest or similar audiences. Clerk replied with AGM date.

7. Matters for Discussion with County Councillor Colin W. Horncastle.
a) 17 b Nov meeting Planning Permission 20050557: Renewal of temporary planning permission for permanent use of land as outdoor pursuits area etc. CC Horncastle was to check if the permission had been temporary or permanent. No answer received to date.

8. Correspondence.
a) NCC letter from Steven Mason re Local Government Finance Act + Northumberland Charter for Local Councils from Bill Batey + NCC appendix of Slaley implications (None) Circulated and noted.
b) NCC Housing Developer Funds for Outdoor Sport and Play – four application rounds in 2010. Clerk to write and ask if Slaley funds are still ring-fenced for Slaley.
c) Hexham Courant offer of FoC article in Tynedale Visitor 2010 by Friday Feb 5th. Last year's entry agreed, with a small modification.
d) Brian Massey e-mailed a copy of his correspondence to NCC highways regarding surface problem on C280 between Dukesfield road end and bridge over Devil’s Water.
e) Tynedale Sports Council invitation to awards evening 1/12/09. circulated no-one attended.
f) NCC invitation to the welcoming home of the 2nd Battalion of the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers on 8/12/09 circulated by e-mail 17/11/09. No-one attended.
g) Campaign to Protect Rural England request to Parish Council Chairman asking what the policies are for protecting trees and hedgerows. Cllr Hancock to reply.
h) Thank You letters from Slaley Commemoration Hall, Slaley Community Trust, CAN, Age Concern Northumberland, Tynedale Hospice & Great North Air Ambulance for grant cheques.
i) E-mail 12/11/09 from D. Francis re Postal Scam and advising Councillors not to call the Parcel Delivery Service.
j) E-mail 14/11/09 from D Francis re NALC County Committee short of 5 people from West area.
k) E-mail 16/11/09 from D Francis re NCC Regeneration Service Funding Bulletin (13 pages)
l) E-mail 17/11/09 re Invitation to Fusiliers return 8/12.
m) E-mail 20/11/09 re RSN monthly newsletter.
n) E-mail 21/11/09 re Statement of Gambling Policy
o) E-mail 27/11/09 Sustainable Communities Act Amendment Bill
p) E-mail 30/11/09 West Area Committee meeting 8/12/09, West Wylam.
q) E-mail 2/12/09 Putting People First Newsletter – December issue.
r) E-mail 7/12/09 NSP quarterly newsletter ‘Maters Arising’
s) E-mail 8/12/09 Central Tynedale CF mt 15/12/09 - topic parking in Hexham.
t) E-mail 10/12/09 December issues of the RSN Parish newsletter
u) E-mail 14/12/09 NSP Results of Northumberland ‘Place Survey’
v) E-mail 14/12/09 CAN December Newsletter
w) CE Electric UK information leaflets and posters; Martin’s Sports Ground Maintenance & Construction; Northumberland news Issue 3, Rekk Youth Shelters leaflet; Clerks 7 Councils Direct November 2009; North Pennines News Autumn & Winter.

9. Financial Report.
a) Cheques to be signed
Cheque No 398 NCC empty dog bin & empty litter bin £314.18 each = £628.36
Proposed by Cllr L. Norris & seconded by Cllr C.A Brooks the cheque was signed.

10. Current Planning Applications.
20090906: Certificate of lawfulness for proposed single storey rear extension. Middle Grange, Slaley Village. No objections
20090918: Demolition of outbuildings and construction of car port to side of dwelling. South Cottage, High Clear. No objections
20090928: Amendments to previously approved application 20090396 use of silage clamp building for livestock housing, Flothers Farm. Will present silage pit and slurry lagoon be large enough?
20090902: Extension to Livestock Building. Flothers Farm. No Objections
20090787: Re-consultation as amended Outline. Construction of one residential unit. Winter House, Slaley
20090787: Construction of one residential unit. Winter House, Slaley.
A note from NCC arrived with a copy of new ownership certificates. Object.
20090410: Two storey extension to side. Linnel Hill. Pending. – ask if this is still to be determined.
Decisions from Planning Authority

11. Post Christmas Meal for Over 60s Update
a) Terms and Conditions arrived from Slaley Hall for signature.
b) Only 12 people confirmed attendance. Reminder through Slaley notes. Agreed to cancel unless numbers increase significantly.

12. Community Forum Update. Notes from 24/11/09 meeting attached as appendix 1/141209.
a) E-mail from Brian Massey 28/11/09 checking all the e-mail addresses for members.
b) Invitation to Slaley parish ‘community’ to the January 27th (Wednesday) 2010 ‘Five Rural Parishes Community Forum’ meeting at Slaley Commemoration Hall. Meeting has two topics: Rural broadband and the lack of liaison between Highways staff and Councillors. Slaley Notes to carry record this and posters to be placed in village.
c) E-mail from Colin Horncastle to Stuart Lawson asking for justification for two Locality officers attending the preparatory meeting for the group on Nov 24th when NCC finances are so strapped.

13. Precept Spending 2010/2011. Updated Precept Sheet partially agreed at November meeting attached as appendix 2/141209.
a) Further work was undertaken on the Precept and after private discussion the Clerk’s salary was agreed at £3,000.00.
b) It was also agreed that the cost for the extra street light at Parkside £1050 and a grant of £650 towards St. May the Virgin Slaley disabled access through the Lych gate be made from the Beacon Grant.
c) It was clarified by Cllr Brooks that funding for the proposed new village signs with planters as discussed agenda item 6 14/9/09 would be sought through the Community Trust via the NCC Community Chest allocation.

14. Cllr A.S. Robson report from meeting on 20/11/09 NCC draft Voluntary & Community Sector Funding Policy. (see 8n 9/11/09)
NCC currently give £1.5m to the Voluntary Sector + £150k through the Community Chest the latter split into West, North & East. For the 2010/11 the proposed fund total will be £1.3m which includes and increased £300k for the Community Chest grants to all none-profit organisations. Official minutes are expected early in January.
Cllr. Robson also attended the Local Development Framework Day at Hexham Racecourse (see 7b 9/11/09 & 8d). The Perfect 10 were discussed the main being Transport and Affordable Houses. Different needs in different areas was apparent. Several tables of eight each with a member of NCC or NSP taking the notes to be fed into the Sustainable Community Strategy (SCS). A report is expected early January.

15. BOATs update.
a) Cllr D Short reported upgrading of the RoW network at the Hexhamshire end. Concrete ford over the Devil’s Water, new footbridge, ditch clearance and surface dressing. Hexhamshire PC had been informed by NCC that it had been paid for out of RoW funds that needed to be spent by the end of the financial year as no money could be carried forward (see Hexhamshire Notes from Friday 11/12/09)

16. A.O.B.
a) Townfoot village sign damage reported to NCC Highways.
b) Computer down on mobile Post Office Monday & Wednesday December 7th & 9th, Working again on Thursday evening. However it meant that no cash could be banked or withdrawn. No foreign parcels could be sent. Also on Wednesday December 9th the staff on the mobile unit needed to ask for help from the base at Stocksfield, but the mobile telephone would not work therefore no assistance could be given.
c) Questions arose regarding which trees, if any, had been cut back when the electric company switched off the power for the purpose. It appeared that some of the specified trees have been cut and some have not. Clerk to enquire if village trees have been cut back.
d) Increased parking on the single-track entrance into South Park is causing an obstruction for several residents, especially those at numbers 5 & 6, visitors and deliveries. Sometimes vehicles are parked on the footpath, which is illegal, and sometimes on both footpaths so that nothing can move. Residents have complained to number 4 South Park and have asked that their visitors should be encouraged to park on the additional roadside parking recently established outside number 9 South Park. For short periods these requests have been met, but it is becoming a stressful regular occurrence. After discussion it was agreed to (i) report to Milecastle Housing; (ii) report to local community police officer.

17 Date of January 2010 meeting.
Monday January 11th 2009

SlaleyParish Council November 2009 minutes

Slaley Councillors discuss the NCC distribution of Northumberland News. Read more on agenda items 7d and 8a

Minutes of Slaley Parish Council, Monday November 9th 2009, in Slaley Commemoration Hall 7.30 p.m.

1. Apologies: Councillor Ms M Palmer.
Present: Councillor I.C. Hancock in the Chair. Councillors S. Davison, Mrs C. A. Brooks, Mrs L. Norris, Mrs A. S. Robson & County Councillor C.W. Horncastle. Clerk Mrs P. Wilson.
Public: Hugh McKendrick. Courant Reporter: None. Slaley Notes Jean Elphick. Community Trust Executive Committee Member: Michael Elphick.
2. Declaration of Interests and Hospitality Record.
Cllr Mrs C. A. Brooks as a member of the CT declared an interest on agenda item 6.
County Councillor C.W. Horncastle declared an interest on agenda item10.

3. Minutes of October Parish Council Meeting (circulated pages 562- 566 + appendix 1 page 567 & appendix 2 page 568).
Proposed as a true record by Cllr L. Norris and seconded by Cllr. C.A. Brooks the minutes were approved and signed.

4. Matters Arising.
a). Lighting at Parks-Side in relation to the Post Office (see Special discussion last paragraph page 563). E-mail from Neil Johnson, no design ready yet for additional light due to staff illness. Cost will be between £1k - £2k depending upon access to electricity cables. If NCC install the light then it will be adopted for maintenance and energy purposes by the County. It was decided that no action could be taken until the actual estimate arrives.
b) 4a 12/10/09; 4a 14/9/09 Alan Bawn has replied that if Parish Councils fund their own VMS Speed Units and the location is agreed by NCC officers and the maintenance is with the PCs then a second unit can be purchased to reduce the costs of rotation. It was decided not to purchase a second unit with the Beacon Grant.
c) 4b 12/10/09; 4e 14/9/09. 8f 10/8/09: A salt bin has been positioned at Parks Side Bungalows. Clerk to purchase a strong shovel for the bin.
d) Parish Plan October AP Update 10 12/10/09 request to MR for any progress:
(i) Keep Slaley Lively section - Moyra Riseborough reported that she had hoped to start a Business Group to help with purchase of office supplies, insurance etc. This had not got off the ground partly due to the economic climate and partly through lack of interest.
(ii) Communicate More Effectively section - Moyra Riseborough reported that she was looking forward to the updated Slaley web site where hopefully it would be used by more people and with interlinks to different sites in the community i.e. accommodation and places to eat. The Business Directory and Where to Buy Locally were lost in the present web site system she felt.
(iii) More Services for Older People section - Moyra Riseborough reported that initially talks with Age Concern indicated that finding suitable transport for the shopping trips was a real problem. These customised vehicles were limited and got booked up well in advance, consequently when the shopping trips were finalised often the coaches had been hired elsewhere. Slaley people are currently joining the Age Concern trips with Blanchland parishioners. Moyra has sent an e-mail dated 4/11/09 confirming that she is handing out Posters locally and trying to regenerate interest in trips by Age Concern visiting local people. Copy of the Poster was presented to the meeting and the Councillors felt it should be displayed in the Village Shop and other parish notice boards. The Councillors asked about help for younger disabled parishioners (below Age Concern remit). Cllr Brooks suggested ADAPT.

5. Public Participation.
It was suggested that catagorising people once they reached 60 years was sometimes seen as derogatory. ‘Older people’, ‘Pensioners’, ‘Elderly’ etc. were words which conjured up old and frail individuals. It was suggested that the PC carefully refer to such people as ‘The Over 60’s’.
Mr. Elphick reported that he hoped the updated web site would have progress made or be available by Christmas.

6. Community Trust Report Circulated and attached as Appendix 1/081109
The Councillors discussed the request for financial help towards the repair of the school hut. The question was asked “is the repair due to wear and tear or vandalism?” Mr. Elphick replied that it was general maintenance because the roof was rotten. The roof may or may not have been damaged by vandalism. Any grant which the PC made would be seen as a good-will gesture to the school. There was a great deal of discussion about this and finally a vote was taken: “Who supports the award of a grant to the CT towards the school hut repairs?”. There were no Councillors in favour - they agreed that it was unclear that the need for repairs had any connection with the Community Trust-sponsored public use of the school grounds. Cllr Brooks abstained from voting.

7. Matters for Discussion with County Councillor Colin W. Horncastle.
a) NCC draft budget early February. To achieve the £20m shortfall it is proposed that all NCC departments should take the same % reduction in funding.
b) Local Development Framework LDF Drop-in-Day at Hexham Racecourse.
c) Day- care Centres to close. He believed that the changes had the potential to improve support for many people but would disadvantage the relatively few regular users of the drop-in centres.
d) Northumberland News posted to 142,000 households. Jill Dixon Executive Director for Performance is responsible for this publication and is taking the back-lash from the adverse publicity attracted to the publication. It will however, for contractual reasons, continue for the full twelve months.
e) Young people involvement in local government– Young Mayors etc.
f) November date for meeting with Slaley Headteacher about NCC support for public use of school premises has been cancelled due to illness.
g) Richard Powell has moved to a different position. Susi Goncu now heads CFs for this area.

8. Correspondence.
a) NCC complimentary copy of the Northumberland News No 2 being delivered to every household by Royal Mail (PC noted the Hexham Courant letter from Dr. Stan Beckensall on 16/10/09 and on 23/10/09 from Phil Harley and an- unrecorded writer. Apart from the content they complain of the cost of production and postage. See 7d above. Councillors were annoyed that the PC had received a separate copy but acknowledged that it was not in the PC's power to influence this wasteful expenditure of tax-payers money for the current year.
b) David Smurthwaite requested by e-mail a colour poster be printed and placed on notice board advertising indoor coaching of women’s cricket. This was done.
c) West Northumberland Citizens Advice Bureau. Request for financial aid. Agreed for 10/11
d) NSP revising the Sustainable Community Strategy (SCS). Current SCS published September 2007, NCC has asked that as the SCS be revised. Meetings until Christmas will identify ‘The Perfect 10’ outcomes central to making the county a better place to live. Closing date 15/1/10 draft due in Spring 2010. County Councillor C.W. Horncastle did not know of this - Clerk to Scan and forward via e-mail.
e) NHS Improving hospital services, hard copy of e-mail
f) Tynedale Hospice at Home is looking for Volunteers
g) (2 copies of each) NALC AGM 14/11/09 Agenda, Subscriptions paper B, Annual Report 08-09 Booklet (Point No 2 is a large section on the Charter for local Councils). CAN AGM on 4/11/09 with agenda and 2008 minutes + election of Executive Committee.
h) E-mailed 15/10/09 Central Tynedale Community Forum meeting on Monday 19/10/09.
i) E-mailed 16/10/09: NHS Commissioning Board meeting 23/10/09.
j) E-mailed 20/10/09: People and Places Mid October Bulletin (6 pages).
k) E-mailed 20/10/09: 28/10/09; 9/11/09 Weekly Rural Focus for Oct 19th, 27th & Nov 6th.
l) E-mailed 22/10/09: Invitation to Area Committee meeting (reply on line).
m) E-mailed 22/10/09: Free Home Insulation Available.
n) E-mailed 23/10/09: Meeting 20/11/09 to discuss NCC draft voluntary & community Sector Funding Policy. Cllr. Mrs AS Robson will attend and report.
o) E-mailed 28/10/09: 12 pages of ‘Joint Funding Bulletin For All’ Bulletin No 38.
p) E-mailed 29/10/09: NHS Improving hospital services for Northumberland & North Tyneside. (see8e above).
q) E-mailed 2/11/09: Communities Survey – For Parish Councillors – Survey for The State of Rural Services Report. Focus on public transport, affordable housing, primary schools, facilities for young people and support services for older people. Cllr Hancock been on line to look at the survey – he felt it was aimed at the general public.
r) E-mailed 4/11/09 agenda for West Area Committee on 10/11/09 at Stocksfield

9. Financial Report.
a) Cheques to be signed:
Cheque No 393 Grant – Commemoration Hall £1,000.00
Cheque No 394 Grant – St. Mary’s Churchyard £0,050.00
Cheque No 396 Grant – Community Trust £0,120.00
Cheque No 394 Grant – Age Concern £0,100.00
Cheque No 392 Grant – Slaley Show £0,325.00
Cheque No 395 Grant – Community Action Northumberland £0,020.00
Cheque No 389 Grant – Whitley Chapel YFC £0,100.00
Cheque No 390 Grant – Air Ambulance £0,150.00
Cheque No 388 Grant – Tynedale Community Hospice (new) £0,100.00
Cheque No 397 Commemoration Hall Hire of Room £0070.00
Proposed by Cllr L. Norris & seconded by Cllr AS Robson the cheques were signed.

10. Current Planning Applications.
20090787: Construction of one residential unit. Winter House, Slaley.
Copy of Laburnum Lodge Reply was tabled.
Hugh McKendrick was able to provide further information.
It was agreed that the Clerk contact the School/School Governors and ask if they have been consulted.
Typed page from Cllr Hancock Object.
20090410: Two storey extension to side. Linnel Hill. Pending,
Decisions from Planning Authority
20090692: Certificate of lawfulness for proposed demolition of outhouse and construction of new single storey extension and conversion of garage to living accommodation. South Highclear Cottage. Granted
20090636: Variation of condition No 3 of planning permission 86/E/125 to allow caravans to be used for human habitation between 1st March in one year and 31st January in the succeeding year. Springhouse Caravan County Park. Granted
20090637: Variation of condition No 5 of planning permission 75/E/460 to allow caravans to be used for human habitation between 1st March in one year and 31st January in the succeeding year and the use of one caravan unit for the purpose of human habitation by a site warden all year round. Springhouse Caravan County Park. Granted
The meeting noted a Hexham Courant article on 30/10/09 entitled "Holiday Site Reaps Rewards" reporting that "the new managing company invested £275,000 on improved facilities including rewiring, Installation of a new water and sewerage system, refurbishment of the toilet block and reception blocks". The article also states "In the coming months we plan to invest in a number of further improvements including the layout of the park and the installation of wireless Internet and CCTV". Question Would any of these require planning permssion? Probably Not.

11. Post Christmas Meal for Over 60’s Update.
E-mail sent with information to 18 addresses - only one confirmation via Post Office.
Slaley Village Shop has a poster and many booking forms.
Slaley Notes carried an article
Newsletter carried announcement in the November issue details to follow in December.

12. Community Forum Update. Minutes from September 09 meeting attached as appendix 2/081109.
Councillors noted the editorial in the Hexham Courant of October 23rd entitled “Forum launch marred by skepticism”. The report on the Central Tynedale Forum pointed out the close similarity in membership to the Hexham Community Partnership. The need for the two separate groups was questioned.
A meeting at Whitley Chapel Parish Hall will take place on Tuesday November 24th to discuss an agenda for the first formal meeting of the "Rural Hexham" Forum at Slaley Commemoration Hall booked for Wednesday January 27th.

13. Precept Spending 2010/2011. Balance Sheet & Precept Sheet attached as appendix 3/081109
A start was made. It was proposed by Cllr AS Robson that grants are not agreed unless an application is furnished with a recent financial balance sheet. After discussion this was agreed. A proposal that £2,100 be included in the Precept for grants, without specifying them at this stage, was also agreed.
The current grant recipients should receive a letter telling them of the new arrangements and that a formal request must be made accompanied by an up to date balance sheet for consideration during 2010/2011 and this should be received by September 30th 2010.

14. NCC West Area Committee joint meeting with Parish Councils 27/10/09 Report Circulated and attached as appendix 4/081109
There were no questions from this report and CC Colin Horncastle reported that Jim Heavyside would produce some official minutes of the meeting.

15. Report from Cllr IC Hancock of the public meeting with Reverend D. Irvine, 14/10/09 (see 4c 12/10/09; 6 14/9/09; 4a 13/7/09 & appendix 1/130709) re proposed changes to St Mary the Virgin Church building. Report circulated and attached as appendix 5/081109.
a) The question was asked if charges would be made for hiring the building and if not who would pay for the additional heating costs of keeping the Church heated during the winter months?
b) After discussion it was agreed that a letter be sent to Reverend Irvine, as Chair of Slaley PCC saying that Councillors would like to discuss further the plans, details and costs for the disabled access aspect of Stage 1. It is possible that the Parish Council could make a contribution of financial support for the disabled access.
c) The PC noted an alternative to a Churchyard memorial which has appeared at Herds House in Slaley Forest - a brass plaque is attached to a tree commemoration the local man, while angels and other adornments compliment a small plant filled remembrance garden around the base of a tree. Photograph provided.

16. BOATs update.
a) A report of two trail bikers on BOAT 21 during wet weather was reported to DB.
b) A website ‘blog’ has reported that the JLAF walked the trails in Slaley Forest, October 22nd 13.00 – 16.30 followed by a meeting in Slaley Village Hall 17.30 – 21.00. There will be a "mopping up meeting" to formulate a policy on usage of such trails. We overlooked our notice of this meeting on 30/7/09 and no-one attended to hear their findings.
c) Maggie Keyte is currently drafting a letter to NCC on Entitlement to Park under Schedule 7, Section 34, Subsection 3 of the CROW Act 2000 giving users a 15-metre parking entitlement either side of a BOAT. Cllr Hancock said that on his interpretation of this Clause, taken in conjunction with Subsection 5 (a and b) this was not a worry.

17. A.O.B.
a) Cllr Hancock reported on a telephone conversation from TH regarding 9 microlights flying out of the Wooley airstrip on a Saturday in October over Wooley Grange when one aircraft engine failed. The residents group has reported this to the Planning Authority.
b) Planning Permission 20050557: Renewal of temporary planning permission for permanent use of land as outdoor pursuits area etc. Should the PC be writing to NCC about this renewal due in 2010 ? The permission granted September 2005 states (Section 7.7) : The development accords with the development plan subject to appropriate conditions, any breaches of condition since the grant of permission ref: 20030243 have not been significant, and therefore a permanent permission is recommended. However, CC Horncastle and the PC thought that the permission had been temporary. CC Horncastle to check.
c) Still waiting for a reply from Planning department Enforcement Officer on the Slaley Hall Holiday Villas occupancy details for 2009.

18. Date of December 2009 meeting.
Monday December 14th 2009

There being no further business the meeting ended at 10.10 p.m.

Slaley Parish Council

Emergency help in this current cold spell. Slaley Parish Council has purchased from Matthew Charlton a large Dumpy bag of rock salt and it was hoepfully delivered to Parks Side bungalows in Slaley village on Thursday. This is free to all Slaley parishioners. As you will have heard on the TV salt is running very low so if used carefully this should provide some safety around private doorways and paths until the cold spell ends.
Northumberland County Council have the following help on its website.
We would urge anyone who is having real and serious difficulties regarding access to medical or other critical supplies and has genuine concerns to ring our contact centre on 0845 600 6400. We would also urge residents who know they have elderly neighbours to contact them and ask if they need anything as they may have difficulty getting to shops etc in these conditions.

Slaley Parish Council October 2009 Minutes

At the October 2009 meeting Slaley Parish Council spoke with two members of Post Office Limited about the problems experienced with the mobile Post office provision. Read more on page 562

Minutes of Slaley Parish Council, Monday October 12th 2009, in Slaley Commemoration Hall 7.30 p.m.

A Special discussion beginning at 7.30 p.m.
with Jane Briginshaw and Ian Carlton of Post Office Limited.
PC Chairman introduced Jane Briginshaw and Ian Carlton and thanked them for attending especially Jane Briginshaw who had travelled from Stockport.
JB said that Mobile Post Office vehicles in Cumbria have been working successfully for ten years covering 36 communities. In 99% of cases the mobile provision was a useful means of providing a service in rural areas. Post Office Ltd had continued to make improvements to the van and service over the years.
Winter provision was discussed. At the public meeting in July 2008 the PC and the public had stressed that Slaley is an exposed village with lots of ice and snow, and we were assured the van would get through. The PC suggested that vehicles could be improved, for example by the use of 4X4 vehicles or snow tyres so that winter conditions would not be a such a problem. JB replied that winter problems had not been an issue in other locations including the Lake District and the north of Scotland. It was up to Mr Nichol, the service provider, to assess road conditions for the safety of the van. JB and IC said that snow tyres were not available to post vans, or needed, across the country and their provision would put extra cost on the mobile service. Margaret Ward explained that winter tyres had enabled Slaley Village Shop to operate successfully for over forty years. The Post Office representatives agreed to discuss the question of winter tyres at a higher level.

Van breakdowns were also discussed. There is a backup vehicle for the north of England based at Darlington. However, we were told it takes a day to transfer IT equipment to the replacement vehicle, therefore for short term repairs (windscreen) it is not viable to use the back up vehicle. The IT equipment is configured to a particular area (the Slaley equipment is configured to Stocksfield). To repair one section of the equipment there has to be a complete shut down before the repair can be made. There is no half and half manual/technology operation. Equipment requires GSM Satellite configuration and takes a full day to re-co figurate once an error has been found. If the normal vehicle was involved in an accident or would predictably be off the road for several days/weeks for some reason then the back up vehicle would be used.
We were told that Post Office Engineers are learning all the time about the IT equipment. At the moment all repairs have to be done at base (Stocksfield for Slaley). Outreach service in public buildings has the same element of problems as the mobile provision - the IT equipment has to be brought in and installed at each visit, so transportation problems and IT equipment failure apply in the same way. Faults can occur in the outreach equipment, or at the host post office (Stocksfield) or nationally.

We agreed that getting the message to customers when a break down has occurred is the most difficult and important problem to solve. Preprinted posters informing the public of problems could be provided; where to put these posters is the problem. It was finally agreed that Martin,the postmaster, contact both Slaley Village Shop and the Parish Council Clerk when a problem occurs. Poster sites will be agreed and and advertised in the parish news sheet and Slaley notes.

Loss of service when bank holidays come into the equation were acknowledged as not being a perfect system. Post Office Ltd has a priority repair contract for its mobile vans thus ensuring that they are off the road as little as possible. IC reported that the take up of Post Office services at Slaley is commercially viable and Slaley is increasing. The service is set for the long term. The public must be encouraged to use the Post Office servic. Security on the mobile Post Office van was discussed and we were assured that protection of both the driver and custromers was a major consideration. Mobile services around the country have proved to be very safe.

Jane Briginshaw and Ian Carlton were thanked for their attendance and this portion of the meeting ended at 8.30 p.m.

After the PO representatives had left, the question of extra lighting at Parks Side, especially when the Post Office Mobile is operating during winter months, was discussed. Clerk has spoken with Neil Johnson at NCC, (Neil.Johnson@northumberland.gov.uk Telephone 01670 534130). Whilst he agrees that the lighting is inadequate at the bungalows NCC have no money for street lighting. He thought that a light in the centre of the square would cost in the region of £1,000 and if the PC were able to fund the improvement the work could be carried out by the end of November. It was agreed to ask for a definite estimate for this. Extra lighting would also benefit a site for posters saying the service was out of action etc. If possible this work could be undertaken through the Beacon grant award.

1. Apologies: Councillor Mrs A. S. Robson & County Councillor C.W. Horncastle.
Present: Councillor I.C. Hancock in the Chair. Councillors S. Davison, Mrs C. A. Brooks, Ms M Palmer, Mrs L. Norris. Clerk Mrs P. Wilson.
Public: Margaret Ward & Alex Page. Courant Reporter: Rebecca Dixon. Slaley Notes & Community Trust Executive Committee Member: Michael Elphick.

2. Declaration of Interests and Hospitality Record.
None

3. Minutes of September Parish Council Meeting (circulated pages 555- 559 + appendix 1 page 560 appendix 2 page 561).
Proposed as a true record by Cllr. L. Norris and seconded by Cllr. C.A. Brooks the minutes were approved and signed.

4. Matters Arising.
a) 4a 14/9/09 Extra speed unit in Slaley village request. Alan Bawn replied that the rules are unchanged since the original installation - a sign must not be permanent and its siting must be rotated. He has suggested to senior managers that this requirement should be revisited but as yet has had no response.
b) 4e 14/9/09, 8f 10/8/09 - winter salt bins. Reply from Highways: Salt bins are provided and maintained by NCC for roads that are not on a gritting route. The Parks Side Bungalow site in the village will be provided by NCC. The banks listed on the B6306 already get grip heaps provided although it is on the gritting route. Clerk spoke with Duncan Roberts on 01434 611108.
c) 6 14/9/09 meeting between Dr Hancock, and Reverend Irvine see agenda item 4a of July 13th minutes page 537 and appendix 1/130709, page 544 - a Public Meeting on the subject will take place on October 14th.
c) 15 b 14/9/09 Cllr Norris reported that residents on the U8080 & U8081 had now received official notification that Byway 44 had been reduced in width by the Courts.

5. Correspondence.
a) Slaley School telephoned and reported that personal invitations had been sent to the residents at Parkside to join the children for their Harvest Lunch. There have been no acceptances and the school wished to report to the PC that it is trying to engage with the community.
b) Dog Fouling in village September 25th reported to Chairman. A reminder in Slaley Notes and parish Newsletter about dog fouling was requested.
c) Classic Rally Association have permission to run a navigation section through Slaley Forest 29/10/09 between 17.15 – 19.00
d) Northumberland Wildlife Trust request for financial aid. It was agreed not to provide financial assistance.
e) Government gateway User ID number received by the Clerk.
f) NCC: dated 17/9/09, The Drift Road: magistrates Court reduced the width of the Drfit Road to 5 metres.
g) Correspondence from Brian Massey re erosion on grid reference 945 582 on south side of road. It would appear that Mel Richardson has instructed Kevin Allen to repair with “a bit of concrete”.
h) NCC Definitive Map Modification order (No 15) 2009 as from 5/10/09. BOAT No 44 Width of road reduced to 5 metres. Receipt acknowledged and returned to Alex Bell.
i) E-mail 14/9/09 from Fire Service re Bonfire and Fireworks
j) E-mail 15/9/09 re Playbuilder Programme Roadshow
k) E-mail 6/10/09 from D Francis re National Agreement on Clerk’s recommended salary
l) E-mail 6/10/09 RSN - Plan beyond recession
m) E-mail 6/10/09 NHS Swine Flue update 25/9/09
n) E-mail 6/10/09 Defra Open Up Coastline (6 pages)
o) E-mail 6/10/09 Weekly Focus 5/10/09 & 12/10/09
p) E-mail 6/10/09 D Francis - Electoral Review – NALC are suggesting that a new map will be produced to ensure that each of the 67 C Councillors will have roughly equal number of electors.
q) E-mail 6/10/09 D Francis – NALC Awards + Area committee/local councils round of joint meetings.
r) E-mail 6/10/09 D Francis – People and Places Bulletin (the 4 page attachment seems to be produced by the NSP).
s) E-mailed 6/10/09 – CAN news.
t) E-mail 6/10/09 Slaley school newsletter
u) E-mail 7/10/09 Invitation Queens Hall on 9/10/09.
v) E-mail 9/10/09 West Area Committee Mt 15/10/09 Allendale Village Hall
w) E-mail 9/10/09 NALC by e-mail hardy copy to follow.
x) E-mail 12/10/09 NCC New event available: LDF Special Bulletin. Northumberland Local Development Framework Interactive consultation website (8 pages).
y) E-mail 12/10/09 NCC New event available: Community Planning Bulletin.
z) E-mail 12/10/09 from Standard Committee re meeting at County Hall for PC Chairman 19/10/09 at 4 p.m.
aa) Lloyds TSB new legislation; Tynedale Hospice at Home leaflet; Queens Hall Arts Centre September – December 09 programme; Adapt News Autumn 2009; Kompan catalogue; CPRE Overview Autumn 2009; Wicksteed catalogue; Society of Local Council Clerks letter; NHS Choose well campaign copy of publicity material; CAN ‘Meet the Funders’ information for 19/10/09; War Memorials Trust conference 2/12/09 at the University of Newcastle, Member of Society of Local Council Clerks volunteer needed for the NALC County Committee (not circulated as PW is not a member). Littlethorpe Hardwood Shelters advertising leaflet; Northumberland News Issue 1 October 2009; NALC & CAN hard copy of e-mailed version see above).

6. Financial Report
a) Cheques to be signed:
No 387 Alex Evison September grass cutting £85.66
No 387 BDO Stoy Hawward LLP Audit £155.25
Proposed by Cllr Hancock & seconded by Cllr Norris the cheques were signed.
B) Current bank statement £8,858.11 Includes the repayment of £1,229.91 Vat return.
C) Audit approved by BDO Stoy Hayward and the Annual Return was presented to the Council. It was approved and accepted by the Council. Notice of Conclusion of Audit and Annual Return placed on Commemoration hall Notice Board.

7. Current Planning Applications.
20090692: Certificate of lawfulness for proposed demolition of outhouse and construction of new single storey extension and conversion of garage to living accommodation. South Highclear Cottage. No objections
20090636: Variation of condition No 3 of planning permission 86/E/125 to allow caravans to be used for human habitation between 1st March in one year and 31st January in the succeeding year. Springhouse Caravan County Park. Objections request a site visit with representation by the Parish Council before application considered. Hearing on 8/10/09
20090637: Variation of condition No 5 of planning permission 75/E/460 to allow caravans to be used for human habitation between 1st March in one year and 31st January in the succeeding year and the use of one caravan unit for the purpose of human habitation by a site warden all year round. Springhouse Caravan County Park. Objections request a site visit with representation by the Parish Council before application considered. CC Horncastle has been asked to support this request. Hearing on 8/10/09
Copies of Springhouse resident objections received.
20090410: Two storey extension to side. Linnel Hill. Pending,

Decisions from Planning Authority
20050591: Conversion of existing garage to annex & construction of detached garage. Peel Flatt Cottage. Granted
20050515: Conversion of extension of integral garage, conservatory extension to living room & kitchen glazed extension to staircase & new portico to main entrance & installation of 4 dormers. Moorland View. Granted
20080046 Internal refurbishment - Slaley Hall Withdrawn?
20090162 OUTLINE Construction of 78 holiday lodges, Slaley Hall Withdrawn?

8. Community Forum meeting report
Report by Ian C Hancock circulated and attached as appendix 1/121009
Slaley will host the January meeting possible dates are Tuesday 12th, 19th or 26th or Wednesday 13th, 20th or 27th.

9. Post Christmas Meal for Elderly Update
Slaley Hall reply circulated by e-mail on 19/9/09. Either Monday 19/1/2010 or Friday 22/1/2010 – an on arrival drink, three course lunch and tea or coffee for £15.00 per person. The Councillors agreed on Friday January 22nd.

10. Parish Plan Action Plan October Update
Draft circulated as appendix 2/121009 amendments were made.

11. BOATs network consultation document (9 10/08/09) response from Slaley PC
Grammatical alterations were suggested. Additional Gingleshaugh route information and photographs produced by IC Hancock. Cllr Brooks’ photographs from the Annual Highways Report for Gingleshaugh amended to Long Edge.

12. A.O.B.
Should be moved back to last item.

13. BOATs update.
a) Sunday October 4th 2009. RF reported approximately 100 classic/ vintage bikes between 10 – 11 a.m. travelled west along the C279 and turned south on the U8078 into Slaley Forest. Councillor IC Hancock also spotted 30 of these passing his home (C270) and several more groups travelling from and on the A68. Clerk asked Forestry Commission and NCC ROW team if this was an organised event. It was not registered with anyone. Blanchland had not seen any but Dukesfield Mill residents had during the afternoon.
b) Councillor Michael Kennedy reported 6 trail bikers two miles from any RoW riding around shooting boxes on Sunday September 27th. Cllr Kennedy was calving a cow otherwise he would have approached the bikers and spoken to them

14. Date of November 2009 meeting.
Monday November 9th. (Apologies from Cllr Palmer for this meeting)

There being no further business the meeting closed at 9.58 p.m.

Slaley Parish Council September 2009

Microlight activity correspondence reached a satisfactory conclusion for the PC involvement, see agenda items 4g and 5.

Minutes of Slaley Parish Council, Monday September 14th 2009, in Slaley Commemoration Hall 7.30 p.m.

1. Apologies: Councillors I.C. Hancock, Ms M Palmer, Mrs A. S. Robson & S. Davison & County Councillor C.W. Horncastle.
Present: Councillor Mrs C. A. Brooks in the Chair. Councillor Mrs L. Norris. Clerk Mrs P. Wilson.
Public: Helen & Tom Henderson. Courant Reporter: None. Slaley Notes: Jean Elphick. Community Trust Executive Committee Member: Michael Elphick.

2. Declaration of Interests and Hospitality Record.
None

3. Minutes of August Parish Council Meeting (circulated pages 549- 553 + appendix 1 page 554).
Proposed as a true record by Cllr. L. Norris and seconded by Cllr. C.A. Brooks the minutes were approved and signed. Amendments and additions were made to appendix 1/100809.

4. Matters Arising.
a) Appendix 1/100809 Report of Walk about reference the extra Speed Unit: Clerk has e-mailed Alan Bawn to ask if a second camera for Slaley would be possible. We could use our Beacon grant as part payment.
b) 4c 10/8/09 Proposed meeting between Councillor CW Horncastle, Slaley School Headteacher & a representative of the Hexham Partnership will be postponed because Mrs Ross is absent with a broken limb.
c) 4d 10/8/09 Forest Consultation completed, agreed then sent and receipt by FC acknowledged by e-mail 3/9/08.
d) 8d 10/08/09 Mobile Post Office back up policy. Telephone to Ian Carlton at Post Office Ltd and an e-mail sent of our problems. Mr. Carlton has offered to attend the October 12th meeting. Clerk to e-mail around to check that this is OK
e) 8f 10/8/09 winter salt bins reply from Highways: Yes salt bins are provided and maintained by NCC with the main criteria being that they are not on a gritting route. The Parks Side Bungalow site in the village we may have to cover the cost. The banks listed on the B6306 already get grip heaps provided although it is on the gritting route.
f) 8c 10/8/09 Wooley Microlight airstrip – much correspondence has been received about this subject culminating with the front-page article in the Hexham Courant of 11/9/09 entitled “Airstrip is a disaster risk”. Reply dated 10/9/09 from NCC Planning, Geoff Marshall, (Monitoring and Enforcement Officer)– current legislation is that this type of activity is legal up to 28 days in any year. A copy of local monitoring would be helpful. Reply dated 9/9/09 from Mike Hal,e Sqn Ldr OCLF Ops Sqn RAF Wittering after looking into the microlight site a warning of potential microlight activity has been added in the UKMLFH (UK Military Low Flying Handbook). This Cllr CA Brooks felt closed the correspondence satisfactorily.

5. Public Participation.
Mr Henderson provided photographs of two mircrolight aircraft at the Wooley site taken over the weekend. Each aircraft has a unique number and the owners can be traced by feeding these numbers onto a web site. A person from Ryton owned the second aircraft. Both were two-men crew aircraft, microlights have developed a lot from an open seat in a kite like construction with an engine. The aviation chart was looked at and explained. The windsock went up on August 3rd and much activity was recorded over the Slaley Show weekend (August 8th). Flying heights of Tornado jets and microlights were discussed. The Wooley Residents Group is intending to keep a log of dates when activity takes place. Mr Henderson was thanked for keeping the Parish Council informed.

6. Community Trust Report
Attached as appendix 1/140909.
Chairman referred the Councillors to the meeting between Dr Hancock, and Reverend Irvine see agenda item 4a of July 13th minutes page 537 and appendix 1/130709, page 544. No meeting has taken place yet.
Reference the Community Chest funding see PC minutes 13th July 2009 agenda item 7c, page 539 (a new Community Chest £50,000 scheme for West Northumberland, administered through Susi Goncu. At its first meeting £42,000 was requested but only £6,700 was given out).
Cllr Brooks had a hand drawn sketch of a proposed new entrance to the village sign. “Slaley villages welcomes careful drivers” then underneath a board for village posters to be place i.e. Slaley Show, Leek Club, Film Club, Gardening Club etc and below that a planter full of flowers. Clerk explained that permission from NCC highways would be needed and large blocked out permanent signs on the village verges was not generally favourable. Cllr Norris felt the central notice portion would cause detraction for drivers and could cause accidents; the planter beneath however would look well.
Youngsters from Reaston View have asked (via Jean Elphick) if play equipment could be placed on the grassed portions of the parking area.
Mrs Elphick also asked if a second wayside seat could be placed on the road between Townfoot and the Flothers overlooking Reaston Hills. The Clerk replied that this stretch of grass verge was no narrow that it would be unsafe.

7. Matters for Discussion with County Councillor Colin W Horncastle.
None

8. Correspondence.
a) David Baynes telephoned the Clerk Sunday 23/8/09 about the second accident that week going through his fence on the C265 north of Holly Cottage. An e-mail was immediately sent to NCC Highways Managers CC & MR. By 3/9/09 Alan Bawn had replied to both Mr Baynes and the PC that vegetation needs to be cut back a slow road marking highlighted with red strips for northbound drivers and the chevrons be implemented with black and white marker posts around the bend.
b) Circulated by e-mail 14/8/09, 22/8/09: NHS Swine Flu Updates
c) Circulated by e-mail 14/8/09 National & Local Allowances – There is a £272 allowance where a home is used for an office.
d) Circulated by e-mail 14/8/09 (17 pages long) NALC’s Direct Information Service + info on the Local Democracy, Economic Development & Construction Bill proceeding through parliament.
e) Circulated by e-mail 14/8/09 NALC Vat Workshops
f)Circulated by e-mail 18/8/09 NALC Three-day Leadership Academy 15-18 Sept.
g) Circulated by e-mail 22/8/09 Outcome of Emergency Care Consultation – west Northumberland would prefer to receive EC in Newcastle in terms of distance and traveling – seeking to put arrangements in place for this to happen.
h) Circulated by e-mail 24/8/09 NCC hard copy received re The Big Tidy Up – Autumn Litter Pick? No response by Healey Councillors
i) Circulated by e-mail 24/8/09 RSN Parish Newsletter August 09
j) Circulated by e-mail 29/8/09 More powers for Parish Councils in the Sustainable Communities Act.
k) Circulated by e-mail 4/9/09 RSN – Help shape your own manifesto
l) Circulated by e-mail 4/9/09, 29/8/09 RSN Weekly summary Sept 4th, August 29th
m) Circulated by e-mail 7/9/09, 18/8/09, 14/8/09: Weekly Rural Focus Sept 3, August 17, August 12th
n) Circulated by e-mail 7/9/09 Save our Squirrels – October reporting information.
o) Circulated by e-mail 8/9/09 West Area Committee meeting 15/9/09.
Hard copy: a) Tyne Rivers Trust updating its database. Anyone else wish to be on the circulation list other than me?
b) North East Regional Employers' Organisation for local authorities providing details of its Advisory Service - membership is currently £273,00 + vat per annum (correspondence will be available at both Councils' September meeting)
c) NCC Senior Waste Management Officer, Sheila Johnson, leaflets for distribution or display on (i) the real nappy campaign; (ii) home compost bins; (iii) how to recycle more of your waste. These cost £1.49 to send to Healey PC and £1.82 to send to Slaley. They are full colour and must have been expensive to produce - I personally feel a cash strapped County Council could have used this expenditure more wisely and maybe that needs saying especially if they go into the recycling bin!
d) Advertising leaflet for quality Hardwood Bus Shelters which would look very nice in either parish at prices ranging between £4,280 - £13,300.
e) The Boundary Committee. Electoral Review of Northumberland: draft recommendations. If you recall this started in February 2009 when they proposed that Healey & Blanchland should be with Prudhoe etc. Not sure where they have it now I have not looked yet. There is a poster to place somewhere for the general public to read and you are requested to provide any comments on the recommendations by 6/11/09, for a full report see www.boundarycommittee.org.uk
f) Northumberland Care Trust - Putting People First Programme - initiatives intended to progress the social care reform agenda. New 4 page newsletter (issue 1) dated August 2009. Again an expensive full colour board publication.
g) NCC Electric Blanket Testing 16/9/09 Hexham Fire Station - Poster placed on Notice Board.
h) Age Concern Northumberland request for financial aid.
i) Local Works Sustainable Communities Act also received by e-mail see 8j above.
j) North Pennines AONB Partnership: Annual review 2008-09
k) Clerks and Councils Direct September 2009.
l) Glasdon products (see glass recycling bins on page 5)
m) LCR Autumn 2009 magazine
n) Timberline Catalogue.

9. Financial Report.
a) Cheques to be signed:
No 384 Alex Evison grass weed spraying £19.69
No 385 Patricia Wilson Salary 1 Apl - 30 Sept as agreed 8/12/09 agenda item 16 £1,281.00
Proposed by Cllr Brooks & seconded by Cllr Norris the cheques were signed.
b) Interim Payment: No 383 VMS Rotation of Speed Sign £109.25, (24/8/09) Signed by Cllrs Hancock and Brooks.
c) Paid into bank the second Precept installment of £3,320.00

10. Current Planning Applications.
20090692: Certificate of lawfulness for proposed demolition of outhouse and construction of new single storey extension and conversion of garage to living accommodation. South Highclear Cottage. Circulating
20090636: Variation of condition No 3 of planning permission 86/E/125 to allow caravans to be used for human habitation between 1st March in one year and 31st January in the succeeding year. Springhouse Caravan County Park. Objections request a site visit with representation by the Parish Council before application considered.
20090637: Variation of condition No 5 of planning permission 75/E/460 to allow caravans to be used for human habitation between 1st March in one year and 31st January in the succeeding year and the use of one caravan unit for the purpose of human habitation by a site warden all year round. Springhouse Caravan County Park. Objections request a site visit with representation by the Parish Council before application considered. CC Horncastle has been asked to support this request.
Copies of Springhouse resident objections received.
20050591: Conversion of existing garage to annex & construction of detached garage. Peel Flatt Cottage. No objections
20050515: Conversion of extension of integral garage, conservatory extension to living room & kitchen glazed extension to staircase & new portico to main entrance & installation of 4 dormers. Moorland View.
20090410: Two storey extension to side. Linnel Hill. No objections,
20080046 Internal refurbishment - Slaley Hall Pending.
Decisions from Planning Authority
20090162 OUTLINE Construction of 78 holiday lodges, Slaley Hall Withdrawn?

11. Request Slaley Hall Holiday Villa Occupancy Confirmation (carried forward from August on the yearly planner)
Letter posted 27/8/09.

12. Parish Plan Annual Information Board. Facilities & Services Update
a) There have been no further reports of damage to the Information Board. How is the temporary repair holing up? Has anything further been heard from Marcus Byron see 9g 11/5/09 & 4d 8/6/09 where ME was sending a reminder. Clerk to ask for an update.
b) The “Where to buy Locally” needs updating for 2009. (death of Alan Hutchinson etc). agreed at 2/131008, page 466, amended during November 2008 and finally agreed appendix 2 081208, page 486
c) The Business Directory – agreed at appendix 3/131008, page 467 amended during November 2008 and finally agreed appendix 3 081108, page 487 - any known additions?
d) Slaley Commemoration hall are holding an “Open Day for Hall Users” on October 17th between 2-4 p.m. The PC could have a stall at this and promote the Business Directory and the Where to Buy Locally pamphlet. Do any of the Councillors wish to man a stall? There would be no cost and the Hall committee are intending to provide refreshments. This should have been advertised in the Slaley Notes last Friday and will hopefully be included in the Newsletter.

13. Post Christmas Meal for Elderly
Clerk write and request a price from Slaley Hall?

14. Annual review of the effectiveness of the system of internal audit.
Monthly reports and present system is adequate.
A balance sheet was presented attached as appendix 2/140909

15. BOATs network consultation document (9 10/08/09) discuss draft response
a) Work is progressing on the draft response for the seven routes in Slaley parish. Photographs and reports used in the 2008 and 2009 annual Highways Report will be included and updated.
Dr. Hancock has updated his paper from April 2007 and the findings have been incorporated into the draft reply text. When a reply is considered satisfactory it will be circulated for approval.
b) Cllr Norris reported that residents on the U8080 & U8081 had still not received official notification that Byway 44 had been reduced in width by the Courts. Correspondence received at 15.19 today from SR apologised for the delay and said the delay was due to a misunderstanding with his staff.

16. A.O.B.
None.

17. BOATs update.
The 4 Parishes committee is working closely with the individual parishes to form a combined response to the consultation document.

18. Date of October 2009 meeting.
Monday October 12th.

There being no further business the meeting closed at 9.15 p.m.

Slaley Parish Council August 2009

After the August parish walkabout which this year was The Trygill Art Trail, the Parish Council was joined by Inspector David Thornhill. Read more about his visit under A Special Discussion.

Minutes of Slaley Parish Council, Monday August 10th 2009, in Slaley Commemoration Hall.

The annual walk-about preceded the August monthly meeting, which this year is the Trygill Art Trail. Slaley Parish Councillors met at Slaley Commemoration Hall at 7 p.m. Report attached as appendix 1/100809

A Special discussion began at 8 p.m. with Inspector David Thornhill of Northumbria Police. Members of neighbouring parish councils were also invited.
Attendance for this: Healey: Monica Gibbs.
Shotley Low Quarter: Jackie Stevens & Will Smith – apologies.
Blanchland: Michael Kennedy & Alice Ellison – apologies.
Hexhamshire: David Short.
Public: Richard Ferguson
Inspector Thornhill gave a very thorough presentation on his sector, which is the new West Tynedale. Levels of crime dictate the level of resources. Re-organisation has allowed flexibility there are now fifty police officers working 24/7. Neighbourhood Beat Managers (NBM’s) and Community Support Officers (CSO’s) were explained, the NBM for our area is PC Iain Robertson. CSO’s have fewer powers than a normal police officer and are there to engage with the community and help with anti-social behaviour (ASB). The CID works out of Hexham and has a good working relationship with this area. West Tynedale is still one of the safest places to live in the County. April 1st – August 10th 100 incidents reported for our area. Each morning the reported incidents are gone through and crime related incidents or criminal damage are allocated resources. Comparison of crimes between this year and last was made because there is an increase in reported crimes in the Slaley/ Hexhamshire area, this is causing concern and crime prevention is a top priority. The success of operation ‘Park View’ (traffic officers) and operation ‘Cherry’ (undercover handlers) was explained. Farm-watch was discussed, news of current trends need to get into the farming community – lights seen across fields, poaching, anything that should not be there all needs reporting to the police then a pattern emerges and action can be taken. Automatic number plate recognition was explained. Questions included calls to the Call Centre (Ponteland or South Shields) where Slaley has not been heard of or the length of time before speaking with an officer seemed excessive. These calls are important and produce an audit trail, which eventually helps the police catch criminals. Target time for connection to a police presence is thirty seconds then the reports are prioritised. A direct call to 999 (emergency only) connects you to the correct police force in ten seconds then there is a national target of one minute to allocate an officer who should arrive at the crime scene within fifteen minutes. Inspector Thornhill strongly recommended that 999 should not be used for anything other than emergencies. David Short asked ‘how quickly a response to the telephone number given on notices in the area could be expected for a complaint about activity on a BOAT? Inspector Thornhill indicated, “telephone reports of illegal usage of vehicles on or near a BOAT would not necessarily produce an immediate police presence. A build up of these reports would however instigate a police presence from time to time”. Drugs and drug related crime is a concern for all parents of young people – Inspector Thornhill acknowledged this fact and said that many drugs were discovered at the Police Station when arrested individuals were asked to turn out their pockets. There being no further questions Inspector Thornhill was thanked for his time and he offered to return if we had more concerns he could help with.

Agenda for the greatly reduced monthly business.
1. Apologies: Councillor Ms M Palmer &, Mrs A. S. Robson.
Present: Councillor I.C. Hancock in the Chair. Councillors Mrs C. A. Brooks, S. Davison, Mrs L. Norris & County Councillor C.W. Horncastle. Clerk Mrs P. Wilson.
Public: Richard Ferguson. Courant Reporter: Rebecca Dixon. Slaley Notes: None. Community Trust Executive Committee Member: Michael Elphick.

2. Declaration of Interests and Hospitality Record.
County Councillor Colin Horncastle for agenda item 7.

3. Minutes of July Parish Council Meeting (circulated pages 537- 543 + appendix 1 page 544, appendix 2 page 545, appendix 3 page 546, appendix 4 page 547 & appendix 5 page 548). Proposed as a true record by Cllr. CA Brooks and seconded by Cllr. L. Norris the minutes were approved and signed

4. Matters Arising.
a) 2 13/7/09 Stephen Rickitt confirmed by e-mail that notification of Byway 44 decision had been moved to “not as desperate as the others pile”. He would attempt to get letters out during July.
b) 12 13/7/09 NHS Foundation Trust to develop hospital services acknowledgement of the PC’s comments (letter) then e-mail circulated 6/8/09 informing us that the commissioning board will consider responses on Thursday August 20th.
c) 7b 13/7/09 Confirmation by e-mail from Colin Horncastle that any meeting between school staff and a representative from the Hexham Partnership would not take place until September at the earliest.
d) 8f 13/7/09 Public Forestry Estates Consultation. Draft circulated to Councillors Hancock and Brooks. The combined responses will shortly be ready to be circulated for approval

5. Correspondence.
a) NHS Swine Flu updates circulated by e-mail 20/7/09, 27/7/09, 7/8/09
b) Rural Community Network e-mail dated 27/7/09 circulated to all asking for individual e-mail address to be provided. Those Councillors present wished to receive this direct.
c) E-mail: Rural Services Weekly Rural Focus 31/7/09.
d) E-mail from Brian Massey 28/7/09 re possible dates for a get –together as a preliminary to forming a Community Forum. Councillors Hancock & Brooks hope to attend.
e) Review of NALC & Members via e-mail. Draft response by Clerk, amendments made by Councillors Hancock and Norris. Accepted at the meeting.
f) NCC Car Parking Questionnaire to be circulated.
g) Circulated by e-mail 14/7/09 NALC Local Council Awards. No nominations.
h) Circulated from DF 17/7/09 Defra – Review of Biodiversity duty introduced with the NERC Act 2006. DF has asked Defra when they originally notified PC’s of this new duty. (Could this have anything to do with the DB BOATs consultation?) Cllr Hancock to look at this and complete.
i) Circulated by e-mail 22/7/09 Independent member of the Standards Committee for Northumberland National Park Authority.
j) Forestry Commission: Who we are, what we do letter + 8 page leaflet + woodland grants. + e-mail of 28/7/09 saying they were sorry I wasn’t able to attend the consultation event in Hexham on 10/7/09 (Clerk was there)
k) E-mail 6/8/09 from David Francis: NALC’s Direct Information Service (17 pages) pages 8/9 cover Defra unveils broadband package. Local Democracy, Economic Development and Construction Bill proceeding through parliament. Subscription form by e-mail £90 + Vat = 26 issues or hard copy £105 (no Vat?) Copy sent to Chairman. Circulate this e-mail to other Councillors at meeting.
l) E-mail dated 29/7/09 re NCC an invitation to join the National Highways and Transport Survey. Unique Log-in information provided.
m) E-mail dated 31/7/09 re Rights of way Officers Areas (full colour map of Northumberland) Blanchland, Shotley Low Quarter, Healey & Slaley are in Section 6 with Neil Dawson 01670 534258. Hexhamshire meanwhile is in section 3 under Tim Fish.
n) E-mail from Amy Copley a Town Planning Masters student at Newcastle University re affordable housing. It was agreed that a copy of the March 2009 reply to student, James Whitley be sent by e-mail.
o) E-mail from Dave Smurthwaite re Junior Cricket coaching August 10th – 14th Poster on parish notice board & Hall window.
p) Community Action Northumberland - Recipient Update form. Slaley to request 4 hard copies a year rather than e-mail.
q) Lloyds TSB improving our services for our customers leaflets; Shaws advertising leaflets of books for local councils; Tynedale Hospice at Home DVD. Dr. Bill Cunningham of Corbridge Health Centre speaks as does Edna Hardy (formerly The Strothers). Cllr Hancock suggested this was offered to the public through the parish newsletter. Cllr Brooks will mention in newsletter.

6. Financial Report.
a) Audit: Audit date 31st July 2009. Papers forwarded to external auditor
b) Cheques to be signed:
No 382 Alex Evison grass cutting July 24th £95.63 (see notes on weed control -Councillors agreed to the recommended product).
Alex Evison grass cutting August 5th £96.15 + £191.78 (see notes on more regular cutting of B6306 top of showfield section - Councillors decided this was not necessary)
Proposed by Cllr L. Norris & seconded by Cllr C. Brooks the cheque were signed.
c) Interim Payment: None
d) Payment into Bank None

7. Current Planning Applications.
* a planning application in the Hexham Courant under Slaley was Northern Electric to raise the height of two poles. A query was sent to Planning Department, this was a miss- print the parish was Shotley Low Quarter. Weekly lists can now be viewed on http://www.northumberland.gov.uk/default.aspx?page=4390
20050591: Conversion of existing garage to annex & construction of detached garage. Peel Flatt Cottage. No objections
20050515: Conversion of extension of integral garage, conservatory extension to living room & kitchen glazed extension to staircase & new portico to main entrance & installation of 4 dormers. Moorland View.
20090410: Two storey extension to side. Linnel Hill. No objections,
20080046 Internal refurbishment - Slaley Hall Pending.
Decisions from Planning Authority
20090396: Roofed silage clamp Flothers Farm. Granted
20090162 OUTLINE Construction of 78 holiday lodges, Slaley Hall Withdrawn?

8. A.O.B.
a) Chairman received an anonymous letter about the unreliability of the Consett – Slaley bus service. Cllr Brooks recalled a previous problem. Cllr Hancock to find old correspondence about this and circulate. Slaley Notes to ask for more information before a complaint can be made.
b) Distorted account in the Hexham Courant about the Hall playing area. Cllr Hancock provided a correction, this was printed in August 7th issue.
c) Telephone call from T Henderson Wooley about Microlight flying at Wooley. No reply to the PC letter to Mike Hales, National Low Flying System Manager, RAF Wittering of June 12th 2009, or to RS, Enforcement Officer dated May 20th 2009. Clerk requested to re-ask planning and RAF Wittering for comments.
d) Telephone call to Clerk Friday August 7th evening from Martin Nichol of Stocksfield Post Office to say the mobile Slaley Post Office Van had a cracked windscreen which had been taken off the road Friday (August 7th) and there would be no Post Office Van service on Saturday morning. Clerk requested to request details of the Post Office back up plan policy.
e) PC Clerk is auditing School Fund accounts and asked the School Secretary for any information on how the school grounds open to the public has worked. The following was some of the reply:
Mr & Mrs B Johnston immediate neighbours reported a child playing on the School building roof.
Little Badgers childcare toys left out one evening during the hot weather of May. All had been damaged the next morning.
Soft Play railings damaged.
Alcoholic bottles found in school hedge by school staff.
Bottle opener found on school grounds by school staff and brought inside school – stored in evidence tin.
Shed roof damage School needed immediate repair so contacted David Clark who did repair immediately.
School burglar alarm set off 3 a.m. school teacher Mrs Rachel O’Neil at Reaston View alerted by Police and she had to get up to school and reset the alarm while her husband had to stay at home to look after their children.
Willow Dragon planted on school grounds by Ruth Thompson of Mickley funded by FOSS and Dr. Albert Weir, March 2004. This needs annual cutting back. Members of the community have been contacted and non were able to help. Request for help was sent to the Slaley Notes reporters on two occasions but no report and request for help appeared in the Courant. Fencer and parent, Mal Johnston of Todburn, has offered to try his hand and cut the dragon back since a child got hurt on the overgrowth. After discussion the Councillors decided this was not something the PC could fund and unless an official letter is received from the school asking for help the general feeling was that the PC could not get involved.
f) Mr Ferguson asked about salt bins. Salt for winter use gets dumped in heaps and during snow gets covered over. The remaining heap is gradually covered over with weeds/grass although the remaining salt has killed young shrubs at Holly Hill. Would the parish council look into providing salt bins at strategic points in the parish? e.g. Rye Hill bank, Palm Strothers bank, Ladycross bank, Holly Hill bank, Curlew bank, Wooley road end, Peel Flat corner, Blackburn bank etc. Clerk asked to contact Highways for information on provision.

9. BOATs update.
BOATs consultation document from David Brookes the consultation is asking for effort to control the use of BOATs by different approaches. (See 5h above Circulated from DF 17/7/09 Defra – Review of Biodiversity duty introduced with the NERC Act 2006).
Meeting of Joint committee Wednesday August 12th.

10. Date of September 2009 meeting.
Monday September 14th. Apologies from Councillors Hancock and Davison for the September meeting. There being no further business the meeting closed at 10.20 p.m.

July 2009 Slaley Parish Council Minutes

There are some interesting suggestion for Slaley Church in the July minutes read more in agenda item 4a.

Minutes of Slaley Parish Council, Monday July 13th 2009, in Slaley Commemoration Hall 7.30 p.m.

Apologies: Councillor S. Davison.
Present: Councillor I.C. Hancock in the Chair. Councillors Mrs C. A. Brooks, Ms M Palmer, Mrs A. S. Robson, Mrs L. Norris & County Councillor C.W. Horncastle. Clerk Mrs P. Wilson.
Public: PC Susan Cockburn. Courant Reporter: Rebecca Dixon. Slaley Notes: Jean Elphick. Community Trust Executive Committee Member: Michael Elphick.

2. Declaration of Interests and Hospitality Record.
Cllr. Mrs L. Norris for agenda item 19. Because the BOAT past Cllr Norris’s home has been reduced in size it was felt that she no longer needed to declare an interest in this particular agenda item. Residents along the route have still not heard directly from NCC that the reduction has been successful. Clerk to mention this to SR at NCC.
County Cllr CW Horncastle for agenda item 10

3. Minutes of June Parish Council Meeting (circulated pages 529- 534 + appendix 1 page 535, appendix 2 page 536).
Proposed by Cllr. CA Brooks and seconded by Cllr. L. Norris the minutes were approved and signed

4. Matters Arising.
a) 4b 8/6/09 Reverend Irvine called to see the PC Chairman and explained a project; the idea was to remove the four pews at the rear of the church and make room for a permanent heritage exhibition possibly on farming. Cllr Norris felt temporary exhibitions may be more interesting, particularly as an initial trial. This idea was supported by other Councillors who felt frequent topic changes could draw people into the Church. The question was asked if this was a money making scheme. Apparently it is not a project to make money, instead it is a means of involving the church building more in the community. Councillor Hancock suggested to the Councillors that this was something that the PC could help financially with through the parish Precept and get involved in. The Councillors supported his suggestion that he meet with a representative from the CT and the PCC to discuss this further and get an idea of costs. Report from the meeting between Cllr Hancock & Rev’d Irvine attached as appendix 1/130709, page 544.
b) 5a 8/6/09 Rural Crime, the invitation to Inspector Thornhill has been accepted for 8 p.m. on Monday August 10th and invitations have been sent to neighbouring Parish Councils. Cllr Monica Gibbs from Healey & Will Smith from Shotley has accepted. Initial response from Hexhamshire is no attendance. P.C. Susan Cockburn explained ‘Farmwatch’ soon to be set up.
c) 5b 8/6/09 Danger from motor cycles to horse riders in Slaley Forest. Recent correspondence from David Brookes (NCC) indicates that we shall shortly be asked to make a report on concerns, problems and conditions. See also 19d below. PC Cockburn said a further ‘safety’ event is planned in Slaley Forest on a Sunday during August where members of the Forestry Commission will join the police.
d) 8i 8/6/09 NSP Board representative for the West is Rob Macfarlane. His e-mail address is rob@greatnorth.co.uk
e) 11 b 8/6/09 funds allocated for play and sport in Slaley new contact name of Val Knowles at Longhirst Office telephone message has been left 9/7/09). UPDATE CC Colin Horncastle telephoned Val Knowles who confirmed the funds are ring-fenced for our use. Val’s direct line is 01670 794796. Clerk asked to request the current sum held.
f) 11f 8/6/09 ‘extended services’ - contact with Carol Leckie and the first thing to do is organise a meeting (probably September) See 7b below
g) 11h 8/6/09 use of the Commemoration Hall grounds as a play area – Hall Management Committee have sought help on this, e-mail reply of June 26th: grounds where the public have access should be regularly checked and a report book kept this proves the Hall is taking due care. It was suggested that this could become part of the caretaker’s responsibilities.
h) 15c 8/6/09 Mobile Post Van Provision at Slaley. Further problems reported to Martin Nichol at Stocksfield. Article front-page Hexham Courant 3/7/09 entitled “Villages hit by post office van fault”. Clerk suggested an annual report to Post Office Ltd about the actual problems with the service although finding a contact person will not be easy.
Clerk did check with residents and they had not noticed any early closing.

5. Public Participation.
PC Susan Cockburn explained the latest daytime burglaries where a brick is thrown through a window, if this produces no reaction then thieves break into homes and proceed to rob the premises. St. Luke’s Cottage and The Flothers Farm have both been recent targets. The public are encouraged to report to the police any strange vehicles. It was accepted that unknown daytime vehicles are normally ignored as delivery vehicles. (Note: since the meeting I have learnt that Woodside has also been broken into) Results from the traffic survey earlier this year on the U8080 are not available at present.

6. Community Trust Report
a) 350 copies of ‘Slaley then and now’ will be for sale at £9.95 on the showfield.
b) School field: John Melvine initially made regular visits to check the school grounds now it is the school that reports incidents to him. Today, Monday July 13th, damage to the shed roof has been reported and a new roof is needed for which the CT has to meet the cost. The repair work will be undertaken by two CT members, Cllr Hancock mentioned that in the past parents had been excluded from renovation work at the school for insurance reasons. The PC was assured that this is not the case with the school shed. Because the school governors have allowed community use of the school grounds the CT asked if the Parish Council is agreeable to making an annual grant to the CT which may cover repairs such as this. Any unspent maintenance money could roll forward and be spent on a community asset such as a seat. The Councillors felt that maintenance to the school field should come from the education authority, which is partially funded through household community charges. The Councillors did not wish to support a rolling grant, if the ‘extended services’ idea takes off there could be an overlap of community grants. At the CT end of year accounts should there be an expenditure deficit then the PC could make a contribution. There was general agreement that having a section within the PC's contingency fund to enable the CT to ask the PC to help financially with specific payments was the best way forward.

7. Matters for Discussion with County Councillor Colin W Horncastle.
a) See 4e above and also agenda item 14 below: (11 b 8/6/09 funds allocated for play and sport in Slaley new contact name of Val Knowles at Longhirst Office telephone message has been left 9/7/09). Colin Horncastle has telephoned Val Knowles who confirmed the funds are ring-fenced for our use. Val’s direct line is 01670 794796).
b) Further to ‘extended services’ Colin Horncastle has been in contact with Carol Leckie and the first thing to do is organise a meeting (probably In September) between, Ms Leckie, the County Councillor, a Parish Councillor, the headteacher, a representative from the mother and toddler group etc. to establish “What need there is”.
c) Community Chest a new £50,000 scheme for west Northumberland, administered through Susi Goncu. At its first meeting £42,000 was requested but only £6,700 was given out.
d) Slaley Hall planning application for 78 holiday homes has been withdrawn because two of the five sites were unacceptable to the planning department. It is expected that it will be amended and resubmitted.
e) After a reported conversation with Colin Charlton, NCC Highways, Slaley Councillors decided to ask Alex Evison if he would purchase and use ‘Roundup’ on the dandelions at Townhead; the cost of the product and the application time to be added to his monthly account.

8. Correspondence.
a) Slaley Commemoration Hall balance sheet. Cllr A S Robson to check.
b) Points from Monica Gibbs re NALC County Committee meeting of June 6th
c) E-mail from Chairman of Longhirst PC re formation of North and West Area Partnerships, Bob Jackson feels that AP’s will have more influence than CF’s. He is asking if Slaley was involved in the development process of AP’s. Councillors felt the roles of these two types of forum were too blurred to make a clear decision.
d) Complaint made to Clerk re Slaley Hall Subaru speeding in village on 26/6/2009. Clerk e-mail Councillors asking for permission to report this immediately. Four Councillors sent their permission therefore a letter was sent dated June 30th. Cllr Hancock reported that the vehicle is still traveling too fast having it ‘sitting on his tail’ through the village last week.
e) NCC - New Contact details for Election Services. From July 1st Louise, Barbara & Gail Philipson leave the authority new contact is Mick Miller at Morpeth contact details: HYPERLINK "mailto:mick.miller@northumberland.gov.uk" mick.miller@northumberland.gov.uk
f) Invitation to Slaley Parish Council Clerk to attend a Public Forestry Estates Consultation seminar on July 10th. This was discussed with the PC Chairman who also had an invitation from his role as Friends of Ladycross Chairman. Report attached as appendix 2/130709, page 545. Document and draft reply to questionnaire to be agreed between PW, CAB & ICH then circulated to all for approval.
g) E-mail circulated 9/6/09, 30/6/09, 6/7/09 & 13/7/09 Rural Services Community – Weekly R F Digest for 9/6/09, 30/6/09, 6/7/09 & 13/7/09 (rate relief for rural business).
h) E-mail circulated 16/6/09 CAN next training date – 15/9/09 at Morpeth.
i) E-mail circulated 17/6/09 David Francis – grants on offer for environmental projects from Northern Gas Networks. Clerk to pass to school for information.
j) E-mail circulated 17/6/09 Heddon Parish Clerk re SLCC Newsletter (multi page, full colour, issue 3). Asked if Councillors wished to receive only Cllr Mrs L. Norris said Not.
k) E-mail circulated 29/6/09 Reminder NHS Foundation Trust consultation ends on 28/7/09 (see agenda item 5 below).
l) E-mail circulated 29/6/09 Rural Services Network - Impact of the recession on rural housing. No reply.
m) E-mail circulated 6/7/09 Parish news from Rural Services Network
n) E-mail circulated 6/7/09 Joint Funding Bulletin for All (14 pages) £16.7m Hardship Fund, £20k Sustainable Energy Fund
o) E-mail circulated 7/7/09 Rural Services Network- public service delivery in rural England.
p) NCC Summer Play Programme leaflets left in Commemoration Hall: Slaley – Tuesday August 11th 2.45 – 4.15 p.m.
q) E-mail circulated 13/7/09 Local Authorities and the requirement of the traffic Management Act 2004.
r) E-mail circulated 7/7/09 NALC 2009 Leadership Academy invitation
Enterprising 20-page booklet, Adapt invitation to AGM 10/7/09 (informed by e-mail 8/7/09) + Annual Report), Clerks and Councils Direct July 2009, CPRE Overview Summer 2009, SMP ‘Playbuilder’ leaflet, NALC hard copy of NSP Ballot Papers + Vitalise information sheet + CAN News Vol. 29 N0 3+ Village SOS leaflet. Adapt transport services leaflets on notice board in village shop and one sample given to Cllr Hancock.

9. Financial Report.
a) Audit: Display Notices June 15th – June 28th DONE
Internal audit June 15th – June 28th DONE
Records available to public 29 June – July 24th NONE TODATE
Audit date 31st July 2009
b) Cheques to be signed:
No 379 Alex Evison grass cutting June 25th £85.65
No 380 P. Wilson payment for refreshments and Clerk time from initial meeting to set up Community Forum on 3/3/09 £52.00 (Total account was paid into PC bank account 9/6/09)
No 381 Slaley Commemoration Hall April, may, June, July monthly meetings + April special meeting to discuss Slaley Hall 78 Holiday Villas. £94.50.
Proposed by Cllr L. Norris & seconded by Cllr M. Palmer the cheques were signed.
c) Interim Payment: None
d) Payment into Bank NCC refund of Community Forum meeting on 3/3/09 £69.50

10. Current Planning Applications.
20090396: Roofed silage clamp Flothers Farm. Effluent replace or additional? Reply from planning the existing silage pit will not be used to store silage once the new one is built it will however remain in use for other agricultural purposes. No other objections.
20090410: Two storey extension to side. Linnel Hill. No objections,
20090162 OUTLINE Construction of 78 holiday lodges, Slaley Hall Withdrawn according to CC CW Horncastle.
20080046 Internal refurbishment - Slaley Hall Pending.
Decisions from Planning Authority
20090316: Construction of single storey garage 46 Slaley Park. Granted.
20090260 Retro Construction of open top silage pit. White House Granted.
20090082 Resub.det. annexe in association with main dwelling Pinetops Granted.
*Weekly List sent by e-mail to PC Clerks shows Slaley & Hexhamshire as the ward (I did not get plans for these as they were both Hexhamshire, however I did receive a notification for Hexhamshire application number 20090371 hearing. Hexhamshire were informed by the Clerk about this. Appeared to be back to normal on July 9th weekly list!
** JT from Springhouse asked if we had received a reply regarding breach of planning enforcement at Caravan Park. He is considering a complaint to LGO.

11. Council House eligibility for a family with 5 children 4a 8/6/09; 4a 11/5/09, 4a 20/4/09, 4a 9/3/09, 4b 9/2/09, 4d 12/1/09, 17a 8/12/08.
NCC Common Housing Policy, Draft issued September 2008 (7 pages)
Room sizes of comparable houses e-mailed to all on 9/6/09
Councillor Hancock reported that the Policy was not relevant to the specific issue of room sizes raised by the family concerned. Size of rooms is not mentioned. What is mentioned is that living areas count as sleeping areas and children under 10 years of age count as .5 of a person.

12. Public Consultation on NHS proposals 12 8/6/09, 11/5/09, 6k 9/3/09 (page 504 minutes circulated by e-mail 5.3.09).
Unfortunately due to the early start of 6 p.m. the Clerk was unable to attend the June meeting at Hexham Mart. CC Colin Horncastle reported that during the Haydon Bridge consultation evening NHS staff admitted there was a problem with the ambulance response time. Draft reply circulated by e-mail 12/7/09 attached as appendix 3/130709, page 546 a few minor amendments were made and the text was agreed to be sent.

13. NHS Consultation about day care for older people. (Closing date for consultation August 20th). Circulated and responses attached as appendix 4/130709, page 547. CC Colin Horncastle said the West of Northumberland was badly hit with four care homes in the region

14. Parish Plan Annual Play Area Review.
A discussion was held during May and June after Mrs Scott attended the meeting and unless there is some new evidence then the aforementioned agenda items are a substitute for an in-depth review.
See also 4 e above (11 b 8/6/09 funds allocated for play and sport in Slaley new contact name of Val Knowles at Longhirst Office telephone message has been left 9/7/09). Colin Horncastle telephoned Val Knowles who confirmed the funds are ring-fenced for our use. Val’s direct line is 01670 794796)
See also agenda item 7 above.

15. Integrated Transport Programme Priorities for 2010/11 circulated.
The Clerk would like to propose 20 mph speed restriction around the school area and also request flashing yellow lights when school is distributing children to or from school or Nursery etc.
Delivery vehicles using Sat-nav appear to be using the single track U8080 as the access to Slaley Hall. Request new brown signs saying ‘No Access to Slaley Hall’ rather than ‘access only’.
Request any effective measure to slow down traffic approaching the Glen Crossroads from the north. A crossroads sign north of the dip into the crossroads does not say slow, concealed entrance to Glen Cottage or give any indication that a reduction in speed is necessary.

16. Parish Plan, Action Plan July Update.
Draft circulated, amendments made, attached as appendix 5/130709, page 548

17. August Walk-about route.
Trygill Sculpture Trail, Councillors were recommended to wear walking boots and use anti midge prevention treatment. Everyone to meet at the Commemoration Hall 7 p.m. Cllr Mrs A S. Robson gave her apologies for this event.

18. A.O.B.
Millennium Seat Litter bin damaged Sunday June 28th p.m. Clerk and son went up to assess damage Monday June 29th to find it already repaired.
Friday June 26th RTA at West Burnside Bridge on B6306 causing damage. Clerk reported to Highways, Kevin Allen and Call Centre followed by a conversation with the bridges inspector. Apparently a delivery van was using Sat-Nav and he was directed up the green lane past West Burnside on realising his mistake he reversed and crashed into the bridge.
Brown wheelie bins for garden waste are still being requested in the parish.
Dog Fouling at the bottom end of the village has become a problem since last meeting. There is a possibility it is holiday makers from the caravan site.
Parking behind the wooden bollards outside No 9 South Park was noticed last Sunday morning. This was on the footpath and should be discouraged if it happens again.
Deep ruts on the grassed area of the Millennium Seat have spoilt a very tidy entrance to the village. The Clerk to speak with Alex Evison and see if he has any ideas for re-levelling.
Provision of coloured wheelie bins for Glass recycling with this new authority. Clerk to ask for details of the person to contact.

19. BOATs update.
a) Clerk forwarded photographs to NCC with coping stones removed from boundary wall and placed inside ruts on BOAT No 39. (Wall owned by Lord Allendale).
b) T W-A asked if we had any knowledge of a mountain biking event to take place on a right of way in Slaley Forest (also mentioned to DB)
c) RF asked if the PC knew of a horse event to take place in Slaley Forest during the last week of June.
d) Reply from DB see also 4b above
e) Three month consultation coming out Friday July 17th on Bolbeck Common Provision of the Entire Network of BOATs – 5 Broad options from leave as now, through various adjustments to extinguishment.

20. Date of August 2009 meeting.
Monday August 10th Walk begins at 7 p.m. Inspector D Thornhill at 8 p.m.

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

June Minutes of Slaley Parish Council

Rural Crime was a lenthy discussion topic in Public Participation at the June meeting read more in agenda item 5

Minutes of Slaley Parish Council, Monday June 8th 2009, in Slaley Commemoration Hall 7.30 p.m.

1. Apologies: None
Present: Councillor I.C. Hancock in the Chair. Councillor Mrs C. A. Brooks, Ms M Palmer, Mrs A. S. Robson, Mrs L. Norris & S. Davison. County Councillor C.W. Horncastle. Clerk Mrs P. Wilson.
Public: Richard Ferguson & PC Dougie Kidd. Courant Reporter: Rebecca Dixon. Slaley Notes: Jean Elphick. Community Trust Executive Committee Member: Michael Elphick.

2. Declaration of Interests and Hospitality Record.
Cllr. Mrs L. Norris for agenda item 16.
County Cllr CW Horncastle for agenda item 10

3. Minutes of May Parish Council Meeting (circulated pages 523- 526 + appendix 1 page 527, appendix 2 page 528).
Proposed by Cllr. CA Brooks and seconded by Cllr. L. Norris the minutes were approved and signed

4. Matters Arising.
a) 4a 11/5/09, 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. Cllr Davison provided room sizes. Clerk to compile a comparison and place on July agenda. Cllr Hancock to provide back up information from the new unitary council lettings policy.
b) 4d 11/5/09, 7b 20/4/09 Request for financial & practical help by St. Mary’s Parish Church circulated by e-mail for the April meeting and again for the June meeting. After further discussion it was agreed that a reply should state that the PC could help financially with specific projects e.g. the church building, the churchyard, the hearse house and the lych gate. However spiritual matters such as the ‘Parish Share’ could not be supported through the Precept. Clerk and Chairman to agree a reply.
c) 9e 11/5/09 Landing Strip on Wooley Road. Further correspondence by e-mail 18/5/09 resulted in a letter seeking information from R. Stewart, Planning Enforcement Officer. There has been no reply. It was agreed that the same letter be sent to Mike Hales, Low Flying Systems Manager at RAF Wittering.
d) 9g 11/5/09 M. Elphick contacted Marcus Byron regarding damage to a small portion of the Information Board, MB had contacted Shelley Signs who had not replied by 5/6/09 therefore a further e-mail had been sent.
e) 9h 11/5/09 Letter sent to residents at Greencroft regarding the hedge growing onto the public footpath and causing a prickly obstruction. No one had checked if action has been taken.

5. Public Participation.
a) Rural Crime: The lack of policing during the hours of darkness was the concern of one parishioner. Hexhamshire Hardwoods has been broken into five times over the past twelve months. Over the past two weeks three rural businesses have been affected by theft : High Staples, Dukesfield and Ladycross Quarry. In rural areas, thefts are often of expensive heavy plant and machines. The vulnerability of rural premises was discussed and the perceived concentration of Policing in urban areas. Targeted crime on a small rural area has a huge impact.
Slaley PC Chairman felt this could be an issue for the Community Forum.
PC D Kidd confirmed that resources go to where crime is greatest. Resources for this area are managed from Hexham and there is a night shift police presence. However, in an area of 800 square miles it is unlikely that the police will get to a crime during its commital without a ‘tip-off’. Farm Watch and Neighbourhood Watch were mentioned. Security marking, and recording of serial numbers makes it possible to return recovered stolen goods to their owners. PC Kidd acknowledged that while ours is a low crime area, the value of stolen goods is substantial. The Police were able to provide help when it appeared that a rural business was being repeatedly targeted.
It was agreed that the PC write to Inspector David Thornhill at Hexham with a copy to the Chief Constable extending an invitation to attend a future meeting (probably joint with neighbouring parishes) where suggestions for improvement can be discussed.
b) Danger from motor cycles to horse riders in Slaley Forest: PC Kidd agreed that user confrontations in Slaley Forest go back ten years or more. Illegal users are difficult to track down, the area is vast and motorcycles easily move out of sight through the trees. A combined police / forestry commission day was held earlier this year and will hopefully be repeated in the near future. School holidays always produce more under age drivers. Large posters were discussed informing the public that it was illegal to allow minors to ride motorcycles on the Byways, because unknown to most people Byways are public roads. This would need discussing with NCC and the Forestry Commission.
c) Vehicles parked on village footpaths were questioned. PC Kidd confirmed that it is an offence to park on the footpath and cause an obstruction for wheelchairs and double buggies etc. Allowances have to be made in a small village, especially if large numbers of vehicles are parked due to a special function at Church, Chapel or Commemoration Hall when it is important not to obstruct the road. However, prolonged footpath parking can be reported to the police by providing the registration number. A friendly reminder that is an offence to block a public footpath to the vehicle owner from a local policeman will follow.
d) Middle School-age boys playing football at the side of the Hall are in real danger when a ball rolls onto the road, especially if vehicles are parked inside the Hall yard and outside on the highway. PC Kidd recommended that these boys would be safer on the school field. Younger children would be under parental control and could possibly play safely around the Hall.

6. Community Trust report
Circulated as appendix 2/080609
Concern was expressed that some of the information in the reports booklet would be out-of-date in the Autumn. The chairmen of the CT and PC agreed to look at this nearer the publication time.

7. Matters for Discussion with County Councillor Colin W Horncastle.
a) CC C.W. Horncastle took a copy of the 2009 Highways Report for discussion with Colin Charlton.
b) It was explained to the PC why the June meeting of the West Area Committee was being held in the Beaumont Hotel. He explained that the new CC officials had followed TC's previous use of the hotel without realising that with TC's demise the Hexham Council Chamber would probably be available. Other venues will be used in future. He reported that there will be an annual West Area Committee meeting for Parish Councils only.

8. Correspondence.
a) NCC draft statement of Community Involvement thank you for Slaley PC responses.
b) Circulated by e-mail 14/5/09 Sustainable Rural Communities Seminar 26/6/09 Braintree.
c) Circulated by e-mail 30/5/09 Clerk’s Training Bursary Scheme.
d) Came and Company - Schedule of Insurance Cover.
e) E-mail to Clerk from Kate Wilson re underage motorcyclists in Slaley Forest causing concern to horse riders. Reported to PC Susan Cockburn and e-mail reply. (see 5b above)
f) By e-mail 2/6/09 NALC training sessions at Bellingham 6/7/09
g) By e-mail NCC Area Committee dates: West Area Committee 9/6/09.
h) By e-mail 28/5/09 re proposals for membership on NSP new deadline of June 4th
i) By e-mail 6/6/09 NSP ballot papers. A vote was taken and it was agreed to vote for Rob Macfarlane.
j) By e-mail NCC Ailsa Coverdale, Locality Development Manager introduction letter.
k) By e-mail NCC key contact details on new authority.
l) North Pennines AONB Partnership: Annual Forum & Management Plan Launch Monday June 22nd 10.30 a.m. Mickleton Village Hall. Open Seat election Nomination Form.
m) North Pennines AONB Identification Guide of flowers, grasses, shrubs, mosses and lichens of the Moorlands.
n) E-mail circulated 28/5/09 Outdoor Display Cases from Whitehill Direct Ltd.
o) Glasdon advertising brochure, CE Electric UK policy information leaflets during a power cut, Adapt News May 2009: AGM 10/7/09 + Safer Driving for Life courses at Hexham 11/11/09 & 8/3/10, NCC - May half-term play Programme – nothing at Slaley.

9. Financial Report.
a) 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
b) Cheques to be signed:
No 378 Alex Evison grass cutting £85.65 *
*See note millennium seat area infested with dandelions ACTION and PRODUCT to safely use. Clerk to write and request NCC to carry out necessary work.
Proposed by Cllr L. Norris & seconded by Cllr M. Palmer the cheque was signed.
c) Interim Payment: No 376 JT Golightly siting base for location board £184.00
No 377 Return to NCC Simonburn Precept accident sent to Slaley PC bank account £750.00
Signed by Cllrs IC Hancock and CA Brooks.

10. Current Planning Applications.
20090316: Construction of single storey garage to extension to the side of detached bungalow at 46 Slaley Park. No objections, but pointed out that the property is not a bungalow.
20090260 Retrospective – Construction of open top silage pit. White House* Concerns.
* Clerk has been informed that neighbours have now been consulted
20090162 OUTLINE Construction of 78 holiday lodges, Slaley Hall (see appendix 1/110509) Objections.
20090082 Resub.det. annexe in association with main dwelling Pinetops Hearing 14/5/09. Site Visit 29/5/09 and new hearing date of Hearing 11/6/09.
20080046 Internal refurbishment - Slaley Hall Pending.
Decisions from Planning Authority
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. Granted

11. Consider a reply to letter received from Mrs R Scott circulated. Reply from Slaley Commemoration Hall Management Committee attached as appendix 1/080609.
a) Public funding requires a minimum of a 21-year lease.
b) Clerk asked the new planning department where the fund allocated for play and sport in Slaley was held. There has been no reply. CC C.W. Horncastle will look into where the Slaley funds for play and sport are currently held. They are not under the control of the Parish Council.
c) School grounds, especially the toddler play area, which is out of bounds to the public, were discussed. Was the toddler play area funded by public money?
d) No bikes are allowed in the school grounds. The needs of toddlers learning to ride bicycles and of older groups wanting a BMX track are not met by the school grounds.
e) Slaley had a successful Youth Club for almost two years. Due to lack of adult supervisors it was forced to close. It was pointed out that in a small population the age range of children can vary over time, causing changes in the provision needed.
f) CC CW Horncastle intends speaking to the Chair of Governors and the Head Teacher of Slaley First School to discuss his recent involvement with Extended Services at Community Schools. He was given a brief history of the school grounds closure - the public meeting of June 2002; the setting up of a Steering Group to produce a parish plan; the adoption of the Parish Plan by the PC in December 2003/January 2004; the re-opening up of the school grounds following negotiations by The Community Trust.
g) CC CW Horncastle noted that there was under-provision of play and sport facilities for all ages of children and young people in Slaley. Slaley PC has repeatedly sought sites for an equipped play area for the younger members of our parish and an area for bicycle riding for the older members, without success. CC Horncastle could obtain government grant money if land could be found.
h) It was therefore agreed to write to Slaley Commemoration Hall Committee and state that Slaley PC did not wish to take the matter further at this time because of point (a) above and while CC CW Horncastle was looking into various alternatives.
i) It was also agreed that a reply be sent to the Scott family answering the questions in their letter. The PC does not have the funds from the Reaston View affordable housing development - the money went into the Tynedale Council ‘Housing Development Fund’.

12. Public Consultation on NHS proposals attendance at June 23rd meeting held at Hexham Mart
6a 11/5/09, 6k 9/3/09, page 504 minutes (circulated by e-mail 5/3/09).
PW is attending. No specific questions requested.

13. Parish Plan Annual Dog Fouling Review
Cllr M Palmer reported that the area around the school is improved.
Cllr S Davison reported that the area between South Park and the Rose & Crown is OK.
Cllr A Robson reported that fouling appears overnight between Parks Side Bungalows and the Commemoration Hall.
There is always an improvement in mid summer. Culprits could be seen during the light nights.

14. Parish Plan Annual Heritage Review
The 2009 review was presented to the meeting although the photographs were not included.

15. A.O.B.
a) Complaint made from a Councillor that wheelchairs and double buggies are unable to travel the footpath because of parked cars on the footpath. A request was made through Slaley Notes on Friday June 5th, one particular vehicle remained on the footpath over the weekend, (see agend item 5 above)
b) PW had a swarm of bees at her main house doorway Friday May 29th, 12 midday. PW telephoned NCC and spoke to four different people over the next hour. She was finally told that since bees are protected the NCC pest control could not help. By 2 p.m. with more bees getting into the house PW telephone the Hexham Courant where a very helpful reporter gave her telephone numbers for local Bee Keepers, but none were immediately contactable. Eventually Northumberland Pest Control advised that a bee keeper was needed to find the queen bee, but could not provide any help to find one. About 6 p.m. bee keeper Roz Doonan replied to PW's message and gave the necessary advice and assistance. Slaley Notes will provide Roz’s contact details and these should be included in the future edition of the Where to Buy Locally leaflet. The PC agreed that NCC ought to be able to provide bee keepers association contact details for such emergencies.
c) Mobile Post Van Provision at Slaley. Monday May 25th Bank Holiday – no provision.
Tuesday May 26th – no provision on any Tuesday. Wednesday May 27th – system was down, no transactions could take place – six people waiting with urgent business, including Margaret Ward wanting to bank her Village Shop takings. Margaret says that when the Shop system failed it was approximately 2/3 hours before it was up and running again. When Margaret's PO was open all day, 5 days each week, a temporary breakdown was not too serious. In this instance, with the mobile PO, Slaley had its last service at 9.45 a.m. Saturday May 23rd and was unable to do business until 4.20 p.m. Thursday 28th May. The PC wondered if the mobile van was getting the same IT service as the village Post Office did.
It was reported by a Councillor that the van sometimes closed early, or at least the doors were closed early. Clerk to check with some of the residents if they have noticed this.
d) The grass at Parks Side has recently been cut and looks messy. A close watch should be kept.
e) The parish roadside grass verges have been cut today. Monday June 8th.
f) Cllr Palmer is concerned about continued speeding in the center of the village she asked if more 30-mph sings could be placed either side of the school. Cllr Hancock recalled that we were told that it is illegal to place repeater signs where regular street-lights exist. Cllr Hancock to check on the school transport plan for the yellow flashing signs at school times.
g) East Burnside Bridge at The Glen crossroads appears to have a crack at the Lead Road junction. There is often dampness and Cllr Hancock suspects subsidence.
h) Request a copy of the vehicle volume and weight survey undertaken by NCC on the U8080 at the TRO sign. Clerk to contact Colin Charlton about this with a copy to Northumbria Police.

16. BOATs update.
E-mail from Stephen Rickitt 20/5/09 confirming that the Magistrates Court had made the order reducing the width to 5 metres on Byway 44. Clerk to request written confirmation should be sent to all affected properties.

17. Date of July 2009 meeting. Monday July 13th.
There being no further business the meeting closed at 10 p.m.

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)

Slaley Parish Council March 2009 Minutes

Anyone interested in becoming a Magistrate should contact Mike Cumberland see Special Presentation for details.

Minutes of Slaley Parish Council, Monday March 9th 2008, in Slaley Commemoration Hall 7.30 p.m.

1. Apologies: Councillor Mrs A. S. Robson.
Present: Councillor I.C. Hancock in the Chair. Councillor Mrs C. A. Brooks, S. Davison, Ms M Palmer, Mrs L. Norris, Clerk Mrs P. Wilson. District Councillor B.W. Massey & County Councillor C.W. Horncastle.
Public: Richard Ferguson, Albert Weir, John Wilson & Claire Loughlin. Courant Reporter: Rebecca Dixon. Slaley Notes: Jean Elphick. Community Trust Executive Committee Member: None.

Special Presentation beginning promptly at 7.30 p.m.
‘The role of the magistrate in our local community’ was presented by David Walker JP, Gareth Hughes JP, Ms Jo Eldridge JP, Glen Hogg, Court Manager & Mike Cumberland, Court Manager at Hexham. Many questions were asked during the excellent presentation. Copy of ‘Powerpoint’ presentation attached as appendix 1/090309, page 506. Mr Cumberland invited everyone to visit the Magistrates Court at Hexham and see proceedings. If anyone were interested in becoming a JP he would be happy to discuss either in the courtroom or in his private office at the Hexham courts. A letter of thanks to be sent for the interesting and informative presentation.

2. Declaration of Interests and Hospitality Record.
Cllr Mrs L. Norris for agenda item 15

3. Minutes of February Parish Council Meeting (circulated pages 497-501).
Proposed by Cllr IC Hancock and seconded by Cllr Mrs CA Brooks the minutes were approved and signed.

4. Matters Arising.
a) 4b 9/2/09; 4d 12/1/09, 17a 8/12/08 Three bed-roomed council house eligibility for a family with five children. Signed form received 9/2/09 asking the Parish Council to investigate why the family was not eligible. Cllr Davison is still establishing the layout of the dwellings and room sizes (see 17a 8/12/08) between the two properties. Cllr Hancock to provide relevant information from Tynedale Council for an agenda item in April.
b) 4c 9/2/09; 5 12/1/09: E-mail reply dated 6/3/09 from Mel Richardson who has agreed to attend the April PC meeting to discuss the issues raised about our highways.
c) 6d 9/2/09; TC reply for cost of collecting grass at Parks Side bungalows (8a 13/10/08; 4a(ii) 8/9/08) £400 for 20 cuts = £20 per cut. Clerk contacted Mr & Mrs Urwin of Parks Side who confirmed that during a good summer the grass is cut every week and does not need collection. However, during wet weather the grass is not cut and grows long resulting in a mess when it eventually gets cut. The Councillors felt that a piecemeal type of collection would not be possible with the NCC and instructed the Clerk to invite the local tender for grass cutting to give a price for the collection of grass when it is needed.
d) 6e 9/2/09; Correspondence glass recycling in Slaley village. Clarification on “within the 30 mph” is because outside 30 mph sites are often used for fly tipping. Letter to neighbouring properties proved negative in the main. The Commemoration Hall Committee discussed at its February 25th meeting and several question were raised and forward to Kevin Ferrol. An insurance quote through the Parish Council, Came & Co, confirmed that cover would be in the PC’s public liability. However, as Slaley PC does not own the bins we cannot be responsible for them. Mr Ferrol continues to try for insurance cover from NCC. Ms Loughlin who lives locally to the proposed site has strong feelings about glass recycling at Slaley and especially the proposed coloured bins and felt that children may climb them and could cause themselves injury from broken glass inside the bins. The Chairman asked for more information to be given in Slaley Notes about these bins and Rebecca Dixon was interested in an article with photographs. DC Massey reported that the bins would still be available after 1st April, contracts would then be with NCC and not through Tynedale Council.
e) 6r 9/2/09; Adapt North East Membership 2009. DC Massey reported that elderly people of Hexhamshire used ADAPT transport at reduced rates. Cllr Brooks pointed out that elderly people were entitled to free public transport. DC Massey to report to Cllr Hancock after Hexhamshire PC meeting when ADAPT are giving a presentation.
f) 9c 9/2/09 Reply from Milecastle Housing (circulated). It is NCC’s responsibility for clearing and gritting the paths around accommodation for the elderly. Milecaste are requesting a bin for salt/grit to be placed somewhere in the square from NCC. Discuss this further with Mel Richardson at the April meeting.
g) 9i 9/2/09; Parking problems outside Winter House and the school. Clerk contacted Slaley School and asked if there is a parking problem. Funds had been earmarked to enlarge staff parking at school until leaks in the roof were discovered and all the improvement allocation has gone on repairing the roof. This was reported to CC Horncastle for possible financial help from his small schemes grant. The School and Cllr Horncastle are in correspondence about this.
h) 9j 9/2/09: DC Massey reported that the keys would be handed over 10/3/09 to the two tenants of the part-buy affordable houses at Reaston View.
i) 10b 9/2/09: Byway 44 reply from NCC solicitor 12/2/09 (see agenda item 15 below).

5. Public Participation. None.

6. Correspondence.
a) E-mail from Community Trust – AGM 25/3/09.
b) E-mail saying Springhouse Caravan Park open day 31/8/09, invitation for locals to have a fund raising stall on the site.
c) E-mail from Cllr Norris 13/2/09 re NSP Standing Conference.
d) E-mail circulated 23/2/09 re Narrowing the Gap consultation on education (Hard copy came in post - consultation period until June 5th) Clerk to circulate.
e) Parish & Town Council Forum on Planning Services in the new Northumberland Council 3/3/09. Slaley Councillors unable to go due to other meeting Cllr M Gibbs from Healey represented Slaley and made the report as circulated by e-mail attached as appendix 2/090309, page 507. Clerk very concerned about e-access through the planning portal, which will act as a hub for consultation. Grants to help purchase the correct system if required. Clerk to check how this would work and what size is the system.
f) TC offer of hanging baskets circulated. Gardening Club has spoken directly to TC.
g) E-mail from ME, 16/2/09 re Information Board panel. Manufacturing company is waiting for a delivery of the return edge base panels before they can progress. Anticipated two weeks delivery = 2/3/09. Update from JE at meeting – completed panel due with Marcus Byron by Friday 13th March.
h) Daniel Bingham CV circulated by e-mail – specializes in roadside clearance, tree felling etc.
i) E-mail circulated 5/3/09 re New Councillor Training.
j) E-mail circulated 9/3/09 The Boundary Committee for England – Electoral review. Hard Copy also arrived asked if anyone wanted for circulation. Comments by May 11th, followed by a ten-week public consultation. + A poster “Your Council is Changing” placed on Slaley Parish Notice Board.
k) E-mail circulated 5/3/09 re NHS north of Tyne ‘new specialist emergency care hospital off the A19’ + 8 page document. The current TV advertising campaign on identifying stroke symptoms and the need for immediate medical treatment was presented as needing an answer on quick life saving treatment if emergency care is taken from the district hospitals to a built up area on the outskirts of our major city. The Councillors felt this was a good Community Forum discussion topic.
l) E-mailed Rural Services Community Weekly New Digest 18/2/09; 26/2/09 & 6/3/09.
m) Tynedale Sports Council grant aid request. Councillors agreed to give £50.00.
n) E-mail 15/2/09 from Theo Street, re Earth Shelter Construction an acceptable form of rural housing? Forwarded to Cllr. Hancock who will complete questionnaire.
o) Clerks & Councils Direct March 2009; The Safety Surface Experts brochure; Town & Parish Standard February 2009; Community Action Northumberland News Vol 29. No 1; CAN Reader Survey; Glasdon products advertising leaflets.

7. Financial Report.
a) Cheques to be signed.
No 366 Pat Wilson quarter share in BOATs expenditure £22.55
No 368 Slaley Commemoration Hall Hire of meeting room £87.50
No 369 Tynedale Sports Council £50.00
Proposed by Cllr Mrs Norris and seconded by Cllr Mrs Brooks the cheques were signed.
b) Interim Payment: No 367 Webfusion hosting for web site £91.43 signed by Cllr’s I.C. Hancock & L. Norris.
c) Income: £50.00 from Healey Parish Council for the use of our web site

8. Current Planning Applications.
20090082 Resubmitted detached annexe in association with main dwelling Pinetops OBJ
20090039 Construction of two agricultural buildings Marley Cote Walls Support
20080046 Internal refurbishment - Slaley Hall Pending.
Decisions from Planning Authority
*initial reply dated 17.2.09 (circulated) from our reminder letter requesting the 2008 confirmation of Slaley Hall Holiday Villas occupancy conditions. Second reply dated 6/3/09 gave the 2008 occupancy details and asked that we forward an annual reminder to the Planning Enforcement Officer.
** What looks like a new shed being erected at White House Farm or possibly a silage pit. Clerk to ask TC planning department about planning permission.

9. Report from Community Forum Meeting on March 3rd with Susi Goncu.
Attached as appendix 3/090309, page 508.
The Councillors agreed that they did not wish to be permanently identified with Hexham CF. The unanimous decision was to be part of the suggested Rural CFs. It was also agreed that Slaley Parish Council did not wish to HOST the rural CF.

10. Highways Annual Report participation.
List of highways produced for the meeting and Councillors and Clerk agreed their various routes. It was considered a good idea if these routes were looked at for the April meeting when Mel Richardson will be attending.

11. Annual Risk Assessment (page 3 is the Annual Governance Statement) attached as appendix 4/090309, page 509.
Record the FoI scheme on the web site with special conditions for Clause 5: under Policies & Procedures & Standing Orders. It was agreed to provide the Milecastle Housing contact details as a possible provider, ‘ for other languages, large print & Braille’, on 01434 611400. The Annual Governance Statement for the 08/09 Audit was agreed. If any alterations occur when the audit forms arrive an update may need to circulated and be recorded at a later meeting.

12. Asset & Investment Register.
Attached as appendix 5/090309, page 510
An annual of increase of 3% was agreed for the insurance policy and the value of the solar powered units on the insurance policy to be added.

13. Agree the Annual Litter Pick date in April
Sunday April 5th at 1.30 p.m. starting from Slaley Commemoration Hall. JE to mention in Slaley Notes. Cllr Brooks in Newssheet. Jean Elphick volunteered to give a prize for an unusual item.

14. A.O.B.
a) Concerns from R F include grey squirrel notices being removed. Poachers 22/2/09 & activity on BOATs etc.
b) Will Smith a Councillor of Shotley Low Quarter made initial inquiries to PW and Mr Elphick about Shotley Low Quarter renting space on the Slaley web site. A new Clerk will be appointed in May and they will hope to discuss the matter further then if Slaley PC gives agreement ‘in principal’. Maybe this is also something for the Community Forums to consider.
c) Affordfable Houses – e-mail from BM at TC dated 13/2/09 saying complete next week. RC reported on 27/3/09 that illness at TC legal services had not provided the completion.

15. BOATs update.
a) NCC Stopping Up Application Healey No 16 & Slaley No 40. To be heard on Thursday 23rd April at Hexham Magistrates Court.
b) NCC Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981. Modification Order (No8) 2007 – Byway 44 Confirmed as unopposed.
c) NCC Stopping Up Application Byway 44. To be heard on Wednesday 20th May 2009 for those portions being outside the 5 metre wide length.

16. Date of April 2009 meeting Monday April 20th. (one week late due to Easter Holidays)
There being no further business the meeting ended at 10.35 p.m.

Slaley Parish Council February 2009 meeting

Heavy snow resulted in the cancellation of the Special Presentation and was indirectly the reason why only two Councillors made the meeting. Read how this affected the meeting.

Minutes of Slaley Parish Council, Monday February 9th 2008, in Slaley Commemoration Hall 7.30 p.m.

1. Apologies: Councillors S. Davison, Ms M Palmer, Mrs L. Norris, Mrs A. S. Robson. District Councillor B.W. Massey & County Councillor C.W. Horncastle.
Present: Councillor I.C. Hancock in the Chair. Councillor Mrs C. A. Brooks. Clerk Mrs P. Wilson.
Public.None. Courant Reporter: None. Slaley Notes: None. Community Trust Executive Committee Member: Michael Elphick.

Special Presentation beginning promptly at 7.30 p.m.
Alison Germany, Deputy Clerk to the Northumbria Justices, responsible for Magistrates’ Courts in Northumberland and two or more Magistrates will give a short presentation on ‘The role of the magistrate in our local community’. Part of the presentation will be via ‘powerpoint’ with sufficient time for questions and answers. CANCELLED due to severe winter weather. It is hoped that this will be deferred to March meeting.
Cancellation notices placed on Notice Board, in Village Shop, on web page and by e-mail to all 4 invited parish councils.

2. Declaration of Interests and Hospitality Record.
None

3. Minutes of January Parish Council Meeting (circulated pages Minutes of January Parish Council Meeting (circulated pages 489-493 + appendix 1 page 494, appendix 2 page 495, appendix 3 page 496).
Proposed by Cllr Mrs L. Norris by e-mail and seconded by Cllr Mrs CA Brooks the minutes were approved and signed.

4. Matters Arising.
a) 4a 12/1/09, 6 8/12/08 Trevor Golightly met NCC’s Kevin Allen & Clerk 10a.m. 20/1/09 to safely erect Information Board. On unwrapping board it was noticed that the information was not correct. Cllr Hancock was contacted and it was agreed that the posts be placed in the ground. Michael Elphick was contacted and he has requested a replacement corrected board. Mr Elphick reported that Marcus Byron will deliver to the Clerk the new and correct information Board when it is ready.
b) 4d 12/1/09, 17a 8/12/08 Three bedroomed council house eligibility copy of correspondence sent to Cllr Davison for a second delivery. Signed form received today asking the Parish Council to investigate why the family were not eligible. An e-mail reminder to Cllr Davison regarding the room sizes (see 17a 8/12/08) has been sent. To be discussed when a quorum of Councillors present.
c) 5 12/1/09 E-mail reply dated 21/1/09 from Mel Richardson who has agreed to attend the March PC meeting to discuss the issues raised about our highways. Because of the probability of the Magistrates meeting during March it may be wise to ask Mr Richardson for an April attendance.
d) 9/10 12/1/09: Slaley web page: E-mail from Michael Elphick 3/2/09 still unable to get Healey notes onto the web. Clerk needs information on how to upload pdf files i.e. Slaley & Healey Freedom of Information Scheme & Where to Buy Locally leaflet. Cllr. IC Hancock has placed the pdf files onto the web. For the moment Healey has gone onto the Slaley Parish Council page.
e) 15 12/1/09 Slaley Hall Post-Christmas Meal for the Elderly – January. Thank You card from Mary Metcalf. Telephone call from Ann Lishman and verbal thanks from Bobby Johnston, Audrey Hutchinson and Margaret Ward. Slaley Hall telephoned and asked if everything OK. Cllr Hancock received an offer for a free meeting room for up to 10 people at Slaley Hall.

5. Public Participation.
None.

6. Correspondence.
a) (i) Susi Goncu e-mailed Slaley, Blanchland, Hexhamshire, Shotley Low Quarter, Healey and Hedley on the Hill Parish Council Chairs and Vice Chairs to set up a meeting to discuss developments around community forums. This was organized for 3/2/09 however because of heavy snow it was cancelled and rescheduled for 3/3/09.
(ii) Cllr Norris e-mailed to all 23/1/09 the Constitution (5 pages) and explanatory notes (1 page) for the East Tynedale Parish Councils Forum.
b) David Francis e-mail ‘Progress on the Charter’ circulated by e-mail 15/1/09. Two pages of a briefing paper. (see 8d, page 472 of November 10th 2008 meeting when Slaley questioned the ICT requirements for Councillors.)
c) David Francis draft Charter for Development Management, (Planning Services) 13 pages, circulated by e-mail 29/1/09. Point 1: 2.2 Three Area Development Teams will determine planning applications (not minerals, waste or major physical projects). Areas are south east, north and west, Slaley comes under west? Point 2: 4.2 Charge will be made for pre-application enquiries. Point 3: 5.1 all applicants are encourage to submit planning applications electronically. Point 4: 6.7 Parish Councils will still be consulted in applications.
d) TC reply for cost of collecting grass at Parks Side bungalows (8a 13/10/08; 4a(ii) 8/9/08) £400 for 20 cuts = £20 per cut. To be discussed when a quorum of Councillors present. Meanwhile Clerk to try and establish if 20 cuts do actually take place each year.
e) E-mail from Kevin Ferrol re Bottle bank in village. Circulated by e-mail 4/2/09, several suggestions made, including Commemoration Hall car park which was refused during 2007. Out of village suggestion of near The Flothers Bridge was proposed. The Clerk thought that there was sufficient space on the grass verge outside the telephone exchange building almost opposite the village shop. Kevin Ferrol has been at Slaley today and looked at sites in village, he e-mailed photographs of possible sites in time for the meeting. To be discussed when a quorum of Councillors present. Meanwhile the Clerk to ask for clarification on “within the 30 mph” statement; A letter to Church View and The Paddock for their initial reaction to the bins; Copy of Kevin Ferrol correspondence to the Commemoration Hall Committee for discussion at its February 25th meeting.
f) E-mail from David Francis circulated 5/2/09 re ‘ICE’ stored as emergency contact person on mobile telephone. Clerk to send copy of e-mail to ME for inclusion in Slaley Notes & Cllr Brooks to mention in News-sheet.
g) E-mail from David Francis circulated 19/1/09 re dates of meetings between 2-13 February which could be filmed. Clerk replied with February date. Acknowledgment received from Melissa Jordon Communication Officer.
h) E-mail from Graeme Whitfield, Journal, Northumberland Editor, 29/1/09 requesting date of monthly meetings as The Journal is extending its commitment to Northumberland by covering Parish council meetings. Clerk replied by e-mail.
i) Reminder 13/1/09 from TC that litter and dog bin empty invoices were not paid (must have crossed in the mail).
j) Receipt from Came & Company with new schedule including the Information Board and the Highway Mirror.
k) NALC Royal Garden Party 21/7/09 circulated by e-mail 27/1/09 Chairman declined to be nominated.
l) Slaley First School January Newsletter circulated by e-mail 25/1/09 & request for The Times book vouchers by e-mail 16/1/09.
m) Thank You from Age Concern for grant aid 08/09 cheque (moved address and first enveloped returned to Clerk reposted 5/1/09).
n) E-mail from Moyra Riseborough circulated 9/2/09 re Update on Age Concern trips etc. Cllr Brooks to speak with Moyra for more information for News Sheet.
o) Great North Air Ambulance letter quest for grant aid – in Precept for 09/10
p) CAN request for grant aid – in Precept for 09/10
q) Rural Services Community Newsletter called Weekly Rural Focus Digest circulated by e-mail 27/1/09 *Is this the same as 6s below? Is yes why has it a different name?
r) Adapt News January 2009 + North East Membership 2009 To be discussed when a quorum of Councillors present. Cllr Hancock remarked that we were being asked to pay to pass information to other people.
s) Rural Services Community Weekly News Digest circulated by e-mail 3/2/09* See 6q above!
t) TC February Half-term play programme – Slaley – Wednesday 18th February 10 – 11.30 a.m. (notice board, shop and village hall).
u) Northumberland Theatre Company request for grant aid; Strutt & Parker Property Update: First quarter 2009; Wicksteed brochure; TDC minutes November – January; Mencap request for grant aid.

7. Financial Report.
a) Cheques to be signed.
No 366 Pat Wilson quarter share in BOATs expenditure £22.55
To be passed when a quorum of Councillors present.
b) Interim Payment: None
c) Income: £900 from Tynedale Council towards the Information Board

8. Current Planning Applications.
20090082 Resubmitted detached annexe in association with main dwelling Pinetops
20090039 Construction of two agricultural buildings Marley Cote Walls Support
20080046 Internal refurbishment - Slaley Hall Pending.
Decisions from Planning Authority
20081147 Two storey detached dwelling. Tree Tops, Main Street. Granted
*We have still not received a reply from our letter of August 17th requesting the 2008 confirmation of Slaley Hall Holiday Villas. A reminder to be sent with a request for assurance that the new Development Management Service (Planning department) will continue with this annual check.

9. A.O.B.
a) Martin Nichol (Stocksfield Post office) telephoned Clerk about 3 p.m. 2/2/09 to ask about road conditions to Slaley for the mobile post van at 4.20 p.m. Clerk told him to travel via the B6307 from Corbridge then the B6306 from Linnel bank top to Slaley village. Well cleared and gritted throughout the day. By 4.20 after an hour of intermittent heavy snow Martin telephoned back and said conditions were too dangerous there would be no post office provision thisafternoon.
b) 5/2/09: Post Office van freezing for customers. Also the untreated road into OAP bungalows dangerous for pedestrians using the Post Office Van.
c) Footpath around the OAP bungalows not treated very dangerous for old people. For the best part of 20 years Tony Lambert cleared all the footpath around the square. Now there is no-one. It was suggested that we should consider one or two salt bins for the elderly to use. Clerk telephoned Winter Services Team to have the square gritted and some salt left for the footpaths. Gill Hutchinson confirmed that small sand heaps were left outside each house however she had not seen the gritter or noticed any quick improvement in the entrance road. Clerk to contact Milecastle Housing to ask what their policy is for clearing the paths around accommodation for the elderly and if they would consider a bin for salt/grit somewhere in the square.
d) Footpath down the length of the village untreated and dangerous. It was reported that in some European countries and some states of America it is an offence not to clear the pathway to a private house from the main road. Should prolonged snow and ice become an annual problem then establishing Local Bylaws may be considered.
e) An agricultural Bob Cat stolen 4/2/09, forensic team at Reaston Lane looking for finger and foot prints.
f) R. Ferguson reported poaching at fields below High Clear and Springhouse.
g) P. Hutchinson would like the PC to consider putting Roy and Margaret forward for a national honour again. Mr Elphick reported that the Community Trust were considering doing this.
h) Up to five cars are being parked on the village street outside Winter House each night. No tyre tracks through the snow from the off-street parking area. Consequently this area is not being gritted until all the vehicle are gone.
i) It has been reported that parking for the delivery and collection of children from Slaley School is a problem. The Councillors checked planning conditions on Winter House which made a provision for three off-street vehicles. Clerk to contact Slaley School and ask if complaints have been received regarding a parking problem. If a positive answer is received a plan of action can be agreed when a full quorum of Councillors is present.
j) Discussions by the PC Clerk to the potential occupiers of the two part-own Affordable Houses indicated that the deposits were paid in January 2009. Cllr Hancock has also spoken with their solicitor who confirmed that a mortgage company finally agreed to the local clause and everything was now signed and with Two Castles Solicitor.
k) A verbal third-hand report received by the Clerk that a disabled lady at Springhouse requested Ladycross Quarry staff to clear snow from the privately owned track between the U8078 and Ladycross Caravan Site entrance. The PC does not know if this request was from a member of Ladycross Caravan Park staff or if it was someone staying in the warden’s house or in a caravan on site.

10. BOATs update.
a) A meeting of the joint BOATs joint committee is scheduled for Monday February 23rd when a discussion will take place with AVAG and Allendale PC about which direction we are going. The Natural England appointed Stakeholder Working Group is working on the Discovering Lost Ways project and it is felt that a new name for our joint committee needs to reflect the changes taking place. Liz Sobell suggested “The 4 Parishes Joint Rights of Way Watch”
b) Clerk to ask for an update on Byway 44 from NCC Solicitor with special emphasis on the owners of Slaley Hall having provided an alternative north/south route.

11. Date of March 2009 meeting
Monday March 9th

Healey Parish Council Minutes December 10th 2008

Healey Parish Council is renting space on the Slaley web site to recordi ts business. December 2008 is the first meeting.

Minutes of Healey Parish Council, Wednesday December 10th 2008 at 7.30 p.m. in Barley Hill Community Hall.

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

2. Declaration of Interest and Hospitality record.
CC CW Horncastle for agenda item 9
Cllr. T. W-A for 20081079 on agenda item 9

3. Minutes of September 2008 meeting (circulated pages 1-3)
Proposed as a true record by Cllr. M Gibbs and seconded by Cllr. J. Raine the minutes were approved and signed.

4. Matters Arising
a) 5a 10/9/08, Doomsday project – reported that funds are approximately £200. J. Warde-Aldam to be invited to February meeting to discuss ideas.
b) 9c 10/9/08, School House Motorcross – Now shut down for the season. It was proposed and agreed that during 2009 the Council should keep a log of activity and the nature of events. Neighbours who have a good view of the motorcross site will be asked to help with the log. TC Enforcement Officer indicated that an event was described as ‘when payment is made and competitions are in progress’ and these events are enforceable. Feelings at the meeting were in disagreement to TC’s response.
c) 9d 10/9/08, Healey Cleugh Motorcross. Closed for the season.

5. Public Participation
As a member of the public Anne Dale, who is also a County Councillor, informed the meeting that she was worried about the NCC finances, which were in a mess. 20% is being cut from all services; refuse bins, litter, roads etc. It is incorrect that Parish Councils will get funding if services are done at parish level. The Councillors were warned to be careful of what was agreed. The Charter was discussed and the statement, which says that all PC’s will be on-line, is misleading. School Transport contracts are under discussion.

6. Correspondence
a) Reminder from Garry Pointer, TC, that the Register of Members Interests form have not been completed following the adoption of the New Code of Conduct in 2007. TWA circulated by e-mail 2/12/08 asking that all forms are complete and brought to the December meeting. Four received, Clerk to forward to Garry Pointer, Clerk to telephone Martin Adamson and clarify his completion and return of form.
b) E-mail from David Francis re Freedom of Information Act 3 pages of introduction, 3 pages of Model Publication Scheme & 6 pages of information to be published. Cllr.T. W-A proposed that the Model Publication Scheme be adopted and Cllr. M Gibbs seconded, Healey PC therefore adopts the Model Publication. PC Chairman and Clerk to look at this and issue a new statement, for circulation and adoption. The Clerk to ask Slaley Parish Council if they would allow the Healey statement to be published on the Slaley web, this could be seen as “networking”. A copy should also be displayed at Healey and Barley Hill Community Hall.
c) Tynedale Council Tynedale Planning Forum Agenda for December 4th. Circulated by e-mail 26/11/08 then a Cancellation came through by e-mail on December 3rd due to the severe weather warning for heavy snow and blizzard conditions.
d) TC Garry Pointer – deadline for setting Parish Precepts extended to January 20th 2009.
e) TC Register of Electors 2009 + two notices for display “Don’t Lose Your Vote” and “Edited Register of Electors for 2009”. T W-A offered to display these at Healey Notice Board.
g) Creating one council for Northumberland – Local Planning Authority – Statement of Community Involvement (CSI) as part of its LDF. Views and suggestions by 30/1/09. CC CW Horncastle is a member of the new LPA and would make inquiries about the CSI for the Slaley January meeting. It was hoped that Healey could take advice from Slaley after January 2009.
i) E-mail from David Francis circulated 5/12/08 re New Council Newsletter called “Together”.
h) Tynedale Council Information ‘Clean Up’ folder, circulated. Councillors did not wish to participate. Information Commissioner’s Office – letter and leaflet on Freedom of Information – Fulfilling your obligation to disclose information; Talking Tynedale Winter 2008-09.

7. Matters for Discussion with District/County Councillor.
a) The future under the Unitary Authority was explained by CC CW Horncastle.
Charges will rise, Care in the Home; Car Parking; Care Homes; Swimming Pools; Local Transport Budgets. Northumberland are cutting staff many from the lower end are going the result is a top heavy well paid staffing. Unfortunately it is not these people who do the work on the ground.
Healey is part of the west grouping served by 17 Councillors. Helen Winter and Pat Jewells have taken a redundancy package and their knowledge will be a great miss in all matters relating to Planning. The new group under planning will have the same committee but will be governed by different policies (already agreed under the LDF).
Cllr Horncastle ended by apologising for his negative report and thought that circumstances would hopefully begin to improve in three to four years.

8. Financial Report
a) Balance Sheet for 07/08 attached as appendix 1/1012008: Proposed as a true record by Cllr. M Gibbs and seconded by Cllr. J. Raine the accounts were adopted.
b) Audit Conclusion for 07/08: Proposed as a true and accurate record by Cllr. M Gibbs and seconded by Cllr. J. Raine the audit conclusion was adopted. The file was handed over to Cllr W-A to be delivered to Ms Spears for the internal audit together with necessary letters from PW, copy bank statements etc. The new audit date is December 20th 2008.
c) Cheques to be signed
No 35 Barley Hill Community Hall 4 meetings @ £25 + Grant of £100 towards general upkeep. = £200 (and replaces out of date cheque No 21)
Proposed by Cllr. C. Johnston and seconded by Cllr. M. Gibbs the cheque was signed.
(i) Interim Payments
No 33 NALC Subs 07/08 £49.96 + 08/09 £49.86 = £99.55
No 34 Allianz Insurance £245.26
Signed by Cllr. T W-A & Cllr. M Gibbs.
d) Asset Register draft circulated as appendix 2/101208.
The suggestions of a Filing Cabinet stored in BHCH was discussed and dismissed as likely to cause a break in. A plastic box in a kitchen cupboard was offered and accepted for the time being. Mrs A. Dale would clarify ownership of the land on which BHCH stands for the next meeting. There being no further alterations the Asset Register was proposed for adoption by the Council by Cllr. C. Johnston and seconded by Cllr. J. Raine.
e) Risk Assessment draft circulated as appendix 3/101208 (Page 3 is the Annual Governance Statement and needs to be approved at the meeting). Many changes and alterations were made to page one. Page two the FoI is superseded by new laws (see 6b above) and will need a new page when completed. There being no further alterations the Risk Assessment was proposed for adoption by the Council by Cllr. C. Johnston and seconded by Cllr. J. Raine.
f) Annual Review of the effectiveness of the system of internal audit.
In future all cheques to be recorded in the minutes with their number, the payee and the amount paid. Two signatories are recorded on the cheques neither of which is the Clerk.
A balance sheet to be produced and circulated prior to setting the Precept which should be attached to the minutes as an appendix. All grant monies to be paid by or during December and an end of year the Balance Sheet produced as soon as possible after March 31st. The person who carries out the internal audit is not a member of the Parish Council or someone related to a member. Sarah Spears CIMA has done this in the past. The Councillors were happy for Ms Spears to continue with the internal audit.

9. Planning Applications
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. No Objections
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. No objections
Decision from Planning Authority
2008……… Listed building consent for demolition and rebuilding on site. Pending??
20060052: Appeal by NPower Renewables. Construction of wind turbines associated infrastructure and services on land south east of Kiln Pit Hill, Shotley Low Quarter Parish, Northumberland (Grid Reference NZ055 544). Public inquiry on Tuesday 6th January 2009 in The Council Chamber, Prospect House, starting at 10 a.m. Scheduled to last 8 days. Anyone wishing to speak must be there when inquiry opens.
10. Highways and Byways.
a) Private verge stones have been placed in Healey parish on the grass verge outside School House single track, public highway, NCC maintained road. The stones are to try and stop large agricultural machines churning up the grass. Unfortunately smaller vehicles need to mount the grass if they encounter another vehicle traveling in the opposite direction. Clerk to check with NCC Highways the legality of placing white painted stones on a grass verge when the highway is not of sufficient width for two vehicles to pass.
b) 7a 10/9/08 Espershield DMMO – Letter sent to NCC confirming the PC’s acceptance of the extinguishment and realignment. Attached as appendix 4/101208.
c) 8 10/9/08 Reply from David Francis regarding PC’s responsible for highway maintenance. Reply circulated by e-mail and basically reads, “watch this space”. In light of agenda item 5 above The Councillors AGREED to consider responsibilities WITH CARE.
d) General condition of the highways was discussed and the Clerk explained the Annual Highways Report from Slaley parish. Cllr. C Johnston asked that this be looked at during the February meeting.

11. Precept for 2009/10
Draft Balance sheet at December 2008 & Precept form circulated as appendix 5/101208
(see correspondence 6e above).
Precept agreed as follows:
Annual Payments: Allianz Insurance 250.00
NALC Subs 050.00
AGM Advert in Courant 025.00
BDO Stoy Hayward Audit 060.00
Meetings: 4x4 meetings @ £25 each BHCH 100.00
Grants: Barley Hill Community Hall 100.00
CAN 025.00
Healey Church 050.00
Air Ambulance 050.00
Slaley First School 050.00
Staff & expenses: Clerk’s Salary 500.00
Clerk’s expenses 100.00
BOATs joint committee exp 035.00
Contingency unable to decide at this point 000.00
Election costs £67.50? taken off at source 000.00
Total precept £1395.00

12. Clerk to the Parish Council
a) Patricia Wilson from Slaley has agreed to be Acting Clerk until conclusion of audit 08/09.
b) Advertise for a Clerk with the necessary qualifications needed when Tynedale Council is disbanded and more work is passed down to parish level.
c) Contract of Employment & Job Description for PC Clerk. To be circulated for February meeting.

13. A.O.B.
a) Amend the Who’s Who sheet to include the details of District Councillor: Ross Adamson & County Councillor Colin Horncastle. Also contact details of the Management Committee for Barley Hill Community Hall.

14. BOATs Update
a) The 4 Parishes BOATs Joint Committee met on Monday November 3rd
b) Healey PC replied to NCC regarding the present road to The Cleugh House becoming a BOAT. TW-A declared an interest. A drafted reply was circulated to the Councillors and subsequently forward to NCC. Copy attached as appendix 6/101208

15. Date of next meeting.
Wednesday, February 25th 2009 at 7.30 p.m. Cllr. J Raine was thanked for providing heating in advance of tonight’s meeting and hoped the February meeting would be just as comfortable.

Slaley Parish Council January 2009 Minutes

Healey Parish Council has asked if its Minutes and Freedom of Informaton Scheme can be displayed on this web site. Read more about this under agenda item 9.

Minutes of Slaley Parish Council, Monday January 12th 2008, in Slaley Commemoration Hall 7.30 p.m.

Apologies: None. Present: Councillor I.C. Hancock in the Chair. Councillors Mrs C. A. Brooks, Ms M Palmer, Mrs L. Norris, Mrs A. S. Robson, S. Davison, Clerk Mrs P. Wilson. District Councillor B.W. Massey & County Councillor C.W. Horncastle. Healey Councillor: Mrs M. Gibbs (apology from T Warde-Aldam). Public. Derek Hull. Courant Reporter: Rebecca Dixon. Slaley Notes: Jean Elphick. Community Trust Executive Committee Member: Michael Elphick.

Declaration of Interests and Hospitality Record.
Cllr Mrs Linda Norris for agenda item 21. CC C.W. Horncastle for agenda item 13.

3. Minutes of December Parish Council Meeting (circulated pages 480-484 + appendix 1 page 485, appendix 2 page 486, appendix 3 page 487, appendix 4 page 488). Proposed by Cllr CA Brooks and seconded by Cllr L. Norris the minutes were approved and signed.

4. Matters Arising.
a) 6 Information Board delivered to Clerk’s home. Christmas holidays followed by frozen ground has delayed installation. Project Monitoring Form completed by Michael Elphick. Clerk completed claim form with accompanying invoices. Richard Powell at TC confirmed receipt of paperwork.
b) 8a 8/12/08 Register of Members Interests from Cllr Sid Davison posted by Clerk to Garry Pointer. Cllr Ann Robson dropped hers into the Council Offices.
c) 8c 8/12/08; Flooding on the B6306 identified as a burst water main. Work undertaken on Thursday 8th January 2009. The problem is resolved.
d) 17a 8/12/08. Regarding a family with five children not being eligible for a three-bedroomed Council House the Clerk delivered a letter asking for written permission for the PC to take this matter further on their behalf. There has been no response.
e) 17d 8/12/08 The caravan at 12 South Park in now parked inside the private garden of the property.
f) 17f 8/12/09) Dipton Foot Bridge was reopened shortly after the PC letter was sent consequently there has been no acknowledgment to our question.
g) 17h 8/12/08: The parking of PO customer vehicles at the mobile Post Office operating from Parks Side bungalows and the probable need for a lay-by financed through CC CW Horncastle County Small Capital Scheme Grants will be monitored by PC Iain Robertson
h) 18c 8/12/08: Break in the fencing into Ladycross Nature Reserve. PC Iain Robertson provided the incident number 1032 22/11/08 and wished to report that our area gets regular visits by all staff at Corbridge
i) 18e 8/12/08: Reported from PC Robertson who spent the day in Slaley Forest on Sunday December 7th with a representative of the FC and a member of the TRF as part of the crack down on illegal use. No motorcycles were seen. However 3 4x4 vehicles were stopped and a seat belt offence warning was given.

5. Public Participation.
The public is appalled by the standard of work on the B6306, which was resurfaced late summer 2008, and already the surface is wearing away and the sides are breaking up. The surface is still weeping on the Slaley side of Dipton Cut, which was not resurfaced. (The surface water problem was reported in the Annual Highways Report of May 2008, page 15). Also the section of the C280 between the Dukesfield road junction (C279) and the lane to Red Lead Mill is in a poor state. Again this section was not included in the resurfacing work of the C280 during April 2008. (reported in the Annual Highways Report of May 2008, page 14 and by letters dated May 16th 2008 and July 28th 2008). CC CW Horncastle suggested asking Mel Richardson to attend a PC meeting to discuss these issues.

6. Community Trust Report.
The Committee will meet this Thursday. M Elphick asked for a copy of the PC Action Plan January 2009 Update.

7. Matters for Discussion with County & District Councillors
DC B Massey has 12 weeks left before Tynedale Council is disbanded. Many Tynedale Council staff are still in limbo about their future.
CC CW Horncastle reported that in any community everyone knows Parish Councillors, most know their District Councillor but few know their County Councillor. The new authority must have everything up and running by April 1st 2009. The budget will be decided in February 2009. There is currently a huge debate over all cuts in services including front line services. Reduction in salting of the ‘C’ and ‘U’ roads over the Christmas freeze has been noted throughout the County. Cllr Palmer reported that provision of salt heaps has not taken place this year on U8078. Clerk reported non-gritting of Riding Mill road C275, three cars into Peel Flat field 5/1/09. Cllr Horncastle suggested that he be contacted when salt heaps are needed or when the ‘gritter’ is required on a particular road.

8. Creating one council for Northumberland – Local Planning Authority – Statement of Community Involvement (CSI) as part of its LDF. Views and suggestions by 30/1/09. CC CW Horncastle to report: Slaley Councillors joined by Healey Councillors for this agenda item.
(see 8f 8/12/08)
CC CW Horncastle reported that the six District Councils all had a Local Development Framework in place and we have more listed buildings than any other district in the county, therefore a LDF for the whole of the County will be very difficult to achieve. He suggested that Healey and Slaley PCs confirm their wish to be consulted on all planning matters. It was recommended that a conscious effort should be made to make sure there are plenty of elected members on the various committees.

9. Discuss Healey Parish Council to rent space on www.slaley.org.uk - Michael Elphick to give a report. Slaley Councillors joined by Healey Councillors for this agenda item.
a) E-mail letter from Healey PC 14/12/08 asking for comments on Healey sharing some of www.slaley.org.uk web space. This was thought to be acceptable by the Slaley Councillors providing M Elphick had no problems.
b) Initial response from Michael Elphick by e-mail dated 23rd December 2008 suggesting several ways to include Healey news.
c) E-mailed from ME on 1/09 three pages of notes on Slaley web site with his costs. (£120 initial fee to upgrade present web site and then an annual fee of £40).
d) Healey was asked if using the Slaley web site was a short or long-term proposal. Cllr Mrs M Gibbs reported that it was long-term. After discussion it was agreed by both Slaley and Healey Councillors that an initial contribution of £50 would be made by Healey Parish Council towards the setting up of the system afterwards a percentage of the annual WebFusion Hosting £100 cost and £40 maintenance costs.

10. Freedom of Information Scheme & List of Information to be published on the Slaley web page.
(see 8b 8.12.08)
The draft Scheme was amended as necessary and the Councillors agreed for their names, telephone numbers and e-mail addresses being published. Attached as appendix 1/120109, page 494

11.Correspondence.
a) TC letter 11/12/08 offering Dog Warden to attend a meeting or join a Councillor on a patrol Circulated – Cllr. AS Robson will monitor the situation and inform the Clerk of the best time to invite one of the wardens for a village patrol.
b) TC Licensing Act 2003 & Gambling Act 2005 Comments by 6/2/09. Circulated – It was agreed that the Clerk ask how does a private individual or the Parish Council know that a license is being applied for.
c) E-mail circulated 22/12/08 Planning Department – revised date of Planning Forum is 29/1/09. Resend to Cllr AS Robson.
d) E-mail from Freda Whyte circulated 22/12/08 re Council Tax Consultation. Views on proposed cuts/charges by 22/1/09. (see 11m below – meeting organised for 19/1/09)
e) Hexham Courant offer of a Slaley entry of 200 words for Tynedale Visitor 2009.
f) E-mail from Clerk 16/12/08 regarding frozen roads, potholes, a ladrador out on its own and extending the participation for the Slaley Post Christmas lunch to younger people and friends of parishioners. Replies were as follows (i) Newsletter to remind the public that during freezing conditions to use the B6306 to the nearest A road not C & U roads. (ii) For damage to vehicle by a pothole previously reported - NCC Internal Audit & Risk Management Department with details of claim. (iii) Ladbrador was safely returned to owner Susan Henderson at Sawmill Bungalow. (iv) Keep the lunch for Slaley elderly parishioners otherwise it becomes a normal event without any significance.
g) Correspondence between Chris Brinton & potential purchasers' solicitor regarding problems with the 106 agreement with the purchase of rural affordable houses.
h) Eastern Tynedale & Western Castle Morpeth Parish Council Forum agenda for 6/1/09 and minutes of 7/10/08 circulated by e-mail 4/1/09.
i) NSP Partnership Update for Northumberland December 08 (10 pages) circulated by e-mail 4/1/09. Slaley is very concerned that many un-elected people appear to be making decisions, there is no indication that parish councils will be directly involved with the NSP and until there is involvement at parish council level Slaley can not make comment.
j) Eastern Tynedale & Western Castle Morpeth Parish Council Forum minutes of 6/1/09 circulated by e-mail 12/1/09
k) Communities and local Government – Communities in control: Real people, real power; Code of recommended practice on local authority publicity A consultation (letter and 34 page booklet – comments by March 12th 2009). (see also 8g 10/11/08 & 8f 13/10/08). Cllrs Hancock & Norris reported that the content was aimed at local authorities rather than PC activities. 1.23 Websites- Old, out-of-date information accumulates on websites – the code ought to recommend regular spring-cleaning to avoid confusion.
l) E-mail 12/1/09 Meeting called by Susi Goncu for the Chairman and vice Chairman of several local PC’s to meet with Cllr Horncastle for a discussion on Community Forums. Slaley agreed to provide the venue for the event and lease with the other Councils & Susi. Costs covered by SGs budget.
m) E-mail circulated 12/1/09 Leader of NCC Budget meeting 19/1/09 at Beaumont Hotel – Cllr Hancock hopes to attend. (see 11d above)
n) North Pennines News Autumn & Winter 08/09; CAN News Vol 28 No 6; CAN Annual Report 07/08; NALC Making it Happen Annual Report 07/08; CPRE Overview Winter 2008; NCC Tynedale Area Committee meeting January 20th 6 p.m.; Clerk & Councils Direct January 2009.

12. Financial Report.
a) Cheques to be signed.
No 361 Marcus Byron – Information Board £3,182.05
No 362 Broker Network Ltd (Came & Co insurance) £25.00
No 363 TC empty litter and dog bins £598.46
No 364 Pat Wilson salary £1250.00 + backdate £61.25 £1,311.25
No 365 Saley Hall De Vere Post Christmas Lunch 51@£15 £765.00
Proposed by Cllr. IC Hancock and seconded by Cllr L Norris the cheques were signed.
b) Interim Payment: None
c) Income: Cheques and cash for Post Christmas Lunch 51 @ £15.00 = £765.00
Allocation of TC Beacon (Better Public Places) & LPSA grant = £1,700.00

13. Current Planning Applications.
20081147 Two storey detached dwelling. Tree Tops, Main Street. No objections
20080046 Internal refurbishment - Slaley Hall Pending.
Decisions from Planning Authority
20081048 Lawful Development Certificate, Conservatory to front elevation. The Cottage, Main Street. Granted

14. “Where to buy locally” Update (13 8/12/08; 13 10/11/08; 13/10/08; 12a 8/9/08; 12/6/08). Discuss suggestion of a village hall event to promote publication and local produce (See December minutes). Sunday dates available are Sunday February 1st at £8 per hour. Sunday February 8th; Sunday February 15th Sunday February 22nd. It was decided to leave this event until a later date.

15. Slaley Hall Post-Christmas Meal for the Elderly – January 2009 (16 13/10/08)
51 parishioners have paid and are booked to attend. (None presentation of £30 was made after the accident report of Mrs B. Bainbridge). Transport needed by Mr & Mrs Hammett, as last year Cllr Mrs L Norris agreed to provide the transport. Clerk to ask if main hotel or club house entrance.

16. Agree Precept for 2009/10.
Circulated as appendix 2/120109 page 495.
E-mails with Came & Co regarding Insurance Quote to include Information Board & Mirror from December 2008 = £25.00. 2009/10 = 3% increase = £321.00
Total £8,639.95 Less the £2,000 anticipated brought forward = Precept request of £6,640

17. Agree text for Slaley entry in Hexham Courant “Tynedale Visitor”.
Amendments were made to 2008 text.

18. Parish Plan January 2009 Action Plan Update. Circulated as appendix 3/12/0109, page 496 One small amendment was made. Community Trust asked for a copy of this.

19. Allocation of TC Beacon (Better Public Places) & LPSA grant circulated
a) Notification circulated by e-mail 17/12/08. Slaley to receive £1,700. Bank Statement confirms this amount was paid into the bank on 19/12/08
b) E-mail from DC B Massey confirmed that the grant was unconditional. The intention was that the money should be used to pump prime projects rather than reduce future precepts.
c) There were no suggestions from Councillors as to a possible use for this grant. The Clerk proposed that yellow salt bins with a shovel should be placed at key locations on C & U roads in the parish where winter highway services are not being undertaken and indications of further financial cuts indicate a reduction in services rather than improvement i.e. Riding Mill road (2): south of Peel Flat corner, south of Dipton Foot Farm; Wooley Road (2), U8078 (3) Rye Hill bank, Holly Hill bank and Ladycross bank; Lead Road (2); B6306 (2) Curlew Cottage bank, Trygill bank. Slaley Notes and News letter to inform the public of this allocation and ask for any proposals of parish improvement.

20. A.O.B.
a) Wind blew door off PC notice Board during the evening on Sunday 11/1/09 and morning of 12/1/09. Apparently Mr. Band of Middle Farm has taken the door away to fix replacement screws. The doorframe is presently in clamps after he used glue to repair the damage.
b) Times of mobile Post Van on a Wednesday are not correct according to the Postmaster in the van as told to Margaret Ward. Times of the service should have been in Slaley Notes and Newsletter Clerk has telephoned Jean Elphick for this Friday and Joan Galley for February issue. Clerk actually used the mobile service tonight at 5 p.m. with her elderly father. There is a serious health and safety issue in that the area around the mobile van is not lit up until the opened back of the van is located. The Clerk instructed to inform Post Office Limited of this.
c) Recent break in Electric supply at Cornerfield when an unsafe tree at Moorland was cut down.
d) Sunday January 4th Trygill area without power from 11 p.m. Npower repair-men in area until power restored 12 midnight – 2 a.m. Excellent service.
e) Sunday January 4th a vehicle containing unlicensed trail bikes, which were being ridden heedless of designated BOATs, was reported to NP. PC I. Robertson has replied that the vehicle has been identified and a warning issued.

21. BOATs update.
a) NCC Recorded Delivery dated 8/12/08 confirming the DMMO on 24/11/08. A Scott returned his to PC Clerk. E-mail to S Rickitt 18/12/08 re change of Hotel Manager, owners of Sandybraes and grass parks + asking for an update. E-mail reply from Stephen Rickitt 2/1/09– Byway 44 J. McE still in discussions with Slaley Hall.
b) Espershield BOAT proposed as a Bridleway is due at the Magistrates Court March/April 2009 according to MK’s latest e-mail

22. Date of February 2009 meeting.
Monday February 9th
There being no further business the meeting closed at 10.05 p.m.

Slaley Parish Council Information

Information about their activities and policies available from Slaley Parish Council
The following document, published under the Freedom of Information Act, tells you what information you can obtain about the work of Slaley Parish Council, and how to get it.
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Healey Parish Council Information

Information about its activities and policies available from Healey Parish Council.
The following document, published under the Freedom of Information Act, tells you what information you can obtain about the work of Healey Parish Council, and how to get it.
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Where to Buy in Slaley

The latest edition of the Parish Council's Where to Buy Locally leaflet, updated February 8th, 2009, is now available.

You can view it and print it by clicking DOWNLOAD .
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Slaley Parish Council

CANCELED: Due to the current weather conditions the Special Presentation on "The role of the Magistrate in our local community" has been cancelled for February 9th 2009 meeting of Slaley Parish Council.
Pat Wilson

December 2008 Minutes

More guidlines on the Freedom of Information Act, read agenda item 8b.

Minutes of Slaley Parish Council, Monday December 8th 2008, in Slaley Commemoration Hall 7.30 p.m.

Apologies: District Councillor B.W. Massey.
Present: Councillor I.C. Hancock in the Chair. Councillors Mrs C. A. Brooks, Ms M Palmer,
Mrs L. Norris, Mrs A. S. Robson, S. Davison, Clerk Mrs P. Wilson. & County Councillor C.W. Horncastle.
Public. None. Courant Reporter: Apologies. Slaley Notes: Jean Elphick. Community Trust Executive Committee Member: Michael Elphick.

Declaration of Interests and Hospitality Record.
Cllr Mrs Linda Norris for agenda item 18
CC C.W. Horncastle for agenda item 10.

3. Minutes of November Parish Council Meeting (circulated pages 470-475 + appendix 1 page 476, appendix 2 page 477, appendix 3 page 478, appendix 4 page 479). Proposed by Cllr L. Norris and seconded by Cllr CA Brooks the minutes were approved and signed.

4. Matters Arising.
a) 7b10/11/08 letter from TC reporting that NCC have extended the time to set precepts until January 20th 2009 (see also 16a below)
b) 8k 10/11/08 Reply from NSP circulated by e-mail. Cllr Norris replied that if the question is so difficult to answer then maybe none of the groups are needed. Cllr Hancock commented that the Partnership seemed to have a problem addressing concrete questions.
c) 16c 10/11/08 Written quotation from Alex Evison and Hollybush Landscaping circulated. Councillors agreed to give the contract to A. Evison for a second year.
d) 17 a 10/11/08) Foreign male living in a caravan in Slaley Forest is reported as an employee of Lord Allendale Forestry Divison as a night-time security guard asked to safeguard expensive forestry vehicles during the hours of darkness.

5. Public Participation. None

6. Community Trust Report
No report this month. Several changes were made to the last draft of the Information Board and these were reported to M Elphick on 24/11/08. The colour of the posts and surround was agreed as a grey/green.
The breakdown of £350 installation charge was circulated by e-mail 11/11/08 = 2 people half a day, hire of van and tools. Councillors instructed the Clerk to get another quote.
Clerk telephoned Trevor Golightly and his installation quote was £ 150 labour + 30 for materials + Vat this would be subject to what was under the ground when digging began. A request for possible utilities has been made to D Phillips at County Hall.
Size of Board is 46.8 inches x 33.1 inches.
The cost for a spare panel (no posts) would be £590. (Minutes 14/4/08, page 409, Total cost £2,700 + Vat (472.50 @ 17.5%) = £3172.50).
The completed Board will be delivered to the home of the Clerk to the Council.
However information relating to the Interpretation Board and the new freestanding Post Box on the same site has produced several e-mails. No-one from TC Planning or Highways appears to have been asked about the position of the Post Box.
CT is requesting a grant to reprint Miss Mason’s book. Funders may want to know what the proceeds from the sales of the book will be spent on. The PC was asked if they had any community projects that needed funding. Cllr. Mrs A Robson suggested a new lockable piano for the Commemoration Hall together with music stands. She would be very interested in teaching music if equipment were available. Village Planters for use by the Slaley Gardening Club was also suggested. Already suggested by the CT are Newsletter Funding; Running a Local Business Forum; More provision for the Elderly; More provision for the Youth and An Oral History of Local Farming.

7. Matters for Discussion with County & District Councillors
CC CW Horncastle reported that redundancy payments to surplus staff would be in the region of £30m - £50m.
He asked if all those present had voted in the online County Council change of name consultation. Several had forgotten.
Area Committees were discussed. How they would work with Parish Councils in the future was a topic for CC discussion during the coming week.
The proposal for three Locality Officers at £45,000 (one) and £40,000 (two) was not welcomed by all County Councillors as many felt the work delegated to the LO’s could easily be undertaken by an existing Officer.
Talk of reducing the Highways Budget by 66% had been met with threats of a mass walk-out by staff. Therefore talks are ongoing to improve this reduction to 25% - 33%.

8. Correspondence.
a) Garry Pointer, TC, requested the Register of Members Interests from Cllr Sid Davison & Cllr Mrs AS Robson. The forms were delivered to their homes on December 4th. Completed but not brought to meeting . Clerk asked that they be dropped into her letter box.
b) E-mail from David Francis re Freedom of Information Act. Introduction, Model Publication Scheme & list of information to be published. Cllr. Hancock proposed that the Model Publication Scheme be adopted and Cllr. Brooks seconded. The Model Publication was unanimously adopted by Slaley PC. Chairman and Clerk to look at this and issue a statement which, when agreed, will be published on the Slaley web page.
c) Flooding on the B6306 near Jameson’s Well was reported to NCC Highways by e-mail on 25/11/08. Initial work carried out quickly did address the problem. Clerk walked down on Sunday 30/11/08 when water was running over ice. The water is coming to the surface on the north-bound carriage-way approximately 27yards north of Lawn Cottage gate. This was also reported by e-mail.
d) E-mail to all 14/11/08 - Theft of the liner for the litter bin near the telephone kiosk. Clerk was given permission to order immediately. Replacement was delivered and inserted and invoice paid 24/11/08.
e) Gail Philipson TC Register of Electors 2009 + Notice related to Rollin Registration to be displayed on Parish Notice Board.
f) Creating one council for Northumberland – Local Planning Authority – Statement of Community Involvement (CSI) as part of its LDF. Views and suggestions by 30/1/09. CC CW Horncastle is a member of the new LPA and would make inquiries about the CSI for our January meeting. Notice to be circulated and item to be a January agenda item.
g) Slaley First School November newsletter circulated by e-mail.
h) TC Environmental Clean Up folder.
i) E-mail from David Francis circulated 5/12/08 re New Council Newsletter called “Together”.
j) E-mail circulated 24/11/08 re Planning Forum meeting 4/12/08. Cllr. Mrs A Robson to attend. Second e-mail circulated 3/12/08 meeting Cancelled due to weather warning.
k) Leaflet from ICO re The new model publication scheme – information for parish councils; Glasdon advertising brochure; rekk.co.uk for teenage shelters; CE Electric UK Preparing for mother nature information leaflets and posters. Slaley Hall Christmas brochure “This is the Life”; Talking Tynedale with a photograph on page 9 of the official launch of Reaston View; Tynedale Community Hospice Newsletter November 2008.

9. Financial Report.
a) Cheques to be signed.
None
b) Interim Payment
No 360 Glasdon Uk – replacement bin liner for Litter Bin near Telephone Kiosk £18.60
Signed by Cllr’s I.C. Hancock & L. Norris

10. Current Planning Applications.
20081147 Two storey detached dwelling. Tree Tops, Main Street. Circulating.
20081048 Lawful Development Certificate, Conservatory to front elevation. The Cottage, Main Street. No objections.
20080046 Internal refurbishment - Slaley Hall Pending.
Decisions from Planning Authority
20080930 Alteration to provide caravan park with 89 static pitches to replace 79 static pitches and 20 touring pitched, play area, fitness suite, and office operating for 12 months of the year. Spring House Caravan Park. Application Invalid - Cllr Massey informed the Councillors by e-mail that the applicants had not provided adequate details for the Planners to fully consider the application.

11. Review of the Definitive Map & Statement of Public Rights of Way. U8074 upgraded to BOAT 33; U8079 upgraded to BOAT 34; U8091 upgraded to BOAT 36 & U8127 to BOAT 37 ( 11 10/11/0811 13/10/08; 8a 8/9/08)
Seven page reply attached as appendix 1/081208, page 485.

12. Proposed Post Office Closures ( 12 10/11/08; 12 13/10/08; 11 9/8/08; 11 11/8/08; 11 21/7/08; 19 9/6/08; 4a 12/5/08; 4c 14/4/08; 9m 10/3/08; 7 (2a) 14/1/08).
During November two workmen arrived at The Post Office to remove the letter-box from the shop wall. There being no further provision in the village Margaret Ward telephoned the works manager and got the work postponed until a new letter box is in situ and working.
Cllr. Norris reported that a poster setting a date for closure of the Post Office has been received at Slaley PO without any accompanying letter. It says that the Post Office will close at 1300 hours on Thursday 8th January 2009 and services will be available from a mobile van from Friday 9 January. Clerk to send a Thank You letter to Roy & Margaret Ward to say “a very sad day”. A letter also to Northumbria Police and NCC Highways asking them to monitor traffic control at the new mobile van. Slaley Notes to report opening times and Newsletter to include every month.

13 “Where to buy locally” Update (13 13/10/08; 12a 8/9/08; 12/6/08).
Draft 3 attached as appendix 2/081208 page 486. These leaflets can be updated as and when information is available. Initial print to cover B&B’s, Slaley Shop, Village Hall & as a pdf on web page. Cllr M. Palmer suggested that an event in the village hall with many of the people listed displaying a selection of their products/details of service etc would be a good launch. She would be happy to organise such an event sometime in the new year when the kitchen is completed.

14. Business Directory update (14 10/11/08; 13 13/10/08)
Draft 3 circulated and attached as Appendix 3/081208 page 487.
Two local business have asked that their names be deleted from the publication. Whilst this is disappointing the PC must respect their wishes.

15 Slaley Hall Post-Christmas Meal for the Elderly – January 2009 (16 13/10/08)
Correspondence from Slaley Hall not answered despite telephone calls and an e-mail asking for confirmation of booking details. The Pro forma has not been signed.
Numbers are very low currently only 15 people have replied. Slaley notes to carry a reminder and if numbers do not reach 50 by the deadline of December 19th then the Clerk was instructed to cancel the event.

16. Agree Precept for 2009/10.
Circulated as appendix 4/081208 page 488.
a) Correspondence from Garry Pointer, TC, informing us that an extension has been granted for setting to Precept to January 20th 2009.
b) Agreement on insurance issues needs confirmation from Game & Co. This will be circulated by e-mail on receipt.
c) Agreed to postpone decision to the next normal PC meeting.

17. A.O.B.
a) A verbal report that a local family with five children are not eligible for a Council three bed-roomed house caused upset in Slaley. After discussion the Clerk had been asked to write to TC and Milecastle and ask for their official policy on house allocation to a family with five children. TC reply from Chris Brinton was read to the meeting. Cllr Davison suggested that room sizes with the South Park properties were a major factor rather than number of rooms. He was asked to make a written comparison for future correspondence on the matter. Clerk to write to the family and ask for written permission for the PC to take this matter further on their behalf.
b) Cllr Hancock & Brooks looked at village trees which will require trimming around the electricity power lines, with John Blair from Bethell, the tree contractors for NPower. Cllr Hancock signed the authorisation for the tree trimming, which will involve switching off electricity. A copy of these forms filed in the monthly meeting envelope. Parishioners will be notified prior to switch off. Work is unlikely to start until February.
c) Townfoot corner flooding has frozen over in the recent cold weather, making access onto the Riding Mill road hazardous.
d) The caravan still standing on the parking area outside 12 South Park was discussed, following complaints to a parish councilor. It was agreed after a vote not to contact the owners until a written reply was received from NCC Highways about the legal situation.
e) Cllr Mrs A Robson reported that dog fouling on the footpath from the Commemoration Hall to the Village Shop was worse after the weekend. CC CW Horncastle suggested that one of the TC Dog Wardens be contacted to make spot visits.
f) Lack of work on the strengthening of Dipton Foot Bridge was questioned. Clerk to inquire from John Nicholson &Colin Charlton if this due to a particular circumstance.
g) A rat has been seen in a Councillor’s garden. This may or may not be a hungry rat coming out of a garden compost heap for food during the recent cold snap. Slaley Notes and Newsletter editors to ask generally if rats have been spotted and if so, where.
h) CC CW Horncastle asked if there were any pressing improvements that would benefit from his County Small Capital Scheme Grants. Cllr. Mrs A Robson indicated that there may be more village kerbs that need lowering than those identified (and since undertaken) on the August village walk about . Clerk suggested that when the mobile Post Office van operates from Parks Side bungalows there could probably be a need for a layby for post office customers and to make sure that access to the elderly bungalows is not restricted. CC CW Horncastle confirmed that this type of improvement would definitely be elligible. It was agreed that no application would be made until the new service was in place and there was evidence of how much of a problem, or highway danger, the parking of PO customer vehicles was.

18. BOATs update.
a) Liz Sobell had reported that Government Office North East has asked Inspector, Sue Arnot, about the status of The Broadway. It was subsequently announced that It is to stay a Bridleway. A letter from D Brookes of NCC asks the 4 parishes to report any abuse on The Broadway to the Police on telephone number 03456 043043.
b) Mr Smedley visited the Clerk, Wednesday November 26th, to ask about the Motorcross activities at The Cleugh and illegal rmpv users in his woodland at Whinnows Plantation.
c) Ladycross Quarry. Trail bikers found in the quarry 23/11/08 broke through the fencing into the nature reserve. Reported to PC Robertson & a general call to 999. Clerk request to get incident number. AWAITS COMMENT FROM POLICE
d) Cllr CA Brooks reported a burning car on Sunday 30/11/08 above Trygill on the east side of the B6306. The police were in attendance.
e) It was reported that PC Robertson, with a representative of the FC and a member of the TRF spent the day in Slaley Forest on Sunday December 7th as part of their crack down on illegal use. The Clerk to request a report.

19. Date of January 2009 meeting.
Monday January 12th
There being no further business the meeting closed at 9.25 p.m.

November 2008 minutes of Slaley Parish Council

Local Beat Manager, P.C. Iain Robertson was present at the November meeting. See agenda item 5

Minutes of Slaley Parish Council, Monday November 10th 2008, in Slaley Commemoration Hall 7.30 p.m.

Apologies Councillors Mrs A. S. Robson & S. Davison. County Councillor C.W. Horncastle.
1. Present: Councillor I.C. Hancock in the Chair. Councillors Mrs C. A. Brooks, Ms M Palmer,
Mrs L. Norris & Clerk Mrs P. Wilson. District Councillor B.W. Massey .
Public. Richard Ferguson & PC Iain Robertson. Courant Reporter: Rebecca Dixon. Slaley Notes & Community Trust Executive Committee Member: Michael Elphick.

2. Declaration of Interests and Hospitality Record.
Cllr Mrs Linda Norris for agenda item 18

3. Minutes of October Parish Council Meeting (circulated pages 458-464 + appendix 1 page 465, appendix 2 page 466, appendix 3 page 467, appendix 4 page 468 and appendix 5 page 469. Proposed by Cllr L. Norris and seconded by Cllr CA Brooks the minutes were approved and signed.

4. Matters Arising.
a) 3c 13/10/08; 7a 8/9/08 Flooding at West Ridley Hall E-mail from DC B Massey thanking Mel Richardson for work and stating that Mrs Robson is pleased.
b) 6 13/10/08 Rights of Way on Interpretation Board. Clerk telephoned DB 14/10/08 then spoke with ME and explained what DB needed. DB replied by e-mail 15/10/08 with a link to NCC RoW map. ME had a meting with Clerk on Friday 17/10/08 to confirm routes onto draft map.
c) 8s 13/10/08; 16g 14/1/08 NCC Application to extinguish and create public rights of way in the parishes of Healey and Slaley. After discussion with Healey PC a letter to confirm our agreement of the application being made has been sent.
d) 8x 13/10/08 North Pennines AONB Partnership Management Plan 2009-14 Consultation Draft. Cllr CA Brooks to read and comment. Note MK has questioned EU9 and has been invited to rewrite the section.
e) 9 13/10/08 Thank You letters for grants from: CAN £20; Slaley Commemoration Hall £900 & Great North Air Ambulance £150.00
f) 14 13/10/08; 12b 8/9/08. Footpaths leaflet. DC Brian Massey circulated a leaflet of three walks in Slaley already in circulation. Clerk to obtain several copies.
g) 19f 13/10/08 The parking area outside Slaley Village Shop has been repaired, as has the Pothole which reappeared on the C265 Kellas road (19j 13/10/08). The work to lower the kerb at South Park has also been done and repairs to the B6306 south of Trygill (these relate to much earlier requests.
h) 19g Reply to the PC letter re unattended dog in the Townhead area of Slaley village. Circulated. Clerk to send a reply and ask if we could be contacted if a polluter at the Townhead area is identified.

5. Public Participation.
a) Squirrel Action Group called ‘Slaley Red Squirrels’; Co-coordinator is Margaret Bates at Wood Cottage. Telephone 673461. The group has been given 12 extra traps from the Northumberland Wildlife Trust (NWT). The culling of grey squirrels has improved the local sightings of red. If a grey squirrel is spotted the public should be encouraged to telephone Margaret with the location of the sighting. Richard and Robin Turner, Manager of Ladycross Quarry, will attempt to trap the grey with a humane disposal. The NWF should be sending leaflets to Slaley in the very near future. Slaley Notes & the News Sheet reporters were asked to mention this group.
It is unfortunate that Slaley Hall, formerly such a staunch supporter of the red squirrel, appears to have lost interest in protecting the native species. The Councillors were asked if they could mention the group to the new management.
b) Poaching at Low Springhouse and East Dukesfield was reported.
c) There is no feed back from unlicensed trail bike reports to Northumbria Police.
d) PC Robertson confirmed that this weekends reports had been acted upon however, the trial bikers stopped where all members of the TRF and the bikes were licensed.
e) A Birch tree blew down across the B6306 north of Colpitts. Apparently RA Ogle of Comb Hills removed the obstruction.
* Although comments from PC Robertson happened later in the meeting for the sake of clarity those comments are recorded here:
f) PC Robertson reported a summer of stopping trail riders in an around Slaley Forest. Many were TRF members; some were from the Blakelaw/Cowgate area of Newcastle. Several had illegal number plates. The correct sized number plate when riding a public highway, which a BOAT is, is a standard square (as used on other vehicles). Instances where illegal plates have been found the owner has several days to get the correct plates fitted. The police request is stamped by the garage, which provides the new plates thus providing a satisfactory conclusion. If new plates are not fitted then the Police can confiscate the offending trail bikes.
g) PC Robertson intends to spend a day in Slaley Forest with Mark Herbertson, Forestry Commission and Trevor Whitehead, TRF. The three will monitor and stop all users and check that each vehicle is roadworthy for the purpose it is being used. A feedback after this exercise will be given to the PC..
h) The reduction in fuel price is thankfully resulting in a reduction of crime figures for the area.
i) PC Robertson has undertaken several short sessions in Slaley village with his hand-held speed gun. No vehicle has been discovered speeding; this may be partly due to the highly visible reflective coat worn whilst conducting the check. It does however send out a message that the Police are frequently checking vehicle speeds in Slaley village and can be more effective than an actual conviction.

6. Community Trust Report
Attached as appendix 1/101108, page 476.
a) The Councillors asked if the proposed style would fit comfortably into the space? ME answered that the area had been measured with a mock up board.
b) The Councillors thought metal posts and stand rather than wooden. They would however like to see a colour chart.
c) Installation costs £350 plus Vat. The Councillors wished to know what this costs entails and asked ME to get clarification.
d) Later on while setting the Precept the question arose of what the cost of replacement would be should the Board get damaged. This would be needed for the insurance policy. ME was asked to obtain a replacement cost.

7. Matters for Discussion with County & District Councillors
a) DC B Massey told the meeting that the present DC’s have a legal duty to co-operate with members of the new unitary authority.
b) TC has raised an objection to the early date of setting parish Precepts when parish responsibilities have not been established.

8. Correspondence.
a) Lombard Rally 6/11/08 Information circulated & placed on PC Notice Board. Cllr Hancock asked for further information and the reply circulated by e-mail.
b) Reply from TC Planning Dept. re Motorcycle Track on land at Healey Cleugh circulated. Noted.
c) Hexham Community Partnership meeting 10/11/08 + Newsletter No 28 circulated and suggested place on PC Notice Board. Done.
d) NCC letter re Charter + 16 page document Northumberland Charter for Local Councils. Circulated hard copy Cllr Hancock printed 2 pages of comments for circulation. This was also circulated from David Francis by e-mail on 4/11/08. respond by questioning the ICT requirements.
e) Tynedale Community Hospice – Taking Care into the Home- circulated All Cllr’s indicated a wish to support this. (add to Precept)
f) TC – Northumberland Homefinder Scheme circulated Cllr’s suggested publish and display weekly properties available. Circulated Cllr’s suggested the PC Notice Board & Village Shop through a member of the PC & Commemoration Hall through a member of the Management Committee. Clerk e-mailed this information and requested a sample of the proposed weekly information because most venues were not suitable to read more than one page.
g) Communities and Local Government – Communities in control: Real people, real power; Codes of conduct for local authority members and employees – A consultation. (letter and 35 page booklet) – comments by 24/12/08) (see also 8f 13/10/08 circulated for October meeting) Circulating
h) TC Townfoot Cottage name change to Ashton Byre circulated and noted.
i) TC Firework danger Poster & leaflets. Placed on PC notice Board, leaflets in shop.
j) E-mail from David Francis re Banking Crisis and response Pro-Forma for Parish Councils to respond by 14/11//08. Clerk completed.
k) E-mail 27/10/08 from David Francis re Partnership Update for Northumberland. Cllr Hancock circulated some comments on 28/10/08 he suggested that a paragraph from the PC Forum minutes be sent together with a request for a diagram of interactions and a glossary of abbreviations. It was agreed to send this.
l) Tynedale Citizens Advice Bureau – financial request.
m) Northumberland Early Years and Childcare Service – Expression of interest invited to upgrade our children’s play areas. Also recorded in the Hexham Courant of 31/10/08.
n) North Pennines AONB Peatscapes – Peatlands and flooding leaflets. Circulated and noted.
o) CAN News Vol 28 No 5 lead article ‘Local Councils - The Way Forward.
p) TDC meeting minutes + Christmas refuse Collection; Tynedale Area Committee – Haydon Bridge High School 13/11/08 6 p.m.; Clerks and Councils Direct November 2008 issue 60; Easy hire (NE) Ltd advertising leaflet; CAN AGM hard copy; Wicksteed advertising brochure.

9. Financial Report.
a) Cheques to be signed.
No 358 Alex Evison - October cut £81.50
No 359 Commemoration Hall meetings £63.00
b) Interim Payment
No 357 (21/10/08) VMS Rotation Speed Unit £111.63
Singed by Cllr’s I.C. Hancock & L. Norris
Proposed by Cllr L. Norris and seconded by Cllr CA Brooks the cheques were signed.

10. Current Planning Applications.
20080930 Alteration to provide caravan park with 89 static pitches to replace 79 static pitches and 20 touring pitched, play area, fitness suite, and office operating for 12 months of the year. Spring House Caravan Park. Objections from residents Object*
*DC B Massey informed the meeting that this particular application will go to the full planning committee for determination in December.
20080046 Internal refurbishment - Slaley Hall Pending. Decisions from Planning Authority
20080842 Construction of sun lounge. The Flothers. Granted.
20080878 Single storey extension to provide games room, provision of handrail and construction of retaining wall. 20 Slaley Park, Slaley Hall. Granted

11. Review of the Definitive Map & Statement of Public Rights of Way. U8074 upgraded to BOAT 33; U8079 upgraded to BOAT 34; U8091 upgraded to BOAT 36 & U8127 to BOAT 37 ( 11 13/10/08; 8a 8/9/08)
A draft reply circulated. BOATs joint Committee met 3/11/08. Slaley PC is the only council that has produced a reply. Without background information at the meeting and without a full compliment of Councillors from the four parishes no decision could be taken for a joint response.

12. Proposed Post Office Closures ( 12 13/10/08; 11 9/8/08; 11 11/8/08; 11 21/7/08; 19 9/6/08; 4a 12/5/08; 4c 14/4/08; 9m 10/3/08; 7 (2a) 14/1/08).
(i) No reaction to these altered times from the Slaley Notes article.
(ii) There has been no correspondence to indicate when new arrangements are likely to happen.
(iii) Letter from NCC re Network Change Proposals. Circulated. Cllr Hancock has spoken with Mg & Roy Ward at Slaley PO their feelings remain the same. John Hamilton writer of the letter telephoned the Clerk at 5.30 p.m. today asking for an indication of what could be done for Slaley which he could report to PO Ltd at the next meeting. Chairman to telephone John Hamilton.

13 “Where to buy locally” Update (13 13/10/08; 12a 8/9/08; 12/6/08).
Updated leaflet circulated. Copy available at Post Office and at the Show Coffee Morning on 7/11/08. Press Release in Slaley Notes has produced more interest.
Draft 2 attached as appendix 2/101108 page 477. More alterations to text and front page suggested.

14. Business Directory update (13 13/10/08)
Much interest and appreciation continues with this. An offer from ME to print and circulate this with the Annual Reports was given. No decision was made.
Draft 2 circulated and attached as Appendix 3/101108 page 478

15 Slaley Hall Post-Christmas Meal for the Elderly – January 2009 (16 13/10/08)
a) Invitation sheets to Councillors and those known on e-mail. Plus a supply left with Margaret at Slaley Post Office.
b) Posters at PC Notice Board, Village Shop, Elderly Bungalows and Commemoration Hall notice boards. Notice also in Slaley Notes (without the price)
c) Confirmed participants to-date FOUR
d) Correspondence from Slaley Hall asking for confirmation of booking details. The Pro forma suggests 80 people. The Clerk was asked to check this.

16. Consider Precept for 2009/10.
a) Copy of 08/09 Precept, expenditure to date, still to pay & anticipated carry forward amount. Circulated and attached as appendix 4/101108 page 479.
b) E-mail from David Francis re Revised Scale of salary for Local Council Clerks circulated by e-mail 4/11/08. After discussion the Councillors decided that a 2.45% increase backdated to April should be paid this year and included under Clerks salary for the Precept. This is £61.25 for this year and a salary of £2,561.25 for 09/10
c) Tender for grass cutting – tender invitation sent to Hollybush Landscaping, Mr A. Evison & pasted on PC Notice Board.
d) Audited accounts 07/08 for Slaley Commemoration Hall
e) See 8e above Tynedale Community Hospice – Taking Care into the Home- circulated All Cllr’s indicated a wish to support this. (add to Precept)
f) DC B Massey reported that a paid official from the new unitary authority would be attending parish council meetings in the New Year to discuss Precepts.

17. A.O.B.
a) Report of a foreign male living in a caravan in Slaley Forest. His vehicle is dropping oil and has been reported to the police. The report has also been sent to Landfactor, Lord Allendale’s agent.

18. BOATs update.
a) Boats joint committee meeting on November 3rd. Unfortunately Cllr Short (Hexhamshire) had the flu, Cllr Kennedy (Blanchland) was delayed getting home and Cllr Hancock (Slaley) had an earlier meeting. It was agreed by circulation to the missing Councillors that two letters be sent to Natural England asking for a reply to our draft- Protocol questions of March 2008 and also the Broad Way site visit survey anticipated by the JLAF in July 2008. Both letters were copied to Peter Atkinson MP and David Brookes.
b) Report from the public of a blue van carrying unlicensed trail bikes entered Slaley Forest early morning of Saturday November 8th.
c) Report from RF of a Volkswagen grey/yellow van, pulling a trailer with unlicensed trail bikes at 11.55 a.m. Sunday November 9th. This was reported to the police. No feedback has been received.

19. Date of December meeting.
Monday December 8th
There being no further business the meeting closed at 10.25 p.m.

Slaley Parish Council October 2008 meeting

A speeding vehicle set off the Townfoot flashing speed unit and then pulled in at Slaley Firest School at 3.21 p.m. Read more on agenda item 19a

Minutes of Slaley Parish Council, Monday October 13th 2008, in Slaley Commemoration Hall 7.30 p.m.

1. Apologies Councillors Mrs A. S. Robson, Ms M Palmer.
Present: Councillor I.C. Hancock in the Chair. Councillors Mrs C. A. Brooks, Mrs L. Norris & S. Davison & Clerk Mrs P. Wilson. District Councillor B.W. Massey & County Councillor C.W. Horncastle.
Public. None. Courant Reporter: Rebecca Dixon. Slaley Notes: Jean Elphick. Community Trust Executive Committee Member: Michael Elphick.

2. Declaration of Interests and Hospitality Record.
Cllr Mrs Linda Norris for agenda item 20
Cllr C.W. Horncastle for agenda item 10.

3. Minutes of September Parish Council Meeting (circulated pages 449-453 + appendix 1 page 454, appendix 2 page 455, appendix 3 page 456 and appendix 4 page 457. Proposed by Cllr CA Brooks and seconded by Cllr IC Hancock the minutes were approved and signed.

3. Matters Arising.
a) 5b 8/9/08 Mr Page acknowledge receipt of PC letter to Post Office Ltd.
b) 5c 8/9/08 Reply from NCC (Mel Richardson) that running a business from a mobile van on the highway is legal providing the van is roadworthy. Reply from NCC County Solicitor - assuming the mobile unit is not blocking the road for other users a mobile post office would be regarded as reasonable. Street Trading regulations come under Tynedale.
c) 7a 8/9/08 Flooding at West Ridley Hall after discussion with Mrs Robson it was agreed that the PC follow up would make the most of her vulnerability. The NCC reply stated “the work is on the list and we will get to it a.s.a.p.” The Hexham Courant also reported the incident. DC B Massey has since discussed different avenues of approach to this problem with Mrs Robson.
d) 7b 8/9/08 planters for Gardening Club reply from Cllr Brooks indicated that the club would be discussing planters at their Meeting on October 30th. DC B Massey indicated that the £75,000 recorded in the Courant was under consideration and not something he could report on at present.
e) 8g 8/9/08 Official opening ceremony at Reaston View at 11.30 a.m. on 30/9/08 attended by Cllr Ian C Hancock. Lots of people attended the ceremony and it had been an opportunity to look into the unoccupied house.

5. Public Participation. None.

6. Community Trust Report
Attached as appendix 1/131008, page 465.
A draft copy of the Interpretive Board was tabled, one or two mistakes were identified and additional information was suggested. Possible confusion about the status of some rights of way as shown on the map was recognised and it was suggested that David Brookes at NCC be shown a copy and asked for his advice on how best to show the confirmed BOATs and other rights of way under review. The PC was asked if they have an Ordnance Survey Licence. Clerk to check.
DB B Massey drew the Community Trust's attention to an underused funding body. Office of the Third Sector ‘Grass Roots Grants’ give community grants of £250 - £5000. The CT was already aware of this and would be considering seeking funding from them.

7. Matters for Discussion with County & District Councillors
a) Re: Press release 12/9/08: After a vote ‘three area committees’ will govern Northumberland. CC CW Horncastle confirmed that Slaley will come under the West Area Committee covering Hexham, Haltwhistle, Ponteland and Prudhoe - essentially the present Hexham parliamentary constituency. Colin himself has responsibility for in excess of 4000 voters.
b) Re: Press release 26/9/08: New unitary authority should be made up of 79 councillors. CC CW Horncastle confirmed this was the proposal of the CC to the Electoral Boundary Committee.
c) Re: Press release 3/10/08: Council job losses fear – None of the key lower level directorships at the new authority have gone to Tynedale’s senior officers. Instead of making a £17 million saving by combining the seven district councils the new unitary council is already facing a £55 million black hole in its finances. CC CW Horncastle thought that the black hole was nearer £63 million plus the £23 million recently lost in the Iceland Bank collapse.
d) Re: Press release 10/10/08: Potholes – once a report is received the council aims to register and investigate it within 10 working days, and where it is deemed to be dangerous, it aims to carry out a repair or make it safe the following working day. The response depends on the type of road and the location of the pothole. CC CW Horncastle explained that potholes should be reported immediately they form and a report reference number established to ensure a “paper trail” in case of accidents. NCC uses the global positioning system (gps) for reported potholes.
e) Re: Hexham Courant article on DC Brian Massey. The Councillors congratulated Cllr Massey.
f) CC CW Horncastle reported that some members of the new Unitary Authority wished to change the name from Northumberland County Council to Northumberland Council. This change over would cost approximately £5 million. The suggestion will be circulating for consultation.
g) Strategic Partnerships were discussed and CC CW Horncastle reported that the County emphasis was strongly on elected membership. DC B Massey concluded from the proceedings of a meeting he had attended that the promised user-friendly organisational chart of all the partnerships, forums and area committee was not yet available.

8. Correspondence.
a) Reply from TC re the uncollected cut grass at Parks Side bungalows (4a(ii) 8/9/08). Head of Operations on holiday - he will provide a costing for its collection to the Parish Council on his return. A second reply from Mel Richardson indicated that the road into Parks Side is the U8263.
b) Tynedale Council – New Allocations Policy letter + Homefinder Scheme Guide and Banding Policy Consultation + lettings Policy consultation questionnaire. The Councillors expressed concern that the new policy could affect the future letting of Reason View. CC CW Horncastle explained that Tynedale’s 106 agreements would continue to be legally binding following the takeover of the new Unitary Authority on 31.3.09. The new scheme for large housing stocks will not give preference to local people after 31/3/09.
c) NCC Dipton Foot Bridge Redecking work lasting 14 weeks from September 15th includes a temporary single lane road with traffic lights. Noted.
d) E-mail from PC Ian Robertson – survey of traffic speed using a hand held speed detection device was undertaken at Slaley Wednesday 8th October afternoon (the day the speed unit was moved from Townfoot to Townhead post). New Police Sergeant at Corbridge, Sgt Mick Garrett, is keen to attend a PC meeting. Noted.
e) Town & Parish Standard – September 2008 issue 3. Circulated.
f) Communities and local Government letter + 29 page booklet entitled Communities in control: real people, real power The making and enforcement of byelaws. Consultation response by November 20th. Circulated and noted. The Councillors had no comments to make.
g) E-mail from owner of Winter House (appendix 2/110808, page 448) – the projecting gate hook was there when the house was purchased and it has local character - intends to make a feature of it to increase its prominence and visibility.
h) TC October Half term Play Programme – Nothing at Slaley. PC Clerk asked why.
i) Slaley School September 2008 newsletter circulated by e-mail.
j) E-mail from Lisa Hamlin, Clerk to several PC’s asking for help with village warning signs and stone entrance signs. Slaley has neither.
k) E-mail from NALC circulated 15/9/08 re “Does your council manage a cemetery?” Noted - Slaley PC does not.
l) E-mail circulated 15/9/08 “Save our Squirrels”. Poster on Notice Board . Article in Journal 2/10/08 and Courant 26/9/08 & 10/10/08 where Slaley is mentioned.
m) Age Concern grant aid request. Noted.
n) E-mail from NALC circulated 1/10/08 re NALC AGM. Noted.
o) E-mail from CAN circulated 1/10/08 re Report of the NALC Chief Executive (12 pages). Noted.
p) E-mail from NALC circulated 1/10/08 re Unitary Authority Electoral review of Northumberland submitted by NCC (37 pages). Cllr Hancock printed off several maps of interest.
q) E-mail from Hilary Carter circulated 6/10/08 re Tynedale Community Radio – No interest in becoming a DJ from the Councillors.
r) E-mail circulated 13/10/08 Invitation to Slaley First School harvest and tree planting. Noted.
s) NCC Application to extinguish and create public rights of way in the parishes of Healey and Slaley. (Discussed January 2008 meeting see agenda 16g 14/1/08, page 382 then conferred with Healey PC and letter of support wrote 17th February 2008). Slaley PC will consult with Healey PC regarding this and then confirm our agreement of the application being made.
t) NCC letter from Steve Mason, Director of Finance, Parish Precepts and Council Tax 09/10 – Precept requirement by Friday January 9th. Noted.
u) E-mail circulated 9/10/08 re CAN AGM Stocksfield 5/11/08 + letter of invitation; Appts & constitutional; + Executive Committee + directional map document. Councillor Hancock may attend.
v) E-mail circulated 13/10/08 re CAN AGM 5/11/08 minutes of 2007.
w) Eastern Tynedale & Western Castle Morpeth Parish Councils Forum minutes of meeting 7/10/08 attended by Cllr L Norris. E-mail to Cllr’s Palmer, Davison & Robson.
x) North Pennines AONB Partnership Management Plan 2009-14 Consultation Draft. Cllr CA Brooks to read and comment.
y) Shaw’s Forms, records and registers for Councils advertising leaflet; Citizens Advice Bureau “Bereavement Advice Line” letter and flyers. (flyers left in Commemoration Hall). NALC (2 copies of each) AGM agenda; Minutes of 2007; Subscriptions 09/10 & Annual Report 07/08; Lloyds TSB telephone banking leaflet; Tynedale Area Committee Papers for 16/9/08; Adapt North East News Autumn 2008.

9. Financial Report.
Cheques to be signed.
No 347 Alex Evison - September cut £81.50*
No 348 BDO Stoy Hayward LLP – audit £141.00
No 349 Grant Whitley Chapel YFC £100.00
No 350 Grant Great North Air Ambulance £150.00
No 351 Grant St. Mary the Virgin Churchyard £100.00 includes new mower donation.
No 352 Grant Slaley Show £325.00
No 353 Grant Slaley Commemoration Hall £900.00
No 354 Grant Age Concern Northumberland £100.00
No 355 Grant CAN £20.00
No 356 Grant Slaley Community Trust £120.00
Proposed by Cllr L. Norris and seconded by Cllr CA Brooks the cheques were signed.
* The rusty hole in the pole of the Slaley sign at Townhead + the small black pipe cover on the western verge at Townhead to be reported to Highways.
Interim payments. None.
Audit: (i) Audit for year ended 31 March 2008 completed by BDO Stoy Hayward there were no matters which required clarification.
(ii) The annual return was presented to the Council it was approved and accepted by the Council was proposed by Cllr Brooks and seconded by Cllr Norris
(iii) The Notice of Conclusion of Audit was completed and placed together with the Annual Return on the Commemoration Hall notice board for 14 days.
(iv) The Contact details were retained; the date selection for 08/09 was 31/7/09, the survey 07/08 was completed, the account was paid (see 9a above)

10. Current Planning Applications.
20080878 Single storey extension to provide games room, provision of handrail and construction of retaining wall. 20 Slaley Park, Slaley Hall. No objection
20080842 Construction of sun lounge. The Flothers. No objections.
20080046 Internal refurbishment - Slaley Hall Pending. Decisions from Planning Authority
20080684 Construction of first floor side extension, entrance lobby and detached garage. The Paddock, Main street Granted
Press Release 26/9/08 & 3/10/08 relating to the Changes to Planning Permission Rules & Shifting the planning goalposts. As from October 1st The Government has moved the planning permission goalposts. Permitted Development will now include up to a three metre deep, two-storey extension, beyond the rear wall of the original dwelling; or four metres beyond the rear wall for a single storey extension; or a single storey extension onto a side elevation with a width of up to half that of the original dwelling. CC CW Horncastle explained that 1947 is the base year for planning guidelines, therefore generally the additions relate to the size of the property in 1947. He was unable to give further details until the planning department has had time to thoroughly understand the implications for properties which have undergone several additions and/or alterations during the last 6 decades. Also, special conditions for listed buildings and those in the green belt may still apply.

11. Review of the Definitive Map & Statement of Public Rights of Way. U8074 upgraded to BOAT 33; U8079 upgraded to BOAT 34; U8091 upgraded to BOAT 36 & U8127 to BOAT 37 (8a 8/9/08)
A draft reply to be circulated. DC B Massey asked when the BOATs Sub committee were meeting. He hoped that a combined response would be sent.

12. Proposed Post Office Closures ( 11 9/8/08; 11 11/8/08; 11 21/7/08; 19 9/6/08; 4a 12/5/08; 4c 14/4/08; 9m 10/3/08; 7 (2a) 14/1/08).
(i) Confirmation of altered times arrived on a replacement poster at Slaley Post Office.
(ii) Reaction to these altered times asked for in writing through Slaley Notes & web site. No response has been received - unfortunately the Slaley Notes article was not printed. Jean Elphick to do a late copy.
(iii) No satisfactory response to the request to PO Ltd for help with costs for a monthly advertisement. The reply seemed to be a robotic general reply rather than an answer to our question. It was decided not to pursue the matter at this stage
(iv) Press release 10/10/08: “Tynedale Post Office cull gets under way” – last paragraph “A spokesman for Post Office Ltd said information on when the 11 branches replaced by the outreach services would happen will be displayed on posters in each branch as soon as possible”. Cllr Norris reported that during the ET&WCM PC Forum meeting it had been suggested that this would not happen until sometime early in January 2009

13 “Where to buy locally” Update (12a 8/9/08; 12/6/08).
The Clerk wrote to16 individuals asking if they would like their businesses to be listed. Three were not interested for various reasons. Drafts of the Business Directory and the Where to buy Locally leaflet were presented to the meeting. (Hexhamshire PC has already printed and circulated its Business Directory and is currently considering a Where to Buy Locally leaflet) After discussion, additions and alterations it was agreed to place all advertisements in a box and after agreement with the producers place these two documents on the web site and inform the public through Slaley Notes and the newssheet that alterations can still be made. Where to Buy Locally leaflet as appendix 2/131008, page 466 and Business Directory as appendix 3/131008 page 467.
14 Footpaths leaflet. 12b 8/9/08.
A list of the footpaths presented for discussion as appendix 4/131008, page 468. DC Brian Massey informed the meeting that he was aware of two leaflets already in circulation about footpaths in Slaley parish. He offered to obtain a copy. Jean Elphick thought that the Rambles Association also had Slaley footpath leaflets. It was agreed to wait until the PC had a copy of these before embarking on any additional leaflets.

15 Parish Plan; Action Plan October Update. As appendix 5/131008, page 469
Amendments were made to the draft Update.

16. Slaley Hall Post-Christmas Meal for the Elderly – January 2009
Telephone reply from suggesting any Monday in January 2009 Cost of the lunch would be £15 per head. It was agreed to go for Monday January 19th. Clerk to look at advertising for 2008 meal and provide something for Slaley Notes, the notice board and the monthly newssheet.

17. Deferred from April – Date of Annual Litter Pick.
Due to the very wet conditions and the length of the grass it was decided to leave a litter pick until Spring 2009.

18. Pride of Tynedale Nominees.
The Tourism Award
The Retailer Award
The Community Award
The School Enterprise Award
The Young Business Award
The Councillors were unable to identify any eligible nominees for the five catagories.

19. A.O.B.
a) Speeding vehicles; one passed the Clerk on the C 270 at 3.21 p.m. the vehicle set off the Townfoot flashing speed unit and then pulled into the school waiting area for collection of children. This was reported to the school and they intend making comment in a newsletter.
b) E-mail from DB asking if the chevron corner sign could be replaced on the south bank of the Glen crossroads. Forwarded to NCC highways. Clerk to mention again.
c) Sign on The Cleugh gate indicating that Motorcross activities have ceased until Spring 2009.
d) Invitation to Tender Grass Cutting during 2009. Notice to be given out.
e) Road closure for 6 months at U8119 was mis-identified in the Courant 10/10/08 advertisement as being in Slaley. Clerk telephoned Highways - the closure is at Stocksfield. A correction will be made.
f) Parking area outside Slaley Village Shop is in a poor state of repair. Margaret Ward mentioned this to KA of the Highways Department, who agreed the area needed attention. This was also reported in the PC’s annual report (page 14). Clerk to mention again.
g) A large elderly back Labrador was recently seen on two occasions wandering unattended in the Townhead area of Slaley village. It is believed to live at Highfield House. Letter to be sent.
h) The ‘z’ bends on the south section of Dipton Cut on the B6306 are continually wet. There seems to have been a problem since the north-bound highway verge work was undertaken prior to resurfacing. Clerk to request that Highways rectify the problem before the winter frosts arrive
i) Areas where the cutting back of verge gorse, saplings etc have been missed during 2008 and are now causing a problem. (1) Saplings on the B6306 north-bound highway south of Trygill, opposite the main entrance into Colpitsburn House. So overgrown as to provide no grass verge for pedestrians. (2) B6306 crossroads with Lead Road C279, gorse obstructing view when travelling from the west (Blue Gables farm) to go straight ahead or left and right. (3) Mainly gorse both sides of the Lead Road C265 between ‘Sandbyraes’ and ‘Moorland’, this stretch of road is so narrow with virtually no verge that vehicles are being scratched by the encroaching gorse. The danger is increased at the wooden style onto Footpath 12 between the two properties.
j) Pothole reappeared on C265 Kellas road, north bound carriageway approximately 200 metres north of Slaley Hall entrance. Clerk to report.

20. BOATs update.
See agenda item 8 s above
Cllr. L.Norris reported 2 convoys of about 6 4x4 vehicles each on Sunday October 12th traveling on the U8081 which has a TRO in place. Mr. Norris stopped the first driver of the second convoy and asked if they knew the road had restricted access. The reply was that the NCC web site showed no record of a TRO. Apparently the vehicles contained families. PC to ask NCC if the website should show where TROs are in force.

21. Date of November meeting.
Monday November 10th
There being no further business the meeting closed at 9.55 p.m.

Part of Parish Plan Action Plan

Press Release:

Two sections of the Slaley Parish Plan have received very little attention namely ‘Supporting Local Businesses’, which was identified under the Keeping Slaley Lively heading and ‘Facilities and Services’, this is identified as information about local produce, skills and crafts. To rectify this Slaley Parish Council is producing a Business Directory, which is just as it says a Slaley directory of businesses, conducted by people of the parish with their business address also in the parish. Obviously there are people in the parish who run their business from home or who provide a service that has been missed in this draft. Would you please get in touch with Pat Wilson, Clerk to Slaley Parish Council, on 01434 673388 or e-mail patricia.wilson28@btinternet.com to discuss your listing.
The ‘Where to Buy Locally’ leaflet will provide information such as contact details for local entertainers, telephone numbers for local producers and how to access the vast wealth of local people with special skills and crafts. Again many people will be missed from this leaflet. Please get in touch with information of your details to Pat Wilson, Clerk to the Council.

It is envisaged that both publications will frequently alter therefore we are not having them professionally published in large quantities. Initially, at least, they will be printed by home computers and distributed via several B&B establishments, the village shop, the Commemoration Hall, notice boards and our web page www.slaley.org.uk

To view both drafts Margaret & Roy has copies in Slaley Village Shop or log onto the web site.

Slaley Business Directory
December 2008
Whilst every effort has been made to make this directory as accurate as possible, we apologise for omissions and ask that you get in touch with a member of Slaley Parish Council for inclusion in the next edition of the directory

Accommodation Self-catering Cottage

Vicki Ridley,
Moorgair,
Slaley,
Hexham.
01434 673473

Bed & Breakfast

Mrs Elizabeth Courage,
Rye Hill Farm,
Slaley,
Hexham.
01434 673259

Mrs Susan Dart,
Flothers Farm,
Slaley,
Hexham.
01434 673240

Rose & Crown Inn,
Slaley Village,
Hexham.
01434 673922

Travellers Rest Inn
Hexham Road,
Slaley,
Hexham.
01434 673231

Camping & Caravan Parks

Mrs Elizabeth Courage,
Rye Hill Farm,
Slaley,
Hexham.
01434 673259

Springhouse Caravan Park,
Springhouse,
Slaley,
Hexham.
01434 673241

Brian Rowell,
Townfoot Caravan Park,
Slaley,
Hexham.
01434 673264

Cattery

Linda Ogle,
Blackburn Cattery
Slaley,
Hexham.
01434 673337

Cattle Foot Trimmer

James Wilson,
Lawn Cottage,
Slaley,
Hexham.
Mobile:07710 429312

Childcare

Little Badgers Childcare,
2 years – 8 years,
Operating at Slaley First School.
Contact Gayle on 01434 684446

Cork Importing and Distribution

Anglo-Portuguese Cork,
Brian Wilson,
North View House,
Slaley.
NE47 0AA
Tel: 01434 673478
E-mail: enquiries@apcork.co.uk
Website: www.apcork.co.uk

Dairy Farmers

G.G. Baynes & Son,
Farmers & Milk Processors,
Marley Cote Walls,
Slaley,
Hexham.
01434 673244

Barry Dart,
Flothers Farm,
Slaley,
Hexham.
01434 673240

Jeff Kellet & Son,
White House Farm,
Slaley,
Hexham.
01434 673427

Metcalfe Brothers,
Palm Strothers,
Slaley,
Hexham.
01434 673333

Dry Stone Walling

Keith Wilson,
Blue Gables,
Slaley,
Hexham.
01434 673232
Electrical & Plumbing

Albert Scott,
High Juniper,
Hexhamshire.
01434 673283

Farmers

Richard Baynes,
Woodnook Hill,
Slaley,
Hexham.
01434 673300

Alek Bissett,
Middle Dukesfield,
Slaley,
Hexham.
01434 673236

Tony Johnston,
Todburn,
Slaley,
Hexham.
01434 673230

Dennis Lumley & Sons
Granary Steps,
Slaley,
Hexham.
01434 673

Alan Ogle,
Comb Hils Farm,
Slaley,
Hexham.
01434 673475

Geoff Ogle,
Blackburn Farm,
Slaley,
Hexham.
01434 673337

Richard Ridley,
Dipton Foot,
Slaley,
Hexham.
01434 682260

Stuart Ridley
South Farm,
Slaley,
Hexham.
01434 673493

Johnny Rowell,
Cocklake,
Slaley,
Hexham.
01434 673589

Adam Scott,
Townfoot,
Slaley.
Hexham.
01434 673264

Keith Wilson,
Blue Gables,
Slaley,
Hexham.
01434 673232

Farm Contractors

Jim Bailey,
Rosyth,
Slaley,
Hexham.
01434 673352

Nigel Pickering,
Peel Flatt,
Slaley,
Hexham.
01434 673175

Fencing Contractor

Mal Johnston,
Todburn Bungalow,
Slaley,
Hexham.
01434 673196

General Building Repairs

Martin Kennedy,
Atlasta cottage,
Wooley,
Slaley.
Hexham.
01434 67359

General Store & Newspapers

Roy & Margaret Ward,
Slaley Village Shop,
Slaley,
Hexham.
01434 673201

Graphic Designer
Steve Bland,
Springhouse,
Slaley,
Hexham.
01434 673239

Hardwood Specialist Supplier
Richard Ferguson,
Holly Hill,
Slaley,
Hexham.
01434 673528

Heavy Plant Hire

Roy Foster,
Hillfield,
Slaley,
Hexham.
01434 673376
Hotel with Full Facilities & Golf Courses
Slaley Hall,
Slaley,
Hexham.
01434 673350

Interior Design

Pat Goodwin,
Muddle House,
Slaley,
Hexham.
01434 673408

Landscaping & Gardens

Stewart Bell,
Oaklea,
Slaley,
Hexham.
01434 673767
Mobile 07739 258848

Chris Ryder Ladnscapes,
Wooley,
Slaley.
01434 673403
Mobile 07718 479062

Motor Repairs

David Jewitt,
Rye Hill Farm,
Slaley,
Hexham.
01434 673803

Research & Consultancy

Moyra Riseborough,
Forest View,
Slaley,
Hexham.
01434 673486

Roofer

David Clark,
11 South Park,
Slaley,
Hexham.
01434 673 504

Specialist Breeders
Alpacas
Vicki Ridley,
Moorgair,
Slaley,
Hexham.
01434 673473

Belted Galloway & Highland Cattle
James Wilson,
Lawn Cottage,
Slaley,
Hexham.
Mobile:07710 429312

Pedigree Beef Breeds
Stuart Mullen,
Teasdale cottage,
Slaley,
Hexham.
01434 673

Stone Quarry
Robin Turner,
Ladycross Stone Quarry,
Slaley,
Hexham
01434 673302

Welding

James Ogle,
Blackburn Farm,
Slaley,
Hexham.
01434 673337

Where to buy locally

Local History Publications
Is there a grave stone marking a Slaley death you wish to discover?
‘The Grave Stones of St. Mary’s Church Slaley’
published 1992
Has Slaley Church always looked like this?
‘The Church of St. Mary the Virgin, Slaley’
published 1995.
What is the story behind Slaley Hall Hotel?
‘Slaley Hall Photographs and Memories’
published 1996.
Eighty years of social history in Slaley
‘Slaley Commemoration Hall The First Eight Decades’
published 2002.
Available through:
Lawn House Publications
Tel: 01434 673388 or e-mail: patricia.wilson28@btinternet.com

Ladycross Quarry Ltd
Slaley, Hexham, Northumberland
Tel: 01434 673302
Natural bedded sandstone. Walling stone, roofing slates, paving flags, crazy paving, garden rockery, boulders small and large, finger stones.
Opening times are Monday to Friday 8.30 until 4.00
Saturday 9.00 until 12.30
Check our web site on
www.ladycrossquarry.co.uk

Local Mobile Babysitting Service.
Amanda Allsop Tel: 01434 673686

Produced and Printed by Slaley Parish Council. Every effort is made to ensure that details are correct, we apologise for any errors or omissions.

Slaley Village Shop

Owned and run by Roy and Margaret Ward, winners of the 2006 Pride in Tynedale Awards, Retail Section.
Much more than a ‘convenience store’.
Much more than a ‘newsagent’.
Much more than a ‘delivery service’
Much more than a ‘notice board’
Much more than a ‘fresh local food outlet’
Much more than just a ‘Post Office Counter’ which Roy and Margaret lost during 2008 with the Post Office Ltd cutbacks.

How much more is up to you!
Support our village shop.

Cards for All Occasions
View from existing stock or have a card designed to your own specification for that extra personal touch.
Telephone Brenda Hutchinson
01434 673269

Reaston Hill Highland Beef
Reaston Hill Pedigree Highland Cattle fold was established at Slaley in 1998 by James Wilson as a hobby that has since developed into selling breeding females, showing prize winning cattle and now producing his very own Highland Beef.
A wide range of quality cuts are offered fresh by arrangement.
To order your Reaston Hill Highland Beef visit www.reastonhillbeef.co.uk or contact James and Pippa by telephone on 01434 673116 or James’ Mobile 07710 429312.

Moorgair Alpacas, alpaca yarn, fleece and knitted goods for sale.
Occasionally alpacas for sale.
Contact Vicki Ridley 01434 673473

For that special taste of Slaley sample my home baking and preserves. For full list of products contact Louise English by telephone 01434 673 805 or e-mail: louise.english@btinternet.com

Free Range Eggs Telephone Brenda Hutchinson on 01434 673269

Decoupage Cards chose from an extensive range covering all occasions.
Christmas Cards also available normally sold singularly although packs can be arranged.
Contact Margaret Bates 01434 673411

Wood Turning
Bowls, Platters, Clocks, Pens and Commemorative Items.
View existing stock in workshop or call to discuss a special commission.
Contact Alan Hutchinson by telephone on 01434 673269

Phoenix Trading
Greeting Cards, Giftwrap, Accessories, Postcards & Stationery
Local representative always carries a selection from the full range. Also available for fund raising.
Contact Diana Mullholland on 01434 673256

Seasonal Cut Flowers Telephone Brenda on 01434 673269.

From Moo to You
The Baynes family at Marley Cote Walls process the milk from their pedigree herd of Shorthorn and Ayreshire Dairy Cows and market it under the Northumbrian Pedigree brand.
Their milk and cream is sold at Slaley Village Shop as well as many other outlets in the area.
Whole, Semi Skimmed and Skimmed Milk are available as well as Double, Whipping and Single cream.
Further information is available on
www.northumberlandpedigree.com

Ornamental Wrought Iron
discuss your design ideas
with David Jewitt
01434 673803

Moorgair Cottage, superb 4 star self catering holiday cottage, sleeps 5, on the edge of Slaley forest. Home of Moorgair Alpacas. Contact Vicki Ridley 01434 673473, www.moorgair.co.uk

Photographs framed or unframed. Colour or black and white; local views, floral and animals. Browse through the extensive photographs albums. Copies available to order in sizes 6x4 7x5 10x8 or panoramic views 10x4
Contact Margaret Bates 01434 673411

Post Office Trading Hours from Mobile Van at Parks Side Bungalows
Mondays 4.20 – 5.35 p.m.
Tuesdays Nothing
Wednesdays 8.30 – 10.30 a.m.
Thursdays 4.20 – 5.35 p.m.
Fridays 4.20 – 5.35 p.m.
Saturdays 8.30 – 9.45 a.m.

Hexhamshire Hardwoods
Suppliers of hardwood and exotic timbers
‘Beams’ and ‘Lintels’ sawn to order.
Specialist woodworking tools and accessories also for sale.
Good stock of Polishes and Abrasives etc.
Hagwood, Whitley Chapel.
Telephone 01434 673528

Budgerigars
Choose from many colors
Contact John Wilson 01434 673388

Grey Squirrels & Rabbits
Do you have a grey squirrel or wild rabbit problem in your garden or land?
I can provide a trapping service with humane dispatch.
Contact Richard Ferguson 01434 673585

Having a Party?
Need a 36 pint, 72 pint or 144 pint cask of local beer?
Hexhamshire Brewery
choose from these local beers
Devil’s Elbow
Shire Bitter
Devil’s Water
Whapweasel
Old Humbug
Contact Geoff Brooker on 01434 606577

The Equestrian Centre
At High Plains
Provides a high standard of care for you and your horse. 25 stables, dedicated storage areas, tack room, common room and shower facilities. 60m x 40m arena useable throughout the year.
Contact Julie Howard qualified BHS Instructor
07855 440757 or 01434 682980
e-mail: ride@high-plains.co.uk
www.high-plains.co.uk
Northumbrian Folk Singer
Judy Dinning, (of the Henderson clan) born and bred in Slaley. Her two brothers and several cousins still live locally.
Judy is a singer songwriter and plays guitar, keyboard, dulcimer and percussion.
Albums include 1983 ‘Waiting for the Change’; 1995 ‘Food for Thought’ and ‘Delight in Disorder’; Since 2002 she has been a member of the band Real Time and hit albums include ‘Real Time’ and ‘Hell and High Water’ and the solo album ‘Fine Time’
To book Judy for a performance of her own compositions and the traditional songs of the North East
E-mail judy@judithellen.fsnet.co.uk
Or visit www.realtimefolk.com

A Murder Mystery
By The Whitley Chapel Players
Ideal fundraising idea
Contact David Nixon of Stotsfold Farm
01434 673362
E-mail Timeforarest@aol.com

The Doonan Family Band
Kevin who lives in Slaley is the fiddle player and vocalist. Brother Mick plays piccolo, flute, whistles and uilleann pipes (the Irish bagpipe). Phil Murray plays bass guitar and Stu Luckley guitar and vocalist.
Each year the Band reconvenes and goes on tour. For more information visit www.donnanfamily-band.co.uk

Slaley Commemoration Hall
Hire Charges
Committee Room £7 per hour with free use of kitchen.
Whole Hall £8 per hour for local activities.
Local Children’s activities £7.50 per hour.
Outside organisations £10 per hour.
Half Day Charge £45.00
Whole day charge £85.00
Hire of Portable furniture, crockery and cutlery to be used at premises different to the Commemoration Hall. The hirer must provide adequate insurance to cover whilst in transit and at venue.
6 feet aluminum folding table £1.70 each
3 feet aluminum folding table £1.10p each
Heavy duty stacking chairs 30p each
Stainless Steel 8 pint tea pots £1.10 each
Place setting (10 items) 60p each setting
Consisting of dinner plate; soup bowl, desert bowl, side plate; cup; saucer; fork; knife; desert spoon; tea spoon.
Single items of crockery and cutlery 10p each.
Portable Staging total = 20.25 square metres. Each unit is 80p per day per 750mm unit of decking and steps. The full trolley of staging 13.5 square metres costs £20.80 per day. Additional units the cost is an extra £10.40 per day.
Booking Clerk: Ann Wright 673366
Hall Secretary: Pat Goodwin 673408
Hall Treasurer: Mg Weatherley 673495
Hall Caretaker: Reg Urwin 600035
Hall Chairman: Keith Robson 673200

Say it With Flowers!
The Watson family of North Cottage High Clear
run Watsonia in Corbridge
Telephone 01434 632121
and Watsonia in Hexham
Telephone 01434 605447

Jed & Lesley Woodhouse
Songwriters and Performers
From ballads to dance, R&B to big band, pop to reggae and techno to jazz
The duo played at the launch of the Parish Plan in February 2002 and again for our Jubilee celebrations in June 2002 where Lesley did a very good Eurythmics Annie Lenox take off. Jed plays guitar and keyboards.
Telephone 01434 673035
E-mail lesley@uropeansid.com

Slaley Parish Council September 2008 meeting

Where to Buy Locally leaflets were discussed see agenda item 12a. There will be much more on this subject in the months to follow. If you would like to be included in this leaflet please contact Pat Wilson 01434 673388

Minutes of Slaley Parish Council, Monday September 8th 2008, in Slaley Commemoration Hall 7.30 p.m.

1. Apologies Councillors Mrs A. S. Robson, Mrs L. Norris & S. Davison. District Councillor B.W. Massey & County Councillor C.W. Horncastle.
Present: Councillor I.C. Hancock in the Chair. Councillors Mrs C. A. Brooks, Ms M Palmer & Clerk Mrs P. Wilson.
Public. Kevin Page & Keith Black. Courant Reporter: Rebecca Dixon. Slaley Notes: None. Community Trust Executive Committee Member: None.

2. Declaration of Interests and Hospitality Record.
None.

3. Minutes of August Parish Council Meeting (circulated pages 443-446 + appendix 1 page 447, appendix 2 page 448. Proposed by Cllr Brooks and seconded by Cllr Hancock the minutes were approved and signed.

4. Matters Arising.
a) Re August Walk-about: (i) Clerk contacted landowner for initial reaction to considering the land behind the school for recreational use. The reply was negative.
(ii) Reply from NCC re cut grass left lying at Parks Side Bungalows letter passed to David White at Tynedale. Regarding 150th Show Mel Richardson asked to be contacted a few months prior to 2009 Show so that highway works needed are carried out.
b) 4d 11/8/08; 8a 21/7/08 Motorcross activities at The Cleugh – copy of letter from Shooting syndicate circulated. To-date no reply has been received by Slaley PC to its July letter to TC. Healey PC has received a reply from Wendy Chiodo TC Environmental Health and Richard Stewart, TC Planning Enforcement Officer. The latter has indicated that after investigation a report will be made in due course. It was decided to ask for a copy of this report. A member of the public confirmed that whilst cycling on the C275 he has heard the motorbike noise but has not experienced any congestion on this bendy, often narrow, public highway from increased motorcycle carrying traffic. According to the Motor-cross web site The JL Cleugh site is reported as a practice site open for one day each week. It was suggested that Blackburn and Peel Flat properties might feel some impact from activities.
c) 12 11/8/08 Integrated Transport Programme priorities for 2009/10 Attached as appendix 1/080908, page 454.
d) 14a 11/8/08 Reply from DC B. Massey re availability of plants for 2009 – David White of TC is unsure if plants will be available due to transition to unitary authority. Will have plants in October for spring flowering. Cllr Brooks to pass on this information to the Gardening Club.
e) 8f 11/8/08; 8g 21/7/08 Government Office for the North East – Communities & Local Government – Regional Spatial Strategy to 2021. Cllr CA Brooks reported that changes in the document relate to national and regional changes since the instigation in 2004. Joint working is underway. There is nothing Slaley PC needs to address at this stage.

5. Public Participation.
a) Both members of the public wished to report their concern over the proposal to park the mobile Post Office in the precinct of Parks Side bungalows. One resident lived at No 3 Parks Side and the other opposite the bungalows at Park House.
b) The Councillors were asked if the decision to close Slaley Post Office and replace it with a mobile unit had been know to members of Slaley Parish Council prior to July 2nd. The Chairman replied that Slaley Parish Council did not know of the closure prior to July 2nd. A public meeting was held on July 14th where members of Post Office Ltd and Postwatch addressed problems and discussed options for Slaley. This was followed up with a PC questionnaire and after six weeks of consultation a letter was sent to PO Ltd with our findings and recommendations. A copy of this letter was requested by Mr Page.
c) General concerns from were of noise, nuisance, security problems and access for residents. Fears were raised that the square could become a general parking area, or worse an official trading area with all manner of spin-off traders operating alongside the proposed mobile post office van. The Councillors were informed that private concerns had been reported to Milecastle Housing, Tynedale Council and Northumberland County Council and that the latter had indicated that it was perfectly legal for mobile vans to trade on the public highway. The Councillors agreed to check with TC and the Highway Authority.

6. Community Trust Report
Attached as appendix 2/080908, page 455.

7. Matters for Discussion with County & District Councillors
a) Copy of e-mail from DC B Massey to MR at NCC Highways re continued water running down West Ridley Hall drive. Cllr Brooks reported several sandbags at the entrance during the recent rains. Clerk to check with Mrs Robson if work has been carried out.
b) E-mail to Councillors 12/8/08 from DC B Massey regarding the allocation of £75,000 by TC to Parish Councils for projects on the theme “better public places”. This was reported in the Hexham Courant on 15/8/08 entitled “Villages asked to choose from ‘shopping list’ Parishes get share of Tynedale’s windfall”. The list includes park benches, planters, bicycle racks, picnic tables with benches, 20 trees for a specific location, a village “welcome” sign or a parish notice board. Chief Executive, Richard Robson was reported as saying “the cash would go to the parishes on a pro rata basis, taking into account visitors and available facilities, rather than purely on population”. The Councillors discussed what local projects might fit these criteria. Examples included covering the cost of professionally printed leaflets of parish walks and where to buy locally (see agenda item 12) or planters for 2009 which the Gardening Club are looking into purchasing to coincide with the 150th Slaley Show. Cllr Brooks to ask the GC for an indication of size, style, price and areas where these planters could be situated. The Clerk suggested that such planters if purchased should then become the responsibility of Slaley Parish Council and should be insured along with other assets in the parish.

8. Correspondence.
a) Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981. Review of the Definitive Map & Statement of Public Rights of Way. Informal pre-order consultation. Green lanes of Slaley upgraded to BOATs.
U8074 (Shield Hall) to BOAT 33
U8079 (High Clear) to BOAT 34
U8091 (Broomyhill & The Cleugh) to BOAT 36
U8127 (Blue Gables/West Burnside) to BOAT 37
Highways report for these green lanes of 2004,2005,2006,2007 & 2008 circulated + text on these lanes from the 1771 Bolbeck Common Award. + Note of caution from Liz Sobell with regard to the Shield Hall route, which would appear to end at Peth Foot Head and not at the ford in the bottom.
It was agreed that a route by route reply be drafted considering terrain, current use, surface condition, drainage, health and safety issues for other non mpv users, conditions at beginning and end of routes etc. It was also hoped that the 4 parishes BOATs committee would be meeting in October for a combined response.
b) Northumberland Strategic partnership cover letter re Proposed NSP Area Partnerships – Reaction & feedback by 25/9/08. Partnership Update for Northumberland (August 2008) 18 pages. Circulated Councillors felt there should be a flow chart showing how all the various forums, partnerships, boards etc fit into the whole. Clerk to request from Helyn Douglas.
c) NALC Parish Councillors Events/training Sept-Oct 08 Circulated + CAN Services Survey completed by Clerk.
d) Community Action Northumberland News Vol 28 No 4 Circulated.
e) North Pennines AONB partnership letter (see Blanchland Show) + Looking after the North Pennines leaflet + North Pennines News Spring & Summer 2008 Circulated.
f) E-mail circulated 5/9/08 from Her Majesty’s Court Service re The role of the Magistrate in your community. Clerk to invite via e-mail to one of our monthly meetings between October – February. Also to invite the PC’s and interested parishioners of Blanchland, Healey and Hexhamshire.
g) SPC Clerk has been invited by Two Castles to the Official Opening Ceremony at Reaston View at 11.30 a.m. on Tuesday September 30th. This invitation has been passed to Cllr Ian C Hancock.
h) E-mail from Adrian Hinchliffe re reply from Jeff Reid Leader of CC re Community Forums. Circulated by L Norris.
i) E-mail circulated 8/9/08 re Planning Forum meeting at 10 a.m. on 18/9/08. Cllr Robson indicated an interest in this (see agenda item 8c 11/8/08).
j) North East War memorials Project, Newsletter No 9, Summer 2008, Final Issue; Clerks & Councils Direct September 2008; TDC Meeting Minutes; CPRE Overview Autumn 2008; Glasdon Products leaflet (including planters).

9. Financial Report.
a) Cheques to be signed.
No 346 Mrs P Wilson 6 months salary £1,250.00
Proposed by Cllr Brooks and seconded by Cllr Palmer the cheque was signed.
b) Interim payment. None.

10. Current Planning Applications.
2008-842 Construction of sun lounge. The Flothers. No objections.
20080684 Construction of first floor side extension, entrance lobby and detached garage.
The Paddock, Main street no grounds for objections
20080046 Internal refurbishment - Slaley Hall Pending.
Decisions from Planning Authority
20080660 Two storey extension at Townfoot Old Farmhouse - Granted.
20080613 Demolition of existing conservatory and construction of new sun lounge.
Wood Nook Hill Granted
20080563 RECONSULTATION Construction of single storey rear extension.
7 South Park. Granted
20080625 Construction of first floor extension over single storey garage.
Gortmore House. Granted.

11. Proposed Post Office Closures (11 11/8/08; 11 21/7/08; 19 9/6/08; 4a 12/5/08; 4c 14/4/08; 9m 10/3/08; 7 (2a) 14/1/08).
(i) Copy of Reply to PO Ltd from NCC circulated
(ii) Response from Post Office Ltd circulated
(iii) Thank You from Postwatch for copy of our letter.
(iv) Revised proposed opening times (see e-mail circulated 5/9/08) Monday, Thursday Friday 4.20 – 5.35 p.m. Wednesday 8.30 – 10.30 a.m. Saturday 8.30 – 9.45 a.m. – Clerk to contact Gillian Atkinson at PO ltd and ask for confirmation that these altered times are officially on offer. To request through Slaley Notes & web site of the public reaction to these altered times. The Councillors consider how best to keep these times in public view – notice on PC notice board at Parks Side bungalows Notice Board. Possibly a monthly reminder in Slaley Notes or an advert in the Hexham Courant. The latter could be a Post Office advert for all the mobile services in Tynedale. Clerk to check this with Gillian Atkinson.

12. Information Board Facilities & Services Update
Supporting Information:
a) “Where to buy locally” leaflet (see agenda item 12, June 9th 2008 minutes page 426/427). The list of businesses from the Post Office reply is the starting point – interest needs to be established from the parishioners of contact details etc. List attached as appendix 3/080908, page 456.
b) Footpaths leaflet. (Bridleways & BOATs leaflets?). (see new Parish Plan Action Plan Update. July 2008. Page 4 under Place Map – The PC to produce walk leaflets. Also Heritage report see appendix 3/090608. Also April 04 – April 08 Parish Plan Action Plan quarterly Updates, page 6 under Place Map. Two examples of circular routes were given these include local history points and wildlife expectations at different times of the year and at different parts of the parish. Attached as appendix 4/080908, page 457. Clerk to produce a simple list of the public footpaths (starting and finishing point), direction, number etc. For further discussion next month.

13. Annual Review of effectiveness of the system of internal audit.
Monthly reports and present system is adequate.

14. Slaley Hall Post-Christmas Meal for the Elderly – January 2009
Clerk to contact Neal Crocker and ask if a 2009 meal is possible. It is felt that the event has been very successful in cementing relations between Slaley Hall and the parishioners of Slaley.

15. A.O.B.
a) Blocked gulley in Slaley Village outside Old Barn. E-mail 24/8/08 to NCC asked for gulley to be cleaned out. Reply that the gulley sucker cannot be taken off its scheduled programme.
b) Hexham Courant reported that Premier Events is in liquidation. Rebecca Dixon who wrote the article, clarified that Scott Murray of Allout Paintball is caretaking bookings until a new permanent owner is found. It was decided that once a new owner is announced an assurance need to be requested from TC that conditions imposed on planning application 20050557 (Renewal of temporary planning permission for permanent use of land as outdoor pursuits area etc) have been accepted by the new owner.

16. BOATs update.
a) The Four Parishes BOATs Joint Committee has received a copy acknowledgment from Stuart Evans Director of Corporate Services, Northumberland National Park Authority, to AVAG regarding the Formal Complaint against Northumberland National Park and Countryside Joint Local Access Forum.
c) See also agenda item 8a above

17. Date of October meeting.
Monday October 13th

There being no further business the meeting closed at 10.25 p.m.

Alternative Times for a mobile Post Office Service at Slaley

Post Office Ltd have offered the followng alternative times.

Mondays 4.20 - 5.35 p.m
Tuesdays NOTHING
Wednesdays 8.30 - 10.30 a.m.
Thursdays 4.20 - 5.35 p.m.
Fridays 4.20 - 5.35 p.m.
SATURDAYS 8.30 - 9.45 a.m.

The Parish Council feel that this is an improvement on 5 evenings at 4.20 - 5.35 p.m.

Written comments on these alternative proposed times to your Parish Councillors or the Clerk would be appreciated.

August 2008 minutes of Slaley Parish Council

A mirror was placed at the Glen Crossroad junction to help motorists travelling from the east to see the oncoming traffic from the north. See agenda item 4a.

Minutes of Slaley Parish Council, Monday August 11th 2008, in Slaley Commemoration Hall 8.30 p.m.

August Walk about attached as appendix 2/110808.

1. Apologies None.
Present: Councillor I.C. Hancock in the Chair. Councillors Mrs L. Norris, Mrs C. A. Brooks, Mrs A. S. Robson, S. Davison (meeting only) & Clerk Mrs P. Wilson. District Councillor B.W. Massey (meeting only) & County Councillor C.W. Horncastle. Councillor Ms M Palmer not present.
Public. None. Courant Reporter: Rebecca Dixon. Slaley Notes Jean Elphick. Community Trust Executive Committee Member: Michael Elphick.

2. Declaration of Interests and Hospitality Record.
Cllr Mrs L. Norris for agenda item 15.

3. Minutes of July Parish Council Meeting (circulated pages 434-438 + appendix 1 page 439, appendix 2 page 440, appendix 3 page 441 and appendix 4 page 442)
Proposed by Cllr Mrs L. Norris and seconded by Cllr Mrs AS Robson the minutes were approved and signed.

4. Matters Arising.
a) 4b 21/7/08; 13 9/6/08, 4d & 12a 13/8/07, 5c 10/9/07 – Glen Crossroads the mirror was positioned July 25th. Whilst the hedge has been slightly trimmed back at Glen Cottage, visibility would still be difficult without the mirror. Because NCC highways do not recognised a mirror as a piece of highway furniture NCC should be asked if they feel the hedge has been cut back to an acceptable and safe height.
b) 4c 21/7/08; 15 9/6/08 Speed Unit in Village - PC Iain Robertson replied to our request for a traffic speed survey. He indicated that a new survey should indicate if the speed unit has made a difference to driver behaviour.
c) 6 21/7/08 Before the invitation to Barry Moore of Two Castles was made confirmation came through of the allocation of both the house and the bungalow at Reaston View. This time the allocation is in line with the purpose for which the Affordable Houses were built. Cllr B Massey informed the meeting of his annoyance with this delayed allocation.
d) 8a 21/7/08 Motorcross activities at The Cleugh – copy of e-mail from B Massey 22/7/08 + correspondence from Healey Parish Council and from Mr & Mrs Wordsworth, Eastwood House. In light of the letters to Environmental Health and Planning it was agreed with the PC Chairman not to invite Mr Lumley to a monthly meeting at present. To-date no reply has been received by Slaley PC or Healey parishioners.
e) 8b 21/7/08 Reply from NCC re the system of sending a letter saying a response will be made in 15 working days is, in the eyes of the Councillors, a waste of public money. NCC agreed to e-mail in future.
f) 8g 21/7/08 Government Office for the North East – Communities & Local Government – Regional Spatial Strategy to 2021 Cllr CA Brooks will report possibly next month.
g) 10 21/7/08 Reply from Helen Winter re why we are not getting planning applications, decision notes and sometimes the weekly list. The reply indicates that Slaley is the only PC who has experienced difficulties. The Chairman did not feel that the reply addresses why planning applications take so long in getting to Slaley. CC C. Horncastle asked to read the reply.
h) 14 21/7/08 Reply from Jillian Rutherford indicating that TC Solicitor would not sanction or favour a compulsory purchase of land in the village for an equipped play area. Jillian joined the Councillors for their August walk about (see Walk about report attached to these minutes as appendix 2/110808)
i) 18c 21/7/08 Reply from 12 South Park about the duration of the caravan parked on the Highways section outside South Park.

5. Public Participation. None.

6. Community Trust Report
Verbal report: The marquee on a very wet Slaley Show day had provided visitors with a chance to view the work of the Community Trust. Work continues on the Interpretation Board and the reprinting of Miss Elizabeth Masons book of Slaley.

7. Matters for Discussion with County & District Councillors
E-mail from DC Brian Massey circulated to everyone 22/7/08 re Unitary authority electoral review of Northumberland (5 pages) & Electoral Review of Northumberland (3 pages). (see 8d below and 12 21/7/08)
CC C. Horncastle reported that Richard Robson, Chief Executive of Tynedale Council has been appointed executive director of ‘Place’ in the new Unitary Council. There were serious financial concerns ahead for the new Council and Councillors covering Tynedale may increase from 13 to 15. Staffing and Jobs should have been in place by the end of the year but it now looks like Spring of 2009 before decisions are finally made.

8. Correspondence.
a) Cllr Robson informed the meeting that a member of the community had approached her with regard to a “brown” village services sign being placed at the entrance to Slaley village at the junction with the B6306. It was suggested that the request and the reasons behind the request be made directly to NCC Highways at County Hall.
b) E-mail from M. Tully re Mobile Mast at Slaley Hall. Reply that Cllr Mrs Norris has visited the site and although the development has only just started, it would appear to be in line with the planning consent granted in 2005 (application 20051282; variation of condition number 4 on 20070073 and again on 20070350 to reduce tree felling zone from 50m to 35m). The Councillors suggested that a visit to the planning department might confirm this for anyone concerned.
c) Tynedale Planning Forum Members change of meeting date from 21/8/08 to 18/9/08. Cllr Mrs A Robson asked that the replacement agenda be circulated when available as she may be interested in attending.
d) TC letter and Posters ‘The Big Tidy Up’
e) The Boundary Committee - Your Council is Changing – Unitary authority electoral review of Northumberland – representations by 15th September (see agenda 12 21/7/08)
VMS change of bank account details; Watson Construction of Prudhoe introduction letter; Sustain Landscapes introduction leaflet; Mencap request for financial funding (see 9g 9/6/08, page 425).

9. Financial Report.
a) Cheques to be signed.
No 343 Alex Evison – grass cutting Invoice No 5 dated 8/8/08 £81.50
No 344 James Wilson – supply post, treat, fix mirror & position £58.75
No 345 Commemoration Hall meetings (public & monthly) £104.00
Proposed by Cllr Mrs L. Norris and seconded by Cllr Mrs A.S. Robson the cheques were signed.
b) Interim payment.
No 342 VMS Speed Unit £4,246.45
Signed by Cllr IC Hancock and Cllr Mrs L Norris

10. Current Planning Applications.
20080563 RECONSULTATION Construction of single storey rear extension.
7 South Park. circulating
20080684 Construction of first floor side extension, entrance lobby and detached garage.
The Paddock, Main street no grounds for objections
20080660 Two storey extension at Townfoot Old Farmhouse - question materials.
20080625 Construction of first floor extension over single storey garage.
Gortmore House. No objections, however this is the third extension in 10 years.
20080613 Demolition of existing conservatory and construction of new sun lounge.
Wood Nook Hill Support
20080563 Construction of single storey rear extension.
7 South Park. No objections providing neighbours do not object to 3.5m ridge.
20080046 Internal refurbishment - Slaley Hall Pending.
Decisions from Planning Authority
20080210 Tree Preservation Order – felling of eight trees Townhead Farm. (see 4g above). Planning do not inform PC’s of the decision re tree felling applications.
20080473 Construction of conservatory to north east elevation
Worth House, Wooley Grange. Granted
20080520 Variation of condition number 5 of planning permission 75/E/460- extension of operating season from nine months to twelve months.
Spring House Caravan Park. Withdrawn *
It was agreed that a letter be sent to planning requesting that the comments on the PC’s objection to this application (other then the extension details) are still relevant and need answers.

11. Proposed Post Office Closures (11 21/7/08; 19 9/6/08; 4a 12/5/08; 4c 14/4/08; 9m 10/3/08; 7 (2a) 14/1/08).
Response from the six-week consultation for the proposed Outreach PO service at Slaley to Post Office Ltd to arrive no later than August 11th attached as appendix 1/110808.
DC B. Massey wished to report that he felt the Slaley PC letter was a very good reply. CC C. Horncastle wished that the reply had been available earlier then he could have included it in his response to Post Office Ltd.

12. Integrated Transport Programme priorities for 2009/10 - reply by August 29th. Circulating.
It appears that the material is misplaced. The Clerk to send round an urgent e-mail asking everyone to check and return a.s.a.p.

13. Request the 2008 Slaley Hall Holiday Villa Occupancy confirmation from TC Planning Department.
A request to be sent to Planning Department for the 2008 details.

14. A.O.B.
a) Members of the Slaley Gardening Club are interested in florally decorating the village in 2009 to coincide with the 150 Slaley Show celebrations. They wondered if Tynedale Council would still be offering FREE plants through the Parish Council. DC B. Massey volunteered to make initial enquiries.
b) The new threat to GP practices posed by the controversial changes ordered by ministers was discussed. 150 super-surgeries across England with a new centre planned for each primary care trust (PCT). Doctors claim that the new clinics will be run by large private firms, that the new centres will get more funding but will be unable to offer the personal touch. Cllr S Davison confirmed that this is of major concern to those working in the Health Service and a very real threat to rural GP surgeries.
c) Report that Clay Pigeon Shooting at Premier Events was still underway at 5.50 p.m. on 28/7/08 when it should have ended at 5 p.m.
d) Break in at Hexhamshire Hardwoods Saturday night/Sunday morning – tools stolen. Also poaching at Springhouse on the same timescale.

15. BOATs update.
a) Ladycross Quarry Manager reported a transit van with 5 unregistered trail bikes on Tuesday 5/8/08 to Northumbria Police (twice during the afternoon). Clerk checked this with PC I Robertson who confirmed that the report was logged as incident number 811 05/08/08 however, no action had been taken and he would look into this.
b) E-mail from NCC Solicitor Stephen Rickitt re Byway 44. Four actions need attention for the process to the Magistrates Court application.
c) Natural England established a stakeholder working group on Unrecorded Rights of Way. The CLA is suggesting that this is an improvement from the Discovering Lost Ways project.

16. Date of September meeting.
Monday September 8th

There being no further business the meeting closed at 10.10 p.m.

July 2008 Parish Council Minutes

The proposed closure of Slaley Post Office continues to take up a lot of additional time for members of the Parish Council. For more details read agenda item 11.

Minutes of Slaley Parish Council, Monday July 21st 2008, in Slaley Commemoration Hall 7.30 p.m.

1. Apologies. Councillor S. Davison & County Councillor C.W. Horncastle.
Present: Councillor I.C. Hancock in the Chair. Councillors Mrs L. Norris, Mrs C. A. Brooks, Mrs A. S. Robson, Ms M Palmer & Clerk Mrs P. Wilson. District Councillor B.W. Massey.
Public. J.W. Allen. Courant Reporter: None. Slaley Notes None. Community Trust Executive Committee Member: Peter McKendrick.

2. Declaration of Interests and Hospitality Record.
Cllr Mrs L. Norris for agenda item 19.

3. Minutes of June Parish Council Meeting (circulated pages 424-429 + appendix 1 page 430, appendix 2 page 431, appendix 3 page 432 and appendix 4 page 433)
Proposed by Cllr L. Norris and seconded by Cllr AS Robson the minutes were approved and signed.

4. Matters Arising.
a) 6a 9/6/08 CC Horncastle reported back to the member of public & PC Clerk that there were no plans to introduce rural brown waste wheelie bins. DC Massey e-mailed to confirm no announcement by TC had been made for villages south of the Tyne.
b) 13 9/6/08, 4d & 12a 13/8/07, 5c 10/9/07 – Glen Cottage request to have hedge cut back has generated letters and several e-mails. NCC highways appear to have issued a 28-day notice to have the hedge cut back, this seems to have been dated June 19th. An e-mail has been sent to NCC for steps to be taken for non-compliance of the 28 days.
Mr & Mrs Willis of Burnside reaffirmed their agreement for a mirror to be placed in their garden. The mirror was purchased and after delivery Cllr Hancock, Pat & James Wilson met at Burnside with Mr & Mrs Willis to agree height position etc. Unfortunately the garden wall is down where the mirror needs to go and this wall is the subject of discussion between insurance companies. Until an agreement is reached regarding the rebuilding of the wall we are unable to proceed with sighting the mirror. It was suggested that all complaints concerning the lack of visibility be logged with NCC Highways.
c) 15 9/6/08 Speed Unit in Village - the unit was installed Thursday July 17th. It was suggested that PC Robertson be contacted and asked if Northumbria Police would conduct a speed check to see if unit is slowing traffic through the village. The purchase of a logging device is also a possibility – Clerk to obtain details.
d) 17 9/6/08 Parish Plan – Action Plan – Heritage Information Review. Terry Rogerson the NCC Search Officer is very interested in trying to establish the ownership of Wooley Bus Shelter & Slaley Home Guard Hut etc.
e) 20f 9/6/08 Neal Crocker the new Slaley Hall Managing Director replied that due to work commitments he would prefer to met the PC later in the year.
f) 20g 9/6/08 Rose & Crown advertising sandwich board was removed. Then highway work on the C270 caused a sign to be placed at Townhead saying road ahead closed. Bob Mills construction manager had apparently told the R&C tenants, after they complained about the closed sign, to replace their sandwich board on the Townhead grass verge. It is still there several weeks after the completion of the C270 road work. The Clerk to request its removal now that the road works are completed.

5. Public Participation. None.

6. Community Trust Report
Report circulated and attached as appendix 1/210708, page 439.
The report was further detailed as follows: Interpretation Board – Reg Corbidge is leading the group with further alterations to the design sheet for the Councillors consideration. CT is having a display in a marquee on Slaley Showground where achievements of the CT will be displayed (Newssheet, Parish Report Booklets & Reopening of School Playing Field). CT work-in-hand will also be on display (Interpretation Board & Miscellany Book) There will also be a raffle. Members of the CT are unhappy with the non-allocation of the part-ownership Affordable houses and intend writing to TC and Two Castles. Members of Parish Council had conflicting reports of the allocation of these two properties and it was agreed to invite Barry Moore to Slaley Parish Council for a second meeting. If the reason for non-allocation is funding the question should be asked if these properties could become rented.

7. Matters for Discussion with County & District Councillors
a) 20b 9/6/08 DC B Massey provided exchange of e-mails relating to the kerb outside West Ridley Hall.

8. Correspondence.
a) Request from Healey PC to put Motorcross activities at The Cleugh on our agenda. Meetings have been held during June and July and noise factor seems worse over the March burn on the Healey side. Several complaints have been received at Healey PC from Healey residents. Diversification planning permission was discussed – DC B Massey to make enquiries. It was suggested that a letter be sent to the landowners at The Cleugh asking them to attend a PC meeting and discuss their Motorcross activities and ideas to reduce the noise.
b) Reference agenda item 14 of Annual Parish Meeting 12/5/08 - NCC Highways reply re C280 closure and work not completed – basically budget was exhausted by the work completed and no further funding was available. Extra placed on 2009/10 programme of work. The system of sending a letter saying a response will be made in 15 working days is, in the eyes of the Councillors, a waste of public money. Ask if an e-mail reply would be more cost effective.
c) Allianz Insurance plc requested return of Employers Liability Certificate for 2008/09 – this was returned on 16/6/08.
d) TC Current list of Parish Councillors held by the Election Services Officer. List OK.
e) Came & Company – Insurance documents + Your Parish Council Policy (143 page booklet) Councillors happy not to read.
f) TC Planning – Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessment (SHLAA) e-mail 2/7/08 + hard copy dated 2/7/08 (copy sent to an interested parishioner and a thank you response from him asking us to keep him abreast of further developments)
g) Government Office for the North East – Communities & Local Government – Regional Spatial Strategy to 2021 letter and CD. Cllr CA Brooks to report. See agenda item 15 10/3/08, page 397 & appendix 6/100308 page 404.
h) CE Electric UK – Building links within our community – Parish Council Liaison – consultation document later in July, regional workshops for interested parties. Looking to us to identify vulnerable customers in our community. None Reported.
i) From David Francis by e-mail circulated 30/6/08 Killian/Pretty Review – Planning Applications a Faster and More Responsive System. + End to National Training Scheme. + NALC National Conference speech by Secretary of State, Hazel Blears MP, 22 pages.
j) Local Works – Guide to the Sustainable Communities Act – process starts in October we will need to “opt in” otherwise our voice will not be heard. Too late for the Post Office closures. Circulated. See our record of support for this Bill under:
6e 11/2/08 page 387; 5l 13/8/07 page 339; 6e 11/6/07 page 322; 8i 16/4/07 page 306; 8k (rally) 12/3/07 page 299; 9j 12/2/07 page 290; 7i 8/1/07 page 284; 7a 12/12/05 page 195; 4e 10/10/05 page 180 & 8h 12/9/05 page 175.
k) TC Summer Play Programme posters – Slaley Wednesday 13th August 1.30 – 3 p.m. placed Notice Board and Commemoration Hall.
l) NCC Area Committee for Tynedale 24/7/08 + letter dated 17/7/08 re item 12(3) omitted from original agenda. Post Office closures on agenda 12 (1) with app C.
m) Eastern Tynedale & Western Castle Morpeth Parish Council Forum (formerly attended by Cllr Norris Minutes of 2/7/08, copy of letter to Cllr J Reid re PC & community links with new Unitary Authority and Belonging Community Forums minutes 7/7/08. Cllr Norris suggested she continue to attend this Forum until such time as a more local group is established. This was agreed.
n) Northumberland Home Improvement Agency + TC letter of support – ‘Making homes warm, safe and secure’. Posters with telephone number 01670 840469. Placed on Notice Board and Commemoration Hall.
o) Selefest 12th July 2008 Poster placed on PC Notice Board.
p) AAS – Asbestos Your Legal Requirements; DeVere Slaley Hall Summertime breaks advertising brochure + e-mail of Forthcoming events at Slaley Hall; Samaritans asking for financial aid; TDC minutes of meetings May + Refuse Collection arrangements for August Bank Holiday – Notice Board; Milecastle Housing Home Truths Summer 2008; ADAPT Annual Report 2007/08; Wicksteed advertising leaflet; Clerk and Councils Direct July 2008; Society of Local Council Clerks 34th National Conference 2008 19/10/08; Community Action Northumberland News Vol 29. No. 3; Rock Reports No 17 Summer 2008; Glasdon advertising leaflets; Are you a Local Council Clerk working from home – home office liability insurance with AON; Tyne Rivers Trust conference 19/20 July; Lloyds TSB revised Business banking Code. J Parker wholesale catalogue of Dutch bulbs.

9. Financial Report.
a) Cheques to be signed.
No 339 Alex Evison – grass cutting Invoice No 4 dated 14/7/08 £81.50
No 340 JT Golightly – repairs to parish seat on B6306 £25.85
No 341 Linda Norris – traveling expenses to NCC 25/608 & 11/7 £16.00
Proposed by Cllr Mrs CA Brooks and seconded by Cllr Mrs AS Robson the cheques were signed.
b) Interim payments.
No 338 Mirror for Glen crossroads (see agenda item 4 b above) £137.42
Signed by Cllr AS Robson and Cllr Mrs L Norris
c) (i) Audit Date: 1/8/08
(ii) Display Notice: 16/6/08 – 29/6/08
(iii) Available for public inspection: 30/6/08 – 25/7/08
(iv) Internal Audit successfully completed by Margaret Weatherley.
(v) Signature of Chairman on accompanying letter.

10. Current Planning Applications.
20080625 Construction of first floor extension over single storey garage.
Gortmore House. No objections, however this is the third extension in 10 years.
20080613 Demolition of existing conservatory and construction of new sun lounge.
Wood Nook Hill Support
20080563 Construction of single storey rear extension.
7 South Park. No objections providing neighbours do not object to 3.5m ridge.
20080473 Construction of conservatory to north east elevation
Worth House, Wooley Grange. No objections
20080520 Variation of condition number 5 of planning permission 75/E/460- extension of operating season from nine months to twelve months.
Spring House Caravan Park. Objections. To be determined August 20th
20080210 Tree Preservation Order – felling of eight trees Townhead Farm. Pending *
20080046 Internal refurbishment - Slaley Hall Pending. *
*asked for a copy of these decisions as they must have been determined. Also a letter to Helen Winter with a copy to Ian Hutchinson as Chairman of Planning Committee. Asking why we are not getting planning applications, decision notes and sometimes the weekly list.
Decisions from Planning Authority
Listed Building Consent & Construction of a rear conservatory. Alteration and conversion of attached stable and attics to provide residential accommodation. Stanegarth, Slaley Village. Granted

11. Proposed Post Office Closures (19 9/6/08; 4a 12/5/08; 4c 14/4/08; 9m 10/3/08; 7 (2a) 14/1/08).
a) Verbal report from Cllr Mrs L Norris who attended NCC Community Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee - Open meeting on proposed Post Office closures, held Friday July 11th. Official minutes to follow.
b) Report from Public meeting on Monday July 14th attached as appendix 2/210708, page 440.
c) Action plan arising from this meeting for response on August 11th.
Public and business needs may be very different. The PC to try and achieve a public response on type of outreach service through simple questionnaire, web article and letter to all parishioners. Slaley Notes and CT newssheet to encourage parishioners to complete the questionnaire on preferred outreach service. (Community Trust to contact Peter Atkinson MP for any help he can give and assess business usage from its members). Cllr Norris to obtain an analysis of PO usage from the owners. A meeting prior to the official response to Post Office Ltd should consolidate all of the above in a reply. This meeting should consist of one member from The CT, the PC, the School, the Commemoration Hall and a Slaley ran Business representative and should be held, at the latest, one week before the consultation deadline, possibly Monday August 4th.
d) Attendance at the TDC meeting on Tuesday July 22nd
Councillors IC Hancock, L. Norris and Clerk P Wilson will attend.

12. Northumberland Electoral Review Parish & Town Council presentation at County Hall on June 25th 2008. Report by Cllr Mrs L Norris & Cllr Mrs CA Brooks. Copy of slides from David Francis circulated by e-mail 30/6/08. Boundary Commission is different to the Boundary Committee of the Electoral Commission. There are six stages of review and the recommendations are not binding.

13. Integrated Transport Programme priorities for 2009/10 circulated Reply by August 29th. Circulating.

14. Parish Plan – Toddler Play Area Review.
TC correspondence entitled ‘Funding Opportunity for Natural Play’ circulated for comment. Without a site the PC sees this as ‘not relevant to Slaley’.
It was suggested that a compulsory purchase of land in the village could be made for an equipped play area. The Clerk was requested to look into this.

15. Parish Plan – Action Plan Update attached as appendix 3/210708, page 441
Draft copy amended.

16. Forestry Commission meeting where Ted Liddle outlined his concerns in Slaley Forest. Report circulated and attached as appendix 4/210708, page 442.

17. Area for August walk-about.
Springhouse Caravan Site and The Cleugh Motor Cross activity site were suggested and rejected. It was agreed that The Village would be the venue. Councillors to meet at the Hall for 7 p.m. the normal monthly meeting will follow at 8.15 p.m.

18. A.O.B.
a) Man hole cover dislodged on Lead Road disclosing a three-foot deep dangerous hole. Reported to Clerk Sunday 6/7/08 a.m. checked by Clerk, covered over with highway warning furniture and reported by e-mail to NCC at 13.17 hrs. Immediate action was taken on Monday 7/7/08. Clerk was given the 24/7 emergency telephone number 0808 8 9 10.
b) It has been reported that the Rose & Crown are keeping pigs. Defra licenses for keeping livestock and feeding swill etc were discussed. Cllr Robson confirmed that a license for keeping pigs was held by the tenants.
c) E-mail from a Slaley Councillor regarding the legality of keeping a caravan on the public highway outside 12, South Park. Clerk to write and ask about the duration of the caravan on the Highways section of parking outside South Park.
d) Shooting at Premier Events outside of agreed hours has been reported from a Colpitts grange resident.
e) Cllr AS Robson sent an e-mail to NCC contact centre re lack of action on the dropped kerb at Slaley School. PC Clerk forwarded to Richard McKenzie. RM replied that work was issued to contractors last month who would schedule the work.

19. BOATs update.
a) Two e-mail replies from NCC Solicitor re Byway 44 – near the top of his list.
Meeting closed at 10.15 p.m.
Date of next meeting 7 p.m. Monday August 11th.

Slaley Parish Council June minutes

The Parish Council makes arrangements for a possible Post Office Closure read about the discussion on agenda item 19.

Minutes of Slaley Parish Council, Monday June 9th 2008, in Slaley Commemoration Hall 7.30 p.m.

1. Apologies. Councillor Ms M Palmer.
Present: Councillor I.C. Hancock in the Chair. Councillors Mrs L. Norris, Mrs C. A. Brooks, Mrs A. S. Robson, S. Davison & Clerk Mrs P. Wilson. District Councillor B.W. Massey & County Councillor C.W. Horncastle.
Public: Mrs J. List & Mr W.G Machin. Courant Reporter: None. Slaley Notes & Community Trust Executive Committee Member: Apologies from Michael Elphick.

2. Declaration of Interests and Hospitality Record.
Cllr Mrs L. Norris for agenda item 21.
Cllr C.W. Horncastle for agenda item 11

3. Minutes of May Parish Council Meeting (circulated pages 421-423)
Proposed by Cllr CA Brooks and seconded by Cllr A Robson the minutes were approved and signed.

4. Matters Arising.
a) 5a 12/5/08 - The Parish Councillors’ Pack (given at the training event Monday 19th May) circulated Good to have an update - it is sometimes easy to lose site of what we are responsible for and what we can achieve.
b) agenda item 14 of Annual Parish Meeting: 2008 Parish Check on Highways: letter to Tim Dent why sections of C280 were not repaired when road closed for two weeks. Reply from NCC Administration Officers saying reply in 15 working days = June 10th.
c) 4j 12/5/08; 18b 14/4/08: Clerk confirmed that no reply had been received from Planning department regarding the changes at Springhouse Caravan Park.

5. Deferred from Annual Parish Council Meeting agenda item 4a Election of
Vice-Chairman.
Cllr C.A. Brooks was nominated by Cllr IC Hancock and seconded by Cllr L. Norris there being no further nominations Cllr CA Brooks was elected Vice-Chairman.

6. Public Participation.
a) A member of the public stated that a newsletter earlier this year from Tynedale Council had indicated that brown wheelie bins for garden waste would be introduced into Tynedale parishes south of the Tyne. It was estimated that due to increased fuel prices it was costing £150-£200 a year for Slaley residents to dispose of garden waste at the Bridge End Civic Amenity Site. Would there be a refund on the community charge if this service were not provided for the Slaley area? CC Horncastle volunteered to look into this and report back to the Clerk. He did however indicate that it was not the policy of TC to refund community charge portions when a particular service was not available to everyone in the district.
b) Was there any reason why recently the date of the next Parish Council meeting was not given at the end of the minutes? This was an oversight and we have not even been aware that it had happened. The date would once again be included at the end of the minutes. Slaley PC does meet every second Monday of each month.
7. Community Trust Report
Report circulated and attached as appendix 1/090608, page 430

8. Matters for Discussion with County & District Councillors
Cllr Horncastle gave a report on the new single unitary authority. He indicated that there were problems, which would take many months if not years to sort out. He reported that discussions were taking place about Belonging Communities and suggested the Characteristics Communities could change in size.

9. Correspondence.
a) TC Local Development Framework: Proposals Maps covering letter.
Tynedale Planning Update May 2008 information sheet
TC Local Development Framework: Proposals Map October 2007
Tynedale District Schedule of Adopted Policies - this document does not give the details of the adopted policies therefore it would be advisable to retain the Local Plan.
b) North Pennines AONB Partnership – Annual Forum 7/7/08 invitation
North Pennines AONB Partnership – Annual Forum agenda
North Pennines AONB Partnership – Open Seat – no one was interested in standing.
North Pennines AONB Partnership – Open Seat Nomination Form
North Pennines News Spring & Summer 2008
North Pennines AONB Partnership – questionnaire (completed by Clerk)
c) Came & Co acknowledge receipt of Insurance cheque and informed us that our old Employers Liability Certificate needs to be retained for a further 40 years. Cllr Hancock suggests that a note is put in the community news that the certificate is available for inspection.
d) 5b 14/4/08 - NCC David Brookes reply to the cost of BOAT maintenance and repair Apl 07 – Mch 08 £11,021.00 – the whole sum was spent on byways in the Slaley Forest area. The member of public who raised this question has been informed by telephone. Cllr Hancock telephoned David Brookes, who confirmed that this is Public Information and can be reported. We do not know what percentage this is of the local RoW budget.
e) NCC Road closure notice C270 Glen crossroads to Townfoot 12 June – July 4th (This was advertised in Hexham Courant for 5 weeks beginning 19/5/08 (see Annual Parish meeting agenda item 14: 2008 Parish Check on Highways)
f) Allianz Insurance request for payment. Reply sent saying better quote from another company.
g) Mencap National College – request for funding. After discussion it was decided against funding Nationally, however, the PC may financially support local fundraising for the college at Dilston.
h) Minutes of Tynedale Planning Forum Meeting on 15/5/08 circulated by e-mail 29/5/08.
i) TC Parish/Town Council Elections. Do we at Slaley consider there should be June 2009 Parish Council elections? The Councillors felt there should not be elections in 2009. There is NOT a local appetite for such elections. The PC did not believe that a significant proportion of seats would be contested. This information would be conveyed to Mrs Gail Philipson at TC.
j) E-mail from David Francis – Hadrian’s wall Management Plan leaflet and update information. Circulated to Councillors by e-mail 9/6/08.
k) E-mail 5/6/08 from David Francis re Northumberland Coast AONB Partnership, Application Form. Available for any interested Councillor. CPRE Overview - Summer 2008; Lloyds TSB leaflet - your telephone banking service is now open for longer; Glasdon advertising brochure.

10. Financial Report.
a) Cheques to be signed.
No 337 Alex Evison – grass cutting Invoice No 2 dated 30/5/08 £81.50
Alex Evison – grass cutting Invoice No 3 dated 8/6/08 £81.50 + £163.00
Mr Evison reports that if the current growth rate continues more than 7 cuts may be required in total.
Proposed by Cllr Mrs L. Norris and seconded by Cllr Mrs CA Brooks the cheque was signed.
b) Interim payments.
No 335 Came & Company Insurance Withdrawn £286.30
No 336 Broker Network Ltd (to Came and Company) Insurance £286.30
Signed by Cllr IC Hancock and Cllr Mrs L Norris
c) (i) Audit Date: 1/8/08
(ii) Display Notice: 16/6/08 – 29/6/08
(iii) Available for public inspection: 30/6/08 – 25/7/08

11. Current Planning Applications.
Listed Building Consent & Construction of a rear conservatory. Alteration and conversion of attached stable and attics to provide residential accommodation. Stanegarth, Slaley Village. Circulating
20080210 Tree Preservation Order – felling of eight trees Townhead Farm. Pending
20080046 Internal refurbishment - Slaley Hall Pending.
Decisions from Planning Authority
20080262 Construction of single storey spa facility Slaley Hall. Withdrawn.
20080045 New two storey leisure club – Slaley Hall. Withdrawn

12. Draft Interpretation Board (report of meeting 19/5/08 and revised text) attached as appendix 2/090608) page 431.
Cllr Hancock had spoken with Mr Elphick regarding the content suggested by three Councillors and Steering Group Chairman, Moyra Riseborough. The Councillors discussed the various views. The Councillors would like illustrations to be restricted to Slaley parish only. It was acknowledged that accommodation brochures advertise the wider area of places to visit, but it was understood from the Parish Plan that the information board was to persuade people to stay at Slaley for accommodation or food and generally to help with the local economy by buying locally, supporting the village shop and post office and enjoying the many attractions on offer.
The Councillors agree that commercial information of local business (Blackburn Cattery, Pat Goodwin Design, Chris Ryder landscape etc.) should not be included. However where to buy locally eggs/milk etc should be on a separate, regularly updated, leaflet somewhere accessible, although the whereabouts of the leaflet should be recorded on the board.
The CT would like a parish map for use in this and other publications. The PC parish map was provided by TC and Slaley PC has no copyright on it to use elsewhere. A hand drawn copy might be a way round this. CC Horncastle suggested speaking with Lynn Turner, Director of Leisure and Tourism at Tynedale Council for further ideas and suggestions.
The Councillors look forward to viewing the next draft for comment.

13. Road safety at The Glen crossroads. (4d & 12a 13/8/07, 5c 10/9/07)
There has been at least one actual accident where Burnside wall has been damaged. Further near misses have been reported to members of the PC. Including concern expressed at the reconvened meeting of the Steering Group on 4/6/08.
Cllr Hancock spoke to NCC Area Maintenance Manager, Mel Richardson, about the problem. As a result of this discussion and ongoing complaints the clerk was requested to send a letter to the owners of Glen Cottage asking if the height of the roadside hedge could be cut back. The Parish Plan Steering Group also lodged its concern over the danger at this crossroads and urged members of the PC to purchase a mirror as soon as possible. A local Healey resident has also complained and reported a near miss. The lady felt lack of visibility was now so bad that the Police and NCC highways should enforce action before a fatality occurred. Clerk to check with Mr & Mrs Willis of Burnside that they are still agreeable for the mirror to be placed in their garden. If agreeable to purchase a mirror and have it installed without delay.

14. Jameson’s Well.
4i 12/5/08; 18a 14/4/08; 15b 14/1/08; 4d 8/10/07; 17 10/9/07. Cllr IC Hancock and Clerk Pat Wilson together with Peter Hutchinson met Mel Richardson and Duncan Roberts at the Well on Monday June 2nd. It was felt that the recent repairs had not rectified the problem. It was proposed that the troughs be cleared out completely and a new drainage channel be created between the well and the troughs and then beyond the troughs.
This has been confirmed by letter and will be carried out as soon as resources become available.

15. Speed Unit in Village
The poles for the unit were placed in the village on May 30th and we anticipate the unit any day now.

16. Parish Plan – Action Plan – Dog Fouling Review.
Several people still report dog fouling in the village. Most reports are from the centre of the village towards The Church. CC CW Horncastle informed the PC that TC has appointed a second dog warden therefore if a time of day can be provided when the fouling is most likely to take place the dog warden will be available to hopefully catch and prosecute the adult owner of the culprit. Cllr Hancock to provide this news for the Community Trust newssheet. Also something placed in Slaley Notes.

17. Parish Plan – Action Plan – Heritage Information Review. Attached as appendix 3/090608 page 432.
In trying to establish ownership of Wooley Bus Shelter & Slaley Home Guard Hut etc a letter was sent to Dick Fraser of NCC Highways Policy Unit. Mike Collins of English Heritage was asked about old wells both on and off the public highway. Mike Collins replied by e-mail that his expertise was the Roman period. NCC Highways replied that a detailed response would arrive within 15 working days.

18. Report of the meeting (4/6/08) of the reconvened Parish Plan Steering Group to look at the Action Plan.
Minutes of meeting circulated by e-mail and attached as appendix 4/090608 page 433. The members at the meeting wished to report their support in the PC’s endeavours to retain Post Office provision at Slaley and offered any help they could give.

19. Proposed Post Office Closures (4a 12/5/08; 4c 14/4/08; 9m 10/3/08; 7 (2a) 14/1/08; 7 12/2/07; 7k 12/12/06; 7o 13/11/06).
Letter from TC re Post Office Closure Programme meeting at 6 p.m. Tuesday July 22nd for presentation by Post Office Limited. The meeting is to coordinate a response and provide additional information before the end of consultation period on August 11th. Councillors Hancock and Norris and the Clerk will attend. Cllr Hancock had downloaded information from Savour Our Post Office web site and the Parliamentary Select Committee report on Post Office closures, on which he reported to the PC. Post Office provision together with a local school, retail outlet, inns and community building is part of the sustainability criteria for rural villages which justify more housing and a continued bus service. However, a part-time outreach Post Office service, provided from a van or some public building does count as continuing Post Office provision AS FAR AS THE Post office and Government are concerned. It was agreed that the Commemoration Hall would be booked for a Parish Council led Public Meeting on Monday July 7th at 7.30 p.m. on the assumption that Slaley Post Office is under threat. It will be an opportunity for objection at parish level. We will be informed on July 1st if Slaley is to lose its present provision. If it is NOT then the meeting need not go ahead. Clerk to request Slaley Notes to place something in the Courant, invite Peter Atkinson MP and ask if someone from ‘Postwatch’ would attend to offer advice on how we might respond to the alteration in service.

20. A.O.B.
a) A broken, engraved piece of standstone found abandoned on Blanchland Moor near the gate from Slaley Forest. The two pieces of stone have been given to PW for safekeeping and to try and establish where they were originally placed. Letters to Friends of Ladycross and Lord Crewe Trustees had so far drawn a blank. Clerk to contact Blanchland PC and ask if something could go in local newsletter, shop or wherever. Failing an answer from Blanchland try the Hexham Courant letters page.
b) Owner of West Ridley Hall reported that repairs to the highway edge had resulted in the highway being the same height as the curbstones, consequently when rainwater runs down the bank from East Ridley Hall entrance it goes straight down West Ridley hall drive to the house. During the flooding of April 27th/28th sandbags were needed. DC Massey mentioned this to Mel Richardson and action will be taken to rectify the problem.
d) Alex Evison reported that the base bracket on the Community seat situated on the B6306 had been vandalised. Cllr Hancock looked at the damage and instructed the Clerk to contact Trevor Golightly. Mr Golightly said he would take his tools with him and hopefully repair the base bracket without a huge expenditure.
e) Thieves have recently stolen two cycles from a home in Slaley. Apparently they have been found and returned to the owners.
f) It was decided to invite the new Slaley Hall Managing Director, Neal Crocker, to a Parish Council meeting.
g) Rose & Crown advertising sandwich board placed on the grassed area of the Public Highway at Townhead during May. Letter hand delivered May 29th 2008 informing the new tenants of the Parish Council’s decision with regard to local advertising (See 19a 12/12/06 & 7c 8/10/07). Also that permission is needed for notices on the public highway. Copy circulated by e-mail to Councillors 1/6/08.

21. BOATs update.
a) Hexham Courant 16/5/08 letters page - John Lynch, Kitty Frisk, Hexham wrote the main letter entitled “Bikers are allowed to take over forest”. The letter carried a photograph of Slaley Forest.
b) Hexham Courant 23/5/08 letters page – Peter Cullen, Allerwash, replied giving the users point of view.
c) Hexham Courant 6/6/08 editorial by Brian Tilley entitled Motorised traffic allowed on tracks Scooters in forest pose safety risks. There was a photograph of Maggie Kyte and gave the AVAG point of view to the letter from John Lynch
d) Moyra Riseborough reported 4 landrovers driving up the U8217 Sunday morning (8/6/08) while she was attempting to ride the route as a safe bridleway. Then as she attempted to return that way twelve trail bikers appeared in convoy and for obvious reasons she and her horse decided not to compete with these recreational vehicles on the narrow green lane.
e) Six 4x4 vehicles travelled from the U8080, down the U8081 to the C275 early afternoon on Sunday 8/6/08. This is the proposed Byway 44, but has a TRO in place.
f) Clerk to contact NCC Solicitor, Stephen Rickitt and ask if Byway 44 is near the top of the list.

Meeting closed at 9.50 p.m. Date of next meeting Monday July 14th.

Slaley Parish Council

Reduced use of Post Office services at Slaley has resulted in the proposed closure of the service in the Village Shop and its replacement with an outreach service. Although this is very bad news, meetings with Post Office Ltd through the County, District and Parish Councils have shown that the Outreach Post Office facility offered to Slaley is better than for many other Northumberland villages.

There is an opportunity for us to obtain improvements to the offered outreach. To help determine which of the two Post Office Outreach proposals would best serve the people of Slaley parish a very simple questionnaire has been placed in Slaley Post Office and the Parish Councillors urge everyone to complete one of the options by today, August 1st. The PC will then work to obtain the best conditions possible from Post Office Ltd. before the consultation period ends on August 11th.

Also a letter to the parishioners of Slaley.

Slaley Parish Council.
Chairman: Ian C Hancock. E-mail: hancock@glenlodge.free-online.co.uk
Clerk: Pat Wilson. E-mail patricia.wilson28@btinternet.com

July 2008

Dear Slaley Parishioner,
The Post Office Outreach Service on offer is either
7 hours in Village Hall (in 2 or 3 sessions each week of 2 or 3 hours)
or Mobile van daily provision of 1 hour 15 minutes (weekdays only)

We are asking you to inform us of regular lengthy transactions, one-off instances of heavy use, or personal circumstances relevant to the location of the service, which can be used in our case to PO Ltd to obtain better opening times and conditions.

The Parish Council needs FACTS to present to Post Office Ltd.; we need to know of individuals' Post Office needs. It was agreed by PO Ltd at our parish meeting that the proposed opening times are open to alteration and improvement if we can make a factual case on evidence currently not available to PO Ltd. Here is one example of such evidence: A parishioner posted 63 large calendars from Slaley PO in December 2007. Each Calendar had to be weighed and recorded according to its destination in the world. The whole process took 45 minutes but in PO statistics it counted as one customer transaction. The proposed outreach service assumes 160 customer transactions per week. Given 7 hours (or maybe a little less) of PO service time, that equates to only 2.63 minutes per transaction.

August 11th is the deadline for the six-week consultation period, but the Parish Council needs to formulate its response by August 6th; therefore can we ask that any factual evidence you can provide can reach us by August 4th. In this instance please forward all correspondence to either Councillor Ian Hancock or me.

Slaley Parish Council has been actively involved in trying to protect our Post Office from closure since November 2006. You may recall the “Love Your Post Office” Poster, which was placed on the PC notice board towards the close of 2006. We believe that with your help we can at least obtain improvements to what we are currently being offered.

Yours sincerely,
Pat Wilson
Patricia Wilson.
Clerk to Slaley Parish Council.

Slaley Parish Council

The July meeting of Slaley Parish Council will be one week later than advertised (now Monday July 21st) for the following reason.

Slaley Parish Council
is hosting a
Public Meeting
on Monday July 14th
(not the 7th as previously advertised. Change in date is to ensure that a member of Post Office Ltd will be able to attend)
7.30 p.m.
Slaley Commemoration Hall

To discuss how the proposed new Post Office provision will affect you or your business.

It is agreed that a member of Post Office Ltd will attend to provide accurate information.

Slaley Parish Council May minutes

Colin William Horncastle is the new County Councillor for South Tynedale. His majority votes are recorded on agenda item 4e in the May minutes.

Minutes of Slaley Parish Council, Monday May 12th 2008, in Slaley Commemoration Hall 7.30 p.m.

1. Apologies. Councillors Mrs L. Norris & County Councillor Wm Purdue.
Present: Councillor I.C. Hancock in the Chair. Councillors Mrs C. A. Brooks, Mrs A. S. Robson, S. Davison, Ms M Palmer & Clerk Mrs P. Wilson. District Councillor B.W. Massey.
Public: None. Courant Reporter: Rebecca Dixon. Slaley Notes & Community Trust Executive Committee Member: Michael Elphick.

2. Declaration of Interests & Hospitality Record.
Clerk P Wilson at Slaley Hall Thursday April 17th.

3. Minutes of April 2008 Meeting pages 407-413 + appendices pages 414-417 (circulated).
Proposed by Cllr C.A. Brooks and seconded by Cllr M. Palmer the minutes were approved and signed.

4. Matters Arising.
a) 4c 14/4/08 DC Brian Massey informed SPC that they will in all probability get an invitation from TC for a discussion relating to the proposed Post Office closures. The meeting will formulate a plan of action should it be needed.
b) 4e 14/4/08 DC Brian Massey asked if action had been taken to drop the curb at Slaley First School. A negative reply was made. Clerk to send a copy of the request to CC CW Horncastle.
c) 5a 14/4/08. Reply from NCC re C280 road closure – Tim Dent is the engineer in charge. (However the Clerk reported that traffic lights would not have worked because the road is too narrow for work to continue whilst part of the road is being repaired).
d) 5b 14/4/08 Reply from D Brookes department saying a reply within 15 working days = 23/4 = May 15th.
e) 8i 14/4/08 - TC Council Election 1st May 2008 – Outcome as follows for South Tynedale:
Colin William Horncastle Cons 1114 majority of 708
Bill Purdue Ind 0406
Kat Clarkson Lib Dem 0227
John Robert Temple Lab 0182
Clerk to write to Cllr Horncastle and invite to monthly meetings.
f) 9c 14/4/08 Clerk telephoned Julie at VMS today and we have been given a new date of May 22nd for the posts and a week late to install the unit. VMS did in fact arrive on site at the April date only to discover that the firm subcontracted to install the posts had not done so.
g) 11 14/4/08 A copy of the public liability insurance was received by e-mail for the lowerst grass cutting tender this was given clearance by Cllrs Hancock and Brooks.
h) 12 14/4/08 Parish Council Insurance Quote (see 6d 11/2/08) from Came and Company circulated by e-mail re completion of declaration form. Yes to go ahead with this quote.
i) 18a 14/4/08 Jameson’s Well. NCC has dug a drainage hole leading into the verge past the troughs and this has stopped the water running off the highway. NCC’s Mel Richardson seems to think that the water will dry up during the summer months. Clerk to write to Mr Richardson and state PC’s concerns over this theory. (copy Cllr Horncastle)
j) 18b 14/4/08 No reply from planning re lack of planning permission for work at Springhouse Caravan Park. New advertisement in Journal 26/4/08 & 3/5/08 showing the wooden Holiday Homes staring at £6,495. Clerk to write with a copy of new advert. DC Brian Massey took a copy and will make representation on our behalf at TC.

5. Correspondence.
a) E-mail from David Francis re PC training Events – Monday May 19th at Hexham Community Centre 7-9 p.m. circulated by e-mail 23/4/08. Pat Wilson and Cllr CA brooks will attend.
b) E-mail from David Francis re Burial Information Session circulated by e-mail 23/4/08
c) E-mail from David Francis re Hadrian’s Wall World Heritage Site Management Plan 2008-2012 circulated by e-mail 23/4/08
d) E-mail from David Francis re Local Area Agreement circulated by e-mail 1/5/08.
e) E-mail from David Francis re CAN Spring meeting circulated by e-mail 1/5/08.
f) Letter from Kevin Ferrol TC, re Glass Bottle Re-cycling Facility circulated with a file of correspondence on the subject. Clerk requested to send a copy of the file with a covering letter explaining the concerns of Slaley PC are as stated.
g) Thank You e-mail from Jim Galley re PC help with the dropped curb at Slaley school.
h) Thank You letter from Jillian Rutherford for SPC contribution towards Selefest 2008.
i) TC Selefest letter from Patricia Gillespie naming SPC as a sponsor.
j) TC May half-term play programme Poster (notice board and leaflets (Post Office).
k) TC Refuse Collection Changes – May Bank Holiday 2008 poster (notice board)
l) ADAPT News April/May 2008; NALC Conference 2008 at Winter Gardens, Eastbourne; CAN News Vol 28 No 2; Clerks & Councils Direct May 2008 issue 57; TDC minutes of meeting February 2008.

5(i) Planning applications.
20080262 Construction of single storey spa facility Slaley Hall. Pending.
20080210 Tree Preservation Order – felling of eight trees Townhead Farm. Pending
20080045 New two storey leisure club – Slaley Hall. Pending
20080046 Internal refurbishment - Slaley Hall Pending.
Decisions from Planning Authority
None

6. Financial Report.
a) Cheques to be signed.
No 332 NALC annual subscription £96.61
No 333 Alex Evison – grass cutting £179.00
No 334 NALC training event for 2 £6.00 (see 5a above)
Proposed by Cllr IC Hanock and seconded by Cllr Mg Palmer the cheques were signed.
b) Interim payments. None
c) Audit:

7. A.O.B.
a) A member of the public has reported to PC Iain Robertson a possible poachers vehicle.
b) Trail bike activity was noted from the Slaley forest area on Saturday May 10th and Sunday May 11th.
c) C270 between Flothers farm and Glen crossroads closed from May 19th for five weeks – public notice in Hexham Courant 2/5/08.
d) Wednesday June 4th is the first meeting of the re-convened Steering Group to look at the Parish Plan Action Plan to either update the actions or suggest an alternative approach.
e) Rose & Crown Inn, Slaley reopened on Friday April 25th the new tenants are Jo MacIntry, son Jon, daughter Tanya and partner Peter Gash.
f) Clerk to send a Thank You card to County Councillor Bill Purdue on behalf of all the members of Slaley Parish Council.
g) Clerk has not received the weekly planning list for two weeks. DC B Massey had and said he would check on applications at Slaley. Clerk to speak with Nicki Alder and ask if changes to the distribution system have been made.

Slaley Parish Council April 2008 Minutes

Read about parish grass cutting and a review of the Millennium Feature landscaping at agenda item 11. Reminder the minutes are not posted on this site until they have been agreed by the Councillors which is normally the month after they were taken.

Minutes of Slaley Parish Council, Monday April 14th 2008, in Slaley Commemoration Hall 7.30 p.m.

The normal monthly meeting was preceded by a special meeting at 7.15 p.m. with David Spenceley of Premier Events who had asked to speak with Slaley PC and explain the benefits that Premier Events bring to the parish of Slaley. (see 8d 10/3/08 + 4c 10/3/08 & 9b 11/2/08).
Slaley Parish Council (PC) Chairman, Cllr I Hancock, reported to the public Mr Spenceley’s concerns that in the past when the PC has received a complaint about Premier Leisure (PL) activities or raised concerns itself about some aspect connected to PL, PL had not always been included in the loop of communication. He explained that this was partly due to the difficulty of identifying whether the activities concerned were the responsibility of De Vere Slaley Hall or PL.
David Spenceley (DS) thanked the PC for giving him the opportunity to present his company Premier Events and Leisure (PE) and try to address some of the concerns reported through the PC minutes. With the aid of a laptop presentation and a collection of advertising leaflets DS explained that there are four shareholders in PE; he and one other own 90% of the company. PE is totally independent of De Vere Slaley Hall (SH) although they do have a tenancy agreement to undertake activities on the SH estate. DS who took over PE approximately three and a half years ago lives at Castleside and his other main shareholder at Kiln Pit Hill. Both are committed to the countryside and try to keep the events fields in tune with nature. DS indicated that his company was responsible for arranging for the County Council to skim the U8080 through the events section of the highway. DS feels that PE provides jobs for local people and is a good source of income for local businesses, eg. pies from Slaley Post Office and beer from the local Inns. Seasonal work for part time students is one example of the positive impact on the local community. PE provides employment equated to 30 full time members of staff all trained by DS. PE has a nationwide infrastructure with a sales offices based in Birmingham. At Slaley Hall the company provides individual and corporate activities, ranging from off-road driving, clay pigeon shooting, paint-balling etc to Casino nights, pig and ferret racing. PE provide the only extreme sport in the North of England. Activities are available for young people from six years upwards. The terms of operation for all activities are laid down and personally handled by DS. Local groups made up a significant proportion of the 10,000 customers during 2007. PE has provided activity raffle prizes for Whitonstall First School.
The paint-balling activity has been sublet to All Out Paintball, run by two ex-employees of PE with experience in this specialist activity. Although floodlit arenas are advertised for this activity the floodlighting will not happen until an agreement has been reached. DS dictates the terms of operation for the paint-balling and this includes the health and safety aspect. DS indicated that there was floodlighting already installed at the site and therefore was not aware of any contravention of planning conditions. DS reported that he had a weekly liaison meeting with a member of the planning authority.
Conditions in planning permission 20050557 has had an 80% reduction in (clay shooting activity hours?), or (revenue?) which in turn meant the loss of two permanent positions. The ban on shooting during weekends and bank holidays was a drawback for possible clients.
Mr Spenceley then answered questions about:
(i) The impact of PE activities on the private water supply; DS replied that the planning consent of 20050557 indicated PL activities did not affect the private water supply.
(ii) The problem of overshooting on particular dates; DS gave a report of how or why this had happened.
(iii) Noise barriers and silent shotguns; DS offered discussion on these possibilities, but indicated that any financial improvements would need to be matched by increased income which would require more shoot activity hours/days.
(iv) Reports that unlicensed, uninsured activity vehicles were traveling on the U8080 public highway contrary to the planning condition that they should be transported by trailer to activity site; DS said he would look into this.
(v) 4x4 vehicles using routes outside of the SH grounds i.e. Slaley Forest BOATs; DS replied that these were not PE vehicles – their 3 Landrover 1.10 all stayed within the SH grounds.
(vi) Use of steel or lead shot for clay shooting; DS would need to check and report which was used.
(vii) Siting of the PE booking office/ kiosk/ activity bike storage if the Slaley Hall planning permission is approved; DS did not know - the bookings will probably be from within the hotel and PE is presently in conversation with a local landowner to convert a grain store into a storage building for PE vehicles.
(viii) DS said that he was unaware that the U8080 public highway is presently under a Draft Map Modification Order for a 60-foot wide BOAT application (Byway 44). Or that as designated in 1771 it has a dogleg to the south (copy of the map was presented) through the area where PE currently has a 4x4 activity track on the site (aerial photograph was presented). The PC informed him that NCC ‘s legal department have instructed the people affected by the proposal that no further encroachment onto the U8080 must be made until the exact status is determined, probably through the Magistrates Court.

The Chairman thanked Mr Spenceley for his presentation and said the PC would keep him in the loop with any further concerns. DS’s business cards were available for anyone who wanted one.

Main Meeting
1. Apologies. Councillor Mrs A. S. Robson & County Councillor Wm Purdue.
Present: Councillor I.C. Hancock in the Chair. Councillors Mrs C. A. Brooks, Mrs L. Norris, S. Davison, Ms M Palmer & Clerk Mrs P. Wilson. District Councillor B.W. Massey.
Public: Mr & Mrs H Willis, K Bates, M Tully, Mr & Mrs I Clarke, R Ferguson. Slaley Notes & Community Trust Executive Committee Member: Michael Elphick. Hexham Courant Rebecca Dixon. Invited Guests for part of meeting David Spenceley.

2. Declaration of Interests & Hospitality Record.
Cllrs Mrs L Norris for BOATs agenda item 19.

3. Minutes of March Parish Council Meeting (circulated pages 393-398 + appendices 1 page 399, 2 page 400, 3 page 401, 4 page 402, 5 page 403, 6 page 404, 7 page 405 & 8 page 406) Proposed by Cllr C.A. Brooks and seconded by Cllr M. Palmer the minutes were approved and signed.

4. Matters Arising.
a) Discussions with Barry Moore reported in Hexham Courant resulted in concerned telephone call from the within the parish “there should be a line drawn under the allocation problems this continued reporting and discussion is not doing anyone any good”. Also a letter from one resident with a copy of her letter to the Hexham Courant regarding the disheartening articles was read to the meeting. The Chairman reported that he agreed that a line should be drawn under the initial allocation process of the affordable houses and unfortunately the meeting with Barry Moore to find out about the two part-ownership properties “had not been a productive meeting”.
b) 9a 10/3/08: Belonging Communities meeting on March 12th attended by Cllr’s L Norris & I C Hancock report: The meeting had split into groups which were asked to suggest possible structures and priorities on which advisors should give guidance in future meetings. Official minutes attached as appendix 1/140408, page 414.
c) 9m 10/3/08 Reply from Post Office network in answer to our request for the consultation period be increased to 12 weeks. Circulated and noted DC Massey reported that TC are watching the Essex trial and may suggest something similar once the May elections are over.
d) 19b 10/3/08 Reply from TC regarding our letter reporting that the elderly and disabled Slaley people travelling by bus into Hexham will be dropped off at a considerable distance from the town unless the proposal is for all coaches from outside the town to make it to a central bus stop and return to the proposed Loosing Hill site. The reply indicates that TC assume that Slaley people arrive via Eastgate and could be dropped off at Priestpopple. Circulated and noted it was felt that none of the concerns from Slaley parishioners had been addressed.
e) 19c 10/3/08 Mobility problems at the west curb outside the vehicle entrance into Slaley First School. E-mail from Richard McKenzie indicates that NCC have an annual ‘dropped kerb’ grant and he hopes that the Slaley work can be carried out very quickly in the 08/09 financial year.

5. Public Participation.
a) The road closure of the C280 was questioned and why traffic lights had not been used. The alternative route B6306 then C279 (old lead road) was very narrow and not at all suitable. Hexhamshire PC had not seen any problems with this closure when they had been informed. Clerk to telephone highways and ask about the traffic lights.
b) The total cost for the repair and maintenance of all the BOATs network in the County of Northumberland for the period April 2007 – March 2008 was requested.

6. Community Trust Report.
Circulated as appendix 2/140408, page 415. Mr Elphick expanded on the cost of the Interpretive Board estimated at a total cost of £2,700 + Vat (£472.50 at 17.5%) = £3172.50 - £900 grant = £2272.50 to be paid by PC. This did not include installation costs, which it was hoped would be met by the PC. The Councillors reaffirmed their request to see and approve the draft before it is approved especially since there will not be an annual amendment and the estimated life span of the information would be 5 years. Mr Elphick also indicated that once in place the Interpretive Board would come under the ownership/insurance of the Parish Council because the CT did not own anything in the parish.
b) Copy of correspondence from CT to Marston Brewery, asking for an update on a tenant for the Rose & Crown Inn. A rumour was reported by the Councillors that Marston Brewery has sold the R&C to Enterprise Inns and it is rumoured that the R&C will reopen this coming weekend.

7. Matters for Discussion with County & District Councillors

8. Correspondence.
a) Letter from Andrew Coney informing the PC of his leaving Slaley Hall for a new opportunity. He and his family intend to stay in Slaley village. Clerk to write and thank AC and express the hope that, like him, his successor sees the importance of a good working relationship with the parish.
b) NCC C275 8/10 week road closure for bridge redecking. Clerk telephoned Richard Ridley of Dipton Foot Farm to alert him of this. Also contacted G Martindale (via Peter Brewis) and gave Dipton Foot farm details to him. Liaison will need to take place between the Ridley family whose farm is split 2/3 north of bridge, 1/3 including farmhouse and building south of bridge.
c) NCC photograph and description of proposed work at 9 South Park funding through CC Purdue’s small schemes grant. This was confirmed after consultation with Cllr Hancock.
d) Minutes of Planning Forum Meeting held 21/2/08 circulated by e-mail 12/3/08. Date of next meeting May 15th 10 a.m.
e) NSP Rural Update. Special Edition: Post Office Network Change Programme e-mailed from David Francis and circulated by e-mail 16/3/08
f) NCC Development of Area Travel Information Co-ordinators – circulated.
g) Great North Air Ambulance Service annual letter for financial aid – circulated (already allocated in precept for 08/09.
h) TC Hanging Baskets 2008 Northumbria in Bloom 2008 circulated.
i) TC Council Election 1st May 2008 Notice of Election & Notice of Poll candidates placed on Notice Board.
j) NSP Partnership Update via David Francis circulated by e-mail 21/3/08 – No Comment.
k) Cllr. L. Norris informed the Easter Tynedale & Western Castle Morpeth Parish Councils Forum that it would not be appropriate for her to attend further meetings because Slaley intends to join the Hexham & Hexhamshire Belonging Community. Circulated by e-mail 25/3/08
l) FOSS minutes circulated by e-mail.
m) TC Easter Play Programme – Poster displayed notice board and leaflets to Slaley Post Office 4/4/08; Community Action Northumberland meeting 6/5/08 LEADER presentation + LEADER 28 page brochure “Celebrating North Northumberland - Working together with the Community”. Glasdon advertising leaflets; Cleveland Land Services advertising leaflet; Milecastle Home truths Spring 2008; Wicksteed advertising brochure; NALC Royal Garden Party 22/7/08 Clark telephoned chairman and asked if he wanted his name put forward – there was no positive reply therefore no action taken.

9. Financial Report.
a) Cheques to be signed. None.
b) Interim payments.
No 331 Slaley Commemoration Hall 6 meetings £84.00 Signed by Cllrs Norris & Hancock.
c) £500 cheque received from NCC towards village speed unit. Paid into PC account 28/3/08 and included in 07/08 financial records. Clerk telephoned VMS today and given a date of week commencing April 23rd to install the unit. Apparently a delay with the metal poles prevented the March 17th commencement date.
d) Balance Sheet presented to the meeting and attached as appendix 3/140408, page 416.

10. Current Planning Applications.
20080262 Construction of single storey spa facility including hydrotherapy, treatment rooms, café, shop, changing rooms and associated service facilities, together with new pedestrian walkways and overspill car parking. Slaley Hall. Draft reply agreed.
20080210 Tree Preservation Order – felling of eight Sycamore, one Conifer, two Beech and two Ash at Townhead Farm – Object – Acknowledgment from Planning
20080045 Removal of existing timber structure & construction of new two storey leisure club including swimming pool, gymnasium, studios, relaxation space, bar and associated accommodation together with revised road and car parking layout.
No objections, but PC pointed out incorrect wording on written attachments and no mention of where Premier Leisure building will relocate to on the estate must be questioned.
20080046 Listed Building Consent. Internal refurbishment, conversion of existing pool room / residents lounge into new reception area, conversion of existing meeting room into new whisky bar, conversion of restaurant annex into fine dining area and existing suite upgraded. Slaley Hall Pending.
Decisions from Planning Authority
20080174 Conversion of barn to dwelling, construction of garage, farm office and staff facilities. Blackburn Farm. Granted
20080095 Construction of loose box stables comprising two stables and tack room.
North Cottage, Marley Cote Walls. Granted.

11. Parish Grass Cutting (4d 11/2/08) & review of Millennium Feature landscaping (see 5b, page 351, 8/10/07 minutes)
A tender notice was placed on Parish Notice Board – there have been no further inquiries. A copy of the Work Schedule was sent to Hollybush Nursery the reply was circulated.
Two tenders were received. After discussion the Councillors agreed to accept the lowest tender, but wished to see the public liability insurance policy before work commenced. A thank you letter to be sent to Hollybush landscaping.
The Councillors voted on the Millennium Feature landscaping on whether the gravel should be left. It was a unanimous decision to retain the gravel. The Clerk to write a letter to Keith Robson informing him of the decision and thanking him for cutting the grass at Townhead which will now be carried out as part of the overall grass-cutting programme agreed above.

12. Parish Council Insurance Quote (see 6d 11/2/08)
a) Renewal quote from Allianz is £354.55.
b) Write with a copy of this quote to Came and Company requesting a quote for equivalent cover.

13. Annual Highways Report – update.
These reports need to be with SPC Clerk by April 30th for their presentation in book form at the AGM in May. Cllr Palmer changed part of her route with Cllr Brooks.

14. Audit Arrangements.
DBO Stoy Hayward LLp confirmed as Slaley PC auditor.

15. Request Reports for Annual Meetings in May
a) from Chairman of Slaley Parish Council.
b) From Chairman The 4 Parishes BOATs Joint Committee
c) From B Massey District Councillor
d) From Bill Purdue County Councillor
e) From Slaley Youth Club
f) From the Commemoration Hall Representative.
g) From Chairman of Slaley Community Trust.
These reports need to be with SPC Clerk by April 30th for their presentation in book form at the AGM in May.

16. Parish Plan April 2008 Update.
Draft circulated amendments made. Attached as appendix 4/140408, page 417.

17. Parish Plan Litter Pick – date in April.
Unfortunately because of personal commitments the Councillors are unable to carry out a Litter Pick before mid May therefore it was thought that an Autumnal Litter Pick would be a better suggestion. Slaley Notes to carry this information to the public.

18. A.O.B.
a) Jameson’s Well Cllr Hancock and PW met Kevin Allen of NCC Highways and Peter Rogers, NCC listed buildings Manager on Wednesday April 9th at the Well and discussed possible reasons for the excess water. These ranged from planning applications for a soak away from new septic treatment works at High Clear to ground water accumulation since piped water came to Slaley and the Springhouse and Moorgair tanks were closed down. Although there is no damage to the Well it was felt that exploratory work at the site was needed and consultation with Northumbrian Water and the Environmental Agency should be made. It was also wondered if the trees being felled in Slaley Forest could have an impact on the water level at a lower level in the parish.
b) It has been reported that street lighting has been installed at Springhouse Caravan Park. Clerk to write to planning and ask if a retrospective planning application is expected.

19. B0ATs update.
a) Report of transit pick up with unlicensed trail bikes entered Slaley Forest, Sunday April 13th at 9.15 a.m. At approximately 4 p.m. on Sunday 13th April a Volkswagen silver/beige car with trailer containing unlicensed trail bikes was recorded exiting Slaley Forest
b) a convoy of 7/8 Landrovers has been regularly spotted using the BOATs network both claimed and approved.
c) Natural England & Defra have abandoned the Discovering Lost Ways Project - individuals will have to fund their own research into Lost Ways.

The meeting closed at 10.05 p.m.

Slaley Parish Council

During the March 2008 Parish Council meeting Councillors and members of the public met our Neighbourhood Beat Manager, PC Ian Robertson, read more at agenda item 2i.

Minutes of Slaley Parish Council, Monday March 10th 2008, in Slaley Commemoration Hall 7.30 p.m.

The normal monthly meeting was preceded by a special meeting at 7 p.m. with Barry Moore, Regional Housing Manager, of Two Castles RSL who had agreed to speak with Slaley PC and explain why two Affordable Houses are still un-occupied despite local people waiting for a home. Report attached as appendix 1/100308

1. Apologies. Councillors Mrs L. Norris, S. Davison & County Councillor Wm Purdue.
Present: Councillor I.C. Hancock in the Chair. Councillors Mrs C. A. Brooks, Mrs A. S. Robson, Ms M Palmer & Clerk Mrs P. Wilson. District Councillor B.W. Massey.
Public: Susan & Rachel Dart, Derek Hull, Raymond Craig & Moyra Riseborough. Courant Reporter: Rebecca Dixon. Slaley Notes: Jean Elphick & Community Trust Executive Committee Member: Michael Elphick.
Invited Guests for part of meeting Barry Moore of Two Castles RSL, Andrew Coney of Slaley Hall De-Vere & PC Iain Robertson, Neighbourhood Beat Manager

2. Declaration of Interests & Hospitality Record.
Clerk through her daughter-in-law’s employment has a personal interest in Planning Application 20080045.

2i) At this point PC Iain Robertson was invited to speak.
PC Robertson is the Neighbourhood Beat Manager, he applied for the position and is based at Corbridge Station. His area covers from the A68 west to Hexham and south to the Durham border. Iain is keen to reestablish the Neighbourhood watch scheme and is responsible for the Farm Watch Scheme. He asked for volunteers for the neighbourhood scheme especially in the village (Slaley Notes to carry something in the Courant). Recent crime was discussed and he advised all farmers/country people to keep their motorcycles and tools in a locked building without ignition keys. PC Robertson is eager to make himself known in the area and be contactable by telephone or text message. Three- page leaflets describing the new policing arrangements for our area were distributed. A talk at Whitley Chapel School is already planned and he indicated that he hoped to do the same at Slaley School. He was asked specifically if he could do Road safety and Cycle Proficiency Training for children during school holidays? Iain said he hoped that his Sergeant would welcome this suggestion. The Parish Councillors are eager to work with PC Robertson on any aspect of child safety and asked to be kept informed. PC Robertson was thanked for his introduction.

2ii) Agenda item 6 was brought forward next
Moyra Riseborough reported that a meeting with Michael Elphick and Peter McKendrick to discuss the PC’s request had resulted in the decision to meet sometime during May or September for a ‘gentle discussion’ to revise the Action Plan template. This was a good time to examine the Action Plan with the Local Government Review taking place. The original Steering Group would be invited although anyone else who was interested could attend. Some of the ‘Actions’ are out of date and a line should be put under the achievements. The many achievements are commendable. Moyra was thanked for her report.

2iii) Andrew Coney, General Manager of Slaley Hall De-Vere was invited to speak next.
The Master Plan for the future development for Slaley Hall Hotel was examined. The new owners of 18 months feel the time is right to upgrade the facilities to 5 star deluxe rating. Of particular interest was the new underground Spa which is proposed by the Japanese garden. Several inconsistencies between the plans and the supporting application documents were mentioned. These will be reported to Tynedale Planning Department in the PC response to planning application 20080045. The loss of the Premier Leisure Booking Office and Information Kiosk was accepted but lack of knowledge of where the replacement building will be situated, especially in light of the DMMO for Byway 44, was unfortunate. Mr Coney was thanked for his time and showing the Master Plan.

3. Minutes of February Parish Council Meeting (pages 385-388 + appendices 1 page 389, 2 page 390, 3 page 391 & 4 page 392)
Proposed by Cllr C.A. Brooks and seconded by Cllr A. Robson the minutes were approved and signed. The January minutes agreed at the February meeting were also signed.

4. Matters Arising.
a) 4c 11/2/08 (appendix 3/110208); 15e 14/1/08 (see question 6 12/11/07 minutes, page 362) Reply received from Chris Brinton to letter for Andrew J Dean “once occupied the tenant is an assured tenant under the 106 agreement”.
b) 6n11/2/08; 11 14/1/08; 13 10/12/07; 3 12/11/07; 13 8/10/07; 14 10/9/07 Post Christmas Meal for elderly parishioners. Andrew Coney of Slaley Hall DeVere confirmed by e-mail that he would be delighted to discuss a repeat event in 2009. This will be placed on the September meeting agenda.
c) Reply from Planning re 9b 11/2/08 queries re floodlit paintball arenas receiving attention.

5. Public Participation.
The public had already spoken during the discussions with Barry Moore, PC Iain Robertson & Andrew Coney.

6. Moyra Riseborough Chairman of the Parish Plan Steering Group asked to comment on proposals to update the Action Plan (4b 11/2/08; 14b 14/1/08).
Copy of the 2003 Action Plan sent by e-mail to Councillors on 29/2/08 together with background of history + meeting discussions of 20/2/08. Attached as Appendix 2/100308.
(Item brought forward and reported at 2ii above)

7. Community Trust Report.
Report circulated by e-mail and attached as Appendix 3/100308

8. Matters for Discussion with County & District Councillors
E-mail replies from DC B Massey 12/2/08 regarding Non Allocation of part-buy AH agenda item 4c 8/11/08 & Blackburn planning application agenda item 8 11/2/08.
CC Purdue - Solar Powered Speed Unit correspondence from Reuben Morgan. Telephone call to VMS our speed unit should be with us by Easter.

9. Correspondence.
a) TC Andrew J Dean – Belonging Communities meeting 12/3/08 Cllr Hanock & Norris will attend and Michael Elphick is attending representing The Community Trust.
b) Jill Dixon LGR Programme Director – letter re review (also by e-mail) – Cllr Hancock made a response which was e-mailed to Ms Dixon. E-mail acknowledgement of our comments.
c) Selefest 2008 – It was agreed to give a £50 donation and ask for a list of contributors.
d) E-mail via Slaley web page, from David B Spenceley, one of the owners of Premier Events, in which he claims that PC minutes report that activities of PE have taken place outside of the conditions of planning consent. Request to attend a meeting. We have looked through the Slaley Web site and the only references found are as attached under appendix 4/100308. The Chairman’s suggested reply was agreed at the meeting as was the invitation to attend the April meeting for a 30 minute slot between 7.15 – 7.45 p.m.
e) County Life, page 37, spotted by Cllr. Linda Norris.
f) PB Power Pure Renewable Energy –Proposed Wind Clusters. Noted
g) Hexham Community Partnership Monday 17/3/08 meeting – Future ways of Working. No-one able to attend.
h) Community Action Northumberland News Vol 28 No 1 – Communities & Clusters. Noted.
i) Community Action Northumberland – Calor Village Competition. Noted.
j) Northumberland & Newcastle Society letter, diary, leaflet & booklet. Noted.
k) Northumberland Stragic Partnership meeting 19/2/08 Holiday inn Seaton Burn circulated by e-mail 12/2/08
l) E-mail from Tanya Merridew - Planning Forum 21/2/08 at 10 a.m. circulated by e-mail 12/2/08. No one was able to attend.
m) TC resolution regarding the Post Office network consultation in Tynedale. TC are requesting a letter supporting the extension of the consultation period to 12 weeks It was agreed that the Slaley write in support.
n) TC Posters What can you put in your recycling bin? Poster displayed Parish Board. Information to individual households is still awaited.
o) Northumberland National Park and Countryside JLAF Recruitment Year 6. Cllr Mrs A Robson indicated and interest in joining the JLAF.
p) Northumberland VCS Consortium (Cllr A Robson proposes to attend) – Conference details, Conference booking form, leaflets “What is the Consortium” and “What is the Northumberland Compact”.
q) Refuse Collection Easter Weekend – place on Notice Board. TDC minutes of meetings; NTC Northumberland Touring Theatre Company Grant Aid 08/09; Enjoy England Support St. George’s Day 23/4/08 full colour glossy 24 page publication; Glasdon advertising leaflet for Spring; Clerks & Councils Direct march 2008 Issue 56.

10. Financial Report.
a) Cheques to be signed.
Number 328 DeVere delux Slaley Hall January meal £714.00
Number 329Mrs P. Wilson Final quarter salary £500.00
Number 329 Mrs P Wilson Annual Clerks expenses £270.92
Number 330 Tynedale Council Selefest 2008 £50.00
Proposed by Cllr M Palmer and seconded by Cllr C A Brooks.
b) Interim payments.
No 327 Pipex Hosting for Community Web £100.20.
Signed by Cllrs I.C. Hancock & Mrs L. Norris

11. Current Planning Applications.
Request from Andrew Coney to present the overall master plan of development for Slaley Hall. This includes applications 20080045 / 46 and future applications. (Item brought forward and reported at 2iii above)
20080174 Conversion of barn to dwelling, construction of garage, farm office and staff facilities. Blackburn Farm. Circulating.
20080045 Removal of existing timber structure & construction of new two storey leisure club including swimming pool, gymnasium, studios, relaxation space, bar and associated accommodation together with revised road and car parking layout.
No objections however incorrect wording on written attachments and no mention of where Premier Leisure building will relocate to on the estate must be questioned.
20080095 Construction of loose box stables comprising two stables and tack room.
North Cottage, Marley Cote Walls. No objections.
20080046 Listed Building Consent. Internal refurbishment, conversion of existing pool room / residents lounge into new reception area, conversion of existing meeting room into new whisky bar, conversion of restaurant annex into fine dining area and existing suite upgraded. Slaley Hall no objections to the plans submitted.
Decisions from Planning Authority
20071190 Conversion to form accommodation **Blackburn Farm withdrawn
20071381 Amendments to door & window to rear and construction of detached garage The Haining granted.
20071342 Detached granny annex at Pinetops * granted
*Letter dated 12/2/08 from Planning Department invited Cllrs to DCC held at 6 p.m. on 20/2/08 circulated by e-mail. No one able to attend.

12. Parish Grass Cutting (4d 11/2/08) & re-look at Millennium Feature landscaping (see 5b, page 351, 8/10/07 minutes)
Amended copy agreed and attached as appendix 5/100308.
A tender notice to be placed on Parish Notice Board and a copy of the Work Schedule to be sent to Hollybush Nursery. Note the Councillors omitted to re-look at Millennium Feature landscaping therefore to be deferred onto April agenda.

13. Commemoration Hall Management Meeting 28/2/08 report by Cllr A S Robson.
Much of the meeting was discussing the kitchen refurbishment which is expected to cost in the region of £13,000. Recent fund raising of the Murder Mystery evening raised £900. There is a Hog Roast event planned for later in the year and Sponsor a Screw @ £1 each has been launched.

14. Parish Council Insurance Quote (see 6d 11/2/08)
a) 6b 11/2/08 Comparison of present Insurance Policy v Game & Company circulating not brought to meeting.

15. Government Office for the North East – North East Regional Spatial Strategy Further Proposed Changes - Councillor CA Brooks to report (6c 11/2/08)
(See minutes 11/6/07 6d, page 322 Councillor Brooks to read and report. Minutes 9/7/07 agenda item 13, page 332, Councillor Brooks reported 111 changes. It was felt no action need to be taken)
Second consultation deadline is 5 p.m. on 2nd April 2008. Report attached as appendix 6/100308.

16. Annual Highways Report – agree areas.
Cllr M Palmer agreed to take over JK Robson’s area. Cllr Hancock and Pat are happy to change should Cllr S. Davison prefer to cover one of these areas to the area last covered by T Henderson. Clerk to e-mail Cllr Davison and ask which he prefers. It was agreed that highways be asked to report back on the 2008 document indicated what action they intended to take.

17. Annual Risk Assessment
Slight amendments were made to the draft. Freedom of Information Act was questioned the Councilors asked when public access to filed records had last been requested. Clerk replied that Slaley School Secretary had contacted her last week (Thursday March 6th) asking for copies of minutes relating to a Travel Plan. Through the existence of a copy PC letter to NCC dated October 2006 a paper audit trail was established through letters, Action Plan update of January 2007 and several months of Parish Council minutes. Appendix 2/120207 finally recorded a meeting to discuss speeding problems with Alan Bawn Team Manager, NCC Traffic Safety. The Chair of Governors was at the meeting and she spoke about the School Travel Plan. The appendix was copied and delivered to the school FOC. This was done during the afternoon sleep of a grandchild. Had the records been stored other than at the Clerk’s home then an evening visit to the documents would have been required. From memory the last time the Clerk’s home was used by a member of the public checking information in the minutes was pre Slaley Web Site in 2004. Amended ARA attached as appendix 7/100308

18. Annual Asset & Investment Register
Agreed a 5% increase. Attached as appendix 8/100308.

19. A.O.B.
a) PC Iain Robertson, contacted the Clerk and asked if he could attend the March PC meeting and introduce himself. ((Item brought forward and reported at 2i above).
b) Courant report that Hexham bus station will be moved to Loosing Hill car park with the loss of 75 of the existing 125 parking bays. Wentworth has already lost 126 bays to the new Swimming Pool and plans to pedestrianised the Market Place will loose another 15 bays. Another factor is the major roads to cross: main north south from mart/ railway station/ Tesco/ Waitrose. Also the main road into town from the east is to cross or from the soon to be opened Marks and Spencer. Elderly and Disabled Slaley people travelling by bus into Hexham will be dropped off at a considerable distance from the town. One of the Slaley Parish Councillors is registered disabled and she regularly uses the bus, arriving at the present bus station she is able to cross into Robbs at the traffic lights where there are seats should she need them. Seats are available on Fore Street and the Market Place allowing her to enjoy Hexham with plenty of places to rest before the return journey. A Loosing Hill bus station will be impossible for our Parish Councillor unless the proposal is for all coaches from outside the town to make it to a central bus stop and return to the proposed Loosing Hill site. Obviously busses leaving the town would also need to return to this central bus stop to collect their elderly or disabled passengers. The Councillors wished to report their several concerns on the proposal.
c) Jim Galley of Meadowcroft, Slaley Village has mobility problems and uses an electric wheelchair or a mobility buggy neither of which can climb the west curb outside the vehicle entrance into Slaley First School. We have been told that he has reported this to NCC but no action has been taken. Clerk to write to NCC.
d) A concerned resident at Springhouse has provided the Council with copies of proposed illuminated signs for Springhouse Country Park, Luxury Lodge & Caravan Holiday Homes for Sale. It was felt that this was probably a goodwill gesture to local residents before an official planning application was lodged. A document indicating that screening the site from a 1992 planning application did not take place was also presented. The Councillors agreed that no action was needed until a formal planning application is received.

20. BOATs update.
a) Byway 44 Update – PC still waiting for two replies confirming that they wished NCC to try for extinguishment through the Magistrates Court.

The meeting closed at 10.40 p.m.

Slaley Parish Council February 2008 Minutes

The two part-ownership Affordable Houses are still standing empty. Slaley Parish Councillors want to know why. Read what was said under agenda item 4c. Reminder the minutes are not posted until the month after they have been agreed.

Minutes of Slaley Parish Council, Monday February 11th 2008, in Slaley Commemoration Hall 8.30 p.m.

1. Apologies. Ms M Palmer.
Present: Councillor I.C. Hancock in the Chair. Councillors Mrs L. Norris, Mrs C. A. Brooks, Mrs A. S. Robson, S. Davison, & Clerk Mrs P. Wilson. District Councillor B.W. Massey & County Councillor Wm Purdue.
Public: None. Courant Reporter: Slaley Notes: None & Community Trust Executive Committee Member: None.

2. Declaration of Interests & Hospitality Record.
Cllr. Mrs L. Norris for agenda item 10 and attendance at the Post Christmas lunch, held at Slaley Hall De-Vere on Friday 18th January 2008.

3. Minutes of January Parish Council Meeting (pages 378-382 + appendices 1 page 383, 2 page 384)
Proposed by Cllr. Mrs L. Norris and seconded by Cllr. Mrs C Brooks the minutes were approved and (will be signed at the March meeting due to only having the draft minutes at the meeting).

4. Matters Arising.
ai) 8c 14/1/08; 8 10/12/07. Belonging Communities in Tynedale. –2nd meeting to discuss Belonging Communities 29/1/08 – Councillors IC Hancock & Mrs L. Norris reported the question had been asked if the proposed Belonging Communities were set in stone. More consultation events to be held in March when Parish Councils would be asked to suggest stakeholders (i.e. Slaley Hall; Community Trust; School; Post Office; Church/Chapel; Small Businesses e.g. B&B establishments, Springhouse Caravan Park, Ladycross Stone Quarry etc). Report attached as appendix 2/110208
aii) E-mail dated 16/1/08 from DC Brian Massey – Slaley shown as part of Hexham Belonging Community with Hexhamshire, Blanchland, Healey, Hexham, Acomb, Broomhaugh and Riding Mill.
aiii) Cllr. Mrs A Robson confirmed that Belonging Communities was on the agenda for the VCS (Voluntary Community Sector) meeting on March 17th which she will attend (see agenda item 8i for November VCS meeting, page 353 October 8th 2007 meeting).
b) 14b 14/1/08 The suggestion that the Steering Group who produced the Parish Plan on behalf of the Parish Council be contacted and asked if it was time for a revision and a new Action Plan is implemented to be a February agenda item. In light of shortened meeting this item to be deferred until March.
c) 15e 14/1/08 The Chairman has drafted a letter regarding occupancy of the Affordable Houses when a tenant who works in the parish leaves parish employment. Will the property automatically become vacant because the local connection has been terminated? (see question 6, 12th November minutes, page 362). Letter attached as appendix 3/110208. Recent telephone conversation to Chairman and Clerk regarding the non allocation of part-ownership properties from a single, local, man who applied for the bungalow in October 2007 – Cllr Hancock contacted Two Castles and Nomad). A contact telephone number was given to the parishioners. District Councillor Brian Massey to make enquiries and report back.
d) 15f 14/1/08 Neighbour of Cllr Mrs A S Robson is interested in quoting for the monthly grass cutting (4a 8/10/07; 5a 10/9/07; 4a 13/8/07). Allendale PC has told us that quotes at Allendale varied from £3k - £30k. The cheapest quote did not carry out the work satisfactorily, and therefore, his contract was terminated after two months. A DRAFT tender work schedule listing the areas and size to be cut together with the frequency of cutting was subsequently delivered to this parishioner. An amended version (by the Chairman) was presented to the meeting for discussion. Work Schedule attached as appendix 4/110208. E-mail received from A Evison was discussed as follows:
Paragraph 3 – the tender to decide when grass needs cutting. The first cut would normally be sometime during April depending upon length of grass and could last 6/7 weeks. This cut will collect any fallen leaves that have not blown away. Last cut end of September to last over the winter. During July & August the grass may need cutting at three weekly intervals. This will depend upon annual rainfall and temperature. However Highway work can cause damage to any site thus rendering the site unworkable for lengthy periods. The tender should quote for a normal cut at all four sites. Obviously if no cut takes place an any of the four sites for whatever reason the Council would not expect to receive an account for that site.
Paragraph 4: Dead leaves will not be cleared away at any site between September and April. Saplings should be cut back to ground level.
Paragraph 9: All four sites are situated on the grass verge between boundary walls/fences to private land etc. Therefore technically they are part of the public highway, and owned by NCC and used regularly by utility vehicles carrying out work on or near the metalled highway.
Specific sites
Millennium Feature – Cut by lawnmower by current parishioner. Snowdrops normally died back by first cut. Molehills levelled by foot and excess soil used to fill any hollows made by parked vehicles. Councillors to decided the point northwards for the cut to end and report to Clerk.
Townhead entrance – High Clear lane is cut by Mr George Hall of High Clear.
Townfoot entrance – Councillors to check and decide if the area is to include east of the field entrance to the actual corner where the grass verge narrows and report to Clerk.
Wayside Seat - Councillors to decided the actual size of area to be cut and report to Clerk.
Councillor Mrs A Robson asked to report to Mr Evison that Councillors are checking several points before the revised Work Schedule is re-presented.
e) 15g,h,i,j, 14/1/07 Pot holes apparently been filled in although we have been asked to keep a watchful eye on them due to increased gritting soon after repairs. Not sure which potholes have been filled - Councillors to keep watch and report any problems.
f) 6a 14/1/08 CC Purdue reported that increased cost of care for elderly has been quashed.
g) 6f 14/1/08 CC Purdue reported that Reuben Morgan of NCC will contact the Clerk re grant for village solar powered speed unit.

5. Public Participation.
None.

6. Correspondence.
a) ADAPT (North East Membership Form 2008) Agreed to pay the £10 Community Group subscription.
b) E-mail from David Francis re Game & Company Insurance Consultants circulated Councillors felt that a comparison should be made. Circulate and place on March agenda.
c) Government Office for the North East – North East Regional Spatial Strategy Further Proposed Changes. (see minutes 11/6/07 6d, page 322 Councillor Brooks to read and report. Minutes 9/7/07 agenda item 13, page 332, Councillor Brooks reported 111 changes. It was felt no action need to be taken) Second consultation deadline 5 p.m. on 2nd April 2008. Cllr Brooks will report at March meeting.
d) Communities & Local Government – Consultation on orders & regulations relating to the conduct of Local Authority members in England see especially Annex A circulated. It was felt Slaley, as a small council and was not qualified to answer most points, and that some questions were irrelevant because of PC size.
e) Local Works The Sustainable Communities Bill becomes LAW. circulated
f) Tynedale Area Committee meeting 24/1/08 minutes of 20/9/07 circulated.
g) Tyndale LDF – Core Strategy. The PC has revised and commented on drafts of this document in the past. In view of the coming demise of TC it was agreed not to spend any more time on it.
h) Community Action Northumberland grant aid request - £20 allocated in precept.
i) NCC Minerals & Waste Development Framework – Withdrawn from Examination Process – A revised Local Development Scheme will be published in due course. CC Purdue reported that ministerial over-ruling of the proposed opencast mining constraint area at Shotton, Cramlington was one reason why the framework had been withdrawn.
j) TC Parish Council Casual Vacancies letter and fact sheet - no scheduled Parish elections until 2013.
k) Second sending of Community Transport in Northumberland (see 8d 14/1/08) – e-mailed and several Councillors replied that they saw no reason to alter the January decision of no action.
l) Commission for Rural Communities participation inquiry 31/1/08 circulated by e-mail no Councillor from Slaley attended.
m) Thank You from Age Concern for grant aid. Clerk to ask again about £30 grant (4e 14/1/08; 18b 10/12/07; 4f 12/2/07; 7k 8/1/07).
n) Thank You from Wendy Tucker, Joe & Mary Metcalf + e-mail from Jean & Michael Elphick for meal at Slaley Hall copy given to Andrew Coney. Clerk to send written thanks from PC with special thanks to chef ‘Gavin’.
o) CPRE Overview Spring 2008; TDC Minutes of Meetings; Wicksteed advertising leaflet; Lloyds TSB changes to telephone banking service. TC February Half-term Play Programme Poster displayed on Notice Board

7. Financial Report.
a) Cheques to be signed.
Number 325 ADAPT North East Ltd. Community Group Membership £10.00
Number 326 Mrs P. Wilson BOATs expenditure (quarter) £36.38
b) Interim payments. None.
c) Audit Commission confirmed that BDO Stoy Hayward LLP appointed as external auditor for next five years.

8. Current Planning Applications.
20080046 Listed Building Consent. Internal refurbishment, conversion of existing pool room / residents lounge into new reception area, conversion of existing meeting room into new whisky bar, conversion of restaurant annex into fine dining area and existing suite upgraded. Slaley Hall no objections to the plans submitted.
20071381 Amendments to door & window to rear and construction of detached garage *The Haining concerns re access to garage & future usage.
* Photographs & copy of concerns from immediate neighbour.

20071342 Detached granny annex at Pinetops - object
20071190 Conversion to form accommodation **Blackburn Farm pending.
** Clerk reported a conversation with owner of Blackburn Cattery and the reasons for the probable withdrawal of this application. DC Massey to make enquiries & report back.
Decisions from Planning Authority
20071327 Increase in height of boundary wall. Garden Cottage granted
20071400 Construction of agricultural farm building Woodnook Hill granted

9. A.O.B.
a) Press coverage of the sale of Springhouse Caravan Park for £1.6m to Blue Sky Resorts who claim intending spending £500,000 over the next few years.
b) New Press advertising feature of five floodlit, paint ball arenas at De Vere Slaley Hall. Planning permission of 20050562 stipulates (Condition Number 9) no floodlighting. Clerk to telephone Andrew Coney as a matter of good relations & write to Planning with a copy of advert.

10. BOATs update.
a) Byway 44 (see appendix 1/110208) NCC have stated that all seven letters of objection to the Modification Order must be withdrawn so that the Order can be confirmed quickly, if an early application for extinguishment of the extra width is to be made to the Magistrates Court. Stephen Rickitt intends to send a report of the meeting with residents and landowners to Slaley PC Clerk for circulation.
b) NCC, David Brookes, re Gingleshaugh Road & Low Lead Road survey identified small sections, which require further drainage and surface improvements extended for a maximum of six months for this work to be carried out.
c) NCC Neil Dawson letter 17/1/08 re BOAT 41 Slaley & 34 Blanchland diversion onto route made in error. Requested clarification from Blanchland that they are happy with this.

The meeting closed at 10.05 p.m.

January 2008 Parish Council Minutes

Four years after adoption of the Parish Plan in January 2004 Slaley Parish Councillors are considering that the Parish Plan Steering Group be asked to reform and upgrade the Action Plan, see agenda item 14b.

Minutes of Slaley Parish Council, Monday January 14th 2008, in Slaley Commemoration Hall 7.30 p.m.

1. Apologies. S Davison.
Present: Councillor I.C. Hancock in the Chair. Councillors Mrs L. Norris, Mrs C. A. Brooks, Mrs A. S. Robson, Ms M Palmer, & Clerk Mrs P. Wilson. District Councillor B.W. Massey & County Councillor Wm Purdue.
Public: None. Courant Reporter: Apologies Rebecca Dixon. Slaley Notes: None & Community Trust Executive Committee Member: Michael Elphick.

2. Declaration of Interests & Hospitality Record.
Cllr. Mrs L. Norris for agenda item 4a & 16.

3. Minutes of December Parish Council Meeting (pages 369-373 + appendices 1a & 1b pages 374 & 375, 2 page 376 & 3 page 377)
Proposed by Cllr.Mrs CA Brooks and seconded by Cllr. Mrs L. Norris the minutes were approved and signed.

4. Matters Arising.
a) 3 12/12/07 Modification Order No 8 2007 BOAT 44 – after discussion with The 4 Parishes BOATs joint committee and having read the legal letter from Slaley Hall the reply from Slaley Parish Council attached as appendix 1/140108 page 383 was agreed as the reply. CC Purdue asked for a copy.
b) 8 10/12/07. Belonging Communities in Tynedale. – Cllr IC Hancock attended the meeting on December 11th (8f 10/12/07). A written report was made that evening and a reply to Andrew J Dean was sent 19/12/07 with a copy to DC Brian Massey. CC Purdue requested a copy. (Also see 8c below and 8n below).
c) 10a 10/12/07 – Corbridge Parish Council Working Group on public access. After discussion with T4PBJC a request was sent to the JLAF asking if they were supporting this group. The JLAF meet this Thursday.
d) 10i 10/12/07 - TC reply from Ian Dougl