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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 Douglas re Recycle changes. (see also Journal article of 26/12/07 entitled “Drinks cartons are now included in recycling initiative”).
e) 18b 10/12/07 – Telephone reply followed by e-mail confirmation that Age Concern have no record of the £30 special grant towards the elderly exercise class at Slaley, cheque 291, issued 12/2/07, (see 12/2/07 minutes agenda item 4f, page 289, referring to 7k of 8/1/07 minutes). The cheque went through the PC bank on 1/3/07. Age Concern will continue to check. The Councillors were most unhappy with this situation.
5. Public Participation.
None.
6. Community Trust Report.
a) Copy of reply from John Green Business & Development Manager for Marstons Pub Company. Slaley PC sent a letter of support (copy given to CT).
b) January Community Information Sheet distributed by the CT.
7. Matters for Discussion with County & District Councillors
CC Bill Purdue –
a) Cost of care for the elderly will increase.
b) Council tax 1% or 2% increase.
c) Plans to return to FREE school transport for post 16 year olds.
d) Plans for Unitary Authority. At present the 6 Area Committees will become 3 New Characteristic Communities: Morpeth & Tynedale; Alnwick & Berwick and Wansbeck & Blyth.
e) Funding for GP’s surgeries – more promising news received today.
f) The promised £500 grant towards the solar powered speed unit will be activated.
DC Brian Massey
a) E-mail received – Post Office closures. 90% of population should be within 3 miles of a Post Office. When objections to a closure are successful then another PO on the list will be axed.
b) Brian reported that Slaley Parish Council had recently returned two very late planning applications to TC Planning Department therefore our comments had not been noted or considered. We have addressed this see agenda item 12, 19th December 2007 minutes, page 371 and decision to rectify on page 372.
8. Correspondence.
a) Northumberland Rights of Way Improvement Plan (with special attention to page 10 (3.34 & 3.35). Pages 22 and 23, section 2 North Pennines. Page 32, Policy EN10 Ref 25/26. Page 43, Appendix 3. A Framework for the Management of byways open to all traffic.) Cllr Hancock reported a Defra funded scheme from the late 1990’s early 21st century which funded a model RoW provision. i.e Greenways. The document to be given to the Clerk for future reference.
b) TC: LDF: Adopted Core Strategy. We were aware of policies saved and not superseded from the present District Local Plan. Document to be kept by Clerk for future reference.
c) TC invitation to 2nd meeting to discuss Belonging Communities 29/1/08 – Councillors IC Hancock & Mrs L. Norris will attend.
d) E-mail NCC Jan Chisholm re draft Community Transport Strategy. No Action
e) 14 12/11/07 Reply from Slaley School Chair of Governors stating school grounds are needed for future development of Classrooms and out of hours childcare business.
f) Thank You letter for grant from Slaley Commemoration Hall.
g) E-mail from David Francis 20/12/07 Characteristic & Belonging Communities (1 page) circulated by e-mail – No Action.
h) E-mail from David Francis 17/12/07 LGR Implementation Order (9 pages) circulated by e-mail – No Action.
i) E-mail from David Francis 14/12/07 Report of Councillors’ Commission (3 pages) circulated by e-mail – No Action.
j) E-mail from David Francis Older People in Northumberland – A longer-term view draft for Consultation November 2007 (36 pages) circulated by e-mail – No Action.
k) TC “Don’t Lose Your Vote” Poster – placed on parish notice board.
l) E-mail from The Standards Board asking when we will adopt the Model Code – Clerk replied that the Code was adopted at the meeting on July 9th 2007. (agenda item 12, page 332) and suggested they may wish to check on the Slaley web site.
m) ET&WCM Parish Councils Forum minutes of 8/1/08 circulated and reported on by Cllr. Norris.
n) ET&WCM Parish Councils Forum - letter to A Dean re Belonging Communities (see agenda 4b above). Date of next meeting April 1st 2008.
o) ET&WCM Parish Councils Forum appendix 1 – letter to Northumberland Care Trust.
p) ET&WCM Parish Councils Forum appendix 2 – letter to BP Power re Windfarm Clusters.
q) ET&WCM Parish Councils Forum e-mail reply from Alex Kerr Northumberland Care Trust entitled “Care Trust and GP’s Contracts”.
r) ET&WCM Parish Councils Forum e-mail statement from North Tyneside PCT entitled ‘A Positive way forward for the future funding of GP services’.
s) North East War Memorial Project newsletter No 8, Winter 07/08.
CE Electric UK – preparing for Mother Nature leaflets. Glasdon advertising leaflets; CAN News Vol. 27 No 6 + training dates, Children & Young people Activity questionnaire (gave a copy of this to Lesley Woodhouse). Clerks & Councils Direct January 08; Milecastle Housing Home truths Winter 2007.
9. Financial Report.
a) Cheques to be signed. None.
b) Interim payments. None.
c) E-mail from D Francis: Section 137 expenditure limited increased to £5.86 per elector = 601 electors for 2008 = £3,521.86 for things that will benefit all or part of the parish.
d) E-mail Pipex for Community web page hosting.
e) £724.50 paid into the PC bank account as payment for 69 people having a £10.50 lunch at Slaley Hall. (see agenda item 11 below)
10. Current Planning Applications.
20071381 Amendments to door & window to rear and construction of detached garage The Haining concerns re access to garage & future usage.
20071400 Construction of agricultural farm building Woodnook Hill – support
20071342 Detached granny annexe at Pinetops - object
20071327 Increase in height of boundary wall. Garden Cottage pending
20071190 Conversion to form accommodation Blackburn Farm pending.
Decisions from Planning Authority
20071228 Extension to dwelling, car port, single storey garage, alterations to access, gates and driveway. Wooley House granted
20071191 Two storey extension Overdale granted
20071238 Construction of single storey extension to garage and conversion to swimming pool house – Peel Flatt House. Withdrawn
**Planning Appeal – Glen Cottage – 20061498 Dismissed
11. Post Christmas Meal at Slaley Hall for everyone age 60 years + Update.
a) 69 people have paid for a meal. (see agenda item 9f above) This number has been reported to Andrew Coney.
b) Transport - on telephoning the application forms of those requesting transport most have now been offered transport. One wheelchair user has recently undergone head surgery and will not now attend, his wife will be taken by their son. Councillor Norris has agreed to transport the remaining couple as the ADAPT Transport Manager had indicated costs of 30p per mile + £10 per hour for both the driver and the helper.
c) Cllr Norris asked to mention the Commemoration Hall Fund Raising event – Murder Mystery Saturday February 9th.
12. Agree Precept for 2008/09
The Precept having been agreed in the December minutes the Precept form was signed.
13. Commemoration Hall Management Meeting 11/12/07 report by Cllr AS Robson.
a) Minutes circulated by e-mail from P Goodwin 3/1/08
b) Fund Raising event – Murder Mystery Saturday February 9th. Posters were given out and a mention of the event would be made at the post Christmas lunch at Slaley Hall.
14. January Parish Plan Action Plan Update.
a) Draft as circulated by e-mail was amended and is attached as appendix 2/140108 page 384.
b) It was suggested 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 be implemented. This suggestion to be placed on the February agenda.
15. A.O.B.
a) A complaint was received regarding Clay Shooting on Friday December 14th 2007 at Premier Events and Leisure. Apparently the shooting started again at 12.15 noon.
b) Jameson’s Well is once again flooding onto the B6306 and running down the south side for several metres then crossing the road and continuing to run until the gates into the field at the cattle pens. Reported.
c) Pot hole between Slaley Hall entrance and Holly Cottage on the north-bound carriageway. Reported.
d) Footpath 22 through Neds Lot Plantation has been considerably widened. It seems that a new route is being designated through the trees, many saplings have been cut back and several larger trees have red tape placed around their trunks indicating that they will be felled. Ask if Lord Allendale has carried out this work.
e) The Chairman to draft 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).
f) Cllr Mrs AS Robson informed the meeting that her neighbour was interested in quoting for the monthly grass cutting (4a 8/10/07; 5a 10/9/07; 4a 13/8/07). Clerk to ask Allendale PC for a copy of their tender application form. The Chairman reminded the meeting that anyone tendering for the work would need their own public liability insurance cover and equipment.
g) Water coming to the surface from a pot-hole filling and running down the B6306 on the north bound carriageway between Forest entrance and Foresters Lodge.
h) A drain cover has caved in on the south bound carriageway on the B6306 between Foresters Lodge and Trygill (nearest Foresters Lodge). Someone has placed a red and white traffic cone on top to steer the traffic away.
i) North bound carriageway of B6306 between Foresters Lodge and gates into fields on west of highway a highway drain opposite the gates has been cemented over. Consequently the highway surface water runs over the concrete cover to an old curb which is being gradually eroded away with the constant running water.
j) Further north on the B6306, just north of West Burnside Bridge at the gates into the fields on the west (bottom of Curlew bank) north bound carriageway, the pot hole has washed out.
16. BOATs update.
a) Christine Pope of Natural England visit on December 17th.
b) NCC Long Edge BOAT No 41 acknowledged correspondence
c) NCC Ginglehaugh BOAT (No 39) acknowledged correspondence.
d) NCC e-mail Neil Dawson re No 41 & 34 acknowledged correspondence - discuss 17/12/07
e) NCC letter Neil Dawson re 41 & 34 asking Slaley PC to agree the proposed changes.
f) Thank You for 17/12/07 from C Pope, Natural England + copy of reply to AVAG to its letter to JLAF dated 8/12/07.
g) NCC John McErlane – Proposed BOAT No 15 (Espershields) – Proposal to dedicate an alternative path as a bridleway on a route further to the west and extinguish public rights over the alleged route. BOAT No 14,16 & 40 Winnows Hill BOAT – Extinguish the existing BOAT currently obstructed by forestry and propose an alternative bridleway around the perimeter of the plantation (exact route still under discussion). Deadline for comments Friday 22nd February 2008. Slaley will confer with Healey PC before replying.
h) Reply from NCC, David Brookes, re Gingleshaugh Road new western portion – work undertaken by a contractor on behalf of the County Council at a cost of approximately £4,800.
i) Sunday January 6th 2008 several Forestry Commission vehicles/men were identifying illegal mpv use in Slaley Forest from early morning to mid-day. Jane Dotchin reported much trail bike activity on the closed Dipton Mill BOAT mid morning to early afternoon. This was reported to the Footpaths Officer. By late afternoon the trail bikes were once again in Slaley Forest.
The meeting closed at 10.10 p.m.
The minutes of December 2007 Slaley Parish Council include the order for a mobile flashing speed unit for Slaley village. Read more under agenda item 15.
Minutes are not posted until they have been agreed which is normally the month after they were written.
Minutes of Slaley Parish Council, Monday December 10th 2007, in Slaley Commemoration Hall 7.30 p.m.
1. Apologies. Mrs A. S. Robson, S Davison & County Councillor Wm Purdue.
Present: Councillor I.C. Hancock in the Chair. Councillors Mrs L. Norris, Mrs C. A. Brooks, Ms M Palmer, & Clerk Mrs P. Wilson. District Councillor B.W. Massey
Public: Margaret & Ken Bates, Michael & Marjorie Tully, Sheila & Keith Stoddard, David Baynes, Andrew Coney. Richard Cheesman, Justine Yarwood, Simon Knight, Nick Norris, Richard Ferguson & Derek Hull. Courant Reporter: None. Slaley Notes: Jean Elphick & Community Trust Executive Committee Member: Michael Elphick.
2. Declaration of Interests.
Cllr. Mrs L. Norris for agenda item 3 and 19
3. Special Item with Slaley Hall General Manager, landowners and residents of The Coal Road & The Branch Road (U8080 & U8081) to discuss Modification Order (No 8) 2007. Byway Open to All Traffic (BOAT) No 44.
The Chairman firstly explained that Cllr Mrs Linda Norris had a personal and prejudicial interest in this subject and therefore could express views only as a member of the public and not as a Councillor. Secondly the Chairman explained that the PC could provide factual evidence and seek the views of those affected by the Order. He outlined the history of the application - The Bulbeck Common Inclosure Award of 1771, the application for Byway 44 in 2004 followed by the DMMO in November 2007. NCC can not at present say exactly where the 60-foot wide route will be drawn on the Definitive Map. Inspectors at numerous Public Inquiries have stated that environmental objections are not relevant; Present width and encroachment of 19th and 20th century buildings/landscaping onto the 60-foot width are not relevant; No legal documents have been found indicating that the 60-foot width was extinguished. The extinguishment of the Guessburn BOAT at Stocksfield was discussed and the differences between this and Byway 44 were explained. Members of the public raised their concerns about the likely detrimental effect on the value of private properties and thus on their human rights and about other BOATs that are causing concern in the parish and neighbouring parishes. Why the application had been made was the most difficult concept for those affected to grapple with. The Chairman ended by saying that, if the public thought this would be useful, the Parish Council could carry out a coordinating role and arrange a meeting with John McErlane of NCC.
Everyone present agreed that they would welcome the help and support of the Parish Council. It was reported by a member of the public that 6/8 trail bikes often use the U8080 on Sundays, travelling north in the morning and south in the afternoon/evening and had done for years. Less frequent sightings of 4x4s were also reported as using the U8080. This was a clear indication that ‘claim riding’ was being undertaken with disregard to the present TRO. Slaley Hall intended taking advice from Counsel and agreed to keep the PC informed of any progress. Owners of affected properties were advised to write to NCC with concerns under the Human Rights legislation.
4. Public Participation. (was recorded as No 7 on agenda in error)
a) A member of the public reported dog excrement on the village footpaths. A third party had apparently accidentally walked into the above mentioned which had been so copious it had covered her whole shoe and foot. This indicates a very large dog. Slaley Notes to carry a reminder to all dog owners and Cllr Hancock will also mention in his potted PC report.
b) Possible problem with a street light opposite Parks Side bungalows and west of South Farm. Councillors to check and report any fault.
c) Mixed groups of teenagers of between 6-10 in number are congregating to the east gable end of the Commemoration Hall since it became dark and they are no longer able to enter the school grounds.
5. Minutes of November Parish Council Meeting (pages 360-365 + appendices 1 page 366, 2 page 367 & 3 page 368)
Proposed by Cllr. Mrs L. Norris and seconded by Cllr. I.C. Hancock the minutes were approved and signed.
6. Affordable Houses Update. Letter sent to TC circulated & attached as appendix 1a/101207 and reply from TC circulated & attached as appendix 1b/101207. (pages 374 & 375)
a) Letter sent by Chairman IC Hancock to Andrew J Dean, TC Director of Regeneration & Communities of concerns raised by the public at the November PC meeting.
b) Reply from Chris Brinton circulated by e-mail 25/11/07.
c) Copies of these two letters have been distributed to members of the public who attended the November meeting.
d) Flag stones needing to be re-laid were reported at No 3 Reaston View.
7. Matters Arising (was recorded as No 4 on agenda in error)
None.
8. Belonging Communities in Tynedale – Report by Councillors Mrs L. Norris & I.C. Hancock.
a) Cllr Norris reported that there was no County Council presence at the meeting on 26/11/07. It was difficult to make comment on Characteristic & Belonging Communities when their actual purpose was still unclear. Parish Councils are wary of urban influence. DC B Massey reported that the District meeting with the NCC deputy Chief Executive had left everyone asking “what is it all about”? Cllr. IC Hancock read a letter from the Hexham Courant about the new roles of parish and town councils. DC B Massey did not know where or who had provided this information.
b) TC’s report dated 4/12/07 from November 26th meeting re Belonging Communities in Tynedale circulated
c) Copy of Bywell Parish Council letter to Andy Dean dated 17/11/07
d) E-mail dated 19/11/07 from David Francis re Adrian Hinchcliffe’s letter
e) E-mail dated 20/11/07 from Adrian Hinchcliffe after a meeting with Corbridge Parish Council
f) Hexham Town Council invitation to a meeting on December 11th at 7 p.m. Cllr IC Hancock will attend.
g) E-mail from Viv Younger re meeting on November 26th – Clerk replied already confirmed attendance.
9. Matters for Discussion with County & District Councillors
None
10. Correspondence.
a) Letter from Corbridge Parish Council ref Access & Public Rights of Way Working Group circulated. Suggested reply from MK will be discussed at Joint Committee.
b) CPRE Overview Winter 2007 circulated
c) Slaley School gets “Quality Mark” circulated
d) Hexham Courant text for Tynedale Visitor 2008 (2007 article enclosed) Amendments please. Circulated.
e) Slaley School newsletter
f) Tynedale Planning Forum Minutes of meeting 9/11/07 circulated by e-mail (see agenda item 9b 12/11/07)
g) Thank You letter for grant from Great North Air Ambulance Service.
h) Thank You letter for grant from Community Action Northumberland
i) Thank You letter for grant from St. Mary’s Churchyard.
j) Register of Electors 2008
i) Ludus Leisure Ltd advertising brochure; Shaw & Sons forms records and registers etc.; rekk youth shelters; Glasdon winter products advertising leaflet; Talking Tynedale November 2007 (see page 8 Housing update Slaley’s success & page 12 some changes for your recycling bin It was decided to write to TC voicing the surprise over the number of items no longer to be placed in the recyclable wheelie bin.
11. Financial Report.
a) Cheques to be signed.
No 323 Three months salary P. Wilson £500.00
No 324} Annual emptying of dog bin £293.97
No 324 } Annual emptying of litter bin £293.97
b) Interim payments. None.
c) TC Precept must be received by January 14th 2008
Cheques proposed by Cllr Mrs C.A. Brooks and seconded by Cllr. Mrs L. Norris
12. Current Planning Applications.
20071327 Increase in height of remaining boundary wall to 2 metres. Garden Cottage
20071238 Construction of single storey extension to garage and conversion to swimming pool house – Peel Flatt House. Circulating also overdue Clerk to enquire of its whereabouts.
20071228 Extension to dwelling, car port, single storey garage, alterations to access, gates and driveway. Wooley House Pending
20071191 Two storey extension Overdale Pending
20071190 Conversion and extension of redundant agricultural building to form staff living accommodation associated with existing cattery business. Blackburn Farm.
Returned to clerk 11 days late (6 days after the TC deadline (Support)
Decisions from Planning Authority
20071063 Change of use and conversion of outbuildings to one
residential dwelling, installation of package treatment plant
and new pedestrian & vehicle access – Cocklake, Slaley. Granted
It was agreed that planning applications would in future be circulated to three members of the Parish Council and an email sent to remaining Councillors asking if they wished to see the application and make comment according to the planning guidelines laid down in the present Local Plan.
13. Post Christmas Meal at Slaley Hall for everyone age 60 years + Update.
Presently 51 people have paid for a meal
Slaley Notes are placing a reminder in this coming Friday’s Hexham Courant.
ADAPT have still not replied about transport.
14. Balance Sheet at December 07. Circulated and attached as appendix 2/101207 (page 376)
15. Village Mobile Flashing Speed Unit Update.
Councillors I.C. Hancock & Mrs Linda Norris with Clerk, Pat Wilson met with Glynn Hutton of VMS on Monday 26/11/07 to confirm prices for the village mobile speed unit. The order was placed on 26th November and the unit should be working by February 2008. During the 2009 Precept we will need to consider a warranty cover and we may need to consider an increased rotation. The unit will be set to activate at 33 mph. Alan Bawn of NCC Highways has provided the site allocation map. A PC letter has notified properties in the immediate vicinity of the unit of its imminent appearance.
16. Agree Precept for 2008/09
a) TC election account to be paid over 4 years.
b) Extra Councillors travelling expenses (see agenda item 16 12/11/07)
c) E-mail reply from Secretary of Slaley Youth Club – no meetings since September so must assume disbanded.
d) Precept as follows:
Clerk’s Salary 2,500.00
Cornhill Insurance 0,400.00
NALC 0,100.00
Audit Comission 0,150.00
Commemoration Hall 15 @ £12 0,180.00
Postage/Telephone/Photocopying etc 0,250.00
Millennium Litter Bin empty 0,300.00
Slaley Community Web Page 0,100.00
Parish Grass Cutting (4 sites @ £150 per month) 1,000.00
Village Information Board 2,000.00
Village Dog Bin empty 0,300.00
Solar Powered Speed Unit rotation/warranty 0,200.00
Councillor Travelling Expenses 0,120.00
BOATs Sub Committee 0,050.00
Contingency 0,500.00
Parish Elections split over 4 years 0,216.95
GRANT Commemoration Hall 0,900.00
GRANT St. Mary’s Churchyard 0,100.00 (includes a £50 donation towards a new mower)
GRANT Community Trust 0,120.00
GRANT Age Concern 0,100.00 (depending upon reply)
GRANT Slaley Show 0,325.00
GRANT Community Action Northumberland 0,020.00
GRANT YFC Whitley Chapel 0,100.00
GRANT Air Ambulance 0,150.00
10,171.95
17. Community Trust Report circulated and attached as appendix 3/101207 (page 377)
The Clerk was instructed to send a letter supporting the CT’s comments to Marstons Pub Company.
18. A.O.B.
a) Springhouse Caravan Park under new management. Rumours of alterations to the site were discussed.
b) Clerk to write to Age Concern and request an update of facilities provided for the elderly at Slaley (Shopping Trips?) and on expenditure from the £30 special grant towards the elderly exercise class at Slaley, cheque 291, issued 12/2/07, (see 12/2/07 minutes agenda item 4f, page 289, referring to 7k of 8/1/07 minutes).
c) It was reported by a resident of the U8080 that the telecommunications mast had been dismantled and taken away.
19. BOATs update.
a) Christine Pope of Natural England has confirmed her 10 a.m. visit on December 17th.
b) The Broad Way is once again under review after the applicants have declared they have new evidence in support of the BOAT claim
The meeting closed at 10.44 p.m.
Belonging Communities in Tynedale is giving the Councillors lots to read and consider. Meetings are being held to further discuss these proposals. See agenda item 7 for more information. Parish Council minutes do not appear at this site until they have been approved which is normally the month after the meeting date.
Minutes of Slaley Parish Council, Monday November 12th 2007, in Slaley Commemoration Hall 7.30 p.m.
1. Apologies. Mrs A. S. Robson,
Present: Councillor I.C. Hancock in the Chair. Councillors Mrs L. Norris, Mrs C. A. Brooks, S Davison, Ms M Palmer, & Clerk Mrs P. Wilson. District Councillor B.W. Massey &. County Councillor Wm Purdue
Public: Thomas & Rachel Scott, Sheila & Keith Stoddard, Keith Robson, Gwen Foster & Margaret Ward. Courant Reporter: Will Green. Slaley Notes: Jean Elphick & Community Trust Executive Committee Member: Michael Elphick.
2. Declaration of Interests.
Cllr. Mrs L. Norris for agenda item 20
3. Minutes of October Parish Council Meeting (pages 350-354 + appendices 1 page 355, 2 page 356, 3 page 357, 4 page 358 & 5 page 359)
Proposed by Cllr. Mrs L. Norris and seconded by Cllr. Mrs C.A. Brooks the minutes were approved and signed.
4. Matters Arising.
a) 4a 8/10/07; 4a 10/907; 4 a 13/8/07; Parish grass cut quotes any progress made by Cllr Mrs AS Robson? Defer to December meeting.
b) 4f 8/10/07; 3d 13/8/07 Tynedale Council Planning Department reply regarding annual Holiday Villa occupancy details. We should make the occupancy details an annual request. The last paragraph of the letter states that planning department is grateful for our continued support with out of parish advertising boards (see 7e 8/10/07).
c) 8a 8/10/07 Reply to ET & WCM Parish Council Forum request to NCC for involvement in setting up of new Unitary Authority Cllr Mrs L Norris circulated by e-mail.
d) 18a 8/10/07 an approximate record of Clerks working week presented.
5. Allocation of Affordable Houses Update. Report from meeting on October 12th between Slaley PC Chairman & Vice Chair, District Councillor B Massey, Head of TC Housing Option Team & TC Director of Regeneration & Communities. Circulated and attached as appendix 1/121107 (page 366).
a) The Chairman reported that he had been invited to a 30 minute discussion at TC on Thursday 15th to give Slaley Parish Council’s view of the development of our Affordable Houses. He suggested to the public that any constructive comments they made under Public Participation could be passed on at this meeting.
a) Thank You card from Catherine Lincoln who moved into Number 3 Reaston View.
b) Flooding in Rosslyn garden still a problem. Family of Rosslyn residents are meeting with Bill Elliott, Surveyor for Two Castles on Wednesday morning. Clerk spoken with Kevin Wood of Tynedale Planning Department who felt that it could become a civil courts matter if Two Castles are unable to rectify the problem.
6. Public Participation.
Eight copies of the report of the meeting on October 12th between Slaley Parish Council Chairman and Vice Chairman and Tynedale Council, Appendix 1/121107, were distributed amongst the public and the Chairman gave a verbal report of the meeting. He then opened the meeting to the public asking them to keep in mind that the PC can pass on concerns about the level of communication but not to say that something has been done wrong in allocation. We need evidence of factual errors. It would be improper, ill mannered and possibly slanderous to discuss people who already have been allocated a house.
Public concerns: At the public meeting it was confirmed that single people had every chance of getting an affordable house. In retrospect this had given false hopes to single people. An example was given of a brother who needs a house for health reasons, has a son at University, and for some obscure reason this is not classed as a dependent who will need accommodation. Recent death in the family means this man has a pressing housing need for a single storey dwelling. In this particular case his doctor had never been contacted for medial information. This particular 52 year old had been offered a house at Whitley Chapel.
Members of the public put forward the following questions: -
Question 1: was the person referred to above properly assessed? The Local Authority can apply housing needs points for medical reasons.
Question 2: why was a Whitley Chapel house offered when a Slaley house was requested? Was it something to do with Government targets and ticking boxes in the allocation system?
The housing need at Slaley of single people wanting to find accommodation in the parish in which they lived and worked was established through the Parish Plan and the Housing Needs Survey. Without this housing needs survey the houses would not have got the go ahead.
False hopes were given to the young single people of Slaley parish at the Public meeting as everyone was promised consideration in the allocation process.
Question 3: were these people encouraged to believe they were likely to get houses in order to get local people on the developer’s side and make the planning application acceptable? Opposition to the development at Slaley was minimal.
There appears to be little consistency in the allocation process, apart from the bitter disappointment of the local young people. There are reported instances of parish border families who work in the parish and need accommodation and who have not got to the interview stage. It was acknowledge from early on in the planning application process that the Parish Council would have no say in the final allocations.
Question 4: why was this points system not fully disclosed at the Public Meeting?
The sellers of the land said that TC and Two castles had led them to go on believing that single local people were serious candidates for the houses. Firstly the Parish Council approach assured the landowners that the houses would be for local people in need of Affordable Housing. These assurances continued through dealings with Tynedale Council Enabling Officer, other TDC staff and again with Two Castles Development. At no point was it said that single people were likely NOT to have sufficient housing need points. The Scott family who sold the land feel severely misled.
The Chairman remarked that he felt the Scott family had a good reason to make a complaint. However the Affordable Houses were a real asset for Slaley parish and would be so for many years to come. It was sad that feelings of being misled were so profound amongst those present.
Question 5: If allocations are made by working to a housing needs protocol, which excludes single people and the land was given for the use of Local People for perpetuity what will happen when the houses become vacant and only local single people are the applicants. Will the houses then be offered to families and/or couples in the agreed wider community before single local people?
There has been a complete lack of transparency to the young people who applied for the houses. The grant application was made possible by the figures provided partially by these single people and who have now been excluded. It appears that a single lady should have children before being considered eligible.
Question 6: What happens when people who have been allocated a house because of parish work commitments move employment out of the parish. Will they be asked to vacate the house?
If it is true that all Housing Officers have targets to meet, and everything at Slaley has been carried out within the law and the Data Protection regulations protect disclosure of information about why certain people have been successful and others have not then it seems that the system is failing some of the very people it was allegedly set up to help.
Question 7: What can the Parish Council do to bring the housing needs of our single people into the housing needs points system?
Question 8: The rents are higher than those indicated at the Public Meeting have national rents escalated to this level? Also what is the Service Charge? Is it grass cutting? If so which grass?
The Chairman thanked everyone for coming and said he would report the feelings of the meeting to Tynedale Council and particularly relay the disappointment felt by the relations of parishioners who had been rejected in finding a home through the Slaley Affordable Houses for Local People. Some of the questions raised tonight would be raised elsewhere. Although the clock could not be turned back and allocations retracted we must hope that our comments would help to produce future policy and thinking about rural villages and the need for housing for its young people.
7. Belonging Communities in Tynedale – Representative from Community Trust invited to take part in this agenda item. (e-mail from Adrian Hinchcliffe circulated 18th October and attached as appendix 2/121107 page 367) plus (Tynedale Council invitation to a meeting on 26/11/07 and written comments by end of December 2007) plus (Report by District Councillor – see agenda item 7b 8/10/07). (see also the NALC correspondence (9) same text as e-mail from AH). Cllrs Norris & Hancock will attend the meeting on November 26th. Both the County and District Councillors gave a report from the various meetings attended and it is still not clear what the changes will actually mean. Presently more finance is allocated to local partnerships than elected bodies. How will the new communities be funded? Parish Council responsibilities will be reduced and Belonging Communities will be stronger but members will not be elected. Membership will be drawn from the community. Accountability was questioned. Presently the south east of Northumberland does not have parish or town councils. However, the problems reported from that area are not a good advertisement for areas existing without local government.
Correspondence from Community Action Northumberland attempted to clarify the next stages under Natural Communities in Northumberland.
8. Matters for Discussion with County & District Councillors.
a) CC B Purdue confirmed that he is hopeful of funds to complete the grass cutting outside No 9 South Park. He also confirmed his £500 commitment to the Flashing Speed Unit.
9. Correspondence.
a) Whitley Chapel YFC balance sheet (see 8a 10/9/07)
b) E-mail 9/10/07 Lucy Greenfield re Planning Forum meeting 9/11/07 circulated no one attended.
c) E-mail sent to NCC 19/10/07 regarding running water from Townhead this was repaired by Northumbria Water.
d) NCC Budget Consultation meetings 26/11/07 at Hexham. No one will attend.
e) ET & WCM Parish Council Forum copy of advertisement for Clerical Services of 84 hours per annum.
f) TC – adoption of Tynedale Council’s Core Strategy Development Plan Document + questionnaire Cllr IC Hancock completed.
g) NCC, Margaret Field, Development of Area Travel Information Co-ordinators (see 5j 13/8/07) Copies of bus service timetables + business cards Display Village Hall, Slaley Post Office, Pubs, Slaley Hall staff room, Parkside bungalows Notice Board etc.
h) Standards Board no notification of our adopting the Code of Conduct. E-mail confirmation sent 30/10/07
i) NCC Area Committee for Tynedale meeting 15/11/07 postponed.
j) NSP Invitation to the NSP Standing Conference ‘The Heat is ON’, 6/12/07 Longhorsley circulated by e-mail. No one wished to attend.
k) ET&WCM Parish Councils Forum minutes of 6/11/07 circulated by Cllr Mrs L. Norris e-mail.
l) NALC – Local Leadership in Action event 30/1/08 London circulated by Cllr Mrs L. Norris e-mail No one wished to attend.
m) Slaley Show balance sheet.
n) NALC – Local Authority Handbook 2007.
o) TC Christmas Refuse Collection dates & September meeting reports; Citizens Advice Bureau Macmillan Cancer Support poster – placed on notice board; NALC AGM 27/10/07 + Annual Report + details of NSP consultation of the 3 characteristic communities (same text as Adrian Hinchcliffe at 7 above) + Annual Report and Accounts 06/07; CAN News Vol 27 No 5; Furnitube advertising leaflet; CAN AGM 7/11/07 + annual report 06-07; North East Assembly – Working for the Region 06-07 key successes; North Pennines News – Autumn & Winter 07/08; TC leaflets on risks associated with fireworks & bonfires placed one on Notice Board and left a supply in Post Office; Direct Contact Exhibitions – Sunderland 14/11/07; Society of Local Council Clerks - Continuous Professional Development brochure. Clerks & Councils Direct November 07 issue 54.
10. Financial Report.
a) Cheques to be signed. (as agreed when setting Precept, Page 281)
No 316 GRANT Commemoration Hall £900.00
No 317 GRANT St. Mary’s Churchyard £50.00
No 318 GRANT Age Concern £100.00
No 319 GRANT Slaley Show £325.00
No 320 GRANT Community Action Northumberland £20.00
No 321 GRANT Whitley Chapel YFC £100.00
No 322 GRANT Air Ambulance £100.00
b) Interim payments. None.
c) TC Precept must be received by January 14th 2008
Cheques proposed by Cllr Mrs L. Norris and seconded by Cllr Mrs CA Brooks.
11. Current Planning Applications.
20071190 Conversion and extension of redundant agricultural building to form staff living accommodation associated with existing cattery business. Blackburn Farm.
20071228 Extension to dwelling, car port, single storey garage, alterations to access, gates and driveway. Wooley House
20071191 Two storey extension Overdale
20071063 Change of use and conversion of outbuildings to one
residential dwelling, installation of package treatment plant
and new pedestrian & vehicle access – Cocklake, Slaley. Pending
Decisions from Planning Authority
20070939 Construction of two porches at Pry Cottage granted.
12. Report from Cllr Mrs A.S. Robson on the Commemoration Hall Management Meeting on 11/10/07. Not present. Deferred to December
13. Post Christmas Meal at Slaley Hall for everyone age 60 years + Update.
a) A reply from Slaley Hall re disabled access and toilets in Claret Jug Restaurant was satisfactory.
b) Posters placed at Parkside Bungalows, Slaley Post Office & PC Notice Board.
c) Invitations and booking forms available from Slaley Post Office & in an article within the Parish Magazine. Clerk has delivered several in the village after telephone calls.
d) Slaley Notes to carry a reminder during November.
e) ADAPT had been contacted for a quote on help with disabled transport.
14. Balance Sheet. Circulated and attached as appendix 3/121107 page 368
Clerk to write to Headteacher / Chair of Governors asking is they would be willing to discuss the possibility of leasing part of the school grounds for a BMX track.
15. Village Mobile Flashing Speed Unit Update.
14 8/10/07. Reply from Lousie Taylor Shotley Low Quarter have decided against a Unit.
Confirmation from John McCann that £2, 400 is the correct price for a flashing unit. Before ordering a unit would John McCann consider a further meeting to discuss rotation costs.
Clerk to write to the residents in the vicinity of the proposed units indicating that Highways Authority had identified these areas for the flashing speed units.
16. Parish Councillor Travel Expenses (see 7f 8/10/07 page 352 & 4 13/6/05, page 161).
An e-mail reply received from Larry Dawson stated that the same protocol existed today as explained in the letter from John Copping in April 2005. It was agreed that Slaley Parish Council apply to the Independent Members Remuneration Panel for the purpose of making payments to Councillors for travelling and subsistence allowances. To ask if the declaration through the Parish Magazine, Slaley Notes column and minutes on the Slaley Web site be a sufficient advertisement?
17. Consider Precept Spending for 2008/09.
Before the December meeting clarification on the status of the Youth Club must be established and possible funding for 08/09 identified.
Costs for the rotation of a mobile speed unit will be required.
Grass cutting costs (see 4a above; 4a 8/10/07; 4a 10/9/07; 4a 13/8/07).
Councillor expenses (see 16 above)
18. Community Trust Report.
None this month.
19. A.O.B.
a) The imminent demise of the Parish Magazine was discussed and the loss of a written Parish Council report. It was suggested that this report should be included on the Slaley Web Site. Cllr Hancock confirmed that he would be able to do this. The Clerk questioned the need for two reports to be on the website and suggested that maybe the actual minutes could be dropped. Michael Elphick reported that several people enjoy reading the actual minutes and they should continue to be published.
b) The Clerk had received three, separately posted, copies of a letter entitled ‘Improving your Fire & Rescue Service’, although none had been addressed to the Parish Council. They were tabled for anyone to read due to no other households receiving a copy.
20. BOATs update.
a) Christine Pope of Natural England has agreed to joint the 4 Parishes BOATs Joint Committee for a site visit on December 17th.
The meeting closed at 10.25p.m.
Additional parking space outside numbers 9 and 12 South Park, how was it funded? Find out in agenda item 7c. Parish Council minutes are not posted on the web site until they have been accepted by the Councillors which is normally a month later than the meeting date.
Minutes of Slaley Parish Council, Monday October 8th 2007, in Slaley Commemoration Hall 7.30 p.m.
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, Ms M Palmer, & Clerk Mrs P. Wilson. District Councillor B.W. Massey &. County Councillor Wm Purdue
Public: Rachel Scott & Keith Robson. Courant Reporter: None. Slaley Notes Jean Elphick & Community Trust Executive Committee Member: Michael Elphick.
2. Declaration of Interests.
Cllr. Mrs L. Norris for agenda item 19
3. Minutes of September Parish Council Meeting (pages 344-348 + appendices 1 page 349)
Proposed by Cllr. Mrs L. Norris and seconded by Cllr Mrs A.S Robson the minutes were approved and signed.
4. Matters Arising.
a) 4a 10/907; 4 a 13/8/07; Cllr. Mrs A.S. Robson had been unable to negotiate with Hollybush for a reduction in the monthly charge, however she did propose showing a parishioner around the sites to see if they were interested in tendering for the work. An advert in the village shop asking for interest in tendering for the work was suggested and agreed. No estimate from Jonathan Storey, Holly Cottage.
b) 4e 10/9/07; 12e 13/8/07 Affordable Houses - stories received - some are allocated. No reply from Vicky Law regarding the increased rents. DC Brian Massey asked if the PC had been kept informed by Marilyn Rowe, the letting officer. After a negative reply DC Massey suggested that she was the lady to contact for answers.
c) 8h 10/9/07, 18b 9/7/07 Andrew Coney, General Manager of DeVere Hotel has repaired and repositioned the two Boundary/ Standing Stones. These two stones are once again upright in a gravel surround within a wooden frame. Already they have been seen by guests and their purpose asked. Clerk Pat Wilson was invited to view the stones during September.
d) 17 10/0907 Highway drain blockage at Jameson’s Well & Troughs. Traffic lights were placed on the B6306 and work began on October 1st, the traffic lights returned today and work has resumed. Speaking with the workmen and by telephone to Kevin Allen it appears that the cause of the problem has not been identified. Work was held up for several hours last week when a member of the public stopped work claiming that the well was his property. Two households have been presented with 28 day notices for the overhanging branches, shrubs etc on the B6306 to be cut back to their boundary wall. One household who did not receive a notice decided to cut back their overhanging branches and visibility has been greatly improved for drivers going south. On a humorous note NCC Highways were contacted by a member of the public who asked, “where Wooley village was” when the old Wooley Hospital sign on the B6306 was replaced with a new Wooley sign.
e) 18 d 10/9/07 DC Brian Massey reported that the caravan standing in the Rose & Crown car park does not need planning permission.
f) 3d 13/8/07 DC Brian Massey reported that Tynedale Council Planning Department had only recently requested the 2006 annual Holiday Villa occupancy details despite a PC letter requesting the information in December 2006 and again in March 2007. Clerk and DC Massey to discuss a reply.
5. Public Participation.
a) Two very angry members of the public reported instances of people/families being offered one of the Affordable Houses at Slaley, when the local criteria stipulation was questionable. Some single people, born and bred in the parish, some working in the parish and still living with their parents have been disqualified. The view was expressed that if this is because they were single it discriminated against local single people and the very people who filled in the Parish Plan questionnaire and subsequent Housing Needs Survey that instigated the Affordable Houses being built on a green belt site. It was credibly reported that a family that had not applied for a Slaley house, did not work locally and already occupied a house in Slaley had been approached by TC offering them an alternative house at Slaley. It was suggested that liaison had occurred between the Milecastle Housing waiting list and th