There can't be many (if any) new orchards of this size planted in Northumberland these days.This one is doubly noteworthy as it will be circular - planted as two concentric circles and divided by paths to form a Celtic cross. We hope to have adults and children working together through the day. Volunteers are very welcome and will be greatly appreciated - I believe hot soup will be provided at lunch time. To get there follow the A68 south from the Riding Mill roundabout for about 2 miles the centre is signposted and is about half a mile along a road on the right.

Janis Irvine adds that "Minsteracres is a near neighbour and I'm sure many in Slaley would be interested in the good things that are going on over there."

• Thursday 28th January: "The Walled Gardens of Northumberland", a talk by Veronica Goulty
• Saturday 13th February: A visit to Howick Hall to see the snowdrops.
• 25th March: A talk about Bees and Honey making, by Mr Bill Hunter.
• 29th April: Quiz night; bring along surplus seeds and plants.
• 28th May: (To be confirmed)
• 24th June: Club visit to members' gardens.
• 29th July: Gateshead Flower Show (Friday 30th, Saturday 31st or Sunday 1st August)
• 26th August: No Meeting.
• 30th September: Harrogate Flower Show.
• 28th October: "Orchids", a talk by Mr Chris Barker.
• 25th November: "Gardens And Garden Design Through The Ages", a talk by Dr Yellowley.
• 23rd December: Yes it's that time again! Quiz, drinks and nibbles.

Further announcements will be posted here.

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

2. Declaration of Interests and Hospitality Record.
None.

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

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

5. Public Participation.
None.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

We hope that people might welcome a night out without having to travel too far, and this is a sunny romantic comedy from Woody Allen, with two young American women on holiday in Barcelona, an amorous Spanish painter and his volatile ex-wife. The supper will be a warming Spanish broth!

One reviewer concludes: "the actors are attractive, the city is magnificent, the love scenes don't get all sweaty, and everybody finishes the summer a little wiser and with a lifetime of memories. What more could you ask?"

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Declaration of Interests and Hospitality Record.
None

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

'In Transition'
Sunday 15th November, 17:00 Forum Cinema, Hexham (Followed by social in Cinema Café) All welcome!

Our first showing of the new national Transition film.
It tells the story of the generation that looked peak oil and climate change square in the face, and responded with creativity, compassion and genius.
The film is directed by Emma Goude, and with input from Transition communities around the world. 'In Transition' is the perfect sequel to 'The Age of Stupid'.
There will be a £2 charge to cover costs.

'The Power of Community - How Cuba Survived Peak Oil'
Wednesday 18th November, 19:30 - Trinity Methodist Church, Beaumont Street, Hexham.
PEAK OIL is Coming - so is our film ‘The Power of Community’. This film tells the story of how Cuba successfully addressed the challenge of feeding itself and reducing its energy use.
When the Soviet Union collapsed in 1990, Cuba's economy went into a tailspin. With imports of oil cut by more than half – and food by 80 percent – people were desperate. This film tells of the hardships and struggles as well as the community and creativity of the Cuban people during this difficult time. Cubans share how they transitioned from a highly mechanized, industrial agricultural system to one using organic methods of farming and local, urban gardens.
Cuba, the only country that has faced such a crisis – the massive reduction of fossil fuels – is an example of options and hope.

All Welcome. Running time 1hr. Entry £2

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

2. Declaration of Interests and Hospitality Record.
None

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

16. A.O.B.
None.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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