DEEPING ST JAMES PARISH COUNCIL

Draft minutes of the meeting of the Parish Council held at The Institute on Thursday, 27 June 2002.

Councillor Fisk, Chairman, presided over Councillors Abel, Auger, Bulmer-Jones, Chambers, Shinkins, Stevens, Thompson, Warrick, Watkins and the clerk.

Four members of the public were also in attendance.

013    MATTERS RAISED IN THE OPEN FORUM

.1 Planning application
r/o 27 Eastgate Two neighbours registered their objections to the proposal to build a dwelling at the back of this house on the grounds that the access was on a dangerous bend, was too near to their properties and would blight the enjoyment of their back gardens. Members noted the comments.

.2 Grass verge corner of New Row/Horsegate A complaint concerning the lack of maintenance at the location was received. The clerk assured that this had been regularly reported to the Highways Department and that action was expected imminently.

.3 Planning application Jubilee Playing Field A resident of Linchfield Road objected to the Parish Council’s planning application for skateboard and multi-play court facilities on this playing field. The concerns, which were supported by neighbours, included light and noise pollution, increase in traffic near the entrance, vandalism and safety issues, and the possibility of BMX bikers using the area. Members noted the comments and explained that in drawing up the plans the Council had tried to resolve the problems raised. It was also confirmed that C.C.T.V. was being considered as an integral part of the scheme.

014    APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE were received from Councillor Anderson, Dilks, Hill, Lewis and Walker.

015    DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

Members notified interests in the following items, completed the Register accordingly and in the case of prejudicial interests, left the meeting whilst the item was debated thereby taking no part and having no influence in the outcome:

Cllr Fisk:         Personal interest in Minute 019 Planning application for 16 Frognall.
         Prejudicial interest in Minute 022.1 Chair of Dpgs Friendship Club for the Disabled.
Cllr Shinkins:     Prejudicial interest in Minute 020 Playscheme Leader
Cllr Warrick:     Prejudicial interest in Minutes 022.1 & 022.2 Rector of the Priory Church.

016    MINUTES OF THE PREVIOUS MEETING

The minutes of the annual meeting held on 30 May 2002, having previously been circulated, were approved as a true and correct record and signed by the Chairman.

017    MATTERS ARISING OUT OF THE MINUTES

.1 Deepings T.C.M.P. (007.1)
Cllr Shinkins reported that the new name was the Deepings Community Partnership and that various parties, having noted the comments of the Parish Council, were now working towards its launch via a public meeting in September. Additionally, it was hoped that a Chamber of Trade could also be set up as a result of re-focusing the former T.C.M.P.

.2 Bus campaign (011.1) Cllr Auger reported on initial discussions with the Countryside Agency, who had shown some interest. Cllr Auger agreed to continue to pursue this potential avenue for funding.

.3 Footpath Walks (011.2) The clerk reported that the Rose Inn was currently unable to provide food. A booking for refreshments after both walks had been made at the Horsegate Tavern instead.

.4 Deepings online (011.6) Members were pleased to note that corrections to the site had been made and that information pertaining to local government in Deeping St James was complete.

.5 Community News (011.7) The clerk reported that the next edition would be delivered over the weekend of 3 July 2002. Cllr Stevens volunteered to write an article on the recent meeting concerning youth issues.

.6 Golden Jubilee (012.1) The clerk reported that a letter had been received from Her Royal Highness Queen Elizabeth II thanking the Council for its good wishes.

018    CORRESPONDENCE

.1 Appointment of auditors/ statement of responsibilities.
The Audit Commission has confirmed that Moore Stephens has been appointed as the Council’s external auditor with immediate effect. A booklet explaining members’ responsibilities under the new regulations had been received and a copy would be provided for each member of the Finance Committee. The clerk reported that the training course organised by LALC in conjunction with the Audit Commission had been very helpful; the Council should have few difficulties in meeting the requirements of the new audit process. A meeting of the Finance Committee will be arranged when the date of the audit is known.

.2 7.5 tonne weight restriction.
Members welcomed Lincolnshire County Council’s proposals to introduce a 7.5t weight limit (except for access) throughout the Deepings and agreed with the proposed ban area and location of signs. It was felt, however, that the ban would only be effective if the B1166 Crowland road was re-routed at the same time, in order to avoid confusion and prevent HGV’s approaching from Peterborough or Stamford entering the ban area to access the existing route. The clerk was instructed to request that Lincolnshire County Council enter into a contemporaneous Order to this effect and ensure that signing was addressed.

.3 Alcohol ban in named open spaces Market Deeping Town Council has advised that the cost of implementing an Order on the various named sites throughout the Deepings would be approximately £1,000 - £2,000. It was unanimously agreed that providing the overall sum did not exceed £2,000, the Parish Council would meet its element of the cost calculated on a pro-rata acreage basis.

.4 Memorial project The clerk reported that Market Deeping Town Council would not be able to consider the proposed wording for the accompanying explanatory plaque until next month. It was agreed to await their response and discuss the matter at the next meeting.

.5 Other items noted ·    Letter from a resident requesting better facilities for teenagers.
·    Transfer of licence at the Rose Inn from Carol Ann Hughes to Giles Edward Bowles and Cahrissa Ann Bowles.
·    SKDC confirmation that the playscheme grant is approved at 50% of the cost.
·    Lincolnshire Police exploratory letter to investigate mixed use centres/shared facilities.
·    Lincolnshire Policy Authority Policing and Best Value Performance Plan 2002-03.
·    Countryside Agency Newsletter and brochure on S.17 of Crime & Disorder Act 1998.
·    E.M.D.A. Business Plan 2002-04.
·    LCC Highways - Newsletter for South Kesteven & Sleaford Division.
·    Lincolnshire Road Safety Partnership Newsletter.
·    Peterborough City Council Local Transport Plan newsletter.
·    LCC Education & Cultural Services Draft school organisation plan 2002-07.
·    Association of Burial Authorities Newsletter.

019    PLANNING MATTERS

Cllr Warrick was unanimously re-elected as Chair of the Planning Committee at its meeting held immediately before the full Council meeting. Having regard to S.K.D.C.’s probity in matters relating to planning, Cllrs Auger and Bulmer-Jones took no part in the discussion and did not register a vote. It was unanimously agreed to submit the following observations on the planning applications before the Council:

Ref: Address Proposal

S02/0586
S02/0736 105 Eastgate Erection of double garage, alterations to existing dwelling & erection of additional dwelling with double garage. No objection.

S02/0724 Llamedos’, Back Lane Change of occupancy condition. Objection residential development is not appropriate at this location.

S02/0730 45 Rycroft Ave Single-storey & garage rear extensions. No objection.

S02/0738 10a Bridge Street Change of use to tanning studio/salon. No objection.

S02/0758 16 Frognall Rear extension to bungalow. No objection.

S02/0784 9 Thackers Way Erection of conservatory. No objection.

S02/0796 R/o 27 Eastgate Erection of dwelling. Clarification needed on exact location of dwelling - defer to next meeting.

S02/0807 Jubilee Playing Field, Linchfield Road Provision of skateboard area and dry play sports area with associated equipment. The Parish Council, as applicant, makes no observations.

The following applications have been determined by the Planning Authority (S.K.D.C.) since the last Council meeting. The decisions accord with the Council’s previously notified observations unless stated otherwise:

Ref. Address Proposal Outcome

S02/0147 181 Spalding Rd Replacement of outbuildings with granny annexe. Refused.

S02/0490 45 Frognall Extensions & alterations to convert to chalet bungalow. Granted.

S02/0544 R/o 12 Horsegate Erection of dwelling (outline) * P.C. did not object. Refused.

S02/0546 5 Rycroft Avenue Single-storey rear extension to form store to shop. Granted.

S02/0555 1 Bridge Street Single-storey side extension. Granted.

S02/0604 4 Towning Close Two-storey side extension. Granted.

020    ACCOUNTS FOR PAYMENT

It was unanimously resolved to pay the following accounts:

Payee Service/Item of Expenditure
Amount

Clerk
Salary
609.03

Postage

46.00

Mileage expenses:
-    17.6 Grantham - Skate park meeting
-    19.6 Sleaford - Finance training course

45.60

Inland Revenue
Quarterly PAYE/NIC
397.01

L.C.C.
Pension
137.18

Onyx UK Ltd
Litter picking Jubilee Playing Field
11.75

Adcentre Ltd
Meetings advert (subject to 50% reimbursement from M.D.T.C.).
30.55

Issue 2 of Community News’

183.30

Dpgs Community Trust Ltd
Room hire 17 June 2002
25.00

Huddlestone Landscapes
Cemetery maintenance (2)
240.00

Parish footpaths maintenance

95.00

Millennium Wood maintenance

50.00

Hedge cutting Low Locks/Jubilee Playing Field

60.00

DSJ Playscheme
Balance of float
5,250.00

Viking Direct
Office stationery
119.46

Graytone Printers
Printing letterheads/compliments slips
115.15

Anglian Water
Water supply Cemetery
63.75

Market Deeping Fencing
Repairs to cemetery fence
190.00

Deeping St James P.C.C.
Duplication of Bridge Street survey forms
22.48

S W Fisk
Strimmer repairs
24.59

Footpath refreshments float 17 & 24/7

60.00

ABB Ltd
Lights maintenance contract The Cross
10.68

Total

7,786.53

Members unanimously approved the clerk’s action in transferring the main deposit at Barclays Bank to a new product paying higher interest and giving easier access.

021    REPORTS

.1 Deepings Councils Liaison Group The reports of the meetings held on 17 June 2002 and 25 June 2002 were received and noted. Copies are attached to the official minutes. Councillors expressed satisfaction at the progress being made on youth issues, particularly in respect of the five objectives highlighted in the two reports. It was unanimously agreed to approve a provision of £175 from the Grant Aid budget towards the cost of jointly sponsoring with Market Deeping Town Council the introduction of a fortnightly coffee bar facility in the Deepings Community Centre, commencing for a trial period of twelve sessions in September.

.2 Jubilee Playing Field project The clerk presented a report summarising progress to date and detailing quotations from three suppliers. A copy of the report is attached to the official minutes. It was unanimously agreed to select Monster Leisure’s quotation for the basis of grant aid applications and to further negotiate with this company should planning permission be granted and sufficient funds raised. It was further agreed that grant aid applications should be submitted to the bodies named in the report and that C.C.T.V. should form an integral part of the scheme. Members noted the clerk’s advice concerning lighting levels and agreed that only the lower levels should be contemplated, subject to planning consent for lighting. Members also noted the need to develop a post-installation inspection and maintenance regime.

022    ITEMS TABLED FOR DISCUSSION

.1 Applications for grant aid Cllrs Fisk and Warrick, having declared prejudicial interests, left the meeting whilst this item was discussed. It was unanimously agreed that Cllr Auger should assume the Chair for the purpose of this item only. Three applications were before the Council and it was unanimously agreed to make the following awards: Deepings Friendship Club for the Disabled (to provide social activities and outings) - £250; Deeping Canoe Club (for navigational and safety equipment) - £250; Deeping St James Parochial Church Council (for CCTV in the church) - £180.

.2 Tourism directional sign Spalding Road Cllr Warrick, having declared a prejudicial interest, left the meeting whilst this item was discussed. It was proposed, seconded and carried by 9 votes to 1 that Lincolnshire County Council, at a cost of £50, is asked to undertake an assessment of the Parish Council’s request that a brown tourism directional sign depicting the ancient market cross and Priory Church be erected at the junction of Spalding Road and Broadgate Lane. Cllr Abel requested that it be recorded that his objection was due to its homogenous appearance rather than the principle of such a sign. Successful assessment does not commit the Council to purchasing a sign, which would be in the region of £250.

.3 Traffic problems Bridge Street A full copy of the survey undertaken by a resident of Bridge Street had been produced for each member since the last meeting. Following a lengthy discussion during which it was recognised that there are similar problems on other roads in the parish, it was unanimously agreed that the clerk should request the Highways Department to undertake an origin/destination survey of traffic when assessing the road’s priority rating and that the police be asked to provide speeding data already on file. The author of the survey should also to be asked to send a copy of the findings to the Highways Department and police. It was further agreed that upon receipt of the responses from the Highways Department and the police, the Council would consider the residents’ request for traffic calming.

.4 In-fill planning policy It was unanimously agreed to defer this item to the August meeting.

.5 Crowson Way/ Thackers Way junction In the absence of Cllr Anderson, it was unanimously agreed to defer this item to the July meeting.

023    PARISH-PUMP No matters raised.

The meeting closed at 10.03pm.

.1	Planning application r/o 27 Eastgate	Two neighbours registered their objections to the proposal to build a dwelling at the back of this house on the grounds that the access was on a dangerous bend, was too near to their properties and would blight the enjoyment of their back gardens. Members noted the comments.

.2	Grass verge corner of New Row/Horsegate	A complaint concerning the lack of maintenance at the location was received. The clerk assured that this had been regularly reported to the Highways Department and that action was expected imminently.

.3	Planning application Jubilee Playing Field	A resident of Linchfield Road objected to the Parish Council’s planning application for skateboard and multi-play court facilities on this playing field. The concerns, which were supported by neighbours, included light and noise pollution, increase in traffic near the entrance, vandalism and safety issues, and the possibility of BMX bikers using the area. Members noted the comments and explained that in drawing up the plans the Council had tried to resolve the problems raised. It was also confirmed that C.C.T.V. was being considered as an integral part of the scheme.

.1	Deepings T.C.M.P. (007.1)	Cllr Shinkins reported that the new name was the Deepings Community Partnership and that various parties, having noted the comments of the Parish Council, were now working towards its launch via a public meeting in September. Additionally, it was hoped that a Chamber of Trade could also be set up as a result of re-focusing the former T.C.M.P.

.2	Bus campaign (011.1)	Cllr Auger reported on initial discussions with the Countryside Agency, who had shown some interest. Cllr Auger agreed to continue to pursue this potential avenue for funding.

.3	Footpath Walks (011.2)	The clerk reported that the Rose Inn was currently unable to provide food. A booking for refreshments after both walks had been made at the Horsegate Tavern instead.

.4	Deepings online (011.6)	Members were pleased to note that corrections to the site had been made and that information pertaining to local government in Deeping St James was complete.

.5	Community News (011.7)	The clerk reported that the next edition would be delivered over the weekend of 3 July 2002. Cllr Stevens volunteered to write an article on the recent meeting concerning youth issues.

.6	Golden Jubilee (012.1)	The clerk reported that a letter had been received from Her Royal Highness Queen Elizabeth II thanking the Council for its good wishes.

.1	Appointment of auditors/ statement of responsibilities.	The Audit Commission has confirmed that Moore Stephens has been appointed as the Council’s external auditor with immediate effect. A booklet explaining members’ responsibilities under the new regulations had been received and a copy would be provided for each member of the Finance Committee. The clerk reported that the training course organised by LALC in conjunction with the Audit Commission had been very helpful; the Council should have few difficulties in meeting the requirements of the new audit process. A meeting of the Finance Committee will be arranged when the date of the audit is known.

.2	7.5 tonne weight restriction.	Members welcomed Lincolnshire County Council’s proposals to introduce a 7.5t weight limit (except for access) throughout the Deepings and agreed with the proposed ban area and location of signs. It was felt, however, that the ban would only be effective if the B1166 Crowland road was re-routed at the same time, in order to avoid confusion and prevent HGV’s approaching from Peterborough or Stamford entering the ban area to access the existing route. The clerk was instructed to request that Lincolnshire County Council enter into a contemporaneous Order to this effect and ensure that signing was addressed.

.3	Alcohol ban in named open spaces	Market Deeping Town Council has advised that the cost of implementing an Order on the various named sites throughout the Deepings would be approximately £1,000 - £2,000. It was unanimously agreed that providing the overall sum did not exceed £2,000, the Parish Council would meet its element of the cost calculated on a pro-rata acreage basis.

.4	Memorial project	The clerk reported that Market Deeping Town Council would not be able to consider the proposed wording for the accompanying explanatory plaque until next month. It was agreed to await their response and discuss the matter at the next meeting.

.5	Other items noted	· Letter from a resident requesting better facilities for teenagers. · Transfer of licence at the Rose Inn from Carol Ann Hughes to Giles Edward Bowles and Cahrissa Ann Bowles. · SKDC confirmation that the playscheme grant is approved at 50% of the cost. · Lincolnshire Police exploratory letter to investigate mixed use centres/shared facilities. · Lincolnshire Policy Authority Policing and Best Value Performance Plan 2002-03. · Countryside Agency Newsletter and brochure on S.17 of Crime & Disorder Act 1998. · E.M.D.A. Business Plan 2002-04. · LCC Highways - Newsletter for South Kesteven & Sleaford Division. · Lincolnshire Road Safety Partnership Newsletter. · Peterborough City Council Local Transport Plan newsletter. · LCC Education & Cultural Services Draft school organisation plan 2002-07. · Association of Burial Authorities Newsletter.

Ref:	Address	Proposal

S02/0586 S02/0736	105 Eastgate	Erection of double garage, alterations to existing dwelling & erection of additional dwelling with double garage. No objection.
S02/0724	Llamedos’, Back Lane	Change of occupancy condition. Objection residential development is not appropriate at this location.
S02/0730	45 Rycroft Ave	Single-storey & garage rear extensions. No objection.
S02/0738	10a Bridge Street	Change of use to tanning studio/salon. No objection.
S02/0758	16 Frognall	Rear extension to bungalow. No objection.
S02/0784	9 Thackers Way	Erection of conservatory. No objection.
S02/0796	R/o 27 Eastgate	Erection of dwelling. Clarification needed on exact location of dwelling - defer to next meeting.
S02/0807	Jubilee Playing Field, Linchfield Road	Provision of skateboard area and dry play sports area with associated equipment. The Parish Council, as applicant, makes no observations.

Ref.	Address	Proposal	Outcome

S02/0147	181 Spalding Rd	Replacement of outbuildings with granny annexe.	Refused.
S02/0490	45 Frognall	Extensions & alterations to convert to chalet bungalow.	Granted.
S02/0544	R/o 12 Horsegate	Erection of dwelling (outline) * P.C. did not object.	Refused.
S02/0546	5 Rycroft Avenue	Single-storey rear extension to form store to shop.	Granted.
S02/0555	1 Bridge Street	Single-storey side extension.	Granted.
S02/0604	4 Towning Close	Two-storey side extension.	Granted.

Payee	Service/Item of Expenditure	Amount
Clerk	Salary	609.03
	Postage	46.00
	Mileage expenses: - 17.6 Grantham - Skate park meeting - 19.6 Sleaford - Finance training course	45.60
Inland Revenue	Quarterly PAYE/NIC	397.01
L.C.C.	Pension	137.18
Onyx UK Ltd	Litter picking Jubilee Playing Field	11.75
Adcentre Ltd	Meetings advert (subject to 50% reimbursement from M.D.T.C.).	30.55
	Issue 2 of Community News’	183.30
Dpgs Community Trust Ltd	Room hire 17 June 2002	25.00
Huddlestone Landscapes	Cemetery maintenance (2)	240.00
	Parish footpaths maintenance	95.00
	Millennium Wood maintenance	50.00
	Hedge cutting Low Locks/Jubilee Playing Field	60.00
DSJ Playscheme	Balance of float	5,250.00
Viking Direct	Office stationery	119.46
Graytone Printers	Printing letterheads/compliments slips	115.15
Anglian Water	Water supply Cemetery	63.75
Market Deeping Fencing	Repairs to cemetery fence	190.00
Deeping St James P.C.C.	Duplication of Bridge Street survey forms	22.48
S W Fisk	Strimmer repairs	24.59
	Footpath refreshments float 17 & 24/7	60.00
ABB Ltd	Lights maintenance contract The Cross	10.68
Total		7,786.53

.1	Deepings Councils Liaison Group	The reports of the meetings held on 17 June 2002 and 25 June 2002 were received and noted. Copies are attached to the official minutes. Councillors expressed satisfaction at the progress being made on youth issues, particularly in respect of the five objectives highlighted in the two reports. It was unanimously agreed to approve a provision of £175 from the Grant Aid budget towards the cost of jointly sponsoring with Market Deeping Town Council the introduction of a fortnightly coffee bar facility in the Deepings Community Centre, commencing for a trial period of twelve sessions in September.

.2	Jubilee Playing Field project	The clerk presented a report summarising progress to date and detailing quotations from three suppliers. A copy of the report is attached to the official minutes. It was unanimously agreed to select Monster Leisure’s quotation for the basis of grant aid applications and to further negotiate with this company should planning permission be granted and sufficient funds raised. It was further agreed that grant aid applications should be submitted to the bodies named in the report and that C.C.T.V. should form an integral part of the scheme. Members noted the clerk’s advice concerning lighting levels and agreed that only the lower levels should be contemplated, subject to planning consent for lighting. Members also noted the need to develop a post-installation inspection and maintenance regime.

.1	Applications for grant aid	Cllrs Fisk and Warrick, having declared prejudicial interests, left the meeting whilst this item was discussed. It was unanimously agreed that Cllr Auger should assume the Chair for the purpose of this item only. Three applications were before the Council and it was unanimously agreed to make the following awards: Deepings Friendship Club for the Disabled (to provide social activities and outings) - £250; Deeping Canoe Club (for navigational and safety equipment) - £250; Deeping St James Parochial Church Council (for CCTV in the church) - £180.

.2	Tourism directional sign Spalding Road	Cllr Warrick, having declared a prejudicial interest, left the meeting whilst this item was discussed. It was proposed, seconded and carried by 9 votes to 1 that Lincolnshire County Council, at a cost of £50, is asked to undertake an assessment of the Parish Council’s request that a brown tourism directional sign depicting the ancient market cross and Priory Church be erected at the junction of Spalding Road and Broadgate Lane. Cllr Abel requested that it be recorded that his objection was due to its homogenous appearance rather than the principle of such a sign. Successful assessment does not commit the Council to purchasing a sign, which would be in the region of £250.

.3	Traffic problems Bridge Street	A full copy of the survey undertaken by a resident of Bridge Street had been produced for each member since the last meeting. Following a lengthy discussion during which it was recognised that there are similar problems on other roads in the parish, it was unanimously agreed that the clerk should request the Highways Department to undertake an origin/destination survey of traffic when assessing the road’s priority rating and that the police be asked to provide speeding data already on file. The author of the survey should also to be asked to send a copy of the findings to the Highways Department and police. It was further agreed that upon receipt of the responses from the Highways Department and the police, the Council would consider the residents’ request for traffic calming.

.4	In-fill planning policy	It was unanimously agreed to defer this item to the August meeting.

.5	Crowson Way/ Thackers Way junction	In the absence of Cllr Anderson, it was unanimously agreed to defer this item to the July meeting.