MINUTES OF A MEETING OF PUBLOW WITH PENSFORD PARISH COUNCIL HELD ON MONDAY 8th DECEMBER 2014 AT 7.15 pm AT THE MEMORIAL HALL PUBLOW LANE PENSFORD

Present: Chairman: Mr T Heaford Vice-Chair: Mrs J Stephenson
Mrs L Cains, Mrs J Jones, Mrs S Grimes, Mrs J Gully, Mr J Kelly,
Cllr P Edwards, Mr S Filer Clerk: Mrs J Bragg.
Also present were Mr & Mrs Hunt, Mr P May, Mr L Coomber.
Mr P Breach, Robin Gray from Alec French Architect, Craig O’Brian from Savills and Phillipa (Breach)

1) Welcome Peter Breach: Mr Breach and his colleagues were welcomed to the meeting to give an updated presentation further to that given in September. The proposal still consists of nine homes hoping to be affordable for the First Time Buyer Market. To enhance the affordability two units have been made larger in length. New Parking Bays have been created for the 4 unit block of homes to address the concerns raised regarding on-site parking.
Changes had been made to the proposal of the 4 unit block, two proposed views were shown one with a finish in stone and the other with a cream render finish. Local properties were taken into consideration whilst creating these finishes. Windows have been made more interesting with the introduction of stone lintels and a change of colour of frames. Garage doors have now been pulled forward to be flush with the frontage of the unit.
The Parish Council were happy with the designs however it was pointed out that there appeared to be no consideration for Dustbins or Recycling Bins.
Access into the site remains a concern, however the Parish Council are assured that the Highways Team have been consulted
It was agreed that the best way forward now would be to take the proposals to a Public Consultation. The Agent will liaise with Clerk regarding meeting dates and availability of the Memorial Hall.

2) Members of the Public had nothing to bring to the meeting.

3) Apologies for Absence were received from Mr Seymour.

4) Minutes of Monday 10th NOVEMBER 2014 after being circulated and read were signed as a correct record

5) Matters Arising from the previous minutes:

Footpaths Officer: Now has all equipment and maps. The seats by the Lock Up and on Pensford Hill had been cleared of brambles.

M & M Contractors: The cable works are reported to be on schedule. It is anticipated that works will start in Chew Magna in February.
Clerk reported that a complaint had been received from a resident in Belluton Villas regarding the mud left behind in the lay-by by his property. M & M were contacted and reported that they would be clearing this up and would apologise to the person concerned.

Allotments: Vacant plots will be advertised in the Parish Magazine.

Planning: No reply had been received from Planning regarding the Parish Councils comments in reply to garage proposal.

6) Items for Discussion:

a) Lock Up – Christmas Nativity: The Parish Council had been approached by a Member of the Public who proposed to put this years Nativity Scene inside the Lock Up. Clerk contacted English Heritage and the Insurance Company to be advised of the correct procedures. The Insurance Company requested a Risk Assessment. This was duly completed and returned to the Insurance Company allowing the Nativity to go ahead. The Three Kings were placed in the Lock Up and the Nativity was put in the Church Tower.

Mrs Stephenson confirmed that the copy Key had now been completed by Chapel Forge. The original key will stay with the Clerk and the copy Key is with Mr Newey at Popham Cottage.

Christmas Tree for Village Green: The Parish Council had been contacted by the George & Dragon in relation to putting a Christmas Tree on the Village Green, this was to enable the school children to add Christmas wishes to the tree. A donation was being sought from the Parish Council.
In past years the Parish Council made a financial contribution towards the cost of the tree and the electricity. When the electric cabling became dangerous being placed across the road the Christmas Tree project on the green ceased. Parish Council to suggest that maybe the tree could be located next to the Lock Up in future years. It was suggested that the cost of providing a Power Supply to the Lock Up could be looked into. Mrs Gully to speak with Mr Newey and Mr Heaford will speak to the owners of the George & Dragon.

b) Proposed Changes to the Rights of Way Network – Church Farm Publow: Mrs Stephenson will look at these proposals further but initially the Parish Council could not see a problem.

c) Placemaking Plan Consultation: This is a long document available online (113 pages), there is no reference to Pensford.

d) Clerk Scale Point Rise from SCP 26 to SCP 27 – new rates from NALC: Parish Council agreed the clerks SCP rise.

e) Neighbourhood Plan Update: Mrs Grimes gave an update from the recent Neighbourhood Planning Meetings. All minutes will be placed on the web site.
A meeting was held with two members of the Whitchurch Village Neighbourhood Planning Committee which was very useful. Joint issues such as the A37 were discussed.
The next meeting takes place on Wednesday 7th January 2015.
The Parish Council were asked if they would fund the cost of the Church Room Hire and further small amounts. The Parish Council agreed at the moment to fund Room Rental & Printing costs. It was also agreed that the Parish Council would fund the Clerks hours in relation to Neighbourhood Planning. Clerk to submit a timesheet to the Parish Council.

7) Clerks Progress Report:

Redundant Bus Shelter: BANES Planning have confirmed that based on the information provided to them the proposal to turn the bus shelter into a planter would not be considered development therefore permission would not be required. Builders are being asked provide quotations.
Remembrance Sunday Parade: An email of thanks has been sent to PC Gemma Hill thanking her PCSO’s Martyn Bragg and Teresa Bailey for their attendance at the Remembrance Sunday Service. The donations have been sent to the British Legion and the Bugler this year Alistair Clements from Bath.

Chairman’s Awards: Forms have been completed and sent to BANES for both nominations for Volunteer of the Year.

Acker Bilk Plaque: BANES Planning have confirmed that planning permission would only be needed to put up a plaque if the building it is going on to is a Listed Building. It was agreed at the meeting that someone could ask Jean for some suggestions.

Birchwood Lane: Overhanging Vegetation has been reported to BANES.

Council Connect: No update on overhanging trees at Orchard Leigh, New Road and the lane to the side of this property.

A further email has been sent to Highways regarding Overhanging vegetation from the centre of the village towards Chelwood on the Car Sales Side.

Clerk has again asked BANES if they can maintain the path which was uncovered along Hursley Hill and cut back a couple of years ago.

Hillcrest: Complaints have been made to the Clerk regarding a car parking on the pavement in front of the Grit Bin by the Old Peoples Bungalows at Hillcrest. Clerk has informed Parking Services at BANES and the Police Beat Team have been informed. BANES Council Connect have also been informed that the Grit Bin needs replenishing and maybe this would be a good time to review all of the grit bins in the Parish and top up as necessary.

Bristol Airport: An invitation was received from Bristol Airport to join them for their Annual Community Review on Monday 8th December, as this clashes with the next Parish Council meeting apologies were sent.

Pensford Primary School: A letter of application was received from the Primary School re-iterating their request made via Lisa Cains seeking a donation towards their numeracy square for the playground. An email has been sent back to the Finance Officer confirming that the Parish Council agreed at the November meeting to donate half of the cost of the square (less the VAT), a total of £300.00. A cheque will be raised for this amount.

Gritting of High Street: Council Connect have been emailed to make sure that the High Street is still on the main gritting list

8) Planning:

Planning Application considered by Sub-Committee:

1404892/CLEU Mr G Knight Whitley Mews Wells Road Pensford Use of Whitley Mews as a single dwelling (Certificate of Lawfulness for an existing use) Parish Council Support

Planning Outcomes:

14/04240/OUT Mr C Hill Knights Folly Farm Woollard Lane Publow Erection of 1.no.dwelling at Land at Knights Folly Farm REFUSED

14/03999/FUL Mr J Rigby Bramley House Hillcrest Pensford Installation of side windows and patio doors and erection of boundary fence (Retrospective) Resurfacing of drive Installation of an air source heat pump PERMITTED

Tree Works Notification: 14/05345/TCA Assured Trees Ltd Pensford Primary School Pensford. 1 x crown removal Parish Council Support

9) Financial Matters:

Payments to be Authorised:

Mrs J Bragg Clerk Salary November 604.58
Mrs J Bragg Clerk Imprest 17.42
Mrs J Bragg Computer Ink 26.98
Bristol Water Allotment Water 28.99
Primary School Donation to Playground Number Square 300.00

Payments Received:

None to report

10. Any Other Business:

Elections 2015: Mr Heaford informed the Parish Council that he is retiring from his position as Chairman with effect from the end of the December Meeting. He will be standing for re-election on the Parish Council. Mr Heaford has been Vice-Chairman from 1986 to 2002, and Chairman from 2002 to the present date. Mr Heaford proposed Janette Stephenson to take over as Chairman which was unanimously supported. An Election of Vice-Chairman will take place in January.

Parish Council Vacancy: Mrs Stephenson has a mum from the School who is interested in joining the Parish Council. She will be invited to attend the January meeting.

Tennis Club: Mrs Grimes reported that funds are good at present and members’ numbers are good. The recent quiz raised £763. The Club are still saving the Bristol Evening Post Vouchers should anyone have any they wish to donate. Contractors have been approached regarding the re-surfacing of the court.

Bridleway on Common: It was reported that the gate leading to the Bridleway on the Common was tied up. Clerk to try and find out why, and who currently owns the land.

Dog Fouling: Reports of Dog Fouling has been reported on the pavements outside of the school. Mrs Jones will contact the Dog Warden and ask for extra signage.

Councillors Retirement: Peter Edwards also reported that he will be retiring in April 2015. Mr Edwards gave a personal thank you to Mr Heaford for the way in which he had conducted and promoted the Parish Council over the years as Chairman.

11. Notice of Future Meetings:

Chew Valley Forum Meeting Thursday 12th February 2014 at the Wellsway, Harptree Hill at 6.30 pm

DATE OF NEXT MEETING MONDAY 12th JANUARY 2015 AT 7.15 pm

MINUTES OF A MEETING OF PUBLOW WITH PENSFORD PARISH COUNCIL HELD ON MONDAY 10TH NOVEMBER 2014 AT 7.15 pm AT THE MEMORIAL HALL PUBLOW LANE PENSFORD

Present: Chairman Mr T  Heaford Vice-Chair: Mrs J Stephenson
Mr L Seymour, Mrs S Grimes, Mrs L Cains, Cllr P Edwards, Mrs J Gully, Mr J Kelly.

Conservative Candidate Mr Paul May was present along with Mr & Mrs Hunt & Mr S Roberts Assured Trees.

1) Members of the Public:

Management of 1 x Weeping Willow at Pensford Primary School. Mr Roberts attended the meeting to run through the options available for the management of the Weeping Willow tree in the playground at the Primary School. Three options were discussed 1) to reduce the crown of approximately 2 – 3 metres 2) Crown removal to create a high pollard effect and 3) total crown removal to create a low pollard effect. The tree was reported as being approximately 80 years old and by pruning the tree it would prolong its life in a good way to 30+ more years. There were no concerns raised with the root system of the tree. On further discussion the Parish Council were of the opinion that option 2 would be more acceptable. Clerk will write to Jane Brewer at BANES with the Parish Councils preference.

2) Apologies for Absence were received from Mrs J Jones.

3) Minutes of Monday 20TH OCTOBER 2014 after being circulated and read were signed as a correct record.

4) Matters Arising from the previous minutes:

Footpaths Officer: Mr Holmes has been appointed as the new Footpaths Officer. The first priorities will be to cut the Village Green and tidy overgrown brambles away from the seat on Pensford Hill. The Parish Council had received correspondence from a Pensford resident who takes pride in the Village Green asking when it will be cut.

Chew Valley Forum Meeting: Chairman will be on holiday. It is hoped that another member of the Parish Council can attend in his absence.

Primary School Donation: The Primary School are to be reminded that the correct procedure for seeking a donation would be through the Parish Council Clerk. Parish Council had previously agreed to donate half the cost of the Number Square excluding VAT.

5) Items for Discussion:

a) Parish Liaison Meeting: Chairman had attended this meeting. A briefing on Connecting Communities was given. This is now known as the Chew Valley Forum.
Fracking was discussed. No applications or licences in our area had been applied for.
A presentation was given by Richard Stott who is now in charge of Planning Enforcement in BANES. There are currently 5 officers in the department working on 500/600 enforcement cases. A supporting paper is awaited from Ann Swabey but clerk confirmed it had not been received to date. Cllr Edwards to follow up.

b) M & M Contractors – Broadband Road works: Disruptions and diversions were reported for Pensford and Woollard due to the works being undertaken by M & M Contractors. Chairman had held recent meetings with a representative from M & M regarding diversion routes and concerns. The diversion of traffic from Woollard, Hunstrete & Compton Dando through Smallbrook Lane behind Bell Farm was raised as a major concern as this lane is a non-vehicular access route. This will be raised with BANES & M & M Contractors. No Entry Signs will be put up which will hopefully deter motorists from using the lanes as a ‘Rat Run’.
It was reported that Chew Magna High Street will probably be closed in January and more work is planned for Belluton Narrows. Further details will be posted on the Parish Council Web Site in due course.

c) Neighbourhood Plan Update: Mrs Grimes, Mrs Stephenson & Mrs Bragg had attended the Neighbourhood Plan meeting held on 29th October 2014. It was agreed that all meetings should be well documented and clear and precise minutes taken. It was agreed to defer a public meeting until a much later date. Parish Council Chairman had completed the application form and this was submitted.

A six week consultation period will now commence. Funding was reported to be in the region of 9k to cover venue hire, stationery. There will be a link on the Web Site to keep everyone informed. A further meeting was held with Julie O’Rourke from BANES on 6th November 2014. She advised that all Parish Groups should be approached to help. The Neighbourhood Plan will take 1 – 2 years to complete but it is important to get the whole community involved.

A Logo is needed.

Display Boards can be borrowed from BANES.

Drop In sessions will be organised.

A questionnaire will be produced. Maybe a prize could be offered to encourage completion and return of the form.

A referendum will be held and if 51% return in favour then the Plan will be adopted.

Future meetings will possibly be held in the Church Room.

Parish Council have offered support.

d) Remembrance Sunday – Donation to Bugler/Poppy Wreath: Although the Service went smoothly some parishioners felt that it was a little rushed. The Police were in attendance and halted the traffic for the two minute silence. Donations to the British Legion and the Bugler will remain as last year and an email of thanks will be sent to the Police.

e) Defibrillator Hillcrest: This has now been fixed with no extra charges and is back in service again.

f) Chairman’s Awards: Two nominees were agreed and Clerk will send in the Nomination Forms.

g) Bus Shelter Pensford Bridge: BANES have asked for photographs of the bus shelter as it is at present and details of the proposals to turn it into a planter before they make their decision regarding pre-planning advice. Mrs Cains had taken the photographs and Clerk had emailed them to BANES. A decision is awaited.

h) Allotments: The Allotments have been cleared and tidied. A large amount of rubbish including old sheds, chicken coops, scraps of carpet and metalwork have been removed from site. There are still plots which are overgrown and tenants have obviously left without informing the Parish Council. Clerk will chase these tenants. Parish Council will advertise the vacant plots. It was suggested that the Environmental Health Department should be contacted due to the amount of vermin which were living in the redundant sheds.

Affordable Housing: A resident in Pensford has contacted Curo independently regarding Affordable Housing on the Allotment Site. Should Affordable Housing be built on the Allotment Site the Parish Council have an obligation to provide Allotments elsewhere. Currently the Parish Council have been unable to find any land suitable to purchase for re-location of the Allotment Site hence no further developments on Affordable Housing.

i) Acker Bilk: Following the sad loss of Acker Bilk the Parish Council would like to commemorate his life in Pensford by placing a plaque or similar in the village. The best location was discussed. Clerk will look into the permissions needed to put up a Plaque on the side of a building.

6) Clerks Progress Report:

Redundant Bus Stop: Clerk has emailed BANES Planning and re-iterated proposals to turn the Bus Stop into a feature Planter for the centre of the Village and questioned if Planning consent is required to do this. BANES have asked for photos of the Bus Stop and a drawing of the proposal.

Photos have been sent with a description of the proposal.

Woollard Bridge: The Parapets on Woollard Bridge have been looked at (Progress!!), it is BANES intention to include Woollard Bridge on a Parapet repainting package with other sites to be carried out in the New Year. Clerk has emailed BANES back asking for the bridge to be prioritised with the re-painting works as the Parish Council first asked for it to be repainted in February 2013.

Housing Proposal – Wick Lane: Mr Breach & his Architect will be attending the December meeting with an update. Clerk has asked for details in advance of the meeting to allow the Parish Council to consider updates.

Defibrillator: The Defibrillator at Hillcrest is now working again.

Updates from Council Connect: Updates have been requested on overhanging trees at Orchard Leigh, New Road and the lane to the side of this property.
A further email has been sent to Highways regarding the Overhanging vegetation from the centre of the village towards Chelwood on the Car Sales Side. Clerk has again asked BANES if they can maintain the path which was uncovered along Hursley Hill and cut back a couple of years ago.

Planning:

14/04240 Mr Hill Knights Folly Farm Woollard Lane. Erection of a new dwelling. Clerk has written to BANES with the Parish Councils objections to this application.

14/03999/FUL Mr Rigby Bramley House. Installation of side windows and patio doors and erection of a boundary fence (retrospective). Clerk has written to BANES with objections from the Parish Council in relation to the retrospective application.

7) Planning:

Applications discussed by Sub-Committee:

14/04165/FUL 4 Ways Pensford Ltd Development Site the Orchard Pensford. Erection of 1 No. 4 bed house with garage and gardens. It was commented that the entrance is now better situated. Parish Council Support.

14/04164/FUL 4 Ways Pensford Ltd Police Lane Pensford. Erection of 2 no. Three bedroom semi detached houses with garages and parking. Parish Council Support and comments were that the vision splay is improved.

14/04771/FUL Mr & Mrs P Sessford Birchwood Lodge Wells Road Pensford. Erection of double garage (Resubmission). Parish Council supported this application but were asking for clarification as to the correct position for the garage. Clerk to write to BANES.

Application to discuss:

14/04826/FUL Mr T Gibbons 13 Hillcrest Pensford Erection of a dwelling to be built to the side of 13 Hillcrest (Resubmission). Previously a 3 bedroom property had been applied for and refused by planning and dismissed at an appeal. This application was confirmed to be for a 2 bed dwelling with a parking area to the rear of the house. Parish Council objected to this application and reported to BANES with the following. “The Main issue concerning this application is the effect the proposal will have on the character and appearance of the area. Now it is reduced in size the appearance is not in-keeping with the surrounding properties. The proposal will still have an adverse effect of highway safety”.

Planning Outcomes:

There were none to report.

8) Financial Matters:

Payments to be authorised:

Mrs J Bragg Clerk Salary October 604.58
Mrs J Bragg Clerk Imprest 16.25
Post Office Donation to Electric for Defibrillator 20.00
ALCA Finance Training Course 75.00
Mr N Tibbs Allotment Works 680.00
Chapel Forge Copy of Key for the Lock Up 168.00

Accounting Training Course: Mr Kelly attended this Training Course which focussed on the 2015 and the demise of the Audit Commission. This will affect the Parish Council accounting year 2016/2017. Councils with an income below 25K will be exempt from an external audit but the internal audit will be more in depth. New finance regulations were discussed. Internet Banking was discussed and it was agreed that cheques with two signatories were to be kept as long as possible. VAT and its pit falls were discussed. It was well attended by 40 people.

9. Any Other Business:

Defibrillator Electric charge at Post Office: An offer of a donation towards the Electricity feed for the Defibrillator was made to Mr Patel which he has refused. The Parish Council extend their thanks to his generosity.

Lock Up Key: The Copy Key for the Lock Up has now been completed and is ready for collection. The cost is £168.00 Clerk raised a cheque for payment.

Lock Up: Clerk reported that there is ivy growing on the side of the Lock Up and that maybe it is time to have the condition of the Lock Up Surveyed. Clerk to contact English Heritage for their advice.

It was noted that cars continue to Park on the Keep Clear line which has recently been put down in front of Lock Up Cottages.

War Memorial: Trees are again overhanging the War Memorial. Concerns were also raised regarding parking in front of the War Memorial. The question of having Yellow Lines put down was mentioned.

Birchwood Lane is suffering with overhanging vegetation.

Tennis Club: Three quotes are being obtained for re-surfacing. An ‘Evening Post’ Grant has been applied for and the Tennis Club are shortlisted. Mrs Grimes asked members of the Parish Council to collect the vouchers please.
A Quiz night was planned and an AGM was to be held.

Village Green: Cars have been noted to be parking on the Village Green. All issues with Parking will be reported to Traffic & Safety at BANES.

Christmas Fair at Memorial Hall: Chairman reported that this event raised £762.00

Primary School Firework Display was reported to be really good and an event well organised.

10. Notice of Future Meetings: Annual Parish Online Meeting Bath Spa University Campus Wednesday 10th December 2014

DATE OF NEXT MEETING MONDAY 8th DECEMBER 2014 AT 7.15 pm

 

Meeting held at Summercourt, Old Road, Pensford, BS39 4BB October 29th 2014

Present:

Julie Bragg (JB), Alan Ford (AF), Sue Grimes (SG), Chris James (CJ), Simon King (SK), Janette Stephenson (JS) Colin Taylor (CT)

Apologies:

Jacqui Haigh (JH)

1. Chairman’s Welcome
CJ agreed to chair the meeting again
JS note taker / secretary for this meeting

2. The minutes from the previous meeting were agreed

3. Matters Arising:

SG & JB reported back to Parish Council and had a positive response

Julie O’Rourke from BANES will attend a meeting in the Miners Coffee Shop on Thursday 6th November at 2pm. She will brief us on the expectations of the plan.

There were suggestions of getting younger members of the community involved.

The Parish Council will liaise with The Neighbourhood Planning team

BANES will be approached about the removal of the roof of the bus shelter. This will allow for it to be an attractive feature in the village.

We need to tell the residents of the parish what the Neighbourhood Plan is and that we would welcome comments and help.

4. Defining the Area

It is the whole of Publow with Pensford Parish Council. A map defining the area is needed.

Housing development was raised and Belluton is outside of this because it is green belt.

Neighbourhood Planning Sheet to be signed by the Chairman of Parish Council and sent to BANES. This will take approx. 6 weeks until we get a response

A suggested 6 week consultation period… AF will customise a survey. This should not be too lengthy.

5. Identify Key Areas.

Housing – where can more development take place? Possibly some infilling
Planning and development and infrastructure to go with it.
Environment & Landscape – Protect and enhance what we have – e.g. The Lock Up, The Viaduct, the bridge by the Rising Sun, the churches.
Look at the risks of flooding and how to prevent.
Protect and enhance biodiversity.
Fracking – a policy on how to deal with it
Facilities and services – commercial life of the village, lighting
Provision for safety of the young and old.
Mobile Library.
Transport and Movement – this will probably generate much interest.
Traffic Lights at the Narrows (Belluton)

5. Decide Headings.

Possibly more – bring to next meeting. Remember the whole community is to be involved

6. How do we inform the community?

Questionnaire – AF, CT, SG to think of what can be included in it
Speak to the local organisations – Evergreens, the church
Drip feed, public meeting, drop ins
Leaflets – CJ to bring ideas to the next meeting

7.Parish Council Website

Have a page specifically for the Neighbourhood Plan.
Publish the minutes on it. SG to speak to the web master

8. Suggested Timings

Leaflets to possibly be distributed with the parish magazine.
Leaflet 1 – Information re the Neighbourhood Plan – beginning of February
Leaflet 2 – dates of meetings – beginning of March
Public Meeting – middle of April
Organisation visits between leaflet 1 & leaflet 2
April, May and June to collate

9. Recruitment – who?
Barbara Bowes – Heritage, Local History Group, Jane Flower, Rae Kelly.
We need some of the younger members of the community.

10. Funding?

Date of Next Meeting:
Wednesday 26th November 2014 at 7.30pm Summercourt, Old Road, Pensford

MINUTES OF A MEETING OF PUBLOW WITH PENSFORD PARISH COUNCIL HELD ON MONDAY 20th OCTOBER 2014 AT 7.15 pm AT THE MEMORIAL HALL PUBLOW LANE PENSFORD

1) Present: Chairman Mr T Heaford. Mrs S Grimes, Mr J Kelly, Mr L Seymour. Clerk: Mrs J Bragg. There were two members of the public present.

2) Members of the Public attended the meeting to report on Planning Application 14/02948/FUL Detached Dwelling. This is a re-submission of an already permitted application which has no changes to it. Planning procedure now requires a full application in relation to applications which have/or are about to expire and not a Planning Renewal.

3) Apologies for Absence were received from Mr S Filer, Mrs J Gully, Mrs J Jones, Mrs J Stephenson & Cllr P Edwards.

4) Minutes of Monday 8TH SEPTEMBER 2014 after being circulated were signed as a correct record.

5) Matters Arising from the previous minutes:

Meeting: A further meeting needs to be convened with Mr Breach and his Architect. Clerk to arrange.

Ringspit Lane: Clerk had spoken to a member of public regarding issues at Ringspit Lane. Parish Council support has been offered. All in hand at present.

Allotment Site: Clerk has arranged a site meeting for Wednesday 22nd October to look at clearing work needed.

6) Items for Discussion:

a) ALCA AGM Sat 4th October 2014: Mrs Grimes attended to represent the Parish Council. The meeting was well attended by BANES, North Somerset & ALCA representatives. A new Constitution had been circulated and was adopted. The AVON title is also to be retained. Sue was thanked for attending.

b) Appointment of Footpaths Officer/Allotment Site: All applicants had been considered and a decision made. Chairman and Vice-Chair to complete process.

c) BANES Community Infrastructure Levy: Known as CIL relates to a Levy placed on large building projects. It is thought that this would not affect Publow with Pensford Parish at present.

d) Chew Valley Forum Meeting: Clerk attended the first meeting of the Forum held at The Wellsway, Harptree Hill on Thursday 9th October. The meeting was led by Chairman Mr Richard Curry and assisted by Sara Dixon who explained that the CVAF aims to be realistic and focus on common issues amongst Parishes to help and improve collaboration and involvement. There will be four meetings per year. The Forum area covers 14 villages and four council wards. There will be representatives from the Fire Service, Police and other interested parties on a regular basis. Parish & Community Issues were discussed where issues of common interest were raised. Not individual parish issues. Prior to future meetings submissions will be requested from each Parish the most common issues will then form the Agenda for the next meeting.
A presentation was given by Richard Daone on the recently adopted Core Strategy. The Placemaking Plan was discussed and the Community Infrastructure Levy explained. A group discussion looked at priorities for the next Forum meeting. A Community Safety Update was given by Beat Manager PC Stu Peard and
PC Gemma Hill.
It was reported that there is now a Clinical Commission Group which meets every two months on a Thursday evening. The Chairman from each Forum Group will attend this meeting.
Mark Hayward gave a brief report on the forthcoming Budget Fairs being hosted by BANES in Bath Keynsham & Radstock.
Members of the Public will be encouraged to attend open sessions at the beginning of each Forum Meeting.

e) Neighbourhood Planning Meeting: Mrs Grimes and Clerk attended the first meeting of the Steering Committee for the Neighbourhood Plan, five others attended. The need for a Plan for the Parish was agreed. The Parish includes Pensford, Publow and part of Woollard villages. More Volunteers will be needed. It was agreed that a member from BANES Council should be invited to a future meeting to give advice. Maps were distributed of the Housing Development Boundary. Examples of Surveys from other Parishes were discussed and a plan for the way forward made. The next meeting will take place on Wednesday 29th October 2014.

f) Chairman’s Awards Nomination: Further nominations were discussed. Clerk to circulate the nomination forms once more. Nominations to be in by 28th Nov 2014

g) School Grant Request: The Primary School had written to Parish Council via Cllr L Cains to seek a donation towards the cost of a Number square for the school playground. The total cost of the square is £615.00 plus VAT. It was agreed that the Parish Council would donate £300.00

h) Accounts – Quarter to 30/6/2014 & 30/9/2014: The Responsible Financial Officer Mr Kelly circulated the accounts and reported that the 6 months are all in line with budget. The Income and Expenditure Sheet showed that the Allotment Rents are lower this year. 6 months of Footpaths Officers income has been accrued to date. The annual Insurance is cheaper this year due to a change to Zurich Insurance Company. All Annual Subscriptions are in line. Administration costs included repairs to Notice boards, Councillor Training and Computer Services Renewal. The Balance Sheet was circulated which gave a snapshot of assets and liabilities. There were no questions raised. Mr Kelly was thanked for his presentation. Monies had been accrued in relation to the purchase of Planning Equipment Software and an accrual had been made in relation to the Ward Councillors Initiative Grant for £250.00 for flowers and planters for the village. Chairman & Mr Kelly to hold a meeting in relation to the accounts.

i) Remembrance Sunday 9th November 2014: Clerk reported that this was all in hand. The Police had been contacted and confirmed their assistance on the day. BANES have been asked about putting traffic cones around the War Memorial to deter parking.

7) Clerks Progress Report:

Overhanging Trees: Large trees in close proximity to a property called Orchard Leigh, New road Pensford have been reported to Council Connect. They are causing concern to the occupier as they are close to electricity cables. The condition of the lane which runs next to this property was also questioned by the resident as he is not sure who owns it and his wife had recently had a fall in the lane.

Wall on Pensford Hill: Following concerns raised with Development Control regarding the wall bowing belonging to Hill House. Development Control have made a site visit and taken photographs of the wall to enable them to compare any deterioration. An engineer has reviewed them and little has changed in the last 5 Months. The owners of Hill House have been advised to seek professional advice of an engineer themselves regarding surveying the condition of their wall. An update on this has been requested by Development Control.

Chapel House: The owners were asked to remove the loose stones from the top of the wall.

Footpaths: A footpath blocked by a field of Maize to the right of Mill House was reported to Sheila Petherbridge. A letter will be sent to the landowner regarding this.
Seat on Pensford Hill: Will be cut back by the new Footpaths Officer when in place.

Lay-By Hursley Hill: Clerk has had further conversations with a landowner experiencing problems with 4 x 4 owners entering land without permission and causing damage to fencing and the land. Support from Parish Council has been reported to BANES & Police by the Clerk.

Land at Wick Lane: Mr Breach has contacted the Clerk to ask for a further meeting with himself and his Architect. Mr Breach has suggested Monday 17th November, or any day of the same week.

Rural Speed Limit Programme: Clerk has written in response to the outcome of the programme and the decision not to implement the 20mph limit on Old Road or Publow Lane.

Housing Development Boundary Maps: Still awaited from BANES.

Verges & Overhanging Vegetation: The reply from Highways is as follows:-
The Overhanging Vegetation along the car Sales needs cutting back, I need to find out who owns the land. (Do you know??). The tarmac in places is showing signs of deterioration, I will monitor it.

Hursley Hill: The footpath along Hursley Hill is very overgrown. It looks like it hasn’t been maintained for years. Clerk has followed up to see if BANES have identified landowner and awaits a reply.

Church Street: On 8th September BANES reported that they would be sending the Cleansing Team out to clean Church Street. Any further problems should be reported to Wayne Honey.

Hall Bookings: Clerk has received notification that temporarily Laura Baxter is undertaking the role of bookings clerk for regular hirers of the Memorial Hall.
It is reported that hire charges have been reviewed. From January 2015 the Parish Council will be charged £8.50 per hour, which will equate to £21.25 not £9 per session as we pay at present.

Back Lane: Still awaits attention although it has been reported many times to BANES.

Woollard Bridge: A further email has been sent requesting for the bridge to be painted. No response back.

Planning/Enforcement: A letter has been sent to BANES Planning in relation to the Chapel Woollard and the issues raised at the last meeting regarding the lack of an Emergency Escape and the proximity of a Septic Tank to the river.

Bus Stop: At a recent Neighbourhood Planning Meeting Clerk suggested that maybe alterations to the Bus Stop on the Bridge could be put into the plan.
Lock Up Key: Clerk reported that the Old forge were not responding to telephone messages left enquiring as to when the Lock Up Key will be ready for collection. Clerk to pursue with Mrs Stephenson.

Training: 10th November 2014: Finance Statutory Requirements & Proper Practices takes place at Saltford Village Hall. Clerk to book Mr Kelly on to this course.

Emails & Correspondence:

CPRE ‘Countryside or Concrete’ – Special Event on October 2014. All Parish Council members have had an email regarding this event.

8) Planning:

Applications to Discuss:

14/03999/FUL Mr J Rigby Bramley House Hillcrest Pensford. Installation of side windows and patio doors and erection of a boundary fence, Retrospective. Resurfacing of drive. Parish Council Strongly object to this retrospective application. Clerk to write to BANES Planning.

14/04240/OUT Mr C Hill Knights Folly Farm Woollard Lane Publow. Erection of 1no. New dwelling at land at Knights Folly Farm Woollard Lane Publow Hill (Outline application with all matters reserved). Parish Council strongly objected to this application due to the location in the Green Belt and the objections that Parish Council had made to other applications in the same area. Also there was no supporting evidence from Police Authority regarding theft and vandalism which was reported to have occurred on site. There is no sustainable agricultural business which would justify the need for a dwelling on site.

14/04438/FUL Mr G Tidcombe Brambledene 5 Publow Lane Publow. Rear Extension and Conservatory. Parish Council Support.

14/02948/FUL Mr & Mrs G Hunt 39 Hillcrest Pensford. Detached Dwelling.
Parish Council Support.

Planning Outcomes:

14/00931/FUL Mr J Beacham Chapel Mill Lane Woollard. Change of use from building to use as office/business. PERMITTED

14/03492/ADCOU Amp Electrical Belluton Farm Stanton Road Pensford. Prior approval request for change of use from Agricultural Building to Dwelling (C3) REFUSED

Appeal Decision:

14/01844/FUL Mr Gibbons 13 Hillcrest Pensford. 3 Bed Dwelling. Appeal Dismissed.

9) Financial Matters:

Payments to be authorised:

Mrs J Bragg Clerk Salary September 604.58
Mrs J Bragg Clerk Imprest 23.70
Underwood Lamb Internal Audit 240.00
Grant Thornton External Audit 2013 – 2014 210.00

Payments Received:

BANES Precept 2nd Part Payment 5500.00
BANES Parish Grant Oct 14 345.00

10. Any Other Business:

Tennis Club: The Tennis Coach has not been attending Classes.

Defibrillator: Problems have been experienced with the Electricity Tripping out. This has an adverse affect on the lights and the heater to the Defibrillator. The Defibrillator has now been temporarily taken out of service. Repairs have been carried out but further repairs are likely to be necessary. The Emergency Services are aware that the Defibrillator is out of action.

Bungalow Publow Lane: Concerns were raised regarding the colour of UPVC Fascia and Windows.

Banners on the Bridge: Banners are appearing on the bridge again. Those advertising should be made aware of the need for a license.

Signs: Signs around the village have been reduced.

November Meeting: Cllr Edwards will be retiring in May 2015. The Conservative Candidate Mr Paul May would like to attend the November meeting.

11. Notice of Future Meetings: Annual Parish Online Meeting Bath Spa University Campus Wednesday 10th December

Parishes Liaison Meeting Wednesday 22nd October6.30p.m.Council Chamber Keynsham

DATE OF NEXT MEETING MONDAY 10th NOVEMBER 2014 AT 7.15 pm