HUTTONS AMBO PARISH COUNCIL 

DRAFT

MINUTES OF MEETING ON 14^th JANUARY 2016

1.         Welcome, Councillors present & Apologies

Cllrs. David Banks, Andy Dorman (Chair), Richard Green, Jessie Garnett and Simon Lealman, and Clerk, Jem Charles were present.  Rona Charles was present for Item 3e and Mr S Harrison for Item 5a.

2.         Minutes of the November meeting were approved and signed as being a true record.

           

3.         Matters Arising

a)  Copper beech

Andy & Jem have inspected the tree since leaf fall and are confident that they can carry out the necessary work.

b)  Superfast Broadband

A number of households have signed up with Boundless Communications but efforts to contact the company to organise the proposed meeting/demonstration have, so far, been fruitless.

c) Good Neighbours scheme

The organising group will prepare a draft booklet for volunteer helpers, including details of how the “duty” volunteer might be contacted.  It was recognised that the scheme should tap in to existing informal community help whenever appropriate rather than risking duplication.

d)  Joint Minerals & Waste Plan consultation

The methodology used, and the conclusions regarding preferred sites, are considered sound except in relation to unconventional hydrocarbons (fracking).  The section dealing with fracking was felt to be inconsistent with the major part of the draft Plan, and so lacking in detail that worthwhile comment was not possible.  Jem will reply to NYCC accordingly.

e)  Kirkham Weir & Sluice engagement group

Rona asked whether there were any particular points or concerns that she should take to the first meeting, due later in January.  The Council did not feel in a position to comment until the anticipated paper outlining options was made available.  Rona will consult with riparian owners and the community at large.

f)   Finger Post

Financial assistance for repair of the damaged signpost has been offered by the AONB.  In addition they have indicated that they will assist in refurbishment or replacement of village entry signs in the traditional style.  It was agreed that the Parish will make a contribution for both the finger post and the village signs.  Jem will write to the AONB officer, with thanks, confirming the arrangements.

4.         New Matters

a)  Grass cutting & Village Maintenance

Andy had acquired 2 quotes.  After consideration it was agreed to offer the contract to Mr Claringbould.  Jem will write to him making the offer and with further details.

b)  Changes to Supported Bus Services

Andy described the changes to be implemented from April 2016 as a result of reduced subsidy.  It was agreed that the Village was fortunate that a subsidised service is to be maintained.

5.         Planning

a)  Land at Cherry Farm

Andy invited Mr Harrison (the applicant) to present his response to the Council’s objection to the proposed development.  Mr Harrison explained his proposed modifications to accommodate the Council’s views and outlined plans for further stages of the development on the site.  It was agreed that these, in particular the toning down of the finish to the aluminium cladding, might be sufficient to overcome the Council’s objection.  A revised application will be submitted to RDC and Mr Harrison will also, informally, consult with the Parish Council at the same time.

6.         Finance

a)  Budget Progress

Jem presented income/expenditure data to date and the position is satisfactory.

b)  Budget 2016/17

Jem presented a draft and this was agreed.

c)  Precept

The balance expected to be carried forward was considered reasonable and stable so the precept will remain at £2750.

d)  Changes to the external Audit Regime

From FY17/18 there will no longer be a requirement for a routine external audit and the Audit Commission will no longer nominate that auditor.  A new Sector Led Body (SLB) will appoint an auditor, if required as a result of a challenge to the annual accounts, unless the Council chooses, by April 2016, to do so itself.  The Council will accept the auditor appointed by the SLB.

7.         Any Other Business

a)  Mud on roads

Andy will ask RDC if they will send a road sweeper to clean some very bad stretches or road from Barneygate Lane to Low Lane End.

b)  Footpath in front of manor Farm

Grass has encroached so that it is no longer of sufficient width for a child’s push-chair/buggy.  Andy will discuss with Bob Mansell to determine whether he, or the new village maintenance contractor, will cut back the edges.

c)  Blocked Drain at Barneygate Lane End

The culvert has, again, become blocked resulting in a large, persistent, puddle and a potential safety hazard.  Jem will contact Highways England to request that this is cleared.

8.         Date of Next meeting(s)

22nd March at 7.30 and, provisionally, 18th of May 2016 at 7.30.

Jem Charles, Clerk to the Parish Council

parishclerk@huttonsambo.com

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