August 2008
Present Cllr M Bradshaw (Chairman), Cllr Mrs S Sims (Vice Chair), Cllr Mrs S Fowler,
Cllr Miss M Godwin, Cllr M Joseph, Cllr D Nobbs, and Cllr Mrs P Southworth
Also present Mrs J Deacon – Parish Clerk
___________________________________________________________________________________
Public Participation – Two residents attended to be considered for Co-option to the Council. WPC Sikora, WPC Hennessy and PCSO Kyne attended the meeting to report and discussed crime figures for July.
PCSO Kyne reported the following crime figures:-
Dwelling burglary 0 Burglary other 0 Theft from Motor Vehicle 2
Theft of Motor Vehicle 0 Damage 2 Other crime 2
Robbery/assault 0 Nuisance 0 Street assault 0
They reported that there had been a large number of thefts of garden ornaments in Bovingdon and Flaunden and advised residents to be vigilant. It was confirmed that the criminal damage related to an incident involving damage to motor vehicles in Alexandra Road. They confirmed they are dealing with it and would speak to local residents to try and establish if there are any witnesses. It was reported that here had been possible evidence of drugs use on the cricket pitch car park, information was passed to PSCO Kyne to establish whether this was correct. .
MINUTES
0177/08 CHAIRMAN’S ANNOUNCEMENTS
The Chairman announced details of the arrangements in case of fire or other events that might require the meeting room or building’s evacuation
0178/08 APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE
None
0179/08 DECLARATION OF INTERESTS
Cllr Nobbs declared a personal interest in allotment issues. Cllr Joseph declared a personal interest in planning item 04/01394/08/FUL
0180/08 ELECTION OF CO-OPTED MEMBERS
2 nominations had been received for the 1 vacancy. Both parties were requested to speak regarding their nomination. Chair requested a vote which Cllr Godwin and Cllr Nobbs requested, as per standing orders, a secret ballot. Clerk distributed papers and voting took place. Clerk advised Chairman of votes and Mr Simon Gruselle was co-opted onto the Council. Mr Gruselle duly completed his “Declaration of Acceptance of Office”. Cllr Gruselle took his place on the Parish Council. Chairman thanked the other candidate for their interest and time
0181/08 DECLARATION OF INTERESTS FROM CO-OPTED MEMBERS
None declared All agreed
0182/08 MINUTES OF LAST MEETING
Minutes of the meeting held on 14th July 2008, including minor amendments, were signed by the Chairman as a correct record.
Proposed Cllr Godwin, seconded Cllr Fowler All agreed
0183/08 MATTERS ARISING FROM THOSE MINUTES
None Noted
EX – AGENDA
Cllr Roberts reported that:-
1. The issue with Nunfield is about the need for provision of affordable housing not just access.
2. Affordable housing within Chipperfield (i.e. Bradfield, Didsbury Cottages and Nunfield) would be for local people and Dacorum would ensure this by use of Registered Landlords RSL.
3. Herts CC would challenge the EERA plan.
4. During this round of consultation when it had been decided that neither Chipperfield or Sarratt Post Offices would be closed. Herts CC and DBC have closely monitored the consultation to ensure the Post Office were complying with legislation and their facts were correct.
5. Herts CC would be adding a further 2 million to the budget to deal with road surface conditions. The road at Top Common was due to repair shortly.
FINANCE AND GENERAL PURPOSE
0184/08 REPORT FROM WORKING GROUP CHAIRMAN
It was reported that previously outstanding issues had now been completed, F&GP are now able to focus on:-
On-going Items
1. Clerk’s workload. Considerable effort has gone into trying to improve the time management and planning of the Clerks duties.
2. Time Management and Planning. Microsoft Outlook has been introduced for Diary Planning, which the Clerk is now updating each month.
3 .Overtime Curtailment. By agreement with the Clerk, overtime has been curtailed since May and will be for at least the next three months, in order to assess the effectiveness of the new approach.
4 .Graveyard Strategy. Results of further investigation submitted by Clerk at June CPC Meeting. Issues revolved around the provision of additional land by DBC. DBC have been contacted again to try to obtain their cooperation
5. Employee Sickness Policy. Review draft to be proposed by Jo. .
6. Village Clock. Review Jo’s research regarding existing ownership and insurance coverage of Village Clock i.e. what exactly does CPC own in terms of mechanism, housing and building structure and what it is insured against? 7. Clerk’s Contract of Employment. It was agreed that a revised contract, more in line with the latest NALC format, could be undertaken as a background task
0185/08 AIRPORT EXTENSION
It was agreed that at present the proposed Stansted expansion poses no threat to Chipperfield. However should this situation change, the issue would be revisited All agreed
0186/08 BUDGET – CONCURRENT SERVICES
It was agreed that F&GP would have delegated powers to forward a reply to DBC on behalf of CPC, regarding their decision to withhold concurrent funds.
Proposed Cllr Sims, seconded Cllr Godwin All agreed
0187/08 POST OFFICE
It was reported that after discussion with Chipperfield post office that there had been no plans to close Chipperfield or Sarratt. It was agreed that it would be prudent to check the current situation in case of any changes. All agreed
PLANNING
0188/08 REPORT FROM WORKING GROUP CHAIRMAN
It was reported that previously outstanding issues had now been completed, Planning are now able to focus on:-
1. Monitor DBC decisions vs. CPC on a quarterly basis - Next report due October.
2. Meet with DBC to check our thinking on planning matters and realign if necessary – awaiting examples of major clash of views
3 Review enforcement issues:-
i) Units 4 & 5 at Chipperfield Business Park.
Approval has now been given for the retention of the fence. Awaiting determination of planning application for 2 sheds. DBC are minded to refuse this and commence enforcement action. The application to retain parking of ‘cherry-pickers’ has been withdrawn. Again enforcement action is planned. The Director of Planning and Regeneration has responded to our letter of concern about the length of time this is taking saying they are strongly pursuing the issues. The Development Control Committee has decided not to take enforcement action against the use of a tank for red diesel fuel on the grounds that it is small and unobtrusive and does not impact residential amenity.
ii) Fencing at ‘Far Farrington’.
Authority has been granted for DBC to serve an enforcement notice.
iii) Gates at ‘The Olde Barn’.
A retrospective planning application has been made, reference 4/01560/08/RET, because the gates as built vary significantly from what was previously applied for and refused
iv) Swimming pool at Milbaise Cottage.
Awaiting appeal hearing.
v) Conservatory, garage and shed at ‘The Thatch’.
The Planning Inspector has allowed the conservatory but upheld DBC’s refusal to grant permission for the shed and garage. DBC to launch a High Court challenge
vi) Gates at Chipperfield Garage.
The landowner has been advised of the need for planning permission. Conservation has agreed to investigate.
4. Proposal to request DBC to consider developing a formal list of Locally Important Buildings. Request sent and reply received advising that a policy supportive of this has recently been agreed. Planning Group to discuss list for inclusion
5. Review Progress of Legal Agreement on Qualification for Residence at Didsbury Cottages. The vacant properties are now being advertised, with DBC’s approval, ‘for over 55s ‘with connections in the villages of Chipperfield, Flaunden, Bovingdon and Kings Langley. Letter sent to DBC solicitor expressing concern at the lack of consultation with occupants. Reply letter received from DBC, however the response does not answer our questions. After discussion, Cllr Roberts offered to liaise with planning for a clearer action plan and deadline for the legal agreements, along with notification to residents Cllr Roberts
6. It was reported that during a proposed purchase of one of Flint Cottages, The Common a concern was raised by DBC regarding the changing of the wooden windows to plastic that took place a number of years ago, without consent. DBC have agreed that this would not be enforced at present on the agreement by all parties “that when the windows required replacement they must be returned to the original wood frame” After discussion it was agreed in principle that CP support this initiative, however should any further applications be received they would be dealt with individually.
0189/08 CONSULTATION ON EERA PROPOSALS FOR UPDATE OF THE EAST OF ENGLAND PLAN UP TO THE YEAR 2031
It was agreed to accept the Planning Group recommended reply to this consultation. Clerk to send
Proposed Cllr Fowler, seconded Cllr Southworth All agreed.
0190/08 CONFERENCE - CURRENT PLANNING ISSUES - AN UPDATE FOR COUNCILLORS
It was agreed that Cllr Godwin would attend this conference on 14th October on behalf of CPC. Cost of course £129.25 + travel expenses
Proposed Cllr Bradshaw, seconded Cllr Nobbs All agreed
0191/08 PLANNING AND REGENERATION WORKSHOPS
It was agreed that Cllr Bradshaw would attend on 25th September, Cllr Fowler as reserve. All agreed
0192/08 REFERRALS TO DCC – PARISH COUNCILS
Cllr Roberts confirmed that the recent DCC agenda item to change the referral process to DCC was premature and that Cllr Reay would compile a report for recommendation to Parish Councils for consultation before any changes are made, this will take place early next year. Noted
0193/08 REMOVAL OF TREE FROM ALLOTMENT PLOT- APPLICATION BY CPC
Due to time constraints this matter will be dealt with at another meeting All agreed
0194/08 PLANNING APPLICATIONS & RESULTS
All of the following recommendations given by the Planning group were accepted by Full council, except where stated.-
04/01221/08/FUL Garage court off Nunfield, Demolition of garage court and construction of 1 flat over 4
Chipperfield new garages, 4 further flats and 3 houses, parking and 11 further garages with new access via Kings Close and retention of Nunfield access for garage court (layout a) (Amended Scheme)
Chipperfield Parish Council opposes this application.
These modifications to the plans for the Nunfield site are minor, however as Chipperfield Parish Council has already opposed the overall original development, these changes do not cause us to change our position.
04/01223/08/FUL Garage court off Nunfield Demolition of garage court and construction of 1 flat over 4
Chipperfield new garages, 4 further flats and 3 houses, parking and 11 further garages with new access via Nunfield (layout b) (Amended Scheme)
Chipperfield Parish Council opposes this application
This amendment to the plans for the Nunfield site are minor, however as Chipperfield Parish Council has already opposed the overall original development, these changes do not cause us to change our position.
04/01223/08/FUL Garage court off Nunfield Demolition of garage court and construction of 1 flat over 4
Chipperfield new garages, 4 further flats and 3 houses, parking and 11 further garages with new access via Nunfield (layout b) (Further Amended Scheme)
Chipperfield Parish Council opposes this application
This amendment to the plans for the Nunfield site are minor, however as Chipperfield Parish Council has already opposed the overall original development, these changes do not cause us to change our position.
04/01331/08/LBC The Pale Farm, New fenestration in North-West elevation
The Street, Chipperfield
Chipperfield Parish Council supports this application
The new windows that are planned are in what was once the garden store before previous owners converted it into a kitchen and added the existing 3 light windows. Although the removal of timbers from the listed building is not something to be done lightly, we feel that the removal of 2 oak studs from this structure to enable further lighting of the interior will not unduly affect the appearance of the building. The new windows are in proportion to the existing ones and suitable in design and materials.
04/01591/08/FHA The Pale Farm, New fenestration in North-West elevation
The Street
Chipperfield Parish Council supports this application
The new windows that are planned are in what was once the garden store before previous owners converted it into a kitchen and added the existing 3 light windows. Although the removal of timbers from the listed building is not something to be done lightly, we feel that the removal of 2 oak studs from this structure to enable further lighting of the interior will not unduly affect the appearance of the building. The new windows are in proportion to the existing ones and suitable in design and materials.
04/01394/08/FUL 8 Queen Street Construction of outbuilding
Chipperfield
Chipperfield Parish Council supports this application.
We feel that the proposed outbuilding would be an improvement to this property and its environment. The existing concrete garage is dilapidated and the proposed timber outbuilding is of an acceptable design.
04/01471/08/FHA High Winds, The Common Conservatory, repositioning of driveway, demolition of existing
Chipperfield garages and replacement double garage
Chipperfield Parish Council supports this application.
This is one of many alterations to the proposed application for this property. The previous applications were supported by us, but subsequently withdrawn. We can see no reason, from this revised application, not to support this also.
04/015066/0/FHA 45 Tower Hill Dropped kerb
Chipperfield
Chipperfield Parish Council supports this application.
This dropped kerb would mean a small extension to the one recently installed for no 43. No 45 is one of a few properties along Tower Hill that have not already installed dropped Kerbs, which assist in entering and exiting this busy road and we can see no reason to oppose this application.
04/01515/08/FHA Hunton, Kings Lane Single storey front and side extension, porch and carport
Chipperfield
Chipperfield Parish Council support this application
Hunton” lies in the village core where suitable extensions are permissible. The proposed front wing to the bungalow is proportionate in size and design as are the simple porch and car port
04/01560/08/RET The Olde Barn Piers and Entrance Gates
Megg Lane, Chipperfield
Chipperfield Parish Council opposes this application
Planning permission was sought for the erection of these piers and gates in 2004. We objected on the grounds that “the gates closed off the open ended view at the end of Megg Lane and were of a design specifically spelt out as being contrary to the local environment in the Village Design Statement” and the application was subsequently refused by DBC. However these gates and piers were constructed anyway and now retrospective approval is being sought for gates of a more elaborate design, but to which our previous objection apply.
04/01568/08/FHA 7 Alexandra Road Single storey rear extension, demolition of garage to create Chippefield garden room
Chipperfield Parish Council opposes this application.
We are unhappy with these proposals for the following reasons as follows:-
House Extension
1. The new roof profile with a change of pitch is ungainly.
2. It cuts off the bottom section of the study window at the rear in an unsatisfactory way.
3. It introduces a velux window at the front elevation which is contrary to the “Village Design Statement”.
4. The new gable window at the rear does not fit well into the proportions of the gable.
Garden Room
1. The proposal to site this right up to the level of the pavement in Croft Lane would make this too intrusive to the street scene in that road.
2. The location proposed would remove a parking space from a cul-de-sac already heavily populated with vehicles.
Results from Dacorum Borough Council received between 10th July – 6th Aug 2008
APP/A1910/1/08 The Thatch, Dunny Lane Appeal against planning decision
Chipperfield
04/01138/08/FHA 2 Didsbury Cottages, Satellite dish
Chipperfield
DBC result W/DRAWN CPC recommendation N/A
04/01186/08/FHA High Winds, The Common, Conservatory
Chipperfield
DBC result W/DRAWN CPC recommendation NO OBJECTION
04/01268/08/FHA The Old Stores Fenestration alterations and remodelling of shop doorway
Chipperfield
DBC result GRANTED CPC recommendation NO OBJECTION
HIGHWAYS, ROAD SAFETY AND TRANSPORT
193/08 REPORT FROM WORKING GROUP CHAIRMAN
None
0194/08 ROADS REPORT
A timetable for Cllr to check their area for the annual Roads Report was agreed. Report to be published in September. All agreed
0195/08 VAS - DUNNY LANE
After discussion and consultation on replies from residents it was agreed that Clerk to write to Highways requesting investigation of locating sign to another site in Dunny Lane near the crossroad facing traffic going towards Belsize.
Proposed Cllr Sims, seconded Cllr Fowler All agreed
OPEN SPACES AND ALLOTMENTS
196/08 REPORT FROM WORKING GROUP CHAIRMAN
It was reported that previously outstanding issues had now been completed, OS&A are now able to focus on:-
Disability Act: Cllr Sims volunteered to investigate applicability of Disability Act to the woodland area and Cllr Godwin to provide legal interpretation.
Village Plan: Council to consider developing the principle of the current Village Design Plan into a comprehensive Village Plan. Signs continue to point to this being the right course of action.
Community Engagement: Cllr Sims to investigate the Government procedure.
Woods - to be thinned by Windmill Hill and tree canopy to be thinned over chestnuts in the woods by DBC.
Common Management News Letter (including guided walk details) - being produced by DBC. Clerk to chase
Football Club: Preliminary discussions held with the Football Club. Website Prize passed over and gratefully received.
White House: Clerk has written to owners of White House on leased land but not on hedge cutting. It was agreed that a letter should be written to the owners of the White House on hedge cutting.
Allotment management software package: to be assessed. Ongoing
Pill Pond: DB confirmed that they were still waiting for the CMS proposal. Clerk to chase
Bollards: Blocked gullies next to bollards referred to Highways.
Verge Maintenance: List obtained from DBC identifying maintenance responsibility for various Village verges. Needs to be reviewed
Dunny Lane footpath: included in Common management Plan. Need a commitment date from Highways/DBC
Waste Bins: Notices on food waste. Clerk has completed temporary laminated notices. She is now organising more permanent engraved metal ones: - “All Food Waste Here, Thank you”. Fourth fox proof bin now installed. Option of Friday emptying in the summer months put to DBC and being chased. Good Initial reaction.
Broken road edge opposite the White House also passed to Highways.
Clean Up of unused Allotments: vacant plots marked out and strimmed. Revised terms and conditions required for new tenants. The full cost of managing the Allotments needs to be seriously considered. The concept of a “tenants association” passed to Liz Holiday for consideration
List of Equipment for Potential Maintenance Contract: Ongoing Noted
0197/08 GREEN FLAG
Plan : Text of Plan being updated to include, Education, Horse riding, Local Knowledge and more sensitive Marketing i.e. the principle of Chipperfield as a “special place” requiring local knowledge to manage it and a proper balance between visitors and maintaining a natural woodland environment..
Award: Award collected in Liverpool along with over 400 other delegates from councils all over UK. DBC will write an article for their Autumn Digest and text being prepared by A&OS for Chip News. It was agreed to approach Blackwell’s to discuss suitable site for “Green Flag” All agreed
0198/08 REVISED ALLOTMENT TERMS AND CONDITIONS
It was confirmed that the revised condition need further investigation and a report would be made at the September meeting in time for the agreements to be sent. All agreed
YOUTH AND EDUCATION
0199/08 REPORT FROM WORKING GROUP CHAIRMAN
It was reported that The Small Hall had now received a few bookings and is planning to hold open days. Would the Council consider using the facilities to hold their meetings? Clerk confirmed the current venue had been booked until May 09. The cost to use the small hall would need to be agreed. All agreed
0200/08 CORRESPONDENCE
None
0201/08 ACCOUNTS FOR PAYMENT
It was RESOLVED that accounts amounting to £3,655.37 be signed for payment.
Proposed Cllr Bradshaw and Seconded Cllr Sims All agreed
To approve and sign cheques for payment
0202/08 ANY OTHER BUSINESS
None
0203/08 DATE OF NEXT MEETING
The next meeting is on Monday 8th September 2008 at 8.00pm at the Baptist Church meeting room
PART 2
0204/08 ALLOTMENT BOUNDARY HEDGE RESTORATION
It was reported that after many requests from 2 other tenders we have only one tender. It was agreed that it was unlikely further tenders would be forthcoming for comparison, within the timeframe required and CPC to move forward with current tender. Report on next phase to follow
Proposed Cllr Joseph, seconded Cllr Godwin All agreed
0205/08 CLERK’S OVERTIME
It was agreed that the outstanding overtime totalling 133hrs be paid in full. Overtime currently curtailed to establish current workload
Proposed Cllr Bradshaw, seconded Cllr Sims All agreed