July 2008
Minutes of the meeting of Chipperfield Parish Council held in The Baptist Church meeting room, The Street, Chipperfield on Wednesday 14th July 2008 at 8pmPresent 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 – A large group of residents from Chipperfield attended in relation to the proposed affordable housing project in Nunfield. Spokespersons on behalf of the Kings Lane residents and Nunfield residents made a presentation of their views to the Council. Chairman thanked them for their comments and time.
MINUTES
0147/08 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
0148/08 APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE
None
0149/08 DECLARATION OF INTERESTS
Cllr Nobbs declared a personal interest in allotment issues. Cllr Sims declared a personal interest item 0165/07 and Cllr Fowler declared a personal interest in planning item 04/01311/08/FHA and item 0166/08.
All accepted Noted
0150/08 MINUTES OF LAST MEETING
Minutes of the meeting held on 9th June 2008 were signed by the Chairman as a correct record.
Proposed Cllr Sims, seconded Cllr Nobbs All agreed
0151/08 MATTERS ARISING FROM THOSE MINUTES
None
EX – AGENDA
None
FINANCE AND GENERAL PURPOSE
0152/08 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
0153/08 SPENDING VS BUDGET
Clerk circulated copies of the spending vs. budget papers for the 1st Qtr. Clerk confirmed that the 1st qtr always experiences higher spending due to payment of grants allocation and Council’s insurance and subscriptions. Clerk confirmed the budget appears to be on target.
Proposed Cllr Nobbs and Seconded Cllr Bradshaw All agreed
0154/08 BUDGET – CONCURRENT SERVICES
Clerk confirmed that DBC had not allocated the full budget request made by CPC in December 07 for the year 08/09 – DBC had reduced it by £250 without explanation. Chairman has drafted a reply and the Clerk has written to DBC for an explanation. It was agreed that F&GP be delegated to respond to DBC, details of which will be given at next meeting.
Proposed Cllr Fowler, seconded Cllr Southworth All agreed
0155/08 CONSULTANTS
It was discussed that CPC invite local voluntary consultants to assist with one off projects or relevant ad-hoc issues. Chairman proposed to invite Liz Holliday and Mark Jarrad as the first consultants. Policy and guidelines are to be drawn up by F&GP. All agreed
Chairman confirmed that the appointment of Council Consultants was in line with a recent Government initiative to encourage the engagement of local people as consultants on local issues.
0156/08 CHIPPERFIELD COMMON RANGER
Clerk confirmed that a new Common Ranger had been appointed by CPC from 1st July. His name is Andrew Orchard and he will work closely with the Warden to assist in keeping the village clear of rubbish and debris, to include the allotments. It was confirmed he will be on a 2 month probationary period and all members were invited to comment on works undertaken during this time. All agreed
0157/08 BANK MANDATE - SCOTTISH WIDOWS
After various issues with the bank and changes of Councillors, it was Resolved that Cllr M Bradshaw,
Cllr M Joseph, Cllr D Nobbs and Cllr Mrs S Sims become signatories for the Council’s savings account.
Proposed Cllr Bradshaw, seconded Cllr Southworth All agreed
0158 POST OFFICE
After discussion it was agreed that Cllr Fowler would investigate the situation with regards the current consultation. All agreed
PLANNING
0159/08 REPORT FROM WORKING GROUP CHAIRMAN
It was reported that the previously outstanding issues had now been completed, Planning group are now able to focus on:-
1. Monitor DBC decisions vs. CPC on a quarterly basis.
The analysis of decisions for the quarter ending 4 June is as follows:
DBC and CPC in agreement 10
DBC approve: CPC object 0
DBC refuse: CPC support 3
2. Meet with DBC to check our thinking on planning matters and realign if necessary.
Awaiting examples of major clash of views – None at present
3. Review enforcement issues
a) 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.
b) Fencing at ‘Far Farrington’. DBC has instructed agent to reduce fence to 1 metre by mid-June or enforcement order will be issued.
c) Gates at ‘The Olde Barn’. News of progress awaited.
d) Swimming pool at Milbaise Cottage. Awaiting appeal hearing.
e) 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. We await to see what enforcement action will be taken.
f) Gates at Chipperfield Garage. Awaiting update.
4. 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. Noted
0160/08 THREE VALLEYS DRAFT WATER MANAGEMENT PLAN - CONSULTATION
It was agreed that the recommended response from Planning Group is sent on behalf of CPC.
Proposed Cllr Bradshaw, seconded Cllr Godwin All agreed
0161/08 Future Planning Issues in the Countryside
It was reported that the CPC were invited to attend a conference on 25th September to discuss planning issues in the Countryside, also any other organisation that CPC thought may benefit / assist. It was agreed to place a notice in Chipp News requesting same. All agreed
0162/08 PLANNING APPLICATIONS & RESULTS
All of the following recommendations given by the Planning group were accepted by Full council, except where stated.-
04/01186/08/FHA High WInds, The Common Conservatory
Chipperfield Parish Council supports this application
The previous application for this property was supported by us, but subsequently withdrawn. This revised application show a less obtrusive structure which fits in comfortably between the two small wings of the house and will not be readily visible from the road.
04/01221/08/FUL &
04/01221/08/FUL Garage court of 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)
internal works, replacement windows and alteration to access
Chipperfield Parish Council opposes this application.
The access is unsatisfactory on grounds of the narrowness of the proposed new approach road and the increased traffic that would be generated in a quiet close and the density of building the 8 dwellings and 14 new garages on the site may be suitable for an urban situation, but is too high for a rural village.
After discussion a vote was taken to reject the plans For = 6, against = 1
04/01223/08/FUL Garage court of 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)
Chipperfield Parish Council objects to this application because:
The access is unsatisfactory on grounds of (i) the narrowness of the immediate approach road (ii) the potential aggravation of the already existing parking congestion in Nunfield and (iii) the road safety dangers that would be caused vehicles entering or leaving the site clashing with vehicles turning in the 'hammerhead ' at the end of Nunfield.
The density of the 8 dwellings and 16 new garages on the site may be suitable for an urban situation, but is too high for a rural village.
04/01268/08/FHA The Old Stores, Fenestration alterations and remodelling of shop doorway
The Common, Chipperfield
Chipperfield Parish Council supports this application.
This property over the years has been a plumbers merchant, antique shop, tea shop, bakery and a studio. In light of the fact the property is now solely residential, we agree that the deep recessed doorway is now not really necessary and we therefore have no objection to the proposed changes. There is a slight concern regarding the proposal of glazed lower panels to the doors but leave this with DBC for their decision.
04/01311/08/FHA Penkridge, Courtaulds Two storey rear extension (amended)
The Common, Chipperfield
Chipperfield Parish Council supports this application
The previous application for a rear extension (521/08) was approved by us subject to the size of the proposed new structure conforming to the rules on the amount of light reaching the neighbouring property's rear windows. DBC found the design and bulk of the structure would represent an "incongruous addition" and refused permission.
The revised application is more modest, but there is still a question as to the way it may cut the light to the neighbouring property. We are aware there are specific guidelines regarding this and request that the proposed extension does not breach these.
04/02306/07/FUL Little Braziers, Tower Hill Replacement dwelling (amended)
Chipperfield
Chipperfield Parish Council supports this application.
The revised plans for this replacement dwelling, which we previously supported, were subsequently withdrawn. This amended application shows minor changes and the small gables, which have been added to the centre of the front and rear elevations, we feel are quite acceptable
HIGHWAYS, ROAD SAFETY AND TRANSPORT
163/08 REPORT FROM WORKING GROUP CHAIRMAN
It was reported that the pavement outside Blackwell’s had been repaired and some drains on The Common towards Bucks Hill had been dealt with. It was reported that Mark Goodyear from Highways was no longer our contact and that two new members had been allocated to CPC. Clerk to arrange a meeting to discuss outstanding issues, in the meantime Herts Highways have agreed to ensure that all outstanding items are re-ordered to ensure their completion.
It was confirmed that the decision on the location of the VAS in Dunny Lane had gone out to consultation via the notice board and all residents of Dunny Lane have received a letter inviting their comments. All responses will be collated for next meeting for final decision by CPC. Noted
0164/08 ROADS REPORT
It was reported that the CPC “Roads Report” was due its annual review. All members were requested to carry out their inspection at the same time as last year and pass the results to Cllr Sims who will consolidate them. It was confirmed that this, along with the previous supplementary report, be taken up with Highways to ensure it’s full potential, in light of the positive response from John Woods, Head of Hertfordshire Highways. Chairman expressed concern that we appeared to be little further forward in obtaining an explanation and a remedial action for the omission of gully clearance on Tower Hill and the Common since the last general gully cleaning last October. Answers were promised by Highways in January but they have not been fulfilled. It is essential to clarify this issue before the next annual gully cleaning in October . All agreed
165/08 LINE MARKING – CHAPEL CROFT
It was reported that the lines outside Stanley’s Stores and the Two Brewers must be replaced as a matter of urgency. Notice to appear in Chipp News reminding residents of the “20 minutes” waiting times outside the shop. Clerk to investigate the supply of an extra sign to appear directly outside the shop. Clerk to write to Dacorum regarding enforcement. All agreed
0166/08 30mph – LANGLEY ROAD
After discussion it was agreed to liaise with Highways to try and solve the problem of speeding vehicles. A suggestion would be to change the speed restriction signs leading into the village from 40mph to 30mph. It was confirmed that many responses to the VAS consultation highlighted concerns from residents over the installation in Dunny Lane, it was agreed that CPC writes a report to explain the history of the Dunny Lane issue that started over 3 year ago.
OPEN SPACES AND ALLOTMENTS
167/08 REPORT FROM WORKING GROUP CHAIRMAN
It was reported that Chipperfield had been awarded the Green Flag and CPC had been congratulated on their commitment and consultation with DBC to achieve this award. Chairman had been invited to attend the award ceremony in Liverpool. It was agreed that Cllr Bradshaw attend on behalf of CPC . All agreed
It was reported that the previously outstanding issues had now been completed, OS&A group are now able to focus on:-
1. Disability Act: Cllr Sims to investigate applicability of Disability Act to the woodland area and Cllr Godwin to provide legal interpretation.
2. Village Plan: CPC to consider developing the principle of the current Village Design Plan into a Comprehensive Village Plan.
3. Community Engagement: Cllr Sims agreed to investigate the Government procedure.
4. Woods to be thinned by Windmill Hill and tree canopy to be thinned over chestnuts in the woods by DBC.
5. Common Management News Letter: (including guided walk details) being produced by Dacorum.
6. Football Club: Preliminary discussions held with the Football Club regarding access to the allotment.
7. White House: Jo has written to owners of White House on leased land but not on hedge cutting
8. Allotment management software package: to be assessed. Ongoing
9. Pill Pond: DBC confirmed on the 7th that they were still waiting for the CMS proposal.
10. Bollards: Dacorum have installed timber bollards to protect the damaged verge opposite Blackwell’s. Telephone cable damaged in the process!
11. Verge Maintenance: List obtained from Dacorum identifying maintenance responsibility for various Village verges. Needs to be reviewed
12. Broken road edge: opposite the White House also passed to Highways
13. List of Equipment for Potential Maintenance Contract: Need list.
14. Allotment Access Restriction: Nice letter sent recorded delivery, to owner of shed blocking access to boundary hedge 1, Blackwell’s side. Response received agreeing to move the shed.
15. Allotment Hedge Restoration Project: Progress Report No.2, for tenants, distributed.
16. Football Club: Preliminary discussions held with Steve Hall of the Football Club.
17. Food Waste Bins The lids of the new bins have now been unlocked to provide wider access for food waste. Unfortunately, Fox litter still prevalent on Common and up to ten additional bags collected after recent weekends. OS&A to agree way forward i.e. either extra new bins, extra collections or both. Fourth fox proof bin installed
18. List of Equipment for Potential Maintenance Contract: Need list.
0168 ADVERTISING/NOTICE BORDS - THE COMMON
It was confirmed that the issues of advertising on the Common had now become a larger issue with various notices and banners appearing periodically. It was agreed to consult with Planning at DBC to confirm current laws regarding advertising and enforcement action taken as necessary.
Proposed Cllr Joseph, seconded Cllr Southworth All agreed
0169/08 ALLOTMENTS- NEW TENANTS
It was confirmed that there were 3 plots awaiting allocation and in order to ensure full compliance of forthcoming agreements, Clerk to issue an addendum to existing contracts making them fully enforceable as it is essential that we provide a new Agreement which allows the Allotments to be properly managed without undue stress. The true costs of managing the Allotments needs to be seriously considered
Proposed Cllr Godwin, seconded Cllr Southworth All agreed
It was confirmed that revised tenders had been received and under review- The tenant who agreed to move the shed had been written to, to ensure removal by end August. It was recommended that a new form of management of the allotments needs to be installed to ensure all parties are represented. It was confirmed that 2 existing tenants have agreed to trial the water butts. Clerk to deal. Noted
YOUTH AND EDUCATION
0170/08 REPORT FROM WORKING GROUP CHAIRMAN
1. The Small Hall. Work on the Small Hall is completed and is now available for bookings.
2. Youth and Education. The Cricket Club was presented with a cheque, which was received with grateful thanks. The money will go towards the cost of the all-weather cricket pitch, which is proving to be a great success, enabling the players to practise even when the pitch is wet. It was suggested that the Club updated their web-site, which they have agreed to do. There will be a short insert in a future edition of The Chipperfield News encouraging Youth Organisations to update their web-sites and to make them available through the Chipperfield web-site.
3. Dacorum Health Development Plan. The new U.C.C. (Urgent Care Centre) will be opening on 8th. October 2008, at Hemel Hempstead hospital, this will deal with all urgent, but non-life threatening cases. There is also discussion in progress about the possibility of the building of a new hospital in Hemel on a different site. The criteria were discussed in detail re the feasibility of such a venture.
0171/08 CORRESPONDENCE
None
0172/08 ACCOUNTS FOR PAYMENT
It was RESOLVED that accounts amounting to £2413.99 be signed for payment.
Proposed Cllr Godwin and Seconded Cllr Southworth All agreed
0173/08 ANY OTHER BUSINESS
None
0174/08 DATE OF NEXT MEETING
The next meeting is on Monday 11th August 2008 at 8.00pm at the Baptist Church meeting room