May 2008

Minutes of the meeting of Chipperfield Parish Council held in The Baptist Church meeting room, The Street, Chipperfield on Wednesday 12th May 2008 at 8pm

Present Cllr M Bradshaw (Chairman), Cllr M Joseph, Cllr Mrs S Fowler, Cllr Miss M Godwin, Cllr M Jarrad, Cllr D Nobbs, Cllr Mrs S SIms and Cllr P Southworth
Also present Mrs J Deacon – Parish Clerk
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084/08 ELECTION OF CHAIRMAN.
Cllr Bradshaw asked for nominations for Chairman, one nomination was made, proposed by Cllr Southworth, Seconded Cllr Nobbs and Cllr Bradshaw was unanimously re-elected as Chairman. The Chairman signed the Declaration of Acceptance of Office of Chairman. All agreed

085/08 ELECTION OF VICE-CHAIRMAN.
Both Cllr Joseph and Cllr Sims were nominated as Vice –Chairman, Cllr Joseph due to work commitments withdrew and Cllr Sims was elected as Vice Chairman,
Proposed by Cllr Godwin and seconded Cllr Joseph All agreed

086/08 APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE.
None

087/08 DECLARATION OF INTERESTS
Cllr Nobbs declared a personal interest in allotment issues. Noted

088/08 MINUTES OF LAST MEETING
Minutes of the meeting held on 9th April 2008 were signed by the Chairman as a correct record, after minor amendments.
Proposed Cllr Sims, seconded Cllr Nobbs All agreed

089/08 MATTERS ARISING FROM THOSE MINUTES
None. Noted

EX – AGENDA
Cllr Roberts sent his apologies to the Chairman, as he was attending the Bovingdon Parish Council meeting Noted

090/08 APPOINT MEMBERS OF WORKING GROUPS
It was agreed to review the groups with the view to re-arranging current list. Chairman to forward updated list to Clerk. All agreed

091/08 APPOINT REPRESENTATIVES FOR OUTSIDE ORGANISATIONS
It was agreed to review the representative with the view to re-arranging current list. Chairman to forward updated list to Clerk. All agreed

092/08 LIST THE MEETINGS FOR THE YEAR 2008/2009
It was agreed that the meetings are to remain on the 2nd Monday of each month. From now on the meetings held in April and August are to become meetings with a full agenda to be held on the 2nd Monday. It was agreed, at the request of the Clerk, to move the Annual Parish Meeting to the 3rd Monday of the month to allow time for accounts to be prepared, however due the date of Easter 09 the next APM would fall on the 4th Monday. All agreed

PLANNING
093/08 REPORT FROM WORKING GROUP CHAIRMAN
A report was give on the following issues:-
1) Planning Portal – electronic planning applications
After discussion it was agreed that the proposed system of electronic planning applications does not appear to be helpful or beneficial to the determination of planning applications for Chipperfield. It was felt the electronic system does not show accurate scaling, is visually misleading and difficult to assess. Due to time constraints, Cllr Nobbs was delegated to respond with the Councils’ view. All agreed

2 Review enforcement issues
I) Units 4 & 5 at Chipperfield Business Park - Awaiting determination of the planning application for the shed, the retention of the fence has been refused and the retention of the “cherry picker” has been withdrawn. There has been no response to our letter of concern to the Director of Planning and Regeneration.
ii) The fencing at ‘Far Farrington’ - Ongoing with DBC enforcement
iii) The fencing at Pale Farm -Planning approval has now been given for a modified fence.
iv) Gates at ‘Ye Olde Barn’ - Ongoing with DBC enforcement
v) Swimming pool at Milbaise Cottage - Awaiting appeal hearing.
vi) Conservatory, garage and shed at ‘The Thatch’. - Planning applications awaiting determination.
vii) Gates at Chipperfield Garage - Ongoing with DBC enforcement

3. Review Progress of Legal Agreement on Qualification for Residence at Didsbury Cottages.
The Planning Officer concerned advises that the agreed modifications of the conditions for ownership are still in the hands of the lawyers. Noted

4. Review Progress on Affordable Housing Project at rear of Nunfield.
Hightown-Praetorian advise that a public consultation is due to take place on Tuesday 13th May. Small modifications have been made following input from Planning and Conservation Officers. Noted

094/08 EAST OF ENGLAND REGIONAL ASSEMBLY DRAFT REVIEW OF GYPSY AND TRAVELLER ACCOMMODATION
The document proposes that 15 additional pitches for gypsies and travellers to the current 36 in Dacorum be found by 2011, but leaves it to the Borough Council to locate the sites through normal planning procedures. It is felt that no useful comment can be made at this stage. All agreed

095/08 PROPOSAL TO REQUEST DBC TO CONSIDER DEVELOPING A FORMAL LIST OF LOCALLY IMPORTANT BUILDINGS
The Working Party recommends that DBC Planning be asked to develop a List of Locally Important Buildings similar to that being introduced in Hertsmere. These are defined as ‘those buildings or structures of local architectural or historic interest which contribute to the streetscape or rural landscape; they may also be of
interest because of historic connection or have other community significance. This would not give the buildings full Listed Building protection, but would have a presumption against demolition or redevelopment. A number of local premises have been suggested. Cllr Nobbs to draft letter to DBC
Proposed Cllr Joseph, seconded Cllr Godwin All agreed

096/08 RURAL TRUST
A letter has been received from the Rural Housing trust requesting that we consider inviting their local representative to present to the council what they can offer in the way of developing affordable housing schemes in small rural villages It is recommended that we politely decline following up on their suggestion in the light of the fact that we have already sponsored one such scheme and have another in progress. All agreed

097/08 PLANNING APPLICATIONS & RESULTS
All of the following recommendations given by the Planning group were accepted by Full council, except where stated.-

04/00635/08/FHA 1 Nunfield, Chipperfield Conservatory
Chipperfield Parish Council supports this application
Although this property has recently been extended it is in the Village core where there is no limit on the size of suitable house extensions. The proposed conservatory is of proportionate dimensions and although not specifically mentioned should match the existing windows. Provided the materials are the same we support this application.

04/00721/08/FHA 8 Kings Close, Chipperfield Demolition of garage and construction of two Chipperfield storey side extension
Chipperfield Parish Council supports this application.
The Design and Access statement makes clear the rationale behind this fresh application for extending the property within four months of having received approval for a large extension, which we supported.

The two main new issues for concern were the overall design and the possible adverse impact on the neighbouring property. However the replacement of the windows of a similar design upstairs and downstairs, the replacement of the existing concrete tiles with clay tiles and the addition of dark boarding would all be positive steps. The lowering of the roof profile for the extension would reduce its impact on the neighbour. It has therefore been agreed that neither issue causes us concern and we offer our approval for this application

04/00728/08/TCA Rosemary Cottage, Dunny Lane Works to trees (info only)
Chipperfield

04/00880/08/ADV Chipperfield Garage, Langley Road, Double sided internally illuminated totem
Chipperfield sign, two moulded logos and individual letters
Chipperfield Parish Council objects to this application
This application is for new signage at the Land Rover garage to replace that previously in place, some of which already appears to have been removed. Our view is that a garage within a Green Belt Village needs to identify itself but without excessive size of lettering, undue illumination or use of materials alien to the village environment. We feel the proposed advertising display fails to meet this criterion.

The proposed totem sign C, with highly illuminated signs on both sides of a plastic material alien to the brick and flint of the building and of unsightly speckled colour, we feel is completely inappropriate.

The lettering of sign E is satisfactory and would be similar to that now in place on the brick totem by the entrance. However, although it is not mentioned in the text, the illustration supporting this application show the brickwork covered in the same plastic and same colour as the new additional totem on the front and this is also inappropriate and feel we must oppose this application. We have no issue with signs A, B & D.

FINANCE AND GENERAL PURPOSE
098/08 REPORT FROM WORKING GROUP CHAIRMAN
It was reported that many of the previously outstanding issues had now been completed. F&GP are now able to focus on:
1. Graveyard Strategy. Review responses and reactions to be obtained by Clerk from DBC - Ongoing
2. Employee Sickness Policy. Review draft to be proposed by Clerk - Ongoing
3. Allotment Restoration. Council have agreed in principle that we could fund an amount in the region of £10000 out of reserves to be spent during 2008/9. Review situation following recommendations from allotments and Open Spaces resulting from their review of the responses to the “Invitation To Tender”
covering the “Blackwells’ side” (including the DBC and Tennis Club sections).
4. Village Clock. Review Clerk’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 is this insured against?
5. Clerk’s Contract of Employment. Mike B to confirm signatures by both parties. It was agreed that a revised contract, fully in line with the latest NALC format, could be undertaken as a background task.

099/08 AUDIT PACK 2007/2008
Clerk confirmed that there were a few queries and she would liaise further with our accountant and re-submit amended papers to F&GP before the next meeting. All agreed

100/08 FREEDOM OF INFORMATION
It was Resolved to adopt the previously circulated final version of Chipperfield Parish Council’s Publication Scheme for inclusion on the Website. Clerk to place on the website.
Proposed Cllr Sims and seconded Cllr Joseph All agreed

101/08 REVIEW OF INSURANCE AND SUBSCRIPTIONS FOR 2008/08
Council liability Insurance – it was recommended that at renewal the fidelity insurance be raised to £50,000.
Proposed Cllr Bradshaw, seconded Cllr Joseph All agreed
HAPTC subscriptions – Clerk confirmed the 08/09 subscription request had been received and the increase falls within an acceptable percentage
Proposed Cllr Southworth and Cllr Sims All agreed
Clock maintenance – Still to be reviewed Noted

102/08 CHAIRMAN’S ALLOWANCE
It was Resolved to set the Chairman’s’ allowance for 08/09 at £250
Proposed Cllr Joseph, seconded Cllr Jarrad All agreed

HIGHWAYS, ROAD SAFETY AND TRANSPORT
103/08 REPORT FRM WORKING GROUP CHAIRMAN
It was confirmed that Cllr Sims and the Clerk are to meet with Hertfordshire Highways on 14th May to discuss any outstanding issues.

It was reported there had been increased activity from Highways within Chipperfield:- 2 x storm drains have been replaced in Tower Hill, partial resurfacing along Tower Hill and the pavement along Dunny Lane had been repaired.

It was reported that a local resident had raised the issue regarding the possibility of 30mph road markings along Dunny Lane. It was agreed this item would be discussed at the Highways meeting and reported at the next Council meeting All agreed

104/08 ROADS REPORT REVIEW (PART 2)
It was reported that new items had been added and previous requested repairs had been updated in the report. All issues would be discussed with Hertfordshire Highways at next meeting. Noted

OPEN SPACES AND ALLOTMENTS
105/08 REPORT FRM WORKING GROUP CHAIRMAN
1 Disability Act - Woodlands - Ongoing Cllr Sims and Cllr Godwin
2 Village Design Plan – Due to the Council’s heavy workload at present the decision on creating a comprehensive Village Plan is deferred.
3 Common Management News Letter (including guided walk details) being produced by Dacorum. - On-going.
4 Allotment Tenders: Three tenders received and evaluated. Supplementary questions being asked on Options. .
5 Allotment management software package to be assessed. Ongoing
6 Pill Pond: DBC confirmed on the 7tH May that they were still waiting for the CMS proposal.
7 Bollards: DBC have agreed to install timber bollards to protect the damaged verge opposite Blackwell’s. Awaiting installation as part of Green Flag
8 Verge Maintenance: List obtained from Dacorum identifying maintenance responsibility for various Village verges. Needs to be reviewed
9 Dunny Lane footpath -Now included in Common management Plan.
10 Waste Bins: Notices on food waste. Clerk to arrange for more permanent engraved metal ones: - “All Food Waste Here, Thank you”.
11 Footpath 10: Issue is on hold pending any further report from Highways Group
12 Village grave yard requirements: Chair discussed with Ruth at DBC for preliminary view of options. Ruth was unfamiliar with this sort of issue and agreed to take advice.

106/08 GREEN FLAG
It was reported that CPC had been invited to the judging of the “Green Flag” on 21st May. A final version of our response to the DBC’s Management Plan for Chipperfield was circulated and agreed as an accurate record of the views and concerns of Chipperfield Parish Council to ensure continued acknowledgment by DBC that CPC must and will be consulted on all issues regarding Chipperfield, in particular The Common. Due to time restrictions regarding the response to DBC, it was agreed that the letter be sent to DBC along with the response explaining should our concerns not be acknowledged by formal assurances from DBC, CPC would withdraw their support for Green Flag. If possible a meeting to be arranged with DBC prior to judging. Clerk to send letter and amended Management report item ASAP. It was delegated to OS&A to prepare letter to DBC.
Proposed Cllr Southworth, seconded Cllr Fowler All agreed

It was reported that the Warden had raised concerns over the increased litter due to the nice weather, and if green flag was awarded this would increase. OS&A to monitor situation with a view to increase the capacity of the litter bins. Noted

107/08 DOG WASTE BINS - SUPPLY OF BAGS
It was recommended that CPC supply dog waste bags for bins around Chipperfield to the value of £275 p.a. Clerk to source a suitable supply and liaise with Cllr Sims re other options.
Proposed Cllr Southworth, seconded Cllr Sims. All agreed

YOUTH AND EDUCATION
109/08 REPORT FROM WORKING GROUP CHAIRMAN
The Small Hall (the youth club)
It was reported that there is a new management committee led by Liz Holliday. Cllr Southworth will be attending their next meeting on May 7th when they will be discussing ' things to be done ' and ideas for raising money. They urgently require money for the floor covering in the kitchen and the lavatories.

Laura Rose, has joined the Small Hall committee and has indicated a wish to try and start a children's music workshop, which could lead to the formation of a children's orchestra. This may take some time and possibly financial assistance in the form of a CPC grant. Noted

REFURBISHMENT OF PLAYGROUND IN CROFT MEADOW
It was reported that a number of equipment brochures have been forward to St. Paul’s school so that the children can look at the various pieces of equipment and give their opinions as to which ones they would choose. An update will be forwarded when available Noted

YOUTH CHOIR
It was reported that discussions have taken place with various people, to try and assess the interest and feasibility of such a venture. As yet not very encouraging, but will keep trying. Noted

110/08 NHS CONSULTATION
As previously delegated, Cllr Southworth circulated a response sent on behalf of CPC. All agreed

111/08 AIR TRAFFIC- HELICOPERS
A report was given over the concerns of noise created by increased helicopter traffic, believed connected with The Grove, it was felt this was an increasing problem especially if the Golf Course received international status. Cllr Joseph to investigate possible solutions. All agreed

112/08 CORRESPONDENCE
Clerk issued various consultation documents to the Chair of each relevant group, for discussion at next meeting.

113/08 ACCOUNTS FOR PAYMENT
It was RESOLVED that accounts amounting to £9,978.81 be signed for payment and £30,000 of this years funding be transfer to the high interest account.
Proposed Cllr Joseph and Seconded Cllr Nobbs All agreed

114/08 ANY OTHER BUSINESS
None

115/08 DATE OF NEXT MEETING
The next meeting is on Monday 9th June 2008 at 8.00pm at the Baptist Church meeting room