September 2007

Minutes of the meeting of Chipperfield Parish Council held in The Baptist Church meeting room, The Street, Chipperfield on Monday 10th Sept 2007 at 8.00pm

Present Cllr M Bradshaw (Chairman), Cllr M Joseph, Cllr D Nobbs, Cllr M Godwin, Cllr Mrs S Sims and Cllr Mrs P Southworth

9 residents from Kings Close attended the meeting to raise their concerns over the proposed access to the “Nunfield Affordable Housing Scheme”, which at present has been located through Kings Close. Advice was given to the residents regarding the planning process of any application, it was suggested that if the residents wish to make representation of their concerns/objections they should write individually to DBC and Hightown Praetorian with a copy to Chipperfield Parish Council. It was explained that until a planning application was received CPC would be unable to comment further at his stage. Chairman thanked them for their attendance and the presentation of their views.

AGENDA: Part 1
0151/07 APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE.
Apologies were received from Cllr Jarrad and Cllr Stokes and accepted by all. All agreed

0152/07 DECLARATION OF INTERESTS
Cllr Joseph stated, should two particular items appear on the agenda he would need to declare an interest, Clerk confirmed that those items would not appear and therefore a declaration was not required.

0153/07 MINUTES OF LAST MEETING
Minutes of the meeting held on 8th August 2007 were signed by Chairman as a correct record.
Proposed Cllr Nobbs, Seconded Cllr Joseph All agreed

0154/07 MATTERS ARISING FROM THOSE MINUTES
None

EX – AGENDA
Cllr Roberts attended the meeting at approx 9.15pm, having attended another meeting. He offered advice throughout the remaining agenda and this is recorded under those headings. The Chairman thanked him for his attendance.

FINANCE AND GENERAL PURPOSE
0155/07 REPORT FROM WORKING GROUP CHAIRMAN
It was reported that the Clerk’s staff review had now taken place with a recommendation to be made by F&GP at the October meeting. Noted

0156/07 MODEL CODE OF CONDUCT
It was resolved that Chipperfield Parish Council adopt the “Model Code of Conduct order 2007 No1159” with the inclusion of paragraph 12 (2) in its entirety with effect from 10th September 2007. All Councillors were issued with a new Register of Interest Form to be completed and returned to Clerk within 28 days. Clerk to inform DBC of resolution and advertise same in local press as per legislation.
Proposed Cllr Joseph Seconded Cllr Sims All agreed

0157/07 STAFF APPRAISALS
It was resolved to adopt the new appraisal forms for Clerk, Warden and Woodland Ranger. Clerk confirmed that the proposed form was suitable and efficient for the role and her members of staff would be reviewed before the end of the month.
Proposed Cllr Godwin Seconded Cllr Nobbs All agreed

0158/07JOHN NICHOLS MEMORIAL
It was agreed to authorise funding of up to £250 to cover the cost of printing for 500 copies of “A walk around Chipperfield Common” which are to be sold for 75p each via local business outlets with 25p being retained by the outlet and 50p being donated to St Paul’s School.
Proposed Cllr Southworth Seconded Cllr Joseph All Agreed

PLANNING
0159/07 PLANNING APPLICATIONS & RESULTS
All of the following recommendations given by the Planning group were accepted by Full council.
Application no. Location Description
04/01818/07/FHA The Old Cottage, Kings Lane, Single storey side extension & conservatory
Chipperfield
Chipperfield Parish Council opposes this application
We considered an application for an extension to this property earlier this year (1018/07) which was later withdrawn.

This application appears to have reduced the flank extension from 2 storeys to 1, removed the car port and changed the design of the conservatory. However with the boundary to boundary front elevation and the extended building occupying a 45% area of the plot as a whole we still regard this as over development and a further diminution of the character of an 18th century cottage.

Furthermore the Design Access Statement is as misleading as its predecessor, the first paragraph refers to a 2 storey extension and car port, contrary to the plans themselves and the repeated statement that "the flank extension falls within the existing profiles of the existing property" is erroneous and does not answer the questions asked.

04/01852/07/FHA 43 Tower Hill, Chipperfield Dropped kerb to hard standing
Chipperfield Parish Council supports this application
This is one of the few properties in Tower Hill that doesn't have a dropped kerb and we can see no reason in allowing this application to proceed.

04/01801/07/FHA Le Soken, Langley Road Two storey side & rear extension (amended)
Chipperfield Parish Council opposes this application.
This is the latest in a series of applications to extend this property, all of which have been refused by DBC. The one before last (1118/06) went to appeal and in confirming DBC's decision the Inspector made the following observations:-

"The proposed extension because of its width of large roof would give an unbalanced and ill-proportioned appearance to this symmetrical pair of semi-detached houses. While this is an end property the space around the dwelling is an important part of its' setting and this feature would be entirely lost to the detriment of the character and appearance of the area. It would set a precedent for side extensions to the pairs of houses which would fundamentally change the character of the area"
"The proposed extension would be contrary to the advice of LP appendix 7, "Small Scale House Extension" where the Council indicated that extensions should harmonise with the original dwelling in terms of scale and design and maintain the common design characteristics of the row or street". This application would form a dominant feature that would create a visually oppressive outlook for the residents"

We feel that the latest design does not address satisfactorily any of the issues raised by the Inspectors. Indeed by setting back the flank extension it will, if anything, make the outlook for neighbours worse.

04/01945/07/FHA Top Common, The Common, Replacement Conservatory
Chipperfield
Chipperfield Parish Council supports this application.
The proposed replacement conservatory:-

1) Will integrate better into the property.
2) Will be made of timber and brick with no UPVC
3) Adds only 8 sq.m in net to the size of the property

0160/07 REPORT FROM WORKING GROUP CHAIRMAN
It was reported that ongoing reviews will take place on the following:-
1. Monitor DBC decisions vs. CPC on a quarterly basis.
2. Meet with DBC to check our thinking on planning matters and realign if necessary
3. Review decision by DBC on units 4 & 5 of the ‘Business Park’ and enforcement issues there:
4. Review enforcement issues:
CPC to monitor enforcement action on 3 areas currently being dealt with by DBC:-
a) ‘The Thatch’,
b) The fencing at ‘Far Farrington’ and the Pale Farm
c) The gates at ‘Ye Olde Barn’.
5. Resolved enforcement matters.
We have been advised by Enforcement that the high gates we reported at ‘The Laurels’, The Common was erecting have now been removed and the original gates will be reinstalled when the drive is completed in mid-September. Noted

0161/07 PLANNING REPORT
To briefly discuss relevant consultations documents
1) Three Rivers Supplementary Planning Documents on Sustainable Communities and
Open Space, Amenity and Children’s Playspace:
A response was passed to Clerk in time for Aug 29th deadline, as delegated by August Parish Council meeting- stating ‘Thank you, but no comment’. All agreed

2) Three Rivers Supplemental Issues and Options Document:
After reviewing documents it was recommended that as none of the issues affect Chipperfield and therefore our response should be ‘Thank you, but no comment’. All agreed

3) Dacorum Draft Development Briefs and Concept Statement:
After reviewing documents it was recommended that as none of the issues affect Chipperfield and therefore our response should be ‘Thank you, but no comment’. All agreed

0162/07 AFFORDABLE HOUSING - NUNFIELD
It was agreed that, in light of the consultation day held on 6th Sept by DBC and Hightown Praetorian and the concerns highlighted by local residents, CPC would write to request documentation on the specific terms and eligibility of “allocation of tenants” for now and for the future. Also to request the outcome of the consultation papers issued to residents at the same meeting.
All agreed

OPEN SPACES AND ALLOTMENTS
0163/07REPORT FROM WORKING GROUP CHAIRMAN
It was reported that an allotment computer programme may be available for CPC and it was agreed that the Clerk, in conjunction with the Working Group, check the usefulness of same for possible purchase by CPC.
It was reported there were outstanding items regarding allotments and that the group should meet with the Clerk to clarify issues, with a view to making recommendations for the October meeting. Noted
0164/07 INSTALLATION OF NEW BINS ON THE COMMON
It was reported that the new bins had now arrived and awaiting installation, however in the light of recent vandalism on The Common it was requested that they should be prepared with flame retardant material prior to installation and that the lids remain locked (on a trial basis). Clerk confirmed she had now received a quotation and specification for a suitable material. It was agreed that Cllr Bradshaw check the specification and if suitable CPC to purchase same for warden to apply and the Clerk to arrange installation. All agreed
0165/07INTERPRETATION BOARD
It was reported that illustrations to cover the 4 main areas of interest within the woodlands, as set out by DBC, have been created, Cllr Sims submitted some interesting schemes for consideration, it was agreed that due to time constraints Cllr Sims and the Clerk prepare the final layout and forward to DBC to produce board.
Proposed Cllr Bradshaw Seconded Cllr Southworth All agreed

0166/07RECREATION GROUND – TOWER HILL
It was reported that the land currently leased by DBC from the Brewery, Punch Taverns, currently used by local children as a play area and football pitch on a regular basis, may be taken back by the Brewery. After liaising with DBC they confirmed the rent has been paid in advance until the end of the financial year. After discussion with Cllr Roberts he advised CPC to write to Jackie Campbell, Director of Customer Communities and Housing, to raise our concerns at the possible loss of this important area used by the youth of the village. CPC to request interested users write also. All agreed

HIGHWAYS, ROAD SAFETY AND PUBLIC TRANSPORT
0167/07 REPORT FROM WORKING GROUP CHAIRMAN
It was reported that a comprehensive draft of the “Roads Report 2007” had been completed for approval. All Members were issued with a CD copy of the report for their comments.
Cllr Sims thanked Cllr Roberts for cycling around the village to complete his own survey of the gullies etc.

It was reported that ongoing reviews will take place on the following:-
1 The interface between CPC and HCC and DBC needs to be strengthened.
2. Find a solution to protection of verges - particularly opposite Blackwell’s.
It was noted that Open Spaces had been dealing with this issue. Highways agreed that this issue should be left to Open Spaces to resolve.
3 Progress pedestrian signs for Scatterdells Lane.
Highways recommend that this issue should be addressed in the road review to be sent to HCC Highways in the first instance.
4 Review Enforcement issues, particularly the cutting back of hedges and removing debris, to clear the footpaths.
Highways recommend that the initial course of action would be to place an article in Chipperfield News reminding residents of their duty to cut back their hedges to the boundary of their property now that bird nesting season has finished and that hedge cutting can be enforced if repeat offenders fail to do so.
All agreed

0168/07 TRAFFIC/PARKING ENFORCEMENT
It was suggest that as the yellow lines are not enforced regularly, CPC fund their own enforcement officer who would also be on call when required. Clerk confirmed that there is an enforcement officer allocated to Chipperfield who mainly works out of Kings Langley. It was agreed that the Clerk enquires with DBC, Cllr Roberts advised CPC to contact Brian Scott, to request the regular attendance of designated Officer. It was reported however, if vehicles are blocking entrances/footways residents should contact the Police as this is classed as an obstruction. Clerk

0169/07SPEED WARNING SIGNS
It was requested, that in order to make better use of the forthcoming illuminated speed restriction sign, that CPC enquires as to whether a system could be set up to allow movement of the sign. Cllr Roberts stated that there is 3/4 funding by Herts Highways for one sign for Chipperfield and it was be placed in the area of greatest need after Hertfordshire Highways have completed a safety survey. Clerk reported that Hertfordshire Highways had recently stated CPC had already been allocated 1 sign and that Hertfordshire Highways will place the sign in the area with the best access for utilities, once they have received an engineers report. Clerk confirmed that Highways have been requested to consult CPC once the report is available before installation is considered, as it should be placed where there is the greatest need. Cllr Roberts offered to liaise with Mark Goodyear, Hertfordshire Highways, on the current position.

YOUTH AND EDUCATION
0170/07 REPORT FROM WORKING GROUP CHAIRMAN
It was reported that a quotation had now been received from the Youth Club committee regarding works they consider necessary. Clerk confirmed the report will be given F&GP to discuss at their next budget/grant meeting. Noted

There has been some interest in possible users of the Youth Club, once it has been renovated, also Youth Sports organisations have been advised of grants available from outside sources and all have agreed to investigate same. Noted

It was agreed by all that Cllr Southworth be delegated to enquire of any organisation that might be interested in using the Youth Club facilities. Noted

0171/07 CLERKS NOTICES
Clerk thanked all members for forwarding their reports in time for the agenda.

Licensing Act 2003: Removing DPS requirement for Village Halls and similar community building
The Government proposes to remove the requirements under the Licensing Act 2003 which requires:

A designated premises supervisor to be specified on every premises licence authorising sales of alcohol; and every sale of alcohol at such premises to be authorised by a personal licence holder, for categories of premises including village halls, church halls, chapel halls and similar community buildings.
Please note that Parish Councils are not statutory consultees under the Licensing Act 2003. Cllr Godwin to review document.
Grants – Cricket Club
It was reported that the Cricket Club may be looking to replace the grass on a section of the cricket field with artificial turf to enable the youth team to play more often as this year they were hampered by the weather. They requested if, in principle, we had any objections to this proposal. It was established that we could not comment at this stage and they should be advised to request same in the form of a grant from CPC, to be reviewed at the next budget meeting.

Green Flag status
Clerk reported that DBC will shortly be applying for Green Flag status for Chipperfield Woods. DBC have requested a meeting, Clerk to forward details to Open Spaces group to review impact, if any, on Chipperfield.

Burial Mounds
DBC has indicated they need to fence off the burial mounds in order to protect them. Clerk to arrange a meeting with DBC and Open Spaces.

Garrick Stevens – Chairman HAPTC
It was confirmed that the invitation to Garrick to give a presentation to Members regarding Unitary Councils had been accepted and will take place in December.

Allotments
Clerk confirmed a letter had been received from a previous allotment tenant requesting an appeal against the withdrawal of their plot. Clerk to forward to Open Spaces for recommendation.

Induction of Pastor – Baptist Church.
It was confirmed that Cllr Southworth would attend the above on behalf of the Chipperfield Parish Council.

0172/07 ACCOUNTS FOR PAYMENT
It was RESOLVED that accounts amounting to £3412.33 be signed for payment.
Proposed Cllr Joseph, Seconded Cllr Nobbs All agreed

0173/07 ANY OTHER BUSINESS
Chairman thanked all Members for the work they had done and the positive response he had received to the trial report system.

0174/07 DATE OF NEXT MEETING
The next meeting is on Monday 8th October 2007 at 8.00pm in the Baptist Church meeting room