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

Present Cllr M Bradshaw (Chairman), Cllr M Joseph, Cllr D Nobbs, Cllr M Jarrad,
Cllr Mrs S Sims and Cllr Mrs P Southworth
Also present Mrs J Deacon – Clerk

Public Participation:-
2 interested parties attended regarding planning application 04/02611/07/FUL St Paul’s School. Their views would be noted in the Council’s response to DBC. The Chairman thanked them for their time.

PCSO Ashworth attended the meeting and reported that from January 7th 2008 she would no longer be the PCSO for Chipperfield as she would be transferring to another area. Chairman thanked her on behalf of the Council for all of her hard work and support she had given during her time as PCSO for Chipperfield and wished her well for the future. All agreed

It was reported that the constabulary at present has no intention to replace Kim with another PSCO and Chipperfield will be left with 2 part time officers who combined cover a full time post.

PCSO Ashworth reported the following crime figures:-
Dwelling burglary 0 Burglary other 0 Theft from Motor Vehicle 1
Theft of Motor Vehicle 0 Damage 1 Other crime 2
Robbery/assault 0 Nuisance 0 Street assault 0
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AGENDA: Part 1

0222/07 APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE
Apologies were received from Cllr Godwin by reason of illness and accepted by all. Apologies were also received from Borough and County Councillor Roberts. All agreed

0223/07 DECLARATION OF INTERESTS
Cllr Nobbs declared a personal and prejudicial interest in item 04/02789/07/FUL, St Paul’s School as he had received a neighbour notification. Cllr Sims declared a personal interest in planning application 04/02789/07/FUL, St Paul’s School as her children attended the school. Cllr Nobbs declared a personal interest in item 0238/07 as he is an allotment holder. The clerk declared an interest, although it was noted she is not required to do so, in item 0231/07 Planning report – enforcement issues. All agreed

0224/07 MINUTES OF LAST MEETING
Minutes of the meeting held on 12th November 2007 were signed by the Chairman as a correct record after item 0209/07 was amended to “It was reported that due to the vigilance of members of the Council” and the addition of “Chairman thanked the Members for their time” to item 0219/07
Proposed Cllr Jarrad and Seconded Cllr Joseph All agreed

0225/07 MATTERS ARISING FROM THOSE MINUTES
None All agreed

EX – AGENDA
None Noted

FINANCE AND GENERAL PURPOSE
0226/07 REPORT FROM WORKING GROUP CHAIRMAN
It was reported that the “Walk around Chipperfield” leaflet had now been printed and copies for sale had been place in various outlets within Chipperfield. It was also reported that Blackwell’s had offered to donate all proceeds of each sale to St Paul’s School. As previously discussed the adequacy of the “Contingency Fund” levels would be reviewed on an annual basis and a report will be prepared to show each reserve’s purpose and proposed target level. A Welcome Pack for new residents in the Village would be discussed and consideration given to links between a hard copy pack and the Chipperfield website. Noted

0227/07 RESIGNATION OF COUNCILLOR
Chairman reported that both he and the Clerk had received notification of the resignation of Cllr Stokes, for personal reasons. This was agreed and accepted by all. Clerk confirmed that the statutory notice of a “Bye- Election” had been placed and the 14 day deadline had now passed, as there had not been a request to hold same the Council may now fill the vacancy by way of Co-option. A Co-option notice has been placed on the Chipperfield notice board. Noted

0228/07 FINANCIAL STANDING ORDERS
After discussion on the previously circulated papers relating to the stated items, it was unanimously Resolved to adopt the following:- 1) Financial Standing orders 2) Financial Risk Assessment 3) Principles of Financial Management and 4) Rules for transfers to and from High interest deposit account for Chipperfield.
Proposed Cllr Sims and Seconded Cllr Southworth All agreed

0229/07 BUDGET PROPOSAL 2008/2009
After discussion on the previously circulated papers relating to the stated items, it was unanimously Resolved to adopt the final budget proposal 2008/2009 for DBC. The application was formally signed by the Chairman, two members and the Clerk. Clerk to send to DBC.
Proposed Cllr Sims and Seconded Cllr Southworth All agreed

0230/07 AVALON ACCOUNTING PACKAGE
It was reported that the Council’s internal auditor had now inspected the ½ year accounts and had confirmed that the Avalon system should be adopted fully and the old system can now be ceased. It was unanimously Resolved to adopt the Avalon accounting package.
Proposed Cllr Sims and Seconded Cllr Southworth All agreed

PLANNING
0231/07 REPORT FROM WORKING GROUP CHAIRMAN

1. To monitor DBC decisions vs. CPC on a quarterly basis. Next report Jan 08.
2. To meet with DBC to check our thinking on planning matters and realign if necessary. Awaiting examples of major clash of views.
3. To review enforcement issues – it was reported that action was still ongoing regarding all premises
Units 4 & 5 at Chipperfield Business Park, ‘The Thatch’, ‘Far Farrington’ “Pale Farm and ‘Ye Olde Barn’.

0232/07 DBC DCC MEETING – ATTENDANCE BY CPC
It was reported that the meeting on 29th November was very interesting meeting and that where possible a Council member should attend especially where an application relates to Chipperfield, to ensure that our views are heard, whether or not the application is contentious. Noted

0233/07 PLANNING APPLICATIONS & RESULTS
All of the following recommendations given by the Planning group were accepted by Full council, except where stated.-

04/02318/07/FUL 133 Scatterdells Lane Demolition of existing bungalow and outbuilding and
Chipperfield construction of detached bungalow
Due to time constraints we were unable to comment within the set time frames, however our comments will be placed on file.

As you are aware we opposed the previous application solely on the grounds that the applicant wished to place velux windows within the property, this was against our village Design Statement and we would have responded with the same comments as previous. However we acknowledge we have now received notification of the recommendation of the DCC regarding the previous application and that you have granted the application subject to the removal of the velux windows.
Cllr Nobbs left the room during discussion regarding the following application:-

04/02789/07/FUL St Paul’s School Removal of temporary classrooms and construction The Common, Chipperfield of two new classrooms, IT stores, Library, cloakrooms and stores
Chipperfield Parish Council supports this application.

The accompanying design and access statement clearly outlines the history behind this application. The Parish Council has urged the authorities to replace the unsatisfactory temporary classrooms over the past 15 years or more and supported the earlier application for an additional 2 permanent classrooms, which DBC turned down.

We feel the design and location of the proposed classrooms and supplementary rooms are ideal and give consideration to the available space within the school grounds, at the same time allowing for more space for the children and teachers, which will place them in an environment that will ensure their educational needs are met. We also note that by removing these unsightly, dilapidated temporary structures and returning the area back to green space would also be of great benefit to the children and the environment.

04/02854/07/FUL Land at Craig Rowan Demolition of existing building and construction of
Chapel Croft, Chipperfield bungalow with integral garage and parking space
Chipperfield Parish Council opposes this application

This application presents an issue in that it is situated in the Green Belt outside the Village Core, where there is a presumption against inappropriate development.

An exception to this policy is where it can be demonstrated that very special circumstances exist which clearly outweigh the harm to the Green Belt. In this case we are persuaded that the replacement of an ugly, poorly constructed workshop by a new dwelling could be considered to be a planning gain, provided the replacement property conforms to the guidelines of the Village Design Statement. In this application the planned building does not conform in the respect that it has velux windows on the front elevation and an integral garage. We therefore oppose this application, although we do not object to a new dwelling in principle.

04/02872/07/FUL Bradfield, Langley Demolition of existing garage and external alterations to existing dwelling Road, Chipperfield and construction of two attached dwellings
Chipperfield Parish Council support this application subject to a section 106 agreement.

In response to an earlier application of an additional dwelling on this site. Chipperfield Parish Council indicated that it was prepared to supports an additional dwelling provided it met the criteria for development in the conservation area, in addition for permission to be granted it had to show that local needs would be met.

We feel these plans would add interest to an unexciting house and give more character to a key point in the village. However, there is an issue regarding the local need for 2 bedroom houses for sale. Our Housing Needs Survey, which the applicant has included with the Design Access Statement covering the period 2003-2008, shows that most of the potential occupiers need rented or shared ownership properties and we know from Didsbury Cottages that current market prices deter the elderly from buying 2 bedroom houses in the village. Despite the probability of further affordable housing being available soon at the rear of Nunfield, we feel the survey indicated that there is a substantial need for shred ownership pr rented properties.

We therefore support the application subject to a S106 agreement that is limited to the sole use of people from the village, of all age groups. We would prefer, but not insist, this is achieved either through shared ownership or renting.

04/02882/07/FHA 8 Kings Close Single storey front, side and rear extensions
Chipperfield and front alterations
Chipperfield Parish Council supports this application.

The proposed extensions are large, but this is acceptable in the Village Core.

The overall effect on the frontage is in keeping with the existing environment and the use of clay tiles to replace the present concrete ones would be a planning gain. Our only concern relates to the rear extension which involves a large area of flat roof. The Village Design Statement specifically states “avoid the use of flat roofs on extensions” The developer addresses this point in the Design Access Statement, saying that the depth of the extension preclude a pitched roof. One option of course would be to reduce the depth of the proposed family room, but a substantial reduction in size would be needed. However, we are aware that the proposed flat roof is quite invisible from the road.

OPEN SPACES AND ALLOTMENTS
0234/07 REPORT FROM WORKING GROUP CHAIRMAN
1. It was briefly reported that a meeting is due to take place soon with DBC and CMS regarding the refurbishment of the Pill Pond.
2. It had been verbally agreed that DBC would place wooden bollards along the section of verge opposite Blackwell’s to protect it from traffic.
3. The waste bins on the Common appear to be working well but it may require a further bin on the car park near the Cricket field early next year.
4. It has been agreed that major pruning, earth moving, rubbish collection and removal is required for the allotment boundary hedge refurbishment. Advice and detailed quotations are being sought from professional contractors who are able to complete the whole task. The work may need to be undertaken in stages.
5. A list has been obtained from Dacorum on who has maintenance responsibility for verges.
6. The Common Ranger has been asked to report to the Village Warden for day to day issues to help reduce the workload on the Clerk at this busy time. Both remain responsible to the Clerk. Noted

0235/07 COMMEMORATIVE TREE
After general discussion regarding the sensitive issue of commemorative tree planting requests for the common or within the woodlands to include the provision of plaques etc, it was agreed that A&OS discuss a draft policy for this and any further requests for same. Clerk to update the resident on current our position. Noted

0236/07 WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
After discussion of the previously circulated papers it was agreed that more time would be needed to make an informed decision, it was agreed to delegate the reply to DBC to Open Spaces and Allotments.
Proposed Cllr Southworth and Seconded Cllr Joseph All agreed

0237/07 SIGNAGE THE COMMON AND WOODLANDS
It was agreed, that after discussion with DBC to re-site the previously agreed signage within the Common, that the changes should be agreed:-
Original agreement
2 x” Welcome to Chipperfield” Boards
1 x interpretation board located under welcome sign within footpath 8
1 x bye laws board to be located underneath welcome sign at the junction of footpath 4, 7 & 8
New agreement
2 x “Welcome to Chipperfield” boards to be discarded
2 x interpretation boards:- one at the entrance footpath 8 and one at entrance of footpaths 4,7 & 8, bye laws notice to be located within Parish map board and new extra map to be provided for parish map board. All boards, notices and maps to be provided and installed by DBC under supervision of CPC. Interpretation boards to be prepared in conjunction with CPC and will not be commissioned until CPC have approved draft. Clerk to inform DBC of decision.
Proposed Cllr Jarrad and Seconded Cllr Sims All agreed

0238/07 ALLOTMENT TENANCY AGREEMENT
It was reported that the previously circulated agreement had been produced in conjunction with the allotment tenants both at their allotment AGM and by request for written responses by 26th November. Policy issues reflected are:- Half-plots/full plots; Renting multiple plots; Strimming unkempt plots; Probationary periods; Allotment reps.; Plan of occupancy; Temporary disability cover; Composting. (Other issues: tree planting and dumping). It was unanimously Resolved to adopt the revised Annual Allotment Tenancy Agreement. Clerk to issue the new agreement in the New Year.
Proposed Cllr Southworth and Seconded Cllr Joseph All agreed

HIGHWAYS, ROAD SAFETY AND PUBLIC TRANSPORT
0239/07 REPORT FROM WORKING GROUP CHAIRMAN
It was reported that the Roads report had been well received by Hertfordshire Highways and they have requested a meeting next week to discuss same. The annual gulley clearance had now taken place and all members to re-visit the roads report to ensure any missed gullies are actioned ASAP. The information required for the proposed location of the Speed indicator sign has now been gathered, details of which should be available at the next JMP Highways meeting in January. There appeared to be a high presence of Highways vehicles within the village, this to be discussed with Highways. Noted

YOUTH AND EDUCATION
0240/07 REPORT FROM WORKING GROUP CHAIRMAN
It was reported that Richard Slater from the Village Halls Advisory Services from the CDA visited the hall on 26th November. His inspection showed that a disabled toilet is needed and small ramps should be installed at both doors. There will be a door from the hall to the kitchen, and a new floor. A Youth Club trustee is arranging quotes.

There have been several complaints about the R19 bus turning round at the entrance to Croft Lane without going round to the Two Brewers. The bus company have been contacted and apparently there are three drivers who do that route they have agreed to speak to them and resolve the issue. This appears to have been resolved.

The equipment in the playground at Croft Meadow appears to be in good condition and the grass is well cut. At present we can see no reason for requesting DBC to change area. It should be noted that DBC have very limited funds for Children play areas and Chipperfield is not currently on their list for replacement equipment.

It was suggested that the Council considers holding a regular surgery in the village to take comments from local people, to be held monthly or more frequently if necessary. A similar surgery scheme in Bovingdon appear to be success, although it was pointed out the surgery at Bovingdon has been created as they have reduced the amount of Full Council meetings they hold per year. It was confirmed that CPC would always hold 12 meetings per year. It was agreed that F&GP investigate the possibility of surgeries. Noted

0241/07 CLERK’S NOTICES
None

0242/07 ACCOUNTS FOR PAYMENT
It was RESOLVED that accounts amounting to £ 3,324.05 be signed for payment.
Proposed Cllr Joseph and Seconded Cllr Jarrad All agreed

0243/07 ANY OTHER BUSINESS
Chairman circulated copies of the Draft Policy document for Chipperfield Parish Council, this had been examined by F&GP and recommended for adoption. Other members to forward comments to F&GP in time for next agenda. Chairman passed a copy of the Parish Planning toolkit to Cllr Southworth for her comments at next meeting

0244/07 DATE OF NEXT MEETING
The next meeting is on Monday 14th January 2008 at 8.00pm in the Baptist Church meeting room