Minutes of the meeting of Chipperfield Parish Council held in The Small Hall, The Common, Chipperfield on Monday 14th December 2009 at 7.30pm
Present Cllr M Bradshaw (Chairman), Cllr Mrs S Sims (Vice-Chairman), Cllr S Gruselle,
Cllr Mrs S Fowler, Cllr M Joseph, Cllr D Nobbs & Cllr Mrs P Southworth
Also present Mrs J Deacon – Clerk
Meeting started at 7.30 prompt
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6 residents from Queen Street attended the meeting to register their interest in item 0417/09 (1), whereby the entrances of Queen Street were being used as a turnaround for school traffic, it was highlighted that Queen Street was a private road and residents had recently paid for a new road surface that was now being damaged. They asked CPC to help solve this issue. Suggestions so far include closing one section of the entrance and placing no turning signs. Chairman thanked them for their attendance (see item 0417/09(1) for decision)

Public Participation – PCSO Agallili attended the meeting and reported the following crime figures for Nov 09:-
Dwelling burglary 0 Burglary other 0 Theft from Motor Vehicle 3
Theft of Motor Vehicle 0 Damage 0 Other crimes (incl, drugs/harassment) 0
Robbery/assault 1 Nuisance 01 Street assault 0

He confirmed that crime was now back to normal levels and the youth involved in the recent crime wave has been re-housed away from the area and is on a curfew and would continue to be monitored. It was confirmed the previous issue at Blackwell’s appears to be resolved. With the co-operation of the the Management team subsequent similar events have been approached appropriately and successfully. Chairman thanked PSCO Agallili for his attendance
MINUTES

0411/09 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. Noted

0412/09 APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE.
Apologies were received from both Cllr Anson due to illness and Cllr Roberts due to a prior engagement All agreed

0413/09 DECLARATION OF INTERESTS
A personal interest was registered by Cllr Nobbs for all matters relating to the Allotments and Cllr Joseph declared both a personal and prejudicial interest in item 0417/09(1)Queen Street traffic issues. All agreed

0414/09 MINUTES OF LAST MEETING
It was Resolved that the minutes of the meeting held on 9th November 2009, be signed by the Chairman as a correct record.
Proposed Cllr Sims, seconded Cllr Nobbs All agreed

0415/09 MATTERS ARISING FROM THOSE MINUTES
None

0416/09 REPORT FROM BOROUGH/COUNTY COUNCILLOR
None

0417/09 COMPLAINTS RECEIVED – RELATING TO EITHER HERTS COUNTY COUNCIL (HCC), DACORUM BOROUGH COUNCIL (DBC) or CHIPPERFIELD PARISH COUNCIL (CPC)
1 Queen Street
Due to a register of interests Cllr Joseph left the room during this item. After consideration of the residents’ request, it was agreed to liaise with Landscape and Recreation @ DBC, as the land in question appeared to be under the “Management of the Common”. It was agreed the suggested measures would be discussed fully at the next “Common Management” meeting in January. Clerk to liaise with residents of any outcome. It was also agreed that the residents should contact DBC directly with their request.
Proposed Cllr Sims, seconded Cllr Nobbs All agreed

2 Blackwell’s – Business rating
It was reported that due to time constraints Blackwell’s would be submitting their application to DBC and may request CPC’s support in the New Year, at which point a detailed request would be submitted confirming the specific level of support required. Noted

FINANCE AND GENERAL PURPOSE
0418/09 FINANCE AND GENERAL PURPOSE REPORT
Chairman advised Council that further to the agreed restructuring of the Agenda to ensure critical tasks were dealt with as a priority, we were still attempting to cover too many items in the two hours available. He suggested that we restrict the Agenda to an average of 5 minutes per item which equates to 24 items over the two hour meeting. Council agreed. The next Agenda will be reviewed with the Chairman before publication. All agreed

A brief verbal report was given on current issues. (Appendix 0418/09)

0419/09 BUDGET PROPOSAL (FINAL)
After discussion on the previously circulated papers relating to the stated items, it was unanimously Resolved to adopt the final budget proposal 2010/2011 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 Fowler All agreed

Chairman recommended that that the final decision of grant allocations is delayed until further information received from an applicant. It was agreed that the total level of grants remains as per budget, but the allocation may be reviewed once confirmation of grant monies are received. All agreed

0420/09 WAR MEMORIAL
It was confirmed that contracts had been signed and works had started on the Memorial. Completion due in the New Year. It was reported that DBC have confirmed their support for these works, but have asked CPC to indemnify them against any claim. After discussion it was agreed to indemnify DBC based on the knowledge that all parties were covered by public liability insurance and that CPC have the power to maintain the Memorial without DBC’s consent.
Proposed Cllr Bradshaw, seconded Cllr Gruselle All agreed

0421/09 JOHN NICHOLS MEMORIAL PRIZE(S)
It was reported that due to the continued success of the memorial prize, St Paul’s School wish to continue awards in 2010. It was Resolved to support this award to the value of £50.
Proposed Cllr Sims and Seconded Cllr Fowler All agreed

0422/09 ACCOUNTS FOR PAYMENT
It was RESOLVED that accounts amounting to £3,755.02 be paid – It was agreed a cheque up to the value of £500 be signed between Dec and Jan meeting to cover the Warden’s vehicle insurance due 12th Jan, renewal details will not be available until w/c 21st Dec 2009
Proposed Cllr Bradshaw and Seconded Cllr Joseph All agreed

PLANNING
0423/09 PLANNING REPORT
A brief verbal report was given on current issues. (Appendix 0423/09)

0424/09 LOCALLY LISTED BUILDINGS
It was agreed that the previously circulated amendments were to be reported back to the Conservation Officer, Dr Moir, along with a few late comments. Chairman wished to thank Dr Moir for this comprehensive professional and outstanding document.
Proposed Cllr Southworth and Seconded Cllr Joseph All agreed

0425/09 HERFTORDSHIRE WASTE DEVELOPMENT PLAN – CONSULTATION
It was recommended that this consultation has very little impact on Chipperfield and therefore our response should thank them for the opportunity, but offer no comment at this stage.
Proposed Cllr Joseph and Seconded Cllr Sims All agreed

0426/09 THREE RIVERS LOCAL DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK – CORE STRATEGY FURTHER PREFERRED OPTIONS
It was recommended that this consultation has very little impact on Chipperfield and therefore our response should thank them for the opportunity, but offer no comment at this stage.
Proposed Cllr Joseph and Seconded Cllr Fowler All agreed

0427/09 PLANNING ENQUIRY – TESCO EXPRESS – BOVINGDON
It was reported that the public enquiry had now taken place in relation to Tesco’s application to build flats and a Tesco express in Bovingdon, whilst it was agreed that this may not appear to affect Chipperfield, it was agreed to request that should the application be upheld, a traffic survey is carried out before and after construction to detect any increased volume of traffic.
Proposed Cllr Bradshaw and Seconded Cllr Gruselle All agreed

0428/09 NUNFIELD DEVELOPMENT
It was reported that the Planning Inspectorate now allowed the appeal by Hightown Praetorian for their most recent application. It was confirmed that they now have the facility to continue with any of their 3 types of application, but verbal confirmation has been received that they would be continuing with the most recent application with access through Kings Close. Works are due to commence in the new financial year.

They also expressed a wish to consult CPC on all applicants applying for any of these properties to ensure that they are local persons, as per the local housing needs survey. It was agreed to support this proposal, details to follow on completion of works. All agreed
0429/09 PLANNING APPLICATIONS & RESULTS
All of the following recommendations given by the Planning group were accepted by Full council, unless otherwise stated.
04/01834/09/LDP Willow House, Wayside, Garage conversion
Chipperfield
We are aware that we are not qualified to give an authoritative view on this application, but we do have concerns if any application to create a self-contained dwelling in this way without specific planning consent could be regarded as permitted development. There are number of similar properties with attached garages within the green belt of Chipperfield and permission to allow an increase in living space above 30% without check would have a serious impact on the Village’s appearance.

04/01848/09/FHA Milbaise Cottage, Tower Hill New porch and external alterations
Chipperfield
Chipperfield Parish Council supports this application

The proposed changes are relatively minor and represent an improvement in the existing design, particularly the replacement of the PVC windows with oak, and the redesign/return of the front bay windows. The new proposals are in keeping with the environment and do not appear to adversely affect neighbouring properties.

04/01862/09/TCA Mahogany Hall, The Common Fell trees
Chipperfield
Whilst we are aware that this application is for our information only, we write to offer our comments for file. Chipperfield Parish Council supports this application.

04/01884/09/FHA 80 Scatterdells Lane Two storey rear extension
Chipperfield
Chipperfield Parish Council supports this application

The proposed development was recently subject to a request for a lawful development certificate, to which we saw no objection. We again support this proposal as the extension appears to match the existing building and the proposals do not affect the front elevation which in turn does not appear to
have an adverse affect on neighbouring properties or the environment. The proposed development is also in keeping with the Village Design Statement.

YOUTH AND EDUCATION
0430/09 REPORT FROM WORKING GROUP CHAIRMAN
A brief verbal report was given on current issues. (Appendix 0430/09)

0431/09 THE FUTURE OF HEMEL BIRTH UNIT AND RELATED MATERNITY SERVICES – CONSULTATION
After discussion of the previously circulated papers, it was recommended not to support the possibility of reopening of this unit in its current format as it was felt the unit would not be safe as there would be no provision for the supporting services required. Also in order to reopen the unit 900k pa would be needed and at present there are no funds available to support this. Therefore funds would need to be moved from other areas. Since it‘s closure it appears that Watford currently provided adequate maternity services for the area.
Proposed Cllr Sims and Seconded Cllr Gruselle All agreed

HIGHWAYS, ROAD SAFETY AND TRANSPORT
0432/09 HIGHWAYS, ROAD SAFETY AND TRANSPORT REPORT
A brief verbal report was given on current issues. (Appendix 0432/09)

0433/09 VAS
It was reported since the November meeting, a meeting had taken place with Herts Highways and all members were requested to support the final location of the VAS as indicated by a marking on the road. All agreed this was the appropriate location. Clerk reported however that this was subject to the contractor to confirming that logistically the VAS could be moved. Herts Highways have confirmed their support of the move and that this would be completed before financial year end (subject to the above).
Proposed Cllr Fowler and Seconded Cllr Gruselle All agreed

0434/09 ROAD REPORT
It was confirmed that the report is due for completion for Jan meeting, in line with last year’s timetable. Once adopted submission to be made to Herts Highways. Noted

0435/09 VILLAGE WELCOME SIGNS
It was reported that a quotation was still awaited, to be chased up by Highways group, for Jan meeting Noted

OPEN SPACES AND ALLOTMENT
0436/09 OPEN SPACES AND ALLOTMENT REPORT
A brief verbal report was given on current issues. (Appendix 0436/09)

0437/09 CPC POLICY ON THE COMMON
Chairman thanked the Members for their useful comments on the CPC draft policy documents and reported that this document had now been forwarded to DBC for their input. It was reported that further discussions were required to complete this process as it was in-conjunction with the Common Management Plan & Green Flag Award. There were a number of issues to resolve e.g. enforcement /publishing of bylaws, preservation of flora and fauna and CPC’s decision not to allow additional furniture, plaques or memorials within the woodland. On-going

We are currently awaiting replacement of a memorial bench, Clerk to confirm with DBC the style of the suggested bench to match existing. Once agreed costs, to be forwarded to memorial fund organisers for their agreement to purchase same
Proposed Cllr Bradshaw and Seconded Cllr Gruselle All agreed

0438/09 GREEN FLAG/FRIENDS OF THE COMMON
It was reported that the submission for the Green Flag 2010 had to be completed for end Jan 2010 and details of the judges previous comments had been addressed and would be ready in time for the deadline Noted

It was reported that although there was a good turn out for the recent pond clearance, with great results to both the Manor and Pill ponds. It was requested that more of the younger members of Chipperfield should attend these sessions that have been arranged for weekends to assist those who work full time. All agreed

0439/09 ALLOTMENT MANAGEMENT REVIEW
It was confirmed that the recent Allotment AGM had gone very well with some excellent contributions from the tenants. Those present were made aware of the proposed rent increases and there were no objections. It was recommended that the rent figures are revised to make the allotment field to revenue neutral. The proposed rent increase to be made known to the tenants by end January 2010 to allow them the new season to decide whether they wish to pay the increase or to return the plot to the waiting list. F&GP to make recommendations at Jan meeting All agreed

It was confirmed that works to hedge 2 had taken place satisfactorily and that payment of the final invoice should be made
Proposed Cllr Gruselle and Seconded Cllr Southworth All agreed

0440/09 ALLOTMENT BOUNDARY HEDGE 3 RESTORATION
It was requested that the previously circulated draft letter to tenants requesting the return of the 4 metre strip of land adjacent to hedge 3 (football side) to CPC be accepted and sent to tenants by w/c 21st Dec.
Proposed Cllr Joseph and Seconded Cllr Gruselle All agreed

0441/09 ALLOTMENT BOUNDARY LICENCE
It was reported that after liaison with allotment tenant regarding the history of the licence it was proposed that sufficient information had been received to allow F&GP to make draft proposal to resolve matter. All agreed

0442/09 ALLOTMENT GATE – FENCING
It was reported that 3 requests for quotations had been sent with a deadline of 30 November. However, to date only one response had been received. It was agreed that as the quotation was significantly lower than a previous quotation, no further quotations are required. However as the gate required snagging works by contractor, due to attend 20th Jan, no action to be taken by the successful bidder until all snagging works are resolved
Proposed Cllr Sims and Seconded Cllr Joseph All agreed

0443/09 CORRESPONDENCE – To report on attended training sessions& meetings
Chipperfield News AGM – It was reported that the Chippefield Village website had been updated and changed and feedback was requested by the Webmaster as to the affect it may have on CPC’s section of the site, all comments to be forwarded to Clerk for Jan meeting. All agreed

Land Registry workshop – Report to F&G re licence
Borough Liaison – it was reported that DBC has requested only a 15% rise for staff salaries for concurrent services

0444/09 NEXT AGENDA ITEMS
None I know Mike J mentioned Punch Taverns, but at this stage only hearsay, Mike if you have details I will add it to agenda for Jan

0445/09 DATE OF NEXT MEETING
The next meeting is Monday 11th January 2009 @ 7.30, The Small Hall, The Common, Chipperfield

0446/09 PART 2
To consider that under Section 1 of the Public Bodies (Admission to Meetings) Act 1960 that the Public and Press should be excluded during item 0447/09 & 0448/09 on the agenda of this meeting in view of the confidential nature of the business to be transacted.

0447/09 STAFF REVIEWS
After discussion it was agreed to award the Clerk the 1% pay review recommended by NALC, plus 1% performance and 1% Cost of Living rise. Council registered their unanimous thanks for the Clerk’s contribution to the Council. Clerk thanked the Council for their support.

Clerk requested that both the Warden and Common Ranger, as part of their annual review are awarded 1% Cost of Living rise + 1`% performance rise, in light of the excellent contributions they consistently make to the village .
Proposed Cllr Bradshaw and Seconded Cllr Gruselle All agreed

0448/09 RENEWAL OF COMMON RANGER CONTRACT
Clerk confirmed that the Common Ranger’s contract was due for renew al on 31st December, and she requested that due to the excellent efforts of the Ranger that his contact be renewed for a further 6 months.
Proposed Cllr Bradshaw and Seconded Cllr Sims All agreed

The meeting ended at 9.15pm