2005 Minutes
MINUTES OF THE MEETING HELD ON 13 JANUARY 2005
Present: E Bolton, U Cansfield, T Martin, B Butler, A Chetcuti, M Mitton,
B Fisher (Chairman)
Apologies: C Bayliss
1. Minutes of meeting held on 25.11.04 approved as a correct record
Proposed: U Cansfield Seconded: T Martin
2. Matters arising from the minutes
a) Overgrown footpaths – Chairman reported on a site meeting with an officer from NYCC Highways at Aketon Bank and Pannal Road when it was agreed that further remedial work would take place. Progress on this and other outstanding matters will be monitored and reminders sent as appropriate.
b) Additional street lighting, Upper Main Street – agreed that Clerk should write to Harrogate Council to pursue possibility of lighting opposite pub/shop.
c) Parish Council records – B Fisher and B Butler to locate outstanding records under Village Hall, photos of old Follifoot also stored there, negatives with Yorkshire Film Archive. M Mitton agreed to clarify the position regarding a donation from a former resident.
3. Chairman’s communications:
a) Yorkshire Water – Leak on Plompton Road reported but not dealt with, Chairman made further contact, stressing it as a potential hazard to traffic and was assured that it would be dealt with.
b) Certificate of lawfulness, Haggs Road. Chairman reported receipt of representations from some residents opposed to the application.
c) Footpath proposals – in response to a query, Chairman reported a written acknowledgement from the principal landowner. Further contact will be made regarding a report that walkers had observed a man using a shotgun on the new permissive footpath.
d) Public footpath to Colin Hill – noted that stepping stones over the Crimple in need of repair. Clerk to contact appropriate agency.
4. Standing Orders
The Councillors resolved to adopt the Standing Orders.
Proposed: M Mitton Seconded: T Martin
5 Quality Council Status
Information placed on Parish notice boards following last meeting, but no contact from residents. Noted a distance learning course ‘Working with your Council’ was available free of charge for clerks, a pre cursor to formal qualification. Agreed Clerk would register interest, Quality Council Status would not be pursued at present.
6. Freedom of Information Act 2000
Noted that Parish Council resolved to adopt a model Publication Scheme in
October 2002. This now required minor amendments. A form of words to promote the Scheme for notice boards and web site were approved by the Parish Council. The Publication Scheme with amendments will be presented to the next meeting.
Seminar on 27.1.05 will be attended by Clerk. Payment of training fee of £25 Proposed: M Mitton Seconded: E Bolton
7. Finance
a) Balance at bank – £ 7569.63. Receipts: Interest – £ 38.02, Grant for grass cutting – £ 68.28
b) Approval of budget 2005-06 and precept request. Chairman thanked B Butler and Clerk for preparing budget. Precept request to increase by £ 200 to £ 5000. This was thought sufficient to allow for contingencies.
Proposed: M Mitton Seconded: E Bolton
c) Authorisation of expenditure – Stationery £ 29.54, Subscription to CPRE £ 25, Clerk’s salary £555.22.
Village Hall – proposal to purchase and donate chairs to the value of £ 500 + VAT approved.
Proposed: B Butler Seconded: A Chetcuti
c) Asset Register – noted that External Auditor had requested a valuation of village assets for next financial year. List circulated for any additions, to be raised at next meeting. In discussion the poor state of a seat on Pannal Road was mentioned. Clerk to obtain estimate for repair.
d) Insurance – discussion on extent of cover for village assets. Parish Council has all mandatory cover. Contact made with YLCA for advice with a view to obtaining alternative quotes before premium due in June 2005.
************************************************************************************************
MINUTES OF THE MEETING HELD ON 3 MARCH 2005
Present: Councillors E Bolton, U Cansfield, T Martin, A Chetcuti, B Fisher (chairman)
Mr K Horner for part of the meeting.
Apologies: Councillors M Mitton – vacation, B Butler – family commitment, District
Councillor C Bayliss.
The Chairman informed the meeting that District Councillor Bayliss had been elected Mayor for the coming year and offered his congratulations on behalf of the Parish Council.
Prior to start of the business on the agenda, the Chairman welcomed Mr Horner who had requested an opportunity to explain to the Councillors the current position relating to his accommodation in the field near Highmoor Stud, Haggs Road. Mr Horner’s application for a certificate of lawfulness for use of his caravan as a dwelling has been refused. Mr Horner wishes to continue to live on the site and care for his animals. Alternative accommodation offered by the Council had been rejected because there was no provision for them. The Chairman explained that the Parish Council had been asked for their views on his application. The councillors had opposed the application as they were concerned that it would create a precedent. Mr Horner was disappointed that no representative from the Parish Council had visited the site. The Chairman undertook to arrange to visit in the near future. Mr Horner indicated that he intended to appeal the refusal.
The Chairman thanked Mr Horner for coming to the meeting at such a difficult time for him.
Mr Horner left the meeting.
1. Minutes of previous meeting – held on 13.1.05
Accepted as a correct record.
Proposed: U Cansfield Seconded: A Chetcuti
2. Matters arising from the minutes
a) Street lighting – response to request for an additional light on upper Main Street indicated that this would be investigated. Residents would be consulted for their views.
b) Parish records – removed from under Village Hall, to be taken to County Records office for safe keeping. Quotation to be obtained for a display case for plates donated to the Parish.
c) Yorkshire Water – leak on Plompton Road still in need of repair. Water has frozen on the road creating a hazard for pedestrians and vehicles. Chairman and A Chetcuti agreed to contact Yorkshire Water to request repair.
d) Footpaths – stepping stones over River Crimple in need of repair – reported to NYCC. Proposals for connecting paths around the village have not progressed further. Chairman will contact relevant parties after Easter.
3. Chairman’s communications
a) Village litter pick – agreed will take place on 10 April. Volunteers to meet at 2 pm outside The Harewood Arms. Clerk to arrange for supply of bags, etc. A Chetcuti to prepare poster for notice boards.
b) Cricket Club – further contact as plans are about to be submitted to re site the pavilion. A letter of support from the Parish Council requested. Confirmed that councillors would await receipt of plans and then make comments.
c) Village Hall – a letter of thanks for the donation of new chairs received from Chairman, E Tatterton.
4. Freedom of Information Act – Update
The Clerk reported that several items of information were still required before the Publication Scheme could be properly available. These included a register of Parish assets, a complaints procedure and a contract of employment and job description for the Clerk. The three latter points required further discussion between the Chairman and Clerk and subsequent approval by the Parish Council.
5. Finance
a) Balance at bank – £ 6940.94 total in both accounts
b) Request for authorisation of expenditure – village Christmas trees – £ 23.50
Clerk’s salary £ 555.22 ; Clerk’s expenses £ 22.20 ; hire of Village Hall for meetings £ 63 ; donation of 15 chairs to Village Hall £ 583.57.
Proposed: T Martin Seconded: U Cansfield
c) Asset Register/ Insurance – list of village assets accepted by the Parish
Council. The Clerk had received no response from the YLCA’s regarding cover for some items.
6. Plompton
Directional signage board has been made and T Martin reported that he was soon to arrange to install it.
7. Highways
A number of matters were outstanding from correspondence exchanged with NYCC during the current year including overgrown footpaths, missing reflectors; proposals for changes to junctions at Freeman’s Corner and Haggs/Spofforth Roads. In addition the poor condition of the Spofforth Road between the village sign and ‘Brookside’ were noted. Clerk to write to the appropriate officers to request remedial work.
8. Clerk’s correspondence
Standards Board – review of Code of Conduct; DEFRA – re. Clean Neighbourhoods+ Environment Bill; ODPM – consultation documents – Citizen engagement and public services + Vibrant local leadership; Local Councils news; YLCA’s – various magazines; NYCC – Highways annual report, information on Integrated Transport Strategy, County committee for the Harrogate District newsletter; Harrogate Borough Council – Audit Commission Inspection briefing sheet; North Yorkshire small project development fund; issues consultation on the local development framework; Countryside Agency – conclusive map of registered common land and open country – Follifoot and Plompton.
9 Planning
New applications: Pinderpound, Plompton Road x 3 – demolish, re build or extend; 15 Leconfield Garth – extensions; Follifoot Hall – demolish offices, convert Hall to house, build house.
Approvals: Follifoot livery stables x 2 – storage units; Woodland, Haggs Road – extension; Rose Cottage – new garage/bicycle store.
Refusals: Aketon Lodge –extensions; Follifoot Ridge farm – variation of condition for agricultural use.
Appeals: Land at Thistle Hill – against refusal of erection of storage building; Wingate Farm -14 stables, washroom and additional parking – dismissed.
Enforcement: Haggs Road x 4 complaints not upheld, land by Highmoor Stud – application for certificate of lawfulness refused. Hilltop House, Main Street felling of tree – permission had been given.
Clerk to write to request that Parish Council be informed of such approvals in future. Noted that Church had received permission to fell some conifers in the churchyard.
Arrangements to ensure the councillor for Plompton receives documents for comment were discussed. Chairman to progress this matter.
10. Date of next meeting and arrangements for the Parish Assembly
Next meeting is 14 April 2005
The Parish Assembly will be held at 7.30 pm on this day agenda to include Chairman’s report, Neighbourhood Watch and Children’s platground reports and discussion. Poster to publicise event – A Chetcuti.
***************************************************************************************************
MINUTES OF THE PARISH COUNCIL MEETING HELD ON THURSDAY 14 APRIL 2005
Present : U Cansfield, Chetcuti, B Butler, E Bolton, B Fisher ( Chairman )
Apologies : M Mitton, T Martin – business commitments
Minutes of the previous meeting – held on 3.3.05
Approved as a correct record
Proposed:- E Bolton Seconded: – U Cansfield
Matters arising from the minutes
Yorkshire Water – leak on Plompton Road reported and will be pursued as necessary by residents
Footpath proposals – the principal landowners have contacted the Chairman and have stated they are not prepared to take the matter forward due to business considerations.
Highways – outstanding matters letter from NYCC stating Main Street, Pannal Road, Spofforth Road to Haggs Road junction would be patched and surface dressed. Condition of Hillside road surface to be raised by Clerk.
Suggested junction improvements at Haggs/Spofforth Road do not meet NYCC priorities – Parish Council to challenge this – Clerk to write letter.
Plompton signage – to be installed by T Martin when time allows.
Chairman’s communications
There were none.
Employment of the Clerk
Papers previously circulated arose from a guide to good employment practice jointly agreed between the Local Councils Associations and Society of Council Clerks. It was noted that the costs of adopting the framework would be no greater than at present, but would provide clarity. The Parish Council resolved:
to adopt the principles of good employment practice as recommended by the above organisations.
to adopt a job profile that most accurately reflected the major tasks of the Clerk.
to retain the pay scale within Spinal Column Points 15- 21.
To adopt the contract of employment and job description for the clerk.
Proposed:- E Bolton Seconded:- B Butler
Complaints Procedure
A process intended for complaints against the administration of the Council or about its procedures.
The Parish Council resolved to adopt the complaints procedure.
Proposed:- B Butler Seconded:- U Cansfield
Finance
Balance at the bank
On 31.3.05 the total balances were £ 5820.74. One cheque for £63 was outstanding ( hire of Village Hall )
Request for authorisation of expenditure Subscriptions: Clerks and Councils Direct £7.50, Yorkshire Rural Community Council £25, Yorkshire Local Councils Associations £149; Clerks expenses £45.45
Limited edition plates donated by a former resident cost of a secure frame for display in the Village Hall £ 106.35
Proposed:- B Butler Seconded:- B Fisher
Plompton
There were no matters to raise
Clerks Report and correspondence
Harrogate local development framework – meeting for councillors to discuss developments in small settlements on 25 May. It was considered important to send a representative.
Other items received in the form of newsletters and magazines were circulated amongst the Councillors for information.
Planning matters
Application – revised scheme for side conservatory School Cottage, Rudding Lane.
Withdrawn – applications for new build and extensions to existing house – Pinderpound
Appeal – against refusal to remove agricultural occupancy condition – Follifoot Ridge Farm
Date of next meeting
Thursday 26 May – the annual Parish meeting. Agenda items to include election of Chairman and Neighbourhood Watch.
*************************************************************************************************
ANNUAL PARISH MEETING HELD ON THURSDAY 26 MAY 2005
Two items were discussed prior to the Annual Parish meeting.
The following people were present: Councillors E Bolton, B Butler, U Cansfield, A Chetcuti, B Fisher, T Martin, M Mitton. P C Mark Ayre and P Knowles. Apologies were received from County Councillor J Savage, District Councillor C Bayliss and A Dewsnip.
Plans for the development of the Yorkshire Showground site
P Knowles brought plans to inform the meeting. It involves building a 100 bed hotel, shops and offices and a substantial increase in exhibition space. Development of the caravan site appears to have been shelved. The Crimple Village and Rudding Lane Residents Association are seriously concerned that the development will result in a dramatic increase in traffic levels on Rudding Lane when two new roundabouts are created as part of the initiative. Residents fear that Rudding Lane will become a ‘rat run’. The resident’s association has engaged a consultant to conduct a traffic impact assessment, as the background information provided with the development plans was considered to be flawed. The resident’s association has requested financial support from the Parish Council to meet the cost of the traffic survey, this would be considered in the meeting to follow. P Knowles was thanked for attending and would be informed of the outcome of the later discussions.
2. Neighbourhood Watch
Concerns expressed by some street co-ordinators at the last meeting who thought the scheme was not working as well as it might. P C Ayre said that experience suggested that it could be difficult to sustain interest. Comment that the ‘Ringmaster’ system of circulating information about crime/suspicious vehicles was not very helpful. P C Ayre reported that he was responsible for liaison with 25 parishes. He told the meeting that since 1.1.2005 there had been 3 recorded crimes in the parish:- person assaulted on a ’bus, damage to a gate, theft from a garden. T Martin, the co-ordinator said that his changed work commitments meant that he had little time to devote to the scheme and may need to step down. To progress the matter, he agreed to liaise with PC Ayre to arrange a meeting of the street co- ordinators in the near future.
P C Ayre was thanked for attending and invited to attend and report to future meetings of the Parish Council.
ANNUAL PARISH COUNCIL MEETING 26 MAY 2005
Present: Councillors E Bolton, B Butler, U Cansfield, A Chetcuti, B Fisher, T Martin, M Mitton
Apologies: County Councillor J Savage, District Councillor C Bayliss
Declarations of interest.
There were none.
Election of Chairman
Councillor B Fisher nominated by U Cansfield, seconded by E Bolton and duly elected.
Election of Vice – Chairman
Councillor B Butler nominated by B Fisher, seconded by M Mitton and duly elected.
Election of Village Hall representative
Councillor B Butler nominated by U Cansfield, seconded by E Bolton and duly elected.
Minutes of the previous meeting held on 14.4.05
Signed as a correct record. Proposed B Butler, seconded E Bolton.
Matters arising – for information
Highways – Haggs Road/Spofforth Road junction improvement proposal. Letter received from NYCC to confirm the scheme was not a priority in terms of their accident prevention criteria. Comment made concerning the volume of heavy lorries passing down the Main Street to Aketon.
Current roadworks – confirmation that pot holes on Hillside would be repaired. Some concern about Main Street road surface, noted that this treatment was all that was available from the local budget. Further comment on repairs to await conclusion of works.
Chairman’s Communications
Children’s play area on Rudding Estate land – meeting attended 26.5.05. The initiative is progressing – a letter to be sent to residents seeking their views. The Estate to apply for grants. Parish Council involvement is wanted. Clarification on insurance and risk assessments will be required.
Dog fouling – footpath from Pannal Road cul-de-sac to the by pass. Owners leaving excrement in plastic bags on grass verges. Those responsible urged to take it home.
Street light Paddocks/Main Street – complaint by occupiers of opposite property that light is intrusive. Relevant Council officer to be asked to resolve matter.
Car parking at ‘bus stop, top Main Street – this continues to cause difficulty for passengers.
Freedom of Information Act 2000 Publication Scheme
The Parish Council resolved to adopt the revised scheme.
It was also resolved to charge 10p per sheet for photocopied information to cover costs. Details of the full scheme would be held by the Clerk and a note concerning this would be displayed on the Parish notice boards and web site.
Finance
Balance at the bank: £ 8396.04 Receipts of £ 2691.80 for half precept, allotment rents and VAT refund.
Request for authorisation of expenditure: training pack for Clerk £ 127.50 offset by bursary award of some amount, grass cutting £ 46.65, insurance £265.42, Clerk’s expenses £ 12.12. Proposed U Cansfield, seconded E Bolton.
Renewal of insurance for 2005-06 – noted the rise of £ 40+ in premium and the increase in excess from £ 100 to £ 125. Alternative providers to be investigated for the next financial year.
Internal Audit 2004-05 – P Carney conducted this and reported that the accounts were in order and correctly documented.
Community assets –repair and maintenance – Chairman inspected seats. Most in reasonable order, but in need of painting – Clerk to investigate community service, Probation Department.
Seat repairs – B Butler to contact C Taylor, joiner for quotation.
New seats – Rudding Estate are to replace one damaged by machinery and the Parish Council agreed the seat in Pannal Road cul de sac should be replaced. Clerk to progress.
Plompton
Signage – T Martin agreed he would be able to complete this by the end of June.
Clerk’s report and correspondence
Letters received: Victim Support – a request for a donation. The Parish Council resolved not to support the request.
Code of Conduct – the councillors reminded of their obligation to inform of any changes to their financial and other interests for inclusion on the Register. There were none to report.
Local development framework – consultation meeting Sun Pavilion 16.6.05
Rudding Estate/Highways Act – NYCC have notified the Parish Council that a statement and plan has been deposited by M Mackaness. This to avoid the possibility of an unrecorded right of way being overlooked.
Street lighting, top Main Street – request made for an additional light near ‘pub/Post Office. Consultation required with residents, Clerk to progress.
Planning Matters
Yorkshire Showground development – following further discussion, the Parish Council agreed to write to the Planning Officer to express concern regarding the likely increase in traffic on Rudding Lane and its impact on the residents. It was further resolved not to provide financial assistance to the Crimple Village and Rudding Lane Residents Association.
Outcomes – approvals – demolish Pinderpound, 15 Leconfield Garth – rear extension and dormer on garage. Refusal – School Cottage, Rudding Lane – side conservatory. Appeal allowed – Thistle Hill meadows – erection of agricultural building.
Next meetings
Thursday 23 June
Thursday 28 July
**************************************************************************************************
MINUTES OF THE PARISH COUNCIL MEETING HELD ON THURSDAY 23 JUNE 2005
Present: B Butler, T Martin, E Bolton, B Fisher , U Cansfield
Apologies: A Chetcuti, M Mitton
Declarations of interest
There were none.
Minutes of the Annual Parish Meeting – held on 26.5.05
Signed as a correct record – Proposed: B Butler Seconded: T Martin
Matters arising from the minutes
Street lighting – Paddocks/Main Street – the lantern has been replaced with a less intrusive light. Top Main Street – suggested site for new light by Partridge Cottage. Residents in the area have been asked for their views by 28 July. The matter will be on the next Parish Council meeting agenda.
Neighbourhood Watch – T Martin reported that he had arranged a meeting on 26.7.05 at 7.45 in the Village Hall for all street coordinators to discuss the future of the scheme. PC Mark Ayre will be in attendance.
Chairman’s communications
Visit to Mr Horner – the Chairman had met with Mr Horner at his home recently and listened to his explanation of his current situation. Whilst having sympathy with this, the Parish Council confirmed that it could not support his application to keep a caravan on the land.
YLCA’s meeting – talk given by David Bowe of NYCC Highways Dept. Questions were put relating to Main Street’s new road surface which was held to be more effective than the skimming method. The failure of the Haggs Road/Spofforth Road junction improvement proposal was raised and the officer agreed to look into this, he was made aware of concerns re. heavy vehicles and noise pollution in the village.
Rudding Estate play area – the Parish Council resolved to agree to a letter being circulated in the Chairman’s name to gauge the level of support for the project in the community. The Parish Council support the idea in principle. Some concerns raised re. responsibilities for insurance and Health and Safety.
Finance:
Balance at bank
A total of £ 7910.97 is held in both accounts
b) Request for authorisation of expenditure
Clerk’s salary £ 585.30, Donation to Parish magazine publication £ 25
Payments falling due before the next meeting: Jesper’s for stationery and grasscutting
Proposed: B Butler. Seconded: T Martin
c) Annual Return year ended 31.3.05
Statement of Assurance – was approved by the Parish Council
Statement of Accounts – was approved by the Parish Council
Benches owned by the Parish
Purchase of new bench
Four options considered. The Parish Council resolved on purchase from Woodcraft UK at £557.75 from which VAT is recoverable.
Repair of existing benches
The parish Council decided to request a quotation for repair of remaining benches prior to painting.
Plompton
B T payphone consultation
Last year B T consulted on the removal of the telephone box. They were informed the box was Listed and residents were opposed to its removal. The new proposal is for a cashless payphone and residents are in favour of the change.
Directional signage
Efforts to erect the sign in its original position thwarted as cables in place. E Bolton to obtain information about this and liaise with T Martin who will install the sign.
Clerk’s report and correspondence
Various papers for circulation.
Two letters sent to Harrogate Council since the last meeting. One to Planning to request that information is communicated on permissions granted that do not require consultation with the Parish Council. The other to Housing in response to some concerned residents to request that works to council owned properties on Hillside are re-roofed in a manner that is in keeping with the other adjoining houses.
Planning matters
Application – erection of agricultural building at Follifoot Ridge Farm.
Appeal – against refusal of side conservatory at School Cottage, Rudding Lane.
Public Access – letter to inform that lists of applications and outcomes is now available on the Harrogate Council website – www.harrogate.gov.uk/planning
Date of next meeting – 28 July
Future meetings: Thursdays 8 September, 20 October, 1 December 2005.
12 January 2006. All to commence at 8 pm in the Village Hall.
**************************************************************************************************
MINUTES OF THE MEETING HELD ON THURSDAY 28 JULY 2005
Present : Parish Councillors U Cansfield, A Chetcuti, M Mitton, E Bolton, T Martin, B Fisher ( Chairman ); District Councillor C Bayliss; County Councillor J Savage; Police Constable M Ayre.
Apology : Parish Councillor B Butler
Declarations of interest
There were none
Minutes of the previous meeting held on 23.6.05
Signed as a correct record. Proposed: U Cansfield, Seconded: E Bolton.
Matters arising from the minutes
Neighbourhood Watch – report on outcome of meeting held on 26.7.05. Attended by most street coordinators, T Martin PC Ayre and the Pannal area coordinator, M Asher. Generally a positive meeting, although dissatisfaction expressed with the Police ringmaster information system. T Martin to step down as area coordinator, his replacement sought either from existing volunteers or from an advert in the Parish Magazine. T Martin agreed to convene next meeting. P C Ayre commented that not all local crime was reported to the Police and referred to three cars being broken into. A possible cancer charity fraud had been reported. He stressed that shortage of manpower meant that only areas where crime was reported received a greater police presence in the form of increased patrols. An arrangement to bring the mobile police station to Follifoot would be made in the near future.
Street Light, Main Street
Seven residents in the immediate area were consulted and responses received from six. One raised objections, one could not see the need and four supported the proposal. The Parish Council were in favour of proceeding with the installation of a light and asked the Clerk to progress the matter.
Proposal for children’s play area
A 25% response to the letter and questionnaire recently circulated to residents. The Chairman reported that most appeared to be in favour of the plan.
The Parish Council clarified its position on the proposal as follows:
– it would give support in principle to the proposal
– it would consider making a donation to a trust when it was established
– it could not underwrite insurance cover
– it could not undertake risk assessments
C Bayliss suggested that when the committee was set up it should consult with Kirk Deighton play area for advice on how to proceed.
6. Benches owned by the parish
a) New benches – two ordered, one to be paid for by Rudding Estate. M Mackaness has agreed to arrange and pay for the installation of both.
b) Quotation received from Chris Taylor, joiner to repair four seats. The Parish Council agreed to accept the quote of £ 242.50. The councillors also noted that whilst safe, it would not be cost effective to repair two seats and so resolved to have a programme of replacement in future financial years.
7. Chairman’s communications
Ducks Nest Farm – he reported an invitation to visit this site where holiday units were proposed. The Parish Council had already received and commented upon the plans.
Open gardens day 7.8.05 – 600 tickets sold. The film set for ‘Barking’ would be left in place for the event.
Finance
Balance at bank – total of £ 7253.17 in the two accounts.
Request for authorisation of expenditure – actual cost of two items raised at last meeting: stationery £ 17.39 and grass cutting £ 30.14. Two further items: framing of limited edition plates for Village Hall £ 106.35 and stamps £ 10.08 A further invoice for grass cutting was expected before the next meeting.
Proposed: T Martin Seconded: A Chetcuti
Annual Return – contact from the external auditor requires further detail on valuation of Parish assets for the next financial year. External Auditor reported she would sign off the 2004-05 accounts. County Councillor Savage suggested the relevant NYCC department may assist with valuation of bus shelters, etc. Clerk to follow up.
Plompton
E Bolton reported that the new directional sign had still to be erected and that T Hall, builder had been approached. The Parish Council agreed to meet the cost of the work.
Clerks Report and Correspondence
A request for comment by Parish Council’s when planning applications were considered to be incomplete or of poor quality – Clerk will feedback any responses.
NYCC Area Committee for Harrogate District is seeking ideas about how to communicate better with Parish Council’s – Chairman to complete questionnaire.
Harrogate Council – training event for Parish Clerks and Chairs 28.9.05
NYCC proposed improvements to Harrogate/Wetherby bus route – plans inaccurate – Clerk return to officer concerned for amendment.
Various magazines, newsletters and documents presented for circulation.
Planning Matters
Applications received – Home Farm – build and re site dwelling, Beagle Cottage – change of use of land for siting of holiday cottage, Duck Nest Farm – convert outbuilding to 3 holiday cottages and replace others with 3 holiday cottages.
Appeal – against refusal of certificate of lawfulness to use caravan as dwelling.
Approvals – 9 Plompton Square – conversion and extension of buildings, Manor Fold – replacement UPVC windows and doors’ Burnison House – Extension and porch.
Refusal – Follifoot Ridge Farm – agricultural building.
Application not requiring Parish Council consultation – Follifoot Church – Pollard to 9 feet two yew trees in conservation area.
Matters discussed not on the agenda
County Councillor John Savage introduced himself to the meeting and explained that he had been on the NYCC since 1997 with a special interest in Social Services and now Economic Development.
The HaggsRoad/Spofforth Road junction proposal was raised and discussed together with the impact of the local haulage business’ lorries travelling through the village. J Savage agreed to look into both these issues and report back to the Parish Council.
Kitty Corner nature boards – T Martin brought some artwork the local schoolchildren had done for the project. It was considered to be of high quality, but too large for the purpose. A Chetcuti agreed to consider how to accommodate the work to fit the required size for a later meeting.
Date of next meeting
Thursday 8 September 2005 at 8 pm
****************************************************************************************************
MINUTES OF THE MEETING HELD ON THURSDAY 8 SEPTEMBER 2005
Present: Parish Councillors B Butler ( Chair ), U Cansfield, E Bolton, T Martin, M Mitton
Apologies: B Fisher, A Chetcuti, M Ayre
Minutes of the previous meeting held on 28.7.05
Corrections: item 5 – change to North Deighton; item 10 planning approval given for works to 8 Plompton Square.
With the above changes, the minutes were signed as a correct record.
Proposed: E Bolton, Seconded: T Martin.
Matters arising from the minutes:
Neighbourhood Watch – T Martin reported that a resident had expressed an interest in becoming involved in the scheme. The next meeting was fixed for 22.9.05 at 7.45 pm in the Village Hall. Noted that M Ayre had informed the meeting that the planned visit of the mobile Police unit 28.9.05 would have to be cancelled because of a Police training event. Clerk to ask him to re schedule and to consult with those affected.
Item 11 – no further information on the Haggs Road/Spofforth Road junction and associated matters were available for the meeting. Clerk to contact County Councillor Savage to request an update.
Chairman’s communications
Open Gardens 7.8.05 – noted that the event was a great success and funds raised were greater than anticipated. The Chairman had received letters of appreciation from the Kennedy family and the Friends of Harrogate hospital.
Plompton
E Bolton reported that the directional signboard had been installed.
5. Street lighting
Since the last meeting, further talks had taken place with the Lighting Engineer and three letters received from residents registering concern re. the location and environmental impact of the proposed street light. Following careful consideration of the views expressed, it was agreed that Councillor M Mitton would contact the two residents most affected to discuss matters further. He would report back to the next meeting.
6. Highways
Main Street – some damage to the road at the bottom of the street reported and remedial works to the sewer undertaken on 4.9.05. Noted that the sight line at the corner of the street is presently impaired by overhanging trees. Clerk asked to contact residents to request that the trees be cut back.
Vehicles parking on Main Street during a recent sale event in the Village Hall – access for bus and other vehicles impeded. T Martin agreed to raise with booking secretary with a request that in future satisfactory parking arrangements were included when bookings made.
Pannal Road footpath – noted that preparations appear to be underway to repair the area affected by subsidence adjacent to the cricket field.
Finance
Balance at bank – £ 73388.62 in the two accounts. Receipts: £ 250 from the ‘ Barking ‘ T.V. production company and .02p interest on the current account.
Request for authorisation of expenditure: two invoices for grass cutting at £20.09 each and Clerk’s quarterly salary to 30.9.05 at £ 585.30
Proposed: M Mitton Seconded: T Martin
Valuation of Parish assets – Clerk reported discussions with the District Valuer and Amey Mouchel re. obtaining a valuation of the ‘bus shelters for the purposes of the external audit. Before the matter is decided upon, the Clerk was asked to contact a resident with relevant skills with a view to requesting a valuation for replacement/quotation.
Clerk’s report and correspondence
Notification of new licensee for Radcliffe Arms.
Newsletters and magazines received from: Yorkshire Local Councils Associations, Harrogate District Safer Communities partnership, Primary Care Trust, Clerks and Councils Direct, Campaign to Protect Rural England – for circulation to councillors.
Consultation by questionnaire on: N.Y. Fire and Rescue authority action plan, Harrogate District Strategic plan, NYCC waste management services – discussion on the need for a corporate response from the Parish Council and ways to achieve this effectively given short timescales for reply.
Noted there was a Rural Housing Inquiry consultation meeting in Spofforth Long Memorial Hall on 13.9.05 at 6.30 p.m.
Planning matters
Since the last meeting there have been five applications for comment: Lodge House, Follifoot Hall; Summerfield, Tofts Lane; Pinderpound, Knaresborough Road; 3 Pellentine Road – for extensions to the properties. Keepers Cottage, Plompton – amendments to an already approved scheme for a Listed Building.
Application withdrawn – land to N.E. Beagle Cottage to site a holiday lodge.
Enforcement – an unauthorised advertising unit at Birkham Woods – sign subsequently removed, no further action to be taken.
Parish council consultation not required – fell six Japanese cherry trees at 12 Plompton Square.
Date of next meeting
20 October 2005 at 8 pm in the Village Hall
**************************************************************************************************
MINUTES OF THE MEETING HELD ON 20 OCTOBER 2005
Present : Councillors B Fisher ( Chair ), U Cansfield, T Martin, M Mitton
In attendance : P C Mark Ayre – for part of the meeting
Apologies for absence: Councillors A Chetcuti, E Bolton, B Butler, County Councillor J Savage
Declarations of interest in items on the agenda There were none.
Minutes of the previous meeting held on 8.9.05
Correction – item 7 a) Balance at bank was £ 7388.62.
Minutes were signed as a correct record.
Proposed: T Martin Seconded: M Mitton
Matters arising from the minutes
Item 6 – T Martin reported that he had raised the concerns re. parking arrangements for Village Hall events with the booking secretary. He was assured this would be noted for the future.
Item 6 – sight line at bottom of Main Street – the owner of the property has agreed that the trees may be cut back. B Butler will arrange to do this.
Chair agreed to consider item 8 at this point.
Neighbourhood Watch update – A meeting held on 22.9.05, attendance was poor. This was disappointing and it was not possible to appoint a new area co-ordinator. M Ayre stressed that part of the role of the street co-ordinator was to accept “ Ring master” messages from the Police. To encourage more resident involvement, it was suggested that M Ayre speak to two people who appeared reluctant to receive these messages, T Martin agreed to pass on their names.
It was noted that the mobile Police unit would be outside the Post Office from 5.30 pm on 2.11.05
There had been no reported crime in the Parish since 28.8.05.
The Chairman thanked M Ayre for attending the meeting.
Chairman’s communications
Report on training for Chairmen and Clerks held on 28.9.05 – this highlighted the need to make some changes to processes followed by the Parish Council e.g. declarations of interest – all councillors were provided with a booklet to clarify this. The Harrogate Council solicitor had stated that email was not a legally acceptable means of summons to meetings.
In future, a formally convened meeting was required to consider all planning applications and to comply with short timescales for consultation, it would be necessary to meet more regularly. The consensus was that all councillors could be involved in additional meetings with the quorum remaining at three.
A sentence to be added to future agenda to indicate that time would be allocated before each meeting for public participation to allow matters to be raised.
Standing Orders to be amended to reflect the changes.
Street Lighting
M Mitton reported on his contact with two residents affected by the proposal. They remain opposed to the installation of a light in front of their properties. After some discussion, the Chairman proposed that the matter be deferred for a decision by the full Council. This was accepted. M Mitton was thanked for his report.
7. Additional Post box
A request made for a post box at the bottom of Main Street. Enquiries have been made and the matter referred to the Royal Mail collection planning team. A response awaited.
9. Parish property
Request to meet the cost of materials to paint or preserve benches plus hire of Village Hall for lunch break for the Probation Service work party was agreed in principle. Also agreed to add memorial ‘bus shelter plaque and seats, plus Parish notice board to the list of tasks.
10. Kitty Corner – new nature board
Artwork from Follifoot School pupils considered most attractive and suitable for display. Agreed that T Martin would obtain two quotations for display boards for consideration at a future meeting.
It was noted that the entrances to Kitty Corner became overgrown with weeds and it was suggested that a working party might be convened to clear the undergrowth.
Finance
Balance at the bank: total of £ 9293.29 in both accounts. Receipts include £2500 for second instalment of precept and £ 42.07 bank interest.
Request for authorisation of expenditure: W T Hall, builder – installing signage in Plompton – £ 29.38 ; C Taylor, joiner – repair of seats £ 242.50;
Mazar’s – external audit – £ 141 ; Harrogate Council – grass cutting x 2 £20.10. Proposed: M Mitton Seconded: T Martin
Precept 2006-2007 – The Chairman agreed to arrange a meeting with B Butler and Clerk to draft the budget for consideration and approval by the Parish Council at their meeting on 12 January 2006.
Valuation of parish assets – the councillors were pleased to accept the offer of an estimate of the replacement value of the two ‘bus shelters from a resident with relevant skills free of charge.
Internal Audit – letter received from P Carney following an audit of the first six months of the financial year. Greater assurance would be given if documentary evidence for the mileage rates claimed by the Clerk were provided. This has been done. All other systems were found to be in order.
Clerk’s report and correspondence
letter from NYCC re Haggs/Spofforth Road junction improvement – proposal is on Minor Capital Schemes reserve list and will be re considered for the next financial year. CC Savage to visit area with a Highways officer in near future.
Hillside road sign knocked over – reported to Harrogate Highways who will re instate.
Hillside – poor condition of road surface, especially around grids reported – NYCC Highways to be asked to inspect and rectify.
Food van off A661 near Wingate Farm – queries re. acceptability – NYCC Highways contacted – “will tolerate” such activity on public land as a service is being provided, officer checking with NYCC legal department whether site is public or private land.
Various reports and magazines for circulation to councillors.
Planning
Applications received since the agenda prepared :
Priory Lodge – 05/04914/TPO – fell 2 Acers and reduce 1 Acer within within group G1 of Tree Preservation Order group 01/2004 – no objections
Lido Caravan Park – 05/04874/FUL – conversion of agricultural building to form 3 short term holiday lets – no objections
Applications received in September 2005:
Larkin Lodge, Rudding Dower – side conservatory – no objections
OS field 8200, Thistle Hill – change of use of agricultural land to recreational, create 5 football pitches, car parking, build pavilion – objections on grounds of increased traffic, potential for further development in surrounding area and effect on rural landscape.
Approvals : ‘Summerfield’, Tofts Lane and 3 Pellentine Road – extensions; Follifoot Hall – conversion and demolition of offices; 12 Plompton Square – fell 6 Japanese cherry trees.
Refused : ‘Pinderpound’, Plompton Road – extensions.
Withdrawn : land to east of Home Farm cottages – replacement dwelling; land to NE Beagle Cottage – change of use/site holiday lodge; Ducks Nest Farm – create 6 holiday units; Follifoot Church – pollard yews; Lodge House, Follfoot Hall – rear extension.
Appeals : School Cottage , Rudding Lane – side conservatory – dismissed; Land to N of ‘Elm Gable’, Haggs Road – enforcement notice. Parish Council consultation not required : ‘Priory Lodge’, Plompton Road – remove 1 cupressus tree.
Date of next meeting – Thursday 1 December 2005
*****************************************************************************************************
MINUTES OF THE MEETING HELD ON 1 DECEMBER 2005
Present: Councillors B Fisher ( Chair ), A Chetcuti, B Butler,
M Mitton,
T Martin, U Cansfield, E Bolton – for part of the meeting,
P Dawson ( resident )
Before the Parish Council meeting started, there were two matters on which interested parties had requested an opportunity to address councillors:
Planning application 05/05535/FUL –‘Pinderpound’ – Mr and Mrs Rowbottom attended to explain their current application for a replacement dwelling on the site. Two previous plans had been refused mainly on the grounds of size, the new plans follow the ‘footprint‘ of the existing house and has a garage separate from the house. Points raised included the need to discuss the location of the garage with other parties, that permission to fell any trees was likely and that building works should take account of the location of the septic tanks in both ‘Pinderpound’ and ‘Coin House’. The application would be put to the Harrogate Borough planning committee in January. Mr + Mrs Rowbottom were thanked for attending and left the meeting.
Planning application 05/03622/FULMAJ – football pitches and pavilion at Thistle Hill Alex Degier, Chairman of Knaresborough Celtic F C and Andrew Wright , Development Officer attended to listen to and discuss the Parish Council objections. The application had been withdrawn temporarily to allow for such meetings to take place and to amend the next application where possible to take account of the concerns of residents and others. They explained that the junior football club had expanded to a membership of 300 children in the last ten years and there was no central point for play, hence the application. Objections mainly centred around the potential increase in traffic, mention of 250 weekly commercial vehicle movements in the application plus parking arrangements for supporters, parents and opposing teams. Parking would be restricted – car sharing, public transport, cycling were possible solutions; access to the site to be shared with other field owners; floodlights – no current plan as training likely to be indoors in winter; comparison made with Harrogate Rugby Club’s efforts to relocate in Green Belt. The Football Foundation have agreed to match fund the project which is around £ 550k. A further application will be submitted shortly. The representatives were thanked for attending and left the meeting.
THE PARISH COUNCIL MEETING:
Apologies for absence – PC Mark Ayre, District Councillor C Bayliss, County Councillor J Savage
Declaration of interest in items on the agenda
A Chetcuti for agenda item 13 – planning application for ‘Pinderpound‘
3. Minutes of the previous meeting – held on 20.10.05
Signed as a correct record. Proposed: T Martin Seconded: U Cansfield
Any matters arising from the minutes:
Probation Service – have agreed to carry out painting works to benches and ‘bus shelters. Unlikely to start until the spring.
Hillside – letter of acknowledgement received re poor state of road. Pavement subsidence also noted. Further contact with NYCC Highways by Clerk.
Visit of mobile Police Unit – 8 visitors logged. Complaints received re parking practice around the village. Noted that PC Ayre now recognised as a presence in the village. One crime reported since last meeting – theft of trailer from Rudding Dower.
Chairman’s Communications:
Overhanging shrubs, Plompton Road – raised with the owner of the property by the Chairman following a complaint. Shrubs cut back, but still obstructing the highway. Further complaint to Police. Chairman to approach the residents again to request remedial works.
Contact with County Councillor – emails exchanged. J Savage has not yet had an opportunity to tour the area with the new Highways manager. The Chairman will press for this to take place and to take account of proposed remedies to address continuing concerns re HGV’s passing through the village.
Any matters concerning Plompton
There were none.
Street lighting, Main Street
Noted that residents closest to proposed site of street light remain firmly opposed to it. Councillors wish to explore alternative sites as it is thought a light near this location would be beneficial. Clerk to approach Lighting Engineer re possibilities at top ‘bus stop or by Post Office.
Kitty Corner, nature boards
Chairman handed drawings to T Martin who will progress the matter for the next meeting.
“ Your Health, Your Community”
Questionnaire completed for return to Craven, Harrogate and Rural District PCT.
Village Road Safety Schemes 2006-2007
Following discussion of a proposal, the Parish Council resolved to submit it to Harrogate Council for consideration. This is to remove the 30 mph restriction on Spofforth Road further out of the village and install ‘ rumble ‘strips plus repair of same on Pannal Road into village. Clerk to make application.
Finance
Balance at Bank – £ 8870.43. Interest on current account = .02p
Request for authorisation of expenditure. Woodcraft UK for hardwood bench – £ 562.83, Clerk’s salary for third quarter – £ 585.30. Proposed: B Butler, Seconded: M Mitton
Meeting re precept – fixed for 5.12.05 to involve B Butler, B Fisher and Clerk.
Clerk’s report and correspondence
Parish plans – letter re funding available, councillors to consider whether to pursue this in the future.
Letter and questionnaire re rubbish and recycling – this to be sent to all households, councillors decided to make an individual response.
Matter raised by a resident – bottom ‘bus stop area – overgrown shrubs and possibly damaged waste bin. Councillors convened a working party to attend to this and also tidy up Horsepond Beck on 4.12.05.
Magazines and various documents received circulated to councillors.
Planning
Application 05/05535/FUL – ‘Pinderpound’ for erection of replacement detached dwelling and detached garage. There was some discussion re the positioning of the garage. The Parish Council had no objections to the application.
Applications where Parish Council consultation not required – ‘Alveston’, Main Street – fell 1 conifer; Lilac Cottage, Main Street – fell 1 thorn, 1 apple, 1 laburnum.
Applications permitted – Keepers Cottage, Plompton for amendments to approved scheme; Larkin Lodge, Rudding Dower for side conservatory; Lido Caravan Park for conversion of building to holiday lets; Home Farm Bungalow for replacement dwelling; Parish Council consultation not required – Priory Lodge – remove 1 cupressus and Rowan Tree Cottage – reduction and thinning of 2 birches.
Part refused – Priory Lodge – fell 2 acers ( refused ), reduce 1 acer ( permitted )
Frequency of meetings 2006
It was resolved that meetings would be held monthly. Clerk to arrange.
Date of next meeting
12.1.2006
**************************************************************************************************
Meeting held on 14th April 2005
PRESENT : Councillors E Bolton, A Chetcuti, B Fisher (Chairman), B Butler, U Cansfield, District Councillor C Bayliss and six residents.
APOLOGIES : Councillors M Mitton and T Martin
Minutes of the last Parish Assembly – held on 22.4.04. Accepted as a true record.
Proposed : U Cansfield
Seconded : E Bolton
Matters Arising : There were no matters arising
Chairman’s Annual Report
The Chairman read his report to the meeting. In response to a question about Parish records which have recently been lodged at the County Records Office, it was confirmed that a missing financial record book had been located and also assurances given that the records would be accessible.
The report would be posted on the Follifoot web site and the village notice boards.
Financial Report
The income and expenditure account for 2004 – 05 was circulated to the meeting. There were no questions concerning the accounts. The Chairman explained the budget process. The accounts would shortly be subject to an internal audit followed by external audit later in the year.
Neighbourhood Watch
The Neighbourhood Watch coordinator for the village is Tony Martin. Unfortunately, business commitments meant he was unable to attend the meeting. He sent a written report which was read to the meeting by the Chairman. A number of residents had attended specifically for this item and comment was made that the report was of a general nature and did not address issues that were specific to Follifoot. It was stated that the Neighbourhood Watch coordinator and street coordinators had not met formally for at least one year. There was some concern expressed about this and also a wish to take forward the initiative in a positive and proactive manner.
The Chairman informed the meeting that a new Community Policeman, Mark Ayres was now in post based at Knaresborough station. He was keen to become involved and where possible to attend Parish Council meetings.
Following further discussion, the Chairman proposed the way forward would be to put the matter on the agenda for the May 26 Parish Council meeting and to invite the Police and other interested parties.
Open Gardens Day in Follifoot
An event organised by the Friends of Harrogate hospital was planned for 7 August 2005. As well as open gardens, there would be teas in the Village Hall, stalls and an ambulance. Assistance had been sought and received from the local pubs, the Mackaness family and the shop. A letter would be sent to every resident nearer the time.
District Councillor Bayliss will be Mayor of Harrogate by then and she requested an official invitation. The Chairman agreed to ask ‘The Friends’ to arrange this.
Any Questions
The Chairman invited questions from residents and the closure of the Plompton Road for filming an episode of ‘The Royal’ was raised. The Chairman reported that he had been in touch with the film company with a view to requesting a donation in compensation for the inconvenience but the outcome was as yet unknown.
The Chairman thanked the residents for attending the meeting which closed at 8.30 pm.