MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE PARISH COUNCIL
HELD IN THE VILLAGE HALL, SOUTH CERNEY
ON WEDNESDAY 12th July 2006.

Youth Parish Council members Rachael King and Sinead Peare attended the meeting. Also present was Andy Woolfoot reported for the Wilts and Glos Standard and Mr S. Beard.

Prior to the meeting Cllr Stuart warmly welcomed Cllr Mrs Chapman who had missed the previous meeting through illness.

The Chairman, Cllr Stuart opened the Parish Council meeting at 7.30pm.

APOLOGIES

MINUTES OF THE MEETING HELD ON 14th JUNE 2006

It was proposed by Cllr Caunce and seconded by Cllr Mrs Chubb that the Minutes were a true and accurate record. With the exception of Cllr Mrs Chapman, Cllr Mrs Pollard and Cllr Webb who were all absent from the meeting the remainder of the Parish Council was all in favour.

YOUTH PARISH COUNCIL REPORT

Rachael King and Sinead Peare jointly informed the Parish Council that many meetings had been held in the previous month. A Fun Run was being organised to take place on 10th September and a competition to create a logo for the YPC was on going. Cllr Stuart sincerely thanked all members of the YPC who had attended the Calor Gas Village of the Year judging on Tuesday 11th June in the Village Hall. He was sure that the judges were highly impressed with the turnout and attitude of the group. The Clerk informed the YPC that he would deliver the memory stick in the near future. Cllr Jay reminded the two YPC members that a “Sports Taster Day” was planned to take place at the South Cerney Cricket Club in August and other events were published recently in the Cerney News under the title “Great News for Young People”.

CLERK’S REPORT

As instructed I contacted GCC Library Service regarding the availability of the National Funding Report without success. Other funding books were available although they were for reference only and not available on loan.

On Monday 26th June I met Natasha McKenna, Grant Co-ordinator at CDC for advice on how to access the Community Fund. I was interested in applying for funds to install the MUGA. My meeting was worthwhile and Ms McKenna explained how to make the application.

On Monday 3rd July I joined Cllr Stuart and Cllr Webb to discuss the siting of the zebra crossing in High Street with Daniel Robertson of Gloucestershire Highways. Mr Robertson listened sympathetically to the complaint that the objections were taking an inordinate length of time to resolve. He would not be committed to an installation time schedule but promised to contact the objectors to see if any solutions might be found.

During June of the 20 available working days I averaged 4 hours 35 minutes per day which exceeds my contract by about an hour per day. I am quite happy with the current agreement and with more diligence on my part could probably make the work fit the time.

MATTERS ARISING

There were no matters arising which were not being dealt with through the Committees’ reports.

PLAYING FIELDS AND VILLAGE MAINTENANCE COMMITTEE REPORT

Cllr Stuart reported on the deliberations of the Playing Fields and Village Maintenance Committee which had met on 10th July.

Apology
Cllr Squire had made an apology for his absence because he was on holiday.

MATTERS ARISING

Cotswold Play Partnership
Cllr Stuart reported on a meeting he had attended on 20th June at CDC regarding the awarding of grants. There were numerous bureaucratic hoops to be gone through before grants would be awarded but Cllr Stuart was hopeful of a successful outcome but it would not be in the near term.

Honey Combed Safety Surface
Cllr Harris reported that he had pegged down the loose sheets and would make good at a later date.

Highway Matters
Cllr Stuart, Cllr Webb and the Clerk attended a meeting arranged by Daniel Robertson, Gloucestershire Highways to discuss the pedestrian crossing in High Street. Cllr Stuart expressed his anger that Mr Robertson was not aware of the history of the installation. It was agreed that Mr Robertson would communicate with the two known objectors and try and persuade them to change their minds. When Cllr Webb asked him how long before the crossing would be installed he indicated that it could be a year before work might begin. In reply to a question as to when the interactive speed signs would be erected he replied possibly within three months. He was also unsure as to when the changes to the speed limit signs on the Silver Street to Preston Toll Bar road might be made although the order had been promulgated.

After the meeting the Clerk had informed Cllr Parsons (GCC) specifically pointing out that consultation on the crossing in High Street had been on going for more than two years, the work on the Cirencester road speed sign alterations had been agreed and the order for implementation approved and an invoice had been received in March for the interactive speed signs. The delays were unacceptable.

Cllr Stuart added that this item was a very important part of this meeting. Before attending tonight’s meeting Cllr Stuart had spoken to Mr Rob Vale, Gloucestershire Highways Asset Manager who agreed that the time delay in implementing the speed limits was taking far too long. He reaffirmed that the interactive speed signs were in store although he would have to liaise with Mr John Whittaker his predecessor as to where exactly and once located he would ensure that installation would be in weeks rather than months.

At the meeting with Mr Daniel Robertson, Gloucestershire Highways regarding the installation of the pedestrian crossing it was determined that Mr Robertson would reappraise the entire scheme and contact those residents who had previously objected to its positioning. Cllr Stuart pointed out that the Police had suggested that the siting should be in the High Street about 30 metres east of the junction with Broadway Lane.

A discussion ensued with Mr S. Beard complaining that he was not informed of the latest meeting. The debate was abridged when Cllr Stuart reiterated that the Parish Council had voted in favour of the scheme. Nevertheless the Clerk was asked to inform Ann Edwards School of the difficulties and delays being experienced and suggest that it re-advertises the post of “Lollypop Lady” for a crossing point in High Street.

Robert Franklin Way Slide
The Pay Back in the Community group would carry out the work on the slide as soon as possible.

Cricket Club Pavilion
The Committee recommended that the Finance Committee agrees to awarding the Cricket Club a donation of £100 in recognition of the encouragement it was fostering with youth cricket in the village.

 Tennis Club
The Tennis Club wrote to inform the Parish Council that repair to the flagstones was in hand. It suggested that vandalism in the area might be curbed if the cctv was reinstalled. Cllr Stuart had informed members of both the Tennis and Cricket clubs that as very few incidents of vandalism were reported it was perceived by the authorities that there was not a problem. There was only one camera available in the district and competition for it was high. He will continue to encourage residents to complain to the police on 0845 090 1234 when unsocial behaviour warrants such action. The Tennis Club raised the possibility of creating another court to make a total of three. The Committee was minded to agree as Cllr Caunce commented that the objective should be to make the best available use of the land. The Committee suggest that the third court could be accommodated alongside the existing setting by latterly extending the playing surface either side, that is towards the Cricket Club pavilion on the one side and Walnut Tree Farmhouse on the other. The Parish Council was in favour and the Clerk was asked to inform the Tennis Club accordingly.

INSPECTION REPORTS

Cerney Wick play area
Cllr Caunce reported that the new signs which had been placed at the entrance to the play area needed to be replaced as they were damaged in a recent storm. The rest of the play area was in good order.

Robert Franklin Way play area
Cllr Harris reported the area underneath the fencing surrounding the toddlers play area had been strimmed. Although not an issue at the moment the corner of the floor of one of the carriages was showing signs of rot. The tower slide was “tired”.

Upper Up play area
Cllr Stuart reported that the Probation Service team had carried out some work to the edges of the play surfaces around senior swing and activity area but it was not satisfactory. A supply of top soil would need to be sourced. Users of the cycle mounds have agreed to cut the very long grass on areas they use and the Clerk was asked to request Adrian Gibbs to strim the rest.

COUNCILLORS’ REPORTS

Cllr Harris reported that a willow limb was hanging dangerously over the carriageway, on the right, in Bow Wow beyond the public seat. The Clerk will report it to Gloucestershire Highways. Although the foregoing work had been carried out Cllr Jay reported that another branch was in a similar condition. Cllr Harris requested that Gillian Portlock, Gloucestershire Highways was reminded that Lady Fanshawe’s hedge was still causing problems and needed to be cut back.

Cllr Harris reported that the hornbeam tree in Clarks Hay had succumbed and needed to be removed.

Cllr Squire, Cllr Stuart, Cllr Harris and Cllr Jay had met with Gillian Portlock (Gloucestershire Highways) to discuss what action was needed to stabilise the river bank in Bow Wow. The Payback in the Community team was prepared to do the work if a specification could be provided. Cllr Harris had obliged in producing a plan with costings for Gloucestershire Highways. It had indicated that the work could be completed in one go if the Parish Council was prepared to contribute. After a discussion the Committee was not minded to recommend this course of action to the Parish Council. The Clerk was asked to write to Martyn Summerell suggesting that Gloucestershire Highways considers reimbursing James Harris for the time and expertise he furnished Gloucestershire Highways in providing a specification for the reinstatement of the river bank in Bow Wow. Concern was expressed as to the supervision of the Pay Back in the Community team which would be carrying out the work. The Parish Council is worried that this particularly sensitive and fragile part of the village infrastructure might be irrevocably damaged if careful control of the repair party is not adequate.

FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORT

Cllr Jay reported on the discussions of the Finance Committee which had met on 10th July.

Annual Accounts

The Clerk informed the Committee that notification of the availability for inspection of the accounts was posted on the Parish Council notice board in Clarks Hay on 10th July.

Youth Parish Council Business

The Clerk was asked to forward a list of Parish Council meeting dates to the YPC so that it can arrange its business to give enough time to inform the Parish Council of its deliberations.

The Committee agreed with a suggestion from Cllr Stuart that if the Parish Council is successful in winning the Calor Gas Village of the Year competition the awards gained should be allocated to the YPC account.

Cricket Club

The Committee agreed to recommend a proposal to the Parish Council from the Playing Fields and Village Maintenance Committee that a donation of £100 be made from the Calor Gas award to the Cricket Club for their work with youth cricket in the village.

PLANNING

Cllr Nicholas reported on the deliberations of the Planning Committee which had met on Monday 10th July.

Cllr Mrs Chapman was warmly applauded by the Committee on her return to duty after her recent illness.

Apology

An apology had been received on behalf of Cllr Mrs Pollard who had been taken ill earlier that evening.

Planning applications received by Cotswold District Council

CT.0649/2/S
Applicants: Mr & Mrs Beard, 24 Meadow Way, South Cerney
Single storey flat roof rear extension to bungalow at 24 Meadow Way, South Cerney
NO OBJECTION

CT.0650/G (Additional/Amended Plans)
Applicant: Cancer Research UK
Demolition of existing outbuildings to rear and lean-to building. Conversion of existing buildings (The Old Post Office) into two cottages and erection of four (4) dwellings at The Old Post Office, High Street, South Cerney (R)
The Clerk was asked to reply and explain to Mr & Mrs Fitton who had objected to the application that the Parish Council had only an opportunity to comment on the amendments at this stage of the procedure.
NO OBJECTION

CT.0650/H (Additional/Amended Plans) (Conservation Area application)
Applicant: Cancer Research UK
Demolition of all outbuildings to rear and lean-to building to the garden boundary walls adjoining Box Cottage and demolition of lean-to buildings at The Old Post Office, High Street, South Cerney (R)
NO OBJECTION

CT.2360/H
Applicants: Mr & Mrs Taylor, Wight Way, Silver Street, South Cerney
Erection of detached garage and conversion of existing garage to form additional living accommodation at Wight Way, Silver Street, South Cerney (R)
NO OBJECTION

CT.8569
Applicant: Mrs Jewell, Laburnum, Silver Street, South Cerney
Single storey extension to bungalow to provide self-contained accommodation for carer at Laburnum, Silver Street, South Cerney (R)
NO OBJECTION

It was proposed by Cllr Caunce and seconded by Cllr Harris that the Parish Council accepts the recommendations of the Planning Committee. The Parish Council was all in favour.

Cllr Nicholas declared a prejudicial interest in the next application as the applicant was a friend and left the room. Cllr Webb continued with the report.

CT.0649/2/R
Applicant: Mr M. R. Gould, 19 Meadow Way, South Cerney
Single storey extension to rear elevation to provide downstairs bathroom and conservatory at 19 Meadow Way, South Cerney
NO OBJECTION

It was proposed by Cllr Jay and seconded by Cllr Mrs Chapman that the Parish Council accepts the recommendation of the Planning Committee. The Parish Council was all in favour.

Cllr Nicholas rejoined the meeting and continued with the report.

Cllr Stuart declared a prejudicial interest as the applicant was a friend and left the room.

CT.8412/B (Minor Amendment)
Applicant: Mr. S. Clark, 3 Broadway Cottages, Broadway Lane, South Cerney
Revision in position of extension away from northern boundary at 3 Broadway Cottages, Broadway Lane, South Cerney (R)
NO OBJECTION

It was proposed by Cllr Caunce and seconded by Cllr Webb that the Parish Council accepts the recommendation of the Planning Committee. The Parish Council was all in favour.

Cllr Stuart rejoined the meeting.

CT.0649/2/T
Applicants: Mr & Mrs P. Savory, c/o Agent, Abberley Design Ltd, Cirencester
Removal of garage and formation of replacement garage at Mayfair, The Langet, South Cerney
NO OBJECTION

It was proposed by Cllr Nicholas and seconded by Cllr Jay that the Parish Council does not object provided that a condition is attached which orders that the development is ancillary to the main dwelling. The Parish Council was all in favour.

Planning applications granted by Cotswold District Council

CT.1799/F
Retention of wooden fence at Box Cottage, High Street, South Cerney
Condition of note: Within 2 (two) months of the date of this decision notice (12th June 2006) details of the type, size and location of the wattle or hazel hurdles shall be submitted to and agreed in writing by the Local Planning Authority. The agreed details shall be implemented within 3 (three) months of the date of the Local Planning Authority’s written agreement, unless otherwise agreed, and thereafter retained. Reason: To ensure that, in the light of the Cotswold District Local Plan Policies 1, 29 and 40, Cotswold District Revised Deposit Local Plan Policies 15, 18 and 42, and Government guidance contained in PPS1 and PPG15, the development will safeguard the character of this building, which is in a conservation area.

Planning application withdrawn

CT.0006/4/K
Re-plan on Plots 43–49 of previously approved development of holiday lodges with amended designs at Lake 16, Cotswold Water Park, South Cerney

Planning application refused by Cotswold District Council

CT.1454/4/J
Display of single non-illuminated hoarding sign at Lake 7, Spine Road, Cotswold Water Park, South Cerney

Housing Needs Survey

Cllr Nicholas had asked Parish Councillors for comments on the survey but had not received any so far. He had composed a covering letter which he proposed should be sent out with the GRCC Housing Needs Survey. The Committee approved although it was suggested that the survey and covering letter should be reduced to A5 to facilitate its distribution through the Cerney News. The Clerk would send the survey to Sinead Barker (GRCC) for her approval and when agreed pass the revised copy to Cllr Squire for printing and distribution. A deadline for printing was 16th August and distribution would take place approximately two weeks later.

It was proposed by Cllr Nicholas and seconded by Cllr Caunce that the Parish Council accepts the alterations and new format of the survey. The Parish Council was all in favour.

Councillors’ Reports

Cllr Webb alleged that development was taking place on the Evergreen Industrial Estate for which permission had not been granted. He cited application CT.2475/1/Y and the Clerk removed the applications from the file for his further investigation. Cllr Webb confirmed that as no Decision Notice granting permission had been received the Clerk was to inform Mike Napper CDC Planning Service.

 Cllr Mrs Chapman reported an alleged change of use of an advertising hoarding on Station Road, Spine Road and Cerney Wick lane crossroads. The Clerk will ask the Enforcement Officer to investigate.

CLLR WEBB – COTSWOLD WATER PARK ANNUAL PARISH LIAISON MEETING REPORT

Cllr Webb had circulated a report on the Cotswold Water Park meeting and highlighted facts such as the Water Park would double in size and a master plan update would be sent out for consultation. Rob Colley GCC had outlined how the problem of dirt on the Spine Road might be remedied and complaints should be sent and/or copied to County Councillors, District Councillors, District Cleansing Officers, County Council Divisional Highway Managers and the Police. Relevant contacts would be collated and circulated to all Parish Clerks. Mr Colley addressed concerns previously raised by South Cerney Parish Council but Cllr Webb was not impressed with the explanations and found them complicated and difficult to comprehend.

TRINITY TRUST

The delegation from Cerney Wick prior to last month’s meeting had requested that the plan to convert the church in Cerney Wick into a dual purpose facility for religious and secular facilities be incorporated into the Village Plan. It was proposed by Cllr Caunce and seconded by Cllr Mrs Pollard that the scheme is incorporated into the Village Plan. With the exception of Cllr Mrs Chapman who abstained the remainder of the Parish Council was in favour.

CRIME & DISORDER PORTFOLIO

Inspector S. Williams had invited a member of the Parish Council to attend regular meetings of the Crime Disorder Reduction Partnership which would meet every six weeks. It would be a multi agency venture and a representative would be expected to attend at least two meetings every year. The next meeting was at 11am on Thursday 20th July at Cirencester Police Station. Cllr Stuart volunteered to represent the Parish Council. It was proposed by Cllr Squire and seconded by Cllr Harris that Cllr Stuart is nominated as Parish Council delegate to the partnership. The Parish Council was all in favour.

CHARTER 88

As Parish Councillors did not show any enthusiasm towards the scheme it was agreed that the Parish Council did not become involved.

CORRESPONDENCE

COUNCILLORS REPORTS

Cllr Squire reported that after a conversation with a workman labouring on trench work in Sudeley Drive he believed that surface water would now enter the sewerage system. The Clerk was to ask Rob Bull (CDC Engineer) to investigate.

Cllr Nicholas reported that a new fence had been erected at the end of Ham Lane effectively blocking access to the adjacent fishing lake. Cllr Harris informed Cllr Nicholas that Ham Lane was not a Public Right of Way and the owners were within their rights to do so.

Cllr Nicholas informed the Parish Council that the South Cerney Dragon Boat team had won the race at Bath.

Cllr Jay reported that the road sign denoting Station Road at the crossroads of Spine Road, Cerney Wick Lane and Station Road was missing.

Cllr Mrs Pollard asked the Clerk to request the occupants of Sunset Cottage in Station Road to cut their hedge back to allow better access to users of the footpath.

There being no further business Cllr Stuart closed the meeting at 9.50 pm.