The meeting began at 7pm when the Chairman, Cllr M. Stuart welcomed Ali Swainston, Head Ranger at the Cotswold Water Park Society Ltd (CWPS). Mr Swainston stated that the car park at Lake 12 which was under the management of CWPS Ltd was long overdue for refurbishment. In order to control the industrial feeding of birds and other wildlife, signs and fences would be erected to help protect the lake which was classed as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) by Natural England. He estimated the cost of the project would be between £100-£150k. The existing car park was 350 metres long and the draft plan proposed to fence and gate the bottom half which was that piece towards the Spine Road. It was planned to create 40 car parking spaces in the remaining area and equip it with picnic furniture and other seats. Mature trees will be retained. Natural England has prohibited drainage of surface water into the lake to protect the SSSI. Double fences, one on the bank and the other in the water would prevent people and birds access to the water and banks in the short term until the plants became mature. So far, 75% of the money had been promised although the majority depended on match funding. Ali remained confident that the Aggregates Levy Sustainability Fund would be the source of the necessary funds. Cllr Mrs D. Land drew his attention to the need of disabled users, especially parking bays which should be tarmac. Cllr P. Jay stated that like the rest of the Parish Council he was embarrassed with the state of the car park and welcomed the excellent plan to renovate it. He suggested that funds might be applied for from the RSPB which would surely support the scheme. Parish Councillors were in agreement with Cllr P. Nicholas who suggested that the cycle path should include the “missing link” from the western end of the existing car park to the village boundary at the entrance to Robert Franklin Way. Ali agreed, but could not make any promises. Cllr Nicholas then suggested that it might be a project for Phase 2. Cllr J. Harris suggested in order to control movement within the car park only one entrance/exit is provided. Ali welcomed Parish Councillors to feel free to make further suggestions in the future. The Chairman thanked Ali Swainston for his attendance who then left the meeting.

MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE PARISH COUNCIL
HELD IN THE VILLAGE HALL, SOUTH CERNEY
ON WEDNESDAY 11th JULY 2007
.

Present Chairman Cllr M. Stuart
  Vice-Chairman Cllr P. Nicholas
  Parish Councillor J. Caunce
    Mrs F. Chapman
J. Harris
P. Jay
    Mrs D. Land
    Mrs C. Tunbridge
    S. Walker
    R. Webb
    D. Brown (YPC)
    J. Lodge (YPC)
    T. Nicholas (YPC)
    Mrs J. Aram (CDC)
    C. Bennett (CDC)


The Chairman Cllr Stuart opened the meeting at 7.30pm.

A four person delegation from the Football Club was present.

APOLOGIES

Cllr Mrs E. Chubb apologised for her absence as she was reported to be attending The Great Yorkshire agricultural show in Harrogate. Cllr S. Parsons (GCC) apologised for his absence as he was visiting London. Cllr P. Messenger (CDC) had sent his apologies for his absence..

MINUTES OF THE MEETING HELD ON 13th June 2007

Page 2263 – Overgrowing Hedges obscuring road signs, 2nd line: delete … the hamlet of
Cllr Stuart informed the Parish Council that Cerney Wick was not a hamlet as the description did not fit because, according to the Oxford Dictionary, a hamlet was a small village, especially (in Britain) one without a church.

Page 2266 – CT.7528/C, insert before the last line: The Parish Council strongly objects to this application due to the very considerable loss of privacy that would be caused to all adjoining properties

It was proposed by Cllr Jay and seconded by Cllr Harris that the Minutes, as amended, were a true and accurate record. The Parish Council was all in favour and Cllr Stuart signed the Minutes.

YOUTH PARISH COUNCIL REPORT

Joe Lodge reported that the YPC had convened its first annual general meeting. Although there was a full turn out by the members of the YPC it was disappointing that only two others attended. Joe informed the Parish Council that he had been elected Chairman as Rebecca Lodge was leaving the YPC to attend university. Parish Councillors congratulated him on his promotion. The YPC was worried about the effectiveness of the “curfew” if it was to be introduced on the play areas. The YPC was taking part in the plans for a MUGA (multi user games area) currently under discussion. Seven members had attended a meeting to consider what it would comprise. It was decided that a youth shelter on its own would not fit the needs of youth in South Cerney but a half shelter combined with a MUGA would be welcomed. The plan would form part of the bid by CDC for a portion of the Big Lottery Fund application. It was envisaged that £20,000 would be allocated to various towns and villages for the immediate use of youths in the age range 12-18.

Cllr Caunce and Cllr Stuart had attended a briefing on the bid at the Cotswold District Council offices and met with, among others, equipment suppliers. Cllr Stuart explained that the plan was for a 40m long by 15/20m wide tarmac area with areas for football, basket ball activity and skateboarding which he estimated would cost £15,000. The Pay Back in the Community team would be prepared to supply labour for the ground works. Cllr Caunce and Cllr Stuart would prepare a bid for funding which would be presented to CDC by Monday 16th July.

The YPC members present were fully in favour of the overall plan.

Cllr Mrs Aram (CDC) stated that she thought the plan a brilliant idea but would be happier if there was lighting available.

Cllr Bennett (CDC) said that it was a good idea but he was concerned with the consequences if the bid failed. Cllr Stuart assured him by stating that the bid was not dependent on the grant.

Members of the Football Club present were also in favour.

It was proposed by Cllr Stuart and seconded by Cllr Jay that the Parish Council agrees to put the scheme forward and apply for a £5,000 grant from CDC. The Parish Council was all in favour.

FOOTBALL CLUB DELEGATION

Chairman of the South Cerney Football Club Gordon Stratford, Secretary Mrs Kay Allen and registered football coaches Gavin Jones and Craig Sutherland came to the meeting to complain about the annoyance of dog faeces on the Upper Up playing field but especially on the football pitches. Mrs Allen disagreed with the content of a recent letter from the Parish Council which stated that after an inspection by Cllr Stuart and two others only one mess had been found which could have been either a fox or a dog. The delegation insisted that something be done to stop or control residents using the play areas to exercise their dogs. The parties agreed to a proposal from Cllr Caunce who suggested that a joint team from the Football Club and the Parish Council inspect the play areas to build evidence on the alleged problem between now and the next meeting. Cllr Nicholas said that he understood the strength of feeling but argued that the Parish Council was not pro-dogs. Discussions, he continued, were on-going but enforcement of any order would be a problem. The PROW which crossed the play area further complicated any restriction. It was agreed by all that the situation affecting the football and cricket pitches was totally different from that of the recreational area around the lake. It was agreed that the problem is further discussed as an agenda item at next month’s meeting.

MATTERS ARISING

There were no matters arising which were not dealt with by the relevant committee reports.

CLERK’S REPORT

On Friday 15th June after a telephone conversation with Dave Flagg, Gloucestershire Highways Signs & Lines Technician I measured the sign entering the village in preparation for a replacement one at Upper Up. Mr Flagg informed me that GRP or a plastic substitute has proved unsuitable as it is prone to fade and steel was the preferred material for sign construction having a much less scrap value than aluminium.

The saga of the Open Ditch in Station Road continues. On July 4th I requested a meeting with Karen James – Customer Relations, Thames Water Utilities, to hopefully resolve the matter. This has since been refused and Cllr Stuart agreed to liaise with Lawrence Adams to try and solve the predicament.

During June, of the 11 available working days, I averaged 5 hours per day. This is way in excess of my contract because most of the time was taken up preparing for and acting on Committee and Parish Council meetings prior to a holiday break.

PLAYING FIELDS AND VILLAGE MAINTENANCE COMMITTEE REPORT

Cllr Caunce reported on the discussions of the Playing Fields and Village Maintenance Committee which had met on 9th July. Cllr Caunce, Cllr Harris, Cllr Nicholas, Cllr Stuart, Cllr Mrs Tunbridge and Cllr Walker attended the meeting.

MATTERS ARISING

“Curfew” Restrictions
Cllr Harris produced a recently erected sign which requested that the play area at Robert Franklin Way not be used after 10pm. The sign had been maliciously defaced and the Clerk was asked to arrange for its replacement. It was agreed that the word “ORDER” is replaced with “REQUEST”.

Bus Stop Signs
The flag on the sign was still broken. The Clerk will inform Jonathan Roberts at GCC Integrated Transport unit and ask for a replacement to be fitted.

Station Road Ditch
Jenny Elliott, Thames Water Customer Relations insisted that the ditch had been cleared by its contractors. A request from the Clerk that a meeting takes place to resolve the differences in opinion was rejected by Thames Water. Cllr Stuart had discussed the dilemma with Lance Adams who is in charge of the current reinstatement of the sewerage system in South Cerney. Mr Adams will contact Ms Elliott and relay the reservations of the Parish Council which considered that Thames Water had reneged on an agreement. If the matter remains unresolved Cllr Nicholas will raise it at the next meeting he attends of the Flooding Forum although he did praise Mr Adams whom he knew to be doing his best.

Damaged Manhole Cover (outside “Content”)
The Clerk had written to the occupants of “Content” about the damaged manhole cover. Mrs Lugg had replied by telephone that she would contact Thames Water and inform them that as the cover was outside the curtilage of the property she was not responsible. Cllr Caunce volunteered to contact GCC Highways to discuss the problem.

Damaged Manhole Cover (outside “Londis”)
Cllr Caunce will contact GCC Highways to discuss the repair. Cllr Stuart was concerned that there could be an issue for the Environmental Health because of the proximity of the manhole cover and a food outlet.

Resiting of public seat at Upper Up
Cllr Harris confirmed that the seat had been installed at Upper Up.

Tower Slide Reinstatement
Cllr Stuart informed the Committee that Steve Hanson and his team from Pay Back in the Community would start work on the reinstatement of the tower slide site on Friday 13th. It was proposed by Cllr Stuart and seconded by Cllr Walker that James Harris Contracting be awarded the reseeding of the site. The Committee was in agreement.

Fenplay Safety Surface
Cllr Stuart had accompanied George Taylor (Fenplay Ltd) when he inspected the safety surface. Part of the damage would be covered by warranty although Mr Taylor suspected that other damage to the edge had been caused by the grass cutting contractors. Cllr Stuart reported that a quote for £50 had been received for the supply of 16 bags of the special repair sand needed. The Clerk was asked to inform Glebe contractors about the damage caused to the safety surface.

Public Seating Audit
Cllr Caunce will arrange a party consisting of Cllr Harris, Cllr Stuart and Cllr Webb to carry out a survey of the public seats and their condition.

Notice Boards
The Clerk awaited a quotation from R.O.W. Berry for the rebuilding of the notice board at the bus stop near to the Limes. Cllr Jay suggested that the notice board in Clarks Hay also needed attention as the surface was peeling.

Village Sign
The Clerk had emailed Dave Flagg, Signs & Lines Technician at Gloucestershire Highways with the words and size of type previously used on the missing sign. Mr Flagg stated that a sign constructed from steel would be less attractive financially to those intent on its theft. Mr Flagg had since confirmed that a sign had been ordered at a cost to the Parish Council of £60.

River Churn bank reinstatement
Cllr Harris enquired if any update had been received from Ms Jennifer Watkins, Gloucestershire Highways on plans to reinstate the bank of the river Churn through Bow Wow. The Clerk reported that no update on her meeting of the 21st June had been received and would request one. Ms Watkins had since emailed that she was no longer involved with the scheme although she would pass on the enquiry to her replacement Mr Chris Franklin.

Bow Wow Tree Trunks
Harris asked the Clerk to inform Ms Jennifer Watkins, Gloucestershire Highways about the deterioration of the road side through Bow Wow because of obstructing tree trunks and insist that action is taken to remove them.

Shire Brook Blockage
Cllr Harris reported that although some bales had been removed from the river at Upper Up, new ones were now in the Shire Ditch in the vicinity of Downs Farm, Ashton Road. Cllr Stuart had reported the incident to the Environment Agency and Cllr Harris had observed that work was proceeding to remove the bales.

INSPECTION REPORTS

Cerney Wick
Cllr Caunce reported that the playing field and equipment was all in order.

Robert Franklin Way
Cllr Harris reported that the latch on the gate of the toddlers play area had been replaced. He detected movement at the base of the 360 degree swing and asked colleagues to independently inspect the equipment and report their opinion. The Committee agreed to a suggestion from Cllr Stuart that the Pay Back in the Community Team be asked to dig out a foundation to clarify if further action was needed to secure the support. All outstanding maintenance previously requested had been carried out. The Clerk was asked to inform Glebe Contractors that the grass around equipment in the Toddlers Play area had not been cut properly. The Clerk was to ask for quotations to reduce the overhanging branches to provide a 3m high clearance on the bridleway alongside Ash Moon to facilitate the passage of horse riders and remove a broken branch on the ground by the river Churn.

Upper Up
Cllr Stuart reported that repairs to the activity area had been completed satisfactorily. The Clerk was asked to remind Glebe Contractors to strim the grass and weeds on the cycle mounds. The tennis pavilion had been repaired although some vandalism had been inflicted on equipment on the tennis court. Murphy contractors were still using the access across the playing field and despite the protective pathway, deep ruts had developed. The surface of the car park was badly potholed but action to reinstate would have to wait until the contractors had completed their operation. The Football Club, despite reminders, had left black plastic rubbish bags at the entrance to the playing field. A further reminder would be sent to the secretary. Cllr Stuart and two others had walked the playing field looking for dog faeces but had found only one piece which might have been that of a fox.

JUBILEE GARDENS BOUNDARY PATH AND ACCESS TO HIGH STREET
The Clerk was to ask Glebe Contractors to quote to remove the weeds from the path surrounding Jubilee Gardens and how much extra would it cost to add it to next year’s schedule. The Clerk was also to enquire how much it would cost to tidy up the access footpath from Jubilee Gardens to High Street and add it to the schedule as per the Millstream which was cut 6 (six) times a year.

MEADOW WAY TO HIGH STREET PROW
The Clerk was asked to inform the owner of 6 Meadow Way that the hedge was overgrowing the footpath to the side and rear of that property and causing inconvenience to users.

Cllr Harris declared a prejudicial interest in this item as a potential contractor and left the room.

OVERGROWING SHRUB ON THE PIECE
Three quotations had been received to remove the Russian Vine from The Piece on Station Road. It was proposed by Cllr Caunce and seconded by Cllr Walker that the Parish Council agreed the contract to remove the shrub be awarded to Dave King who had quoted £90. Although the quote matched a verbal one from James Harris Contracting it was decided to allocate the work to Mr King. The Parish Council was all in favour. Cllr Harris returned to the room. Cllr Caunce explained the decision of the Committee.

CORRESPONDENCE

10. CT.CONTR 2337: Notification of intention to undertake tree work in a conservation area at Old Tiles, School Lane, South Cerney Cllr Webb had no objection. The Parish Council concurred
 

Cllr Harris declared a prejudicial interest as contractor in this next item and left the room.
 

23. CT.CONTR 2343: Notification of intention to undertake tree work in a conservation area at 1 Edwards College, South Cerney
Cllr Webb had no objection. The Parish Council concurred.
 

Cllr Harris returned to the room
 

24. Hills UK Ltd – Lance Parry: Land opposite Churn Meadow, Cerney Wick As tenant, Helen Dorling will cut back the hedge when the nesting season has finished
 
25. Joy Carter – Proposed party on Upper Up playing fields
The Parish Council had no objection
   

COUNCILLORS’ REPORTS

Cllr Nicholas reported that some of the lettering on the VAS (Vehicle Activated Sign) in Silver Street was damaged. The VAS in Station Road was flashing irregularly possibly due to overgrowing tree branches interfering with the beam. The Clerk will report the incidents to Gloucestershire Highways.

Cllr Walker enquired if there were sufficient signs on the carriageways throughout the parish to notify road users of the possibility of encountering wildlife. He recalled that an accident had been caused recently when a motorist braked suddenly to avoid some ducks on the road and following cars had collided. Cllr Harris informed him of various positions where such signs were in place.

Cllr Mrs Tunbridge complained about the number of pot holes appearing on the roads throughout the village. Cllr Caunce explained that as Gloucestershire Highways had noted the carriageway damage and encircled it with white marker paint it could not be held responsible as it intended to repair the holes eventually.

Cllr Jay reported that the litter bin next to the seat in Bow Wow was missing again. The Clerk will report the incident to Roger Sollis at CDC and request that the bin, when replaced, is properly secured.

FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORT

Cllr Jay reported on the discussions of the Finance Committee which had met on 11th June. Cllr Jay, Cllr Mrs Land, Cllr Nicholas, Cllr Stuart and Cllr Webb had attended the meeting.

MATTERS ARISING
Cllr Jay enquired if a quotation had been received for the repair of the notice board outside the Limes and added that the surface of the one in Clarks Hay was peeling away. The Clerk explained that R.O.W. Berry was waiting for further costs before he could finalise a price.

OVERGROWING SHRUB ON THE PIECE
Three quotations had been received to remove the Russian Vine from The Piece on Station Road.
The Playing Fields and Village Maintenance Committee had recommended that the Finance Committee ratified its decision to award the contract to Dave King. The Committee had no objection and will recommend that the Parish Council agrees to its decision. Previously the Parish Council had agreed to the decision of the Playing Fields and Village Committee.

Cllr Harris declared a prejudicial interest in the next item and left the room.

Payments Out    
James Harris Contracting Ground maintenance South Cerney £399.50
It was proposed by Cllr Webb and seconded by Cllr Mrs Land that the Parish Council agreed to make the above payment. The Parish Council was all in favour.

Cllr Harris returned to the room.

     
Payments Out continued    
Petty Cash Bus Shelter Cleansing (July) £40.00
Petty Cash Litter Picking (July) £100.00
M. McKee BT telephone and internet access (June) £41.00
M. McKee Clerk’s Travel (June) £42.97
Raymond Fenton Updating web pages £150.00
Glebe Contracting VAT element previous account £197.84
R.O.W. Berry Repair to climbing frame at Upper Up £55.00
Busy Fingers Photocopying £36.17
Cotswold Canal Trust Affiliation membership renewal £10.00
Southern Electric Unmetered electricity supply charges £19.33
Rodney Gardiner Ground maintenance Cerney Wick £87.45
Glebe Contracting Ground maintenance at South Cerney     £1,303.66
 

 

 £2,482.92
Cllr Jay had inspected the invoices and agreed the Clerk’s travel expenses for June.

The Committee had recommended that the Parish Council agreed to make the above payments.
It was proposed by Cllr Caunce and seconded by Cllr Walker that the Parish Council agrees to make the above payments. The Parish Council was all in favour.
 

PAYMENTS IN    
South Cerney Cricket Club Water services (40% share) £13.44
South Cerney Football Club Water services (60% share) £20.17
    £33.61

SUPPLY OF SAFETY PLAY SURFACE SAND
Cllr Stuart reported that Mr George Taylor had estimated that it would need 16 bags of special sand to refurbish the safety surface and would cost approximately £50.

BRIDLE PATH AT ROBERT FRANKLIN WAY
Only one quotation had been received to clear low branches along the bridle path at Robert Franklin Way. The Clerk was asked to check if any other contractors would be interested. A closing date of two weeks hence was agreed when the Clerk would inform the contractor with the lowest quotation.

SPREADSHEET ANALYSIS OF EXPENSES
Cllr Jay explained the usefulness of the spreadsheet to keep a watching brief on expenses. After three months expenditure was normal for this point in the cycle and he recommended the information to Parish Councillors.

CORRESPONDENCE

26. 29 Postal, Courier & Movement Regt – Grant request to support a Junior Non Commissioned Officers Mess at Duke of Gloucester Barracks The Parish Council agreed with the opinion of the Committee that it was not within its remit or that of the Parish Council to make such a grant. Cllr Mrs Land suggested that Cpl S. J. Walker contact Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association (SSAFA) for aid.

  There being no further business Cllr Jay had closed the meeting at 9pm.

PLANNING COMMITTEE REPORT

Cllr Nicholas reported on the discussions of the Planning Committee which had met on 9th July. Cllr Mrs Chapman, Cllr Mrs Land, Cllr Nicholas, Cllr Stuart and Cllr Webb attended the meeting.

MATTERS ARISING

CT.2443/P and CT.2443/Q (Winchcombe Gardens)

Cllr Nicholas enquired if a reply had been received regarding the anomaly which exists between these two applications and the assertion made by the Parish Council that it was not a signatory to any agreement with Bloor Homes. The Clerk stated that the Enforcement Officer had asked the legal department at CDC to investigate and was awaiting a reply.

CT.2648/3/R and CT.2648/3/S (Lake 11 Wheel Washing Conditions)

Cllr Webb was disappointed with the reply received from the Enforcement Officer considering the lack of implementation of Condition 23 on wheel washing facilities. The Committee agreed that it was a fruitless exercise in trying to resolve the problem through communication with either Ward Councillors or the Enforcement Officers.

Cllr Bennett (CDC) stated that overall the District Council had looked at the implementation of Conditions but it had determined that Conditions would be enforced if and when it was expedient to do so. The Parish Council was asked to arrange a meeting with CDC Chief Executive Officer Bob Austin, Cllr Nicholas and Cllr Webb to discuss the implications of Conditions attached to planning permissions and their lack of enforcement.

Planning Applications received by Cotswold District Council

CT.1454/4/M
Applicant: Mr C. Hendry, 49 Windrush Lake, Spine Road, South Cerney
Erection of a porch at 49 Windrush Lake, Spine Road, South Cerney
This proposal would disrupt the rhythm of this very uniform holiday estate development and would set a precedent for the remainder of the development which could have very significant impact in the future.
OBJECTION

CT.2041/L
Applicants: Mr & Mrs Watkins, 23 Jubilee Gardens, South Cerney
Retrospective application to extend height of fence to 1.8 metres at 23 Jubilee Gardens, South Cerney
NO OBJECTION

CT.2090/V
Applicant: Enterprise Inns Plc, 3 Monkspath Hall Road, Solihull, West Midlands B90 4SJ
Construction of a timber posted pergola with cedar shingle roof to be situated in the garden area at the Old George Inn, Bridge Road, South Cerney
NO OBJECTION

CT.4498/1/A
Applicant: Cotswold Water Park Society Ltd, Keynes Country Park, Shorncote
Installation of external decking area to existing restaurant at Gateway Visitor Centre, Spine Road, South Cerney
NO OBJECTION

CT.8163/M (by email)
Applicants: Mr & Mrs Schallamach, The Limes, Upper Up, South Cerney
Erection of external stair case on garage and conversion of first floor for ancillary accommodation at The Limes, Upper Up, South Cerney
NO OBJECTION

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

Cllr Stuart declared a prejudicial interest in the next two applications as the applicants were friends of his and left the room.

CT.2861/H
Applicant: S.P. Beard & Sons, The Builders Yard, Silver Street, South Cerney
Installation of two (2) secure storage cabins at The Builders Yard, Silver Street, South Cerney
NO OBJECTION

CT.5102/E
Applicant: Revd D. Payne, Langet End, Upper Up, South Cerney
Amended Plans: 07/00941 Conversion and extension of existing garage to form a dwelling. Erection of garage to serve Langet End at Langet End, Upper Up, South Cerney
Cllr Nicholas pointed out that there was a material anomaly as the site plans of the plot differ.
The roofing materials should conform to the vernacular as there is a discrepancy between the clay/ concrete tiles.
NO OBJECTION

It was proposed by Cllr Webb and seconded by Cllr Caunce that the Parish Council agrees with the decisions of the Planning Committee on these applications. The Parish Council was all in favour.

Cllr Stuart returned to the room

CT.5189/P
Applicants: L. Johnson, J. Smith, P. Thomas, J. Archey, (Owners)
Residential gypsy caravan site comprising eleven (11) pitches, access road, amenity units and landscaping at Plot 2319, South Road, Shorncote, Somerford Keynes
Letters supporting the application were worthy and had been read by members of the Planning Committee. No decision on the determination of this application had been taken at the Planning Committee meeting.
After a discussion a vote was taken on how to determine the application by the Parish Council. Cllr Jay proposed and Cllr Caunce seconded a motion that the Parish Council does not object to permission being granted for this application. The Parish Council voted 9 in favour with 1 against. The motion was therefore carried.
 NO OBJECTION

Planning Applications granted by Cotswold District Council

CT.0649/2/Y
Erection of first floor extension at 55 Meadow Way, South Cerney

CT.2041/K
Erection of conservatory at 23 Jubilee Gardens, South Cerney

CT.2648/3/W
Amendment to previously approved scheme of holiday lodge development (Plots 5-17 only) at Lake 11, Cotswold Water Park, South Cerney

CT.8129/A
Detached double garage at Tarshyne, Cirencester Road, South Cerney

CT.8622
Erection of dwelling at 22 Broadway Lane, South Cerney

PLANNING APPLICATIONS REFUSED BY COTSWOLD DISTRICT COUNCIL

CT.4454/K
Conversion of pig pens to form 8 (eight) holiday accommodation units and associated parking and access works at Quarry Farm, Cricklade Road, South Cerney

Planning Appeal withdrawn

CT.1454/1/Z
Appeals by Shaun Gath, Ian Diamond and Wendy Diamond. Site at Lodge 4 Isis Lake, Cotswold Water Park, South Cerney and Lodge 2 Isis Lake, Cotswold Water Park. Planning Inspectorate References: APP/F1610/C/06/2033067, APP/F1610/C/06/2033081 and APP/F1610/C/06/2033088

NOTIFICATION OF DECISION

CT.8631
Erection of replacement agricultural building at Westdown Farm Buildings, Cirencester Road, South Cerney
As the decision was contrary to the view expressed by the Parish Council the following brief explanation was given. The building has been designed with reference to typical Cotswold pitch and span. The building will be set back from the road, with the gable end facing the road, and the land rises behind the building. Officers do not consider that it will be detrimental to the landscape. The materials of the building will be conditioned. The application has been submitted as an agricultural building and is considered upon that basis. Its use has been conditioned accordingly.

ELECTRONIC NOTIFICATION OF APPLICATIONS
The Parish Council totally rejects the suggestion that applications are thus delivered as it would be impractical in the extreme. It must be remembered that not all Parish Councillors have access to a computer and copying facilities would be necessary to provide a hard copy for reference. If a member of the public requested to view a copy it would entail excessive management to provide copies of any documents especially those larger than A4. The Clerk will notify CDC of the Parish Council’s objection and concern to the proposed new arrangement.

ADVERTISEMENTS AUDIT
Cllr Webb had carried out an audit of advertisements displayed at the Cerney Wick Lane/Station Road/Spine Road junction. His conclusion was that all signs have permission with the exception of one on Lake 10 (Waters Edge). The Clerk was asked to write to Sean Hodgson at Waters Edge and request that he applies for retrospective permission to display the advertisement. The Clerk was asked to write to Bloor Homes and ask them to remove the yellow signs affixed to lamp posts and other places throughout the village advertising Winchcombe Gardens.

COUNCILLORS’ REPORTS

CT.4498/W FOUR PILLARS HOTEL CONDITIONS

Cllr Webb was concerned that a Condition imposed which would ease traffic flows to and from the entrance to the Four Pillars Hotel on the Spine Road had not been implemented. Cllr Webb would research the planning file to ascertain if his concern was justified and report his findings to the Parish Council on Wednesday.

Cllr Webb’s findings on traffic management at the entrance to the site did not justify further action. Condition 24 of the application did, however, stipulate that work should be carried out on the adjacent cycle path. Cllr Bennett (CDC) stated that the District Council was aware of the non compliance and discussions were on going to resolve the lapse.

CORRESPONDENCE

34. Miss Amy Johnston – Request to individual Parish Councillors for support regarding a proposal to build a house on land at Cerney Wick The Committee decided that it was inappropriate for Parish Councillors to support, or comment on, the application proposal.

There being no further business Cllr Nicholas had closed the Committee meeting at 10.08pm

UPDATE TO PARISH PLAN

The Parish Council agreed to all revisions of the plan which was limited to updating responsibilities by replacing retired Parish Councillors with their successors and what progress had been achieved. The Clerk will contact Mrs Pollard for her version of the file, update it, post the new version on the web site and organise the A1 replacement for the Committee Room of the Village Hall.

RISK ASSESSMENT

Cllr Nicholas will liaise with the Clerk to provide a proposed revision of the risk assessment for discussion at next month’s meeting.

COUNCILLORS’ PORTFOLIOS

The Parish Council agreed to a revision of the portfolios which the Clerk will update and post a new version on the web site.

CORRESPONDENCE

1. Home-Start Cotswolds – Newsletter Issue 4, June 2007-07-02
2. South Cerney Cricket Club – Grant acknowledgement
3. South Cerney Football Club – Dog faeces on Upper Up playing fields (Playing Fields and Village Maintenance Committee agenda item)
4. Joan Townsend – Meadow Way to High Street footpath overgrown (copied to committee members on email)
5. Nigel Evans – Suggested forum to discuss alleged problems between residents at Shorncote caravan site and village residents
6. CDC – 07/01721/FUL Electronic notification (Planning agenda)
7. Thames Water Utilities – Station Road ditch (1)
8. Andy Jaques – Shrub on Piece (copied to committee members on email)
9. CPRE – Notification of AGM (copied to Parish Councillors on email), Agenda, Previous Minutes, Annual Report with Statement of Accounts
10. CDC – CT.CONTR 2337: Notification of intention to undertake tree work in a conservation area at Old Tiles, School Lane, South Cerney
NO OBJECTION 11.
11. GCC Rights of Way – Temporary Footpath Closures BSC 11 South Cerney and BSN 9, Siddington and Public Bridleway BSC48, South Cerney
12. John Hicks & Associates – Advice on use of portable goal posts (forwarded to Katrina Jones, SC Youth FC Secretary and Kay Allen, SC AFC Secretary)
13. GCC Rights of Way – Asset survey of the public rights of way network update
14. South Cerney Street Fair – Grant acknowledgement
15. GPFA – The Playing Field newsletter (on circulation to committee)
16. CDC – Cigarette litter: poster to notice board
17. GRCC – South Cerney Housing Needs Survey: September 2006 (on circulation)
18. CPRE – Countryside Voice magazine Summer 2007 (on circulation)
19. NALC – Local Council Review: July 2007 (on circulation)
20. Clerks & Councils Direct – magazine July 2007 (on circulation)
21. Gloucestershire Highways – Part Night Operation of Street Lighting It was proposed by Cllr Nicholas and seconded by Cllr Jay that the Parish Council cooperates with a plan by Gloucestershire Highways to extend the changeover to part night operation of the street lighting in South Cerney. After a vote of 8 in favour, 1 against and 1 abstention the motion was carried.
22. Kevin Sanders – CT.8163/M Comments (emailed to committee members)
23. CDC – CT.CONTR 2343: Notification of intention to undertake tree work in a conservation area at 1 Edwards College, South Cerney NO OBJECTION
24. Hills UK Ltd – Lance Parry: Land opposite Churn Meadow, Cerney Wick
25. Joy Carter – Proposed party on Upper Up playing fields (acknowledged) NO OBJECTION
26. 29 Postal, Courier & Movement Regt – Grant request to support a Junior Non Commissioned Officers Mess at Duke of Gloucester Barracks
27. Thames Water Utilities – Station Road ditch (2)
28. People for You – A signposting scheme for older people
29. Dave King, Quercus – Quotation to remove growth from The Piece
30. The 15th Marquis de Derval et de Moisdon – Vandalism and its control in the community (acknowledged) (on circulation)
31. CDC, Cotswold Local Strategic Partnership – Invitation to attend 2nd Annual Stakeholder Conference on Wednesday 26th September from 1.30pm-4.30pm at Westwoods Community Centre, Northleach
32. NALC – Invitation to attend a conference titled “Cracking the Code” (the new ethical regime for parish councillors) on Thursday 19th July at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole, NEC, Birmingham (day delegate rate £110 ex VAT). RSVP by 16th July
33. The Meningitis Trust – Headlines, Summer 2007 Issue 5 (on circulation)
34. Miss Amy Johnston – Request to individual Parish Councillors for support regarding a proposal to build a house on land at Cerney Wick
35. Rodney Cunliffe – Congratulations on quality of grass cutting
36. CDC – CT.2443/P and CT.2443/Q Enforcement Officer’s reply
37. GCC Environment Directorate – Annual Parish Liaison Meeting: Election Results Gloucestershire parish’s representative: Roger Sleeman (Somerford Keynes PC)

COUNCILLORS' REPORTS

Cllr Webb noted that Clarks Hay was again flooding after recent rain. Cllr Stuart reported that there was a blockage in the storm drain which is being investigated.

Cllr Webb enquired who among the Parish Councillors would be joining him at the meeting with Geoffrey Clifton-Brown MP on 17th August to discuss the management of traffic at the Station Road, Cerney Wick Lane and Spine Road junction? Cllr Mrs Chapman agreed to attend and Cllr Harris provisionally depending on his commitments. The Clerk was asked to book the Committee Room at the Village Hall to provide a venue if accommodation was needed.

Cllr Caunce reported that a youth from Cerney Wick was involved in the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme and asked if any tasks could be provided. Cllr Stuart referred Cllr Caunce to Mrs Reta-May who may be able to provide a suitable assignment.

Cllr Harris noted that although some work had been carried out on the footpath from the Spine Road to Churn Pool it was not completed and suggested that Phil Cluley from GCC PROW should check with his contractor.

Cllr Harris reported that the branches of the Limes in Silver Street needed attention. The Tree Wardens would carry out a survey and create a specification of the work required for quotation.

Cllr Mrs Land reported that the pathway between 2 Beverstone Road and The Leaze was becoming overgrown and asked the Clerk to report it to Gloucestershire Highways. Cllr Mrs Land reported that the Access Group was in negotiations with Gloucestershire Highways to provide a disabled parking bay outside the Village Hall. Cllr Jay noted that if such a bay was created then a discretionary notice would be needed to notify other drivers of its existence. Cllr Mrs Land agreed and proposed that the bay be signed “PRIORITY”.

Cllr Walker noted that a fly tipping incident had occurred on land adjacent to Ann Edwards School. Cllr Walker will inform the land owners.

Cllr Jay reported that the white lines delineating the footpath parallel to the Eliot and the garage towards Churn Close need to be highlighted. They are indistinct.

Cllr Stuart reported that he had attended a service at the United Church dedicated to the improvements carried out there.

Cllr Stuart reported that he had attended several meetings of the Cotswold Play Partnership during the past month.

Cllr Stuart had been informed by contractors that unavoidable delays were being experienced whilst progressing the sewerage works.

Cllr Caunce suggested that the Clerk insert a tick box so that Parish Councillors could make it obvious if they wished to read items in which they were interested on the circulation sheet.

There being no further business Cllr Stuart closed the meeting at 10.50pm.