MINUTES OF PARISH COUNCIL MEETING OF BRANT BROUGHTON & STRAGGLETHORPE PARISH COUNCIL HELD ON TUESDAY, 6TH SEPTEMBER 2011 AT 7.30PM IN THE HERITAGE ROOM, MEETING HOUSE LANE
Membership
Councillor T Noble (Chair), Councillor R Hollingworth, Councillor P Dunning, Councillor K Helliwell, Councillor C Thornton, Councillor K Pearce
Present
J Lyon (Parish Clerk), District Councillor P Woodman MBE, County Councillor R Phillips, PCSO V Czajkowski, 4 members of the public.
11/59 Apologies
Apologies were received from District Councillor Sue Howe and Ian Neal from Stragglethorpe.
11/60 Police and Public Time
Mr & Mrs Wynn, from 19 High Street thanked the Parish Council for their support at the Planning Committee meeting the previous day, when the application for a pedestrian access was not granted. Mr Wynn thanked Mrs Pat Woodman MBE for chairing the meeting, Mrs Sue Howe for taking the application to committee, and Cllr K Helliwell for attending the meeting and speaking on behalf of the Parish Council.
PCSO V Czajkowski reported that there had been 5 crimes since the last meeting, three cases of criminal damage, one theft of heavy duty coil and front linkage bar, and one theft of fish and pond pump equipment. It was also reported that three man hole covers had been stolen from road leaving Stragglethorpe towards Grantham. There have also been two cases of arson, when straw stacks have been set alight at Carlton Le Moorland. PCSO V Czajkowski then left the meeting.
11/61 Parish Walk Leaflet
Peter Sharman presented a slide show of photographs that he has taken around the village and along the three walks. The Parish Council need to pick about a dozen for inclusion in the leaflet. Mr Sharman agreed to produce a sheet with a small picture of each photo numbered, to allow the Councillors to choose. Once this is done the Parish Clerk will arrange a meeting to move the matter on. Mr Sharman was thanked for the excellent photographs and then left the meeting.
11/62 Minutes of the meeting held on the 5th July 2011
These were signed as a true and correct record of the meeting.
11/63 Matters Arising
There were no matters arising that would not be covered as an agenda item.
11/64 Declarations of Interest
Declarations of Interest were made by Cllr Tony Noble and Cllr Charlie Thornton as members of the Village Hall Committee and Cllr Pam Dunning as a member of the Village Show Committee.
11/65 Reports from County & District Councillors
District Councillor Pat Woodman MBE reported the following on behalf of the District Council;
Hill Holt Wood have won two awards –Karen Lowthrop has won the Earnst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award 2011. Hill Holt Wood have also been declared the winner in the Royal Forestry Awards 2011 scooping the Community Forest Award.
Whisby Natural World attracts over 200,000 visitors a year, and the website ‘Netmums’ have awarded Little Darters Wildlife Adventure Park a Gold award.
The Siemens site has been passed for planning at the Planning Committee meeting, and work should start shortly, to be occupied by Autumn 2012.
NK are launching a workshop to help small businesses.
NK have the lowest rate of violent crime in the country.
The Basssingham to Carlton cycle way is to be started in October
NKDC and Hill Holt Wood have a scheme to help council tenants who cannot manage their gardens for a contribution of approx. £3 per week.
NK is still recycling more than 50% of waste collected.
County Councillor Ray Phillips reported the following on behalf of the County Council;
Resurfacing – the lines on Mill Lane marking the school safety zone will be repainted as they were included in the contractor’s price, but it is uncertain when this will be done. Robinson Place – there is no consultation between NK and LCC, so LCC were unaware of the Planning application for the parking bays when the resurfacing work was done.
Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue need on call firefighters to apply – they need to be able to respond to the fire station within 5 minutes.
11/66 Finance
Invoices have been received from
Continental Landscapes Grass Cutting June £189.00 inc VAT
July £152.46 inc VAT
August £189.00 inc VAT
Clement Keys Statutory Audit of the Annual Return £162.00 inc VAT
The Notice of Closure of Audit has been displayed on the Noticeboard as required.
11/67 Planning
Planning Applications Received
11/0760, 6 Church Lane Conversion & extension of barn to form dwelling
Cllr Tony Noble declared an interest as the property backs onto his garden
There were no objections, and the Clerk will write to NK to support the application as the proposal is creating a new dwelling, it will take cars off Church Lane as there is off road parking and the street scene will be unchanged.
Planning Appeal
10/1398 Rose Cottage – erection of directional signs on the A17 – this went to appeal on the 18th August, but the refusal was upheld.
Tree Works
2 Swans Lane – silver birch crown reduction – no TPO made
10 Maltkiln Lane-
11/68 Correspondence
Nottinghamshire County Council Waste Core Strategy – to be circulated
Lincolnshire County Council Parking Policy Draft Consultation – to be circulated
Lincolnshire County Council – Preliminary Flood Risk Assessment for Lincolnshire – to be circulated
Fillingham Trees – 2011 price list – it was agreed that two trees of the same size be ordered for delivery on 25th November, and the lights to be put on on Saturday 26th, ready for the lights switch on and carols after the pantomime on Saturday 3rd December.
The Playing Field accounts have now been received and circulated.
Witham Country Park – Brant Broughton in just within the Witham Country Park, and the Parish Council have been asked if they would like a road sign to advertise tis – two options were presented and Councillors chose the one they thought was the easiest to read.
11/69 Matters for Discussion
Village Walk Leaflet – the clerk to speak to Lincolnshire County Council to ascertain whether a time extension be granted for the production of the leaflet. Until this is verified the Councillors need to meet with some urgency to choose which of Peter Sharmans photos are to be used. The clerk to call a meeting with the next few weeks.
Highways -
The Clerk to request that there is a Police presence on the High St between 7am and 8am when speeding is a real problem.
Village Hall Update – It is hoped that the roof trusses will be finished later this week, and that the roof will be completed by the end of September.
There is still a shortfall of money for some of the environmental projects such as water collection, and the heat source pump. There are still some grant applications awaiting a decision, and all of these can be added at a later date.
An additional £4,000 has been received for a sprung dance floor, and £3,000 from personal gifts.
The Planning Department have said that the entrance that was hoped to have been kept as grass, now has to be block paved. Also the timber cladding was not allowed by the Planning Dept. There are to be solar panels fitted onto the back of the Village Hall roof.
Balfe’s have been very helpful at every stage.
Village Marquee – the village committees have not yet formed a sub-
Parish Councillor Vacancy
Steven Brassington, from Church Lane is keen to get involved in the village, and would like to be considered for the position. Also Ian Neale from Stragglethorpe has agreed to fill the vacancy, but it was thought only on a short term basis. A vote was taken, and by 5 votes to 1, Steven Brassington was so opted onto the Parish Council.
The houses that have been built on the Pailings site are believed to have a rat problem in the hedge/dyke between the houses and the road – the clerk to check with the County Council as to whose responsibility pest control is.
Councillor Hollingworth reminded the Parish Council that Steven Philips MP had agreed to come to the Village Hall to talk to residents – the clerk to check for available dates.
11/70 Date of the Next Meeting
The next meeting of the Parish was diarised for Tuesday 4th October, at 7.30pm in the Heritage Ro
DRAFT MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL PARISH MEETING OF BRANT BROUGHTON & STRAGGLETHORPE HELD ON MONDAY 18TH APRIL 2011 AT 7.30 PM IN THE HERITAGE ROOM, MEETING HOUSE LANE
APM11/01 Membership
Councillor C Halliwell, Councillor R Hollingworth, Councillor P Dunning, Councillor A Noble and Councillor K Pearce
APM11/02 Present
J Lyon (Parish Clerk), District Councillor P Woodman MBE, District Councillor Sue Howe, PCSO Vicky Czajkowski, PCSO J Booker, 3 representatives from KNOT and 6 members of the public
APM11/03 Apologies
Apologies were received from Councillor K Helliwell and Councillor I Hook and Bill Halliwell
APM11/04 Minutes of the previous Annual Meeting, 13th April 2010
The minutes of the last Parish Meeting were circulated accepted as true and correct and signed by the Chair.
APM11/05 Matters arising
There were no matters arising
APM11/06 Presentation by KNOT (Kesteven No Turbines)
KNOT were welcomed to the meeting and made a presentation as follows;
There is currently an application (11/0238) for three 90m wind turbines to be erected at Range Farm, Beckingham, just to the side of the A17.
The closest property to the proposed site is Range Farm, where there are currently 14 inhabitants, many with adult learning difficulties.
The Main reasons for objection are
Visual Impact
Noise Pollution
Shadow Flicker
Heritage
Road Safety
Impact on Wildlife
TV Interference
Detrimental Health Implications
The determination date has been set for 24th June
It was asked how the electricity would be removed from the site but this issue has not been answered in the application.
It was asked how long the turbines would take to be erected – this was answered as 9 months
MOD Safeguarding had objected to a 120m turbine, so the height was lowered to 90m
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This site has not been chosen due to its high wind speeds – the Met Office have reported comparatively low speeds in this area.
Everyone was urged to write to NKDC to object to this proposal.
KNOT were thanked for attending and left the meeting
APM11/07 Police Report
Message from PC Paul Truelove, PCSO’s Chris Boyle, Vicky Czajkowski and Jo Brooker
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Firstly, we are unable to give any meaningful statistics in relation to crime figures for the year, as we have done in the past.
I would like to give you assurance that crime is very low in all our rural areas and has remained low over the last 12 months.
We have no emerging crime patterns or problems in one particular area, but we are concerned about the rising price of scrap metal and fuel, leading to increased related crimes such as theft of metal, diesel and even heating oil from household tanks.
We have an increasing number of crimes as a result of insecurity of cars, garages
and properties. I cannot put it strongly enough that we need to be less complacent
with security, putting electrical items out of view and locking our cars, doors and
windows on an evening, as part of a night-
You can look at crimes on your street and in the area by using the website:
www.police.uk putting in your postcode to perform a search
The force is currently in the process of a restructure that will see a few changes to our team, area and the way we will work.
We have been assured that we will get an extra Police Officer on our team that will mean that we have two Police Officers and three PCSO’s.
We will have to respond to all non-
We will also be taking back Beckingham and Stragglethorpe villages and will take over South Hykeham from the North Hykeham Team, as we align ourselves with Parish boundaries.
The fine details have yet to be determined, but we are committed to offering the best service we can to the public, regardless of the changes that are due to be made.
APM11/08 Chairman’s Report
Councillor C Halliwell reported the following
Chairman’s Report 2010-
Parish Plan
The year began with the publication and distribution of the Brant Broughton and Stragglethorpe Parish Plan. This was the culmination of 3 years of hard work by the Steering Committee, and a valuable asset to the village.
I would like to give a short resume on our progress in addressing the Action Plan issues so far:
· Highways and Traffic
Mr Alan Brown from Lincolnshire Highways was invited to speak to the Parish Council and discussed options for reducing speed by means of additional road signs, road surfaces and speed humps. These were largely discounted as they would be far too detrimental to the street scene. Also, they have significant budget implications, as funding for this would come from the same budget as road repairs. We also discussed Speed Activated road Signs. These were available, by application, from the County Council in a scheme in which 12 are supplied to parishes all over Lincolnshire, although it is likely that this funding will be cut. Approximate costs for our own Speed Activated Sign would be £5000 per sign. This could be a possibility over the next few years if money is available.
· Housing
An article has appeared in the Sandbeck Magazine to raise awareness of our village Conservation Area status.
· Services and Facilities
An article has been published in the Sandbeck to provide details on how to report fly tipping.
A site for a new dog bin is under discussion.
We have recently obtained a grant to fund the publishing of a leaflet to promote local walks around the parish. Volunteers to help plan and write the walks are very welcome!
New hedging has been planted on the Rectory Field perimeter, thank you to Tony Noble and Robert Hollingworth for their endeavours.
· Communications
An article has appeared in the Sandbeck informing residents regarding who to contact to access the village notice boards and websites.
· Leisure and Village Organisations/ Youth
The North Kesteven Play Bus now known as the Pod visited the village in October and
November. This proved very popular with children of Pre-
New Village Hall
Another high point has been the success of the Village Hall New Build Committee in
obtaining grants to the value of £200,000 to fund the building of our new Village
Hall. However this year has been something of a roller coaster ride for this group
as in October it was discovered that in order to build a new hall, and the necessary
car parking, this area of the Village Green would need to be de-
This was a bitter blow to the hard working New Build Committee who have devoted so many hours, of their valuable spare time to the project.
In December, they were informed by the Planning Inspectorate, that if more than 200msq was to be built on, a replacement piece of land would need to be offered. Consequently, a meeting was called as a matter of urgency, to discuss a solution. With the clock ticking on the grant money deadline, a valuable 3 weeks was gained. It was agreed that The Rectory Field would be a suitable piece of land to offer, as it is already owned by the Parish Council and would also benefit from the protection which Village Green Status would bestow. The Site Visit by the Planning Inspectorate is due on 4th May, only a few weeks before the deadline for the Grant monies run out! We sincerely hope for a good outcome.
Other Village matters
Dog fouling continues to be a problem particularly on Swan Lane and the gateway next to the Almshouses into the field behind them. This has become such a problem that the Parish Council has had to send letters out to dog owners in the village asking for them to be more responsible in this matter.
Planning issues have been mainly concerned with applications for home extensions, garages, conversions and work on trees.
A major development arose when Wind Direct and Noble Foods issued notice that they
proposed to erect three 90 metre Wind Turbines at Lodge Farm, Beckingham. It was
understood that planning would be applied for between Christmas and New Year but
that did not happen until a few weeks ago. An opposition group was formed called
KNOT -
Following a letter from a Stragglethorpe resident, the Parish Council offered to provide a Christmas tree to the village, however the offer was declined. Our traditional Big Switch on of the Christmas lights in Brant Broughton with carol singing, mince pies and mulled wine was a great success and a lovely start to the festive season. The rector Alan Megahey switched on the lights, and the brass band ensemble of Pete and Sally Thornburn assisted our carol singing. I would like to thank to them all once again . Thanks also go to the hardy volunteers who helped to put up and take down the Christmas lights in the freezing temperatures of December 2010. If anyone is willing to help in this way this year, please let our clerk know.
Finally, and more topically, following the announcement of the Marriage of Prince William with Katherine Middleton, the Parish Council received a letter asking how the parish would be celebrating the event.
A request for help and ideas was placed in the Sandbeck following which a small group met and decided upon “Tea and Wedding Cake” at 3.30pm in the afternoon and “Bring your party to the Wedding Feast” in the evening from 7pm. In this way we can all celebrate together at relatively low expense, as everyone will bring their own food, drink and table decorations to a decorated hall and marquee with a band and disco playing throughout the evening.
I look forward to another enjoyable village event, as I’m sure all of us do too.
Carol Halliwell
APM11/09 Report from the District Councillors
District Councillor Sue Howe reported the following on behalf of the District Council
NKDC have contributed to the Hammond Hall at Bassingham
NKDC have continued to maintain low crime levels
NKDC have created a Seniors Database to enable seniors to gain access to services
Sleaford Railway station has now got start up industrial units to rent on 15 year leases.
The POD has been used to attract the younger generation by providing computer games, art and crafts etc
For the 3rd year in succession NKDC have been the best performing council in collection of Council Tax, with a success rate of 99.3%
Funding has been secured for 16 new council houses in Sleaford, Ruskington and Wellingore
NKDC are the winners of the environmental Green Apple Award for the straw houses.
Military personnel were presented with armed forces recognition award and it is hoped that this will be an annual event.
District Councillor Pat Woodman MBE added the following
The Council Tax has been frozen, with a band D property costing £175
NKDC is a high performing, low cost council which is the national leader in recycling and refuse collection.
NK supports tourism and the aviation trail. £87M comes into NK through tourism each year.
NKDC have saved £1.25m over the last year and have to save a further £1.75m next year – this has mainly been done through back office cuts.
APM11/10 Reports from Village Hall, Playing Field and PCC
Accounts for all the Village Hall and the PCC were circulated to all present. The Playing Field Accounts to follow.
Councillor Noble pointed out that the Village Hall benefited £7,000 from Broughton House College room hire. There was a fear that if the old hall had been knocked down and the new hall rebuilt on the same footprint, that the College would have to find alternative premises.
APM11/11 Approve Accounts y/e 31st March 2011
A copy of the accounts for the year ending 31st March 2011 was presented to the Councillors and members of the public.
The main differences from last year was the grant for the marquee and its subsequent purchase. It was agreed to accept the accounts and they will be forwarded for audit.
APM11/12 Questions from the public
It was questioned whether Broughton House College would continue to use the old hall until the new one is completed. Charlie Thornton (Chair of Village Hall Committee) replied that the current Head has said that building needs to start before August otherwise they will have to review arrangements due to the current start of the hall. The funders have agreed to keep grant offers open until the end of June, and the contractor is ready to start work as soon as possible.
APM11/13 Date of Next Annual Meeting
This was confirmed as 24th April 2012 at 7.30 pm in the (new?!) Village Hall.
MINUTES OF BRANT BROUGHTON & STRAGGLETHORPE PARISH COUNCIL MEETING HELD ON MONDAY, 18TH APRIL 2011 FOLLOWING THE ANNUAL PARISH MEETING IN THE HERITAGE ROOM, MEETING HOUSE LANE
Membership
Councillor C Halliwell, Councillor P Dunning, Councillor A Noble, Councillor K Pearce, Councillor R Hollingworth
Present
J Lyon (Parish Clerk), District Councillor S Howe, District Councillor P Woodman MBE, 6 members of the public.
11/24 Apologies
Apologies were received from Councillor K Helliwell and Councillor I Hook
11/25 Minutes of the meeting held on the 28th February 2011
District Councillor Pat Woodman MBE reported that she had received a complaint about parishioners names and addresses being included in the draft minutes which had been printed in the Sandbeck. She reported that it was unusual for this to be done. It was clarified that these had been included to highlight the proximity to the village hall of the complainants. It was agreed that the addresses should be removed from item 11/22 before the minutes are signed off.
11/26 Matters arising
We have been successful in getting two grants for the production of the walks leaflet
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The planning permission for the land adjacent to 19 High Street has been withdrawn. District Councillor Pat Woodman MBE reported that the planning officers were going to recommend its approval so she requested that it was brought before the planning committee, but it was subsequently withdrawn. The clerk to check with the Tree Officer whether it would be appropriate to go ahead with the TPO on the mature trees.
11/27 Declarations of Interest
Cllr Tony Noble and Cllr C Halliwell declared an interest as members of the Village Hall Committee.
11/28 Reports from County & District Councillors
District Councillor Sue Howe reported the following on behalf of the District Council;
There has been a Heart of Lincolnshire visitor guide produced which can be viewed at any of the NK information points
The regeneration of the Sleaford Maltings has been approved for smaller businesses.
County Councillor Ray Phillips will be asked specifically to attend the next meeting in May as he has only been to two meetings over the past twelve months.
Since the last meeting Councillor Noble reported that NKDC and LCC have given a grant of £33K to the rebuild committee of the village hall, for which thanks was given.
11/29 Finance
Grass cutting quotations have been received from Continental and P Barnett as follows
Continental 2010 Continental 2011 P Barnett
Playing Field £29.00 £30.45
Playing Field including Play Equipment £34.00 £35.70
Rectory Field £17.75 £18.65 £16.50
It was agreed to award the Playing Field to Continental, but to change to P Barnett for the Rectory Field – the clerk to advise all parties concerned.
A remittance advice for the £12,300 precept has been received.
An invoice for the brass plaque to be put on the Rectory Field gate has been received. A cheque was written to County Signs for £30.59 plus £6.12 Vat = £36.71
11/30 Planning
Application for Tree Works
54 High Street – Willow crown lift to the rear of the property and holly tree growing in close proximity to the house – no comments or objections
Tree Preservation Order
A TPO has been confirmed on a sycamore tree in the garden adjacent to the road at The Priory, Church Walk.(N738)
Planning Permission Refused
11/0001 Clover Barn, Mill Lane – erection of a timber, single storey holiday lodge – the reasons for its refusal was that it is not considered sustainable as it is not realistically accessible by alternative modes of transport to the private motor car. Councillors commented that anyone coming on holiday to rural Lincolnshire would be coming for the peace and quiet and would most probably have their own transport.
Planning Permission Granted
11/0006 Holmes Farm – 162 solar photovoltaic panels mounted on south facing roof
11/0038 Silverlands, 116a High St Construct Brick Skin to existing dwelling and erection of extension to dwelling – one of the conditions is that red brick and red clay pantiles be used
11/0076 Fire Station -
Planning Applications Received
11/0238 Noble Foods Ltd, Lodge Farm, Sleaford Road, Beckingham – Construction and Operation of three 90m wind turbines with associated ancillary infrastructure. Following the presentation by KNOT at the Annual Parish Meeting a vote was taken as to whether the Parish Council wanted to object to the application. A result of 4:1 in favour of opposition was carried. The clerk to draft a letter and email to Councillors for their comments before submission to NKDC.
11/0379 Broughton House College – single storey rear extension – the plans were studied and the Council had no comments or objections as it will not be visible from the High Street.
11/0385 Fredricks Farm – retrospective application for change of use of land for storage for 30 touring caravans/mobile homes
Councillor Pam Dunning declared a prejudicial interest, and it was agreed to discuss the application at the end of the meeting without her present.
11/31 Correspondence
Entry forms for the Best Kept Village have been received but it was decided not to enter.
NKDC have written to confirm that there is to be an uncontested election with one
vacancy -
An email has been received from Mrs Janet Guest asking for a sign or road markings on the path opposite Maltkiln Lane, as a car is frequently parked on the footpath intended for wheelchair users. It was generally agreed that signage should not be increased, and it was suggested that if the vehicle is seen again, that it’s registration number be given to the Beat team who would be able to request the owner not to park there.
11/32 Matters for Discussion
Village Hall Update – as reported at the earlier meeting the Planning Inspectorate have managed to bring forward their site visit to the 4th May at 12 noon. The village hall rebuild committee has applied for an additional grant for the provision of a sprung floor.
Parish Plan
Page 30, Item 34 It was suggested that a public meeting be called to try to get more people to volunteer on the village organisation’s committees. The date of 3rd September was suggested as it is just before the children go back to school and the dance classes will probably not started – the clerk to check with the Village Hall booking clerk. It was thought that the Village Hall Committee, Playing Field Committee, Cricket Club, Football Club would be invited to have a table and try to recruit more members as some of the committees are really struggling to find helpers.
Bench for Quakers Close – ongoing
Grit Bins – the clerk to chase the provision of additional grit bins for the Church and Mill Lane.
11/33 Date of the Next Meeting
The Parish Council AGM of the newly elected Parish Council was diarised for Monday, 16th May 2011 at 7.30pm
Councillor Pam Dunning left the meeting
11/34 Planning Application Received
11/0385 Fredricks Farm – retrospective application for change of use of land for storage for 30 touring caravans/mobile homes – Councillors studied the plans, and have no comments or objections
DRAFT MINUTES OF BRANT BROUGHTON & STRAGGLETHORPE PARISH COUNCIL MEETING HELD ON MONDAY, 28TH FEBRUARY 2011 AT 7.30PM IN THE HERITAGE ROOM, MEETING HOUSE LANE
Membership
Councillor C Halliwell, Councillor K Helliwell, Councillor P Dunning, Councillor A Noble, Councillor K Pearce, Councillor I Hook, Councillor R Hollingworth
Present
J Lyon (Parish Clerk), District Councillor S Howe, District Councillor P Woodman MBE, 5 members of the public, PCSO C Boyle
11/12 Public and Police Time
The residents of 19 High St, Mr & Mrs Wynn, introduced themselves to the meeting and spoke about their objections to the planning application, to be discussed later in the meeting, that of a proposed creation of a vehicular access and erection of gates. The land has been subject to several attempts to obtain planning permission on the site, the last being dismissed at appeal in 2005. The main reasons for objection are;
· The increased risk of a traffic accidents, with another access being created onto an already very busy High Street
· There has been no Listed Building Consent attached to this application, as there has been in the past, as this application does not involve the demolition of the derelict buildings on the site.
· The red, brick wall that is proposed to be demolished links three listed buildings – these being Broughton House College, the Site itself and Stone Cottage.
· In the Planning Inspectorate’s Appeal Decision, Section 10 the Inspector notes the southern end of the High Street to be ‘particularly notable with the adjoining Brant Broughton House and No 19 High St been seen within the setting of gardens and mature trees with the parish church providing a dramatic backdrop to the pleasant village scene’.
· There are several mature trees that will need to be cleared to provide enough room for vehicle access, but there has been no comment about this on the application
· The development would cause harm to the Conservation Are – the Inspector makes comment on this in the appeal decision of May 2005, and refers back to the earlier dismissal in January 2004.
· There is no indication on the planning application how the wall would be repaired to stop it from falling down.
· This application places the gate 1m back from the current line of the wall, the demolition of which would increase the risk of trespass. Mr Wynn felt that if this permission is given then the gate should be in line with the current wall, and should specify that a solid gate.
· There are various issues with the accuracy of the application in it’s current form;
i. There are discrepancies on the application whether it is a timber or steel gate proposed
ii. The plan is not clear and measurements are inaccurate
iii. The application states that there is currently a gravel drive, which is incorrect
iv. There is no mention of any of the trees, but they are very close to the proposed development, both at Stone Cottage and Broughton House College which form a natural sound barrier and protect houses from the noise on the High Street.
Mr Wynn pointed out that the applicant has said that he needs access to maintain the garden, but he has already gained access to the plot through Broughton College.
PCSO Chris Boyle reported that there had been four crimes reported since the last meeting, three thefts of scrap metal, and one criminal damage at Broughton House College.
The beat team are retaking Stragglethorpe and Beckingham as from April. The Beat Team have also gained Hykeham, but with no extra staffing.
There was a request for a speed camera on the High Street at approx. 7.30 in the morning – PCSO Boyle reported that speeding in Brant Broughton was one of their priorities and speed checks have already been carried out.
11/13 Apologies
Apologies were received from County Councillor Ray Philips
11/14 Planning
It was agreed to bring forward this item so that the application Adj to 19 High Street could be discussed and then the members of the public could leave, should they so wish to do.
All the points raised by Mr Wynn were discussed and District Councillor Pat Woodman MBE suggested contacting the tree officer to see if an emergency TPO could be placed on the trees affected, ie the Holly, Laurel, Maple – the clerk to contact the tree officer the next day.
The Clerk to respond to the application objecting on the grounds of road safety, the preservation of the trees and the detrimental affect the removal of the wall would have on the Conservation Area, especially due to it’s proximity to Grade 1 and 2 listed buildings.
Four of the members of the public then left the meeting
11/15 Minutes of the meeting held on the 17th January 2011
The minutes were signed as a true and correct record
11/16 Matters arising
Councillor Noble has planted the hedge in Rectory Field, and has 50 hedge plants left. It was suggested that these might be utilized on the playing field – Cllr Halliwell to offer them to the Playing Field Committee.
The sign for the Rectory Field is on order.
The grant application for the Parish Walk leaflet has been submitted, and a decision should be made within the next week. If the application is successful a meeting for interested parties to be called to discuss which walks are to be promoted so Pete Sharman can take some photos from the walks.
The Clerk has spoken to BT and the telephone box has been placed on the repainting list which is only done between May and October. BT have also promised to send a team to clean out the box – this is not done on a routine annual basis, but rather when requested.
The Royal Wedding Committee have decided to hold Tea and Wedding Cake in the Village Hall in the afternoon, and then a ‘Bring a Party to a Party’ Reception in the Hall in the evening. The next meeting is on Wednesday of next week.
The Clerk has drafted a letter for the Dog Waste problem, which was circulated to all Councillors – this was thought to be of the correct tone, and will be sent to all dog owners identified from the electoral register.
11/17 Declarations of Interest
Cllr Tony Noble and Cllr C Halliwell declared an interest as members of the Village Hall Committee.
Cllr Pearce declared an interest as a neighbor to 19 High Street.
11/18 Reports from County & District Councillors
District Councillor Pat Woodman MBE reported the following on behalf of the District Council;
The Budget was set last Thursday – an Average Band D property will attract a Council Tax Bill for £1,439.64
This is made up of County Council £1065
Police £179
NKDC £135
PC Average £60 which is up by 0.6%
This total does not include street lighting – with this included it rises to £1,448.95
The saving that were previously thought need to be made over 4 years has now been reduced to two years. NKDC have saved £1m so far.
It had been thought that the Witham Office hours were to be cut, but this is now not the case.
Pest Control is no longer going to be a free service.
There will be a charge for pre application planning advice.
The car parking charge at Whisby is to double, from 50p to £1.
The cost of removal of bulky waste is to increase from £6 to £10.
There is help if you are over 75 or registered disabled or with impaired vision for the Digital Switchover which will happen in August.
There are Compost Bin subsidies available, with a 330lt bin now costing £16.50.
District Councillor Sue Howe added
The NK visitor guide has now been published.
Lincoln Enterprise Park is to expand having got planning permission for more industrial and office units.
The crime levels in NK are the 8th lowest across 324 districts in the country.
Leisure Connections have started a scheme which allows under 8 year olds to swim free, with just £1 registration fee.
March 27th is the National Census day, and for the first time this can be completed online.
It is ‘Discover Lincolnshire’ weekend this weekend (5th March)
There is a series of talks at Cranwell College on the 9th March – tickets costing £48.50 including lunch.
The next Cluster meeting is on the 11th April in the Meeting Room.
Morton Hall is to open as a Failed Asylum Seekers holding centre.
There is a Vivien Westwood shoe exhibition at the Hub until 2nd May, and Peacocks and Pinstripes featuring the history of men’s fashion.
There is to be an Older Peoples Festival at Whisby covering a variety of topics including exercise and diet.
11/19 Finance
Invoices have been received from;
Lincolnshire Association of Local Councils – Subscription £176.40 including VAT
Society of Local Council Clerks – 50% Subscription (shared with Beckingham) £30.50
Both were passed for payment, and cheques to be written.
A cheque has also been written to Cllr Noble for £196.40 in repayment for the hedging plants.
11/20 Planning
Application for Tree Works
4 Swans Lane – silver birch – remove 4 lowest branches – no comments or objections
Tree Preservation Order
A TPO has been placed on a sycamore tree in the garden adjacent to the road at The Priory, Church Walk.
Planning Permission Granted/Refused – Split Decision
10/1398 Rose Cottage – erection of 3 advanced directional signs on the A17 and 1 wall hanging sign on Rose Cottage – Planning permission has been granted for the hanging sign, but refused on the directional signs on the A17, as the posts and other directional signs are unauthorised. It was suggested that one of the parties on the signs apply for permission for all of the signs. As this is going to appeal NK will not be able to take any enforcement action until the appeal, but it is not known whether the other parties have been contacted by the enforcement officer.
Planning Applications Received
11/0038 Silverlands, 116a High St Construct Brick Skin to existing dwelling and erection of extension to dwelling
Comments have been made to NKDC that the Parish Council thought that the roof tiles should be clay pantiles, rather than the concrete ones proposed. It had been questioned whether the development was within the conservation area, but it is now known that it is outside the area. The District Council have been questioned whether it is the floor space area, or the footprint area that is considered when assessing the percentage increase in a development, as the extra storey does not seem to be accounted for in the ‘design and access statement’.
11/0001 Clover Barn, Mill Lane – erection of timber single storey holiday lodge – no comments or objections
11/0006 Holmes Farm, Sleaford Road – 162 solar photovoltaic panels mounted on south facing roof of existing agricultural building – no comments or objections
11/0076 Fire Station, High Street – installation of 7.26kw photovoltaic array on fire station roof – no comments or objections
11/0123 Land adj 19 High St – creation of vehicular access and erection of gates
-
11/0160 Brant House Farm, Stragglethorpe Lane = proposed extension to grain store, livestock building and change of use of land for the siting of a mobile home to supervise the agricultural business run from Brant House Farm – this has previously been submitted in December (10/1345) and withdrawn in February prior to the new application – no comments or objections
11/21 Correspondence
A letter has been received from the Spinal Injuries Association asking for people to organize a ‘Fish and Chip Supper’ on the 20th May – the clerk to pass on to Karen Johnson as she has been involved with fund raising for the SIA previously.
11/22 Matters for Discussion
Village Hall Update – the Planning Inspectorate have arranged a site meeting on 14th June, but as the grants are only valid until the end of June the VH Committee have lodged an appeal to get an earlier date.
The Planning Inspectorate have received 4 letters of objection to the deregistration of the village green – these being from Mr & Mrs Ashmore 44 West Street
Mr & Mrs Bradley 42 West Street
Mr Clayton 17 Guildford Lane
Mrs Clayton 17 Guildford Lane
All the points raised by the objectors have been covered by the Village Hall and also dismissed by the Planning Department when considering the application for planning permission.
Pot Holes
The clerk has already reported the pot holes on the corner of the village on Lincoln Road and has requested the resurfacing of Swans Lane.
Additionally potholes have been reported on the High Street opposite the Rectory Field and also further towards the Generous Briton. The road to the Clays has pot holes, particularly at Chestnut Farm where the road is breaking up. The previously treated pothole on Meeting House Lane has reappeared.
The clerk to report all to the Highways Department.
11/23 Date of the Next Meeting
This was diarised for Monday, 18th April 2011 at 7.30pm – this will be the Annual Parish meeting followed by a Parish Council Meeting.
The Parish Council AGM of the newly elected Parish Council was diarised for Monday, 16th May 2011 at 7.30pm
It was suggested that the meeting on the 18th April would be best held in the Village Hall as there may be more members of the public attend – the clerk to check on it’s availability.
DRAFT MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL PARISH MEETING OF BRANT BROUGHTON & STRAGGLETHORPE HELD ON
TUESDAY 13TH APRIL 2010 AT 7.30 PM IN THE VILLAGE HALL
Membership
Councillor T Rogers, Councillor C Halliwell, Councillor R Hollingworth (part-
Present
J Lyon (Parish Clerk), District Councillor P Woodman MBE, District Councillor Sue Howe, PCSO Chris Boyle, PCSO Vicky Czajkowski and 12 members of the public
Apologies
Apologies were received from Councillor Hollingworth who had been unavoidably delayed and would be late joining the meeting
Minutes of the previous Annual Meeting, 19th May 2009
The minutes were read by Councillor Tim Rogers and the minutes were accepted as true and correct and signed by the Chair.
Matters arising
Of the £2900 grant received by the Village Hall Committee, £500 is still unused. The issue of ‘green’ parking is an aspiration of the committee but not priority.
Chairman’s Report
Awaiting from Tim
Report from the District Councillors
District Councillor Sue Howe introduced herself as our Conservative District Councillor and Vice Chairman of North Kesteven District Council and reported the following on behalf of the District Council;
Amongst NKDC’s achievements this year are;
The District Council have been classified as ‘performing well’ and the second best local authority framework.
In January 2010 the Council were reaccredited with the Chartermark, and in December 2009 they achieved reaccredidation of development that reflects on services to residents.
NKDC priorities include
Sustainable future of NK – this includes the building of new council houses, including the straw built houses.
Energy Efficiency and waste minimisation
Community well being – the ‘Over 45’ group has been set up, as well as a ‘Youth Council’. There has also been a Senior Forum set up for the Over 50s
Anti Social Behaviour strategy devised
NK enjoy a very low crime ratio
Decent Homes standard achieved for Council houses, with another 37 to be built
Planning On Line – enabling planning applications to be viewed through the website
Whisby Nature Park has increased visitor attendance with over 6000 visitors in the first two months
Dial A Ride bus service
Better Transport forum
The Council tax has been set at 1.76%
NK are working with private individuals as there are currently approx 7000 long term empty houses
Recycling – bottle banks to be removed to make a saving to the Council of £44K per annum. Glass can be recycled through household recycling bins (it was later clarified that the bottle banks are to be kept until August 2011, however the paper and can banks are currently being removed)
District Councillor Pat Woodman MBE added the following on behalf of the District Council
Following boundary changes Bassingham Ward and Brant Broughton Ward were amalgamated and have 2 cllrs, myself and Sue Howe.The ward now stretches from South Hykeham to Beckingham
The increase of 1.76% in council tax equates to a rise of £2.34 per year for a Band D property.
There is to be an ‘Energy Saving’ day on 30th April at the Memorial Hall, Hykeham.
There are to be more straw houses built at Martin.
The District Council have to bid for monies, and have successfully bid and been awarded £1.5M for the Greater Lincoln district for eco homes.
Youth participation is being encouraged at District and Parish levels – recognised by the inclusion of Youth Awards
The question was raised as to whether the Right to Buy still applies to new Council Houses. There is a time limit applicable and there is to be new legislation to cover this. 75% of monies received by the District Council after a Right to Buy, is taken by the Central Government rather than staying in the District. Councillor Helliwell reported that the same question had been raised at the District Council Forum and it was reported there that the Council can only sell at ‘build cost’ but Councillor Rogers thought that this was incorrect and the market value is used, and a percentage of that calculated to arrive at the cost to buy for the tenant.
Report from Police
PCSO C Boyle reported that PC M Roberts has now been transferred away from the area, and is now working at Headquarters, and a replacement has not been appointed.
The crime figures for the year include;
Violent crime has reduced from 9 incidents to 4, sexual offences down 50%, burglaries down by 26%, drug related crimes has stayed the same, criminal damage has risen by 19% and fraud has stayed the same. The figures are for the area, not just Brant Broughton & Stragglethorpe.
New security lighting have been installed at Bassingham and 2 new lights will be funded in Brant Broughton.
Two new cold calling zones have been set up in Brant Broughton.
The turning from Guildford Lane onto the High Street is particularly dangerous – the parish clerk to write to Highways to ask what can be done to improve visibility.
There has been one crime reported since the last Parish Council meeting, this being a theft from Welbourn Road.
Reports from Village Hall, Playing Field and PCC
Accounts for all three organisations, that receive monies from the Parish Council were circulated to all present.
Village Hall
Tony Noble reported the following on behalf of the Village Hall Committee
The first funding application was successful. Professional help was sought to consider whether to repair the existing village hall or to rebuild a new one, consultation continued with the public through an open meeting.
Fund raising efforts continue
There are currently reserves of £31,741, and on top of this there are pledges from individual and the Parish Council raising the total to £48,500. The Lottery will make a decision by the end of May, and if successful it may be possible to start work as early as June or July.
It was asked from the public what would happen if the Lottery Application is unsuccessful – Mr Noble assured that works would not commence until it is sure that the full funding can be accessed.
It was questioned whether Cllr Noble should have declared an interest in the January Parish Council meeting when the precept was discussed, as a member of the Village Hall Committee receiving monies from the Parish Council. It was clarified that both he and Cllr Halliwell should have declared a ‘personal interest’ but could have still been present and voted on the issue. Likewise Cllr Rogers should have declared a ‘personal interest’ as a member of the playing field committee. All concerned apologised and Cllr Noble offered his resignation, but it was agreed that this was not necessary.
Cllr Hollingworth pointed out that all members of committees are unpaid volunteers and serve on relevant committees for the good of the village as a whole community.
Approve Accounts y/e 31st March 2010
A copy of the accounts for the year ending 31st March 2010 was presented to the Councillors and members of the public.
It was questioned why the monies given by the original village Show Committee did not appear in the accounts. It was agreed that these should show as included in the bank balances, and this would be altered before submitting to the Charities Commission. With this alteration it was proposed and seconded to accept the accounts.
Village Tent/Marquee
Cllr Dunning declared a personal interest as a member of the Village Show Committee.
A price of £1500.00 has been obtained for a 60 x 30ft marquee. The clerk has successfully applied to Fund NK, and they will fund 50% upon receipt of an invoice.
The existing ‘tent’ is owned by the Village Show Committee, but after much discussion it was decided that it would be more appropriate that the new one be owned by the Parish Council, and to be made available to the relevant organisations.
The issue of storage was raised – it was agreed to obtain a price for dry, secure storage – Baines at Leadenham would be approached and also Belton Rentals, from where the tent is being purchased. The cost of storage and insurance would be shared between the organisations utilising the tent ie, Village Hall Committee, Playing Fields Committee and the Village Show Committee.
It was proposed by the Parish that the Parish Council should purchase the marquee at a cost of £1500, taking advantage of the £750.00 grant available, and lease out to village organisations as required. To be voted on at the next Parish Council Meeting following the Annual Parish Meeting.
Questions from the public
Cllr Noble clarified the question about the ‘green’ parking at the new Village Hall – the village hall committee have talked to planners and also the manufacturers of the matting, but this cannot be used anywhere that requires disabled access – they are still talking to the manufacturers.
Date of Next Annual Meeting
This was confirmed as 19th April 2011 at 7.30 pm in the Village Hall.
MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF BRANT BROUGHTON & STRAGGLETHORPE PARISH COUNCIL HELD ON MONDAY, 13TH APRIL 2010 FOLLOWING THE ANNUAL PARISH MEETING IN THE VILLAGE HALL
Membership
Councillor T Rogers, Councillor C Halliwell, Councillor K Helliwell, Councillor P Dunning, Councillor A Noble, Cllr K Pearce, Cllr R Hollingworth
Present
J Lyon (Parish Clerk), District Councillor Pat Woodman MBE, 10 members of the public
1) 10/23 Election of Officers
2) As Cllr Rogers has now moved away from the village, he said he would not stand as Chairman for the forthcoming year.
3) Nominations were asked for the position, but none were forthcoming.
4) It was agreed that the election of officers should be deferred until the next meeting, and that this would now be a normal Parish Council Meeting and Cllr Rogers agreed to retain the chair until a replacement could be found. The clerk to check with NKDC member services how long Cllr Rogers can stay on the Parish Council having left the parish.
(Note; NKDC have since advised that Cllr Rogers can remain on the Parish Council until the next Electoral Register is done i.e. December, but that his vacancy cannot be advertised until he has officially resigned)
5)
6) 10/24 Public and Police Time
There was nothing further to report following the Annual Parish Meeting
10/25 Apologies
Apologies were received from District Councillor Sue Howe and the Police
10/26 Minutes of the meeting held on the 8th March 2010
The minutes were signed as a true and correct record.
10/27 Matters arising
· Tallents have been looking into the boundary uncertainty around the Rectory Field, and it can’t be definitively decided without occurring large expenses. The solicitors have recommended that the Parish Council takes responsibility for 50% of any repair costs to be shared with the house owners. The next time that ‘free trees’ are offered the Parish Council can apply for hedging plants to replace the existing wooden fence.
· Cllr Noble reported that he had attended the ‘Estate Audit’ around council owned properties in the parish – the main issues raised were damaged footpaths and roads, speeding traffic along Swans Lane and dog and cat fouling. A review will take place in six months time.
· Village Tent
At this point Personal Declarations of Interest were made by;
Cllr Dunning as a member of the Village Show Committee
Cllr Rogers as a member of the Playing Field Committee
Cllr Noble as a member of the Village Hall Committee and the PCC
Cllr Halliwell as a member of the Village Hall Committee
Further to the proposal made at the Annual Parish Meeting a vote was taken on the
purchase of a pre-
6 in favour, 1 against – motion carried
It was suggested that the Village Show Committee could contribute towards its rental using monies put aside for an alternative marquee provisionally booked for the forthcoming Village Show
The Parish Clerk to obtain quotes for it’s storage and the cost of insurance and storage should be shared between the Village Hall Committee, The Village Show Committee and the Playing Field Committee.
· Warding – The Parish Clerk has spoken to NKDC to ‘set the wheels in motion’ to ensure that one Parish Councillor is from Stragglethorpe, but has been advised that it may not be possible to get this completed before the Parish Council elections in May 2011.
10/28 Declarations of Interest
There were no further declarations of interest.
10/29 Reports from County and District Councillors
There was nothing further to report following the Annual Parish Meeting
10/30 Finance
A cheque has been banked for £12,300 for the 2010/11 precept.
Quotes have been received for the grass cutting of the playing field
Continental Landscapes have quoted £29 for the playing field, and £34 including the play equipment strimming, and £17.75 for the Rectory Garden.
Green Ability have submitted a quote of £3956 per annum, which equates to double that of Continental.
It was agreed that Continental’s quote be accepted.
10/31 Planning
Planning Applications Received
10/0309/LBC Main Building, Broughton House College – Internal refurbishment to existing residential accommodation and administration facilities – no comments or objections
10/0241/LBC Friends Meeting House, Meeting House Lane – Addition of glazed door and glazed side panel in barn passageway – no comments or objections
Notification to fell/lop trees in a Conservation Area
66 High Street – Walnut – reduce height and spread of crown by approx 2m – no comments or objections
3 Swans Lane – Ash cut back/prune lower branches – no TPO made
75 High Street –Willow tree – pollard from the existing bowl – no TPO made
106 High Street – willow tree – re-
There has been a planning application submitted to NKDC for Morton Hall, Swinderby.
It is currently a prison, but it is proposed to use HMP Morton Hall as an Immigration
Removal Centre – to detain people waiting for deportation following a failed asylum
application. No change of use is necessary, but the application is for security
lighting to perimeter fence and addition of S-
10/32 Correspondence
NKDC have written to notify the Parish Council that the new numbers for the houses built on Pailings former site are 25, 27, 29 and 31 West Street, starting at the most northerly.
Best Kept Village Competition – further to unsuccessful entries in previous years, it was decided not to enter the competition this year.
NKDC have written re a ‘Protocol for Handling Complaints’ – this has been photocopied and distributed to Councillors for their consideration – to be discussed at the next meeting.
NKDC – Footway Lighting – as from 1st April all repairs to footway lights must be reported to LCC
Victim Support – financial contribution request – for circulation
Lincolnshire County Council -
Spinal Injuries Association – fundraising request – for circulation
A letter has been received re mole catching – the clerk has made an appointment for 14th April at midday – Cllr Dunning agreed to meet and a quote will be submitted subsequently.
10/33 Matters for Discussion
Pot Holes are still identified as a problem in the village and surrounding lanes – the clerk to report once again.
10/34 Date of the Next Meeting
The next meeting date will depend on the answer from NKDC re Cllr Rogers, but a suggested date of Tuesday 4th May was suggested, if he is only allowed to remain in office for a short period.
Further to this, as Cllr Rogers is allowed to remain until December, the next meeting has been diarised for Monday, 24th May in the Heritage Room.
Parish Council Chairman:-
Clerk to the Parish Council:-
Parish Councillors:-
Pam Dunning
Carol Halliwell
Keith Helliwell
Robert Hollingworth
Tony Noble
Keith Pearce
Tim Rogers
The Parish Council meets every 6 weeks at 7.30pm in Brant Broughton Heritage Room or Village Hall. Members of the public are welcome to attend.