Minutes of a Meeting of Great Ayton Parish Council
held on Tuesday 15th September 2009 at 7.00 pm
Present
Councillors Mrs F Greenwell, Chairman, R Kirk, Mrs J Imeson, J Fletcher, G Readman and D Conroy. PCSO D Marshall, H Atkinson, P Suggitt and Mrs L Holden also attended.
Welcome
Cllr Mrs Greenwell welcomed Judy Cumbor as the new Parish Clerk.
Apologies
Apologies for absence were received from Cllr N Waters.
Minutes
The minutes of the meeting held on Tuesday 18th August 2009 were approved and signed.
Police Business
The statistics for August showed a total of 19 crimes, these were: 1 auto crime, 6 dwelling burglaries, 2 other burglaries, 4 criminal damage, 2 other crimes, 3 thefts, 2 violence. Whilst the number of crimes remained the same as last year the total incidents reported were 106, up by 17 on the same period last year.
PCSO Marshall reported that he felt there had been a vast improvement relating to anti social behaviour in the last 6 months, although “boy racers” continued to be an issue.
The Parish Council asked what had contributed to the improvement, PCSO Marshall commented that it could be related to the number of arrests that had been made, and the discussions the Police had had with the youths.
Cllr Kirk asked about the increase in dwelling burglaries, PCSO Marshall wasn’t sure what was causing this but it was possibly related to cross border criminals and/or darker nights; the Police are addressing the situation. Cllr Mrs Greenwell asked what actions the Police would be taking now the dark nights were here, PCSO advised an Autumn Campaign was in preparation to address events such as Halloween.
Cllr Mrs Imeson reported that a resident in Addison Road had reported to the Police an incident with a cold caller who had not been able to provide ID, the same person was later seen at another property in the road where the occupant let the caller in, the Police were contacted but did not show up, PCSO Marshall said that he would look into this and contact the person concerned to apologize.
Cllr Readman reported that a small damaged area of the surface in the play ground had been made worse by someone pulling at it. PCSO Marshall requested the Cemetery Superintendant report this to the Police so that the matter could be followed through as criminal damage.
PCSO Marshall advised that the new Inspector was now in office. The Parish Clerk reported Sgt Murray had advised Insp Criddle was keen to meet with the Parish Council and would hopefully attend the next meeting; Cllr Mrs Greenwell requested that the Clerk send a letter of welcome and a copy of the Minutes to the Inspector.
Cllr Mrs Greenwell thanked PCSO Marshall for attending.
Cemetery
The Cemetery Superintendant had nothing specific to report, but did mention damage within the area was down.
Burial of non-residents – Cllr Mrs Imeson put forward the suggestion to build a new wall where the rose garden is for plaques to be affixed with a flower bed at the bottom. Ashes could be spread on the grass close by. A diagram of the wall was put forward for discussion, it was decided that the Cllr Mrs Imeson and the Cemetery Superintendant would discuss further with a Builder. It was agreed that the wall would be called “Memory Wall”; all plaques would be the same size as on the present Wall of Remembrance from Peel Engravers. The Cemetery Superintendant reported he already had a waiting list for non-residents.
Cllr Mrs Imeson proposed that the Parish Council pay for the first plaque and that this would be for L Groves as a long standing Parish Councillor, the proposal was agreed. Minute continued.
Allotments
Nothing to report.
Waterfall Park
It was reported that the new bins in Waterfall Park needed to be re-positioned, and that the bottom panels on the sluice gate needed to be inspected and repaired as these were rotting, the River Warden was asked to attend to this. Minute concluded.
Play area
Cllr Readman reported on his attendance at 2 Referral Orders with the Youth Justice Service (YJS), he suggested the Youths did some work in the village as part of their reparation, the YJS will write to the Parish Council to make suitable arrangements. Apologies from the Youths were given to Cllr Readman and letters of apologies will be written and sent to the Parish Council. Minute concluded.
The Cemetery Superintendant reported that the Youths completing Community Service had finished the cemetery fence, they had since painted a hut and bench and work would continue to be found for them, they were of an older age and did not need supervision. Minute concluded.
River
The River Warden reported that mole holes had appeared along the bank side of the river on the Low Green on the Yarm Lane side; the River Warden was asked to look into who/how to deal with this. Minute continued.
It was also reported that there was a wasp nests on the bank side of the river opposite Stokesley Butchers, this did not appear to be causing a problem and would be left alone. Minute concluded.
Matters arising from the minutes
Village Hall – Cllr Kirk reported that the written report had been received from the Structural Surveyor, this indicated that the building was structurally sound, the main issue was the ceiling, the false ceiling would need to be taken down which would create an issue with the stays and metal pins, it was suggested to leave this down once the repairs had taken place, the roof would be insulated to keep heat in; a quotation has been requested.
A donation of £1,000 had been received from The Jack Brunton Charitable Trust; it was requested that the Parish Clerk send a letter of thanks. North Yorkshire County Council would provide a grant of £5,000 and Hambleton District Council one of £3,000. A grant from the Leader Grant Scheme run by North York Moors National Park Authority had been applied for. Cllr Readman asked what the present estimates were, Cllr Kirk reported £50,000 without the ceiling work. Minute continued.
Highways matters - railings Waterfall Terrace etc. Work was ongoing, including cemetery railings. Minute concluded
Flooding - Flood Water Storage Scheme – On consideration of The Environment Agency plan of action Cllr Fletcher stated that the Council would need professional assistance with a finding a solution, it was decided that a Civil Engineer, would be contacted by Cllr Fletcher. Cllr Readman asked if the Council would pay for the services and it was agreed that they would. Cllr Mrs Greenwell requested the Parish Clerk investigate grants with the Yorkshire Regional Flood Defence Committee. Minute continued. School Lane – The Parish Clerk confirmed she had a key to the gate and would confirm this to Highways. Cllr Mrs Greenwell requested that the Parish Clerk chase Highways for confirmation that the blockage was cleared and to point out that the gate is not fit for purpose and should be changed. Minute continued. Riverbed – As no further information has been received from Environment Agency (EA) concerning the maintenance of the shoals on an on- going basis, it was requested that the Parish Clerk write to EA about the matter. Minute continued.
Flower tubs – It was agreed that Brian Johnson would be asked to act as Foreman with Ray Booty, Raymond Brown and Irene McDonald as Assistants. It was raised that the tubs should be watered frequently. Cllr Fletcher requested that the Parish Clerk keep an eye on the cost of replanting, and that the Hill Gold Card should be shared with Brian Johnson. The Parish Clerk would follow up this matters with Brian Johnson. Minute concluded.
The Parish Clerk mentioned that the new sign for McColls sponsorship had been broken, it was requested that the Cemetery Superintendant be asked to fix this. Minute concluded.
Ambulance service – Outcome of the Informal Health & Scrutiny Committee Meeting waited. Minute continued.
Public conveniences – Hambleton District Council’s (HDC) response concerning the costs savings from the 3 month closure of the conveniences were discussed and it was agreed that the Council would ask The River Warden to open the conveniences each day no later than 9.00am, closing at dusk through this period, with a request to HDC to perform a reduced cleaning regime during this time; if this was not acceptable then the Parish Council would pay HDC to open for the 3 month closure. Cllr Mrs Imeson requested the Parish Clerk write a letter to HDC, copy to the Chief Executive, with their proposed solution and express the Council’s dissatisfaction at the way this has been handled. Minute continued.
Maintenance of Trees Low Green – Highways wrote to state that these trees were not their responsibility, it was agreed that Cllr Fletcher and the River Warden would look at them and report on a course of action. Minute continued.
Willow Tree near Wooden Cabin, Low Green – Minute continued.
Newton Road Trees – Cllr Mrs Greenwell requested The Parish Clerk chase this item as nothing had been done to the trees. Minute continued.
Accounts
Payments The Royal Oak (Catering Yorkshire v Australia Cricket Teas) 465.00 Mazars LLP (Audit Mar09) 460.00 LexisNexis (8th Edition Local Council Admin) 72.45 Signs & Plastic Products Ltd (engraved plaque McColls Flower Tub) 26.45 Eric Harrison (verge cutting x 3 Aug/Sep) 645.00 Ian Holden (IT equipment for new Clerk) 222.89 Louise Holden (Postage Jan to Aug) 97.08 Think Interiors Ltd (Paint) 13.49 W. Eves & Co Ltd (Petrol) Direct Debit 85.09 Friends School (Hall Hire) 28.00 Sam Turner (Equipment Parts) 45.42 Richard Collins (Grave Digging x 2) 160.00 H Atkinson (Phone Card Top Up) 10.00 Farmway (Rat killer) 63.02 Receipts D Bailey (garage rent) 10.00 Cemetery Receipts 1850.00 HM Revenue & Customs (VAT Refund) 309.34
Correspondence
Margaret Stephens – request to sell Xmas Cards near McColls on 2nd Oct – Approved.
Victoria Maynard, Park Sq Coffee Shop – enquiry concerning if approval required from the Council to sell surplus bread/cakes in bags for Duck Food from outside (or inside) the Coffee Shop. Proceeds to Yatton House – It was agreed that Cllr Mrs Imeson would visit the Coffee Shop and explain the Parish Council’s concern about encouraging rats with food the ducks do not eat.
Middlesbrough Council – notice of intension to review the Statement of Community Involvement. PC invited to make representations by 8th Oct – It was agreed no action would be taken.
WRVS Meals on Wheels - request to assist with publicising urgent requirement for additional volunteers (notice provided) – Notice given to D&S representative to advertise in the paper, it was suggested the 2nd notice could be placed in the Library.
Steve Shaw Local Works, Sustainable Communities Act – request to support changes to the Act to formally include and give new powers to Local Councils by means of petition to local MP to support the Early Day Motions + letter requesting a donation towards 40K costs
HDC – Revenue Estimate Schedule for 2010/11 – Cllr Kirk and the Parish Clerk would meet to discuss principles for the budget preparation.
Simon Taylor Under 11s Football Team – Web Page – It was decided Cllr Waters should respond suggesting the Cricket and Football Web Site as the appropriate site.
Mr Hetherington – Low Green Footbridge – It was requested that the Parish Clerk write to Highways to investigate and provide a non-slip surface.
HDC – Results of The Respect Day Questionnaire – Results were in line with expectations.
HDC Rural Housing –Poster Choice Base Letting Consultation dates for notice board – HDC Notice Board.
NYMNPA – Poster regarding Secretary of State Member Vacancy for the Authority – Both Notice Boards.
Mr Moore – Request/proposal regarding planting of replacement trees in Skottowe Cres. – Request rejected as it was felt this could set a precedent, and there was concern about the ongoing maintenance should Mr Moore leave the area; it was requested that the Parish Clerk would respond accordingly.
The following items of information were received:-
HDC and RDC Working Together –update on Shared Services Project and next steps
Rural Services Network
Monthly News Letter
Weekly Hinterland Newsletter x 3
Notice of Joint Conference with Action for Market Towns 13/14 October in Melton Mowbray
Call for evidence on helping to shape our own rural future, comments due 30th Sep
Rural Public Services Delivery Course 20th Oct, London
State of Rural Services Report Survey (no due date)
Rural Services Community – Weekly Rural News Focus Notices
York & North Yorkshire Partnership – Invitation to Cultural Conference 1st Oct Scarborough
A Hill & Sons – Cash and Carry Gold Member Card, plus Newsletter
Fieldwork (Campaign to protect Rural England) – September Issue
NYCC – Carriageway Surface Dressing Newton Road start date 24 August, possible delay until next year
Entec – Tees Valley Joint Minerals and Waste Development Plan Documents for R&CBC
NYMNPA – Updated list of Committee Members
Streetscape – Play Area Products Brochure
Timberline – Play and Outdoor Structures Brochure
Glasdon – Brochure of latest Products for Local Councils, includes waste bins
Clerks & Councils Direct - Sep Magazine
Cleveland Search and Rescue Team – Thanks for Donation and confirmation of allocation
NYMNPA – FYI Agenda for Sep Meeting
NYMPNA – Group discounted Insurance in NYMNP Area through Zurich
R&CCC – Draft Residential Extension and Alteration, Draft Landscape Character Supplementary Planning Documents available for review/comment
White Hill Direct – Town and Country Bus Shelters Info/Prices
Blachere Illumination – Buy One Get One Free Refurbished Festive Lighting
Paxton Computers – Accounting Package for Charities
Planning applications
Applications
Proposed loft conversion and internal improvements - 52 Wainstones Close + letter of objection from M/M Acornley 68 Wainstones – No representations, but letter should be forwarded to HDC Planning Dept.
Replacement of first floor balcony with lean to pitched roof and mall first floor extension - 1 Linden Road – No representations.
Proposed porch extension to front of property - 37 Skottowe Crescent – No representations.
Erection of storage building for stabling horses, equipment and food/hay storage together with use of land for keeping of horses at land adjacent Gribdale Terrace – The Parish Council wished to see the proposals refused on the grounds that the development would be too large and exposed within the position resulting in a significant detrimental impact on the natural environment and appearance of the landscape. The building would be highly visible from the surrounding Cleveland Hills.
Certificate of Lawfulness – Applebridge Cottage – Cllr Mrs Greenwell would speak with previous owner.
Proposed replacement of roof from flat to pitched – 3 ~Romany Road – No representations.
Plans approved
Single storey extension – The Grange Coach House
Single storey extension – 24 Linden Road
Rear Conservatory – 10 Farm Garth
Withdrawn
Alternations and extensions to existing dwelling – Stanley House
Refused
Change of use from Residential to Office – 1 Low Green
Other Items
The current clerk used her own printer/copier as the Parish Council’s was not fit for purpose. It was agreed that suitable equipment be purchased for the new clerk.
Councillors’ Reports
Cllr Readman confirmed that he is now the Representative for the Stokesley Area on the County Committee for Hambleton, this was thanks to Cllr Mrs Imeson’s proposal.
Cllr Readman reported that the Captain Cook Day of Sail (28th October) arrangements were progressing, he was looking for volunteers to be present during the day, Cllrs Mrs Greenwell, Mrs Imeson, Fletcher, Kirk and the Parish Clerk all confirmed they would be present for some or all of the celebrations. HDC had sent out the invitations to the visiting Dignitaries and for the Dinner on 30th October. Those wishing to attend the dinner on 30th October should let Cllr Readman know by 14th October, tickets are £22.50 per head. Cllr Readman said he was indebted to Cllr Mrs Imeson’s for her help in organizing the event.
Cllr Conroy advised that he had received complaints about the house being built in Roseberry Crescent and that this did not fit in with the surroundings. Cllr Mrs Greenwell confirmed that the height issue had been taken up with HDC Planning and they had visited site confirming that the building complies with the original plans. Cllr Mrs Greenwell also confirmed that the Parish Council’s position when asked to comment on the original application was one of objection stating the house would be overbearing within the plot.
Cllr Mrs Imeson mentioned that she had been approached by a Member of the Conservative Club about the theme for the Fete Float in 2010. The Club will be 100 years old in 2010 and are keen to have representation on the Float. It was decided to hold this item for discussions about the Fete at the suitable time.
Cllr Mrs Greenwell closed the Meeting.
The date of the next meeting would be Tuesday 13th October 2009