Notes from the Parish Council Feb Mar Meetings
John Covill chaired both meetings with 8 Parish Councillors and members of the Public in attendance.
At the March meeting Mark Mehaffey, Clean Neighbourhood Enforcement Officer for ECDC, gave a presentation on fly-tipping. Everyone agreed that this was very informative. Mr Mehaffey asked that the public report any incidents of fly-tipping they witnessed as this information was essential to catching those responsible. There followed some discussion about the de-lay in clearing fly-tipping from Barston Drove. Mr Mehaffey confirmed that he was aware of this and currently following up with Veolia.
Public Participation:
Alastair Everitt asked at the February meeting why the Cedar tree in the Churchyard was to be taken down. Andrew Camps replied that this was the outcome of a meeting with Cathy White, Tree Officer for ECDC. The tree has now been taken down.
Reports:
CCC: Cllr David Brown reported.
Over both meetings the condition of the disused railway bridge between Swaffham Prior and Reach was discussed. It was reported that a structural survey had been carried out by CCC at the end of 2009. Following this some repair works were carried out by Anglian Water but there remained some concerns and Cllr Brown was asked to follow this up with CCC's Structural Engineer and ask for an up to date survey and report.
ECDC: Cllr Allen Alderson reported.
Correspondence Received: The Clerk reported on correspondence.
Matters Arising from Previous Minutes (for information only)
There were no matters arising.
Consideration of Planning Application for 24 Fairview Grove - construction of a single detached 4No bedroom dwelling and garage. Ref: 09/00931/OUT. Following consideration there were no objections to this application.Consideration of Planning Application for 60 High Street - remove two garden sheds and replace with two new sheds/utilities buildings under one roof. Ref: 10/0012/FUL. Following consideration there were no objec-tions to this application.
Repairs to the Pound, Cage Hill: The work to the Pound was discussed over the two meetings. Although grant funding was not available from ECDC the Parish Council agreed that the priority was to ensure the safety of the wall and carry out remedial works. One option put forward was the reduction in height of the wall at the front with a capped top edge, possibly to the same height as the gate. It was suggested that this would be easier to main-tain and allow a better view of the Pound itself. The Clerk was to ask Rosie Burton, Conservation Officer for ECDC, her views on this and report back to April meeting.
Provision of Dog Bins in the Village: The purchase of 3No dog bins was agreed. A survey of the village was carried out to identify the best locations and a meeting was to be arranged with ECDC's Dog Warden to agree these. Once received ECDC will install the bins and be responsible for emptying them.
Accounts for Payment: These were agreed. Steve Kent-Phillips reported that he would produce an end of year budget report for the April meeting.
Clerk's Report:
A BT public notice was found in the phone box on the High Street stating that due to its lack of use BT planned to remove it. Although the date for comment was past it was reported that the notice gave the option of adop-tion by the village community. A copy of this notice was not sent to the Par-ish Council.
Following a request from residents of Fairview Grove, an extra salt/grit bin was ordered as part of CCC's 'bulk buy' scheme. Once received, this will be placed at the bottom of Fairview Grove near the turning circle.It was suggested that the Village car park was in need of a disabled parking bay and some levelling work. This was to be added to April agenda for con-sideration.
One of the cemetery seats had found its way to a viewing point over the adjacent paddock. This was to be returned to the cemetery.
The Annual Village Assembly/Meeting (May date to be confirmed). This is your chance to put your views, ask questions or just find out more about what is happening in your Village or even more importantly what you would like to see happen in your Village! You make the agenda, so please let your Clerk know of any subject you would like to be included as soon as possible.
Parish Councillors' Reports:
Geoffrey Woollard had been contacted by a former resident of the village who asked what had happened to the copies of the Crier on line. Alastair Everitt confirmed that this was a problem that would shortly be resolved.
Peter Hart reported on hedge overhanging footpath. As spring time ap-proaches and following recent requests received it would be appreciated if residents could check boundary hedges, trees, shrubs, etc., to ensure that they are cut back from footpaths and pavements. Some of the village foot-paths are very narrow and extra attention is needed to ensure these are kept clear.
Open Question Time:
The lack of lighting over the village car park was raised noting that the spot light had been faulty for several months. As this was the responsibility of the VHMC Committee, the Parish Council representatives on that committee were asked to follow this up.
If anyone would like further information on any of the above items, please do not hesitate to contact the Clerk. The next meeting will take place on Thursday, 8th April 2010 at 7.30pm in the Village Hall. All are welcome to attend.