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Present: Mr Alan Fry OBE QPM (in the chair)
Mr Jon Allbutt and Mrs Margaret Boadella
Mr Tony Erbes Mrs Wendy Maddison
Mr Ian Mitchell Mr David Wood
In Attendance: Mr John Sandiford (Clerk),
Mr Bob David (Tandridge DC Councillor)
And 2 parishioners.
1. Apologies Mr David Hodge (Surrey CC Councillor)
2. Minutes
The Minutes of the meeting held on the 9th January 2006 were approved and signed as a correct record.
subject to the following amendments:
Paragraph 5(b)(5): The insertion of “not” in the final sentence before “necessary”;
Paragraph 11(b): The amendment of “would” to “should”;
Paragraph 11(c): The correction of the date to read 18 March;
3. Matters Arising:
(a) Summer Concert: Tony Erbes confirmed that the Concert would be held on Sunday 16 July 2.00-4.00 p.m. The Lewisham Concert Band’s fee would be £250 + the cost of refreshments. These arrangements were agreed.
(b) Xmas Tree: David Wood indicated that this matter was still under consideration.
4. Tatsfield School
The Chairman reported that he and the Clerk had met Peter Dicken on Friday 4 February in order to familiarise him with the school site and the adjoining area and to brief him on the details of the proposed transaction. Peter Dicken had now written a report and it was agreed that his report would be discussed at the end of the meeting in the absence of the press and the public as the discussion would involve the terms of a legal contract to be proposed to Surrey County Council.
The Chairman then summarised a report that he had received from David Hodge. This indicated that a great deal of work had been undertaken behind the scenes but there was still a considerable amount of work to be done before a formal set of plans could be prepared for public display. Highway issues had been and would continue to be addressed, including the effect on the Village Centre. He promised to continue pressing County Council officers to be more proactive and he intended having a meeting of all departments, including the Tandridge Local Transport Department before the 6th March after which he would be abroad for a period of time.
The Chairman expressed his continuing disappointment that the project was not making more headway. The Parish Council had still not had any detailed proposals with regard to the acquisition by the County Council of the L-shaped Field. After discussion, it was agreed that a further letter should be addressed to the County Council pressing for information.
5. Planning Matters
(a) Current Applications: Tony Erbes reported on the applications listed in Appendix A and the action agreed is as shown in Appendix A..
(b) Sundry Planning Matters:
(1) Planning Procedures: The Clerk had circulated the draft amended protocol to members and it was agreed that this would be adopted, subject to some slight amendment, and the Clerk was instructed to submit a copy to Bob Evans for his comments. The Clerk confirmed that the current Insurance Policy covers any councillor whilst on Parish Council business. If, whilst on such business, a councillor should sustain an accident, cover would apply subject to such benefits payable and the terms, conditions and exclusions of the policy. At present, the cover is £50,000 for death or total disablement with scaled down benefits for lesser injuries.
(2) Surrey CC Waste Plan: Jon Allbutt indicated that he had considered the Plan and did not feel that it was necessary to make any response.
(3) Surrey CC Minerals & Waste Development Framework: Jon Allbutt indicated that he had considered the Framework and did not feel that it was necessary to make any response.
(4) Tandridge DC: The Chairman drew attention to the fact that, in future, Surrey Highways would not have a representative present at meetings of the Development Control Committee unless there was a special need. The Chairman indicated that this came about because of the need to save expenditure but he considered it to be regrettable.
(c) Planning Councillor: Alan Fry
6. Finance
(a) Internal Auditor: The Clerk reported that Peter Frost of Peter J Consultants was willing to undertake the function of internal auditor. His charges would be £40 per hour and he anticipated the audit would involve 3 hours. Travelling time would not be charged but travelling expenses of 40p per mile were payable in addition. His appointment was confirmed. A vote of thanks was passed to David Sinclair for his assistance and the Clerk was asked to write David Sinclair accordingly.
(b) Grants:
(1) Village Hall: The Clerk indicated that he had heard nothing further.
(c) Payments: The Payments listed in Appendix B were approved.
7. Highways & Rights of Way
(a) Tatsfield Safe Routes to School Project: It was agreed that this matter would no longer feature regularly on the agenda as nothing was likely to occur until the new school plans were agreed.
(b) Highway Matters:
(1) Lusted Hall Lane/Ricketts Hill Road: The Clerk reported that the statutory period of notice was running after which the Kiosk would be removed provided that there were no objections.
(2) Traffic Speed Survey: Tony Erbes reported that he had recently taken SCCouncillor David Hodge on a tour of the Parish to show him the extent of the damage to road verges. He considered that urgent action was required. After discussion, it was agreed that, before making formal approaches to Surrey Highways, it would be advantageous to carry out a Traffic Census based on the same criteria as the previous census in order that a proper comparison could be made showing the increase in traffic flow. Jon Allbutt agreed to organise this in conjunction with Ian Mitchell and Tony Erbes.
(3) Old Lane: The Chairman reported that he and the Clerk had met John Lawrence, the Deputy Director of Environmental Protection, and had acquainted him with the situation so far as the Parish Council was concerned. It seemed clear that the joint initiative with Surrey Police was not functioning as it should and John Lawrence had promised to look into matters. He had promised to report back prior to the meeting and it was agreed that this matter should be chased up.
(4) Approach Road Lay-by: It was noted that the lay-by was in need of attention as it gave an untidy view at the approach to the village. Jon Allbutt indicated that the Tatsfield in Bloom volunteers would see what could be done.
(c) Rights of Way Matters: David Wood undertook to investigate a report that Tatsfield Bridleways Association had posted notices of an intended application for a bridleway along Avenue Road and the connecting pathways towards Biggin Hill.
8. Reports
(a) County Councillor: The Chairman, in the absence of David Hodge, reported on the following matters:-
(1) Tatsfield in Bloom: He was pleased to report that the SCC Tandridge Joint Committee had approved a grant of £1200.
(2) Village Centre: He had taken up the traffic problems with Mr D Poole, the Transport Manager for Tandridge, and these were to be looked at again.
(3) Highways: Having toured the area with Tony Erbes, he had reported certain problem areas to Surrey Highways.
(b) District Councillor: Bob David reported on the following matters:
(1) Church Farm: He understood that Surrey CC had objected to the application for conversion of the barns as it asserted that it would be contrary to planning policy to establish a new residential development that was not served by local transport. He intended to investigate the matter further.
(2) Local Transport: As a result of information passed to him, he had reported to Metrobus that its drivers were taking a shortcut down Church Hill at the end of evening service. Metrobus had indicated that this was not permitted and were advising its drivers accordingly. He also drew attention to the fact that free bus travel was becoming available to the over 60’s and the disabled.
(3) Council Tax: He understood that Tandridge would be recommending a 4.9% increase for the coming year.
(4) Vandalism: He reported that about 12 youths had travelled to Tatsfield by the 464 bus service and proceeded to commit acts of vandalism. The matter was being investigated.
(c) Police Matters: Ian Mitchell had nothing to report.
(d) Biggin Hill Airport: Ian Mitchell indicated that the Airport’s Master Plan had now been published and a copy had been placed in circulation for members to see. This document set out the Airport’s aspirations and would be used in support of future applications to expand the Airport and its services. Air traffic had increased slightly but was no where near the permitted maximum.
(e) Transport Matters: Alan Fry reported that he had attended the meeting of the East Surrey Transport Committee on 11 January and he drew attention to the fact that passengers travelling from Woldingham and Oxted into London did not qualify for concessionary fares.
(f) Risk Assessment: Nothing to report.
9. Notified Items:
(a) Youth Activities: Jon Allbutt reported that members of the Youth Forum had recently had a very useful and constructive meeting with Beverley Spooner, the Project Manager for the new school. She had made clear that, for practical reasons, the multi-sports area would not be completed until the school had been completed. There was uncertainty as to whether funding would be available in the new financial year for the Detached Youth Worker John Twigg who was at the present time visiting the village weekly.
(b) Parish Emergency Plan: Jon Allbutt reported that the Emergency Plan had now been completed although a list of local residents who would be able to provide important services was still being compiled. It was agreed that the Plan should be published on the Parish Council’s website and that hard copies should be available for public use.
10. Village Hall
(a) Management Committee Report: Nothing to report.
(b) Village Hall Constitution:
(c) Village Hall Lease: It was unanimously agreed that the public and press should be excluded whilst this matter was discussed as it involved the discussion of the terms of a legal contract to be entered into by the Parish Council.
11. Property & Land Maintenance
(a) General:
(1) Parish Room - Access: Nothing to report
(2) Parish Room: It was noted that David Wood had purchased a radiator and the cost was included in Appendix B. Tony Erbes indicated that the replacement of a missing section of guttering was in hand. It was agreed that the Clerk should arrange for the Parish Room telephone to have the call answering service so that if members of the public telephoned the Parish Room they would be able to leave a message.
(3) Top of the Down, Ricketts Hill Road: The Clerk indicated that this matter had now been completed. and the consideration of £1,000 received.
(4) Land corner of Maesmaur Rd and Ship Hill: The Clerk reported that he had written to the adjoining owner who had telephoned him to say that the damage caused to the fence was not done by them. Tony Erbes indicated that the land had now been tidied and he would arrange for the swings to be removed.
(5) Beech Wood, Ricketts Hill Road : Jon Allbutt indicated that he had obtained one estimate in the sum of £1,750 for the work required to remove and/or cut back trees overhanging the drainage ditch bordering Old Lane. He agreed to obtain two further estimates.
(b) Tatsfield in Bloom: The Clerk reported that he had been informed that the SCC Tandridge Local Committee had agreed a grant of £1200 for the coming year and this grant was likely to be paid to the Parish Council shortly. He also drew attention to the receipt of sponsorship of £1000 from Ibbett Moseley for the coming year. Jon Allbutt indicated that work was progressing well and the displays would feature grasshoppers – to commemorate the association with the Gresham family.
(c) Pond: Wendy Maddison indicated that it was hoped that the Pond could be integrated into the Tatsfield in Bloom theme.
12. Meetings to Attend
(a) Limpsfield Parish Council Annual Meeting: 15 March 2006 at St Peter’s Church Hall, Limpsfield 7.45 for 8.15 – Chairman and Clerk.
(b) Surrey Community Action Chairs Forum: 20 April 2006 at Runnymede Centre, Chertsey Road Addlestone 1.30-20.00 p.m.
13. Correspondence
(1) Standards of Conduct in Local Government: The Clerk reported that he had distributed to members a summary of the Consultation document and it was agreed that no further action was required.
(2) Village Centre: The Clerk indicated that the Hall Management wished to erect a notice board advertising a forthcoming fundraising event “Another Fling in the Forties” on the central island from 17 March to 1 April. This was agreed.
(3) Westmore Green: The Clerk indicated that he had recently had a telephone conversation with a resident who lived adjacent to the Green asking if a pathway could be provided on part of the Green adjacent to the Village centre because schoolchildren had to walk in the road in bad weather conditions due to the muddy surface of the Green. He had suggested that the resident should write setting out her request but he had heard nothing further.
14. Any Other Business
(a) Annual Parish Meeting: The Chairman indicated that the Annual Parish Meeting would be held on Wednesday 17 May. The Village Hall had been booked and a guest speaker had been arranged.
(b) Westmore Green Children Play Area: Jon Allbutt reported that he was pleased that the play area appeared have been maintained much better recently but he still considered that it could be improved. He indicated that the considerable public use of the play area meant that more maintenance was needed.
(c) Westmore Green: Wendy Maddison indicated that she was concerned at the long delay that occurred in Thames Water dealing with a burst water main that had caused flooding in the Village centre. It was also noted that there was a blocked gully by the standpipe used by Tatsfield in Bloom that required attention. The Clerk was asked to notify Thames Water.
The Meeting closed at 10.58 p.m.
RESULTS:-
Approved:
05/1657 MSA North, Clacket Lane, Westerham
05/1660 MSA South, Clacket Lane, Westerham
05/1673 The Grasshopper Inn, Moorhouse
05/1691 The Laurels, Hillside Road
05/1732 Little Hobs, Old Lane
Refused
05/1798 Land north west of Viewfield, Greenway
Withdrawn
05/1828 Crayford Cottage, Johns Road
Appeals Pending
04/0674 The Paddocks, Lusted Hall Lane
05/0111 Parkwood Golf Club, Parkwood Rd
05/0843 Woodlands, Old Lane
CURRENT APPLICATIONS:-
05/1883 Thriftwood Cottage, Broomlands Lane, Moorhouse
Erection of first floor extension to east and south elevation and conversion of roof space over whole dwelling to provide two additional bedrooms together with alterations to conservatory (amended description)
Recommendation: Objection to be lodged on the grounds that the development was within the MGB and was excessive in comparison to the size of the existing dwelling
05/1891 Church Farm Barns, Church Hill
Demolition of outbuildings and glasshouses; erection of single storey link between Barn 1 and 2 in connection with the conversion of existing barns to 3 x 3 bed and 1 x 2 bed (total 4) together with associated parking and widening of existing access.
Recommendation: Objection to be lodged raising concern that (a) barns are not capable of conversion (b) residential not necessarily appropriate (c) Single community being fragmented (d) requirements of Policy RE6 not satisfied and (e) failure to take Tatsfield Church into consideration
.00/0541 MSA North, Clacket Lane, Westerham
Variation of Condition 1 of permission dated 10 July 2000 to allow a further 5 years for the commencement of the erection of single storey extension to amenity building and alterations.
Recommendation: Objection to be lodged in the same terms as previously.
06/0061 4 Crossways
Erection of enlarged pitched roof over sun room with dormer window to garden elevation and installation of two roof light windows to garage
Recommendation: No objection.
06/0089 22 Shipfield Close
Demolition of single storey rear extension and erection of 2 storey rear extension and single storey front extension.
Recommendation: Objection to be lodged based on over-development of the site and proximity to adjoining property amounting to unneighbourly development.
06/0095 11 Westmore Road
Demolition of rear extension and erection of single storey rear extension (Application for Certificate of Lawfulness for Proposed Development)
.Recommendation: No objection.
06/0145 Overhead Wood Pole Line, Ricketts Hill Road
Re-conductoring of existing 1 open/3 wire line with aerial bundled conductor PVC covered overhead cable (Consultation by EDF Networks)
Recommendation: No comment.
06/0162 Overhead Wood Pole Line, Kemsley Road
Re-conductoring of low voltage overhead wood pole lines (Consultation by EDF Networks)
Recommendation: No comment.
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