JANUARY-MARCH 2000

MINUTES of a Meeting of Tatsfield Parish Council held on the 10th January 2000 in the Parish Room, Westmore Green, Tatsfield at 8 p.m.

Present: Mrs Margaret Boadella.(in the Chair)
Mr Bob David Mr Tony Erbes
Mrs W Maddison Mr Ian Mitchell
Mrs Dorothy Reeve Mr David Wood

Apologies: Mr Harry Pettifor (SC Councillor)

In attendance: Mr John Sandiford (Clerk), Mrs Tina Fry (TD Councillor) Mr Philip Clark (Parish Constable) and 5 parishioners.

At the opening of the meeting, the Chairman congratulated Tony Erbes and all of the people involved with the Millennium New Year’s Eve celebrations that had been so successful.

1. Minutes
The minutes of the meeting held on the 13th December 1999 were approved and signed by the Chairman as a correct record subject to the following amendments:
Immediately prior to Paragraph 1 Minutes the inclusion of the following paragraph:-
“Before the meeting officially commenced, the Chairman drew attenion to the recent publication of the Tatsfield History and congratulated all those involved with the Tatsfield History Project for producing such an interesting and worthwhile book.

2. Matters Arising
Post Office Handrail: David Wood indicated that he had spoken to the owner of the Post Office and it appeared that he would not be willing to have a handrail parallel to building as had previously been the case. There were practical difficulties preventing a handrail being attached to the building. Various suggestions were made and David Wood promised to undertake further discussions. the matter further to report
Breakthrough Mobile Advice Centre: Bob David indicated that the Centre would be at Crossways during the morning and outside the shops in the afternoon of 11 February.

3. Planning Matters
a. Applications as at Appendix A: Dorothy Reeve reported on the applications listed in Appendix A and the following action was agreed:-
99/789 Barleyfield Barn, Park Farm, Rag Hill Road: After discussion, it was agreed that the Clerk should write TDC to voice the Council’s concern at the potential effect of the development.
99/1318 Plum Trees, Hillside Road: There were no neighbour objections and the Council would lodge no objection.
99/1399 Rosedene, Ricketts Hill Road: An objection had been lodged in support of the adjoining owner’s objection based on unneighbourly development.
99/590 Ivydene, Maesmaur Road: Ian Mitchell indicated that he attended the appeal on 5 January.
Planning Councillor: Margaret Boadella

4. Finance
Payments: as at Appendix B were approved.
b. Annual Account: The Clerk reported that the District Auditor had sanctioned the publication of the Annual Account and he suggested that it could be published in the Parish Magazine. This was agreed.

5. Highways & Rights of Way
Sundry Highway Matters: Bob David reported on the following matters:-
(1) B2024 Clarks Lane: This matter would come up at the TPATS meeting on 10 February.
White Lane: Nothing further to report.
Approach Road: The posts had been purchased and would be installed shortly.
Ricketts Hill Road: No decision had yet been made as to whether re-surfacing work would be carried out. Tony Erbes indicated that he did not consider that all the gullies had been cleared and Bob David agreed to report this back to Surrey Highways.
Footpaths: David Wood indicated that he was still pursuing the matter of FP564. He also would mention to the Rights of Way Officer the bad condition of FP21 and see if anything further could be done.
Fallen Leaves: There were complaints about fallen leaves in Westmore and Paynesfield Roads. Bob David pointed out that these roads were not bus routes and therefore did not qualify for clearance but he would see what could be done.
Road Salting: It had not been possible to make any contact with Surrey Highways immediately after the last meeting. The general opinion was that salting had been carried out efficiently. Westmore and Paynesfield Roads had been difficult because they were not on the salting route. Kevin Barter, the owner of Bransgore, Ship Hill, was to be congratulated on his very prompt action in salting parts of Ship Hill and the Clerk was asked to write to him accordingly.
Tatsfield School Parking: The Clerk reported that he had written to the Police as requested at the last meeting. Copies had been sent to the School and to Surrey Highways.
SCC Provisional Transport Plan: Bob David apologised for the fact that the informal group had not met to discuss this matter. It was agreed that the group comprising himself, Tony Erbes and David Wood would meet as soon as possible to formulate a response and that Ian Mitchell would be consulted about this before it was submitted.
Claimed Public Bridleway Rights: It was agreed that discussion of this matter would be deferred until Bob David had been able to obtain a copy of any response submitted by the Bridleways Association..

7. Reports
a. County Councillor: In the absence of Harry Pettifor, there was no report.
b. District Councillor: Tina Fry mentioned the following matters:-
(1) She had not received any complaints about salting except in the case of Paynesfield and Westmore Roads that were not salted because they were not bus routes.
(2) She was very concerned about the Development Strategy for Biggin Hill Airport and wished to know the views of the Parish Council. TDC would be discussing its response at a meeting on 11 January. There was likely to be a public meeting to discuss the matter and she was anxious to rally support and hoped the Parish Council would attend.
(3) She outlined the progress in the re-development of Warlingham Park Hospital.
(4) She enquired the position with regard to the Basketball stand and was informed that the Parish Council was not prepared to allow this in the Hall car park.
Parish Constable: Philip Clark reported on the following matters:-
Millennium: The the whole district had been very well behaved for the Millennium celebrations and Tatsfield had been no exception.
Road Salting:He had had complaints about the lack of salting/gritting in Paynesfield and Westmore Roads but appreciated the reason for this.
Light Nuisance:He had also had complaints about a green floodlight in Crossways that was illuminating a wide area and could be seen from a considerable distance.
Neighbourhood Watch: For a variety of reasons, this was not functioning. A Co-ordinator had recently been appointed but there had been no contact with her as yet. This was a matter that would be discussed at the next PCPG meeting.
d. Biggin Hill Airport: Ian Mitchell had circulated a draft response to the Airport’s Development Plan and these were discussed. It was agreed that these submissions should be toughened up in certain respects and that some reference should be made to fuel dumping that might occur over the village. It was also agreed that a request should be made for an Environmental Impact Assessment be made. Enquiry should also be made of adjoining Kent parishes so that any responses could be co-ordinated.

8. Council Aims & Objectives
Aims & Objectives for Next 4 Years: Discussions took place on this matter and it was agreed that the Clerk would prepare a document for consideration at the next meeting.
b. L-shaped Field Committee: There was nothing to report.

9. Notified Items
a. Millennium Committee: It was generally agreed that the New Year’s Eve Party in the Village Hall and the Millennium Bonfire on Westmore Green had been a complete success and everyone involved with the organisation was to be congratulated. There had been no progress made with the Beacon project and there was to be a meeting of the Millennium Committee on 24 January.

10. Village Hall
a. Building Project Committee: Ian Mitchell reported that no real progress had been made since the last meeting. The Contractor considered that all snagging had been completed but this had to be checked. There was still damp appearing in the Green Room but this would be the Contractor’s responsibility, as possession had not yet been handed over. There were also continuing problems with the heating and with boiler noise. No further payments had been made and these would not be made until the Committee was satisfied on outstanding matters.
Management Committee: Whilst he agreed that there were still outstanding problems to be resolved, Bob David indicated that, in other respects, the new Hall was very successful. Present and future bookings were running at a high rate and hirers passed very complimentary remarks about the facilities. A meeting of the Management Committee had taken place on 5 January with the new chairman, Geoff Groom presiding.
Review of Constitution: There was nothing further to report at the present time.

11. Property & Land Maintenance
Property: Tony Erbes had nothing to report.
b. Pond: Tony Erbes indicated that he had not been able to obtain the further quotation and suggested that the contract should be let to Waterside Aquatics in the sum of Ł620 + VAT. This was agreed.
b. Land:
Tatsfield in Bloom: Nothing to report.
Westmore Green: The refuse collection vehicle had recently caused damage to the surface of the Green and Bob David indicated that he had requested that when the ground conditions were bad, a smaller RCV should be used. He had also requested full re-instatement.

12. Meetings to attend:
a. Pride of Place Awards Launch: 24 Jan 2000 at 4.00 p.m. in Shepperton - Bob David would not be attending but had asked for details to be sent to him.
Surrey Rail Forum: 18 April 2000 at 10.00 a.m. at County Hall – Denis Hayes to be asked to attend.
PCPG: 13 January at Warlingham Methodist Church Hall – Ian Mitchell

13. Correspondence
a. Surrey Web: Ian Mitchell indicated that he had arranged for the Parish Council to be included on this.

14. Any Other Business
Grants: It was noted that Crossways and Goatsfield residents might be applying for a grant.
Emergency Calls: Bob David indicated that all emergency calls from anywhere within the Parish boundaries would now be routed to Surrey. This would not necessarily apply to calls from mobile phones. Enquiries were in hand as to a recent emergency call which was mis-routed.
Bus Services: Ian Mitchell indicated that there had been problems with the Arriva service that he was pursuing on a personal level. The new Croydon Tramlink should commence service in March and this would bring about a reduction in fares to Croydon via Biggin Hill and New Addington. He would be making enquiries to see if similar reductions were negotiable for fares to Croydon via Warlingham.

The meeting closed at 11.05 p.m.

MINUTES of a Meeting of Tatsfield Parish Council held on the 14th February 2000 in the Parish Room, Westmore Green, Tatsfield at 8 p.m.

Present: Mr Tony Erbes (in the Chair)
Mr Bob David Mr Ian Mitchell
Mrs Dorothy Reeve

Apologies: Mrs Margaret Boadella (abroad), Mrs Wendy Maddison (illness) and
Mr David Wood (illness)

In attendance: Mr John Sandiford (Clerk), Mr Harry Pettifor (SC Councillor) and 4 parishioners.

1. Minutes
The minutes of the meeting held on the 10th January 2000 were approved and signed by the Chairman as a correct record subject to the deletion of “the matter further to report” from the last line of Para 2a.

2. Matters Arising:
Old Lane Garages: The Clerk reported that TDC had investigated this matter and had concluded that the garage areas did not represent any breach of planning control but the owner of one area of land had been advised to remove derelict vehicles and rubbish.
Breakthrough Mobile Advice Centre: Bob David confirmed that this had visited the area on 11 February and would be making 6 monthly visits in future.
Neighbourhood Watch: It had not been possible to discuss this matter at the last PCPG meeting.
Westmore Green: Bob David confirmed that a smaller refuse collection vehicle was now being used.
Emergency Calls: Bob David reported that he had obtained a response from British Telecom but not as yet from the Ambulance service.

3. Planning Matters
a. Applications as at Appendix A: In the absence of Margaret Boadella, the Clerk reported on the applications listed in Appendix A and the following action was agreed:-

99/347a 84 Paynesfield Road: An objection based on unneighbourly development had
been lodged. Notification of a further amendment had just been given and
was considered but it was agreed that the objection should stand.
00/138 The Scout Hut, Approach Road: It was agreed that the Clerk should write and place on record the reason for the withdrawal of the request for a condition
requiring demolition of the portacabin on the previous application.
00/361 Cedar Lodge, Lusted Hall Lane: No objection.
Planning Councillor: Bob David

4. Finance
Payments: as at Appendix B were approved.
Annual Account: It was noted that this had been published in the last edition of the Parish Magazine.

5. Highways & Rights of Way
Sundry Highway Matters: Bob David reported on the following matters:-
B2024 Clarks Lane: See report by County Councillor.
White Lane: Ditto.
Approach Road: This matter was still outstanding.
Ricketts Hill Road: Bob David confirmed that he had reported that all the gullies had not been cleared.
Footpaths: The Clerk reported that David Wood had discussed the condition of FP564 with Phillipa Gates (SCC Rights of Way Officer). She considered the situation acceptable but did agree that it was extremely difficult for pushchairs etc. If Parish Council wished to press the matter and wrote accordingly, some action would be considered. It was agreed that a request should be made to reduce the amount of shingle on the path. David Wood had also discussed the blockage of FP17 and it appeared that the Council had started to clear the footpath but had been persuaded to stop work by a friend of the landowner. The landowner was elderly and in a home and it had been suggested that blockage of the footpath improved security. David Wood was of the opinion this was not acceptable and that the Council should write asking that the County Council proceed with clearance of the footpath. This was agreed. As there was no information concerning FP21, the Clerk was asked to remind David Wood about this.
Fallen Leaves: This matter had now solved itself.
Road Salting: Harry Pettifor agreed to see if Paynesfield Road, Crossways and Westmore Roads could be included in the schedule.
Tatsfield School Parking: The Clerk reported that the Police had indicated that the Parish Constable had been asked to monitor the situation.
SCC Provisional Transport Plan: Bob David reported that the Group had met to formulate a response. This had been submitted and a copy placed in circulation. It contained a suggestion that there should a Tatsfield Transport Project.
Post Office Handrail: The Clerk reported that the Sub-Postmaster now knew where the salt was stored and he had undertaken to ensure that the path was salted immediately. It appeared that no further action could be taken.
Ricketts Hill Road Closure: Details of this would be published in the Parish Magazine.
Lusted Hall Lane: It was noted that there was considerable erosion being caused on the Approach Road junction by vehicles mounting the verge.
Claimed Public Bridleway Rights: The Clerk indicated that SCC had given notice that a formal application had been made by Tatsfield Bridleway Association. The Parish Council had been invited to submit comments within 5 weeks (approx 23/2/2000) on (a) the application and (b) the public status of Old Lane throughout its entire length. The Clerk also read a letter from the Bridleways Association pointing out the advantages that it considered would accrue if the bridleway was officially recognised. It was agreed that the matter would be considered by a group comprising Tony Erbes, Bob David, Dorothy Reeve and Ian Mitchell and that the Clerk should write SCC to indicate that it was unlikely that any submission could be formulated within the required time.
Possessory Land: Tony Erbes agreed to obtain quotations for the fencing of the land on the corner of Maesmaur Road/Ship Hill and Shaw Road Triangle. It was also agreed that consideration should be given to the submission of an application to HM Land Registry for a possessory title in respect of one piece of land.

7. Reports
a. County Councillor: Harry Pettifor mentioned the following matters:-
(1) Local Transport Plan: He was very pleased to see that the Parish Council were in favour of 20 mph limits
(2) Bond Road Refuse site: This would be retained until 2006/7 at least.
(3) TPATS: The last TPATS meeting had agreed that a Local Task Group would be set up immediately. This group would seek the views of local people and organisations about local road schemes such as the Titsey Hill roundabout and White Lane. He suggested that it would be preferable for there to be a united front from Tatsfield.
(4) B269 Reinstatement: Due to the unsuitable weather SCC had not pressed the Contractor as yet but he was aware that there was considerable concern. He was sure that the County Council would be insisting on some action in the near future. He noted the suggestion that the opportunity might be taken to re-sow the grass with a wild flower mix.
(5) Icy Roads: He had suggested that small supplies of salt should be distributed in roadside containers so that residents could use it but this suggestion had been turned down. Experience showed that the salt was used for private rather than public purposes.
(6) Aircraft Pollution: He was pleased that Tatsfield was involved in the Biggin Hill Airport debate because he had noticed an increase in aircraft fuel pollution on local vegetation.
b. District Councillor: In the absence of Tina Fry, there was no report.
c. Parish Constable: Ian Mitchell that Surrey would be able to recruit 78 additional officers over the next 3 years. No enquiries had been made concerning the green floodlighting at 8 Crossways and the Clerk was asked to take the matter up with TDC.
d. Biggin Hill Airport: Ian Mitchell reported that the Public Meeting called by TDC on 9 February in the Village Hall had been postponed until 28 February 2000 at 7.30 p.m. There was however some doubt as to whether that meeting would take place as the Airport Operator had now indicated that it would not attend. After discussion, it was agreed that Ian Mitchell would contact TDC to ascertain whether or not the meeting would proceed. If it was not to proceed, consideration would then be given as to whether Tatsfield should hold its own meeting even though it seemed unlikely that the Airport Operator would agree to attend. It was also agreed that relevant addresses for letters of objection by members of the public would be publicised in the Parish Magazine.
Generally, Ian Mitchell confirmed that the response to the Development Plan had been amended as agreed at the last meeting and had been submitted. At the last Consultative Meeting, it had been reported that air traffic was continuing to decline in volume. He also drew attention to a number of consultation documents being circulated by the DOE relating to the method of assessment of demand for airport facilities in the future
E Surrey Transport Committee: The report circulated by Denis Hayes was noted. The Clerk indicated that it had since become clear that the problem at E Croydon had not been resolved and it was unlikely that the Croydon Tramlink would commence until May/June. It was agreed that the questions concerning through-ticketing, cross-border concessionary fares and promotion of the new services should be pursued. Denis Hayes was requested to bring these matters to the Parish Council’s attention once a definite date was set for the commencement of the new service.
SCAPTC: The Clerk had circulated to all members copies of the proposed constitution that would be discussed at the next SCAPTC meeting on 11 March. It was agreed that any member who had any points to raise on the draft should make these known to Margaret Boadella who would be attending the meeting.

8. Council Aims & Objectives
Aims & Objectives for Next 4 Years: The Clerk had circulated to all members a draft for their consideration. The Clerk had not received any comments from members on the draft. Bob David expressed his disappointment that the draft aims did not include any mention of the Village Centre improvement scheme that had received such large public support. After discussion, it was agreed that the Parish Council’s aims for the remainder of its 4 year term would be as follows:-
To continue to monitor all planning applications and to lodge objections and make such other representations to the Planning Authority as are considered necessary in the circumstances with the object of preventing unrestricted development and ensuring the preservation of the rural aspect of the village;
To do all within its power to preserve and maintain the village environment and, in particular, to monitor all public footpaths and maintain areas of land open for public recreation and the village pond with the object of ensuring that such footpaths and areas are accessible at all times in the future to all and, in particular, to the elderly and the disabled and to encourage all village organisations to do likewise;
To continue support for village clubs and bodies, including in particular youth organisations, with the object of ensuring the continued existence of such clubs and bodies;
To continue support for local shops with the object of ensuring that such shops continue in business;
To continue support for the participation of Tatsfield in the South East in Bloom competition and to continue promotion of the Tatsfield in Bloom competition;
To bring the Village Hall project to a successful conclusion as soon as possible and to support the Village Hall Management Committee thereby ensuring the continued use of the Hall for the benefit of the residents of Tatsfield;
To further the development of the L-shaped field as an area of public recreation as soon as finances and other circumstances allow;
To encourage and promote waste recycling and the conservation of resources;
To manage the Parish finances so that funds are available to meet expenditure necessary to provide such services as the Parish Council deems desirable and to keep the precept to as low a level as is possible commensurate with good financial practice;
To co-operate with the County and District Councillors to ensure a free exchange of views concerning all matters which affect Tatsfield and to ensure that the views of the Parish are represented whenever and wherever matters are discussed that are of relevance to Tatsfield.
b. L-shaped Field Committee: Bob David reported that the committee had been due to meet on Monday 7 February to consider the schemes that had been submitted. Due to illness, the meeting had been cancelled and would be re-arranged.

9. Notified Items
Millennium Committee: Nothing to report.
Annual Parish Meeting: It was agreed that this should be held on Tuesday, 4 April.
TDC Local Air Quality Review: Bob David indicated that this report had been considered and there were no specific matters that called for comment. He felt that the Copyhold Incinerator at Redhill and the developments at Biggin Hill Airport could cause air pollution and it was agreed that the Clerk would write to TDC to draw attention to these matters.

10. Village Hall
a. Building Project Committee: Ian Mitchell reported that outstanding matters to be dealt with centred round the Hall floor, the Green Room, the central heating and the boiler noise. All of these matters were receiving constant attention.
b. Management Committee: There was nothing to report.
Review of Constitution: A meeting of the group comprising Margaret Boadella, Bob David, Ian Mitchell and Geoff Groom had been due to take place on 8 February but had been cancelled because of illness. This would be re-arranged.

11. Property & Land Maintenance
Property: Nothing to report.
b. Pond: The Clerk confirmed that Waterside Aquatics had been instructed to proceed. As yet nothing had been done due to the absence of the contractor abroad. The matter would chased immediately.
c. Land: Bob David reported that rubbish dumping was once again taking place in Old Lane and in Ricketts Hill Road. The Clerk was requested to write to residents in the vicinity. A similar problem was occurring in Tatsfield Lane and he promised to report the matter to LBB.

12. Meetings to attend:
a. E Surrey Parishes LG: 18 April at 8 p.m. at Horne – Margaret Boadella
Surrey Rail Forum: 18 April 2000 at 10.00 a.m. at County Hall – Denis Hayes to be asked to attend.
SCAPTC: Saturday 11 March at 2.30 p.m. at Bletchingley Village Hall – Margaret Boadella.
SCAPTC AGM: Saturday 15 July at 2.30 p.m. at East Horsley Village Hall – Margaret Boadella.
E Surrey Crime Prevention Panel: 19 April at 7.30 p.m. at Oxted Police Station – Ian Mitchell.
Limpsfield Parish Council APM: Wednesday 22 March 2000 at 7.45-8.15 p.m. – Margaret Boadella.
Local Agenda 21 Forum: 29 February at 7.30-7.45 p.m. at Council Offices Oxted. – Ian Mitchell

13. Correspondence
E Surrey Crime Prevention Panel: The Clerk indicated the Panel had a mobile exhibition van that could attend events in the Parish. It was agreed that details would be publicised in the Parish Magazine.
North Downs Way Strategy: A letter from the Project Manager had been circulated and was noted..
Surrey Hills Jigsaw Project: A letter had been circulated and was noted. It was suggested that the Project could be asked to bring its display to the Annual Parish Meeting.
New Parish Councils: The Clerk indicated that TDC was seeking informal help from existing Parish Clerks at the first meeting of new Parish Councils. It was agreed that there was no objection to the Clerk offering his assistance.
SCC Economic Strategy: The Clerk reported that SCC had submitted a draft 2000/01 Action Plan for consideration and wished to have responses by 8 March which would be prior to the next meeting. It was agreed that a group comprising Tony Erbes, Ian Mitchell, Dorothy Reeve and Bob David would consider the draft report and submit any responses that were considered appropriate.
SCC Community Care Plan 1998/2001: The Clerk reported that SCC had circulated a copy of the draft 2nd update for consideration and comment. Any comments were required by 7 April. It was agreed that the same group would deal with this matter.

14. Any Other Business
Ian Mitchell drew attention to some literature that he had placed in circulation concerning the future of Parish Councils and the registration of common land.
Dorothy Reeve drew attention to the fact that Clacket Lane barriers giving access to the Motorway Service area appeared to be left open regularly. It was agreed that the matter should be drawn to the attention of the relevant authorities.

15. Tatsfield Post Office
Due to the sensitive nature of the matter under discussion, it was unanimously agreed that the public should be excluded while this matter was discussed.

The meeting closed at 11.59 p.m.

MINUTES of a Meeting of Tatsfield Parish Council held on the 13th March 2000 in the Parish Room, Westmore Green, Tatsfield at 8 p.m.

Present: Mrs Margaret Boadella.(in the Chair)
Mr Bob David Mr Tony Erbes
Mrs W Maddison Mr Ian Mitchell
Mrs Dorothy Reeve

Apologies: Mr David Wood

In attendance: Mr John Sandiford (Clerk), Mrs Tina Fry (TD Councillor) and Mr Harry Pettifor (SC Councillor). There were no parishioners present.

1. Minutes
The minutes of the meeting held on the 14th February 2000 were approved and signed by the Chairman as a correct record subject to the following amendments:
The addition of “and B2024” after B269 in Para 7a(4);
The deletion of “the same group” and the insertion of “Bob David” after “agreed that” in the third line of Para 13f.

2. Matters Arising:
Emergency Calls: Bob David indicated that he was still awaiting a reply from the Ambulance Service.
TDC Local Air Quality Review: The Clerk confirmed that he had written TDC as requested at the last meeting.
SCC Economic Strategy: Bob David reported that a copy of the reply had been placed in circulation.
SCC Community Care Plan 1998/2001: Bob David reported that he had not felt that it was necessary to make any representations.
Tatsfield Green: The Clerk confirmed that he had written to owners of properties in both Old Lane and Ricketts Hill Road about the dumping of rubbish.

3. Planning Matters
a. Applications as at Appendix A: Bob David reported on the applications listed in Appendix A and the following action was agreed:-
00/126 8A Westmore Road – no objection.
00/179 Bransgore, Ship Hill – no objection.
00/200 17 The Square – no objection.
00/223 Pine Lodge, Maesmaur Road – no objection.
00/139 4 Wedgwoods – to be dealt with by the incoming Planning Councillor.
00/264 42 Paynesfield Road – ditto.
81 Paynesfield Road: A close boarded fence was being erected at the rear of this property fronting Bridleway 614 and it was believed to be approximately 6 feet in height. It was considered that it might require planning permission and it was agreed to refer the matter to TDC for investigation.
MSA Clacket Lane: The Clerk was requested to draw the attention of TDC to the fact that the entrance gates in Clacket Lane were frequently left open enabling members of the public access to the Motorway Service area.
District Plan: Ian Mitchell indicated that the new Regional Planning Guidance should be available in a week’s time and there would then be a 3 month consultation period. The new District Plan should be available in the first week of June.
8 Crossways: No reply had as yet been received as to whether the floodlighting in the garden of this property.
Planning Councillor: Wendy Maddison

4. Finance
Banking Arrangements: The Clerk drew attention to a letter from HSBC indicating that the present free banking period would expire on 31 March. Thereafter HSBC proposed a charge per item tariff that would mean a quarterly charge of approximately Ł23-25. After discussion, it was agreed to accept the position.
NALC Information Service: The Clerk indicated out that the renewal subscription of Ł87.00 was due. He pointed out that last year questions had been raised as to whether it should be continued and members had agreed to consider over the year how much they used it. It was agreed to renew the subscription.
Payments: as at Appendix B were approved.

5. Highways & Rights of Way
Sundry Highway Matters:
B2024 Clarks Lane: Bob David indicated that a site meeting was to be held on 10 April at which representatives of all interested parties would be present. After discussion, it was agreed that the Parish Council still supported the scheme in principle and that its main concerns were that there should be sufficient lighting, particularly in foggy conditions and that signage should be kept to a minimum.
White Lane: There were no further developments.
Approach Road: The white posts had been installed.
Ricketts Hill Road: Surrey Highways would be checking the gullies. The road closure had not taken place on 12 March and it was not known when it would be closed but it would certainly not be on 26 March when the Road Race was taking place. .
Footpaths: The Clerk reported that, as instructed at the last meeting, he had written to Phillipa Gates (SCC Rights of Way Officer). She had replied indicating that no action would be taken as far as the shingle on FP564 was concerned. The blockage of FP17 would be dealt with as soon as possible.
Lusted Hall Lane: Harry Pettifor had indicated that Surrey Highways might agree to do something to restrict heavy traffic using this road if it was satisfied that all interested parties were in agreement. Whilst it was agreed that such agreement was unlikely, it was agreed that the matter should be taken forward with Surrey Highways to see if some solution could be found to the Lusted Hall Road/Approach Road junction.
Approach Road: Surrey Highways had indicated that it could now proceed with this road crossing and a meeting had been arranged so that the exact position could be agreed. Bob David pointed out that the Council had previously agreed to contribute Ł100 to the cost.
f. Claimed Public Bridleway Rights: Bob David reported that, as agreed at the last meeting, the group comprising himself, Tony Erbes, Dorothy Reeve and Ian Mitchell had agreed the terms of a response and this had been submitted to SCC. He summarised the terms of the response.

7. Reports
a. County Councillor: Harry Pettifor mentioned the following matters:-
(1) B269 & B2024: The Contractor would be dealing with the road verges early in April and had agreed to include wild flower seed when re-seeding the grass areas adjacent to road junctions.
(2) Lusted Hall Lane: Surrey Highways would consider possible restrictions on heavy traffic using the road if all parties were in agreement. He suggested that it might be worth while to pursue the matter even if it only resulted in some repairs being carried out to Approach Road corner.
(3) B2024 Clarks Lane: A site meeting would take place on 10 April.
(4) Road Salting: Surrey Highways would not agree to extend the existing schedule to include Westmore Road & Paynesfield Road. After some discussion, he agreed to pursue this matter further. Surrey Highways had agreed to stock local salt bins.
b. District Councillor: Tina Fry mentioned the following matters:-
(1) Croydon Tramlink: This could not start public operation until there was a period of 30 days clear of accidents and as yet another accident had occurred in the last few days, there was no definite date as yet.
(2) Bridleway Application: She had received a large number of representations from residents in the Old Lane area who were opposed to this application. They were however unwilling to make their objections known publicly.
(3) Biggin Hill Airport: She believed that there was a lot of frustration following the recent public meeting because inadequate information had been available. She intended protesting to the BBC over the recent news coverage. She suggested that this was a matter that might be discussed at the Annual Parish Meeting.
(4) Basketball Stand: She was disappointed that the Parish Council would not agree to the installation of this in the carpark..
c. Parish Constable: There was no report.
Biggin Hill Airport: Ian Mitchell reported that the Public meeting in the Village Hall held on 28 February 2000 had been attended by about 120 people. It had been reasonably successful given that the Airport Operator had not been represented. LBB, in its capacity as landlord, was due to consider, at a meeting on 24 March, the Operator’s request for an extension of the operating hours under the Lease. Whilst he believed that LBB might well refuse this request, he suggested that the Parish Council should write urging LBB to refuse it. This was agreed and the suggested terms of the letter were agreed. Ian Mitchell pointed out that consideration of the Development Strategy proposed by the Airport still had to be considered by LBB in its capacity as the Planning Authority. An objection to this had already been lodged. If an extension to operating hours was refused, he considered that it would make the approval of the Development Strategy difficult.
Local Agenda 21 Forum: Ian Mitchell reported that this meeting had well attended. There were a number of interesting displays on a variety of environmental issues and the speaker, Geoffrey Lean of the Independent on Sunday, had highlighted the progress that was being made.
East Surrey Parishes LG: Ian Mitchell indicated that he attended a visit to Gatwick Airport organised by the Group. The Airport had demonstrated the sophisticated procedure that it employed in plotting of complaints about aircraft movements.
Transport Officer: The report by Denis Hayes concerning various matters was noted.

8. Council Aims & Objectives
L-shaped Field Committee: Bob David reported that the committee had been met on 6 March and had decided on a shortlist of 4 architects and it was hoped to interview them on 28 & 30 March.

9. Notified Items
Millennium Committee: Tony Erbes had nothing to report.
Annual Parish Meeting: The Clerk reported that invitations had been sent out and some acceptances had already been received. It was agreed that the Chairman would give a report encompassing the majority of the Council’s activities but there would be separate reports from Ian Mitchell on Biggin Hill Airport and from the Clerk as to the general financial situation. Bob David agreed to draw attention to the meeting in the Parish Magazine. The Clerk was asked to write to Tatsfield Women’s Institute apologising for the clash with their meeting date but explaining the reasons for this.
Tatsfield Post Office: It was noted that, following the change to part-time hours of opening adopted by Sean Spooner, Post Office Counters had reached agreement with him for the Post Office to be open full-time for a period of 8 weeks from 9 March. Thereafter it was understood that Sean Spooner had indicated he would only open half-time. In the 8 week period, Post Office Counters would be engaging in consultation with interested parties, including the Parish Council, as to the future of the Post Office. It was unanimously agreed that the Parish Council wished to see a full-time Post Office in the village and that this would be made clear to Post Office Counters. The terms of a joint press release by the Parish Council and TD Councillor Tina Fry were agreed.

10. Village Hall
a. Building Project Committee: Ian Mitchell reported that the Architect had issued a further Certificate and, as a result, a further payment had been made to the Contractor. This left a retention of Ł1,500.00. As far as outstanding matters were concerned, he reported that the Contractor was due to return to deal with certain matters. Details were required of the losses incurred by the Village Hall Management Committee in order to finalise financial claims against the Contractor.
b. Management Committee: Bob David reported a sub-committee had bee set up to consider the amendment of the constitution and the proposals would be put before the Parish Council for consideration in due course.
Review of Constitution: The Chairman reported that the group comprising herself, Bob David, Ian Mitchell and Geoff Groom had met on 1 March. It had been agreed that the Village Hall Management Committee needed to discuss the matter and reach certain conclusions as to way in which it wished to progress the matter.

11. Property & Land Maintenance
Property: Tony Erbes reported that the Surgery wished to have a second telephone line installed to enable a direct link to be established with the Biggin Hill Surgery. This was agreed.
Pond: Tony Erbes reported that Waterside Aquatics had now completed the work to the pond. It was agreed that a regular service arrangement should be considered as this would probably reduce the overall cost of maintenance.
c. Land:
Tatsfield in Bloom: Bob David confirmed that Tatsfield would be entering the competition once again. He also drew attention to the Surrey Village of the Year Competition that incorporated all village activities, rather than simply the appearance of the village as was the case with Tatsfield in Bloom and South East in Bloom. After discussion, it was agreed that Tatsfield would not be entered for this new competition.
Westmore Green: Bob David reported that some parking was again occurring and he suggested that the registration numbers of the vehicles should be noted and that the Clerk should refer to them when writing a further letter to residents in the area.
Possessory Land: Tony Erbes indicated that he had unable to obtain any quotations for fencing due to his recent incapacity. The Clerk indicated that the Land Registry application was in hand.

12. Meetings to attend:
a. Limpsfield Parish Council APM: 22 March 2000 - Margaret Boadella to attend.
E Surrey Parishes LG: 18 April at 8 p.m. at Horne – Ian Mitchell to attend.
Surrey Rail Forum: 18 April 2000 at 10.00 a.m. at County Hall – Denis Hayes to be asked to attend.
SCAPTC AGM: Saturday 15 July at 2.30 p.m. at East Horsley Village Hall.
E Surrey Crime Prevention Panel: 19 April at 7.30 p.m. at Oxted Police Station – Ian Mitchell to attend.

13. Correspondence
Local Government Commission: The Clerk drew attention to the draft recommendations for SCC future electoral arrangements. The recommendation of the Commission was to adopt the proposal by SCC that the wards of Tatsfield & Titsey, Warlingham East & Chelsham & Farleigh and Warlingham West should be combined to form Warlingham division. Ian Mitchell agreed to consider the report and consider whether any response was called for.
Westmore Green: It was agreed that permission would be granted for the use of the Green for the Tatsfield Road Race & Fun Run on 26 March.
Countryside Easy Access Register: The Clerk indicated that SCC were compiling this register to include routes currently available for the less mobile. The Council was information concerning any easy access routes to be made available. It was agreed that there were none to be put forward.

14. Any Other Business
Approach Road: Wendy Maddison drew attention to the bad condition of the footpath from Westmore Green to the Scout Hut. Whilst it was agreed that this was in a bad condition, it was felt that previous experience showed that there was very little, if anything, that could be done.

The meeting closed at 11.43 p.m.

h Surrey Rail Forum: 17 October at 10.00 a.m. at County Kingston on Thames – Denis Hayes would attend.

12. Correspondence
a North Downs Way: The Clerk reported that a new map and poem had been published to mark the 21st birthday of the Way.
b Surrey Hills Management Strategy: The receipt of the Management Strategy and Executive Summary was noted.
TDC Air Quality Review: The receipt of the second stage review was noted.
The Old Ship: The Clerk reported that formal notice of the transfer of the licence to Mr M G Shotter and Ms Y Hamilton had been received.

13. Any Other Business
a Scarecrow Event: The Vice Chairman drew attention to the Scarecrow event to be held on 8, 9 & 10 September and requested permission to use Westmore Green for the prizegiving on Sunday 10 September and the Village Hall, if wet. This was agreed.
b Tatsfield Church: Bob David enquired whether it would be possible for the Church to purchase cutlery through the Parish Council in order to obtain a discount. The Clerk pointed out that this would mean VAT could not be reclaimed and that it might be better to buy direct.

The meeting closed at 10.17 p.m.

INDEX OF MINUTES