text:
Contact Stelling Minnis Parish Council
e-mail: email@example.com
Guide for new residents - issued by the Managers of Stelling Minnis Common - June 2007 (Revised)
Minutes of meetings of Managers of Stelling Minnis Common and Stelling Minnis Charitable Trust
Search National database for Planning Permission Applications Recent planning applications received
Street Map (produced by Challenge Youth Group)
|Code of Conduct
|Bossingham Sports & Leisure Trust
|Employers' Liability Insurance
|Reporting Highways Faults. Tel: 03000 418181 or click here to report faults on carriageways or footpaths on line
Visit Kent Association of Parish Councils - serving Parish and Town Councils in Kent.
Dates of future Parish Council Meetings:
14th January
4th March
6th May (Last meeting of current Council)
13th May (First meeting of new Council and Annual Genereal Meeting - assumes elections are held on 7th May)
27th May - Annual Parish Meeting.
Unless otherwise advised, all meetings commence at 7.30pm and are held in Stelling Minnis Village Hall committee room, except the Annual Parish Meeting which will be held in the main hall.
Parish Council Minutes listed on this web page. For historical minutes please contact the Parish Clerk
Parish Council meetings:
2012 (Annual General Meeting)
May 2012 (Annual General Meeting)
Annual Parish Meeting minutes - click here to view last few years meetimg minutes
Employers' Liability Insurance
COUNCILLORS (Parish, Shepway, Kent and MP)
The Stelling Minnis Parish Council and Councillors roles and responsibilities are:-
John Haffenden (Chairman) (Trustee for Manages of Stelling Minnnis Commmon)
Robert Hubble (Vice Chairman)
David Stuart (KALC Parish & Town Councils, KALC Shepway Area Committee representative)
Ann Day (Representative for Minnis Managers meetings)
Dagmar Smyth (Highways)
Jeremy Speakman (Speed watch & Trustee for Windmill & Museum trust, KALC Parish & Town Councils)
Stewart Jackson (Trustee for Stelling Minnis Village Hall).
Clerk: Nick Smith
Treasurer/RFO: Nick Smith
Internal Auditor: David Barlow
Footpath Warden - Martin Hart
Tree Warden - Paul Dimmock
SHEPWAY DISTRICT COUNCILLOR (Elham & Stelling Minnis)
Pamela Carr. e-mail : email@example.com
KENT COUNTY COUNCILLOR (Elham Valley)
Susan Carey E-mail firstname.lastname@example.com
MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT (Folkestone & Hythe)
Damien Collins e-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com
contact via Houses of Parliament web page (contact members)- click to link
Details of Damian Collins surgeries - download pdf file
Shepway conservatives - click to link
RIGHTS OF ACCESS (added 1 March 2003)
We have received a copy of a document which has the grand title :
Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000: Section68
Non-Statutory Guidance Note on the vehicular access across common and other land (England) regulations 2002
Statutory Instrument 2002 No. 1711
It is not as daunting as it sounds and is written in plain English. It runs to 18 pages and includes 49 frequently asked questions on this subject. It is very informative but any one reading it will understand that it is a complex subject, and why the Parish Council cannot give advice on an individual case.
Enquiries on the content (but not case specific advice) should be addressed to:
The Common Land Branch, Zone 1/05 Temple Quay House, 2 The Square, Temple Quay, Bristol BS1 6EB. Tel. 0117 372 8520 or 6266.
E-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com
Our thanks to Derek Blades for this information
Note added 2 November 2005:
In The Sunday Telegraph of Oct. 23rd 2005 there was an article about a person who had been having problems establishing a right of access across land owned by The National Trust. He eventually got it after a protracted delay. Residents of the Minnis should note that the procedure, if there are no snags, will take at least 3 months.
The useful information is that The Land Registry has a Practice Guide 52 on this subject and can be viewed at www.landregistry.gov.uk
See also the Guide for new residents- pdf file - click to download file
Legal requests relating to access across Stelling Minnis Common should be taken up with your own Solicitor and not made of the Parish Council, Minnis Managers or Charles Gooch of Savills.
Accounts have been audited -click here for more information
(Minutes are draft until ratified at the next Parish Council meeting)
For Annual Parish Meeting notes click here
DRAFT MINUTES of MEETING held on 12th November 2014
Present: Cllrs
Haffenden (chaired meeting), Day, Hubble, Smyth, and Stuart. Also present,
Mr D Barlow Internal Auditor), N Smith (Clerk, took minutes) and two
Cllr Speakman (personal reasons) and SDC Cllr Ms P Carr.
Cllr Jackson did not attend, no reason given.
2.1 Disclosable pecuniary interests (DPI). None.
2.2 Other significant interests (OSI). Cllr Haffenden declared an interest in planning application Y14/1249/SH (7.2.9) as the applicant.
2.3 Voluntary announcements of other interests. None
Held on 3rd September 2014.
Were approved and duly signed. Proposed Cllr Smyth and seconded Cllr Day. All agreed.
4. MATTERS ARISING (not included in other agenda items)
4.1 Graffiti on Bus shelter – raise with SDC again. Clerk reported there still had been no action SDC on removing the graffiti.
4.2 Kent Minerals & Waste Local Plan 2013-30 Notification of Publication: Submission Document. Clerk reported he had responded as discussed.
4.3 Community Infrastructure levy – 15/25% split. Clerk reported he had contacted SDC; the split was in line with HM Government dictate.
4.4 Advise Emma Warden about repair to the bench outside Stelling Minnis Stores. Clerk reported he had advised Mr & Mrs Warden that the bench repair was their responsibility; however SMPC would probably be receptive to claim for grant funding towards the cost. He also reported that he had spoken to Scott Gifford, who would effect a repair at an economic charge.
4.5 Update PCSO on diesel thefts in Elmsted and vehicle and contents thefts in Stelling Minnis. Clerk reported he had contacted the PCSO who was unaware of the crimes.
4.6 Cllrs Stuart & Speakman to write to Cllr Day about their concerns over Stelling Minnis Common. Cllr Day was contacted.
4.7 Write to KCC Highways about safety improvements on B2068 following fatal crash of 20/8/14. Clerk reported he had contacted KCC Highways who still would not budge. (Discussed further under item 6).
4.8 Cllrs to confirm location of Brown Jubilee Farm Signs. Clerk reported he had been in contact with the owners of Jubilee Farm, who wanted the signs kept as they pointed to the farm and not the closed shop. KCC Highways had been advised. Discussed, Cllrs were reminded that the brown signs are paid for by the owners of Jubilee Farm.
4.9 Neighbourhood Watch – thank Pam Chatfield & Welcome Tony Lowe. Clerk reported he had waited till Tony Lowe had been accepted by Kent Police as NHW coordinator and had then written to both Mrs Chatfield and Mr Lowe. 4.10 Ask Stewart Jackson to list music events at Rose & Crown in Hardres & Stelling News. Clerk reported he had e-mailed Mr Jackson and had advised the Parishioner asking the question accordingly. Confirmation not received from Mr Jackson.
5.1 To table items of late correspondence.
5.1.2 KCC Highways survey. Cllrs Stuart, Smythe and Hubble to complete draft.
5.1.2 KALC Elections for 3 directly Elected members of Smaller Councils' Committee 2015.
5.1.3 Minnis Managers minutes from Oct 2014. Cllr Stuart proposed that SMPC should write to Charles Gooch with a message for his retirement from Savills. All agreed. Clerk to deal.
5.2 Items circulated for information
5.2.1 Royal Mail – repainting of posting box opposite shop
5.2.2 KALC AGM. Cllr Stuart will be attending.
5.2.3 Kent Highways Parish Seminar. Cllr Hubble will attend.
5.2.4 KALC Link to Kris Hopkins Speech at NALC AGM. Relaxation of finance and other rules for Parish Councils, openness plus empowerment of electorate. 5.3 Items acted on:
5.3.1 Salt bag request from KCC Highways. Bag requested for junction of Gildrage Hill, Wildage and Elham Park. Request (job no 125805) for a new salt bin on Bossingham Road in vicinity of Split Lane - will be considered by KCC in Spring/Summer 2015.
5.4 Items for discussion (not included in other agenda items):
5.4.1 KALC Community Awards Scheme 2015. Noted
5.4.2 Ann Barnes new policing model feedback. Noted
5.4.3 KCC Budget consultation. Noted
5.4.4 £23 million to get more neighbourhood plans across England. Noted.
5.4.5 KCC Community Warden service consultation. SDC proposal noted.
Discussed the refusal of both KCC Highways and Kent Police to change their views on this, which has been under discussion now for over 30 years. Agreed to raise with MP Damian Collins. Clerk to deal and also provide Cllr Hubble with a summary for the KCC Highways seminar.
Agreed that it was not relevant to involve PCC Ann Barnes as operational matters were outside her remit.
7.1 To table late planning applications received for consideration.
7.2 To table planning applications dealt with since last meeting including decisions by
Planning Authority.
7 .2.1 Y14/0878/SH – 1 Minnis Field, Stelling Minnis. Erection of a front porch. SMPC voted Approve 7:0. SDC approved with time and material conditions.
7.2.2 Y14/0937/SH – Little Droveway, Droveway, Stelling Minnis. Change of use of private stables and stud yard to a quarantine/isolation yard for exporting horses. SMPC voted Approve 6: No objections 1. Approved by SDC with conditions. Question raised on installation of a flood light, which may be in contravention of condition 6 of the planning approval.
7.2.3 Y14/0858/SH – Land adjoining Ivy House Farm, Pony Cart Lane, Stelling Minnis (Little Mead). Section 72 application for variation of condition 1 of planning permission Y13/0951/SH for the erection of replacement dwelling – to enable the erection of a detached double garage and store. SMPC Voted Object 7:0. Application withdrawn.
7.2.4 Y14/1034/SH – Sunnyside Farm – demolish old and build new. SMPC voted on balance to Object (Object 4: Approve 3).
7.2.5 Y14/0778/SH – Bramble Cottage – erection of an orangery extension to the rear. SMPC voted on balance to Approve (Approve 4: No objection 3).
7.2.6 Y14/1102/SH – The Thorn, Stone Street (Elmsted Parish). Mixed development of commercial B1 and 4 & 3 bed dwellings.
SMPC vote Approve 5, No objection 2 – subject to specified conditions.
A second application for full planning permission for change of use of industrial buildings to 9 storage/distribution units (Y14/0754/SH), on which SMPC had not been consulted, has been approved by SDC. The planning Officer apologised for not inviting SMPC to comment on the application. Clerk took the opportunity to raise access concerns to/from Stone Street.
7.2.7 Y14/1137/SH – Stone Hall Lodge, Stone Street. Erection of a ground mounted photovoltaic sola array. SMPC vote No objections 6, Approve 1.
7.2.8 Y14/1151/SH – Stoneacre Farm, Stone Street. Change of use of land for the keeping of horses and erection of a block of five stables, tack room and store. Discussed and agreed to send response as drafted – No objections 7:0 with reference to imposing same conditions as on original application for four stables etc.
7.2.9 Y14/1249/SH – Greenways, Bossingham Road. Demolition of existing bungalow and erection of new chalet bungalow and detached garage (alternative scheme to that approved under Y14/0172/SH). Drawings not yet received, will be circulated for comment (Cllrs Haffenden excluded as is applicant).
7.3 To table decisions by Planning Authority on applications dealt with prior to last meeting.
7.3.1 Y14/0830/SH - Anvil Cottage – erection of tree house. Approved with conditions.
7.3.2 Y14/0639/SH – Change of use of first floor from office to a cookery school. Approved with date, time and usage conditions.
7.4 Paperless planning process.
No new issues. Cllr Stuart said he would be attending a meeting of SDC's scrutiny committee, representing KALC, on the subject.
7.5 Other planning matters:
7.5.1 Meadow View.
Alleged additional caravan brought onto site – raised as a complaint with SDC. John Macauley investigated and reported he had found no additional caravans but a mobile home being renovated for personal travel use.
Agreed Clerk to contact Head of Planning to ascertain actual dates enforcement officer visits sites and not just "recently visited".
One Parishioner raised concerns over the use of an incinerator on site, but was unwilling to report to the Environment Agency as he did not wish to be identified. Council were sympathetic to his position but reports needed to be made first hand, and to stick to facts.
7.5.2 Need to discuss and formulate Parish Housing planning policy.
Agreed to defer to next meeting.
8.1 Kent County Council. No report received from KCC Cllr Carey.
8.2 Shepway District Council. SDC Cllr Carr sent a report – From May 2015 Stelling Minnis joins North Downs West Ward together with Lyminge, Sellinge, Elmsted, Etchinghill, Postling, Monks Horton, Maxted Street, Stowting, Bodsham and Skeete. The conservative candidates for the ward (2 Councillors) will be Susan Carey and Jenny Hollingsbee. The new ward is a big area and the 2 elected Councillors are going to be busy.
She said she was overtaken at great speed just as she was about to indicate to turn right from Stone Street (B2068) into Curtis Lane.
8.3 KALC Shepway Area Committee. Cllr Stuart provided a written report, appended. He drew Councils attention to the proposals for an HGV parking area off J11 M20 at Western Hanger for 1500 lorries.
8.4 SDC Planning Users Group. Next meeting is in December.
8.5 Parish and Town Councils. Cllr Stuart provided a written report, appended.
8.6 Kent Community Police. No report received from PCSO.
Mrs O Grove had sent a written request for crimes to be discussed, as her property had been broken into and equipment stolen with access via adjacent land. Discussed and agreed that more police visibility of police was needed. Parish Council did not keep records of crimes, this was a role undertaken by Kent Police and PCSO's. Neighbourhood Watch also had a role to play. Mr C Robbins echoed Mrs Grove's concerns.
8.7 Police liaison and Speed watch. Cllr Speakman reported via Clerk that Speedwatch would start again in spring 2015, if there were enough volunteers.
8.8 Minnis Managers. Cllr Day provided a written report, appended. She drew Councils attention to the proposed thinning of trees, which she said would be carried when a licence had been obtained.
8.9 Stelling Minnis Village Hall. No report received.
8.10 Stelling Minnis Windmill . Cllr Speakman reported via Clerk that there were funding problems with KCC for repair of the Mill.
8.11 Other reports. None received.
Nothing not discussed under item 6.
10. FINANCIAL REGULATIONS – revision
Update in hand.
11 STANDING ORDERS – revision
Update in hand.
12.1 Update of account for 2014/15 including payments received.
Clerk/RFO reported that the balance on account was £6192.90 with no outstanding cheques to be cleared. £2.05p interest has been paid since the last meeting, and is included in the balance.
The end of year prediction is £4377.48 including an estimated VAT refund of £60.81
12.2 Accounts for payment:
Clerk's Net salary (October/November) £259.32 )
Clerk's expenses £ 36.49 ) combined total £295.81
HMRC PAYE (3rd quarter) £ 97.40
Councillors expenses (David) £ 35.10
Payments were proposed by Cllr Hubble and seconded by Cllr Smyth. All agreed.
12.3 Late accounts for payment – None.
12.4 Requests for funding. – None.
12.5 Half year internal audit.
Audit carried out by Internal Auditor David Barlow, no comments raised.
Clerk/RFO presented a budget proposal which would allow £4300 (to cover the cost of a mid-term election, local referendum at £2000 each and some Councillor/Clerk training) to be carried forward into 2016/17. Suggested precept of £4965 – a 4.5% increase. Predicted Council tax reduction grant from SDC was £196.
The budget was fully discussed and the overall figures and targets agreed. However it was agreed to reduce Chairman's allowance from £100 to £55, donation to Bossingham Youth Club from £330 to £300 and allow a figure of £75 to enable continued support of the BS<. Also agreed not to specify grants to charities, but to allow £300 to give flexibility to the new council in May. Clerk's salary and PAYE allowed for a 2.2% increase – the figure under discussion for National salary increase.
Subject to these changes the budget was proposed to be accepted by Cllr Stuart and seconded by Cllr Day. All agreed.
The precept application will need to be confirmed and approved at the next meeting.
Revised budget, as agreed is appended at Appendix B.
No new information received.
Cllr Haffenden outlined the unique nature of the common, how it was being managed under guidance from Natural England by Volunteers. It was a privately owned common. Views on its management and look varied widely, even, within SMPC, and these significant and very real differences could have a bearing on the community – e.g. cattle grids, which have in the past been proposed by the commoners association and not by the Minnis Managers.
The Minnis, its management, recruitment of new Managers and communication was thoroughly discussed. It was suggested that SMPC could run a new village appraisal with more emphasis on the Minnis to gauge residents' concerns and identify any actions needed in these areas. Issues and concerns included cattle grazing; the time limited fencing and the 10 year plan.
Cllr Stuart expressed concern on how managers were appointed. Cllr Hubble generally supported the Minnis, but thought that the open forum should be an annual event.
Concerns and questions raised by Parishioners were noted and agreed that these should be put to the Managers to answer. Cllr Haffenden said that because the common was privately owned many of those concerns and questions were outside the jurisdiction of SMPC.
Agreed that Cllr Haffenden would request regular open forums with the next being in 2015 and then every 18 months/2 years; and put the list of parishioners' concerns/questions to the Minnis Managers.
The list of Parishioners concerns/questions is at Appendix C.
Update from Clare Hamilton
A report and update was received from Clare Hamilton and is appended (Appendix A - reports).
17 Elections 2015
Date of general, District and Parish Elections now confirmed as May 7th. Current Council will cease to operate on May 11th and New Council will take over on May 11th – First meeting to be within 2 weeks of election – suggested May 13th with APM at the end of May (unless deferral beyond end of May is allowed by legislation not yet published.
Clerk gave details of the election timetable.
Agreed to purchase 10 copies each of two KALC booklets on becoming a Parish Councillor and what Parish Councils do. Cost £2.42p.
2015: 14th January, 4th March; 6th May (last of current Council)
13th May (First meeting of new council), 3rd June. Annual Parish Meeting – to be changed to 27th May.
19.1 Crime message from Olivia Grove:
Full text at Appendix D. SMPC does not keep records of crimes; the Police and NHW do that.
19.2 Barbara Mullins made reference to a letter she had written to Clerk in respect of the Minnis. Clerk said that her concerns were included in the list of Parishioners Concerns; he had also taken the issue up with Charles Gooch on her behalf; and as discussed her letter would appear in full in the December Parish Magazine.
Meeting closed at 10.10pm
Signed ………………………………………………. Date ………………..
8.3 & 8.5
Notes on meetings attended:
SDC - Parishes Joint Committee - 9th October
KALC Executive Committee - 11 October
KALC Shepway Area Committee - 16 October
Note: This is a single report on the three meetings as a number of topics were referred to a more than one meeting.
1) SDC Planning Applications and Planning Policy
This subject will be considered at SDC Overview and Scrutiny Committee on 8th December. In effect this is a final review of the introduction of electronic planning as it affects parish councils Planning Department has produced a paper and PC reps have passed a motion asking for paper copies of plans free of charge should a parish make such a request These will be circulated
2) Community Infrastructure Levy CIL
First draft paper tabled - will be circulated. Proposed rate for SM is £125 per sq. metre of which parish will get 15%.
3) Elections 2015 - paper will be circulated (note new senior officer - Wayne Fitter)
Working of SDC - PCs Jt Committee. Proposals produced, approved by Area committee which have now been sent to SDC for consideration
4) Parish Charter. KALC have suggested that all Area Committees agree a Charter with their District to define ways of working. It is at an early stage. A draft scheme from CCC area will be circulated to provide guidance.
5) KALC AGM 22nd November - Ditton Village Hall Can anyone else attend? Speakers on Transport priorities for Kent, and Community Resilience and 3 motions for debate. Details will be available shortly.
6) KALC TRAINING Preparation for 2015 elections JAN - APRIL 13 sessions (one per area) FREE for anyone interested in Standing. Some PCs are not sure of the demand whilst others plan to run their own event in their parish. Also MAY - JULY 13 events (one per area) for new councillors @ £20 per head.
7) HGV PARKING under consideration by KCC The most likely at just south of junction 11 on M20
8) Community Wardens KCC to reduce number of wardens. Many parishes are very concerned.
9) Devolving of services from KCC or District Councils to Parishes is continuing 15 councils quoted as examples and there are to be 3 more pilot schemes of village caretakers.
10) KALC - KCC Community Award Scheme There have been 32 this year and target for 2015 is 50
11) Shepway joint Transportation Board likely to adopt KCC recommendation of two PC reps with voting rights.
David Stuart
19 - 10 – 2014
Report on Meeting of Minnis Managers 15.10.2014
for Parish Council
1. Ann brought up the subject of cattle grazing and a report from a parishioner that she thought they looked hungry and didn't have much grass to graze. The Managers response was that they were checked every week by the farmer and although the grass may have looked thin, that is when the cattle do their best work attacking the undergrowth and similar vegetation.
2. Dan Tuson and Jonathan Harding have both visited the Minnis and given their report on thinning of trees at the northern end of the Minnis. This will be carried out when volunteers etc. available.
3. Kevin Smyth gave notice of his intended resignation as Chairman due to his prospective move to Wales sometime in 2015.
4. Charlie Gooch is to ask a colleague about the possibility of making/donating some replacement dormouse boxes as the current ones have fallen into disrepair.
Ann Day
16 Bossingham Sports & Leisure Trust Report to SMPC and UHPC
Table tennis
We are examining options for the installation of a durable playing surface at each end of
the table tennis table.
We have obtained 3 quotations for replacement fencing along the boundary of the playing
field with Bossingham Village Hall, and for protective fencing along the northern playing field
boundary. Thank you to UHPC for applying for a Canterbury City Council Capital Grant for
this fencing.
Basketball mini-court (7m x 7m) and football goals
These are next on our list. We are researching basketball court surfaces and obtaining
quotes. We are involving some of the regular group of young footballers in deciding what
football goals would be most appropriate and where best to site them, and how to raise
Weekly inspections
The trustees continue to carry out weekly inspections of the equipment.
100 Club
November draw to be held on Saturday 15th November.
13 Budget as amended and agreed
STELLING MINNIS PARISH COUNCIL - BUDGET 2015/16 Final
(All figures rounded to whole pounds)
Budget 2014/15
Spend to date (12 Nov 2014)
Prediction 31/3/2015
Budget 2015/16
Mandatory items
Clerks Salary net (gross less PAYE)
Clerk PAYE
Clerk expenses
Councillors - expenses
Council - Insurance
Council - Village Hall Hire
Audit commission fee
Training & development
Election costs
Recommended items
Chairman's allowance
Membership KALC
Membership ACRK
Membership CPRE
Donation - Stelling Church - upkeep of closed burial ground
Voluntary items:
Donation - Youth Club hall hire (50%)
Bossingham Sports & Leisure Trust
Donation - Age concern
Donation - Air ambulance
First Responders
Fund for donations to worthy causes
Other outgoings:
Planning costs
KALC Publications
Sub total
Footpath warden expenses
Planning costs
Total Contingency
Overall Total outgoings
Predicted Unspent budget
Balance brought forward
Interest on bank account
Other income
VAT refund, not yet claimed
SDC Grant 2014/15
SDC grant 2015/16
Total income
Possible unspent budget
Balance carried forward
Balance available
|Target is to carry forward £4300 to 2016/17
List of questions and concerns raised by Parishioners re Stelling Minnis Common:
Agenda item 15 – Stelling Minnis Common
1. I would suggest that if the Minnis Managers are representatives of the Community to manage the Minnis on behalf of the community and the owners, then surely they should be selected or at least nominated by the Community? Approval of the owners would of course have to be obtained for any individual to be chosen from the community's selection list before formal appointment.
2. If the managers are working for the community as well as the owners, then why do they appear to be working against the community, for example by the way they treat and respond to people's concerns?
3. The grazing of the common is supposed to be in accord with the Minnis Management 10 year plan, commissioned from Kent Wildlife Trust and dated 2005, which the managers keep saying they are following. If they are not following that plan, then which plan are they following?
4. Section 5.1 (and appendix 15) of the Kent Wildlife Management plan cites "Low intensity grazing is the recognised primary management method for maintaining important grass and heath communities". With the number of cattle used and the duration they are kept in each compartment, the grazing regime adopted seems to be more "high intensity".
5. The Management plan section 5.1 – "The re-establishment of grazing needs support especially from the local community if it is to succeed. It needs to take into account the interests of the local community and requires a method of implementation that encourages their support and participation. Involving and gaining that support doesn't seem to be the case.
6. My concern is the destruction of wildlife habitat within the grazed areas resulting in the virtual extinction of the wildlife that used to reside there. Examples include the enormous reduction of butterflies – you hardly see any now; reduction in bird life; the disappearance of small mammals such as bank voles; reduction in insects; even the rabbits seem to have almost disappeared.
7. I am concerned about the welfare of the cattle. In the Managers obsessive desire to remove all the brambles etc., they are leaving the animals in the compartments far too long so that there is not enough fodder to sustain them and they become incredibly thin and start chasing after people in the hope that they have got food. The welfare of the animals should never be compromised in this way to attain the Managers desired objective. They have also been left without water on some of the hottest days of the year and also in winter when it is frozen solid.
8. The safety of people using the common is a concern. Reasons being – the Managers leave the cattle in the compartments too long so that they get hungry and fractious and start chasing people and their dogs. The Managers have refused to top up the hoggin in the gateways, which in some cases is now right down to the membrane, causing huge pools of water to accumulate in wet weather, which has in the past frozen causing those gates, which the Managers have installed and therefore funnelled everyone through, to become very slippery and very difficult to negotiate.
9. I appreciate that some fallen trees should be left for habitat. But why don't the managers remove trees and branches which have fallen over the tracks thereby causing people, many of them elderly, to negotiate over or round the obstacles in what is often difficult terrain?
10. I have a concern that the management plan says that the "management should protect the existing wildlife interest of the site" – that wildlife interest has been severely depleted within the areas grazed by cattle.
11. My only gripe is with regard to the husbandry of the cattle. I really feel their welfare seems to be low on the farmers priority, they should be moved more frequently to ensure there is plenty of food for their needs, and let's hope when winter sets in, if necessary, extra food will be brought in which was lacking during one winter, when there was also no water as it had frozen.
12. Several years ago I was told by Charles Gooch to remove rocks that I had placed on the verge outside my property, in an attempt to protect the verge, and if I didn't then the Minnis Managers would. I removed those rocks from my verge. If such obstructions were not allowed then, why have the owners of Minnis Cottage been allowed to erect marker posts with reflectors on the edge of their access over the Minnis and their neighbours allowed to place large plant pots containing shrubs each side of their access?
13. Why are residents allowed to park vehicles on their accesses across the Minnis? Surely if driving or parking of vehicles, or placing of obstacles, is not allowed on the Minnis and those accesses are over the Minnis then parking, or placing of obstacles, on them is also not allowed? Residents parking places should start at their own boundary not at the roadside verge where the access ways cross the Minnis.
14. Great concern was expressed by 4 people, in addition to Nicks' wife and himself, that the cattle appeared to be hungry. There were gathered round the Southern fence near to one of the gates looking as if they were waiting to be fed. According to one of the group, the cattle had stampeded there a couple pf hours earlier and gave the impression that they were waiting to be fed. Last Saturday one older male person (over 70) was chased by the cattle and he had to run a long way to escape. Yesterday (Tuesday) a lady in her late 70's had to run to escape from the cattle - they were following her and mooing, getting closer and closer as she walked faster and faster and in the end she had to run; she thought by their behaviour that they were hungry and after food. If either of these people had tripped or fallen in their escape then they would have almost certainly been trampled and severely injured or worse. This would appear to be a safety issue for people using the common.
Letter from Mrs Olivia Grove:
Dear Nick,
Unfortunately I am unable to attend the Parish Council Meeting tomorrow evening. I would be most grateful if you could raise a point on my behalf as AOB.
On 11 October we had a break in to one of our outbuildings and all my mechanical garden equipment was taken. They gained entry by driving across the Haffendens' field from the gateway on the Bossingham road by the old telephone exchange. The next morning when we discovered that the crime had taken place we could see the tyre tracks. They came into my property through a public footpath gate which is in the corner behind my barn and goes into the field.
We obviously informed the police immediately and the next day 2 community police women came to take details and we received a crime number. My insurance company is replacing the items stolen but the whole incident has had a huge knock-on effect on Stella and me. We will in the future have alarms and more lights everywhere (at huge expense and inconvenience) and living here will never be quite the same again.
I know rural crime is a huge problem and we have always been vigilant about security. My request for this incident to be brought up as AOB is so that it is logged and in the minutes. I hope that all the local incidents of crime are also logged with the parish council so that a true picture of how many people are affected can be seen.
With grateful thanks and kind regards,
Olivia Grove
MINUTES of MEETING held on 3 September
Present: Cllrs Haffenden (chaired meeting), Day, Smyth, Speakman and Stuart. Also present, SDC Cllr Carr, Mr S Moores (website) and N Smith (Clerk, took minutes) and one Parishioner.
Cllr Hubble (personal reasons), Cllr Stewart (work reasons) and Mr D Barlow (internal auditor).
2.1 Disclosable pecuniary interests (DPI).
2.2 Other significant interests (OSI).
2.3 Voluntary announcements of other interests.
No interests were declared.
Held on 7th May 2014.
Were approved and duly signed. Proposed Cllr Smyth and seconded Cllr Day. All agreed.
4. MATTERS ARISING (not included in other agenda items)
4.1 Graffiti on bus shelter outside Rose & Crown.
Clerk reported that he had contacted SDC again, had received an acknowledgement but still no action had been taken.
4.2 Clearance of vegetation round fire hydrants on Minnis.
Clerk reported that he had communicated with KF&RS and Charles Gooch, that Minnis Managers were of the view that the task of clearing vegetation round fire hydrants is the responsibility of KF&RS and not the land owner. Response not yet received. Cllr Stewart said that he had doubt that Managers view was correct.
4.3 Consultation on Underground drilling access.
Clerk reported that he had responded to KALC/NALC in line with Councillors views i.e.:-
1) Support for Fracking – views divided;
2) Parish Councils should receive any financial benefits on behalf of the community for beneficial community projects;
3) Parish Councils should be consulted, not just notified, on any applications.
4.4 New village signs.
Clerk reported that he had advised Kent AONB Council does not wish to have to pay for new signs - the existing ones were adequate. He had also confirmed with KCC Cllr Carey that Parish Council would not object to new signs if they did not have to pay for them.
4.5 Polling District and places review consultation.
Clerk reported that he had confirmed with SDC no viable alternative to SMVH.
4.6 Hythe Tourism request for funding.
Clerk reported that he had responded that SMPC had discussed the request but were unable to assist in this instance.
5.1 To table items of late correspondence.
5.2 Items circulated for information
None – not included in other agenda items.
5.3 Items acted on:
5.3.1 SDC- request for feedback on new service provisions under Ways of Working. Clerk reported that he had responded to as per Cllrs views and experiences.
5.3.2 Devolution of Services and Community Agents - Call for Evidence (KALC)
No services devolved from either SDC or KCC.
5.3.3 Confirmed to SDC - SMPC still require hard copies of plans larger than A4.
(Discussed under agenda item 6.4 – paperless planning)
5.4 Items for discussion (not included in other agenda items):
5.4.1 Kent Minerals & Waste local plan 2013-30.
Consultation document very difficult to read as a PDF file. SMPC not directly affected. Agreed response: Kent Freight Plan (section 1.3.13). Ensure that heavy good vehicles travelling North South (including between A2 and M20) are diverted away from the B2068; Biodiversity Improvement areas (section 2.2) – ensure that Stelling Minnis Common is included – BAP species include Dormouse and White Admiral Butterfly; Brick Earth deposits are noted around Stelling Minnis – old brickworks were closed many years ago.
5.4.2 DCLG Technical Consultation on planning (See e-mail to Cllrs 10 August)
Mainly concerns large planning applications. Agreed no response required.
5.4.3 Community infrastructure consultation.
Noted. Clerk to ask SDC about the 15%/25% split for Councils without or with neighbourhood plans.
5.4.4 One bench outside shop in need of repair.
Clerk and Cllr Stuart outlined why bench was on Parish Council asset register. Discussed and agreed that bench was responsibility of Emma of SM Stores and her daughter and they should arrange for and fund the repair. SMPC would treat
any request for financial assistance sympathetically.
6.1 To table late planning applications received for consideration.
6.1.1 Y14/0937/SH – Little Droveway, Droveway (Elham Parish). Change of use of private stables and stud yard to a quarantine/isolation yard for exporting horses. (On circulation 24/8).
6.1.2 Y14/0878/SH – 1 Minnis Field, Curtis Lane. Erection of a Front Porch.
(On circulation 24/8).
6.1.3 Y14/0858/SH - Land adjoining Ivy House Farm, Pony Cart Lane (Little Mead).
Section 73 application for variation of condition 1 of planning permission Y13/0951/SH for the erection of a replacement dwelling – to enable the erection of a detached double garage and store.
(On circulation 24/8).
6.2 To table planning applications dealt with since last meeting including decisions by
Planning Authority.
6 .2.1 Y14/0830/SH – Anvil House, Pony Cart Lane. Erection of a tree house.
SMPC approved 7:0
6.2.2 Y14/0468/SH – The Nook, Bossingham Road. Change of use of first floor to a cookery school from offices.
SMPC approved 7:0
6.3 To table decisions by Planning Authority on applications dealt with prior to last meeting.
6.3.1 Y14/0142/SH – Greenways, Bossingham Road.
SDC permission granted with time and materials conditions.
6.3.2 Y140514/SH – The Willows, Bossingham Road.
SDC permission granted with time and materials conditions. S106 agreement over use of annex only ancillary to main building.
6.4 Paperless planning process.
SDC had confirmed to KALC that process will remain. Offers of further help – Free DVD of plans & papers for each application; free printer – Parish Councils pay for ink & paper; charges to be made for hard copies of plans.
Confirmed to SDC that SMPC will continue with supply of hard copies of plans that are larger than A4 as A3 prints, will review in May 2015 after elections.
6.5 Other planning matters:
6.5.1 Meadow View.
Update from SDC Lisette Patching: Insufficient evidence to either issue a lawful development certificate or an enforcement notice. SDC going back to applicant for more evidence.
6.5.2 Croucher Cottage – detached studio.
Croucher Cottage: Garden studio room. Update from SDC Lisette Patching: If used ancillary to the main house then no planning application for change of use is required.
6.5.3 The Grange, Provision of new electricity supply.
Application brought to attention of Planning Officer. Latest information is that this is a replacement electricity supply and not new.
7.1 Kent County Council. No report received from KCC Cllr Carey.
7.2 Shepway District Council. SDC Cllr Carr reported:
A recent closure of the M20 at J11 diverted all traffic onto B2068 resulting in very heavy traffic congestion. Neighbourhood plans – Highbridge Town Council had scrapped their plan and will not be proceeding with a replacement. She had concerns over Meadow View which she had expressed to SDC planning department. The confusion over emptying the litter bin outside Stelling Minnis Stores had now been settled. The Local Boundary Commission had confirmed the reduction of District Councillors and SMPC will be part of North Downs West. She advised that she will be retiring from District Council work in May 2015.
7.3 KALC Shepway Area Committee. Cllr Stuart advised that he had been elected again onto the committee by KALC for another year.
7.4 SDC Planning Users Group. Clerk attended - report appended.
7.5 Parish and Town Councils. Cllr Stuart said no meeting has been held.
7.6 Kent Community Police. Report from PCSO James Chadwick appended.
Need to make PCSO aware that there was a diesel theft in Elmsted Parish. Although reported to Police at the time, there appeared to be no action. Suggested to contact PCC Ann Barnes. There had also been theft of vehicles and materials in Stelling Minnis, which the PCSO's seemed unaware of
7.7 Police liaison and Speed watch. Cllr Speakman reported that the next Speedwatch session would be 22 September to 3 October and then again in November.
7.8 Minnis Managers. Cllr Day attended - report appended. She highlighted that Mr D Tuson (Natural England) would be visiting the Common to agree which trees could be thinned or felled. Cllr Stuart suggested that the project would need proper management and possibly the use of professional labour. Cllr Day said that she had also raised question of fallen trees with the Minnis Managers. Cllr Speakman asked if the Minnis could be an agenda item for the next meeting – agreed. Cllr Day asked that Cllrs Stuart and Speakman write to her formally with their concerns.
7.9 Stelling Minnis Village Hall. No report from Cllr Jackson. The Chairman of the Village Hall Committee had reported that Cllr Jackson had not attended any recent Village Hall committee meetings.
7.10 Stelling Minnis Windmill. Cllr Speakman reported that 2014 had seen good receipts for the Mill Museum. The "map" was good and well received. The mill shutters had still not been replaced, even though refurbishment of the mill had been scheduled for the last 2 years – KCC funding was very tight (KCC own the Mill).
7.11 Other reports. None
8.1 Stone Street – safety improvements
KCC Highways had responded that they were unable to move forward on double white lines because Kent Police can't police it and therefore won't approve, also no change in accident stats – near misses or non-injury crashes don't count.
Highways and Transportation Enquiry - Enquiry 43400323 – instigated by KCC Highways following letter to Pauline Rocket. Refers to "new request/alteration to speed limits".
New Chief Inspector Sharon Adley said she would chase a response from Inspector Martin Bradley. However she covering post to end of September when CI Ken Elmes arrives. She will bring matter to his attention together with an open invitation given to attend Parish Council meeting or Annual Parish Meeting.
Following the fatal accident near Doghouse Farm, Clerk to draft a letter to KCC Highways asking what they would do to improve safety on Stone Street.
8.2 Feedback to KCC on Highways matters
Letter sent to Pauline Rocket detailing both positive and negative matters, as advised by Cllrs and Clerk. Refer to 8.1 above.
Responses for Highways inspectors confirmed that repairs are in hand, but only safety critical repairs are being carried out.
8.3 Other highways matters.
8.3.1 Fatal accident on Stone Street near Doghouse Farm 20th August. Noted.
Cllr Smyth said that she had reported blocked drainage gulleys on the raised section of Stone Street to the Highways Steward. Co-incidentally the photograph which appeared in the local paper showed the blocked gulleys quite clearly.
8.3.2 Pot Holes Wheelbarrow Town. Repair will require road to be closed, probably for 1 day.
8.3.3 Request sent to Pauline Rocket (KCC Highways) to remove Jubilee Farm brown signs from around Stelling Minnis. Cllrs requested to confirm locations of signs.
9. CLERK – handbook
Agreed to adopt handbook, proposed Cllr Stewart and seconded Cllr Day. All agreed.
Also agreed that Cllrs only needed an electronic copy, which would be reviewed in May 2015.
Clerk was thanked for his efforts in putting the handbook together.
10 FINANCIAL REGULATIONS – revision
Requires further revision following changes to finance rules for Parish Councils.
11 STANDING ORDERS – revision
Requires further revision following changes to finance & openness rules for Parish Councils.
12.1 Audit report
Accounts approved by Audit commission with no comments or actions required.
Clerk and David Barlow (Internal Auditor) were thanked.
12.2 Update of account for 2014/15 including payments received.
Clerk reported that bank balance currently stood at £6592.98 and the end of year prediction was £4227.02 (plus VAT to be reclaimed in January) against a target of £4388. Bank interest was £2.35 to date.
12.3 Accounts for payment:
Clerks Net salary (August/September) £259.52
Clerks administration expenses. £ 4.80
Clerks beneficial expenses £ 10.35
Payment proposed by Cllr Smyth and seconded by Cllr Day. All agreed.
12.4 Late accounts for payment.
BS< 50% ½ year expenses £29.86.
Payment proposed by Cllr Speakman and seconded by Cllr Day. Cllrs Stuart and Smyth abstained from voting. Cllr Haffenden (Chairman) approved. Payment agreed by vote 3 approved: 2 abstained.
12.5 Requests for funding. None received.
12.6 Government response - Draft transparency code for parish councils with a turnover not exceeding £25,000
Draft circulated to Cllrs. All individual transactions over £100 should be shown as separate items in the published annual accounts and not bulked - likely only to affect the way in which Clerks salary is presented.
If the internal audit takes the same format as the current external audit, then there will be no requirement for an external audit - however you will recall that David Barlow (internal auditor) recommended an external audit.
Para 2.17 seems to say that a full internal audit report will not be required if the information required on the annual return is provided. The detail of requirements will no doubt come out in due course - the code is still in draft format,
Cllr Stuart advised nothing new to add. Remove from future agenda.
Cllr Stuart advised nothing new to add. Remove from future agenda.
Steve Moores gave an update on progress, including problems with existing host which had affected both existing and proposed web sites. His recommendation was that it would be better for SMPC to own the domain name and adopt a new URL (domain name) and host, possibly a GOV.UK domain name. Discussed and agreed that Mr Moores should investigate the costs involved – proposed Cllr Haffenden and seconded Cllr Smyth. All agreed
On hold until 2018 for 2019 Parish and District elections. Remove from agenda until 2018.
Update from Clare Hamilton appended.
Discussed and noted that BS< was run by volunteers who had achieved a lot in a short period of time. Parish Council unlikely to continue financial support, based on removal of MUGA .
Pam Chatfield giving up her role local co-ordinator, with Tony Lowe taking on the role.
Clerk to write to Mrs Chatfield to thank her for her efforts and to Mr Lowe to welcome him to the role.
2014: 12th November
2015: 14th January, 4th March; 6th May (last of current Council)
13th May; 3rd June Annual Parish Meeting (May need to be advanced to 27 May).
20.1 Waste bins
Waste Bin adjacent to Bus shelter outside R&C – SDC environment & waste dept. were chased to empty, was emptied on Tuesday morning (26/8).
Waste bin outside shop. SDC refused to Empty. Bin was provided by SDC, at SMPC's request, as a public Bin. SDC Cllr Carr confirmed that the bin will now be emptied (see 7.2)
20.2 Music events at the Rose & Crown
A Parishioner has asked if it would be possible for Stewart Jackson to provide dates of forthcoming music events in the Parish Mag? Clerk to contact Mr Jackson accordingly.
Meeting closed at 9.38pm
Signed by J Haffenden (Chairman). Date 12 Nov 2014.
7.4 Planning User Group Report
Planning User Group 20 August 2014
Only 6 people attended + me, Lisette and Chris Lewis.
Local plan update|:
The local SDC local plan was approved several years ago and is now getting out of date. Core Strategy approved 12 months ago. A new local plan -" Places and Policies" will be drafted and consultation should start at the end of the year. Will include allocated sites for small developments towards the new housing targets of some 400 houses a year (current achievement is around 200 per year) - mainly in Folkestone, Hythe and the Marshes with a few in North Downs.
Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) is out for consultation - (Cllrs have been e-mailed a copy). Some contribution will be passed onto Parish Councils. Replaces section 106 contributions for small developments generally those over 100 square meters. Very large developments arrangements will be made with developers to provide infrastructure instead of CIL - example may be a large housing development could include provision of a school.
Levies and detail subject to at least two consultations and planning inspectorate approval. Target introduction August 2015.
Dartford and Sevenoaks have introduced CILs.
Planning Legislation update:
1) Neighbourhood plans.
Consultation on planning policies in pipeline.
Emphasis is on speeding up adoption of Neighbourhood plans.
2) Permitted development rights.
Many changes have been made already. New guidelines will be a 3 Tier approach - Some developments will need planning approval, some will planning pre-approval as permitted development rights and some will not require any planning intervention - could include change of use from business to residential use, larger extensions where current 2016 end date will become permanent, solar panels for non-domestic buildings. In areas of outstanding Natural Beauty - some permitted development rights will not be able to be applied.
Lisette will provide full details with the minutes of the meeting.
Staffing updates:
3 planners have left for new jobs elsewhere and 3 new ones brought in.
Mention was made of the lack of quality control on the scanning of planning documents - any problems in this area to be drawn to the attention of Katy Claw, who manages the Business Support Admin - who now do all the scanning etc. work.
Temporary accommodation during building work (SMPC question).
Temporary accommodation created or brought onto site during building work does not require planning permission. If retained after building work, then may require planning permission in some circumstances, but probably not if used ancillary to the main building, even if bedroom, washing and cooking facilities have been provided.
Is a grey area and each case is different. In the case of Croucher Cottage no planning application required, unless the accommodation is used not ancillary to the main building, e.g. as independent self-contained accommodation.
Planning application consultations (Newchurch PC question).
Exactly the same situation as we were in, but do not have funds to pay for paper copies of plans.
Chris Lewis drew attention to letter to Frank Hobbs about charges for paper copies and other options. I said we had exactly the same problems but had decided to pay for paper copies where the originals were larger than A4 and then only for A3 sized copies and had allowed some money in the budget to cover the costs.
Frank Hobbs asked about Holiday lets - gave an example where a farm shop had been converted into a building ancillary to the main house and now application had been made for it to be used as holiday let. He wanted to know what restrictions might be applied to prevent it being converted to residential use at a later date and sold off as a separate dwelling.
Lisette Patching said that they would normally impose restrictions on holiday lets e.g. duration of use, max length of stay, keeping of records etc. Conversion at a later date to full residential use would require a planning application.
Date of next meeting
3 December 6pm.
Nick Smith (Clerk)
(RECEIVED 31 August)
Can I in my absence bring to your attention, that during the month of august we have been seeing an increase of garage thefts in the rural area's whereby Bikes, Garden Tools, Lawnmowers have been stolen. This is not specifically Stelling Minnis however I feel it's worth reminding residents of these matters and to keep a look out for any suspicious activity.
There have also been the a few reports of scrap metal vehicles in nearby Elham canvassing the area, causing a nuisance. Finally there's been a couple of reports of loud noise/music in the very early hours coming from the Rose & Crown by local residents, this maybe members of the public camping nearby. Local authority advice/contact details have been given in this instance.
(Clerk's Note: There was a birthday event at Anvil House a few weeks ago that went on till the early Hours of the morning.)
7.8 Minnis Managers Report
Meeting held 9 July 2014
1. 10 new sheep hurdles were required and the Trustees approved their purchase.
2. Dan Tuson is to visit and advise on tree thinning where necessary.
A Day also brought up the subject of removal of fallen trees.
3. The school are continuing to use the Minnis and Mr Gray, the headmaster, expressed his thanks to the managers and owners. The temporary rope around the area marked for the children's use is being removed before time by someone.
4. It was ascertained that the clearance of growth around Fire Hydrants is the responsibility of the Fire Services.
5. The cattle were to be moved from the southernmost area to the north area of the Minnis to the west of Bossingham Road.
6. The sheep also were to be moved, but the area has yet to be decided.
17 BS< REPORT FOR SEPTEMBER – ADDED 29 August 2014:
Thanks to generous donations and proceeds from the 100 Club and Fun Jars, two picnic
tables and two benches were installed on 23rd July. These have been warmly welcomed by
all playing field users.
Table tennis
The outdoor table tennis table was installed on 5th August and has proved popular with
players of all ages. So popular, in fact, that we are having to look at installing a durable
playing surface sooner than expected. Fortunately, we had set aside some funds for this
Table tennis bats and balls donated by the table supplier sold very fast at Stelling Minnis
Stores and we are very grateful to Bruce and Emma for offering all proceeds to BS<.
Basketball mini-court (7m x 7m) and football goals
These are next on our list! We are currently researching court surfaces, and are involving
some of the regular group of footballers in deciding what goals would be most appropriate
and where best to site them.
Safety inspection & insurance
The annual safety inspection was carried out on 21st August with no major issues arising.
Thank you to UHPC for a payment of £180 for the inspection fee, for payment of £234 for
the post-installation inspection fee for children's play equipment, and for continuing to insure
the equipment.
100 Club
Membership is now due for renewal to ensure you are included in the next 12 months of
draws starting in September.
Windmill Fete
We will have a stand at the Windmill Fete where you can see photographs of the latest
additions to the playing field, if you haven't had chance to visit. Plus you can renew or join
the 100 Club, and have a go at bashing the rat!
The Bossingham Sports & Leisure Trust AGM will be held on Thursday 25th September at
7.30pm in Bossingham Village Hall. All are welcome to attend.
Change of bank account
In light of ongoing uncertainty at the Co-op Bank, BS< has opened an account at HSBC
and will be transferring its funds as soon as outstanding Co-Op cheques have been cleared.
MINUTES of MEETING held on 2 July 2014
MINUTES of MEETING held on 7th May 2014 (AGM)
Present: Cllrs Haffenden (chaired meeting), Day, Hubble, Jackson, Smyth, Speakman and Stuart. Also present Mr D Barlow (Internal auditor), Ms J Young (Kentish Gazette), Mr N Smith (clerk – took minutes) and 2 Parishioners.
Vice Chairman Cllr Hubble took the chair. Cllr Haffenden was the only nomination for Chairman, proposed Cllr Stuart and seconded Cllr Smyth. He was unanimously elected as Chairman. The declaration of Office was duly signed and Cllr Haffenden took the chair for the remainder of the meeting.
Cllr Hubble was nominated as Vice Chairman, proposed Cllr Day and seconded Cllr Speakman; He was unanimously elected as Vice Chairman.
Were received from SDC Cllr Carr and Mr J Hurdwell
Cllr Stuart declared a personal interest in Meadow View (8.5.1) as a neighbour.
Held on 5th March 2014.
Approved and duly signed. Proposed Cllr Day and seconded Cllr Smyth. All agreed.
6. MATTERS ARISING (not included in other agenda items)
6.1 Clinical commissioning Group Briefing 19 March – Clerk to send apologies and ask for summary of the event. Done, but no summary received.
6.2 Local Audit and Accountability Act – Openness of Local Government Bodies – draft regulations. Clerk to respond in respect of filming, use of social networks and recording of decisions. Done and copied to KALC.
6.3 Clerk to ascertain procedure to be adopted in declarations of Interest for planning applications where the applicant is a Councillor.
Done – included with application for Greenways. Clerk also reported that SDC use 3 categories of interest –
a) disclosable pecuniary interests (DPI);
b) other significant interests (OSI);
c) voluntary announcements of other interests.
Discussed and agreed that SMPC should replicate. Proposed Cllr Day and seconded Cllr Smyth. All agreed.
7.1 To table items of late correspondence.
7.2 Items circulated for information
None – not included in other agenda items.
7.3 Items acted on:
7.3.1 Graffiti on Bus shelter, Minnis Lane
Clerk reported that Graffiti on back of bus shelter & bus timetable outside R&C had been reported to SDC Environmental services to clean bus shelter and to Stagecoach East Kent to clean/replace timetable holder. Both have acknowledged report and will take action. As no action had been taken, Clerk to chase.
Cllr Hubble said that the Post Box opposite the shop was in need of painting as was the "Bossingham Road" sign opposite the finger post on the corner of Curtis Lane and Bossingham Road. He also said that the "Jubilee Farm" brown signs were now surplus as the farm had closed. Clerk to contact the appropriate bodies.
7.3.2 Draft Transparency Code for Parish Councils.
Response sent to HM Government Local Councils Audit and Fraud team on 10/4/14 and copied to KALC.
7.4 Items for discussion (not included in other agenda items):
7.4.1 Section 106 – planning decisions and affordable housing contributions. Cover in PUG report appended.
7.4.2 WW1 Centenary
Mr D Barlow was able to update Council on plans which were for a short service at the War memorial with an exhibition in Bossingham Village Hall. Agreed that any requests for financial support would be considered sympathetically.
8.1 To table late planning applications received for consideration.
8.2 To table planning applications dealt with since last meeting including decisions by Planning Authority.
8.2.1 Y14/0140/SH - The Grange, Bossingham Road. SMPC votes no objections 7:0. Two Cllrs declared a personal interest. SDC approved with conditions.
8.2.2 Y14/0172/SH - Greenways, Bossingham Road. SMPC voted No objection 6:0. Cllr Haffenden did not vote as is the applicant.
8.2.3 Y14/0514/SH - The Willows, Bossingham Road. Letter received from applicant confirming revision of plans following rejection of application Y13/1087/SH and willingness to make a section 106 agreement.
New application received. SMPC vote No objection 7:0 subject to legally binding section 106 agreement that annexe was to be used for family and friends associated with the main house and would never be sold as a separate dwelling.
Cllr Stuart asked a question on Council tax liability for the annexe.
8.3 To table decisions by Planning Authority on applications dealt with prior to last meeting.
8.3.1 Y14/0012/SH – Little Mead, Pony Cart Lane. Change of use of land to residential curtilage. SDC Approved subject to conditions.
8.4 Paperless planning process.
Copies of plans now being received OK – 2 days after e-mail advice. Survey return made to Michelle Hallett with views of Council. Cllr Hubble said that paper copies were much easier to work with than the on-line versions.
8.5 Other planning matters:
8.5.1 Meadow View
No report yet from SDC on consultations with Planning Barrister. New affidavits and plans placed on file by Mr Sheedy. Noted that there were not any affidavits on SDC planning portal from residents in vicinity of Meadow View.
Letter received from Mr C Robbins as "After thoughts following the March PC meeting", which he attended, the contents of which were noted.
9.1 Kent County Council. No report received from KCC Cllr Carey.
9.2 Shepway District Council. A report from SDC Cllr Carr was read –
The Boundaries Commission recommendations on reduction of Councillors for SDC to 30 and District Boundary changes go to House of Commons on 8 May. They have 40 days to consider and comment, but there is no reason to expect them to make any changes.
Cllr Carr will be Chairman of the Standards Committee.
At the last District Council meeting she raised the problems of both Broadband and paperless planning. With regard to Broadband, she has given all the paperwork to the Cabinet member and expresses concern that SM may not be included in the network upgrades. With regard to planning issues, there have been numerous complaints from other members and there may be a review.
Cllr Carr will be at the APM to discuss any issues with Parishioners.
9.3 KALC Shepway Area Committee. Written report from Cllr Stuart appended.
9.4 SDC Planning Users Group. Cllr Stuart drew Cllrs attention to the key points in his written report, appended.
9.5 Parish and Town Councils. No report, next meeting late May.
9.6 Kent Community Police. No report received.
9.7 Police liaison and Speed watch. Cllr Speakman reported that the next session of Speedwatch will commence on 19th May.
9.8 Minnis Managers. Cllr Day reported that she is still treasurer with Deborah Cripps taking the role of Secretary. Mr D Tuson is to advise the Minnis Managers on thinning out some of the trees on the Minnis. Questions were asked on access to properties over Stelling Minnis Common (a matter between Property owner and the Common owners). The cattle have returned.
9.9 Stelling Minnis Village Hall. Cllr Jackson said there was not much to report. The theme evening had been cancelled, there would not be a telephone line or broadband provided for the Village Hall. Councillors agreed that now that SMPC had moved back to paper planning applications the need for the telephone line & broadband had reduced.
9.10 Stelling Minnis Windmill. Cllr Speakman reported that the shutters on the Mill had been removed for refurbishment. The whole mill was waiting refurbishment. He mentioned National Mills Day.
9.11 Bossingham Sports & Leisure No report received from BS< for the meeting. Cllr Hubble said that the concrete skate board surface had shown some signs of spoiling and repairs were being carried out. (Removal of MUGA covered under agenda item 18.)
9.12 Other reports. None.
Trustees and representatives were proposed, accepted and agreed by all present:
|10.1 Trustees:
|Stelling Minnis Common Trust:
|Cllr Haffenden
|Cllr Day
|Cllr Speakman
|Windmill & Museum Trust:
|Cllr Speakman
|Cllr Haffenden
|Cllr Hubble
|Stelling Minnis Village Hall:
|Cllr Jackson
|Cllr Hubble
|Cllr Smyth
|10.2 External Bodies – representatives:
|KALC Shepway area committee (2 posts)
|Cllr Stuart
|Cllr Haffenden
|Cllr Smyth
|Cllr Speakman
|Cllr Smyth
|Cllr Hubble
|SDC Planning user group Agreed to leave open, any Cllr to attend.
|Minnis Managers
|Cllr Day
|Cllr Haffenden
|Cllr Hubble
|10.3 Other:
|Speedwatch co-ordinator
|Cllr Speakman
|Cllr Haffenden
|Cllr Smyth
|Police Liaison Agreed to abandon position.
|Cllr Smyth
|Cllr Haffenden
|Cllr Day
|Other (BS<) No longer required.
|10.4 Non Councillor:
|Internal Auditor
|Mr D. Barlow
|Cllr Haffenden
|Cllr Hubble
|Footpath Warden
|Mr M. Hart
|Cllr Haffenden
|Cllr Smyth
|Tree Warden
|Mr P. Dimmock
|Cllr Hubble
|Cllr Smyth
MINUTES of MEETING held on 5th March 2014
Present: Cllrs Haffenden (chaired meeting), Day, Hubble, Smyth, Speakman, Stuart. Also present Mr D Barlow (Internal auditor), Mr N Smith (clerk – took minutes) and 3 Parishioners.
None received.
Cllrs Haffenden and Stuart declared a personal interest in planning application Y14/0140/SH – The Grange and both neighbours and friends of the applicant. All Cllrs declared a personal interest in planning application Y14/0172/SH – the applicant is Parish Council Chairman.
3.1 Held on 8th January 2014.
Approved and duly signed. Proposed Cllr Smyth and seconded Cllr Day. All agreed.
4. MATTERS ARISING (not included in other agenda items) (Will be taken as noted – unless Cllrs wish to discuss)
4.1 O2 mobile Phone service.
Clerk reported that he had received a technical response from O2, which had been passed onto Mr Barlow. Action discharged.
4.2 Respond to Power Gen questionnaire on their performance during December storms.
Clerk reported that he had responded to the questionnaire in line with discussions in the January meeting i.e. no supply problems, but some questions raised over communications.
4.3 Identifying Key Parcels of Land. Clerk to contact Elmsted Parish Council to indicate support if they put forward the Stonegate Farmers site.
SMPC had no sites to declare. Clerk reported that he had contacted Elmsted Parish Council indicating support should they put forward the former Stonegate Farmers site; SDC had been advised accordingly.
4.4 Little Mead – write to Senior Planning Officer indicating dissatisfaction that despite unanimous objection by SMPC the application was approved without any contact or reasons given by planning officer.
Clerk reported that he had written to Head of planning at SDC and had been received from the team leader indicating that Parish Councils comments were taken into account, but tight timescales and workloads prevented the planning officer from referring back to Parish Council. Dialogue had been entered into with the applicant and in this instance there were insufficient grounds to refuse the amended proposal.
4.5 BS< – Clerk to write to UHPC about proposals to remove MUGA.
Clerk reported that he had written to Chairman of UHPC, copied to Mrs Hamilton (BS<) drawing attention to Village Appraisal sports and leisure facilities; also enquired about provision of a tennis court on a daylight only basis. UHPC will discuss at their next meeting 11th March.
4.6 Clerk to make formal application for precept of £4750.
Application made and acknowledged.
5.1 To table items of late correspondence.
5.1.1 Clinical Commissioning Group briefing 19 March.
No Cllrs available to attend. Clerk to send apologies and ask for a summary of the event.
5.2 Items circulated for information
None, not included under individual agenda items.
5.3 Items acted on:
5.3.1 Road Safety in Kent - Campaigning for a new approach – consultation.
Cllr Haffenden reported he had completed this on behalf of SMPC.
5.3.2 Shepway Community Compact – Cllr Stuart attended 5 Feb 2014
Cllr Stuarts detailed report is appended. He drew attention to several items:
Assets of community value, e.g. shop/PO and to lesses extend Pub, also consder Windmill. These should be registered to "buy time" should they close and the communty wish to take them over – Clrk & Cllr Stuart will discuss with SDC and progress registration,
Community right to challenge – could include highways hedge cutting etc. In principle Community could hire a contractor to do the work and SDC and/or KCC should fund.
5.4 Items for discussion (not included in other agenda items):
5.4.1 Kent Minerals & Waste Local Plan 2013-30 consultation.
No direct effect on SMPC other than possible increase in traffic on B2068.
5.4.2 Local Audit and Accountability Act - Openness of Local Government Bodies Draft Regulations.
Fully discussed. Cllr Stuart said that the finance element had not yet been enacted and SMPC should not respond on that at this time. Mr D Barlow recommended that if and when the finance element is enacted SMPC should employ an external auditor in addition to his internal audit; this function was currently carried out by the National Audit Office, with no charge to small Parish Councils. Cllr Stewart said that NALC and Government were in discussions on how best to replace National Audit Office.
Agreed to only respond with regard to filming, use of social networks and recording of decisions made. Response, to be finalised by Cllr Haffenden and Clerk, should indicate objection to filming and use of social media on cost and time grounds and that all decisions were recorded in the minutes of meetings where were available to the public via noticeboard and web site.
6.1 To table planning applications received for consideration.
6.1.1 Y14/0140/SH – The Grange, Bossingham Road. Alterations and extension to existing outbuilding to create an annexe. SDC voted No Objections 7:0. 3 Cllrs declared a personal interest as neighbour and/or friend of the applicant.
6.1.2 Application received 4/3/14:Y14/0172/SH Greenways, Bossingham Road. Cllr Haffenden is applicant and so cannot vote. Clerk to obtain procedure to be adopted in declarations of interest for an application by a fellow Councillor. Application being circulated in normal manner.
6.2 To table planning applications dealt with since last meeting including decisions by
Planning Authority.
6.2.1 Y14/0012/SH - Little Mead, Pony Cart Lane. Change of use land to residential curtilage. SMPC decision No Objections 7:0)
6.3 To table decisions by Planning Authority on applications dealt with prior to last meeting.
6.3.1 Y13/1087/SH – The Willows, Bossingham Road. Erection of a two storey side/rear extension and other external alterations, together with erection of a detached annexe building. SDC refused permission.
6.3.2 Y13/1134/SH – Anvil House, Pony Cart Lane. Erection of rear conservatory SDC Approved.
. 6.4 Paperless planning process.
Arrangements now in place to provide copies of plans which are larger than A4 as A3 sized copies. Cost of supplying plans will be billed monthly for payment within 30 days of receipt – late payment charges will be levied.
Mandate given for two councillors to sign cheques for this purpose on demand, to be ratified at next formal Parish Council meeting. Proposed Cllr Day and seconded Cllr Smyth. All agreed.
6.5 Other planning matters:
6.5.1 Y13/0914/SH – Meadow View, Harvest Lane. Application for lawful occupation certificate.
Cllr Haffenden outlined position to date, he, Clerk and SDC Cllr Carr had attended a meeting with SDC Planning, who had agreed to seek advice from a Planning Barrister on the probability of the case being upheld at appeal if the application was refused.
Need to wait for Barrister Advice before SDC can proceed.
An affidavit was thought to be forthcoming from Mr R Lilley, but despite three contacts from Clerk and after 2 months delay the likelihood of materialization was considered to be nil.
Cllr Haffenden said that all of the information held by and forwarded to Parish Council had been handed over to SDC for use in their discussions. However only factual material would carry any weight, assumptions and third hand reports were of no use in this planning application. The people in the best position to provide relevant facts were neighbours.
Questions on the validity of Electoral Rolls and Census returns in establishing the validity of the application had been asked and were considered not valid as the information could be different from the application for a wide range of reasons.
Matters of pollution and other activities on the site were outside the scope of the planning application.
Cllr Smyth said that the matter should not be allowed to drop, even if the application was approved, as a complaint should be made following the official procedure and which could involve the Ombudsman.
Cllr Day wished to record her thanks for all the work done on this case by Cllrs Haffenden, SDC Cllr Carr and Clerk.
Mr Robbins asked about the noise pollution correspondence from SDC of 30/10/09. Clerk said he had asked for a copy, but SDC were unable to supply one. Mr Robbins also asked about the incinerator licence, which the Planning Enforcement Officer had reported as having been shown.
Questions were asked about the views of the Owners of Stelling Minnis Common over access.
Cllr Haffenden summarised in that SMPC had done everything they could, but it also needed local residents facts and evidence to counter the claim of continuous residential occupation for 4 years; such evidence and facts needed to be in affidavit format, duly signed and sworn by a solicitor.
6.5.2 Fruiters Hall – change of use of accommodation over garage. No further reply from the Planning Enforcement Officer.
6.5.3 Wheelbarrow Town, land opposite Wheelbarrow Town Farm.
Cllr Hubble reported that he asked the Planning Enforcement Officer to investigate activity on the plot. The site is unregistered land and the PEO was having difficult identifying the owner.
6.5.4 Land 200m SE of Wheelbarrow Town Farm.
Cllr Day asked if the Planning Enforcement Officer could re-visit the site. Cllr Hubble said that he thought that the caravan was not now being lived in, it had been broken into. He thought that the owner lived in Canterbury.
7.1 Kent County Council. No report received from KCC Cllr Carey
7.2 Shepway District Council. No report received from SDC Cllr Carr
7.3 KALC Shepway Area Committee. Cllr Stuart provided a written report, appended.
7.4 SDC Planning Users Group. Next meeting on 16 April. Cllr Stuart said he would not be able to attend. Cllr Hubble may be able to attend instead.
7.5 Parish and Town Councils. Cllr Stuart provided a written report, appended.
7.6 Kent Community Police. No report received from Police or PCSO.
7.7 Police liaison and Speed watch. Cllr Speakman reported that Speedwatch sessions were imminent.
7.8 Minnis Managers. Cllr Day unable to attend. Cllr Haffenden attended - nothing to report.
7.9 Stelling Minnis Village Hall. No report received.
7.10 Stelling Minnis Windmill. Cllr Speakman reported that the AGM was well attended; the mill and museum was ready for Easter opening. Progress was being made on a long lease for the ground the museum stood on from KCC; the mill was scheduled for re- painting this year. Finances were healthy. A buyer was sought for the original of the mural to be displayed and copies made available in the museum. The trust would still own the copyright even if the original was sold.
7.11 Bossingham Sports & Leisure Trust. Cllrs Haffenden/Hubble had nothing to report.
7.12 Other reports
7.12.1 Community Compact Cllr Stuart provided a written report, appended.
Discuss plan should Clerk suddenly not be available.
Discussed and agreed that Clerk should write a handbook detailing what he does, how and other relevant information so that should he suddenly not be available the work could continue. Copy also to be held by Chairman or a nominated Councillor.
9.1 Stone Street road safety improvements.
No further action or communication received.
9.2 Flooding outside Ashcroft, Minnis Lane.
Proposals for a new soak-a-way and two drain gulleys in hand. Funding not yet secured, but should be in place for work to be completed next financial year.
9.3 Other highways matters.
Repairs to pot holes in Stone Street & Curtis Lane in hand.
Minnis Lane: Pot hole repairs 18 March, Minnis Lane will be closed for 2 days. To be resurfaced later in the year. Highways will liaise with drainage team over work to alleviate flooding outside Ashcroft. Question asked about maintaining access to shop and Rose & Crown plus bus service during closure – reply not yet received.
Clerk was asked to express concern to KCC Highways over flooding in Thorn Lane.
10.1 Update of account for 2013/14 including payments received. Clerk reported that a VAT refund of £64.39 had been received. Accounts currently stood at £4275.87 and expected end of year figure was £3820.26.
10.2 Accounts for payment:
Clerks Salary (Net) £259.32
Clerks expenses £ 56.88
Councillors expenses (David Stuart) £ 35.10
BS< expenses (50%) £ 7.00
All approved for payment. Proposed Cllr Day and seconded Cllr Smyth. All agreed.
10.3 Requests for funding.
None received.
10.4 Asset Register To agree update of register
Clerk presented an update to the asset register. The former Highways Laptop & pre- installed software had been scrapped and replaced by SDC provided Laptop and a combination of pre-loaded or loaned software. Optima display equipment & 5M extension lead also added.
Replacement price of Optima projector amended in line with typical purchase price.
Agreement to register required, for Audit and insurance purposes.
Register was approved. Proposed Cllr Stuart and seconded Cllrs Smyth. All agreed.
10.5 Repeal of section 150 of the Local Government Act 1950
Will allow for single signature cheques and remove audit commissions role, which will be replaced with an alternative. Agreed 2 signatures for cheques to be retained for security. Also discussed under 5.4.2.
Discussed under 5.3.2
Agreed to keep same format as last year. Cllr Day will source refreshments. Clerk to send out invitations at end of March.
Cllr Stuart reported that DEFRA money had been made available for upgrade to Stelling Minnis exchange. Information not to be made public until KCC has made a formal announcement.
No formal response received from Village Hall Committee.
Discussed with SDC. Should have a petition signed by 50% of electors in both Elham and Stelling Minnis Parishes. However there is provision for a review to be carried out by the Electoral Services Team at SDC on receipt of a formal request from both Parish Councils, which have now been sent to SDC.
Cllr Stuart said that if the new Parish Boundary is approved it may not be carried into the District Ward Boundary.
No update received from Mr Moores on new web site.
Cllr Stuart said that a question was raised at the FOSM AGM as to why FOSM was not on the current web site. Clerk (also responsible for current web site) said it was because despite asking for information for several years, none had been forthcoming.
7 May (AGM), 21 May (APM)
Meeting closed at 9.35pm
Signed John Haffenden Date 7 May 2014
7.3 KALC Shepway Area Committee 16-01-2014
Report on KALC Executive Committee
AGM in November - disappointment that Brandon Lewis, Minister for Local Govt. pulled out but replacement DCLG official was well received. Police speaker overran and left no time for questions. Next year - 2 speakers only - question time to be programmed and chairman to have "traffic lights"
AGM motions - passed that future motions will go to others as well as NALC. Not supported 1) opposition to Estuary Airport proposal (did not mean support) 2) change rules on number of electorate required to call an election (needs rewording try next year)
KALC Policy issues - proposed that this year there will be a satisfaction survey and strategic plan. Consideration of or review - Constitution, Driving Policy and draft IT policy.
NALC National issues - New Chief EXEC advert in New Year. HMGM update on criteria for local referendum due shortly. Council Tax support - two districts are not passing on HMG council tax support payment (Sevenoaks and Swale) - worry that it might set a precedent for future years
Planning - introduction of e-planning. Only Shepway and Dover did not consult parishes and all other districts have not introduced it. Reply to query to NALC said that the law on consultation is "woolly" and SDC were legally entitled to introduce it.
SDC -PCs Joint Committee - meeting cancelled
Attention drawn to SDC meeting to introduce a new Community Compact. Area Committee concerned that parishes had not been consulted before SDC "went firm" and short notice.
Shepway Joint Transport Board - main business was changes to street lighting.
Training Programme - support urged - feedback please.
NB Training Coordinator is a clerk to several parishes she urged PCs to consider arrangements for emergency back-up for clerk in cases of forced absence
Next meeting with SDC suggestions needed maybe items for 2014b scrutiny Committee and more on planning problems
Next Area Committee 17 April NOTE I may have a problem attending.
David Stuart
7 .5 Shepway District and Parish Councils Joint Committee 20 February 2014
Boundary Review. Final decision tabled. Will take effect from May 2015. Details passed to Clerk
NOTE In response to my question IF our proposals for a revision of SMPC's are approved they will only apply to PC elections. The wards for SDC elections will be as specified in the review
2014 Scrutiny. The closing date for submission of suggestions for consideration is 7th March. If we want a topic examined we need to make a bid. New Romney TC is considering a request for aspects of the planning procedure to be considered.
Standards Committee. PC representation. 3 PCs yet to respond. Will be put to Council for approval in May
SDC Budget - rate reduced by 0.5% (KCC, Police, and Fire Service all + 1.99 %). Result is extra £98,000 grant from HMG. This year 13.4% reduced budget - target for 2015-16 will be 15.4%. Note tax base for PCs actually went up this year because less to be paid in benefits.
Local clearing service available (e.g. litter or graffiti) Ask for details and state what service we require - also Community payback service run by probation service.
Discussion included need for report to include more on mechanism for applying new policy and feedback. Possibility of parish and SDC joint projects (similar to Ashford BC's village caretaker pilot scheme) was discussed.
David Stuart
7.12.1 Shepway Community Compact Seminar 5 February 2014
The meeting was intended to introduce the new policy document - Shepway Community Compact. It sets out how PCs and other community groups can work with SDC to exercise their community rights to improve their local communities and promote local democracy. In effect it is a response to The Localism Act 2011 and other initiatives by HMG. It includes Codes of Practice on Service Delivery and on Consultation and Engagement. As it is very new it is likely that it will a revised version will be published later this year after initial consultations with PCs and other bodies.
Subjects Covered - mainly from the Localism Act
1) Assets of Community Value (Community Right to Bid)
The Act gives communities the right to designate assets of importance to the community and even make bids for and obtain the ownership should the circumstances arise.
2) Community Right to Reclaim Land.
In effect this gives communities the right to bring back into public use land owned by public bodies
3) Community Infrastructure Levy
A new levy that local authorities can choose to charge on new developments. A share will come to local councils.
4) Community Right to Build
This right enables local people/communities to bring forward small scale, site specific community led developments (e.g. homes for sale or rent, starter homes, sheltered housing, convert disused farm buildings into affordable home, or community facilities such as a centre or playground).
5) Neighbourhood Planning
This gives the right for a community to produce a plan of where and what form housing development could/should take place. It must be align with SDC's Core Plan, be subject to an independent check, and be approved by a local referendum, (with 50% voting). Financial help is available. This is a complex subject and would need further investigation (I am aware of one small council considering using this facility to identify where they would support development even though the land owners have not expressed an interest).
6) New Homes Bonus
7) Changes to Planning Applications We may find new factors arising in planning justifications.
8) Community Energy
The Shepway Community Compact also covers other issues many of which are unlikely to impact directly onto this Parish including Housing (right to buy), Anti-social Behaviour, Transfer of Community Assets, Freedom of Information, Rules governing Polls and Referendums, Petitions, and Partnerships with Bodies responsible for Health and Wellbeing.
One facility which might interest is called the Community Right to Challenge under the heading of procurement and services. This title does not convey what is actually involved. In fact this part of the Act allows a parish - or more likely a group of parishes - to express an interest in providing services normally provided by a local or county authority.
A pilot scheme has been operating in the Ashford area whereby four parishes have taken on the maintenance of their villages - verge and ditch maintenance, street cleaning, grass cutting etc. and employing a person to carry out the work called the Village Caretaker scheme. (I'm not sure if it includes roads or just pavements).
Councillors ought to find time to study this Compact. It will affect working with SDC in the coming years and could give Parishes powers which are not always immediately obvious. For example Ashford BC work with their parishes to the extent of having an annual conference, a joint committee of District Councillors and officers and PC chairmen, and parish representation on the Borough's Budget Committee.
David Stuart
MINUTES of MEETING held on 8 January 2014
(All figures rounded to whole pounds)
Budget 2013/14
Spend to date (8 Jan 2014)
Prediction 31/3/2014
Budget 2014/15
Notes re 2014/15 budget
Mandatory items
Clerks Salary net (gross less PAYE)
Clerk PAYE
Clerk expenses
RFO Expenses
Councillors - expenses
Should consider increasing by £40 to £160.
End of year prediction should now be £158
Council - Insurance
Council - Village Hall Hire
Audit commission fee
Councillors - training
Election costs
Recommended items
Chairman's allowance
Membership KALC
Membership ACRK
Membership CPRE
Donation - Stelling Church
Voluntary items:
Donation - Age concern
Donation - Youth Club hall hire (50%)
Bossingham Sports & Leisure Trust
Donation - Air ambulance
First Responders
Sub total
Footpath Warden
Planning costs
KALC Publications
Total Contingency
Overall Total outgoings
Predicted Unspent budget
Balance brought forward
Interest on bank account
Other income
VAT refund, not yet claimed
5.56% increase
SDC Grant
SDC indicative grant
Total income
Possible unspent budget
Balance carried forward
(Revised to 3851)
Reduced by £78 if Councillors expenses increased to £160 & end of 2013/4
year prediction increased to £158.
Revised bal c/fwd to
2015/6 = 4409.
Balance available
Present: Cllrs Haffenden (Chaired meeting), Day, Hubble, Jackson, Smyth, Speakman and Stuart. Also present SDC Cllr Carr, Mr D Barlow (Internal Auditor), Mr N Smith (Clerk) and 1 Parishioner.
1. APOLOGIES. Received from Mr M Hart (Footpath Warden).
2. TO RECEIVE DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST ON AGENDA ITEMS. Cllr Stuart declared a pecuniary interest in item 6.5.1, as a neighbour.
3.1 Held on 6th November 2013.
3.2 Held on 13th November 2013.
Minutes of both meetings were approved, proposed Cllr Day and seconded Cllr Smyth. All agreed. Minutes were duly signed.
4. MATTERS ARISING (not included in other agenda items)
4.1 Clerk to send Inspector Bill Thornton a summary of communications with Kent Police and Kent Highways relating to Stone Street. Information sent. No feedback to date.
4.2 Clerk to Liaise with Charles Gooch, KCC Cllr Carey and SDC Cllr Carr over funding and siting of salt bin in Minnis Lane. Clerk reported that he had liaised with all three; however KCC Cllr Carey agreed to fund the entire cost from her highways budget. Charles Gooch had reported that the owners of Stelling Minnis Common agreed to the siting of a salt bin on the common. The bin has been installed between the post box and noticeboards. KCC Cllr Carey has been thanked for her generosity.
4.3 Contact Telefonica again re O2 mobile phone service in Village. Written to Chairman of Telefonica, reply not received to date.
5.1 To table items of late correspondence.
Power Gen questionnaire on their performance during the December storms. Discussed and agreed to respond positively as there had been little or no problems in the Parish. Clerk to respond.
5.2 Items circulated for information
5.2.1 Future of Local Audit: Draft Regulations Consultation.
5.3 Items acted on:
5.3.1 KCC Highways survey completed and sent to KCC.
5.3.2 Electoral commission consultation on electing new councillors; response made to Electoral commission and copied to KALC.
5.3.3 Dog micro chipping – free offer by Dogs Trust. Following request from Elmsted Parish, Clerk setting up a session in conjunction with Lord Whisky.
5.4 Items for discussion (not included in other agenda items):
5.4.1 Identifying key parcels for SDC local plan.
Information required by 3 February 2014. Cllr Stuart reported that SDC Officers were willing to discuss possible sites before formal submissions are made. Sites must be for 5 houses or more; rules on AONBs stay the same but under some circumstances building may be possible but discuss preliminary ideas first, before submitting; surplus farm buildings cannot be treated as brown field sites but development may be possible - again discuss informally with officers.
Agreed most viable site was the former Stonegate Farmers site. Clerk to contact Elmsted Parish indicating support if they were to put that site forward.
6.1 To table planning applications received for consideration.
6.2 To table planning applications dealt with since last meeting including decisions by
Planning Authority.
6.2.1 Y13/1087/SH – The Willows, Bossingham Road. Erection of a two storey side/rear extension and other external alterations, together with erection of a detached annexe building. SMPC Object 7:0. Responded to SDC 12/11/13. No SDC decision yet.
6.2.2 Y13/1134/SH – Anvil House, Pony Cart Lane. Erection of rear conservatory
SMPC Vote Approve 6: No Objection 1. Responded to SDC 1/12/13. No SDC decision yet.
6.3 To table decisions by Planning Authority on applications dealt with prior to last meeting.
6 .3.1 Y13/0951/SH – Little Mead - Erection of replacement dwelling following demolition of the existing - variation of condition 2 of Y13/0222/SH to allow additional roof lights, movement of a window and the addition of a conservatory/sunroom. SDC Approved with conditions.
The decision was debated and Clerk to write to Senior Planning Officer indicating that SMPC were very dissatisfied in that despite unanimous objection by Council, the application was approved without any contact or reasons from the planning officer.
The consensus of opinion, based on this and other recent applications was that SMPC are wasting their time considering planning applications. SDC Cllr Carr said that with the exception of Certificates of Lawfulness, any planning application can be "called in" to be considered by the Planning Development Committee, but there needed to be very good reasons for doing so. She also said that Planners were under great pressure from Government to approve applications.
6.4 Paperless planning process.
Was raised at Planning user group meeting – see report from Cllr Stuart appended. Still not had a response from SDC on standing order for paper copies of plans or invoicing arrangements.
6.5 Other planning matters:
6.5.1 Y13/0914/SH – Meadow View, Harvest Lane. Application for lawful occupation certificate.
Cllr Haffenden outlined position to date. Need to be careful not to give any excuse for claims of harassment. SMPC had repeatedly brought matters to the attention of SDC. Meeting arranged with SDC and Cllr Carr for 14 Jan 2014. Cllr Carr said that input from Sid Brown included that there was no dwellings on site and the land was agricultural and not residential. Cllr Stuart said that the barns were not fit for human habitation and a key point was when did occupation actually commence. Cllr Speakman said that SMPC needed to respond to the letter from John Macauley regarding allegations of harassment. Clerk to draft letter.
A mobile home/large caravan had been delivered to site before Christmas, to provide accommodation for animal feed because of flooding. Mr Macauley had been asked to revisit the site because of claims by Parishioners about old cars being delivered to site and use of an incinerator. Environment agency had been contacted for advice.
6.5.2 Fruiterers Hall – change of use of accommodation over garage.
No application made by owner for change of use. Responded to John Macauley that SMPC wished to formalise situation on this and all similar properties with an application for change of use – residents should not just achieve change of use by default.
6.5.3 Town and country planning act 1990, The Shepway (land at 1 and 2 Stelling lodge cottages, church lane, Stelling Minnis). Tree preservation order no.18 of 2013. Noted.
6.5.4 Consensus of views on planning decisions etc.
Discussed under 6.3.1.
7.1 Kent County Council. No report received from KCC Cllr Carey
7.2 Shepway District Council. SDC Cllr Carr reported that she had received communication from the neighbour to Little Mead. Boundary commission decision expected soon on proposals to reduce number of Councillors to 30 from May 2016.
7.3 KALC Shepway Area Committee. No meeting held.
7.4 SDC Planning Users Group. Report from Cllr Stuart at appendix A.
7.5 Parish and Town Councils. No meeting held.
7.6 Kent Community Police. No report received.
7.7 Police liaison and Speed watch. Cllr Speakman said he had nothing to report.
7.8 Minnis Managers. No meeting held.
7.9 Stelling Minnis Village Hall. Cllr Jackson reported that the WI-FI provision had been discussed and that costs from both BT and Plus Net were likely to be prohibitive. Cllr Jackson. It was suggested to contact MP regarding SMVH being a charity supporting the community and such charges were prohibitive. Agreed to wait for formal response from SMVH Committee.
7.10 Stelling Minnis Windmill. Cllr Speakman reported that the Mural painting was now finished and that there would be a grand opening of the Museum in May.
7.11 Bossingham Sports & Leisure Trust. The BS< trust report, at Appendix A, indicated that the Multi Use Games Area was to be dropped. Cllrs felt that this was contrary to the Village appraisal and left what was little more than a child's play area. Clerk to write to UHPC about the proposals and whether any sports areas (e.g. tennis court) was to be included. Cllrs felt unable to continue to support the BS< if there were not any form of sports area.
7.12 Footpath warden report. Report from Martin Hart at Appendix A.
8.1 Stone Street road safety improvements.
No feedback yet from Kent Police. Cllr Smyth reported that refreshed road markings on the Canterbury side of the Curtis Lane junction was already wearing off.
8.2 Flooding outside Ashcroft, Minnis Lane.
Cllr Day and Clerk met KCC's drainage consultant. Owners of Minnis would be agreeable to works on the Common, subject to submission of detail of proposals for approval. No feedback from KCC to date.
8.3 Other highways matters.
Cllr Smyth reported that a problem with the ditches at Wadden Hall had been reported to Kent Highways.
Cllr Stuart reported that he had been contacted regarding a Parishioner discharging sewage into the drainage ditch opposite Wadden Hall. Had been reported to the Shepway Environmental Services.
9.1 Update of account for 2013/14 including payments received.
Account balance stands at (4/1/14) £4599.85p including December interest of 39p.
End of year balance prediction £3851 (allowing for over budget councillors expenses)
9.2 Accounts for payment.
Clerks Salary (net) £259.52
Clerks Expenses £ 40.63
Councillors expenses (David) £ 48.60
KALC – Booklet Local Councils explained 2013 £ 39.99
Total £388.74
Payment of all accounts proposed Cllr Smyth and seconded Cllr Day. All agreed
9.3 Requests for funding.
9.4 Budget and precept 2014/15
Budget was discussed at meeting of 13 November 2013. The HM Government direction on precepts and referendums has not yet been announced. Clerk reported that he had agreed with KALC that bests course of action is to agree a budget and precept, based on current (2013) guidelines, and note that it is subject to change if HM government direction requires precept to be reconsidered.
Because Elections will be held in May 2015, should be looking to carry forward at least:
£2000 for a local referendum
£2000 for a mid-term election
£88 for an uncontested election in May 2015 (contested would be £700)
£300 for training for say 4 new councillors after May 2015
£4388 is suggested minimum to be aiming to carry forward. Budget suggests £4487 (reduced to £4409)
Precept proposed £4750. Proposed Cllr Haffenden and seconded Cllr Hubble. All agreed. Clerk to make formal application to SDC before 31 January 2014.
10.1 Policy statement review. Policy reviewed and agreed without change. Proposed Cllr Haffenden and seconded Cllr Speakman. All Agreed.
Cllr Stuart reported that he had summarised the situation in an article in the January Parish Magazine. He was still awaiting a formal response from Kent County Council.
Discussed under item 7.9.
Clerk reported that he made a formal application to Elham Parish Council for them to consider the proposals. EPC meets on Monday 13 January.
Clerk had circulated a list of pages on both existing and proposed web site. Consensus of opinion was that the proposed web site was not yet ready. Clerk to contact Steve Moores for an update on progress.
5 March, 7 May (AGM), 21 May (APM)
Provisional booking of SMVH had been made for meetings for the 12 months from May 2014 to May 2015. Actual dates to be confirmed at AGM on 7 May.
Provisional dates:
2nd July, 3rd September, 12th November,
14th January, 4th March, 6th May (last meeting of existing Council), 13th May (first meeting of new Council – assuming elections are held on 7th May). 3rd June for APM (deferral to after end of May will be allowed if elections are held in May).
Mr David Barlow wanted to thank SDC Cllr Pam Carr for the action taken to stop vehicles parking by the Noticeboard and salt bin.
He also asked what the mini basketball court and table tennis table referred to in the BS< report were.
Cllr Day asked what size games areas could be provided by BS< without the need for floodlights. Cllr Hubble suggested that a tennis court with bounce boards to allow five-a-side football might be suggested.
Meeting closed at 9.05 pm
Signed J Haffenden (Chairman). Date 5th March 2014.
7.4 Planning user group meeting (Cllr Stuart)
SDC Planning Users Group -18 December 2013
NOTE. This was a meeting with a very lengthy agenda (partly because there had not been a meeting since April). The minutes have been promised for mid January and hence this report only covers items of direct interest to SMPC.
LOCAL PLANS UPDATE. Now that the main plan has been approved a supporting document will be produced dealing with smaller housing developments (required to reach the Councils targets) - business developments - green and open spaces -and gypsy sites. SDC has called for possible sites by 3rd February. Officers are willing to discuss possible sites before formal submissions are made. In answer to our questions:
Sites must be for 5 houses or more.
Rules on AONBs stay the same but under some circumstances building may be possible but discuss preliminary ideas first, before submitting.
Surplus farm buildings cannot be treated as brown field sites but development may be possible - again discuss informally with officers.
NEW HOMES BONUS Section 106 arrangements will still apply to major developments. The new Levy will apply to smaller developments and it is suggested that payments for several developments might be combined to benefit communities. The publicised New Homes Bonus from HMG is an incentive for DCs to approve new housing.
NEW ON-LINE PLANNING - UPDATE 10 parishes have projectors but some are having problems. Lap Tops are still awaited. The problem of parts of applications being blacked out is fairly common - maybe due to the Adobe File. SDC will provide free printed plans if this affects consideration of an application. If there is a problem with accessing back history of a site advice SDC (if possible work on application number rather than house name)
We were promised that we would get a response to our letter re purchase of paper plans.
NB It was reported that a survey by KALC had shown that only two districts in Kent are insisting on electronic planning (SDC and Dover)
1) We were assured that reference of an application when PC and Officers disagreed would still be usual practice.
2) Less helpful was SDC's insistence that "minor" changes agreed with the applicant could not be referred to PCs for comment as it would be too time consuming and take consideration outside the required time scale.
3) Future meetings - dates for 2014 to be published in minutes and starting time to be 6-00 pm.
David Stuart
29 12 2013
7.12 Footpath warden (Martin Hart)
Footpath Warden Report
Sep – Dec 2013
1) Work undertaken
● I attended the KCC PROW meeting at Brabourne in Oct. It became clear that the on line reporting system for problems with footpaths is so under-resourced that the chances of anything being done when you report a relatively minor matter are very slim. You could only feel sympathy for the KCC PROW Manager and his severe lack of resources to do the job.
A KCC PROW campaign this summer, to ensure that farmers marked out paths after cropping, could only be carried out in a few areas where there have previously been significant failure to mark out paths. This meant that despite several reports I made at the same time via the on-line system, that paths across the De Haan managed fields near to Stone Street had not been marked out this year, and had in some cases become impassable, were not included in the campaign.
It seems as though the only real way forward is to make direct contact with offending land owners / users to ask if they will undertake their responsibilities.
● I have continued to replace way marker signs as needed and to clear undergrowth on the paths I regularly walk. I am not aware of any paths you can't use due to undergrowth / overgrowth as is the case on some paths in other areas.
● During the final quarter of 2013 I had just one person call me about footpath issue but unfortunately I was out at the time and they did not leave a number. I therefore hope the matter was resolved!
● The very wet winter weather has made it quite difficult to walk a number of paths lately (particularly those across recently ploughed/ cultivated fields) and many stiles have become extremely slippery. However, I haven't yet come across any paths where trees have fallen and blocked them – as is the case on some neighbouring routes.
Let's hope we get some drier weather soon.
Martin Hart - Footpath Warden, 31/12/13
7.11 Update from Bossingham Sports & Leisure Trust to UHPC and SMPC January 2014
Children's Play Equipment
Playdale Playgrounds will install the following three items around the grassy mound during
the week commencing 27th January, weather permitting; team swing, toddler climber and
springer .
Removal of MUGA from the Agreement Between BS< & UHPC
After detailed consideration, it has been decided not to pursue funding for the MUGA.
Please see the following extract from UHPC's meeting minutes of 19.11.13 for full details:
a. Bossingham Sports & Leisure Trust
Proposal to vary the Agreement between UHPC and BS<:
On 4.11.13, the trustees of BS< circulated a report to councillors regarding a proposed
variation to the ʻAgreement Between UHPC and BS<' dated 23.7.12, for consideration and
discussion at this meeting. The variation proposes to provide four of the original five items in
the Agreement, i.e. skateboard area, outdoor gym equipment, children's play equipment and
community seating & barbeque, and to no longer include the MUGA (Multi-Use Games Area).
This is due to:
• mandatory floodlighting requirement by funders; the cost (well in excess of £100,000);
• loss of free-to-use open play space felt to compromise the integrity of the site;
• long-term management and maintenance implications felt to be out of proportion with the
size of the community and the amount of users.
The proposed variation was discussed by councillors and Liz Dixey of BS<, who also
informed councillors of trustees' research into the provision of a mini basketball court and
table tennis table.
• IT WAS AGREED to accept the variation to no longer include a MUGA (Multi-Use Games
Area) in the mandate as detailed in the ʻAgreement Between UHPC and BS<' dated
100 Club
December winners: Ros Shefford, Geoff Goodchild, David Stuart.
January draw will take place on Saturday 11th January.
Many thanks to the winners who have donated their prize money to the project. There are still
numbers available and application forms are available from Clare and Liz or from Stelling
Minnis Stores.
Clare Hamilton, Liz Dixey and Andy Nicholas
Bossingham Sports & Leisure Trust. Registered Charity No.1146559.
STELLING MINNIS PARISH COUNCIL - BUDGET 2014/15 (Proposed)
(All figures rounded to whole pounds)
Budget 2013/14
Spend to date (8 Jan 2014)
Prediction 31/3/2014
Budget 2014/15
Notes re 2014/15 budget
Mandatory items
Clerks Salary net (gross less PAYE)
Clerk PAYE
Clerk expenses
RFO Expenses
Councillors - expenses
Should consider increasing by £40 to £160. End of year prediction should now be £158
Council - Insurance
Council - Village Hall Hire
Audit commission fee
Councillors - training
Election costs
Recommended items
Chairman's allowance
Membership KALC
Membership ACRK
Membership CPRE
Donation - Stelling Church
Voluntary items:
Donation - Age concern
Donation - Youth Club hall hire (50%)
Bossingham Sports & Leisure Trust
Donation - Air ambulance
First Responders
Sub total
Footpath Warden
Planning costs
KALC Publications
Total Contingency
Overall Total outgoings
Predicted Unspent budget
Balance brought forward
Interest on bank account
Other income
VAT refund, not yet claimed
5.56% increase
SDC Grant
SDC indicative grant
Total income
Possible unspent budget
Balance carried forward
(Revised to 3851)
Reduced by £78 if Councillors expenses increased to £160 & end of 2013/4 year prediction increased to £158.
Revised bal c/fwd to 2015/6 = 4409.
Balance available
DRAFT MINUTES of FINANCE MEETING held on 13th November 2013
Present: Cllrs
Haffenden (Chaired meeting), Day, Hubble, Jackson, Smyth, and Stuart. Also
present, Mr D Barlow (Internal Auditor) and Mr N Smith (Clerk).
1. APOLOGIES. None
Clerk outlined budget proposals indicating that there would be an election in May 2015 and so the 2014/15 budget should be looking to carry forward into 2015/16 sufficient funds to cover both the cost of a contested election (around £700) and initial training for possibly 4 new councillors (£75 each).
Should also be looking to carry forward each year at least £4000 to cover costs of a mid-term election and a local referendum (around £2,000 each). To that end he had suggested a precept of £4600. The proposals did not take into account any grant that SDC might make for 2014/15 and the cost of printing copies of planning application plans as agreed, by motion, at the meeting 6 November 2013.
The proposals were fully debated. Cllrs wished to donate £100 each for Kent Air ambulance and Community First responders against the £50 each proposed. The also agreed to continue to fund Bossingham Youth club with a match funding of 50% of actual hall hire costs with UHPC.
Agreed that the cost of planning application plans would be paid from contingency funds.
The budget agreed is:-
Membership KALC 260.00
Membership ACRK 50.00
Membership CPRE 30.00
Council - Insurance 325.00
Council - Village Hall Hire 100.00
Audit commission fee 70.00
Clerks Salary net (gross less PAYE) 1712.00
Clerk expenses 300.00
Clerk PAYE 428.00
Chairman's allowance 100.00
Councillors - expenses 120.00
Councillors - training 75.00
Donation - Stelling Church 200.00
Donation - Age concern 100.00
Donation - Youth Club hall hire (50%) 330.00
Bossingham Sports & Leisure Trust 75.00
Election costs 88.00
Donation - Air ambulance 100.00
Donation - First Responders 100.00
Sub Total 4563.00
Contingency 200.00
Overall Total 4763.00
Balance predicted to be carried forward from 2013/14 3891
Budgeted spend 2014/15 4763
Funding required to cover budget 872
Target funds suggested to be carried into 2015/16:
Mid Term election (or contested election) 2000
Local referendum 2000
4 Councillor training courses 300
Total 4300
Total funding required (precept + any grants) (872+4300) £5172
Agreed that Council was minded to apply for a precept of £4750. Proposed Cllr Smyth, Seconded Cllr Haffenden. All agreed.
Clerk advised that the cost of a salt bin was £350. Cllr Carr had agreed to fund £200. KCC Cllr Carey was likely to provide funds but wanted to know what funding SMPC would provide. Discussed and agreed to fund £50 from the Chairman's allowance. Proposed Cllr Haffenden and seconded Cllr Day. All agreed. To be ratified at January 2014 meeting.
Agreed that a contribution would be made from the Contingency fund towards the cost of WI-FI in SMVH, if required.
2014: 8 January, 5 March, 7 May (AGM), 21 May (APM)
Meeting closed at 9.30 pm
Signed ………………………………………………. Date ………………..
DRAFT MINUTES of MEETING held on 6th November 2013
Present: Cllrs Haffenden (Chaired
meeting), Day, Hubble, Smyth, Speakman and Stuart. Also present SDC Cllr
Carr, Mr D Barlow (Internal Auditor), Inspector B Thornton, PCSO J Chadwick,
Mrs P Chatfield (NHW), Mr N Smith (Clerk) and 3 Parishioners.
The Chairman opened the meeting and welcomed guests from Kent Police, Inspector Bill Thornton and PCSO James Chadwick together with Neighbourhood Watch Co-ordinator Pam Chatfield.
Chief Inspector D Mullins and M Hart (Footpath Warden).
Cllr Stuart declared a pecuniary interest in agenda item 7.5.1.
Held on 4th September 2013 – approved. Proposed Cllr Day and seconded Cllr Speakman. All agreed. The minutes were duly signed.
Cllr Haffenden opened the discussion by explaining that there were 2 main issues which concerned Parish Council - PCSO's and safety on the B2068 (Stone Street).
Inspector Bill Thornton introduced himself and PCSO James Chadwick and outlined their background. He then answered the questions which had been sent in advance of the meeting:-
PCSO's. Whilst they do have extended powers they do not have the power of arrest, but can retain offenders and can issue fixed penalty notices. They work 37 hours a week and contact is via the 101 service. 3 PCSO serve the area, with James Chadwick being the nominated PCSO for Stelling Minnis and Elham. They report to a team sergeant. Some are trained to use a speed gun but cannot deal with highways matters and cannot stop speeding drivers. However they can report highway offences which are then followed up. Both Inspector Thornton and PCSO Chadwick are keen to actively support community speedwatch events with a speedgun. Operational changes and emergency responses could mean that local police teams are not available, in which case the nearest police team will be targeted to respond. PCSO Chadwick said that he would be able to flag up any problems arising from community speedwatch events to give a targeted police presence. PCSO training includes local knowledge and 8 weeks familiarisation of an area.
Stone Street (B2068). Cllr Haffenden gave a summary of the situation on Stone Street and the stages that been gone through with both Highways and Kent Police resulting in no more action than refreshing the road markings and washing the road signs. What Parish Council were seeking, and which had been agreed by Kent Highways, but rejected by Kent Police, was double white lines to prevent overtaking in the vicinity of the Junctions with Curtis and Thorn Lanes. An alternative solution put forward by Kent Police was rejected by Kent Highways because of lack of road width. There had been 2 crashes in 3 days at the junction yet Kent Police were still unable to support double white lines because they felt they were unenforceable. The prime concern of the Parish Council was to improve safety at the junctions. Cllr Haffenden gave an example of a similar junction on the A28 at Godmersham where double white lines had been used to improve safety; he suggested that double white lines were respected by drivers where other safety measures might not be. Cllr Hubble suggested that unfamiliarity was a prime cause of crashes. Inspector Thornton said that double white lines were generally used on bends etc. and very rarely on junctions just to protect the junction. Clerk to send Inspector Thornton a summary of communications relating to the junction. Cllrs suggested that if Kent Police monitored the junctions they might be able to build up a picture of the situation. Inspector Thornton indicated that inappropriate speed was not the problem, but turning at the junctions was, he said that he would look at the road markings again.
Speedwatch. Cllr Speakman said that he thought that speeding and road safety was not receiving the same level of support as crime. Inspector Thornton repeated that Kent Police can assist with speedwatch events. In answer to a question on speedwatch locations he said that speedwatch sessions could only be carried out in approved locations; Kent Police could advise on new locations.
Communications. Inspector accepted that there was a problem with the former working groups with Parish Councils. PCSO Chadwick said that he would liaise with Mrs Chatfield to set up monthly surgeries in the Village Shop.
Other questions. Inspector Thornton said that police cars were tracked by the central control. Response time depends upon the grading of the call. Difficult to enforce where drivers are not switching on dipped headlights in poor visibility conditions; there is no pattern of rural crime in Elham and Stelling Minnis, metal and oil thefts have been a problem. In conclusion Inspector Thornton said not to undervalue PCSO's and contact should be via 101 or 999 if an emergency.
5. MATTERS ARISING (not included in other agenda items)
5.1 Verify that allocated fire hydrants & markers had been located and repaired. (4.1 – all Cllrs). Confirmed as completed.
5.2 Order salt bag for Gildridge Hill/Wildage/Elham Park. (5.1.3 – Clerk). Salt bag ordered.
Salt bin for Minnis Lane. Clerk reported would have to be purchased by Parish Council. He had contacted SDC Cllr Carr who would support 50% of cost and he had approached KCC Cllr Carey, who had asked what will Parish Council be funding. Discussed and agreed Council could fund £50. Clerk to liaise with Charles Gooch over location and Cllrs Carr and Carey over funding.
5.3 Collect display projector and lap top from SDC (6.4 - Clerk). Collected.
5.4 Contact SMVH committee again re WIFI in the hall. (6.4 Clerk). Letter to Chairman of SMVH, which will be considered at their January meeting.
5.5 Update Charles Gooch re Meadow View. (6.5.1 - Clerk). Done.
5.6 Ask KCC Cllr Carey for an update on Broadband project progress. (10 - Clerk). Clerk confirmed he had contacted KCC Cllr Carey who had no new information.
5.7 Enquire of O2 about mobile phone service in the village. (18 - Clerk) Clerk confirmed he had contacted O2, Telefónica UK Limited and had received a reply. Would now be taking matter up again as reply was unsatisfactory.
6.1 To table items of late correspondence.
6.2 Items circulated for information
6.2.1 Confirmation that SDC Core Planning Strategy now adopted.
6.3 Items acted on:
6.4 Items for discussion (not included in other agenda items):
6.4.1 Electoral Commission Consultation - Standing for Election in the UK.
Two concerns proposed: A limit on the number of levels of local seats that a candidate can stand for plus the need for computer literacy and access to an internet connected device.
6.4.2 KALC AGM 23rd November. Only Cllr Stuart to attend.
7.1 To table planning applications received for consideration.
7.1.1 Y13/1087/SH – The Willows, Bossingham Road.
Cllrs to consider and advise Clerk of their views.
7.1.2 Other late applications received. None.
7.2 To table planning applications dealt with since last meeting including decisions by
Planning Authority.
7.2.1 Y13/0951/SH – Little Mead, Pony Cart Lane. Parish Council objected 7:0. No decision yet from SDC.
7.3 To table decisions by Planning Authority on applications dealt with prior to last meeting. None.
7.4 Paperless planning process.
7.4.1 Feedback on application process. General feeling was that drawings were difficult to view in sufficient size to be readable and not able to compare, side by side, existing with proposed. Computer literacy problems had arisen. Cllr Hubble had an A3 printer which SMPC could use at cost. Use of display equipment did not help, much.
7.4.2 Motion proposed by Cllr Stuart and seconded by Cllr Day: Stelling Minnis Parish Council agrees to obtain and circulate full size paper copies of all drawings submitted as part of an application for planning approval, which is under consideration by the Council. Furthermore, this agreement will apply until May 2015 at which time the Council may wish to consider suitable arrangements for the future. Impact on finances to May 2015 was considered – likely impact around £100 per year. Motion was debated and agreed 5:1 (Cllr Smyth abstained). Clerk to discuss arrangements for provision of paper copies of all planning application plans and payment with SDC.
7.5 Other planning matters:
7.5.1 Meadow View
Parish Council responded to SDC refuting the claim made by applicant. Other than an acknowledgement, no further communication received from SDC. All submissions, affidavits, evidence etc. available to view on SDC planning portal
8.1 Kent County Council. No report received from KCC Cllr Carey.
8.2 Shepway District Council. SDC Cllr Carr reported that North Downs will be a two member ward. The new Standards Board will comprise 2 District and 2 Parish Councillors.
8.3 KALC Shepway Area Committee. Cllr Stuart provided a written report, appended.
8.4 SDC Planning Users Group. Cllr Stuart reported that next meeting to be held on 18 December. He had points to raise relating to electronic planning applications; referring applications to development control committee; 2 applications had recently been approved by SDC following design changes yet SMPC were not consulted about the changes.
8.5 Parish and Town Councils. Cllr Stuart provided a written report, appended.
8.6 Kent Community Police. Dealt with under agenda item 4.
8.7 Police liaison and Speed watch. Cllr Speakman reported that 4 speedwatch sessions had been cancelled due to weather conditions. During the last session held, 5 offenders had been reported to Police. Next planned session in New Year.
8.8 Minnis Managers. Cllr Day provided a written report, appended. She also reported that she will continue as Parish Council representative and Deborah Cripps will be taking over as secretary. The Managers now have a bracken bruiser machine. A public meeting had been arranged for 30 November. Cllr Speakman said that the work of the Minnis Managers is highly commendable – all are volunteers.
8.9 Stelling Minnis Village Hall. Cllr Smyth reported that the Minnis Munchers lunch was well attended. A quiz night was to be held 23 November.
8.10 Stelling Minnis Windmill. Cllr Speakman reported that KCC were running out of funds for Windmills. Heritage funding will also soon end.
8.11 Joint Sports Facility. Written report received from Clare Hamilton – appended. 8.12 Other reports: None.
9.1 Stone Street road safety improvements. Cllr Smyth report that all re-painting of lines and arrows plus cleaning of signs in vicinity of junction of Stone Street with Curtis and Thorn Lanes now completed.
9.2 Other highways matters. None.
10.1 Update of account for 2013/14 including payments received.
Latest account balance £5074.53 including interest payments up to October 2013
10.2 Accounts for payment. Full details in Cllrs pack.
Clerks Salary £259.52
Clerks Expenses £ 35.91
Clerks PAYE £ 99.09
Councillors Expenses (Cllr Stuart) £ 58.50
Planning costs (affidavit fee) – To be repaid to Cllr Hubble £ 5.00
KALC Good Councillor Guides (7 copies for Cllrs). £ 17.50
Total £475.52
Payments proposed Cllr Hubble and seconded Cllr Day. All agreed.
10.3 Requests for funding. (None)
10.4 Budget and precept 2014/15. Deferred to separate meeting - 13th November.
Cllr Stuart gave an update on the two Broadband projects. The current indications are that Stelling Minnis Exchange will be included in the DEFRA bid which expects 38% of premised to have fibre (high speed broadband) and 62% basic 2Mbit Broadband by 2015. More details will come from KCC when BT has completed their surveys.
12. STELLING MINNIS WEB SITE. Ongoing development by Steve Moores. Cllrs asked to look at proposed web site and advise on anything they think is missing.
All 3 affected property owners have now agreed to proposed change. Next stage is to formally approach Elham Parish Council and then make a formal approach to SDC – who may involve boundaries commission as will have a (very minor) effect on the new SDC ward boundaries.
2014: 8 January, 5 March, 7 May (AGM), 21 May (APM)
Meeting closed at 10.30 pm
Signed ………………………………………………. Date ………………..
8.3 KALC Shepway area committee
KALC Shepway Area Committee - 17 October 2013
KALC Executive Committee --
Finance -- 2013 presently shows a loss of £5,818 due to costs of moving the office but this is less than predicted. Overall 2013 will show higher expenditure and income than agreed due to sales of Councillors Guide.
2013 AGM - - 23rd November at Ditton. Details have been circulated. Two Speakers and 3 Motions for Consideration - dissatisfaction with NALC treatment of previous submission - suggested change in legislation on calling of election for casual vacancy - opposition to Thames Estuary Airport.
New model standing orders - - now on-line.
Problems with NALC - - Subs still too high (£36k). Motions not being treated reasonably. Should KALC withdraw? Decided to see what difference a new Chief Officer will make.
KCC Transportation Boards - - Improving role of parish reps - KCC Officers support our view but needs agreement e.g. cabinet committee.
SDC - Parish Councils Joint Committee - - see above report
MAJOR DISCUSSUON on problems associated with introduction of e-planning. The few larger councils seem to be coping with the new system as they have planning committees which meet regularly and use projectors. All the smaller councils are having problems due to a variety of reasons and are wholly dissatisfied. Some have the new equipment - but by no means all for many reasons.
It was recognised that se a few Parish Councils especially the smaller PCs were still experiencing difficulties in accessing planning applications that SDC be required to reconsider sending paper copies of planning applications to the PCs concerned.
Shepway Joint transportation Board
Councils to consider lobbying chairman Martin Wybrow of Hythe to support PC rep to have voting rights and consider a second PC rep.
Note KCC Highways Seminar 22 October
Snow Ploughing routes - 91 in Shepway. It was suggested that PCs may wish to ask Pauline Rockett for details and also who are the local contractors who should clear local roads.
Parishes are having problems with clearing gullies and drains KCC may not have up to date information on locations.
Future Agenda for Joint Committee
Standards Committee NOTE All PCs who have not done so are urged to write to SDC pressing for full involvement by PC reps
Other suggestions to Frank Hobbs
8.5 Parish and Town Councils
SDC Parish Councils Joint Committee - 10 October 2013
Joint Standards Committee - - Officers are putting a proposal to SDC Committees and eventually the cabinet for a joint hearing committee which includes parish representatives. However letters of support are still needed from some parish councils
Election Notices - - SDC maintain that they are conforming to the regulations by advertising casual vacancies and elections of district councillors at the Civic Centre and on-line only and are not prepared to extend the notification.
Electoral Commission Boundary Review - - Report on SDC's final submission. Final outcome will be in early 2014. SMPC likely to be in large North Downs ward with 2 councillors representing 6 parishes. I have full details if requested
E-Planning. Most Councils which made a request have now been visited. All promised projectors have been allocated. There is a shortage of reconditioned lap tops but more could become available by the end of the year. It was noted that a meeting of the PUG (the forum for discussion of the issues) had been much delayed and many councils were still experiencing problems.
Budgets 2014-15 - - A letter will be sent (now received) giving details of SDC's proposals for the next financial year. Basically the precept requested will again be reduced to take into account the number of benefit claimants (reducing the number of Band D equivalent properties) in each parish. The compensating HMG grant will be reduced by 13.6% and this year there will be no top up payment by SDC to help with any shortfall.
Village Halls - - next year the rate relief calculations will be dealt with earlier. It was acknowledged that this year's arrangements had been unsatisfactory.
8.8 Minnis Managers
Report from meeting of 9TH OCTOBER 2013
• Correspondence: report re a Parishioner who are repeatedly burning rubbish on the Minnis.
• Faversham Horse Society Orienteering – Was well organised, went well and no adverse reports were received.
• HLS Scheme application – to be read in full. Dan Tuson was congratulated and thanked by the committee for his great help and assistance. Funding was agreed from 1st October 2013 for a further 10 years.
• Celebration of 10/20 years of The Countryside Stewardship Scheme – to be celebrated at the Open Evening on 30th October 2013 at 7.00pm which will be advertised. Dan Tuson has agreed to attend and give a talk. William Trower is also going to endeavour to attend and speak.
o The order of the evening to be as follows:
o Chairman to welcome everyone and introduce William Trower (if he is able to attend),
o Charlie Gooch, Dan Tuson and the various Managers.
o William Trower to speak or Charlie to read a report in his absence
o Dan Tuson to speak
o Questions received in writing and possibly further questions from the floor
• RSPCA, Cattle, Feet and Water – Following an anonymous report to the RSPCA regarding the welfare of the Highland cattle, they were removed as a precaution for a month. Following veterinary inspection, they were found to be in perfect health.
• Grazing – as already mentioned the cattle have been away for approximately one month and the sheep are being moved according to grass growth in various areas. The rolling/crushing of the bracken has been effective.
• Ponds/School Liaison – John Gray reports that 14 - 20 children are regularly exploring the Minnis on a generally weekly basis, which is increasing their knowledge and love of the countryside.
• Coxsole Pond for weed growth.
• Mowing – this has been completed for the year 2013 and the increase in cost noted. Possibility of only one mowing to be carried out next year.
• Press Release – nothing for the coming month (November), but there will be a Press Release after the open Meeting on 30th October.
• A discussion took place regarding the possibility of an additional area to be grazed by cattle on the south end of the Minnis in the future. It was agreed that Kevin Smyth as Chairman should be the point of contact in the Parish Magazine taking over from the Secretary.
Following Ann Day's resignation as secretary after 8 years, Deborah Cripps has volunteered to take over the position and to shadow AD at the next meeting in January.
8.11 Report from Claire Hamilton - Update from Bossingham Sports & Leisure Trust:
Children's Play Equipment.
Having negotiated with Playdale Playgrounds for the supply of a team swing, toddler climber and a springer within our budget of £10,000 (funding from CCC), before finalising the order, we are querying some of the company's Terms & Conditions as we consider them too biased in its favour.
Skateboard zone.
We are in discussion with the contractor regarding the repair of some faults in the concrete surface. The faults are disappointing as the surface has only been in-situ for 15 months. Once repaired satisfactorily, we will be installing the static skateboard ramp.
100 Club. Winners given in Parish Magazine.
MINUTES of MEETING held on 4th September 2013
Present: Cllrs Haffenden (Chaired
meeting), Day, Hubble, Smyth, Speakman and Stuart. Also present SDC Cllr
Carr, Mr D Barlow (Internal Auditor) and Mr N Smith (Clerk),
Cllr Jackson (work reasons), KCC Cllr Carey, Mr M Hart (Footpath warden).
Cllr Stuart declared a pecuniary interest in agenda item 6.5.1.
Agreed that he should still enter into any debate and vote on any motions.
5.1 Held on 3rd July 2013 – approved, subject to change of word "to" to read "no" in 5.4.3. Proposed Cllr Smyth and seconded Cllr Hubble. All agreed. The minutes were duly signed after being amended.
4. MATTERS ARISING (not included in other agenda items)
4.1 Kent Fire & Rescue Hydrant Survey, to express concern of state of hydrants and lack of communication. Clerk reported he had contacted KFRS and repairs were to be carried out in August. Agreed that Cllrs would check their allocated hydrants to verify. 4.2 Ask Planning Enforcement Officer to investigate use of room above Double garage at Fruiterers Hall as separate accommodation. Clerk reported he had contacted Planning Enforcement Officer who had spoken to owner and advised that a change of use is required for the barn to be used for rented accommodation.
4.3 Make formal complaint to SDC re planning application approval for The Cottage, Wheelbarrow Town. Clerk reported he had made a complaint to Mr Lewis, head of Planning at SDC. The matter has also been taken up by SDC Cllr Carr. The procedure to be adopted by SDC when Parish Council unanimously objects to a planning application is to be raised at the next PUG meeting.
4.4 To contact SMVH committee re accepting any offer of WI-FI for the benefit of the wider community. Clerk reported that he had contacted SMVH chair and secretary and not received a reply. It was reported that other user groups, would be interested in WI-FI availability and the History Society would be fully supportive.
4.5 To draw KCC Cllr Carey's attention to possible funding needs for Broadband in the Village Hall and Community First Responders. Clerk reported that he had contacted KCC Cllr Carey for her to consider in her next budget round.
4.6 Ask Kent Highways why grass verges in Stelling Minnis had not been whilst those in Canterbury had. Grass verges had been cut shortly after meeting.
4.7 Advise Steve Moores (First Responder) on funding opportunities. Clerk reported he had suggested contacts for First responders, who would be taking them up.
5.1 To table items of late correspondence.
5.1.1 Minutes for Development Control Committee, Tuesday, 27th August, 2013.
5.1.2 Bossingham Sports & Leisure Trust AGM notice of meeting and agenda.
5.1.3 KCC Highways – Salt bag orders for winter 2013/14. Agreed order 1 bag for junction of Gildrige Hill, Wildage and Elham Park (top of hill). Cllr Smyth reported that the Owners of the Stelling Minnis Common would not object to a salt bin in the vicinity of Rose and Crown or Stelling Minnis Stores, but would not allow a salt bag to be sited on the common.
5.1.4 BS< update and expenses claims (see reports and finance).
5.2 Items circulated for information
5.2.1 Correspondence from 2 Parishioners re double white lines on Stone Street.
Clerk had responded to with update on discussions with Police and KCC.
5.2.2 New PCSO – Graeme Clayton.
5.2.3 Questions raised with Police & Crime Commissioner at forum + response.
5.2.4 Parish Seminar 2013 (KCC Highways). Cllr Hubble will attend.
5.2.5 Relet of property in Brambleton Close. Two local people short listed, one selected by English Rural Housing Trust.
5.3 Items acted on.
5.3.1 Post Office Transformation Programme.
Oast to coast article July 2013. No action required by Parish Council.
5.3.2 SDC election notices.
Response sent to SDC Peter Wignall emphasising that all notices for all elections should be displayed on local Parish Notice boards.
5.3.3 SDC Standards Committee
Letter sent (10/8/2013) to Peter Wignall (SDC) and copied to Frank Hobbs (KALC), as requested.
5.3.4 Request for assistance with Ragwort. Not a Parish Council matter, but in the interests of good neighbourliness Clerk assisting.
5.4 Items for discussion (not included in other agenda items):
5.4.1 KCC Night time light switch off.
Discussed and agreed that no comments to make.
6.1 To table late planning applications received for consideration. None.
6.2 To table planning applications dealt with since last meeting including decisions by Planning Authority.
6.2.1 Y13/0582/SH – Abbotswood, Fishers Lane, Stelling Minnis. Erection of a replacement dwelling. SMPC on balance No objections (actual vote: 1 approve, 5 no objections and 1 no comment made). SDC approved with time and material conditions. Was first paperless planning application.
6.3 To table decisions by Planning Authority on applications dealt with prior to last meeting. None.
6.4 New paperless planning process.
Report sent to SDC Michelle Hallett on observations from first application, which included notification should not be sent until all data is available to view on line and back up times should be deferred from 10pm-3am to at least 00am -5am. Report also raised by SDC Cllr Carr with Chris Lewis of SDC.
Display projector and second hand lap top now available – Clerk will arrange collection. Will be stored in locked cabinet in Village Hall upstairs room.
Clerk to contact Village Hall committee again re HI-FI and to thank Steve Makin of SDC for equipment provided.
Agreed that, for all but the simplest planning applications, Cllrs will need to meet to be able to discuss planning applications.
6.5 Other planning matters:
6.5.1 Meadow View
Noted that an update on situation to date was circulated to Cllrs in advance of meeting. Planning Enforcement Officer had advised that an application for "Certificate of Lawful use" of the site for 2 dwellings had been received and was being processed by SDC. Fully discussed. Agreed that SMPC will fund the cost of any affidavits in respect of a response to the application. Proposed Cllr Haffenden, seconded Cllr Hubble; all agreed. Clerk to update Charles Gooch, as access over Stelling Minnis Common may be affected.
Cllr Haffenden concerned that this could set a precedent for others.
7.1 Kent County Council. No report received from KCC Cllr Carey.
7.2 Shepway District Council. SDC Cllr Carr reported that SDC had given outline planning approval to the redevelopment of Folkestone, which will be in 6 stages. Retention of the High Speed rail service to Folkestone was fundamental. Redevelopment was expected to be completed by 2026 and was expected to see big name retail outlets return to Folkestone Town centre.
LDC Boundary commission required a reduction of Ward Cllrs to 30. As far as Stelling Minnis was concerned the Parish would combine with other villages to form a new North Downs West Ward supported by two Councillors, who would work together.
7.3 KALC Shepway Area Committee. Report from Cllr Stuart appended.
7.4 SDC Planning Users Group. Cllr Stuart reported that a meeting was due to be held but not yet organised; another Cllr may have to attend in his place if he was away on the day of the meeting. He had requested that a number of key issues be placed on the agenda (planning process in event of unanimous objection by Parish and Town Councils & paperless planning applications).
7.5 Parish and Town Councils. Cllr Stuart reported that a proposed meeting had been postponed.
7.6 Kent Community Police. No report received from PCSO.
7.7 Police liaison and Speed watch. Cllr Speakman reported that the next session would be 8-19 October. He was keen to organise future sessions as it was a useful deterrent. A change of locations was discussed. Agreed not to hold sessions over the winter period. More volunteers needed.
7.8 Minnis Managers. Cllr Day reported the Managers had not yet been able to find a replacement secretary, so she agreed to continue the role in the short term. She reported that there had been issues with the cattle not having any water for over 24 hours and that the RSPCA had issued a notice for the owner to get the cattle's hoofs trimmed and would return in 7 days. The cattle had been removed from the Common for that purpose.
7.9 Stelling Minnis Village Hall. No report.
7.10 Stelling Minnis Windmill . Cllr Speakman reported that there had been a steady flow of visitors. The sweeps had been refurbished. Now need a good printer to print the mural.
7.11 Bossingham Sports & Leisure Trust. A report had been received from Clare Hamilton, appended. Their success in obtaining extra funding was noted. Cllr Smyth asked if there was any data on use.
7.12 Other reports. Footpath warden report, appended.
8.1 Stone Street road safety improvements. Cllr Smyth reported that the remaining white lines would be refreshed by the end of the week. Patching of Stone street was in hand.
Cllr Hubble reported that one stop sign was missing. Clerk reported that following the Stone Street/Curtis Lane Crashes – 9th & 11th July. He had contacted Chief Inspector Martin Bradley who had moved on and was replaced by Chief Inspector (Darren Mullins), who had been invited to join the Parish Council for the November meeting, which had been accepted. Cllr Haffenden said that he had called for formal questions so that a structured debate could be held with CI Mullins. No formal questions raised, to date. Clerk said that CI Mullins had been advised that Parish Council would want to explore the options of speed limits, no overtaking and double white lines again.
8.2 Other highways matters. None.
9.1 Update of account for 2013/14 including payments received. Clerk reported that £1.59 had been paid in interest for June, July and August. The bank account balance was £5484.62 and allowing for budgeted items not yet spend the predicted end of year balance was £3408.
9.2 Accounts for payment.
Clerks Salary (net) – included 1% rise back dated to 1/4/2013 £264.08
Clerks Expenses £ 10.38
Footpath Warden expenses – production of map in shop window. £ 5.00
Total £375.76 (plus £35.24, see para 9.3)
Note: No audit fee – accounts below £10K threshold.
Payment agreed – proposed Cllr Stuart and seconded Cllr Day. All agreed.
9.3 Requests for funding. Request for funding (£35.24) received from Clare Hamilton for expenses relating to Bossingham Sports and Leisure Trust. This was fully discussed and Cllr Haffenden expresses his view that it should be paid in full. Funding to support the BS< had been agreed and this would be expected to continue in a reducing capacity until the trust became fully self-financing – the trust to be asked for a formal prediction of their funding for 2014/15.
Cllr Haffenden proposed that the account (£35.24) be funded in full. Seconded Cllr Day. All agreed.
Communication received from Claire Champion concerned about possible loss of 50% hall hire funding from Parish Council next year. Has been advised that funding will be discussed at budget setting meeting in November.
10. BROADBAND – BUSINESS CASE TO INCREASE SPEEDS. Cllr Stuart reported that he had not received any new information from either SDC or KCC on progress on bids. Clerk to ask KCC Cllr Carey for an update on broadband bids and was Stelling Minnis still included.
11. STELLING MINNIS WEB SITE. Cllr Speakman said that Steve Moores had a technical problem with the new web site about which he was in discussion with the Host to overcome.
12. PARISH BOUNDARY REVIEW – TO LIAISE WITH ELHAM PC OVER BOUNDARY CHANGES IN WHEELBARROW TOWN. Clerk confirmed that he had identified the three properties involved and had written to the households. To date one reply, agreeing to the proposal, had been received.
Agreed that an additional finance meeting was to be held in November.
2013: 6th November. 13th November (finance)
2014: 8th January, 5th March, 7th May (AGM), 21st May (APM).
Mr D Barlow enquired about O2 improving their service to the area. Clerk to enquire.
Meeting closed at 9.25 pm
Signed J Haffenden Date 6 November 2013
7.3 Notes on a meeting of KALC Shepway Area Committee - 18 July 2013
No changes - Frank Hobbs of Postling remains Chairman. David Stuart is the other rep on KALC Kent Executive Committee
Report on KALC Exec
KALC moved offices on July 4th to Dover District Council. Rent a bit higher than before but includes all services and is fixed for 7 years. Lease on old office runs until Dec 2013 and there are still a few issues to be resolved.
FINANCE 2012/13 showed a surplus of £5,300
Auditors have been reviewed but new quotations showed Reeves were still the cheapest.
Consideration is being given to changing the base figure for the calculations of subscriptions - at present the Band D properties figure for a parish, but change to number of electors is under consideration. The problem is that the poorer parishes could lose out on this basis
It is proposed that for 2014/15 the subs remain the same as this year. But further consideration will be given to a changed base for the following year.
AGM 23 November 2013 Speakers - Ann Barnes and Brandon Lewis, DCLG Minister. Lunch to be paid for by Came & Co (our insurers). A proposed motion is a proposal to alter number of electors required to call an election to fill a casual vacancy. MORE MOTIONS are needed.
AWARD SCHEME - Joint KCC and KALC details available for interested parishes
LOCALITY BOARDS to be discontinued. Some districts will continue with informal boards (e.g. Ashford) but others (e.g. Shepway) will not.
HIGHWAYS KALC to press for a meeting with Cllr David Brazier (new head of Highways) to resolve parish representation and voting rights on Joint Transportation Boards (the body which considers highways work in each district).
Street lighting switch - offs being trialled KCC have been asked to notify parishes affected.
Pilot village's caretaker scheme (5 parishes in Ashford) going well. (We would like it but it is most unlikely to spread to Shepway)
OTHER Area Committees. Dartford would like us to have the right to send substitutes to Executive Committee (likely to be agreed) and Ashford have set up a Police Liaison Working party to press for more special constables.
KALC Exec still concerned at level of national subs - to be considered at a future meeting.
HMG still interested in promoting more parish or community councils e.g. in Kent there about 630,000 electors without councils at this level. Look out for Local Audit and Accountability bill as it will change rules on PC audits and will reform Parish Poll legislation.
Shepway and Parish Council's Joint Committee
Village Halls Rate Relief - SDC stressed it is discretionary - likely to be as last year - apologised for delays this year.
Locality Board - no longer to meet.
Notification and extent of publicity, of elections - letter gone to parishes asking for views
New Standards Board - Parishes urged to press for PC representation when case involves a parish councillor - see precedent at Tonbridge and Malling. Draft response to be sent to parishes
Electronic planning 8 or 9 parishes to be helped with equipment. Still many problems
Shepway Joint Transportation Board nothing to report
David Stuart 23 July 2013
7.11 Update from Bossingham Sports & Leisure Trust to UHPC and SMPC
3rd September, 2013
Gym equipment
• Four pieces of outdoor gym equipment were installed by Fresh Air Fitness on 16th July,
2013. The total cost, including installation and VAT, was £7,200.
• Favourable comments have been received from users young and old, fit and not yet fit!
• The 100 Club has been launched and the first draw will take place in SM Stores at
10.30am on Saturday, 7th September.
Play equipment
• On the recommendation of Rebecca Booth (CCC Outdoor Leisure Officer) Clare and Liz
visited the new seafront play area at Herne Bay and the 2-year old play area at
Whitstable Castle on August 13th. These visits were extremely useful in helping to clarify
plans and equipment priorities.
Canterbury City Council
• Rebecca Booth (Outdoor Leisure Officer) and Mickele Cordes (Community Development
Officer) had asked to meet with BS< for an update on the project following a meeting in
August 2011, and to discuss CCC's recent commitment of £10,000 towards play
equipment for children, 0-18 years. Liz Dixey and Clare Hamilton met them on site on
27th August. They were very enthusiastic about what has been achieved to date,
mentioning our consultation with residents and use of the site in particular. They asked
whether they could refer any group setting up a similar project on to us to find out how we
have handled the process.
BS< AGM, Tuesday 17th September, Bossingham Village Hall
Notices of the AGM have been posted on BS< and UHPC websites, parish notice boards and in the September issue of HSN.
Catherine Solly has tendered her resignation as a trustee of BS< and this will become
effective at the meeting.
We are very pleased that Andy Nicholas has agreed to become a trustee and this
appointment will become effective at the meeting.
Clare Hamilton and Liz Dixey
Footpath Warden Report
May – Sep 2013
1) Work undertaken
● KCC have a new on-line reporting system, which has replaced the named officer I previously could email. I reported that some paths across the De Haan managed fields next to Stone St. were not marked out, back in June. Since then I have tracked the matter on-line but it is still 'awaiting allocation', so I am therefore not that impressed with this new 'faceless' system. As a result, a number of paths have become almost impossible to use.
● The paths belonging to Lower Courthope Farm (HE32 & 33), have also not been marked out as the clover and grass has started to grow. The only paths across fields which have been kept clear this summer are those on Mr. Haffenden's farm. It would be good if all farmers could follow his example.
● The Footpath Map I produced (which Steve Moores printed) has gone up in the Stelling Minnis Stores' window. I have also produced three sheets with suggested walks, which are available from the shop for a donation to cover copying costs. To date around 25 sheets have been taken, although one of the walks has recently become very difficult as it crosses the De Haan managed land mentioned above.
● I've also done some clearing of undergrowth at various spots but cannot keep up with the huge task this is during summer.
2) Successes
● New waymarkers have been put in on HE32, where it starts near to Scarps Farm and near to Lower Courthope Farm at the junction with HE33 and the bridleway. This makes the path from Stelling Minnis to the newly opened George Inn on Stone St. much easier to follow.
● I have tracked down the owner of the paddocks behind Little Mead on Pony Cart Lane (where a replacement home is being built) where three stiles were missing on path HE12, which goes up to Stone St. He has agreed to put the stiles in and has already started the work.
Martin Hart - Footpath Warden, 25/8/13
MINUTES of MEETING held on 3rd July 2013
Present: Cllrs Haffenden (Chaired meeting), Day, Hubble, Jackson and Stuart. Also present Mr N Smith (Clerk),
Cllr Smyth (Personal reasons), Cllr Speakman (work reasons), Mr D Barlow (Internal Auditor), PCSO Dodwell.
Cllr Stuart declared a personal interest in agenda item 6.5.1.
5.1 Held on 1st May 2013 – approved. Proposed Cllr Day and seconded Cllr Hubble. All agreed. The minutes were duly signed.
4. MATTERS ARISING (not included in other agenda items)
4.1 Contact KFRS re poor state of hydrants in the Parish. Clerk reported that he had contacted KFRS about the hydrants but had not received any response. Council expressed concern over both state of Hydrants and lack of communication especially as they had volunteered to conduct the survey. Clerk to write again.
4.2 Ascertain planning conditions which applied to Fruiterers Hall Room above double garage. Clerk reported that SDC confirmed no planning application had been given for the use of room above garage as separate residential accommodation. Agreed that Clerk should ask Planning Enforcement Officer to investigate.
4.3 Make enquiries about proposals for J10a off M20. Clerk had circulated communication from Highways Agency on the proposals for J10a which included links to A2070 and A20.
5.1 To table items of late correspondence.
5.1.1 Shepway Planning Policy Bulletin: Shepway Core Strategy has been declared Sound.
5.1.2 Good Councillors Guide 4th edition. PDF copy circ. New booklet copies will be distributed when available from NALC.
5.2 Items circulated for information
5.2.1 Local Audit and accountability Bill. If approved then an external audit would not be required regularly for small public bodies. Recommendation from Mr D Barlow (internal auditor) is that an external audit should be sought.
5.2.2 SDC appointments to outside bodies. Noted.
5.2.3 Request from English Rural Housing to help with marketing rental property in Brambleton Close.
5.2.4 KCC Highways Survey (Dec 2012) results. Noted.
5.2.5 Information on Highways Steward changes and Kent Highways Portal. Noted.
5.3 Items acted on. None.
5.4 Items for discussion (not included in other agenda items).
5.4.1 South East Water – Draft water resources management plan. Noted.
5.4.2 Lower Thames crossing consultation. Noted.
5.4.3 Electoral review of Shepway – boundaries commission draft recommendation. Discussed and agreed no further response required. Cllr Stuart was thanked for the work he did on SMPC's response.
6.1 To table late planning applications received for consideration. None.
6.2 To table planning applications dealt with since last meeting including decisions by Planning Authority.
6.2.1 Y13/0274/SH - Jacaranda House, Bossingham Road, Stelling Minnis, Canterbury. SMPC – Approve 7:0. SDC approved with time and material conditions.
6.2.2 Y13/0210/SH – The Cottage Wheelbarrow Town. SMPC – on balance Object (Object 6: No Objection 1). Info sent to SDC 7 May 2013. Approved with time, material and non-separate outbuilding/annex use conditions. Discussed and agreed to make a formal complaint to SDC as this application should be have been decided by the Development Control Committee and not the planning officers.
6.3 To table decisions by Planning Authority on applications dealt with prior to last meeting.
6.3.1 Y13/0222/SH – Little Mead, Pony Cart Lane. Erection of replacement dwelling following demolition of the existing. Approved with conditions 21/5/13. Cllr Haffenden reported that he had communication with a local resident over the planning decision and had referred the resident to SDC.
6.3.2 Y13/0161/SH – Little Palmstead Cottage, Bossingham Road. Erection of a 2 storey Extension to the South Elevation. Approved with conditions.
6.4 New paperless planning process.
Objections raised with Head of Planning, Chairman of SDC + letter of support sent to Folkestone Town Council on their objection of legality. No response from any of them. Meeting held with SDC (Michelle Hallett & Steve Makin) 27 June. Cllr Haffenden reported that he felt the meeting was constructive views came out of the meeting including the promise of a display projector and possible help with provision of a Broadband WI-FI hub for the village hall. Clerk to contact SMVH committee and suggest that if offered the WI-FI should be taken up as it would be of benefit to many groups using the hall as well as increasing hiring possibilities including computer lessons/courses. Agreed that there was no doubt that paperless planning applications would remain and SMPC had to adapt. Clerk to draw to the attention of KCC Cllr Carey the needs for Broadband and Community First Responders as possible funding projects.
6.5 Other planning matters:
6.5.1 Meadow View – Lisette Patching advised of on-site activity (19/5/13). Planning enforcement Officer (PEO) visited site – no problems, owner says has occupied site for 4 years and will be applying for a Lawful development Certificate. – Evidence to contrary supplied to PEO. Pam Carr met with PEO and provided evidence of her own plus that provided by Clerk. PEO now indicated that he has evidence to refuse Lawful development Certificate. Pam Carr has said that she must be consulted if a Lawful Development certificate is applied for (SMPC should also be consulted).
Discussed and agreed that the onus should be for occupier to prove that he had occupied the site for 4 years. Planning enforcement officer should be asked to visit the site and give formal notice that the site is being occupied without planning consent and record that in SDC filed. Clerk to write to SDC planning, checking with SDC Cllr Carr first to ensure that there was not a conflict with her negotiations within SDC. Proposed Cllr Haffenden and seconded Cllr Day; all agreed.
7.1 Kent County Council. No report received from KCC Cllr Carey.
7.2 Shepway District Council. No report received from SDC Cllr Carr.
7.3 KALC Shepway Area Committee. Cllr Stuart reported that a meeting had not been held. 7.4 SDC Planning Users Group. Cllr Stuart reported that a meeting had not been held.
7.5 Parish and Town Councils. Cllr Stuart reported that a meeting had been held in June but he was unable to attend.
7.6 Kent Community Police. No report received from PCSO Dodwel l.
7.7 Police liaison and Speed watch. Cllr Speakman sent a report that the next scheduled Speedwatch would not be held because of holidays.
7.8 Minnis Managers. Cllr Day reported that a meeting had not been held.
7.9 Stelling Minnis Village Hall. Cllr Jackson reported that a meeting had not been held.
7.10 Stelling Minnis Windmill . Cllr Speakman had nothing to report.
7.11 Bossingham Sports & Leisure Trust. Cllr Haffenden reported that the trust had received funding from the Roger De Hann foundation.
7.12 Other reports. None.
8.1 Stone Street road safety improvements. Refreshing of road markings was in part undertaken on Monday 1st July. Cllr Smyth has been in regular contact with Kent Highways on the matter. Repairs to Stone Street also requested which are also in the programme – pot holes now marked for repair. Fault reports were made re vegetation at junction of Stone Street/Curtis Lane and these were attended to promptly.
8.2 Other highways matters. Cllr Stuart requested that Kent Highways be asked why the grass verges in the Shepway area have not been cut whilst those in Canterbury have been cut and wide. Clerk to contact Kent Highways.
9.1 Update of account for 2013/14 including payments received. Clerk reported that £0.84 had been paid in interest for April & May. The bank account balance was £6198.22 and allowing for budgeted items not yet spend this indicates an end of year total of £3143.17p. Letters received from Age UK and m Kent, Surrey and Sussex Air Ambulance Trust with grateful thanks for their respective £100 donations.
9.2 Accounts for payment.
CPRE Membership 29.00
Clerk Salary (Net) 256.88
Clerks expenses 53.71
Chairman Allowance (APM refreshment costs to Cllr Day) 10.00
Councillors expenses (Cllr Stuart) 15.60
Bossingham Youth Club - 50% actual hall hire 2013 300.00
(Paid to UHPC)
Total 665.19
Payment agreed – proposed Cllr Hubble and seconded Cllr Jackson. All agreed.
9.3 Requests for funding. Request for funding received from Steve Moores as First Responder. Discussed and agreed to make a donation of £50 from the Chairman's allowance. Further funding may be considered as part of the budget review in November.
Payment of £50 agreed. Proposed Cllr Day and seconded Cllr Stuart. All agreed.
Clerk to write to Steve Moores with suggestions for other funding possibilities.
As part of next year's budget discussions SMPC will need to consider that they have limited funds to support those charities that benefit the community, e.g. Age Concern, Bossingham Youth Club and Air Ambulance. Further funding for Bossingham Youth Club should by a formal application supported by a budget and statement of accounts with membership numbers and locations.
10. BROADBAND – BUSINESS CASE TO INCREASE SPEEDS. Cllr Stuart provided an update on the two projects which are expected to deliver faster Broadband to rural communities. The BDUK project has been approved. The DEFRA project is still under consideration. Assurance has been given that Broadband speeds in the Stelling Minnis exchange area are on track to be upgraded by 2015. Cllr Stuart was thanked for the update and for his work on the projects.
11. PARISH PLAN Cllr Stuart provided an update on UHPC's proposals. Discussed and agreed that at this point in time there would be no benefit in revisiting the Parish Plan; the 2006 plan was still relevant.
12. STELLING MINNIS WEB SITE. General feedback from Cllrs on the new draft web site was good and page layout more professional. Agreed to follow Steve Moores recommendations regarding hosting.
Clerk to write to Steve Moores and ask if the host speed was a holding factor and when the new web site was likely to be completed.
13. ANNUAL PARISH MEETING – FEEDBACK. Good feedback, attendance good. Will continue with format. Thanks to Cllr Jackson for donation of refreshments.
14 PARISH BOUNDARY REVIEW – TO LIAISE WITH ELHAM PC OVER BOUNDARY CHANGES IN WHEELBARROW TOWN. Clerk to confirm properties which are currently in Elham Parish and contact the householders with a proposal to seek a boundary change to Stelling Minnis. If any object, then project ends. All agreed.
2013: 4th September, 6th November.
2014: 8th January, 5th March, 7th May (AGM), 21st May (APM).
There were no questions
Meeting closed at 9.15 pm
Signed J Haffenden. Date 4 September 2013
MINUTES of MEETING held on 1st May 2013
Present: Cllrs Haffenden (Chaired meeting), Day, Hubble, Jackson, Smyth, Stuart and Speakman. Also present SDC Cllr Mrs P Carr, Mr N Smith (Clerk), Mr S Moores (Website) and 2 Parishioners.
Retiring Vice Chairman Cllr Stuart took the chair.
Cllr Haffenden was proposed by Cllr Smyth and seconded by Cllr Speakman. All agreed and Cllr Haffenden was duly elected at Chairman. The declaration of Office was signed.
Councillor Hubble was nominated by Cllr Day and seconded by Cllr Speakman.
Councillor Jackson was nominated by Cllr Smyth and seconded by Cllr Stuart.
Cllr Hubble was elected as Vice Chairman by majority vote, with Chairman exercising his casting vote.
Cllr Haffenden thanked Cllr Stuart for all his hard work as outgoing Vice Chairman. Cllr Hubble said that Cllr Stuart's depth of knowledge was appreciated. All Cllrs agreed.
KCC Cllr S Carey, Mr D Barlow (Internal Auditor), Mr M Hart (footpath Warden) and Mr P Dimmock (Tree Warden).
5.1 Held on 6th March 2013 – approved. Proposed Cllr Day and seconded Cllr Smyth. All agreed. The minutes were duly signed.
6. MATTERS ARISING (not included in other agenda items)
6.1 Fire Hydrants Visual Checks. Checks nearly completed and KFRS advised. Parish Council were concerned about the poor state of the Hydrants in the Parish – Clerk to contact KFRS on this.
6.2 Windmill refurbishment. Clerk had contacted Mr Allan Cox of KCC again. Cllr Speakman reported that refurbishment has been programmed.
6.3 Check of state of benches and noticeboards. Cllr Hubble reported that he had checked all and they were OK. He would repeat checks monthly and keep a record for insurance purposes.
7.1 To table items of late correspondence.
7.1.1 Clerks & Councils direct.
7.1.2 KALC News 369.
7.1.3 Shepway Community Chest. Cllr Stuart enlarged on this. It was suggested that Parish Council could apply for a grant for the Village Hall, but the Village Hall Committee would have to instigate an application. Closing date for applications 1st July 2013. Cllr Stuart also reported that a separate fund was available form District Councillors (£2K each) until April 2014.
7.2 Items circulated for information.
7.2.1 Ward Councillors budget for local projects (£2K).
7.2.2 KCC Press release on Broadband projects.
7.2.3 Information regarding Horse Event at Knowler Farm to be held 7/8 September + observations to Charles Gooch.
7.2.4 Letter re The Kent Environment and Community Network.
7.2.5 Letter from KCC re PROW Vegetation Clearance Contracts. Copied to Martin Hart for his views.
7.3 Items acted on.
7.3.1 Boundaries commission - Shepway ward proposals. Cllr Stuart prepared a letter for Boundaries Commission, receipt of which has been acknowledged. Cllr Stuart was thanked for his work on the matter.
7.3.2 Consultation on proposed changes to Parish Councils membership of CPRE. Clerk had responded to KALC indicating that SMPC would consider their position when the consultation was complete, but are minded to withdraw from membership.
7.3.3 Localism Survey. Annual Survey – Cllr Haffenden dealt with.
7.4 Items for discussion (not included in other agenda items).
7.4.1 KALC Community awards scheme. Recognition of contribution to the community.
7.4.2 Police and Crime Commissioner event, 31st July 2013 at Hawkinge Community Centre. Cllr Hubble will attend. Clerk to book a place.
8.1 To table late planning applications received for consideration.
8.2 To table planning applications dealt with since last meeting including decisions by Planning Authority.
8.2.1 Y13/ 0161/SH. Little Palmstead Cottage. SMPC voted Approve 4, No objections 3. Response to SDC on balance Approve. Note added that access over Stelling Minnis Common not shown on plans.
8.2.2 Y13/0222/SH. Little Mead, Pony Cart Lane. Erection of replacement dwelling following demolition of the existing. On balance approve. Approve 5, No objection 1, Object 1. Note added to response to SDC re errors in application and conflicts between application and design & access statement. Access over Stelling Minnis Common not shown. Cllr Haffenden reported that he had received two letters from a neighbour to the development and had replied.
8.2.3 Y13/0274/SH. Jacaranda House, Bossingham Road. Erection of a detached double garage and store with store room in roof space above and formation of associated driveway to the south of existing dwelling. SMPC Approve 7:0.
8.2.4 Y13/0210/SH. The Cottage, Wheelbarrow Town. Application with Councillors for consideration.
8.3 To table decisions by Planning Authority on applications dealt with prior to last meeting.
8.3.1 Y13/0062/SH – High Chimney Farm. Erection of single bay extension to an agricultural building. SDC Approved subject to time and material conditions.
8.4 New paperless planning process from 27 May 2013.
The new way of working by Shepway District Council was discussed at length. Cllr Stuart reported feedback from the recent KALC meeting – some councils were looking at display systems; Folkestone Town Council had tried that and abandoned it in favour of paper copies. It was agreed that paper copies were easier to work with especially if trying to view online versions for complex applications or on a small laptop screen. Slow download times because of poor broadband services did not help. There was no requirement for an elected Councillor to be computer literate. The cost of purchasing paper copies of applications and plans from Shepway would be in excess of £100 per year. Clerk to write to the head of planning and object to the new way of working with a copy to the Leader of Shepway District Council; also to write to Folkestone Town Council in support of their claim that a paperless planning process for statutory consultees was not legal. Consideration may have to be given to purchasing an A3 printer or paying for the use of one.
8.5 Other planning matters:
Property in Kentish Gazette – room to let above double garage. Thought to be Fruiterers Hall. Clerk to ascertain conditions applied when permission for garage and room above was granted.
9.1 Kent County Council. KCC Cllr Carey sent a report asking that pot holes be reported as there is money available to fix them. With the warmer weather repairs will be permanent and not temporary.
9.2 Shepway District Council. SDC Cllr Carr reported that she had had communication with the Owner of Little Mead and agreed with SMPC's response. The outcome of the Boundary Commission review of Shepway Wards may make this Parish very desirable for potential ward councillors in the next election.
9.3 KALC Shepway Area Committee & AGM. Cllr Stuart provided a written report at Appendix A. He mentioned J10A off the M20. Clerk to ask Highways for an outline of the proposals.
9.4 SDC Planning Users Group. Cllr Stuart provided a written report at Appendix A.
9.5 Parish and Town Councils. Cllr Stuart provided a written report at Appendix A.
9.6 Kent Community Police. PCSO Dodwell sent a report advising that the next Police surgery in Stelling Minnis Stores was on 8th May; and that PCSO Bishop moved to Folkestone East from 29th April. He would remain as local PCSO.
9.7 Police liaison and Speed watch. Cllr Speakman reported on recent Speedwatch session and emphasised the importance of keeping the sessions up, even if at a reduced frequency. The police seem to think that not much is being done.
9.8 Minnis Managers. Cllr Day provided a written report at Appendix A. It was agreed that Managers giving of information to residents could be improved.
9.9 Stelling Minnis Village Hall. Cllr Day provided a written report at Appendix A.
9.10 Stelling Minnis Windmill. Cllr Speakman reported that progress on the museum was slow but the task was large, especially the Mural of the area. The Mill is due for a refurbishment. Part of the Mill structure has shifted and needs attention – the sails will remain static for the time being.
9.11 Joint Sports Facility. Nothing to report.
9.12 Other reports.
9.12.1 Footpath Warden. Martin Hart had prepared an annual Summary report which will be used for the Annual Parish Meeting report. A copy had been circulated to Cllrs.
The following were appointed to posts and agreed by all Cllrs:-
10.1 Trustees:
Stelling Minnis Common Trust – Cllr Haffenden (proposed Cllr Smyth, seconded Cllr Day).
Windmill & Museum Trust – Cllr Speakman (proposed Cllr Haffenden, seconded Cllr Hubble)
Stelling Minnis Village Hall – Cllr Jackson (proposed Cllr Day, seconded Cllr Hubble)
10.2 External Bodies – representatives:
KALC Shepway area committee (2 posts) - Cllrs Stuart & Speakman (proposed Cllr Haffenden, seconded Cllr Day).
SDC Planning user group – Cllr Stuart (proposed Cllr Day, seconded Cllr Smyth).
Minnis Managers Observer/representative – Cllr Day (proposed Cllr Jackson, seconded Cllr Hubble).
Joint Sports Facility. The need for a continuing representative was discussed and agreed to retain a presence. Cllr Hubble (proposed Cllr Haffenden, seconded Cllr Smyth).
10.3 Other:
Speedwatch co-ordinator – Cllrs Speakman and Smyth will act jointly (proposed Cllr Haffenden and Cllr Day).
Police Liaison – Cllr Speakman (proposed Cllr Haffenden, seconded Cllr Smyth).
Highways – Cllr Smyth (proposed Cllr Jackson, seconded Cllr Speakman).
10.4 Non Councillor
Internal Auditor – David Barlow
Footpath Warden – Martin Hart
Tree Warden – Paul Dimmock
(All 3 positions proposed Cllr Haffenden, seconded Cllr Smyth. All Cllrs agreed).
11.1 Cllr Smyth reported that refreshing the road markings at junctions of Stone Street with Curtis and Thorn Lanes was now programmed with the contractors.
11.2 22 Pot holes had been reported in High Minnis.
12.1 Approval and signing off of accounts for year ending 31/3/2013. Accounts were approved and signed. Proposed Cllr Hubble, seconded Cllr Speakman. All agreed.
12.2 Audit commission Governance Statement was read, approved by all Cllrs and signed.
12.3 Asset register to review and agree. Reviewed and approved. Proposed Cllr Stuart, seconded Cllr Haffenden. All agreed.
12.4 Update of account for 2013/14 including payments received. Clerk/RFO reported that the SDC Precept of £4797 (£4500 applied for + grant of £297) had been received.
Current account balance:
Balance brought forward £2820.33
Plus precept £4797.00
Available balance £7617.33
12.5 Accounts for payment:
KALC Membership £238.01
ACRK Membership £35.00
The Broker Network Ltd (Came & Company)
– Insurance £305.16
Stelling Minnis Village Hall Hire (2012/13) £69.00
Clerks PAYE (1st quarter) - £96.30
(Due to be paid before next PC Meeting).
Clerks' Net salary for April & May
(Gross less PAYE)- £256.88
Clerks expenses £19.60
Donation to Stelling Church towards upkeep
of closed churchyard - £200.00
Donation to Age UK - £100.00
Donation to Kent, Surrey & Sussex
Air Ambulance Trust - £100.00
Payments proposed Cllr Stuart, seconded Cllr Speakman. All agreed.
12.6 Requests for funding.
Cllr Stuart reported that there was no new information. Bids now in the hands of KCC and DEFRA.
Cllr Stuart outlined discussions he had with UHPC. Issues are time constraints, costs and lack of enthusiasm for a new Parish Plan. Discussed and suggested should be re-considered after the next Parish Council elections in 2015. Defer to July meeting.
Steve Moores gave a presentation on how the new web site might look. Cllrs to visit the actual trial web site and feed any comments back to Clerk. Agreed that Mr Moores had done very well. Mr Moores would establish costs of alternative hosting and possibility of income generation from adverts.
16 Annual Parish Meeting 2013
Cllr Jackson had donated some wine. Cllr Day would be sourcing snacks. Clerk reported that to date response from Clubs and Societies had been low, but to be expected this far in advance.
22nd May (APM).
Proposed dates for meeting to May 2014 were agreed as:
2013: 3rd July, 4th September, 6th November.
2014: 8th January, 5th March, 7th May (AGM), 21st May (APM).
There were no questions
Meeting closed at 9.53 pm
Signed J Haffenden Date 3 July 2013
Appendix A
Agenda item 9 – REPORTS:
9.3 KALC SHEPWAY AREA COMMITTEE - 18 April 2013
KALC moving office to Dover DC at Whitfield from mid-May - look out for new contact details
Note KALC policy that contact should be via Clerk
Note the new KALC and KCC sponsored award scheme - detail in next info pack
Note Police and Crime Commissioner is holding 3 meetings for Parish Councils (was asked for 13 - one with each district) East Kent meeting is on Wed. 31, 7-00pm at July at Hawkinge - details in next info pack. We should be represented
I would draw attention to plans for a junction 10A on the M20 to the East of Ashford - POSSIBLE PROBLEM Access only from one direction. Do we want to lobby?
Shepway Transportation Board KCC has new plans to turn off many - but not all - street lights after 11-00 or 12-00. Details on website
Board can increase PC reps if they wish but right to vote has still not been agreed.
SDC - PCs Joint Committee - see above.
Major issue for next time or even a special meeting is move to paperless planning. All concerned (note since this meeting at KALC Exec. it was noted that many districts have tried, but after being made aware of problems have withdrawn the proposals - except Dover DC)
David Stuart
9.4 SDC PLANNING USERS GROUP - 9 April 2013
This was the major item
From 27 May 2013 paper copies of plans will be discontinued and hence not be sent to Parish Clerks. They will no longer be available in this form as part of a move by SDC to a completely paperless system.
All information will be on line. Information received by post will be scanned into the file.
The back history relating to a property will also be accessible on line.
Clerks will be advised by e-mail of applications and the same time scale as at present for a response will apply. Replies will still follow the same format, but on line. At first PCs will use the same system as any member of the public but in due course there will be a consultation module which we will access using a password.
Councils will need to decide how they will deal with applications.
Possibly Councils may still be able to purchase paper copies from SDC if they have no alternative means of viewing the plans and documentation (this may be expensive). Downloading the data and having it printed elsewhere is an option, or the council may wish to obtain an A3 printer (may be a problem of cost and where to locate it).
Some councils with regular planning committees could use computers and projectors at their meetings (tried at Folkestone TC but they reverted to paper copies).
A link to the parish website is possible.
Neighbours/near residents will still be advised by letter - they say (Nick/Ann - may be an idea to make sure that they have C Gooch's e-mail).
Planning Officers will work partly from home. Face to face meetings will only be on an appointment basis. Phone contact will be via the call centre - with officers ringing back if necessary.
Local Development Plan LDF - Final version expected to be agreed next month.
Neighbourhood Plans There are four in the pipeline in Shepway - Hythe, New Romney, St Marys in the Marsh, and Lympne.
David Stuart.
9.5 SHEPWAY DISTRICT AND PARISH COUNCILS JOINT COMMITTEE - 9 April 2013
The final version of SDC's proposals for new ward boundaries as part of the Electoral Review was tabled. First draft from LGBC to be published in June, followed by a 12 week consultation period. Final version due in January 2014 for implementation in May 2015.
Shepway Community Compact. This is a good working summary of a number of community rights and other provisions that local communities can exercise with regard to services provided by SDC.
Many are only likely to apply to the larger parish and town councils. I have details. Of more direct relevance will be Parish Polls (the only polls/referendums to be paid for by the parish - the right to express an interest in providing services, and the right to transfer assets (e.g. take over a sports ground).
Next year's Council Tax and Precepts. As expected SDC could not give any undertakings on possible grants for 2014-15 but agreed that the time scale ought to be better than this financial year.
Locality Board. A Board has been formed consisting of SDC Cabinet and the KCC members for Shepway. It has no constitution and is mainly information gathering. Usually it is a meeting given over to one major issue (e.g. recently - education provision in Shepway). It is jointly chaired and the secretariat is also joint KCC and SDC.
NOTE: There is no PC involvement, unlike other districts in Kent. Also it does not have a budget or spending powers.
Standards Committee. SDC officers undertook to investigate the arrangements at Tonbridge and Malling where the joint standards committee includes parish council representative (with full voting rights when cases against parish councillors are being considered, at present this does not apply at SDC).
NOTE SDC Cabinet has agreed that PC's with precepts less than £21,000 can apply to the Community Chest
David Stuart
9.8 Minnis Managers Report – meeting 17 April 2013
1. A fungus survey is being carried out on the Minnis and the Managers have been told they will receive a copy.
2. Faversham Horse Society Orienteering have been given permission to use the Minnis subject to agreeing a route, there will be 60/75 horses taking part.
3. Various complaints from residents/locals had been received with regard to the recent erection of electric fencing. It was agreed that the Managers should hold an open forum at least once a year with all Managers being present in order that questions could be asked and reasons given for various courses of action taken by them.
4. Grazing will soon return to the east side of Bossingham Road.
5. The secretary (Mrs A Day) tendered her resignation for the end of the year, but said she would carry on as treasurer if required.
6. John Gray (headteacher) has requested access to the Minnis for a Field Study by the children, to be discussed with C Gooch.
7. The area of the Minnis has now been registered as under 50 hectares which will assist with the submission for a new grant.
Ann Day
9.9 Stelling Minnis Village Hall - Report on Committee Meeting – 9 April 2013
1. Present: J Hurdwell, K Smyth, Mrs B Lewis, I Champion, D McDine, Mrs A Day
2. Apologies: Mrs E Holliday
3. The Minutes were agreed, amended and signed
4. Matters Arising: A bullet point list of cleaning duties was presented by KS and after
discussion it was agreed that he would try and catch Carol Coveney the cleaner to
discuss with her.
5. The money expected from KCC has now been received.
6. It was agreed to again send out an amended letter to all user groups in the village
asking for a representative from that group to sit on the committee.
7. It was agreed that the proposed Barn Dance was a non-starter due to the limited room
at the village hall and the cost of group and caller.
8. The theme evening "The Darling Buds of May" is going ahead and arrangements were
9. AD presented a flyer that she has been handing out to all/any Kent Producers of
Food and Crafts in Canterbury to promote interest and asked that other members do
the same.
Ann Day
MINUTES of MEETING held on 6th March 2013
Present: Cllrs Haffenden (Chaired meeting), Day, Jackson, Smyth and Speakman. Also present Mr D Barlow (Internal Auditor), Mr N Smith (Clerk) and 1 Parishioner.
Cllr Hubble (illness), SDC Cllr Carr and Mr M Hart (footpath Warden).
3.1 Held on 9th January 2013 – approved. Proposed Cllr Stuart and seconded Cllr Speakman. All agreed. The minutes were duly signed.
4. MATTERS ARISING (not included in other agenda items)
4.1 Formal application made to SDC for precept of £4500.
4.2 No progress yet on a replacement co-ordinator for Speedwatch. Agreed that it does not have to be Cllr, but the post holder must report to Parish Council at every meeting.
5.1 Update of account for 2012/13. Cllr Stuart presented latest position of spend against budget.
5.2 Accounts for payment:
Councillors expenses (Cllr Stuart) £31.20
Clerks Net Salary £256.90
Clerks expenses £3.56
Proposed Cllr Smyth and seconded Cllr Day. All agreed. Cllr Stuart did not vote as he is finance officer.
Speedwatch equipment 1/3 repair cost - £79.16 paid to Lyminge Parish Council. Payment to be ratified. Proposed Cllr Smyth and seconded Cllr Day. All agreed. Cllr Stuart did not vote as he is finance officer.
Also approved was payment of £72 to KALC for Cllr Jackson to attend a training course (item 6.1.1). Proposed Cllr Day and seconded Cllr Speakman. All agreed. Cllr Stuart did not vote as he is finance officer.
5.3 Requests for funding. None
5.4 Change of RFO. Cllr Stuart will stand down as RFO on 31/3/2013. Clerk to take on the role. Proposed Cllr Haffenden and seconded Cllr Day. Cllr Stuart was thanked for his work as RFO. Cllr Stuart will complete end of year accounts, audit return and make financial presentation at APM.
6.1 To table items of late correspondence.
6.1.1 Information on a KALC Planning conference 23rd March. Cllr Jackson to attend.
6.2 Items circulated for information
6.2.1 Kent Police & Crime plan from Police & Crime Commissioner Ann Barnes. Noted.
6.2.2 Consultations on examining speed limits for HGV's over 7.5 tonnes. Noted.
6.2.3 Kent Police – Community Contact Database. Clerks name will automatically be added to database by KALC.
6.2.4 KCC PROW – information on footpath closures due to Electricity Pylon line works. Details to be published in Kent on Sunday 17th March.
6.3 Items acted on:
6.4 Items for discussion (not included in other agenda items):
6.4.1 Electoral review of Shepway ward boundaries SDC to reduce from 46 to 30 Cllrs. Cllr Stuart outlined three possible scenarios: To remain a small ward with Elham; to integrate with a larger ward, say Lyminge and share 2 SDC Cllrs; to integrate with another smaller ward, e.g. Elmsted and remain with one SDC Cllrs. Discussed and agreed better to offer a change to boundaries commission and integrating with Elmsted was a logical step. Cllr Stuart to draft a response to boundaries commission. Proposed Cllr Day and seconded Cllr Speakman. All agreed. SDC Cllr Carr to be included in circulation of draft and final response.
6.4.2 Kent Fire Services – Hydrant inspection areas and reporting process by Councillors. Allocation of hydrants given to Cllrs. Agreed to complete initial inspection within two weeks and reported to Clerk for onward transmission to Kent Fire & Rescue. Repeat inspections annually.
6.4.3 Stelling Minnis Web site. Discuss to modernise, as per example prepared by Steve Moores or keep in current format. Steve Moores was invited to join in the discussion. There were several technical issues to be resolved if the web site was to be modernised. Steve Moores to be asked to investigate technical issues and put together some ideas which Parish Council will then be able to discuss and agree way forward with both Steve Moores and current web master – Parish Clerk. The criteria of no cost to Parish Council, no advertising for commercial gain and inclusion of legally required Parish Council information to be maintained.
7.1 To table late planning applications received for consideration.
7.1.1 Y13/0161/SH – Little Palmstead Cottage, Bossingham Road. Erection of a two storey extension to the south elevation. On Circulation to Cllrs.
7.2 To table planning applications dealt with since last meeting including
decisions by Planning Authority.
7.2.1 Y13/0004/SH – High Chimney Farm, Split Lane. Construction of an access road (28 day notification). Sent to SMPC in error. 28 day notification applications only go to Ward Councillors for information. Struck from records.
7.2.2 Y13/0062/SH – High Chimney Farm – Erection of a single bay extension to an agricultural building. SMPC Approve 6:0 (Cllr Haffenden did not vote as he was applicant).
7.3 To table decisions by Planning Authority on applications dealt with prior to last meeting.
7.2.3 Y12/0322/SH – Holly Grove, Pony Cart Lane – Erection of a single storey holiday cottage following removal of an agricultural building. Approved subject to time, material, parking and occupation record restrictions.
7.2.4 Y12/1120/SH – Minnis Cottage, Minnis Lane – Erection of a single storey extension and enlargement of an existing dormer on the east roof slope and other external alterations. Approved subject to time and material conditions.
7.4 Other planning matters:
7.4.1 Item 9 on Agenda for SDC Planning Committee – "Unauthorised Material Change of Use of a Self Contained Outbuilding within the Curtilage of a Residential Property at 19 Meehan Road, Greatstone, to an Independent Residential Dwelling". To note outcome.
8.1 Kent County Council. No report received from KCC Cllr Carey.
8.2 Shepway District Council. SDC Cllr Carr sent a report in which she said that from 1st April SDC working with KCC will take full responsibility for all Public Health issues in Shepway. The full SDC Council will debate the ward boundaries and boundaries commission insistence of reduction of councillors from 46 to 30.
8.3 KALC Shepway Area Committee & AGM. Cllr Stuart provided a written report at Appendix A.
8.4 SDC Planning Users Group. No meeting held.
8.5 Parish and Town Councils. No meeting held.
8.6 Kent Community Police. No report given.
8.7 Police liaison and Speed watch. Cllr speakman said that the next session will be 15-26 April.
8.8 Minnis Managers. Cllr Day provided a written report at Appendix A.
8.9 Stelling Minnis Village Hall. Cllr Day provided a written report at Appendix A.
8.10 Stelling Minnis Windmill. Cllr Speakman reported that there had been no sign of the promised refurbishment. Clerk to check if letter in support was received by KCC. Consultation by KCC was in hand to see how many mills could become commercial – Stelling Minnis did not fall into that category. New displays, artwork and dioramas for the museum were nearing completion. The windmill could become a venue for a Farmers Market selling locally produced products
8.11 Joint Sports Facility Clare Hamilton provided a written report at Appendix A.
8.12 Other reports. None.
9.1 Stone Street safety improvements. Meeting held with Police and Highways design engineer at which Chief Inspector Bradley directed that the road markings should be refreshed and any vegetation obstructing signs cut back. Clerk reported that he had received communication from KCC highways that an order had been placed to carry out the works. No work done to date – Clerk to ascertain programme.
9.2 Other highways matters
9.2.1 Noted that Curtis Lane/Minnis Lane gritted by hand on 20 & 21 January and the area will be included in a review of gritting routes to be carried out in the summer.
9.2.2 Bursted Hill will be closed 11th March for up to 3 weeks for drainage works. 9.2.3 Drainage problems outside school reported.
10.1 Update on business case to increase speeds. Cllr Stuart reported that Stelling Minnis was part of 2 separate bids – Defra and BDUK. Bidding taken over by KCC. No information yet on how upgrades will be carried out.
11 Annual Parish Meeting 2013
11.1 Agreed format to be the same as last year.
Cllr Stuart reported that there was not a programme for a combined UHPC/SMPC parish plan.
2013: 1st May (AGM), 22nd May (APM).
14.1 Cllr Stuart said that will be looking to relinquish his duties as Vice Chairman, Planning user group representative and joint highways representative in May. He would continue with the Broadband project if Council wished. He would also be willing to continue as one of two reps attending KALC meetings.
14.2 David Barlow asked who was responsible for clearing debris off the highways after hedge cutting. It was suggested that this was the responsibility of the contractor carrying out the work,
Meeting closed at 9.05 pm
Signed J Haffenden (Chairman). Date 1st May 2013..
Appendix A
8.3 KALC Shepway Area Committee - 17 January 2013
ITEM a) Report on Kent Executive Committee - January meeting
- New offices for KALC. Options still being inspected but renting space from Dover DC still the most likely possibility.
- AGM. Considered to have gone well. 2 speaker format was preferred. Next year 23 Nov. at Ditton - speakers? Maybe Ann Barnes and someone with political connections.
Motions - 4 passed.
1) NALC to press HMG for PC membership, with a vote, on new Standards Committees as a right.
2) NALC to press Dept of Transport for full interchange at junction 5 on M25.
3) NALC to press HMG to allow PCs to object to vehicle operators licence
4) NALC TO urge HMG to review definition of gypsies and travellers
- Learning and Development programme - PCs and Clerks should check website regularly to see what is available and in particular Finance Conference on 2nd February.
- Proposal for High Sherriff of Kent/KALC Community Award Scheme - to be launched in April. The idea is that it is a LOCAL award selected locally, perhaps presented at APMs. It was noted that some parishes already have similar schemes (e.g. Lyminge, Charing)
- Kent County Issues
1) Locality Boards well established in some districts with PCs involved to varying degrees
2) Standards Committees Most Districts only involve PC reps on a non voting consultative basis but Tonbridge and Malling has set up a joint Hearing Panel with equal number of reps from PCs and Borough council.
3) KALC to meet Ann Barnes - Questions invited.
4) Highways. Parish reps on Joint Transportation Board. At least 2 voting reps had been agreed with KCC Officers & senior councillors but (to everyone's surprise) KCC Cabinet Committee referred it back. I believe that it has since been agreed that JTB Chairperson will have discretion - A most unsatisfactory outcome.
5) Lorry Watch - a pilot scheme like Speedwatch is being tried
6) Street Lighting - A paper of proposals to remove lighting in some areas or at some times proved to be so unpopular that it has been withdrawn.
7) Pilot Village Caretaker Scheme. A scheme is being tried in 5 parishes in Ashford with the support (financial) of KCC and Ashford BC and is going well. A village caretaker, who has been employed by the 5 parishes, and does routine jobs such as verge cutting, maintaining paths and tracks, cleaning signs etc,. I HAVE A FULL REPORT (including costings) if anyone would like a copy.
- National Issues
NALC subscription to be frozen for 2013/14 (after salaries this is the next largest item on KALC's balance sheet)
New Chairman elected, Kent rep Richard Parry of Sevenoaks missed out by 2 votes but is now vice chairman
ITEM b) Report on Shepway 7 Parish Councils joint Committee - December meeting
Report to SMPC circulated with agenda for January meeting. Main issues were need for parish councillors to declare an interest when considering finance, the effect of new HMG directives on precept for 2013/14, SDC assistance in form of a one off grant scheme, and report on new warden scheme to combat litter and dog fouling.
ITEM c) Report on Shepway Joint Transportation Board.
Two main issues were Parish representation and Street Lighting - both reported above.
ITEMS for consideration at next Joint meeting with SDC
Update on 2013/14 finance, precepts and Council Tax and preliminary discussion on next year
Locality Board
Attention was drawn to the poor representation at recent meetings of the planning users Group.
David Stuart 22 - 01 - 2013
8.8 Report on Meeting of Minnis Managers 16.1.2013
1. Awaiting contact from Dan Tuson re Stewardship Scheme
2. C Gooch has been having problems with Shepway District Council Planning Dept who have not been informing planning applicants of the necessity to contact the owner's agent.
3. No salt bag was to be allowed on the Minnis, but permission would be given for a permanent bin.
4. Ash trees would be inspected in the spring for possible "die back"
5. Appropriate number of cattle to be brought back in the spring.
6. John Gray (headmaster) expressed his appreciation of the first class facility of the Minnis and hoped to get more parents involved with various school projects.
7. The terrible state of the triangle outside the Rose & Crown was discussed, but no appropriate action could be taken.
Ann Day
8.9 Stelling Minnis Village Hall Report on Committee Meeting – 18 February 2013
1. Present: J Hurdwell, K Smyth, Mrs B Lewis, I Champion, D McDine, Mrs A Day
2. Apologies: Mrs E Holliday
3. The Minutes, after a small amendment, were agreed
4. Matters Arising: A discussion was held regarding the unclean state in which the hall had been left after the quiz held on the previous Friday night. I was agreed to take a £50 deposit from non-village hirers and Ann Day offered to liaise with Trish Jones re checking the hall after non-village events and then to give the OK to return the deposit if the hall were left clean and tidy. It was also agreed for a simple list to be given to all hirers explaining their responsibilities when hiring the hall
5. There has been no response to any of the letters sent to all regular Village Hall users asking them to propose a member to sit on the Village Hall Committee
6. It was agreed to go ahead with the fund raising activities:
11th May (later changed to the 4th May) Darling Buds of May Dinner, Ann Day to liaise with the Rose & Crown re price of tickets, K Smyth to produce poster17th August 11am to 4pm, Kent Produce & Craft Fayre, a BBQ to be run with Kent sourced produce, Ann Day to approach various Canterbury Kent produce stall holders, pitches agreed at £10
5th October, Barn Dance
23rd November, Quiz Night
7. Ivor was thanked for his keeping of accounts as Treasurer
Ann Day
8.11 Bossingham Sports & Leisure (Late addition – 6 March 2013)
Update to UHPC and SMPC 5.3.13
Outdoor gym equipment
Fund raising is underway, and we have received £1,000 from KCC Councillor John Simmonds and KCC Councillor Susan Carey have allocated £500.
The ʻGYM JARS' fund raising campaign was launched in the March issue of Hardres Stelling News, and Liz and Clare were outside the shop on Saturday morning to raise awareness - and collected about £35!
Access gate
The new pedestrian and disabled access gate is much appreciated by users of the site and the trustees would like to thank UHPC for funding this.
Bank account
Liz is organising the opening of an account with the Cooperative Bank.
Annual General Meeting of BSLT
This will be held in April.
Clare Hamilton, Liz Dixey, Catherine Solly -Trustees Bossingham Sports & Leisure Trust
Registered Charity no.1146559
e = estimate
Membership KALC
Membership ACRK
Membership CPRE
Council - Insurance
Council – Village Hall Hire
Council – Audit Commission Fee
Maybe 0
Clerk – Salary Nett
Plus 2%
Clerk - PAYE
Clerk - Expenses
RFO – Expenses
Chairman - Allowance
Councillors - Expenses
Councillors - Training
One course
Donation – Stelling Church
Donation – Age Concern
Donation – Youth Club Hall Rent
Plus 10%
Sports Facility
Election Costs
Maybe more needed
New Printer
Donation - Air Ambulance
NEW Proposal
1) PRECEPT 2012-13. At the meeting of SMPC held on 2 November 2011 a Precept for 2012-13 of £4,400 was proposed, agreed and was confirmed in January 2012.
2) RESERVES The Council's provisional Assets at 31 March 2013 are calculated as follows:
Balance from 2011 -12 2283
Interest and payments 25
VAT refund - estimate 70 to be claimed
Estimated surplus 522 (4400 -3878 = 522)
PREDICTED RESERVE 2900 this will be revised using the actual final expenditure
Speaker 1 Matthew Nix Asst Chief Constable
Generally talked about effect of finance. Did say that PCO's funding is ring fenced until 2013. In future calls to police will result in a visit, by appointment, if it is not an emergency. He stressed the problem of pressure on 999 calls and urged people to use 080055511 - Crime stoppers if it is not an emergency. His whole emphasis was on crime and how well Kent Police are coping.
I asked why he had not mentioned highways and traffic. His response was that was a matter for KCC Highways. We did talk privately later - which didn't help much - but he did state that the rules on white lines and signs are on guidance and not mandatory.
Speaker 2 John Burr Director KCC Highways
Road Safety accidents down by 50%
Pothole repairs now being done within 12 days
Funding problems - savings on Grass Cutting - to be once per year but they are trying to improve this figure (We need to lobby on safety grounds)
Subsidised buses - very costly and may need to be looked at again - message USE OR LOSE
Bus passes will just be renewed - there will be no need to apply
A new scheme like Speedwatch being tested, called Lorrywatch or Freightwatch. Parishes will be involved if they wish. NOTE a new sign saying "NO LORRIES" for use on lanes will be available.
Note KCC Members Highway fund must be spent before April - none next year because of elections.
Street lighting "on" times will be reduced.
Six motions were discussed - See official minutes for details and the outcomes.
10.4 SDC - Parish Councils Planning Users Group 21-11-2012
Neighbourhood Plans - Funding is available. It is primarily for planning policies and is really to add a local dimension to a District's Local Plan (it can include other matters but they are not the main factors). It must be evidence based (calling for a lot of work. It can be for a neighbourhood, a parish or groups of parishes. (Hythe TC is working on one).
LDF - to be resubmitted. As has been publicised else where no development at Folkestone Race Course.
Planning Enforcement Protocol was tabled. It has been circulated to councillors.
New legislation Not law yet so watch this space but will relax planning for simple extensions especially at the rear of a house. However it may not apply to parishes in AONBs and houses with preservation orders.
Definition of an annexe. There are no hard and fast rules. The question is how dependent is the annexe on the main house. Sympathetic treatment is given if it is for someone in need of care. Planning permission is needed if at a later stage the use changes.
Planning History Cards will no longer be sent out - information will still be on the website.
10.5 SDC and Parish Councils Joint Committee 13-12-2012
SDC Annual Scrutiny Programme. Items for consideration in 2013 to be submitted by 7th Jan. Note I have asked what was the outcome of our request a year ago for PCs to be allowed to bid for a grant from SDC's Community Chest.
New Ethical framework - Declarations of interest on financial matters. Reported in a note relating to 2013/14 precept.
Council Tax Reduction Scheme. Reported in a note relating to 2013/14 precept.
Update on Dog Warden scheme (and litter collection). Company operating the scheme is paid from fines. 1,500 notices issued so far - approx 1,000 have paid. 14 notices for dog fouling.
Localism. There will be consultations on community assets e.g. village shops, local pubs and other amenities.
David Stuart
10.9 Stelling Minnis Village Hall
Report on Committee Meeting – 3 December 2012
1. An application was made for funds to the KCC Community Engagement
Grants Scheme.
2. Due to the poor attendance at the "Beergut 100" evening/dance it was
decided to change the event.
3. The Quiz Night made £426 profit.
4. Fund raising for 2013 -
It was suggested to hold a "Darling Buds of May" event in May
A Kent Fair/produce event in August to include a wine tasting
A dance in October – possibly with the group Contraband
A Quiz in November
5. A letter has been drafted to send to all regular Village Hall users asking
them to propose a member to sit on the Village Hall Committee, discussing
terms of hire and their views on a possible Broadband facility with the
installation cost being approximately £200 which would therefore increase
the hire rate of the hall
6. Ivor was thanked for his keeping of accounts as Treasurer
Ann Day
10.11 Sports & leisure
Skateboard zone
• The RoSPA inspection in December found the skateboard surface to be LOW risk, and
the raised edge around it to be a potential trip hazard and therefore MEDIUM risk. RoSPA recommend we bank soil around the raised edge to reduce this to LOW risk. We are hoping for volunteers to help us with this task in the spring.
• We are carrying out weekly inspections of the skatezone, in line with insurance and RoSPA requirements.
• We are still negotiating for the installation of a permanent skateboard ramp.
Outdoor gym equipment
Our recent application to the De Haan Foundation for funding for outdoor gym equipment
was unsuccessful. However, they have asked us to re-apply when we have raised more
funds ourselves.
Movie Night
The Movie Night organised by Joanne & Andy Nicholas in December helped to boost funds by £120. More Movie Nights are being planned.
Access gate
Thanks to UHPC, a new pedestrian and disabled access gate will be installed and the existing double gate will be repaired.
Clare Hamilton, Liz Dixey, Catherine Solly
Bossingham Sports & Leisure Trust
10.12.1 – Footpath Warden
Footpath Warden Report – Sep to Dec 2012
1) Work undertaken
● I have put further waymarker signs up, where they were absent, along HE3 and restored a waymarker post along HE 33.
● I have cut back undergrowth along HE 132 and HE7
● Unfortunately, the waymarker signs I put up on a fence post at the junction of HE32, 33, and 31 have been knocked down – possibly an accident with farm machinery - and there is now no post to fix signs to. This will need a KCC waymarker post to be put in. For the time being, anyone at this point without a map will be confused!
2) Meetings
● Roger King from the Ramblers Association visited Stelling Minnis and I showed him some of the local paths and in particular HE12 – the path which has vanished. Roger invited me to attend the next RA meeting at which the KCC PROW Team are present.
3) Successes
● The two paths (HE 32 and HE 33) across towards Lower Courthope Farm have for the first time been mown, so they are now visible - which is much needed since the waymarker post mentioned above has been knocked down.
● KCC have now put a new sign on the Bossingham Rd near the track to Bower Farm House to mark the start of HE17. Previously there was no signpost at all, so the start of this path was not at all obvious until you got closer and could see the waymarker.
4) Other Activities
● Following the talk I gave to the children at Stelling Minnis school to promote the use of local footpaths, I set up a series of guided walks for the school children. My son Bob, who is at the school, helped choose the routes and produce some maps for the children to follow, with points of interest along the way. Unfortunately, due to the very bad autumn weather, only one of these walks went ahead and 4 others were cancelled by the school due to poor weather forecasts (even though – as luck would have it - there were only light showers at the scheduled times of the walks). I had hoped that the walks would take place rain or shine (as that is the true spirit of hiking) but the decision was beyond my control. It was a shame as I had arranged for Roger King, from the Ramblers Association to join one of the walks, and talk to the children about his long experience of rambling. I plan to re-schedule the walks in the spring and hope for better weather!
Martin Hart - Footpath Warden
MINUTES of MEETING held on 7th November 2012
Present: Cllrs Haffenden (Chaired meeting), Day, Jackson, Hubble, Smyth and Stuart. Also present SDC Cllr Carr, Mr D Barlow (Internal Auditor), Mr N Smith (Clerk) and 2 Parishioners.
KCC Cllr Carey, Cllr Speakman, PCSO's Bishop & Dodwell and Mr M Hart (footpath Warden).
Cllr Haffenden declared a personal interest in Agenda item 6.2.2 – Gaylees Farm.
3.1 Held on 5th September 2012 – approved. Proposed Cllr Day and seconded Cllr Hubble. All agreed. The minutes were duly signed.
4. MATTERS ARISING (not included in other agenda items)
4.1 Enquire about new litter bin outside shop. Clerk reported that Shop owners supported the provision of a bin. SDC Cllr Carr reported that a bin had been ordered and would be installed in due course.
4.2 Letter of support for Windmill refurbishment to KCC. In hand by Clerk & Cllr Haffenden.
4.3 Request more info on which roads to be resurfaced. Detail provided.
4.4 Advise Graeme Faber re SMPC unable to fund Village People. Done.
4.5 Request road past shop be included in winter salting route. Requested initially refused on cost grounds but now being re-considered as is part of 18/18A bus routes.
5.1 To table items of late correspondence.
5.1.1 Letter from Affinity Water with management plan and strategic direction statement.
5.1.2 Details from National Grid on refurbishment of 400KV Pylon Line. Representative
will attend January meeting.
5.1.3 KALC – Elections to smaller Councils Committee.
5.1.4 KCC Highways – Winter message for Parishes.
5.1.5 Use of field 200m SE of Wheelbarrow Town Farm. SDC planning enforcement officer has visited site and confirmed that there was no contravention of the planning permission. Will revisit in 1-2 months.
5.1.6 Info from Canterbury City Council via UHPC on Ash Dieback Disease. Cllr Stuart asked Cllr Day to raise with Minnis Managers/Owners. Tree warden to be asked to liaise with Minnis Managers. Natural England is overseeing the Minnis and will be watching for signs of the disease.
5.1.7 Request to sign deed of transfer relating to BVH. Resolved that Cllrs Haffenden and Stuart would sign the transfer document on behalf of SMPC. Proposed Cllr Day seconded Cllr Smyth. All agreed. Transfer document was duly signed and Clerk will forward to UHPC.
5.2 Items circulated for information.
5.2.1 Review of Shepway Core Strategy local plan – proposed modifications.
5.2.2 KALC AGM. Cllr Stuart will be attending.
5.3 Items acted on.
5.3.1 SDC Monitoring officer advised of adoption of new code of conduct. After discussion with Clerk, SDC had agreed that the registers of interest would be held on the SDC web site.
5.3.2 Code of conduct added to Stelling Minnis web site and link to SDC web site will be provided when register of interests are published.
5.3.3 KALC Questionnaire on progress on localism. Completed by Cllr Haffenden.
5.3.4 Cleansing of Bus shelter. SDC thanked for speed and efficiency with which they dealt with human excrement on the bus shelter seat and floor.
5.4 Items for discussion:
5.4.1 Electoral review of Shepway.
SDC Cllr Carr reported that the review would not have any impact on SMPC, if the SDC counter proposal for 36 Cllrs was accepted by the Boundaries Commission. If not accepted then wards will be increased in size and SMPC with Elham may have to join another Parish Council to form a larger District Council Ward. Cllr Stuart said that account needed to be taken of physical ward size in rural areas and not just population numbers. Cllr Stuart and Clerk to send a response to Boundaries commission on behalf of SMPC.
6.1 To table late planning applications received for consideration.
6.2 To table planning applications dealt with since last meeting including decisions by Planning Authority.
6.2.1 Y12/0715/SH – Acer Lodge, Bossingham Road. Erection of a side conservatory. SMPC Approve 7:0. SDC Approved with time and material conditions.
6.2.2 Y12/0687/SH – Gaylees Farm, Stone Street. Alterations and conversion of a
detached stable building to provide living accommodation for use as an annexe
to the main building. SMPC Object 7:0. SMPC asked to reconsider if a section
106 agreement was made – reconsidered, but still unanimously object.
Reconsidered with confirmation that annex and main building shared electricity,
water and drainage services. SMPC overall Object (4 Object: 3 No objection)
Will now go to planning Development Control Committee on 13 Nov. Cllr Hubble will attend
to speak on behalf of SMPC. SMPC felt that they needed to be consistent with
their views on Annexes.
6.2.3 Y12/0322/SH – Holly Grove, Pony Cart Lane. Erection of a single storey holiday
cottage following removal of agricultural building. SMPC on balance No
Objections (No objections 6: Approve 1) No decision yet from SDC
6.3 To table decisions by Planning Authority on applications dealt with prior to last meeting.
6.3.1 Y12/0633/SH - Little Mead, Pony Cart Lane. Erection of extensions, following
part demolition of the existing dwelling, to form a two storey dwelling. SDC
decision – refused.
6.4 Other planning matters:
6.4.1 Meadow View
SDC Cllr Carr reported that the planning enforcement officer was keeping a watch on the land. Owners of Minnis have been advised, as any sale of land in plots would be subject to access agreements.
7.1 Kent County Council. No report received.
7.2 Shepway District Council. SDC Cllr Carr reported that after the PCC elections on 15 November. Police panels will be set up with representative from District Councils included. The planning team have been asked to confirm that the doorway between walkway and main building at Anvil Cottage had been installed – this was part of the planning application approval. New snow ploughing contracts have been let to local farmers – Clerk to confirm who has the contract within SMPC.
7.3 KALC Shepway Area Committee. Cllr Stuart provided a written report, at appendix A.
7.4 SDC Planning Users Group. No meeting held.
7.5 Parish and Town Councils. Cllr Stuart provided a written report, at appendix A.
7.6 Kent Community Police. No report provided.
7.7 Police liaison and Speed watch. Cllr Stuart reported on behalf of Cllr Speakman. Cllr Speakman may not be able to continue with his role as Speedwatch coordinator because of work pressures. He also recommended suspending the next 2 sessions and recommencing speedwatch in March 2013 (proposed Cllr Hubble seconded Cllr Jackson – agreed by all). Cllr Day said that she will continue to pass on reports to police. Instances of speeding traffic on Bossingham Road Friday/Saturday nights after 10pm had been reported – Clerk to advise PCSO's.
7.8 Minnis Managers. Cllr Day provided a written report, at appendix A.
7.9 Stelling Minnis Village Hall. Cllr Day provided a written report, at appendix A
7.10 Stelling Minnis Windmill. Nothing to report.
7.11 Joint Sports Facility. Mrs C Hamiton provided a written report, at appendix A.
7.12 Other reports. None.
8.1 Stone Street safety improvements
Kent Police, KCC and MP contacted. MP very interested. Kent Police passed onto PC Geoff Bineham – still unable to support double white lines – invitation given to meet and discuss. KCC refused to even consider on basis of not enough serious crash incidents over last 3 years – data base only shows 1 injury crash, excluding the recent one that caused SMPC to request review, which has yet to be added to database. Cllrs felt that the responses from both KCC and Kent Police were not acceptable. Cllr Haffenden said that SMPC needed to keep active on this topic and take up Kent Police's invitation and establish what safety improvement measures they would find acceptable. Need to involve Elmsted Parish Council in discussions with Kent Police. SDC Cllr Carr supported SMPC's stance.
8.2 Highways survey 2012
Cllrs Stuart and Smyth drafted replies. Copy on circulation to Cllrs for any additional info or feedback. Final version will be e-mailed to KCC in December.
8.3 Highways seminar feedback. Cllr Stuart expanded on his written report and drew Councils attention to the new grass and verge cutting schedules for 2013. Cllr Day reported that she found the highways fault reporting map out of date as far as properties on Stone Street were concerned.
8.4 Other highways matters
Clerk to set up meeting with SMPC and highways steward on the 30mph sign in the hedge outside Silken, Curtis Lane.
9.1 Update of account for 2012/13. Cllr Stuart presented that latest position of expenditure against budget.
9.2 Accounts for payment
1) Cllr Stuart expenses £25.80
2a) Clerks salary (Net) £256.86
2b) Clerks expenses £9.95
3) HMRC PAYE due on 1/1/13 £96.33 (Third quarterly payment.)
4) Sports & Leisure £18.00 (50% of expenses)
Proposed Cllr Hubble seconded Cllr Day. All agreed. Cllr Stuart did not vote as he is finance officer.
9.3 Requests for funding. None
9.4 Budget 2013/14
Cllr Stuart presented a budget for 2013. It was noted that the budget leaves very limited resources. The budget was discussed and approved. Proposed Cllr Smyth seconded Cllr Day. All agreed.
9.5 Precept 2013/14
The actual precept cannot be set until January because of HM Government legislation. However provided there is no change to predicted income or expenditure Council is minded to set a precept at £4500.00p
Cllr Stuart said that he would be relinquishing the Responsible Finance Office role at the end of the financial year. He also said that he may also resign as Councillor around May 2013.
Cllr Stuart reported that the SDC officer leading the project in Shepway had left SDC and the project was now being run by Ashford Council. There was no other information on progress of the business case.
2013: 9th January, 6th March, 1st May (AGM), 22nd May (APM).
12.1 Mr Bending reported difficulty of joining Stone Street from his property because of speeding traffic at around 7am travelling south. Clerk will advise PCSO's.
Meeting closed at 9.05 pm
Signed D G Stuart (Vice Chairman)
Date 9 January 2013
7.3 KALC - Shepway Area Committee 18 October
Report from KALC Executive Committee.
Accounts - current year likely to show a £2000 surplus.
KALC AGM 17 November at Ditton village hall
All PCs can send two reps
Lunch free this year as it is to be paid for by a sponsor.
Speakers this year John Burr of KCC Highways and the Chief Constable
Six motions for consideration - full details in report for the meeting (soon to be circulated)
Press for new standards committees to include a parish rep when the case so a parish councillor
PCs to have the right to object to HGV operators licence application in some circumstances
Need for a full M25 junction interchange at junction 5 - Sevenoaks
Planning applications to go directly to the Inspectors is certain criteria are met
Objections to polytunnels
The need for better definition of gypsies and travellers
KCC have agreed for all local Joint Transport Board to have 2 parish reps with voting rights (the body which considers and prioritises highway works)
NALC has agreed that its share of subscriptions in 2013/14 will be frozen. There will be a new chief exec and a new chairman soon.
KALC questionnaire coming about the services parishes would like to take on in future
Shepway Area SDC -PCs joint committee Report follows.
Items for next meeting Locality Board update - Business rates - Planning Guidelines - Localism - Dog warden scheme progress.
Road alterations in Hythe - local council to be consulted (relatively new procedure)
Winter snow clearance on local roads by farmers. This year farmers will be allowed discretion when to clear (previously needed Highways to approve which caused delays). Councils can ask for list of contractors in their area.
NOTE Information awaited from SDC on next years community charge which could affect parishes precept
David Stuart
7.5 Shepway District and Parish Councils Joint Committee 13 September
Locality Board
In answer to a question the Chairman advised the meeting that he had nothing further to report about the possibility of the formation of a Shepway Locality Board. When information became available he would brief the committee.
Local Authority Mortgage Scheme.
A new scheme designed to help first time buyer was tabled and outlined in some detail. Full details are available.
Village and Community Halls Business Rates
Following a discussion at the previous meeting it was reported that the application form for rate relief has been re-designed. Applicants are advised to make clear where reserves are intended for specific maintenance or other similar projects as this has a major bearing on the eligibility for rate relief (SMVH Management Committee have been advised)
David Stuart
7.8 – Minnis Managers
Report on Meeting of Minnis Managers 17.10.2012
Although the Stewardship Scheme does not expire until October 2013, the Managers decided to write to Dan Tuson to register their interest in extending the scheme.
The question of time limited fencing would be decided upon after the outcome/decision re the Stewardship Scheme.
Various vehicles parking on the Minnis overnight were attended to by the Managers explaining that this was not allowed.
The responsibility/position of boundary hedges and trees would be looked at further by the owner's agent Charlie Gooch.
The oak trees planted by the Managers continue to be looked after by the Primary School children.
It was decided to put a note in the Parish Magazine re planning applications which are adjacent to the Minnis and also require access across the Minnis, following Shepway District Council's lapse in notifying C Gooch re a planning application received.
Ann Day
7.9 – Stelling Minnis Village Hall
Report on Committee Meeting – 10 September 2012
1. PAT testing - following enquiries it seems that no saving can be made by sharing the cost with the Windmill.
2. Fuel oil theft claim was settled and the insurers requested extra protection of the fuel tank.
3. Letter to go to users of the storage area re keeping area tidy.
4. Fund raising –
The BBQ was cancelled due to bad weather and clash of dates.
A quiz night has been booked.
Beergut 100 event booked for 24th November.
5. A computer link for the hall is not possible because there is no funding to cover. It was agreed that users of the hall would be canvassed to see if they would be willing to pay extra if Broadband was installed.
6. It was agreed to drop the hourly hire rate to £8 to be in line with Bossingham Village Hall.
7. It was noted to be unhelpful for certain members of the Parish Council to refer to the Village Hall Management Committee as "useless" and that it should be noted that the committee have heavy work and family commitments and despite these managed to run events at the hall. Those criticising the committee had been noted as not quick to volunteer with the running of those events and should therefore keep their thoughts to themselves.
8. Although at the last meeting it was agreed to fund repairs to the hall to £1000, the final cost will be more than this. The committee authorised an additional £750.
Ann Day
7.11 Joint Sports Facility
Skateboard Zone 'Have a Go' day 13.10.12
It was good to see so many people from both Bossingham and Stelling Minnis at the skatezone's inauguration on 13th October. The skills and enthusiasm of the young skaters and scooterers were much admired! Susan Carey, KCC councillor for Shepway, was a welcome guest. She and John Simmonds, KCC councillor for Canterbury West, who unfortunately wasn't able to join us, have been very supportive of BS< since its inception, and have indicated that they hope to continue to do so whenever possible, for which we are very grateful. We are very appreciative of the ongoing support of both Upper Hardres and Stelling Minnis parish councils, and were pleased that so many representatives were able to join us.
Goal posts
Mr Gray, headteacher of Stelling Minnis Primary School, has kindly donated a spare set of goal posts.
First Annual Meeting of Bossingham Sports & Leisure Trust
This will be held on Tuesday 20th November, 7.30pm at Bossingham Village Hall, and we look forward to seeing you there.
Next steps
• We are now focusing our fundraising activities on the outdoor gym equipment and hope to have this installed early in 2013. Funding applications have been submitted and we await their outcome.
• Summer 2013 should see funding from CCC for children's play equipment and we await news from CCC.
• We are waiting to hear if Canterbury College bricklaying students can build a community BBQ for us.
Clare Hamilton, Liz Dixey, Catherine Solly
Bossingham Sports & Leisure Trust
AGENDA ITEM 8 – Highways
8.3 KCC Highways and Transportation Parish Seminar 10 October
Highways Update - John Burr
Major staff reductions - by up to one third
New contract for maintenance with "Enterprise" replacing Ringway. Big savings are expected. Payment is now on the basis of the cost of the job and not the time taken, as was the case.
New name: Highways and Transportation.
Members Highway fund still available and is probably the quickest way to get jobs done BUT anything in hand must be carried out soon as jobs cannot be carried over into an election year.
Street lighting 3000 columns to go and 70,000 part time night lighting only. Consultation on which lights but not the policy
20 mph limits. Will consider locations where there are accident records. 6 pilot schemes in Maidstone.
Other Issues
Road Safety Kent has a good record in reducing the number of incidents year by year.
Parish Portal for reporting accidents was discussed. There were mixed responses, some liked the system; others found going back to the beginning for every new location was cumbersome, whilst others preferred to use the telephone. (Note changes already made to the system to allow for comments).
Freight Action Plan. Details in news letter but parishes where lorries are a problem can join a "Lorry Watch" scheme.
David Stuart
MINUTES of MEETING held on 5th SEPTEMBER 2012
MINUTES of MEETING held on 5th July 2012
Present: Cllrs Day (Chaired the meeting), Jackson, Smyth, Speakman, and 2 Parishioners.
Apologies for absence
Cllrs J. Haffenden, D. Stuart, R. Hubble. Also N Smith (Clerk), D Barlow (Internal Auditor) and M Hart (Footpath warden)
Due to the absence of the chairman, and vice chairman Cllr Day took the chair.
Declarations of interest: None
Minutes of Meeting 2nd May: The minutes of the meeting held on 2 May 2012 were circulated. These were approved. Proposed Cllr Smyth, seconded Cllr Speakman. All agreed.
The agenda along with two written reports from Cllr Day reporting on SM Village Hall , and Cllr Carr reporting on SDC, had been circulated.
Cllr Day suggested that as there was no matters requiring urgent attention, and that the Clerks salary and expenses could be sanctioned by the chairman, to be ratified at the next meeting, that the meeting be closed and all matters deferred until the next meeting on 5 September 2012. This was seconded by Cllr Smyth. All agreed.
Dates of next meetings: 2012: 5 September, 7 November.
2013: 9 January, 6 March.
The meeting closed at 7.50 pm.
Signed John Haffenden (Chairman)
Date 5 September 2012
MINUTES of MEETING (AGM) held on 2nd May 2012
Present: Cllrs
Haffenden (Chaired meeting), Day, Jackson, Hubble, Smyth, Speakman and
Stuart. Also present KCC Cllr Carey, SDC Cllr Carr, Mr D Barlow (Internal
Auditor), N Smith (Clerk) and 1 Parishioner.
Cllr Haffenden passed chair of the meeting to Cllr Stuart. Cllr Haffenden was nominated for Chairman by Cllr Day and seconded by Cllr Smyth. There being no other nominations, Cllr Haffenden was duly elected as Chairman. The declaration was signed.
Cllr Stuart was nominated for Vice Chairman by Cllr Day and seconded by Cllr Hubble. There being no other nominations Cllr Stuart was duly elected as vice chairman.
3. APOLOGIES: Mr P Dimmock.
4. To receive Declarations of interest on agenda items. None
Held on 7th March 2012 were approved and signed. Proposed Cllr Hubble and seconded Cllr Haffenden. All agreed.
6 MATTERS ARISING (not included in other agenda items)
6.1 Fryarne Woods – info on ancient hornbeam tree to tree officer and SDC planning. Clerk reported that this had been done. Also that Tree and Planning Officers had considered the situation and reported back that as the work was proposed to be carried out by a Statutory Undertaker it was outside their control.
6.2 Establish process for requesting refilling salt bins.
Clerk reported that the process was to request refill via the Highways reporting portal.
6.3 Obtain more info on Dog Control orders from District and Parish Councils meeting. Cllr Stuart had obtained more detail and circulated to Cllrs. The dog control orders will apply in all places where the public have access. Enforcement, publicity and notices had not yet been addressed.
7.1 To table items of late correspondence.
7.1.1 Bossingham Village Hall - request for names to sign the transfer document of part trusteeship by SMPC to UHPC. Transfer was agreed in minute 6.4.1 of meeting 2 March 2011. Confirmed – proposed Cllr Haffenden and seconded Cllr Stuart – all agreed. Cllrs Haffenden & Stuart to be signatories to transfer document. Clerk to advise UHPC accordingly.
7.2 Items circulated for information
7.2.1 SDC Core Strategy – details of dates of hearing.
7.3 Items acted on:
7.3.1 Request for information discussed by Parish Council relating to Stone Street flooding. Dealt with by Cllr Haffenden and Clerk. Invoice for £20.06 under freedom of information charges submitted – payment not yet made.
7.3.2 Fly tipping – Sandy Lane. Observed by Cllr Hubble and reported by Clerk to SDC. Items have been cleared away.
7.4 Items for discussion:
7.4.1 Elham Parish Council – request to form Neighbourhood Forum.
This was fully discussed and agreed that Clerk would respond to Elham PC with a request to meet with them to further explore their proposals. Cllrs Stuart, Day, Hubble and Jackson would attend. (Discussion revolved round the unique nature of Stelling Minnis and the need to meet expansion requirements sympathetically.)
7.4.2 KCC Consultation on commissioning plan for education provision 2012-2017. Cllrs to consider plan and advise Clerk if they wish to comment.
8.1 To table late planning applications received for consideration. None
8.2 To table planning applications dealt with since last meeting including decisions by Planning Authority.
8.2.1 Y12/0263/SH – Little Palmstead Farm, Upper Hardres – Erection of a replacement agricultural building. SMPC Voting – Approve 1: No Objections 6.
8.2.1 Y12/0269/SH – Chapel Farm, Bossingham Road. Erection of a single storey read/.side extension, a single storey front extension and a single storey detached three bay garage and stable block, following demolition of the existing outbuildings. – Objections 2: No Objections 5.
No decision on either by SDC
8.3 To table decisions by Planning Authority on applications dealt with prior to last meeting. None
8.4 Other planning matters:
8.4.1 Caravan 200metres East of Wheelbarrow Town Farm. SDC planning enforcement officer reported back that following lengthy observations they concluded that the caravan was not being lived in. Case closed. SDC Cllr Carr reported that she had asked the enforcement team to look again.
9.1 Kent County Council. KCC Cllr Carey had been delayed her report was read by Clerk - appended.
9.2 Shepway District Council. SDC Cllr Carr reported that Council tax had been frozen. The localism bill was fraught with problems and a Neighbourhood Forum was to be formed. Planning training would be made available to Cllrs on request. Cllr Stuart suggested that planning training should be offered at least every 4 years to align with new Councils election cycle. SDC has agreed to reduce the number of Cllrs in 2015.
9.3 KALC Shepway Area Committee. Cllr Stuart reported that the role of Parish Councils and the new standards committee was still outstanding and subject to further discussions. The AGM to be held on 17 November. KALC were lobbying for membership on the Kent Forum.
9.4 SDC Planning Users Group. Cllr Speakman reported that there would be no change to the "no objections" wording in planning application responses, however there was no longer a need for Cllrs votes to be recorded. Localism bill now included a duty on planning authorities to approve applications but enforcement was to be strengthened. Section 106 payments now abolished and replaced by a community infrastructure levy. National Planning Policy framework was now in use and local development plans had been prepared.
9.5 Parish and Town Councils. Cllr Stuart had provided a written report – appended.
9.6 Kent Community Police. No report given.
9.7 Police liaison and Speed watch. Cllr Speakman reported that the new season had started. A couple of regular team members had been lost and the team was heading to a point when it would not be viable to operate. However it was seen to be very effective and was a good reminder that speed limits existed in the Village. Cllr Stuart had prepared an article for the next Parish Magazine.
9.8 Minnis Managers. Cllr Day had provided a written report – appended.
9.9 Stelling Minnis Village Hall. No meeting held.
9.10 Stelling Minnis Windmill. Cllr Speakman reported that the windmill opened and that he had attended the Kent Windmill Group meeting. The Windmill was designated for refurbishment this year. KCC had asked if the windmill could grind flour as a revenue source – was a possibility.
9.11 Transport & Highways. Ongoing items reported under agenda item 11.
9.12 Joint Sports Facility. Cllr Haffenden reported that the group was now a charity and that skate board park was programmed. Further development was dependent upon funding opportunities.
9.13 Other reports. Martin Hart had provided a detailed report. Cllrs were very impressed – Clerk to thank Mr Hart for his efforts.
Posts were filled as shown:
10.1 Trustees:
Stelling Minnis Common Trust - Cllr Haffenden
Windmill & Museum Trust - Cllr Speakman
Stelling Minnis Village Hall - Cllr Day.
10.2 External Bodies – representatives
KALC Shepway area committee (2 posts) - Cllr Stuart
SDC Planning user group (1 or more posts) – Cllr Stuart
Minnis Managers Representative - Cllr Day
Stelling Minnis Village Hall Representative - Cllr Day
Joint Sports Facility - Cllr Hubble
10.3 Other
Speedwatch co-ordinator - Cllr Speakman
Police Liaison - Cllr Speakman
Highways - Cllrs Smyth and Stuart
All positions were duly proposed and seconded. All agreed.
10.4 Non Councillor
Internal Auditor - David Barlow.
Proposed Cllr Smyth and seconded Cllr Day. All agreed.
Footpath Warden - Martin Hart.
Proposed Cllr Haffenden and seconded Cllr Speakman. All agreed.
Tree Warden. One application received from Mr Paul Dimmock. Application was discussed. Mr Dimmock to be offered post – proposed Cllr Hubble and seconded Cllr Day. All agreed. Clerk to contact Mr Dimmock.
Cllr Smyth reported that pot holes had been marked for repair but the work was weather dependent. Highways Steward Tony Hammock was retiring and the new steward would be made known to us soon. The signpost on the corner of Curtis Lane/Bossingham Road is in hand. The soakaway outside Ashcroft – Highways Steward to contact Charles Gooch to liaise on location. Some attempt to clean the graffiti off village sign opposite Sunrise, Clerk will report to KCC Highways. The Gulleys on the raised section of Stone Street had been cleaned out. Flooding at Wadden Hall – some attention needed by KCC Highways; SDC Cllr Carr said that she had spoken to Highways on this to clear out the ditches; some action is needed over a possible water leak which is aggravating the problem; Clerk to report to KCC Highways. The raised Kerb on the triangle by Wheelbarrow Town Farm has still not been dealt with after it was hit by a snowplough last winter – Cllr Smyth in discussion with Highways Steward over it.
12.1 Approval and signing off of accounts for year ending 31/3/2011.
Cllr Stuart presented the accounts for 2011/12, which were approved and signed. Proposed Cllr Haffenden and seconded Cllr Smyth. All agreed – Cllr Stuart did not vote as he is finance officer.
12.2 Audit commission return to be read, approved and signed.
The Audit form declarations were read and approved. The audit return was approved and signed. Proposed Cllr Day seconded Cllr Jackson. All agreed – Cllr Stuart did not vote as he is finance officer.
12.3 Update of account for 2012/13. Cllr Stuart appraised Council on the accounts to date. The SDC precept had been received. The Chairman's allowance to be increased from £50 to £100 and the contingency reduced from £200 to £150 for this year only. Proposed Cllr Stuart and seconded Cllr Day. All agreed.
12.4 Accounts for payment. Councillors had been circulated a table of payments to be made. Cllr Stuart said that the Parish Council insurance renewal advice had been received and the premium could be reduced from £328.28 to £311.87 by taking a new 3 year contract; which he recommended to Council. Proposed Cllr Hubble and seconded Cllr Speakman. All agreed.
The following accounts were approved for payment – proposed Cllr Smyth and proposed Cllr Day. All agreed. Cllr Stuart did not vote as he is finance officer.
Membership of KALC 237.47
Membership ACRK 35.00
Membership CPRE 29.00
Insurance premium 311.87
Village Hall room hire (2011/12) 93.00
Clerk Salary (Net) 256.86
HMRC (Clerk PAYE April – June) 96.33
Clerks expenses 34.71
Chairman Allowance:
Gift for Parish Centenarian 22.00
Annual Parish Meeting refreshments 43.10 65.10
Donation – Stelling Church 200.00
Donation Age Concern 100.00
Replacement printer 60.00
Total 1519.34
12.5 Requests for funding. None
Mr J Hurdwell outlined the plans in place for the Jubilee celebrations. He said that all was going according to plan with 200+ Parishioners attending. Floats would be covered by public liability insurance. Chairmen of both Stelling Minnis and Upper Hardres Parish Councils would judge the floats. SDC Cllr Carr would judge the fancy dress. All children at Stelling Minnis CEP School had been given leaflets to take home. Attendees to bring their own picnics. BBQ's or camping stove not allowed. Insurance sponsored by Eclipse Insurance. Cllr Haffenden thanked Mr Hurdwell for all his efforts in organising the celebration event.
Cllr Stuart said that SDC's Lee Bryne has done a very good job at putting the bid together. DEFRA had agreed to a bid being made. Small businesses need to demonstrate a demand and support the bid. Information on how fast broadband will be delivered is not yet known. Support funding is still to be resourced. KCC Cllr Carey said that there were some problems with an EU ruling on state funding; Kent is 6th in the queue in the UK.
A draft statement had been circulated to Cllrs. Agreed to be adopted – proposed Cllr Hubble and seconded Cllr Day. All agreed.
Format and refreshment arrangements discussed and agreed.
23rd May (APM).
2012: 4th July, 5th September, 7th November,
2013: 9th January, 6th March, 1st May (AGM), 22nd May (APM).
18.1 Mr D Barlow said that there would be a delay in obtaining the land certificate for BVH.
Meeting closed at 9.30pm
Signed John Haffenden - Chairman
Date 5th September 2012
1 KCC Report
KCC has long had the problem of dealing with rising demand (more elderly, more people with dementia, more children in care etc.), rising costs (fuel, landfill tax etc.) and keeping council tax rises low. As part of the overall national effort, local government has been asked to make significant savings. We are now one year into a four year programme that will shrink expenditure by a third.
Council tax has been frozen with the help of a special grant from government but there is no guarantee that this grant will continue so, whilst the grant is welcome, we still need to shrink our cost base.
I am very involved in the projects to reduce costs at Kent County Council and £97m of savings were made last financial year. Much of these came from reducing the number of posts (including that of Managing Director); the new waste collection system has also helped reduce costs. The savings targets for this financial year are £95m and then the year after £65m.
Despite the financial challenges KCC has done much in the last year of which we can be proud. The new Turner Centre was a KCC project to help regenerate Margate and provide Kent with a world class art gallery. It has been an enormous success. KCC has also led the Pfizer task force to deal with the crisis caused by the withdrawal of Pfizer from its Sandwich site. We have rescued many hundreds of jobs by creating a science park and there are plans to improve both road and rail connections into East Kent.
In our own district, KCC is providing funds to improve the roads leading to and from Folkestone harbour so that the redevelopment of the seafront can take place. KCC has also made progress in plans for a £43m network to provide superfast broadband for over 90% of households in Kent and better access for the remaining 10%. Unfortunately all projects involving local and national government have recently run into problems with EU regulations about state aid. It is a major problem affecting the whole country.
However, thanks to the work done to date the Kent project will be among the first to go ahead once the problem is resolved. Please sign up to the Make Kent Quicker campaign on www.kent.gov.uk to show your support.
Locally I have been happy to support both the sports project at Bossingham and the Stelling Minnis Challenge Youth Group appeal for a mini-bus with KCC grants of £1,000 each. Most of my Highway grant is being spent on a general spring clean of road signs and the verges across my division.
Susan Carey
2 Shepway District Council and Parish Councils Joint Committee - 15 March 2012
The minutes of this meeting have been circulated and hence this is a brief report drawing attention to a few specific points.
1) The Olympic Torch procession. Full details of the route and times are now on the website. Note that the torch will only be carried by runners in the towns on the route. Between towns (e.g. Ashford to Hythe) there will just be a column of vehicles travelling at 10mph below the speed limit (on the A20 past Sellindge school).
2) New dog control orders. The new byelaws will be introduced in Shepway later this year. NOTE - AS YET DETAILS OF THE METODS OF IMPLEMENTATION (notices, bins, inspections, issue of fines etc) HAVE NOT BEEN AGREED, only the regulations. Parishes can ask to opt in to the regulations if they wish to have them applied to their own play or recreation areas to be included.
3) Parish Poll Guidance notes were issued (I think that they are good) IT IS SUGGESTED THAT SMPC FORMALLY ADOPT THE FINAL NOTES.
4) 2012 - 13 Scrutiny Committee. SMPC topic is on list for consideration (to allow small PCs to apply to SDC Community Chest).
5) Locality Boards - SDC has no plans to introduce a locality board on the KCC model. Other ideas are being considered (7 districts in Kent are going ahead) NOTE Community Infrastructure Levy may become an issue.
6) Standards Committee - new thoughts on future arrangements have been circulated to PCs for comment.
7) Changes to Planning Response Forms - It is understood that at the meeting of the Planning User Group it was decided not to modify the form used to report on PC's views on an application. However it was agreed that it is no longer a requirement to record the votes for and against.
David Stuart
09 04 2013
3 Report on Meeting Minnis Managers meeting - 18 April 2012
Stephen Chantler has been appointed a Minnis Manager and John Gifford, after many years of service, has retired.
The cattle are to be moved back onto the Minnis in May subject to growth of grass.
The sheep will be moved to the area behind Judith Bakers.
4 English Oaks are to be purchased and planted in memory of the Coronation Jubilee and hopefully will be looked after by the Stelling Minnis Primary School children.
The Minnis Managers are to enter a float at the Coronation Jubilee celebrations.
Shepway District Council Planning Dept is successfully liaising with the owner's agent, Charlie Gooch, re new applications for building and extensions.
Ann Day
MINUTES of MEETING held on 7th MARCH 2012
Present: Cllrs
Haffenden (Chaired meeting), Day, Jackson, Hubble, Smyth, Speakman and
Stuart. Also present SDC Cllr Carr, Mr D Barlow (Internal Auditor), N Smith
(Clerk) and 1 Parishioner.
1. APOLOGIES: KCC Cllr Carey and PCSO Bishop.
2. To receive Declarations of interest on agenda items. None
Held on 4th January 2012 were approved and signed. Proposed Cllr Day and seconded Cllr Smyth. All agreed.
4.1 Agreed Community Chest proposals by Cllr Stuart, who had been advised that Council supported his proposals...
4.2 Make formal application for precept. Clerk reported that application had been made.
4.3 Health & Safety document to be signed. Clerk reported that document signed.
4.4 Report post crash debris in wheelbarrow town. Clerk had reported via the online highways reporting system. Cllr Hubble reported that the debris had still not been cleared.
5.1 To table items of late correspondence.
5.1.1 South East Water – Current Water resources situation.
5.1.2 SDC – Standards Committee meeting agenda.
5.1.3 KCC – Minerals and Waste Development Framework.
5.1.4. KALC Web site update.
5.1.5 UHPC organising digital switchover meeting.
5.1.6 Information received regarding works by Electricity Company at Fryarne Woods, including removal of an ancient hornbeam tree. Clerk to forward info to SDC planning and tree officer.
5.2 Items circulated for information
5.2.1 Letter re Road sign in hedge outside Silken, Curtis Lane. Clerk reported that he had spoken to Nigel Phillips and had delivered a letter. No response received to date.
5.2.2 Members allowance scheme for Towns & Parishes. Discussed and agreed that once again Councillors would not take up the allowances. Proposed Cllr Day and seconded Cllr Speakman. All agreed.
5.2.3 Shepway – Core Strategy Development Plan Document. Discussed, correspondence related to appointment of an inspector. Council will have opportunity to have an input during the hearing, if they wished.
5.2.4 Rural Buildings design workshop.
5.3 Items acted on:
5.3.1 Parish Play Survey. Cllr Hubble completed and linked our support to that of the efforts of the Joint Sports Facility Project and UHPC.
5.3.2 Future Health Services in Dover & Shepway. Cllrs Stuart & Day attended. Cllr Day reported that they had been asked for ideas & thoughts on things that NHS should be spending money on. SDC Cllr Car said that the presentation was to an invited audience for initial comments. NHS will be going to public consultation before final decisions made.
5.3.3 Salt Bin/Salt Bag request near Forest View Farm (Clerk). Noted that salt bin request had been rejected; should be a location for a salt bag next winter. Cllr Hubble sad that he was not clear on the mechanics for weather related incidents. Clerk to enquire on process for requesting refilling salt bins.
5.4 Items for discussion:
5.4.1 Tree Warden Evelyn MacRitchie now unable to devote time to Tree Warden role. Discussed and agreed that Mrs MacRitchie should be asked to formally resign and role be re-advertised in Parish Magazine.
5.4.2 Dog Control Orders – Cllr Stuart to get more information at District & Parish Council meeting 15/3.
5.4.3 Cllr & Clerk Training 2012. Budget 2012/13 allows for 2 courses. With localism etc coming to fruition there are likely to be more events run by KALC plus Clerks conference in May. Discussed. Cllr Haffenden said that if necessary reserves would have to be used to fund any extra training deemed necessary this year.
6.1 To table late planning applications received for consideration. None
6.2 To table planning applications dealt with since last meeting including decisions by
Planning Authority. None
6.3 To table decisions by Planning Authority on applications dealt with prior to last meeting. 6.3.1 Bower Farm House – SDC approved with time and material conditions.
6.4 Other planning matters:
6.4.1 The Laurels – appeal against planning decision. Appeal dismissed by Inspector.
7.1 Kent County Council. No report received from KCC Cllr Carey.
7.2 Shepway District Council. SDC Cllr Carr reported that SDC is working on a plan to reduce Cllrs from 46 to 30 at the 2015 elections, on guidance from the Boundaries commission; unlikely to be a change to the Elham/Stelling Minnis Ward. Parking strategy is causing problems in other parts of SDC – there may be some changes.
7.3 KALC Shepway Area Committee. Cllr Stuart provided a written report, at appendix A. Cllr Stuart drew Councils attention to the suggestion that verge cutting could be devolved to Parish Councils. Discussed and agreed to deal with the problem as and if it arose. Localism – locality boards being formed of County, District and Parish Councillors – meetings will be open to the public.
7.4 SDC Planning Users Group. Next meeting 4 April, Cllr Speakman will attend.
7.5 Parish and Town Councils. Next meeting 15 March.
7.6 Kent Community Police. No report received from PCSO Bishop
7.7 Police liaison and Speed watch. Cllr Speakman reported that Speedwatch will commence in April. PCSO Bishop will join some sessions with a speed gun.
7.8 Minnis Managers. Cllr Day reported that bracken had increased in the fenced areas. The diamond jubilee celebrations will include planting trees on the Minnis. All relevant SDC planning applications will now show access over the Minnis. Owners have banned kerbing – Cllr Stuart said that the Parish Council should continue to make a case for kerbing where appropriate. A soak away to overcome flooding outside Ashcroft will be discussed with Charles Gooch – Clerk to contact KCC Highways to provide a location plan.
7.9 Stelling Minnis Village Hall. Cllr Day reported that the potential loss of Council Tax relief had been raised with the committee. The heating oil had been stolen – but was covered by insurance.
7.10 Stelling Minnis Windmill. Cllr Speakman reported that the windmill will open at Easter.
7.11 Transport & Highways. Cllr Hubble expresses concern over the condition of Minnis Lane. Clerk to contact KCC Highways.
7.12 Joint Sports Facility. Written report provided by the committee, at appendix A. Skate board facility going ahead. The fund raising event was poorly attended.
7.13 Other reports. None.
8.1 Notes of the highways meeting of 31 Jan had been circulated to Cllrs. Any highways issues to be taken up with KCC Highways by Cllr Smyth.
9.1 Update of accounts 2011/12 and revised surplus/reserves at 31/3/2012. Cllr Stuart reported that the predicted balance at 31/3/2012 was £2322.95. No allowance had been made for a mid term election.
9.2 Accounts for payment.
• Clerk Salary (Nett) Feb & March £242.60
• Clerk Expenses £ 26.60
• Clerks PAYE (Jan – March) £ 90.97 (Cheque to HMRC)
• Localism Conference charge £ 72.00 (Paid in advance – needs to be ratified
• Councillor D Stuart expenses £ 31.20
• RFO expenses £ 18.90
• Sports & Leisure (50%) £ 68.00 (Cheque to Claire Hamilton)
Proposed Cllr Hubble and Seconded Cllr Smyth. All agreed to be paid. Cllr Stuart did not vote as he is Finance Office.
9.3 Requests for funding.
Folkestone Hockey Club towards cost of coaching for Hockey in Primary Schools. Discussed and rejected, Clerk to advise.
10 JUBILLEE CELEBRATIONS 2012. Mr J Hurdwell gave a detailed summary of the celebration proposals and progress being made provide a community party to celebrate the diamond jubilee on Monday 4th June. To include a float procession (12.30 to 1.30); Rev'd Lyn Rogers will open proceedings at 2pm. He produced a draft poster which outlined the proposals. The event is FREE and a group photo will be taken to record the event. Next committee meeting 28th March. Clerk to include mention of floats in invitations to Annual Parish Meeting.
11 BROADBAND – BUSINES CASE TO INCREASE SPEEDS Case to DEFRA made by SDC – results expected around 19 March. All parishioners to be encouraged to register with "Make Kent Quicker".
Brief summary circulated by Clerk after localism conference.
Clerk will prepare a draft statement and circulate for discussion by e-mail with a view to ratify at May meeting.
Format as last year.
2nd May (AGM) and 23rd May (APM).
Dates to be approved at AGM:
2012: 4th July, 5th September, 7th November,
2013: 9th January, 6th March, 1st May (AGM), 22nd May (APM).
Meeting closed at 9.12pm
Signed by J Haffenden
Date 2nd May 2012
MINUTES of MEETING held on 4TH JANUARY 2012
Present: Cllrs Haffenden (Chaired meeting), Day, Jackson, Hubble, Smyth. Also present Mr D Barlow (Internal Auditor) and N Smith (Clerk).
1. APOLOGIES: Cllrs Speakman and Stuart (both personal reasons); SDC Cllr Carr and PCSO Bishop.
2. To receive Declarations of interest on agenda items. None
Held on 2nd November 2011 were approved and signed. Proposed Cllr Smyth and seconded Cllr Day. All agreed.
4.1 Neighbourhood Planning Regulations & Community Infrastructure Levy. Any comments to be forwarded to the Clerk. All Cllrs happy with proposals.
4.2 Cllr Day to raise with the SMVH committee that the 20% SDC rate relief may be withdrawn. To be raised at next SMVH meeting.
4.3 Clerk to contact Kent Highways again for them to more specific on which road markings on Stone Street were to be refreshed; also improve visibility past the wooden fence on Stone Street. Done, to be further discussed at Highways meeting 31 Jan.
4.4 Contact Lyminge & Elham Parishes regarding future of police support and reporting arrangements. Cllr Speakman reported that new point of contact was Neighbourhood Sergeant - Shepway West, Jasmine (Jazz) Bloomfield.
4.5 Clerk to Contact Johnathan Hurdwell re information on Jubilee Celebrations. Done.
4.6 Clerk to contact KCC re overcrowding on the 18A bus route. Done – response was that KCC department will put inspectors on route and take action if required, which might include re- directing some journeys onto the route 18.
5.1 To table items of late correspondence
5.1.1 Kent LINk – Community ambassadors. Agreed not to put anybody forward.
5.2 Items circulated for information
5.2.1 KALC Learning and Development Update November 2011 includes Localism Conference 28 Jan.
5.2.2 Kent Police – Update on Neighbourhood police in Stelling Minnis + 101 phone service.
5.2.3 KCC - advice of problems on 18A bus route passed on to appropriate bus planning team.
5.2.4 Digital switch over information from KALC.
5.2.5 KALC – Localism act 2011. Clerk to attend; cost approved - proposed Cllr Hubble, seconded Cllr Day. All agreed.
5.3 Items acted on:
5.3.1 Kent Fire & Rescue questionnaire. Completed by Cllr Haffenden.
5.3.2 Kent Highways survey. Completed by Cllrs Stuart & Smyth.
5.3.3 Parish Play Survey. Cllr Hubble dealing.
5.4 Items for discussion:
5.4.1 SDC Draft Corporate Plan. Cllrs had no comments to make.
5.4.2 Draft Private Sector Housing Assistance Policy 2012-2017. No comment on policy itself. Difficulty in Stelling Minnis, where many people are self employed, is getting finance for low cost housing.
5.4.3 SDC Overview and Scrutiny work programme. Cllr Stuart proposed suggestions to amend the SDC Community Chest criteria. Agreed this to be put forward.
5.4.4 War memorial - cost to insure. War memorial is responsibility of UHPC to insure. Parish Council would consider any requests to share any additional premiums charge.
6.1 To table late planning applications received for consideration. None.
6.2 To table planning applications dealt with since last meeting including decisions by
Planning Authority.
6.2.1 Planning applications: Y11/1058/SH – Bower Farm House: Erection of a single storey side extension. SMPC Voted 7:0 approve. Cllr Haffenden declared a personal interest.
6.2.2 Planning application Y11/0921/SH – High Chimney Farm – installation of solar photovoltaic system. SDC approved with time and material conditions.
6.3 To table decisions by Planning Authority on applications dealt with prior to last meeting. None
6.4 Other planning matters:
6.4.1 Land adjacent to St Bernadette Cottage (Meadow View). No more info – remove from agenda.
6.4.2 The Laurels – appeal against planning decision. Not yet been advised of any decision by Planning Inspector.
6.4.3 Planning applications – SDC agreed procedure with Owners of Minnis to ensure that they have been given notice and access is shown on site plans for properties on or with access over the Minnis.
7.1 Kent County Council. No report received from KCC Cllr Carey.
7.2 Shepway District Council. Cllr Day reported on Cllr Carr's behalf - SDC will be putting provision of parking wardens out to tender. Parking charges still under discussion.
7.3 KALC Shepway Area Committee. No meeting held.
7.4 SDC Planning Users Group. Cllr Stuart provided a written report, appended.
7.5 Parish and Town Councils. Cllr Stuart provided a written report, appended. Discussed request for proposals for guidance on special Parish Meetings – agreed to let SDC write the guidance.
7.6 Kent Community Police. Clerk reported that PCSO Debbie Bishop hopes to be able to attend future meetings.
7.7 Police liaison and Speed watch. Cllr Speakman sent a report - speeding reports should be e-mailed or posted to Sergeant Bloomfield who forwards to Roads Policing at Maidstone who collate the information and send warning letters. These will now be collated with other Speedwatch reports cross boundary so should be more effective in targeting persons speeding in other parts of the County. She can deploy the enforcement laser gun where necessary. Nothing further on extending role of Speedwatch e.g. to monitor people driving and using mobile phones etc – seems to have been dropped as not practical or desirable. Confirmed that the police main/tolerance for speeding in speed limit areas is 10% +2 (i.e. 5). They will only include on the data base, offending drivers recorded at speeds of 36 mph or above. Agreed that speedwatch teams will review new arrangements in six months. Speedwatch starts again w/c 12 March, weather permitting.
7.8 Minnis Managers. Cllr Day reported that the next meeting was 13 Jan 2012.
7.9 Stelling Minnis Village Hall. Cllr Day reported that the Secretary had resigned. The next was 11 Jan 2012.
7.10 Stelling Minnis Windmill. Cllr Speakman sent a report. Plans for design and refurbishment of mill signage and museum exhibits were still continuing.
7.11 Transport & Highways. Cllr Smyth reported that she had collected details of all potholes in the Parish and marked them on a map which she would be passing onto Tony Hammock. She had also reported what appeared to be a water leak by the entrance to High Chimney Farm in Bossingham Road.
7.12 Joint Sports Facility. Cllr Haffenden said that there was nothing to report.
7.13 Other reports. Footpath Warden, Martin Hart had provided a report on footpath concerns which he had observed and passed onto the PROW Officer at KCC.
8.1 Safety improvements on Stone Street. KCC confirmed that an order had been placed to refresh give way signs and markings at Curtis Lane/Stone Street junction.
8.2 Meeting with Tony Hammock & Pauline Rockett – 31 January 2012
Items to be discussed to include Stone Street; street sweeping, especially in Curtis Lane and outside the school; signs posts hidden by vegetation; health and safety issues.
9.1 Update of accounts 2011/12. Account statement as at end Dec 2011 was presented. A VAT refund of £153.64 had been received.
9.2 Accounts for payment.
Clerks Salary £242.60 Net, with £60.64 set aside for PAYE
Expenses £10.85
Total £253.45.
50% Joint Sports facility expenses £39.64 (to be paid to Clare Hamilton)
Proposed Cllr Day, Seconded Cllr Smyth. All agreed.
9.3 Budget and precept 2012/13. To ratify and approve Precept of £4400. Proposed Cllr Hubble, seconded Cllr Day. All agreed. Clerk to make formal application to SDC.
9.4 Requests for funding.
9.4.1 Victim Support. Was considered and rejected.
10 JUBILLEE CELEBRATIONS 2012. Cllr Haffenden reported that a meeting with Johnathan Hurdwell and UHPC was set for 11th January.
11 BROADBAND – BUSINES CASE TO INCREASE SPEEDS Two funding opportunities being investigated on our behalf by SDC – 1 with KCC and a second from DEFRA. Info provided from Survey, although a little disappointing in numbers, is more than enough to make a good case.
12 HEALTH AND SAFETY POLICY STATEMENT REVIEW Reviewed and approved for the next 12 months. Proposed Cllr Jackson seconded Cllr Haffenden. All agreed. Clerk to sign document.
2012 - 7th March, 2nd May (AGM) and 23 May (APM).
Dates to be approved at AGM:
2012: 4th July, 5th September, 7th November,
2013: 9th January, 6th March, 1st May (AGM), 22 May (APM).
14.1 Cllr Hubble asked about reporting debris to be cleared off the highway in wheelbarrow Town following a crash. Clerk to report to KCC Highways.
14.2 Annual Parish Meeting. Discussed and agreed format to be same as last year – short formal session followed by opportunity for parishioners to mingle and chat to club and society reps. Any written reports to be prominently displayed.
Meeting closed at 8.43pm
Signed John Haffenden
Date 7March 2012
Report on Meeting of Planning Users' Group of 30 November 2011
Localism Bill – due for assent on 15 January 2012 but there will be many sections which will not be clear until supplementary information/ interpretation is published and so it will take time before it fully takes effect.
Guidance on Solar Panels available now.
Also on Wind Turbines and Heat Pumps. Noise is an issue (mainly in built up areas) and standards are being produced. It is the responsibility of the installer to meet standards and a certificate to this effect must be issued. BUT IN AONB Planning Permission will still be needed.
05 12 2011
Shepway District Council and Parish Councils Joint Committee – 13 December 2011
There are a few items which councillors ought to know about - even if they sound boring - the by-election costs and the need for an election chest, replacement arrangements for standards boards, and parish meetings called by 6 electors.
Special Parish meetings (not to be confused with Annual Parish Meetings)
Background – 6 electors can call a parish meeting and pass a motion which must be acted upon. Recently in Shepway 4 such meetings have been called on the issue of a suggestion from SDC to introduce on-street parking charges for residents. 3 resulted in parish referendums at considerable cost (£29k in Folkestone) and turnouts all less than 10%.The result is not binding on the PC or SDC.
It is clear that there is very little guidance as to the procedures to be followed at such a meeting. It was agreed that the District and Parish Councils should jointly produce notes for submission to the next meeting and agreed at that time.
Standards Provisions in Localism Bill
The Bill has been passed and the date of implementation is 1 April 2012. Supporting advice, rules and guidance (e.g. regulations covering disclosable pecuniary interests) have yet to be published.
The District Council must (produce and) adopt a code of conduct
Any Parish Council can adopt the district code (the simplest option)
The code must require the declaration non-discloseable pecuniary interests and non-pecuniary interests but as yet these are not defined.
The DC must have in place arrangements to deal with complaints – including those against Parish Councillors. There is some guidance on this including the involvement of "Independent Persons" in this process but nominated Parish Councillors are not included, at present.
It will be a much less bureaucratic procedure than previously and it will be easier to reject trivial complaints at an early stage.
If a councillor is found to be in breach of the code (and it is not a criminal offence) any action is up to the PC. They can co-operate with the investigation, take note of the findings, and decide on any action, but there is no obligation to do any of these things
More guidance and proposals will be tabled at the next meeting.
Parishes can suggest topics which could be considered by SDC's Overview and Scrutiny Committee in the coming year. Suggestions must be sent to Peter Wignall before 31 Jan,
(NOTE I am considering suggesting that the arrangements for SDC's Community Chest be reviewed. My impression is that the small rural parishes get do not get a fair share compared with the urban parts of the district. Also I would like to see the rule that PCs cannot apply to the Fund removed. (In future it is likely that PC precepts will be capped making it difficult to raise funds for "one off" special projects)
Revised figures were tabled. Parishes were strongly advised to build up a "chest" to have funds available to cover these costs in the event of a by-election. Note that the charges for intermediate elections are likely to be less than for the election every four years for a full council)
For SM the figure quoted was £1,415.02 for 497 electors, 103 of whom are postal voters. Note it is calculated in "bands" and would go up substantially if we went above 500.
SDC misunderstood this item. They had been asked, as the Audit Commission is to be abolished, If the District Council could take on the role as external auditor for Parish Councils. SDC did not think that this would be permissible but would investigate and report back.
At present SDC Cabinet is not sympathetic to this idea and would prefer to work directly with PCs. If there is a Government directive they will reconsider the various options.
It was explained that the present proposal for on-street parking charges for residents is simply a consultation document. No decisions have been made. Anyone can make representations (go on SDC website).
David Stuart
16 12 2011
MINUTES of
held on
21st May 2014 in STELLING MINNIS VILLAGE HALL
Note: to be put to to Annual Parish Meeting 2015 for approval
Present: Mr J Haffenden (Chairman), KCC Cllr Ms S Carey, SDC Cllr Ms P Carr, Parish Councillors: Mrs D Smyth, Mr D Stuart, Mr J Speakman, Mr R Hubble & Mr S Jackson.. Rev'd Mrs L Rogers (Stelling & Upper Hardres Churches), Mrs R Browne (Stelling Church), Mr C Gooch (Savills – agent for owners of Stelling Minnis Common), Mrs C Cooper (Windmill & Museum), Mr K Smyth & Mr I Champion (Minnis Managers & Fosm), Mr J Hurdwell (Stelling Minnis Village Hall), Mr M Hamilton (Youth Challenge); Mrs C Hamilton & Miss Liz Dixy (Bossingham Sports and Leisure Trust), Mrs V Constance (Upper Hardres and Stelling Minnis History Group, Mrs F Thorogood & Mrs C Hart (Bossingham Pre School), Mrs M Blades (1st Bossingham Brownies), Mr S Moores (First responders), Ms A Allan (KCC), Mr N Smith ((Parish News/Website and Clerk) also took the minutes. Plus 5 Parishioners.
1.0 APOLOGIES for absence received from: Parish Councillor Mrs A Day, Mrs C Champion (Bossingham Youth Club), Ms J Murray (Guides), Mrs D Lowe (Stelling Striders & Dormouse Survey), PCSO Mr J Chadwick, Methodist Circuit Office.
2.0 THE MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL PARISH MEETING held on 22nd May 2013 were approved, and signed. (Proposed Cllr D Smyth and seconded Mrs C Cooper).
Welcome to this, the last Annual Parish Meeting of the current council. A new Council will be elected in May 2015.
Councillors have elected me as Chairman, once again, for which I thank them. I assure you it is for the last time!
Since we met, a year ago, your Parish Council has met 7 times and met with Shepway Planners once to learn about their new paperless planning system. Council has processed 10 planning applications in their capacity as a statutory consultee; Parishioners will be aware that the District Council is the Planning Authority and the decision on any planning application rests solely with them. In addition to the planning applications, Council has provided information and assistance to the District Council in respect of an application for lawful occupation – the case, which many of you will be aware of and may even have provided information to the District Council for, is in the hands of the District Council and their legal advisors, so I am unable to comment further other than to say that our Clerk and I have met several times with the District Councillor, Pam Carr, and the Planners and have provided them will all the information available on the matter.
The new paperless planning application process introduced by Shepway District Council, to reduce costs , has caused us and other Parish and Town Councils in Shepway some problems - in the end we decided that the only way forward was to revert back to a paper based system and bear the extra cost involved. A new Council in May 2015 may of course have other ideas and the process will be reviewed then.
Highway repairs and pot holes has been an ongoing problem which has been high on our list of priorities – Councillor Dagmar Smyth has put a lot of effort into fostering good working relations with the highways steward, which has paid dividends in securing prompt repairs. Kent Highways are very keen that all Parishioners can easily report highways faults, anywhere in Kent, and an article on the new systems will appear in the June issue of the Parish Magazine.
Safety improvements continue to be a priority and something that we are determined to resolve. To that end the new Police Inspector for West Kent was invited to Parish Council meeting last November. He listened with interest to our views and the steps that we had made to secure safety improvements; and agreed to review to situation and report back to Council with proposals on what could realistically be achieved. To date he has been unable to report back, but this is not something that we will let lie. Ironically if there were to be a few fatalities at the junction with Stone Street and both Curtis and Thorn Lanes, then the likelihood of safety improvements being made would increase – but that is not the way that we would wish those improvements to be made. It is very frustrating to see that areas, far less dangerous, between Petham and Nackington have speed restrictions, road markings, and active signage to control traffic, and we have achieved absolutely nothing. This council, and I am sure, subsequent ones, will try their hardest to improve road safety at this junction. It is so important that we should all make it an issue at the next KCC and Police elections.
Highways successes we have had include the new salt bin opposite Stelling Minnis Stores and a solution to the flooding which frequently occurs in Minnis Lane outside Ashcroft – both of these have been funded by County Councillor Susan Cary, to whom we are very grateful. The 18/18A bus route past Stelling Minnis Stores was salted last winter and we shall press again for it to be included in the schedule next winter.
The seven Councillors forming the Parish Council each have specific roles ranging from representing the Council on District Planning Forums to being Trustees for the Village Hall, Windmill & Museum and the Stelling Minnis Charitable Trust – the financial arm of the Management of Stelling Minnis Common.
As our Finance Officer who is also our Clerk will report further on in his report, Council has continued to provide some financial support to those that provide services to all age groups within the Community from the young to the old and beyond as well as to those charities providing medical support in an emergency.
You will have noticed that Fire Hydrants in the area are now more clearly marked, which was done by Kent Fire and Rescue following a survey that we did for them early in 2013 and in which we concluded that most of the fire hydrants were either completely hidden or at best very difficult to find.
Councillor Jeremy Speakman has continued to lead the Speedwatch team which has a lot to make residents aware of the 30mph speed limit in parts of the area. Other Councillors have supported Councillor Speakman by taking their turn at speedwatch events and co-ordinating the reports of speeding motorists to Kent Police.
Councillor David Stuart has taken a leading role in trying to secure Stelling Minnis Telephone Exchanges' place in the two bids for high speed broadband being put forward by Kent County Council and DEFRA. The introduction of High Speed Broadband for the area could possibly be seen in 2015.
We have put forward a proposal to Shepway District Council to realign the Parish Boundary in Wheelbarrow Town. Three of the properties towards to lower end of Wheelbarrow Town are actually in Elham Parish. Following discussions with Elham Parish Council a joint application was made to bring those three properties, which interestingly are not all adjacent, into Stelling Minnis Parish from Elham Parish. The application is under consideration by Shepway District Council.
Our Footpath Warden, Martin Hart - who is unable to be with us tonight, has done a magnificent job in keeping the footpaths open. The map that he displayed here a year ago is now in its permanent location in Stelling Minnis Stores, for which we are grateful to Bruce and Emma.
The Village Web site is in the process of being modernised and Steve Moores is putting a lot of effort into that process. Once ready we will publicise the new web site and invite your comments before changing over from the old to the new. At that time, maintenance of the web site will also change from Nick Smith to Steve Moores.
Council has been involved in numerous other minor matters including assisting the Rural Housing Associating in publicising that one of the properties in Brambleton Close was for sale; making enquiries about the poor O2 mobile phone signal in the area; and assisting a Parishioner in dealing with Ragwort on adjacent land.
I hope that this report has not only given a brief summary of what the Parish Council has done for the community over the past year, but also perhaps sparked some interest that might facilitate a few of you to consider standing for election to the new Council in May 2015 – the best way to make a difference is to become involved.
4.0 THE PARISH COUNCIL STATEMENT OF ACCOUNTS for year ended 31.3.13
Mr N Smith (Clerk & RFO) reported on the Parish Council accounts, which together with the Asset register were circulated and accepted. (Proposed Mrs D Smyth and seconded SDC Cllr P Carr). There were no questions.
Mr Hamilton reported that the Stelling Youth Challenge met monthly in term time and ran the DofE scheme in conjunction with Young Kent. There were 20+ teenagers taking part and included some from Folkestone and Canterbury. He outlined the DofE scheme. The scheme was run by 7 adults and 1 administration person. By the end of September 2014 the number of adults was expected to reduce to 2 or 3, which would be insufficient for the Youth Group to continue. He said that the originators of the Youth Group had worked hard to set it up, that he did not want it to have to close, but unless more adult volunteers came forward the Stelling Youth Challenge would have to close. He outlined what was required of adult helpers.
5 .1 Mrs M Blades had asked that the Brownies 50th Anniversary be promoted – more details in both Parish Magazine and in her written report.
5.2 Mr I Champion asked a question on the Fire Hydrants – the one opposite Ivy Cottage in Wheelbarrow Town seems to have been missed by KF&RS. SMPC Clerk will take up with KF&RS.
5.3 SDC Cllr Carr asked if someone could provide transport for Mrs Ann Long so that she could cast her vote on 22 May.
There being no further formal business, the Chairman thanked everyone for attending. Meeting closed at 8.05pm.
Signed ………………………….……………………………………………. (Chairman)
Date …………………………………………………………
The Following Clubs and Societies were either present with a stand/display and/or provided a written report:-
KCC (Susan Carey) – Present, with display manned by Ms A Allan.
Elections were held in May 2013 for Kent County Council and I thank everyone who voted for me to serve for another four years as your county councillor. The Conservatives retained control of the County Council with UKIP as the single largest opposition group.
KCC continues to face the triple challenge of rising demand for its services, rising costs and reduced income. Schools take the biggest share of expenditure followed by care for adults (those with learning disabilities as well as the elderly) and protection of children from neglect and abuse. On top of this KCC provides around 300 services including trading standards, registration of births, marriages and deaths, the coroners' court, community wardens, public rights of way, highways, surface water drainage, street lights, traffic lights, gritting of roads, emergency planning, providing school places, transporting children to school, youth services, bus passes, grants for businesses to expand and a public health programme.
Our government grant for 2014/15 has been cut by 8.9% compared with last year and we know we must expect further reductions as the government seeks to balance the national budget. We have already made £269m of savings over the last three years and expect that we need to do the same again over the next three years. 2,000 posts have been removed and more services are being done online or outsourced.
After a three year council tax freeze, there is a rise this year of just under 2% which means an increase of £18.56 for a Band C household (about 36p a week). This will raise around £10m a year extra which will help towards balancing the budget but does not spare us the need to continue to make savings.
We had no snow at all in Kent last winter but the wet weather did even more damage than the usual snow and ice. In recognition of the exceptional damage the Government has recently allocated £8.6m to Kent to deal with the damage to our roads. It's really important that local people report potholes and other damage either on line or on 03000 41 81 81 as rural roads are not inspected as frequently as the busier main routes and whilst there's funding for repairs we need to take advantage of this.
Whilst KCC faces sharply reduced overall funding we are still able to bid for money from various other bodies such as the European Union – one project being worked on would see all 118,000 of our streetlights fitted with LED bulbs and remote controls to allow dimming and automatic fault reporting.
The Government has also made money available through a Local Enterprise Partnership and invited bids for mostly transport projects that will 'unlock' housing projects and create jobs. KCC's bid was submitted at the end of March and we've asked for £501.5m. Among the bids is £5.1m for infrastructure investment to make sure the Folkestone seafront development can start in 2015 and various bids for improvements to the A2 including £2m for the A2/A28 off-slip and link road at Canterbury. We don't expect to get everything we've asked for but even a third of the projects would be a big boost for Kent.
Despite the financial challenges KCC is continuing a capital investment programme which includes new schools and classrooms where populations are growing, funding regeneration projects in our towns and a superfast broadband project for rural Kent that was launched last December in nearby Densole and is expected to bring superfast broadband to 91% of households in Kent by 2015. We have recently committed a further £4.8m to extend this programme to reach 95% of households.
I have been able to support Stelling Minnis village hall with a grant of £1,000 towards the cost of secondary glazing, £9,500 for a drainage scheme in Minnis Lane to deal with a flooding problem and £450 for a saltbin and refills of salt. I have also help fund Speedwatch equipment for Sellindge, Swingfield and Lympne parishes and this extension of the network will help reinforce the good work done by the Speedwatch volunteers in Stelling Minnis.
Over the past year I have responded to many queries from residents on issue ranging from school places to badgers, flooding and fracking. I have worked closely with your district councillor Pam Carr who does an excellent job at Shepway as chairman of the council and who makes sure that the district's rural areas are not overlooked.
I thank the parish council for their work particularly the clerk Nick Smith for his work in editing one of the best parish magazines in the area for one of the best villages in Kent. It is an honour to represent you at Kent County Council.
Susan Carey, Member, Elham Valley, Kent County Council
SDC (Pam Carr) – Present
Stelling Minnis CEP School (Mr J Gray) - report
We continue to build on our Outstanding Church School Inspection in November 2012 and our Good Ofsted Inspection of December 2012.
English and Maths are key priorities, with new initiatives and ways of working having been developed this year, such as Number Fun.
The rest of the curriculum has been extended with fun days and events such as Big Arts Day; Disability Awareness Day; Safer Internet Day; RE Week and Book Week.
We now have a dedicated Sports Teacher who teaches all the children each week, and our teams have done well in competitions. We are Hub Football Competition winners and Shepway District Gymnastic champions in Years1& 2 and Year 5 & 6.
Our Forest School has been extended with a Living Willow Dome and Walkway. The children are now having Forest School lessons on the Minnis too.
Our choir sings for the village at Christmas time, and took part in a local schools' singing day.
So lots of learning, but lots of fun too!
Bossingham Pre-school (Mrs F Thorogood & Mrs C Hart) report
Bossingham Pre-School is committee led pre-school tucked into an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty close to Canterbury in Kent; we aim to provide a happy, healthy, stimulating environment in which children play, learn and grow in the most natural of ways. Our children spend much of their time outside, spotting wildlife and enjoying the fresh air. Indoors however, our new building was specially designed for pre-school children with designated quiet, play and messy areas. It's a positive place; a nurturing space for those all-important early years.
The pre-school is open term time only, from 9am to 3pm; we offer a provision for late collection at 3.20pm and work alongside Stelling Minnis Primary school to provide a breakfast club from 8am and an After School Club until 6 pm.
OFSTED judge the pre-school to be good.
In May 2014, we have 41 children using the pre-school; we have spaces available each day.
The pre-school building was opened in 2011 and since that time the pre-school has gone from strength to strength, our next area of development is the outside area, we aim to enhance our rich outdoor environment with a wealth of learning opportunities.
Our aim for the coming year is to remain a successful, viable business serving the local community and beyond.
We welcome visits from interested parties and are always looking for opportunities to enhance our children's experiences, if you feel you have a skill or interest that you could share with the children, or if you feel you have in interested in becoming involved in supporting the pre-school as either a committee member or as a friend of the pre-school, we would love to hear from you.
Owners of Stelling Minnis Common – represented by their land agent Mr Charles Gooch.
Minnis Managers (Kevin Smyth) – Present
FOSM (Ivor Champion) – Present with Display
Stelling & Upper Hardres Churches – Rev'd Lynne Rogers – Present with a display.
Report from Upper Hardres Church
The following is an abbreviated version of the annual report presented at the recent PCC Annual Meeting. We continue to give very grateful thanks for Lynne's ministry throughout the parish, her compassion and dedication to all in need and her wonderful friendship. There were 32 parishioners registered on the Electoral Roll as at the end of December. The PCC met on four occasions. A church Log Book is updated and the Inventory is maintained by Margaret Webb. The main fundraising events were a Barn Dance which was a combined event with Stelling Church, a very successful Fete in June, Dan, Lily and Charlie Hamlin, with Sylvia and David Palmer and Stuart Kent and Angela Hirst cycling for The Friends of Kent Churches (Upper Hardres received half of the monies raised). We manned a stall at the East Kent Ploughing Match in September, when there was also a tombola and "guess the weight of cow and calf". In November, we organised "teas" for the Art Group's Exhibition, which raised £500 for Breakthrough Breast Cancer. The Stable (Sunday school) met on the 3rd Sunday of each month with 8-10 young people at each of its meetings. The theme of each individual meeting is approximately determined by the Reading taking place in church on that Sunday, and is more often than not featured in some form of craft and picture. The fabric and furnishing is in generally good order. Roof repairs were necessary due to Christmas high winds/ storm damage. The insurance company has recommended Smartwater forensic marking of all external metalwork (now completed) and replacement of the ancient Lightning Conductor (now completed).. The PCC is indebted to Margaret Webb and her team of flower ladies and to David Chapman who played the organ so brilliantly throughout the year. Thanks also to Ruth Goodsell and Joan Faber for standing in when necessary. Very many thanks also to Vanessa and Charles MacDonald for cutting the main areas of grass and for the parking facility in the farm opposite the church. Planned giving has remained our greatest source of income; this has been constant despite the economic climate. The church family at Upper Hardres has worked very hard to ensure that the finances are sound: this will enable the spiritual life of the church to continue to grow. Giving to charities at home and abroad was in excess of the target of 10% of the gross income. There had been great support from choir members to rehearsals and to services, and it is always a pleasure to be joined at rehearsals by members of Petham Choir. Both choirs had again combined at special services in both churches.
Members of the PCC and officers are as follows:
Churchwardens – Victoria Schoen and Anne Barlow
Secretary – Ginny Hall
Treasurer – John Haffenden
Chairman – Revd Lynne Rogers
Ann Day
Pam Carr
Vanessa McDonald
Bruce Crawford
Sidesmen: David Hall, Bruce Crawford, John Haffenden, Dan Hamlin, Joan Hirons, Stephen Thompson, Victoria Schoen, Anne Barlow, David Barlow.
Stelling Minnis Village Hall (Johnathan Hurdwell) – Present
Windmill & Museum (Jeremy Speakman & Cara Cooper) – Present with display
Historical Society (Vicki Constance) – present
In April 2013 the society changed its name to "The History Group".
The map if the Minnis area resides in the Mill Museum and will be displayed at the July Mill Fete. The Group put on a display of toys from the 1940's/50's. Present day children were intrigued and several wanted to know where the toys were "plugged in".
Several visits were made during the year and included a privately arranged tour of Mount Ephraim House, to Dover College and Dover Town Hall. We also had a historical talk/walk looking at some of the properties at the Bossingham end of the Minnis.
We held a tea party in SMVH for local people to record their memories.
Andrew Linklater (archaeologist) came to "read" a members house that proved to date back to 1550. Another member's house was proved to date back to the 14th Century.
We organised a film evening at SMVH which was well attended. Four films about Canterbury and our local area were shown.
At our AGM both Jenny Morgan (Chair) and Mike Hamilton (Secretary) both stood down. They were thanked for all their efforts for the group. Viki Constance was elected as Chair and Maureen Tomlinson as Secretary.
Regular articles were written for the Parish Magazine and enquiries answered. The Stelling Church Yard data gathering exercise continues.
Our membership has increased.
Footpaths/Tree Warden (Martin Hart) – report
For a number of weeks (running into months), in the bad weather during the autumn / winter period, many footpaths became difficult to use and a few were impassable. There were paths blocked due to flooding and fallen tree branches but all are now usable again. Despite this, I've been able to achieve a few things.
● There is now a map of all the footpaths in Stelling Minnis in the shop window and I have produced 4 suggested walks (my personal favourites) on A4 sheets, which are available in the shop in exchange for a voluntary donation. Many people have asked for these but I haven't had any feedback to know what people think of them. I hope they like them and have enjoyed the walks.
● A number of new waymarker posts have finally been put up by KCC, after I requested them quite some time ago. Hopefully, these will mean there are a fewer lost teenagers on their DOE walks! I also hope other walkers find it generally easier to know where one or two paths begin. I've also continued to replace waymarker signs in a number of locations.
● The footpath next to Little Mead, along Pony Cart Lane, which had been effectively lost, as stiles have been missing for many years, is now being kindly restored by landowner Paul Newson. Although some people have said this is a path to nowhere, as it goes up to Stone Street and doesn't cross over, I take the view that is a path to somewhere special - as once you reach Stone Street, you can turn around and come back to Stelling Minnis.
● As KCC no longer clear any undergrowth, I was out last summer clearing a few areas which had become overgrown but it can be hard keeping up with this and now with summer 2014 fast approaching, this job beckons again.
● I attended a couple of the Local Footpath Officers Meetings, organised by the Ramblers, with the KCC Public Rights Of Way Office in Brabourne. The work of the PROW office is now severely underfunded due to KCC cuts and it appears that they can only now attend to the high priority cases of obstructed footpaths – which we thankfully don't have in Stelling Minnis. Since no longer having a named PROW officer to report footpath problems to, the 'faceless' on-line reporting system does rather feel like a 'black hole'. I had no response, despite repeat submissions, to the cropping problems I reported last summer - so it now seems a complete waste of time reporting such issues.
● The usual problems continue with farmers failing to mark out some paths, or taking more than a reasonable length of time following ploughing, cultivating or sowing, to re-instate paths. It is of course in their interests to do so as it can be hard to maintain the correct course across large fields and before long you can see a number of walkers have accidentally veered off course. I therefore ask all farmers to please re-instate paths as soon as possible and to not leave them for more than a day or so. Walking across ploughed fields in the rain or pushing through soaking cereal crops and getting soaked trousers is no fun!
● There has also been someone who has been cutting holes in fences by stiles – presumably to let dogs get through. I would think however that this is dangerous for stock who could get trapped or possibly escape. Ideally, every stile would have a dog gate, but the cost of this can only be justified where a stile needs replacing. I therefore hope that whoever has been doing this desists, as it can give walkers a bad name when 99% of us are respectful of others' property.
I've agreed to continue as Footpath Warden for the coming year and so look forward to some good weather to get out and enjoy the fantastic paths we have on our doorstep. I would also ask anyone who regularly walks our paths to carry some folding secateurs, as I do, to clear any undergrowth/overgrowth that obstructs your passage.
Bossingham Sports and Leisure Trust (Clare Hamilton & Liz Dixey) – Display
A review of activities since last year's APM:
• July 2013
Installation of gym equipment
• September 2013
100 Club launched. So far, £398 raised towards funds, with £366 given as prizes.
• November 2013
After discussions with UHPC, decision taken not to pursue funding for a MUGA.
• January 2014
Funding of £10,000 from CCC for 0 -18 yr old play provision allowed play
equipment for younger children to be installed at a cost of £8,960.
The balance of £1,040 is reserved for older children's play, ie. table tennis table
and basketball quadrant.
• February 2014 -
Turned our attention to funding for seating. £175 already received from the
Pitcher family, with further funds kindly pledged.
• March 2014
Website redesigned www.bossinghamsportsandleisure.co.uk
• April 2014
Funding confirmed by CCC and KCC for an outdoor static table tennis table.
• July 2014
We will have an information stand at the Windmill Fete in July.
- 'Fun Jars' total stands at just over £350 and is a valuable boost to funds.
- Applying for funding for seating.
- Corresponding with Trevor May Ltd re. condition of skatepad surface.
- Thank you to UHPC and SMPC for their continued support with expenses
over the past 12 months.
Bossingham Youth Club (Claire Champion) – Report
Bossingham Youth Club is now in its 8th independent year of running, after it was started 11 years ago as part of the Rural Street Runner project with Canterbury City Council.
Sessions are at Bossingham Village Hall, from 7 – 9pm on the 1st and 3rd Friday of the month, term time only - 20 sessions a year. We run for the benefit of the youths, aged 10 – 16 years, who live within the villages of Bossingham and Stelling Minnis and our membership list is currently full.
Our members are still enjoying the sports and craft equipment provided, with the opportunity to socialise with friends in the club's relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Unfortunately, some of our equipment has become damaged beyond repair over this last year, so we will be saving to replace this as soon as possible.
May I take this opportunity to thank the adult volunteers who've helped me this year, both Parish Councils and Bossingham Village Hall Committee for their continued support.
Brownies (Maxine Blades) – Present with display.
Joint report from both Brownies and Guides (Maxine Blades and Joanne Murray):
We are pleased to report that the Brownies and Guides continue to attract girls from the surrounding areas. The Brownies currently have 20 in the Pack and Guides are running at maximum numbers with 24. Maxine Blades continues as Brown Owl, helped by Claire Ventress and Libby Wakes-Smith, whilst Jo Murray and Sue Sprawson are the Guide Leaders. Both the Brownies and Guides are now within the Canterbury Division and Carole Jeff, the Division Commissioner has visited the units this year.
We were sorry to have had to suspend the Rainbow Unit last November. This was due to there being only three girls of Rainbow age. We hope to reopen the Unit when we can get five or six girls to join. The Rainbows will be relocating to the Scout Hall to help reduce costs when running on such same numbers.
The Guides have taken part in local events coming second out of ten teams in the 2013 Rotary Club Sponsored Guide Challenge. They also took part in Girlguiding UK's 'Wellies and Wrist Bands' event at Foxlease House in the New Forest along with five hundred other girls from around the Country. When asked what they like doing the doing best the girls always talk about the outdoor cooking and BBQ.
The Brownies have been taking part in local and County events to mark the 'Big Brownie Birthday' – the centenary of Brownies which is being celebrated this year. They took part in the Big Brownie Brains Quiz in Canterbury, coming a creditable fourth place out of fourteen teams. We also celebrated a special 'Thinking Day' at the Chaucer School making ice cream in a plastic bag amongst other 'sticky' type activities. We also took part with one thousand (!) other Brownies in the 'Star Quest' event at the Winter Gardens in Margate at the end of March. The theatre was emptied of seating and was a sea of brown and yellow – a sight to behold!
More importantly this June sees the fiftieth birthday of the Bossingham Pack and we will be holding a special celebration at St Mary's Church, Stelling on Sunday, 15th June at 3pm. We are pleased to invite members of the Parish Council to join us and Mrs Jackie Armitage, Kent East County Commissioner, Mrs Pat Poile, current and ex Brownies and their families to a picnic tea and campfire – RSVP.
In conclusion we would like to take this opportunity to thank the Village Hall Management Committee for their support and help in providing these excellent facilities which we both use on a weekly basis in term time and for termly 'sleepovers'.
Art Club (Dagmar Smyth) – Present
Parish Mag & Web site (Nick Smith) – Present
Firstly a big thank you to all who have written articles for inclusion in the Parish Magazine for without you there would not be a magazine.
For the fifth year running the magazine was entered into the National Parish Magazine of the Year competition and gained 75th place out of 710 entries, an improvement on last years results.
The magazine costs around £2500 to produce over the year, so your £5 annual subscription for 12 issues, each of between 32 and 40 pages of local information, is a good bargain, even more so as production costs will rise following a change of printer and introduction of a coloured front cover. The price to you will not change.
The change of printer from KBE to Mickleprint has markedly improved the quality of the magazine and will also allow us to increase the number of adverts, which is a major contributor to the cost of production.
The magazine made donations this year of £200 each to Kent, Surrey & Sussex Air Ambulance Trust, Canterbury and Coast Community First Responders and Pilgrims Hospice. The magazine will only make donations to charities that serve the whole community.
Once again the Children's front cover drawing competition was a great success with a super drawing being selected by the Stelling Minnis Art Group. The subject for 2014 will be ---- you'll have to wait until the September issue to find that out. However the competition will change from a drawing to a coloured picture competition.
A big thank you to Bruce & Margaret Crawford and their band of delivery agents for getting the magazine to you; to Ann Day for handling the finances and selling the advertising spaces; and to Tony Lowe for proof reading each issue.
Challenge Youth Group Stelling Minnis (Mike Hamilton) – Present
Community First Responders (Steve Moores) – Display
PCSO report (James Chadwick PCSO 57073):
May I give you an update on current concerns for the area. My focus at the moment is to deter what appears to be an increase of suspicious person(s)/vehicles within the Elham Valley/Stelling Minnis area. There have been instances of door to door salesmen, identifying themselves as ex-servicemen attempting to raise money for college courses etc.
They are in my opinion acting on false pretences as ALL ex-servicemen are entitled to free courses with their granted ELC credits on discharge up to the value of £10.000, pending on length of time served.
I believe some of the suspicious activities may have led to a number of instances resulting in Thefts from outbuildings in the area and Burglary (Elham). I have spoken to Pam Chatfield from Neighbourhood Watch to advise the community to be aware and report any suspicious activity seen in the local area by dialling 101, or if an emergency 999.
I have also advised those members of the public who have attended the recent surgeries I have held in the Village Shop/Post Office.
If there any other concerns as a result of the meeting, please don't hesitate to contact me via email.
Hundred report:
The last 12 months has seen The Hundred continuing to provide an interesting mix of events and activities for the members and the wider community. The cornerstones were The Hundred Talks, The Hundred Walks and The Hundred Shows.
The Hundred Shows group organised a programme of events featuring a wide variety of shows, with two of them being organised and staged in collaboration with other organisations. The final show was an evening of opera led by James Cleverton of English National Opera. However, the event was costly and was not well attended. As a result, a loss of £850 was incurred, although this was ameliorated by way of a grant from Canterbury Arts Council. In future, the Shows programme will involve the staging of a reduced number of carefully selected shows. Trevor Conway had decided to step back from organising the events, and Richard thanked him for his work and effort over the years.
The Christmas Show was held on a very cold December evening; as a result the audience was lower than normal. This year the show will incorporate a new section entitled "The Hundred Has Talent", with cash prizes for the winners.
The Hundred Talks were all entertaining and informative. They covered music, travelling and "trains", with the latter being represented by a fascinating presentation on "The History of the Crab and Winkle Line".
The programme of autumn and winter walks had run successfully, with members researching and leading them. Each walk had attracted a small band of enthusiastic members.
There had been a small reduction in the number of members, and because of this and the fact that all the shows had resulted in financial losses, an adverse income situation of £335 had occurred. The closing balance was £1656.
********** End **********
MINUTES of STELLING MINNIS ANNUAL PARISH MEETING
held on
22ND May 2013 in STELLING MINNIS VILLAGE HALL
Present: Mr J Haffenden (Chairman), KCC Cllr Ms S Carey, SDC Cllr Ms P Carr, Parish Councillors: Mrs A Day, , Mrs D Smyth, Mr D Stuart, Mr J Speakman & Mr R Hubble. Mr J Gray (Stelling Minnis School), Rev'd Mrs L Rogers (Stelling & Upper Hardres Churches), Mrs C Cooper & Mrs S Carter (Windmill & Museum), Mr K Smyth & Mr I Champion (Minnis Managers & Fosm), Mr J Hurdwell (Stelling Minnis Village Hall), Mr M Hamilton (Youth Challenge); Mrs C Hamilton & Mrs E Dixey (Bossingham Sports & Leisure Trust), Mrs J Morgan (Historical Society), Mr M Hart (Footpath warden), Mr S Moores (First responders), Ms A Allan (KCC), Mr N Smith ((Parish News/Website and Clerk) also took the minutes. Plus 4 Parishioners.
1.0 APOLOGIES for absence received from: Parish Councillor Mr S Jackson, Mrs E Holliday (Stelling Methodist Fellowship), Mr & Mrs G Wright (Stelling Church), Mrs A Barlow (Upper Hardres Church), Mr D Barlow (Internal Auditor), Mrs C Champion (Bossingham Youth Club), Mrs M Blades (Brownies), Ms J Murray (Guides), Mrs D Lowe (Stelling Striders & Dormouse Survey), Mrs A Fisher (Gardening Society), Mrs E Keeler.
2.0 THE MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL PARISH MEETING held on 23rd May 2012 were approved, and signed. (Proposed Cllr D Smyth and seconded Cllr A Day).
Welcome to this Annual Parish Meeting.
We have continued to press for road safety improvements on Stone Street at its junctions with Curtis Lane & Thorn Lane. Regular cutting of vegetation at the junctions of Curtis Lane and Stone Street was abandoned, despite our concerns – however cutting was carried out on demand when reported as a highways fault. It was hoped that a permanent cure for the vegetation problem might be found, but budget shortfalls prevented it last year. We, supported by the chairman of Elmstead parish council held a meeting with Kent Police and Kent Highways regarding road safety improvements, which once again confirmed that there was no possibility of getting double white lines or other no overtaking restrictions; however on instruction from the Police area commander Kent Highways were to inspect the road markings and refresh as required – their initial look revealed no problems but on our insistence a return visit resulted in refreshing of all road markings in the area of the junctions and Stone Street being added to the programme of works. At the Upper Hardres parish meeting I was able to get support from their chairman and KCC councillor to support our determination to make this particular junction much safer for road users.
Councillor Dagmar Smyth continued to put pressure on Kent Highways re pot holes and the general state of the roads. Whilst there have been great successes in this area, there is still more to do. KCC Cllr Carey has confirmed that there is money in the budget to fund repairs, but they do need to be reported. Other highways successes have included resolving the flooding problem on Stone Street near Wadden Hall; salting Minnis and Curtis lanes (part of the 18/18A bus routes) despite initial refusal by Kent Highways; and no charge cutting of the hedge surrounding the 30mph speed limit sign in Curtis Lane.
During the year the Parish Council met 6 times and processed 14 Planning applications.
We have supported Shepway District Council in their proposals to the Boundaries Commission for reduction of ward Councillors. We have also made a submission to the Boundaries commission on rearrangement of Wards within Shepway District Council where our views were different to those submitted by Shepway District Council. Whatever the final proposal there will be opportunities for consultation before final adoption in January
Martin Hart has done a tremendous amount of work in his capacity as Footpath Warden by ensuring that footpaths are kept open, correctly signed and stiles repaired. He has also involved the Children at Stelling Minnis School so that they can in turn get their parents interested in the benefits and enjoyment of walking in the Countryside. One Parishioner, Elizabeth Keeler, wrote and said "please can you thank Martin Hart for all his efforts in mending stiles and sorting out footpaths. Very much appreciated by me and all my fellow walkers".
Councillor David Stuart continued to press for faster Broadband in both ends of Stelling Minnis telephone exchange area. The project is now with Kent County Council and DEFRA.
Speedwatch, led by Councillor Jeremy Speakman and assisted by the other Councillors and members of the community, has been very successful and helped to remind parishioners and visitors that there is a 30mph limit in Stelling Minnis.
We worked with Upper Hardres Parish Council to produce a very successful Diamond Jubilee Parade and celebration – thanks must go to all those who were involved in the organisation and took part.
We were asked to assist Kent Fire and Rescue Service by carrying out a visual inspection of fire hydrants in the parish – there are 16. Many were covered by vegetation and in need of clearing. Some of the Yellow "H" signs were damaged. A report on all the hydrants has been sent to Kent Fire and Rescue with a note of our concerns about their visibility. We will repeat the process again next March.
This year will see a change to the way in which we receive planning applications for consideration as a statutory consultee. It is perhaps worth pointing out that the Parish Council is NOT the planning authority – that is Shepway District Council or in some instances Kent County Council. We currently receive copies of applications as printed paper, but from the end of this month these will only be available for us to view and comment on via the Shepway Web site. We have raised an objection to the changes which we feel will make it more difficult for our Councillors to do justice to applications, especially if large or complex. If we should find it necessary to obtain printed copies, then there will be a cost implication which could well result in an increase to the precept next year.
Steve Moores has been working on an updated and more modern version of the Village Web site. Whilst this is still in its very early embryo stage he would be only too willing to talk to you about it and get your views on what should be included or excluded. Thank you to Steve for his work so far. I must pass on my thanks to Nick Smith for all his hard work in establishing the web site and updating since its inception. This along with editing the parish magazine often gets taken for granted, but is of tremendous value to the community. Thank you.
The next Parish Council elections are to be held in May 2015 – seems a long way off, but not too soon to join us at a few Parish Council meetings to find out what we do for you, should you be considering standing as a Parish Councillor in 2015. The Parish Council is an important part of the community, takes on the communities problems and is very rewarding.
David Stuart has decided to retire as Vice Chairman and finance officer, although he will continue as a Councillor. Robert Hubble is our new Vice Chairman and the Clerk, Nick Smith, has taken on the finance officer role. I continue as Chairman for another year.
I would like to take this opportunity to personally thank David who has given a great deal of time serving the parish, both as chairman and, latterly vice chairman. He has a wealth of experience in matters of local government, particularly at parish level. David has been an invaluable support to me as well as a fount of knowledge to the whole Council. David, very many thanks.
Congratulations to Pam Carr on her election as Shepway District Council Chairman, a post which she will hold for 2 years. Having only been a District Councillor for 2 terms, the appointment is a well-deserved recognition of her talents and dedication to the communities she serves.
I would like to close by thanking all the councillors and the clerk who put in so much time on behalf of the community and to you all for coming this evening. Also to Stewart Jackson for providing the liquid refreshment for the second half of the evening.
4.0 THE PARISH COUNCIL STATEMENT OF ACCOUNTS for year ended 31.3.13 were circulated and accepted. (Proposed Mr R Hubble and seconded Mr J Worthy).
There was one question, which David Stuart answered:
Q. Where does Parish Councils income come from? A. The Precept from Shepway District Council
Mr J Worthy said that the Parish Council were to be congratulated as their expenditure was below budget in all areas.
5.0 Questions
5 .1 Mrs S Carter asked if there were any funds to support Village Groups. John Haffenden said that there were not any specific funds, but Parish Council would assess any request for help and the chairman's allowance could be used if required. With a very small precept Council was trying to improve its finances to be a better position to support Village Groups.
Mrs Carter then questioned the support to Bossingham Youth Club asking that this be looked at again – perhaps providing supporting information. Funding for the Youth Club was for hire of Bossingham Village Hall only and no other clubs have regular assistance. SDC Cllr Pam Carr said that she did have a small fund which local groups could benefit from, if they applied. Mrs Carter sad that she would prefer to see a fund allocated for all Groups to draw on and not just for a specific group. Cllr David Stuart said that there was a contingency fund and any club or society could request help which would always be considered.
There being no further formal business, the Chairman thanked everyone for attending. Meeting closed at 8.03pm.
Signed J Haffenden (Chairman)
Date 21 May 2014
The Following Clubs and Societies were either present with a stand/display and/or provided a written report:-
KCC (Susan Carey) – Present, with display manned by Ms A Allan.
Local government has been asked to make some of the biggest savings as part of our Coalition Governments efforts to bring expenditure back in line with income. Grants to Kent County Council from central government have reduced by 10% and, because of increased costs and increased demand for services, we have had to find savings amounting to 28% of expenditure. In money terms we are now three years into a four year programme to take £340M out of our base budget.
We have made the savings through investing in IT so that more is done on-line, we have reorganised so that we have less layers of management and services are integrated to share back office costs. Over the last two years we have taken out over 1,500 posts including that of the Managing Director. We have recruited a team of procurement specialists to make sure we get the best deal for every penny spent and made sure that, within the procurement laws, we place as much of our spending as we can with Kent businesses (we place 60% of our business with Kent firms).
As Deputy Cabinet Member for Finance I've been very involved in these efforts and am proud we have been able to freeze council tax for three years in a row. We have also used £6M of extra savings on preventative maintenance of the roads across Kent and an extra £1M to deal with the potholes left by the bad winter/spring weather. The micro-asphalt resurfacing of Bossingham Road, Stelling Minnis, was one of the roads that benefitted from this extra funding.
I have been able to support the purchase of a new oil tank for the Stelling Minnis Village Hall with a £1,000 grant and the outdoor gym area at Bossingham Village Hall with a £500 grant. I have also supported the KM "Walk to School" project and Crimestoppers both of which operate across Kent and I have used my Highway grant for a caretaker gang to clean and repair signs across the Elham Valley division.
I am always happy to help individuals with County Council matters and matters raised with me range from school places, registry services, bus passes and social care.
Whilst most of my work as your County Councillor is done at County Hall I very much enjoy being part of village life so do please invite me to events and let me know about your projects which I may be able to help with grants.
I would like to thank the Parish Council and my district council colleague, Pamela Carr, for their work for their community and the residents for returning me for another four years as their County Councillor.
SDC (Pam Carr) - Present
Minnis Managers (Kevin Smyth) – Present
FOSM (Ivor Champion) – Present with Display
Stelling Minnis CEP School (John Gray) – Present with Display
Stelling Church – Rev'd Lynne Rogers - Present
Stelling Methodists (Eunice Holiday) – Display
We are going on about the same. One of our members has unfortunately had to go into a home, which is rather sad. The Easter service was well attended with 5 extra visitors.
Stelling Minnis Village Hall (Johnathan Hurdwell) – Present
Windmill & Museum (Jeremy Speakman, Shelagh Carter & Cara Cooper) – Present with display
Historical Society (Jenny Morgan) – Present with Display
During the year we have:-
Catalogued many of our books/photo album/storage.
Agricultural display for fete.
Seminar in September – on Folkestone.
Talk/film in March – "A Canterbury Tale".
Christmas meal – a great success (Rose & Crown in January) – 22 around the table.
Dealt with many requests for information on families and WWII
Parish magazine – kept our profile going each month.
Our Current projects:-
Renaming the "group".
Minnis Memories – version 2.
Events coming up on Swing riots/local interests.
Membership drive.
Footpaths/Tree Warden (Martin Hart) – Present with Display
Work undertaken:
I have put further waymarker signs up, where they were absent, along HE3 and at the start of HE12, along HE16 and HE28. HE3 also had a 'Waymarker' pointing the wrong way.
I have restored a waymarker post along HE 33 and along HE32 and created a new one (where a conveniently sighted new fence post has appeared at the junction of HE33 and HE32).
I have cut back under/over growth along HE 132 and HE7 and on some stiles which were not easy to get over without getting caught on the overgrowth (along HE18, HE14, HE15, and HE5). I have also cut back the hedge on HE16, where the metal footpath sign from Split Lane had vanished under the growth of hedge. Along HE45, I cut back a stretch of the path just before the woods, which was impassable. This clearance work has previously been the duty of KCC but they are very stretched to do this work with reducing budgets. As a result, there are increasing numbers of paths which can be overgrown in summer. It therefore seems a good idea if those of us who regularly use particular paths, clear over growth as we go.
I reported a number of problems to the PROW Officer and to the Ramblers, such as those on the following paths:
HE12 – in the two paddocks behind 'Little Mead' 3 stiles have vanished with fence or hedge in their place (so you can't walk this path at present) and a high current electric fence was obstructing the path, which was potentially dangerous. This has been removed but there hasn't so far been any progress in restoring the rest of the path.
HE16 – Access can be difficult along one stretch of this path due to a landowner not controlling dogs they own.
HE5 – Stile needed replacing onto Stone St.
I have put 'Waymarker' signs up, where they were absent, along HE3, HE16 and HE28. HE3 also had a 'Waymarker' pointing the wrong way.
My 9 Year old son, Bob, has helped me with much of the above.
Roger King from the Ramblers Association visited Stelling Minnis and I showed him some of the local paths and in particular HE12 – the path which has vanished. Roger invited me to attend the next RA meeting at which the KCC PROW Team are present, which I attended in March. It was very interesting to find out how many obstructed paths there are across Kent, with far more serious issues than those I have reported. This helps to understand why it can take so long for KCC to undertake work.
The two paths (HE 32 and HE 33) towards Lower Courthope were, for the first time been mown, so have been visible during most of the year.
KCC have now put a new sign on the Bossingham Rd near the track to Bower Farm House to mark the start of HE17. Previously there was no signpost at all, so the start of this path was not at all obvious until you got closer and could see the waymarker.
A new stile has been put in on HE5 near to Doghouse farm. This stile was much needed as the old one was dangerous, considering that the traffic can be coming past at 70 mph right next to it.
Having been invited by Mr. Haffenden to report directly to him any issues with footpaths on his land, I have been able to email him about any problems – which he has often dealt with the next day.
Other Activities:
Following the talk I gave to the children at Stelling Minnis School to promote the use of local footpaths, I set up a series of guided walks for the school children. My son Bob, who is at the school, helped choose the routes and produce some maps for the children to follow, with points of interest along the way. Unfortunately, due to the very bad autumn weather, only one of these walks went ahead and 4 others were cancelled by the school due to poor weather forecasts (even though – as luck would have it - there were only light showers at the scheduled times of the walks). I had hoped that the walks would take place rain or shine (as that is the true spirit of hiking) but the decision was beyond my control. It was a shame as I had arranged for Roger King, from the Ramblers Association to join one of the walks, and talk to the children about his long experience of rambling. I plan to re-schedule the walks later this year.
I've been working on a map of footpaths in our parish and the Stelling Minnis Stores have kindly agreed it can be displayed in their window. Steve Moores has also kindly agreed to get the map printed, as he has access to printing equipment that can print to a suitable size.
Bossingham Sports & Leisure Trust (Clare Hamilton & Liz Dixey) - Display
Bossingham Youth Club (Claire Champion) – Report
Bossingham Youth Club is now in its 7th independent year of running, after it was started 10 years ago as part of the Rural Street Runner project with Canterbury City Council.
We are still holding sessions at Bossingham Village Hall, from 7 – 9pm on the 1st and 3rd Friday of the month, term time only - 20 sessions a year, dependent on snow!
Our membership list is still full. Due to popularity, the waiting list is currently restricted to youths who live within the villages of Bossingham and Stelling Minnis.
Members are still enjoying the sports and craft equipment provided, with the opportunity to socialise with friends in the club's relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
May I take this opportunity to thank the adult volunteers who've helped me this year, both Parish Councils and Bossingham Village Hall Committee for their continued support.
Brownies (Maxine Blades) – Report only
I am pleased to report that Bossingham Brownies are thriving and very much enjoying themselves through undertaking a range of activities both within the local Villages and within the County.
There are currently sixteen Brownies in the Pack which is a lower number than in recent years and is due to the re-opening of Petham Brownies. The new Pack has taken the pressure (and some 12 girls) from Bossingham so that we can now take in girls from the expanding Bossingham Rainbow Unit, and those coming directly into Brownies, without a waiting list.
Over the last year the Brownies have participated in the Canterbury Division's 'I-Spy Treasure Hunt' around the City gaining their Treasure Hunter's badge en-route. We returned to Kingsdown for a weekend long Pack Holiday enjoying wonderfully hot weather in September. In stark contrast we lead a very chilly Thinking Day Service at Saint Mary's in February.
We continue to meet weekly at Stelling Minnis Hall during which time we play games, sing songs and work towards our badges. Wherever possible we also go outside to enjoy the Minnis and the lovely countryside around the Hall.
We are looking forward to 2014 when we will be celebrating the 'Big Brownie Birthday,' participating in events to mark the 100 Birthday of the Brownies, and in May we will celebrate a special birthday as the Pack will be 50 years young – we are planning to hold a service of thanksgiving for the Brownie Pack and celebrate with party at St. Marys.
Art Club (Dagmar Smyth) – Present
Parish Mag & Web site (Nick Smith) – Present
Firstly a big thank you to all who have written articles for inclusion in the Parish Magazine for without you there would not be a magazine.
For the fourth year running the magazine was entered into the National Parish Magazine of the Year competition and gained 90th place out of 890 entries. The number of entries increased markedly year on year.
The magazine costs around £2500 to produce over the year, so your £5 annual subscription for 12 issues, each of between 32 and 40 pages of local information, is a good bargain.
Once again the Children's front cover drawing competition was a great success with a super drawing being selected by the Stelling Minnis Art Group. The subject for 2013 will be ---- you'll have to wait until the September issue to find that out.
Many thanks to Margaret Crawford and her band of delivery agents for getting the magazine to you; to Ann Day for handling the finances and selling the advertising spaces; and to Tony Lowe for proof reading each issue.
Challenge Youth Group Stelling Minnis (Mike Hamilton) – Present
Gardening Society (Alison Fisher) - Report
The Gardeners' Society remains on track although as you will be aware it was a particularly difficult year with the weather for flowers and vegetables but of course the gardeners of the world are always optimistic and look to the future with hope. We visited Old Bladbean Stud as a group and enjoyed the evening immensely, a garden to be recommended. We do welcome non-members to our meetings so please feel free to come along for a taster session if you see an evening that interests you. We will be holding our annual Strawberry Teas on Sat 13th July at Three Elms, Bossingham.
Scout Group (Louisa Warman) - Report
The three groups are running at close to capacity with a few spaces in the Beaver Colony.
The boys have all been busy earning badges and having fun during the past year.
The Cubs and Scouts both have their summer camps booked with the Cubs going to Downs Activity Centre and the Scouts going to the New Forest. All groups have lots of fun activities organised for the next few weeks which include hikes, kayaking and lots of outdoor games.
The extension to the hall is now complete and we have lovely new kitchen facilities, an extension to the main hall, a new entrance lobby, new toilet facilities including a disabled toilet and improved storage facilities for our camping equipment. We are now fundraising to complete the hard and soft landscaping works and fundraising events have included bag packing at Morrisons in Canterbury where we raised over £1,000 and more recently a sponsored walk in atrocious weather conditions! This event has also raised in excess of £1,000.
Community First Responders (Steve Moores) – Display
********** End **********
APPROVED MINUTES of STELLING MINNIS ANNUAL PARISH MEETING
held on
23rd May 2012 in STELLING MINNIS VILLAGE HALL
Present: Mr J Haffenden (Chairman), KCC Cllr Ms S Carey, SDC Cllr Ms P Carr,
Parish Councillors: Mrs A Day, Mr S Jackson, Mrs D Smyth, Mr D Stuart, Mr J
Speakman & Mr R Hubble. Mrs P Burgess (Stelling & Upper Hardres Churches),
Mrs E Holliday (Stelling Methodist Fellowship), Mrs D Semple (SM CEP
School); Mr K Smyth & Mr I Champion (Minnis Managers & Fosm), Mr J Hurdwell
(Stelling Minnis Village Hall), Mr M Hamilton (Youth Challenge); Mrs C
Hamilton & Ms C Solly (Community Sports Group), Mr N Smith (Parish
News/Website and Clerk) also took the minutes. Plus 12 Parishioners.
1.0 APOLOGIES for absence received from: Mr J Gray (Stelling Minnis School), Mrs G Emans (Church in the Hall), Mrs C Cooper (Windmill & Museum), Mrs S Carter (Windmill & Museum), Mr P Dimmock (Tree Warden), Mrs P Chatfield (Neighbourhood Watch), Mrs C Champion (Bossingham Youth Club), Ms L Wright (Rainbow Guides), Mrs B Fuller (Cub Scouts), Mrs L Rogers (Vicar), Mr T Barton (Scouts), Mrs A Fisher (Gardening Society), Mr S Hardman (Bossingham Cricket Club), Ms D Bishop (PCSO), Mr G Dodwell PCSO). Mr C Gooch (Savills).
2.0 THE MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL PARISH MEETING held on 25th May 2011 were approved, and signed. (Proposed Cllr D Smyth and seconded Cllr D Stuart).
Welcome to this, the second of our new style Annual Parish Meetings. The feedback we had last year was very positive. It is even more pleasing that other Parish Councils, including our neighbours, Upper Hardres, are adopting a similar style as "the Stelling Minnis model".
After the elections last May only 6 Parishioners put themselves forward as candidates, hence all were elected uncontested. That left a vacancy which was advertised. 2 Candidates applied and Stewart Jackson became the 7th Councillor.
Councillor Dagmar Smyth, continue to put pressure on Kent Highways re pot holes and the general state of the roads. Whilst there have been great successes in this area, there is still a lot to do. In addition there are several projects which we are still progressing including replacement of the finger post direction sign just down the road at the junction of Bossingham Road and Curtis Lane, which was knocked over again today; repair of Minnis Lane; flooding on Stone Street near Wadden Hall and construction of a soak away to cure the flood outside Ashcroft in Minnis Lane.
We have continued to press for road safety improvements on Stone Street at its junctions with Curtis Lane & Thorn Lane. The highways recording box has been removed, improving visibility when exiting Thorn Lane. We have also been promised that the white lines will be repainted.
During the year the Parish Council met 6 times, held 1 meeting with Kent Highways and processed 16 Planning applications. 2 Breaches of planning conditions have been reported to Shepway District Council enforcement officers and were monitored by Councillors during the year. Shepway enforcement officers are now satisfied that both are no longer in breach of any planning conditions.
We have supported Shepway District Council in their proposals for a Strategic Development Plan which precludes new buildings in the Village although does allow some extensions to existing buildings and some infill in the Village Centre. As a Council we are aware of the dichotomy of allowing the village to develop without unduly changing its unique character.
Following the resignation of Derry Lowe as Footpath Officer and Tree Warden a new Footpath Officer (Martin Hart) was appointed during the year. He regularly reports to Parish Council and we would like to take this opportunity to thank him for the efforts that he putting in to this voluntary role, including getting the school interested. Paul Dimmock was appointed as tree warden at the last Parish Council meeting. The tree warden post was originally taken by Evelyn MacRitchie, but she had to resign after taking up a Masters Course and could no longer commit the time and energy.
A working party, led by Councillor David Stuart, was set up to progress applications for faster Broadband in the Stelling Minnis telephone exchange area together with other nearby villages in both Shepway and Ashford Council areas. No positive news to date, although both Kent County Council and DEFRA have indicated support, subject to funding becoming available.
Speedwatch, led by Councillor Jeremy Speakman and assisted by the other Councillors, has been very successful and helped to remind parishioners and visitors that there is a 30mph limit in Stelling Minnis. However supporter numbers have dwindled and a campaign to generate more interest will appear in the June Parish Magazine. This is one project which is labour intensive, but actually only requires 1 hour of your time every 6 weeks or so.
All Councillors put in a lot of time on your behalf. They all have other duties on other committees and I am very grateful to them all.
4.0 THE PARISH COUNCIL STATEMENT OF ACCOUNTS for year ended 31.3.12 were circulated and accepted. (Proposed Mrs C Hamilton and seconded Mrs J Morgan). Councillor David Stewart (financial Officer) drew attention to training costs and that in the event of mid term election or referendum these would diminish the reserves.
5.0 Questions
5 .1 Mrs Ann Day said that one item raised last year was cutting of vegetation at the junction of Curtis Lane and Minnis Lane. The vegetation was cut 3 weeks ago and now has re-grown to such an extend that you have to stick your car bonnet out into Stone Street to see if the road is clear to be able to pull out. Were there sufficient funds to cut the vegetation more frequently? KCC Councillor Susan Carey sad that she would ask the question, but in the meantime report to Highways as a fault when ever the vegetation needed cutting.
There being no further formal business, the Chairman thanked everyone for attending. Meeting closed at 7.55pm.
Signed John Haffenden (Chairman)
Date 22 May 2013
The Following Clubs and Societies were either present with a stand/display and/or provided a written report:-
KCC (Susan Carey) – Present
KCC has long had the problem of dealing with rising demand (more elderly, more people with dementia, more children in care etc.), rising costs (fuel, landfill tax etc.) and keeping council tax rises low. As part of the overall national effort, local government has been asked to make significant savings. We are now one year into a four year programme that will shrink expenditure by a third.
Council tax has been frozen with the help of a special grant from government but there is no guarantee that this grant will continue so, whilst the grant is welcome, we still need to shrink our cost base.
I am very involved in the projects to reduce costs at Kent County Council and £97m of savings were made last financial year. Much of these came from reducing the number of posts (including that of Managing Director); the new waste collection system has also helped reduce costs. The savings targets for this financial year are £9Sm and then the year after £6Sm.
Despite the financial challenges KCC has done much in the last year of which we can be proud. The new Turner Centre was a KCC project to help regenerate Margate and provide Kent with a world class art gallery. It has been an enormous success. KCC has also led the Pfizer task force to deal with the crisis caused by the withdrawal of Pfizer from its Sandwich site. We have rescued many hundreds of jobs by creating a science park and there are plans to improve both road and rail connections into East Kent.
In our own district, KCC is providing funds to improve the roads leading to and from Folkestone harbour so that the redevelopment of the seafront can take place. KCC has also made progress in plans for a £43m network to provide superfast broadband for over 90% of households in Kent and better access for the remaining 10%. Unfortunately all projects involving local and national government have recently run into problems with EU regulations about state aid. It is a major problem affecting the whole country. However, thanks to the work done to date the Kent project will be amongst the first to go ahead once the problem is resolved. Please sign up to the Make Kent Quicker campaign on www.kent.gov.uk to show your support.
Locally I have been happy to support both the sports project at Bossingham and the Stelling Minnis Challenge Youth Group appeal for a mini-bus with KCC grants of £1,000 each. Most of my Highway grant is being spent on a general spring clean of road signs and the verges across my division.
SDC (Pam Carr) - Present
Minnis Managers (Kevin Smyth) – Present
FOSM (Ivor Champion) - Display
Stelling Minnis CEP School (Debbie Semple) - Display
Stelling Church – Rev'd Lynne Rogers - Report
Reverend Margi Walker left the parish on 30th January 2011 and after a period of interregnum Reverend Lynne Rogers as Assistant Priest in the developing benefice of Chartham, with responsibility for Stelling and Upper Hardres.
St Mary Stelling's Parochial Church Council (PCC) has the responsibility of co-operating with the incumbent in promoting within the ecclesiastical parish the whole mission of the Church – pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical. The PCC is also specifically responsible for the maintenance of the fabric of the church building and the churchyard.
The PCC is committed to enabling as many people as possible to worship at our Church and to become part of our Church community at St Mary Stelling. The PCC maintains an overview of worship throughout the parish and makes suggestions on how our services can involve the many groups that live within our parish. Our services and worship put faith into practice through prayer and scripture, music, study, drama and sacrament.
We try to enable people to live out their faith as part of our parish community through: Worship and prayer; learning about the Gospel, and developing their knowledge and trust in Jesus; Provision of pastoral care for the congregation and other people living in the parish; Missionary and outreach work.
All are encouraged and welcome to attend our regular services. The average weekly attendance, counted during October, has decreased from 32 in 2010 to 25 in 2011, excluding special services. Family groups are part of the regular congregation, and we have a particular focus on encouraging children and young people to get to know Jesus. The Church Electoral Roll was again reviewed during the year. There are 40 parishioners on the Church Electoral Roll, of whom 12 are not resident within the parish.
As well as our regular services, we enable our community to celebrate and thank God at the milestones of the journey through life. Through baptism we thank God for the gift of life, at confirmation we celebrate a person's individual decision and commitment to follow Jesus, in marriage public vows are exchanged with God's blessing, and through funeral and thanksgiving services friends and family express their grief and give thanks for the life which is now complete in this world and to commend the person into God's keeping. We have celebrated 1 baptism held 1 funeral service during the year.
The children and young people have continued to meet throughout the year on Sunday mornings during the services. Our provision for young people also includes the After Sevens group, which is jointly run with The Church in the Hall. The group is aimed at young people who are in school years 7-9, and meets twice per month in the Upper Room at Church. There is no pressure to believe anything, it is just an opportunity to have some fun and explore issues of life and faith with other youngsters their own age We are grateful for the financial contribution which The Church in the Hall made towards work with the children and young people. A child protection co-ordinator (Pamela Burgess) has been appointed by the PCC in accordance with Diocesan child protection guidelines, and everyone involved with children's and young people's work has completed the appropriate CRB check as required.
Two members of the PCC – Nick Hunt and Pamela Burgess – sit on the deanery synod. This provides the PCC with an important link between the parish and the wider structure of the church.
Access to the Church is available at all reasonable times to accommodate the Church family, local community, visitors and walkers. In our small rural community people do look out for and support each other, and so many church members are often naturally involved in visiting, providing transport, supplying meals, and caring for children. A number of members are also involved in local clubs and children's groups such as pre-school, volunteers in the Church primary school, leaders in the uniformed organisations and village youth club. In this wide variety of ways pastoral care is offered informally to a large number of villagers of all ages. A good number of children and their parents attend St Mary Stelling on a Sunday and are cared for through their age-related separate activities. Revd Lynne Rogers visits those in hospital, care homes, and the house bound as and when requested and takes communion to several elderly people. Revd Lynne Rogers and one Church member are foundation governors at the school and regularly take assemblies, which gives good contact with all the children and staff.
Baptisms, weddings and funerals are inevitably part of our ministry and provide good pastoral contact with those who often have no other contact with the church.
In addition, Julia Wright and Nigel Lockwood have successfully completed the Authorised Lay Ministry (ALM) course in Healing and Wholeness ministry sponsored by the Diocese, so it is hoped that this whole area will be further developed in the future.
During 2011, £350 was donated by St Mary Stelling to each of AICM and Catching Lives; and a total amount of £350 was given to Release International. Food gifts from the Harvest Festival were also given to Catching Lives. In addition, we gave £56.19 to The Children's Society which was the amount of the collection taken at the Christingle Service on 15th December.
We have further strengthened our links with the local community throughout the year; successful events included the Pet Service in September; running a stall selling jams, cakes, plants etc at both Windmill Fete events; the Wine & Wisdom event in November; and the Scout's Christmas Carol Service. Revd Lynne Rogers has already started to develop good relationships with the staff and pupils at Stelling Minnis Primary School; activities include regular school assemblies, and bi-monthly prayer meetings for staff, governors and parents.
A short article – St Mary Stelling News – focussing on recent and future events and services and important matters affecting our Church is placed in the Hardres-Stelling News local parish magazine each month, which is distributed to most houses in the local community. In addition, such information is included in the local weekly press.
We also produce a monthly newsletter – called Connect – which provides news and information, and keeps everyone in touch with what is happening in and around the Church and the Church Family; this is distributed by email, hardcopy.
We pray that St Mary Stelling will be not just a building, but a living beacon for the worship of Christ in our local community. We seek to hand on to succeeding generations not only the building, but the living faith symbolised by it.
Upper Hardres Church (Anne Barlow) – Report only
The number registered on the Electoral Roll as at December 2011 was 32. The official numbers' count for Sunday attendances, for the purpose of completing the Statistics for Mission for the Diocese, averaged 27 per week (22 adults and 5 children). This figure excluded special services and compares with 23 per week in 2010.
Revd. Margi Walker retired at the beginning of the year, and we were delighted to welcome Lynne Rogers and her husband Jeff at a Licensing Service in Chartham Church in October.
During the year, our pattern of regular Sunday services has continued, with Family Services on the first Sunday of each month, Evensong (second Sunday), Family Communion Services (third Sunday) and 8am BCP Communions (fourth Sunday). These were led by Lynne with effect from October. During the interregnum, our services were led by visiting clergy and lay people; we are very grateful to them all for helping us. On the 5th Sunday of each quarter, we held joint Family Communion services with Stelling Church. We are also very grateful to all who have contributed to the content of Family Services during the year, e.g., the plays, the games, the prayers and the various speakers.
The children continued to meet in The Stable every 3rd Sunday of the month, with numbers varying between 2 and 10, aged 2 to 14 years. The aim of these sessions is to enable the children to learn more about God, other people and themselves, and to do so in an enjoyable way. Subjects as varied as giving, Christ the King, gifts we have to offer and Christmas decorations have been covered, using crafts, activities and chatting. Grateful thanks are due to the helpers who continue to support the children's work in this way. More helpers will always be welcomed, as will more children!
Very many thanks to Marion Gambrill and her team of Dustettes who keep the church in such good order. Thank you too to Margaret Webb and her team of flower ladies. The flowers are always a delight, especially so on festival days and for special services.
Another very successful Fete was held within the church grounds in June, when we were joined by The City of Canterbury Brass Band. In September, Dan Hamlin, with David Chapman, cycled around the area visiting local churches. Half the funds raised by Dan were donated by The Friends of Kent Churches to Upper Hardres Church. In June, Vanessa MacDonald held sheep dog trials at Bishopsbourne, which resulted in a very generous donation for the church. A jumble sale was held in Bossingham Village Hall in October; this proved to be both a much-enjoyed local event and a financially successful one as well.
In November, Marion organised "Teas" for the Art Group's Exhibition, which raised £500 for Breakthrough Breast Cancer. We are extremely grateful to the community for its generosity in supporting and sponsoring these events.
We are indebted to David Chapman who played the organ so brilliantly throughout the year. Thanks are also due to Ruth Goodsell and Joan Faber who "stepped-in" whenever David was away.
Upper Hardres choir was augmented at rehearsals and festivals by members of Petham choir. The two choirs also combined at some services in Petham Church.
The Passiontide Service was again held on Good Friday evening when the choir led The Way of the Cross: sections of Faure's Requiem were also used as part of the service.
The church is generally in good order. Access to the tower roof has been improved by boarding in the bell frame to give a safe floor, and new duck boards have been laid on the roof covering to allow safe access to the flag pole. The roof covering has been temporarily repaired and, hopefully, should last a few more years before more drastic work is necessary.
Many thanks to all those willing helpers who assisted with keeping the grass edges in good order, and to Vanessa and Charles MacDonald for both cutting the main areas of grass and the hedge on the churchyard side, which has been needed for a long time. The east boundary picket fence has been replaced and we are grateful to Mr. Chalk for undertaking this work.
As Churchwarden, I thank Lynne and everyone within the community of our church for their fantastic support, the help they have given and the work that they have undertaken, especially during the interregnum. Special thanks are also extended to Bruce Crawford, who continues to take responsibility for the fabric of the church and the churchyard; without his help my task as the only churchwarden would have been extremely difficult.
A final note is to say "thank you" to everyone in the community who has contributed to our most successful fundraising activities.
Stelling Methodists (Eunice Holiday) – Display
Unfortunately we have had to resort to only one service a month, which takes place on the first Sunday. This is because the Circuit has got larger and now there are fewer Ministers.
Our organist had to leave because of poor eyesight. We have been fortunate that Daphne Andrews from Lyminge has filled in for us when she was able but when she was unable a Lady from Littlebourne helped out. The number in the congregation has stayed stable; we had three extra for the last service.
Stelling Minnis Village Hall (Johnathan Hurdwell) – Present
The Hall Management Committee always try to raise funds in excess of the hall running cost (£4500 per annum). Gross income this year was £7224. Heating oil theft was a problem in March, but our insurance covered it.
Historical Society (Jenny Morgan) – Display
Member numbers remain low with several members unable to attend due to illness over the year.
In June members visited a private museum of almost anything and everything to do with agriculture and Kentish Life, both past and present, in 4 barns full of amazing exhibits. In July we had a static display at the Windmill Fete showing tools and machinery used over the years. In September our Chairman resigned due to heavy pressures at work and the inability to attend meetings etc.
The Upper Hardres Church Survey is nearly finished with inscriptions taken from all legible head stones and recorded together with a photo.
Some members have attended talks, lecturers & outings of other local societies, and at the Maidstone Sessions House & Lecture Hall. Most months throughout the year an article has been written for the Parish Magazine.
This next year we hope to put together articles for a new "Minnis Memories" to be published in 2013/14. Data from the Churchyard survey will be collated and archived. We have a talk on the History of Folkestone booked for September. We continue to sell our "walks" at the village shop and Six Mile Garage. 4 of our members are involved in the Windmill & Museum Trust and also in setting up a new re-vamped Museum.
We continue to provide information to persons researching family histories, mainly via the Internet.
Footpaths/Tree Warden (Martin Hart) – Present with Display
Work undertaken: Problems have been reported to the PROW Officer on the following paths:
HE11/HE9/HE5/HE6/HE8/HE5/HE9/HE6/HE7/HE33/HE32/HE31/HE33/HE132/HE17/HE11/HE13/HE15/HE25/HE28/HE114/HE12. These have included: Signs missing or in the wrong place, broken stiles, overgrown areas, obstructions to paths and paths not marked out, 3 stiles missing on one path and in one instance, a path which has been moved without permission from KCC. I have identified most of these problems through walking along the paths but one or two issues have been reported to me by local people.
I have put 'Waymarker' signs up, where they were absent, along a number of paths (HE132, HE31, HE32, HE16, HE18, HE28, HE17). Hopefully, as a result, local people and visitors are now finding some paths easier to follow.
I've started to cut overgrowth back on some stiles which were not easy to get over without getting caught on the overgrowth (along HE132, HE114). This has previously been the duty of KCC but they are very stretched to do this work with reducing budgets.
I have fixed the stile at the junction of HE31 and HE132 after getting Mr. Haffenden's permission.
Successes: Following contact with PROW Officer paths HE11. HE9, HE10, HE6 & HE5, to the west of the Minnis and covering land managed by De Haan, are now marked out.
Meetings: I met with John Haffenden in April, at his request, to discuss all the paths that cross his farm. All were marked out at the time, with the exception of HE132, which had just had a crop planted and would shortly be re-marked out. In January I had a telephone conversation with Roger King from the Ramblers Association, who contacted me to see if he could be of assistance and wanted an update on paths in Stelling Minnis.
Other Activities: On Feb 24th I gave a talk to the children at Stelling Minnis School to promote the use of local footpaths. My two sons (aged 7 & 8), who have been helping me with my Footpath Warden duties, joined me for the presentation. It was a lively event with the children having plenty of questions to ask. It was agreed with the Headteacher that a guided walk of some local paths will be organised in the summer for the children. Roger King from the Ramblers Association is willing to join this walk to assist.
Neighbourhood watch (Pam Chatfield) - Report
Quite a lot has happened since last year, mainly with our Police Officers. PC Trevor Moody was moved out of our area and we were given a PCSO (POLICE COMMUNITY SUPPORT OFFICER). She stayed for a very short while and then the Police had a major reorganisation.
We were given a new PCSO, Debbie Bishop who settled in quite quickly, and then she was told she would have another patch and the PCSO from Bossingham, Gavin Dodwell would take over from her. They are both active in the village, they hold a surgery in Stelling Stores once a month, the dates are on the shop window and have made themselves known to as many of you as possible.
Crime. There have been a number of heating oil thefts. There have also been lots of visits from "scrap dealers" looking for metal of any sort. Some legal and some not. They must have a licence which they must show you. Opportunist visits happen all the time who just want anything they can sell.
Apart from that, considering the economical climate, things are not too bad.
Please read my articles in the Parish Magazine each month and I will keep you up to date with anything important.
Community Sports Facility (Clare Hamilton & Catherine Solly) - Display
Bossingham Youth Club (Claire Champion) – Report
Bossingham Youth Club is now in its 6th independent year of running, after it was started 9 years ago as part of the Rural Street Runner project with Canterbury City Council.
We currently have 25 members on the books, with an age range of 10 – 16 years; 8 Stelling Minnis, 8 from Bossingham/Upper Hardres, 5 from Stone Street, 2 from Bladbean, 1 from Lyminge, and 1 from Hollow Lane.
There are 3 youths on the waiting list. Member numbers have had to be restricted to 25 due to a lack of adult supervisors. Thank you to the new adult helpers who've joined me this year.
We are still holding sessions at Bossingham Village Hall, from 7 – 9pm on the 1st and 3rd Friday of the month, term time only, and normally 20 sessions a year.
Our members are still enjoying the sports and craft equipment provided, with the opportunity to socialise with friends in the club's relaxed, friendly atmosphere. We are looking forward to the summer evenings so we can play sports in the field behind the hall and are excited to hear about the new skateboard facility.
Thanks to the continued help from the 2 local Parish Councils and Bossingham Village hall, we have yet again managed to keep our membership rates of a £1 per session for the youngsters.
May I take this opportunity to thank both Parish councils and Bossingham Village Hall Committee for their continued support?
After 7 Church youth group (Jane Parsons) – Report
After Sevens is a youth group for anyone in school years 7 - 10, where we eat, chat and explore a different aspect of life and the Christian faith each time. The group started in 2010 following a pre-confirmation Youth Alpha course; the young people wanted to carry on meeting, so we did. We meet fortnightly from 7.00-8.30pm on Mondays in the Upper Room at Stelling Church. The Upper Room is comfy with an old settee and floor cushions and is cosy and warm in winter (mostly).
The group has 8-9 members, and is made up both of those who come to Stelling Church, and those who don't. It is run (and financed) jointly by Stelling Church and the Church in the Hall, with 3 leaders who take it in turns, 2 at a time. The format for our fortnightly meetings has stayed pretty much the same since we started - biscuits, cakes, drinks, crisps, fruit, lots of noise, followed by a couple of games which lead into looking at some aspect of the Christian faith. At the moment we are looking at the book of Acts from the Bible - learning about the early church as it formed and grew following Jesus' death, resurrection and return to heaven. We use the Urban Saints (formerly Crusaders) web-based material so we have plenty of ideas to draw on.
We also have the occasional extra event - last August we held a one night camp-over in Rhodes Minnis - camp fire cooking, games, activities and Bible teaching from a representative of Change Youth Group (an inter-church youth group based in Canterbury). This was great fun despite some fairly heavy rain, and we hope to hold another one this summer holiday (preferably minus the rain). We have also been bowling and for pizza in Ashford a couple of times; some of the group have joined Elham's Arc-Angels youth group for swimming and canoeing, and some went to Change United's Christmas carol celebration at St Mary Bredin church in Canterbury, way back in the dark depth of winter.
The aim of the group is very much to support and encourage the young people to explore their own faith - not to tell them what to believe, but to help them to discover for themselves the forgiveness and new life that Jesus offers.
We always welcome new members, whether or not they usually attend church at Stelling or anywhere else and are currently welcoming year 6s - they don't need to wait until September to join us.
Brownies (Maxine Blades) – Report only
There currently have 15 Brownies in the Pack, reduced because the Petham Brownie pack has re-opened. However with 15 Rainbows now in the Bossingham Rainbow Unit I am confident that we will recruit sufficient numbers of girls to keep the Pack viable.
Over the last year we have been busy working on a number of activities both on our own and with other Brownies, Rainbows and Guides from the Canterbury Division.
In May 2011 we went on a long-week end pack holiday to Kingsnorth, We hired the indoor climbing wall (and instructor) for the Saturday afternoon and everyone had a go on the different climbs.
In June we joined 120 Brownies from the Division for Brownie Revels at Chartham Primary School, who we then met up with again in October at the Division Camp Fire evening hosted by us at the Rose & Crown.
We held our tri-annual pet show in July 2011 with a range of dogs, rabbits, guinea pigs, chickens and Sapphire the sheep who were all judged by Roz Brown with appropriate rosettes awarded to their proud owners.
We also went over to the Windmill to help plant up their new tubs and got our picture in the paper!
The last couple of terms have seen us working on our Art & Cook's badges, and are working on our float (Brown Owl's car) for the Diamond Jubilee pageant and celebrations.
I remain the only full time, qualified adult helper with the Pack, so we operate a rota for parental help each week. However, recently Rebecca Warman has rejoined the pack, this time as a 'Young Leader' and will be able to start her training next year.
Art Club (Dagmar Smyth & Tony Chatfield) – Present with Display
Parish Mag & Web site (Nick Smith) – Present with Display
Firstly a big thank you to all who have written articles for inclusion in the Parish Magazine for without you there would not be a magazine.
For the third year running the magazine was entered into the National Parish Magazine of the Year competition and gained 49th place out of 620 entries (last year there were only 180 entries and we gained 20th place).
The magazine costs around £2500 to produce over the year, so your £5 annual subscription for 12 issues each of 40 pages of local information is probably quite a good bargain.
Once again the Children's front cover drawing competition was a great success with a super drawing being selected by the Stelling Minnis Art Group.
Challenge Youth Group Stelling Minnis (Mike Hamilton) – Present with display
The group now has 5 leaders, 2 support and 2 admin staff. We run Duke of Edinburgh awards for 14-18 year olds at Bronze, Silver and Gold levels. In the last 12 months we have taken groups on expeditions to Scotland, Lake District, New and Ashdown Forests and Bewl Water. We have fun too including an annual barbeque, trips such as to ice skating and a weekend bike tour to Kingsdown (Deal).
Gardening Society (Alison Fisher) - Report
The Gardeners' Society continues to be well supported and is financially viable. Friendly competition continues with three 'mini' shows held within evening meetings and of course the main autumn show in early September. Last year we went to Windsor Castle by coach on a very warm day (one of the summer) enjoyed by members present.
The Society will participate in jubilee parade on 4th June and has also arranged an evening visit to Bladbean on Tuesday 26th June. There will also be a Strawberry tea afternoon at Three Elms which this year will be held on Saturday 21st July.
If you are interested in our Society please come along as a guest to one of our meetings and you will be made very welcome
Scout Group (Louisa Warman) - Report
The three groups continue to thrive and all are running at or near their full capacity. Tom Barton and Ben Jackson-Grillet have settled into leading the Scout Troop really well. Beth Fuller and Phil Cope, our GSL, continue to successfully run Beavers and Cubs respectively.
We have been busy fundraising throughout the year and the boys took part in a sponsored walk last October which started with the Scouts walking from Lyminge fish and chip shop to the forest where they met the Cubs and then onto the Windmill where they met the Beavers and finally they all ended up in Bossingham for a well earned hot dog and drink. At the end of October, the boys were out in force again, this time for bag packing at Morrisons which was very successful. At the end of March we held an Easter Bingo event which the boys (and parents) really enjoyed. We also catered for the annual pony club events at Knowler Farm and the refreshment tent at the Windmill Fete.
During the past year we have completed Phase 1 of the building works to the Scout Hall and now have a lovely new kitchen, toilet facilities and storage room for all of our camping equipment. It is our intention to commence Phase 2 of the building works this Summer which will consist of the demolition of the old toilets and entrance and the construction of a new extension to the main hall and entrance hall.
Approved MINUTES of ANNUAL PARISH MEETING held on 25th May 2011
Present: Mr J Haffenden (Chairman), KCC Cllr Ms S Carey, SDC Cllr Ms P Carr, Parish Councillors: Mrs A Day, Mrs D Smyth, Mr D Stuart, Mr J Speakman & Mr R Hubble. Mr A Edney (Church in the Hall), Mrs E Holliday (Stelling Methodist Fellowship), Mrs S Carter & Mrs C Cooper (Windmill & Museum), Ms J Kennet (SM CEP School); Mr K Smyth & Mr I Champion (Minnis Managers & Fosm), Mr J Hurdwell (Stelling Minnis Village Hall), Mr T & Mrs P Chatfield (Art Club and NHW), Mrs D Lowe (Tree & Footpath Warden & Dormice), Mrs M Blades (Brownies), Mr M Hamilton (Youth Challenge); Mrs C Hamilton & Ms C Solly (Community Sports Group), Mr N Smith ((Parish News/Website and Clerk) also took the minutes. Plus 25 Parishioners.
1.0 APOLOGIES for absence received from: Mr D Barlow (Internal Auditor), PC Mr T Moody, Mrs G Emans (Church in the Hall), Mrs A Barlow (Upper Hardres Church), Mrs A Fisher (Gardening Society), Mrs C Champion (Bossingham Youth Group), Mr J Gray (Stelling Minnis CEP School), Mrs L Wright (Rainbow Guides), Ms J Parson (After 7 Youth Group), Ms J Murray (Guides), Mr E Lewis (Historical Society).
2.0 THE MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL PARISH MEETING held on 26th May 2010 were approved, and signed. (Proposed Cllr A Day seconded Cllr D Smyth).
Cllr Haffenden welcomed everyone and thanked them for attending. He explained that this was a new style Annual Parish Meeting which we are trialling this year. Your feedback would be appreciated.
During the year the Parish Council met 6 times and held one meeting with Kent highways at which the introduction of safety improvements on Stone Street at its junctions with Curtis and Thorn Lanes was mooted. Councillor Mrs P Barber moved away from the area in the summer 2010 and continued her role as Councillor, via the Internet, until December when resigned. The recent election saw 5 Councillors re-elected and 1 new Councillor (R. Hubble). The one remaining vacancy will be filled by co-option.
17 planning applications were processed in the year, two of which were for developments just beyond the Parish boundary and on which we were asked to comment. We were able to sway Kent County Council as the planning authority in respect of Stelling Minnis School for the new pre-school building to have a 30º pitch roof. Parish Council is very grateful to KCC Councillor Susan Carey to be able to assist the Pre School with funding for the additional cost the new roof. Parish Council is obliged to report any breaches of planning regulations to the planning authority and have done so in two cases, both of which have been investigated by the planning enforcement officer.
Successes over the year have included:-
The diligence and persistence of Cllr Dagmar Smyth has resulted in most of the pot holes being filled on our roads. Speedwatch, under the leadership of Cllr Jeremy Speakman, operates from spring to autumn every 4 weeks and is staffed by a dedicated team of willing helpers; our feeling is that it is continues to be a useful deterrent and reminder to road users to observe safe speed limits in the village. The raising of Stone Street just to the North of Curtis Lane has been a real boon and has cured the regular problem of stone street being closed when the road flooded and traffic being diverted through Stelling Minnis.
We thought that we had achieved success in respect of safety improvements on Stone Street when KCC agreed to our proposal for double white lines to prevent overtaking in the vicinity of its junctions with Curtis and Thorn Lanes. However double white lines were in the end not able to be supported and our task continues to find an acceptable solution.
4.0 THE PARISH COUNCIL STATEMENT OF ACCOUNTS for year ended 31.3.11 were circulated and accepted. (Proposed Mr J Worthy seconded Mr T Chatfield).
5.0 Questions
5.1 Mrs E Holliday expressed a concern over the use of double decker buses on the 558 route and the possibility that one may tip over on any of the hilly bends. KCC Cllr S Carey replied that Stagecoach, who operated the route, had carried out a safety check and were satisfied that there was not a risk.
5.2 Mrs S Carter asked about vegetation cutting at the junction of Curtis Lane/Stone Street. Chairman Cllr J Haffenden replied that Parishioners must not undertake the work themselves and that Parish Council had reached an agreement with Kent Highways that the vegetation would be cut every 4 weeks during the growing season. This was confirmed by KCC Cllr S Carey.
There being no further formal business, the Chairman thanked everyone for attending. Meeting closed at 8.55pm.
Signed J Haffenden. (Chairman)
Date 23rd May 2012
The Following Clubs and Societies were either present with a stand/display and/or provided a written report:-
KCC (Susan Carey) - Present
Kent County Council faces an enormous challenge in reducing expenditure at a time of rising demand for its services. The money that goes directly to schools is broadly the same but many of the extra services to schools provided by KCC have lost grant funding. Elsewhere our grants from central government (our share of business rates and other taxation) have been reduced by 10%.
Overall we must deliver £95m of savings in 2011/12. We are doing this by reorganising and shedding 1,500 posts. We hope to keep redundancies to a minimum and have been holding many posts vacant in anticipation of the need for savings. We have frozen staff pay for the second year in a row. Rather than cutting some discretionary services we are increasing charges so there will still be a Freedom Pass for 11 - 16 year olds but the price rises to £100 (still an excellent deal and worth over £400 to each user). Bus routes where the subsidy per person per journey is more than £5 are also being examined and if cheaper ways are not found to provide them they will be withdrawn. (None of these are in or near Stelling Minnis).
We have sought to protect services to the vulnerable - children at risk (where our service needs considerable improvement), the elderly needing care and adults with learning difficulties and mental health problems but we are asking all our partners to work with us to reduce costs and make sure the money we do spend is spent on frontline services not support costs. The budget for Highways will be spent almost exclusively on maintenance with a small amount for reducing congestion and crash remedial measures. There are many other savings to be made, some of which will be subject to consultation and your views will be considered but we face hard choices. If not these savings then which ones?
The good news is that we have frozen council tax for 2011/12 and we are still investing in Kent. Local examples include the Beaney (the main library in the High Street) in Canterbury and the recently opened Turner Contemporary in Margate. Our plans are in Bold Steps for Kent which sets out three ambitions - to grow our economy, to put the citizen in control and to tackle disadvantage.
I have used my Member Highway Fund to pay for 'Keep Clear' markings outside schools across our district including Stelling Minnis and the official notices which make them legally enforceable. I have also allocated my entire capital grant to
Stelling Minnis to rescue the Bossingham/Stelling Minnis pre-school building project. Both Shepway District Council and Stelling Minnis Parish Council objected to the flat roof for proposed building of the Bossingham pre-school. Without planning permission, the school risked losinq its main grant of over £100,000 from Sure Start. I therefore gave a grant of £6,113 to the pre-school and arranged for KCC to provide further funding through the Early Years' Unit to bridge the funding gap so that the new building could have a pitched roof. The school secured both its planning permission and funding and is now operating from the new building. I'm only sorry the official opening was held on a date I was unable to attend.
SDC (Pam Carr) - Present
Minnis Managers (Kevin Smyth) - Display
FOSM (Ivor Champion) - Display
Stelling Minnis CEP School (Julia Kenett) - Display
Stelling Church – Geoff Wright
Church in the Hall (Andy Edney) – Display
Stelling Methodists (Eunice Holiday) - Display
Upper Hardres Church (Anne Barlow) – Report only
There were 35 parishioners registered on the Electoral Role as at the end of December.
Rev. Margi Walker was the incumbent throughout the year. The PCC met on 5 occasions. A church Log Book is held and updated by the secretary (Marion Gambrill). The Inventory and Terrier had been updated by Margaret Webb.
The main fundraising events were the Fete in June, the Hamlin family& Toby Loft cycling for The Friends of Kent Churches (Upper Hardres received half of the monies raised) and a concert by The Higham Singers in May.
We are very grateful to Vanessa MacDonald who raised over £1235 at 2 events. In November, the church organised "teas" for Stelling Minnis's Art Group's Exhibition.
The Stable (Sunday school) met on the 3rd Sunday of each month when the children continued to learn of stories from the Bible. During each session, we try to teach the children the same message that is being communicated in the sermon on that day.
A new Memorial garden has been planted with spring bulbs.
The fabric and furnishing had been in general good order during the year, with the completion of the electrical installation regarding refurbishment, in accordance with the latest IEE regulations.
Thanks are given to David Chapman for his ongoing commitment to the organ playing: also to Ruth Goodsell for standing in when necessary. Thanks also to Bruce Crawford and his helpers, and to Vanessa and Charles MacDonald for keeping the churchyard so tidy. There had been great support from choir members to rehearsals and to services, and a special delight again in 2010 had been the joining together at rehearsals and special events (including the annual Choir Festival in the cathedral) of Upper Hardres Choir with that of Petham.
Over £12,000 was received from Gift-Aided donations and the tax refund but our giving to charities at home and abroad was well below our target of 10% of our income, because of the ever-increasing amount of expenditure.
Stelling Minnis Village Hall (Johnathan Hurdwell) - Present
Bossingham Village Hall (David Barlow) – Report only:
The last 12 months has again been a busy one of renovation to the hall, including the complete refurbishment of the kitchen, and the fitting of a new dishwasher and a larger cooker. The shingles have been replaced/repainted and the Gents' toilet updated, including new urinals and an electric hand dryer.
Two successful fund-raising events were held, i.e., a Bar BQ in June and a community Harvest Teas in October.
Upper Hardres Parish Council has continued to provide excellent support.
The Management Committee is continuing to work towards gaining charitable status. However, Nigel Fisher (Chairman) is not prepared to continue in his role unless more parishoners join the Committee to help maintain the hall. We desperately need additional help (2/3 new members) if the Management Committee is to continue, and the hall to remain open.
The Committee is extremely grateful to all the regular users of the hall, including the Pre-School, who have now moved to the School, the Youth Club, Keep Fit, Rainbows, The Gardeners and The Church in the Hall
Windmill/Museum (Cara Cooper & Shelagh Carter) - Present
Historical Society (Ed Lewis) – Report only
Steady as she goes has been the Society's motto for this year with the occasional burst of excitement.
In July we held a very interesting talk with slideshow in this village hall on My Family and The Minnis by Elham Historical Society's Chairman Derek Boughton which was packed out and raised necessary funds for our Society. We hope to repeat this process again in the future but obviously on a different subject.
We put up a display at the village fete in July showing local buildings of historical interest which attracted a number of enquiries from people who had had some connection through their families with the village.
In the autumn a band of hardy fellows put up both gates at each end of the Minnis. These have now blended in with the surrounding foliage and attract attention from walkers passing through in respect of the brass plaques giving the necessary explanations of why they are there.
Many thanks go to Jacksons Fencing and Shepway District Council for their funding of this project. It was and still is much appreciated. The gates were officially "opened" on 6th December by our local councillor Pam Carr and suitable festivities were then provided by Sue and David McDine afterwards.
The Society continues to do local research and welcomes enquiries from beyond the parish boundaries to help people with their own research as occasionally this elicits information that we weren't previously aware of so it provides a good quid pro quo.
We also plan on putting on a couple of visits later this year but firm dates have yet to be agreed including to Lympne Castle and to the excavations of the Roman villas going on in Folkestone on the East Cliff. More details of those will be published through the parish magazine in due course.
Footpaths/Tree Warden (Derry Lowe) - Display
Neighbourhood watch (Pam Chatfield) - Present
As you all know by now, our local Police Officer Trevor Moody has been moved to another patch. We are all very disappointed as he was an excellent neighbourhood officer.
The new officer is WPC Carly Farrow who some of us met on Trevors last day. I don't have a phone number for her yet and haven't seen her in the village. It is possible that she has been here but I have just not been around at the time
I need to advise you all that the number to ring for the Police now (except in an emergency when it is 999) is 01622 690690. This number takes all calls for our area and will transfer you to the correct officer to deal with your call.
We don't need to call separate Police Stations any more.
If a crime is being committed and you can see the criminals, call 999.
If you discover a crime after it has been committed, call 01622 690690. It has to be reported by the person who discovers the crime as you will have more information than anyone else. When you speak to an officer, get a crime number, it will help if you need to claim insurance.
I have a number of security items in my possession or available to me. Shed alarms which can be used for all sorts of things. They are battery operated.
I have marking pens, ribbons to attach your purse to your bag or belt and reminder notices for your door not to open it to strangers etc.
Please call for advice if you need it, I will be very happy to help.
Joint Sports Facility (Clare Hamilton & Catherine Solly) - Display
Bossingham Youth Club (Claire Champion) – Report only:
Bossingham Youth Club is now in its 5th independent year of running, but was started 8 years ago as part of the Rural Street Runner project with Canterbury City Council.
We currently have 25 members on the books, with an age range of 10 – 16 years. 11 come from Stelling Minnis, 8 from Bossingham/Upper Hardres, and 6 split between Lyminge, Hollow Lane and Canterbury.
We are still holding sessions at Bossingham Village Hall, from 7 – 9pm on the 1st and 3rd Friday of the month, term time only, normally 20 sessions a year, unless we have to cancel due to snow!
Our members are still enjoying the equipment provided and the opportunity to socialise with friends in the club's relaxed, friendly atmosphere. We are now looking forward to the summer evenings so we can play sports in the field behind the hall.
Thanks to the continued help from the 2 local Parish Councils and Bossingham Village hall, we have managed to keep our membership rates of a £1 per session for the youngsters.
May I take this opportunity to thank both Parish councils and Bossingham Village Hall Committee for their continued support.
After 7 Church youth group (Jane Parsons) – Report only):
After Sevens is a youth group for anyone in school years 7 – 9, where we eat, chat and explore a different aspect of life and the Christian faith each time. We meet fortnightly from 7.00-8.30pm on Tuesdays in the Upper Room at Stelling Church. The Upper Room is comfy with an old settee and floor cushions and is cosy and warm in winter.
We currently have 7 members, who are all very regular in attending – some also go to Stelling Church on Sundays and some don't – it is open to all. There are 3 leaders who take it in turns, 2 at a time, from both the Church in the Hall and Stelling Church and it is jointly financed – so it is very much a joint venture.
The group started just over a year ago, following a Youth Alpha course that we ran as a preparation for those interested in being confirmed. The young people who came to Youth Alpha wanted to carry on meeting and so After 7s was formed (so named by the youngsters because we meet at 7pm and you have to be in year 7 to be able to come).
The usual format for our fortnightly meetings is to start with biscuits, cakes, drinks, crisps (and sometimes some fruit) and a couple of games, leading into looking at some aspect of the Christian faith. This year so far we have been looking at how we can get closer to God. We usually take a Bible passage and discuss what it means for us today and we sometimes include some craft or worship as well. We use the Urban Saints (formerly Crusaders) web-based material so we have plenty of ideas to draw on.
Since we started, we have also had a summer BBQ at Bruce & Emma's house, a winter outing (bowling and pizza in Canterbury), and a walk from Stelling church to Springfield Farm in Waltham where we enjoyed hot chocolate and a man hunt.
We always welcome new members, whether or not they usually attend church at Stelling or anywhere else and are currently welcoming year 6s – they don't need to wait until September to join us.
Brownies (Maxine Blades) - Display
The Hundred (David Barlow) – Report only:
The last 12 months have seen the continuation of the committee's efforts to provide a varied and interesting programme of events and activities for members and the wider community.
The Hundred Shows Group, led by Trevor Conway, achieved its aim of staging live entertainment to suit different tastes and age groups, with the drama "Miracle on 34th Street" being a particular popular choice.
Lower Hardres Village Hall was the venue for the programme of The Hundred Talks, with speakers covering a wide variety of subjects, including Antarctica and Butterflies.
Thanks go to Alison and John Wiltshier who researched and led The Hundred Walks which were enjoyed by an ever-increasing number of walkers.
Caution should be noted regarding the future of The Hundred as the number of members is decreasing. Without continuing support and support from residents of the local communities, it will be all too easy for The Hundred to be consigned to the history books.
The 7 villages comprising The Hundred are Bossingham, Nackington, Lower Hardres, Petham, Stelling Minnis, Upper Hardres and Waltham.
Art Club (Dagmar Smyth & Tony Chatfield) – Display
Our group continues to meet every Monday morning with regular attendance by 12 core members.
In July 2010 we contributed to the windmill fete with an exhibit of works, cards and calendars. Our weekend exhibition of work took place in the autumn in the hall, and featured posters by children for the Parish Magazine cover. Teas and cakes were provided by and raised funds for Sts Peter & Paul church.
All our calendars for 2011 sold.
We are now working towards this year's exhibition at the fete on July 16th. We have held open art group mornings with free coffee and cakes. A good year again.
Parish Mag & Web site (Nick Smith) - Display
Firstly a big thank you to all who have written articles for inclusion in the Parish Magazine for without you there would not be a magazine.
For the second year running the magazine was entered into the National Parish Magazine of the Year competition and gained 20th place out of 180 entries.
The magazine costs around £2400 to produce over the year, so your £5 annual subscription for 12 issues each of 40 pages of local information is probably quite a good bargain.
Once again the Children's front cover drawing competition was a great success with a super drawing being selected by the Stelling Minnis Art Group. The subject for 2011 will be ---- you'll have to wait until the September issue to find that out.
Many thanks to Margaret Crawford and her band of delivery agents for getting the magazine to you; to Ann Day for handling the finances and selling the advertising spaces; and to Tony Lowe for proof reading each issue.
The Equality Act 2010 replaces the existing anti-discrimination laws with a single Act. It simplifies the law removing inconsistencies and making it easier for people to understand and comply with it. It also strengthens the law in important ways to help tackle discrimination and inequality.
The Act applies to all organisations that provide a service to the public or a section of the public.
Stelling Minnis Parish Council aims to ensure that our services meet the varied needs and expectations of the local people and that everyone has equal access to all services regardless of age, gender, sex and sexual orientation, disability, marital status, ethnicity, religious belief or any other individual characteristics which may limit a person's opportunity in life.
The Council will endeavour to:-
• Eliminate discrimination, harassment and victimisation;
• Advance equality of opportunity and foster good relations.
In order to promote equality of access to services the Council will aim to ensure that: -
• The services provided are in response to the needs of the whole community;
• The Council will monitor views and take into account customer views;
• The information on services is widely available to ensure maximum awareness of provisions;
• That in advertising and publicity the Council will be presented as an authority committed to promoting equality of access to employment and services;
• That staff will be consulted and their contribution valued in the information and promotion of equality of access to Council services;
• That staff will be trained and supported in carrying out their duties in line with implementing equal opportunities policies.
The Parish Council will ensure that service delivery on the basis of age, gender, sex and sexual orientation, disability, marital status, ethnicity, religious belief or any other individual characteristics is fair and without discrimination.
It is the policy of Stelling Minnis Parish Council to afford equal treatment to all its employees and prospective employees. The aim of this policy is to ensure that no job applicant or employee receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of race, colour, nationality, sex or sexual orientation, marital status, physical or other handicap.
Whilst the main responsibility for providing equal opportunity rests with the Council, individual employees also have responsibilities. The elimination of discriminatory practices depends upon the co-operation of all employees.
Approved by Stelling Minnis Parish Council
2nd May 2012
Code of conduct for parish councils - adopted by
Stelling Minnis Parish Council at its meeting on 7 September 2012.
Pursuant to section 27 of the Localism Act 2011, Stelling Minnis Parish Council ('the Council') has adopted this Code of Conduct to promote and maintain high standards of behaviour by its members and co-opted members whenever they conduct the business of the Council, including the business of the office to which they were elected or appointed, or when they claim to act or give the impression of acting as a representative of the Council.
This Code of Conduct is based on the principles of selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty, and leadership.
For the purposes of this Code, a 'co-opted member' is a person who is not a member of the Council but who is either a member of any committee or sub-committee of the Council, or a member of, and represents the Council on any joint committee or joint sub-committee of the Council, and who is entitled to vote on any question that falls to be decided at any meeting of that committee or sub-committee.
For the purposes of this Code, a 'meeting' is a meeting of the Council, any of its committees, sub-committees, joint committees or joint sub-committees.
For the purposes of this Code, and unless otherwise expressed, a reference to a member of the Council includes a co-opted member of the Council.
Member obligations
When a member of the Council acts, claims to act or gives the impression of acting as a representative of the Council, he/she has the following obligations.
1. He/she shall behave in such a way that a reasonable person would regard as respectful.
2. He/she shall not act in a way which a reasonable person would regard as bullying or intimidatory.
3. He/she shall not seek to improperly confer an advantage or disadvantage on any person.
4. He/she shall use the resources of the Council in accordance with its requirements.
5. He/she shall not disclose information which is confidential or where disclosure is prohibited by law.
Registration of interests
6. Within 28 days of this Code being adopted by the Council, or the member's election or the co-opted member's appointment (where that is later), he/she shall register with the Monitoring Officer the interests which fall within the categories set out in Appendices A and B.
7. Upon the re-election of a member or the re-appointment of a co-opted member, he/she shall within 28 days re-register with the Monitoring Officer any interests in Appendices A and B.
8. A member shall register with the Monitoring Officer any change to interests or new interests in Appendices A and B within 28 days of becoming aware of it.
9. A member need only declare the existence but not the details of any interest which the Monitoring Officer agrees is a 'sensitive interest'. A sensitive interest is one which, if disclosed on a public register, could lead the member or a person connected with the member to be subject to violence or intimidation.
Declaration of interests at meetings
9. Where a matter arises at a meeting which relates to an interest in Appendix A the member shall not participate in a discussion or vote on the matter. He/she only has to declare what his/her interest is if it is not already entered in the member's register of interests or if he/she has not notified the Monitoring Officer of it.
10. Where a matter arises at a meeting which relates to an interest in Appendix A which is a sensitive interest, the member shall not participate in a discussion or vote on the matter. If it is a sensitive interest which has not already been disclosed to the Monitoring Officer, the member shall disclose he/she has an interest but not the nature of it.
11. Where a matter arises at a meeting which relates to an interest in Appendix B, the member shall not vote on the matter. He/she may speak on the matter only if members of the public are also allowed to speak at the meeting.
12. A member only has to declare his/her interest in Appendix B if it is not already entered in his/her register of interests or he/she has not notified the Monitoring Officer of it or if he/she speaks on the matter. If he/she holds an interest in Appendix B which is a sensitive interest not already disclosed to the Monitoring Officer, he/she shall declare the interest but not the nature of the interest.
13. Where a matter arises at a meeting which relates to a financial interest of a friend, relative or close associate (other than an interest in Appendix A), the member shall disclose the nature of the interest and not vote on the matter. He/she may speak on the matter only if members of the public are also allowed to speak at the meeting. If it is a 'sensitive interest' the member shall declare the interest but not the nature of the interest.
14. On a written request made to the Council's proper officer, the Council may grant a member a dispensation to participate in a discussion and vote on a matter at a meeting even if he/she has an interest in Appendices A and B if the Council believes that the number of members otherwise prohibited from taking part in the meeting would impede the transaction of the business; or it is in the interests of the inhabitants in the Council's area to allow the member to take part or it is otherwise appropriate to grant a dispensation.
Appendix A
Interests defined by regulations made under section 30(3) of the Localism Act 2011 and described in the table below.
Subject Description
Employment, office, trade, profession or vocation Any employment, office, trade, profession or vocation carried on for profit or gain.
Sponsorship Any payment or provision of any other financial benefit (other than from the Council) made to the member during the 12 month period ending on the latest date referred to in paragraph 6 above for expenses incurred by him/her in carrying out his/her duties as a member, or towards his/her election expenses.
This includes any payment or financial benefit from a trade union within the meaning of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992.
Contracts Any contract made between the member or between his/her spouse or civil partner or the person with whom the member is living as if they were spouses/civil partners (or a body in which such a person is a partner in a firm, a director of an incorporated body or holds the beneficial interest in securities*) and the Council —
(a) under which goods or services are to be provided or works are to be executed; and
(b) which has not been fully discharged.
Land Any beneficial interest in land which is within the area of the Council.
Licences Any licence (alone or jointly with others) to occupy land in the area of the relevant authority for a month or longer.
Corporate tenancies Any tenancy where (to the member's knowledge)—
(a) the landlord is the Council; and
(b) the tenant is a body in which the member, or his/her spouse or civil partner/ the person with whom the member is living as if they were spouses/civil partners has a beneficial interest.
Securities Any beneficial interest in securities of a body where—
(a) that body (to the member's knowledge) has a place of business or land in the area of the Council; and
(b) either—
(i) the total nominal value of the securities* exceeds £25,000 or one hundredth of the total issued share capital of that body; or
(ii) if the share capital of that body is of more than one class, the total nominal value of the shares of any one class in which the relevant person has a beneficial interest exceeds one hundredth of the total issued share capital of that class.
*'Securities' means shares, debentures, debenture stock, loan stock, bonds, units of a collective investment scheme within the meaning of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 and other securities of any description, other than money deposited with a building society.
Appendix B
An interest which relates to or is likely to affect:
(i) any body of which the member is in a position of general control or management and to which he/she is appointed or nominated by the Council;
(ii) any body—
(a) exercising functions of a public nature;
(b) directed to charitable purposes; or
(c) one of whose principal purposes includes the influence of public opinion or policy (including any political party or trade union)
of which the member of the Council is a member or in a position of general control or management;
(iii) any gifts or hospitality worth more than an estimated value of £50 which the member has received by virtue of his or her office.
Note: Councillors declarations in respect of Appendices A & B will be published here soon. In the meantime please contact the Clerk to the Council if you wish to have a copy, for which a freedom of information act charge will be made.
Councillors register of interest
Click on the link below to read Councillors registers of interst.
Stelling Minnis Parish Councillors' Register of Interests
Reduction in Local Government funding may see services you take for
granted reduced in the future. Your Town or Parish Council could step in and
fill the void in your community – to do this it will need your skills &
Become a Local Councillor:
Elections for Town & Parish Councils will be held on 7th May 2015
If you would like to make a difference and be involved in shaping
the future of the local community, why not stand for election?
For more information download and read these information leaflets:
Information leaflet from Kent Association of local Councils (word file) - is also on noticeboard opposite shop.
Leaflet about Local Councils and what they do - pdf file.
Leaflet about being a local Councillor - PDF file - pdf fileFor information on Upper Hardres Parish Council - click here.
Kent Association of Local Councils have created a blog spot which has all the latest information which you will find of great interest if you are considering becoming a Parish Councillor.
Click here to go to the blog spot.
Stelling Minnis Parish Clerk has copies of the two leaflets, "What Local Councils do" and "becoming a local councillor". Just e-mail Nick at email@example.com with your name and address (must be in or within 3 miles of Stelling Minnis Parish) and he will send you both.
Stelling Minnis Parish Council has 7 Councillors who remain in position until a few days after the May 2015 elections. If more than 7 parishioners stand for election then there will be a contested election. If 7 or less stand then all will automatically be elected in an uncontested election.
If less than 7 Councillors are elected, then the remaining vacancies will be filled by co-option and details will be given after the 7th May elections. Service to the community is best served by a contested election and YOU could be one of the candidates.
If less than 3 people stand for election, then a second election will be called.
Parish Councils are not party political.
Stelling Minnis Parish Councillors will decide at the first meeting after the election who will represent them (normally a Councillor) as:-
Stelling Minnis Village Hall representative and trustee:
Stelling Minnis Common Trust as a trustee;
Stelling Minnis Windmill & MuseumTrust as a trustee;
Minnis Managers as an observer:
KALC Shepway area committee (2 posts);
Shepway planning user group;
Speedwatch co-odinator;
Highways portfolio - as a link between Kent Highways and Parish Council;
Footpath Warden * - Currently Martin Hart
Tree Warden * - Currently Paul Dimmock
Internal Auditor ** - Currently David Barlow
* does not have to be a Councillor. ** Can not be assocatiated with the Parish Council.
The Clerk and Responsible Finance Officer is a salaried post holder and employed by the Parish Council. Should the post become vacant, Councillors will be responsible for advertising the vacancy, interviewing and employing a replacement. A Councillor can hold these posts, but cannot be paid for doing so.
Parish Council has a very small budget and Councillors are responsible for deciding how the money is spent, under guidance from the Clerk and Responsible Finanace Officer.
Page designed and produced for Stelling Minnis Parish Council by Nick Smith - 2 August 2002
Updated 27 November 2014
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e-mail: email@example.com