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FELBRIDGE PARISH COUNCIL

 

Meetings are held on the first Thursday of each month (except January and August)

at 7.30pm in the Village Hall

 

 

Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting held on 6th May 2010

at 7.30pm in the Village Hall

 

Present:            Mr Ian McBryde (Chairman)

                        Mr Jeremy Clarke

                        Mrs Linda Hainge.

Mrs Joan Harwood

Mrs Bridget Huntington

Mr Jacob Woodd

Mr Ken Harwood (District Councillor)

Mr Michael Sydney (County Councillor) – attended part of meeting

                        Mrs Rosalind White (in attendance)

 

1.         APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE – Apologies for absence were received from Mr Brian Apps.

 

2.         DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

 

            Mrs Joan Harwood declared a personal and prejudicial interest in planning application TA/2010/401, the nature of the interest being that she is a close neighbour to this property.  In accordance with the Members’ Local Code of Conduct, she was not present at the meeting for the discussion and voting thereon. 

Mr Ian McBryde declared a personal interest in a request for a grant from Felbridge School, the nature of the interest being that he is a member of the School Governors.  In accordance with the Members’ Local Code of Conduct, he stayed in the meeting for the duration of the discussion and voting thereon.

There were no other additions to those previously registered.

 

The Chairman welcomed a resident from Crawley Down Road who has continuing concerns over the parking of vehicles on the pavements and grass verge by visitors to Evelyn House.  She has taken photos of 140 vehicles parked illegally.  PC Moira Cocks visited Evelyn House again in April and spoke to the Manager who is trying to get alternative parking.  TDC have confirmed that Surrey Highways are responsible for the 1.5 metres of verge bordering the highway.  The Chairman said that FPC would do all they could to resolve this problem.  Resolved:  It was agreed that the Clerk would ask David Curl, Surrey Highways, to visit and suggest solutions to parking on the grass verge.  The Chairman agreed to visit Evelyn House to discuss this issue.

 

3.         MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING

 

            The Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting held on 1st April were approved and signed.

 

4.         MATTERS ARISING

 

(i)         Woodcock Hill:  Ken Harwood had a meeting with Moira Cocks in April.  She is working hard and has had meetings with SCC.  David Curl has carried out a safety review with Surrey Police and agreed to re-site or replace some of the 40mph repeater signs and replace the damaged chevrons.  Moira Cocks is still asking SCC for a pole for the VAS on the northbound carriageway and investigating support for Community Speedwatch on the A22.  SCC have now


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admitted responsibility for the water which is running off their land.  Resolved:  Clerk to send a letter a further letter to Ian Lake, Cabinet Member for Highways, pointing out that SCC need to take these issues seriously and take action now.

(ii)        Road Signage at Newchapel roundabout:  Tony Cox attended the December meeting and asked if the road direction signs at this roundabout, which currently

direct traffic to Gatwick and Crawley towards East Grinstead and along the A264, could be changed to direct traffic via the improved junction at Judges Corner.  Resolved:  Clerk to follow up with Michael Sydney who agreed to discuss with Surrey Highways.

(iii)       Vehicle Activated Signs/Speed Limit Reductions:  The speed limit reductions have been implemented but the VAS signs have not been installed in Crawley Down Rd or on the eastbound A264.  Resolved:  Clerk to follow up with David Curl.

(iv)       Village Hall Carpark:  A letter of thanks has been received from the Village Hall Committee.  Steve Hyder, TDC, will monitor the tree on the bank during the summer to look for any signs of stress during dry periods.

(v)        Path from Puffin Crossing:  At a meeting on 22nd May 09, Steve Hyder, TDC, suggested railings alongside the pavement and a path across the green avoiding the trees.  A quote has been received from Nick Dance for £3,330.  TDC have confirmed that a Certificate of Lawfulness for a proposed development will be required.

(vi)       Village Sign:  Steve Hyder, TDC, has agreed in principle to the signs under consideration.  Resolved:  It was agreed that FPC would apply for planning permission with the path from the Puffin Crossing.  Jeremy Clarke to obtain quotes.

(vii)      Skateboard Ramp:  Paul Matten has been asked to send a copy of the most recent annual inspection report.

(viii)      St Catherine’s Hospice:  The Hospice hope to be able to replace their garden furniture in May.  FPC have agreed a donation of £100 once they have received a copy of the invoice.

(ix)       King George’s Field Plaques:  The plaques will be sited on the new gate posts at the entrance to the village hall carpark.  Resolved:  Clerk to write to TDC Legal Department asking them to investigate the possibility of a Lien on the Felbridge Playing Fields.

(x)        Verges outside 90, 92, 94 Copthorne Road:  A letter has been sent to the owner of No. 92 asking for the damaged verges to be repaired when the building work is completed.

(xi)              Complaints Report:  Jeremy Clarke has received an email from SCC to say that all corrective actions have taken place.

(xii)             Gritting:  Clerk has sent an email to David Curl to ask for the names of local farmers on the SCC list.

(xiii)           Repairs to fencing on bank in front of Village Hall:  Maintenance of the boundary is not mentioned in the lease sent to the Village Hall Committee.  Resolved:  As maintenance of the boundary is TDC’s responsibility, Clerk to send an email to TDC to ask them to look at the gaps along the front boundary.

(xiv)           Surrey Hills Society:  It has been confirmed by the Surrey Hills Leader Project Development Officer that Felbridge does not fall within the LEADER area.

(xv)            Management of Public Highway Verges, Ditches and Hedges:  FPC have received the list of verges.  During June/July SCC will issue to FPC the specifications of works to be sub-contracted.

(xvi)           Bridleway 257:  The draft report from the Ombudsman has found in favour of the residents with costs awarded against SCC.  The field should be restored by 6th May.

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(xvii)         Daffodils:  It was agreed to request a grant from the TDC Local Committee fund for £250 for daffodil and crocus bulbs to be planted in the public amenity areas of Felbridge.  Resolved:  Clerk to complete the forms.

(xviii)        Standing Orders:  The sub-committee met on 26th April and agreed draft Standing Orders which have been circulated to all councillors.  These were agreed by FPC.

(xix)           Surrey Army Cadet Force Cycle Challenge:  The Company Commander has spoken to Felbridge Cricket Club regarding an evening event on Friday, 23rd July.

 

5.         SURREY HIGHWAY REPAIRS:

 

(i)                  Pothole in Rowplatt Lane – 83075509:  Clerk to contact SCC.

(ii)                List of Repairs:  Michael Sydney asked the Clerk to send a copy of this list to David Curl, SCC, asking what plans SCC have to complete these repairs.

 

6.         COUNCILLORS’ REPORTS

 

(i)                  Access opposite 52 Rowplatt Lane:  TDC Enforcement Team will investigate.

(ii)                What’s on in Felbridge:  It was agreed that the Clerk should update this leaflet and circulate copies where required.

(iii)               Peacock Lodge Signs:  Concern was expressed over the number of special events signs.  Resolved:  Clerk to ask TDC if multi short-term advertising signs are permitted.

(iv)              Anti-social Behaviour in Playground:  This has been reported to Surrey Police by a councillor but no response has been received.  Resolved:  Clerk to contact Inspector Burtenshaw to ask who is the replacement PCSO for Felbridge.  Ian McBryde agreed to raise this issue with Neighbourhood Watch.

(v)                School Hedge:  Trimming of the hedge has been included in the school budget.

(vi)              Tree Overhanging A22:  Clerk to report to SCC if it is on the highway verge.

(vii)             Bonfires:  Residents should be aware of the potential dangers of bonfires in gardens.  Resolved:  Clerk to arrange for a note in the EG Observer, Village Website and Parish Magazine.

(viii)           Finances:  The current financial situation was summarised.  The Annual Accounts to 31.03.10 and the Annual Return have been completed.  The Internal Auditor has agreed the Year-end Accounts.

(ix)              Street Litter:  A resident has suggested a volunteer group to collect up litter.  Resolved:  Linda Hainge agreed to speak to the Scouts about organising litter picking.  Ian McBryde agreed to raise this issue with the school.  Clerk to arrange for a note in Elisabeth Woolley’s column in the EG Observer.

(x)                Felbridge School:  A request for a grant towards the cost of a bird bath in their Squirrel Wood has been received.  Resolved:  A donation of £250 was agreed to cover the cost of the bird bath and another item for their woodland area.

(xi)              Footpath alongside Wiremill Lake:  A stile has been broken down which allows access to horses and motorbikes.  Ken Harwood will investigate and report to SCC.

(xii)             Potholes:  Michael Sydney reported that SCC have now received the promised £1.5m funding and work has commenced on repairing potholes.  Potholes that are not ringed by coloured paint should be reported to SCC.

(xiii)           SCC:  New contracts are being drawn up for tender and there will be considerable reduction in SCC staffing.

(xiv)           Hub Project:  Steve Child, SCC Highways Group Manager, is looking at projects like this and has agreed to present a costed proposal to a Hub Meeting by end June.

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Mr Harwood left the meeting.

 

7.         PLANNING APPLICATIONS

 

Planning Meeting held on 15th April 2010 – attended by Ian McBryde, Brian Apps, Jeremy Clarke, Joan Harwood and Linda Hainge.

Applications Acknowledged 6th – 9th April 2010

TA/2010/381:  Land adjacent to Little Sorrel, Herons Lea, Copthorne.  Erection of dwelling.  Resolved:  No Action

 

Parish Council Meeting held on 6th May 2010

 

Applications Acknowledged 12th – 16th April 2010

Mrs Harwood left the meeting.

TA/2010/401:  Milcot, Mill Lane, Felbridge.  Erection of single storey rear and front extensions.  Resolved:  No Action.

Mrs Harwood returned to the meeting.

TA/2010/402:  Doves Barn, Copthorne Road, Felbridge.  Erection of 2 x 1.1m high non-illuminated signs located at entrance to site.  Resolved:  No Action.

TA/2010/438:  Churchill House, West Park Road, Newchapel.  Application to remove Condition 2 (Agricultural Occupancy) attached to Planning Permission GOR/27210C.  Resolved:  No Action.

Applications Acknowledged 19th – 23rd April 2010

None in Felbridge

Applications Acknowledged 26th – 30th April 2010

TA/2010/478:  Chester Lodge, Woodcock Hill, Felbridge.  Sub-division of building to provide dwelling and change of use of part of building to Veterinary Clinic.  Erection of single storey extension to front elevation to accommodate proposed clinic and internal alterations.  Resolved:  No Action

TA/2010/480:  The Star Inn, London Road, Felbridge.  Display of 2x non-illuminated signs, 8x externally illuminated signs and 1x internally illuminated sign. (Advertisement Consent).  Resolved:  FPC has no objection to this planning application so long as it is made clear to the applicant that this is the only signage approved.

TA/2010/500:  Chaffeys, Effingham Road, Copthorne.  Demolition of existing stables.  Erection of outbuilding incorporating 3 stables, tack room, garage and garden stores, and formation of new driveway.  Resolved:  No Action.

Mr Harwood returned to the meeting.

 

8.         CLERK’S REPORT AND CORRESPONDENCE

 

(i)         Verge near Houseman Close:  Antler Homes has instructed a company to repair these verges.

(ii)        Standards Training:  Training has been arranged for councillors at TDC Offices on 8th June.

(iii)               Felbridge Bowling Club:  A letter of thanks has been received for FPC’s donation towards the cost of replacing worktops.

(iv)              Surrey Wildlife Trust:  FPC’s membership is due for renewal on 1st May.  Resolved:  It was agreed to renew this membership at a cost of £38.

(v)                Surrey Rural Conference:  Surrey Rural Partnership will launch their Strategy on 12th May.

(vi)              Nancy McIver Trust:  A letter has been received asking for details of small local charitable housing associations that might be eligible for grants.  Resolved:  It was agreed that no suitable associations exist in Felbridge apart from Woodcock Housing Association which is already supported by this Trust.

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(vii)             TVSC Network Lunch:  The date of the May lunch has been changed to 20th May.

(viii)           Precept:  The first half yearly payment of £7,000 has been paid into FPC’s account.

(ix)              Surrey Council for Voluntary Youth Service:  A new Youth Development Worker has been appointed.  Resolved:  Clerk to investigate possibility of a short presentation.

(x)                Fuller’s Surrey Village of the Year 2010 Competition:  FPC have received an invitation to enter this competition.

(xi)              South East Care Association:  A letter has been received confirming that this organisation was wound up on 31st March 2010.

(xii)             In circulation:  Felbridge Parish News, April and May 10;  Surrey Community Action Magazine, Spring 10;  SEEDA Press Release re Broadband Funding, 24 Mar 10;  TDC Planning Committee Agenda, 8 Apr 10;  SALC Training Programme, 2010;  Email from SALC re Surrey Transport Plan consultation, 12 Apr 10;  TDC Resources Committee Agenda, 20 Apr 10;  Email re Rural Service Network, 15 Apr 10;  Surrey Hills Leader Grant Scheme – Overview of applications;  TVSC E-Bulletin, Apr 10;  TDC News Release re Tatsfield MUGA, 23 Apr 10;  TDC News Release re Lottery Projects, 23 Apr 10;  TDC Housing Committee Report to Council, 20 Apr 10;  TDC Licensing Committee Agenda, 19 Apr 10;  TDC Council Agenda, 29 Apr 10;  TDC Overview & Scrutiny Committee Agenda, 13 Apr 10;  Rural Services Network newsletter, May 10. 

 

9.         ACCOUNTS AND CHEQUES SIGNED:  Issue of the following cheques was approved by the Parish Council under Standing Orders:

 

765      Nick Dance                              Village Hall Entrance work                    £8048.75

766      B. Wright                                 Bus shelter cleaning for May

plus 63p underpayment in Mar      £30.01

767      R. White                                   Clerk’s salary for May                £222.19

768      HM Revenue & Customs          Income Tax for May                                 £55.40

769      R White                                    Office Allowance for May

and Petty Cash for Apr                 £72.26

770      Peter Frost                               Audit of Annual Return               £112.00

771      Broker Network Ltd                Annual Insurance Premium

01.06.10 – 31.05.11                              £725.19

772      SCAPTC                                 Annual Subs 2010-11 + LCR Subs        £571.20

773      TVSC                                      Annual Subs 01.04.10 – 31.03.11            £10.00

774      Ben Larkham Associates          Arboricultural Survey                              £376.00

775      Queensbury Shelters Ltd           Perch in bus shelter in Copthorne Rd       £334.88

 

10.       ANY OTHER BUSINESS – None.

 

11.       DATE OF NEXT MEETING:  The next meeting will be held on Thursday 3rd June 2010 at 8.00pm.

The meeting closed at approximately 10.15pm.

RW       12 May 2010