LOWER ALLITHWAITE PARISH COUNCIL
Minutes of the Meeting held in Cartmel Village Hall on Thursday, 8th April 2010.
PRESENT: Cllrs Huggett, (Chairman), Allen (Vice-Chair), Barker, Bird, Derbyshire, Fearon, Pascall, Shepherd, Unsworth, M Wilson, M E Wilson, County Councillor R Wilson. 2 members of the public.
1. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE Cllrs Bramwell, Drinkall, Palmer.
2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES AS CIRCULATED The Minutes of the Meeting held in The Village Hall, Cartmel on Thursday, 11th March 2010 as circulated were approved. Proposed by Cllr Allen, seconded by Cllr Derbyshire and signed as a true record.
3. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST in respect of items on Agenda. None
4. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION IN RELATION TO ITEMS ON THE AGENDA None at this point.
5. BUSINESS ARISING FROM MINUTES
i) Cartmel Car Park Deed of Surrender To receive recommendations from Legal service at NALC. Information had now been received from CALC and NALC. They had questioned if the 1998 Lease was actually a Lease. Clause 3.2. in the Deed could be used to nullify all the conditions identified in Clause 3.1. (ie permits for residents etc, parking for sport clubs etc) all the conditions the Parish Council wanted to preserve for the Community. Clause 7 – Release of the Landlord was not understood. The Chairman considered that the legal department at NALC did not appreciate the working partnership between Holker, Parish Council and the community for preserving the Village. It was generally agreed that the Lease Agreement would not be renewed after the expiry date in five years time. Proposed by Cllr Barker, seconded by Cllr Pascall to request that Holker Solicitor delete Clause 3.2 and explain Clause 7. Unanimous.
ii) Website for Parish Council A further meeting would be arranged. Cllr M E Wilson considered that a management team should be set up consisting of a representative from the Parish Council, Village Society and other Village organisations. She agreed to speak to Fr Robert as Chairman of the Cartmel Traders regarding setting up and achieving this team. Andrew Armitage had confirmed that the work on the Allithwaite website was progressing well. The site would be easy to use for anyone involved and will showcase local community clubs, events and activities.
iii) Provision of Allotments – Parish Council Field Following the application, Fiona Clark Planning Officer had confirmed that there was local concern about allotment holders parking. Cllr Huggett and Cllr Pascall had planned four or five parking spaces on the allotment site and Cllr Huggett would visit the planning surgery to consult with the planning officer for her opinion on this parking provision.
iv) Parish Plan The working party had not met. Cllr Cameron had tendered his resignation from the Council (see Correspondence after Agenda). He had confirmed he would hand over the Parish Statement documentation and electronic files when it was decided who would lead the plan. Cllr M E Wilson offered to join the working party and suggested that Cllr Cameron be asked if he wished to stay on.
v) TalkToilets Consultation The consultation date had been extended until 11th April. Cllr Allen had facilitated a survey sheet in the Ladies and Gents toilets at Cartmel. 136 ladies signed and 94 gents signed all in favour of toilet provision being a statutory duty of the District Council. Cllrs were asked to complete the questionnaire on their own behalf and one would be completed by the Chairman on behalf of the Parish Council. A copy of the survey sheets would also be forwarded to the consultation team.
vi) Farmers Market It was suggested that the community should be consulted regarding a Farmers Market. An article will be included in the Newsletter asking for residents to let a Councillor know if they would be favour of a Farmers Market. Cllr Huggett confirmed that the Village Hall at Cartmel was very well booked up to 2012 and it could be a problem at this venue.
vii) Parish Paths Initiative Verbal confirmation had been received from the Parish Paths initiative that a grant would be provided for drainage work on the Burns Farm-Over Ridge bridleway. The Chairman was waiting for a specification, on receipt of this two estimates would be required for the work.
viii) Proposed Highway Closure at Low Frith All Councillors had been invited to a site meeting on this Highway which unfortunately was not very well attended. There was no footpath or bridleway following on from the end of this highway but it was confirmed that walkers accessed Roudsea Wood this way. A copy of the response to this requested closure from David Gibson, CCC Rights of Way Officer had suggested that this Highway could be downgraded to a bridleway rather than extinguished. This was well used by walkers but it was noted that No Pedestrians – No access notices had been posted by Holker. It was not sure if downgrading to a bridleway would happen and future opportunities for public access would be lost. Proposed by the Chairman and Unanimously agreed that the Parish Council should respond that they were not in favour of this closure.
ix) Clerk’s Report A letter had been received from Keith Masser, CCC, regarding the condition of the road at Haggs Lane and Wraysholme Lane. A temporary repair on Haggs Lane had been carried out, a permanent, machine resurfacing will be considered in the new financial year. He had asked a colleague to carry out a further inspection of the road to Humphrey Head and arrange any remedial works as necessary. National Park extension of boundary No reply had been received regarding the extension of the boundary to include Cartmel area. Sustainable Communities Act An e-mail in support of the Amendment Bill had been sent to Harriet Harman. Taranaki Villas Permission had been given for a new access at No. 3. Citizens Advice Bureau An acknowledgement and letter of thanks had been received. Mrs Naylor, speed of traffic on Holme Lane The Clerk had been informed that there would be surface dressing on this Lane and the work was more or less at the top of the programme for this year. No further white line marking would be done until after this work was carried out. John Bell, (Principle traffic engineer) at Cumbria Highways has confirmed that 30 circles where there are streetlights are no longer allowed. He suggested SLOW markings. A permanent speed device would only be installed where there is a history of accidents or accidents concerning excessive speed and that it was considered that over time the effect of a permanent device diminishes. C Cllr R Wilson confirmed he had requested the mobile speed device to be installed approximately half-way up the hill and not at the bottom as previously done. A letter supporting the SLOW markings to be sent with a copy of Mrs Naylor’s letter to John Bell. District Councillor Report Cllr M E Wilson confirmed that the consultation regarding the extension of the National Park had been discussed. It was proposed that there was a need to ask for full consultation with the local communities about the extension. One Cllr called-in this proposal. SLDC planning turned down the proposed site for a new Auction Mart as it was considered the access was so poor and that this was not the right site. County Councillor Report Cllr Wilson referred to the Winter Maintenance review (see Correspondence). He urged the Parish Council to respond to this review and was willing to meet to help with a discussion. Walk around Allithwaite Cllr Wilson confirmed he was willing to walk around Allithwaite to discuss road safety and asked for other Cllrs to join him. He had booked Cumbria CC landscape expert to talk to the PC about the environment and protecting the landscape. This would take place at the June meeting. Cartmel white lines Further requests had been made to him for additional white lines – he suggested waiting for the installation of the new lines and carry out a review at a later date.
6. FINANCE
i) Parish Council Community a/c £856.04. Business Base Rate Tracker £14,435.37. Community a/c £9,084.45. Business Reserve £16,040.14. ii) Money Received Pay & Display £2,439.50. Barclays Bank PC Interest £2.29, CP Interest £2.00. iii) Cheques for Approval Clerk March Salary £378.00 + £18.08 Expenses. Broadband £17.99. Mr P Barton March Salary £100.00. Mr T Newby March Salary £50.00. Viking Direct new toner & printer cartridge £137.94 + £24.13 VAT. Barclays Bank charge 95p. Proposed by Cllr Allen, seconded by Cllr Pascall that Finance be approved. Unanimous.
7. PLANNING
i) Consideration of relevant planning applications SL/2010/2010 Approved.. SL/2010/2000 Sewage Treatment Plant. Cllr Huggett considered the size of this was totally inadequate. Using figures provided by Holker these were wrong by a factor of 4. He could prove evidence of vehicle usage working on the ticket provision. He would speak to John Coward regarding these figures and also to Fiona Clark at the Planning surgery.
ii) Applications Approved by SLDC: Erection of 2 agricultural buildings, formation of yard areas and agricultural access with associated landscaping south of Blenket Farm, Allithwaite. Internal & External Alterations (+LBC) Fairfield, Cartmel.
iii) Applications Refused by SLDC None to Date.
iv) Applications Recommended for Approval by Parish Access Track, Westwinds, Allithwaite Road.
v) Applications Recommended for Refusal by Parish Council: None to Date.
vi) Application No Comment Erection of Lodge (retrospective) The Pastures, Allithwaite.
vii) Application Withdrawn Rear Extension & Alterations including partial demolition Wayside, Cartmel.
8. CORRESPONDENCE
i) The Planning Inspectorate Public Path Modification Order Public Inquiry 10th August at 10.00am Lower Holker Village Hall – Bridleway No. 549013 Greenbank Lane to Aynsome It was not sure what part the Parish Council could play in this inquiry, how best to support and if evidence of use was needed. The Clerk to enquire.
ii) CCC Winter Maintenance in South Lakeland Two Consultation Documents to be completed also it was important to review the position of grit bins, grit heaps and new bins required. All Cllrs were requested to identify the sites of these in their area and where new bins were required (a list had previously been made but confirmation was needed). The priority gritting routes should be reviewed and any new priority routes identified (one already requested Egg Pudding Stone corner to A590 junction). The Clerk should receive these before the end of the consultation period on 4th May 2010.
OTHER CORRESPONDENCE
i) Police Authority Survey Stakeholder survey. It was not understood the difference between the Police Authority and the Police service. Cllr Allen agreed to take the survey.
ii) Association of Small Historic Towns & Villages – Wednesday, 21st April at Bindloss Room, Kendal Town Hall This event will investigate the opportunities and difficulties involved in the re-use of historic buildings in rural areas for residential & commercial. Noted.
iii) Resignation of Cllr Ewan Cameron Cllr Cameron wished to stand down after three years to make way for someone new with more time and energy and fresh ideas. Vacancy to be advertised in the usual way.
9. OTHER MATTERS
i) Newsletter Issue 25 The Clerk had produced a draft letter but additional articles had been received which needed to be added. Additional articles also to be included following this meeting regarding the Farmers Market and the public enquiry re the modification order for bridleway 549013.
ii) Parish Council Cottage, 1 Vicarage Lane, Allithwaite The Clerk had received the keys from Neville Leviston, the Cottage had been emptied, the tenancy was now over. The Chairman and the Clerk had met with Heather Squire, SLDC Housing Renewal Officer and she had confirmed that the Parish Council would be eligible for a Landlord Improvement Grant. It was considered that the work needed would include: installation of central heating, electrical inspection to include installation of mains wired fire alarm system and any necessary upgrades, replacement of remaining single glazed windows with double-glazing and all and any necessary works to ensure the property was free from damp. The likely level of grant would be up to 50% of the cost of the works, to a maximum of £20,000. Two estimates from all contractors would be needed. Cllr Huggett had spoken to John Coward, Architect and he had agreed to give his professional advice and opinion of the necessary work needed – hopefully free!!
10. QUESTIONS/ANSWERS/REPORTS/COMPLAINTS
Cllr M Wilson complained about the overflowing dog bin at the entrance to the wood – Cartmel Park. Also an A-board was positioned across the pavement at the new barbers shop on the Causeway. Cllr M E Wilson to report.
Cllr Shepherd Reported that the flooding was very bad on Wartbarrow Lane at the area previously reported.
Cllr Unsworth reported a drain on Cark Road which needed digging out. Highway Steward to be notified.
Mr D Hunt (member of the public) Volunteered to help with the Parish Plan. He had been involved in the conservation plan for the Gatehouse at Cartmel.
The Meeting closed at 10.00pm and the Chairman thanked everyone for attending. The next meeting will be The Annual Parish and Annual General Meeting to be held in The Village Hall, Cartmel on Thursday, 13th May 2010.
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Minutes of the Meeting held in Cartmel Village Hall on Thursday, 11th March 2010.
PRESENT: Cllrs Huggett, (Chairman), Allen (Vice-Chair), Bird, Bramwell, Cameron, Derbyshire, Drinkall, Palmer, Shepherd, Unsworth, M Wilson, M E Wilson.
1. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE Cllrs Barker, Pascall, County Councillor R Wilson.
2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES AS CIRCULATED The Minutes of the Meeting held in The Village Hall, Cartmel on Thursday, 11th February 2010 as circulated were approved. Proposed by Cllr Bramwell, seconded by Cllr Allen and signed as a true record.
3. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST Declarations of personal/prejudicial interests in respect of items on Agenda. Cllr Cameron for Item 5) i) Cartmel Car Park. Cllr Allen & Cllr Unsworth for Item 8)ii.
4. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION IN RELATION TO ITEMS ON THE AGENDA None.
PRESENTATION BY SLDC MARKETS MANAGER – TONY BROCKLEHURST
Mr Brocklehurst confirmed he was very willing to help in any way he could to set up a market and help create jobs and work in the area. It should be decided if it was a Farmers Market or General Market that was required. He thought Cartmel Village Hall or the Square was a very good venue but that Allithwaite Community Centre was not as accessible. Several options were available, individual traders would need public liability insurance, would supply their own stalls and would be charged at approx £1 per foot for an 8ft table – this could be more in the summer months. Someone would need to control who came to the market, take bookings, be available on the day to allocate space, collect money, troubleshoot and supervise the collection of waste. He strongly recommended a Friday for a market. The amount of work would be considerably less if a “Made in Cumbria” market was organised. They would be in charge and the market would be organised by them and one payment would be made for the whole. A Made in Cumbria food only market could be arranged. Councillors were asked to consider the options for discussion at the next meeting.
5. BUSINESS ARISING FROM MINUTES
i) Cartmel Car Park Deed of Surrender No response received as yet from NALC. Further information had been requested which the Clerk had supplied immediately. Guy Richardson from CALC had confirmed the solicitor at NALC had some doubts about whether the Deed of Surrender could be relied on to deliver the PC the benefits it was looking for. Work on bridge – Cark Shaw Woods Work would be carried out to strengthen this bridge. Detours would be marked and it was confirmed that this was a permissive path. Cartmel Village Residents’ Access Passes for race meetings All Councillors had received a copy of the suggestions for the proposed Access passes. Discussion took place about the problems etc in the Village on Race Days. It was considered that numbers of parking places in the Village Hall car park could be a problem – residents given priority. Parking for visitors just to the Village was still a problem. Residents parking signs to be requested for Town End Meadows/Orchard Close. Proposed by Cllr Drinkall, seconded by Cllr Bramwell that the passes should be accepted and monitored for this year. Carried by Majority – 3 Against. Comments/Views on setting up of Harley Davidson Rally Nigel Taylor requested PC views on holding this rally. He had confirmed that signposting would direct traffic through Wood/Field Broughton. The response to be in favour with reservations.
ii) Website for Parish Cllr M E Wilson confirmed that no further meeting had been held. Discussion took place regarding applying for a grant and Cllr Wilson confirmed that only constituted bodies could apply for Neighbourhood Forum grants. It was questioned if PC could apply? More details for next month in the meantime Cartmel Community pages would probably go live before the next meeting. The Clerk confirmed that she had had the PC computer repaired and Andrew Armitage (Allithwaite website) confirmed that any current Personal computer would be suitable for updating the website. The software used by the website does not need to be installed on the PC computer but would run from the website – any machine with a web connection would be suitable.
iii) Provision of Allotments – Parish Council Field The application had been submitted for Change of Use and was displayed for Cllrs to note. Cllr Huggett had spoken to Fiona Clark at SLDC and she confirmed that a few concerns had been raised regarding extra parking on Church Road. She had mentioned that a car, presumably belonging to one of the existing allotment holders, was parked close to Church Road junction. An access permit had also been applied for to provide a farm gate for the field.
iv) Cartmel Post Office report from meeting with Post Office Ltd A review meeting had taken place. It was confirmed that business had not reached the levels they thought it might. It was considered the Outreach provided a more secure basis of service. It was recommended that a full survey would not take place but that residents be encouraged to use the Outreach. An article to appear in the Newsletter.
v) South Lakeland Area Shoreline Management – to note response to Consultation. Cllr M E Wilson had responded in her capacity as District and Parish Councillor. She confirmed that following discussion with farmers they were not concerned particularly about the coastal defences but the environment agencies current policies on clearing cuts and drains. Noted.
vi) Clerk’s Report Confirmation had been received of the new model Standing Orders. A review to be included on the Agenda for a future “quiet” meeting. Extension of National Parks Boundaries This had been mentioned previously and the question was asked why Cartmel had not been included in this extension. Cllr R Wilson had attended a presentation to the South Lakeland Local Committee of Cumbria CC and had expressed surprise that Cartmel was not included also. Christoph Kratz, North West designations team had confirmed that there was no prospect of any change that will affect LA parish in the near future. A response to be forwarded asking why the area had been included in original proposals back in the 1940s, but not now - it seemed to meet the criteria for inclusion. Talk Toilets Consultation Several Cllrs had attended the exhibition at Grange. Questionnaires were available for members to complete. Cllr Huggett considered a response should be sent from the PC. In the meantime a sheet would be posted in the Cartmel toilets for support and or comments regarding keeping toilets open. This to be on next months Agenda. Speed Activating Device It was noted that this SID had been installed on the School post outside Cartmel Priory School. District Councillor Report Cllr M E Wilson provided a copy of her report. A summary is as follows: meetings she had attended were outlined, information provided about the SLDC budget and an increase in parking charges. Unfortunately, a 30 mins free parking in at least one car park in all the major service centres, which she had tried to obtain, had been unsuccessful. SLDC had reduced its workforce by 10% during the year. Resources have been freed up to examine partnership working with other authorities and the Devolution Task and Finish committee have come up with some recommendations. County Councillor Report The budget had been agreed and the County Council were entering a period of austerity – to protect education and health a reduced budget will mean a reduced service for highways. Cartmel white markings still to be done. Highways have rejected the request for Longlands Farm via Egg Pudding Stone to be included on the priority gritting schedule saying there is an alternative and safer route up the Valley. Gritting A review will take place regarding the less than satisfactory response to the severe winter. Grit Bins likely to be a formal request to review bin locations to provide a master list. Pot Holes please report to Highways Hotline. Hedge opposite Cartmel Priory School this has now been laid. Road Safety & Speed Limits – Schools There are some issues about road safety and children’s journeys to school. These will be picked up after a definitive response to the request from the SL Local Committee for the CC to review the draft response to the Department For Transport consultation letter on Traffic Speeds and Road safety. Bridleway 549013 An update and anticipated completion date for the modification order should be requested.
6. FINANCE
i) Parish Council Community a/c £901.61. Business Base Rate Tracker £17,435.37. Community a/c £7,897.06. Business Reserve £16,040.14. ii) Money Received Pay & Display £1,514.10. Able Memorials £157.00 Memorial P J McCabe. iii) Cheques for Approval Clerk February Salary £378.00 + £16.10 Expenses. Broadband £17.99. Sasko PC Computer £50.00. Sandy Kitching Website £830.00. Armitage Online Solutions Website (40% of total) £663.00 + £116.03 VAT. CALC Annual Subscription £250.00. Cartmel Village Hall £24.00 Room Hire. Lengthsman 19hrs @ £11 £209.00. CAB Donation £300.00. CCC New access permit £180.00. Mr P Barton February Salary £100.00. Mr T Newby February Salary £50.00. SLDC Final Quarter Toilet Contribution £1,102.11. Proposed by Cllr Bramwell, seconded by Cllr Allen that Finance be approved. Unanimous. iv) Review of Risk Assessment & Review of effectiveness of internal audit All in favour that a review and assessment had been undertaken and that this could be confirmed when answering the Section in the Annual Return.
7. PLANNING
i) Consideration of relevant planning applications SL/2010/0097 Approved. SL/2010/1113 No response. SL/2010/0122 PC Allotments – Noted.
- Applications Approved by SLDC: Detached Garage with Store over Damson Byre, Allithwaite. Extensions & Alterations The Pheasant Inn, Allithwaite.
iii) Applications Refused by SLDC None to Date.
iv) Applications Recommended for Approval by Parish Rear Extension & Alterations including partial demolition & demolition of part of outbuilding to rear of Wayside, Cartmel (with concerns). Internal & External Alterations Fairfield, Cartmel.
v) Applications Recommended for Refusal by Parish Council: None to Date.
iv) Appeal Dismissed Anthemion Gallery, change of use from Class A1 to Class A3.
8. CORRESPONDENCE
i) CALC Spring Training Programme The training programme was outlined. An Introduction to Open Space Protection would be held at the Gilpin Bridge Inn on 29th March 7-9.30pm. Noted.
ii) Licence Application “The Red Pepper”, Cartmel No objections.
iii) Mrs S Naylor, Lyndene, Holme Lane, Allithwaite Correspondence regarding speed of traffic on Holme Lane. Mrs Naylor had requested at the very least 30mph circles on Holme Lane. The Clerk confirmed that she had been told that resurfacing work was to be carried out and enquiries to be made if this included Holme Lane. Cllr M E Wilson proposed that road safety should be included in the Parish Plan.
OTHER CORRESPONDENCE
i) King George V Jubilee Playing Field Application for installation of Jukebox – Twist. The Chairman and Clerk had not met with the Chairperson Mrs Tunnadine of the playing field as she was not available. Concerns in the dissolution part of the Constitution had been mentioned and she confirmed she would feed these back to the committee. Mrs Tunnadine had contacted the SLDC Planning department regarding the totaliser sign. A request had been made for installation of the Jukebox – Twist playground equipment to be installed. There were no objections and all were in favour of approval.
9. OTHER MATTERS
i) Progression of Parish Plan Report from working party. The working party had not met and it was confirmed that a proposal had been made previously to progress the plan.
ii) CCC – request for highway closure at Low Frith Request for comments. Cllr Huggett took all the information to read and a response to be discussed at the next meeting.
iii) Parish Paths Intiative Approval of grant application. The public footpath mentioned as in need of a pedestrian gate at Templand Farm, Allithwaite would not qualify due to locked vehicle gate which closed the definitive line of the footpath. The farmer to be contacted. Cllr Huggett had walked other paths which had been mentioned as in need of attention with Guy Timperley from Capita. Cllr Huggett reported on the condition of the path Burns Farm to Overidge which was in need of drainage repair work. Proposed by the Chairman and Unanimously agreed to apply for £1,500 grant from the Parish Paths Initiative for this drainage work
10. QUESTIONS/ANSWERS/REPORTS/COMPLAINTS
Cllr M E Wilson Asked if she should contact the Dog Warden to look at problems in Allithwaite Village. Agreed.
Cllr Palmer confirmed that this year the Allithwaite Carnival would parade around the Village and asked if overflow parking could be arranged in the Parish Council field. It was agreed to see what could be done nearer the time.
Cllr Bird Mentioned Streetlight not replaced at top of Holme Lane – this would take some time.
Cllr Cameron Mentioned 30mph sign at Pit Farm – Highways Steward has this in hand.
.
The Meeting closed at 10.00pm and the Chairman thanked everyone for attending. The next meeting will be held in The Village Hall, Cartmel on Thursday, 8th April 2010.
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Minutes of the Meeting held in Cartmel Village Hall on Thursday, 11th February 2010.
PRESENT: Cllrs Huggett, (Chairman), Allen (Vice-Chair), Barker, Bird, Bramwell, Cameron, Derbyshire, Drinkall, Palmer, Pascall, Unsworth, M Wilson. M E Wilson, County Councillor Rod Wilson (for part of the meeting). 2 members of the public.
1. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE Cllr Shepherd.
2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES AS CIRCULATED The Minutes of the Meeting held in The Village Hall, Cartmel on Thursday, 14th January 2010 as circulated were approved. Proposed by Cllr Allen, seconded by Cllr M Wilson and signed as a true record.
3. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST Declarations of personal/prejudicial interests in respect of items on Agenda. Cllr Cameron for Item 5) i) Cartmel Car Park. Cllr Allen for Planning Application SL/2010/0051
4. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION IN RELATION TO ITEMS ON THE AGENDA None at this point.
PRESENTATION BY MRS JUDITH DERBYSHIRE – CUMBRIA RURAL HOUSING TRUST (CRHT)
ACCOMPANIED BY LUCY REYNOLDS SLDC HOUSING
Judith Derbyshire gave a report on the results of the CRHT survey conducted in December 2008 (see report in August 09 Minutes). She confirmed there was a clear need to keep community going with young people to come along – or become an ageing community. Lucy Reynolds (SLDC) would work with communities to find solutions to the lack of affordable housing (housing which meets a need below market value) l.Reynolds@southlakeland.gov.uk. There was a need to raise young local people up on the priority list. More rental properties were needed because of the high deposit needed for shared ownership. The Orchard Close HOME association were re doing their housing register with stricter criteria and she thought this was the reason why no names were on their waiting list. Young people should be encouraged to go on the list which should be more accessible. Lucy encouraged the Parish Council to support the action from the CRHT survey. A member of the public thought that young people should be spread around the community and not situated in a group. Larger development sites included affordable housing mixed in with other properties, smaller groups of properties could not be grouped together to provide this housing. Lynne Gilbertson (SLDC) empty homes officer (l.gilbertson@southlakeland.gov.uk) was keen to work with Parishes to investigate empty homes, enforcement action could be taken as a final resort. A question was asked if any grants were available for renovating homes. Lucy confirmed that grants were available but work on property must not of be started before applying – she considered the Parish Council could apply for a grant. A question regarding buying back former council houses was considered not generally economic and that no funds were available at the moment. The Chairman thanked Judith and Lucy for their presentation.
5. BUSINESS ARISING FROM MINUTES
- Cartmel Car Park To receive recommendations from Legal service at CALC. The Clerk reported that the Deed had to go to NALC legal department and had not as yet been received back. The Clerk asked if Mr Barton and Mr T Newby should receive Notice. It was suggested that they could now be advised they would be on a one month short term contract.
ii) Website for Parish The working party had met and Cllr M E Wilson reported on the progress. Cartmel - a link off the home page would be Community News. This would include Parish Council information and Village Society activities. A further page could include advance notices. Cllr Bramwell suggested that it should be clarified and double-checked with Cartmel Traders that they give the go ahead for this Community News on their own website. Cllr M E Wilson confirmed that some sort of ownership and management committee should be set up. Cllr Barker questioned the Domain names – this was Demon for Cartmel and the Domain name for the Allithwaite site was included in the quotation for the first 12 months. Proposed by Cllr M E Wilson, seconded by Cllr Bramwell that the quotation for £830.00 from Sandy Kitching for setting up the Community section of the website for Cartmel should be accepted and the quotation for £1,657.50 + £290.06 VAT (the VAT would be reclaimed) from Armitage Online Solutions for a new Allithwaite website be accepted. Carried by Majority. 3 Abstentions. Cllr M E Wilson confirmed that the cost for keeping running would not be significant and she would investigate grant funding from Neighbourhood Forum and Action for Rural Communities for help towards the setting up costs..
iii) Provision of Allotments – Parish Council Field A Change of Use application from grazing land to allotments had been completed and Cllr Huggett had measured out the site for Phase 1 – 6 allotments and Phase 2 – 5 allotments. He considered that phase 2 would only be completed if there was sufficient interest but that one application would save on re-applying at a future date. The fee was £167.50. Proposed by Cllr Huggett, seconded by Cllr Bramwell and Unanimously agreed that the application be submitted. New Access Field Gate – Vicarage Lane. County Council had confirmed that if the gate was not set back 4.5 metres from the highway a wider gate should be used. Mr Moorhouse had suggested a 12ft gate. A Vehicle Access Construction permit at £180.00 was required before any work could be done. Proposed by Cllr Allen, seconded by Cllr Drinkall that the permit be applied for. Unanimous.
iv) Cartmel Post Office County Cllr Rod Wilson confirmed that he had met with a small group of Councillors to discuss problems and possibilities. It was agreed to request that a representative from Post Office Ltd meet with them to confirm if the business of the outreach service was disappointing and if they thought the needs were being met. Consideration would then be given as to whether things remain the same or if a survey of the Village needs to take place.
v) South Lakeland Area Shoreline Management Plan Response to Consultation. Cllr M E Wilson reported that she had visited local farmers who were not concerned about the sea defences as they thought they were sufficient – a lot of work had just been done. They were concerned about the Environment Agency change of policy regarding clearing out the cuts. Only one clear out of cuts was now carried out resulting in summer crops becoming waterlogged. This was good agricultural land but bad drainage and the farmers felt the Environment Agency should be doing more work and not relying on them. Cllr M E Wilson agreed to put together and send a response.
vi) Clerk’s Report The CALC newsletter had details of a new publication “Guidance on Administration Law for Town and Parish Councils with an updated “model” standing orders. It confirmed that a review of Standing Orders should take place. CALC are asking Cumbria Vision to arrange a presentation for all local councils regarding “The Scope for Renewable Energy in Cumbria”. CALC has also arranged a meeting with CCC to discuss various highways issues, including snow clearance, gritting, highways repairs, Highway Stewards. An acknowledgement re gritting road C5053 (Egg Pudding Stone corner to A590) had been received and an acknowledgement received from Tim Farron confirming that he supported the Sustainable Communities Act amendment. Nominations for the Royal Garden Party – Chairman Cllr Huggett to be nominated. District Councillor Report Cllr M E Wilson confirmed that she would arrange a presentation regarding Farmers Markets for next month. She had received various concerns from residents following walking around Allithwaite village, these to be followed up, but on the whole residents seemed very pleased with everything. County Councillor Report C Cllr Rod Wilson supplied a paper setting out Cumbria Policy in response to a Government consultation “A Safer Way”. He felt that local highway engineers and the police were unsympathetic in relation to 20mph speed limits. Gritting was discussed at Local Committee, agreed that a lot of people worked very hard, but could have been better – there will be a review. Cllr Huggett asked why was gritting still being done on dry roads and that this was a waste of money – Cllr Wilson to feed this back. Pot Holes A National and local concern following the bad weather. An extra £50k put into funding patching gangs by Local Committee with hopefully a further £50k to follow. Cllr Huggett complained about Haggs Lane which was now disintegrating following resent road surfacing – he considered quality control not being done properly. Cllr Wilson to feed this back. CC Budget Not an encouraging picture!!
Item 9) i) Extra White Lines in Cartmel Village Cllr Rod Wilson expressed thanks to John Bell and Keith Masser for help in producing the plan for further white lines. This work would be funded by members allowance. He considered the lines should be applied and monitored with modifications in light of experience. Cllr Huggett outlined the extra lines and discussion took place regarding a pedestrian “footpath” marking on the Causeway. Cllr Cameron considered this should be on the hedgeside of the road. This was agreed and Cllr Wilson would request this.
6. FINANCE
i) Parish Council Community a/c £669.54. Business Base Rate Tracker £18,435.37. Community a/c £6,635.50. Business Reserve £16,040.14. Money Received Pay & Display £989.90. Able Memorials Add Inscription Wendy Hadwin £36.00. iii) Cheques for Approval Clerk January Salary £378.00 + £14.94 Expenses. Broadband £17.99. Lengthsman 27hrs @ £11 £297.00. Mr P Barton January Salary £100.00. Mr T Newby January Salary £50.00. Metric Group Ltd Maintenance P & D £102.54. SLDC Planning Fee Allotments £167.50. Permission was given to apply for permit for new access gate on Vicarage Lane. Proposed by Cllr Bramwell, seconded by Cllr M E Wilson that Finance be approved. Unanimous. The Clerk was having many problems with the Parish Council computer. This was now six years old. Proposed by Cllr Bramwell, seconded by Cllr Pascall that enquiries and prices should be obtained for a new one. Unanimous.
7. PLANNING
i) Consideration of relevant planning applications SL/2010/0051 Approved with concerns. SL/2010/0066 & 67 Approved.
- Applications Approved by SLDC: Replacement Detached Garage Honeythwaite, Cartmel. Conversion & Alteration – formation of 2 retail & 2 holiday apartments Priory Hotel, demolition of Bungalow (Reddern) & construction of new Bungalow.
iii) Applications Refused by SLDC None to Date.
iv) Applications Recommended for Approval by Parish Replacement Detached Garage Honeythwaite, Cartmel.
v) Applications Recommended for Refusal by Parish Council: Change of use from Hotel accommodation Priory Hotel and new bungalow construction Reddern, Cartmel. (The Parish Council felt strongly that the Priory Hotel should be retained as a Hotel. Following the loss of three bed and breakfast businesses in the Village, members felt it would be detrimental to lose further letting/bed & breakfast rooms and tourist accommodation which is vital in the heart of the Village. They consider that the adjacent bungalow should be retained for provision of staff accommodation as was originally permitted. Should the Priory Hotel discontinue to provide tourist letting rooms the bungalow should be demolished and no new construction, which would be overbearing and inappropriate, should take place.
vi) Abstention from Response Erection of two agricultural buildings, formation of yard areas & agricultural access with associated landscaping (retrospective). (Members did not know what was going on – were the buildings being used in connection with the farming business? A request for the planning committee to conduct a site visit was proposed).
vii) Discharge of Conditions 3 & 4 Planning Application SL/2006/1006 The Coach House, Hard Crag House, Cartmel. Noted.
8. CORRESPONDENCE
i) SLDC/Visiontwentyone Consultation on the future of public toilets in South Lakeland SLDC currently operate 40 public toilets across the area costing £790,000.00. Some are rarely used, others were not as accessible as they should be, a number need urgent upgrades. The Council wants to continue to provide toilets in key locations and must withdraw funding in other areas. There will be a public exhibition at St Paul’s Parish Hall, Grange-over-Sands on Monday 1st March 3pm-6.30pm – a preview session for PC’s 2-3pm before the exhibition.
OTHER CORRESPONDENCE None
9. OTHER MATTERS
i) King George V Jubilee Playing Field A reply had been received from the Chairperson Viv Tunnadine to the letter raising concerns expressed by the Parish Council regarding the change of name of the playground, the erection of new equipment/totaliser sign and a new Constitution. It appears that the committee had considered they had received permission for new equipment in the playground from the Parish Council at their presentation on 9th October 2008 – this permission approved refurbishment in principle - but not any specific details. They had also contacted SLDC and been given the advice that erecting various structures on land within the Parish Council ownership was permitted development rights, they considered this covered the totaliser sign. The previous Parish Council representative on their committte had not provided regular feedback of their plans etc. which had resulted in misunderstanding. A new Constitution had been adopted without Parish Council knowledge and some Clauses in this caused concern. It was suggested by the Chairman that a meeting should be arranged to discuss these concerns. All in favour.
ii) Allithwaite Playing Fields & Community Centre Association New Constitution. Cllr Pascall had provided a copy of the proposed new constitution. Following slight amendments the Constitution was accepted.
iii) Parish Council Cottage – 1 Vicarage Lane, Allithwaite Notice given for Tenancy. The Clerk had received notice that Mrs Leviston had passed away. Neville Leviston (son) gave notice that the Cottage would therefore be cleared out. Rent paid upto 31st March 2010. In the meantime enquiries to be made regarding a renovation grant.
iv) Application for Funding: Citizens Advice Bureau, Mencap, Great North Air Ambulance All these organisations were requesting grant funding. The Citizens Advice Bureau had previously received £300 covered by Section 137 ( grants provided for the benefit of its area, or part of its area, or all or some of its inhabitants). Proposed by Cllr Huggett, seconded by Cllr Pascall that a £300 grant be awarded to the Citizens Advice Bureau. Unanimous. The other organisations not to be awarded in line with Standing Orders.
v) Cumbria Highways – extra white lines in Cartmel Village This item dealt with in County Councillor report above. Prioritising Highways Works Programmes A report at the South Lakeland District Association of CALC from Keigh Masser, Acting Area Engineer for SL confirmed there are 1600km of non-principal roads to be maintained and the budget allows for just 60km to be treated each year – only 80% can be surface dressed. There are more than 130 improvement schemes on a list amounting to more than £1.5million, but CCC South Lakeland Local Committee only has £250,000 each year for Highways. The Transport Maintenance Revenue Budget covers Highways response teams, patching, gulley cleansing, drainage repairs, signs and markings, verge maintenance (mostly grass cutting) and fences/remedial earthworks. The long list would require £4 million per annum and the actual budget is £1.9 million for 2009-10 (which includes Highway Stewards). Scoring priorities for work are: The state of the road (number of defects and its age); The importance of the road (A down to unclassified and use by HGVs); The number of accidents; Proximity to a school etc.
10. QUESTIONS/ANSWERS/REPORTS/COMPLAINTS
Cllr M E Wilson Reported sunken road to Humphrey Head. It was considered traffic to extension work at the Waste Water Treatment works caused a lot of the damage. This road had been reported to highways several years ago and an inspection had been requested. To be reported again. Cllr Wilson questioned if permission had been received to make new access at Taranaki Villas. Enquiries to be made.
Cllr M Wilson Reported access needed in Car Park through bar gate on Sunday 9th May. It was considered that the gate would be open during this Sunday in May.
Cllr Drinkall Asked if anyone knew what work was being carried out at the land top of Holme Lane? Reported a large pot hole at Outerthwaite. Reported stones on the verge at The Pastures had been moved forward.
Cllr Pascall Asked whose responsibility it was to replace top coping stone at Wheel House Bridge?
Cllr Unsworth Reported water leak at Cartmel Cemetery. Cllr Huggett would report to PCC. The Clerk asked Cllr Unsworth if the grey bin was being used and emptied satisfactorily. Cllr Unsworth confirmed he checked on all the bins at the Cemetery and that all seemed OK – thanks were expressed to him for this.
The working group would meet to progress the Parish Plan. To be on next months Agenda.
The Meeting closed at 10.00pm and the Chairman thanked everyone for attending. The next meeting will be held in The Village Hall, Cartmel on Thursday, 11th March 2010.
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Minutes of the Meeting held in Cartmel Village Hall on Thursday, 14th January 2010.
PRESENT: Cllrs Huggett, (Chairman), Allen (Vice-Chair), Barker, Bird, Derbyshire, Drinkall, Palmer, Pascall, Shepherd, Unsworth, M Wilson. M E Wilson, County Councillor Rod Wilson (for part of the meeting). 1 member of the public.
1. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE Cllr Cameron
2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES AS CIRCULATED The Minutes of the Meeting held in The Village Hall, Cartmel on Thursday, 10th December 2009 as circulated were approved. Proposed by Cllr Pascall, seconded by Cllr Derbyshire and signed as a true record.
3. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST Declarations of personal / prejudicial interests in respect of items on Agenda. Cllr Barker for Planning Application SL/2009/1071
4. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION IN RELATION TO ITEMS ON THE AGENDA None at this point.
5. BUSINESS ARISING FROM MINUTES i) Cartmel Car Park The working party had met with Rachel Beadling, Holker Estates. Several Clauses had been amended one had been deleted. The Chairman was concerned that there was not a Clause that committed the land to be a public Car Park. Unfortunately, Holker could not agree to a covenant being imposed against the title to its own land which would restrict its use forever. They considered that the planning system provided sufficient reassurance for the PC. Cllr Huggett confirmed that he thought that this could not be pursued further. The final draft would now be forwarded to the Legal Department at CALC. All Councillors would receive the draft for the next meeting with any further recommendations. Cllr M E Wilson considered that a statement of intent should be requested from Holker regarding the 14 days notice to remove the recycling bins.
ii) Website for Parish A meeting had taken place on 13th January. A draft mock-up of home page and link-ups was provided. Administrator now needed for website. It was not sure how time consuming the administrator job would be. A further meeting was arranged for 10th February.
iii) Provision of Allotments – Parish Council Field Due to the Christmas break and bad weather nothing further had been done re allotments. Cllr Huggett needed to measure out plots. David Whitehead, CCC had provided plan of new gateway access to highway. Cllr Huggett considered it would be better to meet Mr Whitehead on site to further explain to him the proposals.
iv) Cartmel Post Office County Cllr Rod Wilson had received information about the Post Office Essentials scheme which was a new type of Outreach service piloted by Post Office Ltd which delivers a range of core Post Office products and services located within retail outlets. Cllr Wilson considered we had been treated badly and that Post Office Ltd should look again at the service being provided. More information would be requested from Tim Farron regarding the set up costs etc for a full time service in a retail outlet.
v) Clerk’s Report A new Highway Steward programme had been provided. A letter confirmed that the programme had been adjusted to reflect feedback from the Highway Stewards on individual Parish workloads. It could be considered that because of the Lengthsman we were not getting the Highway Steward as often. Cllr Huggett confirmed that because of Christmas holidays and the extra workload during the bad weather we had missed out on two slots. Cllr M E Wilson considered the programme could be better organised and funded at Local level and that the County and District Councils should work out and decide what to devolve down. Sustainable Communities Act Amendment Bill Alistair Burt MP has agreed to adopt the bill as his Private Members’ Bill. More MP’s are needed to urge the government to give the Bill the Parliamentary time it needs to become law. All Councillors were asked to write to their MP to urge them to sign EDM143 in support of the Bill. Information on the bill can be found on www.localworks.org. The Clerk was asked to write to Tim Farron to ask for his support and to e-mail a sample letter to Councillors for them to write in support of the Bill. District Councillor Report Cllr M E Wilson provided maps for the Shoreline Management (see Item 8).
vi) County Councillor Report County Cllr Rod Wilson reported on the complaints received during the bad frost and snow which had caused many problems due to lack of salt and grit on roads and pavements. He considered a lot of debate would take place regarding the gritting system which he considered had not worked. He asked for a letter to be sent to County Highways to add Egg Pudding Stone to A590 road on the Priority gritting route. This was the main signposted route to the M6. (Cllr Wilson left the meeting).
6. FINANCE
i) Parish Council Community a/c £278.17. Business Base Rate Tracker £18,435.37. Community a/c £5,445.30. Business Reserve £16,040.14. Money Received Pay & Display £1,026.10. HM Revenue & Customs £179.12 repayment of VAT. Barclays Bank PC interest £2.43. CP Interest £1.62. Mrs Leviston, Rent £819.00. BT wayleave £157.50. iii) Cheques for Approval Clerk December Salary £378.00 + £16.52 Expenses. Broadband £17.61. Lengthsman 19hrs @ £11 £209.00. Mr P Barton December Salary £100.00. Mr T Newby December Salary £50. Robinsons Electric Car Park lamp £24.70. Proposed by Cllr Bramwell, seconded by Cllr Allen that Finance be approved. Unanimous.
7. PLANNING
i) Consideration of relevant planning applications SL/2009/1071 (Approved); 1105/06/07 (Refused); 1116 (Withdrawn); 1132 (Abstained).
ii) Applications Approved by SLDC: Front entrance Porch Cornbrook House, Cartmel. Facing of walls with Siberian larch board The Grandstand Cartmel Park. Re-roofing & installation of replacement roof lights on rear roof slope Priory Hotel, Cartmel. Change of use from grazing land to form extension to golf course Grange Fell Golf Club. Alterations The Village Shop, Cartmel. Car Port & raised garden Jack Hill Cottage, Allithwaite.
iii) Applications Refused by SLDC None to Date.
iv) Applications Recommended for Approval by Parish Alterations The Village Shop, Cartmel. Change of use from grazing land to form extension to golf course Grange Fell Golf Course. Garage with Store over Damson Byre, Allithwaite.
v) Applications Recommended for Refusal by Parish Council: None to Date.
vi) Application Withdrawn re-modelling of internal walls Ford House, Cartmel.
8. CORRESPONDENCE
i) SLDC Code of Conduct Training 2010 11th February in Kendal, 11th March in Ulverston. Both these dates coincide with PC meetings. The Clerk asked for the names of any Councillor wishing to attend.
ii) CCC Road Closure Order Vicarage Lane, Allithwaite – 9th February 2010 (anticipated 3 days work). This was to allow for renewal of a BT pole. Noted.
iii) Mrs P Whitehead, Priory Cottage, Cartmel Concern re state of roads in the area. Mrs Whitehead had been involved in an incident when a large stone lying in the road had ruined a tyre. Members were sympathetic but considered there was little that could be done as this was due to vibration and old walls.
iv) Shoreline Management Plan for the North West Public Consultation – discussion session 25th January 6-8pm. The shoreline management plan is currently under review. Displays will be at SLDC reception w/c 18th January followed by discussion session. Cllr M E Wilson urged Councillors to attend.
v) Parish Paths Initiative Project ideas for grants to improve local footpaths. Cllr Shepherd suggested the footpath through Templand farm could have a pedestrian gate next to the farm gate. Further suggestions were requested - applications needed before end of May.
OTHER CORRESPONDENCE Correspondence had been received from King George V Playing Field – this would be on next months agenda.
9. OTHER MATTERS
i) Salt & Grit Bins Review of Locations. Cllr Rod Wilson requested a list of locations where it was thought a salt/grit bin was needed – 11 suggestions were made. Cllrs were asked to inspect the present bins for further salt supplies.
ii) Newsletter 2010 To approve date of Issue 25. It was suggested the next edition should be published in April.
iii) Parish Field Grazing Rights 2010 To approve grazing rights. Proposed by the Chair and Unanimously agreed to ask Mr Moorhouse if he wished to continue with the rights.
iv) Grass Cutting 2010 To approve grasscutting contract. Proposed by Cllr M Wilson, seconded by Cllr Barker that Jon Wright be asked to continue. Mr Wright had confirmed the price the same as last season. Unanimous.
v) Cemetery Charges 2010 To approve charges. Proposed by Cllr Bramwell, seconded by Cllr Barker that the charges be the same as the Church Commissioners with Council half fee into existing graves. Unanimous.
10. QUESTIONS/ANSWERS/REPORTS/COMPLAINTS
Cllr Allen Thanked Cllr Huggett on behalf of Cartmel residents for the excellent job he had done gritting in the Village.
Cllr Unsworth Wondered if the old red telephone box could be reinstated. The PC have tried for this before but it was suggested that the Village Society might take on this scheme which would probably need funding from them.
Cllr Derbyshire Confirmed he had attended King George V Playing Field January committee meeting. It was proposed that they would start playground improvements with their funding received so far.
Cllr Huggett had been asked if anyone had complained about milk tanker driving through village. Cllr Allen confirmed it was the speed of the tanker that had been complained about.
The Meeting closed at 9.40pm and the Chairman thanked everyone for attending. The next meeting will be held in The Village Hall, Cartmel on Thursday, 11th February 2010.