Council Meeting, 23 November 2011

HELMDON PARISH COUNCIL
All Councillors are summoned to an Ordinary Meeting of Helmdon Parish Council to be held in the Reading Room, Church Street, Helmdon on Wednesday 23rd November 2011 commencing at 7.30 pm.
Members of the public and Press are invited to attend and to participate in the Open Forum
1. Apologies for Absence
2. Declarations of Interest
3. Approval and Signature of the Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on 28 September 2011
4. Matters Arising from the Minutes of 28 September 2011
5. Open Forum
6. Station Road Bridge a) to receive update from Cllr Barnes on meeting with Andrew Grant b) to receive update from the Clerk regarding traffic light issues and road signs
7. Finance
8. Planning:
9. Correspondence Review
10. To receive update from F|ood Fair and consider any recommendations
11. Receive report from QPS Working Party and consider any recommendations
12. Update on Snapshot Project, including approval of costs and consideration of idea of selling photo books
13. Consideration of ideas for Jubilee celebrations
14. Consideration of ideas for council logo and newsletter title
15. Update from School Liaison Councillors
16. Update from Playground Committee
17. Reading Room – to receive update from RR Chairman
18. Health and Safety – to receive completed Inspections Reports
19. Councillors’ Questions th th a) Financial statement b) Bills for payment c) Payments Received a)
b)
c)
d)
e)
To receive decisions of Planning committee on applications since 28/09/11
To receive update on Broadview Wind Farm application
To consider update regarding Andrea Leadsom meeting in Towcester
To receive update regarding the Tanks-A-Lot application
Neighbourhood Planning – update from meetings and consideration of consultation on NP regulations
Signed _______________________
Dated________________________
Liz Hart, Parish Clerk
[address removed]

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HELMDON PARISH COUNCIL
Draft Minutes of the Ordinary meeting of Helmdon Parish Council held on Wednesday
23rd November 2011 in the Reading Room, Church Street, Helmdon at 7:30 pm
Present: Councillors Burns, Barnes, England, Coatsworth, Moody, Adhemar, Garner.
Parish Clerk: Liz Hart
4 members of the public were present.
Cllr Burns thanked everyone for their best wishes during his illness.
1
Action
Apologies for Absence
Cllrs Duncombe and Simpson had sent apologies due to holiday commitments and sickness respectively.
2 Declarations of Interest
Cllrs Barnes and Moody declared a prejudicial interest under Item 7b) with bills for payment for
Greenbarnes Ltd, Cllr Barnes (snapshot banner) and Helmdon.com.
3 Approval and Signature of the Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on 28th September
2011
Cllr Moody felt it to be inappropriate that a comment from a member the public be minuted and that as no response from the Council was stated, this implied Council acceptance of the comments. Cllr Moody proposed either deleting the whole paragraph or the final comment. Cllr
Burns suggested moving the “meeting closed” phrase to prior to the comments from the member of the public so it was clear the comments were made after the meeting. Cllr
Coatsworth felt the comments did not imply acceptance by the Parish Council as such.
Cllr Moody proposed deleting the final sentence of the comments as an amendment, Cllr
Barnes seconded the proposal. All in favour. Cllr Barnes proposed a second amendment inserting “having felt defeated by the ineptitude of NCC” at 8b). This was seconded by Cllr
England; all in favour. Cllr Barnes proposed, seconded by Cllr England, that the Ordinary th Meeting Minutes of 28 September be approved with the two amendments as above. All were in favour. Cllr Burns acknowledged the kind comments of Bryan Short.
4 Matters Arising from the Minutes of 28th September 2011
Item 6 Open Forum – current Bus Services It was felt that more publicity was needed to ensure parishioners were aware of the full details of timings and offers. The Clerk was asked to forward details to Audrey Forgham for the website.
Item 11 – Jenner’s Piece – overgrown shrubs .Cllr Adhemar to check if this work was sill outstanding and to let the clerk know.
Item 15a – Clerk’s appraisal – outstanding item.
Item 16 – Footpaths – Cllr Barnes confirmed that the permissive footpath agreement with
Andrew Pitt was now complete.
5
Clerk
Cllr Adhemar
Open Forum
Speeding in the village – Chris Thorpe commented that PSCOs had used speed guns on
Station Road twice since April 2011.
Audrey Forgham voiced concern regarding the poor condition of the barn at Priory Farm which is Grade II listed. Cllr Burns agreed that it was a shame and suggested that either the local authority or the property owner could be contacted. The Clerk was asked to contact SNC Clerk

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informally in the first instance to ascertain whether an owner has a responsibility to maintain it.
Cllr Burns confirmed to Chris Thorpe that members of the public would be invited to comment at item 10 Flood Fair.
6 Station Road Bridge a) to receive update from Cllr Barnes on meeting with Andrew Grant
Cllr Barnes reported that he had attended a site meeting with Andrew Grant and the Head of
Highways. Although finances are in place, work will now not commence until April due to issues with the SSSI and English Heritage. The possibility of a walkway through the tunnel was discussed with NCC providing costings by early December – estimated at between £20 – 60K.
There is also the possibility of a ramp. It was emphasised that there is no wish to delay the work if the pathway raises further issues. Cllr Barnes informed Cllr Moody that no structural plans had been shown to him. Cllr Moody queried what had happened regarding the other proposals; Cllr Barnes explained that the NCC proposal was a final solution without further maintenance implications whereas the other proposals were more of a temporary solution. Cllr
Barnes will ask NCC to ask for the relative cost implications of earth infill vis a vis concrete.
b) to receive update from the Clerk regarding traffic light issues and road signs
The Clerk and Cllrs England and Garner had met with MGWSP; the outcome was successful and the traffic light sensors were now working.
7 Finance a) Financial statement
Cllr Coatsworth proposed seconded by Cllr England that the financial statement be accepted.
All were in favour.
Current Account (Coop) £24,657.13
b) Bills for payment
Accounts Payable NET VAT GROSS Cheque
Brown and Barden (3383) 121.43 24.29 145.72 500241
EON UK 104.11 20.82 124.93 500242
EON 151.41 7.57 158.98 500243
E Hart -Clerk’s Wages 666.84 0.00 666.84 500244
BDO LLP 135.00 27.00 162.00 500245
Reading Room 85.00 0.00 85.00 500246
Helmdon.com 300.00 0.00 300.00 500247
Vanessa Vicars 23.00 4.60 27.60 500248
Greenbarnes Ltd 141.78 28.36 170.14 500249
Michael Barnes 33.55 6.71 40.26 500250
Phil Bridger 50.00 0.00 50.00 500251
E Hart 28.19 0.00 28.19 500252
Cllr Barnes

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Cllr Coatsworth proposed, seconded by Cllr Adhemar that all bills be paid. Five in favour. (Cllrs
Moody and Barnes did not vote due to prejudicial interests.)
c) Payments Received
The following payments were noted.
Payments Received Amount
Interest (October) 3.45
Interest (November) 3.45
Mrs Bailey (allotment and key deposit) 10.00
th It was resolved that the next meeting of the Finance Committee would take on Thursday 5
January.
8 Planning:
a) To receive decisions of Planning committee on applications since 28/09/11
Application: S/2011/1287/FUL
Location: Redlands House Welsh Lane Helmdon
Proposal: Removal of existing single storey side structure. Construction of two storey side and rear extensions and new entrance porch.
It was RESOLVED to have no objections to the application.
Application: S/2011/1272/FUL
Location: College Farm Weston Road Helmdon
Proposal: Two storey front extension and two storey side extension, relocation of air source heat pump, new wall and pedestrian gate
It was RESOLVED to support the application.
Application: S/2011/1320/FUL
Location: 17 Bell Close
Proposal: Raise height of original dwelling to create a second storey. Dormer window to front, three rooflights to front and to rear.
It was RESOLVED to object to the application.
Application: S/2011/1338/FUL
Location: 83 Church Street Helmdon
Proposal: Wooden structure to rear (Part retrospective.
It was RESOLVED to have no objections to the application
:
b) To receive update on Broadview Wind Farm application
Broadview Energy Ltd has declared their intention to appeal against the refusal of their application.
c) To consider update regarding Andrea Leadsom meeting in Towcester
The contents of Andrea Leadsom’s report and subsequent correspondence was noted.
d) To receive update regarding the Tanks-A-Lot application
This application is still outstanding. The Planning Officer has informed the Clerk that an application for an additional site entrance on the B4525 is likely; Cllr Burns commented that such an application will require serious consideration.
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e) Neighbourhood Planning – update from meetings and consideration of consultation on NP regulations
Cllr Coatsworth and Cllr Barnes had attended a meeting with Andy D’Arcy. SNC seemed less than enthusiastic with the idea of villages doing their own NP and would rather the Parishes concentrate on doing the groundwork for SNC to do their district NP. It was commented that a status quo is not acceptable; the plan must cater for a minimum of a share of the quota for new housing. It is difficult to know what the quota would be for Helmdon. The villages most interested in producing their own NP sit on the edge of the conurbations (Yardley Gobion).
Eleven villages have expressed an interest, nine of which are on the edge of Northampton. Cllr
Coatsworth stated that he is not of the opinion that a NP is suitable for the village in its current form. The cost to the village would be approx £7,000. It may be worth looking at the village boundaries to see where development may be acceptable. It is unclear when the starting point of this work may be; Cllr Barnes had got the impression that SNC will consult when they did the district plan and that is would be good to have information on schools, numbers, etc ready when requested by SNC. Cllr Coatsworth noted the village would need extra support to produce it (from SNC).
It was further noted that if a NP is not accepted by the independent inspector it dies.
Cllr Moody commented that timing is the issue. SNC have categorised the villages/towns and a rural hierarchy has been created. The data of the JPU needs to be validated as it stems from
2006. Based on estimated growth, this would mean approximately 10 extra properties for
Helmdon. It was noted that information from the SHLAA would be used.
Cllr Barnes proposed another Cllr become a member of the PPMG. Cllr Garner volunteered. All were in favour.
9 Correspondence Review
Correspondence as listed in Appendix A was reviewed.
Phillip Ward is now the Tree Warden. The clerk will ask him if he wants any more trees ordered from the Woodland Trust for the village.
B4525 – Cllr Burns attended some meetings at Middleton Cheney but there have been no meetings for some time. Speeding is an issue. Cllr Moody queried whether the Road Safety
Committee should be involved. Cllr Burns will revisit the Middleton Cheney file. Clerk to write to
Stockings Farm and try to find out what is happening from Helen Howard regarding the Right
Tracks project. Cllr Burns to contact Middleton Cheney PC and respond to Sulgrave PC.
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Clerk
Cllr Burns
To receive update from F|ood Fair and consider any recommendations
Cllr Barnes had circulated the report prior to the meeting; he had met reps from NCC and EA.
NCC was unaware that Helmdon had a historic flooding problems. However they had heard from SNC that day that more information was available. Clerk should send copies of submission to NCC. EA had suggested using the gauge from Brackley as an alert; Towcester gauge could also be used. The clerk was actioned to investigate registration on Flood Alert. It was noted that the EA has a template for a flood plan. Cllr Barnes suggested having a maintenance plan for the verges with a standing item of “Flooding” on the PC Agenda once per year. The next meeting of the Flooding Group would determine whether a Flood Plan was necessary. Cllr Burns suggested that the Finance Committee should consider making budgetary provision for maintenance.
th It was resolved that a meeting of the Flood Group should take place on Wednesday 14
December at Val Eyre’s house.
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Clerk
To receive report from QPS Working Party and consider any recommendations
It was reported that
Clerk

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the target for newsletter (Aug) had been met in September the template for the Annual Report was complete.
Training Statement and training plan to be produced.
A second newsletter is due to be published at the end of January/beginning of February. It needs an editor who knows what the Parish Council’s issues are. The Parish Clerk agreed to produce it.
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Clerk
Update on Snapshot Project, including approval of costs and consideration of idea of selling photo books
Cllr Moody has received over 400 photos with pleasing results so far; the deadline is the end of
November. Cllr Moody thanked Chris Thorpe and Audrey Forgham for their help. A meeting to review them would take place in December. It was agreed that the Council would consider making all photos available, possibly at the Annual Meeting. A Draft book would be ready by
January 2012.
13 Consideration of ideas for Jubilee celebrations
Cllr Burns presented the two ideas. Cllr Coatsworth commented that they were both good suggestions. Costing details need to be put forward for the two projects. The Clerk was asked to contact the Village Groups to ensure that there was no duplication of event, Cllr Moody to provide the Clerk with costing details for his proposal and the Clerk will speak to Morag
Underwood regarding her proposal.
14
Clerk
Consideration of ideas for council logo and newsletter title
It was resolved to adopt the logo submitted which was felt to be appropriate as it included some landmarks in the village – the text “Helmdon Parish Council” needed to be added.
Clerk
It was resolved to call the newsletter “Helmdon Voice”.
15 Update from School Liaison Councillors
Cllr Adhemar had had a couple of meetings with Mrs Johnson and made representations at two assemblies to involve the school in the new newsletter and logo and snapshot project.
Cllr Adhemar was frustrated to learn that no Parish Council information may be included in the school newsletter. Cllr Moody suggesting asking Mrs Johnson how the school and village can work more closely together.
16 Update from Playground Committee
Cllr Adhemar and Cllr Coatsworth have reviewed the RoSPA report. Paint on bench needed renewing. The hook on the playstructure needed attention and the balance beam was loose.
Cllr Coatsworth highlighted the issue that mothers wish to use the slide and baby swings in school time; this area could be fenced off. Mrs Johnson had agreed in principle to investigate the next step but Cllr Adhemar had subsequently received an email from Mrs Johnson that the issues had been raised at a Full Governors meeting and the response was negative.
It was resolved that Cllr Coatsworth should arrange a meeting with the Governors; Cllr Burns will also attend.
17 Reading Room – to receive update from RR Chairman
Cllr England reported that
 The Café is now a sub Committee and provides income comparable to that previously
Cllr Coatsworth
Cllr Burns

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received from Acorns.
Helmdon 200 Club is running for the next year
Bookings are up.
£2598 had been spent on a new boiler
£1004 had been spent on updates needed to comply with electrical regulations
Financial statement was £2535 in the current account, £4587 in the deposit account and £1100 in the Fundraising account
Health and Safety – to receive completed Inspections Reports
The Clerk would forward the reports to Cllr Burns for signing.
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Councillors’ Questions
Cllr Barnes noted the chapel has been sold; he asked whether a memorial plaque to the
Jenners could be salvaged. Rosemary Gulliver has said that families could remove their plaques if they check first. Cllr Barnes to contact Rosemary. Cllr Coatsworth will help remove it.
The meeting closed at 10.20 pm
Clerk

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Appendix A – Correspondence Received –28th September – 22nd November 2011
South Northamptonshire Council
 Weekly Planning Application listings
 Planning Applications:
o S/2011/1287/FUL – Redlands House Welsh Lane Helmdon – Removal of existing single storey side structure. Construction of two storey side and rear extensions and new entrance porch.
o S/2011/1272/FUL – College Farm Weston Road Helmdon – Two storey front extension and two storey side extension, relocation of air source heat pump, new wall and pedestrian gate o S/2011/1320/FUL – 17 Bell Close- Raise height of original dwelling to create a second storey. Dormer window to front, three rooflights to front and to rear.
o S/2011/1338/FUL – 83 Church Street Helmdon – Wooden structure to rear (Part retrospective)
 Rupert Fordham – general communication regarding HS2
 South Northants Job Club leaflets and recruitment fair information
 Sports Scene
 Electoral Register Request form
Northamptonshire County Council
 Notice and communication regarding primary school application process
 Flood Fair information and communication and feedback form regarding NCC as Lead Flood
Authority – deadline
 Communications from NCC and MGWSP regarding signage and traffic lights
 Notice of Road Closure – Radstone Rd for resurfacing works
 Highways Newsletter and Schedule of Works
NCALC
 Information on Parish Clerk vacancies
 Information on Draft Neighbourhood Planning Consultation
 Confirmation of Localism Bill’s completion of passage through Parliament
 Budget planning guidance
Miscellaneous
 SNH – poster and communication regarding allocation of new homes on Station Road site
 SNH – details of lifeline and support service
 BDO – confirmation of conclusion of audit, invoice
 Sulgrave PC – request for PC support to in campaign regarding reducing traffic speed on B4525.

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 Correspondence from a Parishioner expressing concern at speeding on the B4525
 Promotional literature on Jubilee Beacons
 Andrea Leadsom – details of meeting to discuss Onshore Wind Farms following a discussion with
Charles Hendry
 Colin Wootton – summary of the above meeting
 Countryside Voice Winter 2011 – CPRE
 Outlook Autumn 2011 – CPRE, invitation to attend a Christmas Carols Evening on 15 December
 Northampton Borough Council – notice of representation period for Focused Changes to the Pre-
th
Submission draft Central Area Action Plan being to 22

nd December
Local Government Boundary Commission – electoral review – consultation on minded-to decision th to have a council of 57 – and poster end date 5 December
 NHS – two copies of Winter Well Guide
 Vitalise – plea for financial support
 Coop Bank Statement for October
 Playground Supplies Brochure
 South Northants Homes – works briefing paper
 Underwood and Weston – promotional literature
 Safer Community Team – October 2011 Update, information on “Have Your Say” days
 Query from allotment holder asking if the spruce is to be felled
 Communication from Jean Spendlove regarding laurels by the church
 Janet Snow – information on defective light in Shortlands Close
 Robin Digby – update on Bell Close and Redlands House applications
Accounts received
 Brown and Barden – invoice 3383 – £121.43 + 24.29 VAT = £145.72
 Vanessa Vicars – invoice for allium bulbs for War Memorial £23.00 + £4.60 VAT = “£27.60
 Greenbarnes Ltd – village signs and signwriting £141.78 + £ 28.36 VAT = £170.14
 Crown lift of Norway Spruce on allotment – £50
 EON UK – lighting maintenance – £104.11 + £20.82 = £124.93
 Reading Room – invoice no 44 – £85.00
 EON – electricity – £151.41 + 7.57 VAT = £158.98
 Helmdon.com – invoice for 2010-11 and 2011-12 – £300.00
 Snapshot banner (Michael Barnes) – £33.55 + 6.71 VAT = £40.26
 Allotment payments £10.00 (Mrs Bailey)