Council Meeting, 27 January 2010

HELMDON PARISH COUNCIL
All Councillors are summoned an Ordinary Meeting of Helmdon Parish Council to be held in the Reading Room, Church Street, Helmdon on Wednesday 27th January 2010, commencing at 7.30 pm
Members of the public and Press are invited to attend and to participate in the Open Forum
AGENDA
1. Apologies for Absence
2. Approval and Signature of the Minutes for the Ordinary Meeting held on 25 November 2009
3. Matters Arising from the Minutes of 25 November 2009
4. Open Forum
5. Finance th th a) To appoint additional Cllrs to the Finance Committee b) Financial statement c) Bills for Payment d) Payments Received e) To award grass cutting tender f) To receive recommendations from the Finance Committee regarding this year’s
Grant Policy g) To set the budget for expenditure 2010/11
h) To set the precept for 2010/11
6. Correspondence Review
7. Planning:
a) To receive decisions of Planning committee on applications since 25/011/09
8. To consider response to the SHLAA consultation
9. To receive update regarding Talkabout
10. Footpaths – update from the Clerk regarding permissive footpaths
11. To receive update on flooding relating issues
12. To receive update regarding progress towards Quality Council status
13. Weather related issues:
a) Salt bin re-filling b) Snow Watch c) Running water on Church Street
14. Councillors’ Questions
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
27th January 2010 in the Reading Room, Church Street, Helmdon at 7:30pm
Present: Councillors Barnes, Burns, Duncombe, England, Earl, Coatsworth
Parish Clerk: Liz Hart
Six members of the public were present.
Action
1 Apologies
The following apologies were received and accepted:
Cllr Turner – work commitments; Cllrs Crouch and Thorne – family commitments
2th Approval and Signature of the Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on 25
November 2009
th Cllr Earl proposed, seconded by Cllr Coatsworth that the Ordinary Meeting Minutes of 25
November be approved.
All were in favour and Cllr Burns duly signed the minutes.
3th Matters Arising from the Minutes of 25 November 2009
None raised.
4 Open Forum
Anglian Water pipe repairs – it was noted that the collapsed pipes have now been repaired and works carried out at the outlet point behind Bridge House.
Other flooding issues – Grange Lane highlighted as still being an issue with water run-off in periods of heavy rain. The importance of keeping the brook clear was emphasised. The
Parish Council was thanked for all its efforts regarding the flooding and Cllr Burns personally thanked Cllrs Duncombe and Barnes and the Clerk.
SHLAA documentation – Cllr Burns read out David Brookhouse’s correspondence regarding his concerns that a considered response be given to WNJPU. Cllr Burns clarified that a further planning meeting would take place once the Clerk had clarified the discrepancies in the site references.
SNC move – it was confirmed that no specific notice had been given to the Parish Council on this issue.
Post Box on Station Road – it was noted that this had now been repaired.
Precept/Budget Setting – the Finance Committee was thanked for its diligent efforts when preparing its recommendations to the Parish Council.
Helmdon Acorns Pre-School – the Chair of the Pre-School was present to answer any queries regarding the forthcoming planning application but none were made to the meeting.
5 Finance a) To appoint additional Cllrs to the Finance Committee
It was resolved to appoint Cllrs Earl and Coatsworth to the Finance Committee.

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b) Financial statement
Cllr Barnes proposed, seconded by Cllr Earl that the financial statement be accepted. All were in favour.
Cash & Investments
Current Account (Coop) 20, 212.91
Nottingham Bond 500.00
Total 20,712.91
c) Bills for Payment
Accounts Payable NET VAT GROSS Cheque
Reading Room 372.50 0.00 372.50 500144
EON 151.41 7.57 158.98 500145
EON UK (lighting maintenance) 104.11 15.62 119.73 500146
Clerk’s Wages (Nov and Dec plus backdated pay rise)
448.78 0.00 448.78 500147
Between Ourselves 45.00 0.00 45.00 500148
John Thorne 11.50 0.00 11.50 500149
Universal Services 33.50 5.86 39.36 500150
Helmdon Parish Plan Monitoring Group 2,100.00 0.00 2,100.00 500151
Total 3,266.80 29.05 3,295.85
Cllr Coatsworth proposed seconded by Cllr Earl that the above bills be paid.
d) Payments Received
The meeting noted the following payments had been received and were noted.
Northamptonshire Acre 2000.00
e) To award grass cutting tender
Four grass cutting tenders has been received and were opened and reviewed. Cllr Barnes proposed, seconded by Cllr England that Brown and Barden’s tender of £770 +VAT be accepted. All were in favour.
Clerk

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f) To receive recommendations from the Finance Committee regarding this year’s
Grant Policy
Cllr England proposed, seconded by Cllr Coatsworth that the recommendation to adopt the same documentation as for 2009/10 be approved. All were in favour.
g) To set the budget for expenditure 2010/11
The Clerk clarified the budgeted expenditure. Cllr Coatsworth proposed, seconded by Cllr
Earl that the budget as detailed in Appendix B be adopted giving a total budgeted expenditure of £11,419. All were in favour. It was noted that provision had been made for saving towards the next election (£400) and for the repair of one pump (£400).
h) To set the precept for 2010/11
Budgeted income and reserves were reviewed. Cllr Barnes proposed, seconded by Cllr Earl that a precept of £10,807 be adopted, thus taking £400 from reserves. All were in favour.
6 Correspondence Review
The correspondence as per Appendix A was reviewed.
th th It was resolved to reschedule the May meeting and AGM to the 4 Wednesday in May (26 )
to avoid a clash with another group.
Cllrs Thorne, Coatsworth, Barnes, Burns an Earl all intended to attend the Broadview
Energy presentation regarding the proposed Spring Ridge Wind Farm.
Cllr Earl enquired about the Fire Service offer to attend events– the Clerk will ask for more details.
Clerk
It was resolved that the Clerk should order a new light for Church St but try to obtain a re-
connection discount from Central Networks in the first instance.
Clerk
The Clerk was requested to obtain quotes to cut back the conifer trees on the end allotment lot so that it can be cultivated.
Clerk
It was agreed that the Clerk should continue to receive Electoral Register updates.
7 Planning:
a) To receive decisions of Planning committee on applications since 25/11/09
Application number: S/2009/1197/FUL
Location: 40 Station Road Helmdon
Proposal: New roof over conservatory.
The Committee supported the application.
Application number: S/2009/1282/FUL
Location: The Old Dairy Falcutt Brackley
Proposal: Remove stained timber window and replace with stained timber fully glazed window with vertical divider. Alteration of opening to lower cill. Retain existing brick arch and brick quoins to the upper opening.
The Committee supported the application.
Cllr Crouch had declared a prejudicial interest in the following application and left the planning meeting.
Application number: S/2010/0010/FUL

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Location: Land adjacent to 55 Church Street Helmdon
Proposal: Detached Dwelling
The Committee objected to the proposal for the following reasons:
The site is considered inappropriate due to:
a) the existing drainage and sewerage issues in this area of the village. There are known to be both a well adjacent to the site (near the pump in the Pump Garden) and a number of natural springs in the area. The deep excavation of the site which would be necessary would compound the issues. There are already flooding problems in the village with issues with the sewerage and road drains. The paved driveway at the front of the property would drain on to the road. There may be issues due to the nature of the site with the positioning of the soakaways causing more flooding issues. The Parish Council would therefore request that the Environment Agency be consulted on this application.
b) the Parish Council does not consider the site to be infill, more a case of “garden grabbing” which could set a dangerous precedent. The development would result in two properties with extremely small gardens which is out of keeping with the development of the village.
c) Traffic issues – although it is noted that parking is provided, with only one space for each property it is likely that on street parking overall will increase in an area approaching a corner when there is already an access road from three properties on to Church Street.
It is further noted that due to the position and size of the site, congestion issues are likely to arise during any building work and that if the development were to be permitted conditions should be made to minimise disruption
8 To consider response to the SHLAA consultation
A further planning meeting was due to be held to review the sites in detail.
9 To receive update regarding Talkabout th Cllr Thorne had issued an update; the next issue deadline was 28 February.
10 Footpaths – update from the Clerk regarding permissive footpaths
The Clerk had confirmed to the Parish Council that the proposed agreement would be acceptable to the Insurance Company and that therefore Public liability would be borne by the Parish Council.
11 To receive update on flooding relating issues
Cllr Duncombe had met with Doug Humphrey regarding the issues at the.brook downstream from Jeffs Bridge. Advice had been received to remove the bridge over the old railway, widen and deepen the stream. The Clerk was actioned to provide Cllr Duncombe with a contact from the EA so that the issues could be discussed with them. The cost of the works was estimated to be in the region of £7,000.
12 To receive update regarding progress towards Quality Council status
Cllr Burns confirmed that the aim was to apply by the end of the year.
The Clerk will send out details of the NCALC training schedule when it is issued.
13 Weather related issues:
a) Salt bin re-filling
The problems with girt and salt were noted. The Clerk was asked to check the position regarding having more bins around the village.
b) Snow Watch
Clerk

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Cllr Burns confirmed that David Brookhouse as the “Snow Man” in Helmdon.
c) Running water on Church Street
The Clerk was continuing to progress this long-standing problem.
14 Councillors’ Questions
Cllr Earl expressed surprise at the low attendance rate of some Councillors at meetings and urged them to attend more frequently.
Litter Bins – the Clerk will request that the refuse collectors close the bins properly to avoid them causing problems.
Litter Pick – Cllr Burns will cover Sulgrave Rd, Cllr Duncombe Wappenham Rd and Cllr
Coatsworth Station Road.
The meeting closed at 9.30pm
Appendix A – Correspondence Received – 23rd Nov 2009 – 25th January 2010
South Northamptonshire Council

Weekly Planning Application listings
Planning Applications:
o
S/2009/1197/FUL -40 Station Road Helmdon -New roof over conservatory – planning meeting held, decision notice approval o
S/2009/1282/FUL – The Old Dairy Falcutt Brackley – Remove stained timber window and replace with stained timber fully glazed window with vertical divider. Alteration of opening to lower cill. Retain existing brick arch and brick quoins to the upper opening.
o
S/2010/0010/FUL – Land adjacent to 55 Church Street Helmdon – Detached Dwelling
– planning meeting held
Register of Electors – copy of the update Electoral Register and form to complete if a copies are required in the future – Clerk to check with PC
War Memorial Playing Fields – request for information – Clerk to check with PC
Details of Presentation from Parish Council Reception, updated organisation plan invitation to
Special Briefing on Interim Housing Policy (date TBC) – Clerk to ask Cllrs if they wish to attend
Standards Committee Findings regarding an alleged breach of the Code of Conduct by a Roade
Parish Councillor
Precept Submission Request
Notice that the consultation period for the Draft Economic Development Strategy for South st Northamptonshire 2010-14 has been extended to 1 February 2010. Details of a workshop to explain the Strategy
Alice Izzett – update on Affordable Housing Development
Northamptonshire County Council
•
•
MGWSP – satisfaction survey – to be completed
New Licence Agreement for the Playing Fields due to an error in the previous one – Cllr Burns to sign
NCALC
•
•
•
Update – January/February
Advice regarding Snow and Ice clearing
Notice that Anne Millar has resigned and details of vacancy
Cllrs

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Parish Partnerships – the Northamptonshire Councils’ Charter – consultation – for March Agenda
Miscellaneous

•
•
•
•
Tim Boswell MP – newsletter and Advice Centre Dates
WNJPU – notice of publication of Draft Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessment document
Northamptonshire Rural Housing Association – Annual Report
Fire Service – offer to attend at community events
Broadview Energy – notice of possible Wind Farm between Helmdon, Greatworth and Sulgrave, email regarding presentation in Brackley
Coop bank statements – December, January statement
Northamptonshire ACRE – £2000 cheque and letter regarding Annual Report and Accounts
ACRE – Village Viewpoint Magazine
RoSPA – promotional information
SNVB – posters
South Northants Homes – works briefing paper
East Midlands Fire Service – brochure on new Fire Centre
Brown and Barden – promotional literature
Countryside Gardens – promotional literature
Helmdon Acorns Pre-School – update on new building project
John Thorne – update on Talkabout
Clerks and Councils Direct – January issue and yearbook of suppliers
The Wildlife Trusts – details of workshops
Confirmation from Came and Company that the PC insurance would cover public liability on permissive footpaths
EON Energy Services – quote for repair of light no 17 in Church Street – £345.68 plus VAT – Cllrs to determine whether to proceed
EON – Highways Lighting Bulletin – December 2009
Northants 50+ Network – event information
Judy Cairns – confirmation from the Women’s Club that they have booked the Reading Room on th 19 May – timetable clash – Cllrs to confirm action
Accounts received
EON (Lighting Maintenance) £104.11 + £15.62 VAT= £119.73
EON (Electricity Bill) – £151.41 +£7.57 VAT = £158.98
Bernie Wadeson – notice board and pump repair – £45
Universal Services – repair to Chain Bridge – £33.50 + £5.86 = £39.36

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APPENDIX B -ACTUAL v BUDGETED EXPENDITURE 2009/10 & PRECEPT AND BUDGET SETTING 2010/11
2009-2010 2010-11
Code EXPENDITURE Budget Actual Jan exp March Total Variance Budget
100 1. Lighting 1,200.00 662.45 600.52 104.11 1,367.08 -167.08 1,200.00
101 Street lighting 1,050.00 662.45 255.52 104.11 1,022.08 27.92 1,050.00
102 Electricity repairs 150.00 345.00 345.00 -195.00 150.00
103 Other
200 2. Parks & Open Spaces 1,711.00 1,533.01 45.00 1,578.01 132.99 2,034.00
201 Grass cutting 850.00 850.00 850.00 770.00
202 Playground equip. inspection 66.00 66.00 66.00 69.00
203 School field rent 350.00 350.00 350.00 350.00
204 War memorial and pump garden 75.00 47.01 47.01 27.99 475.00
205 Bulbs 20.00 20.00 20.00
206 Parish paths
207 General maintenance 350.00 220.00 45.00 265.00 85.00 350.00
208 Other
300 Sinking fund 1,425.00 1,425.00 see
301 Playground equipment 750.00 sinking 750.00
302 Notice boards 150.00 fund 150.00
303 Computer 125.00 doc 125.00
304 War memorial 200.00 200.00
305 Village seats 200.00 200.00
306 Other
400 4. General Administration 4,883.00 3,697.32 448.78 419.19 4,565.29 317.71 5,210.00
401 Audit charge 280.00 273.92 273.92 6.08 280.00
402 Clerk's salary 2,504.00 1,584.98 448.78 419.19 2,452.95 51.05 2,520.00
403 Clerk's expenses 140.00 215.02 215.02 -75.02 140.00
404 Election expenses 400.00
405 Insurances 1,350.00 1,150.98 1,150.98 199.02 1,150.00
406 NALC training 100.00 100.00 30.00
407 NALC & ACRE Membership 219.00 217.42 217.42 1.58 220.00
408 Reading Room rent 120.00 105.00 105.00 15.00 120.00
409 Newsletter (Talkabout) 200.00
410 Web site 100.00 150.00 150.00 -50.00 100.00
411 Book tokens
412 Vof Yr 70.00 70.00 50.00
500 5. S137 1,250.00 1,077.50 1,450.00 -200.00 1,250.00
501 s137 donations 1,250.00 1,077.50 372.50 1,450.00 -200.00 1,250.00
502 Village of the Year – Nat comp
600 6. Burial Grounds
601 Donation
602 Other
Total Regular Expenditure
701 Transfer Out
702 To Deposit Account
703 Other
704 Vat Paid
Total Expenditure
300.00
300.00
200.00
200.00
200.00
200.00
100.00
100.00
300.00
300.00
10,769.00 7,170.28 9,160.38 1,608.62 11,419.00
94.49
7,264.77
900 INCOME
901 Precept
902 Interest
903 Allotments
904 Newsletter
905 Grants+Prizes
906 Donations
907 Dividends
908 Village Hall – Reading Room
910 Vat Repayment
Total Regular Income
909 Misc Transfers In
10,279.00
100.00
75.00
10,279.00
21.08
81.25
30.00
80.00
124.00
9.38 2.50
100.00
10,514.71
Total Working Income 10,514.71
Balance 3,249.94
Brought forward
31/3/09
Coop Account
Nottingham Bond
Current balance Jan
2010
16951.22
500
20,201.16
500.00
Payments due Jan +Mar
Receipts due
Expected y/e balance
1,990.10 16.00 18,227.06
500
(Sinking fund)
General reserves)
7906.88
10,320.18
Based on the figures submitted our anticipated expenditure is 11,419.00
212.50 less our anticipated income (exc precept)
"-/+ adjustment to general/earmarked reserves
Precept Request
Rounded
-400
10806.50
10807
40

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