Council Meeting, 28 November 2012

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 28th November 2012 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 26 September and the Extra th Ordinary Meeting of 24 October 2012
4. Matters Arising from the Minutes of the Meetings of 26 September and 24 October 2012
5. Open Forum – to include responses from other local authority representatives present (NCC, AWA)
6. To consider any actions resulting from reports from NCC, Anglian Water and MGWSP
7. Finance
8.
th th th a)
b)
c)
d)
e)
Financial statement
Bills for payment
To note payments received
To set date for Finance Committee meeting
To consider expenditure of Snapshot grant money a)
b)
c)
d)
e)
f)
To receive update regarding the Broadview Energy Ltd Wind Farm development
To consider planning application for Station Rd Bridge infill
To receive decisions of Planning committee on applications since 26/09/12
Update from Parish Clerk regarding outstanding applications
Consideration of SNC consultation on planning applications via email
Neighbourhood Planning – update
Planning:
9. Correspondence Review
10. To consider any outstanding issues regarding Jubilee Wood
11. To consider tree planting in Station Rd (replacement) and on Jenner’s Piece (new)
12. To receive update from the Clerk regarding application to the Probation Service for tidying works
13. Update on works to bridge on Station Rd
14. Councillor training – to renew Training Statement of Intent and consider any relevant courses
15. Paths Group update – P4C project recommendations
16. To receive update on Jubilee Gate project
17. Update from School Liaison Councillors
18. Update from Playground Committee
19. 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
Wednesday 28th November 2012 in the Reading Room, Church Street, Helmdon at 7:30pm
Present: Councillors Burns, Barnes, England, Moody, Garner, Duncombe, Adhemar,
Coatsworth.
Parish Clerk: Liz Hart
Ten members of the public were present.
Also present: Carl Evans, MGWSP Operational Manager, Liz McBreen, Anglian Water
Customer Liaison Manager
Action
1 Apologies for Absence
Cllr Simpson had sent apologies due to illness; these were accepted by the meeting.
2 Declarations of Interest
Cllr Burns declared an interested in item 11 regarding the request to plant a tree on Jenner’s piece in memory of Richard Watson as he has a family connection.
3 Approval and Signature of the Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on 26th September and the Extra Ordinary Meeting of 24th October 2012
th Cllr Moody proposed, seconded by Cllr England that the Minutes of 25 July be approved. All were in favour and Cllr Burns signed the Minutes.
th Cllr Barnes proposed, seconded by Cllr Adhemar that the Minutes of 30 August be approved.
All were in favour and Cllr Burns signed the Minutes.
4 Matters Arising from the Minutes of 26th September and 24th October 2012
th 26 September
Item 8d – Notice boards – the new notice boards are due to be installed w/c 10/12/12.
Item 9f – Renewable Energy SPD – the Clerk confirmed that the date for comments to be submitted had passed
Item 19 Road Safety – Cllr Barnes noted the recent accidents on the B4525. The Clerk was asked chase Helen Howard for an update regarding the speed limit.
th 24 October
No matters arising.
5 Open Forum – to include responses from other local authority representatives present
(NCC, AWA)
Liz McBreen highlighted the main issues within her drainage report. There is a collapsed drain in Station Road which AWA need to repair. AWA also wish to slightly change the system in
Clerk

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Church St which splits in and out again. She commented that the foul system appears to have roof water and stream or spring water within it; this needs to be taken out.
st On Wednesday 21 November Liz was present in the village and it was apparent that the main issue is run off. She has spoken to the Flood Officer at AWA who advised that although NCC
are the lead flood authority, their primary concern is river water. It was noted that the road on the far side of the tunnel in Grange Lane is unadopted.
Carl Evans noted that he had received AWA’s report and would concur with its findings. He confirmed that Conway had washed out the gullies in the immediate aftermath of the flood. He stated that NCC would be happy to assist with discussions with riparian owners regarding their responsibilities. (Co-ordinator is Josie Bateman).
NCC’s cyclic cleansing programme is twice yearly – Carl has requested this be done more st frequently. On 21 November they received 600 calls and were over-stretched. The streets th were cleaned up the same day. Carl is attending a meeting on 4 December to collate what has happened.
A member of the public commented that the water table seems to have risen. This is causing surface water issues in properties on Station Road and Church Street. It was noted that the school field drainage issue seems to be worse than previously.
Cllr Barnes noted that regarding the ditches on the far side of the railway embankment, the farmer is happy to dig out a catchpit and put in a pipe if necessary.
A member of the public commented that the water needed to be taken into the brook on the far side of the tunnel rather than be allowed to drain down Grange Lane,
Cllr Moody suggested a survey looking at levels, landownership and a report to come back to the meeting to agree next steps.Cllr Garner highlighted a separate surface water drainage issue on gravel path.
Cllr Burns emphasised the importance of all parties working together and thanked the authorities for attending. In addition he thanked those Councillors who helped with the flooding st incident on 21 November.
6 To consider any actions resulting from reports from NCC, Anglian Water and MGWSP.
The following action points were agreed:
AWA – to address drainage issues on Station Road, and diversion of system in Church Street.
Cllr Burns – to approach Andy Deverall regarding his offer to help clearing ditches, etc th Karl Evans (MGWSP) – to report back from the 4 December meeting.
Clerk – to contact NCC regarding school drainage issues and to check details of landowners with the land registry.
It was agreed to reconvene a flooding meeting with interested parties once the further information had been collated.
7 Finance a) Financial statement
It was resolved to accept the following financial statement:
Current Account (Coop) £26,298.17
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b) Bills for payment
It was resolved to pay the following bills:
Accounts Payable NET VAT GROSS Cheque
Brown and Barden (Invoice 3511) 170.00 34.00 204.00 500303
EON UK 104.11 20.82 124.93 500304
E Hart – Clerk’s Wages 684.08 0.00 684.08 500305
Reading Room 72.50 0.00 72.50 500306
EON UK (Lamp 5 repair) 284.90 56.98 341.88 500307
NCALC (power of competence training) 15.00 0.00 15.00 500308
Top Print (Autumn Newsletter) 133.75 0.00 133.75 500309
E-ON 152.65 7.63 160.28 500310
The Clerk was asked to write a note of thanks to Brown and Barden for their excellent service throughout the year.
Clerk c) To note payments received
The following receipts were noted
Payments Received Amount
Interest (Sept) 3.27
Clerk
Interest (Oct) 3.62
Interest (Nov) 3.98
d) To set date for Finance Committee meeting th It was resolved to hold the next meeting on Thursday 10 January 2013.
e) To consider expenditure of Snapshot grant money
It was resolved that Cllr Moody will contact the printing company and co-ordinate the orders.

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8 Planning:
a) To receive update regarding the Broadview Energy Ltd Wind Farm development
The clerk clarified the current situation; the review has been expedited and will take place at the beginning of December.
b)To consider planning application for Station Rd Bridge infill
It was resolved to support the application.
c) To receive decisions of Planning committee on applications since 26/09/12
The Clerk gave a summary of decisions since 2609/12:
Application number: S/2012/1068/FUL
Location: 54 Church Street Helmdon
Proposal: Variation of condition 2 on (S/2011/0891/FUL Extend dormer windows to front and rear. Two storey side and single storey rear extensions) comprising of: raising the eaves height to rear section of the two storey extension, change finish of dormer windows to render and change existing gable end from boarding to render. Removal of first floor window over the stairs and various amendments to window sizes & fenestration
It was resolved to support the application.
Application number: S/2012/1104/FUL
Location: Church of St Mary Magdalene Church Street Helmdon
Proposal: Replace stolen copper sheet roof covering to south aisle with terne coated stainless steel and renewal of lead perimeter flashings
It was resolved to support the application.
Application: S/2012/1164/FUL
Location :Thatched Cottage Falcutt
Proposal: Demolition of existing rear and side single storey extensions. Two storey side and rear extension, single storey porch to front, detached double garage with store over, single storey stable block/store, new pedestrian and vehicular access and parking area
It was resolved to support the application.
Application: S/2012/1180/FUL
Location: 56 Wappenham Road Helmdon
Proposal: First floor extension to side above existing garage/store plus alterations to existing garage/store including conversion to additional room
It was resolved to support the application.
Application: S/2012/1232/FUL
Location: South Farm Wappenham Road Helmdon
Proposal: Erection of a dutch barn for the use of calf rearing
It was resolved to support the application.
Application: S/2012/1324/FUL
Location :56 Station Rd, Helmdon
Proposal: New dwelling
It was resolved to object to the application for the following reasons:
The Parish Council has serious concerns regarding the possible impact of the proposal with
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regard to surface water issues present in the village. We have advised AWA of the following issues:
•The application indicates that surface water will enter into a soakaway AND a main sewer
(point 12 on the application form) – more surface water entering an overstretched system
•The sewage system overstretched already – will another property make this worse?
• The land will need to be dug out to significant extent to accommodate the building at the required height thus impacting the water table
•There is a lot of water in the area from the embankment – what additional problems will this cause?
•The development contains an additional area to be tarmaced causing yet more run off. A
permeable surface should be used; e.g. permeable block paving.
Regarding the scale of the proposal, the Parish Council would suggest a dormer bungalow would fit better with the street scene.
It was noted that the decisions between July and Sept 2012 had not been received by the
Parish Council due to the Clerk being taken ill at the September meeting but that Minutes were available.
d) Update from Parish Clerk regarding outstanding applications
Applications for 14 Cross Lane and 56 Station Rd were outstanding.
e) Consideration of SNC consultation on planning applications via email
The Clerk confirmed that she has asked for paper plans to continue to be sent.
f) Neighbourhood Planning – update
HPPG – meeting – discussion regarding Local Plan. First steps have been taken. Meetings designed to report.
Cllrs Burns and Coatsworth had met with Cllr Robin Digby; SNC will be inviting PCs to meet with Planning Officers in 2013 as many Parish Councils are dissatisfied.
9 Correspondence Review
Correspondence as per Appendix A was reviewed.
It was noted that correspondence had reached unreasonable levels and was difficult to manage meaning that important communications could be missed. It was resolved that in future the Clerk should circulate a listing of correspondence the week before the meeting in order to ensure all necessary items were given a listing on the agenda.
Superfast Broadband – it was reported that NCC were getting ready to appoint a contractor
(by end 2012) The rollout plan lists 2017 as the latest date with 90% of residents and businesses live by 2015. As Helmdon has a school it would be higher up the priority list. The fibreoptic cable would deliver 30-40 megabits. If a village can demonstrate high demand it may influence roll out plans.
10 To consider any outstanding issues regarding Jubilee Wood
Cllr Coatsworth noted that the planting day has gone very well. He suggested that erecting a permanent sign at the entrance was something which could be considered in the budget for next year. Cllr Burns thanked Phillip Ward for all his efforts; Phillip Ward in turn thanked the village groups for their efforts. The Clerk was asked to write to the Sparrows expressing thanks.
Clerk

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11
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To consider tree planting in Station Rd (replacement) and on Jenner’s Piece (new)
Cllr Burns declared an interest and left the meeting.
It was resolved to allow a tree to be planted by Sue Wallace on Jenner’s Piece in memory of
Willie Watson.
Cllr Burns returned to chair the meeting.
Regarding the Station Road site, it was confirmed that the parishioners on Station Road did not wish for a replacement tree to be oak as they grow very large. Phillip Ward clarified how the original tree had come to be felled and that it was not known whether the soil has been tested for honey fungus. It was felt that a copper beech was a suitable replacement option.
There were two options regarding planting a replacement tree, either to excavate a proportion of the surrounding soil and replace it or to plant a new tree in a pot until the soil was deemed safe.
Phillip Ward was asked to forward the best option regarding tree size and fencing for consideration at the next finance meeting.
12 To receive update from the Clerk regarding application to the Probation Service for tidying works
It was resolved that the Clerk should ask Roger Miles for clarification regarding works required before contacting the Probation Service.
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Clerk
Update on works to bridge on Station Rd.
Item covered under 8b) above.
14 Councillor training – to renew Training Statement of Intent and consider any relevant courses
Cllr Coatsworth noted that the current courses covered the training needs. The Clerk was th asked to circulate the training schedule before the finance meeting on 10 January. Clerk
It was resolved to re-adopt the training statement intent with no amendments.
15 Paths Group – P4C
It was advised that the group is identifying any new paths and any suggestions for bridle paths outside the boundaries have been passed to other parishes. Roger Miles will access the viability of the long field by the brook. Three fields at Allithorne Wood currently under stewardship are to be considered – Roger Miles will forward information to the Clerk to follow up with the landowner.
16
Clerk
To receive update on Jubilee Gate Project
It was resolved that the Clerk would meet with Cllr Moody to determine an action plan to move the project forward. Cllr England will contact Gerald Holt regarding submitting a tender.
It was felt imperative that the tender document should specify a completion date.
17 Update from School Liaison Councillors
There was nothing to report; Cllr Adhemar will request a termly meeting with the Headteacher with broadband and drainage issues being suggested as topics for discussion.
Cllr Adhemar

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18
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Update from Playground Committee
The Playground Committee will complete a full inspection prior to the Finance meeting so that any major works required can be included in the budget.
19 Councillors’ Questions
The drain outside 1 Wappenham Rd. is broken – Clerk will report once again. Clerk
General power of competence – Clerk to ensure item is on the agenda for January 2013.. Clerk
Pump garden – Paul Duncombe and Sophie Moody were thanked regarding their help with tidying this area.
Church Street signage on Helmdon House – Cllr Barnes will check the sign is visible.
There are some lamps out on Wappenham Rd; the Clerk will report them.
The meeting closed at 10:00 pm
Cllr Barnes

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Appendix A -Correspondence Received – 26th September –26th November 2012
South Northamptonshire Council
• Planning Applications:
o S/2012/1104/FUL – Church of St Mary Magdalene Church Street Helmdon – Replace stolen copper sheet roof covering to south aisle with terne coated stainless steel and renewal of lead perimeter flashings o S/2012/1164/FUL – Thatched Cottage Falcutt – Demolition of existing rear and side single storey extensions. Two storey side and rear extension, single storey porch to front, detached double garage with store over, single storey stable block/store, new pedestrian and vehicular access and parking area o S/2012/1180/FUL – 56 Wappenham Road Helmdon – First floor extension to side above existing garage/store plus alterations to existing garage/store including conversion to additional room o S/2012/1232/FUL – South Farm Wappenham Road Helmdon – Erection of a dutch barn for the use of calf rearing o S/2012/1324/FUL – 56 Station Rd, Helmdon – New dwelling o S/2012/1396/FUL – 14 Cross Lane Helmdon – Demolition of dilapidated outbuilding and replace with a detached timber summerhouse o S/2012/1397/LBC – 14 Cross Lane Helmdon – Demolition of dilapidated outbuilding o S/2012/0863/FUL – Poplars Farm Wappenham – single wind turbine (hub height 60
metres) – confirmation of withdrawal of application
• Weekly Planning Application listings
• Press releases regarding : Blisworth’s Best Village awards, community action day in Towcester, temporary event licences, Christmas recycling, Silverstone development, greater protection for areas of 'special character' at Alderton, Blakesley and Rothersthorpe, consultation on new
Affordable Housing Policy, Poppy appeal launch, work experience students at SNC, changes to democratic structure at SNC, on home insulation, urban extension to Towcester, sports clubs funding opportunities, Nordic Walking, consultation on proposed expansion of Culworth, Moreton
Pinkney and Bugbrooke conservation area boundaries, consultation on proposed changes to council tax benefit scheme,
• Consultation details of SNC’s Draft Interim Housing Policy and SNC’s tenancy strategy
• Electoral role data
• Revised code of conduct for consideration
• Presentation slides from South Northamptonshire Settlements & Development Management DPD
Local Plan Workshop and communication from Adrian Colwell
• Details of vacancy on the Standards Committee
• Details of proposal to issue planning applications and plans by email to PCs
• Parish Council Workshop – South Northamptonshire Settlements and Development Management th DPD: – ‘Local Plan – 24 October 6-8pm – response required

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Northamptonshire County Council
• Superfast Broadband update
• Confirmation that grant request for £500 was successful
• Marketing Campaign – Do It Online – Street Doctor
• Primary School Admission poster
• Policing Updates and ward newsletters
• Highways newsletters
• Winter driving leaflet
• Appeal for Foster Carers yellow markings on Gavel Path
• Ollie Sibley – email regarding
• Planning application details for Helmdon Station bridge
NCALC
• Sept/Oct update
• Invitation to AGM
• Training schedule – invitation to submit Cllr requests
• Annual report
• Information regarding precept setting and DPIs
• Clerk vacancy information
Miscellaneous
• SNVB E-update
• Coop statements – October, November
• BDO – details of extranet changes
• HMRC – reminder to get ready for real time PAYE
• SNH – works briefing paper
• Local Government Boundary Commission – final recommendations for Northamptonshire
• Ordnance Survey – PSMA bulletins and questionnaire
• Came and Company – insurance certificate and receipt of payment, newsletter
• Various emails from other PCs on SNC’s proposal to issue planning applications via email
• Simon Harris – letter enquiring when NCC work will be done at the bridge and asking for remedial verge work on Falcutt Lane due to increase in traffic
• Paul Underwood – complaint regarding delays to works on Station Rd Bridge
• Outlook Autumn 2012
• Countryside Voice
• PSPA literature
• SNAG against HS2 – request for £500 to fund campaign
• Sandbag Supplier – promotional literature
• Western Power – WPD Fixed Prices for Unmetered Connections

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• Anglian Water – Liz McBreen – various correspondences and reports regarding flooding
• SNAG meeting minutes
• Helen Tims – correspondence regarding possible new tree on Station Rd
• Sue Wallace – email requesting permission to plant tree on Jenners Piece
• Sue Wallace – emails querying planting site of Sandringham Oak
Accounts received
• Brown and Barden (Invoice 3511) – £170 + £34 VAT = £204.00
• EON – £152.65 + 7.63 VAT = £160.28
• Top Print (Autumn Newsletter) = £133.75
• NCALC – training = £15.00
• EON UK (repair) – £284.90 + 56.98 = £341.88
• EON UK – £104.11 + 20.82 = £124.93
• Reading Room = £72.50
• EON UK – £104.11 + £20.82 = £124.93
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