MINUTES of the MEETING of the RECREATION GROUNDS COMMITTEE held on
23 July 2008 in the COMMITTEE ROOM, KNEBWORTH VILLAGE HALL at 7.30 p.m.
_____________________________________________________________
Present: Ms Smith (Chairman), Mr John Bantick, Mrs Rosemary Pateman, Mrs Carol Smith, Mr Titmarsh and the Clerk
Apologies: Mrs Presland due to a prior committment
In Attendance: Mr Osborne, Mr Playle and Mr Welham (Knebworth Bowls Club)
1. Declarations of Interest
There were no declarations of interest.
2. Minutes
Proposed by Mr Titmarsh, seconded by Mrs Smith
RESOLVED “that subject to Mrs Smith being present the minutes of the meeting of the Recreation Grounds Committee Meeting held on 4 June 2008 are approved.”
Unanimously agreed.
3. Financial Review
Income at £479 for the quarter is 11% under budget. Expenditure at £18,485 is 1% under budget. Capital expenditure of £354 relates to the purchase of two new litter bins.
4. Knebworth Bowls Club
Mr Playle stated although the Bowls Club did not need a new lease at present it did not want the Tennis Club to suffer. The club currently has a membership of 50 of which 29 are Knebworth residents
The committee and the Bowls Club agreed terms of the new lease:
1. A rent of £300 per annum is acceptable subject to an offset of the water standing charge.
2. No break clause.
3. The club would be responsible for notifying the Parish Council of contractors it wishes to use in the recreation grounds. The Council would have a right to veto, which may be necessary on Health and Safety grounds.
4. The Bowls Club would contribute £375 towards the cost of a new lease.
5. The Bowls Club agreed to be equally responsible with the Parish Council and the Tennis Club for the maintenance of the water pipe from the main water meter in the footpath from Stevenage Road to the dual meters currently situated in the Tennis courts.
6. The lease is to be reviewed every seven years with increases in line with RPI.
5. ROSPA Report
The clerk is arranging general repairs to equipment. The youth shelter is to have anti climb paint on the roof. The clerk has written to Wicksteed regarding the non compliance with EN1176 of the Combat Cableway. A response has not been received.
Mrs Smith reported that rats have returned to Lytton Fields. The clerk is to contact John Connor’s.
6. Accident
A letter has been received from a Mrs Brown regarding a fall in the recreation grounds. It has been passed to the insurance company.
The clerk is to write to the Tennis Club regarding the paving slab footpath between the tennis courts, which has a number of trip factors.
7. Football Clubs
Knebworth FC has requested use of the showers on a training evening. It was agreed that a charge of £10 per evening would be made. A meeting is to be arranged with the football clubs at the beginning of the season.
8. Youth Cafe
The café is quite successful and plans to open for two nights a week during the summer. Mrs Brookes has asked the Parish Council to consider financially supporting the café. It has no funding in the current budget but is to be discussed at the next budget round. The Village Trust is supportive of the project and might provide additional funding.
9. Litter Bins
The broken phoenix bin can be repaired for £100 which is more than 50% of the cost of a replacement bin. The committee agreed that the type of bin is to be reviewed but the phoenix metal bin would no longer be purchased.
10. Bicycle Rack
The chairman and clerk have reviewed sites for locating bicycle racks in the recreation grounds and suggested only one site adjacent to the pavilion. The committee decided that there were sufficient places to secure bicycles in the recreation grounds and did not intend to pursue this item further.
11. Parish Enhancement and Cleansing Fund
A grant application is to be made for £1300 for litter picking the recreation ground over the summer months together with the cost of two bins.
12. Any Other Business
12.1 Anti Social Behaviour
Youths are still congregating in the recreation grounds, with glass being found in the under 5’s area, although there was not much noise. The police are being notified of any damage which might arise.
12.2 King George Vth Playing Fields
Mrs Pateman would like to thank the groundsman for cutting KGV leaving the meadow and border.
12.3 Holiday Cover, litter picking
Ms Smith and Mrs Pateman agreed to undertake litter picking duties whilst the groundsman is on holiday.
There being no other business the meeting closed at 9.20 p.m.
Wednesday, 23 July 2008
Monday, 21 July 2008
Planning - 21 July 2008
MINUTES of the MEETING of the PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE held on Monday 21 July 2008 in the COMMITTEE ROOM, KNEBWORTH VILLAGE HALL at 7.00 p.m.
_____________________________________________________________
Present: Dr Graham Fothergill (Chairman), Mr John Bantick Mr John Hunt, Mrs Rosemary Pateman, Ms Elisabeth Smith and the Clerk
Apologies: Mr Richard Haigh due to holidays
Mr Robin Smith due to work commitments
1. Declaration of Interests
Ms Smith declared that she had a pecuniary interest in the application for 16 Oakfields Road.
2. Minutes
It was proposed by Mr Bantick, seconded by Mrs Pateman and
RESOLVED “that the Minutes of the Meeting of the Planning and Environment Committee, held on 16 June 2008 be approved and signed.”
Agreed.
3. 08/01009/1HH The Old Rectory, Old Knebworth, Knebworth
Two storey pitched roof extension between garage and dwelling, incorporating part tiled/part flat lead roof, entrance hall, pitched roof porch and chimney stack to front elevation.
The committee considered the application, which is in green belt and conservation area, and agreed that it was overdevelopment. There was also a query regarding parking provision for the guests visiting the house. The committee OBJECTS.
4. 08/00884/1HH Hazel Elm, 59 Park Lane, Knebworth
Two and single storey side extension
The committee wished to ensure that the building materials matched the existing but had NO OBJECTIONS
5. 08/00960/1HH 6 Crabtree Road, Knebworth
Two storey rear extension
NO OBJECTIONS
6. 08/01247/1HH 2 Stobarts Close, Knebworth
Proposed single storey rear extension
NO OBJECTIONS
7. 08/01307/1HH 16 Oakfields Road, Knebworth
Single storey Front, Side & Rear Extensions Following Demolition of Existing Rear Extension
NO OBJECTIONS
8. 08/01134/1AD 128 London Road, Knebworth
Retention of externally illuminated fascia sign and two non-illuminated internal window signs.
NO OBJECTIONS
9. 08/01143/1HH 5 Swangleys Lane, Knebworth
Two storey and first floor side extension. Single storey rear extension. Two pitched roof dormer windows to rear elevation. Rear roof balcony with steel balustrade. Front balcony and pitched roof to existing flat roof front projection
The committee considered the proposed application to be overdevelopment and out of character with the area, with insufficient parking provision. It therefore OBJECTS.
10. 08/1130/1HH 5 Gun Road Gardens, Knebworth
Erection of shed in rear garden
NO OBJECTIONS
11. 08/01453/1HH 6 Stobarts Close, Knebworth
Single storey rear extension
NO OBJECTIONS
12. Review of Meeting Dates
It was agreed that the September meeting would be moved to 8 September.
13. Any Other Business
13.1 Police Meeting
Mr Hunt informed the committee that a community police meeting is to be held on 22 July at 7.30pm. Ms Smith said that she would attend.
13.2 Shrubs, Stevenage Road
Mr Hunt reported that the shrubs on Stevenage Road from New Close to Peters Way are overhanging the footpath. The clerk is to contact Herts. highways.
13.3 Northern Gateway
Mr Hunt reported that a pillar has been knocked over on the northern gateway. The clerk is to contact Herts. Highways.
13.4 Highways Access from Meadows
Mrs Pateman confirmed that a planning application is not required for a new access into a meadow from a non classified road.
13.5 Norton Green
Mrs Pateman reported that Stevenage Borough Council has erected a sign with by-laws relating to the green in Knebworth Parish rather than Stevenage Borough. The Parish Council had not been notified about the sign.
13.6 Benches
Mr Bantick stated that a number of benches around the village require refurbishment. A list is to be prepared.
13.7 Lower Court, 3 Houses Lane
The owner has lodged an appeal for the music room.
13.8 Hedge, 38 Stockens Green
Dr Fothergill reported that the hedge is overgrowing the footpath. The clerk is to notify Herts. Highways.
13.9 7 Gun Road Gardens
A shed has been erected in the front garden of 7 Gun Road Gardens. This is in a conservation area and no planning application has been received. The clerk is to contact NHDC.
There being no other business the meeting closed at 8.10 pm
_____________________________________________________________
Present: Dr Graham Fothergill (Chairman), Mr John Bantick Mr John Hunt, Mrs Rosemary Pateman, Ms Elisabeth Smith and the Clerk
Apologies: Mr Richard Haigh due to holidays
Mr Robin Smith due to work commitments
1. Declaration of Interests
Ms Smith declared that she had a pecuniary interest in the application for 16 Oakfields Road.
2. Minutes
It was proposed by Mr Bantick, seconded by Mrs Pateman and
RESOLVED “that the Minutes of the Meeting of the Planning and Environment Committee, held on 16 June 2008 be approved and signed.”
Agreed.
3. 08/01009/1HH The Old Rectory, Old Knebworth, Knebworth
Two storey pitched roof extension between garage and dwelling, incorporating part tiled/part flat lead roof, entrance hall, pitched roof porch and chimney stack to front elevation.
The committee considered the application, which is in green belt and conservation area, and agreed that it was overdevelopment. There was also a query regarding parking provision for the guests visiting the house. The committee OBJECTS.
4. 08/00884/1HH Hazel Elm, 59 Park Lane, Knebworth
Two and single storey side extension
The committee wished to ensure that the building materials matched the existing but had NO OBJECTIONS
5. 08/00960/1HH 6 Crabtree Road, Knebworth
Two storey rear extension
NO OBJECTIONS
6. 08/01247/1HH 2 Stobarts Close, Knebworth
Proposed single storey rear extension
NO OBJECTIONS
7. 08/01307/1HH 16 Oakfields Road, Knebworth
Single storey Front, Side & Rear Extensions Following Demolition of Existing Rear Extension
NO OBJECTIONS
8. 08/01134/1AD 128 London Road, Knebworth
Retention of externally illuminated fascia sign and two non-illuminated internal window signs.
NO OBJECTIONS
9. 08/01143/1HH 5 Swangleys Lane, Knebworth
Two storey and first floor side extension. Single storey rear extension. Two pitched roof dormer windows to rear elevation. Rear roof balcony with steel balustrade. Front balcony and pitched roof to existing flat roof front projection
The committee considered the proposed application to be overdevelopment and out of character with the area, with insufficient parking provision. It therefore OBJECTS.
10. 08/1130/1HH 5 Gun Road Gardens, Knebworth
Erection of shed in rear garden
NO OBJECTIONS
11. 08/01453/1HH 6 Stobarts Close, Knebworth
Single storey rear extension
NO OBJECTIONS
12. Review of Meeting Dates
It was agreed that the September meeting would be moved to 8 September.
13. Any Other Business
13.1 Police Meeting
Mr Hunt informed the committee that a community police meeting is to be held on 22 July at 7.30pm. Ms Smith said that she would attend.
13.2 Shrubs, Stevenage Road
Mr Hunt reported that the shrubs on Stevenage Road from New Close to Peters Way are overhanging the footpath. The clerk is to contact Herts. highways.
13.3 Northern Gateway
Mr Hunt reported that a pillar has been knocked over on the northern gateway. The clerk is to contact Herts. Highways.
13.4 Highways Access from Meadows
Mrs Pateman confirmed that a planning application is not required for a new access into a meadow from a non classified road.
13.5 Norton Green
Mrs Pateman reported that Stevenage Borough Council has erected a sign with by-laws relating to the green in Knebworth Parish rather than Stevenage Borough. The Parish Council had not been notified about the sign.
13.6 Benches
Mr Bantick stated that a number of benches around the village require refurbishment. A list is to be prepared.
13.7 Lower Court, 3 Houses Lane
The owner has lodged an appeal for the music room.
13.8 Hedge, 38 Stockens Green
Dr Fothergill reported that the hedge is overgrowing the footpath. The clerk is to notify Herts. Highways.
13.9 7 Gun Road Gardens
A shed has been erected in the front garden of 7 Gun Road Gardens. This is in a conservation area and no planning application has been received. The clerk is to contact NHDC.
There being no other business the meeting closed at 8.10 pm
Friday, 18 July 2008
Village Hall - 18 June 2008
MINUTES of the MEETING of the VILLAGE HALL COMMITTEE held on
Wednesday 18 June 2008 in the COMMITTEE ROOM, KNEBWORTH
VILLAGE HALL at 7.30 p.m.
_____________________________________________________________
Present: Mr Barry Hall (Chairman) John Bantick, Mr Ian Gilmore,
Mr John Hunt, Mrs Caroline Presland, Mr Anthony Titmarsh and the Clerk
Apologies: None
1. Declaration of Interests
There were no declarations of interest
2. Minutes
It was proposed by Mr Hunt, seconded by Mr Titmarsh and
RESOLVED “that the Minutes of the meeting of the Village Hall Committee, held on 16 April 2008, be approved and signed.”
Unanimously agreed.
3 Toilet and Lobby Area Upgrade
Proposals to improve the lobby area were discussed: replacement gents’ toilet, wash basin with new cubicle panel, flooring, replaster walls, new water and room heaters
and new flooring for. The upgrading of the disabled toilet was discussed and further information is to be sought. Sufficient quotes are to be obtained to make an application to the NHDC Parish Challenge Fund.
4. Disabled Ramp
The feasibility and location of a disabled ramp and steps to the annexe were discussed. A quote has been obtained for a concrete ramp and alternatives were suggested. A ramp would result in the loss of 1 and possibly two parking spaces. Another quote is to be obtained.
5. Floor Maintenance
A quote had been received from R Gerrard & Son to sand and repolish the main hall floor with one or two coats of polish. A quote is to be obtained to repolish the small hall.
Propose by Mr Titmarsh, seconded by Mr Bantick and
RESOLVED that “the quote of £1600 from R Gerrard and Son to lay two coats of polish be accepted.”
Agreed.
6. Any Other Business
6.1 Pushchair
The clerk is to arrange for the pushchair to be removed from the lobby.
6.2 Chair Lifter
The clerk is to obtain a quote for a chair lifter.
There being no other business the meeting closed at 8.07pm
Wednesday 18 June 2008 in the COMMITTEE ROOM, KNEBWORTH
VILLAGE HALL at 7.30 p.m.
_____________________________________________________________
Present: Mr Barry Hall (Chairman) John Bantick, Mr Ian Gilmore,
Mr John Hunt, Mrs Caroline Presland, Mr Anthony Titmarsh and the Clerk
Apologies: None
1. Declaration of Interests
There were no declarations of interest
2. Minutes
It was proposed by Mr Hunt, seconded by Mr Titmarsh and
RESOLVED “that the Minutes of the meeting of the Village Hall Committee, held on 16 April 2008, be approved and signed.”
Unanimously agreed.
3 Toilet and Lobby Area Upgrade
Proposals to improve the lobby area were discussed: replacement gents’ toilet, wash basin with new cubicle panel, flooring, replaster walls, new water and room heaters
and new flooring for. The upgrading of the disabled toilet was discussed and further information is to be sought. Sufficient quotes are to be obtained to make an application to the NHDC Parish Challenge Fund.
4. Disabled Ramp
The feasibility and location of a disabled ramp and steps to the annexe were discussed. A quote has been obtained for a concrete ramp and alternatives were suggested. A ramp would result in the loss of 1 and possibly two parking spaces. Another quote is to be obtained.
5. Floor Maintenance
A quote had been received from R Gerrard & Son to sand and repolish the main hall floor with one or two coats of polish. A quote is to be obtained to repolish the small hall.
Propose by Mr Titmarsh, seconded by Mr Bantick and
RESOLVED that “the quote of £1600 from R Gerrard and Son to lay two coats of polish be accepted.”
Agreed.
6. Any Other Business
6.1 Pushchair
The clerk is to arrange for the pushchair to be removed from the lobby.
6.2 Chair Lifter
The clerk is to obtain a quote for a chair lifter.
There being no other business the meeting closed at 8.07pm
Wednesday, 9 July 2008
Parish Council - 9 July 2008
MINUTES of the MEETING of the PARISH COUNCIL held on the
9 July 2008 in the COMMITTTEE ROOM, KNEBWORTH VILLAGE HALL
at 8.00 p.m.
_____________________________________________________________
Present: Mr John Bantick (Chairman), Dr Graham Fothergill, Mr John Hunt,
Mrs Rosemary Pateman, Mrs Caroline Presland, Mrs Carol Smith, Ms Elisabeth Smith, Mr Robin Smith, Mr Anthony Titmarsh and the Clerk
Apologies: Mr Gilmore, Mr Haigh and Mr Hall were on holiday
1. Declarations of Interest
Mr Hunt declared that he is chairman of Knebworth Tennis Club.
2. Approval of Parish Council Minutes
It was proposed by Mr Titmarsh, seconded by Mrs Smith and
RESOLVED “that the Minutes of the Meeting of the Parish Council, held on 14 May 2008, be approved and signed.
Unanimously agreed.
3. The Council Noted the Minutes of the Committee Meetings
Minutes of the Meeting of the Recreation Grounds Committee held on 4 June 2008.
Minutes of the Meeting of the Village Hall Committee held on the 18 June 2008
Minutes of the Meeting of the Finance and General Purposes Committee held on the 18 June 2008
Minutes of the Meeting of the Planning and Environment Committee held on the 19 May & 16 June 2008
Due to the problems with the computer minutes of committees were not available for the council. They will be distributed as soon as it is in working order.
4. Bowls & Tennis Club Leases
The Council agreed the terms discussed with the Tennis Club. The Bowls Club had been contacted to seek its acceptance of joint liability for the mains supply with the Parish Council and the Tennis Club. Members of the Bowls Club are to be invited to the next Recreation Grounds Committee meeting.
5. HCC Lease
HCC is offering a ten year lease with a break clause, with possibly a six month notice period. The Council consider this to be too short and effectively only a six month lease. A 28 year lease with a break clause based on the existing lease is to be requested together with an explanation for the proposal of such a short lease. The clerk is to write to instruct the solicitor accordingly.
6. Approval of Year end Accounts and Annual Return
Proposed by Mr Titmarsh, seconded by Ms Smith and
RESOLVED that “the year end accounts for the year ended 31 March 2008 with reserves of £87,818 be approved. “
Agreed.
Proposed by Mr Titmarsh and seconded by Ms Smith and
RESOLVED that “the statement of account on the Annual Return be approved.”
Agreed.
7. Annual Governance Statement
The questions on the annual governance statement were reviewed and approved.
Proposed by Ms Smith, seconded by Mr Titmarsh and
RESOLVED that “the annual governance statement be approved.”
Agreed.
8. Straw Polls
A paper tabled by Mr Gilmore was circulated. HAPTC’s view is that straw polls are a useful gauge of opinion and should not be included in Standing Orders. The matter is to be discussed further when Mr Gilmore is in attendance.
9. Milestone
Mr Jack of Herts. Highways ahs confirmed that the shortfall in funds required to renovate the milestone will be met by HCC. It was agreed that the clerk will raise a cheque for £550.00 made payable to Herts. Highways to ensure that the contract is placed for the work.
10. Banking Arrangements
The clerk is to arrange for the chairman and committee chairmen to sign the individual mandates. Not enough forms had been sent by Barclays Bank. The clerk is not to be a signatory but is to obtain a mandate to discuss the council’s bank accounts with Barclays.
The Council also discussed the possibility of obtaining a Council credit card. There would be charges associated with the card and also some control would be lost with only one signatory required to use the card. The Council therefore agreed not to obtain a credit card.
11. Removal of BT Telephone Boxes
Bt proposed to close the telephone boxes at Stockens Green and Old Knebworth, the latter was vandalised a month ago. Mrs Presland living near the Stockens Green box reported that it is used daily and the council should request that it stays. It was agreed that the clerk would try to obtain a usage report for the Stockens Green box.
12. Bennington Wind Farm
There is a proposal to site three wind turbines in Bennington, which will be visible at the top of Stevenage Road and from Old Knebworth. There is a strong campaign against the proposal but the Council agreed that it would not object.
13. Accounts for Payment
It was proposed by Mr Titmarsh and seconded by Mrs Smith and
RESOLVED “that the list of accounts paid during Accounts Period 2 2008/09 be approved.
Unanimously agreed.
Mr Titmarsh reported that he had agreed the monthly bank reconciliations to 31 May 2008
14. Any Other Urgent Business
14.1 Post Office Closures
A list of the reposed post offices to be closed is to be found on the HCC website. There are no proposals to close the Knebworth Post Office.
14.2 Mardley Hill Residents Association
A letter form the residents association complained about the traffic in the High Street and wanted to know what action the Parish Council is taking to resolve the problem. The clerk is to inform the association about the holistic approach being taken to traffic problems in Knebworth.
14.3 East of England Plan
Dr Fothergill reported on the proposals to build over 21000 dwellings in North Herts. to 2021 of which 9,600 and 5,500 relating to the expansion of Stevenage and Luton respectively. Should the 21300 units be built it will increase the housing stock in North Herts. by 40% from the 2001 figure. Traffic and sewerage are problems to be resolved.
14.4 Planning
Mr Titmarsh requested:
• that NHDC make it a condition of a planning application for the workers vans to park on site.
• To obtain information on the regulations governing the location and length of time scaffolding may be erected on a footpath.
14.5 Parking, St Martins Road Car Park
Mr Titmarsh wished to clarify the parking in St Martins Road Car Park. Currently there is no parking beyond 24 hours. It was suggested that this should be reduced to 2 or 4 hours to prevent residents of 123 London Road using it as an overflow car park.
14.6 Computer
Mr Titmarsh recommends that a second CPU might be purchased to ensure continuity since the current computer has crashed twice in recent months. The clerk is to obtain quotes for an appropriate unit and software.
14.7 Mobile Phone
It was suggested that a mobile phone be purchased for use by the clerk for council business. The chairman and clerk are to discuss the matter further.
14.8 Pot Holes
Mr Bantick informed the council that a list of potholes in the parish had been filled. Another Parish Council had taken digital photographs of potholes to ensure all were filled properly.
14.9 Woolmer Green Village of the Year Award
Mr Bantick has been invited to Woolmer Green Parish Council’s celebration of becoming village of the year.
There being no other business the meeting closed at 09.40 p.m.
9 July 2008 in the COMMITTTEE ROOM, KNEBWORTH VILLAGE HALL
at 8.00 p.m.
_____________________________________________________________
Present: Mr John Bantick (Chairman), Dr Graham Fothergill, Mr John Hunt,
Mrs Rosemary Pateman, Mrs Caroline Presland, Mrs Carol Smith, Ms Elisabeth Smith, Mr Robin Smith, Mr Anthony Titmarsh and the Clerk
Apologies: Mr Gilmore, Mr Haigh and Mr Hall were on holiday
1. Declarations of Interest
Mr Hunt declared that he is chairman of Knebworth Tennis Club.
2. Approval of Parish Council Minutes
It was proposed by Mr Titmarsh, seconded by Mrs Smith and
RESOLVED “that the Minutes of the Meeting of the Parish Council, held on 14 May 2008, be approved and signed.
Unanimously agreed.
3. The Council Noted the Minutes of the Committee Meetings
Minutes of the Meeting of the Recreation Grounds Committee held on 4 June 2008.
Minutes of the Meeting of the Village Hall Committee held on the 18 June 2008
Minutes of the Meeting of the Finance and General Purposes Committee held on the 18 June 2008
Minutes of the Meeting of the Planning and Environment Committee held on the 19 May & 16 June 2008
Due to the problems with the computer minutes of committees were not available for the council. They will be distributed as soon as it is in working order.
4. Bowls & Tennis Club Leases
The Council agreed the terms discussed with the Tennis Club. The Bowls Club had been contacted to seek its acceptance of joint liability for the mains supply with the Parish Council and the Tennis Club. Members of the Bowls Club are to be invited to the next Recreation Grounds Committee meeting.
5. HCC Lease
HCC is offering a ten year lease with a break clause, with possibly a six month notice period. The Council consider this to be too short and effectively only a six month lease. A 28 year lease with a break clause based on the existing lease is to be requested together with an explanation for the proposal of such a short lease. The clerk is to write to instruct the solicitor accordingly.
6. Approval of Year end Accounts and Annual Return
Proposed by Mr Titmarsh, seconded by Ms Smith and
RESOLVED that “the year end accounts for the year ended 31 March 2008 with reserves of £87,818 be approved. “
Agreed.
Proposed by Mr Titmarsh and seconded by Ms Smith and
RESOLVED that “the statement of account on the Annual Return be approved.”
Agreed.
7. Annual Governance Statement
The questions on the annual governance statement were reviewed and approved.
Proposed by Ms Smith, seconded by Mr Titmarsh and
RESOLVED that “the annual governance statement be approved.”
Agreed.
8. Straw Polls
A paper tabled by Mr Gilmore was circulated. HAPTC’s view is that straw polls are a useful gauge of opinion and should not be included in Standing Orders. The matter is to be discussed further when Mr Gilmore is in attendance.
9. Milestone
Mr Jack of Herts. Highways ahs confirmed that the shortfall in funds required to renovate the milestone will be met by HCC. It was agreed that the clerk will raise a cheque for £550.00 made payable to Herts. Highways to ensure that the contract is placed for the work.
10. Banking Arrangements
The clerk is to arrange for the chairman and committee chairmen to sign the individual mandates. Not enough forms had been sent by Barclays Bank. The clerk is not to be a signatory but is to obtain a mandate to discuss the council’s bank accounts with Barclays.
The Council also discussed the possibility of obtaining a Council credit card. There would be charges associated with the card and also some control would be lost with only one signatory required to use the card. The Council therefore agreed not to obtain a credit card.
11. Removal of BT Telephone Boxes
Bt proposed to close the telephone boxes at Stockens Green and Old Knebworth, the latter was vandalised a month ago. Mrs Presland living near the Stockens Green box reported that it is used daily and the council should request that it stays. It was agreed that the clerk would try to obtain a usage report for the Stockens Green box.
12. Bennington Wind Farm
There is a proposal to site three wind turbines in Bennington, which will be visible at the top of Stevenage Road and from Old Knebworth. There is a strong campaign against the proposal but the Council agreed that it would not object.
13. Accounts for Payment
It was proposed by Mr Titmarsh and seconded by Mrs Smith and
RESOLVED “that the list of accounts paid during Accounts Period 2 2008/09 be approved.
Unanimously agreed.
Mr Titmarsh reported that he had agreed the monthly bank reconciliations to 31 May 2008
14. Any Other Urgent Business
14.1 Post Office Closures
A list of the reposed post offices to be closed is to be found on the HCC website. There are no proposals to close the Knebworth Post Office.
14.2 Mardley Hill Residents Association
A letter form the residents association complained about the traffic in the High Street and wanted to know what action the Parish Council is taking to resolve the problem. The clerk is to inform the association about the holistic approach being taken to traffic problems in Knebworth.
14.3 East of England Plan
Dr Fothergill reported on the proposals to build over 21000 dwellings in North Herts. to 2021 of which 9,600 and 5,500 relating to the expansion of Stevenage and Luton respectively. Should the 21300 units be built it will increase the housing stock in North Herts. by 40% from the 2001 figure. Traffic and sewerage are problems to be resolved.
14.4 Planning
Mr Titmarsh requested:
• that NHDC make it a condition of a planning application for the workers vans to park on site.
• To obtain information on the regulations governing the location and length of time scaffolding may be erected on a footpath.
14.5 Parking, St Martins Road Car Park
Mr Titmarsh wished to clarify the parking in St Martins Road Car Park. Currently there is no parking beyond 24 hours. It was suggested that this should be reduced to 2 or 4 hours to prevent residents of 123 London Road using it as an overflow car park.
14.6 Computer
Mr Titmarsh recommends that a second CPU might be purchased to ensure continuity since the current computer has crashed twice in recent months. The clerk is to obtain quotes for an appropriate unit and software.
14.7 Mobile Phone
It was suggested that a mobile phone be purchased for use by the clerk for council business. The chairman and clerk are to discuss the matter further.
14.8 Pot Holes
Mr Bantick informed the council that a list of potholes in the parish had been filled. Another Parish Council had taken digital photographs of potholes to ensure all were filled properly.
14.9 Woolmer Green Village of the Year Award
Mr Bantick has been invited to Woolmer Green Parish Council’s celebration of becoming village of the year.
There being no other business the meeting closed at 09.40 p.m.
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