MINUTES of the MEETING of the PARISH COUNCIL held on the
25 March 2009 in the KNEBWORTH VILLAGE HALL at 8.00 p.m.
_____________________________________________________________
Present: Mr John Bantick (Chairman), Dr Graham Fothergill, Mr Ian Gilmore, Mr Richard Haigh, Mr John Hunt, Mrs Carol Smith, Mr Robin Smith, Mr Anthony Titmarsh and the Clerk
Apologies: Mr Hall and Ms Smith due to prior engagements
In Attendance: PC Harding
1. Public Participation
PC Harding reported that there had been 45 recorded crimes since 1 January compared with 68 for the same period last year. There has been a reduction in burglaries but an increase in theft from and damage to motor vehicles. PCSCO Sinclair has been working on crime prevention.
There have been drug related offences. A properly planned and executed exercise is required to catch people with drugs.
Concern was raised about the traffic lights being installed at junctions 6 and 7 of the A1M which could result in more traffic using B197. through Knebworth. PC Harding did not consider that it would have any effect.
There is to be a police surgery on the first Monday of each month.
2. Declarations of Interest
Mr Hunt declared that he is President of the Tennis Club
3. Approval of Parish Council Minutes
It was proposed by Mr Titmarsh, seconded by Ms Smith and
RESOLVED “that the Minutes of the Meeting of the Parish Council, held on 11 February 2009, be approved and signed.”
Unanimously agreed.
4. The Council Noted the Minutes of the Committee Meetings
Minutes of the Meeting of the Recreation Grounds Committee held on 4 March 2009.
Minutes of the Meeting of the Village Hall Committee held on 11 March 2009
Minutes of the Meeting of the Finance and General Purposes Committee held on 11 March 2009
Minutes of the Meeting of the Planning and Environment Committee held on 9 February 2009 and 2 March 2009.
2008/09 95
5. Councillors Allowances and Expenses
Mr Parkin, NHDC, is to take forward the preparation of the allowance scheme for Knebworth.
6. HCC Lease
No further information was available on the lease and the matter was held over until the next meeting.
7. Knebworth Bowls and Tennis Club Leases
A second draft was circulated. It was agreed that the lease would start on 1 April 2009 and drafts would be forwarded to the clubs.
8. Bench Kerr Close
Residents of Station Road have complained about the nuisance caused by youths using the bench in Kerr Close and requested its removal. The police have not received any complaints. The bench is well used throughout the day. The council agreed to leave the bench in place and to raise the matter at the Parish meeting and would look at ways of improving the area.
9. Land Registration
Proposed by Mr Smith, seconded by Mr Gilmore and
RESOLVED that “the recreation ground land off Watton Road be registered with the land registry, with Foreman Laws undertaking the registration.”
Unanimous
10. Meeting Attendance
A meeting attendance register was previously circulated. It was highlighted that on two occasions the committees had been reduced to three councillors which although quorate, caused difficulties when one member declared an interest in a topic, and on another occasion did not allow a counter proposal to be seconded.
It was stated that the lateness of some of the committees was a problem. The timing of meetings is to be discussed at the next F&GP committee meeting.
11. Letter Heading
A working party of Mr Titmarsh, Mr Gilmore, Dr Fothergill and Mrs Presland was set up to review the letter heading and the council image.
2008/09 96
12. East Herts Inter Parish Council Meeting
Mr Titmarsh reported that the meeting had discussed parish plans; rural housing; old people’s bungalows are being given to families and s106 funding. No one knew if s106 funding was ever given to Parish Councils. It is to be raised at the next Rural Summit meeting.
13. Power of Well Being
The Power of Well Being is the informal name given to the statutory power enabling a local authority to do anything which it considers likely to achieve the promotion or improvement of the economic, social or environmental well-being of their area. The council must be eligible to use this power but there is no limit to the amount of spending, unlike s137 which is restricted to £6.50 per head of electorate.
Eligibility:
• 2/3 of councillors must have stood at the last election
• The clerk must be qualified
• At least 80% of the councillors must have attended a training event on the Power of Wellbeing.
• The council must have a statement of intent for community engagement
There is no extra money for this power and the council would have to fund projects through the precept or other external sources.
14. Welwyn & Hatfield Borough Council Core Strategy Issues and Options
The draft strategy is on deposit until 1st May 2009. It identifies two areas in Green Belt north of Woolmer Green which could take 100-200 dwellings. The council was concerned that dwellings to the north of Woolmer Green would result in coalescence.
It would however accept redesignation of the land between Entech and Monread Lodge to become part of the employment area of Woolmer Green.
15. Accounts for Payment
It was proposed by Mr Titmarsh, seconded by Dr Fothergill and
RESOLVED “that the list of accounts paid during Accounts Period 6 2008/09 be approved.”
Unanimous.
Mr Titmarsh reported that he had agreed the monthly bank reconciliations to 28 February 2009.
2008/09 97
16. Any Other Urgent Business
16.1 Parish Meeting
Mr Smith agreed to move around with the microphone and councillors are to sit on the stage.
16.2 Bench
A resident has requested two benches be reinstated in the village. It is to be discussed at the recreation rounds committee meeting.
16.3 Parish Update
The update is to be ready for delivery by 21 April 2009.
16.4 Next Meeting
The next Parish Council meeting will be held on 13 May 2009.
There being no other business the meeting closed at 9.30 p.m.
Wednesday, 25 March 2009
Wednesday, 11 March 2009
Finance and General Purposes - 11 March 2009
MINUTES of the MEETING of the FINANCE AND GENERAL PURPOSES COMMITTEE held on 11 March 2009 in the COMMITTEE ROOM, KNEBWORTH VILLAGE HALL
At 8.00 p.m.
_____________________________________________________________
Present: Mr Anthony Titmarsh (Chairman), Mr John Bantick, Dr Graham Fothergill, Mr Ian Gilmore and the Clerk
Apologies: Mr Haigh due to work commitments
Mr Hall due to a prior commitment
Ms Smith due to prior commitments
1. Declaration of Interest
There were no declarations of interest.
2. Minutes
It was proposed by Dr Fothergill, seconded by Mr Bantick and
RESOLVED “that the Minutes of the Meeting of the Finance and General Purposes Committee Council, held on 28 January 2009, are approved and signed.”
Unanimously agreed.
3. Report on Parish Damage
The gateway has been repaired, although the sign is slightly different. The door leaf to the main entrance of the pavilion has been damaged. Emulsion has been thrown on to a footpath in the recreation grounds, which has been washed off
4. Road Signs
Mr Titmarsh has undertaken a review of the road signs in the centre of the village and comments have been forwarded to Mr Jack, Herts Highways.
Three lights have been installed in the footpath from Pondcroft Road to London Road but as yet are not connected. The existing light is in working order but is obscured by foliage.
Statutory undertakings have already dug up the newly laid footpaths in Station Road.
5. Clean Up Campaign
The first tidy up of the village was held on 7 March with 13 people focusing on several areas. Over 15 bags of rubbish were collected; NHDC collected them on Tuesday from the village hall. There was a request from a representative of the Twinning Association to hold another clean up before the visit of the French. It was proposed the next clean up day should be held on 25 April. The clerk is to contact the Twinning Association to increase the number of volunteers.
2008/09 90
6. Milestone
Dr Fothergill and Mr Titmarsh have inspected the concrete milestone 29 near Odyssey and recommends that the area around it should be cleared prior to any renovation work. The clerk is to report the fly tipping and damaged fence to Herts Highways.
7. Office Equipment
The committee discussed the purchase of a laptop, projector and screen for the main hall. The clerk is to contact Woolmer Green Parish for information on its projector.
Proposed by Mr Gilmore, seconded by Mr Bantick and
RESOLVED that “ £1000 from contingency, together with £500 from NHDC be used to purchase media display equipment.”
Agreed.
8. Parish Newsletter
The committee discussed the draft and a revised edition is to be proof read by Dr Fothergill, Mr Bantick and Ms Smith.
Invitations to the Parish meeting are to be sent to PC Harding, Jane Gray, Alan Bardett, Richard Thake and Richard Jones, Herts Highways.
9. Website Management
The committee approved the procedures for information to be put on to the council website.
10. Village Website
The people who have been running the village website have decided that it is time to step down. Knebworth Village Trust has provided a grant of £109 to pay for the domain name for another year. There was considerable debate on whether the Parish Council should undertake the maintenance of the site. However there was concern over the resources needed to maintain the updated site and the potential time required to answer all queries.
The clerk is to obtain further information on the potential cost of employing a qualified person to maintain the site.
11. Report on Short Term Funds on Deposit
There is currently £100,000 on an instant deposit account bearing 0.1% interest rate.
12. Christmas Lights
Mr Taylor has not confirmed what the problem was with the tree lights, so the matter was held over until the next meeting.
2008/09 91
13. Financial Risk Assessment
This item was held over until the next meeting.
14. Salary Review
Proposed by Mr Bantick, seconded by Mr Gilmore and
RESOLVED that “in view of the confidential nature of the business about to be transacted it was advisable that members of the public, the press (none present) and the clerk be temporarily removed and that the meeting move into Part II session.”
Proposed by Mr Bantick, seconded by Dr. Fothergill and
RESOLVED that “having completed discussions the meeting return to Part I Session.”
15. Any Other Business
15.1 Welwyn Hatfield Core Strategy
W&HDC has issued its core strategy for consultation. It suggests that two areas to the north west of Woolmer Green could hold up to 200 houses. The content is to be discussed at the next Planning meeting.
15.2 Dog Bins
NHDC has revised the costs of installing and emptying dog bins to £451 for the year plus 5% from 1 April 2009. The current annual cost of emptying bins is £67.60. The Parish Council agreed to purchase two dog bins directly from Earth Anchors at a cost of £203 each rather than from NHDC.
15.3 Housing Association
Howard Cottage, a Housing Association based in Letchworth, has written offering its services if the council is looking for affordable homes.
15.4 Section 106 Agreement
Mr TItmarsh was concerned about the money attached to s106 agreements and its distribution. He is to raise the matter at the next Inter Parish meeting and the matter will be raised at the next NHDC rural meeting.
15.5 Village Services
A new Children’s Service Centre is to be set up in Woolmer Green village hall to service Knebworth, Oaklands and Woolmer Green.
15.6 Secondary School Transfer
Pupils of Knebworth JMI have recently been informed of their secondary school allocation. Due to close in 2012 Heathcote is not taking any new pupils, making Barnwell the nearest school for Knebworth children. Only one child was allocated a place there, but not one child was allocated its first choice.
15.7 Land, Gun Road Gardens
The land at the rear of the corner shop in Gun Road has a significant amount of rubbish dumped on it. The clerk is to write to the owner’s daughter, who is still resident in Knebworth requesting that the area be cleared.
2008/09 92
15.8 Southern Rural Inter Parish Meeting
A new date has not been set for the next southern rural inter parish meeting. The committee suggested that a meeting might be held with the parish councils bordering Knebworth. This is to be discussed further at the next meeting.
15.9 Gully, Gun Lane
A gully requires repair opposite the Royal British Legion in Gun Lane. The clerk is to report it to Herts. Highways.
There being no other business the meeting closed at 10.05 pm.
At 8.00 p.m.
_____________________________________________________________
Present: Mr Anthony Titmarsh (Chairman), Mr John Bantick, Dr Graham Fothergill, Mr Ian Gilmore and the Clerk
Apologies: Mr Haigh due to work commitments
Mr Hall due to a prior commitment
Ms Smith due to prior commitments
1. Declaration of Interest
There were no declarations of interest.
2. Minutes
It was proposed by Dr Fothergill, seconded by Mr Bantick and
RESOLVED “that the Minutes of the Meeting of the Finance and General Purposes Committee Council, held on 28 January 2009, are approved and signed.”
Unanimously agreed.
3. Report on Parish Damage
The gateway has been repaired, although the sign is slightly different. The door leaf to the main entrance of the pavilion has been damaged. Emulsion has been thrown on to a footpath in the recreation grounds, which has been washed off
4. Road Signs
Mr Titmarsh has undertaken a review of the road signs in the centre of the village and comments have been forwarded to Mr Jack, Herts Highways.
Three lights have been installed in the footpath from Pondcroft Road to London Road but as yet are not connected. The existing light is in working order but is obscured by foliage.
Statutory undertakings have already dug up the newly laid footpaths in Station Road.
5. Clean Up Campaign
The first tidy up of the village was held on 7 March with 13 people focusing on several areas. Over 15 bags of rubbish were collected; NHDC collected them on Tuesday from the village hall. There was a request from a representative of the Twinning Association to hold another clean up before the visit of the French. It was proposed the next clean up day should be held on 25 April. The clerk is to contact the Twinning Association to increase the number of volunteers.
2008/09 90
6. Milestone
Dr Fothergill and Mr Titmarsh have inspected the concrete milestone 29 near Odyssey and recommends that the area around it should be cleared prior to any renovation work. The clerk is to report the fly tipping and damaged fence to Herts Highways.
7. Office Equipment
The committee discussed the purchase of a laptop, projector and screen for the main hall. The clerk is to contact Woolmer Green Parish for information on its projector.
Proposed by Mr Gilmore, seconded by Mr Bantick and
RESOLVED that “ £1000 from contingency, together with £500 from NHDC be used to purchase media display equipment.”
Agreed.
8. Parish Newsletter
The committee discussed the draft and a revised edition is to be proof read by Dr Fothergill, Mr Bantick and Ms Smith.
Invitations to the Parish meeting are to be sent to PC Harding, Jane Gray, Alan Bardett, Richard Thake and Richard Jones, Herts Highways.
9. Website Management
The committee approved the procedures for information to be put on to the council website.
10. Village Website
The people who have been running the village website have decided that it is time to step down. Knebworth Village Trust has provided a grant of £109 to pay for the domain name for another year. There was considerable debate on whether the Parish Council should undertake the maintenance of the site. However there was concern over the resources needed to maintain the updated site and the potential time required to answer all queries.
The clerk is to obtain further information on the potential cost of employing a qualified person to maintain the site.
11. Report on Short Term Funds on Deposit
There is currently £100,000 on an instant deposit account bearing 0.1% interest rate.
12. Christmas Lights
Mr Taylor has not confirmed what the problem was with the tree lights, so the matter was held over until the next meeting.
2008/09 91
13. Financial Risk Assessment
This item was held over until the next meeting.
14. Salary Review
Proposed by Mr Bantick, seconded by Mr Gilmore and
RESOLVED that “in view of the confidential nature of the business about to be transacted it was advisable that members of the public, the press (none present) and the clerk be temporarily removed and that the meeting move into Part II session.”
Proposed by Mr Bantick, seconded by Dr. Fothergill and
RESOLVED that “having completed discussions the meeting return to Part I Session.”
15. Any Other Business
15.1 Welwyn Hatfield Core Strategy
W&HDC has issued its core strategy for consultation. It suggests that two areas to the north west of Woolmer Green could hold up to 200 houses. The content is to be discussed at the next Planning meeting.
15.2 Dog Bins
NHDC has revised the costs of installing and emptying dog bins to £451 for the year plus 5% from 1 April 2009. The current annual cost of emptying bins is £67.60. The Parish Council agreed to purchase two dog bins directly from Earth Anchors at a cost of £203 each rather than from NHDC.
15.3 Housing Association
Howard Cottage, a Housing Association based in Letchworth, has written offering its services if the council is looking for affordable homes.
15.4 Section 106 Agreement
Mr TItmarsh was concerned about the money attached to s106 agreements and its distribution. He is to raise the matter at the next Inter Parish meeting and the matter will be raised at the next NHDC rural meeting.
15.5 Village Services
A new Children’s Service Centre is to be set up in Woolmer Green village hall to service Knebworth, Oaklands and Woolmer Green.
15.6 Secondary School Transfer
Pupils of Knebworth JMI have recently been informed of their secondary school allocation. Due to close in 2012 Heathcote is not taking any new pupils, making Barnwell the nearest school for Knebworth children. Only one child was allocated a place there, but not one child was allocated its first choice.
15.7 Land, Gun Road Gardens
The land at the rear of the corner shop in Gun Road has a significant amount of rubbish dumped on it. The clerk is to write to the owner’s daughter, who is still resident in Knebworth requesting that the area be cleared.
2008/09 92
15.8 Southern Rural Inter Parish Meeting
A new date has not been set for the next southern rural inter parish meeting. The committee suggested that a meeting might be held with the parish councils bordering Knebworth. This is to be discussed further at the next meeting.
15.9 Gully, Gun Lane
A gully requires repair opposite the Royal British Legion in Gun Lane. The clerk is to report it to Herts. Highways.
There being no other business the meeting closed at 10.05 pm.
Village Hall - 11 March 2009
MINUTES of the MEETING of the VILLAGE HALL COMMITTEE held on
Wednesday 11 March 2009 in the COMMITTEE ROOM, KNEBWORTH
VILLAGE HALL at 7.30 p.m.
_____________________________________________________________
Present: Mr John Bantick, Mr Ian Gilmore, Mr Anthony Titmarsh and the Clerk
Apologies: Mr Hall, Mr Hunt and Mrs Presland due to prior engagements
In the absence of the chairman proposed by Mr Titmarsh, seconded by Mr Gilmore and
RESOLVED that “Mr Bantick takes the chair.”
1. Declaration of Interests
There were no declarations of interest
2. Minutes
Proposed by Mr Titmarsh, seconded by Mr Bantick and
RESOLVED “that the Minutes of the meeting of the Village Hall Committee, held on 28 January 2009, be approved and signed.”
Unanimously agreed.
3 Refurbishment of Gents Toilets
NHDC has awarded a grant towards the refurbishment of the toilets subject to a quote for the electrical work. The clerk is to confirm that the quotes still hold and to obtain a quote from the electrician. The committee agreed to carry forward £2500 capital towards upgrading the toilets and £1000 towards redecoration of the lobby area.
4. General Maintenance
The kitchen has been painted and some door seals fixed to reduce drafts. Mr Starkey is undertaking general spring clean duties, which Mrs Cullen is unable to undertake.
5. Heating
This item is to be carried forward to the next meeting.
2008/09 87
6. Salary Review
Proposed by Mr Bantick, seconded by Mr Titmarsh and
RESOLVED that “in view of the confidential nature of the business about to be transacted it was advisable that members of the public and the press (none present) be temporarily removed and that the meeting move into Part II session.”
Proposed by Mr Gilmore, seconded by Mr. Titmarsh and
RESOLVED that “having completed discussions that the meeting return to Part I Session.”
7. Any Other Business
7.1 Meeting date
The next meeting is scheduled for 29 April 2009.
There being no other business the meeting closed at 7.50pm
Wednesday 11 March 2009 in the COMMITTEE ROOM, KNEBWORTH
VILLAGE HALL at 7.30 p.m.
_____________________________________________________________
Present: Mr John Bantick, Mr Ian Gilmore, Mr Anthony Titmarsh and the Clerk
Apologies: Mr Hall, Mr Hunt and Mrs Presland due to prior engagements
In the absence of the chairman proposed by Mr Titmarsh, seconded by Mr Gilmore and
RESOLVED that “Mr Bantick takes the chair.”
1. Declaration of Interests
There were no declarations of interest
2. Minutes
Proposed by Mr Titmarsh, seconded by Mr Bantick and
RESOLVED “that the Minutes of the meeting of the Village Hall Committee, held on 28 January 2009, be approved and signed.”
Unanimously agreed.
3 Refurbishment of Gents Toilets
NHDC has awarded a grant towards the refurbishment of the toilets subject to a quote for the electrical work. The clerk is to confirm that the quotes still hold and to obtain a quote from the electrician. The committee agreed to carry forward £2500 capital towards upgrading the toilets and £1000 towards redecoration of the lobby area.
4. General Maintenance
The kitchen has been painted and some door seals fixed to reduce drafts. Mr Starkey is undertaking general spring clean duties, which Mrs Cullen is unable to undertake.
5. Heating
This item is to be carried forward to the next meeting.
2008/09 87
6. Salary Review
Proposed by Mr Bantick, seconded by Mr Titmarsh and
RESOLVED that “in view of the confidential nature of the business about to be transacted it was advisable that members of the public and the press (none present) be temporarily removed and that the meeting move into Part II session.”
Proposed by Mr Gilmore, seconded by Mr. Titmarsh and
RESOLVED that “having completed discussions that the meeting return to Part I Session.”
7. Any Other Business
7.1 Meeting date
The next meeting is scheduled for 29 April 2009.
There being no other business the meeting closed at 7.50pm
Wednesday, 4 March 2009
Recreation - 4 March 2009
MINUTES of the MEETING of the RECREATION GROUNDS COMMITTEE held on
4 March 2009 in the COMMITTEE ROOM, KNEBWORTH VILLAGE HALL at
7.30 p.m.
_____________________________________________________________
Present: Ms Elisabeth Smith (Chairman), Mr John Bantick, Mr John Hunt, Mrs Rosemary Pateman, Mrs Caroline Presland, Mr Anthony Titmarsh and the Clerk
Apologies: Mrs Carol Smith due to a prior commitment
In Attendance Mr Spiers, Mr Huggins, Mr Hill & Ms Ker Reid (Knebworth Tennis Club)
Mr Osborne & Mr Playle (Knebworth Bowls Club)
1. Declarations of Interest
Mr Hunt declared that he is president of Knebworth Tennis Club
2. Minutes
Proposed by Mr Titmarsh, seconded by Mr Hunt
RESOLVED “that subject to Mr Hunt being present the minutes of the meeting of the Recreation Grounds Committee Meeting held on 7 January 2009 are approved.”
Unanimously agreed.
3. Footpath Inspection
The chairman reported that the footpaths in the recreation ground have been inspected and were in good order. The clerk is to arrange for some minor cracks to be filled.
4. Knebworth Bowls & Tennis Club Lease
The draft lease for the Bowls and Tennis Club was discussed with representatives from the clubs and a number of revisions made. The clerk is to inform Foreman Laws of the amendments and request a draft for both clubs. The area to be included in the lease was discussed.
Proposed by Mr Bantick, seconded by Mrs Pateman and
RESOLVED that “the north boundary of the Tennis Courts should continue along the line of the hard fence line to the Bowls Club wall.”
Agreed.
5. Play Equipment
Wicksteed has repaired the combat cableway free of charge. The radio in the youth shelter will cost £500 to repair; an insurance claim is to be made.
2008/09 83
Proposed by Mr Bantick, seconded by Ms Smith and
RESOLVED that “ a virement of £500 from play equipment capital to repairs is to be made”.
Agreed.
The trim trail has been damaged by a motorcycle. All of the wooden equipment is to be reviewed and considered for replacement. A grant application is to be made in the next financial year. Mobile CCTV equipment is to be discussed with the police.
6. HCC Lease
Mr Piper, Foreman Laws, is currently reviewing a draft lease from the County Council. The committee discussed registering the land it owns at the recreation ground together with the access. The clerk is to instruct Foreman Laws.
7. Bins
NHDC has awarded a grant of £1300 towards the cost of two litter bins and weekend litter picking during the summer.
Proposed by Mr Titmarsh, seconded by Mrs Pateman and
RESOLVED that “two 145L Bensham bins be purchased at a cost of £383 each.”
Agreed.
8. Pavilion Repairs
The problems with the heating and hot water system in the pavilion have not been resolved; the motorised zone valves have been sticking. Connaught has suggested that all seven valves be replaced as part of a maintenance programme and has quoted £1262.
Mr Titmarsh believes that since there have been a number of problems with the system a survey should be carried out by a heating engineer prior to any work being undertaken. It was agreed that the cost of a survey is to be obtained and work approved at the F&GP committee meeting.
The leaf to the pavilion entrance door has been damaged and has to be replaced. The ties for the fire extinguishers have been removed from the two units next to the entrance. Both incidents have occurred whilst the pavilion was being used by the youth club. The club has been informed and has offered to contribute to the cost of repairs.
9. Pond
CMS has agreed to inspect the pond and recommend a programme of work. It will not be scheduled until the winter so that it does not disturb the wildlife in the pond.
2008/09 84
10. Hire Charges 2009/10
Proposed by Mr Hunt, seconded by Mr Bantick and
RESOLVED that “the hire charges be increased as follows Knebworth Football Club £1320, Knebworth Youth FC £2210 and Knebworth Old Boys FC £880.”
11. Salary Review
Proposed by Mr Bantick, seconded by Mr Titmarsh and
RESOLVED that “in view of the confidential nature of the business about to be transacted it was advisable that members of the public and the press (none present) be temporarily removed and that the meeting move into Part II session.”
Agreed.
Proposed by Mr Hunt, seconded by Mr. Titmarsh and
RESOLVED that “having completed discussions that the meeting return to Part I Session.”
Agreed.
12. Next Meeting Date
The next meeting will be held on 8 April 2009.
There being no other business the meeting closed at 9.30 p.m.
4 March 2009 in the COMMITTEE ROOM, KNEBWORTH VILLAGE HALL at
7.30 p.m.
_____________________________________________________________
Present: Ms Elisabeth Smith (Chairman), Mr John Bantick, Mr John Hunt, Mrs Rosemary Pateman, Mrs Caroline Presland, Mr Anthony Titmarsh and the Clerk
Apologies: Mrs Carol Smith due to a prior commitment
In Attendance Mr Spiers, Mr Huggins, Mr Hill & Ms Ker Reid (Knebworth Tennis Club)
Mr Osborne & Mr Playle (Knebworth Bowls Club)
1. Declarations of Interest
Mr Hunt declared that he is president of Knebworth Tennis Club
2. Minutes
Proposed by Mr Titmarsh, seconded by Mr Hunt
RESOLVED “that subject to Mr Hunt being present the minutes of the meeting of the Recreation Grounds Committee Meeting held on 7 January 2009 are approved.”
Unanimously agreed.
3. Footpath Inspection
The chairman reported that the footpaths in the recreation ground have been inspected and were in good order. The clerk is to arrange for some minor cracks to be filled.
4. Knebworth Bowls & Tennis Club Lease
The draft lease for the Bowls and Tennis Club was discussed with representatives from the clubs and a number of revisions made. The clerk is to inform Foreman Laws of the amendments and request a draft for both clubs. The area to be included in the lease was discussed.
Proposed by Mr Bantick, seconded by Mrs Pateman and
RESOLVED that “the north boundary of the Tennis Courts should continue along the line of the hard fence line to the Bowls Club wall.”
Agreed.
5. Play Equipment
Wicksteed has repaired the combat cableway free of charge. The radio in the youth shelter will cost £500 to repair; an insurance claim is to be made.
2008/09 83
Proposed by Mr Bantick, seconded by Ms Smith and
RESOLVED that “ a virement of £500 from play equipment capital to repairs is to be made”.
Agreed.
The trim trail has been damaged by a motorcycle. All of the wooden equipment is to be reviewed and considered for replacement. A grant application is to be made in the next financial year. Mobile CCTV equipment is to be discussed with the police.
6. HCC Lease
Mr Piper, Foreman Laws, is currently reviewing a draft lease from the County Council. The committee discussed registering the land it owns at the recreation ground together with the access. The clerk is to instruct Foreman Laws.
7. Bins
NHDC has awarded a grant of £1300 towards the cost of two litter bins and weekend litter picking during the summer.
Proposed by Mr Titmarsh, seconded by Mrs Pateman and
RESOLVED that “two 145L Bensham bins be purchased at a cost of £383 each.”
Agreed.
8. Pavilion Repairs
The problems with the heating and hot water system in the pavilion have not been resolved; the motorised zone valves have been sticking. Connaught has suggested that all seven valves be replaced as part of a maintenance programme and has quoted £1262.
Mr Titmarsh believes that since there have been a number of problems with the system a survey should be carried out by a heating engineer prior to any work being undertaken. It was agreed that the cost of a survey is to be obtained and work approved at the F&GP committee meeting.
The leaf to the pavilion entrance door has been damaged and has to be replaced. The ties for the fire extinguishers have been removed from the two units next to the entrance. Both incidents have occurred whilst the pavilion was being used by the youth club. The club has been informed and has offered to contribute to the cost of repairs.
9. Pond
CMS has agreed to inspect the pond and recommend a programme of work. It will not be scheduled until the winter so that it does not disturb the wildlife in the pond.
2008/09 84
10. Hire Charges 2009/10
Proposed by Mr Hunt, seconded by Mr Bantick and
RESOLVED that “the hire charges be increased as follows Knebworth Football Club £1320, Knebworth Youth FC £2210 and Knebworth Old Boys FC £880.”
11. Salary Review
Proposed by Mr Bantick, seconded by Mr Titmarsh and
RESOLVED that “in view of the confidential nature of the business about to be transacted it was advisable that members of the public and the press (none present) be temporarily removed and that the meeting move into Part II session.”
Agreed.
Proposed by Mr Hunt, seconded by Mr. Titmarsh and
RESOLVED that “having completed discussions that the meeting return to Part I Session.”
Agreed.
12. Next Meeting Date
The next meeting will be held on 8 April 2009.
There being no other business the meeting closed at 9.30 p.m.
Monday, 2 March 2009
Planning - 2 March 2009
MINUTES of the MEETING of the PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE held on Monday 2 March 2009 in the COMMITTEE, KNEBWORTH VILLAGE HALL
at 7.00 p.m.
_____________________________________________________________
Present: Dr Graham Fothergill (Chairman), Mrs Rosemary Pateman, Ms Elisabeth Smith, Mr Robin Smith and the Clerk
Apologies: Mr Richard Haigh due to work commitments.
Mr John Bantick and Mr John Hunt due to prior commitments.
1. Declaration of Interests
There were no declarations of interest.
2. Minutes
It was proposed by Ms Smith, seconded by Mr Smith and
RESOLVED “that the Minutes of the Meeting of the Planning and Environment Committee, held on 9 February 2009 be approved and signed.”
3. 00/03032/1HH The 7th Hole, 7 Gun Meadow Avenue, Knebworth
Roof alteration incorporating enlarged flat roof dormer window to side elevation and change from hipped to gable end roof to rear elevation to facilitate loft conversion. Balcony and balustrade to roof of existing single storey flat roof rear extension
The committee considered that the flat roof dormer to be too large and the application to be out of keeping with the street scene. It therefore OBJECTS.
4. 09/00006/1 Knebworth Golf Club Deards End Lane, Knebworth
Single storey front extension behind existing screen wall to provide disabled toilet store
NO OBJECTIONS
5. 09/00007/1LB Knebworth Golf Club, Deards End Lane, Knebworth
Single storey front extension behind existing screen wall to provide disabled toilet store. Infill of existing window
NO OBJECTIONS
6. 08/02829/1 146 Park Lane, Knebworth
Five bedroom detached house with integral garage following demolition of existing dwelling and outbuildings
NO OBJECTIONS
2008/09 80
7. Planning Policy
NHDC Development Policies: Preferred Options includes policies relating to retail units in rural areas and are relevant to Knebworth. Extracts from policy 28 and 29 identify how the loss of A1 units will be viewed once the policies are adopted.
Policy 28
In the local centres we support the provision of shopping and service
facilities for local people.
We will only permit the loss of a shop (A1) unit in a local centre where:
1) it would not lead to an over concentration of non-shop (non-A1)
uses; and
2) the proposed use would add to the vitality and viability of the centre;
and
3) it would not seriously diminish the provision of local shopping
facilities, and
4) the proposed use meets a key community need.
Where the unit is vacant, and the proposal does not comply with criteria
1) – 4) we will only permit the loss if it can be demonstrated that the unit
has remained vacant for a year or more, and documentary evidence has
been provided that all reasonable attempts to sell or let the premises for
similar uses in that period have failed.
We will only grant development proposals for a change of use from
A2/3/4/5, D1 or D2 at ground floor level, to another use not listed above,
in exceptional circumstances, and where it can be demonstrated that
the proposal meets a particular local community need.
Policy 29 Proposed policy wording
We will not permit development proposals which result in the loss of an
individual shop, service or facility, outside the town and local centres
unless:
1) There is another shop, service or facility of a similar use available for
customers within a convenient walking distance; and
2) the proposed new use would complement the function and character
of the area.
In the absence of such an alternative facility, we will only permit the loss
if it can be demonstrated that the unit has remained vacant for a year or
more and documentary evidence has been provided that all reasonable
attempts to sell or let the premises for similar uses in that period have failed.
The committee approved the policies.
8. Any Other Business
8.1 Old Knebworth Lane
Mrs Pateman complained that the lane is overgrown and full of litter. The clerk is to inform HCC Rights of Way and Herts. Highways.
8.2 Footpath, Oakfields Road
Mrs Pateman informed the committee that people are cutting across the field from the recreation ground to the bridleway from Oakfields Avenue to Bragbury End. The clerk is to inform Mr Wallace of the practice.
2008/09 81
8.3 Hedges Hornbeam Spring
The hedges are overgrowing the footpath at 42 and 44 Hornbeam Spring. The clerk is to inform Herts. Highways.
8.4 Telephone Box, Stockens Green
The telephone box has now been removed from Stockens Green.
8.5 Opening times of Station Booking Office
There are plans to further reduce the opening times of the ticket office Monday to Friday 07.00 -11.00 am. The committee wished to raise an objection to the reduced hours. The clerk is to contact the Knebworth and Stevenage Rail users group to add its support to their campaign.
8.6 Next Meeting
The next meeting will be held on 6 April 2009
There being no other business the meeting closed at 7.35pm.
at 7.00 p.m.
_____________________________________________________________
Present: Dr Graham Fothergill (Chairman), Mrs Rosemary Pateman, Ms Elisabeth Smith, Mr Robin Smith and the Clerk
Apologies: Mr Richard Haigh due to work commitments.
Mr John Bantick and Mr John Hunt due to prior commitments.
1. Declaration of Interests
There were no declarations of interest.
2. Minutes
It was proposed by Ms Smith, seconded by Mr Smith and
RESOLVED “that the Minutes of the Meeting of the Planning and Environment Committee, held on 9 February 2009 be approved and signed.”
3. 00/03032/1HH The 7th Hole, 7 Gun Meadow Avenue, Knebworth
Roof alteration incorporating enlarged flat roof dormer window to side elevation and change from hipped to gable end roof to rear elevation to facilitate loft conversion. Balcony and balustrade to roof of existing single storey flat roof rear extension
The committee considered that the flat roof dormer to be too large and the application to be out of keeping with the street scene. It therefore OBJECTS.
4. 09/00006/1 Knebworth Golf Club Deards End Lane, Knebworth
Single storey front extension behind existing screen wall to provide disabled toilet store
NO OBJECTIONS
5. 09/00007/1LB Knebworth Golf Club, Deards End Lane, Knebworth
Single storey front extension behind existing screen wall to provide disabled toilet store. Infill of existing window
NO OBJECTIONS
6. 08/02829/1 146 Park Lane, Knebworth
Five bedroom detached house with integral garage following demolition of existing dwelling and outbuildings
NO OBJECTIONS
2008/09 80
7. Planning Policy
NHDC Development Policies: Preferred Options includes policies relating to retail units in rural areas and are relevant to Knebworth. Extracts from policy 28 and 29 identify how the loss of A1 units will be viewed once the policies are adopted.
Policy 28
In the local centres we support the provision of shopping and service
facilities for local people.
We will only permit the loss of a shop (A1) unit in a local centre where:
1) it would not lead to an over concentration of non-shop (non-A1)
uses; and
2) the proposed use would add to the vitality and viability of the centre;
and
3) it would not seriously diminish the provision of local shopping
facilities, and
4) the proposed use meets a key community need.
Where the unit is vacant, and the proposal does not comply with criteria
1) – 4) we will only permit the loss if it can be demonstrated that the unit
has remained vacant for a year or more, and documentary evidence has
been provided that all reasonable attempts to sell or let the premises for
similar uses in that period have failed.
We will only grant development proposals for a change of use from
A2/3/4/5, D1 or D2 at ground floor level, to another use not listed above,
in exceptional circumstances, and where it can be demonstrated that
the proposal meets a particular local community need.
Policy 29 Proposed policy wording
We will not permit development proposals which result in the loss of an
individual shop, service or facility, outside the town and local centres
unless:
1) There is another shop, service or facility of a similar use available for
customers within a convenient walking distance; and
2) the proposed new use would complement the function and character
of the area.
In the absence of such an alternative facility, we will only permit the loss
if it can be demonstrated that the unit has remained vacant for a year or
more and documentary evidence has been provided that all reasonable
attempts to sell or let the premises for similar uses in that period have failed.
The committee approved the policies.
8. Any Other Business
8.1 Old Knebworth Lane
Mrs Pateman complained that the lane is overgrown and full of litter. The clerk is to inform HCC Rights of Way and Herts. Highways.
8.2 Footpath, Oakfields Road
Mrs Pateman informed the committee that people are cutting across the field from the recreation ground to the bridleway from Oakfields Avenue to Bragbury End. The clerk is to inform Mr Wallace of the practice.
2008/09 81
8.3 Hedges Hornbeam Spring
The hedges are overgrowing the footpath at 42 and 44 Hornbeam Spring. The clerk is to inform Herts. Highways.
8.4 Telephone Box, Stockens Green
The telephone box has now been removed from Stockens Green.
8.5 Opening times of Station Booking Office
There are plans to further reduce the opening times of the ticket office Monday to Friday 07.00 -11.00 am. The committee wished to raise an objection to the reduced hours. The clerk is to contact the Knebworth and Stevenage Rail users group to add its support to their campaign.
8.6 Next Meeting
The next meeting will be held on 6 April 2009
There being no other business the meeting closed at 7.35pm.
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