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River Parish Council Council News |
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The Parish Council meets 10 times a year, usually on the second Tuesday of each month except for August and December. The meetings are held at the Methodist Church in Lewisham Road and start at 7.30pm. All Parishoners are welcome to attend, however members of the public are not permitted to participate unless agreed by the Council. They are given time at the end of the meeting to ask any questions or raise issues about local affairs. Notice of meetings and agenda are posted on the Parish Council notice board out side the Village Hall in Common Lane.
RIVER
PARISH COUNCIL Information and application forms from Parish Clerk 820273 or email coulsonwright@aol.com Closing date for applications 31 January 2010
CHAIRMAN'S
JOTTINGS
New councillor
PCSO Questionnaire
Dickensian Event
Grants for
River organisations
Access to
Gorse Hill
Road,
traffic and public transport matters The revised bus service for River is proving to be controversial. Whilst we now enjoy three buses an hour, it now takes much longer to get to and from the town centre. There are some winners, though, with access to Tesco and B&Q much easier. Apparently a dedicated service to River only was no longer viable. We have invited the Stagecoach manager to our next meeting (Tuesday 10 November 7.30 at River Methodist Church if you want to attend). Inconsiderate and illegal parking in the village is receiving attention from our PCSO and the police. Problems include HGVs parking overnight, cars parking on both sides of the road by the Crabble Road railway bridge, cars parking on the pavement and cars parking anywhere and everywhere when Dover Athletic plays at home. Kent Highways has been asked to provide dropped kerbs down Common Lane to make wheelchair access to the village hall, greengrocers and the Co-op much easier. This is our top priority but if you know of other locations in River where they are badly needed, please let us know.
Extra
village sign
Recreation ground Antisocial behaviour in the public toilets is really trying our patience. Recent examples include excrement on the floor and walls, blood on the floor, walls and in the washbasin and to cap it all a fish head rammed down the WC. Our conscientious cleaner should not have to clear up this sort of thing. The parish does not have to provide a public toilet and if the situation does not improve the activities of a small minority will force us to close the toilets permanently and deprive many rec. users and passers-by of this amenity.
Community
Payback Scheme We have also accepted an offer from Harbour School for a couple of teenagers to carry out under adult supervision litter picks from time to time.
Remembrance Sunday As always at this time of year I wish everybody in River a very Happy Christmas.
REPORT OF
THE COUNCIL CHAIRMAN FOR 2008/09
Your Parish Councillors
Scarecrow Trail
Recreation Ground The metal goals of the kick about area can now be moved so that when one 'pitch' gets too worn the goals can be moved allowing the worn pitch to be repaired. The damaged goalmouths have been repaired and should recover this summer. We were pleased that an audit visit by the Football Foundation was very impressed with the use made of its grant to help finance the refurbishment of the changing rooms etc a few years ago as well as the greatly increased use of the ground particularly by Dover Rangers' many youngsters. It was also good to hear sports representatives at the Annual Users' Meeting of the rec congratulating the Parish Council and its groundsman for providing the best facilities in the district. Some money has been spent patching the very rusty boundary fencing along Lewisham Road to make it secure for the moment. No contractor wants the job of stripping it down to bare metal and repainting and in any case many of the struts are too heavily corroded. Therefore, we propose to replace the 100 panels. The cost would be in the order of £30,000, which is too much to pay from reserves or in any one year's budget. We are recommending to you this evening that it should be financed from a combination of a sum from reserves, any grants we can obtain and the balance in a loan repayable over several years if necessary from the Public Works Loan Board at an attractive rate of interest. This will be discussed in more detail later this evening. We have welcomed the generous offer from River Conservation Society to refurbish the gates at the corner of Lewisham Road and Crabble Lane. Several tenders were received for the ground maintenance contract for 2009/10 and after careful consideration the contract was awarded to Heber Horticultural Services. After 30 years maintaining the ground Jim Cox became very much part of the rec. scene. We thank him for his long service and wish him well in the future.
Traffic Management We also asked him to consider what could be done to slow traffic on Lower Road by the Kearsney Abbey side gate to prevent further damage to fencing by speeding cars and accidents to pedestrians trying to cross at that point. A positive move was the decision to lower the height restriction for Kearsney Railway Bridge in the hope of preventing further damage to the bridge. Hopefully, better advanced warning will be given to avoid lorries having to divert through River. In the absence of a lollipop person Kent Highways has proposed a zebra crossing for River School, but the parish council's response was that such a crossing with a complete ban on parking for some distance on the approaches to it would be inappropriate and suggested a number of alternatives. We wait to hear the outcome. Unlike planning applications, the Parish Council is not consulted automatically by Highways about new double yellow lines, although we are trying to remedy this, and at the moment there are three proposals - outside Riverlea, on both sides of the road outside the former Bensted shop and in lower Minnis Lane. Our PCSO has spent some time carrying out speed checks in the village to counter both 'normal' speeding and particularly youths using River as a speed track.
Antisocial behaviour Litter is a constant problem both from people and from dogs. We have installed a dog waste bin at the corner of Lyndhurst Road and Crabble Lane in an attempt to clean up this particular spot and we have also provided a much bigger litter bin by the Co-op and replaced the bin by the Village Hall. Can I suggest that we adopt Bill Bryson's Pick it Up Campaign and do just that when we see litter in the streets as only a few River pavements are cleared by DDC. Needless to say our PCSO has been made aware of all these problems. As the 3 year PCSO contract is more than halfway through, we should like residents' views regarding the value of our PCSO since it costs River residents over £13,000 a year. About six months before the contract expires in July 2010 we expect to be asked whether we wish to extend the contract or not - that is assuming a PCSO will still be on offer! This will be our main consultation topic later this evening.
Budget for 2009/10
Miscellaneous We have adopted a Publication Scheme for the parish council as required under the Freedom of Information Act and details are on our noticeboard and website.
Conclusion
11th
November 2008
MINUTES OF
A MEETING OF RIVER PARISH COUNCIL HELD PRESENT: Mr D. Leach (in the chair), Mrs Reeves, Mrs Brand and Messer's Cuff & Killip, Apologies: Mr Flood was absent due to ill health. Mrs FoxBetts IN ATTENDANCE: Mrs J. Coulson-Wright (Parish Clerk), Cllr S Nicholas, Cllr A Richardson, Rhys Griffiths, Dover Express reporter, PCSO Sara Orchard and PCSO Jason Brett 1 MINUTES OF THE PREVIOUS MEETING OF PARISH COUNCIL The minutes of the last meeting held on the 14th October 2008 had been circulated. It was proposed by Mrs Brand, seconded by Mr Cuff that these be accepted as a correct record and were signed by the Chairman. 2 DECLARATION OF ACCEPTANCE OF OFFICE The Chairman welcomed the new Parish Councillors, Mr & Mrs Horobin and Mr Parkin. They made their Declaration of Acceptance of Office, and completed both the, Consent to Nomination and The Parish Councils Model Code of Conduct Order 2001 documents. 3 MATTERS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES
(a) Events Bank Account -
The Clerk has contacted the KALC for clarification of procedures. The
account will fall under exactly the same rigorous financial
requirements set out in the 1972 LGA and the 1996 Audit Regulations
which the Parish Councils Accounts adhere to. The signatories MUST be
Parish Councillors and the Proper Officer. All Terms of reference
will be addressed for the Events Committee and also the Recreation
Ground Committee when the Parish Councils standing orders are
completed in the New Year. 4 PACT PCSO Orchard informed the Councillors she has now left River and started her new position in Deal. Rivers new officer is PCSO Jason Brett. He has introduced himself to River Primary school and local youth club. He has been patrolling Lewisham Road and Lower Road. The mobile contact number remains the same. The Chairman welcomed PCSO Brett to River Parish. We look forward to working with him. 5 PLANNING MATTERS
Planning Matters to
be considered:
To note decisions made by
Planning Committee Chairman:
To note decisions made by DDC: APPEAL - Wind Farm on Land off Archers Road, Sutton Court Farm, Church Hill, Sutton, Dover. 6 REPORTS Cllr Nicholas reported she has spoken to the DDC licencing manager regarding the recent complaints by Mr Jaconelli. The manager has not received any complaints but has agreed to investigate the accusations. Daffodils have been planted under the village sign for spring. Works to widen the roads on the down hill side between Carlsden Close and No 129 Crabble Hill are programmed to start on 24th November. This should take approximately three weeks. The permanent traffic lights will be replaced by temporary traffic lights, and left turns out of and right turns into Crabble Road will not be permitted. Cllr Richardson informed the Councillors he is now involved in the DDC Planning Committee. Mr Killip inquired as a result of the cost cutting exercise at DDC were there to be any redundancies. Cllr Nicholas confirmed there would not be any redundancies as they are accommodating the budget by resourceful thinking. Langdon Parish Council has instructed a barrister to represent them at a public enquiry in January 2008 regarding the planned Dover North Windfarm. Mr Killip enquired if the DDC Windfarm worked. Cllr Richardson believed it made a contribution. The Chairman explained if a Windfarm was installed on the Dover sea front it would be as high as Dover Castle. They dominate the landscape. Langdon Parish Council has asked River Parish Council if they would consider making a donation towards the legal costs. The Chairman proposed £100 donation. The Councillors did not agree or disagree to this proposal. Therefore the Chairman used his vote and decided against. 7 CORRESPONDENCE
Dogs Trust Canterbury -
Will be passed onto J Hoynes, The Rivall editor. 8 DATES FOR COUNCILLOR DIARIES None 9. REVIEW OF CHARGES METHODIST HALL. The Chairman declared an interest. Mr Cuff proposed, Mr Killip seconded that the increase of 10% for the premises hourly charges be accepted. 10 CLERK'S FINANCIAL REPORT
The statement of receipts and
payments for October 2008 was presented to the Council. It was
proposed by Mr Killip and seconded by Mrs Reeves that the report be
accepted and this was carried. The statement was then signed by
the Chairman. 11 ANY OTHER RELEVANT BUSINESS Mrs Horobin raised concerns over the temporary orange fencing at Kearsney Abbey. Cllr Nicholas explained the fencing was there to prevent the wall from crumbling into the lake. It will cost £100,000 to replace the wall, however a scheme is planned to raise funding. Mr Killip informed the Councillors the right of way footpath access from Lewisham Road to Gorse Hill is so hazardous and overgrown, and needs addressing. The Clerk will write to KCC. Mrs Reeves reported a broken lock on one of the ladies toilets in the rec. The Clerk will investigate All Councillors were asked if they would like to join the Recreation ground committee. No Councillors wished to join. The Chairman closed the meeting at 8.45pm
MINUTES OF
A MEETING OF RIVER PARISH COUNCIL HELD PRESENT: Mr D. Leach (in the chair), Mr Flood, Mrs Brand, Mrs Horobin and Messer's Cuff, Killip & Horobin Apologies: Mr Parkin, Mrs Reeves, PCSO Jason Brett IN ATTENDANCE: Mrs J. Coulson-Wright (Parish Clerk), Cllr S Nicholas, Rhys Griffiths, Dover Express reporter. 1 MINUTES OF THE PREVIOUS MEETING OF PARISH COUNCIL The minutes of the last meeting held on the 11th November 2008 had been circulated. A few amendments were highlighted by Mr Cuff. It was proposed by Mr Cuff, seconded by Mrs Brand that these be accepted as a correct record and were signed by the Chairman. 2 MINUTES OF THE RECREATION COMMITTEE The minutes of the last meeting held on 25th November 2008, were noted. 3 MINUTES OF THE EVENTS COMMITTEE The minutes of the last meeting held on 2nd December 2008, were noted. Mrs Brand asked if dogs would be allowed into the recreation ground to take part in a dog show during the summer fayre. The Parish Councillors agreed, as long as all dog owners are made aware that they must control and clear up after their dogs. 4 RESIGNATION Mrs C Foxbetts has resigned from the Parish Council due to external commitments. The Clerk will inform DDC. 5 MATTERS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES
(a)Waste Bins - The Clerk
confirmed that the bins were ordered on the 27th October 2008 from
Barry Finch, DDC. As they had still not arrived the Clerk will
contact DDC again. 6 PACT PCSO Brett did not attend the meeting. However he spoke to the Chairman reporting the village has been very quiet. Mrs Horobin explained local residents had informed her that eggs & oranges were being thrown at their property. The Clerk urged Councillors to inform residents that any incidents should be communicated to the PCSO. Mr Flood also reported a car has been parking on the zig zags outside of River Primary School every day causing a problem and requested that PCSO Brett attend the school, mornings & afternoons. Mr Killip has already spoken to PCSO Brett and believed he was already attending the school. 7 PLANNING MATTERS
Planning Matters to be considered:
To note decisions made by
Planning Committee Chairman:
To note decisions made by DDC: 8 REPORTS Dist Cllr Sue Nicholas informed the Parish Councillors that the bus terminus was still covered in litter and Chinese food which has been thrown over the shelter. The Clerk will communicate this to PCSO Brett and request he patrols the area, especially at night. The condition of road from the top of the hill at Crabble Road to the junction of Crabble Ave is appalling. The road surface is full of pot holes and needs addressing. The Clerk will contact KHS. It was confirmed at a recent Cabinet Meeting that DDC 09/10 budget will increase to just under 5%. Dist Cllr S Nicholas is currently involved with housing issues. 9 CORRESPONDENCE
Resident Lewisham Road.
Traffic incident Lower Rd - A recent near miss incident involving
a parishioner and speeding van at the side entrance of Kearsney Abbey
has been addressed by contacting David Gaskin, KHS. A site visited
was planned for 2nd January & recommendations given to the
Chairman. This visit has not happened. The Clerk will contact Mr
Gaskin again. 10 DATES FOR COUNCILLOR DIARIES None 11 RPC VILLAGE HALL REPRESENTATION The Chairman asked Mr & Mrs Horobin if they would officially become the RPC representatives. Mr & Mrs Horobin agreed. The Village Hall Chairman will be informed. 12 ANNUAL PARISH MEETING. PROVISIONAL ARRANGEMENTS It was agreed that the special topic in May would be the value of PCSO. 13 BUDGET COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATIONS 2009/10 The budget committee recommended an increase of 3.65% to £62,000. This would mean a Band D household would go up by £1.37 per year. The Chairman asked the Parish Councillors if they accepted this recommendation. It was proposed by Mr Cuff, seconded by Mrs Brand that this be accepted. 14 CLERK'S FINANCIAL REPORT The statement of receipts and payments for November & December 2008 were presented to the Council. It was proposed by Mrs Brand and seconded by Mr Cuff that the report be accepted and this was carried. The statement was then signed by the Chairman. The Clerk reported that the HSBC bank had dramatically reduced its interest rates over the last two months. The business savings account saw a reduction of interest on the 16th October 2008 to 1.61% net. Rates dropped further on the 16th December 2008 to 0.04%. Rates of interest offered by other high street competitors will be looked at and discussed at the next meeting. 13 ANY OTHER RELEVANT BUSINESS Mrs Brand enquired if the 'village areas' allocated to each councillor require amending, as there has been a number of changes recently. The Chairman believed they should be left until such time there is a need, when areas could be re-allocated.
Mr Killip recently spoke to two
KHS agents. They are looking at the possibility of a zebra crossing
for Lewisham Road, which will be located outside of River Primary
School. They were very positive and confirmed the project would be
included in this year's budget. The Chairman then opened the meeting to the public.
It was reported that local dog
walkers had been experiencing problems within Frandom Wood. Two men
questioned a walker asking him what he was doing in the wood. They
were both carrying guns (for clay pigeon shooting) and one of the men
shot his gun in the air. Clay pigeon shooting has been happening from
8am until dusk, and can be heard in Chilton Ave by the residents. The Chairman closed the meeting at 9.15pm
MINUTES OF
A MEETING OF RIVER PARISH COUNCIL HELD PRESENT: Mr D. Leach (in the chair), Mr Flood, Mrs Brand, Mrs Horobin, Mrs Reeves and Messer's Cuff, Killip, Parkin & Horobin Apologies: PCSO Jason Brett IN ATTENDANCE: Mrs J. Coulson-Wright (Parish Clerk), Cllr S Nicholas, Rhys Griffiths, Dover Express reporter. 1 MINUTES OF THE PREVIOUS MEETING OF PARISH COUNCIL The minutes of the last meeting held on the 13th January 2009 had been circulated. A few amendments were highlighted by Mr Cuff. It was proposed by Mrs Brand, seconded by Mr Flood that these be accepted as a correct record and were signed by the Chairman. 2 MATTERS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES
(a)Waste Bins - Mr Barry
Finch, DDC assured the Clerk that the new bins would be installed
before the end of February. 3 PACT PCSO Brett did not attend the meeting. 4 PLANNING MATTERS
Planning Matters to be considered: 5 REPORTS Dist Cllr Sue Nicholas informed the Parish Councillors that the road from the top of the hill at Crabble Road to the junction with Crabble Ave has now been resurfaced, but not continued to the Athletic Ground gate despite the poor condition. Cllr Nicholas expressed concerns over the traffic and parking issues that take place when Dover Athletic is playing a home football match at Crabble. Cllr Nicholas has tried to persuade DDC to consider a Park & Ride scheme from Whitfield. DDC's official line is as long as the emergency services can get through the streets nothing will be done. PCSO Brett will be asked to monitor this issue. Mr Killip believed the traffic was worth putting up with as the congestion only lasts for 2 hours every other week. A notice will be displayed in the Post Office with a help line number for people who may have issues with unemployment, finances or have fallen on hard times. 6 CORRESPONDENCE
KHS 'Online Road Show' - Mr
Killip has agreed to attend on behalf of the Parish Council. 7 DATES FOR COUNCILLOR DIARIES None 8 STANDING ORDERS FOR RIVER PARISH COUNCIL The revised guidance from the KALC has not materialised, however the Chairman and Clerk have drafted Standing Orders for the Parish Council. The Chairman explained the Standing Orders would help any new Councillors and Clerks understand how River Parish Council runs. Mr Cuff asked if the order should read 'Chairperson' rather than 'Chairman'. The Clerk will confirm this query with the KALC. Under paragraph 41 it mentions that the Council shall deal with complaints of maladministration allegedly committed by the Council or by any officer or member in the manner recommended in the Circular 2/86 issued by the NALC. The KALC told the Clerk this has been superseded and had sent her the new version. The Chairman read the new Complaints Procedure to the Councillors and proposed it be adopted. Mr Killip proposed to accept the Standing Orders & Complaints Procedure, seconded by Mrs Brand and it was agreed. 9. RIVER PARISH COUNCIL PUBLICATION SCHEME (FOI) The Chairman explained under the Freedom of Information Act it is the duty of every public authority to adopt and maintain a publication scheme. This request has come from the Information Commissioners Office. Failure to adopt the scheme would result in a local council being in breach of the Act. The Chairman then gave a brief resume explaining the steps River Parish Council has taken to comply with the new scheme. It was proposed by Mr Flood, seconded by Mr Parkin and agreed that the scheme be adopted. 10 CLERK'S FINANCIAL REPORT The statement of receipts and payments for January 2009 will be distributed at the March meeting as statements had not been received from HSBC prior to the meeting. The Clerk reported that all high street banks were offering similar poor interest rates as the HSBC bank. Higher interest rates were only found in bonds, however a large sum of money would need to be tied up for at least 6 months to qualify for the higher rate. The Clerk will review the council's accounts and present the first 6 month expenditure of 2008 at the next meeting for councillors to decide how they wish to proceed. 11 ANY OTHER RELEVANT BUSINESS Mrs Brand asked if any Councillors would be prepared to help during the summer fayre. All councillors agreed they would be happy to assist the event. Mr & Mrs Horobin reported since the closure of the Village Hall Market, they have decided to run the Market themselves. They will go along similar lines offering tea & coffee etc. All monies will go to the Village Hall. Mrs Horobin asked the Councillors to confirm if the £500 offered to support the summer fayre was a loan or a gift. The Chairman explained it was a float that would give the events committee a cash flow that they could use before they had their own funds. Depending on how much money is raised from the event depended on whether the money would require paying back. If it rained on the day the council would be sympathetic. It was important that as many draw tickets as possible were sold before the event in case of bad weather since this would provide much of the income. Mr Flood attended the Police Forum and raised two issues. Firstly he enquired as to why the meetings had started again when we now had a PCSO? Secondly why were we the only parish paying for our PCSO? Guy Thompson explained he would be discussing value for money at their next AGM. He said it was the parish council's prerogative if they wished to end the contract, however they would be required to give 6 months notice. 12 RECREATION GROUND TENDERS (In closed session)
Mr Flood presented the Recreation
Committee's recommendations for the Recreation Ground Tenders
2009/10. Eight tenders were received. Mr Flood explained a few
contractors wished to bid for all areas, whilst others only wished to
bid for specifics. The applicants were narrowed down to two, however
one in particular shone above the rest. Satisfactory references had
been obtained. Mr Flood explained he and the Clerk had attended a
meeting with Steve Morris, Managing Director from Heber Horticultural
Services that morning. He was very impressed with Mr Morris and
therefore proposed Heber be given the entire Ground Maintenance
Contract. Mr Flood had also met with Mr J Wright who tendered for the
locking & cleaning contract. This meeting also proved successful
therefore he proposed J Wright & Son be given the cleaning &
locking contract. It was proposed by Mr Killip, seconded by Mrs
Reeves that this be accepted. The Chairman closed the meeting at 9.15pm
MINUTES OF
A MEETING OF RIVER PARISH COUNCIL HELD PRESENT: Mr D. Leach (in the chair), Mr Flood, Mrs Brand, Mrs Horobin, Mrs Reeves and Messer's Cuff, Killip, Parkin & Horobin Apologies: Rhys Griffiths, Dover Express reporter. IN ATTENDANCE: Mrs J. Coulson-Wright (Parish Clerk), Cllr S Nicholas, PCSO Jason Brett. 1 MINUTES OF THE PREVIOUS MEETING OF PARISH COUNCIL The minutes of the last meeting held on the 10th February 2009 had been circulated. It was proposed by Mr Horobin, seconded by Mr Parkin that these be accepted as a correct record and were signed by the Chairman. 2 MINUTES OF THE RECREATION COMMITTEE The minutes of the last meeting held on 3rd February 2009, were noted. 3 MINUTES OF THE EVENTS COMMITTEE The minutes of the last meeting held on 3rd February 2009, were noted. Mrs Brand informed the Parish Council that a raffle will be organised. Tickets will be printed and sold prior to the event. The Bowls Club has given the Events Committee permission to use their facilities on the day. 4 MATTERS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES (a)Waste Bins - The new bins have been installed, however it was reported that the bins have not been emptied since their installation. The Clerk will contact Barry Finch, DDC. (b)Gorse Hill - Denise Roffey, Footpath Officer, has not visited the site yet. (c)Fly Tipping - The Clerk contacted Denise Axford, DDC. Denise explained DDC are still trying to resolve this issue. Mr Killip proposed DDC clean the area and then erect a sign displaying penalties & consequences if caught fly tipping. Mr Killip has agreed to become the 'fly tipping' representative. (d)Ash Close/Luckhurst - An index map has been received from the Land Registry stating, No Registered Estate. The Parish Council still do not know who owns the land, however before any decisions are made the Clerk will contact DDC to establish where the Parish Council would need to advertised i.e. notice boards, local papers etc if any improvement is proposed for the site. (e)BT - The telephone box has now been mended. (f)Chairman V Chairperson - KALC has confirmed that the word Chairman (a legal term) is perfectly correct used within the Standing Order. 5 CO-OPTION OF COUNCILLORS As no election was requested by 10 electors, the two candidates could now be voted upon. The Chairman gave a brief resume for each candidate and it was proposed by Mr Killip, seconded by Mr Flood that the Councillors should vote using a show of hands. It was agreed unanimously that Mr Taylor be co-opted. The Clerk will write to Mr Matcham thanking him for his interest. 6 PLANNING MATTERS
Planning Matters to be considered:
To note decisions made by
Planning Committee Chairman:
To note decisions made by DDC: Future Planning Decisions The Chairman explained that the current practice used by the Parish Council for non-controversial planning decisions is not legally correct. In future we need to call a planning meeting either prior to the full Parish Council meeting or on another day. The Planning Chairman explained he would not be able to attend an earlier meeting. He proposed that whenever possible any applications be discussed during a Parish Council meeting, applying for an extension of time if necessary. Separate Planning Committee meetings may be required during May, Aug & Dec if applications were received. This was agreed. 7 PACT PCSO Brett has received a few calls regarding the incident last week. Seventeen youths and nuisance vehicles gathered at the bus terminus which is becoming a hot spot. PCSO Brett has informed the police task team and requested their support. DDC has been informed about the three vandalised bus stops within the village. PCSO Brett had no information about the recent damaged shop windows however he believed a pellet gun may have been used. Parking outside of the school has become an issue again. Mr Allen, DDC has been informed and parking attendants have been asked to attend the school as they can issue tickets. PCSO Brett will be attending the school assembly to raise awareness regarding 'Road safety' with the children. PCSO Brett was not aware of the incident regarding a speeding vehicle which smashed into a parked car last weekend. The Chairman requested that PCSO Brett speaks to the Special Constable to enquire if a speed gun could be used along Lower Road. The Clerk will write to Guy Thompson supporting this request. Residents have recently commented that they had not seen much of the PCSO. PCSO Brett assured the Parish Councillors that he has only been pulled from River on two occasions and was surprised to learn this. 8 REPORTS Dist Cllr Sue Nicholas reported that she has been liaising with the traffic wardens regarding the increased parking at the bus terminus. At times the busses struggle to park. Dist Cllr Nicholas also agreed with local residents that she too has not seen much of our PCSO and has asked if he could liaise with her in future. She requested that PCSO Brett patrolled the terminus during his evening shift as it is becoming a hot spot. A proposal to erect a television screen in the Market Square for the Olympics is to be debated at DDC. So far there have been 245 objections 45 in favour. Dist Cllr Nicholas has written a letter of objection to KHS regarding the proposed Zebra crossing. She confirmed that building work has re-commenced at 1 Luckhurst Road, River. There has not been any breach of planning and no harm has been inflicted upon the badger set. Both mechanical and manual road sweepers attend the village. The Councillors have asked how many times they attend as they have not seen the manual road sweeper for a while. This will be confirmed at the next meeting. 9 CORRESPONDENCE
KHS Proposed Zebra Crossing
Consultation Sheet, Lewisham Road, River. The Parish Council would prefer to explore with Kent Highways and River School alternative possibilities employed elsewhere such as: ·Traffic Calming on the approaches to the school ·A 20mph zone on the approaches to the school ·Including 'lollipop' duties in the job description of one or more appropriate school employees. A letter will be sent to Anne-Marie Hannam KHS expressing the above. DDC Standards Committee, Communities in Control - Mr Killip will respond KHS Verge mowing. None Action with Communities in Rural Kent Subscription. No action DDC the Law Society consultation - The Chairman will respond
10 DATES FOR COUNCILLOR DIARIES None 11 RECREATION GROUND UPDATE Mr Flood reported that the sports users have met with the new contractor Heber Horticultural. They were given the opportunity to talk to Mr Morris about their individual sports requirements. Richard Crutchfield, Dover Rangers has asked if the Councillors would consider his request to refurbish the old cottage. Dover Rangers would install water & electricity to the old cottage at their own cost (subject to planning & a lease agreement) on the condition that they could use it as a store/office. They would also remove the old Anderson shelter. The Councillors agreed in principle. It will be included on the next Recreation Committee agenda. 12 CLERK'S FINANCIAL REPORT The statement of receipts and payments for January & February 2009 were presented to the Council. It was proposed by Mr Killip and seconded by Mr Parkin that the report be accepted and this was carried. The statement was then signed by the Chairman. The Clerk had compiled a summary of the first six months expenditure 2008/09. She explained half of the budget had been spent by September. If half of the precept were invested in a bond for a 6 month period, approximately £150 in interest may be achieved based on today's figures. (If the banks reduced their rates further then this figure would reduce) The Councillors decided to take no further action. 13 ANY OTHER RELEVANT BUSINESS Mrs Reeves reported that the lock on one of the ladies toilets in the recreation ground has broken again. The Clerk will investigate. The Village information panel requires attention. The Chairman explained it would cost £350 to renovate. The Parish Council may consider funding this. It will be put on the April agenda for consideration. A retired traffic officer raised concerns over speeding vehicles and motorists using mobile phones along Lewisham Road and asked the Parish Council what could be done. The Chairman referred back to the PCSO and confirmed that a letter requesting a speed device will be sent to Guy Thompson. The Chairman closed the meeting at 9.45pm
MINUTES OF
A MEETING OF RIVER PARISH COUNCIL HELD PRESENT: Mr D. Leach (in the chair), Mrs Brand, Mrs Horobin, Mrs Reeves and Messrs Cuff, Killip, Horobin and Taylor. Apologies: Mr Flood, Mr Parkin IN ATTENDANCE: Mrs J. Coulson-Wright (Parish Clerk), Cllr S Nicholas, PCSO Jason Brett, Rhys Griffiths, Dover Express reporter. 1. DECLARATION OF ACCEPTANCE OF OFFICE The Chairman welcomed the new Parish Councillor Mr Taylor. Mr Taylor completed the Declaration of Acceptance of Office, and received both the Consent to Nomination and The Parish Councils Model Code of Conduct Order 2001 documents. 2 MINUTES OF THE PREVIOUS MEETING OF PARISH COUNCIL
The minutes of the last meeting
held on the 10th March 2009 had been circulated. The following
amendments to Item 9 Correspondence -Zebra Crossing were agreed: 3 MINUTES OF THE RECREATION COMMITTEE
The minutes of the last meeting
held on 31st March 2009, were noted. The Chairman reported that Dover
Rangers were still keen to renovate the old cottage. He asked
Mr Taylor for his views regarding any planning consent requirements
and possibly a change of use. Mr Taylor confirmed that DDC
conservation department would need informing, and recommended that it
should be the owner (Parish Council) who manages the project. Mr
Taylor asked if he could view the cottage. 4 MATTERS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES
(a)Waste Bins - Barry
Finch, DDC confirmed that the Village Hall bin has been added to the
DDC collection schedule. 5 PLANNING MATTERS
Planning Matters to be considered:
To note decisions made by DDC: 6 PACT PCSO Brett has received a few crime reports for Lower Road & Crabble Lane regarding anti-social behaviour. PCSO Brett explained he is completing a letter drop in these areas to encourage residents to contact him so that incidents can be logged & monitored. He informed the Councillors that crime rates in the village have reduced over the last year. This included anti-social behaviour, burglary, vehicle crimes and robbery, however domestic violence was on the increase. Mr Taylor asked if any more information was available regarding the major Lower Road incident. PCSO Brett explained he was unable to disclose any information. 7 REPORTS Dist Cllr Sue Nicholas reported that DDC Planning Department would no longer advertise applications in the local press as an economy measure. Mr Taylor confirmed that this was not a statutory duty. Rhys, Dover express added that certain specific applications would require advertising in the local papers by law. The proposal to erect a television screen in the Market Square for the Olympics has been granted. Dist Cllr Nicholas explained more and more commercial vehicles were parking in the village making it feel like a depot. Unfortunately these vehicles just add to the village parking problems. She reported that the niece of Mr Cox has been writing on the Dover Forum challenging the Parish Council's decision to offer the recreation ground contract to a new contractor, as she did last year. The Chairman confirmed that Mr Cox apologised for her comments last year. The handover from Mr Cox was most amicable and the grounds had been left in a satisfactory state, therefore any comments do not seem justified. Mrs Reeves reported that there has not been any further building at 1 Luckhurst Road. Dist Cllr S Nicholas believed that this is probably due to the economic recession. Mr Killip enquired if DDC have made any sacrifices regarding staff pay awards. Dist Cllr Nicholas confirmed no sacrifices had been made, job evaluations were continuing as were incremental increases. 8 CORRESPONDENCE
KHS Zebra Crossing - A
response has been received from KHS. The Parish Council's concerns
and alternative suggestions will be passed onto County Councillor
Keith Ferrin the Cabinet Member for Highways, to enable him to make a
decision on whether or not he wishes to proceed with the construction
of the crossing. The Councillors will be informed of his decision. 9 DATES FOR COUNCILLOR DIARIES
Kent Association of Local
Councils AGM Thursday 16th April 2009 10 DONATION TOWARDS THE COST OF LANGDON PARISH COUNCIL'S SUCCESSFUL FIGHT AGAINST THE WINDFARM The Chairman asked the councillors if they would consider giving Langdon Parish Council a donation towards the costs which they have incurred in successfully fighting the Wind Farm application. No proposal was put forward. 11 ANNUAL PARISH MEETING ARRANGEMENTS.
This year's topic will be to
discuss the value of our PCSO. The annual cost to the parish is
£14,000. The contract is up for renewal in July 2010. The Clerk
will contact Sgt Marsden and invite her to attend the meeting. The
public should be consulted to decide whether we should renew the
contract on the same terms or opt for a shared PCSO or even none at
all. The Councillors agreed that the Chairman should produce options
for discussion during the meeting. 12 CLERK'S FINANCIAL REPORT The statement of receipts and payments for March 2009 were presented to the Council. It was proposed by Mrs Reeves and seconded by Mrs Brand that the report be accepted and this was carried. The statement was then signed by the Chairman. The Clerk informed the Councillors that a 2.75% cost of living increase has finally been awarded to Clerks by the KALC for 2008/09. This was accepted The Clerk highlighted that the annual insurance renewal increase this year has gone up by 9%. The increase for 07/08 was 4.5%. She explained that she has contacted Allianze requesting a reduction on the grounds that the Parish Council has been a customer with them since 1987. Allianze has agreed to look into it. The Councillors approved acceptance of up to a 5% increase however anything over this would require a second quote. 13 ANY OTHER RELEVANT BUSINESS A parishioner wrote to the Chairman informing him that several motorists were parking their cars outside Bushy Ruff cottages, making it almost impossible for the average car to pass them without hitting the bollard in the road. Any large lorry would have had to go on the wrong side of the road to pass these cars. An accident would be inevitable if this continues. Double yellow lines were proposed The Clerk will raise these concerns with David Gaskin KHS. It was reported that youngsters were camping on Coxhill Mount leaving beers cans and large amounts of rubbish. The parishioner agreed to contact PCSO Brett. Mrs Reeves asked if the broken lock on the ladies toilets in the recreation ground has been mended. The Clerk informed her that as the lock was built into the door the entire door would need replacing. It was not advisable to install a metal lock as children could lock themselves in the cubicle. Mrs Horobin asked when the hole in the Kearsney Abbey wall is to be repaired. DDC are aware of the hole and will repair it soon. Mrs Horobin also asked where the play equipment had gone from Bushy Ruff. Dist Cllr S Nicholas explained that DDC were in the process of replacing it. Mr Killip asked the Clerk to contact David Gaskin requesting that a yellow square be marked in front of the Crabble bus stop thus preventing cars from parking across it. The Chairman closed the meeting at 9.45pm
MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING HELD ON 12TH MAY 2009 AT THE METHODIST CHURCH, RIVER 7-30p.m. PRESENT: Chair: Mr Leach (Chairman) Mr Cuff, Mr Horobin, Mr Killip, Mr Flood, Mr Parkin, Mr Taylor, Mrs Reeves, Mrs Brand, Mrs Horobin. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE: District Cllr A Richardson IN ATTENDANCE: Mrs J Coulson-Wright (Parish Clerk) District Cllr S Nicholas, PCSO Brett, Lindsay Reid, 14 members of the public The Chairman opened the meeting by welcoming those in attendance and briefly explained the agenda for the evening. 1.APPOINTMENT OF CHAIRMAN The chair was taken by Mr Cuff. It was proposed by Mrs Reeves, seconded by Mr Flood and unanimously agreed by the council that Mr Leach should be Chairman for the year 2009/10. Mr Leach was again thanked for his excellent leadership over the past year. Mr Leach thanked the Council for their continued support and confidence and made his Declaration of Acceptance of Office as Chairman. 2.MINUTES OF THE LAST MEETING OF THE PARISH COUNCIL It was proposed by Mr Killip, seconded by Mrs Reeves that the minutes of the meeting of the Council held on 14th April 2009 be accepted as a true record and were signed by the Chairman. 3.APPOINTMENT OF VICE-CHARIMAN It was proposed Mrs Brand, seconded by Mr Killip that Mr Cuff be Vice-Chairman for 2009/10 and unanimously agreed by the council. Mr Cuff was thanked for his support and contribution as the Vice-Chairman over the last year. 4.APPOINTMENTS TO COMMITTEES
The Committees to be made up of
the following Councillors:- It was proposed by the Chairman that these appointments be taken en bloc, seconded by Mrs Brand. This was agreed unanimously. THE CHAIRMAN THEN PROCEEDED TO THE ANNUAL PARISH MEETING.
MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL PARISH MEETING HELD ON 12TH MAY 2009 AT THE METHODIST CHURCH, RIVER 7-30p.m. In Chair: Mr Leach, Chairman of the Parish Council Attendance as for the Annual General Meeting of the Parish Council. 1.REPORT OF THE COUNCIL CHAIRMAN FOR 2008/09 The Chairman presented his report for the past year, a copy of which is appended to these minutes. (Link to report) 2.REPORT ON THE STATEMENT OF ACCOUNTS 2008/09 The Clerk/Responsibility Financial Officer presented the Statement of Accounts of the parish, subject to audit, with the aid of power point slides. At the commencement of the financial year the balance brought forward had been £23,847 and the year ended with reserves of £19,179, less liabilities of £5,056 giving a final year ended total of £14,122. The sports income has risen slightly to £9,701 due to an increase in football matches. Expenditure for the Recreation Ground amounted to £45,336 which was an increase on last year, however it included £8,650 spent on new tennis court fencing and new gates. These were funded by grants received from DDC & KCC. The net cost in running the Recreation Ground was £35,634. The precept had been raised to £59,740 which was a 2.9% increase on the previous year. Expenditure for the Parish Council (excluding the rec.) was £29,302 which included £12,660 for the PCSO. Grants awarded this year by the Parish Council were £300 to the River Scouts and £100 to the Village Hall Committee towards the publication of the Rivall. In conclusion the Clerk advised that the Parish Council carried forward a net balance of £14,122. The Clerk was thanked for her report. The Chairman asked that the statement of accounts be accepted, it was proposed by Mr Killip, seconded by Mr Flood and this was carried. The Statement of Assurance for the audit report had not yet been approved. The Clerk will report to the Parish Council at their next meeting. 3.PCSO CONTRACT RENEWAL
PCSO Brett and his supervisor
Lindsay Reid attended the meeting. PCSO Bret gave a brief report.
Over the past month he has been tackling criminal damage and dealing
with issues. A letter drop has been carried out along Lower Road and
Crabble Avenue. The purpose of these letters is to encourage
parishioners to report incidents so that they can be tracked. A speed
indicator device has been used recently along Lewisham Road, which
has worked well as a deterrent. Although Crabble Athletic Ground is
used on occasion as a racing track for cars, there have been no
incidents reported this month. PCSO Brett will be attending River
Primary Schools summer fayre on the 13th June. Children have been
asked to bring their bikes along so that they can be marked. This
will make the bikes easier to track if stolen.
The Chairman then opened the
meeting to the public for comment (14 parishioners' in attendance)
their views were: The Chairman then asked for a show of hands from those who were in favour of continuing to pay for a dedicated PCSO. This received mainly abstentions. He then asked for a show of hands against paying for a PCSO. No show of hands. Sgt Marsden will be attending the next Parish Council meeting in June where this topic will be discussed further. 4.LEWISHAM ROAD RAILINGS
Over the last year the Parish
Council has tried to source contractors who would be willing
refurbish the existing railings but were unsuccessful. The Chairman
explained that five quotations were then obtained to replace the
entire existing fencing. The Recreation Committee narrowed these
quotes down to three. All three quotes are in excess of £30,000.
The Parish Council has ring fenced £6,000 (three thousand from
last year's precept and three from this year's) for fencing renewal.
The remainder of the money would come from grant funding and a Public
Works Loan. If we did not have to pay for a PCSO we could pay the
loan off in two years. This amount of money requires the Parish
Council to consult the public. 5.ANY OTHER MATTERS A parishioner asked if there has been any progress made on last year's proposal of a one way system. It was reported that David Gaskin from Kent Highways has been very helpful, however as soon as he asks for money to complete a traffic count he hits a problem. Due to the fact that no accidents have occurred along Lower Road, his request is classed as a low priority. It may be possible for the village to complete their own count, however this would require many volunteers. The new recreation ground arrangements were explained. The Parish Council received seven quotations for the contract. They looked for the best service and annual cost. The quotes were reduced to three before a final decision was reached by the Parish Council. Heber Horticultural Services were chosen. The Chairman thanked the residents for their attendance and closed the meeting at 9pm.
MINUTES OF
A MEETING OF RIVER PARISH COUNCIL HELD PRESENT: Mr D. Leach (in the chair), Mrs Brand, Mrs Horobin, and Messrs, Killip, Horobin, Flood, Parkin and Taylor. Apologies: Mr Cuff, Mrs Reeves, Dist Cllr S Nicholas IN ATTENDANCE: Mrs J. Coulson-Wright (Parish Clerk), PCSO Jason Brett, Sgt Marsden, Rhys Griffiths, Dover Express reporter. 1 MINUTES OF THE PREVIOUS MEETING OF PARISH COUNCIL The minutes of the last meeting held on the 12th May 2009 had been circulated. It was proposed by Mrs Brand, seconded by Mr Parkin that these be accepted as a correct record and were signed by the Chairman. 2. MINUTES OF THE RECREATION COMMITTEE The minutes of the last meeting held on 6th May 2009, were noted. 3. MINUTES OF THE PLANNING COMMITTEE The minutes of the last meeting held on 11th May 2009, were noted 4. MINUTES OF THE EVENTS COMMITTEE The minutes of the last meetings held on 3rd February & 3rd March 2009, were noted. Mrs Brand reported that the raffle tickets have now been printed and asked each councillor to sell 50 books. The Events Committee proposed to charge 50p a programme on the day of the fayre, rather than an entrance fee. This proposal was unanimously agreed. The WI will be providing teas, there will be various art & craft stalls, a bouncy castle, and numerous events happening throughout the day. Mr J Wright has agreed to mark out the pitches for each stall the night before. As all Parish Councillors have agreed to participate a job list will be provided nearer the time. A parishioner raised her concerns regarding the 'egg throwing' competition. She believed that it would encourage anti-social behaviour. PCSO Brett's view was that as it was a 'controlled event' he would not deem it as a problem. Mrs Horobin explained that the eggs would be out of their sell by date and that they would be thrown underarm. Other villages have included this game and not experienced any problems. The Chairman asked the Parish Councillors for a show of hands from all of those in favour of keeping the game. All were in favour, none against. 5 MATTERS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES (a)Ash Close/Luckhurst - The Clerk has obtained a quote from Mr Coles for £50 - £100 to renovate the path. It was proposed by Mr Horobin, seconded by Mrs Horobin that up to £100 could be spent. (b)Fly Tipping - Mr Killip has liaised with DDC, and reported that most of the rubbish has now been cleared, however a few car tyres have been left. A separate contractor is required to remove these tyres. DDC were negative regarding the proposal of erecting signage. A 'bund' will be built once the area is completely cleared which should help to resolve any further problems. (c)Vice Chairman Badge - Three options were considered. 1) Low end engraved enamel £150 + vat. 2) Dye stamped version £165-£270 + vat. 3) Hand painted £500 + vat. Although one Parish Councillor raised concerns over the cost implication, it was pointed out that the Vice Chairman is representing the village and carries extra responsibility. It was proposed by Mr Killip, seconded by Mrs Brand that the middle quote be pursued. The Clerk will liaise with Mr Arthur and request two designs quotes from the suppliers. (d)Allianze insurance - After further negotiations Allianze provided a new quote. The premium for this year increased by £10. This has been accepted. (e)Waterfall Cottages, Alkham Road - No reply has been received from KHS. The Clerk will chase (f)Crabble bus stop, yellow band - The Clerk will contact KHS (g)Gorse Hill - A site meeting will take place on 10th June with a KCC contractor, who will draw health & safety plans. The works should take place within the next few months. 6 PLANNING MATTERS
Planning Matters to be considered:
To note decisions made by DDC: 7 MATTERS ARISING FROM THE APM
(a)Recreation Ground Railings,
Lewisham Road - The Chairman explained that it was unanimously
agreed at the APM to replace the railings and that the funding
formula of 6K from reserves plus grants & loans was endorsed by
the public consultation. Acceptance of Dale's quotation was proposed
by Mr Flood, seconded by Mr Killip and agreed unanimously. The works
would not start until the grants have been received. Grant funding
cannot be paid retrospectively. 8 PACT PCSO Brett reported that two CCTV cameras have been installed at the entrance of the Crabble Athletic Ground for two weeks. This will assist in discovering the cars currently using the ground as a racing track. A sign has also been erected stating 'No unauthorised vehicles'. The club's chairman is now locking the main entrance gates daily. A licensing police officer will be speaking to the Dublin Man O War landlord regarding excessive noise on a Friday & Saturday night. A mini motor bike has been seized by PCSO Brett. The owner's parents have been spoken to. PCSO Brett confirmed that Crabble Ave is included in his area. Because of the design of Lower Road a speed indicator device cannot be used effectively. It was agreed that the priority for this month is to increase the number of speed checks along Lewisham Road. A rise in the number of issues reported regarding the public toilets was raised. It was also agreed that PCSO Brett as part of his patrol, visits the toilets between 5-7pm. 9 REPORTS As Dist Cllr Sue Nicholas was not in attendance the Clerk read her report. She was very disappointed that there were no Parish Councillors at the Community Payback open day, held at the Crabble Corn Mill. The Ash Close pathway project could be completed by the CP at no cost if they were to be given the opportunity. They are very keen to work with the Parish Council. The Clerk will liaise with their supervisor before contacting Mr Coles. Dist Cllr S Nicholas has requested that KHS mark a 'yellow band' around the bus stop located near River Primary School at Common Lane/Lewisham Road. 10 CORRESPONDENCE
Kent County Playing Fields
Association -The £20 annual subscription renewal was
accepted and proposed by Mr Flood, seconded by Mrs Brand. 11 DATES FOR COUNCILLOR DIARIES None 12 CLERK'S FINANCIAL REPORT The statement of receipts and payments for April & May 2009 were presented to the Council. It was proposed by Mr Killip and seconded by Mr Parkin that the report be accepted and this was carried. The statement was then signed by the Chairman. The Chairman has requested that last year's final reserves be displayed separately to the new financial year's receipts and payments. 13 ANY OTHER RELEVANT BUSINESS The Chairman has asked that the Clerk to explore the possibility of replacing the front of the Parish Council notice board. A price for a complete replacement will also be obtained. Mr Killip reported that DDC are undertaking a Consultation and Master planning exercise for the regeneration of Coombe Valley area. Access and traffic issues are certainly matters that were raised and will therefore be looked at as part of the exercise. On the specific issue of large lorries using Hillside Road and Bunkers Hill, this may be a situation where the provision of double yellow lines could be investigated. A copy of Mt Killip's letter will be passed onto KHS. The Chairman closed the meeting at 9.25pm
Future of the PCSO (in closed
session) Sgt Marsden in attendance Sgt Marsden confirmed that all PCSOs receive the same 3 month training at the Kent Police Collage. They are then tutored. The role of the PCSO is about reassurance, and as a highly visible deterrent. They do not have the same authority as a police officer and would not patrol an area any later than 11pm. The Chairman thanked Sgt Marsden for attending the meeting. The Chairman closed the meeting at 10pm.
MINUTES OF
A MEETING OF RIVER PARISH COUNCIL HELD PRESENT: Mr D. Leach (in the chair), Mrs Brand, Mrs Horobin, Mrs Reeves and Messrs, Killip, Horobin, Cuff and Taylor. Apologies: Mr Parkin, Dover Express Reporter IN ATTENDANCE: Mrs J. Coulson-Wright (Parish Clerk), Dist Cllr S Nicholas, PCSO Jason Brett. The Chairman informed the Parish Councillors that Mike Flood has sadly passed away. Mike served as a Parish Councillor for 6 or more years. Mike was the Chairman of the Recreation Committee and also involved in the Police Forum. We are all very sad to lose him. The Chairman requested a minute's silence. 1 MINUTES OF THE PREVIOUS MEETING OF PARISH COUNCIL The minutes of the last meeting held on the 9th June 2009 had been circulated. It was proposed by Mrs Brand, seconded by Mr Taylor that these be accepted as a correct record and were signed by the Chairman. 2. MINUTES OF THE EVENTS COMMITTEE The minutes of the last meeting held on 10th May 2009, were noted. 3 MATTERS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES (a)Ash Close/Luckhurst - Mr Alan Dive, Community Payback supervisor, has agreed that his team will lay the aggregate at the bottom of the Ash Close steps. Mark Pennock, Temple Ewell will supply the aggregate at a cost of £80 +vat. Work will commence on the 16th July 2009 and take half a day. The Clerk asked the Parish Councillors if they could provide her with a list of jobs that require attention throughout the village before September's meeting. These jobs will be passed onto Mr Dive. (b)Vice Chairman Badge - Fattorini provided an illustratation of a Vice Chairman's pendant for the Parish Councillors to view. A polished hallmarked sterling silver oval shaped pendant with top scroll depicting the council's crest, name and title of the officer holder all against a white vitreous enamelled background suspended by a blue neck ribbon was suggested. It was proposed by Mr Taylor, seconded by Mrs Brand that the quote of £344 + vat be accepted. The Clerk will enquire if a blue background to match the ribbon would be visually acceptable. (c)Waterfall Cottages, Alkham Road - No reply has been received from KHS. (d)Crabble bus stop, yellow band - Barry Knight, DDC has confirmed that there are plans for the Crabble bus stop to have a 'Clear Way'. He explained that a new bus service will be starting in September and that a new post will be installed and the footpath raised. This will accommodate the lower floor technology of the new buses. He envisages that work will start in September as long as there are no formal objections. (e)Tree Warden Vacancy - The Clerk has received a letter from Mrs J Daniels expressing her interest in the Tree Warden vacancy. The Parish Councillors unanimously agreed to offer her the position. She will be invited to the October meeting. (f)Parish Council Notice Board - After speaking to three suppliers, it became clear that it would not be worthwhile to replace the front of the notice board. The Clerk informed the Parish Councillors that a new board would cost in the region of £1050.00. Mr Killip has agreed to obtain a further quote from a local craftsman. These quotes will be re-discussed in September. (g)Power of Well Being - It was clarified that this training is aimed towards Quality Parish Councils who are looking to acquire new health services, a community shop, affordable housing etc. It was agreed that River Parish Council would not pursue the Power of Well Being. (h)PCSO Funding - It was agreed that the Chairman would compile a questionnaire on behalf of the Parish Council which will be distributed in September's Rivall. Parishioners will be given the opportunity to have their say regarding the future funding of our PCSO. 4. PRESENTATION BY JENNY LUDDINGTON DOVER YOUTH WORKER Jenny explained that she works for the Kent Youth Services. She is based at the Dover Discovery Centre. Funding has been secured to provide a detached youth worker in River. It was requested that the recreation ground be used as a venue where positive activities would be promoted such as sports, arts, and developing youth participation. This would be aimed at youths aged 13-19 years. Jenny is also looking to recruit youths residing in River to join the DCC youth forum. The Chairman gave a brief resume about past experiences with the Kent Youth Service and the projects they provided. Unfortunately these similar projects failed because KCC/YMCA withdrew funding from the successful younger club and due to a lack of attendance at the older club. The recreation ground is now locked in the evenings as it attracted many youths from all over the district who caused problems. Jenny explained that the £2,000 would fund a programme of 1 day a week 6pm-9pm for six months. She would be keen to achieve a sustainable project once this money ran out. Mr Killip explained that the Parish Council has been down this road before, and that youths do not wish to be involved. Alison Dale, village hall chairman explained that the village hall is not keen to offer its services. The Chairman observed that finding a suitable base would be a problem but requested more research so that the Parish Councillors could have a better perspective for this proposal. It was agreed that a report will be compiled and presented at a future meeting. 5 PLANNING MATTERS
Planning Matters to be considered:
To note decisions made by DDC: 6 PACT PCSO Brett reported that because of the design of Lower Road a speed indicator device could not be used effectively. On Saturday 27th June speed checks took place along Lewisham Road resulting in two fixed penalty notices being issued. A persistent nuisance driver has been caught travelling at 45mph. As he already has points on his licence his licence may be revoked. Another driver has received a warning under section 59, for a very loud exhaust. A salesman who claims to be a block paving specialist has been calling house to house within the area. He is not carrying identification and should be avoided. PCSO Brett will write a notice for the Rivall to inform parishioners. There were no issues to report regarding the public toilets, however PCSO Brett will continue to patrol them especially as the school holidays are about to start. Residents are complaining that cars have recently started to park on the left hand side of Crabble Road causing congestion and making it dangerous for passing vehicles. PCSO Brett has spoken to DDC parking services recommending double yellow lines. The Clerk will write a letter to Mr Gordon Measy, DDC on behalf of the Parish Council supporting this request. 7 REPORTS Dist Cllr Sue Nicholas thought that the summer fayre was a great success. Dist Cllr Nicholas felt that London Road, seemed detached from the rest of the village and suggested it would be nice to have a sign and flowers similar to Temple Ewell. Four new NHS dentists are to be provided in the near future. They will be located along Castle Street. Her proposal for a River notice board at the bus terminus which would contain a descriptive map will be debated in the autumn. 8 CORRESPONDENCE Kent Down's invitation Friday 31st July 2009 - No Parish Councillor wished to attend. Partial review to the South East RSS in relation to: Planning for Gypsies, Travellers and Travelling Show people in the SE. - Mr Cuff will read the pack on behalf of the Parish Council Reduction in train services Kearsney - Until the new timetables are made available the Parish Councillors were unable to comment. Crabble Corn Mill - The Chairman received a copy of a letter to DDC asking for advice regarding the leakage through the main outer sluice retaining wall of the Corn Mill. The Mill is concerned that part of the wall may give way. A DDC inspector has since visited the Corn Mill and is establishing exactly what works are required. The Clerk will write a letter of support on behalf of the Parish Councillors. 9 DATES FOR COUNCILLOR DIARIES None 10 EVENTS COMMITTEE UPDATE The Chairman offered her thanks to the events committee for all their hard work. The day was a great success making a profit of £609. She proposed that 25% of the profit be kept in the bank for future events and the remainder be used as grants for village organisations. The Chairman of the Parish Council congratulated the events committee and all those who helped on a great day and the profit. He proposed that £250 of the Parish Council float be retained and used as working capital, allowing all the profit to be available for village organisations. This was unanimously agreed. The committee thanked the Chairman. It was agreed that village organisations would be invited (in the December Rivall) to apply for a grant from the profit. An application pack for grants will be required. The Clerk offered to compile a draft for consideration in September. Applications would then be accepted in January and March with decisions in March 2010. Mr Horobin informed the Parish Councillors that the events committee are planning a Dickensian parade for 18 December 2009. Local organisations and parishioners will be invited to participate. There will be a lantern parade through the village, ending up in the recreation ground. Mulled wine, mince pies and a BBQ will be on offer. The events committee are also planning to hold another summer fayre on 11th July 2010 and a Scarecrow Trail on 11th September 2010. 11. REMEMBRANCE DAY ARRANGEMENTS As Temple Ewell Parish Council invites local organisations to lay a wreath at their war memorial, the Chairman asked the Parish Councillors if they would have any objections for open invitations to be sent to River's organisations to attend River's own Remembrance Sunday service. There were no objections. Mr Cuff explained that last year's wreaths were looking tatty and require removing. 12. GRANT APPLICATION UPDATE - Lewisham Road Railings. Between the Clerk and the Chairman a total of £20,000 worth of grants has been applied for. Any successful applications will be reported at the next meeting 13 CLERK'S FINANCIAL REPORT The statement of receipts and payments for June 2009 were presented to the Council. It was proposed by Mr Killip and seconded by Mrs Brand that the report be accepted and this was carried. The statement was then signed by the Chairman. The Clerk has received a clean bill of health for the Parish Council's accounts 08/09 14 ANY OTHER RELEVANT BUSINESS Mrs Reeves asked Dist Cllr S Nicholas when the Kearsney Abbey flint wall in Lower Road would be mended. Cllr Nicholas believed it is in the hands of the insurers. The Chairman suggested that DDC should seek a protective barrier for the wall. Mr Horobin offered his thanks for the help received at the summer fayre. The Clerk will write to Gordon Measy and establish what the criteria are for providing dropped kerbs. The Chairman closed the meeting at 9.35pm
MINUTES OF
A MEETING OF RIVER PARISH COUNCIL HELD PRESENT: Mr D. Leach (in the chair), Mrs Brand, Mrs Horobin, Mrs Reeves and Messrs, Killip, Horobin, Cuff and Parkin. Apologies: Mr Taylor, Dover Express Reporter IN ATTENDANCE: Mrs J. Coulson-Wright (Parish Clerk), Dist Cllr S Nicholas, County Cllr B Cope, PCSO Jason Brett. 1 MINUTES OF THE PREVIOUS MEETING OF PARISH COUNCIL The minutes of the last meeting held on the 14th July 2009 had been circulated. It was proposed by Mr Cuff, seconded by Mrs Brand that these be accepted as a correct record and were signed by the Chairman. Mr Killip proposed that the Clerk write a letter to Cllr A Richardson requesting that he attends a few Parish Council meeting this year, as he has not attended any to date. Mrs Reeves seconded this proposal and it was agreed. 2 MATTERS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES
(a)Vice Chairman Badge -
The Chairman presented the new Vice Chairman's pendant to Mr Cuff. 3 PLANNING MATTERS
Planning Matters to be considered:
To note decisions made by DDC: 4 PACT PCSO Brett reported that the village has been quiet over the summer months and crime reports low. A driver received a warning under section 59 back in August, for a very loud car exhaust. However this warning was breached and the car confiscated. There were no issues to report regarding the public toilets, however PCSO Brett will continue to patrol them as he was informed during the meeting about two ongoing issues. Human waste is being found weekly on the floor of the men's toilets and youths have been witnessed smoking cannabis in the toilets, car park and swing area. The Chairman asked if PCSO Brett could monitor the cars parking under the Crabble Hill Bridge as they are causing an obstruction. It was reported that the level of noise, rubbish and alcohol has increased this year on the mount behind Chilton Avenue. PCSO will investigate these claims and report his findings at the next meeting. A number of heavy vehicles are being parked in the village; PCSO Brett has agreed to seek advice regarding the law and report back at the next meeting. 5 REPORTS Dist Cllr Sue Nicholas reported that she has spoken to Guy Thompson regarding the increased parking issues faced when Dover Athletic are playing at home. Sgt.Thompson has been very supportive. The new bus service, which started on 7th September, is not proving very successful. The main issue is that KHS started the new service before highway and bus stop changes were in place. Dist Cllr Nicholas will monitor the service. 6 CORRESPONDENCE
Crabble Corn Mill - This item was
taken earlier in the meeting, (k). 7 DATES FOR COUNCILLOR DIARIES None 8 STANDING ORDERS FOR COMMITTEES - EVENTS The Clerk has compiled a draft Standing Order/Terms of Reference, which was passed onto the Events Committee for discussion. A few concerns were raised by the committee regarding voting, expenditure and appointing a secretary. The Chairman explained that an alternative could be for the committee to stand-alone and independent of the Parish Council thereby not having to adhere to a standing order. The Clerk & Chairman agreed to attend the next Events Committee meeting on 21st September and address their concerns. The committee will inform the Parish Councillors of their decision at the next meeting. A copy of the draft Standing Order will be distributed to all Parish Councillors. 9 HARBOUR SCHOOL WORK EXPERIANCE Mrs Holness, a teacher from Harbour School, has approached the Chairman requesting that a few children complete their work experience within the village. As the children have special needs the school finds it difficult to secure work experience places anywhere. It was proposed that two children under teacher supervision would visit the village for two hours per week and collect rubbish around the village. It was unanimously agreed by the Parish Councillors that the Clerk write to Mrs Holness accepting this offer. 10 CLERK'S FINANCIAL REPORT The statement of receipts and payments for July were presented to the Council. It was proposed by Mrs Brand and seconded by Mr Killip that the report be accepted and this was carried. The statement was then signed by the Chairman. 11 ANY OTHER RELEVANT BUSINESS Mrs Reeves explained that a large vehicle delivering newspapers drives along the grass verge on the corner of Bylan & Valley Road. The Clerk will write a letter of complaint. Mr Killip expressed the view that there is a requirement to have a representation at future Dover Pride Regeneration Project meetings as their recent report is a waste of time. Coombe Valley is to be subjected to a regeneration initiative but no reference is made in the initial report to the long-standing problem of HGVs having to use Crabble Hill, Crabble Ave and Hillside to access the Commbe Valley Industrial Estate because of the low railway bridge in Coombe Valley Road. The Chairman agreed to write with River's concerns.
The Chairman closed the meeting at 9.10pm
MINUTES OF
A MEETING OF RIVER PARISH COUNCIL HELD PRESENT: Mr D. Leach (in the chair), Mrs Brand, Mrs Horobin, Mrs Reeves and Messrs, Killip, Horobin, Cuff, Taylor and Parkin. Apologies: None IN ATTENDANCE: Mrs J. Coulson-Wright (Parish Clerk), Dist Cllr S Nicholas, PCSO Jason Brett, Dover Express Reporter. 1 MINUTES OF THE PREVIOUS MEETING OF PARISH COUNCIL The minutes of the last meeting held on the 8th September 2009 had been circulated. It was proposed by Mrs Brand, seconded by Mrs Reeves that these be accepted as a correct record and were signed by the Chairman. 2 MINUTES OF THE RECREATION COMMITTEE The minutes of the last meeting held on 4th September 2009, were noted. 3 Mrs Jo Daniels our new tree warden attended the meeting so that she could introduce herself to the Parish Councillors and briefly discuss the role. Mrs Daniels explained that she currently works for Shepway Council within the Planning Department, and applied for the position, believing it will enhance her job. The Chairman welcomed Mrs Daniels and explained that although no job description exists for the position, the Parish Councillors were keen not to lose any more trees from the roads/verges. The Clerk will send Mrs Daniels details to BTSV. 4 Councillor Vacancy - Co-option Two letters of interest have been received. The Chairman read both applicants' letters to the Parish Councillors. Mr Killip proposed that there was enough information within these letters to take a vote by secret ballot, Mr Taylor seconded this. The outcome of the ballot was 7/2 in favour of Mrs Sue Hill. Mr Matcham was thanked for his interest. The Clerk will send Mrs Hill all of the relevant documentation. 5 MATTERS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES (a)Standing Orders Committees - The Chairman and Clerk met with the Events Committee to discuss the draft standing order in more detail. The Events Committee agreed to adopt the standing order and felt re-assured. It was also accepted by the Parish Councillors, and proposed by Mrs Brand, seconded by Mr Cuff. (b)Harbour School Work Experience - A letter has been sent to Mrs Holness accepting her request for pupils to complete their work experience within the village. The Clerk will liaise with KCC regarding liability insurance prior to commencement. (c)Crabble Road, Double Yellow Lines - KHS transportation team will investigate the request to extend the double yellow lines as far as the Mill race development. (d)Village Sign, London Road - KHS has been contacted requesting that they consider providing another village sign for River. It was proposed that a new sign would be located at the bottom of Whitfield Hill. KHS has agreed in principle, and have given a time frame of approximately 5/6 months. (e)Waterfall Cottages, Alkham Road - A letter has been received from Bev Hillstorm, Network Planner, KHS. The obstructive parking outside of the Waterfall Cottages is being looked into and a further letter will be sent in due course recommending a course of action. (f)Drop Kerb Criteria - Any requests for drop kerbs are graded as:- Essential, Necessary, Desirable or Low-use. All requests require community support. The Clerk has been asked to apply for dropped kerbs along Common Lane, from Lewisham Road to Lower Road. (g)Gorse Hill - Mr Killip reported that the Gorse Hill renovations should be completed by Friday 16th October 2009. (h)Community Payback Scheme - The Chairman and Clerk met with Mr Reid to discuss the vegetation growing through the railings along the Lower Road near to Kingston Close. It was agreed that the Clerk would contact KHS requesting that they remove the vegetation, which would then allow the Community Payback Team access to paint the railings. At the last meeting Mrs Horobin enquired if the Community Payback Team would consider cutting back the shrubbery along upper Crabble Lane. The Clerk will contact Mr Reid for a decision. (i)One Way KHS Costing Lower Road - Annaliese Mortlock, KHS had explained that the initial cost would be £16,500. This request is low down on their list of priorities and is unlikely to receive funding through LTP bids. Mr Killip has agreed to find out if a template exists explaining the breakdown of the costing. To be discussed again at the next meeting. (j)Grant Update - Unfortunately the grant application submitted to the Community Safety Partnership has been turned down on the grounds that anti-social behavior has not increased since the Pariah Council received a £5,000 grant from them back in 2008. Applications to County Cllr B Cope and the Small Community Capital Projects Fund are still pending. (k)Kearsney Abby and Bushy Ruff Consultation - Mr Taylor and Mr Parkin attended the DDC play area consultation on 16th September. DDC has been allocated £116,000 to refurbish both play areas. They envisage that both projects will be completed by Easter 2010. Mr Taylor reported that they had recommended extra picnic style benches for Kearsney Abbey. Further consultations will take place December 09. (l)Large Delivery Vehicle - Although a letter has been sent requesting that the delivery vehicle refrain from parking on the grass verge on the corner of Bylan & Valley Road, however it is still happening. The Chairman has agreed to contact the company.
6 PLANNING MATTERS
Planning Matters to be considered: 7 PACT PCSO Brett reported that he is currently on light duties due to pulling a tendon whist running. Three vehicles have been damaged along Crabble Lane resulting in house-to-house enquiries. Nuisance youths have been reported causing trouble within the recreation ground. PCSO Brett has liaised with the caretaker. PCSO Brett explained that he would be patrolling the village looking for parked HGV's and large vehicles exceeding the legal 1525kg weight. He will also look out for any cars parking on the pavement along Crabble Hill, and under the bridge as they are causing an obstruction. Fixed penalty tickets can be issued if caught. An update will be given at the next meeting. As there are still nuisance motorbikes and alcohol issues within Frandom Woods, PCSO Brett will pass a contact number for the local police bike team onto concerned parishioners. Frandom Woods has also been placed on the stations weekend tasking list. Any youths on motorbikes that have been spoken to say that they have obtained permission from Frandom Kennels to ride in the woods. PCSO Brett will speak to the kennels to find out if this is true and report his findings at the next meeting. Mr Matcham reported that the bus terminus is still attracting anti social behaviour and should be patrolled between 8pm-11pm. PCSO Brett has agreed to patrol the area during these times. The Chairman informed PCSO Brett that parishioners were asked by means of a questionnaire if they preferred to keep a dedicated PCSO or to share one with other villages. 89 forms were returned out of 1800 households. Of these 68 parishioners were in favour to keep a dedicated PCSO, 21 against. 8 REPORTS Dist Cllr Sue Nicholas reported that the gas company would be working in River for a further 6 weeks, however the workers hut would be moved. Since the new bus service started, the school & service buses wait at the bus terminus to make up time, which causes problems for other motorists. Dist Cllr S Nicholas will be monitoring the school bus to check how many children are actually getting on. She has witnessed 16 children standing up on the afternoon bus, as it has been so full. Stagecoach has confirmed that they are looking into this. The Freedom bus pass cannot be used before 8.05am, which does not help matters. Dist Cllr S Nicholas believes that there should be a separate service for the school children. A few local residents have raised objections regarding the new clearway proposals. All objections will be looked into. Works to amend the road/kerbs at the bus terminus should start the week. Dist Cllr S Nicholas would like to see spring flowers in the recreation ground near the Bowling Green fencing and would be happy to fund the project. The Parish Councillors agreed and thanked Dist Cllr S Nicholas. Dist Cllr Nicholas recommended visiting the Dover Museum, as there are many interesting events taking place. 9 CORRESPONDENCE
Dover Coombe Valley
Regeneration - Coombe Valley is to be subjected to a regeneration
initiative but no reference is made in the initial report to the
long-standing problem of HGVs having to use Crabble Hill, Crabble Ave
and Hillside to access the Commbe Valley Industrial Estate because of
the low railway bridge in Coombe Valley Road. The Chairman wrote a
letter raising these concerns. Mr Adrian Fox, Principle Planning
Officer wrote back explaining that whilst he fully appreciates the
problems that HGV's experience with the existing bridge, it would
involve a considerable amount of money to tackle. Mr Fox confirmed
that he is aware of the problem and will be investigating this matter
further as part of the Coombe Valley Master planning stage/site
allocations document. 10 DATES FOR COUNCILLOR DIARIES None 11 REMEMBRANCE DAY SERVICE The Chairman reported that at least two local organisations wish to lay a wreath on remembrance Sunday this year. 12 RPC EVENTS COMMITTEE GRANT APPLICATION/PROCEDURES It was proposed by Mrs Brand, seconded by Mr Cuff to accept the application/procedure pack compiled by the Clerk on behalf of the Events Committee. This was unanimously agreed. The Chairman will include the new grant application procedure within his jottings. Mrs Brand will contact the Rival editor and the pack will also be downloaded onto the Parish Council webpage. 13 NEW BUS SERVICE Mrs Horobin shared her concerns over the speed in which the buses have been travelling along the Ridgeway. It was also reported that the village residents do not like travelling through St Radigunds before heading into River. After much debate, it was agreed that the Clerk should contact the Stagecoach Manager, inviting a representative to attend the next parish council meeting, so that questions can be answered. 14 CLERK'S FINANCIAL REPORT The statement of receipts and payments for August & September 2009 were presented to the Council. It was proposed by Mrs Brand and seconded by Mr Taylor that the report be accepted and this was carried. The statement was then signed by the Chairman. 15 ANY OTHER RELEVANT BUSINESS
Mrs Brand informed the Parish
Councilors that the expected expenditure for this year's Dickension
event would be approximately £685. The Events Committee believes
that the income-raised from the event should cover all outgoings. Mrs Reeves requested that KHS also look into the possibility of marking yellow lines on the corner of Crabble Road, Lower Road junction. The Clerk will contact KHS. The Chairman closed the meeting at 9.35pm
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