MUNDESLEY-ON-SEA PARISH COUNCIL MINUTES OF THE MEETING HELD ON MONDAY 13th APRIL 2015 AT 7pm IN THE CORONATION HALL MUNDESLEY Present; Cllr C. West (Chairman), Cllr W.Firmin (Vice - Chairman) Cllrs P Gray; Derek Smith; P Blencowe; R.Steer; P.Keddell; L.Stango; C. Payne County Councillor: Wyndham Northam PCSO De Fathalla Members of Public; 16 (for part of the meeting) Clerk: Miss A Blencowe (Temporary clerk) Prior to the start of the meeting, the chairman asked if anyone present wished to film or record proceedings. There were no applications. 02 APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE Cllr J. Parke 03 DECLARATION OF INTEREST AND REQUESTS FOR DISPENSATION Cllr C. Payne – Item 8.1 – Owner Cllr D. Smith – Item 12 – Member of Landmine Clearance Memorial Committee Cllr L. Stango – Item 12 – Member of Mundesley First Responders Cllr P. Blencowe – Item 12 – Member of Mundesley Resilience Forum 04 MINUTES OF THE PREVIOUS MEETING The minutes of the meeting held on MONDAY 23rd of MARCH 2015 were agreed and signed by the chairman. 05 CHAIRMAN’S ANNOUNCEMENTS Cllr West noted that the statement of persons nominated has been released. The election is uncontested with only 9 candidates for MPC’s 13 seats. There will not, therefore, be an election on the 7th of May for parish councillors. Cllr West established that Cllr Steer did not seek re-election and thanked him for his years of service as a parish councillor. The chairman noted that there will be the annual parish meeting on Monday 27th of May 06 MPC COUNTY AND DISTRICT COUNCILLORS’ REPORT 6.1 To receive county and district councillors’ reports Cllr Wyndham Northam gave both reports, highlights include: Although there was a 0% increase in the council’s precept for council tax, the police department’s precept was increased by 2%. A survey indicated that 64% of the public were in agreement with this. During budget deliberations the proposals to reduce the opening hours for the Worstead Recycling Centre and charge fees was referred back for reconsideration. A decision has been deferred until September. 1 14/03/2015 07 Following departmental reorganisation the council have been able to gain extra revenue by leasing out their annexe building to the county council’s children’s service department. There is an anticipated under spend of £462,000, which will be kept in reserve to cover the predicted gap f £1.2million in funding for 2017/18 Mundesley First and Junior are school are to form a federation governing body with Bacton Primary School from September, An executive head teacher will be appointed to cover the three schools. The Fire Service has obtained planning permission to build a live fire training unit at the former RAF Coltishall. The council is making significant savings after the introduction of Early Help Teams to assess children at risk of being taken into care. With the support of these professionals, the council is ensuring that children are not taken away from their guardians prematurely and are thus cutting costs. Trading Standards warn of an increase in cold callers offering garden work and hedge cutting, carrying out the work at an inflated cost. POLICE REPORT PSCO De Fathalla reported the Crime Stats from 24/03/15: 3 Crimes of criminal damage (all undetected) 1 Crime sexual offence (under investigation) 2 Crimes of theft (1 detected / 1 undetected) phone and garden equipment 3 Crimes of violence against person (2 detected / 1 undetected) Crime Total: 9 It was established that two of the crimes of violence against a person and one of the criminal damage reports occurred in the same instance but it was necessary to log them as separate crimes. PSCO De Fathalla noted that the recent fire at Kiln Cliffs Caravan Park was originally thought to be a crime but, after investigation by the police forensics unit, was confirmed as an accident. After enquiry by the council, PSCO De Fathalla noted that as yet there was no evidence to suspect anyone of the boat fire in the playground. The clerk noted that she had received a visit from PC Green, who is working on the case, and had been informed by her that there were indeed two suspects, one of whom had admitted to the crime during an interview. PC Green had suggested that the suspect would receive a talk from the arson specialist and should receive a caution. PCSO De Fathalla left the meeting at 19:27 08 PLANNING, BUILDING AND ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE 8.1 To consider planning applications PF/15/0234 MPC Erection of four detached dwellings, detached garages, creation of new vehicle access and private drive 30 Cromer Road, Mundesley, Norwich, NR11 8DB 2 14/03/2015 The Chairman allowed time for members of the public to voice their concerns about this application: Denise Revell noted that the address for the planning application is incorrect as the plot is situated some distance from 30 Cromer Road. She also indicted a Planning Notice has not been erected outside the plot. The clerk will make enquiries with NNDC. Bev Reynolds asked from further information about the bylaws that enable residents of properties at risk of coastal erosion (such as trimmingham) be rehousing in Mundesley and noted that Loop Road does not have four properties to be replaced. She also voiced concern about the difficulty large quantity of traffic using Cromer Road and the difficulties this new development might cause to the access of Gunner Close. Diana Townsend noted a worry that permission for four properties might lead to further developments at a later date in addition to the increased pressure this might put on the village’s services such as the surgery. She also noted that the village is in need of affordable housing instead of large, detached properties, Janet Munro expressed concern that a private address has been used on the planning application. Peter King noted that he had spoken with the planning department about the incorrect address and was informed that this would be investigated. It was noted that council would look into these regulations before further discussion. The council agreed that further investigation and research should be undertaken by councillors before a decision is made. Cllr Firmin noted that the MPC now have a gauge of the public’s opinion of this application. It was resolved that MPC’s decision should be deferred until the Planning, Building and Environment Committee meeting on the 15/04/15. It was noted that residents with concerns can make objections to applications in a number of ways, firstly by writing to NNDC planning department; by making comments on the online application and also by electing a spokesperson to attend the NNDC’s planning committee meeting to speak on their behalf. 8.2 MPC To consider planning decisions PF/14/0138 Retention of Timber Outbuilding 35 Trunch Road, Mundesley, Norwich, NR 11 8JU Decision: Appeal Approved PO/14/1392 Erection of single-storey dwelling and garage Land at rear of 61 Cromer Road, Mundesley NR11 8DA Decision: PERMIT PF/14/0626 Use of land for siting six mobile units (4 caravan, 2 pods) for residential accommodation for family and friends and use of existing dwelling for shared facilities (amended description) 67 Cromer Road, Mundesley, Norwich, NR11 8DF Decision: Appeal Approved It was noted that approval was given on the condition that the development is for use by family and friends only. 3 14/03/2015 8.3 To receive update on other issues discussed PBL Builders have quoted £95 to repair the damage to the wall outside Back Street ladies toilets. The council resolved to accept this quote. Action Cllr West Clerk noted that NNDC have replied to queries about repainting the pump outside the museum and the shelter to the right of the beach access. These areas are included in their maintenance plans for the next two years. Inspection reports on the gym equipment continue to mark the shortcomings of the gym equipment’s welding and paintwork. 09 PLAYGROUND 9.1 To receive update on the purchase of new equipment and agree action Cllr Firmin noted that Renosteel have started to install the fencing around the playground and will install the new equipment once this has been completed. 9.2 10 To receive update on fencing and gates and agree action Please Item 9.1 FINANCE AND GENERAL PURPOSES COMMITTEE 10.1 To consider payments to be made The council agreed to the payment of invoices for Ink Cartridges from Viking and for work completed by Amelia Blencowe (temporary clerk) and Edit Garrard (Book Keeper). 10.2 To receive update on other issues discussed Despite attempts to close MPC’s account with TSB, the latest bank statement suggests that this has not taken place. It was propose that a cheque be written out to pay the remaining amount in to the new account. Eon have contacted MPC and have quoted a rate of 0.1537 per unit if their contract is renewed for the supply of electricity to the feeder pillar on Station Road. If the contract is for 2 years the rate is reduced to 0.1486. It was agreed that Eon’s contract should be renewed with payments made by direct debit for further savings. The chairman noted that MPC have finally received a refund from Travis Perkins to the value of £193. 11 MUGA It was noted that there had been an issue with the gates with two children being locked inside due to a lack of access to the bolts from inside the facility. Cllr Blencowe has cable-tied the bolts so that the gates do not lock for the time being. The supplier, who is returning to complete work on the MUGA’s ground markings, will see what can be done to solve this issue. It was noted that there is great deal of litter in the MUGA despite a litter bin being located near to the entrance. It was suggested that it might be worth installing a small notice reminding users to remove their litter when exiting the facility. It was also noted that Trevor Rivett might be asked to pick up the litter whilst he is working in Gold Park, in the summer months. MPC 4 14/03/2015 12 GRANTS To consider grants to be awarded at the Annual Parish meeting on 27/04/15: The clerk distributed details of the applications for grant, including details of previous grants awarded to applicants. It was established that there is £2,650.00 available from 2014 car boot takings. Landmine Clearance Memorial Committee Mundesley Festival “Don’t Be Alone At Christmas” Lunch Coronation Hall Film Club Mundesley Table Tennis Club First Responders Mundesley Resilience Forum Norfolk Age UK £250 £250 £225 £150 £125 £350 £200 £200 Total awarded £1,750 A decision regarding the application on behalf of the Mundesley Players for new lighting has been deferred until further information is received about the costs involved. It was noted that decisions whether these grants should be taken out of car boot takings or made as S137 payments will be decided at a later date. The Clerk will write to all applicants to inform them of the council’s decision, inviting successful applicants to attend the Annual Parish Meeting on the 27th of April Cllr Gray noted that in the future Fred’s Shed, used for storage near the office will need repairing shortly and so remaining car boot funds might be saved for this work. 13 PARISH COUNCIL ELECTIONS Cllr West noted that the election is uncontested and so there will not be a parish council election on May 7th. There will, however, be local elections for district councillors. 14 ANNUAL PARISH MEETING It was resolved that the candidates for Mundesley Ward’s two district council seat will be invited to the Annual Parish Meeting to give a 3-4 minute talk about their aims, should they be elected. It was noted that a doctor from the Medical Centre has also been invited to give a talk at the meeting. Carol Howard will provide refreshments. 15 REPORTS FROM OUTSIDE BODIES To receive reports from member representatives on outside bodies Coronation Hall – The building will soon be repointed. Citizens Advice Bureau – 95 people from Mundesley have consulted CAB this year. Cllr Stango provided the clerk with a breakdown of enquiries to be filed. MADRAS – Cllr Gray confirmed that several events are being organised for the summer months. Mundesley Youth and Community – An official opening for the MUGA will be arranged in the coming months. Museum – Cllr West confirmed that the museum is awaiting quotes for linoleum. The museum will open over the bank holiday weekend at the end of May. Cllr Blencowe noted that Janet Munro must be thanked for efforts in archiving 700 photos from the museum in digital format. There is also a full quota of volunteers for this season. MPC 5 14/03/2015 16 Inshore Lifeboat – The team recently participated in the final training session of the Sea King Rescue Helicopter. The coastguard will carry out air/sea rescue operations from now on. Parochial Church Council – The AGM is taking place this Friday. Interviews for the new rector will take place next Monday. Visitors’ Centre – Cllr Steer reported that the centre is now open. It was noted that a new representative should be sought from the council members since Cllr Steer has not sought re-election. Christmas Working Group – The next meeting will take place on the 17th of May. This year the fayre will take place on a Sunday. TO REPORT ANY OTHER BUSINESS Cllr Payne reported that the left hand side of the slope leading to the beach from the main beach access has been fenced off by NNDC. Due to the surge of 2013, the structural integrity of the slope was weakened and so a large hole developed whilst the Beach Huts were being re-instated. NNDC is looking into repairs. The clerk noted that a recent newsletter from NALC contained some useful information regarding parking charges, which have been the source of debate at several meetings. The government has published a consultation paper asking local councils questions about their attitudes towards parking charges and bylaws. The clerk urged all council’s to read this information. It was noted that there were a number of cars unable to park on Easter Sunday as the gated access to the overflow car park in Gold Park was locked. It was agreed that the council should decide how this gate is managed at the planning meeting. After a lengthy discussion is was confirmed that, despite Cllrs Gray and Payne being unavailable to erect the partition fence on Gold Park until the 29th of April, the car boots will commence on the 22nd of April as scheduled. Cllr Steer will collect monies from stall holders in Cllr Gray’s place. 17 CORRESPONDENCE To consider any correspondence and agree action Email from James Kingston requesting information about the local area and specifically All Saints Church during WW2, for a novel he is writing. Mr Kingston should be referred to All Saints Church for further information. Letter from Derek Kirk of Mundesley Festival informing the council that the festival would like to display their banner from Monday 13th of July- Sunday 26th July 2015 – It was confirmed that this is an acceptable period. Email from Cllr Blencowe providing numbers of Mundesley’s Phone Boxes and requesting that council resolve to Adopt each – It was agreed that this should be discussed at the Finance and General Purposes Meeting on the 17th of June. Email from Tactile Boats, providing a quote for repairs to the fire damaged boat in the playground. After discussing the quote of £520 (excl. VAT) it was resolved that the quote should be accept. Cllr Gray will investigate whether this cost will be covered by MPC’s insurance. 18 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION TIME The meeting was adjourned for a specified period in the resolution to allow member s of the public and any councillors with prejudicial interest to speak. Denise Revell enquired about the start time of the PBE meeting to be on Wednesday 15/03/15 and to whom letters objecting to plans for 30 Cromer Road should be MPC 6 14/03/2015 addressed - Cllr West confirmed that the PBE meeting will start at 7pm, whilst the clerk noted that letters of objection for this application should be addressed to Mr G Linder at NNDC’s planning offices. Janet Munro requested that the poster, displaying opening times for the museum is removed as it is out of date. She established that, given the correct information, she would be happy to create a replacement. Mrs Munro also noted that balls from the MUGA are frequently thrown into the memorial gardens. This is causing people to climb over the fence in order to retrieve them. - After a discussion about the possibility of having a gate installed to prevent damage to the fence, it was agreed that a section of fencing might simply be removed to allow access to the memorial garden. Mrs Munro also enquired how quickly the boat will be finished. - It was established that the boat builder is required to carry out all works on site due to the condition of the boat and so it will be completed over three days when the weather permits. It was also noted that MPC should seek restorative justice for the damage caused to the boat. Peter King enquired whether anything might be done to prevent dog fouling. - The council agreed that dog fouling is a large concern throughout the village, however admitted that little can be done to prevent its occurring. It was noted that NNDC have two dog wardens for the whole district but very few prosecutions are made. The cost of emptying dog bins in Mundesley is around £2,000 per year and MPC would appreciate any suggestions about how fouling can be prevented. 19 DATE OF NEXT MEETING The date of the next meeting of Mundesley-on-sea Parish Council will be held on Monday 18th May 2015 in the Coronation Hall at 7pm. 20 EXLUSION OF THE PRESS AND PUBLIC A resolution was made under the Public Bodies (Admission of Strangers) Act 1960 that the Press and Public be excluded during the discussion of CONFIDENTIAL Employment Matters. There being no further business the chairman closed the meeting at 9:30pm ………………………………………………………………… CHAIRMAN MPC ………………………… DATE 7 14/03/2015