Wellington Town Council meeting February 2007
Minutes of the meeting of Wellington Town Council held in the United Reformed Church Hall in Fore Street, Wellington on Monday, 5th February 2007 at 7.30pm (start of meeting was delayed because of planning meeting over-running)
PRESENT: Councillor D. Mitton (chairman), who presided, Councillor P. Critchard (vice-chairman), Councillors Mrs V Byrne, Mrs G. Copley, Mrs V. Stock-Williams and Mrs N. Wilson, Councillors R. Bowrah, J. Clark, A. Govier, C. Hindley, G. James and S. Palmer, and the clerk A. Brown and the assistant to the clerk Mrs J. Thorne. There were apologies from Councillors C. Biscoe and R. Henley There were 11 members of the public present.
14106 CHAIRMAN’S ANNOUNCEMENTS
The chairman, Councillor D. Mitton reported that during January he had attended the annual Wellington Pantomime which had been a thoroughly enjoyable night. He also reported that the commanding officer of the Wellington platoon of Somerset Army Cadet Force, John Kitchen had invited councillors to a re-badging ceremony at the Mantle Street HQ on Thursday, 15th February at 8pm and also to meet the cadets.
14107 POLICE MATTERS
There was no police report as Sgt Doc Nurse was unable to attend as he was still off duty following hospital treatment.
14108 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION TIME: BUCKWELL VANDALISM
Miss Susan Adams asked the council to consider the installation of its relocatable CCTV camera in Buckwell following a spate of vandalism to parked cars which had occurred three times in five weeks. She said that residents had to park in the road as they had no garages or parking bays. She felt CCTV would help reduce vandalism. She also felt that a residents parking scheme should be provided. The chairman pointed out that the town council’s CCTV camera was currently located in Lancer Court but was due to be moved shortly to South Street car park where there had been vandalism to cars and also the rear of Wellington Baptist Church. If Buckwell residents made a request for the camera, it would be considered by the council’s CCTV working panel. Councillor Stock-Williams stated that county highways would not consider residents parking piecemeal: it had to cover an area. It was agreed to write to the police referring to the vandalism in Buckwell and asking for police patrols in the area to be increased in an effort to deter vandals.
14109 PPT: ADOPTION OF DOBREE PARK ROADS
Mr Roy Maggs asked when the roads and footways on the Dobree Park estate would be adopted by the county council and when a new footpath link from the estate to Rockwell Green would be provided. Referring to minute 14074 when he had explained the current situation at the January meeting, Councillor Govier said that until the developers Bellway Homes had provided the link from Lancock Street to near the fish and chip shop, the county council would not adopt the roads/footways. There was a dispute over landownership which was delaying the provision of the link but he was hopeful that might be resolved in the near future.
14110 PPT: HIGH STREET VANDALISM
Mr John Walker, of The Paper Shop in High Street, referred to escalating vandalism in High Street, to problems caused by young kids roaming the streets at night and congregating in various part of High Street, and to the danger posed by speeding cars. There was a need for a police presence to nip the problem the bud. Councillor Clark felt that no tolerance policing would produce results and ensure the youngsters were aware that the behaviour was unacceptable. Councillor Govier stated it was very difficult to be on the spot when vandalism occurred: it happened all over the place and not all the damage was caused by youngsters: some was caused by older people coming out of pubs under the influence of drink. Councillor Hindley felt that there should be more police in the town permanently. Councillor Palmer reported that the police had been very helpful in tackling problems in the Tonedale area recently in working with the Local Action Team and pointed out that a community response was also needed as well as the police. The chairman added that the police had always responded well to him over various issues. Again it was agreed to write to the police asking for more patrols to be carried out in the area.
14111 PPT: FUTURE OF THE BASINS
The chairman of Basins Volunteer Group, Mr Terry Milton thanked councillors who had attended the Basins bulb planting in December and reported that the new owners of the two ponds had offered to give the Basins to the town. The Basins could be a liability requiring a lot of maintenance and not necessarily an asset. He suggested it should be put on the March agenda but it was agreed to wait until an actual approach had been made by the new owners. Councillor Bowrah declared an interest as secretary of the volunteer group.
14112 PPT: WELLINGTON IN BLOOM
The chairman of Wellington in Bloom Committee, Mrs Isabel Ward invited members to the committee’s annual general meeting being held on Thursday, 15th February at the Bulford Centre at 6pm. She thanked Councillor Bowrah for his services as vice chairman during the past year: he would be standing down at the AGM.
14113 PPT: FRIENDS OF WELLINGTON PARK
The chairman of Friends of Wellington Park, Mrs Pauline Sturgess reported that all the tickets for the Friends’ Chinese New Year event on 17th February 2007 in the URC Church had been sold and that there was a waiting list.
14114 PPT: NON ATTENDANCE OF POLICE
Mr Frank Bishop stated that he felt it was disappointing that the police had not attended the council meeting. He considered they should always attend.
14115 MINUTES OF JANUARY COUNCIL MEETINGS
The minutes of the council meetings held on 8th January 2007 as previously circulated to councillors, were received, taken as read and confirmed as correct.
14116 ALL SAINTS’ CHURCH BUS STOPS/SIGNS
With reference to minute 14093 Councillor Critchard asked if any information had been received from First Bus Group about whether the bus stops and signs by All Saints’ Church, Rockwell Green were redundant or not. The clerk reported that information was still awaited.
14117 PRECEPT FOR 2007-08
A detailed report was received from clerk (attached to these minutes) on the suggested budget and precept for 2007-08. He recommended that the council should set a precept of £75,506 and that the town council tax for Band D properties should remain at £16.50 for the eighth year in succession. The chairman reported that it was hoped to start work soon on the Tone multi use games area thanks to funding from the Somerset Youth Capital Fund, that the budget included £10,000 for the Wellington Food Town project, £11,000 for the possible purchase of a second relocatable CCTV camera and allowances of £200 a year for councillors towards the costs of postage, telephone calls, paper and emails. Councillor Bowrah thanked the clerk for his work in preparing the budget. On the proposition of Councillor Mitton, seconded by Councillor Critchard, it was agreed to approve the budget and precept of £75,506.
14118 UNITARY AUTHORITY PLAN AND GOVERNMENT WHITE PAPER
With reference to minutes 14080 and 14083 councillors received a copy of Somerset County Council’s business case to create a unitary council for Somerset and a copy of Taunton Deane Borough Council’s response to “strong and prosperous communities” White Paper which was endorsed by the four other district councils in Somerset and which proposed a new approach to public service in Somerset. The clerk reported that the county council had decided on 22nd January 2007 to ask the Government to create a unitary authority for Somerset. The reactions of the Secretary of State were due by the end of March. If any bid was taken forward, there would be full consultation with district, town and parish councils between April and June. It was agreed to defer consideration of the unitary scheme until the 12 week period of consultation.
14119 WELLINGTON SQUASH CLUB GRANT REQUEST
A letter, grant application form and financial details were received from Wellington Squash Club asking the town council to consider making grants totalling £57,000 towards the £80,000 cost of 2 new glass backed squash courts and the £10,500 cost of refurbishing the existing courts and club. It was agreed to inform the club that the town council would support the club financially in principle so that it could make applications to various funding bodies showing that it had the local council’s backing but the town council would make no decision at this stage on the amount of grant. It was pointed out that the maximum single grant the council had made to a club for such a capital project in the past 30 years was £3,750. Councillor James declared an interest as a squash club member and left the hall while this item was considered
14120 30MPH SPEED LIMIT EXTENSION AT BURCHILLS HILL
Councillor Palmer suggested that the existing 30mph speed limit at Burchills Hill, Tonedale, which begins on the eastern side of the river bridge by the Weavers Reach housing estate, should be moved further westwards towards Rockwell Green so that it covered the recently opened children’s play area adjoining Weavers Reach. It was agreed to ask Somerset Highways to move the limit to the Rockwell Green side of the recently erected playground sign or possibly as far back as the left hand bend when going up the hill towards Rockwell Green.
14121 ROPE WALK GATEWAY PROPOSAL
Councillor Stock-Williams reported that residents of the Burrough Way housing estate had suggested that the gap in the fence between Rope Walk green space and Farthings Pitts should be upgraded into a formal gateway with the solid earth mound in the area being levelled to make the gateway DDA accessible. Taunton DBC parks department was happy for the suggestion to be progressed providing county highways were consulted to ensure a safe access on to the road. It was agreed to arrange a site meeting with county highways and the parks department.
COUNCILLOR BYRNE LEFT THE MEETING HERE AT 8.30PM
14122 MORE PLOTS FOR BASINS ALLOTMENTS
On the proposition of Councillor James, seconded by Councillor Critchard, it was agreed to accept a quote of £1,300 from the Basins Allotment Holders Restoration Group for removing trees, stumps and brambles from an overgrown area at the entrance to the allotments and for reinstating the ground into an acceptable condition to provide between 6 and 7 additional allotments. It was reported that one other quote for £1,980 had been received. Councillor Bowrah declared an interest as a tenant of the Basins allotments and left the hall while this item was considered.
14123 MORE LITTER BINS NEEDED
Councillors Palmer and Govier suggested that consideration should be given to providing more litter bins in South Street and North Street following complaints about take-away rubbish being strewn around the town’s streets at night. Members also received copies of emails from the Rev S. Griffiths about take-away rubbish and Taunton DBC about street cleansing on Sunday mornings and the possible provision of additional litter bins. It was pointed out that litter often dropped even when there was a bin nearby and that the bins in North Street near the police station and near the Sportsman Inn were often full and not big enough. . It was agreed to refer the issue to the council’s Environmental Committee who would report back to the council.
14124 POOR STATE OF PAVEMENTS AND ROADS
Councillor Copley suggested writing to Somerset Highways about the state of disrepair of some of the town’s pavements, roads and gutters particularly at the bottom of George Street and Bovet Street, where there were special dwellings for the elderly. The footways were in a poor state because of tree roots cracking the surface and making it uneven. It was also pointed out that there were potholes in the road at Corams Lane near the entrance to the sports centre, in Springfield Road and at the Station Road end of Holyoake Street. It was agreed to ask Somerset Highways to inspect all these areas and carry out necessary repairs.
14125 MORE STREET CLEANSING REQUIRED
Councillor Copley reported that she had received complaints from residents about the lack of cleanliness of roads such as Bovet Street, George Street and Waterloo Road and she felt the town council should consider asking Taunton DBC for more street cleansing to be carried out. The clerk reported Waterloo Road was manually cleansed twice a week and Bovet Street and George Street on a monthly basis. There was also a mechanical sweep every eight weeks but because of parked cars, particularly in George Street it was not possible to sweep the channels. A smaller machine was sent to clean some of the smaller cul de sacs and also pavements in High Street. It was agreed to monitor the position.
14126 RE-LOCATION OF TAUNTON CATTLE MARKET
With reference to minute 14092 a letter was received from Councillor John Williams, the leader of Taunton DBC, stating that the Deane would always seriously look at investing money in projects that enhanced the employment prospects or environment within Wellington. The Deane did not have ownership of the market site at Chelston but would work with the owners to see how best the land might be utilised for the benefit of Wellington and Taunton Deane. It was a key priority of the Deane to include, in the Local Development Framework presently being prepared, proposals for the northern distributor road across Longforth Farm. The Deane would do all possible to deliver the scheme within the LDF. The letter was noted.
14127 400TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE DEATH OF SIR JOHN POPHAM
With reference to minute 14043 a letter was received from the governors of Popham almshouses asking the town council to consider financially assisting the repair of the stone plaque at the west entrance and the repair/painting of the Popham coat of arms over the middle of the three buildings of almshouses in Victoria Street to mark the 400th anniversary of Sir John Popham in 2007. It was agreed to provide £812 for the supply and fixing of a new stone plaque with v cut lettering, which would be less prone to damage and vandalism, and £400 for the cost of repainting the shield. It was agreed that there should be a small plaque indicating that the town council had met the cost of the work. It was further agreed to offer £200 towards the cost of providing a carpet bedding scheme of the Popham coat of arms in Wellington Park that would be carried out by Taunton DBC. Friends of Wellington Park would also be contributing.
14128 MOBILE PHONE MAST AT BLACKDOWN TRADING ESTATE
With reference to minute 14075 a letter was received from the King’s Church leader, Rev Mark Morse stating that the town council had been provided with inaccurate information at its meeting in January about the position of the proposed mobile phone mast on the Blackdown Trading Estate, Scotts Lane. The letter was noted.
14129 PROPOSED HIGHER CAR PARKING CHARGES
With reference to minute 14040 the chairman, Councillor Mitton reported that he had attended the meeting of Taunton DBC Traffic Regulation Panel on 1st February and had objected to the higher car parking charges proposed for Wellington. The panel had recommended the new charges should be introduced but the Executive Councillor (Councillor C. Bishop) had not made a decision, referring the issue to the full council for a decision at its meeting on 20th February. Councillor Mitton stated he would be attending that meeting to again voice the council’s objection. His report was noted.
14130 POSSIBLE DUAL USE OF FOOTPATHS
With reference to minute 14081 Councillor Mitton reported that at a meeting of the Footpath Committee on 29th January it had been agreed to ask County Highways to consider making dual use by pedestrians and cyclists of the footpaths at Blackpath from Rookery Terrace to the western entrance to the park and Court Fields School path from the western park entrance to the youth centre off Mantle Street. Both paths currently had no cycling orders on them. It was felt there would be a need for staggered barriers at the park end of Blackpath and at the bottom of Court Fields School path near a bend turning towards the youth centre. It had also been agreed to ask the county to consider providing cycle waiting bays at the Longforth Road-High Street traffic lights when these lights were altered to accommodate traffic to and from the new Somerfield Store. A suggestion that the footpath from Buckwell to Scotts Lane should be made dual use had been turned down. The report was noted.
14131 CHRISTMAS LIGHTS
With reference to minute 14091 the clerk reported that a cheque for£100 had been received from Wellington Chamber of Trade as a contribution towards the cost of the 2006 festive illuminations. Some disappointment was expressed at the amount of the chamber’s contribution: it was pointed out that the town council had spent just over £8,000 on the Christmas lights and switch-on entertainment in 2006. It was agreed to write to the chamber accordingly. The clerk also reported that Natwest had been the only bank not to agree to put up lights which showed a disappointing lack of support for the community. The other three banks, Lloyds TSB, Barclays and HSBC all put up illuminated trees. The report was noted.
14132 TREE PRESERVATION ORDERS
Notices were received from Taunton DBC that tree preservation orders had been placed on 4 oak trees, 1 field maple tree and a group of 4 field maple trees at Oakfield Park, Wellington; on 1 lime tree on land to the south east of 10 Pyles Thorne Road (Oakhill), Wellington; on 1 mulberry tree and 1 cherry tree at rear of the Old Vicarage, High Street, Wellington; and on woodland to the west of Tone Mill, Wellington. The notices were noted.
14133 TREE WARDEN
Councillor Palmer, the tree warden for the parish, reported that he would be working with Wellington in Bloom Committee, the Friends of Wellington Park, the Basins Volunteer Group and schools as well as gathering information about local tree preservation orders and conservation area to further his work and that the town council’s website would include tree warden details very shortly.
14134 TRAFFIC PROBLEMS IN EIGHT ACRE LANE
A letter was received from Ada Mournian about increasing traffic problems in Eight Acre Lane off South Street, Wellington, caused by large vans and lorries trying to drive up the narrow road and often having to reverse. She felt a no through road/cul de sac sign and width restriction sign should be erected. It was agreed to ask Somerset Highways to consider putting up such signs.
14135 AREA WORKING PANELS
A letter was received from the county council about the creation of area working panels. The letter was noted.
14136 TONEDALE BRIDGE REPAIRS
A letter was received from the county council stating that extensive strengthening, repairs and safety improvements would be carried out to Tonedale Bridge at Burchills Hill in late March 2007. The works would last for about 5 weeks and road would be closed with a temporary traffic diversion route in place. The letter was noted.
14137 WELLINGTON ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP
With reference to minute 14096 no suggestions/recommendations were put forward for the next Wellington Economic Partnership meeting on 12th February 2007.
14138 PLANNING DECISIONS BY TAUNTON DBC
The clerk reported that Taunton Deane Borough Council had approved the following plans: (a) Carry out tree work on 3 cherry trees and 1 mulberry tree in Wellington conservation area at the Old Vicarage, High Street, Wellington (43/2006/169T); (b) application to fell 1 walnut tree included in Taunton Deane Borough (Wellington No. 2) Tree Preservation Order 2004 at 41 Church Fields, Wellington (43/20006/170T: subject to replacement tree being planted within 3 months of felling); (c) Erection of replacement conservatory to rear of 11 Hawthorne Road, Wellington (43/2006/172); (d) Erection of single storey extension to side of 16 Popes Lane, Rockwell Green, Wellington (43/2006/171); (e) Variation of condition 07 of permission 43/1992/097 to allow for occupation of No. 2 without compliance at 2 Orchard Court, Scotts Lane, Wellington (43/2006/166); (f) Display of externally illuminated fascia sign and non illuminated projecting sign at 14 High Street, Wellington (43/2006/148A); (g) Conversion of first and second floor accommodation to four 1 bed self contained flats, internal and external alterations, including new bin storage and staircase on ground floor, 3 Fore Street, Wellington (43/2006/161LB); (h) Erection of two storey extension to side and conservatory to rear of 42 Barn Meads Road, Wellington (43/2006/152); (i) Conversion of garage to living accommodation and erection of single storey extension to rear of garage at 43 Burrough Way, Wellington (43/2006/149); (j) Erection of glazed canopy and external ramp access to replace existing porch at Salvation Army Hall, Scotts Lane, Wellington (43/2006/158); (k) Erection of single storey extension to rear of 80 Richards Close, Wellington (43/2006/174). The clerk reported that Taunton DBC had refused the following plan: (a) Application to carry out tree work on 7 lime trees included in Taunton Deane Borough (Wellington No,. 2) Tree Preservation Order 1978 at the Old Vicarage, High Street, Wellington (43/2006/168T: because trees have amenity value and are not dangerous).
14139 COUNCIL INCOME/EXPENDITURE TO 31ST JANUARY 2007
A report was received from the clerk showing that the council’s income for the period from 1st April 2006 to 31st January 2007 was £88,829 (£122,249 estimated for the full year to 31st March 2007) and that expenditure for the same period was £67,187 (£143,150 estimated for the full year to 31st March 2007). The report was noted.
14140 ACCOUNTS FOR PAYMENT
On the proposition of Councillor Critchard, seconded by Councillor Stock-Williams, it was agreed to authorise the payment of the following accounts and the signing of the following cheques: Age Concern Somerset £100 grant; St John’s Primary School £295.84 for school crossing patrol for autumn term 2006; Taunton Deane Borough Council £4040.14 for footpath clearance during 2006; Wireless CCTV Ltd £22.89 for CCTV telephone calls; Hinewood Cleaning Service £34 for cleaning High Street bus shelters and office window cleaning in December 2006; Mrs J. Thorne £73.35 for additional hours of work in January 2007; Inland Revenue £669.18 for income tax and national insurance; Mr A. Brown £150 petty cash; Customs Plastics £70.50 for supplying and fitting vinyl text to notice board; Viking Direct £49 for paper and date stamp; Home Aerials £100 for public address system for Christmas lights switch on; Taunton DBC £191.41 BT £55.18 for telephone, fax, email and broadband charges; Christmas lights energy payments: Mount Veterinary Group £75, H.T. Perry £60, J. Pragnell £40, Evad Furniture £40, Eight Bells Inn £40, Grants of Wellington £40, Wellington United Reformed Church £40, Green Dragon Inn £20, Somerset Army Cadet Force £20, S.B. Ong £20.
14141 WWN REPORTER NICHOLA JONES
The chairman, Councillor Mitton mentioned that it was the last meeting to be attended by Wellington Weekly News reporter Nichola Jones. He thanked her for her coverage of town council meetings and wished every success in her new job.
14142 THANKS OF COUNCILLOR BYRNE
At the end of the meeting the chairman, Councillor Mitton reported that Councillor Byrne had asked him to thank the council for their letter of sympathy following the tragic accident to her grandson and also councillors and the clerk for their cards, letters and messages which had been sent independently.
14143 PAPERS, REPORTS, NEWSLETTERS ETC
The clerk reported that the following reports, newsletters etc had been received and were available for members to read if they wished: What’s On in Taunton Deane leaflet for February 2007; Autumn newsletter of the Grand Western Canal Trust; Taunton BDC summary of accounts for 2005-06; Somerset Access annual newsletter 2006 from county rights of way team; South West Regional Assembly Regional Spatial Strategy for SW Update; January issue of news release from The Tree Council; NALC direct information service bulletin Nos. 648 and 649; InterAction magazine for December 2006 from Local Government International Bureau.
THE MEETING CLOSED AT 9.20PM
PRESENT: Councillor D. Mitton (chairman), who presided, Councillor P. Critchard (vice-chairman), Councillors Mrs V Byrne, Mrs G. Copley, Mrs V. Stock-Williams and Mrs N. Wilson, Councillors R. Bowrah, J. Clark, A. Govier, C. Hindley, G. James and S. Palmer, and the clerk A. Brown and the assistant to the clerk Mrs J. Thorne. There were apologies from Councillors C. Biscoe and R. Henley There were 11 members of the public present.
14106 CHAIRMAN’S ANNOUNCEMENTS
The chairman, Councillor D. Mitton reported that during January he had attended the annual Wellington Pantomime which had been a thoroughly enjoyable night. He also reported that the commanding officer of the Wellington platoon of Somerset Army Cadet Force, John Kitchen had invited councillors to a re-badging ceremony at the Mantle Street HQ on Thursday, 15th February at 8pm and also to meet the cadets.
14107 POLICE MATTERS
There was no police report as Sgt Doc Nurse was unable to attend as he was still off duty following hospital treatment.
14108 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION TIME: BUCKWELL VANDALISM
Miss Susan Adams asked the council to consider the installation of its relocatable CCTV camera in Buckwell following a spate of vandalism to parked cars which had occurred three times in five weeks. She said that residents had to park in the road as they had no garages or parking bays. She felt CCTV would help reduce vandalism. She also felt that a residents parking scheme should be provided. The chairman pointed out that the town council’s CCTV camera was currently located in Lancer Court but was due to be moved shortly to South Street car park where there had been vandalism to cars and also the rear of Wellington Baptist Church. If Buckwell residents made a request for the camera, it would be considered by the council’s CCTV working panel. Councillor Stock-Williams stated that county highways would not consider residents parking piecemeal: it had to cover an area. It was agreed to write to the police referring to the vandalism in Buckwell and asking for police patrols in the area to be increased in an effort to deter vandals.
14109 PPT: ADOPTION OF DOBREE PARK ROADS
Mr Roy Maggs asked when the roads and footways on the Dobree Park estate would be adopted by the county council and when a new footpath link from the estate to Rockwell Green would be provided. Referring to minute 14074 when he had explained the current situation at the January meeting, Councillor Govier said that until the developers Bellway Homes had provided the link from Lancock Street to near the fish and chip shop, the county council would not adopt the roads/footways. There was a dispute over landownership which was delaying the provision of the link but he was hopeful that might be resolved in the near future.
14110 PPT: HIGH STREET VANDALISM
Mr John Walker, of The Paper Shop in High Street, referred to escalating vandalism in High Street, to problems caused by young kids roaming the streets at night and congregating in various part of High Street, and to the danger posed by speeding cars. There was a need for a police presence to nip the problem the bud. Councillor Clark felt that no tolerance policing would produce results and ensure the youngsters were aware that the behaviour was unacceptable. Councillor Govier stated it was very difficult to be on the spot when vandalism occurred: it happened all over the place and not all the damage was caused by youngsters: some was caused by older people coming out of pubs under the influence of drink. Councillor Hindley felt that there should be more police in the town permanently. Councillor Palmer reported that the police had been very helpful in tackling problems in the Tonedale area recently in working with the Local Action Team and pointed out that a community response was also needed as well as the police. The chairman added that the police had always responded well to him over various issues. Again it was agreed to write to the police asking for more patrols to be carried out in the area.
14111 PPT: FUTURE OF THE BASINS
The chairman of Basins Volunteer Group, Mr Terry Milton thanked councillors who had attended the Basins bulb planting in December and reported that the new owners of the two ponds had offered to give the Basins to the town. The Basins could be a liability requiring a lot of maintenance and not necessarily an asset. He suggested it should be put on the March agenda but it was agreed to wait until an actual approach had been made by the new owners. Councillor Bowrah declared an interest as secretary of the volunteer group.
14112 PPT: WELLINGTON IN BLOOM
The chairman of Wellington in Bloom Committee, Mrs Isabel Ward invited members to the committee’s annual general meeting being held on Thursday, 15th February at the Bulford Centre at 6pm. She thanked Councillor Bowrah for his services as vice chairman during the past year: he would be standing down at the AGM.
14113 PPT: FRIENDS OF WELLINGTON PARK
The chairman of Friends of Wellington Park, Mrs Pauline Sturgess reported that all the tickets for the Friends’ Chinese New Year event on 17th February 2007 in the URC Church had been sold and that there was a waiting list.
14114 PPT: NON ATTENDANCE OF POLICE
Mr Frank Bishop stated that he felt it was disappointing that the police had not attended the council meeting. He considered they should always attend.
14115 MINUTES OF JANUARY COUNCIL MEETINGS
The minutes of the council meetings held on 8th January 2007 as previously circulated to councillors, were received, taken as read and confirmed as correct.
14116 ALL SAINTS’ CHURCH BUS STOPS/SIGNS
With reference to minute 14093 Councillor Critchard asked if any information had been received from First Bus Group about whether the bus stops and signs by All Saints’ Church, Rockwell Green were redundant or not. The clerk reported that information was still awaited.
14117 PRECEPT FOR 2007-08
A detailed report was received from clerk (attached to these minutes) on the suggested budget and precept for 2007-08. He recommended that the council should set a precept of £75,506 and that the town council tax for Band D properties should remain at £16.50 for the eighth year in succession. The chairman reported that it was hoped to start work soon on the Tone multi use games area thanks to funding from the Somerset Youth Capital Fund, that the budget included £10,000 for the Wellington Food Town project, £11,000 for the possible purchase of a second relocatable CCTV camera and allowances of £200 a year for councillors towards the costs of postage, telephone calls, paper and emails. Councillor Bowrah thanked the clerk for his work in preparing the budget. On the proposition of Councillor Mitton, seconded by Councillor Critchard, it was agreed to approve the budget and precept of £75,506.
14118 UNITARY AUTHORITY PLAN AND GOVERNMENT WHITE PAPER
With reference to minutes 14080 and 14083 councillors received a copy of Somerset County Council’s business case to create a unitary council for Somerset and a copy of Taunton Deane Borough Council’s response to “strong and prosperous communities” White Paper which was endorsed by the four other district councils in Somerset and which proposed a new approach to public service in Somerset. The clerk reported that the county council had decided on 22nd January 2007 to ask the Government to create a unitary authority for Somerset. The reactions of the Secretary of State were due by the end of March. If any bid was taken forward, there would be full consultation with district, town and parish councils between April and June. It was agreed to defer consideration of the unitary scheme until the 12 week period of consultation.
14119 WELLINGTON SQUASH CLUB GRANT REQUEST
A letter, grant application form and financial details were received from Wellington Squash Club asking the town council to consider making grants totalling £57,000 towards the £80,000 cost of 2 new glass backed squash courts and the £10,500 cost of refurbishing the existing courts and club. It was agreed to inform the club that the town council would support the club financially in principle so that it could make applications to various funding bodies showing that it had the local council’s backing but the town council would make no decision at this stage on the amount of grant. It was pointed out that the maximum single grant the council had made to a club for such a capital project in the past 30 years was £3,750. Councillor James declared an interest as a squash club member and left the hall while this item was considered
14120 30MPH SPEED LIMIT EXTENSION AT BURCHILLS HILL
Councillor Palmer suggested that the existing 30mph speed limit at Burchills Hill, Tonedale, which begins on the eastern side of the river bridge by the Weavers Reach housing estate, should be moved further westwards towards Rockwell Green so that it covered the recently opened children’s play area adjoining Weavers Reach. It was agreed to ask Somerset Highways to move the limit to the Rockwell Green side of the recently erected playground sign or possibly as far back as the left hand bend when going up the hill towards Rockwell Green.
14121 ROPE WALK GATEWAY PROPOSAL
Councillor Stock-Williams reported that residents of the Burrough Way housing estate had suggested that the gap in the fence between Rope Walk green space and Farthings Pitts should be upgraded into a formal gateway with the solid earth mound in the area being levelled to make the gateway DDA accessible. Taunton DBC parks department was happy for the suggestion to be progressed providing county highways were consulted to ensure a safe access on to the road. It was agreed to arrange a site meeting with county highways and the parks department.
COUNCILLOR BYRNE LEFT THE MEETING HERE AT 8.30PM
14122 MORE PLOTS FOR BASINS ALLOTMENTS
On the proposition of Councillor James, seconded by Councillor Critchard, it was agreed to accept a quote of £1,300 from the Basins Allotment Holders Restoration Group for removing trees, stumps and brambles from an overgrown area at the entrance to the allotments and for reinstating the ground into an acceptable condition to provide between 6 and 7 additional allotments. It was reported that one other quote for £1,980 had been received. Councillor Bowrah declared an interest as a tenant of the Basins allotments and left the hall while this item was considered.
14123 MORE LITTER BINS NEEDED
Councillors Palmer and Govier suggested that consideration should be given to providing more litter bins in South Street and North Street following complaints about take-away rubbish being strewn around the town’s streets at night. Members also received copies of emails from the Rev S. Griffiths about take-away rubbish and Taunton DBC about street cleansing on Sunday mornings and the possible provision of additional litter bins. It was pointed out that litter often dropped even when there was a bin nearby and that the bins in North Street near the police station and near the Sportsman Inn were often full and not big enough. . It was agreed to refer the issue to the council’s Environmental Committee who would report back to the council.
14124 POOR STATE OF PAVEMENTS AND ROADS
Councillor Copley suggested writing to Somerset Highways about the state of disrepair of some of the town’s pavements, roads and gutters particularly at the bottom of George Street and Bovet Street, where there were special dwellings for the elderly. The footways were in a poor state because of tree roots cracking the surface and making it uneven. It was also pointed out that there were potholes in the road at Corams Lane near the entrance to the sports centre, in Springfield Road and at the Station Road end of Holyoake Street. It was agreed to ask Somerset Highways to inspect all these areas and carry out necessary repairs.
14125 MORE STREET CLEANSING REQUIRED
Councillor Copley reported that she had received complaints from residents about the lack of cleanliness of roads such as Bovet Street, George Street and Waterloo Road and she felt the town council should consider asking Taunton DBC for more street cleansing to be carried out. The clerk reported Waterloo Road was manually cleansed twice a week and Bovet Street and George Street on a monthly basis. There was also a mechanical sweep every eight weeks but because of parked cars, particularly in George Street it was not possible to sweep the channels. A smaller machine was sent to clean some of the smaller cul de sacs and also pavements in High Street. It was agreed to monitor the position.
14126 RE-LOCATION OF TAUNTON CATTLE MARKET
With reference to minute 14092 a letter was received from Councillor John Williams, the leader of Taunton DBC, stating that the Deane would always seriously look at investing money in projects that enhanced the employment prospects or environment within Wellington. The Deane did not have ownership of the market site at Chelston but would work with the owners to see how best the land might be utilised for the benefit of Wellington and Taunton Deane. It was a key priority of the Deane to include, in the Local Development Framework presently being prepared, proposals for the northern distributor road across Longforth Farm. The Deane would do all possible to deliver the scheme within the LDF. The letter was noted.
14127 400TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE DEATH OF SIR JOHN POPHAM
With reference to minute 14043 a letter was received from the governors of Popham almshouses asking the town council to consider financially assisting the repair of the stone plaque at the west entrance and the repair/painting of the Popham coat of arms over the middle of the three buildings of almshouses in Victoria Street to mark the 400th anniversary of Sir John Popham in 2007. It was agreed to provide £812 for the supply and fixing of a new stone plaque with v cut lettering, which would be less prone to damage and vandalism, and £400 for the cost of repainting the shield. It was agreed that there should be a small plaque indicating that the town council had met the cost of the work. It was further agreed to offer £200 towards the cost of providing a carpet bedding scheme of the Popham coat of arms in Wellington Park that would be carried out by Taunton DBC. Friends of Wellington Park would also be contributing.
14128 MOBILE PHONE MAST AT BLACKDOWN TRADING ESTATE
With reference to minute 14075 a letter was received from the King’s Church leader, Rev Mark Morse stating that the town council had been provided with inaccurate information at its meeting in January about the position of the proposed mobile phone mast on the Blackdown Trading Estate, Scotts Lane. The letter was noted.
14129 PROPOSED HIGHER CAR PARKING CHARGES
With reference to minute 14040 the chairman, Councillor Mitton reported that he had attended the meeting of Taunton DBC Traffic Regulation Panel on 1st February and had objected to the higher car parking charges proposed for Wellington. The panel had recommended the new charges should be introduced but the Executive Councillor (Councillor C. Bishop) had not made a decision, referring the issue to the full council for a decision at its meeting on 20th February. Councillor Mitton stated he would be attending that meeting to again voice the council’s objection. His report was noted.
14130 POSSIBLE DUAL USE OF FOOTPATHS
With reference to minute 14081 Councillor Mitton reported that at a meeting of the Footpath Committee on 29th January it had been agreed to ask County Highways to consider making dual use by pedestrians and cyclists of the footpaths at Blackpath from Rookery Terrace to the western entrance to the park and Court Fields School path from the western park entrance to the youth centre off Mantle Street. Both paths currently had no cycling orders on them. It was felt there would be a need for staggered barriers at the park end of Blackpath and at the bottom of Court Fields School path near a bend turning towards the youth centre. It had also been agreed to ask the county to consider providing cycle waiting bays at the Longforth Road-High Street traffic lights when these lights were altered to accommodate traffic to and from the new Somerfield Store. A suggestion that the footpath from Buckwell to Scotts Lane should be made dual use had been turned down. The report was noted.
14131 CHRISTMAS LIGHTS
With reference to minute 14091 the clerk reported that a cheque for£100 had been received from Wellington Chamber of Trade as a contribution towards the cost of the 2006 festive illuminations. Some disappointment was expressed at the amount of the chamber’s contribution: it was pointed out that the town council had spent just over £8,000 on the Christmas lights and switch-on entertainment in 2006. It was agreed to write to the chamber accordingly. The clerk also reported that Natwest had been the only bank not to agree to put up lights which showed a disappointing lack of support for the community. The other three banks, Lloyds TSB, Barclays and HSBC all put up illuminated trees. The report was noted.
14132 TREE PRESERVATION ORDERS
Notices were received from Taunton DBC that tree preservation orders had been placed on 4 oak trees, 1 field maple tree and a group of 4 field maple trees at Oakfield Park, Wellington; on 1 lime tree on land to the south east of 10 Pyles Thorne Road (Oakhill), Wellington; on 1 mulberry tree and 1 cherry tree at rear of the Old Vicarage, High Street, Wellington; and on woodland to the west of Tone Mill, Wellington. The notices were noted.
14133 TREE WARDEN
Councillor Palmer, the tree warden for the parish, reported that he would be working with Wellington in Bloom Committee, the Friends of Wellington Park, the Basins Volunteer Group and schools as well as gathering information about local tree preservation orders and conservation area to further his work and that the town council’s website would include tree warden details very shortly.
14134 TRAFFIC PROBLEMS IN EIGHT ACRE LANE
A letter was received from Ada Mournian about increasing traffic problems in Eight Acre Lane off South Street, Wellington, caused by large vans and lorries trying to drive up the narrow road and often having to reverse. She felt a no through road/cul de sac sign and width restriction sign should be erected. It was agreed to ask Somerset Highways to consider putting up such signs.
14135 AREA WORKING PANELS
A letter was received from the county council about the creation of area working panels. The letter was noted.
14136 TONEDALE BRIDGE REPAIRS
A letter was received from the county council stating that extensive strengthening, repairs and safety improvements would be carried out to Tonedale Bridge at Burchills Hill in late March 2007. The works would last for about 5 weeks and road would be closed with a temporary traffic diversion route in place. The letter was noted.
14137 WELLINGTON ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP
With reference to minute 14096 no suggestions/recommendations were put forward for the next Wellington Economic Partnership meeting on 12th February 2007.
14138 PLANNING DECISIONS BY TAUNTON DBC
The clerk reported that Taunton Deane Borough Council had approved the following plans: (a) Carry out tree work on 3 cherry trees and 1 mulberry tree in Wellington conservation area at the Old Vicarage, High Street, Wellington (43/2006/169T); (b) application to fell 1 walnut tree included in Taunton Deane Borough (Wellington No. 2) Tree Preservation Order 2004 at 41 Church Fields, Wellington (43/20006/170T: subject to replacement tree being planted within 3 months of felling); (c) Erection of replacement conservatory to rear of 11 Hawthorne Road, Wellington (43/2006/172); (d) Erection of single storey extension to side of 16 Popes Lane, Rockwell Green, Wellington (43/2006/171); (e) Variation of condition 07 of permission 43/1992/097 to allow for occupation of No. 2 without compliance at 2 Orchard Court, Scotts Lane, Wellington (43/2006/166); (f) Display of externally illuminated fascia sign and non illuminated projecting sign at 14 High Street, Wellington (43/2006/148A); (g) Conversion of first and second floor accommodation to four 1 bed self contained flats, internal and external alterations, including new bin storage and staircase on ground floor, 3 Fore Street, Wellington (43/2006/161LB); (h) Erection of two storey extension to side and conservatory to rear of 42 Barn Meads Road, Wellington (43/2006/152); (i) Conversion of garage to living accommodation and erection of single storey extension to rear of garage at 43 Burrough Way, Wellington (43/2006/149); (j) Erection of glazed canopy and external ramp access to replace existing porch at Salvation Army Hall, Scotts Lane, Wellington (43/2006/158); (k) Erection of single storey extension to rear of 80 Richards Close, Wellington (43/2006/174). The clerk reported that Taunton DBC had refused the following plan: (a) Application to carry out tree work on 7 lime trees included in Taunton Deane Borough (Wellington No,. 2) Tree Preservation Order 1978 at the Old Vicarage, High Street, Wellington (43/2006/168T: because trees have amenity value and are not dangerous).
14139 COUNCIL INCOME/EXPENDITURE TO 31ST JANUARY 2007
A report was received from the clerk showing that the council’s income for the period from 1st April 2006 to 31st January 2007 was £88,829 (£122,249 estimated for the full year to 31st March 2007) and that expenditure for the same period was £67,187 (£143,150 estimated for the full year to 31st March 2007). The report was noted.
14140 ACCOUNTS FOR PAYMENT
On the proposition of Councillor Critchard, seconded by Councillor Stock-Williams, it was agreed to authorise the payment of the following accounts and the signing of the following cheques: Age Concern Somerset £100 grant; St John’s Primary School £295.84 for school crossing patrol for autumn term 2006; Taunton Deane Borough Council £4040.14 for footpath clearance during 2006; Wireless CCTV Ltd £22.89 for CCTV telephone calls; Hinewood Cleaning Service £34 for cleaning High Street bus shelters and office window cleaning in December 2006; Mrs J. Thorne £73.35 for additional hours of work in January 2007; Inland Revenue £669.18 for income tax and national insurance; Mr A. Brown £150 petty cash; Customs Plastics £70.50 for supplying and fitting vinyl text to notice board; Viking Direct £49 for paper and date stamp; Home Aerials £100 for public address system for Christmas lights switch on; Taunton DBC £191.41 BT £55.18 for telephone, fax, email and broadband charges; Christmas lights energy payments: Mount Veterinary Group £75, H.T. Perry £60, J. Pragnell £40, Evad Furniture £40, Eight Bells Inn £40, Grants of Wellington £40, Wellington United Reformed Church £40, Green Dragon Inn £20, Somerset Army Cadet Force £20, S.B. Ong £20.
14141 WWN REPORTER NICHOLA JONES
The chairman, Councillor Mitton mentioned that it was the last meeting to be attended by Wellington Weekly News reporter Nichola Jones. He thanked her for her coverage of town council meetings and wished every success in her new job.
14142 THANKS OF COUNCILLOR BYRNE
At the end of the meeting the chairman, Councillor Mitton reported that Councillor Byrne had asked him to thank the council for their letter of sympathy following the tragic accident to her grandson and also councillors and the clerk for their cards, letters and messages which had been sent independently.
14143 PAPERS, REPORTS, NEWSLETTERS ETC
The clerk reported that the following reports, newsletters etc had been received and were available for members to read if they wished: What’s On in Taunton Deane leaflet for February 2007; Autumn newsletter of the Grand Western Canal Trust; Taunton BDC summary of accounts for 2005-06; Somerset Access annual newsletter 2006 from county rights of way team; South West Regional Assembly Regional Spatial Strategy for SW Update; January issue of news release from The Tree Council; NALC direct information service bulletin Nos. 648 and 649; InterAction magazine for December 2006 from Local Government International Bureau.
THE MEETING CLOSED AT 9.20PM
posted by Wellington Town Council @ 12:02 pm
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