Wellington Town Council minutes July 2007- draft
PLEASE NOTE THESE ARE DRAFT MINUTES DUE TO BE CONFIRMED ON 6 AUGUST
Minutes of the meeting of Wellington Town Council held in the United Reformed Church Hall, Fore Street, Wellington on Monday, 2nd July 2007 at 7pm
PRESENT: Councillor D. Mitton (chairman), who presided, Councillor P. Critchard (vice chairman), Councillors Mrs G. Copley, J. Govier, J. Reed, V. Stock-Williams, S. Walters and N. Wilson, Councillors R. Bowrah, J. Clark, G. Goodwin, A. Govier, R. Henley and C. Hindley and the clerk A. Brown and the assistant to the clerk Mrs J. Thorne. There was an apology from Councillor Mrs J. Lloyd. There were 2 members of the public present.
14331 CHAIRMAN’S ANNOUNCEMENTS
The chairman, Councillor D. Mitton reported that the assistant to the clerk, Mrs J. Thorne had been gained her Certificate in Local Council Administration and congratulated her on her achievement. June had been a busy month during which he had attended the church service to mark the 400th anniversary of the death of Sir John Popham; the AGM of the 1st Wellington Scout Group to whom he had presented a cheque for £1,000 as a grant from the council towards new camping equipment; the 25th Falklands War anniversary service in Taunton along with the vice chairman, Councillor P. Critchard; the county children’s country dancing festival at Wells Cathedral which had been attended by pupils from St John’s Primary School; the 100th concert in the Wellington which had been a great day; had visited Beech Grove Primary School with Councillor A. Govier to talk about the work of the town council and councils in general; the annual presentation evening at Court Fields Community School which showed how the school had developed over the years with impressive performances which reflected the dedication of the pupils and staff and the head Mrs E. Faull; the AGM of Wellington Chamber of Trade and spoke about the Wellington Food Town Project and Christmas festivities; official opening of the new children’s centre at Beech Grove Primary School; Veterans’ Day event in Taunton; and Yeovil Town Council’s annual service.
14332 POLICE MATTERS
Sgt Doc Nurse reported that there had been a continuing decrease in crime. During June there had been 8 cases of criminal damage (broken windows and doors, culprits had been detained and issued with £80 on the spot fines), 8 thefts (some incorrectly recorded), 4 cases of criminal damage to motor vehicles (2 youths had receive final warnings for kicking car doors), 16 assaults, of which 8 were domestic. He recalled that a few months ago there had been a spate of thefts from cars. Since then the police had been trying to educate motorists not to leave things of value in their cars, especially not on view. While walking their beat PCSOs had noticed 90 cars with valuables in and had spoken to the drivers or left advice. The message seemed to be getting across for there had been only 3 thefts from cars during June. The chairman thanked the police for the very quick response when his son had been assaulted and Councillor R. Bowrah also praised the quick response of police community support officers over a “drunk” in High Street. Sgt Nurse reported that since the Tonedale Local Action Team had been formed anti social behaviour in the area since Christmas had dropped by 85%. It demonstrated that partnership working did work with the community getting more actively involved. The PCSO scheme was proving a successful and was allowing the police to target crime more effectively.
14333 RESTORATIVE JUSTICE SCHEME
Members were circulated with details of a proposed restorative justice scheme for Wellington where members of the public would be involved in deciding the appropriate punishment for such cases as anti social behaviour and criminal damage. Councillor A. Govier said that the scheme aimed at bringing victims, offenders and community together to decide on a response to a particular crime. It was about putting victims’ needs at the centre of the criminal justice system and finding positive solutions to crime by encouraging offenders to face up to their actions. The county council would meet three-quarters of the cost and he proposed that the town council should agree in principle to help fund the scheme but should defer until the August meeting the precise amount it was prepared to donate. His proposal was seconded by Councillor Goodwin and carried unanimously. Sgt Nurse said the scheme would give a real opportunity for the community to get involved in and see what happened to those who offend. He was very keen to see the scheme piloted in Wellington.
14334 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION TIME: WELLINGTON IN BLOOM
Mrs I. Ward, the chairman of Wellington in Bloom Committee, reported that the judging for the 2007 competition would take place on Thursday, 19th July and that the town faced even stiffer competition this year as it was in the same group as Torquay. She thanked Councillor R. Bowrah for his kind remarks over her efforts to get action taken over the derelict former discount stores in High Street.
14335 CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES
The minutes of the council meeting held on 4th June 2007, as previously circulated to councillors, were taken as read and signed as correct subject to amending minute 14294 to show that Councillor A. Govier felt the application for a detached dwelling at 14 Victoria Street was appropriate.
14336 PROVISION OF NORTHERN RELIEF/DISTRIBUTOR ROAD
With reference to minute 13221 Councillor A. Govier proposed that the town council should write to both Taunton Deane Borough Council and Somerset County Council stressing the vital importance to Wellington of the northern relief distributor road from Tone to Poole on the Wellington-Taunton Road. He pointed out that two major redevelopment schemes were being considered for Tonedale and Tone which would result in over 300 new homes being provided as well as many industrial units. Inevitably there would be considerably more traffic, including HGVs, through the town centre and residential areas unless the northern relief road was built. He suggested that TDBC should be urged to include the northern relief road in its Local Development Framework which would guide the town’s future growth and that the county council should be urged to back the scheme as it would greatly improve both road safety and the environment by removing the vast majority of HGVs which currently used the town centre and residential roads to road the industrial estate on the north of the town. Councillor J. Govier seconded and this was carried unanimously.
14337 PROVISION OF MORE CYCLE RACKS IN TOWN CENTRE
Councillor R. Bowrah raised the question of providing more cycle racks in the town centre. The clerk reported that the county council was shortly to provide an additional rack outside Somerfield in Fore Street which it had promised last year but had not erected as its funding had been cut in 2006-2007. Taunton DBC had some funding available for more cycle racks this year and he having a meeting with the Deane on Thursday, 5th July 2007 at 9.30am to discuss possible additional town centre sites. Suggestions by councillors would be very welcome.
14338 CHAIRMAN’S CHAIN OF OFFICE
Councillor D. Mitton reported that the chairman’s chain of office needed cleaning and provided with a collar which could be worn wore easily both sexes. It was agreed that Councillor Mitton, Critchard, Copley and Reed should look at quotations and report back to the council at its August meeting.
14339 CAB GRANT REQUEST
A letter, application form and accounts were received form Taunton and District Citizens Advice Bureau asking the town council to consider making a grant of £1,200 towards the annual running costs of the twice weekly Wellington outreach, £460 for a new computer and £120 towards broadband facilities. On the proposal of Councillor Mitton, seconded by Councillor Critchard, it was agreed to make a total grant of £1,780 subject to the broadband installation being made available to the Market and Coastal Towns Initiative/Wellington Food Town Project which would be sharing the downstair office at 28 Fore Street with the CAB. Councillor Hindley declared an interest as a trustee of CAB and left the hall while this item was considered.
14340 RESIDENTS/TENANTS ASSOCIATION GRANT REQUEST
A letter and application form were received from the newly formed Wellington Residents and Tenants Association asking the town council to consider making a grant of £204 to cover the cost of carrying out criminal record bureau checks for volunteers at a youth drop-in centre to be organised at the 55 Club in North Street, Wellington. It was agreed to make a loan of £204 and to point out that as a tenants association the group should be entitled to a grant from Taunton DBC which had funds to support various tenants organisation and to suggest that an approach should be made to Taunton DBC. It was further agreed to ask why the drop-in centre volunteers were being charged for their CRB checks after councillors reported that their CRB checks as volunteers for charities had been carried out without charge.
14341 NEW PATH FROM ROPE WALK TO FARTHINGS PITTS
With reference to minute 14275 an email was received from Taunton DBC stating that the cost of providing a path from entrance at Farthings Pitts to the open space area in Rope Walk would be £500, plus £650 if the path was continued around the perimeter of the open space. It was reported that County Highways would be meeting the cost of providing pedestrian barriers at the start of the path near its junction with Farthings Pitts. On the proposition of Councillor Mitton, seconded by Councillor Stock-Williams it was agreed to meet the £500 cost of the path. Councillors did not feel that the £650 perimeter path was necessary as it would not be used as walkers would cut across the field rather than use the path. Members also received a copy of a letter from Taunton DBC to the Ramblers Association.
14342 WELLINGTON RUGBY CLUB GRANT REQUEST
With reference to minute 14258 a letter of thanks was received from Wellington Rugby Club for the town council agreeing to make a grant. The letter was noted.
14343 HIGH PAVEMENT IN FORE STREET
With reference to minute 14298 the clerk reported that the county council was to arrange for the high kerb in Fore Street at the entrance to the North Street car park to be painted white. The report was noted.
14344 PARKING PROBLEMS IN CLIFFORD TERRACE
With reference to minute 14305 the clerk reported that letters had been sent to 18 residents in Clifford Terrace and that replies had been receive from 7 so far with 4 in favour of residents’ parking permits and strongly against yellow lines, 1 against residents’ parking, 1in favour of yellow lines and 1 who thought yellow lines might help. Residents had been asked to reply by the end of June. It was agreed to defer this item until the August meeting to give residents more time to respond.
14345 CHRISTMAS ILLUMINATIONS
With reference to minute 14131 the clerk reported that the switch on of the Christmas lights would take place on Friday, 30th November 2007, that entertainment booked so far including magician, face painters and roundabouts, and that Wellington Silver Bank would be playing in the town centre on Saturday, 8th December and Saturday, 22nd December from 10am to 12 noon. The report was noted.
14346 PURCHASE OF SECOND CCTV CAMERA
With reference to minute 14260 the clerk reported that the town council’s second CCTV camera had arrived that day (2nd July). It was agreed to arrange a meeting of the council’s CCTV Committee with the police as soon as possible to decide the location for this camera.
14347 PARKING PROBLEMS IN MANTLE STREET
With reference to minute 14252 a letter was received from Mr S. Sutherland stating that the approval of the new medical centre in Mantle Street would cause the loss of up to 20 on-street parking places in the locality and urging the council to consider steps to improve the availability of parking, including approaching the health centre owners about the use of parking facilities at the new centre. The clerk pointed out that it had already been agreed to reduce the double yellow lines on the western side of Champford Lane which would provide 5/6 more on street parking spaces. Councillor Henley reported that Taunton DBC would be working with the medical centre about the provision of parking for residents. It was agreed to write to both the county council and Taunton DBC about before and after traffic flows in Mantle Street.
14348 TAUNTON DEANE STANDARDS COMMITTEE
A letter was received from Taunton DBC seeking nominations for its Standards Committee. It was agreed to nominate Councillor C. Hindley.
14349 RETURN OF PARISH COUNCIL ELECTION EXPENSES
A letter was received from Taunton DBC about the need for candidates who stood for election on 3rd May 2007 to make a return of election expenses. The letter was noted.
14350 CHANGES TO DEANE HOUSING REGISTER
A letter was received from Taunton DBC about proposed changes to the Housing Register with its lettings procedures changing from a points based system to a banding system based on housing need, giving applicants more choice. The letter was noted.
14351 MOTORISTS JUMPING TOWN CENTRE LIGHTS
A letter was received from a resident (signature could not be deciphered) expressing concern about motorists jumping the town centre lights at red and almost causing accidents. It was also pointed out that vehicles often turned right into North Street and South Street after the main road lights were red and the pedestrian crossing lights were green. It was agreed to ask the county council to install right turning filter lights in High Street and Fore Street for traffic turning right into North Street and South Street respectively and also for the details, operation and cost of a special camera designed to catch red light jumping drivers. It was reported that such a camera had been installed in Taunton recently.
14352 DAMAGED BUS SHELTER IN STATION ROAD
A letter was received from Taunton DBC stating that the replacement of the damaged bus shelter outside of Aerosols International in Station Road, Wellington would take place in October. The delay was because the manufacturers were in the process of upgrading that style of shelter to make it more vandal proof. The letter was noted.
14353 PARISH TREE WARDENS
A letter was received from Mr Steve Palmer detailing the list of new parish tree wardens and their wards as follows: Colette Hayter (north ward), Tony Sumner (east ward), Kevin and Dorothy Allen (west ward) and Steve Palmer (Rockwell Green ward). It was agreed to invite the wardens to the August council meeting.
14354 WELLINGTON ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP
With reference to minute 14321 a detailed report was receive from the assistant to the clerk, Mrs J. Thorne on the Wellington Economic Partnership meeting held on 11th June 2007 covering the planned Somerfield Store on the old Kwik Save site in High Street where it was expected to start work in November 2007 with the new store open for trading in July 2008; the residential and commercial development at Tonedale Mill whose new owners Hydon Ltd were shortly expected to submit a new application with a higher percentage of housing; the proposed regeneration of the Tone works site by Mendip Estates; progress on the Chelston Manor business park, Chelston House Farm and Cades Farm; the new medical centre off Mantle Street; constitutional changes to WEP; public accountability for the future set-up of the partnership; Wellington Food Town Project which would be organising a two day festival during the weekend of 8th/9th September 2007; the Market and Coastal Towns Initiative; and apprenticeships in Wellington. The report was noted. No recommendations or suggestions were put forward for inclusion on the agenda for the next meeting of Wellington Economic Partnership to be held on Monday, 23rd July 2007 at 6pm.
14355 PLANNING DECISIONS BY TAUNTON DBC
The clerk reported that Taunton Deane Borough Council had approved the following plans: (a) Retention of sky light and replaced felt and batten to part of roof, 45 High Street, Wellington as amended by applicants letter dated 31st May 2007 (43/2007/034LB) ; (b) Change of use of ground floor living area to office (B1) at Squirrel Cottage, 30a Fore Street, Wellington (43/2007/057); (c) Retention of timber windows, Wellington Conservative Club, 19 High Street, Wellington (43/07/045LB); (d) Demolition of bungalow and erection of of two dwellings and two flats at Hill View, Buckwell, Wellington (43/2007/064); (e) Erection of single storey rear extension at 29 High Street, Wellington (43/2007/065); (f) Construction of replacement dormer window to south east elevation and two dormer windows to north west elevation at Kilmani, Buckwell, Wellington (43/2007/056); (g) Retention of summerhouse to rear and erection of gate for rear access at 6 Orchard Close, Westford, Wellington (43/2007/054); (h) Erection of conservatory to rear of 17 Church Fields, Wellington (43/2007/066). The clerk reported that Taunton DBC had refused the following plans: (a) Erection of dwelling on land adjacent to 16 Victoria Street, Wellington (43/2007/041); (b) Erection of dwelling on land adjacent to 32 Seymour Street, Wellington as amplified by agents letter dated 20th May 2007 (43/2007/024).
14356 COUNCIL INCOME/EXPENDITURE TO 30TH JUNE 2007
A report was received from the clerk showing that the council’s income for the period from 1st April 2007 to 30th June 2007 was £89,821 (£133,596 estimated for the full year to 31st March 2008) and that expenditure for the same period was £62,350 (£166,800 estimated for the full year to 31st March 2008). The report was noted.
14357 ACCOUNTS FOR PAYMENT
On the proposition of Councillor Mitton, seconded by Councillor Hindley, it was agreed to authorise the payment of the following accounts and the signing of the following cheques: 1 to l Computers Ltd £57.58 for computer equipment and cabling; Wireless CCTV £21.01 for phone calls to CCTV camera to 18th May 2007; Zurich Insurance Company £91.74 for insurance of CCTV camera; 1st Wellington Scout Group £1,000 grant; Rosemary Eaton £100 grant; St John’s Primary School £221.88 for school crossing patrol for Spring term 2007; A.C. Cosserat £400 for painting and gilding Popham crest at Popham flats; Taunton Deane Community Transport Ltd £232 for subsidised hospital patient transport for May 2007; Taunton Deane Borough Council £459.43 for supply and erection of Burrough Way notice board; Hinewood Cleaning Services £62 for cleaning town centre bus shelters and office/chamber windows for May 2007; Taunton Deane Borough Council £250 for museum lease for 3 months to 30th September 2007; Konica Minolta £145.52 for photocopier servicing from 17.2.07 to 8.6.07; Taunton DBC £221.89 for repairs and repainting town council notice board at Oaken Ground, Rockwell Green; Wireless CCTV £6.66 for phone calls to CCTV camera to 18th June 2007; Mrs J. Thorne £74.88; Mr A. Brown £100; Inland Revenue £670.25; Westcountry Health, Education and Research Enterprise (WHERE). £1,136.21 for grant; Viking Direct £23.69 for 10 reams of paper.
14358 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: Taunton DBC’s What’s On for July 2007; April edition of News from Mendip Housing Ltd; Countryside Voice magazine from Campaign for the Protection of Rural Eland for Summer 2007.
THE MEETING CLOSED AT 8.30PM
Minutes of the meeting of Wellington Town Council held in the United Reformed Church Hall, Fore Street, Wellington on Monday, 2nd July 2007 at 7pm
PRESENT: Councillor D. Mitton (chairman), who presided, Councillor P. Critchard (vice chairman), Councillors Mrs G. Copley, J. Govier, J. Reed, V. Stock-Williams, S. Walters and N. Wilson, Councillors R. Bowrah, J. Clark, G. Goodwin, A. Govier, R. Henley and C. Hindley and the clerk A. Brown and the assistant to the clerk Mrs J. Thorne. There was an apology from Councillor Mrs J. Lloyd. There were 2 members of the public present.
14331 CHAIRMAN’S ANNOUNCEMENTS
The chairman, Councillor D. Mitton reported that the assistant to the clerk, Mrs J. Thorne had been gained her Certificate in Local Council Administration and congratulated her on her achievement. June had been a busy month during which he had attended the church service to mark the 400th anniversary of the death of Sir John Popham; the AGM of the 1st Wellington Scout Group to whom he had presented a cheque for £1,000 as a grant from the council towards new camping equipment; the 25th Falklands War anniversary service in Taunton along with the vice chairman, Councillor P. Critchard; the county children’s country dancing festival at Wells Cathedral which had been attended by pupils from St John’s Primary School; the 100th concert in the Wellington which had been a great day; had visited Beech Grove Primary School with Councillor A. Govier to talk about the work of the town council and councils in general; the annual presentation evening at Court Fields Community School which showed how the school had developed over the years with impressive performances which reflected the dedication of the pupils and staff and the head Mrs E. Faull; the AGM of Wellington Chamber of Trade and spoke about the Wellington Food Town Project and Christmas festivities; official opening of the new children’s centre at Beech Grove Primary School; Veterans’ Day event in Taunton; and Yeovil Town Council’s annual service.
14332 POLICE MATTERS
Sgt Doc Nurse reported that there had been a continuing decrease in crime. During June there had been 8 cases of criminal damage (broken windows and doors, culprits had been detained and issued with £80 on the spot fines), 8 thefts (some incorrectly recorded), 4 cases of criminal damage to motor vehicles (2 youths had receive final warnings for kicking car doors), 16 assaults, of which 8 were domestic. He recalled that a few months ago there had been a spate of thefts from cars. Since then the police had been trying to educate motorists not to leave things of value in their cars, especially not on view. While walking their beat PCSOs had noticed 90 cars with valuables in and had spoken to the drivers or left advice. The message seemed to be getting across for there had been only 3 thefts from cars during June. The chairman thanked the police for the very quick response when his son had been assaulted and Councillor R. Bowrah also praised the quick response of police community support officers over a “drunk” in High Street. Sgt Nurse reported that since the Tonedale Local Action Team had been formed anti social behaviour in the area since Christmas had dropped by 85%. It demonstrated that partnership working did work with the community getting more actively involved. The PCSO scheme was proving a successful and was allowing the police to target crime more effectively.
14333 RESTORATIVE JUSTICE SCHEME
Members were circulated with details of a proposed restorative justice scheme for Wellington where members of the public would be involved in deciding the appropriate punishment for such cases as anti social behaviour and criminal damage. Councillor A. Govier said that the scheme aimed at bringing victims, offenders and community together to decide on a response to a particular crime. It was about putting victims’ needs at the centre of the criminal justice system and finding positive solutions to crime by encouraging offenders to face up to their actions. The county council would meet three-quarters of the cost and he proposed that the town council should agree in principle to help fund the scheme but should defer until the August meeting the precise amount it was prepared to donate. His proposal was seconded by Councillor Goodwin and carried unanimously. Sgt Nurse said the scheme would give a real opportunity for the community to get involved in and see what happened to those who offend. He was very keen to see the scheme piloted in Wellington.
14334 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION TIME: WELLINGTON IN BLOOM
Mrs I. Ward, the chairman of Wellington in Bloom Committee, reported that the judging for the 2007 competition would take place on Thursday, 19th July and that the town faced even stiffer competition this year as it was in the same group as Torquay. She thanked Councillor R. Bowrah for his kind remarks over her efforts to get action taken over the derelict former discount stores in High Street.
14335 CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES
The minutes of the council meeting held on 4th June 2007, as previously circulated to councillors, were taken as read and signed as correct subject to amending minute 14294 to show that Councillor A. Govier felt the application for a detached dwelling at 14 Victoria Street was appropriate.
14336 PROVISION OF NORTHERN RELIEF/DISTRIBUTOR ROAD
With reference to minute 13221 Councillor A. Govier proposed that the town council should write to both Taunton Deane Borough Council and Somerset County Council stressing the vital importance to Wellington of the northern relief distributor road from Tone to Poole on the Wellington-Taunton Road. He pointed out that two major redevelopment schemes were being considered for Tonedale and Tone which would result in over 300 new homes being provided as well as many industrial units. Inevitably there would be considerably more traffic, including HGVs, through the town centre and residential areas unless the northern relief road was built. He suggested that TDBC should be urged to include the northern relief road in its Local Development Framework which would guide the town’s future growth and that the county council should be urged to back the scheme as it would greatly improve both road safety and the environment by removing the vast majority of HGVs which currently used the town centre and residential roads to road the industrial estate on the north of the town. Councillor J. Govier seconded and this was carried unanimously.
14337 PROVISION OF MORE CYCLE RACKS IN TOWN CENTRE
Councillor R. Bowrah raised the question of providing more cycle racks in the town centre. The clerk reported that the county council was shortly to provide an additional rack outside Somerfield in Fore Street which it had promised last year but had not erected as its funding had been cut in 2006-2007. Taunton DBC had some funding available for more cycle racks this year and he having a meeting with the Deane on Thursday, 5th July 2007 at 9.30am to discuss possible additional town centre sites. Suggestions by councillors would be very welcome.
14338 CHAIRMAN’S CHAIN OF OFFICE
Councillor D. Mitton reported that the chairman’s chain of office needed cleaning and provided with a collar which could be worn wore easily both sexes. It was agreed that Councillor Mitton, Critchard, Copley and Reed should look at quotations and report back to the council at its August meeting.
14339 CAB GRANT REQUEST
A letter, application form and accounts were received form Taunton and District Citizens Advice Bureau asking the town council to consider making a grant of £1,200 towards the annual running costs of the twice weekly Wellington outreach, £460 for a new computer and £120 towards broadband facilities. On the proposal of Councillor Mitton, seconded by Councillor Critchard, it was agreed to make a total grant of £1,780 subject to the broadband installation being made available to the Market and Coastal Towns Initiative/Wellington Food Town Project which would be sharing the downstair office at 28 Fore Street with the CAB. Councillor Hindley declared an interest as a trustee of CAB and left the hall while this item was considered.
14340 RESIDENTS/TENANTS ASSOCIATION GRANT REQUEST
A letter and application form were received from the newly formed Wellington Residents and Tenants Association asking the town council to consider making a grant of £204 to cover the cost of carrying out criminal record bureau checks for volunteers at a youth drop-in centre to be organised at the 55 Club in North Street, Wellington. It was agreed to make a loan of £204 and to point out that as a tenants association the group should be entitled to a grant from Taunton DBC which had funds to support various tenants organisation and to suggest that an approach should be made to Taunton DBC. It was further agreed to ask why the drop-in centre volunteers were being charged for their CRB checks after councillors reported that their CRB checks as volunteers for charities had been carried out without charge.
14341 NEW PATH FROM ROPE WALK TO FARTHINGS PITTS
With reference to minute 14275 an email was received from Taunton DBC stating that the cost of providing a path from entrance at Farthings Pitts to the open space area in Rope Walk would be £500, plus £650 if the path was continued around the perimeter of the open space. It was reported that County Highways would be meeting the cost of providing pedestrian barriers at the start of the path near its junction with Farthings Pitts. On the proposition of Councillor Mitton, seconded by Councillor Stock-Williams it was agreed to meet the £500 cost of the path. Councillors did not feel that the £650 perimeter path was necessary as it would not be used as walkers would cut across the field rather than use the path. Members also received a copy of a letter from Taunton DBC to the Ramblers Association.
14342 WELLINGTON RUGBY CLUB GRANT REQUEST
With reference to minute 14258 a letter of thanks was received from Wellington Rugby Club for the town council agreeing to make a grant. The letter was noted.
14343 HIGH PAVEMENT IN FORE STREET
With reference to minute 14298 the clerk reported that the county council was to arrange for the high kerb in Fore Street at the entrance to the North Street car park to be painted white. The report was noted.
14344 PARKING PROBLEMS IN CLIFFORD TERRACE
With reference to minute 14305 the clerk reported that letters had been sent to 18 residents in Clifford Terrace and that replies had been receive from 7 so far with 4 in favour of residents’ parking permits and strongly against yellow lines, 1 against residents’ parking, 1in favour of yellow lines and 1 who thought yellow lines might help. Residents had been asked to reply by the end of June. It was agreed to defer this item until the August meeting to give residents more time to respond.
14345 CHRISTMAS ILLUMINATIONS
With reference to minute 14131 the clerk reported that the switch on of the Christmas lights would take place on Friday, 30th November 2007, that entertainment booked so far including magician, face painters and roundabouts, and that Wellington Silver Bank would be playing in the town centre on Saturday, 8th December and Saturday, 22nd December from 10am to 12 noon. The report was noted.
14346 PURCHASE OF SECOND CCTV CAMERA
With reference to minute 14260 the clerk reported that the town council’s second CCTV camera had arrived that day (2nd July). It was agreed to arrange a meeting of the council’s CCTV Committee with the police as soon as possible to decide the location for this camera.
14347 PARKING PROBLEMS IN MANTLE STREET
With reference to minute 14252 a letter was received from Mr S. Sutherland stating that the approval of the new medical centre in Mantle Street would cause the loss of up to 20 on-street parking places in the locality and urging the council to consider steps to improve the availability of parking, including approaching the health centre owners about the use of parking facilities at the new centre. The clerk pointed out that it had already been agreed to reduce the double yellow lines on the western side of Champford Lane which would provide 5/6 more on street parking spaces. Councillor Henley reported that Taunton DBC would be working with the medical centre about the provision of parking for residents. It was agreed to write to both the county council and Taunton DBC about before and after traffic flows in Mantle Street.
14348 TAUNTON DEANE STANDARDS COMMITTEE
A letter was received from Taunton DBC seeking nominations for its Standards Committee. It was agreed to nominate Councillor C. Hindley.
14349 RETURN OF PARISH COUNCIL ELECTION EXPENSES
A letter was received from Taunton DBC about the need for candidates who stood for election on 3rd May 2007 to make a return of election expenses. The letter was noted.
14350 CHANGES TO DEANE HOUSING REGISTER
A letter was received from Taunton DBC about proposed changes to the Housing Register with its lettings procedures changing from a points based system to a banding system based on housing need, giving applicants more choice. The letter was noted.
14351 MOTORISTS JUMPING TOWN CENTRE LIGHTS
A letter was received from a resident (signature could not be deciphered) expressing concern about motorists jumping the town centre lights at red and almost causing accidents. It was also pointed out that vehicles often turned right into North Street and South Street after the main road lights were red and the pedestrian crossing lights were green. It was agreed to ask the county council to install right turning filter lights in High Street and Fore Street for traffic turning right into North Street and South Street respectively and also for the details, operation and cost of a special camera designed to catch red light jumping drivers. It was reported that such a camera had been installed in Taunton recently.
14352 DAMAGED BUS SHELTER IN STATION ROAD
A letter was received from Taunton DBC stating that the replacement of the damaged bus shelter outside of Aerosols International in Station Road, Wellington would take place in October. The delay was because the manufacturers were in the process of upgrading that style of shelter to make it more vandal proof. The letter was noted.
14353 PARISH TREE WARDENS
A letter was received from Mr Steve Palmer detailing the list of new parish tree wardens and their wards as follows: Colette Hayter (north ward), Tony Sumner (east ward), Kevin and Dorothy Allen (west ward) and Steve Palmer (Rockwell Green ward). It was agreed to invite the wardens to the August council meeting.
14354 WELLINGTON ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP
With reference to minute 14321 a detailed report was receive from the assistant to the clerk, Mrs J. Thorne on the Wellington Economic Partnership meeting held on 11th June 2007 covering the planned Somerfield Store on the old Kwik Save site in High Street where it was expected to start work in November 2007 with the new store open for trading in July 2008; the residential and commercial development at Tonedale Mill whose new owners Hydon Ltd were shortly expected to submit a new application with a higher percentage of housing; the proposed regeneration of the Tone works site by Mendip Estates; progress on the Chelston Manor business park, Chelston House Farm and Cades Farm; the new medical centre off Mantle Street; constitutional changes to WEP; public accountability for the future set-up of the partnership; Wellington Food Town Project which would be organising a two day festival during the weekend of 8th/9th September 2007; the Market and Coastal Towns Initiative; and apprenticeships in Wellington. The report was noted. No recommendations or suggestions were put forward for inclusion on the agenda for the next meeting of Wellington Economic Partnership to be held on Monday, 23rd July 2007 at 6pm.
14355 PLANNING DECISIONS BY TAUNTON DBC
The clerk reported that Taunton Deane Borough Council had approved the following plans: (a) Retention of sky light and replaced felt and batten to part of roof, 45 High Street, Wellington as amended by applicants letter dated 31st May 2007 (43/2007/034LB) ; (b) Change of use of ground floor living area to office (B1) at Squirrel Cottage, 30a Fore Street, Wellington (43/2007/057); (c) Retention of timber windows, Wellington Conservative Club, 19 High Street, Wellington (43/07/045LB); (d) Demolition of bungalow and erection of of two dwellings and two flats at Hill View, Buckwell, Wellington (43/2007/064); (e) Erection of single storey rear extension at 29 High Street, Wellington (43/2007/065); (f) Construction of replacement dormer window to south east elevation and two dormer windows to north west elevation at Kilmani, Buckwell, Wellington (43/2007/056); (g) Retention of summerhouse to rear and erection of gate for rear access at 6 Orchard Close, Westford, Wellington (43/2007/054); (h) Erection of conservatory to rear of 17 Church Fields, Wellington (43/2007/066). The clerk reported that Taunton DBC had refused the following plans: (a) Erection of dwelling on land adjacent to 16 Victoria Street, Wellington (43/2007/041); (b) Erection of dwelling on land adjacent to 32 Seymour Street, Wellington as amplified by agents letter dated 20th May 2007 (43/2007/024).
14356 COUNCIL INCOME/EXPENDITURE TO 30TH JUNE 2007
A report was received from the clerk showing that the council’s income for the period from 1st April 2007 to 30th June 2007 was £89,821 (£133,596 estimated for the full year to 31st March 2008) and that expenditure for the same period was £62,350 (£166,800 estimated for the full year to 31st March 2008). The report was noted.
14357 ACCOUNTS FOR PAYMENT
On the proposition of Councillor Mitton, seconded by Councillor Hindley, it was agreed to authorise the payment of the following accounts and the signing of the following cheques: 1 to l Computers Ltd £57.58 for computer equipment and cabling; Wireless CCTV £21.01 for phone calls to CCTV camera to 18th May 2007; Zurich Insurance Company £91.74 for insurance of CCTV camera; 1st Wellington Scout Group £1,000 grant; Rosemary Eaton £100 grant; St John’s Primary School £221.88 for school crossing patrol for Spring term 2007; A.C. Cosserat £400 for painting and gilding Popham crest at Popham flats; Taunton Deane Community Transport Ltd £232 for subsidised hospital patient transport for May 2007; Taunton Deane Borough Council £459.43 for supply and erection of Burrough Way notice board; Hinewood Cleaning Services £62 for cleaning town centre bus shelters and office/chamber windows for May 2007; Taunton Deane Borough Council £250 for museum lease for 3 months to 30th September 2007; Konica Minolta £145.52 for photocopier servicing from 17.2.07 to 8.6.07; Taunton DBC £221.89 for repairs and repainting town council notice board at Oaken Ground, Rockwell Green; Wireless CCTV £6.66 for phone calls to CCTV camera to 18th June 2007; Mrs J. Thorne £74.88; Mr A. Brown £100; Inland Revenue £670.25; Westcountry Health, Education and Research Enterprise (WHERE). £1,136.21 for grant; Viking Direct £23.69 for 10 reams of paper.
14358 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: Taunton DBC’s What’s On for July 2007; April edition of News from Mendip Housing Ltd; Countryside Voice magazine from Campaign for the Protection of Rural Eland for Summer 2007.
THE MEETING CLOSED AT 8.30PM
posted by Wellington Town Council @ 11:01 am
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