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MINUTES OF THE FEBRUARY 2013 MEETING OF INSTOW PARISH COUNCIL


MINUTES OF THE EXTRAORDINARY MEETING OF INSTOW PARISH COUNCIL HELD AT INSTOW PARISH HALL
ON THURSDAY 28th FEBRUARY 2012 AT 7.30pm

HELD AT INSTOW PARISH HALL ON
THURSDAY 14th FEBRUARY 2013 AT 7.30 PM

(please note IPC minutes are not released to the public until approved at the following meeting)


Present: - Councillors N Crombie, M Green, A Johns, B Moores (Chairman), W Vandersteen and Mr R Jacob (Parish Clerk).

In Attendance: Cllr R Cann (DCC), B Moores (NDC) and 14 parishioners/members of the public.

PRAYER Prior to the commencement of the meeting the Clerk led Council in Prayer; it was stressed that to participate was purely optional. All persons present remained.

2302/1 OPENING OF THE MEETING
The meeting was declared open by the Clerk.

2302/2 APOLOGIES
Cllrs M Champion, B Harrison, E Renshaw and PCSO Meaker

2302/3 WELCOME TO NEWLY ELECTED COUNCILLORS
The Chairman, Cllr Moores, welcomed Cllr Vandersteen to his first meeting, adding that he hoped he would enjoy and fully participate in his new role. It was noted that Cllrs Champion and Harrison were on holiday. (Noted)

2302/4 COUNCILLOR DECLARATION OF INTERESTS
There were no declarations of interest. (Noted)

2302/5 POLICE REPORT
The Clerk told Council that he had been advised by the police that no crimes or incidents had been reported in the parish since the last meeting. (Noted)

2302/6 PARISHIONERS
Before this part of the meeting commenced the Clerk explained that there was 15 minutes set aside for this item with parishioners being given precedence over members of the public and that the time limit could only be exceeded by a vote of Cllrs.
a) Parish Seat Maintenance Policy: -
A parishioner enquired as to what was the parish council’s policy as regards the maintenance of parish seats because one she had presented required cleaning/painting. The Clerk told her that seats, now presented to council, were received on the clear understanding they were capable of withstanding the elements as maintenance, other than health and safety issues, was unrealistic because of the vast numbers of seats the parish council was now responsible for. (Noted)
b) Anstey Way – All Saints/Kiln Close Lane/Verge Encroachment: -
A parishioner said the verge at this location was gradually overgrowing the pavement and needed cutting back. IPC RESOLVED to have the handyperson deal with this as necessary. (Action: The Clerk)
c) IPC Notice Board – Parish Hall: -
A parishioner requested that the parish council refurbished its notice board outside of the parish hall and suitably labelled it. IPC RESOLVED that the Clerk would review the situation and report back. (Action: The Clerk)
d) Parishioner – Declaration of Interest: -
A parishioner reported that a parishioner had spoken in breach of standing orders at the December 2012 meeting of IPC. (Noted)
e) Beach – Abandoned Net: -
(i) A parishioner said this net that had been placed near the Wayfarer was not, in her opinion, out of harm’s way. (Noted)
(ii) The Clerk said it had been placed there to ease disposal (nearer the road) but that before this could take place it had been cut up and removed. (Noted)
f) Carol Singing Event – Xmas/WI: -
(i) A parishioner asked why this event could not be financed under Section 137 as opposed to a donation being provided to the WI. (Noted)
(ii) The Clerk said it was a grant that had been provided to the WI by IPC (not a donation) to fund this very successful annual event (that raised money for local charities with mince pies being donated by Cllrs) and that said monies came from the same pot as Section 137 would. (Noted)
(iii) The Chairman said this initiative would be reviewed by IPC prior to the event in December 2013, adding that the WI would not be approached again, and that if an alternative way could not be found, it would be cancelled. He said the parish council had used the grant route before on the advice of DALC and a former Responsible Finance Officer. (Noted)
(g) Public Meeting – Beach/Dogs Consultation: -
(i) A parishioner complained that the recent public meeting had not been run in accordance with standing orders and that the Chairman had orchestrated 3 Cllrs to speak first. (Noted)
(ii) The Chairman said it had not been a parish council meeting or a meeting at which standing orders were applicable and that the Cllrs, in fact ex Cllrs, had legitimately had their say, as had all persons present at the meeting. (Noted)
(iii) The parishioner said she had not been allowed to have her say and repeated her allegation that the meeting had been orchestrated. (Noted)
(iv) The Chairman repeated that it had been a public meeting at which all person present had a right to speak. (Noted)
(v) A parishioner then said that as one of the ex-Cllrs referred to (as at item (g) (i) above) he objected to the suggestion he had been given preferential treatment; as a Cllr he was obliged to comply with the Cllr Code of Conduct when speaking in Council but as a parishioner he had every right to speak at a public meeting as any other parishioner. (Noted)
(h) Beach Cleaning: -
(i) A parishioner stated that as far as she could tell, the net referred to (as at item 2302/6 (e)) was on Tapeley’s “beach” as opposed to IPC. (Noted)
(ii) The parishioner also asked whether anybody had, as yet, applied to clean the beach as in her view the cost was likely to well exceed that which the parish council currently spends. She complimented the beach cleaner for the good work he did. (Noted)
(iii) The Chairman said the responses received from the consultation exercise needed to be thoroughly examined first before the council could go out to tender. (Noted)
(iv) The parishioner said she felt that the parish council should only clean that part of the beach leased by it from the Crown Estate and that Tapeley should clean theirs. (Noted)
(i) Dune Fencing -
(i) A member of the public enquired what was happening to the fencing that was lying around the beach having been wished out of the dunes in a very high tide. (Noted)
(ii) The Clerk said this had been reported to the NDCCS immediately after the event and it had been agreed it would be removed from the beach adding it was on parts of the beach owned by Tapeley. IPC RESOLVED to have the Clerk contact the NDCCS and determine its plans for it. (Action: The Clerk)

2302/7 REPORT COUNTY COUNCILLOR R CANN
General: -
Cllr spoke of “Devon and Exeter Rail Project Working Party” (long term solution to flooding, Barnstaple Station access etc.), “Parishes Working together to Fight Weeds” (TAP fund initiative between Fremington and Instow), “Eco Warriors Scheme” (another TAP fund initiative), “Fremington Quay Heritage Centre Extension” (all monies received {£148,000}, building approval granted and tenders in hand), “NDC” (planning to put a freeze on council tax and most of its charges for the next 12 months) and “Superfast Broadband” (contract recently signed and surveying work imminent). (Noted)



2302/8 REPORT OF DISTRICT COUNCILLOR B MOORES
There was no report from Cllr Moores. (Noted)
2302/9 MINUTES
It was RESOLVED that the January 2013 minutes of Instow Parish Council be approved and signed. (Noted)

2302/10 MATTERS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES
a) Item 2301/7 (c) (viii) - Resignation of Cllr C Harper: -
The Clerk advised IPC that subsequent to Cllr Harper’s resignation from IPC at its meeting of 17th January 2013 and following liaison with NDCs Electoral Dept., the necessary notices had been exhibited throughout the parish culminating in a request (12.2.13) from 10+ parishioners for an election – possible date 28th March 2013. He added that a notice of election forms had been placed on parish council notice boards (14.2.13). (Noted)
b) Item 2301/11 (c) - Dogs on the Beach/Beach Cleaning Strategy 2013: -
(i) The Chairman and Cllr Green provided an update to Council following the public meeting/drop-in event that was held on Thursday 31st January 2013. Cllr Green reported that the consultation, as a whole, had been a successful exercise in local democracy with in excess of 100 people attending the drop-in/public meeting. He said it would take some time to analyse and summarise the responses and although he had prepared a draft report for Cllrs it would not be feasible to discuss the matter further at the meeting; he provided Cllrs with a copy of the draft report that he added was not, as yet, a public document. He suggested that all Cllrs read the draft report and then came prepared to make and agree recommendations and policy at the next meeting of IPC, Thursday 21st March 2013. This recommendation was seconded by Cllr Johns and IPC RESOLVED unanimously to support the motion. (Noted)
(ii) The Chairman then said it might be appropriate for Council to agree to a temporary measure for beach cleaning for the Easter period and beyond and at least until a final decision had been taken as regards IPC’s beach cleaning/contractor strategy. He said there were still many questions to work through and agree but that this would not be achieved in time for Easter. He reminded Council that Mr Peter Cook was still IPC’s beach cleaner (for the financial year 2012/13) and that he suggested he be approached and an agreement determined. (Noted)
(iii) In answer to a question from a parishioner, the Chairman said that payment for this short-term activity was a matter for Council to agree once it had been decided what the temporary measure would involve. (Noted)
(iv) In answer to a comment from a parishioner the Clerk said he would ensure the beach cleaner was in possession of the necessary paperwork as regards hours of work and work performed adding that the keeping of records of hours of work was not an insurance issue. (Noted)
(v) A parishioner then said that she supported Mr Peter Cook being asked to clean the beach over Easter as in her view he had done an amazing job for many years. (Noted)
(vi) A discussion then ensued as regards additional support for beach cleaning over the Easter period, namely, volunteers and the local Adopt a Beach Group (ABG) at the conclusion of which IPC RESOLVED to seek the support of the ABG with volunteers supporting as a bonus. (Action: The Clerk)
(vii) The Chairman then made a formal proposal that Mr Peter Cook be approached to clean the beach over the Easter period and beyond as necessary; this motion was seconded by Cllr Crombie with IPC RESOLVING to support it unanimously.
(Action: Chairman and Vice Chairman)
viii) The Clerk then reported upon correspondence of relevance to these matters between Christie Estates and IPC. He referred to: -
a) DCE letter (dd 25.1.13) – Cllrs to note IPC’s reply of 31.1.13 – IPC RESOLVED to ratify this response.
b) DCE letter (dd 31.1.13) from CE in reply to IPC’s letter of 31.1.13
c) DCE open letter (dd 31.1.13) from CE to Parishioners of Instow c/o IPC
The Clerk provided copies to Cllrs. (Noted)
(ix) The Clerk read out the letters from Christie Estates as at item (viii) (b) and (c) above). (Noted)
(x) Cllr Green then read out a draft reply letter to Christie Estates in response to their letters as at item (viii), (b) and (c) above and as a consequence some amendments were suggested. IPC then RESOLVED to support the tenor of the amended reply letter that the Clerk was asked to forward. (Action: The Clerk)
(xi) The Clerk then said that in order to clarify some possible misunderstandings, he wished to point out that IPC leased parts of Instow Sands from the Crown Estate (and not from Christies), that IPC had obligations as regards the beach as consequence of its lease from the CE and that these included a duty of care to beach users together with health and safety matters. He then said that the water quality was tested every week during the summer period by the EA and that only after heavy rain did it exceed the allotted standards adding that in one year, not that long ago, the water quality standards for that season was of a blue flag standard. (Noted)
(xii) Cllr Green said that in his experience water quality failures were invariably due to run-off from agricultural land and could not recall any failures due to human sewage. He said it was necessary, therefore, in view of suggestions to the contrary, that IPC liaise with the EA and examine this new allegation. (Noted)
(xiii) Cllr Green said he felt it appropriate to refute suggestions that IPC’s consultation process was in any way seeking draconian measures; he said IPC needed to ensure it did what the majority of the public wished for. (Noted)
(xiv) A parishioner then reported a discharge, possibly of the sewage type, at or near the Commodore slipway. IPC RESOLVED to look into this. (Action: Chairman)
(xv) Another parishioner then said people need to realise that Instow was at the head of two rivers and the seas and that by and large it was other people’s rubbish that was being deposited on Instow’s beach. (Noted)
c) Item 2301/11 (f) - Flood Prevention – Boathouse Flood Defence Gates: -
The Clerk told IPC that a site meeting was to be held at 10am on Friday 22nd February 2013 with representatives attending from the EA, DCC and IPC (Clerk and Cllr Moores). (Noted)
d) Item 2301/11 (h) - Lane End/Lane End Road: -
Cllr Cann said this matter was still under consideration by NDC. (Noted)
2302/11 CORRESPONDENCE
(i) Matters for discussion/resolution or noting: -
a) IPC’s Appointments: -
The Clerk referred to an amended “IPC Appointments” paper in light of recent resignations/elections to Council. After a discussion it was RESOLVED to defer this matter to the not meeting when it was hoped all Cllrs would be in attendance. (Noted)
b) IPC List of Parish Councillors/Email Addresses – For Publication etc.: -
(i) The Clerk referred to an updated Cllr Email publication list in light of recent resignations/elections to Council. After a discussion it was RESOLVED to defer this matter to the not meeting when it was hoped all Cllrs would be in attendance. (Noted)
(ii) The Clerk also referred to an updated Cllr Email/Telephone Number list (for internal circulation) in light of recent resignations/elections to Council. After a discussion it was RESOLVED to defer this matter to the not meeting when it was hoped all Cllrs would be in attendance. (Noted)
(c) Email (dd 7.2.13) from Defra reference “Bathing Water Regulations and Private Bathing Waters”: -
(i) The Clerk said this stated: - “Following last year's consultation on the transfer of bathing water controller's responsibility at privately owned bathing waters to local authorities, “we” wrote, in June 2012, to confirm that this would be included in the amendments that are currently being made to the Bathing Water Regulations, so that the transfer of responsibilities would take place before the bathing season beginning on 15 May 2013. Amending the Regulations is a lengthy legal process, which we've been aiming to complete in time to pay local authorities for the provision of public information at the additional bathing waters before the end of the 2012/13 financial year. It now appears that there may be a delay which will mean that we would not be able to release the funding before the end of the current year. However we aim to be able to do so before the start of the 2013 bathing season. I will contact you again when we have a further update, in the meantime please don't hesitate to contact me if you have any enquiries”. (Noted)
(d) Email (dd 11.2.13) and letter from North Devon Community Safety Support Officer reference “Adult Probation Service Community Payback and the Youth Offending Reparation Scheme”: -
(i) The Clerk said the intention of these initiatives’ was to raise awareness of the opportunity for IPC to benefit from and contribute to adult Probation Service Community Payback and the Youth Offending Reparation Scheme; the Clerk elaborated and said a copy of the email/letter had been forwarded to Cllrs with email addresses (11.2.13). (Noted)
(ii) After a discussion IPC RESOLVED to note these initiatives for the future. (Noted)
(e) Email (dd 14.2.13) from a parishioner reference “IPC Meeting – 14th February 2013”: -
The Clerk said he had been asked to read this email to Council that read as follows: -
“In lieu of my presence, I would like the following recorded in the Minutes of the Meeting: -
 David Jeremy regrets that he is unable to attend tonight, due to Canine Care duties!
 I would like to put forward my vote of appreciation for the "Old Guard" who have served the Parish so ably and industriously over the last decades.
 I have maintained as much interest as possible over these years and, as you know, have never been slow to give my opinions when necessary, in writing and in person at Parish Meetings.
 That Instow has always had such a democratic procedure is to be highly valued.
 Parishioners' Question Time is there to be used but not abused.
 It is limited and not a two-way process, thus to avoid rash arguments and ill-considered judgments whatever the cause.
 It appears that there are those that are not aware of the parameters for their precious moments.
 Error is the discipline by which we all learn, therefore I am sure that recent lessons will be digested and learned by all.
 The incomers to the Parish Council have a hard act to follow and will be judged accordingly.
 I would like to record my thanks to Messrs White, Thomas and Cook for their long term endeavours and expertise.
 A very special thank you to the retiring Parish Clerk, without whom the achievements of the Parish Council would not have been possible.
 "Let they that are without sin amongst you, cast the first stone!"
 I look forward, sadly, to a time when I am able to resume my attendance. (Noted)

(ii) Matters (see item 2202/10 (p)): -
a) Email (dd 18.1.13) and attachments from Secretary of TTEF reference “TTEF October Minutes and Accounts from Monday's Meeting” -
Forwarded to Cllrs with email addresses

(iii) Matters to note (see item 2202/10 (p)): -
a) DALC etc. Matters (Various): - (i) Email (dd 21.1.13) and attachments reference “Community Council of Devon - Members Forum” – copied to Cllrs with email addresses; (ii) Email (dd 1`.2.13) reference “DALC Newsletter – February 2013” and (iii) Email (dd 12.2.13) reference “DALC Newsletter – 12th February 2013”.
b) NDC Members Services Weekly Information Sheet for w/b 28.1.13, 4.2.13 and 11.2.13.
Copied to Cllrs with email addresses
c) Emails (various) and attachment from NDC Housing reference “Devon Home Choice Newsletter”: -
Copies placed at post office by Cllr Johns for the information of parishioners
d) (i) Emails (various) from Rural Services Network (RSN) reference “Weekly News Digest – Bulletins”:-
Copied to Cllrs with email addresses
e) Emails (various) from NDVS and TTVS reference “Bulletins, Funding Bids, Survey, Snippets, Conference, and Newsletters etc.”
Forwarded to Cllrs with email addresses
f) Email (dd 18.1.13) from Devon and Cornwall Police Commissioner reference “The Police and Crime Commissioner Wants your Views”: -
Forwarded to Cllrs with email addresses
g) Email (dd 20.1.13) from Torridge Pilot Gig Club reference “Search for Home to Park/Launch 4 Pilot Gigs”: -
Clerk suggested Club contacts DCE, Atturm or places an article in parish magazine.
h) Email (dd 22.1.13) from The Big Sheep reference “Hello from the BIG Sheep”: -
Copied to Cllrs, Editor of parish magazine and Chairperson of IPH Committee
i) Email (dd 221.1.3) from NDC Car Parks reference “Marine Car Park – Fencing”:-
Advised to contact Instow Marine
j) Email (dd 28.12.13) from DSC reference “DSC e-news - February 2013”: -
Forwarded to Cllrs with email addresses
k) Email (dd 24.1.13) from NDC reference “Gypsies & Travellers Event for Local Councillors - 25 February 2013/Exeter”: -
Forwarded to Cllrs with email addresses
l) Email (dd 31.1.13) from NDC reference “Rural Seminar – 12th March 2013”: -
Forwarded to Cllrs with email addresses
m) Email (dd 1.2.13) from South West Coast Path Association reference “Great South West Walk 2013” + Pamphlets: -
Forwarded to Cllrs with email addresses and editor of parish magazine; copies of pamphlets left at parish hall.
n) Email (dd various) from North Devon+ reference “North Devon e-news”:-
Forwarded to Cllrs with email addresses
o) Email (dd 4.2.13) from DCC reference “Road Closure – Marine Parade/DCC Micro Surfacing Programme 2013”: -
(i) States that road will be closed for approximately 2 or 3 days to undertake the works within the road closure notice period (10th June 2013 to 31st August 2013); advanced warning signs for the road closure will be placed on site at least 7 days before the planned commencement of the works but these works are very dependent on the weather so commencement dates will vary. There may also be a requirement to close the road for one further day to aid the laying of new road markings, but this will be advertised on site; email copied to Cllrs and editor of parish magazine.
(p) Email (dd 6.2.13) from DCC reference “Community News Round-Up – February 2012”:-
Forwarded to Cllrs with email addresses
(q) Sand on Highway – Boathouse Bus Shelter (7.2.13): -
Due to recent strong winds, an inordinate amount of sand had been blown onto the highway/pavement in this locality that the parish handyman could not deal with. DCC agreed to sort it out – thanks to Cllr Cann (DCC).
(r) Everyone’s Tomorrow Magazine (Issue 17 – January 2013”: -
Made available at the meeting for Cllrs
(s) 24/7 (SWAST Newsletter – Edition 17): -
Made available at the meeting for Cllrs
(t) Email (dd 14.2.13) from Parish Online reference “February Newsletter”: -
Forwarded to Cllrs with email addresses
(u) Email from DCC reference “Invitation to Devon Remembers - World War 1 Memorials Project”: -
Forwarded to Cllrs with email addresses

2302/12 FINANCE
1. INCOME: -
Car Park Takings Period ending 30th January 2013 £188.10
Ditto Period ending 12th February 2013 £218.00
TOTAL : - £406.10


2. EXPENDITURE: -
Mr. B Keane Village Handyman £266.98=
BT Parish Telephone £173.79+
Mr G May Diesel Fuel for Tractor £144.00*
Local World Ltd Advert ND Journal/Clerk £240.00#
TOTAL: - £824.77
Key: -
= Includes x 2 additional handyperson hours = £18 (sand clearance from Boathouse Bus Shelter and pavement), locks for notice board (£5.98 – receipt) and x 3 P3 footpath strims at £33 per strim (= £99)
+ Includes £75.55 Line Rental/Phone Book Entry/Processing Payment Fee and £98.24 Calls NB: - £28.97 VAT recoverable
* £24 VAT recoverable
# £40 VAT recoverable
3. BANK – STATEMENT OF ACCOUNTS: -
Lloyds Bank Treasurers a/c no. 02348842 as @ 30.1.13 (Statement) = £ 1.92*
Lloyds Bank Business a/c no. 02350065 as 20.12.12 (Statement) = £20,337.65+
Key: -
* Accords to Clerk’s records.
+ According to Clerk’s records this is £20,989.10 as of date of meeting
NB: - IPC to note that £10,000 was invested (7.1.11) and re-invested (18.1.13 until 18.1.15) to a higher interest account within Lloyds TSB – see IPC November 2010 and item 5 (e) hereafter)
4. RESOLUTION REQUIRED: -
IPC RESOLVED to transfer £824.00 from Lloyds Bank Business account number 02350065 to Lloyds Bank Treasurers account number 02348842 to cover cheques as at 2 above. (Action: The Clerk)
5. MISCELLANEOUS: -
(a) Future Use of Marine (Quay) Car Park following transfer of 99 year Lease by NDC to IPC:-
(i) Lease – Legal Matters: -
The Clerk advised he had nothing further to report since last meeting. (Noted)
(ii) Parking Charges 2013/4 (OSPO/Car Park Signs Amendments)etc.: -
(a) The Clerk reminded IPC that the Car Park signs needed amendment prior to 1.4.13 and that SW Signs would deal at the appropriate time. (Action: The Clerk)
(b) (i) The Clerk reported receipt of a letter (dd 12.2.13) from a parishioner asking IPC to reconsider its parking strategy (i.e. 24 hour payment); he suggested it be brought in line with other car parks in the area where it is free to park between 6pm and 9am the following day. The parishioner complained that as a result motorists were parking elsewhere in the village, New Road in particular; the Clerk elaborated as necessary. (Noted)
(ii) After a discussion IPC, in recognising it had already set a car parking strategy for the 2013/14 financial year, agreed to review it again at its budget meeting for 2014/15 (in November 2013) – Clerk to advise parishioner. (Action: The Clerk)
(c) The Clerk reported receipt of an email (dd 14.2.13) from NDC reference “Off Street Parking Order 2013”; it advised that the consultation period for the recommended amendments to the OSPO 2013 ended on 7th February 2013, with no objections being received. That being said, the proposal was now being advertised in the N Devon Journal (14.2.13), and would come into operation on 15th March 2013, so IPC would be in a position to start its various changes/ amendments with effect from that date. The Clerk told IPC that its only changes referred to the season ticket 2013/14, summer ticket 2013 and winter ticket 2013/14. (Noted)
(b) Tarka Trail Recreational Field – Lease between IPC and DCC (2012 onwards): - The Clerk advised IPC that the draft lease had been sent to DCC for its approval and that he had liaised with IPC’s solicitor since the last meeting as regards the “area of land” in question and payment, up front against receipt, of the peppercorn rent. (Noted) (c) DCC TAP Fund: -
(i) The Clerk reported receipt of a further quotation for Instow’s weed clearance project that was now being processed through the TAP system. (Noted) (i) The Clerk to report that both he and the Chairman had attended a TAP fund meeting at the Offices of Fremington PC on Wednesday 30th January 2013; the Chairman and Clerk elaborated as necessary. (Noted)
(iii) The Clerk said it might be possible to cover the cost of signage that may, or may not be required, for any dog zoning initiative (and to enforce the dune legislation) by way of this TAP fund. (Noted)
(d) Letter (dd 18.1.13) and from Lloyds TSB reference IPC’s High Interest a/c – Re-investment”:-
The Clerk said this confirmed that £10,000 had been re-invested for the period 18.1.13 to 18.1.16 at a rate of 2%. (Noted) (e) Letter (dd 29.1.13) from The Office of The Information Commissioner reference “Data Protection Act 1998 – Confirmation of Renewal 2013-14 (Until 18th February 2014):-
This was noted by IPC. (Noted) (f) Email (dd 21.1.13) from AON reference “Action required regarding your Employers’ Liability”: -
(i) The Clerk advised IPC that AON had requested it be provided with IPC’s Employers Reference Number (ERN) in order for its Employers’ Liability insurance cover to continue. AON advised that new regulation from The Employers’ Liability Tracing Office (ELTO) would take effect from 1st April 2013, which would require IPC’s policy insurer to have a record of its ERN number albeit that some employers are exempt from the ERN. He confirmed he had provided the relevant information as requested. (Noted)
(g) Handyperson’s Hours – Terms of Agreement/Public Liability Insurance 2013-2104: -
(i) The Clerk confirmed he had forwarded IPC’s handyperson a letter (dd 8.2.13) setting out his working hours for the forthcoming financial year (summer/winter) but reminded IPC it had yet to agree to his terms of agreement. IPC RESOLVED that Cllr Green would deal. (Action: Cllr Green) (ii) The Clerk confirmed he had received a copy of the handyperson’s current public liability insurance that was valid for the period ending 30th June 2013. (Noted) (h) Grass Cutting Contractors Public Liability Insurance 2013-2104: -
The Clerk confirmed he had received a copy of the grass cutting contractors current pubic liability insurance that was valid for the period 22.1.13 to 22.1.14. (Noted)
(i) Letter (dd 6.2.13) from NDC reference “Notice Board at Marine Car Park/Licence 2013/14”:-
(i) The Clerk advised IPC that its current licence, for the above, was due to expire 31.3.13 and that NDC was offering IPC a further licence for the period 1.4.13 to 31.3.14 for no fee. The Clerk told IPC he had accepted this offer (dd 8.2.13); IPC RESOLVED to ratify this decision of the Clerk. (Noted)
(j) Email (dd 12.2.13) from Defence Infrastructure Organisation (MOD) reference “Licence from IPC – MOD for Use of Instow Sands”: -
(i) The Clerk said this stated that the MOD held a Licence from IPC commencing on 1 January 2010 to carry out Training on Instow Sands and pays a Licence fee of £250.00 per annum. It was noted that this Licence fee was subject to a 3 yearly review under clause 2 (1) of the Licence and the increase would be calculated on the basis of the increase in the RPI from the preceding month to the commencement of the term (i.e. Dec 2009) and the preceding month to the review date (i.e. Dec 2012).The MOD reports that the RPI figures for Dec 2012 were now available and had calculate the Licence fee increase as follows:-
Dec 2019 RPI 218
Dec 2012 RPI 246.8
Existing Licence fee £250.00
Calculation of increase: - 250 x 246.8 = £283.02 Rounded to £283.00
218 (Noted)
(ii) The Clerk said that as a consequence of the above calculation the MOD would now be grateful if IPC could confirm acceptance to this reviewed Licence fee figure and it will then arrange for the increased Licence fee to be paid which is annually in arrears. (Noted)
(iii) After a discussion IPC RESOLVED to agree to the figure as at item (ii) above and the Clerk was asked to advise the MOD. (Action: The Clerk)

2302/13 PLANNING
a) Email (dd 24.1.13) from NDC Planning reference “Draft Witheridge Conservation Area Appraisal”: -
i) The Clerk said this stated this would be available to view and comment upon between the following dates 24/01/13 (09:00) to 08/03/13 (23:50) and that full details can be found vide: -
http://northdevon-consult.limehouse.co.uk/portal/conservation_area_character_appraisals/withca/witheridge_conservation_area_appraisal_-_draft (Noted)
(ii) The Clerk said this had been copied to Cllr with email address (dd 24.1.13). (Noted)
b) Email (dd 24.1.13) from NDC Planning reference “Draft Knowstone Conservation Area Appraisal”: -
i) The Clerk said this stated this would be available to view and comment upon between the following dates 24/01/13 (09:00) to 08/03/13 (23:50) and that full details can be found vide: -
http://northdevon-consult.limehouse.co.uk/portal/conservation_area_character_appraisals/knoca/knowstone_conservation_area (Noted)
(ii) The Clerk said this had been copied to Cllr with email address (dd 24.1.13).(Noted)
c) Email (dd 24.1.13) from NDC Planning reference “Draft Goodleigh Conservation Area Character Appraisal”: -
i) The Clerk said this stated this would be available to view and comment upon between the following dates 24/01/13 (09:00) to 08/03/13 (23:50) and that full details can be found vide: -
http://northdevon-consult.limehouse.co.uk/portal/conservation_area_character_appraisals/gca/goodleigh_conservation_area_character_appraisal_draft (Noted)
(ii) The Clerk said this had been copied to Cllr with email address (dd 24.1.13).(Noted)
d) Email (dd 30.1.13) and attachments from NDC Planning reference “Residential development of 277 dwellings with associated public space, affordable housing, recreational facilities, landscaping and access following the demolition of existing buildings and the refurbishment of 2 former military buildings for community uses (amended plans and supporting documents) (further amended information relating to changes to key buildings, character area 2 and signalised junction (additional plans regarded amended access plans and road safety audit at former Fremington Army Camp, Fremington (Reference No 53147):-
(i) The Clerk said this stated that an appeal had been made to the Secretary of State against the decision of North Devon Council to refuse to grant planning permission. The appeal would be determined on the basis of an Inquiry. The procedure to be followed is set out in the Town and Country Planning Appeals (Determination by Inspectors) (Inquiries Procedure) (England) Rules 2000. NDC advises it has forwarded all the representations made to it on the application to the Planning Inspectorate and the appellant. These would be considered by the Inspector when determining the appeal. If IPC wished to make comments, or modify/withdraw its previous representation, it could do so on the Planning Portal at www.planningportal.gov.uk/pcs or it could send three copies to The Planning Inspectorate in Bristol but needed to do so by 27th February 2013. (Noted)
(ii) The Clerk said the email and attachments had been forwarded to Cllrs for their information (30.1.13). (Noted)
(iii) After a discussion IPC RESOLVED to take no further action. (Noted)
e) Email (dd 28.1.13) from NDC reference “Draft North Devon & Torridge Local Plan - January 2013”: -
(i) The Clerk said this advised IPC that the draft North Devon and Torridge Local Plan, that was now available, was subject to a six week public consultation, which commenced on Thursday 31st January 2013 and concluded at 5pm on the 15th March 2013; he said a copy had since been provided to IPC for its use. The Chairman made it available at the meeting. (Noted)
(ii) The Clerk said he had forwarded this email to Cllrs. (dd 30.1.13). (Noted)
(iii) The Clerk then reported receipt of a further email (dd 31.1.13) from NDC/TDC reference this subject setting out the website address for the Local Plan namely; http://consult.torridge.gov.uk/portal/planning/localplan/draft adding that this information had been passed to Cllrs by email (31.1.13). (Noted)
(iv) The Clerk reported receipt of a further email (dd 31.1.13) from the Joint Head of Strategic Development and Planning (NDC/TDC) reference this subject adding that this information had also been passed to Cllrs by email (31.1.13). (Noted)
(v) The Clerk reported receipt of a further email (dd 31.1.13) from NDC (Community Development Officer) reference “Parish Forum - Wednesday 20th February 7pm at the Civic Centre” where officers would present the Local Plan and answer any questions; the Clerk told Cllrs that the Chairman and himself would attend and represent IPC. (Noted)
(vi) (a) The Clerk reported receipt of an email (dd 22.1.13) and letter from the Joint Head of Strategic Development and Planning reference “Local Plan – Rural Development Opportunities”; he said the letter stated that Instow had been identified as a local centre through the draft Local Plan and concluded that IPC may wish to start considering the scale of growth over the next 20 years around the village. The Clerk added that NDC/TDC would contact IPC again within the next few weeks to help it identify suitable levels and locations for growth. (Noted)
(b) The Clerk provided Cllrs with a copy of the email and letter ((v) (a) above) at the meeting. (Noted)
(vii) After a discussion IPC RESOLVED that Cllrs would research this matter by way of the hard copy local plan/internet and that the Chairman, Cllr Moores, would collate individual responses and then liaise with the Clerk prior to 15th March 2013 in order to forward a response to NDC. (Action: Cllrs/Cllr Moores & The Clerk)
f) Email (dd 5.2.13) from TDC Planning reference “New Babcock Logo - 1/1016/2012/ADV”: -
(i) The Clerk said this email stated that details of this application could be found vide “http://publicaccess.torridge.gov.uk/online-applications/simpleSearchResults.do;jsessionid=0E22A5FD9EB69DD0ECE51A28E5940FEE?action=firstPage” and that TDC would like a response by Friday 15th February 2013. (Noted)
(ii) The Clerk said the email had been forwarded to IPC’s Planning Sub Committee and all other Cllrs for their information and deliberation. (Noted)
(iii) After a discussion, IPC RESOLVED to recommend APPROVAL of this application subject to a further review of the facts (website) by Cllr Green who would liaise with the Clerk (15.2.13) as necessary. (Action: Cllr Green/The Clerk)
g) Email (dd 7.2.13) from TDC Planning reference “Mixed use development comprising marina, hotel, medical centre, food store, community hall, retail units/cafe, care home/dementia unit, assisting living units, 296 dwellings (including 38 local needs affordable), 80 holiday dwelling, play area, open space, new access and ancillary infrastructure – affecting a public right of way – revised site plan and additional information including provision for new primary school at land at Knapp House, Northam, Devon EX39 1NT (Reference No 1/0138/2012/OUTM): -
(i) The Clerk said this stated that IPC, who had been consulted on the above application, was informed that the application had been REFUSED adding that a copy of the Decision and the Committee Report could be viewed at http://www.torridge.gov.uk/planningonline. (Noted)
(ii) The Clerk said the relevant email had been copied to Cllrs (7.2.13). (Noted)
h) Renovation of existing balcony with patio door, glazing and wrought ironwork at The Boat House, Bridge Lane, Instow (Reference No 55160): -
(i) The Clerk reported receipt (7.2.13) of this application and of having passed it immediately to the Chairman for the attention of IPC’s PSC; for reply by 25.2.13 or an extension to be applied for. (Noted)
(ii) The Clerk confirmed that an entry had been placed on the Instow website for the information of parishioners. (Noted)
(iii) After a discussion IPC RESOLVED to recommend APPROVAL; Clerk to advise NDC Planning. (Action: The Clerk)

2302/14 ANY MATTER RAISED AT THE DISCRETION OF THE CHAIRMAN
Election – February 2013: -
Cllr Vandersteen said he would like to publicly thank all those parishioners who had voted for him and that he was excited at the prospect of his new role. (Noted)

2302/15 RECRUITMENT OF CLERK
The Chairman reported that 9 persons had expressed an interest in the position and of these, 5 had submitted an application by the cut-off date of 11th February 2013. Of these candidates, one was unable to present himself for interview until the middle of March and was, therefore, not selected for interview, with the remaining 4 being interviewed on Monday 18th February at All Saints Community Centre. The interviewing panel would consist of Cllr Moores (Chairman), Cllr Green (Vice Chairman) and Cllr Crombie with Mrs Rose Day (former Chairperson of IPC, JP and a local resident) who would also be present together with the current Clerk, both acting as observers. IPC RESOLVED to support the decisions taken by its sub-committee to date. (Noted)
** The Clerk was not present during this item **

There being no other business the meeting was closed.