BACK


MINUTES OF THE  MARCH 2011 MEETING OF INSTOW PARISH COUNCIL


HELD AT INSTOW PARISH HALL ON
THURSDAY 17th MARCH 2011 AT 7.30 PM

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


Present: - Councillors P Cook, C Harper, M Green (Vice Chairman), A Johns, G May (Part), S White (Chairman) and Mr R Jacob (Parish Clerk).

In Attendance: Cllrs R Cann (DCC), B Moores (NDC), Reverend G Calway and 2 parishioners.

2103/1 PRAYER
The Reverend Geoff Calway led the Council in prayer and in doing so commemorated and acknowledged the proactive support and tangible interest shown in all things Instow Parish Council by a much loved parishioner, Priscilla Sharp, who had recently passed away.

2103/2 APOLOGIES
Cllrs N Crombie, Mrs T Dipper and B Thomas

2102/3 COUNCILLOR DECLARATION OF INTEREST
There were no matters of interest declared by Councillors. (Noted)

2103/4 POLICE REPORT
a) Crime: -
PCSO Meaker said that 3 crimes had been reported in the parish since the last meeting, namely, a common assault/battery, a making off without payment and an assault occasioning actual bodily harm (Noted)
(b) Other Matters: -
PCSO Meaker said that 5 other matters had been the subject of an incident log namely, theft (x1), public safety/alarms (x1), domestic (x1), public safety/suspicious circumstances (x1) and crime related/violence (x1). (Noted)
(c) Police Activity: -
The Clerk said that during the previous month the police had acted effectively in dealing with complaints as regards a lived-in caravan that had been “parked” up in the Anstey Way lay by (as had DCC who owned the land) and unruly dogs on the beach; he said they should be thanked for their promptness. IPC RESOLVED to be associated with these remarks. (Noted)

2103/5 PARISHIONERS
There were no issues raised by parishioners. (Noted)

2103/6 REPORT OF COUNTY COUNCILLOR R CANN
(a) Instow – Residents Parking Survey: -
(i) Cllr Cann said it had not been possible to arrange a DCC/IPC Traffic Management Sub Committee meeting since the last meeting as the relevant Highways Officer had been on maternity leave; he said he would now endeavour to sort this as a matter of some urgency. (Action: Cllr Cann)
(b) Grass Cutting: -
(i) Cllr Cann said he had yet again raised concerns as regards DCC’s decision to only cut grass verges twice per annum and that he was hopeful said decision might be re-examined at a later date –see item 2103/11 (k). (Noted)
(c) DCC Budget 2011/12: -
Cllr Cann said DCC had agreed there would be no council tax increase (setting a zero per cent increase), approved a revenue budget of £519M, agreed £54M of cuts and member’s allowances were frozen for the third year running. He added that waste disposal was being cut by £2.1M, Devon’s Adult and Community Services would be cut by only 4.75% (county’s elderly population growing), that support for bus services was being reduced by £1.3M albeit that every effort would be made to maintain services to rural areas. Cllr Cann finally said that amongst other cuts, too numerous to mention, the highways services budget was being reduced by £8M (although an extra £2.5 million was available to repair potholes), that DCC planned to reduce senior managers by over 25% and that the authorities jobs freeze had already reduced the number of staff by 800 with a similar figure planned for the next 2 years. (Noted)
(d) NDC Free Bulky Goods Collection: -
Cllr Cann said that 4 years ago he had promised to re-introduce this service that was scrapped by the previous administration; this was an election promise that was implemented. He said he was now sorry to report that NDC had again decided to scrap the service although it admitted this would affect everyone, particularly the elderly and may lead to an increase in fly tipping. (Noted)
2103/7 REPORT OF DISTRICT COUNCILLOR B MOORES
(a) Management of the Quay Car Park: -
Cllr Moores reported that NDC’s Executive, at its meeting of the 8th March, had agreed to transfer the leasehold of this car park to IPC along with £72,000 to go towards repairs and refurbishment of the toilets. Cllr Moores added that he believed IPC had received notification of this fact from the Leader of NDC, Cllr Brailey, and an answer to a number of questions asked. The Clerk confirmed this to be the case – see item 2103/9 (b). (Noted)
(b) DuneZed Project: -
Cllr Moores said he had attended a site meeting on the 9th March to discuss the proposals for the development of the old power station site. He said it had been confirmed that the development was now proposed on the old power station site with very little development on the ashbeds and that it would use the feed in tariff to provide a tourism village powered by solar energy – a zero carbon holiday destination. He added that it was considered far too important a site given estuary setting and proximity to the Tarka Trail for industrial development. (Noted)
(c) Spring Clean for North Devon Link Road: -
Cllr Moores said that this annual initiative had begun and included the stretch of the A361 from the Bideford Bridge to Stoneylands Cross near Tiverton and that last year over 1,200 bags of rubbish were collected. (Noted)
(d) Planning Applications: -
He said NDC and TDC were jointly consulting on a proposal that would speed up planning applications; he said the aim was to make sure that all information was provided and that the planning process became faster by reducing the amount of invalid applications -see item 2103/12 (g). (Noted)
(e) The Sands – Planning Application Update: -
In answer to a question from Cllr Johns, Cllr Moores said that discussions were still ongoing and that these centred mainly around the provision/contribution towards affordable housing; he elaborated. (Noted)

2103/8 MINUTES
It was RESOLVED that the February 2011 minutes of Instow Parish Council be approved and signed. (Noted)

2103/9 MATTERS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES
a) Item 2102/6 (a) – Instow: Residents Parking: -
See item 2103/6 (a). (Noted)
b) Item 2102/9 (c) and (g) – Management of Quay Car Park/Refurbishment of Toilets: -
(i) The Clerk advised IPC he had communicated its agreement in principle to the offer “on the table” from NDC (email of 18.2.11 refers) together with a number of relevant questions raised by Cllrs; he said it had been acknowledged by Leader of NDC, Cllr Brailey. (Noted)
(ii) The Clerk reported receipt of an email (dd 1.3.11) from the Leader of NDC, Cllr Brailey, advising IPC that he had an agenda item going to NDC Executive on 8th March with exactly what was agreed; the Clerk said he had advised the Chair. (Noted)
(iii) The Clerk reported receipt of an email (dd 9.3.11) from the Leader of NDC, Cllr Brailey, stating that NDC’s Executive had agreed the terms which had been formally tabled at the meeting at Instow on the 17th February 2011 and that the “issues” that had been raised, could, he felt be sorted without major difficulty. (Noted)
(iv) The Clerk reported that he had received emails (various – 9.3.11) from NDC’s Press Office requesting that a photo-shoot be set up at the car park on 10.3.11; the Clerk advised IPC that, following liaison with the Chairman and other Cllrs, it was decided that such a photo-shoot was premature and inappropriate in the light that several pertinent questions as regards the transfer of the car park were still outstanding and that as far as IPC was concerned, negotiations were still in train; he said NDC had been duly advised. IPC RESOLVED to support this decision. (Noted)
(v) The Clerk then referred to an agreed IPC press release (by Chairman and other Cllrs) as regards the photo shoot as at (iv) above having been contacted by the Journal and Gazette for a comment. He said it read as follows: -
“Instow Parish Council feels it is somewhat premature to be making a response to this matter at this stage. Although the Parish Council has agreed in principle to the arrangement it is subject to a number of caveats; it is, for example, awaiting a reply to a number of relevant and pertinent questions. Whilst Instow Parish Council is most grateful to NDC for the “offer” on the table it is as a result of protracted negotiations that it feels now need to run its course before going public. Instow Parish Council, as a Quality Parish Council, must reassure itself that it is going to sign up to an arrangement that will be for the benefit of all its parishioners for many years to come.” (Noted)
(vi) The Clerk reported receipt of an email (dd 11.3.11) from the Leader of NDC, Cllr Brailey, stating he was working with his Estates Dept to sort out the relevant issues and that he was fully committed to making sure “this goes through” adding “however, IPC must be comfortable and happy with the end result”. (Noted)
(vii) The Clerk reported receipt of an email (dd 16.3.11) from the Leader of NDC, Cllr Brailey, stating that: -
• The covenant in respect of Christie Estate will not impede a transfer to IPC. The covenant will remain on the land and will apply.
• Legal Services advise that the boundary wall on the frontage, which incorporates the bus stop, was built by DCC. However, the wall is built within the ownership of the car park and therefore runs with the property.
• The tanks (petrol) were cleared out of all the rubbish in them and then filled with some sort of foam to make them safe – done about 2008 apparently.
(viii) The Clerk then referred to a copy of the NDC Press Release concerning the car park handover; he copied it to Cllrs for perusal at the meeting. The Clerk suggested that the comment therein regarding “the handover will also lead to £12,000 a year in savings to NDC” might be worthy of an explanation. IPC RESOLVED to support this recommendation. (Action: The Clerk)
(ix) A general discussion then ensued at the conclusion of which it was RESOLVED to set up a small sub group of IPC Cllrs to brainstorm relevant questions appertaining to the transfer of the car park/toilets and that to do so without undue delay. It was agreed that the Chairman, Vice Chairman and Cllrs Harper and Crombie together with the Clerk would form that sub committee. (Action: IPC’s Car Park Sub Committee)
(x) IPC also RESOLVED to seek the support of Mr Ian Budge (Solicitor) to advise them on legal issues appertaining to the transfer. (Action: The Clerk)
c) Item 2102/9 (d) - Village Gateway Initiative: -
(i) The Clerk reported he was still endeavouring to get this project “signed off financially” and “completed” prior to the end of the current financial year (2010/11) so that the outstanding grant payment (£788) could be “released” by DCC. He said this sum equated to: -
• £321.02 (includes £48 for Instow Logo stickers – see finance item 1) still owed to IPC
• £466.98 earmarked for DCC Highways (Additional Road Markings) (Noted)
(ii) Cllr Cann reported that DCC Highways had advised him that the additional road markings would cost more than the remaining grant figure of £466.98 and that they had suggested that either he make up the shortfall from his DCC allowance or IPC do so. After a discussion IPC RESOLVED not to make up the shortfall; Cllr Cann said he would speak to DCC Highways in order to find a solution. (Action: Cllr Cann)
(iii) The Clerk confirmed he had collected the “Instow Logo” transfers prepared by SW Signs and would ensure they were fitted asap to the Instow signs on Anstey Way (both ends of the village). (Action: The Clerk)
d) Item 2012/9 (e) – Children’s Play Area/Tarka Trail : -
(i) The Clerk reported receipt of a letter (dd 16.2.11) from a parishioner objecting to the provision of a children’s play area; the Clerk read it to Council. (Noted)
(ii) IPC then discussed how IPC ought to advise parishioners that this project had been shelved pro tem and the reason(s) why. IPC RESOLVED to place a suitable article in a forthcoming parish magazine. (Action: The Clerk)
e) Item 2102/9 (e) – Revised Bathing Water Directives: -
(i) The Clerk reported receipt of an email (dd 23.2.11) from Defra reference “Bathing Water Newsletter – February 2011”; he said he had copied it to Cllr Green for his information. Cllr Green appraised Cllrs of the content. (Noted)
(ii) The Clerk reported receipt of an email (dd 8.3.11) from the EA reference “Bathing Water Profiles – Instow”; the Clerk reminded Cllrs of previous discussion reference this matter. (Noted)
(iii) The Clerk told Cllrs he had copied this document to them with their agenda papers (10.3.11). (Noted)
(iv) The Clerk reported receipt of an email (dd 16.3.11) from Cllr Green commenting on item (ii) above – said email was copied to Cllrs at the meeting for their perusal and to aid discussion. (Noted)
(v) A discussion then ensued at the conclusion of which IPC RESOLVED to forward IPC’s views of the EA article as advised by Cllr Green. (Action: The Clerk)
(vi) The Clerk reported that he had forwarded a letter (dd 14.3.11 – as prepared by Cllr Green and “vetted” by NDC and the EA) to Defra with attachments (i.e. Bather Survey 2010 and Instow Beach Zone Map) seeking guidance as to whether Instow Parish Council could seek de-designation status for its beach; a copy of the letter and attachments were provided to Cllrs at the meeting. (Noted)
(vii) The Clerk reported receipt of an email (dd 15.3.11) from Defra basically stating that IPC would need to carry out the following activity during the summer 2011 and then re-apply for de-designation thereafter:-
 Evidence of usage (bathing) of the site (beach) over the course of a bathing season May - September (to support the EA survey 2010).
NB: - The EA will also be able to provide their headcount of bathers taken by the samplers throughout the season 2011.
• Erect suitable signs (or consider a by-law) to evidence that the beach is being “managed” so as to discourage bathing because of it being a danger to the public i.e. dangerous currents, quicksands, moorings etc.
NB: - The EA’s survey in 2010 indicated that the beach attracted a large number of visitors; evidence will therefore need to be provided that indicates there is clear information to warn beach users that its dangerous to bathe (e.g. Photo of an appropriate signage)
• Provide evidence of how widely IPC’s consultation has been carried out. Was, for example, local environmental groups who have an interest in the beach been consulted or local businesses that depend on tourism in the area?
• Has Christie Estates been notified of the proposal? (Noted)
(viii) The Clerk provided Cllrs with a copy of Defra’s email (dd 15.3.11) at the meeting. (Noted)
(ix)A discussion the ensued at the conclusion of which IPC RESOLVED to liaise with the EA and Defra to establish precisely what action(s) IPC needed to take during the summer season 2011 as it did not wish to duplicate effort (i.e. the EA bather survey); it was agreed that Cllr Green and the Clerk would liaise and take whatever action they felt necessary and that would assist IPC is establishing a suitable strategy.
(Action: Cllr Green/The Clerk)
f) Item 2102/19 (i) (d) – Salt/Grit Bins/Community Clusters: -
(i) The Clerk advised IPC that he had arranged for an article to go into a forthcoming parish magazine with a view to establishing feedback from parishioners. (Noted)
(ii) The Clerk provided Cllrs with a copy of said article at the meeting. (Noted)


g) Item 2102/9 (n) - Abandoned Boat/Oil Jetty: -
(i) The Clerk confirmed he had forwarded an email (dd 18.2.11) to Simon Brown (IPC’s TTEF Representative) reference this abandoned boat. (Noted)
(ii) The Clerk then referred to an email (dd 11.3.11) he had received from Simon Brown; the Clerk read it to Council. (Noted)
(iii) After a discussion IPC RESOLVED to take no further action on the grounds the matter was out of its control and that the Bideford Harbour authorities were aware and dealing as appropriate. (Noted)

2103/10 CORRESPONDENCE
(i) Matters for discussion/resolution or noting
a) Email (dd 17.2.11) from Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service reference “Corporate Plan 2011/12 – 2013/14”: -
(i) The Clerk advised IPC that this plan was approved, together with the commitment to undertake a public consultation exercise, on 13th January 2011. There were 8 specific proposals on which the DSFRS would like views and opinions. (Noted)
(ii) The Clerk reminded Cllrs he had forwarded the email to those members with email addresses (18.2.11) for their consideration; he said the relevant website address had been provided in said email where full consultation papers could also be found.(Noted)
(iii) After a discussion, in which it was revealed that neither the Clerk or any Cllr could access the appropriate web page IPC RESOLVED to take no further action. (Noted)
b) Email (dd 28.2.11) from NDC reference “Complaint from Member of the Public Dog Confrontations on Instow Beach”: -
(i) The Clerk elaborated on this complaint and advised IPC that he had reminded NDC that IPC was not responsible for all of Instow Beach (it was not clear where the incident had taken place) and that it was not responsible for enforcement of any breaches of the law on the basis it had no legal powers or jurisdiction to enforce the law – this was the responsibility of the NDC Dog Wardens and the Police dependant upon what offence(s) had been committed, if any. (Noted)
(ii) The Clerk advised IPC he had passed the complaint to the Police (PC Hodgson/PCSO Meaker) who had promised to pay attention to the beach area and update the complainant. (Noted)
(iii) The Clerk then referred to an email (d 4.3.11) from PCSO Meaker promising to patrol the beach as often as possible to warn/deal with dog owners who did not keep their dogs under control. (Noted)
c) Email (dd 1.3.11) from DCC reference “Minerals Core Strategy: Options Consultation Paper”: -
(i) The Clerk said this stated that DCC was consulting on this paper for the period 1.3.11 to 29.4.11 inclusive and that full details could be found vide: -
http://devoncc-consult.limhouse.co.uk/portal/minerals_and_waste_development_framework/minerals/mcs_ocp (Noted)
(ii) The Clerk said he had copied said email (1.3.11) to Cllrs with email addresses for their information. (Noted)
(iii) The Clerk also reported receipt of a letter (dd 1.3.11) and attachment from DCC reference “Devon County Minerals and Waste Development Framework - Minerals Core Strategy - Options Consultation Paper”; he said he had forwarded a copy of the letter and attachment to Cllrs with their agenda papers (10.3.11). (Noted)
(iv) After a discussion IPC RESOLVED to take no further action. (Noted)
d) Email (dd 23.3.11) from Cllr Johns reference “Rock the Beach 2011”: -
(i) The Clerk said this stated that a parishioner had advised Cllr Johns of this event but with no specific details of relevance. (Noted)
(ii) A discussion then ensued at the conclusion of which it was ascertained that no other information was available to prove or disprove this matter and it was RESOLVED to take no further action. (Noted)
e) Email (dd 23.3.11) from Cllr Johns reference “Caravan – Anstey Way Lay By”: -
(i) The Clerk said this reported that a caravan had turned up at this location with occupants who seemed to be settling in for the “long haul”. (Noted)
(ii) The Clerk said he had already been advised (23.3.11) by the police that said caravan was in situ and that action(s) were in hand to get it moved on – Cllr Johns was notified accordingly. (Noted)
(iii) The Clerk reported receipt of an email (24.3.11) from a parishioner in regards to this caravan; he said the parishioner had been assured that the relevant authorities were aware and action(s) were in hand to get it moved on; he said he had copied on the email to Cllr Cann (DCC - who own the land) and the Police. (Noted)
(iv) The Clerk said he had later been advised by the Police (email dd 4.3.11) that said caravan had been moved to a site on the road to the old power station. (Noted)
f) Letter (dd 1.3.11) from OC Atturm (Major S C Congreve RM reference “Instow New Facilities – Opening Event”: -
(i) The Clerk said this stated that it was intended to hold an opening event on Monday 11th April 2011 to which 2 members of IPC were invited. He said the new facilities were to be opened by Mr Nick Harvey MP and the event was to commence at 11am; a reply by 31st March 2011 was required. (Noted)
(ii) After a discussion it was RESOLVED that the Clerk would attend with one IPC Cllr – details to be established in due course. (Action: The Clerk)
g) Sand Dunes Management Plan: -
(i) The Clerk advised IPC that Andy Bell (NDCCS) was to hold a Technical Officers meeting on the 29th March and that this matter would be included on the agenda for discussion. (Noted)
(ii) Cllr Cook then provided IPC with an update of the sand activity work that had been recently carried our by Atturm in the vicinity of the Boathouse. (Noted)
h) Letter (dd 11.3.11) and attachments from NDC (Deputy Returning Officer) reference “Referendum, District and Parish Elections – 5th May 2011: -
(i) The Clerk said this letter requested that the attachments (Notices(s) of Election for the District and Parish Elections and the Referendum) be displayed within the parish; the Clerk advised IPC that this was in hand. (Action: The Clerk)
(ii) The Clerk advised IPC that also enclosed were a number of Nomination Papers for the parish council and a timetable of events leading up to the election date – 5th May 2011; he circulated them to interested Cllrs. (Noted)
(iii) The Clerk then advised IPC that also enclosed was a booklet entitled “The Good Councillors Guide (3rd Edition)” and that this was now available. (Noted)
i) Email (dd 16.3.11) from Andy Bell (NDCCS) reference “James May – Toy Stories 2”: -
(i) The Clerk said this advised IPC that this was earmarked to take place on the 14/16th April this year and that full details, as known to date, were enclosed with the email – copies were provided to Cllrs. (Noted)
(ii) After a discussion IPC RESOLVED to support this event. (Action: The Clerk)
j) Email (dd 17.3.11) from the National Trust (NT) reference “Trust Membership Recruiter Project”: -
(i) The Clerk said this requested that a NT Recruiter be allowed to set up on Instow Sands (as leased by IPC from the CE) during the summer months with a view to recruiting new members. (Noted)
(ii) After a discussion IPC RESOLVED not to permit this to take place on the grounds that to do so would set a precedence for similar applications and which could thereby spoil the natural enjoyment of the beach by its users. (Action: The Clerk)


(ii) Taw and Torridge Estuary Forum and associated Matters (Placed in “Briefing Folder” for information of Cllrs)
NIL


(iii) Matters to note: (Placed in “Briefing Folder” for information of Cllrs)
a) DALC Matters (Various): - (i) Email (dd 21.2.11) reference “Online Training Bookings from DALC Website”; (ii) Email (dd 23.3.11) reference “DSC e-news”;(iii) Email (dd 23.2.11) reference “NALC Bulletin”; (iv) Email (dd 23.2.11) reference “E-Group Query – Email Communication Policy”; Email (dd 24.2.11) reference “Royal Wedding Mugs – Local Pottery”; (v) Email (dd 26.2.11) reference “Computer Accounts – SAGE”; (vi) “DALC Newsletter – Mar/April 2011”; (vii) Miscellaneous papers from DALC namely “came&company Parish Matters (Spring Edition etc)”, “HMRC – Parish Council and Community Council Clerks PAYE Implementation”, “Poster – Making it Work Locally Conference”; and “Posters - Parish/Town Council Elections – 5th May 2011”; (viii) Email (dd 25.3.11) reference “Making it Work Locally – 15th March 2011”; (ix) Email (dd 1.3.11) reference “The Good Councillor Guide – 2nd/3rd Edition”; (x) Email (dd1.3.11) reference “Snow Wardens”; (xi) Email (dd 2.3.11) reference “Subsidised Playground Inspection Training”; (xii) Email (dd 7.3.11) reference “HMRC Training”; (xiii) Email (dd 7.3.11) reference “NALC e-bulletin”; (xiv) Email (dd 3.3.11) reference “Vacancy for Chief Executive – CCD”; ( xv) “Village Green Magazine – Issue 123 Spring 2011”; (xvi) Email (dd 11.3.11) reference “Sported Mentoring”; (xvii) Email (dd 11.3.11) reference “Transforming Community Services”; (xviii) Email (dd 11.3.11) reference “LCR Opinion Question”; (xix) Email (dd 14.3.11) reference “Wales and West Utilities Workshop” and (xx) Email (dd 16.3.11) reference “NALC – Communities in Action Conferences 2011”.
b) NDDC Members Services Weekly Information Sheet for w/e 21.2.11, 28.2.11, 7.3.11 and 14.3.11.
Copied to Cllrs with email addresses
c) Emails (dd 22.2.11, 1.3.11, 8.3.11 and 16.3.11) and attachment from NDC Housing reference “Devon Home Choice Newsletter”: -
Copies placed at post office by Cllr Mrs Dipper for the information of parishioners
d) Emails (various) between Clerk and NDCCS/DCC Highways reference “Picnic Site – Tarka Trail/Blocked Drain”: -
Copied to Cllr May who raised this matter at IPC’s Meeting of 17.2.11
e) Minutes of NDC Standards Committee Meeting of Wednesday 23rd February 2011 at 4.15 pm,
f) “Clerks and Councils Direct – March 2011 (Issue 74)”
g) Email (dd 2.3.11) from English Heritage reference “Free Practical Guide – The Little Red Book/Caring for Places of Worship”: -
Copied to Treasurer of Instow PCC for its information
h) Email (various) between Clerk and Cllr Moores /DCC Highways reference “Broken/Sunken Drain – Boathouse Bus Shelter”
i) Email (dd 7.3.11) from Cllr Moores reference “Hatherleigh Play Group Ground Inspection Training”.
j) “LCR Magazine – Spring 2011”
k) Email (dd 9.3.11) from a parishioner reference “Bus Shelters (Marine Parade) and Speeding (Marine Parade)”: -
Handyman contacted by Clerk to deal with bus shelters; police advised reference speeding – parishioner updated.
l) “Twentyfourseven Magazine (SWAST) – Edition 13”
m) Devon In Touch Monthly News Round-Up (March 2011): -
Copy to post office for information of parishioners
n) Glasdon Direct Catalogue 2011
o) Email (dd 15.3.11) from DCC reference “DCC _ Parish Emergency Planning Newsletter (March 2011)”: -
Copied to Cllr Harper (IPC’s Emergency Planning Cllr)
p) Email (dd 16.11) from Carillion Telent (CT) reference “Road Closure at Westleigh – 20-22.6.11”: -
CT advised that this is not in the parish of Instow; otherwise noted.
q) Letter (undated) from Kompan reference “Playground Funding Support Service”.
r) Letter (dd 18.2.11) from Nightwalk Fundraising Team reference “Event – 21.5.11” : -
Poster placed on Quay Car Park notice board.
2103/11 FINANCE
1. INCOME: -
DCC P3 Footpath Maintenance 2011/12 £390.00
TOTAL : - £390.00

2 (a) EXPENDITURE: -
Mr M Harris Village Handyman £ 272.00#
Mr R Jacob Clerk’s Remuneration £1,310.00
Mr R Jacob Clerk’s Expenses £ 416.08
Inland Revenue Re: R Jacob £ 327.50
Mr G May Tractor Garage Rental (Jan – March 2011) £ 112.80*
TOTAL: - £2,438.38
Key: -
# Includes £102 verge maintenance activity
* Includes £16.80 VAT recoverable
3. BANK – STATEMENT OF ACCOUNTS: -
Lloyds Bank Treasurers a/c no. 02348842 as @ 28.2.11 (Statement) = £ 751.78 *
Lloyds Bank Business a/c no. 02350065 as @ 24.12.10 (Statement) = £20,995.62+
Key: -
* According to Clerk’s records this is £1.78 (1 cheque to the value of £750.00 uncashed)
+ According to Clerk’s records this is £19,550.62 as at date of meeting (presumably less the £10,000 previously invested)
4. RESOLUTION REQUIRED: -
(b) IPC RESOLVED to transfer £2,438.00 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) Mole Valley Farmers – IPC Account - February 2011: -
The Clerk said this stated that IPC owed nothing; account in balance. (Noted)
(b) Village Gateway – Recovery of Costs: -
See matters arising – item 2103/9 (c). (Noted)
(c) Handyperson and Beach Cleaner – Terms and Conditions and Salary Scale 2011/2012: -
The Clerk reported that these have now been dealt with; Handyman and Beach Cleaner have acknowledged receipt and accepted terms, conditions and payment. (Noted)
(d) Letter (dd 17.2.11) from NDC reference “Marine Car Park, Instow – Bottle Bank”: -
(i) The Clerk said this reminded IPC that its licence for the above was due to expire on 31.3.11 and that it was able to offer it a new licence to run from 1.4.11 to 31.3.12 on the same terms and conditions as before with no fee. (Noted)
(ii) The Clerk advised IPC he had accepted the offer (28.2.11) and returned the necessary paperwork – IPC RESOLVED to ratify this decision. (Noted)
(e) Letter (dd 17.2.11) from NDC reference “Marine Car Park, Instow – Bus Shelter”: -
(i) The Clerk said that this reminded IPC that its licence for the above was due to expire on 31.3.11 and that it was able to offer it a new licence to run from 1.4.11 to 31.3.12 on the same terms and conditions as before with the same licence fee of £14 + VAT. (Noted)
(ii) The Clerk advised IPC he had accepted the offer (28.2.11) and returned the necessary paperwork – IPC RESOLVED to ratify this decision. (Noted)
(iii) It was noted that if and when IPC acquired the freehold of the Quay Car Park from NDC that this annual licence and charge would no longer be necessary as said location “came” with the curtilage of the car park as a boundary wall. (Noted)
(f) Letter (dd 17.2.11) from NDC reference “Notice Board – Marine Car Park, Instow”: -
(i) The Clerk said this reminded IPC that its licence for the above was due to expire on 31.3.11 and that it was able to offer it a new licence to run from 1.4.11 to 31.3.12 on the same terms and conditions as before with no fee. (Noted)
(ii) The Clerk advised IPC he had accepted the offer (28.2.11) and returned the necessary paperwork – IPC RESOLVED to ratify this decision. (Noted)
(g) Receipted note (17.2.11) from Treasurer of Instow Parish Hall Committee – IPC’s Parish Hall Peppercorn Rent 2010/11”: -
The Clerk said this confirmed that the rent had been paid by cash; see Clerk’s expenses – 17.2.11). (Noted)
(h) Handyperson’s/Beach Cleaner’s Public Liability Insurance (PLI) 2011/12: -
The Clerk advised IPC he had received a copy of the handyman’s PLI that had been filed for reference purposes; he said the beach cleaner’s was still awaited. (Noted)

(i) Letter (dd 28.2.11) from Audit Commission (AC) reference “IPC – Appointment of External Auditor”: -
(i) The Clerk said this confirmed the appointment of Jackie Bellard as IPC’s External Auditor for the period 2010/11 and attached a list of its officers (from its Bolton Office) that work in Jackie’s team. (Noted)
(ii) He said the AC wished to know if IPC had any objection to the appointment of Jackie Bellard; he said he had advised IPC’s Internal Auditor, Mrs. Mary Jane Scott, who had no objection. (Noted)
(iii) After a discussion IPC RESOLVED to offer no objection. (Action: The Clerk)
(j) Email (dd 22.2.11) from DALC reference “New HMRC Guidance on Employment Status of Clerks”: -
(i) The Clerk said this advised that Clerks, who at present are self-employed, could not continue in this way after 6th April 2011. He added that Councils, in this instance, must register their Clerks as an employee and deduct PAYE and NIC with all returns being done on line and payment made electronically. (Noted)
(ii) The Clerk reported receipt of a further email (dd 23.2.11) from DALC reference “HMRC Advice re Clerks Employment”; he said it reiterated the above and provided additional advice. (Noted)
(iii) The Clerk reported receipt of a further email (dd 23.2.11) from DALC reference “New HMRC Guidance on Employment Status of Clerks”; he said it added little extra to the above. (Noted)
(iv) The Clerk advised IPC he had forwarded the above information to IPC’s IA for her information. (Noted)
(v) The Clerk reminded IPC that he was already registered as an employee and that PAYE was paid direct to HMRC in a timely fashion (i.e. each quarter); the Clerk further advised IPC that he was currently liaising with IPC’s IA reference payment of NIC (Employees) for the current financial year 2010/11. (Noted)
(k) Grass Cutting 2011/12: -
(i) The Clerk advised IPC that as a consequence of DCC’s policy of making a saving in grass cutting costs for the financial year 2011/12 (i.e. 2 cuts per season as opposed to 6), he had already made a request (email of 14.3.11 refers) of DCC to be advised of IPC’s grass cutting grant for the year 2011/12. (Noted)
(ii) He said it would be £943.32 as opposed to £2721.12 for the current financial year adding that with a 4% increase IPC could have expected £2829.96). (Noted)
(iii) The Clerk advised IPC that there was approx £492.55 remaining of the current financial year’s grant. (Noted)
(ii) The Clerk suggested he liaise with the “Grass Cutting Contractor” as regards the current agreement (2011/2012) between him and IPC (i.e. 7 cuts per annum at £300 per cut = £2100.00) and come back to IPC with a compromise agreement. (Noted)
(iii) After a discussion IPC RESOLVED to support this recommendation.
(Action: The Clerk)
(l) Letter (dd February 2011) from HM Revenue and Customs entitled “Important Information for Employers” –
(i) The Clerk said this stated that in future all relevant information would no longer be sent by post but be available online; the letter provided full details. He said it had been filed for future information. (Noted)
(ii) The Clerk said that IPC was required to note that Employer Annual Return forms (P35 and P14’s) must be sent online by 19th May 2011; he confirmed he would deal as and when necessary in liaison with IPC’s IA. (Action: The Clerk)
(m) Tractor Tax Disc Application – From 1st April 2011: -
(i) The Clerk advised IPC he had received the relevant paperwork from DVLA (17.3.11) and by way of the internet (email dd 17.3.11 refers) had placed an order for the tax disc that was free. (Noted)
(ii) The Clerk reported that once the tax disc had been received it would be handed to Cllr Cook. (Action: The Clerk/Cllr Cook)




2103/12 PLANNING
(a) Email (dd 17.2.11) from NDC Planning reference “Fremington Conservation Area Management Plan”: -
(i) The Clerk said this stated that this was in the public domain for consultation for the period 17.2.11 to 1.4.11; full details could be found vide: -
consult.limehouse.co.uk/portal/conservation_area_characterappraisals/fremington_conservation_area/fremington_conservation_area_management_plan.
(ii) He said he had copied it o Cllrs with email addresses (18.2.11).
(iii) IPC RESOLVED to take no further action. (Noted)
(b) Email (dd 17.2.11) from NDC Planning reference “Fremington Quay Conservation Area Management Plan: -
(i) The Clerk said that this stated that this was in the public domain for consultation for the period 17.2.11 to 1.4.11; full details can be found vide: -
“consult.limehouse.co.uk/portal/conservation_area_character_appraisals/fremington_quay_conservation_area/fremington_quay_conservation_area_management_plan.”
(ii) He said he had copied it o Cllrs with email addresses (18.2.11).
(iii) IPC RESOLVED to take no further action. (Noted)
(c) Email (dd 17.2.11) from NDC Planning reference “Draft Bickington Conservation Area Management Plan: -
(i) The Clerk said this stated that this was in the public domain for consultation for the period 17.2.11 to 1.4.11; full details can be found vide: -
consult.limehouse.co.uk/portal/conservation_area_character_appraisals/bickington_conservation_area/bickington_conservation_area_management_plan_draft.
(ii) He said he had copied it o Cllrs with email addresses (18.2.11).
(iii) IPC RESOLVED to take no further action. (Noted)
(d) Email (dd 24.2.11) and photographic attachment from Cllr Harper reference “Methodist Chapel – Instow”: -
The Clerk advised IPC that in light of the new “evidence” made available by the photograph regarding alleged “change of use” he had forwarded the email/attachment to Cllr Moores for his information and that of NDC Planning. (Noted)
(e) Letter (received 26.2.11) from NDC Planning reference “Demolition of existing and erection of new unit of holiday accommodation at Southgate, Sandhills, Instow (Reference 49049): -
(i) The Clerk said this stated that NDC Planning had GRANTED permission for this application with conditions as listed. (Noted)
(ii) The Clerk advised IPC to note that one of the conditions was to permit occupancy for short let holiday accommodation only and no one person for more than 28 days per calendar year. (Noted)
(iii) The Clerk reported receipt of a telephone call from the applicant (2.3.11) who wished to discuss the condition as at (ii) above and its similarity to a nearby chalet namely Seafield (Planning references 48412 and 49658). He elaborated on the conversation adding he had advised the applicant to contact NDC Planning. (Noted)
(iv) The Clerk reminded Cllrs he had provided a copy of the letter to them with their agenda papers (10.3.11). (Noted)
f) Demolition of existing and erection of new garage with first floor living accommodation and balcony together with cladding of first floor with painted shiplap boarding (amended plans) at Turnstone, Marine Parade, Instow (Reference No 51226): -
The Clerk said this stated that NDC Planning had REFUSED planning permission for this application with conditions as listed; he said he had forwarded a copy of the letter to Cllrs with their agenda papers (10.3.11). (Noted)
g) Email (dd 8.3.11) from NDC and TDC (Planning) reference “Guidance about the Information Required to Achieve a Valid Application – Consultation”: -
(i) The Clerk reminded Cllrs he had forwarded a copy of this lengthy consultation document to them with their agenda papers (10.3.11) and that any response needed to be with NDC/TDC by 27th April 2011. (Noted)
(ii) After a discussion IPC RESOLVED to defer this until the next meeting so as to give Cllrs more time to fully absorb the consultation document and consider all its implications. (Action: IPC Cllrs)
h) Letter (dd 7.3.11) from DCC reference “Town and Country Planning General Regulations 1992 – Regulation 3; Installation of timber decking at Instow Community Primary School, Instow (Reference ACB/DCC/3181/2011): -
(i) The Clerk reported receipt (dd 9.3.11) of this application and of having passed it immediately to the Chairman for the attention of IPC’s PSC; for response by 28.3.11 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, led by IPC’s PSC, it was RESOLVED to recommend APPROVAL of this application. (Action: The Clerk)
i) Outline application for erection of one agricultural workers dwelling and garage at Highfield Farm, Instow (Reference No 51842): -
(i) The Clerk reported receipt (dd 15.3.11) of this application and of having passed it immediately to the Chairman for the attention of IPC’s PSC; for response by 4.4.11 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, led by IPC’s PSC, it was RESOLVED to recommend APPROVAL of this application. (Action: The Clerk)
j) Copy correspondence (Pre-Screening Planning Pack) from North Devon Energy Limited (NDEL) to NDC Planning reference “Proposed Solar Farm on Land at Huish Fields, near Instow: -
(i) The Clerk reported receipt of these papers following an email (dd 14.3.11) from NDEL; he handed the main file to the Vice Chairman for the attention of IPC’s PSC and provided each Cllr with a copy of the covering letter. (Noted)
(ii) It was noted that this application was located within Westleigh Parish and not Instow albeit that it could visually impact on Instow. (Noted)
(iii) After a discussion it was RESOLVED to defer this matter to the next meeting so as to give IPC’s PSC and Cllrs more time to consider the implications.
(Action: IPC’s PSC/Cllrs)

2103/13 ANY MATTER RAISED AT THE DISCRETION OF THE CHAIRMAN
Pothole – Anstey Way: -
Cllr Johns reported this large pothole that was in the vicinity of the entrance to All Saints Chapel; IPC RESOLVED to advise DCC. (Action: The Clerk)


There being no other business the meeting was closed.