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MINUTES OF THE  APRIL 2011 MEETING OF INSTOW PARISH COUNCIL


HELD AT INSTOW PARISH HALL ON
THURSDAY 21st APRIL 2011 AT 7.45 PM

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


Present: - Councillors P Cook, N Crombie, C Harper, M Green (Vice Chairman), G May, B Thomas, S White (Chairman) and Mr R Jacob (Parish Clerk).

In Attendance: Cllrs R Cann (DCC), B Moores (NDC) and 5 parishioners.

2104/1 PRAYER
The Clerk led the Council in prayer.

2104/2 APOLOGIES
Cllrs Mrs T Dipper, A Johns, PC Hodgson and PCSO Meaker.

2104/3 COUNCILLOR DECLARATION OF INTEREST
There were no matters of interest declared by Councillors. (Noted)

2104/4 POLICE REPORT
In the absence of the police the Clerk read from a report that had been provided; he said there had been no crimes reported in the parish since the last meeting although there had been 3 incident logs created for “Anti Social Behaviour”, “Public Safety” (suspicious circumstances) and “Public Safety” (concern). (Noted)

2104/5 PARISHIONERS
a) Quay Car Park: -
A parishioner enquired whether the garages at this location were included as part of the NDC “deal” – see item 2104/9 (b). The Clerk said that the freehold transfer of the car park would not include these garages at the request of IPC. (Noted)
b) Devolvement of Power – Coalition Government: -
A parishioner enquired whether there had been any devolvement of power to parish councils by the current government. The Clerk replied in the negative but did add that as a Quality Parish Council IPC would expect to have greater responsibility as a consequence of such status and that this had had an effect at local level. (Noted)

2104/6 REPORT OF COUNTY COUNCILLOR R CANN
(a) Instow – Residents Parking Survey: -
Cllr Cann outlined the analysis of the responses received from parishioners to date adding that discussions regarding recommendations for change were currently at a very early stage but if subsequent recommendations did not receive the full support of the local community they would not be implemented. (Noted)
(b) Highways Maintenance: -
(i) Cllr Cann said it had been decided that Instow would now be managed from Barnstaple (and not Bideford) and that he would be meeting with the “new” Highways Manager the following week. He added that an additional £9M funding had been awarded to DCC from government and that he would be bidding for resurfacing work to be undertaken on Instow seafront. (Noted)
(ii) At the suggestion of the Clerk it was RESOLVED to send a suitable missive to the Local Highways Supt, Julian Roskilly, to thank him for his hard work and commitment in and around Instow. (Action: The Clerk)
(c) Grass Cutting: -
(i) Cllr Cann said he had been advised that Instow’s grass cutting funding would be increased to allow 4 cuts per year (£2,000) and that this was precisely what he had been pressing for. The Chairman thanked Cllr Cann for his perseverance – see item 2104/11 (5) (d). (Noted)


(d) All Saints Chapel: -
Cllr Cann said he had received a request to provide a £2.5k grant for this project and subject to approval of a completed application form would agree the request. He added he had previously provided a grant of £3.5k for this excellent project for community use. (Noted)
(e) Instow Ferry: -
Cllr Cann said he had had a meeting with the Ferry Group a few weeks ago and had indicated that subject to a business plan that met DCC requirements he was prepared to provide a grant. (Noted)
(f) County Cllr Locality Budget (CCLB) and Investing in Devon Fund IIDF): -
Cllr Cann said it had now been formally agreed to increase the CCLB from £10k to £15k and also a sum of £25k for a capital project from the IIDF (Exeter Airport money). He said DCC was keen to promote the Cllr role working with the community and parish councils. (Noted)
(g) Westleigh Junction Scheme: -
Cllr Cann said that as a result of objections from the Torridge HATOC the scheme had been delayed as their objections had to be considered by cabinet. The North Devon HATOC had unanimously supported the scheme following a detailed presentation on the 22nd March. (Noted)
(h) Rural Broadband Campaign: -
Cllr Cann said DCC had joined forces with Somerset CC to make a substantial bid to win government funding for super fast broadband for the two counties – also see item 2104/10 (i) (c) below. (Noted)

2104/7 REPORT OF DISTRICT COUNCILLOR B MOORES
Cllr Moores said that in view of the impending local elections he had nothing to report other than to say he had thoroughly enjoyed his 4 year stint as Instow’s District Cllr, working together with and for the public, and that he hoped to continue. (Noted)

2104/8 MINUTES
It was RESOLVED that the March 2011 minutes of Instow Parish Council be approved and signed. (Noted)

2104/9 MATTERS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES
a) Item 2103/6 and 2103/9 (a) – Instow: Residents Parking Survey: -
(i) The Clerk reported that IPC’s Traffic Management Sub Group had met with Cllr Cann and James Anstee (DCC Highways) on Friday 1st April where options were discussed as a result of the survey responses and its subsequent analysis. (Noted)
(ii) Cllr Cann (DCC) then summarised the outcome of the meeting i.e. discussion regarding recommendations for change are currently at a very early stage but if subsequent recommendations do not receive the full support of the local community they will not be implemented. (Action: Cllr Cann)
b) Item 2103/9 (b) – Management of Quay Car Park/Refurbishment of Toilets: -
(i) The Clerk reported that IPC’s Car Park Sub Committee had met on Friday 25th March to discuss pertinent questions to raise with NDC prior to considering agreeing to the car park transfer; he said this list had subsequently been circulated (email of 27.3.11 refers) to all members of Council for perusal. (Noted)
(ii) The Clerk reported that the finally agreed list (following consultation as at (i) above) had been forwarded (1.4.11) to NDC’s Chief Executive and that this was subsequently acknowledged by him (4.4.11) and passed on to an appropriate NDC Officer who had advised the Clerk that it would be hoped to get the answers to IPC by Easter. This he said had not materialised for one reason or another. (Noted)
(iii) The Clerk reminded Cllrs he had provided them with a copy of the finally agreed list of pertinent questions with their agenda papers (14.4.11); IPC RESOLVED, after a discussion, there were no additional matters to raise. (Noted)
c) Item 2103/9 (c) - Village Gateway Initiative: -
The Clerk reported that the remainder (£788) of the agreed grant (£1588) had now been paid to IPC by DCC although unfortunately this transaction had taken place by BACS in April 2011 and would not, therefore, show up in the accounts for 2010/11. (Noted)

d) Item 2103/9 (e) – Revised Bathing Water Directives: -
(i) The Clerk referred to a series of emails (21.3.11 - 29.3.11) between himself and Cllr Green reference “Bather Statistics – Environment Agency”; the Clerk elaborated on the content. (Noted)
(ii) The Clerk reported receipt of an email (dd 8.4.11) from the EA reference “Bathing Season Checks by Beach Owners/Managers 2011”; he said he had copied it on to Cllr Green. (Noted)
(iii) A copy of said email (as at (ii) above) was circulated to Cllrs at the meeting for discussion. (Noted)
(iv) After a discussion it was RESOLVED that all actions as suggested in the email (as at (ii) above) either had been done by IPC or if not, were beyond its control. (Noted)
(v) The Clerk reported receipt of an email (dd 6.4.11) from Cllr Green together with a recommended letter to be sent to Defra regarding “Bather Statistics - Signs”. (Noted)
(vi) The Clerk said the letter (as at (v) above) was forwarded to Defra (14.4.11) after a discussion with Cllr Green; he elaborated on its content. (Noted)
(vii) The Clerk then reported receipt of an email (dd 18.4.11) from Defra reference letter as at (vi) above; he elaborated on its content. (Noted)
(viii) The Clerk said he had forwarded an email (dd 18.4.11) to Defra requesting clarification of a couple of issues namely, definition of a “bather” and “necessity to ban or warn against bathing/signage”. (Noted)
(vix) The Clerk said that Defra had responded (19.4.11 and 20.4.11) to email (as at (viii) above) and then provided a full transcript of emails (vi) to (vix) to Cllrs at the meeting for their information. (Noted)
(x) Cllr Green and the Clerk then summarised recommended actions they felt would be required throughout the coming summer if IPC was to seek de-designation: -
• Bather Survey
• Placement and wording of signs (warning that it is not recommended to swim off Instow Beach)
• Further Consultation with Environmental and like Groups
NB: - The Clerk said he had asked its TTEF representative to sound out the TTEF at its meeting of 18.4.11 but had received no response to date.
• Advise DCE of IPC’s intentions to de-designate as a matter of courtesy.
(xi) After a discussion IPC RESOLVED to take all actions as listed above (x) and to follow the guidance of Defra as regards statistical data gathering, sign wording and consultation; Cllr Green and the Clerk to come back to the May meeting with specific recommendations particularly as regards bathing statistics.(Action: Cllr Green/Clerk)
(xii) The Clerk then advised IPC he had received an approach from Countryfile (a BBC programme) reference IPC’s intention to de-designate and was asked to appear in a forthcoming programme to discuss it. The Clerk added that following liaison with a number of Cllrs it had been decided not to participate on the grounds it would have been arguably premature from a consultation point of view in that local liaison was at a very early stage. IPC RESOLVED to support this decision. (Noted)
e) Item 2103/9 (f) – Salt/Grit Bins/Community Clusters: -
The Clerk advised IPC that so far three parishioners had put their names forward to lead a “community cluster”; it was RESOLVED to place a reminder article in forthcoming parish news. (Action: The Clerk)
f) Item 2103/10 (i) (h) - Referendum, District and Parish Elections 5th May 2011
(i) The Clerk reported receipt (9.4.11) of a Notice from NDC (Returning Officer) regarding “Election of Parish Cllrs for Instow – 5th May 2011”; he said it stated that those persons appearing on said list (x 7 – Messrs Crombie, Green, Harper, Johns, Moores, Thomas and White) had been duly elected as Cllrs for Instow. (Noted)
(ii) The Clerk reported receipt of a letter (undated – received 9.4.11) regarding “Parish Council Elections 5th May 2011”; he said it stated that Instow parish election was uncontested and that the new Council should meet as soon as possible after 5th May; the Clerk added that in fact its next meeting was scheduled for Thursday 19th May 2011. (Noted)
(iii) The Clerk reported that enclosed with this letter (item (ii) above) were copies of “Declaration of Acceptance of Office” forms for each parish Cllr to sign and by doing so would undertake to observe the “Code of Conduct”. He added that copies would be provided at the next meeting of IPC. (Noted)
(iv) The Clerk said that said letter (as at (ii) above) also set out the necessity for IPC to co-opt two other Cllrs to fill the vacancies and that this needed to be done within 35 days from the 5th May (excluding dies non). (Noted)
(v) The Clerk advised IPC he had placed co-option notices on all parish council notice boards, placed a notice in the forthcoming edition of the parish magazine and had made a request for it to be added to IPC’s website with a response date of 19th May 2011 – he said he had received one application to date. (Noted)
(vi) The Clerk also reported receipt of other notices of relevance to “Election of District Cllr” that he had placed on all parish notice boards on 11th April 2011 and added there were three candidates contesting one seat and said election would take place on 5th May together with a “Referendum on Alterative Voting”. (Noted)
(vii) The Clerk suggested that in view of the fact IPC needed to work expeditiously to fill the two IPC vacancies ought it not to meet asap after the 5th May, that is, either Thursday 12th May or maybe even Thursday 26th May at which time the closing date for co-option (19th May) would have passed. (Noted)
(viii) After a discussion IPC RESOLVED to amend the date of the next meeting from Thursday 19th May to Thursday 26th May 2011 – Clerk to make the necessary arrangements and publicise the details asap for the information of parishioners and other interested parties. (Action: The Clerk)
(ix) The Clerk then suggested that a sub group of Council be formed to deal with interviews of co-option applicants prior to next meeting so that a recommendation might be brought to that meeting (26th May); he suggested it comprise of the Chairman, Vice Chairman, Clerk and one other Cllr. (Noted)
(x) After a discussion IPC RESOLVED to adopt this recommendation and Cllr Thomas was appointed as the Cllr representative.
(Action: IPC’s Co-optee Sub Group)

2104/10 CORRESPONDENCE
(i) Matters for discussion/resolution or noting
a) Anstey Way Lay By – Chippings etc: -
(i) The Clerk advised IPC that as a result of the receipt of an email (dd 6.4.11) from Cllr Thomas as regards complaints of “Anstey Way Lay-by Blocked with Chippings” and “Parking in Old Rectory Close/Outside Venn Close” at the beginning and end of school hours he spoke to the headmaster of Instow School who seemed surprised that the school had been used as the reason for the positioning of the chippings in the lay by (this being the reason given by DCC for placing them there). The Clerk added that the headmaster had agreed to place an entry in a forthcoming school magazine reference congestion in Rectory Lane/Old Rectory Close. (Noted)
(ii) The Clerk reported receipt (19.4.11 – email) of a letter from the headmaster reference “Anstey Way Lay-by – Chippings” & “Dip in Road – Rectory Lane (Church to Atturm)”; the Clerk confirmed he had copied this letter to Cllr Cann and elaborated on its content. (Noted)
(iii) Cllr Cann advised IPC as to the reasoning behind the location of the chippings in the lay by (allegedly at the behest of the school) and the potential length of their stay, that is, possibly until the end of the summer season. (Noted)
(iv) He also agreed that the dip in the highway (Rectory Lane - Church to Atturm) was a long standing matter that had been reported on numerous occasions in the past and that it needed sorting soonest. (Noted)
(iv) After a discussion IPC RESOLVED to have both these matter (i.e. chippings and dip in road) referred to DCC Highways by way of Cllr Cann on the basis there were safety implications involved in each and that action needed to be taken urgently – Clerk to provide Cllr Cann with an email. (Action: The Clerk)
b) All Saints Chapel Community Project (ASCP) – Grant: -
The Clerk reported receipt of an email (dd 22.3.11) advising IPC that DCC Community Buildings had awarded the ASCP the sum of £12,000 and that the organising committee were now urgently discussing going ahead with the build. (Noted)
c) Email (dd 31.3.11) from DCC reference “Core Briefing/Parishes – Superfast Broadband”: -
(i) The Clerk said he had copied this email to Cllrs with their agenda papers (14.4.11) for perusal. (Noted)
(ii) A discussion ensued – see also item 2104/6 (h). (Noted)
d) Letter (dd 1.4.11) from NDC reference “House to House Collection – MedEquip4Kids”: -
(i) The Clerk said this stated that an application had been made for this collection to take place in Instow for the period 1st May 2011 to 31st August 2011. (Noted)
(ii) The Clerk told IPC that he had advised NDC that IPC would have no objection to this “good” cause collection but that it would not be content to support such a long period for the collection albeit this was not a justifiable cause to object; he said he added that it would be hoped that the organiser could advise the parish when it was intended to collect in the village and surrounding areas. (Noted)
(iii) IPC RESOLVED to support the sentiments as expressed by the Clerk as at item (ii) above. (Noted)
e) Letter (dd 4.4.11) and posters from NDC reference District and Parish Elections 5th May 2011: -
(i) The Clerk advised IPC that this provided details of the District (x3) and Parish Council (x7) Candidates with a request the said posters be placed on parish notice boards asap; this had been done. (Noted)
(ii) The Clerk said that IPC should note there would be no parish council election on 5.5.11 but that 2 Cllrs would need to be co-opted at a later date – see item 2104/9 (f) ((iv) – (x)). (Noted)
f) Letter (dd 31.3.11) and attachments from North Devon Biosphere Reserve (NDBR) reference “Biosphere Community Clean-Up”: -
(i) The Clerk said this stated that the NDBR was launching a community clean-up initiative to take place from 13th to 19th June 2011 and sought the support of IPC. (Noted)
(ii) The Clerk said he had copied the letter and attachments to Cllrs with their agenda papers (14.4.11). (Noted)
(iii) After as discussion it was RESOLVED that a copy of the papers would be handed to IIB/Adopt a Beach Group in the event they might wish to participate.
(Action: Cllr Harper)
g) (i) Email (dd 18.4.11) from Cllr Moores (NDC) reference “Complaints from Parishioners – Traders, Marine Parade”: -
(i) The Clerk reported receipt of an email (dd 20.4.11) from John’s of Instow reference “Trading on Instow Seafront”; the Clerk read it to Council. (Noted)
(ii) Cllr Moores then addressed Council. He said he had spoken to a Licensing Officer of NDC and been advised that provided each trader was licenced to sell food by either NDC or TDC no offences were committed other than possible breaches of parking regulations. Cllr Moores agreed to advise NDC’s Parking Enforcement Manager and arrange to have the area checked. (Action: Cllr Moores)
h) IPC’s Draft Annual Report 2010/2011: -
The Clerk provided Cllrs with a copy of the draft IPC Annual Report for 2010/11 with a request that any amendments/alterations or additions were drawn to his attention by 12th May so that a certified and agreed copy could be adopted at the IPC meeting of 26th May and then duly circulated. (Action: IPC Cllrs)


(ii) Taw and Torridge Estuary Forum and associated Matters (Placed in “Briefing Folder” for information of Cllrs)
a) Email (dd 8.4.11) from TTEF reference “Minutes and Agenda for next TTEF Meeting – 17th January 2011 etc”.
b) Email (dd17.4.11) from Secretary of TTEF reference “AONB Report for Meeting of 18th April 2011”.


(iii) Matters to note: (Placed in “Briefing Folder” for information of Cllrs)
a) DALC Matters (Various): - (i) Email (dd 18.3.11) reference “Devon and Exeter NHS Foundation Trust Newsletter”; (ii) Email (dd 18.3.11) reference “Action for Market Towns Awards”; (iii) Email (dd 21.3.11) reference “Preparing for Audit Training – 30th March”; (iv) Email (dd 21.3.11) reference “Next Panel Meeting – QPC”; (v) Email (dd 21.3.11) reference “Tobacco Control Plan Briefing Event Invite”; (vi) Email (dd 21.3.11) reference “LCR Opinion Question”; (vii) Email (dd 24.3.11) reference “DSC e-news”; (viii) Email (dd 28.3.11) reference “Community Council of Devon Members Forum – 4th April”; (ix) Email (dd 1.4.11) reference “Royal Wedding Celebrations”; (x) Email (dd 4.4.11) reference “Devon Community of The Year 2011”; (xi) Email (dd 4.4.11) reference “Superfast Broadband”; (xii) Email (dd 5.4.11) reference “NALC E-Bulletin”; (xiii) Email (dd 11.4.11) reference “DALC Annual Report 2010/11”; (xiv) Email (dd 11.4.11) reference “CCD Meeting Minutes”; (xv) Email (dd 13.4.11) reference “Letter re Election of County DALC Committee 2011-2015”; (xvi) Email (dd 13.4.11) reference “Communities in Action – Conference and Exhibition”; (xvii) Email (dd 14.4.11) reference “DSC Training – April 2011”; (xviii) Email (dd 18.4.11) reference “DALC Office – Easter/Royal Wedding Bank Holidays”; (xvix) Email (dd 20.4.11) reference “Clerk Vacancies” and Various Correspondence (received 21.4.11) reference “Election of DALC County Committee for 2011-2015” and “Poster/Pamphlet reference Devon Community of the Year”.
b) NDDC Members Services Weekly Information Sheet for w/e 21.3.11, 28.3.11, 1.4.11, 11.4.11, 18.4.11 and 25.4.11.
Copied to Cllrs with email addresses
c) Emails (dd 22.3.11, 29.3.11, 5.4.11, 12.4.11 and 19.4.11) and attachment from NDC Housing reference “Devon Home Choice Newsletter”: -
Copies placed at post office by Cllr Johns for the information of parishioners
d) Email (dd 19.3.11) and poster reference “Instow Youth Projects”
e) Copy email (dd 26.3.11) from Cllr Harper to Cllr Cann reference “Pothole – Huish”
f) Email (dd 28.3.11) from PPS Group reference “Fullabrook Community Newsletter
g) Email (dd 26.3.11) from Oilbuying reference “Community Project”: -
Passed to Chairman of IIB for his information and attention if deemed fit to do so.
h) Email (dd 1.4.11) from Devon and Cornwall Police Authority reference “Newsletter – Authority Matters”: -
Copy placed at post office and parish hall.
i) Email (dd 1.4.11) and proforma from NDC reference “Parish Council Survey of Rural Facilities”: -
Proforma completed by Cllr Harper and returned to NDC (dd 1.4.11); NDC acknowledged receipt (5.4.11) and expressed thanks.
j) Telephone call (5.4.11) from a parishioner reference “Bonfire”: -
Suitable advice provided.
k) Agenda for NDC Meeting of Wednesday 13th April 20911 at 7pm.
l) Email (dd 5.4.11) from a parishioner reference “James May – Tarka Trail – Track Laying”: -
Parishioner thanked for information albeit IPC already aware.
m) Email (dd 10.4.11) from a parishioner reference “Potholes and Defective Sign/Atturm”: -
Forwarded to Cllr Cann to note and for attention
n) Devon In Touch Monthly News Round-Up (April 2011): -
Copy to post office for information of parishioners
o) Email (dd 11.4.11) from Chairman of IIB reference “Job Done – Trimming of Bird Cherry near Atturm”
p) Email (dd 13.4.11) reference “Instow Parish Hall – Hiring Conditions”: -
Enquirer provided with contact details of IPH.
q) Senior Council for Devon – Everyone’s Tomorrow Magazine (Issue No 10 – April 2011)
r) Copy email (dd 13.4.11) from a parishioner to Cllr Moores (NDC) reference “Oil Jetty – Scrap Metal Dump”: -
Noted by IPC; being dealt with by Cllr Moores.
s) Email (dd 15.4.11) from DCC reference “Minerals Core Strategy”: -
Reminds IPC it has not responded to this consultation that ends 29.4.11.
Note: - IPC resolved to take no further action on this matter at its meeting of 17.3.11.
t) Junk Mail – Issue 6

u) Telephone call (15.4.11) from a parishioner regarding “Street Lights – Switched Off at Night” : -
Parishioner advised that this is a DCC cost saving measure; given guidance on crime prevention measures.
v) (i) Email (dd 15.4.11) from Clerk to Cllr Moores (NDC) reference “Decrepit Waste Bins – Marine Parade”: -
Acknowledged and receiving attention by Cllr Moores (email dd 16.4.11 refers)
(ii) Email (dd 20.4.11) from Cllr Moores to Clerk reference “Rubbish Bins – Marine Parade, Instow”.
Acknowledged by the Clerk
w) Letter (undated – received 19.4.11) from Western Power Distribution reference “Invitation to Stakeholders Workshop on Future Investment Plans”.

2104/11 FINANCE
1. INCOME: -
DCC Village Gateway Grant (Remainder) £788.00+
Car Park Season Ticket No 1 £ 90.00
Lloyds TSB Interest Business a/c – Jan 2011 £ 84
Ditto Ditto – Feb 2011 £ 42
Ditto Ditto – Mar 2011 £ 37
TOTAL : - £879.63
Key: -
+ Paid by BACS 11.4.11.
2 (a) EXPENDITURE: -
Mr M Harris Village Handyman £ 144.00
Mr M Harris Grass Cut (No 1) £ 300.00
Mr P Cook Beach Cleaning £ 450.00
EDF Energy Car Park Machine £ 59.77
TTEF Subscription 2011/12 £ 20.00
SW Signs Instow Logo Stickers (V G Project) £ 57.60#
DALC Subscription 2011/12 £ 162.87+
HMR and C Employers NIC 2010/11 (per R Jacob) £ 145.92~
TOTAL: - £1,340.16
Key: -
# Village Gateway Project - £9.60 VAT recoverable
+ £20.87 VAT recoverable (DALC Service Charge)
~See item 5 (k) m(ii).
3. BANK – STATEMENT OF ACCOUNTS: -
Lloyds Bank Treasurers a/c no. 02348842 as @ 24.3.11 (Statement) = £ 114.20*
Lloyds Bank Business a/c no. 02350065 as @ 18.3.11 (Statement) = £7,114.25+
Key: -
* According to Clerk’s records this is £1.40 (1 cheque to the value of £112.80 uncashed)
+ Accords to Clerk’s records NB: - IPC to note, however, that £10,000 was invested (7.1.11) to a higher interest account within Lloyds TSB – see IPC November 2010
4. RESOLUTION REQUIRED: -
(b) IPC RESOLVED to transfer £1,340.00 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 - March 2011: -
The Clerk said this confirmed that IPC owed nothing; account in balance. (Noted)
(b) Village Gateway – Recovery of Costs: -
See matters arising and above – item 1. (Noted)
(c) Beach Cleaner’s Public Liability Insurance (PLI) 2011/12: -
The Clerk advised IPC he had received a copy that had been filed for reference purposes. (Noted)
(d) Grass Cutting 2011/12: -
(i) The Clerk advised IPC that following the receipt of two letters (both dd 16.3.11) from DCC he was pleased to report that IPC’s grass cutting/verge maintenance grant for the year 2011/12 would now be £2,000; he said one letter had said it would be £876 and the other £2,000. The Clerk added that the latter sum had been confirmed as the correct figure by an email (also dd 16.3.11); he said he would collected said sum by invoice asap. (Noted)
(ii) IPC RESOLVED to thank Cllr Cann (DCC) for all his hard work “behind the scenes” and that had brought about this excellent conclusion. (Action: The Clerk)
(e) Tractor Tax Disc Application – From 1st April 2011: -
The Clerk reported receipt of the tax disc that had been handed to Cllr Cook. (Noted)
(f) “Marine Car Park, Instow – Summer Let”: -
(i) The Clerk referred to an email (dd 18.4.11) from NDC reference “Marine Car Park, Instow – Summer Let Licence”; he said it stated that it would cost IPC £2,100 inclusive (Note: - £2049 in 2010). (Noted)
(ii) The Clerk reported receipt (20/4/11) of a letter (dd 18.4.11) from NDC confirming details as at (i) above and seeking acceptance or otherwise of the offer. (Noted)
(iii) The Clerk reported to IPC that he had accepted and returned said letter (20.4.11) – IPC RESOLVED to support this decision. (Noted)
(iv) The Clerk advised IPC that the annual service for the car park machine had been provisionally arranged for Wednesday 27th April 2011. (Noted)
(g) Internal Audit – January to March 2011: -
Cllr Crombie confirmed he had carried out this internal audit (8.4.10) and found all to be in order. (Noted)
(h) Bank Reconciliation – 1st January 2011 to 31st March 2011: -
The Clerk referred to a copy of this paper that had been circulated to Cllrs at the meeting; he added that the figures had been checked by Cllr Crombie (8.4.10); Cllr Crombie confirmed this to be the case. (Noted)
(i) Budget (Income/Expenditure) 2010/2011 against Actual (Income/Expenditure) 2010/2011: -
(i) The Clerk provided Councillors with a copy for discussion – he said it had been checked with the financial records by Cllr Crombie (8.4.11) and found to be in order; Cllr Crombie confirmed this to be the case. (Noted)
(ii) A discussion ensued. (Noted)
(j) Draft Annual Accounts 2010/2011: -
The Clerk provided Councillors with a copy for perusal/discussion at the meeting. He said it had been checked by Cllr Crombie (8.4.11) with the financial records and found to be in order; Cllr Crombie confirmed this to be the case. (Noted)
(ii) A discussion ensued. (Noted)
(k) Inland Revenue – End of Year (2010/2011) Returns (P35 and P14s’): -
(i) The Clerk confirmed this was completed on 7.4.11 (with the assistance of IPC’s IA) when all relevant information was forwarded to HMR and C by way of the internet; he added that a copy had been filed for information. (Noted)
(ii) The Clerk advised IPC that as a result of this exercise it had been established that IPC owed HMR and C £145.92 Employers NIC - see item 2 above. (Noted)
(l) HM Customs and Excise - Claim for Refund by Local Authorities 2010/11: -
The Clerk advised IPC he had made a claim (sent 6.4.11) to HM R and C in the sum of £399.28. (Noted)
(m) Parish Seats/Bus Shelter Inspections Spring 2011: -
(i) The Clerk advised IPC that this had been carried out by Cllr Crombie (IPC’s H and S Cllr), the Handyperson and himself on 15.4.11; a report of “findings” was tabled at the meeting for discussion. (Noted)
(ii) It was noted there were a number of minor maintenance issues that were to be handled by the parish handyperson asap. (Noted)
(n) Letter (dd 1.4.11) from Audit Commission (AC) together with Annual Return for the Year ended 31st March 2011 and associated papers: -
(i) The Clerk confirmed he had advised (7.4.11) Mrs Mary Jane Scott (IPC’s IA) and discussed the local audit process; he said a copy of said letter/form had been forwarded to her for her information. (Noted)
(ii) The Clerk advised IPC that the appropriate audit paperwork needed to be completed and returned to the AC by the 20th June 2011 and notice to electors published on 6th May 2011 (Inspection period 20th May to 16th June 2011). (Noted)
(iii) The Clerk confirmed he would be taking all necessary paperwork to IPC’s IA w/commencing 25.4.11. (Action: The Clerk)

(o) Letter (dd 5.4.11) from AON reference “Local Insurance Renewal 2011/12: -
The Clerk reported that all relevant papers had been copied and forwarded to Cllrs Crombie and Johns as per IPC’s policy; he added that Cllrs Crombie/Johns and he would meet up asap and come back to IPC Meeting in May with recommendations. (Noted)
(p) Email (dd 4.4.11) from DALC reference “Consultation – Future of Local Public Audits”: -
(i) The Clerk reported that this email and website link had been copied on to Cllrs (and IPC’s IA) for their perusal and possible comments. (Noted)
(ii) After a discussion it was RESOLVED that this matter would be deferred to the next meeting in order that Cllr Green might read it in further detail and report back to Council. (Action: Cllr Green)
(p) Letter (dd 13.4.11) from NDC reference “Parish Council Clerks PAYE Implementation”: -
The Clerk said this stated that NDC was offering a payroll administration service for which it would charge a fee to cover specific fixed and operating costs; the Clerk added that he did not feel this service was required by IPC. IPC RESOLVED to support this recommendation. (Noted)
(q) Email (dd 19.4.11) from Charity Commissioner reference “Charity Commission News (Spring 2011 Edition): Instow Recreation Ground (IRG)”: -
The Clerk said he had copied this on to IPC’s cheque signatories (and trustees of IRG) and IPC’s Internal Auditor for their information and had filed a copy for future reference. (Noted)

2104/12 PLANNING
a) 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 that this lengthy consultation document had been provided to them prior to the last meeting at which a resolution had been passed to defer the matter for discussion at this meeting; he added that any response needed to be with NDC/TDC by 27th April 2011. (Noted)
(ii) After a discussion IPC RESOLVED to take no further action. (Noted)
b) Copy correspondence (Pre-Screening Planning Pack) from North Devon Energy Limited to NDC Planning reference “Proposed Solar Farm on Land at Huish Fields, near Instow –
(i) The Clerk reminded Cllrs that this matter had briefly been discussed at the last meeting at which a resolution had been passed to defer the matter for discussion at this
meeting. He reminded Cllrs they had been provided with a copy of the covering letter
and that IPC’s PSC had been given the full file for their deliberation.
(ii) After a discussion IPC RESOLVED to defer the matter for a further month so that
its PSC could consider it in more detail. (Action: IPC’s PSC)
c) Copy letter (dd 25.3.11) from NDC to 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 said this stated that NDC Planning had resolved to recommend APPROVAL of the above proposal subject to conditions as listed. (Noted)
(ii) The Clerk reported receipt of a letter (dd 30.3.11) from DCC stating that DCC has GRANTED conditional planning permission for this application with conditions as listed. (Noted)
d) Extensions and alterations to dwellings and erection of replacement garage at Garden House, New Road, Instow (Reference No 52001): -
(i) The Clerk reported receipt (dd 7.4.11) of this application and of having passed it immediately to the Chairman for the attention of IPC’s PSC; for response by 26.4.11 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 REFUSAL of the above application for reasons as below: -
• Loss of privacy by neighbouring property
• Extensions/alterations will be intrusive on neighbouring property
• An over-intensification of the site
IPC was also of the strong belief that it would be necessary to remove some trees from within the curtilage of the property if the extension was to be permitted. Councillors noted, however, that in Section 7 of the application form it had been said this would not be the case. (Action: The Clerk)
e) Alterations and renovations to include formation of balcony and insertion of dormer window (amended design to that approved by planning permission 51347) at Corona, The Quay, Instow (Reference No 52075): -
(i) The Clerk reported receipt (dd 16.4.11) of this application and of having passed it immediately to the Chairman for the attention of IPC’s PSC; for response by 6.5.11 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, IPC RESOLVED to recommend APPROVAL of this application. (Action: The Clerk)
f) Listed building application for insertion of 3 replacement softwood double glazed box sash windows together with internal alterations at Sea View Cottage, Marine Parade, Instow (Reference No 51912): -
(i) The Clerk reported receipt (dd 21.4.11) of this application; he said any response was required by 10.5.11 or an extension would need 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, IPC RESOLVED to recommend APPROVAL of this application. (Action: The Clerk)
g) Email (dd 21.4.11) from NDC Planning reference “Combe Martin Conservation Area Management Plan”: -
(i) The Clerk said this stated that this would be in the public domain for the period 21.4.11 to 3.6.11 and that further information can be found vide: -
ttp://northdevon-consult.limehouse.co.uk/portal/conservation_area_character_appraisals/combe_martin_conser vation_area/combe_martin_conservation_area_management_plan_-_draft (Noted)

2104/13 ANY MATTER RAISED AT THE DISCRETION OF THE CHAIRMAN
a) Overgrown Hedgerow Rectory Lane – Danger to Motorists/Pedestrians: -
Cllr Thomas said he had received complaints about this hedge (just above the junction with Old Rectory Close) and which was now causing a danger to motorists/pedestrians travelling up and down the hill because it had the effect of narrowing the carriageway at said location. IPC RESOLVED to report the matter to DCC Highways – Cllr Cann to be advised. (Action: The Clerk)
b) Outgoing IPC Councillors: -
The Chairman complimented the invaluable contribution that Cllrs Peter Cook, Geoff May and Mrs Tracy Dipper had made to IPC during their tenure(s) of Office. He thanked them for their commitment and enthusiasm and wished them well. The Clerk said he wished to be associated with these remarks. (Noted)


There being no other business the meeting was closed.