Minutes of the Planning Committee 11th November 2015

,

Wheatley Parish Council
MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE PLANNING COMMITTEE OF THE COUNCIL HELD IN THE PARISH OFFICE ON WEDNESDAY 11th NOVEMBER 2015

PRESENT: Cllrs R Bell (Chairman), P Bignell, J Carr, S Coleridge (Vice-Chairman), I Roberts, G Stephens, A Walkey
OFFICER: The Assistant Clerk
ALSO PRESENT: Cllr P Hood as the applicant for 10 Leyshon Rd only

62. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE – NONE

63. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST – NONE

64. MINUTES OF THE PREVIOUS MEETING HELD ON 14th OCTOBER 2015 which had been circulated previously were signed as a correct and accurate record.

65. UPDATE ON MEETING HELD ON 14th OCTOBER 2015
1 Coopers Close – Cllr Newman will be writing to the Planning Officer with an update.

66. AMENDMENTS TO PREVIOUS APPLICATIONS – NONE

67. NEW PLANNING APPLICATIONS

i) P15/S3352/FUL 40 Church Road Wheatley OX33 1NB Change of use – addition of a flat and reduction in size of commercial unit. The members noted comments from neighbours at 36 and 42 Church Road. Recommend Refusal. Reasons: There is concern about the location of two boiler flues directly into the garden belonging to 36 Church Road, in terms of poor design and loss of amenity use of the garden due to the noise and fumes emitted by the two fan driven flues.

ii) P15/S3355/FUL Former McKenna Plant Hire Site London Road Wheatley OX33 1LH
Use of site/building(s) as a Builders’ Merchants including external materials/goods storage and parking. The members noted comments made on the SODC website from the Highways Agency and that there has been no response from Asda. No Strong Views.

iii) P15/S3452/HH 10 Leyshon Road Wheatley OX33 1XF Part two storey/ part single storey rear extension. Two proposed roof lights to front elevation and associated internal alterations. Recommend Approval.

iv) P15/S3499/HH and P15/S3500/LB The Old Parsonage 25 High Street Wheatley OX33 1XX Proposed first floor extension above existing rear single storey with internal and externals alterations. Insertion of conservation roof light to existing rear projecting gable, conversion and alteration of garage outbuilding into ancillary office/studio accommodation. Recommend Approval.

68. PLANNING APPEAL

i) APP/Q3115/W/15/3131685 (P15/S0887/FUL) 1 Kellys Road Wheatley OX33 1NT
Demolition of existing single storey dwelling and garage. Erection of a terrace of three dwellings. Comments must be submitted to the Planning Inspectorate by 27th November.
Cllr Bell will write on behalf of the Planning Committee. The Assistant Clerk will write to the close neighbours who previously made comments on the SODC website to remind them that if they wish to submit further comments to do so by the 27th.

69. REPORT ON THE PLANNING TRAINING 3RD NOVEMBER
Cllrs Carr and Walkey reported that the training had been very informative. Copies of the presentation handout were distributed to the other members for reference.

70. PLANNING DECISIONS AND NOTIFICATIONS – NOTED

i) P15/S2877/HH 19 Old Road Wheatley OX33 1NU. Demolition of the existing Sun room with a new extension to the Kitchen and Living Room. Replacement of the dormer windows with a full width Dormer in Brick. Recommend Approval GRANTED 15.10.15

ii) P15/S2765/FUL 120 London Road Wheatley OX33 1YH. Extension of dwelling house and conversion into 3 flats; provision of bin and bike storage; realigned access and four parking spaces. No Strong Views GRANTED 12.10.15

iii) P15/S3104/HH 35 Crown Road Wheatley OX33 1UJ. Two storey rear extension to form kitchen/family room on the ground floor and bedroom with en-suite to the first floor. No strong views WITHDRAWN 22.10.15

iv) P15/S1546/FUL 1 Coopers Close Littleworth OX33 1UA Variation of condition 1 (drawing numbers) of planning permission P10/W1824/RM. Reserved Matters regarding P10/W0461/O – Layout, scale, appearance, the means of access, vehicle and cycle parking, sustainable forms of construction and the landscaping of the site. (As amended by amended plan No.15.969/01B received on 11 August 2015) Recommend Refusal WITHDRAWN 27.10.15

v) P15/S3048/HH 95 High Street Wheatley OX33 1XP. Erection of bike store and mezzanine to provide shed storage. Recommend Approval GRANTED 29.10.15

71. CORRESPONDENCE
Planning committee notification letter received from SODC Planning re land north of London Road. The committee will consider the application on 18th November.

72. DATE OF NEXT MEETING – WEDNESDAY 9TH DECEMBER 2015 – NOTED

73. ITEMS FOR INFORMATION
P15/S2121/FUL Amendment No.1 Development of Land North of London Road. The Parish Council recommended approval on 2nd November 2015. Cllr Bell will attend on the 18th November on behalf of the Parish Council.
The Meeting closed 8.45 pm

/by

Minutes of the Finance & General Purposes Committee 19th October 2015

,

Wheatley Parish Council

DRAFT – SUBJECT TO CONFIRMATION

MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE FINANCE & GENERAL PURPOSES COMMITTEE OF THE COUNCIL HELD ON MONDAY 19th OCTOBER 2015 IN THE MERRY BELLS COFFEE ROOM AT 7.30PM
PRESENT: Councillors P Gregory (Chairman), J Carr, A Davies, T Davies, P Hood, R J Reilly, P Willmott, G Stephens and T Newman (until 8.20pm)

OFFICER: THE CLERK: Gareth Morris

Also present: Cllr A Walkey and one member of the public

54. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE had been received from Cllr Birks

55. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST – none

56. MINUTES OF THE PREVIOUS MEETING HELD 21st SEPTEMBER 2015 which had been circulated previously were signed as a correct and accurate record

57. UPDATE ON ITEMS FROM THE MINUTES 21st SEPTEMBER 2015
i) Minute 38 – Vehicle Activated Signs – Cllr Gregory and the Clerk had met with a representative of MDMessagemaker who would inspect the sites and give a quote for the 4 signs and installation costs. The clerk would contact OCC Highways to find out their requirements.
ii) Minute 45 – Safety Inspection of Playgrounds. – work was continuing on implementing the recommendations from the Playground Inspector. The Clerk and Cllrs Gregory and Hood and visited Church Road recreation ground and were all perplexed as to what the Inspector was concerned about entrapment at the gates. One of the gates had been in use for decades and the Clerk knew of no incidents. The clerk would go back to the Inspector and ask for clarification.
iii) Minute 53 – Tender for tree work within the village – the work should start in November
iv) Minute 46(v) – Land Registry details – some addresses for the Parish Council were incorrect and would have to be changed. Also some of parcels of land were not registered at the Land Registry. This would have to done.

58. TO BEGIN THE BUDGET PROCESS FOR THE FINANCIAL YEAR 2016-2017
A Draft (1) Revised Budget 2015-2016 & Draft (1) Budget 2016-2017 had been circulated with the Agenda
The clerk explained that the Parish Council agrees its budget and precept at the January council meeting ready for submission to SODC
The clerk explained that he had added £1,000 for this year for expenditure on the Neighbourhood Plan. Councillors could suggest areas for expenditure (e.g. for the development of Farm Close Road recreation ground).or changes in the amounts proposed. It was pointed out that running down reserves each year was not desirable. Cllrs Newman and T Davies offered their assistance. The clerk agreed to allow for a ‘comments’ column on the budget papers and to circulate the budget summary that was agreed at the January 2014 meeting.
As far as expenditure/income for the neighbourhood plan, it was felt that this would have a neutral effect on the overall budget i.e. the same amount for income and for expenditure.

59. TO CONSIDER THE USE OF DOUBLE DECKER BUSES FOR SCHOOL TRANSPORT THROUGH THE VILLAGE – Cllr Gregory’s paper that expressed his concern that Walters Coaches had used double-decker buses going through the village for their school transport .had been circulated with the Agenda. These buses were not suited to the roads (Ladder Hill/Station Road/High Street/the Sun corner) and the speed through the village was also a cause for concern.
Agreed – Cllr Newman would take the concerns back to Wheatley Park School and the clerk to write to the OCC Schools Transport section and ask for a risk assessment on the use of double-deckers through Wheatley
8.20pm Cllr Newman left the meeting

60. TO CONSIDER THE CONDITION OF THE TREES WITHIN THE VILLAGE AND WHAT ACTIONS ARE NECESSARY
The Clerk had written to OCC Highways re overhangs at Howe Close/Ladder Hill junction, Crown Road to Orchard Close, Holloway Road and Crown Square

Trees along the footpath from Farm Close Road to Farm Close Lane. The clerk had received a reply from Shortlift Ltd who owns the land to the north who asked for local contractors who could deal with the trees. The householder to the south had admitted to ownership of those trees. But said he could not afford to deal with them.
It was suggested that the local contractor who dealt with trees on the north might be able to do something to those on the south

61. TO CONSIDER MATTERS RELATING TO THE LITTLEWORTH ALLOTMENTS
Cllr Gregory’s report on his inspection on the condition of the allotments had been circulated with the Agenda
Agreed to carry out Cllr Gregory’s recommendations and that the land by signed as Parish Council owned land. This should be considered for all the Council’s land.

62. TO CONSIDER THE REPORTS ON THE PARISH COUNCILLORS’ WALKS AROUND THE VILLAGE
Ambrose ditch – the clerk had asked Green Scythe to cut down and remove the cuttings. It would cost £875. It was Agreed that the clerk ask Green Scythe to do regular maintenance to that path and bank.
Cllr T Davies reported that the Flood group was thinking of calling a meeting of those residents who had been affected by flooding in the past to point out what the Parish Council had done in the past to try and alleviate the problem and that volunteers could be called on to clear the ditch etc.

Cherry tree replacement on Crown Road/Roman Rd junction. The clerk had received the OCC conditions that had to be adhered to for planting. The clerk was asked to find out. If these conditions applied to replacement planting.

63. CLERK UPDATE
i) Closure of Wheatley Branch, Barclays – the clerk reported that as the Post Office would not accept work from business that bank with Barclays it means that all monies that the council needs to pay in would have to be taken to Barclays branches in Thame/Cowley/Headington. Councillors suggested that they could help with this.

64. GRANTS, LICENCES AND SUBSCRIPTIONS
i) South and Vale Carers – 2014-216 5 carers and their families supported £200 in £2014-15. £200 AGREED
ii) Sue Ryder Nettlebed Hospice – £50 in 2014/15 – deferred until more information received
iii) Royal British Legion – wreath – £40 – AGREED
iv) Oxfordshire playing Fields Association (OPFA) 2015 Subscription – £50.00 AGREED
v) Oxfordshire Association for the Blind- £250 in 2014/15 -19 Wheatley residents helped £250 AGREED

65 FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT
a) Budget to the end of September 2015 was noted
A completed copy of reconciled bank statement was signed by Chairman & RFO

b) Balances
After the cheques below have been paid the balances on the council’s accounts as at 19th October 2015 will be as follows:
Community £1,307.17
Tracker £138,428.32
Treasury £60,774.98

66. SCHEDULE OF PAYMENTS TO BE AUTHORISED

Cheque no. Payee Payment details Amount
Cheques paid
106265-106270 GM/SW/JF/OCC/AR/HMR&C Sept sal/wages/NIC/Pension/exps 4333.58
Total £4,333.58
Cheques to Pay
106271 Sage UK Ltd Invoices/credit notes 102.96
106272 The Merry Bells Office rental 25.09.15-24.12.15 1,133.02
106273 Lyreco Envelopes & box files 50.58
106274 Mainstream Digital Calls,phone book entry, line rental 75.66
106275 Parchments Oct/Nov Newsletter 1,871.30
106276 Annette Richards Oct/Nov Newsletter 680.00
106277 Arbor Tree Specialists Trim hedge in Memorial Gardens 150.00
106278 Grzegorz Zasuwa Office window cleaning 5.00
105279 Green Scythe Recs cutting August 233.17
106281 Merry Bells Gas recharge April-Sept 35.15
106282 Southern Electric Electricity July – October 76.11
106280 Berinsfield Community Business Verges – Sept cut 608.33
106283 Ordnance survey Map Copying Licence 54.75
GM/SW/JF/AR/OCC/HMR&C Oct sal/wages/NIC/Pension/exps 4,500.00
Total £9,621.03
INCOME RECEIVED SINCE LAST MEETING

Income details Amount
Treasury Bill Interest 38.20
Tracker Account Interest 15.58
Photocopying 13.20
Newsletter Advertising 230.00
Newsletter subscription 37.50
Allotments 60.00
Wheatley Plying Field Trust – repayment 500.00

Total £894.48

67. PUBLICATIONS & CORRESPONDENCE RECEIVED AND NOTED
i) The Haseleys – October 2015*
ii) Little Milton Newsletters –October 2015*
iii) Great Milton Bulletin – August 2015*
iv) URC Newsletter – October 2015*
v) Tiddington with Albury and Milton Common Newsletter Oct/Nov 2015
vi) TVP Neighbourhood Team October newsletter
vii) Oxford Brookes – Lectures, Exhibitions, Debates – What’s on at Brookes 2015/16
viii) International Tree Foundation –‘trees’ – Journal of ITF –Oct 2015*
ix) Local Council Review – Autumn 2015*
x) Holton, Waterperry & Waterstock News- October 2105

* On display in Parish Office

68. DATE OF NEXT MEETING – 16th November 2015 – NOTED

69. ITEMS FOR INFORMATION

• Cllr Davies – as Green Belt review included the primary school playing fields he felt that it would seem unlikely that the County Council would want to grant Village Green Status

Meeting closed at 8.58pm

/by

Draft Minutes of the Planning Committee 14th October 2015

,

Wheatley Parish Council

DRAFT – SUBJECT TO CONFIRMATION
MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE PLANNING COMMITTEE OF THE COUNCIL HELD IN THE PARISH OFFICE ON WEDNESDAY 14th OCTOBER 2015

PRESENT: Cllrs R Bell (Chairman), J Carr, S Coleridge (Vice-Chairman), G Stephens, A Walkey
OFFICER: The Assistant Clerk
ALSO PRESENT: District Cllr T Newman (reporting about 1 Coopers Close only), 3 members of the public (applicant M Jones from 35 Crown Rd, R Chadbone and P Ellis from 33 Crown Rd).

52. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE – Cllr P Bignell (holiday).

53. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST – NONE

54. MINUTES OF THE PREVIOUS MEETING HELD ON 9th SEPTEMBER 2015 which had been circulated previously were signed as a correct and accurate record.

55. UPDATE ON MEETING HELD ON 9th SEPTEMBER 2015

P15/S1546/FUL 1 Coopers Close:
Cllr Newman reported that there has been clearance of the ground using excavators which the SODC Planning Officer had been unaware of. The Planning Officer was concerned that this may be classed as ‘Engineering Works’ which requires planning permission. There is also concern about the impact of the clearance on the insect food source for bats in the area. The Planning Officer will carry out a site visit.
Highways England Historical Railway Estate have contacted SODC Planning with concerns about access to the bridge and are investigating the matter further.
The application will be going to the SODC Planning Committee on 21st October. Cllr Bell will attend. (Notified next day that it has been withdrawn from SODC on 21st October).

56. AMENDMENTS TO PREVIOUS APPLICATIONS
i) P15/S2877/HH 19 Old Road Wheatley OX33 1NU. Amendment No.1 – Demolition of the existing Sun room with a new extension to the Kitchen and Living Room. Replacement of the dormer windows with a full width Dormer in Brick. (As amended by drawings 012-(PL) 005 Rev 01, 012-(PL) 006 Rev 01, 012-(PL) 007 Rev 02 altering the material for the walls of the extension). Recommend Approval.

57. NEW PLANNING APPLICATIONS
i) P15/S3048/HH 95 High Street Wheatley OX33 1XP. Erection of bike store and mezzanine to provide shed storage. Recommend Approval.

ii) P15/S3104/HH 35 Crown Road Wheatley OX33 1UJ. Two storey rear extension to form kitchen/family room on the ground floor and bedroom with en-suite to the first floor.
The members noted the concerns expressed by the residents of 33 Crown Road, regarding their belief that there will be a reduction in natural light to the velux windows in their garden room, however, after discussion the members decided that there were not enough grounds to recommend refusal. No Strong views.

iii) P15/S3193/HH 60 Crown Road Wheatley OX33 1UL. Single storey side extension. Recommend Approval.

58. PLANNING DECISIONS AND NOTIFICATIONS – NOTED

i) P15/S2231/HH 38 Ladder Hill Wheatley OX33 1SX. Proposed first floor extension and new bay window to existing single storey front extension. Recommend Approval GRANTED 09.09.15

ii) P15/S2387/HH 65 Littleworth Road Wheatley OX33 1NW. Demolition of porch and erection of conservatory. Recommend Approval GRANTED 17.09.15

iii) P15/S2172/HH 48 London Road Wheatley OX33 1YA. Erection of a first floor extension and link from box dormer to proposed extension. Recommend Approval GRANTED 26.08.15

iv) P15/S1384/FUL Part of Castle Hill Farm Wheatley OXON OX33 1JQ General purpose farm building Recommend Approval WITHDRAWN 17.09.15

v) P15/S2204/HH 36 Westfield Road Wheatley OX33 1NG. Single story kitchen extension to front of building. 3.5 m x 2m flat roof at existing roof eves height materials to match existing. Windows to front elevation with door to side. Recommend Approval GRANTED 21.09.15

vi) P15/S2347/FUL Colletts Garage 134 London Road Wheatley OX33 1JH. Demolition of existing office building and erection of replacement office building. Installation of a portacabin for temporary office use during construction and future use as staff mess facilities. Recommend Approval GRANTED 21.09.15

vii) P15/S2732/HH 61 Kelham Hall Drive Wheatley OX33 1SL Erect single storey rear extension in place of existing conservatory. Recommend Approval GRANTED 29.09.15

viii) P15/S2686/FUL 7 Leyshon Road Wheatley OX33 1XF. Conversion of retained dwelling house into 2No. Studio flats (In addition to those approved under application P14/S1284/FUL). No Strong Views GRANTED 29.09.15

ix) P15/S2757/HH Fairview 50 Littleworth Littleworth OX33 1TR. Single storey rear extension. Recommend Approval GRANTED 01.10.15

59. CORRESPONDENCE
1 Coopers Close – email and letter from Christine Telford acting on behalf of Highways England Historical Railway Estate regarding concerns about access (dealt with under minute 55).

60. DATE OF NEXT MEETING – WEDNESDAY 11TH NOVEMBER 2015 – NOTED

61. ITEMS FOR INFORMATION
London Road Development – copies of the letter from the developer listing proposed amendments given to members.

The Meeting closed 8.30pm

/by

Parish Council Minutes 9th September 2015

,

WHEATLEY PARISH COUNCIL

 

MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE PARISH COUNCIL

HELD ON MONDAY 7th SEPTEMBER 2015 IN THE MERRY BELLS HALL AT 7.30PM

 

 

PRESENT: Councillors: G Stephens (Chairman), R Bell, P Hood, A Davies,

                 T Davies, A Walkey, P Gregory, P Bignell, J Carr, G Birks (until 8.00pm),

R Reilly, I Roberts and T Newman

 

OFFICERS: Gareth Morris, Clerk to the Parish Council

 

Also present: County Councillor Anne Purse and 4 members of the public

 

 

  1. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE had been received from Cllrs Coleridge and Willmott

 

 

  1. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

       Cllr Hood, as Treasurer of the Cool Kids Club, declared an interest in item 5 (the Village Green application)

Cllr Stephens, as a Trustee of the Wheatley Playing Field Trust, declared an interest in item 14(ii) (Matters concerning Wheatley Playing Trust)

 

 

  1. CLLR IAN ROBERTS WAS WELCOMED ON TO THE COUNCIL AND SIGNED THE DECLARATION OF ACCEPTANCE. He stated he would rather wait a while before he joined one of the standing committees

 

 

  1. RESOLUTION TO EXCLUDE THE PUBLIC (ITEM 5 ONLY)

       Cllr Birks proposed and Cllr Carr seconded “that under Section 100A(4) of the Local Government Act 1972, the public be excluded on the grounds that it involves the likely disclosure of exempt information as defined in paragraph X of Part 1 of Schedule 12A to the Act, namely private contractual and employment matters”

     This was AGREED

 

 

  1. 59. TO REPORT ON PROGRESS OF THE PARISH COUNCIL’S APPLICATION   APPLYING FOR VILLAGE GREEN STATUS FOR THE PLAYING FIELDS AT LITTLEWORTH ROAD AND DECIDE ON A STRATEGY FOR THE PROPOSED ENQUIRY

 

Following an update from Cllr Birks, Cllr Carr proposed and Cllr Walkey seconded that “the Parish Council asks our solicitor to request an adjournment of the hearing and to continue talking to the Diocese. This was AGREED by 8 votes in favour with 1 against and 3 abstentions.

 

8.00pm Cllr Birks left the meeting

 

 

 

  1. MINUTES of the meeting of the Parish Council meeting held on 6th July 2015 which had been circulated previously were signed as a correct and accurate recordafter the following amendment had been made:

       Page 17, Minute 47(ii), line 6 after ‘and’ delete ‘also’ and add ‘that any decision concerning use, development and using the land as collateral for a loan must be referred back to the Parish Council. He also raised concern….’

 

 

  1. 61. UPDATE from the minutes of the Parish Council meeting held on Monday 6th July 2015
  2. i) Minute 48 – Cherry tree planting in Memorial Gardens. The Clerk had been told by the diocese that a Faculty had to be obtained before the tree was planted. He had downloaded the form and had sent it off to the Village Produce Association for the details of the tree to be filled in.
  3. ii) Minute 51 – Use of Social Media – the clerk reported that a ‘Twitter Account’ has been set up for the Parish Council. Name: WheatleyPcouncil@WheatleyPC

 

 

  1. THE MINUTES of the meetings of the Planning Committee held on the following dates were received
  2. i) Wednesday 8th July 2105 – circulated previously
  3.    ii) Wednesday 12 August 2015 – circulated previously

 

 

  1. THE MINUTES of the meeting of the F&GP Committee held on the following date were received:
  2.   i) Monday 20th July 2015

 

  1. TO RECEIVE AND NOTE THE REPORT OF THE EXTERNAL AUDITOR ON THE 2014-2015 ACCOUNTS

       The report of the External Auditor on the 2014-15 Accounts had been received.

In their opinion “ the information in the annual return is in accordance with proper practices and no matters have come to our attention giving cause for concern that relevant legislation and regulatory requirements have not been met.”

Cllr Gregory proposed and Cllr Reilly seconded that the External Auditor’s report be received and noted.

 

  1. TO REPORT PROGRESS ON HOUSING FOR THE EXCEPTION SITE NORTH OF LONDON ROAD

       Reported that the SODC Planning officer had informed him that they (SODC) and the developers would be in talks over possible SODC amendments to the scheme

        e.g. continuing the road to the north of the site the whole length of the site.

Cllr Newman said he would inform the Parish Council if any amendments were

proposed.

 

 

  1. TO DECIDE WHETHER OR NOT TO PROCEED WITH A NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN

‘The chairman reminded the meeting that although the PC was the proper body to initiate a Neighbourhood Plan, the plan actually belonged to wider community and that proper engagement with, and active involvement of the community was critical to the success of the project.’

 

       Following a discussion on the merits of a Neighbourhood Plan Cllr Bell proposed and Cllr Newman seconded that “This Parish Council undertakes a Neighbourhood Plan”

This AGREED with ten votes in favour, none against and two abstentions

 

A named vote had been called for:

Those in favour: Cllrs Stephens, A Davies, Bell, Gregory, Walkey, T Davies,

J Reilly, Hood, Bignall and Newman

Those against: None

       Those abstaining: Cllrs Roberts and Carr

       Cllr Davies proposed and Cllr Newman seconded that a working group be set up and to report back to the next full Parish Council meeting. This was AGREED

       Cllrs A Davies, Bell, Walkey, T Davies, Hood and Newman volunteered to serve on the group

 

 

8.47pm The Chairman declared the council out of session

 

 

County Councillor Anne Purse

  • OCC Bus Review – whilst the 103/104 were considered low risk she was worried about bus services for Cuddesdon
  • OCC Consultation on Recycling Centres –at the moment OCC were not allowed to charge for visiting site. She believed OCC would write to the Government to try and get the rules changed
  • Local Transport Plan – she was concerned that the idea of a link road from the A34 near Abingdon to the M40 at junction 8a seemed to have been resurrected.
  • Children centres – 40 out of the 43 were threatened with closure. If the Maple Leaf Centre in Wheatley closed she was concerned about what would happen to the building

 

Cllr Carr asked for the Youth Centre be put on the next Agenda.

 

District Councillor Toby Newman

  • SODC was starting a consultation on parks.
  • They were seeking views on the relaxation of Sunday trading laws
  • 12th October – there would be a ‘double’ collection of garden waste
  • Young Achievers Awards – 2 X £250 were available.

 

 

9.07pm the Chairman declared the Council back in session

 

With the agreement of the meeting the Chairman proposed that item 16(ii) be taken now. This was agreed

 

 

  1. REPORT FROM THE DRAINAGE AND FLOOD GROUP

       Mr Roger Bettess was asked to address the meeting.

Mr Bettess reported that Monson Engineering (SODC) was still in discussion with Shotover Estate over a holding pond near Westfield.

He was in discussions with Thames Water & the Environment Agency over the storm discharge of untreated sewage in to the Wheatley Ditch

Discussions were also taking place with the Environment Agency over the Wheatley Flood map

Clearing out road gullies – he was chasing up the County Council on the matter.

The group would like the support of the Parish Council to put an article in the newsletter, flyers and letters to riparian owners as to their responsibilities for water course maintenance

Thames Water were beginning to ‘tanker’ away the effluent to another treatment works so there would be no discharge in to the Wheatley ditch, 24/7. Thames Water have given the assurance that these tankers should not be going through the village.

There was a danger if there was very wet weather and the storm tanks became full there would be a discharge into Wheatley ditch.

Mr Bettess was thanked for his report and for the work he undertook in the Flood and Drainage Group

 

Cllr T Davies pointed out that SODC had earmarked money for the work in Westfield in this financial year and it shouldn’t be lost through not reaching an agreement with the Estate. He suggested that the District Councillor take this up.

Cllr Carr proposed and Cllr T Davies seconded that the Parish Council request

the Flood and Drainage group to take action to make riparian owners aware of their obligations. This was Agreed.

 

Cllr Davies expressed an interest in joining this group

 

 

  1. TO CONSIDER THE LETTER FROM THE REVEREND NIGEL HAWKES RE THE CLOSURE OF THE CHURCHYARD TO FURTHER BURIALS.

The clerk had circulated a letter from the Reverend Nigel Hawkes (Vicar at St Mary’s) stating that the space for burials was running out with, perhaps 5 years of usable space. With extension of the burial ground and the re-use of areas ruled out the Parochial Church Council had resolved to close the churchyard when it is full. It was AGREED that this should be considered by the Working Group on the Neighbourhood Plan

 

 

 

  1. TO CONSIDER MATTERS RELATING TO WHEATLEY PARK SPORTSFIELD   MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE AND THE WHEATLEY PLAYING FIELD TRUST
  2. i) Wheatley Park Sportsfield Management Committee – the report submitted by Cllr Willmott was noted. In answer to a question from Cllr Bell the clerk replied that he believed that the redundancy pay to the two employees had been paid out the Sportsfield management account.
  3. ii) Matters concerning the Wheatley Playing Field Trust – the report was noted
  4. a) To consider the requested loan from the Parish Council for £5,000 to be repaid over 10 months. Cllr Reilly proposed and Cllr Davies seconded that the loan be made. This was AGREED
  5. b) To consider setting up a standing order to pay the Parish Council’s £10,000 annual contribution in 12 equal instalments (£833.33).Cllr Davies proposed and Cllr Newman seconded that the standing order be set up for One year only. This was AGREED

 

 

 

  1. TO CONSIDER OXFORDSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL’S HOUSEHOLD WASTE RECYCLING CENTRES STRATEGY IN OXFORDSHIRE

       The consultation document from the County Council had been circulated to each councillor. Following discussion Cllr Roberts proposed and Cllr Reilly seconded that

      The Parish Council write to the County Council requesting that all the recycling centres be kept open.

 

 

  1. TO CONSIDER THE SETTING UP OF WORKING GROUPS
  2. i) Parking within the village – It was Agreed that this would be discussed by the Neighbourhood Plan working group.
  3. ii) Drainage within the village Thames Water discussed under minute 67

 

 

 

  1. TO APPOINT TWO PARISH COUNCIL REPRESENTATIVES TO THE HOWE TRUST TO REPLACE CLLRS DALTON AND COVELEY

It was AGREED that Cllrs Gregory and Newman be Parish Council representatives on the Howe Trust

 

 

  1. TO AGREE THE PARISH COUNCIL’S REPRESENTATIVES TO A MEETING AT COUNTY HALL CALLED BY OCC TO “LOOK AT WAYS TO DELIVER PUBLIC SERVICES DIFFERENTLY” (September 21st 18.00-21.00 County Hall)

      Cllrs Walkey and Bell agreed to go to this meeting.

 

 

  1. TO CONSIDER THE REPORTS ON THE PARISH COUNCILLORS’ WALKS AROUND THE VILLAGE

      Cllr Hood proposed and Cllr Reilly seconded that these reports be sent to the F&GP Committee. This was AGREED

 

 

  1. TO CONSIDER AN ACTION PLAN FOR THE IMPROVEMENT OF THE AREA IN FRONT OF AND INCLUDING THE OLD TOILET BLOCK IN THE HIGH STREET.

      It was AGREED that this be item be considered by the Neighbourhood Plan Working Group

 

 

  1. REPORTS FROM OUTSIDE BODIES
  2. i) The Merry Bells Management Committee – Cllr Gregory reported that building works had been recently been carried out and further refurbishment would start soon.
  3. ii) The Howe Trust – no report

iii) Thames Valley Police – In August Wheatley had 6 incidents of ASB and 2 burglaries (non-dwelling)

  1. iv) Wheatley Windmill Preservation Society – Cllr Stephens reported the Society was looking for ways to increase their cash flow eg they had recently been a venue for wedding photos.
  2. v) Flood Group meeting – 26th August 2015 – dealt with under minute 67
  3. vi) Reception and Sounding of Retreat – Oxfordshire (The Rifles) Battalion – Army Cadet Force – Cllr Carr had attended in the place of the Chairman who was away. She said she felt it was important to accept such invitations and the evening had been most enjoyable.

 

 

  1. CALENDAR OF MEETINGS – NOTED
  2. i) Planning Committee – Wednesday 9th September 2015 – 7.30pm (Cllr Stephens sends his apologies)
  3. ii) F&GP Committee – Monday 21st September 2015 – 7.30pm
  • iii) Planning Committee – Wednesday 14th October 2015 – 7.30pm (Cllr Bignell sends her apologies)
  1. iv) F&GP Committee – Monday 19th October 2015
  2. v) Parish Council Meeting – Monday 2nd November 2015 – 7.30 pm (Cllr Stephens sends his apologies)

 

 

  1. ITEMS FOR INFORMATION

 

  • Cllr Carr reported that she had had a number favourable comments over the new seat at the Ambrose Rise bus stop
  • In reply to a question from Cllr Hood on vehicle activated signs the clerk said that there would be a report going to the Finance and General Purposes Committee

 

 

The meeting closed at 10.15pm

/by

Finance & General Purposes Committee 21st September 2015

,

Wheatley Parish Council

MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE FINANCE & GENERAL PURPOSES COMMITTEE OF THE COUNCIL HELD ON MONDAY 21ST SEPTEMBER 2015 IN THE MERRY BELLS COFFEE ROOM AT 7.30PM

PRESENT: Councillors P Gregory (Chairman) A Davies, G Birks (until 9.55pm), T Davies, P Hood, R J Reilly, P Willmott, G Stephens and T Newman.

OFFICER: THE CLERK: Gareth Morris

33. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE had been received from Cllr Carr

34. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST
• Cllrs Stephens and Gregory declared an interest in item 21 (Tender for tree work) because they had used one of the contractors who had tendered
• Cllr Willmott declared an interest in item 8 as he knew the resident in question

35. MINUTES OF THE PREVIOUS MEETING HELD 20th July 2015 which had been
circulated previously were signed as a correct and accurate record after the
following amendments had been made:
Minute 24 (page 11) 5th line – Change ‘Lanes’ to ‘Lane’
Minute 24 (page12) – add further bullet point – “Parking in the village should be looked at in a holistic way rather than in a piecemeal manner”
Minute 25(ii) – delete ‘70 litres’ replace with ‘430 bags of 70 litres’ each

36. UPDATE ON ITEMS FROM THE MINUTES 20th July 2015
i) Minute 25 – Repairs to Cullum Road Recreation ground –The nest swing leg had been replaced. The bags of bark for the safety surfaces had been spread by a team of councillors, residents and children
Ii) Minute 27(iv) – VPA Cherry tree in the Memorial Gardens – A reply was awaited from the VPA
iii) Minute 27 (v) Bench for Ambrose Rise bus stop – This had now been installed and was appreciated by residents.

37. TO CONSIDER OALC TRAINING COURSES
i) Planning – 3rd November – £35 -3 people have expressed an interest in attending
NOTED & AGREED

38. TO CONSIDER VARIOUS TRAFFIC MATTERS IN THE VILLAGE
i) Vehicle Activated signs
The Chairman spoke to his paper on the cost of Vehicle Activated Signs, which had been circulated with the Agenda. Following a discussion on the merits or otherwise of going with the OCC solar powered signs with the 30 year commuted sum for maintenance and installation which was far the most expensive option Cllr Newman proposed and Cllr Reilly seconded that the parish Council purchase 4 solar powered signs from MD Message Maker at £2,685, £10,740.00 in total (plus VAT and installation)
This was AGREED unanimously.

39. TO CONSIDER THE CONDITION OF THE TREES WITHIN THE VILLAGE AND WHAT ACTIONS ARE NECESSARY
• Cllr Stephens reported a large branch had fallen from the plane tree on Littleworth Road
• The hedge at 1 Crown Road had been cut back but still posed an obstruction to those on the pavement – clerk to report
• Footpath between Orchard Close and Crown Road – tree overhanging clerk to report
• Holloway Road (between gate to surgery and scout hut. The upper part of Holloway Road had been cut back the lower part still needed to be done. Clerk to report.
• Hedge at junction of Howe Close and ladder Hill. Clerk to re-report.

40. TO CONSIDER THE REQUEST FROM A RESIDENT OF LITTLEWORTH TO PURCHASE A PORTION OF THE LITTLEWORTH ALLOTMENT LAND
As the provision of allotments was one duty of a Parish Council disposal of such land would be difficult and controversial. There the committee was not prepared
agree to the resident’s request. They had no objection to the resident erecting a 6ft on their property

41. TO BEGIN THE BUDGET PROCESS FOR THE FINANCIAL YEAR 2016-2017
The Clerk reminded the committee that the budget process for 2016-2017 would begin at the next meeting with the intention of recommending the budget and precept at the January 2017 Council meeting

42. TO REVIEW THE CHARGES MADE BY WHEATLEY PARISH COUNCIL FOR SERVICES PROVIDED

• Allotments – charges raised in September 2012 from £6.00 to £10 per plot. Recommend – No Change – AGREED
• Advertisements in Wheatley Newsletter – these charges had only recently increased in January 2011 – Recommend No change for the moment unless 4 pages of colour are agreed – AGREED that this would be looked at further
• Charges for information.- Recommend to keep the existing charges 5p/10p per sheet photocopying – AGREED
• Newsletter subscription – has been £6.00 per annum (6 copies) for a number of years. Printing cost is 89p per newsletter and postage (2nd class) is £1.19 = £12.48 for 6 copies. Recommend £12.50 per annum.
AGREED

43. GRANTS, LICENCES AND SUBSCRIPTIONS
i) South and Vale Carers – £200 in 2014-15 – deferred until next meeting
ii) International Tree Foundation – 2015/16 subscription – £50 – AGREED
iii) Wheatley Park School prize giving – £250 in 2014-15 – AGREED
iv) Sue Ryder Nettlebed Hospice – £50 in 2014/15 – deferred until next meeting

44. TO CONSIDER THE REPORTS ON THE PARISH COUNCILLORS’ WALKS AROUND THE VILLAGE
The reports on the two walks had been circulated to all councillors.
The outside workers would be asked to sweep the ally between High Street and Farm Close Road and to strim along the footpath to Kelham Hall Drive and Ladder Hill. The exposed cable mentioned had been reported via the OCC web site,’Fix-My Street’. The trees along the footpath to Station Road were subject to the Tenders to be discussed under item 21. The clerk had contacted both the resident and Shortlift Limited re the trees alongside the footpath to Farm Close Lane.
The clerk would contact Green Scythe re work on the banks of the Ambrose Rise ditch
The Parish Council might consider adopting the path from Cooper’s Close to Littleworth Road
Consideration should be given to better footpath signs.
Cllr Gregory was willing to inspect the allotments.
It was suggested that signs be erected on the Parish Council’s allotment land to prevent against ‘adverse possession’.
The committee thanked Cllr Bell for organising the walks which had been extremely informative and useful

45. TO CONSIDER THE SAFETY REPORT ON THE PLAY EQUIPMENT IN THE RECREATION GROUNDS CARRIED OUT BY ZURICH ENGINEERING LTD
The clerk took the committee through the process of playground inspection. An outdoor worker checked the recreation areas each week for defects etc and each inspection was noted in a log book. Every month or so these log books are checked and signed by the clerk and defects chased up. Every year, in September, the areas are inspected by a specialist, in Wheatley’s case this is Zurich Insurance. This September’s inspection had resulted in no major safety defects but had highlighted issues with the hinges on the gates in Church Road Recreation ground and the possibility of entrapment. Cllrs Gregory and Hood would investigate.

46. CLERK UPDATE
i) Garden waste bin for the Parish Council – was now kept in the Memorial Gardens
ii) VPA Request to plant a cherry tree in the Memorial Gardens.- see minute 36(ii)
iii) Bench for Ambrose Rise bus stop – see minute 36(iii)
iv) Village Christmas tree – Agreed to purchase as in previous years
v) Report on SLCC ‘Roadshow’ in Kettering – the clerk gave a verbal report. One area that needed to be checked was to make sure that the details of Parish Council land registered at the Land Registry was correct eg the Parish Council’s address

47. FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT
a) Budget to the end of August 2015 was discussed
A completed copy of reconciled bank statement was signed by the Chairman & RFO

b) Balances
After the cheques below have been paid the balances on the council’s accounts as at 21st September 2015 will be as follows:
Community £570.65
Tracker £148,428.32
Treasury £60,774.98

48. SCHEDULE OF PAYMENTS AUTHORISED

Cheque no. Payee Payment details Amount
Cheques paid
106241-41,43-47 GM/SW/JF/OCC/AR/HMR&C June/Aug sals/wages/ 8,178.51
d/d Siemens Financial Services Photocopier lease 426.33
d/d Barclays Bank Bank charges 13/7-12/8 43.12
106221 CPRE 2015/16 Subscription 36.00
106222 OALC Councillor Training 390.00
106223 St Mary the Virgin Parish Church Grant Aid for graveyard 500.00
106228 WPSFMC Balance for 20141/5 1,667.81
106229 BDO LLP External Audit fee 480.00
106230 Lyreco Paper and office supplies 37.49
106231 Gregorz Zasuwa Office window cleaning 5.00
106232 Parchment Printers Aug/Sept Newsletter 1,871.30
106233 Safe and Sound Playgrounds Wobble log repair 361.20
106234 Kingdom Signs Brackets for sign 18.41
106236 SLCC Roadshow in Kettering 85.80
106237 Berinsfield Community Business Verges and Farm Close Patio 674.33
106238 Broxap Ltd Seat for Ambrose Rise 808.80
106239 Annette Richards Aug/Sept Newsletter 680.00
106242 HMRC VAT Repayment 157.76
106243 Post Office Stamps 243.00
106249 Freeths LLP Advice on Playing Field trust 1,980.00
106250 Wheatley Playing Field Trust 10 month loan 5,000.00
Total £23,644.86
Cheques to Pay
106251 Thames Water Memorial Gardens June-Sept 4.88
106252 S Whittingham Cooper’s Close Repair of fence 54.00
106253 NALC Subscription to ‘LCR’ 17.00
106254 Green Scythe Ltd Recs cut July 233.17
106255 SODC Uncontested election charge 85.00
106256 R Taylor landscapes Fixing of seat at Ambrose Rise bs 360.00
106257 SLCC Ref. book 13.45
106258 Lyreco Uk Ltd Paper and office supplies 84.41
106259 Safe and Sound Playgrounds Bark and repair to nest swing 4,011.60
106260 Mainstream Digital Ltd Telephone calls 04/08 to 01/09 1.40
106261 Berinsfield Community Business Verges – August 608.33
GM/SW/JF/AR/OCC//HMR&C Sept sal/wages/pen/PAYE/NICs 4,300.00
Total £9,773.24

INCOME RECEIVED SINCE LAST MEETING

Income details Amount
Treasury Bill Interest 36.33
Photocopying 13.20
Newsletter Advertising 2,212.00
Newsletter payments 9.00
Allotments 30.00
2nd half precept 53,961.50
Total £55,562.26

49. PUBLICATIONS & CORRESPONDENCE RECEIVED – NOTED
i) The Haseleys – September 2015*
ii) Little Milton Newsletters –August & September 2015*
iii) Great Milton Bulletin – August 2015*
iv) URC Newsletter – September 2015*
v) Local Council Review (LCR) Summer 2015*
vi) Tiddington with Albury and Milton Common Newsletter Aug/Sept 2015
vii) CPRE ‘Countryside Voice’ & ‘Field Work’ – Summer 2015
viii) Garsington August/September 2015 newsletter*
ix) Oxfordshire Playing Fields Association – AGM 2.00pm Thursday 15th
October 2015 Middle Barton
x) Request from resident to ‘brighten up’ the High Street in the summer
months The clerk read out an e-mail from a resident suggesting that the High Street could be brightened up with hanging baskets possibly sponsored by the Parish Council and/or businesses. Agreed that this be passed on to the Neighbourhood Plan working group to incorporate it in to their request for volunteers.
xI) Letter from resident requesting a zebra crossing across Church Road opposite the Roundhouse. Cllrs were in agreement that a crossing was needed at this point but accepted that the County Council should be responsible but had refused to fund crossings elsewhere in the village. It was pointed out that this was a route to school. It was AGREED that the Parish Council should ask the County Council to provide a crossing. It was also suggested that users of the playground and those with children at the secondary school get involved in the request. It was pointed out that there might be Traffic Regulations governing the siting of crossings in the vicinity of junctions

* On display in Parish Office
9.35pm – Cllr Newman proposed and Cllr Willmott seconded that Standing orders be suspended for 20 minutes – this was AGREED

50. DATE OF NEXT MEETING – 19th October 2015 – NOTED

51. ITEMS FOR INFORMATION

• Cllr Birks – Informed the committee that the hearing into our Village Green application had been postponed until late January 2016. The council needed to decide a course of action. Following a discussion Cllr Willmott was asked to arrange a meeting with the Diocese and to circulate a copy of the lease between the County Council and the Diocese. The Clerk would contact our solicitor and ask for his opinion on and the cost of, our application in light of the two legal cases he had circulated.
Wednesday 14th October at 8.00pm, following the Planning Committee meeting, was pencilled in for an extra ordinary parish council meeting to decide the council’s next steps in light of the advice received and the meeting with the Diocese

9.55pm – Cllr Birks left the meeting
9.56pm – Cllr Newman proposed and Cllr Davies seconded that Standing Orders be suspended for a further 20 mins. This was AGREED

52. RESOLUTION TO EXCLUDE THE PUBLIC
Cllr Reilly proposed and Cllr Newman seconded “that under Section 100A(4) of the Local Government Act 1972, the public be excluded on the grounds that it involves the likely disclosure of exempt information as defined in paragraph X of Part 1 of Schedule 12A to the Act, namely private contractual and employment matters”
This was AGREED

53. TO CONSIDER THE TENDERS RECEIVED FOR WORK ON THE TREES ALONG FARM CLOSE ROAD, ST MARY’S CLOSE AND LITTLEWORTH
GREEN.

The details of the 4 tenders had been circulated (as Tenders A, B, C and D)
After some discussion Cllr Hood proposed and Cllr Willmott seconded that Tender B for £1,480 be accepted. This was AGREED

/by

Finance & General Purposes Committee 20th July 2015

,

Wheatley Parish Council
MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE FINANCE & GENERAL PURPOSES COMMITTEE OF THE COUNCIL HELD ON MONDAY 20th JULY 2015 IN THE MERRY BELLS HALL AT 7.30PM

PRESENT: Councillors P Gregory (Chairman) A Davies, T Davies, P Hood, R J Reilly,
P Willmott, J Carr, G Stephens and T Newman.

OFFICER: THE CLERK: Gareth Morris

Also present: Nine members of the public

17. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE – None

18. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST – None

19. MINUTES OF THE PREVIOUS MEETING HELD 15th June 2015, which had been circulated previously, were signed as a correct and accurate record with the following amendment:
Minute 16 –Second paragraph, second line replace ‘Primary School’ with
‘ODST’

20. UPDATE ON ITEMS FROM THE MINUTES 15th June 2015
i) Minute 114(iii) – Handrails at entrance of Memorial Gardens These had now been installed.

21. TO CONSIDER OALC TRAINING COURSES
i) Role and Responsibilities – Tuesday 8th September – Didcot Civic Hall -10.00am to 3.00pm – £65 – 3 places booked – Cllrs Hood, Gregory & T Davies to attend £234 – noted
ii) Chairmanship – Wednesday 2nd September – Didcot Civic Hall 10.00am to 3.00pm – £65 – Cllr Stephens to attend – booked – £78 – noted
iii) Getting to Grips with Finance – Wednesday 30th September – Didcot Civic Hall- 10.00pm to 3.00pm – Asst Clerk Annette Richards to attend – booked – £78 – noted
iv) SLCC Regional Roadshow – Kettering – £69 – for the clerk – Agreed

22. TO CONSIDER VARIOUS TRAFFIC MATTERS IN THE VILLAGE
i) Vehicle Activated signs
Cllrs Hood and A Davies had made enquiries from private companies about
vehicle activated signs and would pass their information to the clerk. It was
Agreed that the Chairman of F&GP and the Clerk should investigate the
possibilities with a view making a decision to report to the next council meeting.
The clerks of Garsington and Tiddington to be contacted for information re their
signs.
ii) OCC consultation on extra double yellow lines along Church Road
The Clerk explained that there had been many suggestions over the years for trying to alleviate the traffic congestion along Church Road. The current OCC Consultation on three extra lengths of double yellow lines along the south side of Church Road between Friday Lane and Holloway Road arose from a meeting between Parish Councillors, Mark Frances (OCC Highways) and a representative from the Arriva Bus Company (Oxford Bus Company did not send a representative). The OCC Engineer suggested that a low impact, low cost solution
would be to put three short lengths of double yellow lines along the south side of Church Road to allow vehicles, especially buses, to pull in to allow vehicles travelling east to pass without having to mount the pavement on the north side. The Arriva Bus Company Representative thought this would be a solution to the
problem. It was suggested that before the Parish Council requested these extra
lines, on which OCC would consult, they (the Parish Council) undertake their own
informal consultation of residents along this stretch of London Road.
The Clerk wrote to 15 residences outlining the scheme with a plan and received 4 replies, only one of which was an out and out objection. These responses having been reported.to the Parish Council were sent to OCC Highways with the request that the extra yellow lines be installed if they (OCC) felt that the formal consultation stood a chance being favourable.
He reminded the meeting that one of the three stretches of extra lines would be in front of the Merry Bells car park entrance and would not remove any parking.

The Chairman said that at the moment we were in a period of consultation and that the Parish Council would just have to wait for the outcome.

23. TO CONSIDER THE CONDITION OF THE TREES WITHIN THE VILLAGE AND WHAT ACTIONS ARE NECESSARY
The clerk reported that the Area Steward (OCC Highways) had said that the Parish Council did not have any powers in relation trees/hedges in private ownership but that OCC did.
The clerk had reported, either directly to an OCC Inspector or via the Fix my street’
Website, a number of locations:.
• 1 Crown Road – a notice had been posted that the hedge was being taken down and replaced by a fence.
• Hedge at the northern junction between Howe Close and Ladder Hill
• The overgrown area on Holloway Road above the bottom exit from Morland House Surgery. The clerk understood that OCC Highways had said that there was no safety hazard her. However Cllr Carr had received a letter of concern from a Health Visitor and this had been passed on to OCC Highways.
• Pedestrians using the extremely narrow and uneven pavement over the bridge over the River Thame were being impeded by overhanging foliage.
• Parking in the village should be looked at in a holistic way rather than in a piecemeal manner

The clerk was about to put out to tender work on the trees in the following areas:
The horse Chestnut in St Mary’s Close; the Horse Chestnut on Littleworth Green and the tree along the Farm Close Road footpath

24. TO CONSIDER THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE PARISH COUNCIL AND THE POLICE
The Chairman began by giving a synopsis of the Thames Valley Police organisation for the area.
This item had resulted from the bad feeling caused by the ticketing of motorists along the double yellow lines outside the United Reformed Church. Following the reopening of Friday Lane there had been complaints from some lorry drivers that they couldn’t complete their 450 degree circle to turn up Friday Lane. The police had also begun to issue tickets for those over staying the two hour parking along the High Street.

8.36pm The Chairman asked for comments from the public present.
Some of the comments made were as follows:

• It was already difficult to park in the village and removing more parking spaces would just add to the problem. Businesses, their employees and their clients were inconvenienced by not being able to park near their premises.
• Some had been surprised by the consultation on the extra double yellow lines and that the Parish Council’s consultation and not been extensive enough.
• The ‘old practice’ of not ticketing worked well and why couldn’t that continue?
• There was a question re weight restrictions in the village.
• The effect on hearses and wedding cars in front of the church was queried.
• When asked directly by the Chairman whether or not they were in favour of parking enforcement a number answered ‘No’

8.55pm – the Chairman declared the Committee back in session

In answer to the ‘weight restriction’ in the village the answer was that, yes, it was in existence, but the clerk had been told by OCC Trading Standards that they did not have enough staffing to come out to the village. Also it was likely that a number of ‘over weight’ lorries were legitimately travelling through the village.

The Chairman replied to the question on hearses and wedding cars, that there could be liaison with the PCSOs for traffic control.

Some councillors felt that they should have been informed that the Police had been asked to ‘increase’ their clampdown on illegally parked vehicles by the Parish Council. Others said that the Parish Council did not have the power to demand that police take action on any matter and that the police could be trusted to use their own initiative.

The Chairman brought the discussion to an end.

25. REPAIRS TO CULLUM ROAD RECREATION GROUND
i) Repair to wooden support of nest swing £635.00 – Agreed
ii) Bark surfacing – 430 bags of 70 litres – £2,708.00 – Agreed
iii) Installation of bark surfacing – £1,862.00 – It was Agreed that councillors themselves would undertake the installation

26. GRANTS, LICENCES AND SUBSCRIPTIONS
i) CPRE 2015 Subscription – £36 – Agreed
ii) Grant to St Mary’s – Maintenance of graveyard – Section 214(6) LGA 1972
£500 – Agreed

27 CLERK UPDATE
i) Update of Information Booklet – the updated edition was now being distributed around the village by councillors
ii) Garden waste bin for the Parish Council – payment authorised this meeting
iii) Defibrillator training – Sat 18th July – this had been very well received by the participants
iv) VPA Request to plant a cherry tree in the Memorial Gardens. – following the granting of permission by the Parish Council the clerk had contacted the Diocese who had said a Faculty would be needed. He had forwarded the form to the VPA for details of the tree. He would then send that on to the Parochial Church Council at St Mary’s for their permission and then it would be sent to the Diocese in order for a Faculty to be granted.
v) Bench for Ambrose Rise bus stop – it was hoped that this would be installed towards the end of August

28. FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT
a) Budget to the end of June 2015 had been circulated and noted
A completed copy of reconciled bank statement was signed by the by Chairman & RFO

b) Balances
After the cheques below have been paid the balances on the council’s accounts as at 20th July 2015 will be as follows:
Community £3,232.21
Tracker £125,466.82
Treasury £60,738.65

29. SCHEDULE OF PAYMENTS TO BE AUTHORISED

Cheque no. Payee Payment details Amount
Cheques paid
106196-201 GM/SW/JF/OCC/AR/HMR&C June sals/wages/pen/PAYE/NICs 4,068.21
d/d Barclays Bank Bank charges and interest 185.47
Total £4,253.68
Cheques to Pay
106202 Green Scythe Recs May cuts X2 466.34
106203 Arrow Accounting Internal Audit 2014/2015 607.04
106204 Claire Logic ESET Smart Security 3 years 67.90
106206 Kingdom Signs Feather Flag 195.60
106207 Berinsfield Community Business Verges cut June 608.33
106208 Parchments of Oxford Information booklet 797.18
106209 Taylors Services Handrails at Memorial Gardens 1,320.00
106210 Thames Water Memorial Gardens 6.35
106211 R Bell Travel SODC Planning Committee 19.96
106212 Vale of White Horse Garden Waste Bin 33.30
106213 Merry Bells Management C’ttee Office rental – 25.06.15-24.09.15 1,133.02
106213 Merry Bells Management C’ttee Hall Hire April-July 2015 117.00
106214 Southern Electric Electricity 14.04-15-06.07-15 68.74
106217 Green Scythe Recs June cut x 2 466.34
106219 Irwin Mitchell Legal Fees – Village Green Application 360.00
106220 Swift Digital Photo copies May- Jun 2015 22.18
GM/SW/JF/AR/OCC//HMR&C July sal/wages/pen/PAYE/NICs 4,000.00
Total £10,289.28

INCOME RECEIVED SINCE LAST MEETING

Income details Amount
Tracker Interest 18.07
Newsletter Advertising 3,770.00
Total £3,788.07

30. PUBLICATIONS & CORRESPONDENCE RECEIVED – noted
i) The Haseleys – June 2015*
ii) Little Milton Newsletter –July 2015*
iii) Great Milton Bulletin – July2015*
iv) URC Newsletter – June 2015*
v) Local Council Review (LCR) Summer 2015*
vi) Shotover Preservation Society 2015 Summer Newsletter
vii) Letter from resident re cycle event
A resident had first of all visited the office and had then written with safety concerns about a cycle event through the village held one Saturday. She felt that the Parish Council should have been informed and they in turn should have informed the residents. The clerk had told her that he had not been informed but if she sent him the telephone number on the signs that had been posted he would contact the organisers and report the matter to the Parish Council.
Cllr Newman said that he had also been contacted by the resident and had learnt from the organisers that they had informed OCC Highways and the Police. They had also positioned marshals at road junctions to ensure safety.
The committee was satisfied with Cllr Newman’s summary. The clerk would reply to the resident.

* On display in Parish Office

31. DATE OF NEXT MEETING – 21st September 2015 – noted

32. ITEMS FOR INFORMATION

• Cllr Stephens – the Ramblers Association had set up a scheme called ‘The Big Path Watch’ whereby the public are encouraged to walk the footpaths and report what they find. He had joined the scheme and he encouraged fellow councillors to do the same
• Cllr Newman – the Shotover Preservation Society’s AGM was taking place at the Horspath Hub the following evening (21st July)
• Cllr Hood – reported a conversation with Mr Bendor-Samuel (Primary School Governor) where he had said the Primary School would fight the Village Green application.
• Cllr Willmott – The first meeting of the Playing Field Trust would take place on 22nd July 2015.
A new agreement with Wheatley Park School was close to being finalized.
The playing fields would be handed over to the Parish Council on 31st August 2015 and then they would have to be handed over to the Trust.
As the Trust, when it starts in September, would have no funds a request would have to be made for a loan from the Parish Council.

The meeting closed at 9.36pm

/by

Planning Committee 9 September 2015

,

Draft – Subject to Confirmation

Wheatley Parish Council
MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE PLANNING COMMITTEE OF THE COUNCIL HELD IN THE PARISH OFFICE ON WEDNESDAY 9th SEPTEMBER 2015

PRESENT: Cllrs R Bell (Chairman), P Bignell, J Carr, A Walkey
OFFICER: The Assistant Clerk
ALSO PRESENT: 3 members of the public.

42. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE – S Coleridge (Vice-Chairman), G Stephens

43. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

44. MINUTES OF THE PREVIOUS MEETING HELD ON 12th August 2015 which had been circulated previously were signed as a correct and accurate record.

45. UPDATE ON MEETING HELD ON 12th AUGUST 2015 – NONE

46. AMENDMENTS TO PREVIOUS APPLICATIONS

i) P15/S1546/FUL 1 Coopers Close Littleworth OX33 1UA. Amendment: No.1 – dated 17th August 2015. Variation of condition 1 (drawing numbers) of planning permission P10/W1824/RM.

Members were happy with the revised layout of the garden area and the corrected position of the internal fencing. They noted recent comments on the SODC website from two neighbours. They again however Recommend Refusal for the following reasons:

Taking into consideration the neighbours’ comments, the Committee feels that the height of the fence is out of keeping with the locality and there is not sufficient space for the proposed vegetation cover to grow properly outside the fence. The Committee believes that the fence was illegally erected by the developer and the matter should be taken up with the developer rather than the owners. The developers should be asked to reduce the height of the fence to 1.4 metres along the road frontage, which due to the slope of the ground internally will still give adequate privacy and security to the occupants.

The Committee noted that in the Land Registry Title the Highways Agency Historical Railways Estate has right of access for maintenance of the bridge.

47. NEW PLANNING APPLICATIONS

i) P15/S2686/FUL 7 Leyshon Road Wheatley OX33 1XF. Conversion of retained dwelling house into 2No. Studio flats (In addition to those approved under application P14/S1284/FUL).
The members noted comments on the SODC website from the Local Highway Authority and from a neighbour. No Strong Views but noted that the members have concerns about the continuing loss of family housing in the village.

ii) P15/S2742/FUL Wheatley Farm Shop Old London Road Wheatley OX33 1YW. Proposed new dwelling (Log cabin style) to replace existing dwelling
The members noted comments on the SODC website from the Local Highway Authority, Health and Housing and Great Milton Parish Council. Recommend Approval.

iii) P15/S2732/HH 61 Kelham Hall Drive Wheatley OX33 1SL Erect single storey rear extension in place of existing conservatory. Recommend Approval.

iv) P15/S2765/FUL 120 London Road Wheatley OX33 1YH. Extension of dwelling house and conversion into 3 flats; provision of bin and bike storage; realigned access and four parking spaces.
The members noted comments on the SODC website from a neighbour. No Strong Views but noted that the members again have concerns about the continuing loss of family housing in the village.

v) P15/S2757/HH Fairview 50 Littleworth Littleworth OX33 1TR. Single storey rear extension. Recommend Approval.

vi) P15/S2877/HH 19 Old Road Wheatley OX33 1NU. Demolition of the existing Sun room with a new extension to the Kitchen and Living Room. Replacement of the dormer windows with a full width Dormer in Brick.

The members noted comments on the SODC website from a neighbour. Recommend Approval.

vii) P15/S2955/FUL 34 Roman Road Wheatley OX33 1UX
Side extension to existing dwelling to provide two No. two bed flats. Rear extension and subdivision of existing dwelling to provide two No. two bed flats. (4 No flats in total). Provision of 6 no. off street parking spaces with new highway access, secure cycle storage and bin enclosures.

The members noted comments on the SODC website from the Local Highway Authority. Recommend Refusal for the following reasons:
The Local Highways Authority consider the parking is not adequate and members noted that the village could lose another family home.

48. PLANNING DECISIONS AND NOTIFICATIONS – NOTED

i) P15/S1005/FUL Wheatley Brook Barn 36 Old London Road Wheatley OX33 1YW. Convert empty rooms on first floor into ‘tied’ manager’s apartment. No strong views GRANTED 07.08.15

ii) P15/S2041/HH 16 Miller Road Wheatley OX33 1XB Proposed `granny’ annex in the form of a small single storey detached building at the rear of the garden. No strong views GRANTED 11.08.15

iii) P15/S2313/HH 45 Church Road Wheatley OX33 1LZ. Replacement of existing rear conservatory with an orangery-style extension and replacement of existing rear extension with larger extension to rear of kitchen. (As amended by drawing 15-5360-P1A with annotated dimensions accompanying e-mail form agent 20 July 2015) Recommend Approval GRANTED 26.08.15

iv) P15/S2172/HH 48 London Road Wheatley OX33 1YA. Erection of a first floor extension and link from box dormer to proposed extension. Recommend Approval GRANTED 26.08.15

49. CORRESPONDENCE – None

50. DATE OF NEXT MEETING – WEDNESDAY 14TH OCTOBER 2015 – NOTED

51. ITEMS FOR INFORMATION
Tuesday 3rd November Training: ‘How Local Councils Fit into the Planning System, Effective Responses to Planning Applications’ – Cllr Carr, Walkey and the Assistant Clerk would like to attend. Confirmation needed of start and end times of the half day training.
Then everything runs smoothly. I was surprised by many feedbacks, which state that viagragener.com causes side effects. The only thing I noticed is an agitated state throughout the day.

The Meeting closed 8.50pm

/by

Planning Committee 12th August 2015

,

DRAFT – SUBJECT TO CONFIRMATION

Wheatley Parish Council
MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE PLANNING COMMITTEE OF THE COUNCIL HELD IN THE PARISH OFFICE ON WEDNESDAY 12th AUGUST 2015

 

PRESENT: Cllrs R Bell (Chairman), P Bignell, J Carr, S Coleridge (Vice-Chairman), A Walkey

 
OFFICER: The Assistant Clerk

 
ALSO PRESENT: 2 members of the public (including an applicant of 45 Church Road)

 

32. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE – Cllr G Stephens

 
33. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST
Cllr Bell is a friend of Mr Newton, 45 Church Road, but has no financial interest in the application and therefore won’t stand down as Chairman for this item. The other members of the committee will discuss the application.

 
34. MINUTES OF THE PREVIOUS MEETING HELD ON 8th July 2015 which had been circulated previously were signed as a correct and accurate record.

 
35. UPDATE ON MEETING HELD ON 8th July 2015

P15/S2121/FUL Land North of London Road:
The members have looked through the comments submitted to the SODC website and noted concerns raised with noise, drainage and that the two road entrances of the site are not connected to each other. The members expect there will be an amendment to the application in the near future and until then will continue to read any further comments registered.

P15/S1546/FUL 1 Coopers Close
Members were puzzled by an email sent from the applicant that the architect has not amended plans as required, as he has already sent them to Robert Cramp, Enforcement Officer at SODC. The plans appear to cover what the Parish Council have requested.

The committee also felt that it was important to get a response from the Highways Agency Historical Railways Estate who own the bridge adjoining the property to clarify their right of access, if any, for maintenance. SODC have previously written to them but so far there has not been a response. The Committee will be asking the SODC Enforcement Officer to contact them again.

 
36. AMENDMENTS TO PREVIOUS APPLICATIONS – None

 
37. NEW PLANNING APPLICATIONS
i) P15/S2313/HH 45 Church Road Wheatley OX33 1LZ. Replacement of existing rear conservatory with an orangery-style extension and replacement of existing rear extension with larger extension to rear of kitchen. (As amended by drawing 15-5360-P1A with annotated dimensions accompanying e-mail form agent 20 July 2015).
The members noted comments on the SODC website from four neighbours and discussed the access arrangements with the applicant, Mr Newton.
Recommend Approval along with the following recommendation:
The committee considered the comments made by the residents of a number of properties on London Road, over whose land the contractor will have to move both men and materials. Because of the inconvenience and potential damage this may cause them during the construction period the committee strongly recommends that a condition be imposed to ensure that a proper Traffic Plan/Construction Method Statement is prepared and that OCC is consulted. This in view of recent concerns encountered in Friday Lane during a construction phase.

 

ii) P15/S2172/HH 48 London Road Wheatley OX33 1YA. Erection of a first floor extension and link from box dormer to proposed extension. Recommend Approval.

 
iii) P15/S2231/HH 38 Ladder Hill Wheatley OX33 1SX. Proposed first floor extension and new bay window to existing single storey front extension. Recommend Approval.

 
iv) P15/S2347/FUL Colletts Garage 134 London Road Wheatley OX33 1JH. Demolition of existing office building and erection of replacement office building. Installation of a portacabin for temporary office use during construction and future use as staff mess facilities. Recommend Approval

 
v) P15/S2387/HH 65 Littleworth Road Wheatley OX33 1NW. Demolition of porch and erection of conservatory. Recommend Approval

 
vi) P15/S2453/LDP 29 Roman Road Wheatley OX33 1UX. (Certificate of Lawful Development) Proposed garden building. Noted.

 
vii) P15/S2204/HH 36 Westfield Road Wheatley OX33 1NG. Single story kitchen extension to front of building. 3.5 m x 2m flat roof at existing roof eves height materials to match existing. Windows to front elevation with door to side. Recommend Approval.

 
38. PLANNING DECISIONS AND NOTIFICATIONS – NOTED

i) P15/S1534/HH 31 Elton Crescent Wheatley OX33 1UZ. Removal of the existing front entrance porch and the erection of a single storey front extension. Recommend Approval GRANTED 03.07.15

 
ii) P15/S1021/HH Moon Cottage 53 Old Road Wheatley OX33 1NX Demolition of glazed outhouse and replacement with two storey extension incorporating master bedroom suite. No strong views GRANTED 06.07.15

 
iii) P15/S1552/HH 3 Elm Close Wheatley OX33 1UW Single storey rear extension. Recommend Approval GRANTED 13.07.15

 
iv) P15/S1845/HH 28 Church Road Wheatley OX33 1NB. First floor rear extension, raising the height of the roof and insertion of dormer windows to the front and rear (As amended by drawings accompanying e-mail from agent received 2 July 2015 removing second floor side windows and obscure glazing one window on the front elevation) Recommend Refusal GRANTED 20.07.15

 

v) P15/S1773/HH 1 Park Hill Wheatley OX33 1ND Demolition of existing attached sheds and extensions. Erection of a single storey side extension and extension to garage (As amended by plan PA03_Rev A, received 2015_06_25 to clarify that the extension to the north elevation would not physically attach to neighbours). (Additional plan received 2015_07_01 to show roof plan). No Strong views GRANTED 21.07.15

 
vi) P15/S1935/HH 120 London Road Wheatley OX33 1YH Demolition of existing detached pre-fabricated concrete garage and attached single storey outbuildings and replacement with a new two-storey extension to side of original house to form additional living accommodation with improved and enlarged car parking/manoeuvring. Recommend Approval GRANTED 27.07.15

 
vii) P15/S1882/HH 24 Westfield Road Wheatley OX33 1NG Proposed garden shed and log store. (Retrospective) Recommend Approval GRANTED 30.07.15

 

39. CORRESPONDENCE – None

 

40. DATE OF NEXT MEETING – WEDNESDAY 9TH SEPTEMBER 2015 – NOTED

 

41. ITEMS FOR INFORMATION

Tuesday 3rd November ‘How Local Councils Fit into the Planning System, Effective Responses to Planning Applications’ to be held at Committee Rooms 1&2, West Oxfordshire District Council, Woodgreen Offices, Witney. Several members expressed an interest in attending but wanted more information about the https://rosarydental.com/oral-surgery/buy-ventolin/ training and whether it was relevant to South Oxfordshire planning. It was noted that booking forms must be returned by 9th October 2015.

The Meeting closed at 8.35pm

/by

Parish Council Meeting 6th July 2015

,

WHEATLEY PARISH COUNCIL

 

MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE PARISH COUNCIL

HELD ON MONDAY 6TH JULY 2015 IN THE MERRY BELLS HALL AT 7.30PM

 

 

PRESENT: Councillors: G Stephens (Chairman), R Bell, P Hood, A Davies,   T Davies, P Willmott, A Walkey, P Gregory, P Bignell, J Carr, G Birks,

R Reilly, S Coleridge and T Newman

 

OFFICERS: Gareth Morris, Clerk to the Parish Council

 

Also present: County Councillor Anne Purse and seventeen members of the public

 

Mr S Bond and Mr B Farmery (Woolfe Bond/Taylor Wimpey/Cole Easdon) also attended for item re Housing Development, north of London Road

 

34. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE – none

 

 35. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

i) Cllr Newman declared an interest in item 8 ( Minute 41 Application for housing development o north side of London Road – as a member of the SODC’s planning Committee

ii) Cllr Coleridge declared an interest in item 10 (Minute 43 Village Green Application) as a Governor of John Watson School

iii) Cllr Hood declared an interest in item 10 (Minute 43 Village Green Application) as the Treasurer of the Cool Kids club

 

36.  UPDATE from the minutes of the meeting held on Monday 18th May 2015

i) Minute 18 – Parish Council Stall at Merry Bells Fayre 4th It was agreed that the event was a great success. The clerk to write a letter of thanks to the MBMC

 

37.  MINUTES of the Extra Ordinary meeting of the Parish Council meeting Wednesday 24th June 2015 which had been circulated with the Agenda were signed as a correct and accurate record

 

 38.UPDATE from the minutes of the Extra Ordinary meeting held 24th June 2015

     Minute 31 – Resolution from Cllr T. Davies. The Clerk reported that “Items for Information” now appeared at the end of each Agenda. Minutes were now being put on the website as soon as completed marked” Draft – subject to confirmation”

Minute 32 – First steps regarding the possible adoption of a neighbourhood plan.

The Clerk had e-mailed the clerk of Holton Parish Council informing her of Wheatley Parish Council’s first steps in deciding whether or not embark on a Neighbourhood and invited any Holton Parish Councillor to attend a meeting with Beryl Guiver, Planning Officer SODC which had been provisionally booked for Wednesday 5th August at 7.30pm

 

With the permission of the meeting it was AGREED to move to item

 

39. TO REPORT PROGRESS ON HOUSING FOR THE EXCEPTION SITE NORTH OF LONDON ROAD

       To consider the planning application for housing on an exception site on the north side of London Road between the Park Hill Roundabout and Fairfax Gate

     Mr Stephen Bond of Woolfe Bond gave an overview of the site history and the application and how it had changed following the public consultation and exhibition and meetings with SODC at which Parish councillors       were present.

At the end of the presentation the Chairman asked for questions from the councillors.

Cllr Newman – said that application was on SODC’s website but the 28 days public consultation had not yet started as no officer had been appointed.          

   Cllr A Davies – asked about the crossings – Ans. One would be light controlled and the second one would be dropped kerbs only.

     Cllr Bell – wanted clarification on further meetings. Ans. If, as a result of responses to the application, any changes would form an amendment to the application and go out to consultation

     Cllr Coleridge – felt there should have been a better location mix of affordable and market housing. Ans There had been much debate on this issue. The mix would be ‘tenure blind’ (unable to see the difference between the affordable and market houses) it was felt that this design, given all the various parameters, was the most appropriate balance to meet the housing needs.

     Cllr Birks – questioned the ‘non-controlled nature of the 2nd crossing Ans. It is irregular/incompatible to have two light controlled crossings (or even with one with belisha beacons) in such close proximity

     Cllr T Davies – said he was delighted with the traffic safety measures. He highlighted the problem of extra sewage and could the Wheatley system cope. Ans. The capacity questioned had been put to Thames Water and a study would be made

Cllr Bell – SODC Housing dept. had asked for an increase in the no. of smaller units, but this it had only increased by 2. Ans. SODC is happy that the mix is appropriate to meet the housing needs identified

     Cllr Bell had been unable to see any reference to street lighting. Ans. Given the nature of the site it would be more usual for street lighting to be devised at a later date

     Cllr Gregory – pointed out that the exit/entrance at the eastern end was quite close to the Fairfax Gate one and the junction between Church Road and London Road.and asked would that pose a problem? Ans. Following discussions with OCC Highways it was not thought it would pose a problem.

 

8.06pm The Chairman declared the Parish Council out of session and invited comments from the floor on the planning application

 

       Mr D Lamont – he understood that 2 light controlled crossings had been promised as had double yellow lined by the Glebe and St Mary’s Close. Ans. Two light controlled crossings had never been on the Agenda for reasons already discussed.   Ans Double yellow lines could be requested and it would fall to Taylor Wimpey to pay.

       Mr R Gordon – Wanted to know the regulations concerning the permitted distances between crossings. An. OCC had said that you cannot have a second controlled crossing given what is already in place on London Road.

Mr Gordon – noise was obviously a serious issue and he raised questions about what was written in the ‘Noise Report’. Ans. Where a development was built near part of the national road network noise levels are allowed to be higher than the norm. At the moment SODC’s Environment Officers had accepted the report and its findings

Mr Gordon – would noise monitoring post development be recommended. Ans. Yes, this would be likely

Mr D Lamont – if the zebra crossing east of the Park Hill roundabout was removed would another light controlled crossing nearer the development be permitted? Ans.

Taylor Wimpey would raise the matter, along with the double yellow lines with the County Council. Residents could also lobby SODC on the matter.

Mr A Johnson – felt that there was lack of clarity and ambiguity in the application. He asked who to go to at SODC in order to ask for clarification Ans. Mr Peter Brampton

Mr J Reay – adding more crossings along London Road may deter traffic in so much as they find another way through the village. Had Taylor Wimpey considered this? Ans..It was felt that this extra crossing would have an insignificant effect.

Pedestrians would use the crossing, go along the Glebe and the footpath through to Church Road and then go through the SODC or the Merry Bells car park to get to the High Street

 

8.24pm The Chairman declared the Parish Council back in session

(Item 8 Continued) TO REPORT PROGRESS ON HOUSING FOR THE EXCEPTION SITE NORTH OF LONDON ROAD

 he clerk announced that SODC had given the application number and a description which was:-

P15/S2121/Ful – Erection of 51 dwellings, with access from London Road, together with associated landscaping and open space provision. (Rural Exception Site)

    

Cllr Carr proposed and Cllr Gregory seconded that the Parish Council recommends SODC approves the application.

This was AGREED nem con with one abstention (Cllr Newman who served as an SODC Councillor on the SODC Planning Committee and had declared an interest)

The Chairman thanked Mr Bond and Mr Farmery for their attendance

 

41. TO NOTE THE RESIGNATION OF CLLR JOYCE COVELEY AND TO DECLARE A VACANCY ON THE PARISH COUNCIL

       The meeting was sad to note the resignation of Cllr Joyce Coveley. The Chairman said that Cllr Coveley was first co-opted on to the Parish Council in 1999 and had served ever since. She had been a stalwart of the Planning Committee. She would be greatly missed. It was agreed that the clerk should write to Mrs Coveley, The council declared a vacancy and the clerk would inform the Returning Officer at SODC and post the relevant notices.

 

 42. TO REPORT ON PROGRESS OF THE PARISH COUNCIL’S APPLICATION   APPLYING FOR VILLAGE GREEN STATUS FOR THE PLAYING FIELDS AT LITTLEWORTH ROAD.

     To consider the following resolution:

The Parish Council be free to vary the extent of the area covered by the Village Green Application in order to reach a timely agreement with ODST (Oxford Diocesan Schools Trust) for the partitioning of the Littleworth Road playing field, thus facilitating a manageable and secure boundary for Wheatley Primary Academy whilst at the same time protecting village use, in perpetuity of part of the field.

 The context is that the PC’s representatives discussed partition of the field with Oxford Diocesan Trust at, inter alia, a meeting on 9th January 2015, followed by partition being informally agreed at a meeting between representatives of the Parish Council, ODST and the Primary Academy on 24th April 2015, ODST having made it clear at all meetings that the field was too big for, and not required by, the Primary Academy; also that there was plenty of space available in the field for the above parties to be accommodated.

 

8.30pm The Chairman declared the Parish Council out of session and invited comments from the floor

 

Mrs Liz Wickens Community Governor of the Primary Academy. The compromise the resolution proposes meets the school’s specific needs the school can fence in the school’s immediate site perimeter. She said that the responsibility for the maintenance of the village green was unclear. She felt that the restrictions on village green usage might be something that residents of the village might regret in the future. The school was also concerned about the health and safety and access issues that the John Watson School may have with their https://www.sandwichmedical.com proposed building work.

 

Chairman of the John Watson School Governors – there had been no consultation between the John Watson School and the Parish Council over this issue. As it stands the proposal is not acceptable. The school has concern about access to their land and they need 24 hour access. The school would start building work in October. They also questioned who would have responsibility for maintaining the area of the village green

 

Head Teacher of the John Watson School – safeguarding issues were very important to the school and any increased use by adults of the land would be worrying.

 

Mr J Reay – felt that residents especially those on Littleworth Road should have been consulted.

 

County Councillor Anne Purse – stated that there were likely to be cut backs in the County Council supported subsidized public transport. Another cutback would be in Children’ Centres.

              The County Council was doing regular weight limit checks and enforcement in Watlington and Little Milton and the Haseleys. In Watlington they have a scheme

 

District Councillor Newman – He had asked if additional signage at the entrances to the village re the weight limits could be provided

 

Mr D Lamont – asked about the Vehicle Activated Signs that the previous council has approved. The clerk replied that in November the County Council had estimated a cost of around £11,000 for the four requested. The Parish Council had now been told that this cost had risen to £23,000 due to a calculation error in the original estimate. The F&GP Committee had felt that it could not go ahead without further investigation.

 

9.04pm The Chairman declared the Parish Council back in session

 

 Item 10 continued (Village Green Application)

     Cllr Willmott wished to counter the ‘facts’ that had been included in a letter that went out from the Primary Academy, on this issue, to parents and carers which was also available at the Fayre on Saturday.

 

Cllr Birks. A compromise that would work for all parties was now in reach. The landowner (the County Council) should maintain the land, though it was likely that the Parish Council would be asked to pay some of it.

The access issue to the John Watson school had been discussed with Mr Joyner of Diocese and he said that the County Council, which has the responsibility for the John Watson school and the Diocese should be able to reach a solution over the access to the John Watson school. Mr Joyner did not believe that this was an issue to affect the village green. Any access to the John Watson school would affect the Diocese portion of the land.

      

The motion, as it appeared on the Agenda (and at the start of Minute 42) was

proposed by Cllr Carr and Seconded by Cllr T Davies.

The was AGREED by 13 votes in favour, none against – Cllr Coleridge who had

declared an interest, did not vote

 

44 THE MINUTES of the meetings of the Planning Committee held on Wednesday 20th May 2015 and Wednesday 10th June 2015 which had both been circulated previously were received

 

45.THE MINUTES of the meetings of the F&GP Committee held on Monday 15th June 2015 which had been circulated previously were received.

 

 46. TO RECEIVE AND NOTE THE REPORT OF THE INTERNAL AUDITOR, MR P HOOD

The report of the Internal Auditor had been circulated with the Agenda.

The only recommendation from the auditor was that the Risk Assessment undertaken by the Parish Council is approved, adopted and minuted within each financial year for that year. (See minute 50 below)

Cllr Gregory proposed and Cllr T Davies seconded that the report of the Internal Auditor be received and noted. AGREED

 

47. TO CONSIDER MATTERS RELATING TO WHEATLEY PARK SPORTSFIELD   MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE AND THE WHEATLEY PLAYING FIELD TRUST

i) To receive the audited accounts for of the WPSFMC for 2014/2015 (see enclosed papers) and to agree to pay the balance that the Parish Council has to pay of £1,667.81. This was Agreed

            Report on Sportsfield management Committee – Cllr Bell asked a question on the redundancy of the two employees of the Committee. Cllr Willmott confirmed that all due process had been carried out and the two  employees would be made redundant as from 31 August 2015. It was expected that the County Council would pay 80% of the cost of redundancy pay but they had not confirmed that as yet

Point 4 on the report related to the fact that the new residents in the bungalow next to the sports field had a Rottweiler. The school and written to the owners and so had Cllr Willmott on behalf of the management committee. Two PCSO’s had paid a visit. It was Agreed that, as landowners, the Parish Council should write to the owner and Holton Parish Council with their concerns.

ii) Matters concerning the Wheatley Playing Field Trust

Cllr Willmott reported that matters were progressing and it was hoped that an agreement would be reached with Wheatley Park School in the next fortnight. For bookings they were looking at an on-line system in order to reduce costs.

Cllr T Davies was concerned that there should be protection for the Parish Council in terms of ownership of the land that any decision concerning use, development and using the land as collateral for a loan must be referred back to the parish Council, also he was concerned that the £10,000 contribution by the Parish Council could be a burden on it. The Trust should look to reducing this cost to the Parish Council. Cllr Willmott replied that it would be difficult to raise enough revenue to cover the costs of running the field in the evenings and at the weekends. The Trust had been looking at ways to raise extra revenue and to make savings.

 

48. TO CONSIDER THE WHEATLEY VILLAGE PRODUCE ASSOCIATION’S REQUEST TO PLANT A CHERRY TREE IN THE MEMORIAL GARDENS.

       The clerk read out a letter from the Chairman of the Village Produce Association requesting permission to plant a cherry tree in the Memorial Gardens to mark the Association’s 75th birthday. The Parish Council granted the request. The clerk would check with the Diocese to see if there were any procedural issues.

 

49. TO CONSIDER OXFORDSHIRE County Council’s Public consultation on proposed changes to subsidised bus services and to the Dial a Ride service in Oxfordshire – Ends 14th September 2015

       Public meeting – Weds 8 July in OCC County Hall, Oxford – 19.00pm-20.30pm   www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/stconsultation

The County Council was considering two options:

Option 1 – removing all subsidies – Bus Route 280 – at risk – Sunday and Bank Holidays – first service in the morning and one evening service

Services 103/104 services were fully subsidised

Option 2 – Prioritise Routes – on the following grounds.

  1. a) –   services used by older/disabled passengers
  2. b) –   peak hour running
  3. c)  – evenings and weekends

The 103/104 & 275 services were deemed ‘low risk’

It was agreed notices to go up at the bus stops and in the news letter

 

 

50 TO RECEIVE THE RISK ASSESSMENT FOR THE PARISH COUNCIL FOR 2015-2106 (copy in Parish Office) AND TO SIGN THE ACTION PLAN

      The Parish Council had received and signed this Risk Assessment at its March meeting. However given the Internal Auditor’s recommendation (see minute 46 above) it was coming to the Parish Council again to be signed in the financial year that it related to.

It was AGREED to receive the Risk Assessment and it was signed by the Chairman.

Cllr Walkey pointed out that under ‘Drainage’ specific mention should be made of the stream from Westfield as well as the Ambrose Rise ditch. The clerk agreed to add that.

 

51. TO CONSIDER THE PARISH COUNCIL’S USE OF SOCIAL MEDIA

       The Chairman had asked for this item to be put on the Agenda. He said he felt that to improve communication between the Parish Council and the residents and the council should adopt a form of social media, such as ‘Twitter’. This account would announce the availability of agendas and minutes and direct people to the Parish Council website.

Cllr Newman proposed and Cllr Hood seconded that the Parish Council should adopt the use of ‘Twitter’ This was AGREED unanimously

 

52. REPORTS FROM OUTSIDE BODIES

i) The Merry Bells Management Committee – Cllr Gregory – Mrs Mary Blake was the new Chairman. The Fayre had been a success and it should be repeated.

ii) The Howe Trust – No Report

iii) Thames Valley Police – No Report

iv) Brookes University Resident Associations’ meeting – Cllr Bell – There had been no discussion on the future of the Wheatley Campus. There had been a survey of student and staff travel movement. There was a large no. of students with car park passes. From September there will be a pay as you go system for student parking

v) Public Transport Meeting for Parish Council representatives – the OCC Consultation on Bus subsidies and the Dial-a-Ride service had been discussed

vi) Wheatley Park School – No report

vii) Wheatley Windmill – Cllr Stephens – looking for volunteers

Cllr Walkey asked how these reports were chosen. The clerk replied that they were from Parish Council representatives on those bodies or meetings were Parish Councillors attended on behalf of the Parish Council

 

53. CALENDAR OF MEETINGS – NOTED

i) Planning Committee – Wednesday 8th July 2015 – 7.30pm

ii) F&GP Committee – Monday 20th July 2015 – 7.30pm

iii) Planning Committee – Wednesday 12 August 2015 – 7.30pm

iv) Parish Council Meeting – Monday 7th September 2015 – 7.30 pm

v) Planning Committee – Wednesday 9th September 2015 – 7.30pm

 

54. ITEMS FOR INFORMATION

  • Cllr Newman –SODC Report funding for a Neighbourhood plan – £10,000 available from SODC and £7,500 from central government. John Howell MP now has responsibility for Neighbourhood Planning and he is willing to attend the meeting with SODC Officers.

Business rate rules for amateur sports clubs had changed

The deadline for bids between £15,000 and £100,000 from SODC under the Community Capital Grant was 24th July

  • Cllr Stephens – councillors’ village walkabout – the date would be 10th or 17th August at 6.30pm. Cllr Bell
  • Cllr Walkey – The URC would be holding a farewell service for their minister, Tanya Rasmusson the following Sunday. Counsellors would be welcome.
  • The Clerk – OCC would starting formal consultation along Church Road on the short lengths of extra double yellow lines along the south side of Church to allow vehicles to pull in, to allow on coming vehicles to pass.

 

Meeting closed at 10.22pm

/by

Planning Committee 8th July 2015 (subject to confirmation)

,

DRAFT – SUBJECT TO CONFIRMATION

Wheatley Parish Council
MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE PLANNING COMMITTEE OF THE COUNCIL HELD IN THE PARISH OFFICE ON WEDNESDAY 8th JULY 2015

PRESENT: Cllrs R Bell (Chairman from Agenda item 2 onwards), P Bignell, J Carr (Chairman for Agenda item 1 only), S Coleridge, A Walkey
OFFICER: The Assistant Clerk
ALSO PRESENT: Cllr P Hood as member of the public

20. ELECTION OF CHAIRMAN
As Chairman Cllr Coveley has resigned, Cllr Carr opened the meeting and asked for nominations for Chairman. Cllr Bell was proposed by Cllr Coleridge and Cllr Bignell seconded. As there were no further nominations, Cllr Bell was declared elected. The Planning Committee gave a vote of thanks for the many years of dedicated work that Cllr Coveley has given.

21. ELECTION OF VICE-CHAIRMAN
Cllr Coleridge was proposed and seconded. As there were no further nominations, Cllr Coleridge was declared elected.

22. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE – Cllr A Davies (who has also has given her resignation to the Planning Committee), Cllr G Stephens

23. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST – Cllr Coleridge re 24 Westfield Road. She is an immediate neighbour.

24. MINUTES OF THE PREVIOUS MEETING HELD ON 10th June 2015 which had been circulated previously were signed as a correct and accurate record.

25. UPDATE ON MEETING HELD ON 10th June 2015
1 Coopers Close: Cllr Bell reported that some neighbours’ comments on the SODC planning website had not appeared under the correct planning application, this was now rectified. The SODC Planning Officer has written to the British Rail Residuary Board to ask for their comments. Cllr Bell and Cllr Walkey to meet with Mr & Mrs Harris on Friday 10th July to gather further information.

26. AMENDMENTS TO PREVIOUS APPLICATIONS – None

27. NEW PLANNING APPLICATIONS

i) P15/S1773/HH 1 Park Hill Wheatley OX33 1ND Demolition of existing attached sheds and extensions. Erection of a single storey side extension and extension to garage (As amended by plan PA03_Rev A, received 2015_06_25 to clarify that the extension to the north elevation would not physically attach to neighbours). (Additional plan received 2015_07_01 to show roof plan).
Comments on the SODC website from the neighbour at 5 Holloway Road were noted, regarding the proposed flat roof balcony overlooking their property, despite contrary comment from the architect. It was also noted that the plans of the proposed flat roof balcony were unclear. No strong views.

ii) P15/S1845/HH 28 Church Road Wheatley OX33 1NB Extension of a family home. An amendment regarding the raising of the height of the roof and dormer windows was received after the agenda went out but was included because of the importance of the changes. Comments on the SODC website from the neighbour at 27A High Street were taken into consideration. Recommend Refusal
Reason for Recommending Refusal:
1. The development is situated in a significant part of the Wheatley Conservation Area and the increased height proposed and modern style is not appropriate in this location. It would also will destroy an important public view from Church Road and Church Road Recreation Ground.
2. Taking into consideration the comments from the neighbour, the development will be too dominant, overlooking other properties in the High Street to the south.
P15/S1935/HH 120 London Road Wheatley OX33 1YH Demolition of existing detached pre-fabricated concrete garage and attached single storey outbuildings and replacement with a new two-storey extension to side of original house to form additional living accommodation with improved and enlarged car parking/manoeuvring. Recommend Approval

iii) P15/S1882/HH 24 Westfield Road Wheatley OX33 1NG Proposed garden shed and log store. (Retrospective). Cllr Coleridge did not take part in the discussion. Recommend Approval

iv) P15/S2041/HH 16 Miller Road Wheatley OX33 1XB Proposed `granny’ annex in the form of a small single storey detached building at the rear of the garden. Cllr Hood, as a member of the public, gave information regarding the use of the annex. No strong views – if approved by SODC, the committee asks that a condition of the approval should be that the development is not let or sold and is for use by immediate family only.

v) Proposed residential development on land to the north of London Road, Wheatley, Oxfordshire. Already discussed and approved at the full council meeting on 6th July 2015.

28. PLANNING DECISIONS AND NOTIFICATIONS – NOTED

i) P15/S0887/FUL (Full Application) 1 Kellys Road Demolition of existing single storey dwelling and garage. Erection of terrace of three dwellings. Recommend Refusal REFUSED 03.06.15
ii) P15/S1006/FUL 112 London Road Wheatley OX33 1YH Conversion of existing dwelling into 2 x two bed apartments. Recommend Approval GRANTED 08.06.15
iii) P15/S1231/HH 7 Templars Close Wheatley OX33 1PA Single storey side and rear extension and replacement canopy. Recommend Approval GRANTED 15.06.15
iv) P15/S1352/HH 2 Hillary Way Wheatley OXFORD OX33 1UY Proposed extension to existing bedroom to front incorporating existing bedroom as dressing room. Recommend Approval GRANTED 18.06.15

29. CORRESPONDENCE
Email from Mr & Mrs Harris, 1 Coopers Close. Cllrs Bell and Walkey to visit.

30. DATE OF NEXT MEETING – WEDNESDAY 12TH AUGUST 2015 – NOTED

31. ITEMS FOR INFORMATION
Committee to be informed when the next training session on planning takes place.

The Meeting closed at 8.35pm

/by