Minutes of Annual Parish Assembly
Held on Wednesday 18th March 2009

Minutes of Atworth Parish Council Meeting held on
Wednesday 18th March 2009

Atworth Parish Council
Minutes of  Meeting held on Wednesday 21st January 2009

Apologies     None
 
Attending   Effie Gale-Sides, Bill Cooke, Alan Bagnell, Robert Floyd, Jonathon Higgs, Bob Hole, John Lambert, Richard Schoppler & Maureen Weston.
 
Minutes     The Minutes of the previous Meeting were approved; proposed Maureen Weston, seconded Alan Bagnell, carried.
 
Matters Arising

Community Policing
The Clerk reported that he had not discussed use of electronic speed recording with Mr Spencer. The reason being that, as a result of a traffic survey conducted by WCC (to be discussed under School Travel Plan), there was evidence that excess speeding was very limited through the village. It was likely that expenditure would be a wasted. The Parish Council concurred with this judgement. On a related subject the Clerk was asked to obtain previous speeding data from our local PCSO.

Parish Plan
The Parish Council noted that the Initial Sample Questionnaire was near completion and on target to be issued mid-February. Depending on the response and need to alter the main Questionnaire the plan remained to issue in April.

School Travel Plan
The Parish Council were pleased to learn that the review of the Walking Bus had lead to the recommendation by WCC that a pedestrian crossing was required on the Bath Road. The Parish Council hoped that it would be funded for the next financial year. The Clerk was asked to write to the School and congratulate them on the success of the Travel Plan.

Erection of Flag Pole
Mr Higgs would chase up with Mr Bird to arrange for access to his yard to retrieve the pole.

Accounts 2008/09 & 2009 Precept
The Council noted the three quarter year balance and that the final outturn should be in the order of £14.5k. The Clerk reported that he has bid for a precept of £15k, including £3k provision for a bus shelter, for 2009/10.
 
Copse of Pines, Mount Pleasant
A site meeting with Sovereign Housing, on 4 December, with WWDC, had failed to happen as a result of illness. A new date has been set for 27 January. Madame Chairman reported on her meeting with Head of Open Spaces Planning for WCC. She hoped that his recommendations would be taken up by WWDC. Mr Schoppler reported that the Woodland Trust had produce packs for leafleting households on maintaining woods. The Clerk was asked to thank Mr Haslett for his letter describing the history of the copse.

Lane to Stonar
The Parish Council noted the letter of thanks from St Michaels. The Clerk was asked to check if the few potholes remaining could be filled.

Unitary Authority for Wiltshire
The Clerk reported that he had not been able to get a representative to this meeting but he had arranged for Richard Munro, WCC Project Manager, to attend the March meeting of the Council. The invitation to comment on the Draft Handbook on Area Boards was noted. Also the restrictions placed on Parishes to choose which Area Board to join.

Village Bier, refurbishment
The Council noted that this item had not been progressed partly due to lack of suppliers. The Clerk was asked to follow up a number of suggested suppliers/possible experts. It was agreed that the issue of charging for use of the Bier would be discussed at the next meeting of the Council.

Dog Bin & Dog Warden
The Clerk advised that he awaited information as to whether bins might become available ex-Warminster.

Bradford Road subsidence
The Clerk has reported the problem; a similar problem at Purlpit Bridge has been dealt with by the Parish Steward.

Securing the Village Green
The Clerk was directed to obtain quotes and seek a possible grant towards the work of kerbing the green.

Closure of BT phone box
Madame Chairman reported that a response to the District Council objection to closure was still awaited.

Car Parking at Village Hall & Gate charges
The Council noted that all fees had been paid. It was agreed to remove from agenda.

Jane Brown Charity
John Lambert explained how the charity could be wound up. The Clerk was asked to put in hand.

Location of Bobby Van
Madame Chairman reported that the arrangement for our PCSO to hold a ‘surgery’ at the Independent Church has been set up and reported in the Village Magazine. It was agreed to remove this item from agenda.

Request for Bus Shelter
The Parish Council Planning Sub-Committee has yet to consider the location and report to the Parish Council. It was noted that a number of objections, written and verbal, had been received. It was suggested and agreed that the Planning Sub-Committee should extend its review to cover other sites (opposite the Clock Tower and the stop before Purlpit). The Clerk was also asked to arrange with the Parish Steward to look at the drainage on the main road at the bus shelter near the Bear Garage.

Tree Damage
The Council noted with pleasure that Mr Player has volunteered to become Tree Warden for Atworth. It was agreed that he be given a copy of the report on our trees and that he be invited to the next meeting of the Parish Council.

Atworth Youth Club
The Clerk has written to the Neston Estate seeking an extension to the lease on the Youth Club.

Churchfields, Community Governor
Mrs King has, reluctantly, had to decline. It was agreed that Effie Gale-Sides should replace Mrs King.
Substitutes for Council Representatives. Mr Higgs asked that he be replaced as Council Representative to the Village Hall Trustees as he was heavily committed to the Youth Club. Mr Schoppler said he would consider taking on. Madame Chairman asked that Councillors be prepared to back up their colleagues when unable to attend an event at which the Council should be represented.
 
Correspondence

The Rural Services Network The Council decided not to join.
Parish Improvement Grants The Council noted the opportunity to apply for footpaths etc. Mr Floyd would consider and report back.
Code on local authority publicity The Council decided not to comment.

Reports  None
 
Planning Applications

AT08/02920         112 Bradford Rd, tree felling.            Approved
AT08/00113         9 Chapel Rise, boundary fence.         Approved
AT08/02202         Neston Farm Shop, marquee.           Await decision
AT08/03153         Gable Cottage, Little Chalfield, ext’. Approved
AT08/03237         116 Bradford Rd, separate dwelling. Refused
AT08/03439         35 Godwins Close, ext’.                   Await decision
AT08/03462         The Hayes, erect gate posts.             Await decision
AT08/03466          Churchfields, tree cut back.             Approved
AT08/03469          Churchfields, covered play area.      Await decision          
 
Authorisation of Cheques
 
S.Jordan (Flag pole rope)                            £7.84
English Landscapes (grass cutting)            £195.99
Approved proposed: Robert Floyd, seconded Bob Hole.

Any other business

It was agreed that a session on ownership and trusting of Council assets be held.
The Parish Council will meet at 6:30pm (i.e. a half hour early) on 20th May 2009. 
 
Dates of Next Meetings
 
Wednesdays, 18th March (after Parish Assembly) at 7:00pm & 20th May at 6:30pm in Village Hall

The Meeting closed at 8:55pm.

Atworth Parish Council
Minutes of Meeting held on Wednesday 19^th November 2008.

Apologies   Robert Floyd & Jonathon Higgs
Attending   Effie Gale-Sides, Bill Cooke, Alan Bagnell, Bob Hole, John Lambert, Richard Schoppler & Maureen Weston.
Minutes     The Minutes of the previous Meeting were approved; proposed Maureen Weston, seconded Richard Schoppler, carried.

Matters Arising

Community Policing
Madame Chairman read out a letter from WCC explaining that, on current evidence, speeding in Atworth was not an issue. Mr Spencer, attending, was invited to describe how a parish council in Lincolnshire had purchased an electronic speed device to be operated by the Police. It was agreed that the Police be approached about using such a device. The Clerk was asked to follow up and discuss further with Mr Spencer.

Parish Plan
Maureen Weston reported on a recent meeting in Salisbury which highlighted the importance of Parish Plans. Consultations with interest groups in the Parish are near an end and the first cut at a sample questionnaire is underway. Its issue early in the New Year is on target.

School Travel Plan
The Parish Council noted that the report from WCC on the implications on travel safety for the School Travel Plan was awaited.

Accounts 2008/09 & 2009, Precept
The Council noted the half year outturn and that the final outturn should be in the order of £14k. After debate it was agreed, proposed by Bill Cooke, seconded John Lambert, that a precept of £15k, including £3k provision for a bus shelter, be set for 2009/10.

Copse of Pines, Mount Pleasant
Madame Chairman reported on a meeting with the Wiltshire Trust for Nature Conservation who was interested in improving the area for conservation. The Clerk has had a site meeting with Sovereign Housing and a further meeting on 4 December, to include a representative of WWDC, is in hand.

Lane to Stonar
Madame Chairman was able to report that WCC had laid planings free of charge. The action to arrange purchase and laying can be postponed for a time.

Unitary Authority for Wiltshire
The Parish Council debated as to whether to seek membership of an Area Board, not necessarily Melksham. It was agreed to invite a representative of the Trowbridge Board, preferably from a parish council, to speak to the parish Council about the role of the Area Board.

Dog Bin & Dog Warden
The Clerk reported there was a small chance of bins being provided ex Warminster otherwise it would need to await the creation of the Unitary Authority and a decision on future funding. Suitable locations would be identified; the lane to Stonar being one.

Bradford Road subsidence
John Lambert advised that it was the footpath that was subsiding. Also several drain covers were proud of the road surface. The Clerk would follow up.

Securing the Village Green
The District Conservation Officer has suggested some low level kerbing maybe appropriate and that a grant might be possible. The Clerk was asked to follow up.

Closure of BT phone box
Madame Chairman reported that a response to the District Council objection to closure was awaited.

Car Parking at Village Hall & Gate charges
After debate it was agreed; proposed John Lambert, seconded Bob Hole, that the charges remain for 2009; £60 for parking, £30 for crossing Council land & £5 for Gate access. Clerk to arrange.

Jane Brown Charity
John Lambert reported that he awaits a response from the legal representative. He hopes to report at the next meeting of the Parish Council.

Location of Bobby Van
It was noted, with thanks, that the Independent Church would be happy for PCSO Ledbury to use their car park, or the Church if weather inclement, to meet with residents. The Clerk to make necessary arrangements.

Request for Bus Shelter
After considerable debate it was agreed by 4 votes to 2; proposed Alan Bagnell, seconded Bob Hole that the provision of a bus shelter at the Clock Tower be reviewed after application of the School Travel Plan. It was further agreed by 5 votes to 1 abstention, to have a bus shelter at or near to the bus stop adjacent to 140b Bath Road; proposed Richard Schoppler, seconded Bill Cooke. It was further agreed that the Parish Council Planning Sub-Committee be invited to consider the location and report to the Parish Council before a final decision be taken.

Tree Damage
A report from the District Conservation Officer has been received and will be provided to Councillors.

Correspondence

The making & enforcement of bye laws
The Parish Council noted the consultation but did not feel moved to comment.
WALC Annual Report
The Parish Council noted that WALC’s Annual Report was available to read.
Freedom of Information Act, new model scheme to adopt
The Parish Council formally resolved to accept the New Model Publication Scheme of the Freedom of Information act; proposes Maureen Weston, seconded Alan Bagnell with one abstention.
Atworth Youth Club
The Parish Council agreed to the proposal by the Youth Club that, as part of a D of E Awards project, the bus shelter near to the Youth Club be painted. It was also agreed that Jonathon Higgs replace William Bird as the Parish Council representative on the Board of Trustees. Finally the Parish Clerk was authorised to re-establish the Deed of Trust and to invite Neston Estate to extend the lease for the Youth Club site. Clerk to take forward.
Churchfields, appointment of Community Governor
It was agreed that Mr Mavis King be nominated as the new Community Governor. Clerk to advise the School.
Repairs to Village Bier
IT was agreed; proposed Bill Cooke, seconded Alan Bagnell, that the Clerk seeks quotes for necessary repairs to tyres and leather strapping.
Codes of Conduct
The Parish Council noted the further consultation on ‘bringing the office into disrepute’.

Reports  None

Planning Applications
AT08/01137                193a Purlpit, loft conversion.        Approved
AT08/02676                45 Bath Rd, conservatory.           Approved
AT08/03928                4 Greenland Close, conservatory. Approved
AT08/02920                112 Bradford Rd, tree felling,       Agreed
AT08/00113                9 Chapel Rise, boundary fence,    Agreed

Authorisation of Cheques
Atworth WI, caretaker materials                                         £64.27
Mazars, external audit                                                       £158.62
English Landscapes, grass cutting                                      £195.98
SLCC, annual subscription                                                 £91.00
C. Boyle, ½ year salary                                                  £1793.20
C. Boyle, office allowance                                                £224.15
HM Revenue & Customs, income tax                               £448.29
C.Boyle, office expenses                                                    £82.15
Atworth WI, ½ year caretaker expenditure                       £316.00
RBL Poppy Appeal                                                            £16.50
Approved; proposed Alan Bagnell, seconded John Lambert.

Any other business

Appointment of Robert Floyd as High Sheriff
The appointment of Robert Floyd was noted with pleasure by the Parish Council

Parish Forum
Madame Chairman reported that the next meeting of the Parish Forum was to take place on 26 November and if any Councillor wished to attend to let her know. Madame Chairman asked Councillors to put themselves forward as substitutes when it was not possible for the Council nominee to attend a meeting. To consider at next meeting

Dates of Next Meetings

Wednesdays, 21^st January & 18^th March at 7:00pm in Village Hall

The Meeting closed at 9:35pm.

Atworth Parish Council
Minutes of Meeting held on Wednesday 17th September 2008

Apologies Effie Gale-Sides, John Lambert & Bob Hole.

Attending Bill Cooke, Jonathon Higgs, Alan Bagnell & Maureen Weston.

Minutes The Minutes of the previous Meeting were approved; proposed Maureen Weston, seconded Jonathon Higgs, carried.

Matters Arising
Community Policing
The Chairman reported that the County Council have been asked to consider introduction of electronic speed signs as part of the review of traffic issues raised in the School Travel Plan.
Parish Plan
As the Chairman, John Polhill, of the Parish Plan Steering Committee was present he gave a short report. The Steering Group were progressing at a pace that was acceptable to Community First, who were monitoring the process. The open meetings and nearly complete and the next stage would be the production of a draft questionnaire. The target for the sample questionnaire was early next year and the total timeframe of 2 years was adequate.
School Travel Plan
The Parish Clerk reported that he awaited the response from WCC. There were problems on the footpath past Snapdragons Nursery and adjacent properties with overhanging foliage. It was hoped that those responsible would clear quickly.
Accounts 2008/09
The Council noted the draft Balance sheet as at 30th September 2008.
Copse of Pines, Mount Pleasant
There has been a change of Housing Association at Mount Pleasant. They were promising to clear up the site. Mr Chivers (District Councillor) has been quoted that the Copse would be cleared every 3 months. The W.I would do another litter pick shortly though there was evidence of dumping. The Chairman reported that Effie Gale-Sides has contacted Wiltshire Wildlife seeking their assistance.
Lane to Stonar
Madame The Clerk reported that the County Council had offered to lay some planning but, to date, this has not been done. The Clerk would chase.
Unitary Authority for Wiltshire
A further round of consultative meetings will take place in October. He has advised the WCC Project Manager that the Parish Council were still considering what they might wish to take on.
Dog Bin & Dog Warden
The Clerk reported he was awaiting a reply from Terry Chivers who had been asked to intervene.
Bradford Road subsidence
The Highways Authority has been asked to examine/ report.
Closure of Atworth Recycling Site
The Clerk reported that whilst it remained a live issue WWDC could not identify a safe useable site other than the previous one. It was agreed that the item be removed from the agenda.
Securing the Village Green
The Clerk reported that he had hastened the District Conservation Officer for his report.
Speeding on West Hill/Purlpit
The Council noted that nothing further could be done and agreed to remove from the Agenda.
Closure of BT phone box
The Chairman reported that the District Council has supported the Council’s objection to its removal and has included in the list of objections. A proposal from BT that Parish Councils could, at cost, take responsibility for telephone boxes was rejected by the Council.
Car Parking at Village Hall
The Clerk reported that the Village Hall Trustees had marked out the no parking area. The History Group has written confirming that they will co-operate with the new arrangement. It was note that the number of vehicles parking on the main road appeared to be increasing.
Jane Brown Charity
Discussion held over pending John Lambert’s attendance.
Location of Bobby Van
The local PCSO has responded positively asking where she might park so that residents could meet her. A member of the public has suggested the car park at the Independent Chapel. The Clerk would follow up. As a fall back the area by the youth club may be suitable.
Request for Bus Shelter
The Chairman reported that Effie Gale-Sides was still to attend the next meeting of the Transport Consultative Committee. A debate lead to the conclusion that the Clerk factor in, for consideration, in the Precept for 2009/10 the cost of a bus shelter at the Clock Tower. Further thought would be given to the need for an additional shelter(s) and location at the Melksham end of the Village. The Clerk reported that First Bus have replied to his complaint and will remind drivers to slow down as they approach village bus shelters .
Co-option of new Parish Councillor
As there was a second candidate, Mrs S Mathews, Councillors contacted a ballot to select to the vacant post on the Council. Mr Richard Schoppler was successful and was invited to join the Parish Council.
Electoral Review of Wiltshire
The Council noted the outcome. There were no changes impacting on Atworth.
Carbon Challenge tree planting
This was removed from the Agenda.
Tree Damage
The Clerk has asked the District Conservation Officer for advice.

Correspondence
WALC AGM
The Clerk advised the Council of this forthcoming event.
Training Day for New Councillors
The Clerk asked if any Council member was interested to let him know.
Wiltshire Involvement Network
The Clerk reported the establishment of this new body.

Reports  None.

Planning Applications
AT08/00992 Neston Farm Shop extension: realign entrance - Await decision
AT08.01676 Churchfields the Village School: new escape exit - Approved
AT08/01689 Ditto
AT08/00408 72 Bradford Rd int/ext alts - Approved

Authorisation of Cheques
English Landscapes       grass cutting             £195.99
A Bray                         bier refurbishment       £54.00
Hatherall                       internal audit               £82.25
Contract Int’ Supplies   youth club               £4124.25
Atworth WI                  caretaker materials      £64.27
Approved; proposed Jonathon Higgs, Alan Bagnell.

Any other business None.

Dates of Next Meetings
Wednesdays,  19th November 2008 & 21st January 2009 at 7:00pm in the village hall

The Meeting closed at 8:20pm.

Charles Boyle, Parish Clerk 

Atworth Parish Council
Minutes of Meeting held on Wednesday 16th July 2008

Apologies None.

Attending Effie Gale-Sides, Bill Cooke, Jonathon Higgs, Bob Hole, John Lambert & Maureen Weston.

Minutes   The Minutes of the previous Meeting were approved; proposed Bob Hole, seconded Maureen Weston, carried.

Matters Arising
Community Policing
Madame Chairman reported that the police had advised that hand held speed camera would have no legal status when used by members of the public. However the police would be using to monitor traffic. It was agreed that the Highways Authority be approached about electronic speed signs.
Parish Plan
The Parish Council were unable to identify any external stakeholders that were not already known. They were pleased with progress to date as the Steering Group took their message out to the Parish.
School Travel Plan  
The Parish Clerk reported that WCC would include an examination of a 20mph limit on Bradford Road and red hatching outside Churchfields. The Clerk also report that the issue of the Quiet Lane at Great Chalfield could not proceed as WCC were not prepared to allocate further money to the scheme.
Erection of Flag Pole
It was agreed that this item be removed from the agenda pending Mr Bird finding the time to do. Jon Higgs would check out if his works engineering dept could do the job.
Accounts 2008/09
The Council noted the Balance sheet as at 30 June 2008. The Clerk drew their attention to the inclusion on the fixed asset register of the Youth Club. The Clerk reported that Barclays Bank were less helpful than Alliance & Leicester (a correction, at the meeting Clerk said HBOS). He would arrange in slower time to gather the necessary documents from Councillors authorised to sign.
Copse of Pines, Mount Pleasant
The Clerk was authorise to approach Terry Chivers and seek his help in resolving this issue.
Lane to Stonar
Madame Chairman reported that all 5 addresses had replied, all positively. The Clerk has asked the Highways Authority to price the laying of the planings. A meeting of the 5 residents would then be arranged to take it forward.
Unitary Authority for Wiltshire
Madame Chairman furnished the Council with a detailed report on the meeting called for Parish & Town Councils. The Parish Council concluded as some debate that it should adopt a wait and see policy pending a clearer understanding of the pros and cons.
Village Bier
The Vice-Chairman reported that with the bier now established in its shed a description including its history will be provided to aid understanding of its purpose.
Dog Bin & Dog Warden The Clerk reported he was still awaiting information on the Dog Bin. The incidence of dog faeces on the grass at Chapel Rise putting children at risk was raised. The Clerk was asked to use this in support of the need for a bin.
Bradford Road subsidence
The Clerk has asked the Highways Authority to examine and report.
Closure of Atworth Recycling Site
The Clerk reported that whilst it remained a live issue WWDC could not identify a safe useable site other than the previous location.
Securing the Village Green
The Clerk had approached the District Conservation Officer. He has visited the site and will report. The Council Planning Sub-Committee took the view that a retaining wall and kerbing would be necessary. This has been feed into the Conservation Officer.
Best Kept Village 2008
Madame Chairman reported that Atworth came second in the District competition. The good work of the Parish Steward was commended in helping the village look so good.
Speeding on West Hill/Purlpit
The Council noted the negative response by the Highways Authority to the proposed 30mph repeaters. It was currently illegal.
The issue to remain on the table.
Closure of BT phone box
Madame Chairman reported that the District Council had supported our objection to closure. The proposal was out for further consultation.
Car Parking at Village Hall The Clerk reported that all parties have been advised of the Council decision. There had been no response to date.
Jane Brown Charity
John Lambert reported that the proposal to close this charity had been passed for legal advice.
Location of Bobby Van
It was noted that the Bobby Van Administrator had said that it had never been parked at the Farm shop. It was in fact the local PCSO. The Clerk was asked to contact and suggest a place more central to allow all the approach as needed.

Correspondence
Request for Bus Shelter Madame Chairman read a letter expressing concern over the lack of a shelter at the eastern, Melksham side of the road. The reasons for the parish Council not agreeing previous to the proposal were restated. The Chairman said she would raise the issue of buses not slowing down at the fare stage at the next meeting of the Passenger Transport Consultative Committee. An informal approach would be made to the owner of a tree that was partly obscuring the shelter. The Clerk was asked to write to First Bus about not slowing down approaching bus shelters.
Co-option of new Parish Councillor It was agreed, proposed Bill Cooke, seconded Bob Hole, that Mr Richard Schoffler be selected for the vacant position if it was established that an other possible candidate did not wish to be considered. If the individual did then the selection would be by secret ballot at the September meeting of the Parish Council.
Reports The Clerk was asked to circulate the report from the Youth Club.

Planning Applications
AT08/00963     41 Mead Park, erect conservatory                    Approved.
AT08/00992     Neston Farm Shop, extension, realign entrance  Await decision.
AT08/01137     193a Purlpit,            loft convn.                         Approved.
AT08.01676     Churchfields,            new escape exit                Await decision.
AT08/01689     ditto
AT08/00408     72 Bradford Rd,      int/ext alts                          No comment.

Authorisation of Cheques
Community First:      Village Hall         insrnce     £1461.57
Allianz Ins plc:          Parish Council    insrnce        £807.22
Youth Club:             Additional grant                     £300.00
Approved: proposed Maureen Weston; seconded John Lambert.

Any other business
Carbon Challenge tree planting
Maureen Weston reported that the WI had been given an oak tree. The Council was asked to consider were it would be best planted.
Tree damage by electricity supplier
John Lambert drew the Council’s attention to the damage done to the trees in Bradford Rd. It was agreed that the District Conservation Officer be approached for help.
Parking in Bradford Rd
John Lambert reported that a resident had copied to him a letter sent to Churchfields expressing concern at the volume of parking when school events were on. The Clerk was asked to write to the resident explaining what was underway as part of the School Travel Plan, copied to Churchfields & John Lambert.

Dates of Next Meetings
Wednesdays, 17th September & 19th November 2008 at 7:00pm in the village hall.

The meeting closed at 8:56pm.

Atworth Parish Council
Minutes of the Annual General Meeting of  held on Wednesday 21st May 2008

Apologies None

Attending Alan Bagnell, William Bird, Bill Cooke, Robert Floyd, Effie Gale-Sides, Bob Hole, John Lambert & Maureen Weston.

Election of Chairman & Vice-Chairman
Mr Bird announced that he was standing down as Chairman and also tendered his resignation as a Parish Councillor. It was proposed by William Bird & seconded by Bill Cooke that Mrs Effie Gale-sides be appointed Chairman, carried unanimously. It was proposed by William Bird & seconded by Alan Bagnell that Mr Cooke be appointed Vice-Chairman, carried unanimously. Mrs Gale-Sides thanked William Bird on behalf of the Parish Council for all that he had done particularly behind the scenes. His knowledge and experience would be missed. She offered the Parish Councils best wishes for the future.

Sub-Committee Posts
After discussion the posts recorded on the attached note were agreed

Minutes The minutes of the previous meeting were approved; proposed William Bird, seconded Bob Hole, carried.

Matters Arising
Community Policing
A debate on the problems of speeding in the Village concluded that the use of volunteers to record speed might be useful. The Clerk would try to establish the practicalities. Robert Floyd commented how the local PCSO had been very helpful in dealing with illicit parking.
Parish Plan
The Parish Council noted progress to date and thanked the Steering Group for their efforts. The request for information on ‘stakeholders’ would be considered for the next meeting.      
School Travel Plan
The Parish Council directed; proposed John Lambert, seconded William Bird that the Clerk should tackle WCC on obtaining a 20mph limit on Bradford Road and red hatching outside Churchfields. The Clerk was also to ,again, take up the issue of the Quiet Lane at Great Chalfield.
Erection of Flag Pole
William Bird will do, assisted by Bob Hole, in the next few weeks. The repair to the other Pole will also be completed.
Approval of Accounts & Annual Return 2007/08
The Council accepted; proposed William Bird, seconded Maureen Weston the Statement of 2007/08 Expenditure & Income and noted the initial Balance Sheet for financial year 2008/09. The Clerk reported that the Nationwide were no longer prepared to handle the Council deposit account. The Clerk was looking at alternatives. It was suggested that Barclays Bank should be checked out. It was agreed that Effie Gale-Sides replace William Bird as co-signatories for Bank & Building Society Accounts.
Donations
The Council noted that the Pre-School had folded. It was agreed; proposed William Bird, seconded Bob Hole that the £300 should be transferred to the Youth Club.   
Copse of Pines Mount Pleasant
The Clerk was asked to establish when the first 6 monthly visit by the District Council would take place.
Lane to Stonar
The Clerk reported that 4 of the 5 addresses had replied, all positively. The Clerk was asked to write to the last encouraging them to join with the others to allow an improvement to the Lane.   
Unitary Authority for Wiltshire
The Parish Council noted the proposed list of delegations to Town/Parish Councils. All Councillors were to be provided with the letter inviting application. The Clerk was asked to contact nearby Parishes to ask what were their views on the proposal. The Chairman & Parish Clerk would attend the forthcoming meeting at the District Council to discuss implications and possibilities.
Village Bier
The Vice-Chairman reported that that the Village Hall was not yet in a position to take the Bier. The Pre-school had not, as yet, removed their material but would do so shortly.
Dog Bin & Dog Warden
The Clerk reported he was still awaiting information on the Dog Bin survey to be conducted by the District Council. The problem of dog faeces in Bradford Road remained. The Clerk was asked to write to the Village Magazine, hopefully with the support of Churchfields, reminding dog owners of their responsibility for clearing up after their dogs and the threat of fines for failing to do so.
Footways on A365, north side
It was agreed that this item could be removed from the Agenda. A separate issue, subsidence in Bradford Road would be taken up with the Highways Authority.
Closure of Atworth Recycling Site
The Clerk reported that there had not been any progress as finding an alternative site was proving difficult.
Securing the Village Green
The Clerk has received an estimate of £5000 to kerb the site. He was asked to check with the Planning Department on what might be necessary given the Green was in the Parish Conservation area. It was agreed that the Council Planning Sub-Committee should take a view on what needed to be done, perhaps by a site visit. It was also agreed that the question of including in the 2009/10 Precept as expenditure be considered at a future meeting.
Best Kept Village 2008
The Clerk reported that an application to participate had been made. The judging in early summer (June?). The Clerk was asked to mention in the Village Magazine.

Reports
The Clerk read out the report submitted by Simon Gould, Community Governor.
 
Correspondence
Fly Tipping
The Clerk read out a recent letter from WWDC about Fly Tipping Policy and action.
Speeding on West Hill/Purlpit
The Clerk was asked to take up with the Police enforcing the speed limit and to raise with WCC to reconsider repeat signs given the lack of pavement plus road narrow signs.
Proposed Closure of BT phone box
The Clerk was asked to write objecting to the withdrawal of this service.
WWDC Design & Built awards
The Council had no recommendations for this award.
Mobile Library Service review
The Council noted that the proposed review did not affect the service to Atworth. However the Clerk was asked to encourage residents, through the medium of the Village Magazine, to ‘use or lose’.
Car Parking at Village Hall
After some initial discussion it was agreed; proposed Bill Cooke, seconded John Lambert that the public leave the meeting. After further discussion it was proposed by William Bird, seconded Maureen Weston that ‘there should be no parking in front of the Village Hall other than to unload or load, when due regard be taken of access for other vehicle drivers to the southern extension of the Yard’. It was further proposed that ‘all the immediate area in front of the Village Hall up to the 6 feet boundary of 54 Bath Road be marked as No Parking’. This was agreed with 1 abstention.  The Clerk to write to the Village Hall Trustees accordingly. The Clerk was asked to check back through the Council records to establish what earlier agreements for parking in this area might exist.
Jane Brown Charity
After discussion it was agreed that John Lambert explore with the Charity Commission as to whether the ‘rent charge might be redeemed’. To consider at a future meeting.
Location of Bobby Van
The Clerk was asked to write and ask that the Van be place closer to the middle of the Village rather than at Neston Farm shop.
 
Planning Applications
AT08/00520                9 Chapel Rise, erect boundary wall.     Approved
AT08/00766                15 Bath Rd, 2 storey extension.           Approved.
AT08/00963                41 Mead Park, erect conservatory.     Await Decision.
AT08/00992                Neston Farm Shop, extension, realign entrance. Ditto.
AT08/01059                 15 Atworth Court, extension.             Ditto.
AT08/01137                193a Purlpit, loft conversion.               Ditto.
 
Authorisation of Cheques
C J Boyle, ½ Year Salary, Oct’ to March 08          £1793.20
C J Boyle, ½ Year Expenses, Oct’ to March 07       £135.93
C J Boyle, Office Allowance, Oct’ to March 07       £224.15
English Landscapes, ground maintenance.                   £95.14
Atworth W.I Safety Bibs.                                          £70.36
Atworth Village Magazine.                                       £150.00
Atworth Youth Club.                                                £650.00
Approved; proposed William Bird, seconded Maureen Weston.
 
Dates of Next Meetings
Wednesdays, 16th July & 17th September 2008 at 7:00pm in the Village Hall
The Meeting closed at 9:43pm. 

Atworth Parish Council
Minutes of the Meeting of  held on Wednesday 16^th January 2008

Apologies Jonathan Higgs

Attending William Bird (Chairman), Bill Cooke (Vice-Chairman), and Alan Bagnall, Effie Gale-Sides, Robert Floyd, Bob Hole, John Lambert & Maureen Weston.

Minutes The Minutes of the previous meeting were approved with one amendment; proposed Maureen Weston, seconded John Lambert.

Matters Arising

Community Policing
Concern was expressed that access for disabled persons was being prevented due to long term parking in the lay-by on the Bath Road next to Fleetwood Rise. If a disabled parking bay was applied the Parish Council would support. It was reported by the Chairman that PCSO Ledbury had been working very hard to improve access to Bradford Road and Coronation Road. She had also been very helpful in arranging removal of rubbish from footpaths.

 Parish Plan
The Parish Council noted that nearly 40 people had attended the public meeting and that a steering group had been formed. Its first meeting was scheduled for 31 January. The Chairman thanked Robert Floyd for chairing the public meeting.

Affordable Housing Project
The Clerk reported that he had met with Carol Southall of Community First. She thought the land at Mount Pleasant had possibilities and would discuss with the housing association. It was noted that the land behind Prospect Fields was no longer under consideration.  

School Travel Plan
The Walking Bus to school was operating, crossing the Bath Road at Godwins Close. The Clerk has written to the Director of Environmental Services at WCC bidding for funds for a pedestrian crossing, copied to Dr Murrison and Terry Chivers.

Erection of Flag Pole
The Chairman reported that he would arrange for the pole to be erected but it would be sometime before it could be done.

Accounts & Annual Return
The Council noted the end of December Balance Sheet, they had no comments. The Precept bid of £12000 had been submitted.   

Copse of Pines, Mount Pleasant
The Clerk reported that there had been a significant improvement with much work having been done by the District Council. Some work remained to be done in the next couple of weeks. The Parish Council recorded its pleasure that the clean up was underway and noted that residents of Mount Pleasant had been involved in the clear up of rubbish. Some remained including some fly tipping; this would be raised with the District Council.

Lane to Stonar
The Clerk has written to the Highways Authority asking for details of funding to maintain this lane in the next financial year.    

Unitary Authority for Wiltshire
The Chairman reported that it had been confirmed that the next election for the Parish Council would be postponed from 2011 to 2013, if the Single council goes ahead.  

Village Bier
The Chairman reported that the History Group had advised that they could not locate the Village Bier in the Village Museum. After discussion it was agreed that the Village Hall Trustees be invited to take responsibility for the Bier.

Dog Bin
The Clerk had received a report from the District Council that they were undertaking a review of all dog bin requirements in the area. The Dog Warden is to make a couple of visits to Atworth.

Footpaths on A365 north side
A response to the request to improve is awaited.

Melksham Health Working Group
As instructed the Clerk has written to the Chief Executive of the PCT to protest at the closure of the Minor Injuries Unit. Dr Murrison was supporting the campaign against closure.

Lighting on Bath Road
The Council noted the response from the County Council that the lighting met current standards. The Clerk was asked to inform the resident whom had raised the issue.

Closure of Atworth Recycling Centre
It was note that the recycling bins had been removed but, thankfully, there had been an absence of fly tipping. It was understood that the facility in Shaw had become overloaded, perhaps as a result of the Atworth closure. The Clerk was in touch with the District Council about finding another site.

Car Parking & Gate Fees
It was agreed following representation by Ms Stevens that in future years the car parking charge would be amended to a way leave charge. After two votes it was agreed by the casting vote of the Chairman that the future charge be set at £30.

Godwins Close, children playing signs
The Clerk has written to the Highways Authority asking for signs to be placed but this has been refused.

Sweeping of Bradford Road
The work has, just, been done. Drains in Bradford Road have been reported for clearance. The drain outside the Church gate also needs clearing.

Securing the Village Green
The Chairman reported that placing bollards or similar was likely to require planning permission. It was agreed that the Planning Committee should consider the options.

 Correspondence

Wiltshire CC Corporate Plan 2007
The Clerk drew attention to the updated plan at www.wiltshire.gov.uk

West Wilts Core Strategy, Seminars
The Clerk drew attention to the paper at www.westwiltshire.gov.uk

WALC training day
Councillors were invited to let the Clerk know if they wished to attend the day.

 Reports

Maureen Weston reported that the WI would be conducting an end to end clearing of the Village next week. They had purchased fluorescent bibs to make their presence more obvious.

Mrs King reported that the Deputy Chief Executive had attended a recent Community First meeting where the role and responsibility for young people had been discussed.

William Bird reported back on the recent meeting with the Community Policing Team. Their focus, currently, was on speeding and preventing fly tipping

Planning Applications
AT05/00178. 0ld Workmans Hall. Appeal against refusal. Appeal upheld
AT07/03593. Wellingtonia, St Michaels Church. Part approved
AT07/03790. 28 Bath Road, extension. Await decision
AT07/03928. 4 Greenland Close, conservatory. The Parish Council did not comment.

 Any other Business

Wiltshire Policing Authority, invite to meeting on Community Safety. Due to clash of dates the Parish Council would be unable to send a representative.
John Lambert raised the issue of a change in planning regulations that did not appear to have been subject to consultation. The Clerk was asked to raise.

Authorisation of Cheques
English Landscapes (grass cutting).                  £95.14
Sahara (Melksham) Ltd, Youth Club            £1748.40
SR Jordan. Flag Pole                                       £45.00
English Landscapes (grass cutting)                   £95.14
Approved; proposed Robert Floyd, seconded Maureen Weston.

Dates of Next Meetings
Wednesdays, 19^th March 2008, after the Parish Assembly, and 21st May 2008 (AGM) at 7:00pm in Village Hall

The Meeting closed at 9:08pm.

Atworth Parish Council
Minutes of the Meeting held on Wednesday 21st November 2007