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2006–07 Archives of Full Council Minutes
Reports and Minutes of the Annual Meeting BERKHAMSTED TOWN COUNCIL Held in the Council Chamber, Civic Centre, Berkhamsted on Monday 16th July at 7.30 p.m.
PRESENT: Members: Councillors Mrs. C. Green – Town Mayor D.J. Collins – Deputy Town Mayor M.J. Allen S.A. Bateman K.J. Coleman R. M. Cowie Lindy Foster-Weinreb P.G. Gibbs Julie Laws J.D. Lythgoe P.B. Matthews Dr. I.M. Reay G. Stevens Officer: Mr C. R. Westwood - Town Clerk
At 7.30pm the Town Mayor and Mr. George Kite, President of Berkhamsted Rotary Club presented Paul and Jackie Chambers with the Rotary Centenary Civic Award in recognition of their sterling work across a wide range of community activities including support for Sergeant Pepper and other major events in the town. The young person selected to receive the award, Mischke Weinreb, was unable to be present but was selected for her contribution to the success of the Berkhamsted Youth Town Council as a member and Chairman, and her efforts to establish better facilities for young people in the town.
57/07 APOLOGIES Apologies for absence were received from Councillor A.M. Green. 58/07 TO RECEIVE ANY DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST RELATING TO ITEMS ON THE AGENDA The Town Mayor declared a prejudicial interest in item 68/07 a licensing application at The George Public House as Chairman of the Borough Council Licensing Committee. She left the meeting whilst this matter was discussed. 59/07 MINUTES The minutes of the meeting held on the 14th May 2007 were agreed and signed by the Chairman. Vide 44/07 Representation to Outside Bodies and Joint Committees. The following amendments were agreed: Berkhamsted Market FundCouncillors Collins and Dr. Reay. Bourne’s Educational FoundationMr. Victor Earl, Mrs. Jenny Habib. St. Peter's Parochial CharitiesCouncillor Lythgoe Mrs. Jenny Habib Mrs. Fleur Tucker Miss Geraldine Corry Salters Educational FoundationCouncillor Gibbs Mr. Victor Earl Ms. Phillipa O’Shea It was agreed that at future annual meetings of the Council the expiry date of the nominated persons term of office would be available. 60/07 TOWN MAYOR’S COMMUNICATIONS The following publications had been received: Chimes the summer newsletter of the Hospice of St. Francis. The HAPTC Annual Report for 2006/7. The Local Council Review for July 2007. The Regional Report for East of England Parish & Town Councils of June 2007. A letter had been received from Age Concern Dacorum with details of their Hospital Discharge & Independent Living Scheme. The minutes of the Parish Borough Liaison meeting held on 21st June 2007 were available for reference. A letter had been received from the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital, Stanmore, outlining their proposals for becoming an NHS Foundation Trust. Details had been received of a meeting to be held on 24th September 2007 from 7.00 to 8.30 p.m. at Berkhamsted Civic Centre concerning Delivering Quality Healthcare for Hertfordshire. A full consultation document was available for reference. 61/07 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION The meeting was adjourned. PCSO Steve Patton was present and introduced himself to members of the Council. He provided written contact details and an explanation of his duties. He encouraged members to contact him and his fellow PCSO Katie Green in respect of any community issues, which might require their attention. He was thanked for his presence at the meeting. Mr. Dyer asked if there would be a second Conservative Councillor on the Allotment Management Team and said that he was disappointed that there was no mention of the Town Council’s Allotment Strategy in the Strategic Plan and Priorities document circulated with the agenda. The meeting was then reconvened. 62/07 STANDING COMMITTEE MINUTES - FOR CONSIDERATION a. Town Planning Committee It was RESOLVED That the reports and minutes of the Town Planning Committee meetings held on 15th May 2007, 29th May 2007, 8th June2007 and 9th July 2007 be approved and adopted subject to: Vide Item 81/07 - Planning for Gypsy and Traveller Accommodation in the East of England – to finalise the Town Council’s response. Councillor Reay referred to the report from Councillor Foster Weinreb, which he had transferred into the questionnaire provided by the East of England Regional Assembly. The questionnaire had been circulated and was agreed. Action Town ClerkPublic Participation Mr. Dyer referred to his comments at the last Town Planning Committee meeting regarding planning applications and conditions attached to original consents. He supplied a list from The Gazette of such applications for the Committee’s information. b. Transport & Environment Committee It was RESOLVEDThat the reports and minutes of the Transport & Environment Committee meeting held on 11th June 2007 be approved and adopted subject to: Vide Item 09/07 b ii - Annual Review of Car Parking Charges. To receive recommendations from the Working Party. Councillor Matthews said that the consensus of the Working Party was that charges should not be increased. Councillor Stevens said there should be a change to the length of time permitted to stay in Water Lane car park to produce a higher turnover. Following discussion it was agreed that the Working Party would meet and provide a report to the next meeting of the Council. Councillor Matthews asked for any comments to be sent to him by email. Action Councillor Matthews Vide Item 10/07 – Recycling Councillor Stevens said that the motion adopted at the meeting should be incorporated into the minutes or attached. It was agreed that the motion would be attached as an appendix to the original Town Council minutes and the working copy. Action Town ClerkPublic Participation There was no public participation. c. Finance & Policy Committee It was RESOLVEDThat the reports and minutes of the Finance & Policy Committee meeting held on 25th June 2007 be approved and adopted subject to: Vide 48/07 Berkhamsted Castle Liaison Group i. Quotations for decoration of the Visitor Centre Following discussion it was RESOLVEDTo accept quote B in the sum of £1,560 for the redecoration of the Castle Information Room. Funds to be taken from reserves. Action Mr. Barnesii. Bursary to the University of Hertforfordshire for the production of a 3-D virtual reality tour on the internet Councillor Matthews said that the project needed more work in relation to production quality and historical accuracy and a clearer project plan with goals and objectives. He said that the Town Council should make payments in two stages, the second when they were satisfied with the finished product. Following discussion it was agreed that the bursary of £500 should be approved and paid as initial and final instalments. Prior to the initial instalment an acceptable project plan should be approved by the Town Council in respect of which guidance would be provided by Councillor Matthews. Action Mr. BarnesVide 50/07 d Land Use Councillor Lythgoe said that the purpose of the original decision to purchase East Meadow was to develop it into an improved public amenity and not just to maintain it. Dacorum Borough Council had delayed any decision on purchase until the Green Space Strategy was complete and the Town Council should await the final report before proceeding further. i. It was agreed that the Town Council should not proceed with the purchase of East Meadow but should request a concurrent services agreement from Dacorum Borough Council and Hertfordshire County Council to cover the maintenance of all green space in the town including the roundabout at the junction of Chesham Road and Kingshill Way and the Bridle Way Dell. Action Town Clerkii. It was agreed to delay the signing of the licence for Bridle Way Dell as the Town Council would prefer a concurrent services agreement with the County Council to maintain The Dell. It was agreed to respond to the Land Agent acting for the County Council to that effect. Action Town Clerk Public Participation Mr. Dyer thanked the Town Council for the donation towards Public Liability Insurance for Sunnyside Allotment Society. However he was disappointed with the discussion on CCTV in Canal Fields as answers to the questions raised were already known and he felt that the Council had taken ten steps backwards.
63/07 ALLOTMENT MANAGEMENT TEAM Councillor Allen said that the minutes of the last meeting held on 4th July 2007 were not yet available, however the main points of discussion were with regard to the water infrastructure at Sunnyside which would require two quotes to be considered by Finance & Policy Committee, gates and fences on all sites and the Welcome Pack for new tenants which was yet to be finalised. Public Participation Mr. Dyer said that the water leakage on Sunnyside had increased to 3 cubic metres per day. It was vital to start the pipe replacement work in November.
64/07 ACCOUNTS SUB-COMMITTEE HELD ON 12TH JULY 2007 The minutes had been previously circulated for approval. It was RESOLVEDTo approve payments totalling £49,143.99 for the period 1st March to 30th April 2007 and to note receipts totalling £189,947.24 for the same period and to approve and adopt the minutes as circulated. Public Participation There was no public participation.
65/07 ACCOUNTS 2006/2007 AND ANNUAL RETURN TO THE AUDITOR – FOR APPROVAL AND ADOPTION The Town Clerk provided an explanation of the accounts and annual return papers that had been circulated with the agenda. He made particular reference to Section 2 of the Annual Return called the Annual Governance Statement, which had to be signed by the Town Mayor on behalf of members of the Council. He referred to paragraph 6 of Section 2 and said that this question would partly contain a negative response, as the Town Council had not carried out a review of the effectiveness of the system of internal audit due to late notification of the requirements of the internal review. This was a matter, which had been drawn to the attention of the Accounts Sub Committee at minute 07/11. Internal Auditor’s Reports – November 2006 and March 2007 The Town Clerk also drew attention to the recommendation from the Internal Auditor that the value of allotment land should be considered for inclusion in fixed assets on the Annual Return at other than a nominal value. Following discussion members agreed not to respond to this recommendation as allotment land could be used for no other purpose and to include its true value in the Council’s fixed assets would inflate them to a figure that was unrealistic. Following discussion it was RESOLVED To approve and adopt the accounts for year end 31st March 2007 and to authorise the Town Mayor and the Town Clerk to sign the Annual Return for submission to the external auditor. Action Town Mayor and Town Clerk
66/07 STRATEGIC PLAN AND PRIORITIES FOR 2007 TO 2011 The Town Mayor referred to the Strategic Plan and Priorities for 2007 to 2011 circulated with the agenda. The Town Mayor said that the priorities should be allocated to committees for action as follows: Priority Committee Roads, Pavements and Parking. Environment & Transport Recycling Environment & Transport Litter and Nuisance Environment & Transport Community Safety Finance & Policy Town Planning Town Planning Grand Union Canal / River Bulbourne Canal & Riverside Partnership Young People Finance & Policy Heritage and Environment Environment & Transport/F&P It was further agreed to add the Town Council’s Allotment Strategy as an appendix to the document. Action Town Clerk Councillor Stevens welcomed the document and said that there was nothing regarding quality of life issues, for example, support for the voluntary sector, building partnerships or the retention of quality status. Councillor Reay responded that the issues raised by Councillor Stevens were means to achieve the objectives and not objectives themselves and that partnership working was implicit within the document. Following discussion it was RESOLVEDTo approve and adopt the Strategic Plan and Priorities for 2007 to 2011 subject to the Allotment Strategy being included as an appendix.
67/07 TO CONDISER ADOPTION OF THE ATTACHED PAPER REGARDING PLANNING BY WATER – COUNCILLOR FOSTER WEINREB Councillor Foster Weinreb spoke to her papers, which had been circulated prior to the meeting. Following discussion it was agreed to accept the document circulated with the agenda as a potential way forward to help towns like Berkhamsted to retain historical canal facilities.
68/07 LICENSING ACT 2003 – PREMISES LICENCE VARIATION APPLICATION AT THE GEORGE PUBLIC HOUSE, 261 HIGH STREET The Town Mayor, having declared a prejudicial interest, left the room and the discussion was chaired by Councillor Collins. Councillor Collins referred to the letter from Dacorum Borough Council circulated with the agenda. He drew member’s attention to the fact that Ward Councillors could make their own representations and the Parish Council could also make recommendations on behalf of members of the public who had approached them. He drew member’s attention to the letter of objection received from a local resident. Councillor Laws said that she had written to Dacorum Borough Council to object the application having received information from neighbours of The George Public House. Following discussion it was agreed to support the objection received from the local resident that the variation applied for would increase the amount of noise and disturbance caused to local residents by customers leaving the public house and would increase noise and disturbance coming from the garden at the rear if entertainment during existing opening hours was permitted. Action Town Clerk
69/07 APPLICATION TO HOLD A FUNFAIR ON THE MOOR The application by Mr. John Webb to hold a funfair on The Moor from the 8th to 13th August 2007 and to occupy The Moor from the 7th to 14th August 2007 was approved subject to the conditions contained in the application and local residents being informed by letter. Action Town Clerk
70/07 CLOSE OF MEETING
The meeting closed at 9.10 p.m.
Reports and Minutes of BERKHAMSTED TOWN COUNCIL Held in the Council Chamber, Civic Centre, Berkhamsted on TUESDAY, 24th April 2007 at 7.30 p.m.
PRESENT: Members: Councillors Mrs. F. Earl - Town Mayor P.G. Gibbs - Deputy Town Mayor J. Critcher (arrived at 7.45 p.m.) V.C. Earl (arrived at 7.43 p.m.) Mrs. C. Green R. Horton J.D. Lythgoe G. Stevens C. Talbot-Ponsonby Officer: Mr C. R. Westwood - Town Clerk
At the start of the meeting Councillor Lythgoe said that it was appropriate at the last meeting of this Town Council to thank those Councillors not standing for re-election for their contributions within their own fields of knowledge. He made specific reference to Councillor Lanchin whose clear and decisive debate with Hertfordshire Highways and Dacorum Borough Council in relation to the transport and parking programmes had ensured that progress was made. He had also been Chairman of the Support Services Working Party where his knowledge and expertise were vital. He would be a great loss to the Town Council and his work had been much appreciated. Councillor Lanchin thanked all members of the Council and the staff for their support during the last ten years. Councillor Lythgoe then mentioned the Town Mayor’s year of office which she had dedicated herself to with quiet determination. She had carried the Town Council banner in an open and friendly way and had been a true credit to the Council. The Town Mayor said that she had enjoyed her year of office and thanked the members and staff for their support.
24/07 APOLOGIES Apologies for absence were received from Councillors Briand, Featherstone, Patterson and Victor Earl for his late arrival. 25/07 TO RECEIVE ANY DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST RELATING TO ITEMS ON THE AGENDA There were no declarations of Interest relating to items on the agenda.
26/07 MINUTES The minutes of the meeting held on the 26th March 2007 were agreed and signed by the Town Mayor. Vide item 17/07 bi - Energy Efficiency The Chairman referred to the letter received from Graham Winwright, Dacorum Borough Council, which had been circulated with the agenda. The letter was welcomed and noted.
27/07 TOWN MAYOR’S COMMUNICATIONS A letter had been received from Councillor Catherine Appleby, Mayor of Dacorum, explaining why local Town Mayor’s had not been invited to her Civic Service in spite of having been given a warning to keep the date clear. A late response to a recent edition of the newsletter had been received asking for Pelican Crossings at both ends of Bridgewater Road and a safer crossing of the Waitrose entrance adjacent to Lower Kings Road. A research study of the Quality Parish & Town Council Scheme had been completed on behalf of DEFRA and undertaken by staff of the University of Wales. The summary report was available for reference. A request had been made to Hertfordshire Highways on behalf of Sub-Officer Verney of Berkhamsted Fire Station for new parking restrictions to be implemented in Castle Street from the junction with the High Street to assist with free movement of the fire appliance when attending emergency calls. It was agreed to refer this matter to the next meeting of the Transport Committee.
28/07 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION The meeting was adjourned to allow Mr. Dyer to support Councillor Lythgoe’s words with regard to the departing Councillors. He had enjoyed meetings at which Councillor Lanchin had been present. He had done a grand job, through his keen thought and debate, in stirring the pot. The meeting was then reconvened.
29/07 STANDING COMMITTEE REPORTS a. Town Planning Committee It was RESOLVEDThat the reports and minutes of the Town Planning Committee meetings held on 2nd April 2007 and 23rd April 2007 be approved and adopted. Public Participation There was no public participation. b. Environment Committee It was RESOLVEDThat the reports and minutes of the Environment Committee meeting held on 10th April 2007 be approved and adopted subject to it being noted that Councillor Horton had been present at the meeting. Public Participation The meeting was adjourned to allow Mr. Dyer to say that the wheelie bin situation in Holliday Street had dramatically improved since the intervention of the Town and Borough Councils. The meeting was then reconvened. c. Transport Committee No meeting held Public Participation There was no public participation. d. Finance & Policy Committee It was RESOLVEDThat the reports and minutes of the Finance & Policy Committee meeting held on 16th April 2007 be approved and adopted subject to: i. Vide 35/07bi CCTV in Canal Fields It was RESOLVEDTo agree in principle to support the request for a contribution of up to 50% towards the capital costs of a CCTV camera in Canal Fields, subject to full disclosure of the detail of those costs including the specification. Also that a contribution should be made towards the revenue costs subject to more detailed information being provided. ii. Vide 36/07ci Sunnyside Allotments Rights of Way It was RESOLVED a. That there is no Right of Way on any of the Town Council owned allotment land except by way of definitive footpaths. b. That residents with existing gates allowing access from their property onto allotment land should be offered the agreement as proposed in the NALC correspondence. c. That existing private footpaths should be properly signed to indicate that there is no Public Right of Way. iii. Vide item 36/07f - Risk Assessment It was RESOLVEDThat the revised Risk Assessment circulated with the agenda should be approved and adopted. Vide item 37/07cii – Canal Fields litter The Town Mayor reported that it had now been arranged that the Street Cleaner would clear the litter on Saturdays. Public Participation The meeting was adjourned to allow Mr. Dyer to say that he hoped that there would be early action to advise residents of the Rights of Way issue on Sunnyside allotments and to provide notices in the right places indicating that there was no Public Right of Way. The meeting was reconvened.
30/07 ALLOTMENT MANAGEMENT TEAM The Town Mayor referred to the minutes of the meeting held on the 18th April 2007 which had been previously circulated. Following discussion it was RESOLVEDThat the minutes be approved and adopted subject to Vide item 07/45 – Rabbit control at Sunnyside It was agreed that any decision to allow the shooting of rabbits on allotment land must be made by Full Council and would be subject to the receipt and approval of an up-to-date Risk Assessment and a current Public Liaibility Insurance Certificate. Action Town ClerkPublic Participation The meeting was adjourned to allow Mr. Dyer to say that the Environment Committee, the Finance & Policy Committee and Full Council had all been involved in making decisions on the disposition of allotment land. There was now a situation where waiting lists were being kept for all sites and the Allotment Management Team needed to be told how allotment land would now be made available to residents of the town. The Town Mayor replied that the waiting list situation needed to stabilise before allocations could be reconsidered. The centrally held waiting list would provide accurate numbers. Waiting lists were common for allotments and as far as she was aware the fact that there was a waiting list did not mean that land had to be released. Councillor Victor Earl said that the Secretary of State had agreed that Sunnyside Rural Trust were using their leased land in compliance with their allotment definition. 31/07 ACCOUNTS SUB-COMMITTEE MEETING HELD ON THE 12TH APRIL 2007 i. Minutes previously circulated for approval It was RESOLVEDTo approve payments totalling £37.843.25 for the period 1st January to the 28th February 2007 and to note receipts totalling £6,583.57 for the same period. ii. Financial Forecast April – June 2007 The Town Mayor referred to the financial forecast to June 2007 circulated with the agenda, which was noted, and the investment programme approved. Councillor Green said that with such a large amount of money in the bank it was a shame that the precept was put up so much. Councillor Victor Earl said that the sum currently held was large because it was the beginning of the financial year. Councillor Stevens said that the reserves would allow investment in the community to be made without waiting. The Council were in effect keeping the money in trust for the community. 32/07 ANNUAL REPORT 2007 TO BE PUBLISHED BY 30TH JUNE It was agreed to defer this matter to the next meeting of the Town Council to enable the new Council to consider the content and presentation. Councillor Stevens said that it should be noted that the reports produced at the Annual Town Meeting could form the core of the report accompanied by a forward from the Town Mayor and the draft accounts. Action Town Clerk33/07 TOWN CENTRE OBELISK The Town Mayor referred to the estimate circulated with the agenda to refurbish the Town centre obelisk. It was RESOLVEDTo accept the estimate from David Woollacott to refurbish the Town centre obelisk at a total cost of £485 in accordance with the detail supplied in the letter dated 12th April 2007. 34/07 Part II – Exclusion of the Press and Public It was RESOLVED That under Section 1 of the Public Bodies (Admission to Meetings) Act 1960 the public and press be excluded during the items in Part II of the agenda for this meeting, because it is likely that publicity would prejudice the public interest by reason of the confidential nature of the business or for other special reasons stated in the resolution, arising from the nature of the business or proceedings.
36/07 CLOSE OF MEETING - The meeting closed at 8.23 p.m.
Reports and Minutes of the Meeting of
Reports and Minutes of BERKHAMSTED TOWN COUNCIL Held in the Council Chamber, Civic Centre, Berkhamsted on Monday, 26th March 2007 at 7.30 p.m. PRESENT: Members: Councillors Mrs. F. Earl - Town Mayor P.G. Gibbs - Deputy Town Mayor Geraldine Corry J. Critcher V.C. Earl Mrs. L. Featherstone Mrs. C. Green R. Horton J.D. Lythgoe Mrs. B. Patterson G. Stevens C. Talbot-Ponsonby Officer: Mr C. R. Westwood - Town Clerk
12/07 APOLOGIES Apologies for absence were received from Councillor Lanchin. 13/07 TO RECEIVE ANY DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST RELATING TO ITEMS ON THE AGENDA Councillor Talbot-Ponsonby declared a personal interest in Finance & Policy minute 25/07g as the Town Council’s nominee to Fairtrade Berkhamsted. 14/07 MINUTES The minutes of the meeting held on the 22nd January 2007 were agreed and signed by the Chairman. 15/07 TOWN MAYOR’S COMMUNICATIONS The following publications had been received: Public Sector & Local Government magazine for March 2007 A Recommendations Report by Consultants Scott Wilson prepared on behalf of Dacorum Borough Council and others concerning the accommodation needs of gypsies and travellers in south and west Hertfordshire. Stage II the identification of potential gypsy and traveller sites in the study area. Notification had been received from Dacorum Borough Council that the precept and concurrent grants as requested had been approved and would be paid at the end of April 2007. The Chairman had received a letter from Peggy Cotton, a Berkhamsted resident, drawing her attention to the range of hardware goods being sold in the newly extended Waitrose in competition to the delightful little shops in Lower Kings Road. Also that the garden area around Waitrose was badly in need of landscaping. Notification had been received from the Hospice of St. Francis of the Star Light Walk to be held on the 7th and 8th July departing at staggered intervals from the Berkhamsted Sports Centre at 11.59 p.m. An acknowledgement had been received the Hertfordshire Constabulary of the letter of thanks sent to the Area Commander to knowledge the contribution made by PCSO Michael Ball during his attachment to Berkhamsted. 16/07 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION There was one member of the public present. Also present was Pete Bennett of The Berkhamsted & Tring Gazette. The Chairman had been made aware that he was moving on from his post to take up employment with the BBC and on behalf of the Council thanked him for his attendance and reporting during his employment. 17/07 STANDING COMMITTEE REPORTS a. Town Planning Committee It was RESOLVEDThat the reports and minutes of the Town Planning Committee meetings held on 29th January 2007, 19th February 2007 and 12th March 2007 be approved and adopted. Public Participation The Chairman adjourned the meeting to allow Mr. Dyer to say that members of CARAB were disappointed that the Department of Environment Inspector had allowed the appeal in respect of 35-39 Highfield Road. He could not understand the conclusion that there was enough car parking in the vicinity. The meeting was reconvened. b. Environment Committee It was RESOLVEDThat the reports and minutes of the Environment Committee meeting held on 5th February 2007 be approved and adopted subject to: Vide Item 06/07d – River Bulbourne Restoration Project Councillor Patterson reported that the work on the Willow trees adjacent to Waitrose would commence on the 27th March 2007 and would be completed by the following day. Vide Item 07/07 – CCTV and street lighting in Church Lane Councillor Patterson reported that the trees opposite Castle Street would be pollarded and that a CCTV camera was to be installed in Canal Fields. She confirmed that the question of street lighting in Church Lane should be agreed at the next meeting of the Joint Members Panel. i. Vide 09/07 Energy Efficiency Recommendation to full Council to support Paragraph 8 of Planning Policy Statement 22 regarding the generation of renewable energy on site. Following discussion it was RESOLVEDTo support Paragraph 8 of Planning Policy Statement 22 regarding renewable energy on site and to note that 10% of renewable energy should be generated on site in respect of certain new developments. The Town Council welcomed the fact that Dacorum Borough Council had resolved to adopt Paragraph 8 of Planning Policy Statement 22 and agreed to establish the date from which the Resolution would take effect. Further more in respect of the forthcoming development at Stag Lane it was agreed to establish what arrangements had been made between Borough Council Officers and Bellway Homes regarding energy emissions on site. Members were strongly of the opinion that the principles of Paragraph 8 of Planning Policy Statement 22 should be applied to the Stag Lane development. Action Town ClerkPublic Participation The Chairman adjourned the meeting to allow Mr. Dyer to say that the forthcoming workshop for the New Lodge Development Brief would provide an opportunity to bring the renewable energy initiative forward. The meeting was reconvened. c. Transport Committee It was RESOLVEDThat the reports and minutes of the Transport Committee meeting held on 26th February 2007 be approved and adopted. Public Participation There was no public participation at this stage. d. Finance & Policy Committee It was RESOLVEDThat the reports and minutes of the Finance & Policy Committee meetings held on 12th February 2007 and 19th March 2007 be approved and adopted subject to: Vide Item 26/07d – Land Use Working Party Councillor Patterson said that in her opinion the Committee should have referred the decision on action to be taken to the Working Party. She had a problem with inviting Councillor Griffiths to a meeting, as the only matter for discussion was when the Borough Council would consider the Town Council’s purchase of East Meadow further. It was clear that Borough Council Officers were in agreement with the purchase but it was being blocked by the Portfolio Holder. Clarification was needed, as the Green Space Strategy would not be reported on until Summer 2008. Following discussion it was agreed to proceed with the meeting with Councillor Griffiths as it was necessary to establish why the purchase of East Meadow was affected by the Green Space Strategy. Vide Item 25/07g – Fairtrade Berkhamsted It was RESOLVEDThat Fairtrade Berkhamsted should be allowed to use the Town Crest as part of their campaign for Berkhamsted to become one of an increasing number of Fairtrade towns. Action Town ClerkVide Item 25/07h – Berkhamsted Castle Information Panels It wasRESOLVEDThat the Berkhamsted Local History & Museum Society may use some of the illustrations of the late Harry Sheldon in the preparation of Information Panels at Berkhamsted Castle on condition that ownership of the copyright is acknowledged. Action Town Clerk Public Participation The meeting was adjourned to allow Mr. Dyer to express his disappointment that the Town Council was using its own money to clear litter and fly tipping from The Dell, Bridle Way. This was County Council property and had been left in that condition by them. The Town Council should seek to cover its costs from the County Council. Regarding CCTV in Canal Fields it had been confirmed at the Berkhamsted Community Partnership meeting that the Waitrose CCTV system was in-store only. There was no coverage of the car park. The meeting was reconvened. 18/07 ALLOTMENT MANAGEMENT TEAM The Chairman referred to the minutes of the meeting held on the 14th March 2007, which had been circulated. Following discussion it was RESOLVED That the minutes be approved and adopted subject to: Vide Item 07/22 – Rabbit control at Sunnyside The Town Clerk said that he had not received the necessary Public Liability Insurance and Risk Assessment documents from Mr. Andrew Turney and therefore the Town Council could not consider whether or not the action to control rabbits by shooting should be approved. It was agreed to write to Mr. Turney to request the documents and to inform him that no action could be taken until they had been received and approved. Action Town Clerk Vide Item 07/30.2.3 – Water infrastructure at Sunnyside allotments Following discussion it was agreed in principle for the phased replacement of the water infrastructure at Sunnyside Old and Sunnyside New allotments and to obtain two estimates of cost. Action Assistant to the Town Clerk It was noted that the Sunnyside Allotment Society might be in a position to carry out the majority of the work themselves. If that was the case the Town Clerk advised that they would have to provide evidence of Public Liability Insurance (or have confirmation that the Town Council’s policy would cover the activity) and a Risk Assessment/Method Statement. Action Assistant to the Town ClerkPublic Participation There was no public participation at this stage. 19/07 ANNUAL TOWN MEETING 2007 To be held on Thursday 29th March. The agenda previously circulated was noted. 20/07 ANNUAL REPORT 2007 To be published by 30th June. Following discussion it was agreed that the reports prepared for the Annual Town Meeting together with the draft accounts for year ending 31st March 2007 would form the basis of the Annual Report together with an introduction from Councillor Freda Earl as the current Town Mayor. The process of production of the Annual Report would be the responsibility of the in-coming Council. Action Town Mayor21/07 Part II – Exclusion of the Press and Public It was RESOLVEDThat under Section 1 of the Public Bodies (Admission to Meetings) Act 1960 the public and press be excluded during the items in Part II of the agenda for this meeting, because it is likely that publicity would prejudice the public interest by reason of the confidential nature of the business or for other special reasons stated in the resolution, arising from the nature of the business or proceedings. 23/07 CLOSE OF MEETING - The meeting closed at 8.35 p.m.
Reports and Minutes of BERKHAMSTED TOWN COUNCIL Held in the Council Chamber, Civic Centre, Berkhamsted on Monday, 26th March 2007 at 7.30 p.m. PRESENT: Members: Councillors Mrs. F. Earl - Town Mayor P.G. Gibbs - Deputy Town Mayor Geraldine Corry J. Critcher V.C. Earl Mrs. L. Featherstone Mrs. C. Green R. Horton J.D. Lythgoe Mrs. B. Patterson G. Stevens C. Talbot-Ponsonby Officer: Mr C. R. Westwood - Town Clerk
12/07 APOLOGIES Apologies for absence were received from Councillor Lanchin. 13/07 TO RECEIVE ANY DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST RELATING TO ITEMS ON THE AGENDA Councillor Talbot-Ponsonby declared a personal interest in Finance & Policy minute 25/07g as the Town Council’s nominee to Fairtrade Berkhamsted. 14/07 MINUTES The minutes of the meeting held on the 22nd January 2007 were agreed and signed by the Chairman. 15/07 TOWN MAYOR’S COMMUNICATIONS The following publications had been received: Public Sector & Local Government magazine for March 2007 A Recommendations Report by Consultants Scott Wilson prepared on behalf of Dacorum Borough Council and others concerning the accommodation needs of gypsies and travellers in south and west Hertfordshire. Stage II the identification of potential gypsy and traveller sites in the study area. Notification had been received from Dacorum Borough Council that the precept and concurrent grants as requested had been approved and would be paid at the end of April 2007. The Chairman had received a letter from Peggy Cotton, a Berkhamsted resident, drawing her attention to the range of hardware goods being sold in the newly extended Waitrose in competition to the delightful little shops in Lower Kings Road. Also that the garden area around Waitrose was badly in need of landscaping. Notification had been received from the Hospice of St. Francis of the Star Light Walk to be held on the 7th and 8th July departing at staggered intervals from the Berkhamsted Sports Centre at 11.59 p.m. An acknowledgement had been received the Hertfordshire Constabulary of the letter of thanks sent to the Area Commander to knowledge the contribution made by PCSO Michael Ball during his attachment to Berkhamsted. 16/07 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION There was one member of the public present. Also present was Pete Bennett of The Berkhamsted & Tring Gazette. The Chairman had been made aware that he was moving on from his post to take up employment with the BBC and on behalf of the Council thanked him for his attendance and reporting during his employment. 17/07 STANDING COMMITTEE REPORTS a. Town Planning Committee It was RESOLVEDThat the reports and minutes of the Town Planning Committee meetings held on 29th January 2007, 19th February 2007 and 12th March 2007 be approved and adopted. Public Participation The Chairman adjourned the meeting to allow Mr. Dyer to say that members of CARAB were disappointed that the Department of Environment Inspector had allowed the appeal in respect of 35-39 Highfield Road. He could not understand the conclusion that there was enough car parking in the vicinity. The meeting was reconvened. b. Environment Committee It was RESOLVEDThat the reports and minutes of the Environment Committee meeting held on 5th February 2007 be approved and adopted subject to: Vide Item 06/07d – River Bulbourne Restoration Project Councillor Patterson reported that the work on the Willow trees adjacent to Waitrose would commence on the 27th March 2007 and would be completed by the following day. Vide Item 07/07 – CCTV and street lighting in Church Lane Councillor Patterson reported that the trees opposite Castle Street would be pollarded and that a CCTV camera was to be installed in Canal Fields. She confirmed that the question of street lighting in Church Lane should be agreed at the next meeting of the Joint Members Panel. i. Vide 09/07 Energy Efficiency Recommendation to full Council to support Paragraph 8 of Planning Policy Statement 22 regarding the generation of renewable energy on site. Following discussion it was RESOLVEDTo support Paragraph 8 of Planning Policy Statement 22 regarding renewable energy on site and to note that 10% of renewable energy should be generated on site in respect of certain new developments. The Town Council welcomed the fact that Dacorum Borough Council had resolved to adopt Paragraph 8 of Planning Policy Statement 22 and agreed to establish the date from which the Resolution would take effect. Further more in respect of the forthcoming development at Stag Lane it was agreed to establish what arrangements had been made between Borough Council Officers and Bellway Homes regarding energy emissions on site. Members were strongly of the opinion that the principles of Paragraph 8 of Planning Policy Statement 22 should be applied to the Stag Lane development. Action Town ClerkPublic Participation The Chairman adjourned the meeting to allow Mr. Dyer to say that the forthcoming workshop for the New Lodge Development Brief would provide an opportunity to bring the renewable energy initiative forward. The meeting was reconvened. c. Transport Committee It was RESOLVEDThat the reports and minutes of the Transport Committee meeting held on 26th February 2007 be approved and adopted. Public Participation There was no public participation at this stage. d. Finance & Policy Committee It was RESOLVEDThat the reports and minutes of the Finance & Policy Committee meetings held on 12th February 2007 and 19th March 2007 be approved and adopted subject to: Vide Item 26/07d – Land Use Working Party Councillor Patterson said that in her opinion the Committee should have referred the decision on action to be taken to the Working Party. She had a problem with inviting Councillor Griffiths to a meeting, as the only matter for discussion was when the Borough Council would consider the Town Council’s purchase of East Meadow further. It was clear that Borough Council Officers were in agreement with the purchase but it was being blocked by the Portfolio Holder. Clarification was needed, as the Green Space Strategy would not be reported on until Summer 2008. Following discussion it was agreed to proceed with the meeting with Councillor Griffiths as it was necessary to establish why the purchase of East Meadow was affected by the Green Space Strategy. Vide Item 25/07g – Fairtrade Berkhamsted It was RESOLVEDThat Fairtrade Berkhamsted should be allowed to use the Town Crest as part of their campaign for Berkhamsted to become one of an increasing number of Fairtrade towns. Action Town ClerkVide Item 25/07h – Berkhamsted Castle Information Panels It wasRESOLVEDThat the Berkhamsted Local History & Museum Society may use some of the illustrations of the late Harry Sheldon in the preparation of Information Panels at Berkhamsted Castle on condition that ownership of the copyright is acknowledged. Action Town Clerk Public Participation The meeting was adjourned to allow Mr. Dyer to express his disappointment that the Town Council was using its own money to clear litter and fly tipping from The Dell, Bridle Way. This was County Council property and had been left in that condition by them. The Town Council should seek to cover its costs from the County Council. Regarding CCTV in Canal Fields it had been confirmed at the Berkhamsted Community Partnership meeting that the Waitrose CCTV system was in-store only. There was no coverage of the car park. The meeting was reconvened. 18/07 ALLOTMENT MANAGEMENT TEAM The Chairman referred to the minutes of the meeting held on the 14th March 2007, which had been circulated. Following discussion it was RESOLVED That the minutes be approved and adopted subject to: Vide Item 07/22 – Rabbit control at Sunnyside The Town Clerk said that he had not received the necessary Public Liability Insurance and Risk Assessment documents from Mr. Andrew Turney and therefore the Town Council could not consider whether or not the action to control rabbits by shooting should be approved. It was agreed to write to Mr. Turney to request the documents and to inform him that no action could be taken until they had been received and approved. Action Town Clerk Vide Item 07/30.2.3 – Water infrastructure at Sunnyside allotments Following discussion it was agreed in principle for the phased replacement of the water infrastructure at Sunnyside Old and Sunnyside New allotments and to obtain two estimates of cost. Action Assistant to the Town Clerk It was noted that the Sunnyside Allotment Society might be in a position to carry out the majority of the work themselves. If that was the case the Town Clerk advised that they would have to provide evidence of Public Liability Insurance (or have confirmation that the Town Council’s policy would cover the activity) and a Risk Assessment/Method Statement. Action Assistant to the Town ClerkPublic Participation There was no public participation at this stage. 19/07 ANNUAL TOWN MEETING 2007 To be held on Thursday 29th March. The agenda previously circulated was noted. 20/07 ANNUAL REPORT 2007 To be published by 30th June. Following discussion it was agreed that the reports prepared for the Annual Town Meeting together with the draft accounts for year ending 31st March 2007 would form the basis of the Annual Report together with an introduction from Councillor Freda Earl as the current Town Mayor. The process of production of the Annual Report would be the responsibility of the in-coming Council. Action Town Mayor21/07 Part II – Exclusion of the Press and Public It was RESOLVEDThat under Section 1 of the Public Bodies (Admission to Meetings) Act 1960 the public and press be excluded during the items in Part II of the agenda for this meeting, because it is likely that publicity would prejudice the public interest by reason of the confidential nature of the business or for other special reasons stated in the resolution, arising from the nature of the business or proceedings. 23/07 CLOSE OF MEETING - The meeting closed at 8.35 p.m.
Reports and Minutes of Held in the Council Chamber, Civic Centre, Berkhamsted on Monday, 22nd January 2007 at 7.30 p.m. PRESENT: Members: Councillors Mrs. F. Earl - Town Mayor P.G. Gibbs - Deputy Town Mayor V.C. Earl Mrs. L. Featherstone Mrs. C. Green G. Lanchin J.D. Lythgoe Mrs. B. Patterson G. Stevens C. Talbot-Ponsonby Officer: Mr C. R. Westwood - Town Clerk 01/07 APOLOGIES Apologies for absence were received from Councillors Briand, Corry, Horton and McCloskey. The Town Clerk read a letter of resignation received from Councillor Helena McCloskey. It was RESOLVEDTo accept Councillor McCloskey’s resignation with immediate effect and to retain a casual vacancy until the elections to be held on 3rd May 2007. The Town Mayor expressed her thanks and those of the Council for Councillor McCloskey’s contribution since the last elections especially to the Crime Prevention Panel. It was agreed that the Town Mayor would write a letter of thanks. Action Town Mayor
02/07 TO RECEIVE ANY DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST RELATING TO ITEMS ON THE AGENDA There were no declarations of interest relating to items on the agenda. 03/07 MINUTESThe minutes of the meeting held on the 20th November 2006 were agreed and signed by the Town Mayor.
04/07 TOWN MAYOR’S COMMUNICATIONS A letter had been received from the Hospice of St. Francis thanking the Town Mayor for the donation of £265.26 as a result of a collection at the Mayor’s Festive Lunch on the 8th December 2006. A letter had been received the Electoral Commission containing details of their decision on the Further Electoral Review of Dacorum. A letter had been received from the Dacorum Hospital Action Group thanking the Town Council for the loan of the Town Crier’s bell for an event held on the 6th January 2007. A letter had been received from the Rotary Club of Berkhamsted Bulbourne with details of nominations for the Berkhamsted Rotary Clubs’ Centenary Civic Award 2007. It was agreed that the presentations would be made at the Town Mayors reception to be held on the 20th April 2007 and that a copy of the letter would be provided to Councillor Stevens. The following publications had been received: The Public Sector & Local Government magazine for 2007. The Hertfordshire Building Preservation Trust Newsletter for Winter 2006. The Respect Action Plan produced on behalf of the Respect Task Force based at the Home Office.
05/07 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION The Town Mayor adjourned the meeting. Police Community Support Officer Katie Green was present together with PCSO’s Michael Ball and Stephen Patton. PCSO Green provided a summary of her work since taking up post on the 9th October 2006. A written summary had been provided to members of the Council. PCSO Green answered a number of questions from Councillors and PCSO Ball said that he would be joining the Hertfordshire Constabulary as a Constable on 9th April 2007. He introduced PCSO Patton as his replacement. The Town Mayor thanked the PCSO’s for their attendance and their work in Berkhamsted, which was obviously proving to be of great benefit. It was agreed that a letter of thanks be sent to the Area Commander for the contribution that PCSO Michael Ball had given to the town since his appointment. Action Town ClerkThe meeting was then reconvened.
06/07 STANDING COMMITTEE REPORTS a. Town Planning Committee It was RESOLVEDThat the reports and minutes of the Planning Committee meetings held on 4th December 2006,19th December 2006 and 8th January 2007 be approved and adopted subject to: Vide Item 04/07 – Water Lane Feasibility Study Councillor Lanchin agreed to circulate a draft response to Senior Planning Officer Francis Whittaker’s letter. Action Councillor LanchinPublic Participation The Town Mayor adjourned the meeting. Mr. Dyer asked if the planning application for 77 High Street landscaping and planting conditions had been sent to the Town Council. He was informed that it was not the policy of the Borough Council to send such applications for consultation. The meeting was then reconvened. b. Environment Committee It was RESOLVEDThat the reports and minutes of the Environment Committee meeting held on 27th November 2006 be approved and adopted subject to: Vide Item 40/06 – Dacorum Environmental Forum Water Group Councillor Patterson said she would provide a written report to the next meeting of the Environment Committee. Action Councillor PattersonPublic Participation The Town Mayor adjourned the meeting. Mr. Dyer said that the Countryside Management Service had been at Sunnyside New allotments on 6th January 2007. Councillor Patterson said they were probably on a Wildspace work day. The meeting was then reconvened. c. Transport Committee It was RESOLVEDThat the reports and minutes of the Transport Committee meeting held on 9th January 2007 be approved and adopted subject to: Vide Item 04/07 – Blocked gullies There was general criticism of Hertfordshire Highways for not clearing blocked gullies in Berkhamsted leading to flooding. Councillor Patterson said the Joint Members Panel were also discontented and had asked for a report for their next meeting. Vide Item 07/07aii – Gravel Path residents petition Councillor Patterson said the petition would be discussed at the next meeting of the Joint Members Panel. Vide Item 07/07bi – Parking charges Councillor Lanchin said that a response had been received from Brian Scott, Dacorum Borough Council, indicating that the Town Council would be consulted when parking charges were next being considered. Vide Item 07/07biii – Parking for market traders Councillor Lanchin said that further letters had been exchanged between the Secretary of the Market Fund and Dacorum Borough Council. The Town Council were now supportive of the proposal to use the Civic Centre car park on Saturday mornings. Vide Item 07/07d – Roads Councillor Patterson had circulated a list of roads subject to improvement from the discretionary fund. Public Participation The Town Mayor adjourned the meeting. Mr. Dyer said that it was pure fiction if Hertfordshire Highways were claiming that they had completed work on the town’s gullies. Roads needed to be cleared of cars to enable cleaning to take place. The meeting was then reconvened. d. Finance & Policy Committee It was RESOLVEDThat the reports and minutes of the Finance & Policy Committee meetings held on 11th December 2006 and 15th January 2007 be approved and adopted subject to: Vide Item 06/07a – Canal Fields Youth Facility Councillor Patterson said that she was disappointed in the design of the equipment. She hoped with the money from Barclays Sport Space that it would be possible to make improvements in particular by the addition of a street course for younger children. Vide Item 06/07bii – The Dell, Bridle Way Councillor Patterson said that only bullet point 1 could be dealt with by Jez Perkins of the Countryside Management Service. Bullet point 2 was a misunderstanding but it was clear that any work required once the lease had been agreed would be paid for by the Town Council. Bullet points 3 and 4 should be addressed to the Land Agent. Action Town ClerkVide Item 07/07d – Community Plan Consultation Councillor Patterson said that the first of the five issues should be re-worded to state, “Install public toilet facilities in Canal Fields and improve those in the town centre.” Action Town ClerkVide Item 07/07h – Berkhamsted Community Partnership Councillor Lythgoe said that he had met with the Partnership Chairman, Tony Statham, and had clarified the Town Council’s position. Nominated members would participate in meetings but would not have a vote and would need to refer back to the Town Council in respect of policy and funding matters. The Town Council would not become a Director of the company. This situation had been accepted by the Partnership Chairman. Vide Item 08/08aiii – Town Council website Councillor Patterson suggested that details of the forthcoming budget should be on the website. Her suggestion was agreed. Action Town ClerkVide Item 08/08di – East Meadow Councillor Lythgoe had established through Councillor Margaret Griffiths, Dacorum Borough Council, that any decision to transfer East Meadow to the ownership of the Town Council had been deferred pending a review of all open space in Dacorum. Councillor Lanchin said that the review was likely to be the Green Space Strategy, which was a long-term project. It was agreed to write to the Chief Executive of the Borough Council to express the Town Council’s dismay that this decision was being held up, particularly, in view of the recent meeting held with Peter Snow and Brian Scott at which they appeared to encourage the transfer of responsibility of other recreational space in the town. There appeared to be no relevance of ownership of East Meadow to the Green Space Strategy. The Town Clerk to draft the letter. Action Town ClerkPublic Participation The Town Mayor adjourned the meeting. Mr. Dyer asked if there had been any developments from NALC concerning access to the Sunnyside allotments and use of footpaths. The Town Clerk said that the letter had been sent and an acknowledgement had been received. A reply was due within 15 days. The meeting was then reconvened.
07/07 ALLOTMENT MANAGEMENT TEAM It was RESOLVEDThat the minutes of the Allotment Management Team held on 10th January 2007 be approved and adopted subject to: Vide Item 07/11 – Control of rabbits The Town Mayor said that efforts to engage a professional rabbit shooter had failed for health and safety reasons. The Town Clerk had written to Network Rail to ask them to install a rabbit-proof fence on the boundary. Vide Item 07/14ii – Water Infrastructure The Town Mayor produced a length of rusted water pipe and said that efforts to locate the persistent water leak on Sunnyside allotments had failed and she feared that much of the water pipe was deteriorating. Public Participation There was no public participation.
08/07 STRONG AND PROSPEROUS COMMUNITIES – THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT WHITE PAPER Councillor Stevens referred to his paper, which had been circulated with the agenda. Following discussion it was agreed to write to the Chief Executive of Hertfordshire County Council with a copy to the Director responsible for the relationships at Parish level to emphasise the Town Council’s aim to develop effective links with the service delivery bodies and engage with monitoring processes and to seek devolved management where appropriate. Councillor Stevens agreed to draft the letter. Action Councillor Stevens
09/07 CASTLE LIAISON GROUP Councillor Gibbs referred to the Action Plan circulated with the agenda. He said that English Heritage had been unresponsive for a long time but relationships were now improving. He was grateful for Mr. Barnes for his work in co-ordinating the Group that was now moving slowly forward. The Action Plan was noted.
10/07 ANNUAL TOWN MEETING 2007 TO BE HELD ON THURSDAY 5TH APRIL – TO CONSIDER THE CONTENT OF THE AGENDA Concern was expressed that the date fixed for the meeting was too close to Easter. Following discussion it was agreed: a. To seek an alternative date and alternative venue if necessary. b. To invite Graham Winwright, Head of Planning & Regeneration, Dacorum Borough Council, to speak on the Water Lane Feasibility Study. Action Town ClerkThe date has been changed to Thursday 29th March at 7.30 p.m. in Berkhamsted Civic Centre. Graham Winwright has indicated his ability to attend.
11/07 BERKHAMSTED FAIRTRADE TOWN STEERING GROUP It was agreed that Councillor Talbot-Ponsonby would be the Town Council’s nominated representative to the Steering Group. Action Town Clerk |
