Wellington Town Council minutes October 2004
Minutes of the meeting of Wellington Town Council held in the United Reformed Church Hall in Fore Street, Wellington on Monday, 4th October 2004 at 7.pm
PRESENT: Councillor R. Bowrah (chairman), who presided, Councillor Mrs C. Biscoe (vice-chairman), Councillors Mrs V. Byrne, Mrs A. Milne and Mrs V. Stock-Williams Councillors P. Critchard, A. Govier, R. Henley, C. Hindley, A. Horsman, D. Mitton, and E. Warren, and the clerk A. Brown. There were apologies from Councillors D. Gill, G. James and N. Wilson. There were 8 members of the public present.
12961 CHAIRMAN’S ANNOUNCEMENTSThe chairman, Councillor R. Bowrah, reported that carnival night on 25th September had been very successful with civic visitors being very impressed with the standard of the floats. He had received a letter of appreciation from the Mayor of Ilminster. He welcomed Councillor Joanna Lewin-Harris, Taunton DBC executive councillor for Community Development, to the meeting. Wellington Federation of Sports Clubs was holding its annual presentation night on Saturday, 20th November. The chairman was unfortunately unable to attend. Members were asked to let the clerk know if they wished to attend the presentation.
12962 POLICE MATTERSSgt R. Caburn reported that during September in the Wellington section there had been 10 assaults (5 domestic); 7 cases of criminal damage; 21 of criminal damage to motor vehicles, mainly scratching cars and hitting off wing mirrors, many of them in Swains Lane area on September 18th-19th; 33 thefts, 8 commercial burglaries including 4 on one night at Chelston Industrial Park on September 7th-8th; a safe stolen from the pet shop; a theft from a shed; and a domestic burglary during the day through an insecure door while the occupants had been at home. They were doing fairly well regarding domestic burglaries but with the coming of the darker evenings he urged residents to leave their lights on when they went out to give the impression that the house was occupied. Three people had been arrested for thefts from cars at Wiveliscombe where a number of vehicles had been broken into. He recalled that back in March players and officials at Wellington Rugby Club had been robbed by a con man who had since been caught through the vehicle number plate recognition device and had been sent to prison for the offences and many others committed in other parts of the region. Another con man who had stolen from the Ship Inn had been caught with DNA evidence after police had seized the remains of his dinner. There had been no arrests on carnival night when 20 specials had volunteered to help the full time police. Referring to the approach of Halloween and bonfire night when there were often problems with anti social behaviour, he said the police were distributing notices to shops not to sell eggs, flour or fireworks to anyone under 18. Notices were also available from the police station for residents to say they did not want people to call at the door for trick or treating on Halloween. The police would be out and about to deal with any trouble. An additional police officer would be coming to Wellington looking at anti social behaviour issues in the town. It was also planned to have some probationary officers attached to Wellington during the year. In reply to Councillor Bowrah who referred to an elderly lady being knocked down on the pavement and hurt by a young cyclist who did not stop, Sgt Caburn said that the police were looking at the cycling issue and police community support officers were going to teach cycling proficiency at local schools. It was agreed to send a letter to the police thanking them for the way they had supervised and conducted carnival night.
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12963 CRIME AND DISORDER STRATEGY AUDITSgt Caburn reported that following an audit of the current crime and disorder strategy Taunton Deane Crime and Disorder Reduction Panel was going to concentrate on the following five priorities for the next three years from 2005-2008: 1, violent crime (public and domestic); 2, anti social behaviour; 3, burglary; 4, vehicle crime; 5, drugs, alcohol and the night time economy. The Government had set a target of a reduction in all crime by 15% by 2008. A big impact had been made on domestic burglary in the last 18 months and also on vehicle burglary as a result of a big investment in DNA equipment. Councillors received a copy of the list of priorities and were asked to place these in their order of priority.
12964 REPORT ON WORKING OF CCTV IN TOWN CENTRESgt Caburn reported that comparing the crime figures before and after the installation of CCTV in the town centre showed that CCTV had been successful in Wellington in reducing anti social behaviour and thefts but it had moved crime to other areas not covered by the cameras, such as South Street car park where there had been anti social behaviour problems. There were also problems of theft and burglary in Lancer Court.
12965 POSSIBILITY OF CCTV FOR SOUTH STREET CAR PARKWith reference to minute 12916 further consideration was given to the suggestion of installing CCTV in South Street (Bulford) car park because of anti social behaviour problems, noise and damage. After some discussion it was agreed to ask Taunton DBC to consider making provision in its next budget for funding for two additional CCTV cameras in Wellington – one in South Street car park and one in Lancer Court. It was also agreed that the town council should draw up a long term strategy for the provision of more CCTV in Wellington, to ask Taunton DBC for its views on the suggested long term strategy and to ask for Taunton DBC’s views/report on the effectiveness of the additional cameras which had been provided in secondary areas of Taunton outside of the town centre. An email was received from Taunton DBC stating that the regulations about the parking of vehicles in the council’s car parks ended at 6pm but the other byelaws had no time restriction so anyone causing a nuisance would be in contravention of those regulations. But the problem was proof of evidence over a period of time to take a case to court. The letter was noted.
12966 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION TIME: WELLINGTON IN BLOOMMrs Isobel Ward, the chairman of Wellington in Bloom Committee, invited the chairman and councillors to the awards presentation evening on Friday, 15th October at 6.30pm at Wellington Methodist Church and also distributed the judge’s feedback sheet to councillors. The judge had been very impressed with The Park, the Deane and county council presentations on recycling and with the cleanliness of the town.
12967 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION TIME: CHRISTMAS ILLUMINATIONSIn reply to a question from Mr Terry Milton, the clerk stated that the Chamber of Trade and/or the businesses themselves would be responsible for Christmas lights outside of shops and offices. The town council had contacted the multiples such as the banks and was hoping to persuade them to erect illuminated Christmas trees.
12968 PPT: SUGGESTED MINI-MOTOR CYCLE TRACKMr Alan Bryant, of 38 Church Fields, and Mr Andy Warren, of 15 Howard Road, said they were seeking the town council’s support for the suggested provision of a mini-motorcycle track next to the BMX humps in the Deane’s field adjoining Wellington 2064WELLINGTON TOWN COUNCIL: 4TH OCTOBER 2004
12968 PPT: SUGGESTED MINI-MOTOR CYCLE TRACK (continued)Sports Centre. The children would be properly kitted out, would be small – 7-8 year olds and younger - and would be under the supervision of parents. No unsupervised riding would be allowed. The track would be of such as size as to be only suitable for small mini/junior motorcycles. After some discussion it was agreed that there was some merit in the suggestion although it was recognised there were noise and safety issues to be taken into account. On the proposition of Councillor Henley, seconded by Councillor Bowrah, it was agreed write to Taunton DBC asking for the suggestion to be investigated. Councillor Warren declared an indirect interest and did not take part in the discussion.
12969 MINUTESThe minutes of the council meetings held on 6th September 2004, as previously circulated to councillors, were received, confirmed and signed as correct.
12970 HIGHER CAR PARKING CHARGESCouncillor Bowrah reported that Taunton DBC was proposing to increase car parking charges in Wellington from April 2005 which he was not in favour of because of the affect these would have on shopping/trading in Wellington. After some discussion it was agreed to write to Taunton DBC objecting to the proposal to increasing parking charges both in Wellington and Taunton because it was felt the higher charges would discourage people from shopping in Wellington, would result in more people using out of town shopping areas where parking was free, and would adversely affect the many Wellington residents who travelled to Taunton to work daily. It was also agreed to suggest the consideration was given to having bigger discounts for season tickets and to the possibility of having residents’ parking permits in car parks.
12971 FUTURE USE OF COUNCIL CHAMBER & CLERK’S OFFICECouncillor Bowrah referred to the report by Taunton DBC that it would cost £62,500 to make the town council chamber and the clerk’s office on the first floor of 28 Fore Street suitable for disabled access as required by the Disability Discrimination Act which he felt was far too much. Councillors Henley and Govier felt the town council should look for ground floor offices for the clerk. Councillor Byrne suggested that the town council should remain at 28 Fore Street and should not move to a new location as the present one was in the centre of the town. The clerk reported that the town council had received a quote of £4,700 just over two years ago for the installation of a stair lift which had been approved by the Fire Brigade. Work would also be needed to level the floor in the corridor between the council chamber and the disabled toilet which had been provided earlier by the Deane. On the proposition of Councillor Byrne, seconded by Councillor Critchard, it was agreed 8-0 with 4 absentions to ask Taunton DBC to provide the stair lift and level the floor.
12972 HELPING HANDS GRANT REQUESTWith reference to minute 12918 a letter, grant application form, financial statements and extracts from its business and development plan were received from the local charity Helping Hands asking the council to consider making a grant of £6,000 to enable its services to be expanded. Standing orders were suspended to allow Carolyn Marsh, of Helping Hands, to address members. She explained that it was a one-off request, that Taunton DBC had offered a grant of £3,500 and that it was possible there would be grants from the Crime and Disorder Partnership. It was hoped to secure contracts to provide core funding in the future as well as money from the Government2065
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12972 HELPING HANDS GRANT REQUEST (continued)Agency Future Builders and charitable trusts. The charity provided help and advice to people of all ages and a one-stop shop where residents could access a wide range of support services. Councillors expressed concerns about the possible overlapping of the services provided by Helping Hands with those by the Citizens Advice Bureau, which was financially supported by the town council, the Community Office in Wellington, and agencies such as Somerset Direct and local authorities. It was agreed to defer a decision to find out the views of Taunton DBC and Somerset County Council on Helping Hands – how these bodies saw the charity – and if they might be delivering services through Helping Hands in the future. Councillor Hindley declared an interest and left the hall while this item was considered.
12973 STATE OF CORN HILLCouncillor Henley referred to the state of Corn Hill off Fore Street and it was agreed that more needed to be done to improve it.
12974 COST OF COMMUNITY TRANSPORT IN WELLINGTONCouncillor Critchard reported that he had received complaints from the public about the cost of community transport in Wellington with residents being charged £3 for a single fare from Tonedale to the town centre compared to local taxis and private hire firms who charged between £2.50 and £2.60. It was agreed to write to Taunton Deane Community Transport asking for an explanation of their charges. It was also agreed to write to Taunton DBC.
12975 POLITICAL ENTRIES IN WELLINGTON CARNIVALCouncillor Horsman expressed concern that a float in Wellington Carnival had displayed a Countryside Alliance banner “Fight the (Hunting) Ban.” He felt that all political entries were unacceptable in the carnival, particularly as the town council provided financial support for it. The chairman reported that he had spoken to the carnival committee chairman, Mrs J. Chave who had apologised for the banner, which had been put on a collecting float at the last minute without the knowledge of any of the marshals. The committee did not allow political entries in the procession. It was ageeed to note the situation.
12976 TREE PROBLEMS AT WELLINGTON MEDICAL CENTRECouncillor Horsman reported that he had received complaints from residents in Bulford about the loss of light caused by overhanging trees from the grounds of Wellington Medical Centre. It was agreed to ask the centre to lop the offending trees.
12977 PROPOSED TEEN AREA OFF LILLEBONNE CLOSEWith reference to minute 12923 the clerk reported that the full sized goalposts next to the Mounds at the Lillebonne Close play area had been removed and replaced with 5 a side goalposts in a mutually agreed location between the Mounds and the Gay Street car parking area following a site meeting with residents on 29th September. Everyone seemed happy with the new location. A letter was received from Taunton DBC stating that the full sized posts had only been erected as a temporary measure. A letter was also received from Mr and Mrs G. Hellings thanking the council for its help over the issue. The report and letters were noted.
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12978 ALEXANDRA ROAD PLAY FACILITIESWith reference to minute 12923 a letter was received from Taunton DBC stating that more consultations were taking place with residents and others over the position of the suggested goalposts on Roly Poly Green. The letter was noted.
12979 LONGER ENTERTAINMENT HOURS AT THE VINTAGEWith reference to minute 12926 the clerk reported that Taunton DBC had agreed extended hours public entertainment hours at the Vintage, Fore Street, to 12 midnight on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays for a trial six month period as suggested by the town council. The report was noted. Members also received copies of letters from Pegasus Leisure UK, the owners of the Kings Arms, High Street, expressing concerns about the Vintage application for extended hours, from Taunton DBC in reply to Pegasus Leisure and from Vintage licensee Angela Ahearne detailing their facilities and stating they were happy with the six month trial period. All 3 letters were noted.
12980 WHEELIE BIN COLLECTIONWith reference to minute 12922 an email was received from Deane councillor Mark Edwards stating that the missed green bin collections in North Street, Mantle Street and Courtland Road would be investigated and dealt with. There had been a few teething problems but the entire district had to be re-jigged to make the first stage of the service fit for their future plans. They only wanted to make one change in advance of the weekly recycling collection and with 46,000 houses he was pleased they had experienced so few issues. The town council would be sent a complete list of schedules for recycling collections in Wellington for inclusion in its website. This had been the first stage of the pilot scheme and until he was happy it was working he would not sign off stage two. If that got too close to Christmas, he would not allow it to proceed until the New Year which he felt was common sense. The letter was noted.
12981 PASSENGER TRANSPORT STRATEGY FOR SOMERSETWith reference to minute 12942 further consideration was given to the letter from the county council asking for the town council’s views on the proposed development of a passenger transport strategy for Somerset for the next five years. Councillor Govier offered to put forward submissions on behalf of the town council, particularly on community transport and its cost. It was agreed to accept his offer.
12982 WELLINGTON CARNIVAL GRANT REQUESTWith reference to minute 12935 a letter of thanks was received from Wellington Carnival Committee for the town council grant of £700. The letter was noted.
12983 IMPROVED STREET LIGHTING OFF WARREN STREETWith reference to minute 12613 a letter was received from the county council stating that all 3 lighting units on the public footpath from Warren Street to Rockwell Green main road had been included in the county’s maintenance contract. The county would meet all future energy and maintenance costs. The letter was noted.
12984 STREET LIGHTING IN BARN MEADS ROADWith reference to minute 12812 it was agreed to hold a site meeting on Monday, 11th October at 8pm to see if and where the street lighting needed to be improved in Barn Meads Road.
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12985 ANNUAL PARISH COUNCILS MEETING WITH COUNTYWith reference to minute 12850 a letter was received from the county council stating that the annual meeting of parish/town councils with Somerset County Council would be held at Oake Village Hall on 26th October from 4.30pm to 7pm. Councillor Mitton offered to represent the town council and this was agreed.
12986 DEANE-COUNTY COUNCIL FOOTPATHS AGREEMENTWith reference to minute 12900 a letter was received from Councillor John Williams, the leader of Taunton DBC, stating that the Deane had decided to end its rights of way agency agreement with the county council from 1st April 2005 because it cost the Deane £100,000 a year but the Deane also received £45,000 reimbursement from the county council. If the county was prepared to cover the Deane’s whole costs then the Deane would continue with the agreement. The Deane had agreed to include in its 2005-06 budget continued funding for its parish footpath grants scheme for minor repairs and maintenance. A similar letter was received from head of development, Mr Tom Noall. Both letters were noted. A letter was also received from Councillor Mrs Mary Whitmarsh, the leader of the Independent group on Taunton DBC, stating that over 24 parishes had objected to the ending of the agreement and that the Independent group also strongly felt that it should not be terminated. She asked for town and parish council support during public question time at the Deane’s council meeting being held on 12th October at 6.15pm. The letter was noted.
12987 IMPROVED LIGHTING FOR THREE CUPS FOOTPATHWith reference to minute 12103 a letter was received from the county council stating that the improved lights on the footpath from Three Cups to Bulford had been approved for inclusion in the county’s maintenance contract and that the county would be responsible for all future energy and maintenance costs. Letter was noted.
12988 SOMERSET AIR AMBULANCE TRUST GRANT REQUESTA letter was received from the Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance Trust asking the town council to consider making a grant when setting its 2005 budget. On the proposition of Councillor Bowrah, seconded by Councillor Hindley, it was agreed to make a grant of £500 for 2005 – the same as for the current year.
12989 TAUNTON DEANE’S DRAFT LICENSING POLICYA letter and questionnaire were received from Taunton DBC about consultation over Taunton Deane’s draft licensing policy. It was agreed to defer making a decision until the town council’s November meeting to give members the opportunity to attend the Wellington open session on 20th October at 2pm-4pm at the Community Centre.
12990 LIGHTING REQUEST AT BUCKWELLA letter was received from the county council enclosing a request from Mr David Howard, of 91 Buckwell, for improved street lighting in Buckwell. It was agreed to hold a site meeting on 11th October following the Barn Meads Road meeting.
12991 SOMERSET MINERALS LOCAL PLANA letter was received from Somerset County Council stating that the Somerset Minerals Local Plan – adopted version – had just been published. It formed part of the development plan for Somerset. The letter was noted.
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12992 LEGION REMEMBRANCE SERVICESA letter was received from the Wellington branch of the Royal British Legion inviting the chairman and councillors to the three local Remembrance Services: Field of Remembrance Service at Wellington Baptist Church on Sunday, 7th November at 12 noon; Remembrance Service of 2 minutes silence in the town centre on Thursday, 11th November at 11am; Remembrance Day Service and Poppy Laying Ceremony in the Park on Sunday, 14th November at 3.30pm. The letter was noted.
12993 TOTAL CONVENIENCE STORE LICENSING APPLICATIONNotice was received of the application for the transfer of the justices licence for Total Convenience Store, Mantle Street, to Sherrill Lynn Hooley and Lisa Karenza Opie, to be heard by Taunton Deane magistrates on 12th October. It was noted.
12994 ONE DAY CLOSURE OF HIGH STREETA letter was received from Somerset Highways stating that High Street would be closed from its junction with Buckwell for a distance of 200 metres to Lancer Court for the day on Sunday, 24th October while resurfacing works were carried out. An alternative route would be signposted. The letter was noted.
12995 CLEAN NEIGHBOURHOODSA letter was received from the Minister for Rural Affairs and Local Environmental Quality, MP Alun Michael about a recently launched consultation called Clean Neighbourhoods. The letter was noted.
12996 WELLINGTON ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIPWith reference to minute 12951 it was agreed to suggest that items about Corn Hill and higher car parking charges should be put forward for inclusion on the agenda for the next Economic Partnership meeting on Monday, 8th November 2004 at 6pm.
12997 PLANNING DECISIONS BY TAUNTON DBCThe clerk reported that Taunton Deane Borough Council had approved the following plans: (1) Conversion of office/warehouse to form office accommodation, involving erection of new internal studwork partitions and provision of new entrance door, Building 1, Tonedale Business Park, Tonedale Mill, Milverton Road, Wellington (43/2004/102LB); (2) Erection of two storey extension at side of 144 Barn Meads Road, Wellington (43/2004/104: delegated decision); (3) Conversion of part of building to dwelling, demolition of part of building and erection of 3 dwellings, The Old School House, Crosslands, Wellington as amended by letter dated 27th August 2004 with amended drawings Nos. 0414/006A and 007B and further amended by e-mail dated 23rd September 2004 with accompanying drawing (43/2004/106); (4) Retention of pergola with Perspex roof, 5 Burgage, Wellington (43/2004/108); (5) Erection of single storey extension to front of 51 Millstream Gardens, Wellington (43/204/115: delegated decision); (6) Erection of two storey side extensions and new roof with associated works, 1 Beech Hill, Wellington as amended by agents letter and plans drawing No. 04/111/05d, 06e, 03f and 04f received 8th September (43/2004/100: delegated decision); (7) Change of use of ground floor from bakery to residential and use of yard as domestic curtilage 15 North Street, Wellington (43/2004/097: delegated decision); (8) Installation of communal satellite dish, 45 High Street, Wellington (43/2004/095LB); (9) Erection of a conservatory at 22 Blackmoor Road, Wellington (43/2004/089: delegated decision); (10) Application to carry out tree works on 12 grey poplar trees included in the Taunton Deane Borough (Wellington No. 1) Tree2069WELLINGTON TOWN COUNCIL: 4TH OCTOBER 200412997 PLANNING DECISIONS BY TAUNTON DBC (continued)Preservation Order 1993 east of Swains Lane, Wellington and on 2 evergeen oak trees included in Taunton Deane Borough (Wellington No. 1) Tree Preservation Order 1981 east of Swains Lane, Wellington (43/2004/104T); (11) Erection of first floor and single storey extension at 31 Laburnum Road, Wellington (43/2004/096: delegated decision); (12) Erection of extension to front of existing garage to be used as additional living accommodation at 68 Richards Close, Wellington (43/2004/099: delegated decision); (13) Erection of dormer window to rear and insertion of rooflights at 10 Wellesley Park, Wellington (43/2004/098: delegated decision); (14) Erection of first floor extension and lobby at 49 Millstream Gardens, Wellington (43/2004/093: delegated decision).
12998 PLANNING DECISIONS BY SOMERSET COUNTY COUNCILThe clerk reported that Somerset County Council had approved the following planning application: (1) Change of use from adult education service to office accommodation for council officers at 10 Courtland Road, Wellington (43/2004/091).
12999 COUNCIL INCOME/EXPENDITURE TO 30TH SEPTEMBER 2004A report was received from the clerk showing that the council’s income for the period from 1st April 2004 to 30th September 2004 was £84,485 (£85,280 estimated for the full year to 31st March 2005) and that expenditure for the same period was £44,570 (£106,800 estimated for the full year to 31st March 2005). The report was noted.
13000 ACCOUNTS FOR PAYMENTOn the proposition of Councillor Bowrah, seconded by Councillor Mitton, it was agreed to authorise the payment of the following accounts and the signing of the following cheques: The Cheese and Wine Shop of Wellington £98.88 for drinks for carnival reception; Mr A. Brown £1,575.76; Inland Revenue £607.98; Wellington United Reformed Church £75 for hire of church hall for meetings in July, August and September 2004; Hinewood Cleaning Services £48 for window cleaning and bus shelter cleaning; Taunton Deane Borough Council £250 for museum lease for quarter from 1st October to 31st December 2004; Taunton Deane Borough Council £16.32 for share of gas bill from April to June 2004; Westward Playgrounds Ltd £3,984.25 for deposit invoice for third of quoted price of £10,172.55 for new equipment at Tone Play Area: Jilly’s Pantry £175 for buffet for carnival reception.
13001 DOG WASTE BIN NEAR BARLEY MOW, ROCKWELL GREENOn the suggestion of Councillor Byrne it was agreed to ask Taunton DBC to consider the installation of a dog waste bin near the Barley Mow, Rockwell Green.
13002 PAPERS, REPORTS, NEWSLETTERS ETCThe clerk reported that the following reports, newsletters etc had been received and were available for members to read if they wished: Taunton DBC’s The Weekly Bulletin for 9th, 16th, 23rd and 30th September 2004; Wellington town centre retail survey 2004; What’s On within Taunton Deane for October 2004; Reports by Taunton Deane Council for Voluntary Service; Blackdown Hills Rural Partnership annual review for 2003-04; leaflet from South West Regional Assembly on regional spatial strategy consultation; Campaign to Protect Rural England’s Fieldwork newsletter for September 2004; National Association of Local Councils’ annual review and accounts for 2003-04; NALC direct information service bulletins Nos. 588 and 589; Zurich Municipal’s Court Circular for September 2004; Local Government International Bureau’s Inter Action magazine for September 2004; Lillebonne Town Council’s municipal magazine for September and October 2004.
THE MEETING CLOSED AT 9.15PM
PRESENT: Councillor R. Bowrah (chairman), who presided, Councillor Mrs C. Biscoe (vice-chairman), Councillors Mrs V. Byrne, Mrs A. Milne and Mrs V. Stock-Williams Councillors P. Critchard, A. Govier, R. Henley, C. Hindley, A. Horsman, D. Mitton, and E. Warren, and the clerk A. Brown. There were apologies from Councillors D. Gill, G. James and N. Wilson. There were 8 members of the public present.
12961 CHAIRMAN’S ANNOUNCEMENTSThe chairman, Councillor R. Bowrah, reported that carnival night on 25th September had been very successful with civic visitors being very impressed with the standard of the floats. He had received a letter of appreciation from the Mayor of Ilminster. He welcomed Councillor Joanna Lewin-Harris, Taunton DBC executive councillor for Community Development, to the meeting. Wellington Federation of Sports Clubs was holding its annual presentation night on Saturday, 20th November. The chairman was unfortunately unable to attend. Members were asked to let the clerk know if they wished to attend the presentation.
12962 POLICE MATTERSSgt R. Caburn reported that during September in the Wellington section there had been 10 assaults (5 domestic); 7 cases of criminal damage; 21 of criminal damage to motor vehicles, mainly scratching cars and hitting off wing mirrors, many of them in Swains Lane area on September 18th-19th; 33 thefts, 8 commercial burglaries including 4 on one night at Chelston Industrial Park on September 7th-8th; a safe stolen from the pet shop; a theft from a shed; and a domestic burglary during the day through an insecure door while the occupants had been at home. They were doing fairly well regarding domestic burglaries but with the coming of the darker evenings he urged residents to leave their lights on when they went out to give the impression that the house was occupied. Three people had been arrested for thefts from cars at Wiveliscombe where a number of vehicles had been broken into. He recalled that back in March players and officials at Wellington Rugby Club had been robbed by a con man who had since been caught through the vehicle number plate recognition device and had been sent to prison for the offences and many others committed in other parts of the region. Another con man who had stolen from the Ship Inn had been caught with DNA evidence after police had seized the remains of his dinner. There had been no arrests on carnival night when 20 specials had volunteered to help the full time police. Referring to the approach of Halloween and bonfire night when there were often problems with anti social behaviour, he said the police were distributing notices to shops not to sell eggs, flour or fireworks to anyone under 18. Notices were also available from the police station for residents to say they did not want people to call at the door for trick or treating on Halloween. The police would be out and about to deal with any trouble. An additional police officer would be coming to Wellington looking at anti social behaviour issues in the town. It was also planned to have some probationary officers attached to Wellington during the year. In reply to Councillor Bowrah who referred to an elderly lady being knocked down on the pavement and hurt by a young cyclist who did not stop, Sgt Caburn said that the police were looking at the cycling issue and police community support officers were going to teach cycling proficiency at local schools. It was agreed to send a letter to the police thanking them for the way they had supervised and conducted carnival night.
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12963 CRIME AND DISORDER STRATEGY AUDITSgt Caburn reported that following an audit of the current crime and disorder strategy Taunton Deane Crime and Disorder Reduction Panel was going to concentrate on the following five priorities for the next three years from 2005-2008: 1, violent crime (public and domestic); 2, anti social behaviour; 3, burglary; 4, vehicle crime; 5, drugs, alcohol and the night time economy. The Government had set a target of a reduction in all crime by 15% by 2008. A big impact had been made on domestic burglary in the last 18 months and also on vehicle burglary as a result of a big investment in DNA equipment. Councillors received a copy of the list of priorities and were asked to place these in their order of priority.
12964 REPORT ON WORKING OF CCTV IN TOWN CENTRESgt Caburn reported that comparing the crime figures before and after the installation of CCTV in the town centre showed that CCTV had been successful in Wellington in reducing anti social behaviour and thefts but it had moved crime to other areas not covered by the cameras, such as South Street car park where there had been anti social behaviour problems. There were also problems of theft and burglary in Lancer Court.
12965 POSSIBILITY OF CCTV FOR SOUTH STREET CAR PARKWith reference to minute 12916 further consideration was given to the suggestion of installing CCTV in South Street (Bulford) car park because of anti social behaviour problems, noise and damage. After some discussion it was agreed to ask Taunton DBC to consider making provision in its next budget for funding for two additional CCTV cameras in Wellington – one in South Street car park and one in Lancer Court. It was also agreed that the town council should draw up a long term strategy for the provision of more CCTV in Wellington, to ask Taunton DBC for its views on the suggested long term strategy and to ask for Taunton DBC’s views/report on the effectiveness of the additional cameras which had been provided in secondary areas of Taunton outside of the town centre. An email was received from Taunton DBC stating that the regulations about the parking of vehicles in the council’s car parks ended at 6pm but the other byelaws had no time restriction so anyone causing a nuisance would be in contravention of those regulations. But the problem was proof of evidence over a period of time to take a case to court. The letter was noted.
12966 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION TIME: WELLINGTON IN BLOOMMrs Isobel Ward, the chairman of Wellington in Bloom Committee, invited the chairman and councillors to the awards presentation evening on Friday, 15th October at 6.30pm at Wellington Methodist Church and also distributed the judge’s feedback sheet to councillors. The judge had been very impressed with The Park, the Deane and county council presentations on recycling and with the cleanliness of the town.
12967 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION TIME: CHRISTMAS ILLUMINATIONSIn reply to a question from Mr Terry Milton, the clerk stated that the Chamber of Trade and/or the businesses themselves would be responsible for Christmas lights outside of shops and offices. The town council had contacted the multiples such as the banks and was hoping to persuade them to erect illuminated Christmas trees.
12968 PPT: SUGGESTED MINI-MOTOR CYCLE TRACKMr Alan Bryant, of 38 Church Fields, and Mr Andy Warren, of 15 Howard Road, said they were seeking the town council’s support for the suggested provision of a mini-motorcycle track next to the BMX humps in the Deane’s field adjoining Wellington 2064WELLINGTON TOWN COUNCIL: 4TH OCTOBER 2004
12968 PPT: SUGGESTED MINI-MOTOR CYCLE TRACK (continued)Sports Centre. The children would be properly kitted out, would be small – 7-8 year olds and younger - and would be under the supervision of parents. No unsupervised riding would be allowed. The track would be of such as size as to be only suitable for small mini/junior motorcycles. After some discussion it was agreed that there was some merit in the suggestion although it was recognised there were noise and safety issues to be taken into account. On the proposition of Councillor Henley, seconded by Councillor Bowrah, it was agreed write to Taunton DBC asking for the suggestion to be investigated. Councillor Warren declared an indirect interest and did not take part in the discussion.
12969 MINUTESThe minutes of the council meetings held on 6th September 2004, as previously circulated to councillors, were received, confirmed and signed as correct.
12970 HIGHER CAR PARKING CHARGESCouncillor Bowrah reported that Taunton DBC was proposing to increase car parking charges in Wellington from April 2005 which he was not in favour of because of the affect these would have on shopping/trading in Wellington. After some discussion it was agreed to write to Taunton DBC objecting to the proposal to increasing parking charges both in Wellington and Taunton because it was felt the higher charges would discourage people from shopping in Wellington, would result in more people using out of town shopping areas where parking was free, and would adversely affect the many Wellington residents who travelled to Taunton to work daily. It was also agreed to suggest the consideration was given to having bigger discounts for season tickets and to the possibility of having residents’ parking permits in car parks.
12971 FUTURE USE OF COUNCIL CHAMBER & CLERK’S OFFICECouncillor Bowrah referred to the report by Taunton DBC that it would cost £62,500 to make the town council chamber and the clerk’s office on the first floor of 28 Fore Street suitable for disabled access as required by the Disability Discrimination Act which he felt was far too much. Councillors Henley and Govier felt the town council should look for ground floor offices for the clerk. Councillor Byrne suggested that the town council should remain at 28 Fore Street and should not move to a new location as the present one was in the centre of the town. The clerk reported that the town council had received a quote of £4,700 just over two years ago for the installation of a stair lift which had been approved by the Fire Brigade. Work would also be needed to level the floor in the corridor between the council chamber and the disabled toilet which had been provided earlier by the Deane. On the proposition of Councillor Byrne, seconded by Councillor Critchard, it was agreed 8-0 with 4 absentions to ask Taunton DBC to provide the stair lift and level the floor.
12972 HELPING HANDS GRANT REQUESTWith reference to minute 12918 a letter, grant application form, financial statements and extracts from its business and development plan were received from the local charity Helping Hands asking the council to consider making a grant of £6,000 to enable its services to be expanded. Standing orders were suspended to allow Carolyn Marsh, of Helping Hands, to address members. She explained that it was a one-off request, that Taunton DBC had offered a grant of £3,500 and that it was possible there would be grants from the Crime and Disorder Partnership. It was hoped to secure contracts to provide core funding in the future as well as money from the Government2065
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12972 HELPING HANDS GRANT REQUEST (continued)Agency Future Builders and charitable trusts. The charity provided help and advice to people of all ages and a one-stop shop where residents could access a wide range of support services. Councillors expressed concerns about the possible overlapping of the services provided by Helping Hands with those by the Citizens Advice Bureau, which was financially supported by the town council, the Community Office in Wellington, and agencies such as Somerset Direct and local authorities. It was agreed to defer a decision to find out the views of Taunton DBC and Somerset County Council on Helping Hands – how these bodies saw the charity – and if they might be delivering services through Helping Hands in the future. Councillor Hindley declared an interest and left the hall while this item was considered.
12973 STATE OF CORN HILLCouncillor Henley referred to the state of Corn Hill off Fore Street and it was agreed that more needed to be done to improve it.
12974 COST OF COMMUNITY TRANSPORT IN WELLINGTONCouncillor Critchard reported that he had received complaints from the public about the cost of community transport in Wellington with residents being charged £3 for a single fare from Tonedale to the town centre compared to local taxis and private hire firms who charged between £2.50 and £2.60. It was agreed to write to Taunton Deane Community Transport asking for an explanation of their charges. It was also agreed to write to Taunton DBC.
12975 POLITICAL ENTRIES IN WELLINGTON CARNIVALCouncillor Horsman expressed concern that a float in Wellington Carnival had displayed a Countryside Alliance banner “Fight the (Hunting) Ban.” He felt that all political entries were unacceptable in the carnival, particularly as the town council provided financial support for it. The chairman reported that he had spoken to the carnival committee chairman, Mrs J. Chave who had apologised for the banner, which had been put on a collecting float at the last minute without the knowledge of any of the marshals. The committee did not allow political entries in the procession. It was ageeed to note the situation.
12976 TREE PROBLEMS AT WELLINGTON MEDICAL CENTRECouncillor Horsman reported that he had received complaints from residents in Bulford about the loss of light caused by overhanging trees from the grounds of Wellington Medical Centre. It was agreed to ask the centre to lop the offending trees.
12977 PROPOSED TEEN AREA OFF LILLEBONNE CLOSEWith reference to minute 12923 the clerk reported that the full sized goalposts next to the Mounds at the Lillebonne Close play area had been removed and replaced with 5 a side goalposts in a mutually agreed location between the Mounds and the Gay Street car parking area following a site meeting with residents on 29th September. Everyone seemed happy with the new location. A letter was received from Taunton DBC stating that the full sized posts had only been erected as a temporary measure. A letter was also received from Mr and Mrs G. Hellings thanking the council for its help over the issue. The report and letters were noted.
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12978 ALEXANDRA ROAD PLAY FACILITIESWith reference to minute 12923 a letter was received from Taunton DBC stating that more consultations were taking place with residents and others over the position of the suggested goalposts on Roly Poly Green. The letter was noted.
12979 LONGER ENTERTAINMENT HOURS AT THE VINTAGEWith reference to minute 12926 the clerk reported that Taunton DBC had agreed extended hours public entertainment hours at the Vintage, Fore Street, to 12 midnight on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays for a trial six month period as suggested by the town council. The report was noted. Members also received copies of letters from Pegasus Leisure UK, the owners of the Kings Arms, High Street, expressing concerns about the Vintage application for extended hours, from Taunton DBC in reply to Pegasus Leisure and from Vintage licensee Angela Ahearne detailing their facilities and stating they were happy with the six month trial period. All 3 letters were noted.
12980 WHEELIE BIN COLLECTIONWith reference to minute 12922 an email was received from Deane councillor Mark Edwards stating that the missed green bin collections in North Street, Mantle Street and Courtland Road would be investigated and dealt with. There had been a few teething problems but the entire district had to be re-jigged to make the first stage of the service fit for their future plans. They only wanted to make one change in advance of the weekly recycling collection and with 46,000 houses he was pleased they had experienced so few issues. The town council would be sent a complete list of schedules for recycling collections in Wellington for inclusion in its website. This had been the first stage of the pilot scheme and until he was happy it was working he would not sign off stage two. If that got too close to Christmas, he would not allow it to proceed until the New Year which he felt was common sense. The letter was noted.
12981 PASSENGER TRANSPORT STRATEGY FOR SOMERSETWith reference to minute 12942 further consideration was given to the letter from the county council asking for the town council’s views on the proposed development of a passenger transport strategy for Somerset for the next five years. Councillor Govier offered to put forward submissions on behalf of the town council, particularly on community transport and its cost. It was agreed to accept his offer.
12982 WELLINGTON CARNIVAL GRANT REQUESTWith reference to minute 12935 a letter of thanks was received from Wellington Carnival Committee for the town council grant of £700. The letter was noted.
12983 IMPROVED STREET LIGHTING OFF WARREN STREETWith reference to minute 12613 a letter was received from the county council stating that all 3 lighting units on the public footpath from Warren Street to Rockwell Green main road had been included in the county’s maintenance contract. The county would meet all future energy and maintenance costs. The letter was noted.
12984 STREET LIGHTING IN BARN MEADS ROADWith reference to minute 12812 it was agreed to hold a site meeting on Monday, 11th October at 8pm to see if and where the street lighting needed to be improved in Barn Meads Road.
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12985 ANNUAL PARISH COUNCILS MEETING WITH COUNTYWith reference to minute 12850 a letter was received from the county council stating that the annual meeting of parish/town councils with Somerset County Council would be held at Oake Village Hall on 26th October from 4.30pm to 7pm. Councillor Mitton offered to represent the town council and this was agreed.
12986 DEANE-COUNTY COUNCIL FOOTPATHS AGREEMENTWith reference to minute 12900 a letter was received from Councillor John Williams, the leader of Taunton DBC, stating that the Deane had decided to end its rights of way agency agreement with the county council from 1st April 2005 because it cost the Deane £100,000 a year but the Deane also received £45,000 reimbursement from the county council. If the county was prepared to cover the Deane’s whole costs then the Deane would continue with the agreement. The Deane had agreed to include in its 2005-06 budget continued funding for its parish footpath grants scheme for minor repairs and maintenance. A similar letter was received from head of development, Mr Tom Noall. Both letters were noted. A letter was also received from Councillor Mrs Mary Whitmarsh, the leader of the Independent group on Taunton DBC, stating that over 24 parishes had objected to the ending of the agreement and that the Independent group also strongly felt that it should not be terminated. She asked for town and parish council support during public question time at the Deane’s council meeting being held on 12th October at 6.15pm. The letter was noted.
12987 IMPROVED LIGHTING FOR THREE CUPS FOOTPATHWith reference to minute 12103 a letter was received from the county council stating that the improved lights on the footpath from Three Cups to Bulford had been approved for inclusion in the county’s maintenance contract and that the county would be responsible for all future energy and maintenance costs. Letter was noted.
12988 SOMERSET AIR AMBULANCE TRUST GRANT REQUESTA letter was received from the Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance Trust asking the town council to consider making a grant when setting its 2005 budget. On the proposition of Councillor Bowrah, seconded by Councillor Hindley, it was agreed to make a grant of £500 for 2005 – the same as for the current year.
12989 TAUNTON DEANE’S DRAFT LICENSING POLICYA letter and questionnaire were received from Taunton DBC about consultation over Taunton Deane’s draft licensing policy. It was agreed to defer making a decision until the town council’s November meeting to give members the opportunity to attend the Wellington open session on 20th October at 2pm-4pm at the Community Centre.
12990 LIGHTING REQUEST AT BUCKWELLA letter was received from the county council enclosing a request from Mr David Howard, of 91 Buckwell, for improved street lighting in Buckwell. It was agreed to hold a site meeting on 11th October following the Barn Meads Road meeting.
12991 SOMERSET MINERALS LOCAL PLANA letter was received from Somerset County Council stating that the Somerset Minerals Local Plan – adopted version – had just been published. It formed part of the development plan for Somerset. The letter was noted.
2068WELLINGTON TOWN COUNCIL: 4TH OCTOBER 2004
12992 LEGION REMEMBRANCE SERVICESA letter was received from the Wellington branch of the Royal British Legion inviting the chairman and councillors to the three local Remembrance Services: Field of Remembrance Service at Wellington Baptist Church on Sunday, 7th November at 12 noon; Remembrance Service of 2 minutes silence in the town centre on Thursday, 11th November at 11am; Remembrance Day Service and Poppy Laying Ceremony in the Park on Sunday, 14th November at 3.30pm. The letter was noted.
12993 TOTAL CONVENIENCE STORE LICENSING APPLICATIONNotice was received of the application for the transfer of the justices licence for Total Convenience Store, Mantle Street, to Sherrill Lynn Hooley and Lisa Karenza Opie, to be heard by Taunton Deane magistrates on 12th October. It was noted.
12994 ONE DAY CLOSURE OF HIGH STREETA letter was received from Somerset Highways stating that High Street would be closed from its junction with Buckwell for a distance of 200 metres to Lancer Court for the day on Sunday, 24th October while resurfacing works were carried out. An alternative route would be signposted. The letter was noted.
12995 CLEAN NEIGHBOURHOODSA letter was received from the Minister for Rural Affairs and Local Environmental Quality, MP Alun Michael about a recently launched consultation called Clean Neighbourhoods. The letter was noted.
12996 WELLINGTON ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIPWith reference to minute 12951 it was agreed to suggest that items about Corn Hill and higher car parking charges should be put forward for inclusion on the agenda for the next Economic Partnership meeting on Monday, 8th November 2004 at 6pm.
12997 PLANNING DECISIONS BY TAUNTON DBCThe clerk reported that Taunton Deane Borough Council had approved the following plans: (1) Conversion of office/warehouse to form office accommodation, involving erection of new internal studwork partitions and provision of new entrance door, Building 1, Tonedale Business Park, Tonedale Mill, Milverton Road, Wellington (43/2004/102LB); (2) Erection of two storey extension at side of 144 Barn Meads Road, Wellington (43/2004/104: delegated decision); (3) Conversion of part of building to dwelling, demolition of part of building and erection of 3 dwellings, The Old School House, Crosslands, Wellington as amended by letter dated 27th August 2004 with amended drawings Nos. 0414/006A and 007B and further amended by e-mail dated 23rd September 2004 with accompanying drawing (43/2004/106); (4) Retention of pergola with Perspex roof, 5 Burgage, Wellington (43/2004/108); (5) Erection of single storey extension to front of 51 Millstream Gardens, Wellington (43/204/115: delegated decision); (6) Erection of two storey side extensions and new roof with associated works, 1 Beech Hill, Wellington as amended by agents letter and plans drawing No. 04/111/05d, 06e, 03f and 04f received 8th September (43/2004/100: delegated decision); (7) Change of use of ground floor from bakery to residential and use of yard as domestic curtilage 15 North Street, Wellington (43/2004/097: delegated decision); (8) Installation of communal satellite dish, 45 High Street, Wellington (43/2004/095LB); (9) Erection of a conservatory at 22 Blackmoor Road, Wellington (43/2004/089: delegated decision); (10) Application to carry out tree works on 12 grey poplar trees included in the Taunton Deane Borough (Wellington No. 1) Tree2069WELLINGTON TOWN COUNCIL: 4TH OCTOBER 200412997 PLANNING DECISIONS BY TAUNTON DBC (continued)Preservation Order 1993 east of Swains Lane, Wellington and on 2 evergeen oak trees included in Taunton Deane Borough (Wellington No. 1) Tree Preservation Order 1981 east of Swains Lane, Wellington (43/2004/104T); (11) Erection of first floor and single storey extension at 31 Laburnum Road, Wellington (43/2004/096: delegated decision); (12) Erection of extension to front of existing garage to be used as additional living accommodation at 68 Richards Close, Wellington (43/2004/099: delegated decision); (13) Erection of dormer window to rear and insertion of rooflights at 10 Wellesley Park, Wellington (43/2004/098: delegated decision); (14) Erection of first floor extension and lobby at 49 Millstream Gardens, Wellington (43/2004/093: delegated decision).
12998 PLANNING DECISIONS BY SOMERSET COUNTY COUNCILThe clerk reported that Somerset County Council had approved the following planning application: (1) Change of use from adult education service to office accommodation for council officers at 10 Courtland Road, Wellington (43/2004/091).
12999 COUNCIL INCOME/EXPENDITURE TO 30TH SEPTEMBER 2004A report was received from the clerk showing that the council’s income for the period from 1st April 2004 to 30th September 2004 was £84,485 (£85,280 estimated for the full year to 31st March 2005) and that expenditure for the same period was £44,570 (£106,800 estimated for the full year to 31st March 2005). The report was noted.
13000 ACCOUNTS FOR PAYMENTOn the proposition of Councillor Bowrah, seconded by Councillor Mitton, it was agreed to authorise the payment of the following accounts and the signing of the following cheques: The Cheese and Wine Shop of Wellington £98.88 for drinks for carnival reception; Mr A. Brown £1,575.76; Inland Revenue £607.98; Wellington United Reformed Church £75 for hire of church hall for meetings in July, August and September 2004; Hinewood Cleaning Services £48 for window cleaning and bus shelter cleaning; Taunton Deane Borough Council £250 for museum lease for quarter from 1st October to 31st December 2004; Taunton Deane Borough Council £16.32 for share of gas bill from April to June 2004; Westward Playgrounds Ltd £3,984.25 for deposit invoice for third of quoted price of £10,172.55 for new equipment at Tone Play Area: Jilly’s Pantry £175 for buffet for carnival reception.
13001 DOG WASTE BIN NEAR BARLEY MOW, ROCKWELL GREENOn the suggestion of Councillor Byrne it was agreed to ask Taunton DBC to consider the installation of a dog waste bin near the Barley Mow, Rockwell Green.
13002 PAPERS, REPORTS, NEWSLETTERS ETCThe clerk reported that the following reports, newsletters etc had been received and were available for members to read if they wished: Taunton DBC’s The Weekly Bulletin for 9th, 16th, 23rd and 30th September 2004; Wellington town centre retail survey 2004; What’s On within Taunton Deane for October 2004; Reports by Taunton Deane Council for Voluntary Service; Blackdown Hills Rural Partnership annual review for 2003-04; leaflet from South West Regional Assembly on regional spatial strategy consultation; Campaign to Protect Rural England’s Fieldwork newsletter for September 2004; National Association of Local Councils’ annual review and accounts for 2003-04; NALC direct information service bulletins Nos. 588 and 589; Zurich Municipal’s Court Circular for September 2004; Local Government International Bureau’s Inter Action magazine for September 2004; Lillebonne Town Council’s municipal magazine for September and October 2004.
THE MEETING CLOSED AT 9.15PM
posted by Wellington Town Council @ 3:13 AM
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