Wellington Town Council minutes June 2004
Minutes of the meeting of Wellington Town Council held in the United Reformed Church Hall in Fore Street, Wellington on Monday, 7th June 2004 at 7.10pm
PRESENT: Councillor R. Bowrah (chairman), who presided, Councillors Mrs V. Byrne, Mrs V. Stock-Williams and Mrs N. Wilson, Councillors P. Critchard, D. Gill, A. Govier, R. Henley, C. Hindley, A. Horsman, G. James, D. Mitton, and the clerk A. Brown. There were apologies from Councillors C. Biscoe, A. Milne and E. Warren. There were 6 members of the public present.
12794 CHAIRMAN’S ANNOUNCEMENTSThe chairman reported that he had been the guest of the Mayor of Lillebonne and had thoroughly enjoyed his weekend visit to France from 28th to 31st May 2004 to take part in the celebrations to mark the 40th anniversary of the twinning link between Wellington and Lillebonne. He also thanked councillors for their support at the civic church service and civic lunch on Sunday, 6th June to mark the 20th anniversary of the twinning link between Wellington and Immenstadt, Germany. There had also been visitors from Lillebonne and Wellington’s Portuguese twin town of Torres Vedras at the church service and lunch.12795 POLICE MATTERSSgt R. Caburn reported that during May in the Wellington sector there had been 3 house burglaries, 1 commercial burglary, 2 shed burglaries, 13 thefts, 5 assaults, including GBH in North Street, 12 cases of criminal damage, 18 cases of criminal damage to cars, 7 thefts from motor vehicles, 14 arrests for a variety of offences, including 2 for drunk driving and a man arrested for two house burglaries. Statistics were available on the Avon and Somerset website. Five people had been arrested and one man was in hospital with serious injuries following a premeditated attack involving two families near the Co-op Store in Lancer Court just after midnight on 5th June. He advised residents to keep their windows securely shut during the current hot weather. There had been two burglaries with cash and a camera being stolen, with entry gained through an insecure ground floor window. He also reported on the trial use of mobile skateboard equipment which had been used on four sites in Wellington over the weekend. The equipment had been particularly well received by 8-12 year olds but not so well by older teenagers who preferred higher ramps as at the Kings Centre which would be opening shortly. Three new locations had been approved for use by the Speed Watch team. There had been no visitors to the recent police surgery at Rockwell Green. Publicity for the surgeries might have to be reviewed. Referring to the granting of a 2am licence for the Kings Arms in High Street for a six month trial for Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, Sgt Caburn said the police would be monitoring the situation very carefully but “so far, so good.” The police supported the suggested provision of play facilities at The Mounds, near Lillebonne Close as it was felt it would prevent some anti-social problems residents complained about. A lot of work had gone into it with consultative meetings held. Much praise had to go to Mrs P. Buttle and her team. Councillor Gill thanked the police for keeping an eye on the Kings Arms and Councillor Mitton suggested that there could be more use of plastic glasses in pubs. Sgt Caburn was thanked for attending.
12796 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION TIME: BAGLEY ROAD DEVELOPMENTDuring public participation time Mrs J. Goss, of Beaumont, Bagley Road, Rockwell Green, stated that the site entrance to a builders merchants now under construction at Bagley Road had been changed without reference to residents. It was now much nearer to her entrance than the previous plan. If residents had been notified they would have objected. It was agreed to write to Taunton DBC about the matter and to put the matter on the July agenda.2025
WELLINGTON TOWN COUNCIL: 7TH JUNE 200412797 PRIORY PLAYWALL SCHEME With reference to minute 12726 a letter was received from Taunton DBC stating that the planning application had been withdrawn. A letter of objection to the scheme was received from 36 residents of Lillebonne Close on the grounds that it was too close to housing, there was insufficient lighting and because of bad language, noise, drugs and drinking, dog mess, graffiti and sewerage. Standing orders were suspended to allow Mrs P. Buttle, the chairman of Wellington East Tenants’ and Residents’ Association, to speak. She said more user-friendly apparatus was being considered. Most of the complaints she had received were about the St John’s School playing field. She had never received a phone call from Lillebonne Close residents. There was no play area for 10-16 year olds in the Priory area. Councillors Gill, Mitton, Hindley, James and Henley praised the work of the association and stressed the need to do something positive for the youth. It was agreed to note the letter of objection and to await the new proposals in due course.12798 MINUTESThe minutes of the council meetings held on 10th May 2004 and the annual council meeting on 17th May 2004, as previously circulated to councillors, were received, confirmed and signed as correct.
12799 LONGFORTH FARM SCHEME AND NORTHERN RELIEF ROADWith reference to minute 12736 further consideration was given to the modified Taunton Deane Local Plan under which the Longforth Farm and Northern Relief Road proposals were omitted and instead 250 new houses were proposed at Cades Farm. Members received details of the relevant reports on the modifications and a letter from NALC head of legal services Tim Ricketts about challenging the Deane’s or inspector’s decision over the scheme. Councillor Govier proposed, with Councillor Gill seconding, that the town council should strongly object to the omission of the Longforth Farm and Northern Relief Road scheme and equally strongly object to the Cades Farm housing proposals and this was carried unanimously.
12800 PROPOSED SOMERSET STRUCTURE PLAN ALTERATIONMembers received a copy of a letter from the county council about proposed draft Somerset Structure Plan alteration and relevant extracts from the report which will cover development up to 2016. The clerk pointed out that the report stated that towns like Wellington “will accommodate a lower level of housing growth than in previous development plan strategies” and that the 6 week consultation period would start in 19th June 2004. After some discussion it was agreed that a working party of Councillors Bowrah, Mitton, Hindley, Gill, Critchard, Stock-Williams and Henley should give the proposals detailed examination and report back to the council.
12801 PROPOSED SPORTS CENTRE CHANGESCouncillor Henley reported that Taunton DBC was proposing to make changes to the operation of Wellington Sports Centre, including the hours for public swimming, bar, fitness studio and crèche. It was agreed to write to Taunton DBC stating that the town council was disappointed not to have been consulted about the proposed changes and to ask for the reasons why the changes were under consideration by the Deane.
12802 IMPROVED STREET LIGHTING FOR DRAKES PARK ESTATECouncillor Govier reported that he had received a request from the Drakes Park neighbourhood watch co-ordinator, Mrs M. Cross, for the street lighting on the estate 2026
WELLINGTON TOWN COUNCIL: 7TH JUNE 2004
12802 IMPROVED STREET LIGHTING FOR DRAKES PARK (continued)to be improved, particularly near a block of garages on the estate. It was agreed to ask the county council to investigate, prepare a scheme and report back. Councillor Byrne declared an interest and left the hall while this item was discussed.
12803 EXTENSION OF SPEED LIMITS IN BAGLEY ROAD, POPES LANE AND FARTHINGS PITTSCouncillor Wilson reported that during a recent site meeting, residents in Bagley Road had complained about the speed of traffic and had suggested that the 30mph speed limit should be extended to its junction with the relief road. There were also some problems with roadside drainage and hedges. Councillor Stock-Williams suggested that the existing 30 mph limit at Foxdown Hill should be extended to cover Farthings Pitts. After some discussion it was agreed to ask Somerset Highways to consider extending the the present 30mph speed limits in Bagley Road, Foxdown Hill and Popes Lane, Rockwell Green to their junctions with the relief road as this would improve safety and make it clear to motorists exactly where the speed limits in the town began in these parts of Wellington. It was further agreed to ask the county look into the drainage and hedge problems in Bagley Road.
12804 REPRESENTATIVE ON POPHAM FLATS GOVERNORS With reference to minute 12778 it was agreed to appoint Councillor Stock-Williams to fill the vacancy for a council representative on the governing body of the Hospital of Sir John Popham Knight (Popham Flats in Victoria Street).
12805 PLANNING TRAINING/SEMINARS FOR COUNCILLORSCouncillor Mitton suggested that it would be a good idea if Taunton DBC organised planning training/seminars for councillors, especially as there were quite a number of new councillors. It was agreed to ask the Deane to do so.
12806 STATE OF EIGHT ACRE LANECouncillor Henley reported that he had received complaints about the state of Eight Acre Lane off South Street. It was agreed to ask County Highways to repair potholes.
12807 KINGS ARMS PUBLIC ENTERTAINMENT LICENCEWith reference to minute 12759 a letter was received from police inspector Mike Ashwin stating that he had decided not to object to the public entertainment licence for the Kings Arms in the absence of evidence that he should do so. That was in line with the forthcoming changes in the licensing law. The police would monitor the Kings Arms carefully and deal positively with any issues that arose. A letter was also received from Taunton DBC stating that their records showed there was no history of breaches of licence conditions, anti social behaviour or noise emanating from the Kings Arms during the life of the previous public entertainment licence. There had been no objections from the statutory consultees, including the police. The absence of any problems when the premises were serving alcohol to midnight indicated that if the premises were well managed it could operate without causing any nuisance or disturbance to neighbouring properties. There had been only two objections, including the town council’s, both relating to perceived anti-social behaviour. The original application had been for a licence to 2am seven days a week but that had been reduced to three days a week, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Also the licence had 2027
WELLINGTON TOWN COUNCIL: 7TH JUNE 2004
12807 KINGS ARMS PUBLIC ENTERTAINMENT LICENCE (continued)been issued for an initial period of 6 months during which the situation would be closely monitored. The licence had been issued with a number of conditions to ensure that everything possible was done to prevent any noise pollution and disorder. The council’s licensing unit staff would monitor compliance with those conditions and take any necessary action should a breach be identified. A letter was also received from Councillor J. Williams, the leader of Taunton DBC, stating that he had referred the town council’s comments that the decision to grant the licence should have been referred to the Deane’s Licensing Board rather than being taken by an officer to the relevant officers and would write again when he had received their comments. All three letters were noted.
12808 AIR AMBULANCE TRUST GRANT REQUESTWith reference to minute 12575 a letter of thanks was received from the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance Trust for the council’s grant of £500. The letter was noted.
12809 CITY OF TRURO CENTENARY RUNWith reference to minute 12661 a letter and accounts were received from Mr M. Rose thanking the council for its support and £200 guarantee, stating that 119 people had attended the City of Truro centenary lectures at the Beam Bridge Hotel and enclosing a cheque for £139.48. It had been suggested that there should be a permanent monument to the breaking of the 100mph speed limit by a steam train at Wellington in 1904, including a modern architectural structure near the old post office, a notice board near the Beam Bridge Hotel and a small plaque on the bridge at Westford, marking the place where the record had been achieved. The letter was noted.
12810 PROPOSED REMOVAL OF MANTLE STREET KIOSKWith reference to minute 12745 a letter was received from BT stating that the consultation period over the proposed removal of the public telephone kiosk from Mantle Street, Wellington, had been extended to 12th July 2004. The letter was noted.
12811 USE OF FORE STREET PUBLIC NOTICE BOARDWith reference to minute 12751 the clerk reported that the meeting with the Adult Learning and Leisure manager, Susie Simon-Norris to discuss the use of the public notice board outside Somerfield in Fore Street would be held in the ALL new premises in Corams Lane on Wednesday, 9th June at 6pm. The report was noted.
12812 STREET LIGHTING IN BARN MEADS ROADWith reference to minute 12733 a letter was received from Somerset Highways asking for a location plan to be sent of the area within Barn Meads Road that the town council felt needed improving. Lighting units had recently been replaced in Barn Meads Road where the units had failed the structural test. It was agreed to organise a site inspection when it was dark.
12813 SKATEBOARDING FACILITIES IN WELLINGTONWith reference to minute 12737 a letter was received from Taunton DBC councillor Mrs D. Bradley stating that an independent risk assessment had been carried out of the sports centre site for the skateboard park and that it was estimated it would cost £20,000 for the safety measures suggested, in addition to the £19,500 estimate from Nulite for skate equipment. She sought an assurance that the town council would 2028
WELLINGTON TOWN COUNCIL 7TH JUNE 2004
12813 SKATEBOARDING FACILITIES IN WELLINGTONmeet the cost of these measures. Members also received a copy of the risk assessment. Councillors pointed out that most of the items in the report had nothing to do with the proposed skatepark. Councillor Hindley reported that he had discussed the matter with the leader of Taunton DBC, Councillor J. Williams who had assured him that the skatepark would be provided where the town council and skateboarders wanted it – namely the sports centre. It was agreed to write to the leader of Taunton DBC expressing the town council’s strongest disappointment and concern about the letter from Councillor Bradley and her suggestion that the town council should pay for the suggested safety measures, about the non relevant details in the risk assessment report and to ask Councillor Williams when the equipment would be installed and under what conditions. It was pointed out that it had been removed over a year ago.
12814 SURFACE DRESSING ON TONEDALE/RWG ROAD A letter was received from Somerset Highways stating that surface dressing of the Tonedale to Rockwell Green Road would be carried out between the end of May and early July. The letter was noted.
12815 CITIZENS ADVICE BUREAU GRANT REQUESTA letter and accounts were received from Taunton and District Citizens Advice Bureau asking the town council to consider making a grant towards the cost of running the weekly Wellington outreach. On the proposition of Councillor Gill, seconded by Councillor Critchard, it was agreed to make a grant of £800, the same amount as last year.
12816 SAWYERS HILL ROAD CLOSUREA letter was received from Somerset Highways stating that Sawyers Hill, West Buckland would be closed for 14 days from 28th June 2004 for road drainage works to be carried out. The letter was noted.
12817 ADAM GLASS GRANT REQUESTA letter was received from Adam Glass, of 50 Sylvan Road, Wellington, asking the town council to consider making a grant towards his GAP year teaching project in South Africa. On the proposition of Councillor Bowrah, seconded by Councillor Gill, it was agreed to make a grant of £50 and to ask for a report on his return.
12818 WELLINGTON ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIPWith reference to minute 12764 no items or recommendations were put forward for inclusion on the agenda for the next meeting of Wellington Economic Partnership on Monday, 21st June 2004 at 6pm.
12819 PLANNING DECISIONS BY TAUNTON DBCThe clerk reported that Taunton Deane Borough Council had approved the following plans: (1) Erection of a conservatory at 13 Quantock Road, Wellington (43/2004/023: delegated decision); (2) Erection of a shed at rear of 29 Champford Lane, Wellington (43/2004/027: delegated decision); (3) Erection of a conservatory at 87 Gillards Close, Rockwell Green, Wellington (43/2004/035: delegated decision); (4) Display of non illuminated advertisement display board on the side of 3 Fore Street at entrance to Cornhill, Wellington (43/2004/030LB & 43/2004/033A); (5) Erection of single storey extension to rear of 24 Gillards Close, Rockwell Green, Wellington (43/2004/031:2029
WELLINGTON TOWN COUNCIL: 7TH JUNE 200412819 PLANNING DECISIONS BY TAUNTON DBC (continued)delegated decision); (6) Erection of a conservatory to rear of 7 Andrew Allan Road, Rockwell Green, Wellington (43/2004/029: delegated decision); (7) Erection of a conservatory at rear of 63C Tone Hill, Wellington (43/2004/028: delegated decision); (8) Erection of single storey extension at 24 Trinity Close, Wellington as amended by agent’s letter and plan 1245/04/1 iss4 received 4th May 20904 (43/2004/036: delegated decision); (9) Conversion of garage to form living accommodation and erection of pitched roof at 3 Elworthy Drive, Wellington (43/2004/032: delegated decision); (10) Erection of single storey extension at 32 Parklands Road, Wellington (43/2004/047: delegated decision); (11) Erection of single storey extension at 45 George Street, Wellington (43/2004/044: delegated decision); (12) Erection of a detached dwelling on land adjacent to 15 Baynes Close, Wellington (43/2004/043); (13) Expansion of business on to land to be used for covered and open space storage of raw materials and finished products together with access and landscaping on land adjoining Unit 2, Rylands Farm Industrial Estate, Bagley Road, Wellington (43/2004/038). Taunton DBC had refused the following plan: Retention of first floor windows at 4 Highland Place, High Street, Wellington (43/2004/034).
12820 COUNCIL INCOME/EXPENDITURE TO 31ST MAY 2004A report was received from the clerk showing that the council’s income for the period from 1st April 2004 to 31st May 2004 was £38,608 (£85,280 estimated for the full year to 31st March 2005) and that expenditure for the same period was £18,402 (£106,800 estimated for the full year to 31st March 2005). The report was noted.
12821 ACCOUNTS FOR PAYMENTOn the proposition of Councillor Gill, seconded by Councillor Hindley, it was agreed to authorise the payment of the following accounts and the signing of the following cheques: Councillor R. Bowrah £500 chairman’s allowance; Mr. A. Brown £1,636.76; Inland Revenue £590.33; Councillor A. Milne £30 refund of two lunch tickets; Western Newspapers (South) Ltd £62.04 for advertising; Porter Dodson £1,920 for legal and court fees; Hinewood Cleaning Service £133 for cleaning carpet, Venetian blinds, windows and bus shelters in April 2004; BT £172.73 for telephone, fax and internet calls and servicing charges to 19th May 2004; The Carly Press Ltd £62.89 for paper, ink cartridges; Somerset Red Arrows Majorettes £500 grant; SPACE £300 grant; Wellington First Responders £500 grant; The Cleve Country House Hotel £2,244.60 for civic lunch; Monument Mini Cabs £130 for transport; Custom Plastics £89.89 for name plates; Councillor Bowrah £130.13 for travelling and subsistence.
12822 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 6th, 13th and 20th May, and 2nd June 2004; What’s On within Taunton Deane for June 2004; Somerset Playing Fields Association’s newsletter for Spring 2004; Avon & Somerset Police Authority’s Policing Plan Summary 2004/05; CPRE Somerset Matters newsletter for Spring 2004; CPRE Countryside Voice magazine for Summer 2004; May 2004 issue of The Clerk; NALC direct information service bulletins Nos 580 & 581; Lillebonne Town Council municipal magazine for May/June 2004; European Union April 2004 magazine on EU enlargement.THE MEETING CLOSED AT 8.54PM
PRESENT: Councillor R. Bowrah (chairman), who presided, Councillors Mrs V. Byrne, Mrs V. Stock-Williams and Mrs N. Wilson, Councillors P. Critchard, D. Gill, A. Govier, R. Henley, C. Hindley, A. Horsman, G. James, D. Mitton, and the clerk A. Brown. There were apologies from Councillors C. Biscoe, A. Milne and E. Warren. There were 6 members of the public present.
12794 CHAIRMAN’S ANNOUNCEMENTSThe chairman reported that he had been the guest of the Mayor of Lillebonne and had thoroughly enjoyed his weekend visit to France from 28th to 31st May 2004 to take part in the celebrations to mark the 40th anniversary of the twinning link between Wellington and Lillebonne. He also thanked councillors for their support at the civic church service and civic lunch on Sunday, 6th June to mark the 20th anniversary of the twinning link between Wellington and Immenstadt, Germany. There had also been visitors from Lillebonne and Wellington’s Portuguese twin town of Torres Vedras at the church service and lunch.12795 POLICE MATTERSSgt R. Caburn reported that during May in the Wellington sector there had been 3 house burglaries, 1 commercial burglary, 2 shed burglaries, 13 thefts, 5 assaults, including GBH in North Street, 12 cases of criminal damage, 18 cases of criminal damage to cars, 7 thefts from motor vehicles, 14 arrests for a variety of offences, including 2 for drunk driving and a man arrested for two house burglaries. Statistics were available on the Avon and Somerset website. Five people had been arrested and one man was in hospital with serious injuries following a premeditated attack involving two families near the Co-op Store in Lancer Court just after midnight on 5th June. He advised residents to keep their windows securely shut during the current hot weather. There had been two burglaries with cash and a camera being stolen, with entry gained through an insecure ground floor window. He also reported on the trial use of mobile skateboard equipment which had been used on four sites in Wellington over the weekend. The equipment had been particularly well received by 8-12 year olds but not so well by older teenagers who preferred higher ramps as at the Kings Centre which would be opening shortly. Three new locations had been approved for use by the Speed Watch team. There had been no visitors to the recent police surgery at Rockwell Green. Publicity for the surgeries might have to be reviewed. Referring to the granting of a 2am licence for the Kings Arms in High Street for a six month trial for Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, Sgt Caburn said the police would be monitoring the situation very carefully but “so far, so good.” The police supported the suggested provision of play facilities at The Mounds, near Lillebonne Close as it was felt it would prevent some anti-social problems residents complained about. A lot of work had gone into it with consultative meetings held. Much praise had to go to Mrs P. Buttle and her team. Councillor Gill thanked the police for keeping an eye on the Kings Arms and Councillor Mitton suggested that there could be more use of plastic glasses in pubs. Sgt Caburn was thanked for attending.
12796 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION TIME: BAGLEY ROAD DEVELOPMENTDuring public participation time Mrs J. Goss, of Beaumont, Bagley Road, Rockwell Green, stated that the site entrance to a builders merchants now under construction at Bagley Road had been changed without reference to residents. It was now much nearer to her entrance than the previous plan. If residents had been notified they would have objected. It was agreed to write to Taunton DBC about the matter and to put the matter on the July agenda.2025
WELLINGTON TOWN COUNCIL: 7TH JUNE 200412797 PRIORY PLAYWALL SCHEME With reference to minute 12726 a letter was received from Taunton DBC stating that the planning application had been withdrawn. A letter of objection to the scheme was received from 36 residents of Lillebonne Close on the grounds that it was too close to housing, there was insufficient lighting and because of bad language, noise, drugs and drinking, dog mess, graffiti and sewerage. Standing orders were suspended to allow Mrs P. Buttle, the chairman of Wellington East Tenants’ and Residents’ Association, to speak. She said more user-friendly apparatus was being considered. Most of the complaints she had received were about the St John’s School playing field. She had never received a phone call from Lillebonne Close residents. There was no play area for 10-16 year olds in the Priory area. Councillors Gill, Mitton, Hindley, James and Henley praised the work of the association and stressed the need to do something positive for the youth. It was agreed to note the letter of objection and to await the new proposals in due course.12798 MINUTESThe minutes of the council meetings held on 10th May 2004 and the annual council meeting on 17th May 2004, as previously circulated to councillors, were received, confirmed and signed as correct.
12799 LONGFORTH FARM SCHEME AND NORTHERN RELIEF ROADWith reference to minute 12736 further consideration was given to the modified Taunton Deane Local Plan under which the Longforth Farm and Northern Relief Road proposals were omitted and instead 250 new houses were proposed at Cades Farm. Members received details of the relevant reports on the modifications and a letter from NALC head of legal services Tim Ricketts about challenging the Deane’s or inspector’s decision over the scheme. Councillor Govier proposed, with Councillor Gill seconding, that the town council should strongly object to the omission of the Longforth Farm and Northern Relief Road scheme and equally strongly object to the Cades Farm housing proposals and this was carried unanimously.
12800 PROPOSED SOMERSET STRUCTURE PLAN ALTERATIONMembers received a copy of a letter from the county council about proposed draft Somerset Structure Plan alteration and relevant extracts from the report which will cover development up to 2016. The clerk pointed out that the report stated that towns like Wellington “will accommodate a lower level of housing growth than in previous development plan strategies” and that the 6 week consultation period would start in 19th June 2004. After some discussion it was agreed that a working party of Councillors Bowrah, Mitton, Hindley, Gill, Critchard, Stock-Williams and Henley should give the proposals detailed examination and report back to the council.
12801 PROPOSED SPORTS CENTRE CHANGESCouncillor Henley reported that Taunton DBC was proposing to make changes to the operation of Wellington Sports Centre, including the hours for public swimming, bar, fitness studio and crèche. It was agreed to write to Taunton DBC stating that the town council was disappointed not to have been consulted about the proposed changes and to ask for the reasons why the changes were under consideration by the Deane.
12802 IMPROVED STREET LIGHTING FOR DRAKES PARK ESTATECouncillor Govier reported that he had received a request from the Drakes Park neighbourhood watch co-ordinator, Mrs M. Cross, for the street lighting on the estate 2026
WELLINGTON TOWN COUNCIL: 7TH JUNE 2004
12802 IMPROVED STREET LIGHTING FOR DRAKES PARK (continued)to be improved, particularly near a block of garages on the estate. It was agreed to ask the county council to investigate, prepare a scheme and report back. Councillor Byrne declared an interest and left the hall while this item was discussed.
12803 EXTENSION OF SPEED LIMITS IN BAGLEY ROAD, POPES LANE AND FARTHINGS PITTSCouncillor Wilson reported that during a recent site meeting, residents in Bagley Road had complained about the speed of traffic and had suggested that the 30mph speed limit should be extended to its junction with the relief road. There were also some problems with roadside drainage and hedges. Councillor Stock-Williams suggested that the existing 30 mph limit at Foxdown Hill should be extended to cover Farthings Pitts. After some discussion it was agreed to ask Somerset Highways to consider extending the the present 30mph speed limits in Bagley Road, Foxdown Hill and Popes Lane, Rockwell Green to their junctions with the relief road as this would improve safety and make it clear to motorists exactly where the speed limits in the town began in these parts of Wellington. It was further agreed to ask the county look into the drainage and hedge problems in Bagley Road.
12804 REPRESENTATIVE ON POPHAM FLATS GOVERNORS With reference to minute 12778 it was agreed to appoint Councillor Stock-Williams to fill the vacancy for a council representative on the governing body of the Hospital of Sir John Popham Knight (Popham Flats in Victoria Street).
12805 PLANNING TRAINING/SEMINARS FOR COUNCILLORSCouncillor Mitton suggested that it would be a good idea if Taunton DBC organised planning training/seminars for councillors, especially as there were quite a number of new councillors. It was agreed to ask the Deane to do so.
12806 STATE OF EIGHT ACRE LANECouncillor Henley reported that he had received complaints about the state of Eight Acre Lane off South Street. It was agreed to ask County Highways to repair potholes.
12807 KINGS ARMS PUBLIC ENTERTAINMENT LICENCEWith reference to minute 12759 a letter was received from police inspector Mike Ashwin stating that he had decided not to object to the public entertainment licence for the Kings Arms in the absence of evidence that he should do so. That was in line with the forthcoming changes in the licensing law. The police would monitor the Kings Arms carefully and deal positively with any issues that arose. A letter was also received from Taunton DBC stating that their records showed there was no history of breaches of licence conditions, anti social behaviour or noise emanating from the Kings Arms during the life of the previous public entertainment licence. There had been no objections from the statutory consultees, including the police. The absence of any problems when the premises were serving alcohol to midnight indicated that if the premises were well managed it could operate without causing any nuisance or disturbance to neighbouring properties. There had been only two objections, including the town council’s, both relating to perceived anti-social behaviour. The original application had been for a licence to 2am seven days a week but that had been reduced to three days a week, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Also the licence had 2027
WELLINGTON TOWN COUNCIL: 7TH JUNE 2004
12807 KINGS ARMS PUBLIC ENTERTAINMENT LICENCE (continued)been issued for an initial period of 6 months during which the situation would be closely monitored. The licence had been issued with a number of conditions to ensure that everything possible was done to prevent any noise pollution and disorder. The council’s licensing unit staff would monitor compliance with those conditions and take any necessary action should a breach be identified. A letter was also received from Councillor J. Williams, the leader of Taunton DBC, stating that he had referred the town council’s comments that the decision to grant the licence should have been referred to the Deane’s Licensing Board rather than being taken by an officer to the relevant officers and would write again when he had received their comments. All three letters were noted.
12808 AIR AMBULANCE TRUST GRANT REQUESTWith reference to minute 12575 a letter of thanks was received from the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance Trust for the council’s grant of £500. The letter was noted.
12809 CITY OF TRURO CENTENARY RUNWith reference to minute 12661 a letter and accounts were received from Mr M. Rose thanking the council for its support and £200 guarantee, stating that 119 people had attended the City of Truro centenary lectures at the Beam Bridge Hotel and enclosing a cheque for £139.48. It had been suggested that there should be a permanent monument to the breaking of the 100mph speed limit by a steam train at Wellington in 1904, including a modern architectural structure near the old post office, a notice board near the Beam Bridge Hotel and a small plaque on the bridge at Westford, marking the place where the record had been achieved. The letter was noted.
12810 PROPOSED REMOVAL OF MANTLE STREET KIOSKWith reference to minute 12745 a letter was received from BT stating that the consultation period over the proposed removal of the public telephone kiosk from Mantle Street, Wellington, had been extended to 12th July 2004. The letter was noted.
12811 USE OF FORE STREET PUBLIC NOTICE BOARDWith reference to minute 12751 the clerk reported that the meeting with the Adult Learning and Leisure manager, Susie Simon-Norris to discuss the use of the public notice board outside Somerfield in Fore Street would be held in the ALL new premises in Corams Lane on Wednesday, 9th June at 6pm. The report was noted.
12812 STREET LIGHTING IN BARN MEADS ROADWith reference to minute 12733 a letter was received from Somerset Highways asking for a location plan to be sent of the area within Barn Meads Road that the town council felt needed improving. Lighting units had recently been replaced in Barn Meads Road where the units had failed the structural test. It was agreed to organise a site inspection when it was dark.
12813 SKATEBOARDING FACILITIES IN WELLINGTONWith reference to minute 12737 a letter was received from Taunton DBC councillor Mrs D. Bradley stating that an independent risk assessment had been carried out of the sports centre site for the skateboard park and that it was estimated it would cost £20,000 for the safety measures suggested, in addition to the £19,500 estimate from Nulite for skate equipment. She sought an assurance that the town council would 2028
WELLINGTON TOWN COUNCIL 7TH JUNE 2004
12813 SKATEBOARDING FACILITIES IN WELLINGTONmeet the cost of these measures. Members also received a copy of the risk assessment. Councillors pointed out that most of the items in the report had nothing to do with the proposed skatepark. Councillor Hindley reported that he had discussed the matter with the leader of Taunton DBC, Councillor J. Williams who had assured him that the skatepark would be provided where the town council and skateboarders wanted it – namely the sports centre. It was agreed to write to the leader of Taunton DBC expressing the town council’s strongest disappointment and concern about the letter from Councillor Bradley and her suggestion that the town council should pay for the suggested safety measures, about the non relevant details in the risk assessment report and to ask Councillor Williams when the equipment would be installed and under what conditions. It was pointed out that it had been removed over a year ago.
12814 SURFACE DRESSING ON TONEDALE/RWG ROAD A letter was received from Somerset Highways stating that surface dressing of the Tonedale to Rockwell Green Road would be carried out between the end of May and early July. The letter was noted.
12815 CITIZENS ADVICE BUREAU GRANT REQUESTA letter and accounts were received from Taunton and District Citizens Advice Bureau asking the town council to consider making a grant towards the cost of running the weekly Wellington outreach. On the proposition of Councillor Gill, seconded by Councillor Critchard, it was agreed to make a grant of £800, the same amount as last year.
12816 SAWYERS HILL ROAD CLOSUREA letter was received from Somerset Highways stating that Sawyers Hill, West Buckland would be closed for 14 days from 28th June 2004 for road drainage works to be carried out. The letter was noted.
12817 ADAM GLASS GRANT REQUESTA letter was received from Adam Glass, of 50 Sylvan Road, Wellington, asking the town council to consider making a grant towards his GAP year teaching project in South Africa. On the proposition of Councillor Bowrah, seconded by Councillor Gill, it was agreed to make a grant of £50 and to ask for a report on his return.
12818 WELLINGTON ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIPWith reference to minute 12764 no items or recommendations were put forward for inclusion on the agenda for the next meeting of Wellington Economic Partnership on Monday, 21st June 2004 at 6pm.
12819 PLANNING DECISIONS BY TAUNTON DBCThe clerk reported that Taunton Deane Borough Council had approved the following plans: (1) Erection of a conservatory at 13 Quantock Road, Wellington (43/2004/023: delegated decision); (2) Erection of a shed at rear of 29 Champford Lane, Wellington (43/2004/027: delegated decision); (3) Erection of a conservatory at 87 Gillards Close, Rockwell Green, Wellington (43/2004/035: delegated decision); (4) Display of non illuminated advertisement display board on the side of 3 Fore Street at entrance to Cornhill, Wellington (43/2004/030LB & 43/2004/033A); (5) Erection of single storey extension to rear of 24 Gillards Close, Rockwell Green, Wellington (43/2004/031:2029
WELLINGTON TOWN COUNCIL: 7TH JUNE 200412819 PLANNING DECISIONS BY TAUNTON DBC (continued)delegated decision); (6) Erection of a conservatory to rear of 7 Andrew Allan Road, Rockwell Green, Wellington (43/2004/029: delegated decision); (7) Erection of a conservatory at rear of 63C Tone Hill, Wellington (43/2004/028: delegated decision); (8) Erection of single storey extension at 24 Trinity Close, Wellington as amended by agent’s letter and plan 1245/04/1 iss4 received 4th May 20904 (43/2004/036: delegated decision); (9) Conversion of garage to form living accommodation and erection of pitched roof at 3 Elworthy Drive, Wellington (43/2004/032: delegated decision); (10) Erection of single storey extension at 32 Parklands Road, Wellington (43/2004/047: delegated decision); (11) Erection of single storey extension at 45 George Street, Wellington (43/2004/044: delegated decision); (12) Erection of a detached dwelling on land adjacent to 15 Baynes Close, Wellington (43/2004/043); (13) Expansion of business on to land to be used for covered and open space storage of raw materials and finished products together with access and landscaping on land adjoining Unit 2, Rylands Farm Industrial Estate, Bagley Road, Wellington (43/2004/038). Taunton DBC had refused the following plan: Retention of first floor windows at 4 Highland Place, High Street, Wellington (43/2004/034).
12820 COUNCIL INCOME/EXPENDITURE TO 31ST MAY 2004A report was received from the clerk showing that the council’s income for the period from 1st April 2004 to 31st May 2004 was £38,608 (£85,280 estimated for the full year to 31st March 2005) and that expenditure for the same period was £18,402 (£106,800 estimated for the full year to 31st March 2005). The report was noted.
12821 ACCOUNTS FOR PAYMENTOn the proposition of Councillor Gill, seconded by Councillor Hindley, it was agreed to authorise the payment of the following accounts and the signing of the following cheques: Councillor R. Bowrah £500 chairman’s allowance; Mr. A. Brown £1,636.76; Inland Revenue £590.33; Councillor A. Milne £30 refund of two lunch tickets; Western Newspapers (South) Ltd £62.04 for advertising; Porter Dodson £1,920 for legal and court fees; Hinewood Cleaning Service £133 for cleaning carpet, Venetian blinds, windows and bus shelters in April 2004; BT £172.73 for telephone, fax and internet calls and servicing charges to 19th May 2004; The Carly Press Ltd £62.89 for paper, ink cartridges; Somerset Red Arrows Majorettes £500 grant; SPACE £300 grant; Wellington First Responders £500 grant; The Cleve Country House Hotel £2,244.60 for civic lunch; Monument Mini Cabs £130 for transport; Custom Plastics £89.89 for name plates; Councillor Bowrah £130.13 for travelling and subsistence.
12822 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 6th, 13th and 20th May, and 2nd June 2004; What’s On within Taunton Deane for June 2004; Somerset Playing Fields Association’s newsletter for Spring 2004; Avon & Somerset Police Authority’s Policing Plan Summary 2004/05; CPRE Somerset Matters newsletter for Spring 2004; CPRE Countryside Voice magazine for Summer 2004; May 2004 issue of The Clerk; NALC direct information service bulletins Nos 580 & 581; Lillebonne Town Council municipal magazine for May/June 2004; European Union April 2004 magazine on EU enlargement.THE MEETING CLOSED AT 8.54PM
posted by Wellington Town Council @ 3:04 AM
0 Comments:
Post a Comment
<< Home