Wellington Town Council minutes March 2005
Minutes of the meeting of Wellington Town Council held in the United Reformed Church Hall in Fore Street, Wellington on Monday, 7th March 2005 at 7.20pm (Start delayed because planning meeting over-ran)
PRESENT: Councillor R. Bowrah (chairman), who presided, Councillor Mrs C. Biscoe (vice-chairman), who arrived at 7.27pm), Councillors Mrs V. Byrne, Mrs G. Copley and Mrs V. Stock-Williams, Councillors P. Critchard, A. Govier, R. Henley, C. Hindley, A. Horsman, G. James, and E. Warren, and the clerk A. Brown. There were apologies from Councillor D. Mitton and Councillor Mrs N. Wilson. There were 5 members of the public present.
13177 CHAIRMAN’S ANNOUNCEMENTSThere were no announcements by the chairman, Councillor R. Bowrah.
13178 POLICE MATTERSSgt R. Caburn, reported that during February there had been 14 thefts, 12 thefts from motor vehicles (more than usual), 11 criminal damage to vehicles, 6 other criminal damage offences, 7 assaults, 7 commercial burglaries (4 at Chelston Business Park), 5 domestic burglaries (3 in Wellington), 2 walk-in thefts, another burglary where a man had been arrested in the early hours of the morning and 2 shed break-ins. A drugs warrant had been served at Sampford Arundel where a woman had been arrested for possessing cannabis and ecstasy tablets. A man had been arrested for passing false £20 notes. He reported that the community support officer was organising a paint ball project in nearby local woods to enable youngsters to get rid of their energies and also to educate them over youth issues. Three first warning letters and four second warning letters had been sent to parents about their child’s anti social behaviour and a youth had appeared before an inclusion support panel. Also an adult, who had caused much trouble in the town, including urinating in the streets in broad daylight and causing a public disturbance, was due in court to be made the subject of an anti social behaviour order which meant he would go to prison if he offended again. Sgt Caburn was thanked for his report and for attending. Councillor Govier thanked the police and fire service for their prompt response when he called the emergency services when he saw youths acting suspiciously and causing a fire near the caravan site at Rockwell Green on Sunday, 6th March.
13179 MINUTES OF FEBRUARY MEETINGSThe minutes of the council meetings held on 7th February 2005, as previously circulated to councillors, were received, confirmed and signed as correct.
13180 LONGFORTH FARM & NORTHERN RELIEF ROAD SCHEMEWith reference to minutes 12830, 12835, 13016 and 13137 a letter was received from Councillor John Williams, the leader of Taunton DBC, stating it was a commitment of their administration to promote the Longforth Farm scheme, which would bring much needed infrastructure requirements to Wellington, through the Local Development Plan framework. He had been advised that the question of Longforth Farm would have to be addressed in the context of the Regional Spatial Strategy to be published for comment later this year and which would have a bearing on the location and scale of any urban extensions and on the function of towns within the Taunton sub area. He urged the town council to make representation through its county and district councillors for work to be carried out on the identification of need for development in the Longforth area so it might be included in the RSS. Members also received a copy of a letter sent by the clerk to Councillor Williams indicating that the town council had already emphasised the need for the northern relief road in its responses to the 2111WELLINGTON TOWN COUNCIL: 7TH MARCH 2005
13180 LONGFORTH FARM & NORTHERN RELIEF ROAD (continued)Somerset Structure Plan Alteration and the consultation documents, the Regional Spatial Strategy for the South West 2006-2026, and What Should Taunton Be Like in 20206. Members also received copies of those three letters. Councillors further received a copy of a letter sent by Councillor Williams to Mr N. Farrow, corporate director of the environment at Somerset County Council, enclosing details of his letter to the town council and the town council’s replies/enclosures and asking Mr Farrow to consider carefully how the town council’s representations could best be taken forward to ensure the wishes of Wellington might become reality. Councillors also received a report on the special meeting of Taunton DBC’s Strategic Planning, Transportation and Economic Development Review Panel held on 3rd March 2005 to consider the Deane’s response to the consultation document “What Should Taunton Be Like in 2026 – Taunton Sub Area Study.” This stated that Wellington “should maintain its role and function, with balanced growth of homes and jobs, maximising opportunities for regeneration, development to fund necessary infrastructure and economic diversification.” It was stated that this report was going to the Deane’s Executive for approval on 9th March. It was agreed to write to Councillor Williams urging that the Deane’s undoubted support for the Longforth Farm and Northern Relief Road Scheme should be specifically identified and included in that report. It was agreed to ask Councillor Williams to propose to the Executive that the conclusions of the report should be amended to include wording to the effect that Taunton DBC “supports the proposed Longforth Farm and Northern Relief Road Scheme.”
13181 COUNTY COMMUNITY INITIATIVES FUND ALLOCATIONCouncillor Henley stated that he was disappointed that County Councillor John Smeaton, whose division included Wellington East, which formed almost half of his ward, had not allocated any of his £5,000 County Community Initiatives Fund to Wellington. It had all been given to parish councils in the rural area. He was also disappointed that Councillor Smeaton, who was regularly invited to every meeting, had only attended one town council meeting in the past four years. County Councillor Andrew Govier provided details of the allocation of his £5,000 fund as follows: £500 each to Rockwell Green School Breakfast Club and Home-Start, £350 to Wellington Christian Youth Trust, £300 each to Rockwell Green Pensioners, 55 Plus Group and Wellington Federation of Sports Clubs, £321 to Unit 6 skatepark, £250 each to Wellington Scouts and Wellington and Rockwell Green Brownies, £175 each to Rockwell Green, Court Fields, Wellesley Park, Apple Tree, Waterloo Road Pre-schools and Wellington Community Playgroup, £100 to Wellesley Park After School Club, and £529 to Court Fields School. Councillor Henley proposed, with Councillor Byrne seconding, that the council should write to Councillor Smeaton stating that the town council was disappointed he had not used any of his Community Initiatives Fund in Wellington, although recognising that the spending of the fund was at the discretion of each councillor, and was also disappointed at his lack of attendance at town council meetings. The proposal was carried with three abstentions.
13182 BURIAL SPACE PLANS AT WELLINGTON CEMETERYCouncillor Stock-Williams stated she was concerned that Taunton DBC was planning to dig up the car park at Wellington Cemetery and use the land for burials. Residents had expressed concern at the suggestion and also felt that there would be no room left for the existing benches and that it would create parking problems. She felt the Deane should be looking for more land to extend the cemetery. It was agreed to write to Taunton DBC asking for their short-term and long-term proposals for the cemetery.2112WELLINGTON TOWN COUNCIL: 7TH MARCH 2005
13183 FOOTPATH PROBLEMS AT COX ROAD, WELLINGTONCouncillor Byrne reported that there were problems where a kissing gate had been provided in a hedge adjoining a small play area at Cox Road, Wellington. Residents had complained that there was still a gap in the hedge and that the sloped access to the kissing gates was slippery in wet weather and needed levelling. The gates led to public footpath WG17/3 which linked Foxdown Terrace/Swains Lane with Farthings Pitts. It was agreed to take the matter up with Taunton DBC.
13184 HIGHER CHARGES AT WELLINGTON SPORTS CENTRECouncillor Byrne reported that she had received complaints from residents about the introduction of higher charges for swimming lessons at Wellington Sports Centre and the reduction in opening hours at the pool. It was agreed to defer taking any action at this stage after it was reported that Taunton DBC was already looking into the issues.
13185 PROPOSED REMOVAL OF MANTLE STREET TELEPHONE KIOSKWith reference to minute 12745 a letter was received from BT stating that the public telephone kiosk in Mantle Street by the entrance to Court Drive would not be removed as previously proposed but would be kept. The letter was noted.
13186 CLEAN NEIGHBOURHOODS BILLWith reference to minute 13060 a letter was received from the Minister for Rural Affairs and Local Environmental Quality, Alun Michael MP, about the Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Bill giving an outline of measures in the bill covering crime and disorder, fixed penalty fines, litter, graffiti and fly posting, waste, nuisance and abandoned vehicles, dogs and noise. The letter was noted.
13187 HELPING HANDS GRANTWith reference to minute 13155 letters were received from Mr Kevin Jones, chairman of Helping Hands Advisory Committee, about the use of the town council grant of £1,500, agreeing to the council’s suggestion of a joint meeting with CAB, WHERE and the Healthy Living Centre to improve inter-agency co-operation and enclosing a copy of a Press statement issued by Helping Hands. A letter was also received from Wellington and District Healthy Living Centre Trust stating that it was hoped to arrange the joint inter-agency meeting in a few weeks time. The letters were noted.
13188 TONE PLAY AREA EQUIPMENT INSPECTIONWith reference to minute 12938 a detailed report was received from Zurich Insurance Company’s engineer inspector who inspected the equipment on 2nd February 2005. The clerk reported that the bolts holding chain suspension clams on to the crossbar of the swings had been dismantled, examined and renewed as necessary by Deane DLO in July 2002. Comments about the aerial runway suggestions were awaited from the installers Westward Playgrounds. The reports were noted.
13189 DEATH OF COUNCILLOR DAVID GILLWith reference to minute 13126 the clerk reported that public notice of the casual vacancy for Wellington West Ward had been given on 2nd March 2005 and that a request for an election to fill the vacancy had to be made in writing by 10 electors of the ward to the returning officer at the Deane House within 14 working dates of 2nd March, otherwise the vacancy would be filled by co-option. If there was an election it would take place not later than 26th May 2005. The report was noted.
2113WELLINGTON TOWN COUNCIL: 7TH MARCH 2005
13190 WELLINGTON COMMUNITY CENTRE COMMITTEEWith reference to minute 13062 the clerk reported that Councillor Peter Critchard had resigned from Wellington Community Centre Committee. It was agreed to leave the appointment of a replacement councillor until the annual council meeting in May.
13191 DOG WASTE BIN AT ROCKWELL GREENWith reference to minute 13151 a letter was received from Taunton DBC stating that the town council’s request for the provision of a dog waste bin at Rockwell Green was being considered. The letter was noted.
13192 FADED YELLOW LINES IN WHITE HART LANEWith reference to minute 13166 an email was received from Somerset Highways stating that the faded yellow lines in White Hart Lane, Wellington would be repainted in the next financial year. The letter was noted. The clerk reported that he had asked Taunton DBC for their parking attendants to deal with the illegal parking taking place on the double yellow lines. The report was noted.
13193 MINI MOTOR CYCLE TRACK With reference to minute 12868 a letter was received from Taunton DBC stating that following the town council’s request for consideration to be given to the suggested setting up of a min motor cycle track near Wellington Sports Centre, there had been discussions with the parents involved. As costs were likely to be prohibitive on council owned land (planning permissions and public liability insurance etc), efforts had been made to find a suitable alternative site and following an appeal in Farmtalk, a Taunton Deane magazine for the farming community, an agreement had been reached between the group and a local farmer for the use of a field. The parents of the motorcyclists were pleased with the outcome and had thanked TDBC for its help in finding a suitable venue. The letter was noted.
13194 LONGMEAD CLOSE-BURCHILLS CLAIMED FOOTPATHWith reference to minute 13022 a letter was received from Somerset County Council stating that it was being recommended that the application claiming the addition of the footpath from Longmead Close to Burchills Hill, Tonedale to the pubic rights of way should be refused as there was insufficient evidence to support it as a public footpath. The town council was asked for its comments on the recommendation. Members also received a copy of the conclusions of the detailed report and a map. Councillor Byrne agreed to look into the details in the report and contact the county councillor involved (Councillor Govier). Subsequently it was decided to ask for the path to be added to the list of Wellington rights of way.
13195 PROTECTION OF WELLINGTON PARK WAR MEMORIALWith reference to minute 13025 the clerk reported that Taunton DBC had erected timber bollards and black chains to protect the war memorial in Wellington Park. The report was noted. It was agreed to ask Taunton DBC to grass the bare areas around the memorial.
13196 TRAFFIC CALMING MEASURES FOR BAGLEY ROADWith reference to minute 13142 the clerk reported that Somerset Highways would be sending their proposals for road markings to slow down traffic in Bagley Road to the town council in April 2005. The report was noted.
2114WELLINGTON TOWN COUNCIL: 7TH MARCH 200513197 ROCKWELL GREEN ALLOTMENTSWith reference to minute 13156 Councillor Govier gave a verbal report on the joint meeting between tenants of Rockwell Green allotments, the Bath & Diocesan Board of Finance and town councillors held on 28th February 2005. He reported that the question of ownership of the allotments – the tenants dispute the church’s claimed ownership – was still unresolved but the future of the allotments seemed all right. The church wanted the area to stay as allotments. There were no plans to develop the site unless the land was allocated for housing in a future local plan, which was unlikely. The diocese would be writing to the allotments association with its proposals to put matters on a more formal footing. There was only a verbal agreement at the moment which could be ended with six to 12 months notice. The clerk also reported that the tenants would be offered a lease to give them some security. A lease of four to five years had been suggested by councillors. The reports were noted. Councillors also received a copy of a letter sent by Councillor Govier to the association chairman Mr Hughie Giles detailing his report to the council.
13198 AGE CONCERN SOMERSET GRANT APPLICATIONA letter, grant application form and accounts were received from Age Concern Somerset asking the council to consider making a grant of £100 towards the cost of providing its various services in Wellington. Their local services included regular visits to 3 older people, 42 advocacy service cases, 25 safe and secure service cases with 17 keysafes, 6 grab rails, 1 door chain and 1 smoke alarm fitted, a toenail cutting service to 21 clients and an information and advice service. On the proposition of Councillor Hindley, seconded by Councillor Govier, it was agreed to make a grant of £100.
13199 AGE CONCERN LOCAL LINK PROJECT LAUNCHA letter was received from Age Concern Somerset inviting councillors to the launch of the Local Link Project on Wednesday, 23rd March 2005 at 10am at Taunton Library. The letter was noted.
13200 TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF FOXMOOR ROADA letter was received from Somerset Highways stating Foxmoor Road, Wellington Without would be closed for 2 weeks from 7th March 2005 for bridge maintenance works to be carried out. The letter was noted.
13201 LONG DISTANCE WALK AROUND WELLINGTONA letter was received from The Long Distance Walkers Association stating that it was holding the Wellington Boot 100k walk in the Wellington area – start and finish in Wellington – during the weekend of 16th/17th April 2005. The letter was noted.
13202 CITIZEN ENGAGEMENT AND PUBLIC SERVICESA letter was received from the Minister for Local and Regional Government, Nick Raynsford MP, enclosing two discussion documents, Citizen Engagement and Public Services: Why Neighbourhoods Matter and Vibrant Local Leadership. Councillors also received a summary of the two documents from the clerk. It was agreed to note the letter and the summaries.
13203 WELLINGTON ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIPWith reference to minute 13160 the clerk reported that the Wellington Economic Partnership meeting due to be held on 14th March 2005 was likely to be cancelled. The report was noted.2115WELLINGTON TOWN COUNCIL: 7TH MARCH 200513204 PLANNING DECISIONS BY TAUNTON DBCThe clerk reported that Taunton Deane Borough Council had approved the following plans: (1) Erection of conservatory to rear of 36 Wellesley Park, Wellington (43/2005/002: delegated decision); (2) Erection of conservatory at 10 Hoyles Road, Wellington (43/2004/171: delegated decision); (3) Display of externally illuminated fascia sign at 8 Mantle Street, Wellington as amended by letter dated 7th February 2005 and accompanying plan (43/2004/172A); (4) Application to carry out tree work to 1 lime tree and 4 horse chestnut trees included in Taunton Deane Borough (Wellington No. 10) Tree Preservation Order at Wellington School, South Street, Wellington (43/2004/173T); (5) Change of use of dwelling to nursery, retaining one first floor room as residential at 49 Brendon Road, Wellington (43/2004/169: delegated decision); (6) Erection of conservatory at rear of 152 Barn Meads Road, Wellington (43/2005/003: delegated decision); (7) Erection of conservatory at rear of 132 Barn Meads Road, Wellington (43/2005/007: delegated decision); (8) Conversion of former pumping station to holiday let at Payton Pumping Station, Payton, Wellington as amended by letter dated 25th February 2005 with accompanying drawing No. WWMS/904/002 Rev B (43/2004/174).
13205 COUNCIL INCOME/EXPENDITURE TO 28TH FEBRUARY 2005A report was received from the clerk showing that the council’s income for the period from 1st April 2004 to 28th February 2005 was £96,277 (£85,721 estimated for the full year to 31st March 2005) and that expenditure for the same period was £77,860 (£106,800 estimated for the full year to 31st March 2005). The report was noted.
13206 ACCOUNTS FOR PAYMENTOn the proposition of Councillor Bowrah, seconded by Councillor Hindley, it was agreed to authorise the payment of the following accounts and the signing of the following cheques: The E-Steamed Cleaning Company £50 for cleaning pavements by High Street bus shelters in February 2005; Zurich Insurance Company £1,427.27 for council’s annual insurance policy; Taunton Deane Community Transport Ltd £84 for hospital patient transport from Wellington to Musgrove Park Hospital for January 2005; Mr A. Brown £1,525.76; Inland Revenue £607.98; Hinewood Cleaning Services £48 for fortnightly/monthly cleaning of town centre bus shelters and monthly window cleaning of council office and chamber; The Carly Press Ltd £57.65 for envelopes, ink cartridges and highlighters; SWEB Energy £92.20 for electricity for office/chamber to 20th January 2005; Konica Minolta Business Solutions (UK) Ltd £113.57 for photocopier servicing charges from 1st November 2004 to 16th February 2005; BT £184.54 for telephone calls, emails, faxes and servicing charges for three month period to 6th February 2005; Wellington Arts Association £2,000 grant which was approved by town council on 13th May 2002 (minute 11811); Wellington United Reformed Church £75 for hire of church hall for January, February and March 2005.
13207 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 10th, 17th and 24th February and 3rd March 2005; What’s On within Taunton Deane for March 2005; Somerset Rural Youth Project newsletter for Spring 2005; Parrett Catchment Project; NALC direct information service bulletins Nos. 599 and 600; Coach Monthly for February 2005; Inter Action February 2005 magazine of Local Government International Bureau; European Union brochure on structural funds for United Kingdom; EU newsletter No.130 on cohesion and competitiveness.
THE MEETING CLOSED AT 8.29PM
PRESENT: Councillor R. Bowrah (chairman), who presided, Councillor Mrs C. Biscoe (vice-chairman), who arrived at 7.27pm), Councillors Mrs V. Byrne, Mrs G. Copley and Mrs V. Stock-Williams, Councillors P. Critchard, A. Govier, R. Henley, C. Hindley, A. Horsman, G. James, and E. Warren, and the clerk A. Brown. There were apologies from Councillor D. Mitton and Councillor Mrs N. Wilson. There were 5 members of the public present.
13177 CHAIRMAN’S ANNOUNCEMENTSThere were no announcements by the chairman, Councillor R. Bowrah.
13178 POLICE MATTERSSgt R. Caburn, reported that during February there had been 14 thefts, 12 thefts from motor vehicles (more than usual), 11 criminal damage to vehicles, 6 other criminal damage offences, 7 assaults, 7 commercial burglaries (4 at Chelston Business Park), 5 domestic burglaries (3 in Wellington), 2 walk-in thefts, another burglary where a man had been arrested in the early hours of the morning and 2 shed break-ins. A drugs warrant had been served at Sampford Arundel where a woman had been arrested for possessing cannabis and ecstasy tablets. A man had been arrested for passing false £20 notes. He reported that the community support officer was organising a paint ball project in nearby local woods to enable youngsters to get rid of their energies and also to educate them over youth issues. Three first warning letters and four second warning letters had been sent to parents about their child’s anti social behaviour and a youth had appeared before an inclusion support panel. Also an adult, who had caused much trouble in the town, including urinating in the streets in broad daylight and causing a public disturbance, was due in court to be made the subject of an anti social behaviour order which meant he would go to prison if he offended again. Sgt Caburn was thanked for his report and for attending. Councillor Govier thanked the police and fire service for their prompt response when he called the emergency services when he saw youths acting suspiciously and causing a fire near the caravan site at Rockwell Green on Sunday, 6th March.
13179 MINUTES OF FEBRUARY MEETINGSThe minutes of the council meetings held on 7th February 2005, as previously circulated to councillors, were received, confirmed and signed as correct.
13180 LONGFORTH FARM & NORTHERN RELIEF ROAD SCHEMEWith reference to minutes 12830, 12835, 13016 and 13137 a letter was received from Councillor John Williams, the leader of Taunton DBC, stating it was a commitment of their administration to promote the Longforth Farm scheme, which would bring much needed infrastructure requirements to Wellington, through the Local Development Plan framework. He had been advised that the question of Longforth Farm would have to be addressed in the context of the Regional Spatial Strategy to be published for comment later this year and which would have a bearing on the location and scale of any urban extensions and on the function of towns within the Taunton sub area. He urged the town council to make representation through its county and district councillors for work to be carried out on the identification of need for development in the Longforth area so it might be included in the RSS. Members also received a copy of a letter sent by the clerk to Councillor Williams indicating that the town council had already emphasised the need for the northern relief road in its responses to the 2111WELLINGTON TOWN COUNCIL: 7TH MARCH 2005
13180 LONGFORTH FARM & NORTHERN RELIEF ROAD (continued)Somerset Structure Plan Alteration and the consultation documents, the Regional Spatial Strategy for the South West 2006-2026, and What Should Taunton Be Like in 20206. Members also received copies of those three letters. Councillors further received a copy of a letter sent by Councillor Williams to Mr N. Farrow, corporate director of the environment at Somerset County Council, enclosing details of his letter to the town council and the town council’s replies/enclosures and asking Mr Farrow to consider carefully how the town council’s representations could best be taken forward to ensure the wishes of Wellington might become reality. Councillors also received a report on the special meeting of Taunton DBC’s Strategic Planning, Transportation and Economic Development Review Panel held on 3rd March 2005 to consider the Deane’s response to the consultation document “What Should Taunton Be Like in 2026 – Taunton Sub Area Study.” This stated that Wellington “should maintain its role and function, with balanced growth of homes and jobs, maximising opportunities for regeneration, development to fund necessary infrastructure and economic diversification.” It was stated that this report was going to the Deane’s Executive for approval on 9th March. It was agreed to write to Councillor Williams urging that the Deane’s undoubted support for the Longforth Farm and Northern Relief Road Scheme should be specifically identified and included in that report. It was agreed to ask Councillor Williams to propose to the Executive that the conclusions of the report should be amended to include wording to the effect that Taunton DBC “supports the proposed Longforth Farm and Northern Relief Road Scheme.”
13181 COUNTY COMMUNITY INITIATIVES FUND ALLOCATIONCouncillor Henley stated that he was disappointed that County Councillor John Smeaton, whose division included Wellington East, which formed almost half of his ward, had not allocated any of his £5,000 County Community Initiatives Fund to Wellington. It had all been given to parish councils in the rural area. He was also disappointed that Councillor Smeaton, who was regularly invited to every meeting, had only attended one town council meeting in the past four years. County Councillor Andrew Govier provided details of the allocation of his £5,000 fund as follows: £500 each to Rockwell Green School Breakfast Club and Home-Start, £350 to Wellington Christian Youth Trust, £300 each to Rockwell Green Pensioners, 55 Plus Group and Wellington Federation of Sports Clubs, £321 to Unit 6 skatepark, £250 each to Wellington Scouts and Wellington and Rockwell Green Brownies, £175 each to Rockwell Green, Court Fields, Wellesley Park, Apple Tree, Waterloo Road Pre-schools and Wellington Community Playgroup, £100 to Wellesley Park After School Club, and £529 to Court Fields School. Councillor Henley proposed, with Councillor Byrne seconding, that the council should write to Councillor Smeaton stating that the town council was disappointed he had not used any of his Community Initiatives Fund in Wellington, although recognising that the spending of the fund was at the discretion of each councillor, and was also disappointed at his lack of attendance at town council meetings. The proposal was carried with three abstentions.
13182 BURIAL SPACE PLANS AT WELLINGTON CEMETERYCouncillor Stock-Williams stated she was concerned that Taunton DBC was planning to dig up the car park at Wellington Cemetery and use the land for burials. Residents had expressed concern at the suggestion and also felt that there would be no room left for the existing benches and that it would create parking problems. She felt the Deane should be looking for more land to extend the cemetery. It was agreed to write to Taunton DBC asking for their short-term and long-term proposals for the cemetery.2112WELLINGTON TOWN COUNCIL: 7TH MARCH 2005
13183 FOOTPATH PROBLEMS AT COX ROAD, WELLINGTONCouncillor Byrne reported that there were problems where a kissing gate had been provided in a hedge adjoining a small play area at Cox Road, Wellington. Residents had complained that there was still a gap in the hedge and that the sloped access to the kissing gates was slippery in wet weather and needed levelling. The gates led to public footpath WG17/3 which linked Foxdown Terrace/Swains Lane with Farthings Pitts. It was agreed to take the matter up with Taunton DBC.
13184 HIGHER CHARGES AT WELLINGTON SPORTS CENTRECouncillor Byrne reported that she had received complaints from residents about the introduction of higher charges for swimming lessons at Wellington Sports Centre and the reduction in opening hours at the pool. It was agreed to defer taking any action at this stage after it was reported that Taunton DBC was already looking into the issues.
13185 PROPOSED REMOVAL OF MANTLE STREET TELEPHONE KIOSKWith reference to minute 12745 a letter was received from BT stating that the public telephone kiosk in Mantle Street by the entrance to Court Drive would not be removed as previously proposed but would be kept. The letter was noted.
13186 CLEAN NEIGHBOURHOODS BILLWith reference to minute 13060 a letter was received from the Minister for Rural Affairs and Local Environmental Quality, Alun Michael MP, about the Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Bill giving an outline of measures in the bill covering crime and disorder, fixed penalty fines, litter, graffiti and fly posting, waste, nuisance and abandoned vehicles, dogs and noise. The letter was noted.
13187 HELPING HANDS GRANTWith reference to minute 13155 letters were received from Mr Kevin Jones, chairman of Helping Hands Advisory Committee, about the use of the town council grant of £1,500, agreeing to the council’s suggestion of a joint meeting with CAB, WHERE and the Healthy Living Centre to improve inter-agency co-operation and enclosing a copy of a Press statement issued by Helping Hands. A letter was also received from Wellington and District Healthy Living Centre Trust stating that it was hoped to arrange the joint inter-agency meeting in a few weeks time. The letters were noted.
13188 TONE PLAY AREA EQUIPMENT INSPECTIONWith reference to minute 12938 a detailed report was received from Zurich Insurance Company’s engineer inspector who inspected the equipment on 2nd February 2005. The clerk reported that the bolts holding chain suspension clams on to the crossbar of the swings had been dismantled, examined and renewed as necessary by Deane DLO in July 2002. Comments about the aerial runway suggestions were awaited from the installers Westward Playgrounds. The reports were noted.
13189 DEATH OF COUNCILLOR DAVID GILLWith reference to minute 13126 the clerk reported that public notice of the casual vacancy for Wellington West Ward had been given on 2nd March 2005 and that a request for an election to fill the vacancy had to be made in writing by 10 electors of the ward to the returning officer at the Deane House within 14 working dates of 2nd March, otherwise the vacancy would be filled by co-option. If there was an election it would take place not later than 26th May 2005. The report was noted.
2113WELLINGTON TOWN COUNCIL: 7TH MARCH 2005
13190 WELLINGTON COMMUNITY CENTRE COMMITTEEWith reference to minute 13062 the clerk reported that Councillor Peter Critchard had resigned from Wellington Community Centre Committee. It was agreed to leave the appointment of a replacement councillor until the annual council meeting in May.
13191 DOG WASTE BIN AT ROCKWELL GREENWith reference to minute 13151 a letter was received from Taunton DBC stating that the town council’s request for the provision of a dog waste bin at Rockwell Green was being considered. The letter was noted.
13192 FADED YELLOW LINES IN WHITE HART LANEWith reference to minute 13166 an email was received from Somerset Highways stating that the faded yellow lines in White Hart Lane, Wellington would be repainted in the next financial year. The letter was noted. The clerk reported that he had asked Taunton DBC for their parking attendants to deal with the illegal parking taking place on the double yellow lines. The report was noted.
13193 MINI MOTOR CYCLE TRACK With reference to minute 12868 a letter was received from Taunton DBC stating that following the town council’s request for consideration to be given to the suggested setting up of a min motor cycle track near Wellington Sports Centre, there had been discussions with the parents involved. As costs were likely to be prohibitive on council owned land (planning permissions and public liability insurance etc), efforts had been made to find a suitable alternative site and following an appeal in Farmtalk, a Taunton Deane magazine for the farming community, an agreement had been reached between the group and a local farmer for the use of a field. The parents of the motorcyclists were pleased with the outcome and had thanked TDBC for its help in finding a suitable venue. The letter was noted.
13194 LONGMEAD CLOSE-BURCHILLS CLAIMED FOOTPATHWith reference to minute 13022 a letter was received from Somerset County Council stating that it was being recommended that the application claiming the addition of the footpath from Longmead Close to Burchills Hill, Tonedale to the pubic rights of way should be refused as there was insufficient evidence to support it as a public footpath. The town council was asked for its comments on the recommendation. Members also received a copy of the conclusions of the detailed report and a map. Councillor Byrne agreed to look into the details in the report and contact the county councillor involved (Councillor Govier). Subsequently it was decided to ask for the path to be added to the list of Wellington rights of way.
13195 PROTECTION OF WELLINGTON PARK WAR MEMORIALWith reference to minute 13025 the clerk reported that Taunton DBC had erected timber bollards and black chains to protect the war memorial in Wellington Park. The report was noted. It was agreed to ask Taunton DBC to grass the bare areas around the memorial.
13196 TRAFFIC CALMING MEASURES FOR BAGLEY ROADWith reference to minute 13142 the clerk reported that Somerset Highways would be sending their proposals for road markings to slow down traffic in Bagley Road to the town council in April 2005. The report was noted.
2114WELLINGTON TOWN COUNCIL: 7TH MARCH 200513197 ROCKWELL GREEN ALLOTMENTSWith reference to minute 13156 Councillor Govier gave a verbal report on the joint meeting between tenants of Rockwell Green allotments, the Bath & Diocesan Board of Finance and town councillors held on 28th February 2005. He reported that the question of ownership of the allotments – the tenants dispute the church’s claimed ownership – was still unresolved but the future of the allotments seemed all right. The church wanted the area to stay as allotments. There were no plans to develop the site unless the land was allocated for housing in a future local plan, which was unlikely. The diocese would be writing to the allotments association with its proposals to put matters on a more formal footing. There was only a verbal agreement at the moment which could be ended with six to 12 months notice. The clerk also reported that the tenants would be offered a lease to give them some security. A lease of four to five years had been suggested by councillors. The reports were noted. Councillors also received a copy of a letter sent by Councillor Govier to the association chairman Mr Hughie Giles detailing his report to the council.
13198 AGE CONCERN SOMERSET GRANT APPLICATIONA letter, grant application form and accounts were received from Age Concern Somerset asking the council to consider making a grant of £100 towards the cost of providing its various services in Wellington. Their local services included regular visits to 3 older people, 42 advocacy service cases, 25 safe and secure service cases with 17 keysafes, 6 grab rails, 1 door chain and 1 smoke alarm fitted, a toenail cutting service to 21 clients and an information and advice service. On the proposition of Councillor Hindley, seconded by Councillor Govier, it was agreed to make a grant of £100.
13199 AGE CONCERN LOCAL LINK PROJECT LAUNCHA letter was received from Age Concern Somerset inviting councillors to the launch of the Local Link Project on Wednesday, 23rd March 2005 at 10am at Taunton Library. The letter was noted.
13200 TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF FOXMOOR ROADA letter was received from Somerset Highways stating Foxmoor Road, Wellington Without would be closed for 2 weeks from 7th March 2005 for bridge maintenance works to be carried out. The letter was noted.
13201 LONG DISTANCE WALK AROUND WELLINGTONA letter was received from The Long Distance Walkers Association stating that it was holding the Wellington Boot 100k walk in the Wellington area – start and finish in Wellington – during the weekend of 16th/17th April 2005. The letter was noted.
13202 CITIZEN ENGAGEMENT AND PUBLIC SERVICESA letter was received from the Minister for Local and Regional Government, Nick Raynsford MP, enclosing two discussion documents, Citizen Engagement and Public Services: Why Neighbourhoods Matter and Vibrant Local Leadership. Councillors also received a summary of the two documents from the clerk. It was agreed to note the letter and the summaries.
13203 WELLINGTON ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIPWith reference to minute 13160 the clerk reported that the Wellington Economic Partnership meeting due to be held on 14th March 2005 was likely to be cancelled. The report was noted.2115WELLINGTON TOWN COUNCIL: 7TH MARCH 200513204 PLANNING DECISIONS BY TAUNTON DBCThe clerk reported that Taunton Deane Borough Council had approved the following plans: (1) Erection of conservatory to rear of 36 Wellesley Park, Wellington (43/2005/002: delegated decision); (2) Erection of conservatory at 10 Hoyles Road, Wellington (43/2004/171: delegated decision); (3) Display of externally illuminated fascia sign at 8 Mantle Street, Wellington as amended by letter dated 7th February 2005 and accompanying plan (43/2004/172A); (4) Application to carry out tree work to 1 lime tree and 4 horse chestnut trees included in Taunton Deane Borough (Wellington No. 10) Tree Preservation Order at Wellington School, South Street, Wellington (43/2004/173T); (5) Change of use of dwelling to nursery, retaining one first floor room as residential at 49 Brendon Road, Wellington (43/2004/169: delegated decision); (6) Erection of conservatory at rear of 152 Barn Meads Road, Wellington (43/2005/003: delegated decision); (7) Erection of conservatory at rear of 132 Barn Meads Road, Wellington (43/2005/007: delegated decision); (8) Conversion of former pumping station to holiday let at Payton Pumping Station, Payton, Wellington as amended by letter dated 25th February 2005 with accompanying drawing No. WWMS/904/002 Rev B (43/2004/174).
13205 COUNCIL INCOME/EXPENDITURE TO 28TH FEBRUARY 2005A report was received from the clerk showing that the council’s income for the period from 1st April 2004 to 28th February 2005 was £96,277 (£85,721 estimated for the full year to 31st March 2005) and that expenditure for the same period was £77,860 (£106,800 estimated for the full year to 31st March 2005). The report was noted.
13206 ACCOUNTS FOR PAYMENTOn the proposition of Councillor Bowrah, seconded by Councillor Hindley, it was agreed to authorise the payment of the following accounts and the signing of the following cheques: The E-Steamed Cleaning Company £50 for cleaning pavements by High Street bus shelters in February 2005; Zurich Insurance Company £1,427.27 for council’s annual insurance policy; Taunton Deane Community Transport Ltd £84 for hospital patient transport from Wellington to Musgrove Park Hospital for January 2005; Mr A. Brown £1,525.76; Inland Revenue £607.98; Hinewood Cleaning Services £48 for fortnightly/monthly cleaning of town centre bus shelters and monthly window cleaning of council office and chamber; The Carly Press Ltd £57.65 for envelopes, ink cartridges and highlighters; SWEB Energy £92.20 for electricity for office/chamber to 20th January 2005; Konica Minolta Business Solutions (UK) Ltd £113.57 for photocopier servicing charges from 1st November 2004 to 16th February 2005; BT £184.54 for telephone calls, emails, faxes and servicing charges for three month period to 6th February 2005; Wellington Arts Association £2,000 grant which was approved by town council on 13th May 2002 (minute 11811); Wellington United Reformed Church £75 for hire of church hall for January, February and March 2005.
13207 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 10th, 17th and 24th February and 3rd March 2005; What’s On within Taunton Deane for March 2005; Somerset Rural Youth Project newsletter for Spring 2005; Parrett Catchment Project; NALC direct information service bulletins Nos. 599 and 600; Coach Monthly for February 2005; Inter Action February 2005 magazine of Local Government International Bureau; European Union brochure on structural funds for United Kingdom; EU newsletter No.130 on cohesion and competitiveness.
THE MEETING CLOSED AT 8.29PM
posted by Wellington Town Council @ 3:32 AM
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