Wellington Town Council minutes October 2003
Minutes of the meeting of Wellington Town Council held in the town council chamber at 28 Fore Street, Wellington on Monday, 6th October 2003 at 7pm
PRESENT: Councillor R. Henley (chairman), who presided, Councillor R. Bowrah (vice chairman), Councillors Mrs C. Biscoe, Mrs V. Byrne, Mrs A. Milne, Mrs V. Stock-Williams , Mrs N. Wilson, Councillors P. Critchard, D. Gill, A. Govier, C. Hindley, A. Horsman, G. James and E. Warren, the clerk A. Brown. There was an apology from Councillor D. Mitton. There were 14 members of the public present.
12459 CHAIRMAN’S ANNOUNCEMENTSThe chairman reported that he had attended a Rockwell Green Christian Fellowship meeting which had been well attended and Wellington Arts Association’s production of “Oh What a Lovely War” which had been an outstanding show.
12460 POLICE MATTERSSgt Richard Caburn recalled that changes to the 24 hour 7 days a week policing in Wellington had been made earlier in the summer which had resulted in fewer officers being based in the town. There were now 2 beat officers for the four beats covering the period from 8am to 10pm. There had been controversy in the local Press about policing in the town. The police response times for Wellington were the best in the Force. He gave details of the crime statistics for the Wellington sector, which includes Milverton and Wiveliscombe, for the three months from July to September 2003 (which was after the staffing changes had been made) compared to the same three months of 2002 as follows: Domestic burglaries 15, only 3 in town centre area, (26 in 2002), thefts from motor vehicles 17 (14 in 2002), other thefts 78 (94 in 2002), commercial burglaries 16 (16 in 2002), criminal damage 72 (54 in 2002): most of these did not relate to the main streets but was the Wellington disease of kicking wing mirrors off cars on Friday and Saturday nights. Three or four shop windows had been smashed in the four main streets. There had been 45 arrests this year with a sergeant and 8PCs compared with 15 in 2002 when there had been a sergeant and 15PCs. It was frustrating not knowing about some things until these had appeared in the local Press and he asked the public to ensure that the Police were made aware of incidents. He realised it was frustrating to people when they could not get through to the Police sometimes. He was going to establish police beat surgeries in the Kings Centre and Rockwell Green Village Hall to improve communications with the public, the Shopwatch and Pubwatch schemes were being revitalised, and two new community support officers had just been appointed, Michelle Barrett and Simon Bramley. They would be the link between the police and the community and would help to improve the quality of life. The community support officers would be dealing with vandalism, abandoned vehicles, graffiti, cycling on pavements, dog fouling and litter etc. There would be a series of meetings with parish councils in the area to make them aware of what was happening.
12461 PROBLEMS IN SOUTH STREETWith reference to minute 12427 Sgt Caburn said that a lot had been made in the Press of problems in South Street. There had been problems in South Street which the police were addressing. They had leafleted every address in South Street seeking the views of residents about the problems and were putting a comprehensive report together for presentation at the justices licensing meeting. Sgt Caburn said he was disappointed at the negative reporting of town centre events in the Press in the past three weeks. The Press had a responsibility over creating a fear of crime. Wellington was a safe place to live and a safe place to walk around in the evening. Insp Mike 1949
WELLINGTON TOWN COUNCIL: 6TH OCTOBER 2003
12461 PROBLEMS IN SOUTH STREET (continued)Ashwin said that the new community support officers would bring benefits before Christmas. The police were looking at measures to reduce anti social behaviour. He also emphasised that Wellington was a nice place to live and work. In reply to questions from Councillor Gill, Insp Ashwin confirmed that the Police had closed the Sanford Arms in South Street early on Friday evening 3rd October 2003 because of what had been found when a licensing check had been carried out. No arrests had been made but the facts of his visit were now in the hands of the licensing magistrates. The public house had re-opened the next day, Saturday, 4th October when there were no problems. The deputy leader of Taunton DBC, Councillor Joanna Lewin-Harris, who was welcomed to the meeting by the chairman, said she had been out with the police both in Wellington and Taunton. She had walked up and down South Street and had seen young people who were under the influence of alcohol. They had not been particularly aggressive but she could see how shop windows could be broken. In Taunton there had been much more aggression and fighting on the streets. She hoped licensees were aware of their responsibilities and that action would be taken against those who did not stick to the rules. In May 2005 the issuing of licences would be the responsibility of Taunton DBC and not the magistrates as now. Councillor Govier proposed, with Councillor Hindley, seconding that a copy of the council’s September minutes outlining the problems in South Street should be sent to Taunton magistates. Councillor Henley stressed that it was just not young people causing problems, it was also adults. Councillor Govier said that Wellington’s problems had wider reasons than drugs or underage drinking. The community had to look at ways it could help. The Kings Centre, which would provide facilities for youngsters, should be open later this year. Assistant Chief Constable Steve Otter, who was welcomed to the meeting by the chairman, said he was determined to deal with crime in the more rural parts of the force area. In the past the police had had to concentrate on Bristol where there had been a 77% increase in street crime. The police had got street crime in Bristol down but now they needed to focus on Somerset. One issue was the fear of crime. It was low-level pernicious and difficult anti social behaviour that needed to be dealt with and the police were determined to find ways to make the streets safer and feel safer. The police could not do that on their own: it had to be a partnership with local authorities and the public Mr Andrew Denham, who had filmed the problems in South Street on video the previous month, said that the introduction of CCTV in the town centre had moved the problems of anti social behaviour further up the street. It underlined the need for video surveillance. The unacceptable behaviour in the streets had made residents lives a misery. He supported the Press reporting of the incidents. Previously he had phoned the police many times with little response but following the Press story he was pleased with the police response.
12462 POLICE CALL CENTREIn reply to questions from Councillor Critchard about the performance of the main police central control room at Portishead, Assistant Chief Constable Otter admitted that it was not very good, particularly with non emergency general calls. The centre had been under-resourced for years. The number of 999 calls had risen by 100% in recent years but resources had only increased by 3%. He was in the process of recruiting 90 part-time staff (the equivalent of 50 full time posts) to staff the call centre which should result in a significant improvement within six months following recruitment and training. It was planned that the staff would have a good local knowledge. All three police officers were thanked for attending the council meeting. 1950WELLINGTON TOWN COUNCIL: 6TH OCTOBER 2003
12463 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION TIME: PYLES THORNE ROADDr R. Fairbairn drew attention to the dangers caused by speeding traffic in Pyles Thorne Road which has no pavement. A recent survey showed there were 450 vehicles an hour using the road and most were speeding between 30 and 50mph. He wanted to know when action would be taken to make the road safer. The clerk reported that it was planned to introduce a 20mph speed limit in Pyles Thorne Road in place of the current 30mph speed limit and that a joint site meeting with residents, town and county councillors would be held in the near future.
12464 MINUTESThe minutes of the council meeting held 1st September 2003, as circulated to members, were received, taken as read and signed as correct.
12465 CCTV CAMERA IN SOUTH STREETCouncillor Gill reported that the long awaited CCTV camera on the corner of South Street and High Street, Wellington, should be installed within six to eight weeks. Agreement had been reached with the owner of Shaul Bakery on the siting of the camera. The casing had been in place for over a year but a dispute with the owner had held up the installation of the camera itself. The report was noted.
12466 LONGFORTH FARM DEVELOPMENTExtreme disappointment was expressed by all councillors to the news that the inspector at the public inquiry into the Taunton Deane Local Plan had recommended Taunton DBC to delete the Longforth Farm proposals from the Local Plan. The proposals included a northern relief road from Poole to Tone, a rail halt, 500 homes, a new school, a new playing field and extensive landscape/environmental areas. Mr Ian Ayre, Taunton DBC principal planner, stated that the inspector, Mr Roger Priestley, had recommended rejecting the Longforth scheme because he felt it would increase Wellington’s role as a commuter town of Taunton and because the land involved as high grade farmland. He had also recommended that instead of the Longforth housing proposals, the Deane council should consider erecting 250/300 houses on sites either at Cades Farm or Jurston Farm on the southern side of the A38. The inspector had supported the development of the former Fox’s sites at Tonedale and the old greaseworks, the Chelston House employment site (20 hectares) and retail development on sites at Bulford and High Street/Kwiksave. His recommendations were not binding on the Deane council who would be discussing whether to accept these or not. Not to do so would be a major step for Taunton DBC who would have to give clear and cogent reasons for not doing so. Since the original Local Plan had been prepared, revised regional planning guidance had been issued by the Government in 2001 which stated that major development should be concentrated in principal urban areas, including Taunton, and that sustainable development should be promoted, which would reduce the level of commuting. In the inspector’s views the benefits of the northern relief road were outweighed by the disadvantages of increasing community and using top grade agricultural land. Mr Brian Hensley, from the county council’s transport section, did not feel that the inspector had given enough weight to the benefits of the relief road. After a long discussion during which all councillors strongly supported the Longforth Farm scheme, Councillor Henley proposed, with Councillor Bowrah seconding, that the town council should ask Taunton DBC’s Executive to reject the recommendation of the inspector and should urge the Executive to include the Longforth Farm proposals in the Taunton Deane Local Plan. This was carried unanimously. It was also agreed to state that the town council 1951WELLINGTON TOWN COUNCIL: 6TH OCTOBER 2003
12466 LONGFORTH FARM DEVELOPMENT (continued)believed that the proposed Longforth Farm development, with the northern relief road which would remove much of the present HGV traffic from the town centre, and the other local services it would provide, such as the Wellington rail halt, were vital for the future of Wellington. It was further agreed that when the recently published inspector’s report had been studied in greater detail, the town council would provide a comprehensive reply and rebuttal to the various reasons put forward by the inspector for his recommendation to delete the Longforth Farm scheme from the Local Plan. Councillor Hindley said he understood that sites of the magnitude of Longforth had been approved for Chard, Crewkerne and Ilminster following public inquiries.
12467 INSTALLATION OF TOWN CENTRE SEATSA quote of £2,038.20 plus VAT was received from Deane DLO to provide and instal a bench outside the old post office in High Street and provide and instal bench seating around a flower planter near the Somefield Store in Fore Street. On the proposition of Councillor Bowrah, seconded by Councillor James it was agreed to accept the quote.
12468 GRASS CUTTING AT TONE PLAY AREA & FOOTPATH CLEARANCEWith reference to minutes 12194 and 12195 the clerk reported that grants of £700 and £1,540 had been received from Taunton DBC for Tone play area maintenance and footpath clearance respectively. The report was noted.
COUNCILLOR GILL LEFT THE MEETING HERE AT 8.15PM
12369 GIVE WAY SIGN AT OLDWAY PARK/BLACKMOOR ROADWith reference to minute 12434 the clerk reported that faded give way lines in the Elms Road, Blackmoor Road and Oldway Park area of Wellington would be repainted. Give way signs were usually only provided where a minor road met a major road and not normally within a residential estate. The report was noted.
12470 YELLOW LINES AT TRINITY CLOSEWith reference to minute 12444 the clerk reported that Taunton DBC’s traffic regulation order panel had agreed to overturn the objection relating to the Trinity Close waiting restrictions and that the lines would be put down as soon as possible. The report was noted.
12471 ONE WAY TRAFFIC SYSTEM FOR HOLYOAKE STREETWith reference to minute 12448 a letter was received from Mr Ian Titcombe, county traffic engineer for Taunton Deane area, stating that the proposal of a one way system for Holyoake Street had been discussed previously without really progressing it. There was a perceived accident problem but the county’s records showed that there had been only two slight personal injury accidents in the area: one involving a reversing car and another involving a car and a cyclist. There was some congestion but that reduced vehicle speeds: a one way street would increase speeds. Unless the support of the majority of the residents in the other streets – Mitchell, Owen and Seymour – was obtained, there would be objections to any proposed traffic regulation order. A one way system for Holyoake Street only might be of some benefit to those residents but it would be detrimental to the residents of the other streets who would have to live with the additional traffic movements. Therefore one way streets might have to be considered for those other streets to share the traffic problem. If the town council wished to pursue the proposal, it would have to go forward as a LTP funded 1952WELLINGTON TOWN COUNCIL: 6TH OCTOBER 200312471 ONE WAY TRAFFIC SYSTEM FOR HOLYOAKE STREET (continued)scheme due to costs involved with the necessary illuminated signs required. The town council’s letter had been sent to Rosie Darch at County Hall for her information. Councillors Bowrah and Hindley declared an interest and left the chamber while this item was discussed. It was agreed to contact County Hall and to put the topic on the November council meeting agenda.
12472 BOLLARD AT BLACKPATH/ROOKERY TERRACEWith reference to minute 12433 the clerk reported that Somerset Highways would inspect the public path at Blackpath/Rookery Terrace to see if it was possible to erect a barrier to deter motor-cyclists from using the path. The report was noted.
12473 FREE CHRISTMAS CAR PARKINGWith reference to minute 11941 the clerk reported that Taunton DBC would provide free parking on the town’s North Street, Longforth Road and South Street car parks on the four Saturdays prior to Christmas, namely 29th November, 6th, 13th and 20th December 2003. The report was noted.
12474 PROPOSED ERECTION OF HEALTH CENTRE OFF HIGH STREETWith reference to minute 11165 the clerk reported that an appeal had been lodged with the First Secretary of State against the decision of Taunton DBC to refuse planning permission for the erection of a health centre with associated car park, 42-46 High Street, Wellington, together with rear land between High Street and Scotts Lane, Wellington. The report was noted.
12475 CAROLS IN THE PARKWith reference to minute 12052 a letter was received from Churches Together in Wellington asking the town council to consider making a financial contribution towards the costs of staging the annual Carols in the Park on Saturday, 13th December 2003. On the proposition of Councillor Bowrah, seconded by Councillor Byrne, it was agreed to make a grant of £150, the same as in 2002.
12476 CHRISTMAS LIGHTSWith reference to minute 11975 a quote of £4,004 plus VAT was received from Deane DLO for erecting and removing the town council’s Christmas illuminations for 2003. On the proposition of Councillor Bowrah, seconded by Councillor Henley, it was agreed to accept the quote. The clerk reported that a quote was awaited from the DLO for the erection of a Christmas tree outside the old post office in High Street. The tree would again be supplied by Langford Lakes. The switch on of the lights would take place on Friday, 28th November 2003. The report was noted.
12477 20MPH SPEED LIMIT FOR PYLES THORNE ROADWith reference to minute 12437 the clerk reported that a site meeting was being arranged with councillors, residents, Wellesley Park School and the county council about the proposed 20mph speed limit for Pyles Thorne Road. The report was noted.12478 TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF ROCKWELL GREEN MAIN ROADA letter was received from Atkins Highways stating that the Rockwell Green to Westford Road would be closed for 2 days from 20th October 2003 for drainage repair works to be carried out. Access to properties would be maintained at all times by the contractors carrying out the works and an alternative route would be signed. The letter was noted.1953
WELLINGTON TOWN COUNCIL 6TH OCTOBER 2003
12479 PROPOSED CLOSURE OF 3 PUBLIC TELEPHONE KIOSKSA letter was received from BT asking for the town council’s comments on proposals to remove payphones from North Street (near police station), Swains, and Exeter Road, Rockwell Green, because of low usage (demand had fallen by more than 50% in the past three years due to increased mobile phone use) and losses. The nearest alternative payphones were 192 metres away at Oaken Ground (for Exeter Road payphone), 284 metres away in High Street (for North Street payphone) and 630 metres away in Mantle Street (for Swains payphone). On the proposition of Councillor Byrne, seconded by Councillor Bowrah, it was agreed to accept the removal of the three payphones as proposed by BT.
12480 LICENSING TRANSFER FOR CO-OP STORENotice was received of the licensing application for the transfer of the justices licence for the Co-operative Store, Longforth Road, Wellington to James Peter Meakins, Carole Dawn Samuel and Paula Smith, the application being heard by the magistrates on 21st October 2003. The notice was noted.
12481 REMEMBRANCE SERVICESA letter was received from the Wellington branch of the Royal British Legion inviting the chairman and members to the three services of Remembrance in November 2003, namely the Field of Remembrance Service at Wellington Baptist Church on Sunday, 2nd November at 11.45am, the Remembrance and Poppy Laying Ceremony in Wellington Park on Sunday, 9th November at 3.30pm with the parade assembling at Wellington School at 2.30pm, and the Remembrance Service of 2 Minutes Silence in the centre of Wellington at 11am on 11th November. The letter was noted. The clerk reported that he had ordered 2 maroon rockets for firing to mark the start and finish of the 2 minutes silence.
12482 TRADERS LETTER ON VANDALISM, CCTV & PARKING CHARGESA letter was received from Wellington Chamber of Trade & Commerce stating that the increase in vandalism and yob culture was adversely affecting trading, that the highlighting of this problem in the Press was putting off new traders and consumers, and that the failure to complete the town centre CCTV was creating further problems and frustration. Businesses in the town had faced considerable pressure of late with numerous disruptions caused by roadworks. The time taken to recover from those recessions in trade was difficulty to quantify but was nonetheless real and significant. The chamber also felt that parking was difficult in Wellington and suggested that consideration should be given making the first hour of parking free in all car parks to make the short stay user more welcome. A similar letter had been sent to the police and Taunton DBC. It was agreed that the free parking proposal should be put on the agenda for the Wellington Economic Partnership meeting on 20th October 2003 when traders would be present and to consider the letter again at the November council meeting.
12483 CRIME & DISORDER ACT TRAINING DAYA letter was received from Avon and Somerset Police inviting the council to send a maximum of 2 representatives to a Crime and Disorder Act training day at Taunton on 26th November 2003. It was agreed that Councillors Gill and Warren should represent the council at the training day.
1954WELLINGTON TOWN COUNCIL 6TH OCTOBER 200312484 WEAVERS ARMS LICENSING NOTICENotice was received of the licensing application for the transfer of the justices licence for the Weavers Arms, Rockwell Green to James Matthew Taylor, the application to be heard by Taunton Deane magistrates on 21st October 2003. The notice was noted.
12485 WELLINGTON ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIPWith reference to minute 12452 the clerk reported that the meeting of Wellington Economic Partnership due to have been held on 15th September 2003 had been cancelled. The next WEP meeting would be on Monday, 20th October 2003 at 6pm. It was agreed that partnership agenda should include Taunton Deane Local Plan inspector’s report; possible redevelopment off High Street behind the Kwiksave Store; and Wellington Chamber of Trade’s suggestion for free parking for the first hour in the town’s three public car parks.
12486 PLANNING DECISIONS BY TAUNTON DEANE BOROUGH COUNCILThe clerk reported that Taunton DBC had approved the following plans: (a) Erection of two storey extension to side of 23 Beech Hill, Wellington as amended by plan no. Steer PA/222/05/03 received 13th August 2003 (43/2003/076: delegated decision); (b) Internal works to form office accommodation, Tonedale Mill, Milverton Road, Wellington as amended by letter dated 21st August 21003 (43/2003/077LB); (c) Erection of extension to 3 storey wing and extension to dwelling to form single storey swimming pool, Tonedale House, Wellington (43/2003/081); (d) Erection of 2 dwellings for residential self-catering use, Tonedale House, Wellington (43/2003/082); (e) Erection of first floor extension, including dormer window to side, and single storey extension at 3 Mornington Park, Wellington (43/2003/085: delegated decision); (f) Erection of single storey extension and cellar/storeroom at Wellington Arts Centre, Eight Acre Lane, Wellington (43/2003/086: delegated decision); (g) Erection of two storey extension, Wellington House, Longforth Road, Wellington as amended by letter dated 27th August 2003 with accompanying drawing no 1541-05A (43/2003/087: delegated decision); (h) Erection of a conservatory to rear of 36 Richards Close, Wellington as amplified by agents letter dated 20th August 2003 (43/2003/088: delegated decision); (i) Erection of first floor extension with balcony to side of 80 Millstream Gardens, Wellington (43/2003/089: delegated decision).
12487 COMMENTS TO TAUNTON DBC ON PLANNING APPLICATIONSIt was agreed to inform Taunton DBC that the town council was in favour of the following planning applications: (a) Erection of one new dwelling on land adjoining 1 Riverside, Wellington (43/2003/090); (b) Erection of 2 detached dwellings and formation of vehicular access thereto, land to the east of Windyridge, Payton Road, Wellington (43/2003/098: resubmission of 43/2003/017); (c) Demolition of existing warehouse and erection of block of 14 flats, former Haymans Coalyard, Higher Westford, Wellington (43/2003/099: resubmission of 43/2003/018: it was agreed to state that the town council is concerned at the traffic implications of extra vehicles using the Rockwell Green-Westford Road which has no footway: traffic calming may be necessary); (d) Erection of industrial building to replace existing building which is beyond economic repair, Rylands Farm Industrial Estate, Bagley road, Wellington (43/2003/100: a letter was received from Mrs D. Land, of Westlands, Bagley Green, stating she wanted to see the same hours of working, hoped the colour of the building would be green and wanted to see the landscaping conditions kept: Councillors Critchard and Govier declared an interest and left the chamber while this application was considered); (e) Retention of trellis structure at side of 2 Cox Road, Wellington (43/2003/101). 1955WELLINGTON TOWN COUNCIL 6TH OCTOBER 2003
12488 COUNCIL INCOME/EXPENDITURE TO 30TH SEPTEMBER 2003A report was received from the clerk showing that the council’s income for the period from 1st April 2003 to 30th September 2003 was £43,202 (£86,078 estimated for the full year to 31st March 2004) and that expenditure for the same period was £33,554 (£104,720). The report was noted.
12489 ACCOUNTS FOR PAYMENTOn the proposition of Councillor Bowrah, seconded by Councillor Warren, it was agreed to pay the following accounts and to authorise the signing of the following cheques: Eden Foods £175 for buffet for carnival reception; The Cheese and Wine Shop of Wellington £138.18 for drinks for carnival reception; Mr A. Brown £1,497.16; Inland Revenue £616.88; Custom Plastics £70.21 for new town council opening hours notice; The Carly Press £49.98 for files, dividers, envelopes and ink cartridge; Taunton DBC £15.94 for gas from April to June 2003; SWEB £5.85 for electricity for street lighting; Judith Goss Florists £30 for flowers for war graves for July and September 2003.
12490 ADDITIONAL STREET SIGN FOR ARDWYNCouncillor Byrne reported that visitors to Ardwyn found it difficult to find the property they were looking for because of the lay-out of the estate and the lack of clear numbering. She suggested and it was agreed that a sign stating odd numbers 1-15 should be erected under the appropriate existing Ardwyn street sign.
12491 CARNIVAL NIGHT RECEPTIONCouncillor Warren thanked the chairman for hosting the successful carnival night reception for civic and carnival guests on 27th September 2003.
12492 OVERHANGING BRAMBLES: BUCKWELL/SCOTTS LANECouncillor Hindley reported that overhanging brambles on the footpath between Buckwell and Scotts Lane had caused problems to pedestrians. The clerk reported that the brambles had now been cut back. The report was noted.
12493 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 4th, 11th, 18th and 25th September 2003; Community Update newsletter for September 2003 from Somerset Community Council; Thatch magazine for Autumn 2003 from Somerset Community Council; Taunton Deane Council for Voluntary Service summer 2003 newsletter; National Association of Local Councils’ direct information service bulletins nos. 562 and 563; Zurich Municipal (council’s insurers) Courtcircular newsletter for September 2003; Lillebonne Town Council’s municipal magazine for September and October 2003; Lillebonne’s new town guide; annual review of South West of England Regional Development Agency; European Union newsletters on Objective 1 funding and on structural funds for electronic communications.
THE MEETING CLOSED AT 9.25PM
PRESENT: Councillor R. Henley (chairman), who presided, Councillor R. Bowrah (vice chairman), Councillors Mrs C. Biscoe, Mrs V. Byrne, Mrs A. Milne, Mrs V. Stock-Williams , Mrs N. Wilson, Councillors P. Critchard, D. Gill, A. Govier, C. Hindley, A. Horsman, G. James and E. Warren, the clerk A. Brown. There was an apology from Councillor D. Mitton. There were 14 members of the public present.
12459 CHAIRMAN’S ANNOUNCEMENTSThe chairman reported that he had attended a Rockwell Green Christian Fellowship meeting which had been well attended and Wellington Arts Association’s production of “Oh What a Lovely War” which had been an outstanding show.
12460 POLICE MATTERSSgt Richard Caburn recalled that changes to the 24 hour 7 days a week policing in Wellington had been made earlier in the summer which had resulted in fewer officers being based in the town. There were now 2 beat officers for the four beats covering the period from 8am to 10pm. There had been controversy in the local Press about policing in the town. The police response times for Wellington were the best in the Force. He gave details of the crime statistics for the Wellington sector, which includes Milverton and Wiveliscombe, for the three months from July to September 2003 (which was after the staffing changes had been made) compared to the same three months of 2002 as follows: Domestic burglaries 15, only 3 in town centre area, (26 in 2002), thefts from motor vehicles 17 (14 in 2002), other thefts 78 (94 in 2002), commercial burglaries 16 (16 in 2002), criminal damage 72 (54 in 2002): most of these did not relate to the main streets but was the Wellington disease of kicking wing mirrors off cars on Friday and Saturday nights. Three or four shop windows had been smashed in the four main streets. There had been 45 arrests this year with a sergeant and 8PCs compared with 15 in 2002 when there had been a sergeant and 15PCs. It was frustrating not knowing about some things until these had appeared in the local Press and he asked the public to ensure that the Police were made aware of incidents. He realised it was frustrating to people when they could not get through to the Police sometimes. He was going to establish police beat surgeries in the Kings Centre and Rockwell Green Village Hall to improve communications with the public, the Shopwatch and Pubwatch schemes were being revitalised, and two new community support officers had just been appointed, Michelle Barrett and Simon Bramley. They would be the link between the police and the community and would help to improve the quality of life. The community support officers would be dealing with vandalism, abandoned vehicles, graffiti, cycling on pavements, dog fouling and litter etc. There would be a series of meetings with parish councils in the area to make them aware of what was happening.
12461 PROBLEMS IN SOUTH STREETWith reference to minute 12427 Sgt Caburn said that a lot had been made in the Press of problems in South Street. There had been problems in South Street which the police were addressing. They had leafleted every address in South Street seeking the views of residents about the problems and were putting a comprehensive report together for presentation at the justices licensing meeting. Sgt Caburn said he was disappointed at the negative reporting of town centre events in the Press in the past three weeks. The Press had a responsibility over creating a fear of crime. Wellington was a safe place to live and a safe place to walk around in the evening. Insp Mike 1949
WELLINGTON TOWN COUNCIL: 6TH OCTOBER 2003
12461 PROBLEMS IN SOUTH STREET (continued)Ashwin said that the new community support officers would bring benefits before Christmas. The police were looking at measures to reduce anti social behaviour. He also emphasised that Wellington was a nice place to live and work. In reply to questions from Councillor Gill, Insp Ashwin confirmed that the Police had closed the Sanford Arms in South Street early on Friday evening 3rd October 2003 because of what had been found when a licensing check had been carried out. No arrests had been made but the facts of his visit were now in the hands of the licensing magistrates. The public house had re-opened the next day, Saturday, 4th October when there were no problems. The deputy leader of Taunton DBC, Councillor Joanna Lewin-Harris, who was welcomed to the meeting by the chairman, said she had been out with the police both in Wellington and Taunton. She had walked up and down South Street and had seen young people who were under the influence of alcohol. They had not been particularly aggressive but she could see how shop windows could be broken. In Taunton there had been much more aggression and fighting on the streets. She hoped licensees were aware of their responsibilities and that action would be taken against those who did not stick to the rules. In May 2005 the issuing of licences would be the responsibility of Taunton DBC and not the magistrates as now. Councillor Govier proposed, with Councillor Hindley, seconding that a copy of the council’s September minutes outlining the problems in South Street should be sent to Taunton magistates. Councillor Henley stressed that it was just not young people causing problems, it was also adults. Councillor Govier said that Wellington’s problems had wider reasons than drugs or underage drinking. The community had to look at ways it could help. The Kings Centre, which would provide facilities for youngsters, should be open later this year. Assistant Chief Constable Steve Otter, who was welcomed to the meeting by the chairman, said he was determined to deal with crime in the more rural parts of the force area. In the past the police had had to concentrate on Bristol where there had been a 77% increase in street crime. The police had got street crime in Bristol down but now they needed to focus on Somerset. One issue was the fear of crime. It was low-level pernicious and difficult anti social behaviour that needed to be dealt with and the police were determined to find ways to make the streets safer and feel safer. The police could not do that on their own: it had to be a partnership with local authorities and the public Mr Andrew Denham, who had filmed the problems in South Street on video the previous month, said that the introduction of CCTV in the town centre had moved the problems of anti social behaviour further up the street. It underlined the need for video surveillance. The unacceptable behaviour in the streets had made residents lives a misery. He supported the Press reporting of the incidents. Previously he had phoned the police many times with little response but following the Press story he was pleased with the police response.
12462 POLICE CALL CENTREIn reply to questions from Councillor Critchard about the performance of the main police central control room at Portishead, Assistant Chief Constable Otter admitted that it was not very good, particularly with non emergency general calls. The centre had been under-resourced for years. The number of 999 calls had risen by 100% in recent years but resources had only increased by 3%. He was in the process of recruiting 90 part-time staff (the equivalent of 50 full time posts) to staff the call centre which should result in a significant improvement within six months following recruitment and training. It was planned that the staff would have a good local knowledge. All three police officers were thanked for attending the council meeting. 1950WELLINGTON TOWN COUNCIL: 6TH OCTOBER 2003
12463 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION TIME: PYLES THORNE ROADDr R. Fairbairn drew attention to the dangers caused by speeding traffic in Pyles Thorne Road which has no pavement. A recent survey showed there were 450 vehicles an hour using the road and most were speeding between 30 and 50mph. He wanted to know when action would be taken to make the road safer. The clerk reported that it was planned to introduce a 20mph speed limit in Pyles Thorne Road in place of the current 30mph speed limit and that a joint site meeting with residents, town and county councillors would be held in the near future.
12464 MINUTESThe minutes of the council meeting held 1st September 2003, as circulated to members, were received, taken as read and signed as correct.
12465 CCTV CAMERA IN SOUTH STREETCouncillor Gill reported that the long awaited CCTV camera on the corner of South Street and High Street, Wellington, should be installed within six to eight weeks. Agreement had been reached with the owner of Shaul Bakery on the siting of the camera. The casing had been in place for over a year but a dispute with the owner had held up the installation of the camera itself. The report was noted.
12466 LONGFORTH FARM DEVELOPMENTExtreme disappointment was expressed by all councillors to the news that the inspector at the public inquiry into the Taunton Deane Local Plan had recommended Taunton DBC to delete the Longforth Farm proposals from the Local Plan. The proposals included a northern relief road from Poole to Tone, a rail halt, 500 homes, a new school, a new playing field and extensive landscape/environmental areas. Mr Ian Ayre, Taunton DBC principal planner, stated that the inspector, Mr Roger Priestley, had recommended rejecting the Longforth scheme because he felt it would increase Wellington’s role as a commuter town of Taunton and because the land involved as high grade farmland. He had also recommended that instead of the Longforth housing proposals, the Deane council should consider erecting 250/300 houses on sites either at Cades Farm or Jurston Farm on the southern side of the A38. The inspector had supported the development of the former Fox’s sites at Tonedale and the old greaseworks, the Chelston House employment site (20 hectares) and retail development on sites at Bulford and High Street/Kwiksave. His recommendations were not binding on the Deane council who would be discussing whether to accept these or not. Not to do so would be a major step for Taunton DBC who would have to give clear and cogent reasons for not doing so. Since the original Local Plan had been prepared, revised regional planning guidance had been issued by the Government in 2001 which stated that major development should be concentrated in principal urban areas, including Taunton, and that sustainable development should be promoted, which would reduce the level of commuting. In the inspector’s views the benefits of the northern relief road were outweighed by the disadvantages of increasing community and using top grade agricultural land. Mr Brian Hensley, from the county council’s transport section, did not feel that the inspector had given enough weight to the benefits of the relief road. After a long discussion during which all councillors strongly supported the Longforth Farm scheme, Councillor Henley proposed, with Councillor Bowrah seconding, that the town council should ask Taunton DBC’s Executive to reject the recommendation of the inspector and should urge the Executive to include the Longforth Farm proposals in the Taunton Deane Local Plan. This was carried unanimously. It was also agreed to state that the town council 1951WELLINGTON TOWN COUNCIL: 6TH OCTOBER 2003
12466 LONGFORTH FARM DEVELOPMENT (continued)believed that the proposed Longforth Farm development, with the northern relief road which would remove much of the present HGV traffic from the town centre, and the other local services it would provide, such as the Wellington rail halt, were vital for the future of Wellington. It was further agreed that when the recently published inspector’s report had been studied in greater detail, the town council would provide a comprehensive reply and rebuttal to the various reasons put forward by the inspector for his recommendation to delete the Longforth Farm scheme from the Local Plan. Councillor Hindley said he understood that sites of the magnitude of Longforth had been approved for Chard, Crewkerne and Ilminster following public inquiries.
12467 INSTALLATION OF TOWN CENTRE SEATSA quote of £2,038.20 plus VAT was received from Deane DLO to provide and instal a bench outside the old post office in High Street and provide and instal bench seating around a flower planter near the Somefield Store in Fore Street. On the proposition of Councillor Bowrah, seconded by Councillor James it was agreed to accept the quote.
12468 GRASS CUTTING AT TONE PLAY AREA & FOOTPATH CLEARANCEWith reference to minutes 12194 and 12195 the clerk reported that grants of £700 and £1,540 had been received from Taunton DBC for Tone play area maintenance and footpath clearance respectively. The report was noted.
COUNCILLOR GILL LEFT THE MEETING HERE AT 8.15PM
12369 GIVE WAY SIGN AT OLDWAY PARK/BLACKMOOR ROADWith reference to minute 12434 the clerk reported that faded give way lines in the Elms Road, Blackmoor Road and Oldway Park area of Wellington would be repainted. Give way signs were usually only provided where a minor road met a major road and not normally within a residential estate. The report was noted.
12470 YELLOW LINES AT TRINITY CLOSEWith reference to minute 12444 the clerk reported that Taunton DBC’s traffic regulation order panel had agreed to overturn the objection relating to the Trinity Close waiting restrictions and that the lines would be put down as soon as possible. The report was noted.
12471 ONE WAY TRAFFIC SYSTEM FOR HOLYOAKE STREETWith reference to minute 12448 a letter was received from Mr Ian Titcombe, county traffic engineer for Taunton Deane area, stating that the proposal of a one way system for Holyoake Street had been discussed previously without really progressing it. There was a perceived accident problem but the county’s records showed that there had been only two slight personal injury accidents in the area: one involving a reversing car and another involving a car and a cyclist. There was some congestion but that reduced vehicle speeds: a one way street would increase speeds. Unless the support of the majority of the residents in the other streets – Mitchell, Owen and Seymour – was obtained, there would be objections to any proposed traffic regulation order. A one way system for Holyoake Street only might be of some benefit to those residents but it would be detrimental to the residents of the other streets who would have to live with the additional traffic movements. Therefore one way streets might have to be considered for those other streets to share the traffic problem. If the town council wished to pursue the proposal, it would have to go forward as a LTP funded 1952WELLINGTON TOWN COUNCIL: 6TH OCTOBER 200312471 ONE WAY TRAFFIC SYSTEM FOR HOLYOAKE STREET (continued)scheme due to costs involved with the necessary illuminated signs required. The town council’s letter had been sent to Rosie Darch at County Hall for her information. Councillors Bowrah and Hindley declared an interest and left the chamber while this item was discussed. It was agreed to contact County Hall and to put the topic on the November council meeting agenda.
12472 BOLLARD AT BLACKPATH/ROOKERY TERRACEWith reference to minute 12433 the clerk reported that Somerset Highways would inspect the public path at Blackpath/Rookery Terrace to see if it was possible to erect a barrier to deter motor-cyclists from using the path. The report was noted.
12473 FREE CHRISTMAS CAR PARKINGWith reference to minute 11941 the clerk reported that Taunton DBC would provide free parking on the town’s North Street, Longforth Road and South Street car parks on the four Saturdays prior to Christmas, namely 29th November, 6th, 13th and 20th December 2003. The report was noted.
12474 PROPOSED ERECTION OF HEALTH CENTRE OFF HIGH STREETWith reference to minute 11165 the clerk reported that an appeal had been lodged with the First Secretary of State against the decision of Taunton DBC to refuse planning permission for the erection of a health centre with associated car park, 42-46 High Street, Wellington, together with rear land between High Street and Scotts Lane, Wellington. The report was noted.
12475 CAROLS IN THE PARKWith reference to minute 12052 a letter was received from Churches Together in Wellington asking the town council to consider making a financial contribution towards the costs of staging the annual Carols in the Park on Saturday, 13th December 2003. On the proposition of Councillor Bowrah, seconded by Councillor Byrne, it was agreed to make a grant of £150, the same as in 2002.
12476 CHRISTMAS LIGHTSWith reference to minute 11975 a quote of £4,004 plus VAT was received from Deane DLO for erecting and removing the town council’s Christmas illuminations for 2003. On the proposition of Councillor Bowrah, seconded by Councillor Henley, it was agreed to accept the quote. The clerk reported that a quote was awaited from the DLO for the erection of a Christmas tree outside the old post office in High Street. The tree would again be supplied by Langford Lakes. The switch on of the lights would take place on Friday, 28th November 2003. The report was noted.
12477 20MPH SPEED LIMIT FOR PYLES THORNE ROADWith reference to minute 12437 the clerk reported that a site meeting was being arranged with councillors, residents, Wellesley Park School and the county council about the proposed 20mph speed limit for Pyles Thorne Road. The report was noted.12478 TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF ROCKWELL GREEN MAIN ROADA letter was received from Atkins Highways stating that the Rockwell Green to Westford Road would be closed for 2 days from 20th October 2003 for drainage repair works to be carried out. Access to properties would be maintained at all times by the contractors carrying out the works and an alternative route would be signed. The letter was noted.1953
WELLINGTON TOWN COUNCIL 6TH OCTOBER 2003
12479 PROPOSED CLOSURE OF 3 PUBLIC TELEPHONE KIOSKSA letter was received from BT asking for the town council’s comments on proposals to remove payphones from North Street (near police station), Swains, and Exeter Road, Rockwell Green, because of low usage (demand had fallen by more than 50% in the past three years due to increased mobile phone use) and losses. The nearest alternative payphones were 192 metres away at Oaken Ground (for Exeter Road payphone), 284 metres away in High Street (for North Street payphone) and 630 metres away in Mantle Street (for Swains payphone). On the proposition of Councillor Byrne, seconded by Councillor Bowrah, it was agreed to accept the removal of the three payphones as proposed by BT.
12480 LICENSING TRANSFER FOR CO-OP STORENotice was received of the licensing application for the transfer of the justices licence for the Co-operative Store, Longforth Road, Wellington to James Peter Meakins, Carole Dawn Samuel and Paula Smith, the application being heard by the magistrates on 21st October 2003. The notice was noted.
12481 REMEMBRANCE SERVICESA letter was received from the Wellington branch of the Royal British Legion inviting the chairman and members to the three services of Remembrance in November 2003, namely the Field of Remembrance Service at Wellington Baptist Church on Sunday, 2nd November at 11.45am, the Remembrance and Poppy Laying Ceremony in Wellington Park on Sunday, 9th November at 3.30pm with the parade assembling at Wellington School at 2.30pm, and the Remembrance Service of 2 Minutes Silence in the centre of Wellington at 11am on 11th November. The letter was noted. The clerk reported that he had ordered 2 maroon rockets for firing to mark the start and finish of the 2 minutes silence.
12482 TRADERS LETTER ON VANDALISM, CCTV & PARKING CHARGESA letter was received from Wellington Chamber of Trade & Commerce stating that the increase in vandalism and yob culture was adversely affecting trading, that the highlighting of this problem in the Press was putting off new traders and consumers, and that the failure to complete the town centre CCTV was creating further problems and frustration. Businesses in the town had faced considerable pressure of late with numerous disruptions caused by roadworks. The time taken to recover from those recessions in trade was difficulty to quantify but was nonetheless real and significant. The chamber also felt that parking was difficult in Wellington and suggested that consideration should be given making the first hour of parking free in all car parks to make the short stay user more welcome. A similar letter had been sent to the police and Taunton DBC. It was agreed that the free parking proposal should be put on the agenda for the Wellington Economic Partnership meeting on 20th October 2003 when traders would be present and to consider the letter again at the November council meeting.
12483 CRIME & DISORDER ACT TRAINING DAYA letter was received from Avon and Somerset Police inviting the council to send a maximum of 2 representatives to a Crime and Disorder Act training day at Taunton on 26th November 2003. It was agreed that Councillors Gill and Warren should represent the council at the training day.
1954WELLINGTON TOWN COUNCIL 6TH OCTOBER 200312484 WEAVERS ARMS LICENSING NOTICENotice was received of the licensing application for the transfer of the justices licence for the Weavers Arms, Rockwell Green to James Matthew Taylor, the application to be heard by Taunton Deane magistrates on 21st October 2003. The notice was noted.
12485 WELLINGTON ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIPWith reference to minute 12452 the clerk reported that the meeting of Wellington Economic Partnership due to have been held on 15th September 2003 had been cancelled. The next WEP meeting would be on Monday, 20th October 2003 at 6pm. It was agreed that partnership agenda should include Taunton Deane Local Plan inspector’s report; possible redevelopment off High Street behind the Kwiksave Store; and Wellington Chamber of Trade’s suggestion for free parking for the first hour in the town’s three public car parks.
12486 PLANNING DECISIONS BY TAUNTON DEANE BOROUGH COUNCILThe clerk reported that Taunton DBC had approved the following plans: (a) Erection of two storey extension to side of 23 Beech Hill, Wellington as amended by plan no. Steer PA/222/05/03 received 13th August 2003 (43/2003/076: delegated decision); (b) Internal works to form office accommodation, Tonedale Mill, Milverton Road, Wellington as amended by letter dated 21st August 21003 (43/2003/077LB); (c) Erection of extension to 3 storey wing and extension to dwelling to form single storey swimming pool, Tonedale House, Wellington (43/2003/081); (d) Erection of 2 dwellings for residential self-catering use, Tonedale House, Wellington (43/2003/082); (e) Erection of first floor extension, including dormer window to side, and single storey extension at 3 Mornington Park, Wellington (43/2003/085: delegated decision); (f) Erection of single storey extension and cellar/storeroom at Wellington Arts Centre, Eight Acre Lane, Wellington (43/2003/086: delegated decision); (g) Erection of two storey extension, Wellington House, Longforth Road, Wellington as amended by letter dated 27th August 2003 with accompanying drawing no 1541-05A (43/2003/087: delegated decision); (h) Erection of a conservatory to rear of 36 Richards Close, Wellington as amplified by agents letter dated 20th August 2003 (43/2003/088: delegated decision); (i) Erection of first floor extension with balcony to side of 80 Millstream Gardens, Wellington (43/2003/089: delegated decision).
12487 COMMENTS TO TAUNTON DBC ON PLANNING APPLICATIONSIt was agreed to inform Taunton DBC that the town council was in favour of the following planning applications: (a) Erection of one new dwelling on land adjoining 1 Riverside, Wellington (43/2003/090); (b) Erection of 2 detached dwellings and formation of vehicular access thereto, land to the east of Windyridge, Payton Road, Wellington (43/2003/098: resubmission of 43/2003/017); (c) Demolition of existing warehouse and erection of block of 14 flats, former Haymans Coalyard, Higher Westford, Wellington (43/2003/099: resubmission of 43/2003/018: it was agreed to state that the town council is concerned at the traffic implications of extra vehicles using the Rockwell Green-Westford Road which has no footway: traffic calming may be necessary); (d) Erection of industrial building to replace existing building which is beyond economic repair, Rylands Farm Industrial Estate, Bagley road, Wellington (43/2003/100: a letter was received from Mrs D. Land, of Westlands, Bagley Green, stating she wanted to see the same hours of working, hoped the colour of the building would be green and wanted to see the landscaping conditions kept: Councillors Critchard and Govier declared an interest and left the chamber while this application was considered); (e) Retention of trellis structure at side of 2 Cox Road, Wellington (43/2003/101). 1955WELLINGTON TOWN COUNCIL 6TH OCTOBER 2003
12488 COUNCIL INCOME/EXPENDITURE TO 30TH SEPTEMBER 2003A report was received from the clerk showing that the council’s income for the period from 1st April 2003 to 30th September 2003 was £43,202 (£86,078 estimated for the full year to 31st March 2004) and that expenditure for the same period was £33,554 (£104,720). The report was noted.
12489 ACCOUNTS FOR PAYMENTOn the proposition of Councillor Bowrah, seconded by Councillor Warren, it was agreed to pay the following accounts and to authorise the signing of the following cheques: Eden Foods £175 for buffet for carnival reception; The Cheese and Wine Shop of Wellington £138.18 for drinks for carnival reception; Mr A. Brown £1,497.16; Inland Revenue £616.88; Custom Plastics £70.21 for new town council opening hours notice; The Carly Press £49.98 for files, dividers, envelopes and ink cartridge; Taunton DBC £15.94 for gas from April to June 2003; SWEB £5.85 for electricity for street lighting; Judith Goss Florists £30 for flowers for war graves for July and September 2003.
12490 ADDITIONAL STREET SIGN FOR ARDWYNCouncillor Byrne reported that visitors to Ardwyn found it difficult to find the property they were looking for because of the lay-out of the estate and the lack of clear numbering. She suggested and it was agreed that a sign stating odd numbers 1-15 should be erected under the appropriate existing Ardwyn street sign.
12491 CARNIVAL NIGHT RECEPTIONCouncillor Warren thanked the chairman for hosting the successful carnival night reception for civic and carnival guests on 27th September 2003.
12492 OVERHANGING BRAMBLES: BUCKWELL/SCOTTS LANECouncillor Hindley reported that overhanging brambles on the footpath between Buckwell and Scotts Lane had caused problems to pedestrians. The clerk reported that the brambles had now been cut back. The report was noted.
12493 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 4th, 11th, 18th and 25th September 2003; Community Update newsletter for September 2003 from Somerset Community Council; Thatch magazine for Autumn 2003 from Somerset Community Council; Taunton Deane Council for Voluntary Service summer 2003 newsletter; National Association of Local Councils’ direct information service bulletins nos. 562 and 563; Zurich Municipal (council’s insurers) Courtcircular newsletter for September 2003; Lillebonne Town Council’s municipal magazine for September and October 2003; Lillebonne’s new town guide; annual review of South West of England Regional Development Agency; European Union newsletters on Objective 1 funding and on structural funds for electronic communications.
THE MEETING CLOSED AT 9.25PM
posted by Wellington Town Council @ 2:43 AM
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