Benington Parish Council Meeting
12 May 2010 8.00 pm
Benington School

Minutes

Present:                      H E L Jones (Chair)
                                    K Grundy
                                    V Robinson                                     

In attendance:            P C Harrison (Clerk) and 6 members of the public.

12.     Apologies:    R A Bott, J Presland and S Mackey

13.     Presentation by Burning Issue Group of Ware

          Opposing Biffa’s plans for an incinerator at Westmill. 
      
14.     Declaration of Interests :  None

15.     Minutes of the last meeting

a)         Acceptance

• The minutes of the Parish Council Meeting held on 12 May, 2010 were  accepted as an accurate record and signed by the Chairman.

• The minutes of the Annual Meeting held on 12 May 2010 were accepted as an accurate record and signed by the Chairman.  

b)         Review of Actions

• Pot holes on Whempstead Road by Lordship Arms. Completed
  
  
• Pot holes on Whempstead Road just past No: 90.  Reported and scheduled by Highways to resolve as soon as road closure authority is given, possibly 6 to 8 weeks.  Road will be closed for half a day.
  
  
• Notice in Parish Magazine regarding dogs fouling village footpath. Cllr Jan Presland to follow up and place article in magazine.    

c)         Actions Outstanding

• Quotes for works to War Memorial. Chairman to pursue.

• Clerk to write to Greene King Brewery re overgrown hedge. Completed, Greene King have instructed leaseholder to cut the hedge.

• Damage to village pond and blocked drain.  This area has been inspected by Highways and is on the list of works to be done.

• Birch tree root on footway in Town Lane. Reported, but not considered a

      hazard as it is not over the path.

16.     Benington Eleemosynary Trust

          It was proposed by the Chairman and seconded by Cllr Ken Grundy to re-elect Sarah Cotton to stand for a further 4 years as a Trustee of the Benington Eleemosynary Trust. 

17.     Roads: Nothing to report.

18.     Planning

18.1     Decisions

19.     Recreational Facilities:  Nothing to report.

19.1     Playground:   Nothing to report.

20.     School

Cllr Ken Grundy reported that numbers have increased; one of the reasons for this is the introduction of the pre-school which feeds the main school. The numbers leaving for middle school are down this year as children going to Stevenage schools now appear to be getting their first choice.

21.     Finance

21.1     Expenditure 13.05.10 to 14.07.10

21.2     Accounts for the first quarter of 2010/11 attached.

22.     Correspondence Received
     
         a)  Police Authority Hertfordshire – Setting Neighbourhood Policing Priorities.
               Circulated.

        b)  East Herts Council - Annual Playground Safety Inspections 2010.
               Clerk responded and playground inspection scheduled.

        c)  East Herts Council LDF Core Strategy Issues and Options Consultation.            
              Circulated.  
 
        d)  East Herts Council, Building Control Consultancy.  The Chairman read out  the above letter concerning the vent pipe on 72 Walkern Road.  This letter  has been copied to Ms Santer and no further action will be taken.

23.     Members’ Points of Information

Cllr Vic Robinson requested a notice be placed in the Parish Magazine asking residents to remove their wheelie bins from the road after rubbish collection.

Cllr Grundy suggested that as the village notice boards were rather full of private advertising, the public be charged a nominal amount for this service.  This suggestion to be discussed when all members of the Council are in attendance.

The Chairman reported that the bus shelter near the village green has now been repaired.  Also, Page & Watts have put a new piece of cedar in the eaves of all bus shelters to reinforce this area which is being damaged by juveniles.

24.     Date of next meeting:    
 Wednesday, 8 September 2010.
The Chairman closed the meeting at 9.15 pm.

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Annual Parish Meeting
12 May 2010 following the Parish Council Meeting
Benington School

Minutes

Present:                      H E L Jones (Chair)                J Presland
                                    R A Bott                                 V Robinson            
                                    K Grundy                                S Mackey                               
                                                           

           
01.     Apologies:  None

02.     The minutes of the Annual Parish Council Meeting held on Wednesday, 13 May    2009 were accepted as an accurate record and signed by the Chairman.
         
03.     Annual Parish Report

The Chairman read out the Annual Parish Report for the year 2009/2010.

04.     Accounts

The Chairman presented the accounts (unaudited) for the year 2009/2010, a copy of which is also attached to these minutes.

05.     Question Time

Topics discussed:

Volunteers were requested for the painting and mending of seats throughout the village.
Mr Don Heyworth from the floor offered to paint and mend a seat along with the Chairman and Cllrs Bott, Grundy and Vic Robinson.

06.     Members’ Points of Information

It was reported that the sign at the bottom of Three Stiles had been vandalised.  It was suggested that a vandal proof sign be put in place.

The Chairman closed the meeting at 8.45 pm.

Benington Parish Council Meeting
12 May 2010 8.00 pm
Benington School

Minutes

Present:                      H E L Jones (Chair)                R A Bott
                                    K Grundy                                J Presland 
                                    V Robinson                             S Mackey                                           

In attendance:            P C Harrison (Clerk) and 6 members of the public.

01.     Apologies:    None
02.     Declaration of Interests :  None
03.     Minutes of the last meeting

a)         Acceptance

The minutes of the Parish Council Meeting held on 10 March, 2010 were  accepted as an accurate record and signed by the Chairman.
          
b)         Review of Actions

• Large pot hole in High Elms Lane. Completed.
• List of pot holes and road problems compiled for Highways. Completed.
• Chimney Stack on new Page & Watts building. It was agreed that the chimney stack is acceptable. Page & Watts were required by East Herts Listed Buildings to put a chimney in place.
• Clerk to write to Greene King Brewery re overgrown hedge.  No reply has been received.  The Clerk to pursue this matter.
• Damage to village pond and blocked drain.  This area has been inspected by   Highways and is on the list of works to be done.  The Clerk to check status.
• Birch tree root on footway in Town Lane.  Reported but not completed.  Clerk to check status with Highways.         
  

c)         Actions Outstanding

Quotes for works to War Memorial. The Chairman reported that he had found a company supplying SIKA 31 products which could be useful in the treatment of repairs to the war memorial.  The Chairman to liaise with Robin Mills.

04.     Roads        
          Highways to be informed of the following:

• Pot holes on Whempstead Road near the bus shelter by the Lordship Arms.
• Pot holes on Whempstead Road just past No: 90.

05.     Planning
There were no planning applications to be discussed. 
The Chairman raised the question of  74 Whempstead Road where a car port was
boarded in and brought forward 3 metres.  Retrospective planning for this building was dismissed, along with the appeal. The Enforcement Officer requested that the building be reduced to its original length.  The building has been reduced, but not to the original roof line.  It was resolved to write to East Herts about this matter.

06.     Recreational Facilities
Cllr Jan Presland reported that the portacabin had been vandalised once again and arrangements were being made for its removal from site.  The football pitch will no longer be let to visiting football clubs as there will be no changing facilities, therefore no income will be forthcoming.  Funding has not become available to supplement the £70,000 already in place to build the new pavilion. 

06.1     Playground:   A new contractor has been appointed to cut the grass in the
playground, and it will be cut more regularly than in the past.  A meeting took place to discuss the playground project, and it was agreed that there was not enough equipment in the playground for older children.  Cllr Jan Presland reported that the Youth Club were invited to look at brochures for new equipment, but all items were exceedingly expensive.
Mr Trevor Waldock, East Herts Council has offered to look into grants for the playground and Cllr Presland to put together costs for equipment, seating and picnic benches.    

07.     School
Cllr Grundy reported that the 5 year term for the mobile classroom extension has been extended.  The numbers for the school are the highest they have ever been, and the school budget is on target. A vegetable patch is being worked by the children and a wildlife area is being developed.  The walking bus is proving to be a great success and has won an award.  A Maths Challenge was won by a team of four pupils from the school against six other local village schools. The children were allowed to sit their SATs examinations as they were well prepared.  All children leaving the school obtained their first choice for senior school.      

08.     Finance
08.1     Expenditure 10.03.10 to 12.05.10

08.2     Accounts for the fourth quarter attached.

09.     Correspondence Received

a). East Herts Council – Changes to frequency of dog bin emptying 2010/2011.  It was agreed that the dog bins would be monitored to see if any were under used

b). East Herts Council – Local Plan ‘Saved Policies’ 6 April, 2010. The Chairman circulated letter

c). Mary Santer, re neighbouring chimney.  The Chairman read out Miss Santer’s letter.  It was agreed to refer this complaint to East Herts with a copy to Miss Santer.

10.     Members’ Points of Information
Cllr Vic Robinson reported that the litter pick on Good Friday was very well attended and 60 bags of rubbish were collected from around the village.

Cllr Jan Presland met the Dog Control Officer regarding the fouling of the footpath in Blacksmiths Hill and Three Stiles.  A note is to be put in the Parish Magazine asking people to report dog owners who allow their dogs to foul the footpath.  Cllr Presland also reported that the cinder path in Blacksmiths Hill and Three Stiles had been cleaned.         

11.     Date of next meeting:     Wednesday, 14 July 2010.

The Chairman closed the meeting at 8.25 pm.

Annual Meeting of Benington Parish Council
12 May 2010, 7.30 pm
Benington School

 Minutes

Present:                      H E L Jones (Chair)                J Presland
                                    R A Bott                                 V Robinson
                                    K W Grundy                           S Mackey                                           

In attendance:            P C Harrison (Clerk) 6 members of the public.          
________________________________________________________________________

Apologies:  None
1.  Election of Chairman and signing of Declaration of Acceptance of Office
      Lloyd Jones asked for nominations for the election of Chairman.
      Cllr Ken Grundy nominated Lloyd Jones.
      Cllr Vic Robinson seconded the motion and all present were in favour.  Lloyd Jones                                               was duly elected and signed the declaration of acceptance of office.

2.  Election of Vice-Chairman and signing of Declaration of Acceptance of Office       
      Cllr Ken Grundy nominated Richard Bott for the election of Vice-Chairman.
Cllr Jan Presland seconded the motion and all present were in favour.  Richard Bott                              was duly elected and signed the declaration of acceptance of office.

3.  To fix the amount of the Chairman’s allowance in pursuance of section 15(5) of  
     the Local Government Act 1972
     The Chairman’s allowance was agreed at £50.00.

4.  To fix the dates and times of ordinary meetings of the Council for the ensuing
       year
      It was agreed that the ordinary Parish Council meetings would be held on the 2nd
      Wednesday, every other month, throughout the year.  Dates as follows:

            14 July 2010                8 September 2010                   10 November 2010

           12 January 2011           9 March 2011                          11 May 2011

      These dates may be subject to change.
      All meetings to be held at 8.00 pm except the Annual Meeting on 11 May, 2011          which will commence at 7.30pm.

The meeting closed at 7.45 pm.

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Benington Parish Council Meeting
10 March 2010 8.00 pm
Benington School

 Minutes

Present:                      R A Bott (Chair)                     K Grundy
                                    V Robinson                             S Mackey                                           

In attendance:            P C Harrison (Clerk) and 6 members of the public.
MANPAD Project Team -  PC Ben Thomas and PCSO Sarah Jayne Peklivanas.

63.     Apologies:  Apologies received from Lloyd Jones and Jan Presland.

64.     Presentation by MANPAD Project Team

65.     Declaration of Interests :  None.

66.     Minutes of the last meeting

a)       Acceptance

• The minutes of the Parish Council Meeting held on 13 January, 2010 were accepted as an accurate record and signed by the Chairman. 

b)         Review of Actions

• Salt bins on Church Hill and Three Stiles to be refilled. Completed
  
  
• Report danger of Church Hill to Highways.  The clerk reported this matter to Highways and their response was that as there had only been 5 reported accidents in the last 3 years, 2 of which were serious, they would not be carrying out an inspection of this area.

• Playground Meeting.  Cllr Richard Bott has arranged a playground meeting with Trevor Waldock, Jan Presland and interested member of the public who is to be contacted, for Tuesday, 13 April 2010.
  
  
• Notices reference network of volunteers to help parishioners in severe weather conditions. This matter to be dealt with by Lloyd Jones on his return, as the worst of the weather now seems to be over.

c)         Actions Outstanding

• Quotes for works to War Memorial. Chairman to pursue.

67.     Roads
          Highways to be informed of the following:

• Large pot hole in High Elms Lane, opposite Cotton Lane.
  
  
• The list of pot holes and road problems compiled for Highways and Cllr Giles Scrivener’s inspection last week to be also reported on the www.hertsdirect.org/highwayfaults hotline.

68.     Planning
68.1   Decisions

68.2     Applications dealt with during the preceding month, but not discussed at the
            Parish Council Meeting.

68.3     Planning Issues

Concern was expressed with reference to the chimney stack on the new building by Page & Watts on the Walkern Road.  The clerk to re-circulate plans.

69.     Recreational Facilities
Cllr Shelagh Mackey reported that there is still much to discuss regarding the proposed
new pavilion and a new Committee needs to be set up.
The clerk was asked to place a notice in the Benington Parish Magazine for volunteers
to sit on the new Committee.
 
69.1     Playground:  
Meeting arranged for new playground project as stated under review of actions 66(b).
           
70.     School
Cllr Ken Grundy reported that the school has invested in a new sound system, lockers, computers and playground equipment.  The remaining funds have been put aside for the new central heating system which should be installed by this summer.

Cllr Shelagh Mackey reported that there are 16 spaces available for next year and the school has been oversubscribed with 33 applicants.  The children in the village have been offered a place at the school.

71.     Finance
71.1   Expenditure 14.01.10 to 10.03.10

71.2     Annual Audit risk assessment register.
            A risk assessment register drawn up by the clerk, based on the
            auditor’s recommendations, was presented to Councillors.

71.3     Review of effectiveness of internal audit document.
            A Review of effectiveness of internal audit document drawn up by the clerk,
            based on the auditor’s recommendations, was presented to Councillors.

71.4     Appointment of qualified internal auditor to complete Section 4 of
            the Annual Return.
            It was resolved to appoint Helen McCash of McCash and Hay, Accountants
            as internal auditor.     

72.     Correspondence Received     
a).Hertfordshire Council re Modification Order 2009 The Chairman summarised the above letter to the meeting. No action is necessary.

b).Robin Mills reference World War 2 Memorial Fund
It was resolved to return the funds held by the Parish Council for the World War 2 Memorial Fund so that the British Legion could make a Memorial Board to all those Benington people who served in the 1939-1945 war.

c).Hertfordshire County Council re: Speed Management Strategy
The Chairman read out the above letter and directed anyone interested in the reviewed strategy to view online at www.hertsdirect.org/ltp (scroll        down to ‘Speed Management Strategy’).

d).River Beane Restoration Association – Parish Council Grant
The Chairman explained the work of the River Beane Restoration Association. It was resolved to support this work and unanimously agreed     to grant the £25.00 requested.

73.     Members’ Points of Information

The Clerk was asked to write to Greene King Brewery regarding the overgrown hedge next to The Bell car park.

Cllr Vic Robinson mentioned the problems the building lorries were causing to the kerb and verge opposite Lingfield, Whempstead Road.  The clerk reported that the owners of Lingfield had given their assurance that they would undertake to make good all damage when the building work had finished.

Concern was expressed regarding the state of the fence on the village pond and also the blocked drain in that area, possibly caused by the Weeping Willow tree.  The clerk to report to Highways urgently as the broken fence is a danger to children.

Cllr Robinson reminded the meeting about the annual Litter Pick which is scheduled as usual for Good Friday, 02 April, 2010 meeting at 2.00 pm on The Green. Equipment will be provided for all volunteers, but Cllr Robinson advised people to bring their own gloves.

74.     Public Participation

A member of the public reported a large Birch tree root making the footway hazardous outside 17 Town Lane.  The clerk to report to Highways.

75.     Date of next meeting:
The next meeting will be the Annual Meeting on Wednesday, 12 May 2010 which will start at 7.30 pm in the school, followed by the Parish Council Meeting.
           
The Chairman closed the meeting at 9.30 pm.

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Benington Parish Council Meeting
13 January 2010 8.00 pm
Benington School

 Minutes

Present:                      H E L Jones (Chair)                R A Bott
                                    V Robinson                             J Presland
                                    K Grundy                                S Mackey

52.     Apologies:  

53.     Declaration of Interests :  None.

54.     Minutes of the last meeting

a)       Acceptance

The minutes of the Parish Council Meeting held on 11 November, 2009 were accepted as an accurate record and signed by the Chairman.

b)       Review of Actions

None.

c)        Actions Outstanding

Quotes for works to War Memorial. Chairman to pursue.

55.     Roads        

Highways to be informed of the following:

Salt bins on Church Hill near the new extension to the churchyard and at the entrance to Three Stiles are empty and need to be refilled.

Concern was expressed regarding the danger of Church Hill not only duringsevere weather conditions but also under normal conditions as this road is used by the school bus. It was resolved to ask Highways to come out and inspect the
road to see what could be done to improve this area.

56.     Planning

56.1   Decisions

56.2     Applications dealt with during the preceding month, but not discussed at the
            Parish Council Meeting.

57.     Recreational Facilities

Cllr Presland reported that the mobile unit on the recreation ground had been broken into. 

It was suggested that a new Committee be formed to oversee and plan the new building for the Recreation Club.  A notice is to be placed in the Parish Magazine and on the notice boards for members.
 
57.1     Playground

Playground meeting still to be arranged with Mr Trevor Waldock, East Hert Council Environment Inspection Officer, Councillors and members of the public.

58.     School

Cllr Bott reported that new steps and a ramp have been built. The Chairman announced that an application has been submitted to East Herts Council for the retention of the mobile classroom unit.  It was also reported that the playground has been expanded and new play equipment is being put in place.

Cllr Grundy pointed out that the situation at the beginning of term, when it was  discovered that no oil was available and the school had to be closed, was not the fault of the administration staff at the school.  Cllr Presland to put a note on this subject in the Parish Magazine.
         
59.     Finance

59.1     Expenditure 12.11.09 to 13.01.10

59.2     Presentation of Benington Parish accounts for the 3rd quarter of 2009/10.

59.3
The precept for 2010/2011 was approved and signed at the meeting.
The Chairman explained that the precept had not been increased for three years.  However, due to increased costs, and an additional grant of £500.00 for churchyard maintenance next year, the precept for 2010/2011 has been increased from £15,000 to £16,500.

60.     Correspondence Received
 
a) St Peter’s Church PCC – Churchyard Maintenance 01.12.09
The above letter requested an increase in the grant towards churchyard maintenance.  The Parish Council has increased the budget for 2010/2011 for churchyard maintenance from £2,500 to £3,000.

b) HCC, New Waste Treatment Facility 02.12.09
The above letter and attached newsletter on ‘The Future of Hertfordshire’s Waste was noted and circulated.

c) EHC, Draft Sustainability Appraisal Scoping Report 11.12.09
Cllr Bott to look into above report on the East Herts Council website.

61.     Members’ Points of Information

Cllr Shelagh Mackey asked the Parish Council if provision could be made through the Parish Council to help the elderly, infirm and parents with young children who may need help in severe weather conditions. A discussion ensued, and it was resolved to put a notice on the website, notice boards and Parish Magazine to ask for volunteers so that a network of people could be established and reached through contact with the Parish Council.

62.     Date of next meeting:     10 March, 2010.

The Chairman closed the meeting at 8.40 pm.

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Benington Parish Council Meeting
11 November 2009 8.00 pm
Benington School

Present:                      H E L Jones (Chair)                R A Bott
                                    V Robinson                             S Mackey
                                    K Grundy

39.     Apologies:  Apologies received from Cllr Jan Presland.

40.     The Chairman introduced Giles Scrivener, East Herts District Councillor for Ardeley, Benington and Walkern.

41.     Declaration of Interests :  None.

42.     Minutes of the last meeting

a)       Acceptance

The minutes of the Parish Council Meeting held on 09 September, 2009 were accepted as an accurate record and signed by the Chairman. 

b)        Review of Actions

• Pot holes in Whempstead Road.  Completed.
  
  
• Pot hole at the Aston crossroads. Completed.
  
  
• Hedge overgrown from school to village hall. Completed.
  
  
• Quotes for works to War Memorial. Not received.
  
  
• Dead wood in gutters throughout the village. Completed
  
  
• Blocked gullies just before Coombs Wood.
  Highways are not getting their jetter for gully cleaning until the new financial year due to funding difficulties, but have added this location to their list. 
  
  
• Contact EHC re rubbish bins in Town Lane.
  EHC have a list of assisted collections in Town Lane and assess the needs of residents on a property by property basis.  Residents should contact EHC, Waste and Re-cycling on: 01279 655261 if they have a problem with placing their black bin in the road.
  
  
• Neighbourhood Watch Scheme contact D. Heyworth. Completed.
  
  
• Meeting with Trevor Waldock re playground.
  Cllr Richard Bott to liaise with Trevor Waldock to arrange meeting.
  
  
• Contact Trevor Waldock re Health & Safety matters in respect of new equipment for the playground.
  There is no Health & Safety legislation for playgrounds, just standards, which the Parish Council are following. Equipment should be bought from a recognised manufacturer. 

c)        Actions Outstanding

• Litter Picking.
  The Chairman stated that there is approximately £200.00 remaining out of  the litter picking grant to employ somebody to litter pick.  As this is very little, it was resolved to look at increasing this item in the budget for next year’s precept.
  
  PC Paul Scott informed the meeting that if two people see someone discarding litter, and can get the number of their vehicle, a prosecution could be brought.

43.     Roads

Cllr Grundy suggested that a list be drawn up of roads in a bad state of repair to present to Highways at the beginning of the financial year.

Cllr Bott drew attention to Church Hill where many accidents have taken place, and suggested that if this road were to be re-surfaced it would help to reduce accidents.

44.     Planning

44.1    Decisions

44.2    Applications dealt with during the preceding month, but not discussed at the Parish Council Meeting.

45.     Recreational Facilities
Cllr Shelagh Mackey reported that the lease situation on part of the recreation ground was still on-going.  The report to the Charity Commission has been completed, and a couple of football clubs are interested in using the pitch.

45.1     Playground:
The Clerk presented the completed annual inspection report to the meeting.  A couple of items are in need of attention, and Mr Trevor Waldock, East Hert Council Environment Inspection Officer has offered to come and show how the equipment can be adjusted.

46.     School
The school has 95 children now enrolled.  Cllr Mackey stated that the Breakfast Club needs more support as only three children are attending at present.  The breakfast club starts at 8.00 am and there is no age limit. Hopefully more children will be recruited in the near future.  The walking bus, which is run by parents, has been a huge success and it is hoped that this will help reduce the parking problems at the school.

The Chairman announced that he is going to see the Headmistress regarding the parking situation, as the road is very dangerous in the morning.PC Scott said that he is unable to help as the cars are legally permitted to park outside the school.  PC Scott advised the Chairman to contact Fiona Ashdown the Dedicated Youth & Schools PCSO as she may be able to help.

47.     Finance

47.1     Expenditure

47.2     Income
Precept:           2nd payment of precept £7,500.00.
The Royal British Legion:       Cheque for £75.00 to be added to the War Memorial Fund.

47.3     Presentation of Benington Parish accounts for the 2nd quarter of 2009/10.

48.     Correspondence Received     

a).        East Herts Council, SLAA Call for sites update 28.10.09.

The Chairman summarised the above letter and read out the suggested sites within Benington Parish.  The Chairman stressed that the inclusion of a site in the Call for Sites process is NOT in any way an endorsement of a particular site for development, and at this stage the Council HAS NOT and CANNOT make any comment about the suitability of any site. Copies of the maps of suggested sites are available at the Council’s offices in Bishop Stortford and on the Technical Studies webpages of the Council’s website at www.eastherts.gov.uk/Idf.

b).        HCC Waste Development Framework – Consultation on Waste
            Development Plan Documents 2.11.09.

The above letter was circulated, and it was noted that these documents will be subject to public consultation commencing 2.11.09 to 18.12.09.

c).        Hertfordshire Highways, Future of Street Lighting in Herts 29.10.09.

The Chairman stated that the Parish Council owns almost all the street lights in Benington, and that many would need replacing within the next 10 years. Funds would therefore need to be allocated for this purpose.

d).        Stop Stansted Expansion, Request for Financial Support 19.10.09.

The above letter has been received asking Benington Parish Council to consider making an allocation from next year’s precept to support the Stop Stansted Expansion campaign. The Chairman said that the Parish Council would give this some thought.

e).        HCC (Little Munden16 and Benington 42) Modification Order 6.10.09.

The Chairman summarised the above letter and the Modification Order is available and on public display until 20 November, 2009.

49.     Any Other Business

The Chairman invited Giles Scrivener to present the cheque from East Herts District Council for £250.00 for Benington Youth Club.

The Chairman and the Parish Council thanked Cllr Scrivener.

50.     Public Participation

The Chairman invited Don Heyworth to talk about the local Neighbourhood Watch Scheme, as requested at our last meeting.  Mr Heyworth explained how the Neighbourhood Watch Scheme operates, and that the Buntingford Neighbourhood Team Newsletter is on the notice board in the village hall. Mr Heyworth updates the Newsletter when he receives ring master            calls regarding local crime.  An article will also be appearing in the Parish Magazine about Neighbourhood Watch.

PC Paul Scott, Neighbourhood Watch Co-ordinator from Buntingford Police Station reinforced Don Heyworth’s talk and encouraged residents to get involved. Packs on the Neighbourhood Watch Scheme can be obtained from Jill Dockley, Watch Liaison Officer.  The non-emergency number to ring to report something that has already happened is: 0845 3300222.  The Clerk to contact Peter Kingsnorth to put this number on the website.

PC Scott reported that there had been a 23.6% drop in crime, but asked people to be vigilant and report anything suspicious.  Rural poaching is a current problem and also hare coursing.  Other rural issues include illegal off-roading and fly tipping.

A member of the public Mr Dean Bearpark, expressed concern, as whilst walking  along a footpath with his two year old child and dog which was on a lead, cattle in the same field     stampeded towards him and his family. Cllr Bott, whose family own the cattle, offered to walk across the field with Mr Bearpark to put his mind at rest that the cattle were safe and would not be a danger to people.

The Chairman gave notice that the wind turbine appeal would take place as follows:

Tuesday 8th and Wednesday 9th December, Wallfields, Hertford.
Monday 14th December, Castle Hall, Hertford.
Tuesday 15th and Wednesday 16th December, Wallfields, Hertford.
Friday 18th December, Wallfields Hertford.

51.     Date of next meeting:     13 January, 2009.      

The Chairman closed the meeting at 9.20 pm.

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Benington Parish Council Meeting
09 September, 2009 8.00 pm
Benington School

Minutes

Present:                      H E L Jones (Chair)                J Presland
                                    R A Bott                                 V Robinson
                                    K Grundy                                S Mackey

27.     Apologies:  None

28.     Declaration of Interests :  None

29.     Minutes of the last meeting

a)         Acceptance

The minutes of the Parish Council Meeting held on 08 July, 2009 were accepted as an accurate record and signed by the Chairman.

       
b)         Review of Actions

• Pot hole outside Finches Farm.  Completed.
• Broken fence around village pond on the Walkern side. Completed.
• Pot Hole outside 1 Town Lane. Completed.
• Uneven path outside Robinson’s Cottage. Completed.
• Path outside 90-102 Town Lane in bad state of repair.  This item is on Highways list for future funding.

c)       Actions Outstanding

• Notice Boards.  All erected and in use.
• Overgrown village pond. Completed.
• Advertisement in Parish Magazine re litter picking.  The Parish Council to consider this item at a later date.

30.     Roads

Cllr. Richard Bott announced that next year parking for the Chilli Festival will be on the farm.

Highways to be informed of the following:

• Pot holes in Whempstead Road.
• Pot hole at the Aston crossroads.

The hedge running from the school to the Village Hall needs cutting.  The owners to be contacted.

31.     Planning

31.1     Decisions

31.2    Applications dealt with during the preceding month, but not discussed at the Parish Council Meeting.

32.     Recreational Facilities:

Nothing to report.

32.1     Playground:

Cllr Richard Bott stated that the playground is inspected weekly and is in good condition.

33.     School

Cllr. Shelagh Mackey reported that 95 children were enrolled this term.  The breakfast club is up and running.  The school is also looking to set up a walking school bus to ease parking.  This will be started once a week on a Thursday, and if successful will increase to two days per week.

34.     Finance

34.1     Expenditure

34.2     Income

VAT Repayment         £669.87

         
34.3     Presentation of audited annual return for the year ended 31 March, 2009.

35.     Correspondence Received

a)  Quotation from Mr B F Parker for works to War Memorial 19.07.09.

The above quotation was discussed and it was agreed that further quotes should
be obtained.

b)  HCC Transport – Annual Progress Report 2008/09.  Circulated to councillors for information.

36.     Any Other Business

Cllr Bott summarised an email received from Mary Walsh, Neighbourhood  Manager, South Anglia Housing Association, regarding 11 Three Stiles which has been designated for shared ownership.  The Harris fencing will be removed, but the window security grills will remain in place.  The garden will be tended  whilst works are in progress and until the property is sold.  No indication was given as to when this work will be undertaken.

Cllr Vic Robinson reported that gutters throughout the village were littered with  dead wood from fallen tree branches.  The Clerk to report this matter to Highways.

It was reported that residents of Town Lane have received notification from East Herts Council to the effect that if they do not place rubbish bins in the road they will not be collected. The Council agreed that this is not acceptable, and the Clerk to ring Jackie Bruce, Environmental Services regarding this matter.

Cllr Presland stated that the equipment in the children’s play area needed to be improved.  The Clerk to contact Trevor Waldock regarding Health and Safety matters in respect of new equipment.  The Clerk also to contact Tony Oakley when in receipt of playground inspection emails from Cllr Bott reporting that the grass needs cutting. 

The Bell Public House is investigating the possibility of having a village shop in one of their outbuildings.  The Parish Council agreed that a shop is much missed in the village and that The Bell would have the Council’s full support in this venture.

Cllr Vic Robinson mentioned the school parking problem in the village, and suggested that parents be allowed to use the Village Hall parking area and a ‘lollipop lady’ be engaged to see children across the road.  Cllr Presland commented that the Afternoon Club now also increases traffic.

37.     Public Participation

A member of the public asked for more seating and perhaps picnic tables in the playground area.  Cllr Presland suggested that a project be put in place to look at the playground to see what could be done to improve this area.  It was agreed  that a meeting with Trevor Waldock, Councillors, and a parent from the village be arranged to look into this matter.

Mrs Fiona  McClure requested that a Neighbourhood Watch item be put on the agenda every few months.  It was suggested that the Council contact Don Heyworth, organiser of the Benington Neighbourhood Watch Scheme, to write an article for the Parish Magazine on this subject as this would be a better way of communicating the scheme rather than through Parish Council Meetings.

Mr Tony Nolan reported that the repairs to the pot holes on the Whempstead Road, just before High Elms Lane, travelling from Benington are still not satisfactory.  This is despite numerous reports to Highways and emails to Raj Goutam of Highways.  Mr Nolan also reported blocked gullies just before Coombs Wood on the Whempstead Road.  The Clerk to report both matters to Highways.

38.     Date of next meeting:     11 November, 2009.

The Chairman closed the meeting at 9.00 pm.

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Benington Parish Council Meeting
08 July 2009 8.00 pm
Village Hall

 Minutes

Present:                      H E L Jones (Chair)                J Presland
                                    R A Bott                                 V Robinson            
                                    K Grundy                                S Mackey                               
                                                           

15.     Apologies:  Apologies were given by the Chairman on behalf of Cllr. Jan Presland for late arrival.
         
16.     Declaration of Interests

Cllr. Richard Bott declared an interest in item 24 Wind Farm Application, and confirmed that he would leave the meeting when this item came up for discussion.

17.     Minutes of the last meeting

a)         Acceptance
The minutes of the Parish Council Meeting held on 13 May 2009 were accepted as an accurate record and signed by the Chairman.

Cllr. Ken Grundy asked about the notice boards that were mentioned in the previous minutes.  The Chairman confirmed that these were currently being made at a cost of £300.00 each, and would be erected within the next two weeks.
 
b)         Review of Actions

• Pot hole outside Finches Farm.  Highways have looked at this problem and have noted that the road is showing signs of sinking, possibly due to a swallow hole.
  An order has been raised by Highways to investigate.
  
  
• Broken fence around village pond on the Walkern side.  The temporary barrieron the pond has been removed and the fence repaired.  The fence on the Walkern side is still in need of repair.  The Clerk to report this matter to Highways.

c)       Actions Outstanding

• Overgrown village pond.  The Chairman and Cllr. Bott to investigate now that the temporary barrier has been removed.
  
  
• Tiles on bus shelter.  Completed
  
  
• Advertisement in Parish Magazine re litter picking.  The Parish Council to consider this item at a later date.

18.     Roads

Highways to be informed of the following:

• Pot hole, possibly a Swallow hole, outside No. 1 Town Lane.
  
  
• The path outside Robinson’s Cottage, near the Village Hall needs levelling.
  
  
• The path outside Nos: 90-102 Town Lane is in a bad state of repair.
  
  
• The path in Oak Tree Close in a bad state of repair.

19.     Planning

19.1     Decisions

19.2     Applications received.

An application for planning has been received for 70 Whempstead Road.  The Chairman stated that this would be circulated for Councillors’ comments.

19.3    Applications dealt with during the preceding month, but not discussed at the Parish Council Meeting.

20.     Recreational Facilities  

Cllr. Shelagh Mackey said that there was no news regarding funding, but hoped to have something to report for the next meeting.

The Chairman stated that a fence needs to be put in place to stop children entering the recreation club ground.

20.1     Playground: 
 
The annual playground safety inspection is due to take place this week.       

21.     School
         
The school is pursuing the renewal of the planning application for the temporary    building which currently houses the pre-school.  The current permission expires in May 2010. The school is also pursuing with the County Council a grant for a replacement classroom Cllr. Ken Grundy, however, expressed concern that funds may not be available to go ahead with this project in the current climate.        
         
22.     Finance

Expenditure

22.2     Income

1st Payment of precept April 2009      £7,500.00

Litter picking grant 30 June 2009          £877.78

         
22.3     Accounts for the first quarter

The accounts for the first quarter were presented to the meeting.

22.4    
Cllr. Vic Robinson asked the meeting for retrospective approval for an extra  £20.00 to be paid to Tony Oakley for cutting and strimming the grass around the bus shelter and seats.    
It was resolved to pay Tony Oakley £20.00 for this service.

23.     Correspondence Received

The Chairman read out a letter received from Mr Robin Mills regarding the Benington War Memorial. 

Cllr Richard Bott offered to obtain a price for repairing the War Memorial and all agreed that out of respect the War Memorial should be kept in good repair.

It was resolved that a quote be obtained for repairs to the War Memorial.

A letter was received from East Herts Council regarding the Annual Playground Safety Inspections 2009.  The Clerk confirmed that the safety inspection has been arranged.

24.     Wind Farm Application       

An application has been received from the SBWF (Stop Benington Wind Farm) for a sum of money to help fight the wind farm appeal.

The Chairman explained that the Parish Council is empowered under Section 137 of the 1972 Local Government Act to make such donations, grants etc., as it sees fit as long as it is for the benefit of the village and/or its residents.  This is limited in total to £6.15p per person on the electoral roll, year 2009/10.  Last year it was £5.85p. This would make a total of £4,180.00 available for such a grant.

The Parish Council already gives a grant to the Beane Valley Restoration Fund, therefore the greatest sum that could be granted to the SBWF would be £4,000.00.

Members of the public were invited to speak before a vote was taken on this subject. Questions were raised regarding the Parish Council’s position in contributing to fight the appeal of behalf of the residents of Benington.

Mr Keith Luetchford on behalf of the SBWF thanked the Council for their proposal of a grant of £4,000.00 and said that he would be very happy to accept if the Council voted in favour.  Mr Luetchford also answered questions from thefloor regarding the wind farm appeal and on progress made to-date by the SBWF on funding and other matters. 

The Chairman announced that the Public Enquiry is to be held from 8 to 11 December at the Council Offices, Wallfields, Hertford.

It was unanimously resolved to grant £4,000.00 to the SBWF to fight against the wind farm appeal.

25.     Any Other Business

There was no other business.

26.     Date of next meeting:   9 September, 2009 in Benington School.

The Chairman announced that the next meeting would start at 7.00 pm with a briefing by East Herts Council on alternate refuse collections.  An article will be placed in the Parish Magazine, and notices on the notice boards regarding the content of this briefing.
           

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Annual Meeting of Benington Parish Council
13 May 2009, 7.30 pm
Benington School

 Minutes

Present:                      H E L Jones (Chair)                                       
                                    K W Grundy                                             
                                    J R Presland
                                    A V Robinson
                                    S Mackey

In attendance:            P C Harrison (Clerk) 12 members of the public approx.
                                    Sgt Duncan Wallace PCSO Jo Alston and
________________________________________________________________________

Apologies:  Cllr Richard Bott apologised for late arrival.

1.  Election of Chairman and signing of Declaration of Acceptance of Office

Lloyd Jones asked for nominations for the election of Chairman.

Ken Grundy nominated Lloyd Jones.

Cllr Vic Robinson seconded the motion and all present were in favour.  Lloyd Jones was duly elected and signed the declaration of acceptance of office.

2.  Election of Vice-Chairman and signing of Declaration of Acceptance of Office
       
Lloyd Jones nominated Mr Richard Bott for the election of Vice-Chairman.

Mrs Jan Presland seconded the motion and all present were in favour.  Richard Bott was duly elected and signed the declaration of acceptance of office.

3.  To fix the amount of the Chairman’s allowance in pursuance of section 15(5) of the Local Government Act 1972

The Chairman’s allowance was agreed at £50.00.

4.  To fix the dates and times of ordinary meetings of the Council for the ensuing year

It was agreed that the ordinary Parish Council meetings would be held on the 2nd      Wednesday, every other month, throughout the year.  Dates as follows:

            8 July 2009                  9 September 2009                   11 November 2009

           13 January 2010           10 March 2010                        12 May 2010

These dates may be subject to change.

All meetings to be held at 8.00 pm except the Annual Meeting on 12 May, 2010 which will commence at 7.30pm.

The meeting closed at 7.45 pm.

Benington Parish Council Meeting
13 May 2009 following the Annual Meeting
Benington School

 Minutes

Present:                      H E L Jones (Chair)                J Presland
                                    R A Bott                                 V Robinson            
                                    K Grundy                                S Mackey                               
                                                           

01.     Apologies:  None
         
02.     Declaration of Interests :   None

03.     Minutes of the last meeting
a)         Acceptance

•  The minutes of the Parish Council Meeting held on 11 March 2009 were accepted as an accurate record and signed by the Chairman.
  
  b)         Review of Actions

• Pot hole outside Finches Farm. Reported but not resolved.
• Two large pot holes in car park, Blacksmith’s Hill.  Completed.
• Four pot holes in the entrance to Three Stiles. Completed.
• Pot Hole in Town Lane outside No. 35. Completed.
• Gravel and grit in Shummery Lane.  Completed.
• Pot holes outside 92A Town Lane.  Completed.
• Recreation Club land held on lease from Benington Park Farm.

               A meeting has been arranged with Peter Leach.

c)   Actions Outstanding

Overgrown village pond, temporary barrier still in place.
Quote from Page & Watts re new notice board. Two notice boards to be erected for the sum of £300.00 each.  One is to be erected next to the bus shelter at the  bottom of Stoopers Hill.  The Methodist Chapel has agreed to allow the other new notice board to be placed on the Chapel wall replacing the old wooden single notice board.
The Chairman apologised for the delay in the repair of tiles to the bus shelter. This will be done as soon as possible.
Advertisement in Parish Magazine re litter picking.  Discussion still ongoing re amount of money available.

04.     Dog Waste Bins

The Chairman read out the attached report on the use of dog waste bins in the village.  It was resolved to keep all the dog bins and review the situation in 3 months.

05.     Roads        

Highways to be informed of the following:

• The fence around the village pond is broken on the Walkern Road side.
• The fingers on the Aston crossroad sign are pointing the wrong way.

06.     Planning

The Chairman announced that East Herts Council have received an appeal against the refusal of the wind turbines at the level of public enquiry.  An initial date of November has been suggested, however the inspectorate may require it to be sooner.  Results will be known 10 to 12 weeks after this date.

06.1     Decisions

06.2    Applications dealt with during the preceding month, but not discussed at the             Parish Council Meeting.

07.     Recreational Facilities           
         
Nothing to report, the Committee is still applying for grants.  The Committee is also still awaiting quotes for fencing.         

07.1     Playground:  
           
Cllr. Richard Bott is inspecting the playground once a week to check that everything is in good order.  It was noted that additional facilities have been requested in the Parish Plan.  

08.     School

The Green Travel Plan is in place and Cllr. Presland requested that the school would appreciate a visit from the Community Police Officers.

09.     Finance

09.1     Expenditure 

Approval was given for the following accounts:

09.2     Accounts for fourth quarter
The accounts for the fourth quarter were presented to the meeting.

09.3     Annual Return
The annual return for the year ended 31 March, 2009 was approved by the council  and signed at the meeting.

10.     Correspondence Received

            a).  East Herts Rural Parish Conference 27 May 2009 Programme.
            b).  Email from Robin Mills re War Memorial Lawn.
            c).  Equality and Human Rights Commission.
            d).  Email of thanks from RBRA Dave Stimpson for donation.
            e).  Hertfordshire County Council, Transitional Period for the Commons Act
                  2006 1st Oct 2008 – 30 Sept 2009.          

11.     Policing Issues

The Chairman welcomed Sgt Duncan Wallace, PCSO Jo Alston and PCSO Becky Rousell to the meeting.

Cllr. Jan Presland asked if anything could be done about the traffic problem created at drop off and collection times outside the school.  Jo Alston suggested that a police presence at drop off and collection time may help to improve the parking situation. It was also suggested that Martin Hickman, Traffic Management Officer at Buntingford Police Station be asked to look into a designated parking area for the school. The Council was also informed that the school does have a dedicated youth and schools PCSO Fiona Ashdown who is based at Buntingford.

Sgt Wallace gave a report on rural policing issues; reported crime is down for the whole of East Hertfordshire by 20%, Walkern and Benington down by 25%; this is for the period April 2008 to 2009.  Paul Scott is our rural constable dealing with crime in the area and anti-social behaviour.

Residents were encouraged to ring the police if they noticed anything strange in the village, and also if strangers were knocking at doors.  An item is to be put in the Parish Magazine by the police stating the following contact number: 01707 354192 for Jo Alston and her colleagues.  This number is backed up by voicemail and any message will be picked up within 4 hours.

It was suggested in the Parish Plan that Benington should be served by a more local police station, such as Stevenage. The Council was informed that Benington would have to come under the Borough of Stevenage for this to be possible.

The Chairman requested speeding checks in the village and Sgt Wallace agreed to pass on this request to Paul Scott.  It was also agreed that Jo Alston and Becky Rousell would stand out with a police speed gun, and although unable to give tickets, would write to people using excessive speed.

The Council requested a police presence at the annual village fair. The Clerk to give the date to Jo Alston.

The Chairman thanked the police officers for their help over the last 12 months.

12.     Parish Plan

The Parish Council has met and discussed a plan of action to implement the recommendations in the Parish Plan that are the responsibility of the Parish Council.  A plan of action document is attached to these minutes.

13.     Any other business

Drainage in Three Stiles.

The Clerk to contact Martin Hook, Circle Anglia with regard to the results of tests that were carried out on the drainage in Three Stiles and also future plans.

14.     Date of next meeting: 8 July, 2009 at 8.00 pm.

The Chairman closed the meeting at 8.30pm.

Annual Parish Meeting
13 May 2009 following the Parish Council Meeting
Benington School

 Minutes

Present:                      H E L Jones (Chair)                J Presland
                                    R A Bott                                 V Robinson            
                                    K Grundy                                S Mackey                               
                                                           

           
01.     Apologies:  None
         
02.     Annual Parish Report

The Chairman read out the Annual Parish Report for the year 2008/2009, a copy of which is attached to these minutes.

03.     Accounts

The Chairman presented the accounts for the year 2008/2009, a copy of which is also attached to these minutes.

04.     Question Time

Topics discussed:

The Council were asked about their response to the Parish Plan.  The Clerk circulated the Parish Council’s Action Plan which is attached to the Parish Council Meeting Minutes.  Cllr Grundy stated that not all the actions attributed to the Parish Council were necessarily the Parish Council’s responsibility, particularly the request for more adult social activities in the village.

Concern was expressed about the parking problem in Town Lane.  Large vehicles were being parked along this stretch of road making it extremely difficult for drivers to see oncoming traffic.  It was suggested that yellow lines along the beginning of this stretch of road may help to solve the problem. PCSO Jo Alston to be contacted to see if the police could speak to the owners of the large vehicles.

It was requested that more information regarding the work of the Parish Council be published in the Parish Magazine.  The Chairman replied that the minutes of all meetings are sent to the editor and publication is at the editor’s discretion.  Cllr Ken Grundy mentioned that when the new notice boards are erected the minutes would be displayed on the more central one to the village.

Mr Robin Mills asked about the upkeep of the War Memorial in the churchyard, reference his email to the Parish Council.  The Chairman replied that the Council were in contact with the DAC (Diocesan Advisory Committee) to establish whether or not the Parish Council is responsible for the upkeep of the War Memorial.

The Parish Council were asked their intentions regarding future strategy to the appeal against refusal of the wind turbines.  The Chairman responded that the Parish Council had only received information about the appeal that afternoon and consequently nothing had yet been decided.

05.     Any other business

It was announced that the Village Hall has received a grant of £6,000 towards renovations.

The Chairman closed the meeting at 9.15pm.

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Benington Parish Council Meeting
11 March, 8.00 pm
Benington School

 Minutes

Present:                      H E L Jones (Chair)                J Presland
                                    R Bott                                     V Robinson            
                                    K Grundy                                S Mackey                               
                                                           

The Chairman welcomed Cllr Giles Scrivener to the meeting

56.     Apologies:  None.
         
57.     Declaration of Interests :   None

58.     Minutes of the last meeting
a)         Acceptance

•  The minutes of the Parish Council Meeting held on 27 January, 2009 were accepted as an accurate record and signed by the Chairman.
  
  b)         Review of Actions

• Chairman to arrange repair of tiles to bus shelter, Stoopers Hill.  The Chairman hopes to do this work in the near future.
• Pot hole outside Finches Farm. Reported but not resolved.
• Flooding near entrance to Parish Hall. Completed.
• Flooding on Whempstead Road near Coombs Wood. Completed.
• Flooding on Walkern Road. Completed.
• The Clerk to write to Highways re gritting Church Hill. Completed.
• Recreation Club enquiry re land held on lease from Benington Park Farm. Lease has not been signed.  Cllr Mackey to contact Stephen Leach.   
• The Clerk to write to Nigel Watling re church organ fund. Completed.
• Jan Presland to reply to Sharon Jones, Sanctuary Hereward. Discussions with Sharon Jones on-going. Sanctuary Hereward will be writing to the Parish Council.
• 2009 Inter-Parish Conference, Clerk to write to Aston Parish Council. Completed.
• The Clerk to write to Jenny Cobb re PC’s decision to apply on behalf of Parish Hall for Grass Roots funding, and also PC’s contribution towards the re-surfacing of the car park. Completed.
• Note in Parish Magazine regarding dogs fouling pavements. Completed.
• Advertisement in Parish Magazine re litter picking.  To be placed in April edition of Parish Magazine.

c)   Actions Outstanding

Overgrown village pond, temporary barrier still in place.
Quote from Page & Watts re new notice board. Two notice boards to be erected for the sum of £300.00 each.  One next to the bus shelter at the bottom of Stoopers Hill.  One near the Chapel and Lordship Arms, exact area to be decided.
Playground – attention needed to spring train. Trevor Waldock to repair as soon as possible.

59.     Benington Website

Ernest Doe paid approximately £2000.00 for the Benington Village Website to be set up. The Parish Council has decided to invite people to advertise on the website for the sum of £52.00 per year.  Cllr. Richard Bott has signed four people to advertise at present, and the Parish Council intend to try and increase this number.
           
Peter Kingsnorth currently maintains the website and has suggested a nominal fee of £40.00 per month for general updating and maintenance.  The website name is paid up until 2010.  The budgeted figure for the website is currently £200.00 p.a., but a more realistic figure is £500.00 p.a.  The Chairman stated that the extra revenue from advertising would, hopefully, help to cover costs.

It was resolved to pay Peter Kingsnorth £40.00 per month for general updating  and maintenance of the website.          

60.     Roads

Highways to be informed of the following:

• Two large pot holes in the last car park at Blacksmith’s Hill.
• Four pot holes in the entrance to Three Stiles.
• One pot hole in Town Lane just before Three Stiles outside 35 Town Lane.
• Gravel and grit in Shummery Lane, down towards the T junction.

The result of recent flooding.

• Pot holes outside 92A Town Lane.
• Pot holes outside Finches Farm.

61.     Planning

61.1    Applications dealt with during the preceding month, but not discussed at the             Parish Council Meeting

62.     Recreational Facilities

          Nothing to report.

62.1     Playground:   Nothing to report.

63.     School

It was reported that out of nine school leavers eight got their first choice and one his/her second choice.  JAR (Joint Area Review) is due next month on the financial audit. A questionnaire sent out to parents by the school received a very good response.

            No news has been received as yet on the replacement for the mobile classroom.

64.     Finance

64.1      Expenditure 

Approval was given for the following accounts:

64.2     Annual Audit risk assessment register.
            A risk assessment register drawn up by the Clerk, based on the
            auditor’s recommendations, was given to Councillors for review and
            consideration.

64.3     Review of effectiveness of internal audit document.
            A Review of effectiveness of internal audit document drawn up by the Clerk,
            based on the auditor’s recommendations, was given to Councillors for
            review and consideration.

64.4     Appointment of qualified internal auditor to complete Section 4 of
            the Annual Return.
            It was resolved to appoint Helen McCash of McCash and Hay, Accountants
            as internal auditor.
           
65.     Correspondence Received

a)         BDO Stoy Hayward LLP 7.02.09 – Annual Audit Return 2009
            Local Council Briefing (see Finance 65.2 to 65.4).
b).        River Beane Restoration Association
            The Council agreed to donate £25.00 for environmental improvement to the
            River Beane Restoration Association.
c)         Nigel Watling (Email) 15.02.09 – Churchyard Maintenance
            The Chairman read out an email from Nigel Watling requesting an increase in
            the Parish Council’s contribution towards churchyard maintenance.  It was
            agreed to increase the precept next year to cover a larger contribution towards
            churchyard maintenance.
d)         East Herts Rural Parish Conference 27.05.09 – 20.02.09
            The Chairman has attended this meeting in the past and encouraged other
            Councillors to attend.  Agenda and details to follow.
e)         Jenny Cobb, Benington Parish Hall – 23.02.09
            The Chairman read out a letter from Jenny Cobb reference the cost of re-surfacing
            the Parish Hall Car Park.  Tony Nolan was invited to give his opinion on the cost
            and type of material proposed to re-surface the car park.
            It was resolved to grant the full amount requested of £776.25.
f)         East Herts Council – Annual Charge for dog bin emptying 25.02.09

Concern was expressed re the high increase in the charge for dog bin emptying. Cllr Richard Bott proposed that the Parish Council ask for the dog bins to be removed from the village.  The Clerk to contact Ian Sharratt to see if this is a possibility.  This item to be put on the agenda for the next meeting.

 
g)         Raj Goutam – Gritting of Church Hill 03.03.09

The Clerk read out an email in response to the Parish Council’s request for Church Hill to be gritted.  Raj Goutam to pass our request on to colleagues who deal with the salting routes. Cllr Giles Scrivener offered to look into this on behalf of the Parish Council.

66.     Any other business

Cllr Presland reported that she has received complaints regarding the parking situation in the village on the Snowdrop weekends. Concern was expressed that the amount of cars parked may cause an accident to occur with cars trying to get in and out of the Village.  Cllr Bott suggested that cones be placed along the road from The Bell Public House to Three Stiles. It was also suggested that the school car park could be hired for the weekends in question, particularly the three Sundays.  It was recognised that the Snowdrop weekends generate business for The Bell Public House and the Church, but safety was in question and needed to be addressed.

A proposal has been put forward by the Governors of Benington Primary School to try and reduce the congestion that occurs in the vicinity of the school in the mornings and afternoons. The Chairman explained the proposal in brief to the meeting, and invited the general public to give their opinion.  A discussion ensued and the Parish Council agreed to consider this proposal in more depth. The Chairman stated that the Parish Council would not be able to grant this proposal, but could put it forward for consideration to Highways. (Full details of the proposal can be found here ).

67.     Date of next meeting:

The next meeting will be the Annual Meeting on Wednesday, 13 May 2009 at 7.30 pm in the school, followed by the Parish Council Meeting.

The Chairman closed the meeting at 9.20 pm.

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Benington Parish Council Meeting
27 January 2009, 8.00 pm
Benington School

 Minutes

Present:                     H E L Jones (Chair)              J Presland
                                   R H Bott                                S Mackey
                                   K Grundy                                                                   
                                   A V Robinson

In attendance:            P C Harrison (Clerk)  9 members of the public approx.

42.     Apologies
          Apologies for absence were received from Cllr Richard Bott.

43.     Declaration of Interests :   None

44.     Minutes of the last meeting
a)         Acceptance

• Page 2 Item 37. School second paragraph reads:

      The application for the portable building at the back of the school, currently the                 pre-school, to become a permanent structure has now been sent to planning.
      This should read:
      The application for the portable building at the back of the school, currently the
      pre-school, to become a permanent structure has now been sent to Herts County
      Council for an allocation for a grant to build.

• The minutes of the Parish Council Meeting held on 12 November, 2008 were amended and accepted as an accurate record signed by the Chairman.

b)         Review of Actions

• Follow up reported pot holes Three Stiles: completed.
• Report on playground, attention needed to spring train: Cllr Robinson reported that Trevor Waldock would be attending to this item in the Spring.   
• The clerk to write to Barbara Follett re mobile post office: completed.
• Overgrown village pond to be inspected by Council.  Council to inspect when temporary barrier is removed, and fencing repaired by Highways.
• The clerk to contact insurance company re BMX ramp: completed.  Email received from Allianz insurance outlining their rules and regulations for installation of BMX ramp.  Passed to Cllr Richard Bott for consideration.
• Chairman to arrange repair of tiles to bus shelter: completed. Tiles

      are now missing from the bus shelter at the bottom of Stoopers Hill.  The                                        Chairman to arrange repair.

• Pursue quote from Page & Watts re notice board. Formal quotation not yet received.

• Follow up reported street light out on bus stop at Church Green: completed.
• Follow up leaves on path from school to duck pond: completed.
• Owner of The Old Rectory to be contacted re overgrown hedge: completed.
•    The Chairman to speak to Jenny Cobb re Grass Roots Funding grant.  Refer to item 50 h).

45.     Freedom of Information Act – Model Publication Scheme

It was resolved to adopt the Model Publication Scheme.
The Guide to Information for Benington Parish Council available under the Model                   Publication Scheme was also agreed.       

46.     Eleemosynary Trust

It was resolved to nominate Harry Bott as a trustee of the Eleemosynary Trust to serve for a further 4 years of office. 

47.     Roads

Highways to be informed of the following:

• Large pot hole outside Finches Farm, opposite No: 5 Town Lane.
• Flooding near the entrance to the Parish Hall on the Walkern Road.
• Flooding on the Whempstead Road just before Coombs Wood.
• Flooding on the Walkern Road (Shummery Lane) due to blocked gullies.

      
Concern was expressed about the lack of gritting on Church Hill.  This road
is used by the Buntingford School Bus which collects children from Aston village as well as Benington.  It was resolved to write to Raj Goutam at Highways, copy to Aston Parish Council, about this situation.
         
48.     Planning

48.1    Decisions 

49.     Recreational Facilities

The Recreation Club’s application for a grant from the CFA is still on-going but offers have been received from Youth Grants.

It was reported that problems are being caused by people driving over the football pitch.  To resolve this problem quotes are being received to erect a fence around the football pitch incorporating a lockable gate with disabled access.  One quote received is in the region of £1000.00. It was agreed that the football team is providing the only source of income for the Recreation Club at the present time, so keeping the football pitch in good condition is essential.  Concern was also expressed regarding drainage, as games had been cancelled due to a water logged pitch. Cllr Presland requested that the Parish Council grant payment for an invoice received from Seasons Groundscare for vertidraining the pitch for the sum of £700.00 plus VAT. 

It was resolved to grant the Recreation Club a maximum of £1800.00 exclusive of
VAT for fencing and vertidraining.

A question was raised as to whether part of the land used by the Recreation Club
was held on lease from Benington Park Farm.  It was resolved to enquire into this  matter.

49.1     Playground:   Nothing to report.

50.     School

The Pre-school is under new management, but personnel remain the same.

51.     Finance

51.1      Expenditure 

51.2     Accounts

          Benington Parish Council Accounts for the 3rd Quarter of 2008/2009 attached.

51.3     Precept for 2009/2010

            The precept for 2009/2010 was approved and signed at the meeting.
           
52.     Correspondence Received

a)         St Peter’s Church, Nigel Watling 18.11.08 – Church Organ.
            The Chairman stated that the Parish Council’s responsibility is for the churchyard
            and not the fixtures and fittings inside the church.  It was agreed, therefore, not
            to make a contribution towards the church organ .  The Clerk to write to
            Nigel Watling.

b).        Sanctuary Hereward 24.11.08 – Oak Tree Close.
            Letter passed to Richard Bott, copies also to be given to Peter Kingsnorth for
            posting on the Benington Village website and Jan Presland for reply to Sharon
            Jones, Area Housing Manager.
           Click here to view letter

c)         Sustainable Community Strategy Consultation Event on 21.01.09 letter dated
            22.12.08. 
            Councillors did not attend this event, therefore nothing to report.

d)         Barbara Follett 09.01.09 – Mobile Post Office.
            Letter stating that there are no further plans to establish an Outreach Service Point
            in Benington.  No further action.

e)         Grassroots Maintenance – 07.01.09.
            Passed to Cllr Jan Presland, as this Company may be of interest with reference
            to obtaining a quote for the fencing of the football pitch.

f)         East Herts Council – Chairman of East Herts Council Civic Awards Nominations
            13.01.09.  It was agreed to nominate Mrs Rita Plumb for this award.

g)         Aston Parish Council – 2009 Inter Parish Conference
            Decision to be made in due course as to numbers attending this Conference.
           Clerk to reply to Aston Parish Council by 2 March, 2009.

h)         Benington Parish Hall Committee – Jenny Cobb re funding for the Parish Hall
            Car Park and the Grass Roots funding scheme.
            The Parish Council resolved to apply on behalf of the Parish Hall for Grass  Roots            funding. 
            The Parish Council resolved to make a contribution towards the re-surfacing of
            the Parish Hall car park.

53.     Any other business

Cllr Vic Robinson informed the meeting that a new litter bin has been installed near the Lordship Arms, by Mr Trevor Waldock, East Herts. Council. Also, the street light opposite High Elms Lane has now been replaced.

Complaints have been received regarding dogs fouling pavements and pathways throughout the village.  It was agreed to put a note in the next issue of the Parish Magazine about this problem.

Cllr Robinson has all the equipment for the annual Good Friday litter pick. Notices will be in the Parish Magazine and displayed on the notice boards giving times and meeting place.

The Parish Council has arranged a meeting to discuss the Parish Plan.  Councillors will be meeting to discuss action points designated as the responsibility of the Parish Council.

Concern was expressed with reference to the amount of litter throughout the village.  It was agreed to put an advertisement in the Parish Magazine to see if anybody would be willing to pick up litter for a small remuneration.

It was reported that Cllr Richard Bott has signed up four people to advertise on the village website.

54.     Date of next meeting:

The next meeting will be on Wednesday, 11 March, 2009 at 8.00 pm in the school.

55.     Public Participation

Nothing to report.
         

The Chairman closed the meeting at 9.20 pm.

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Benington Parish Council Meeting
12 November 2008, 8.00 pm
Benington School

 Minutes

Present:                      H E L Jones (Chair)                Apologies:   J Presland
                                   R H Bott                                                S Mackey
                                   K Grundy                                                                   
                                   A V Robinson
                                   

In attendance:            P C Harrison (Clerk)  9 members of the public approx.

32.     Minutes

The minutes of the Parish Council Meeting held on10 September, 2008 were accepted as an accurate record and signed by the Chairman.

It was agreed that in future a review of actions should be listed on the agenda, under minutes of the last meeting, to ensure continuity.

33.     Declaration of Interests :    None

34.     Roads

The Chairman reported on the recent meeting with Highways.  Burns Green was of particular concern due to the number of pot holes in that area.  At the present time Highways do not have the funds available, unless there is a priority due to health and safety reasons, to cover general road repairs. Cost is prohibitive, as the road being worked on would have to be closed and traffic lights erected. 

The Parish Council were informed of pot holes at the entrance to Three Stiles.  The Clerk confirmed that these have been reported and would be followed up.

35.     Planning

35.1    A Planning application for Lingfields, Whempstead Road was received.  The Chairman stated that this would be circulated to each Councillor for reading.

35.2     Decisions

36.1     Playground

The Clerk circulated the annual playground inspection report, the only item in need of attention is the spring train, which has a loose foot and also the paint is flaking.  The report was passed to Cllr. Robinson for action.

37.     School

It was reported that Foundation and Class 1 are full to capacity.  A diocesan inspection was carried out on 6 October to assess the Christian character of the school. The Church of England graded the school as outstanding.

The application for the portable building at the back of the school, currently the pre-school, to become a permanent structure has now been sent to planning.  Grants are needed for a new classroom for the pre-school. Cllr. Grundy stated that the pre-school is an important aspect of the school with regard to keeping numbers high, and therefore ensuring finance from Hertfordshire County Council.

38.     Finance

38.1      Expenditure 

Approval was given for the following accounts:     

38.2     Accounts

Benington Parish Council Accounts for the 2nd Quarter of 2008/2009 attached.

38.3     Audit for the year ended 31 March, 2008

A copy of the Audited Annual Return for the year ended 31 March, 2008 was received and noted.
Issues arising:  Comparatives Restated. No further action needed.

The Chairman announced that the accounts were now open for inspection by appointment with the Clerk.

39.     Any other business

The question of Benington having a mobile post office was raised.  The Clerk is awaiting a reply from the Post Office Consultation Team on this subject.  The Clerk also referred to a letter received from the Post Office Consultation Team, which stated that the Benington Post Office was closed because it was underused.  A discussion ensued as to whether it would be possible or feasible for a hosted post office to be available in the village.  It was resolved that this was not feasible as pensions could not be received from a hosted post office. The Clerk to write to Barbara Follett MP for her support regarding a mobile post office.

The overgrown village pond to be inspected by the Council during the next few days.

Cllr. Bott has been approached regarding the provision of a BMX ramp on the recreation ground.  Whilst Cllr. Bott, whose family own the piece of land in question, is happy for this to go ahead the question of insurance and liability was raised if an accident should occur.  The Clerk to contact the Parish Council’s insurance company on this matter, and Cllr. Bott to provide a map specifying the area concerned. It was also agreed that information should be sought from the insurance policy covering the Recreation Club and Ground.

It was reported that tiles were missing from the roof of one of the wooden bus shelters. The Chairman agreed to arrange for a repair to be carried out during the next few weeks.

Quotes have now been received for a new notice board to be installed next to the wooden bus shelter at the bottom of Stoopers Hill.  This notice board will be supported on posts with lockable double glass doors taking eight sheets of A4 paper.  Page & Watts have come in with the lowest quote of approx., £300.00. Other quotes ranged from £700.00 to £1,000.00.  It was resolved to pursue the quote from Page & Watts.

The Chairman also suggested that a new notice board be placed on the Methodist Chapel to replace the old one.  A more suitable place for this notice board would be on posts near the post box outside the Lordship Arms.  No definite decision was reached.

The East Herts Planning Committee has re-scheduled the date for the wind farm application.  The new unconfirmed date is 14 January, 2009.

The Parochial Church Council is in the process of purchasing the organ in St Peter’s Church which is on loan from the diocese. The Parish Council is considering the possibility of making a donation towards the new organ, and a letter has been sent to Nigel Watling, Secretary of the PCC to this effect.  The Chairman invited Revd Norman Plumb to give details of this purchase.  Revd Plumb explained that the new organ would cost £9,000 as it stands, but will need work done to put it in good condition.  The cost of repairs would be in the region of £1,000 to £2,000, but when in good order would be worth twice as much so therefore a good investment.  The Chairman asked if other avenues had been explored, and a discussion ensued on the possibility of purchasing a new electronic organ.  The donation from the Parish Council would not need to be made until June 2009, therefore it was resolved to defer a decision until next year by which time an agreed amount could be allocated in the budget.

40.     Date of next meeting:

The next meeting will be on Wednesday, 14 January, 2009 at 8.00 pm in the school.

41.     Public Participation

Parishioners asked that Highways be informed of the following:

Street light out on the bus stop at Church Green.

Leaves on the path from Benington School to the Duck Pond making the pavement very slippery and dangerous.

The Clerk stated that the above items had been reported, but would follow up.

Concern was expressed regarding the overgrown hedge belonging to The Old Rectory, 2 Walkern Road.  The owner to be contacted about this problem.

Revd Plumb informed the Council that Jenny Cobb, Parish Hall Committee, may have the possibility of a grant for the renovations to the Village Hall from Grass Roots Funding.  The Parish Hall is owned by the Church of England, therefore it is not possible for the Parish Hall Committee to apply for the grant as overall turnover needs to be less than £25,000 to be eligible.  It was suggested that application could be made through one of the clubs that use the hall, such as the Badminton Club or alternatively the Parish Council could apply on behalf of the Parish Hall.  The Chairman to speak to Jenny Cobb on this matter.

The Chairman closed the meeting at 8.55 pm.