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This page will contain minutes of 2004 Parish Council meetings:
MINUTES OF SHEVINGTON PARISH COUNCIL MEETING
Parish Council Statement Balances prior to meeting date:
'That the Accounts be approved and cheques signed in payment, due note given to Statements exhibited.' Proposed. Councillor Ball. Seconded. Councillor V Maloney. Unanimous 129 ) CLERK'S REPORT All Planning Applications requiring Members' attention had been brought to their notice. The WMBC Unitary Development Plan was available for inspection. Councillor Lister would read. The pathway through the Memorial Park had been disturbed whilst removing the felled tree and WMBC would make good. Shevington would feature in the March Edition of Lancashire Life. 130 ) DATE OF NEXT MEETING Parish Council 25 March Finance and General Purposes Committee 4 March There being no further business the chairman closed the Meeting at 9.05pm.
Thursday 27th May 2004 MINUTES OF SHEVINGTON PARISH COUNCIL ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING < HELD THURSDAY 27 MAY 2004 7.30PM SHEVINGTON LIBRARY Present; Councillors. A J Sudworth (Chairman), J Maloney, V Maloney, Miles, Whiteley, the Clerk (Holden) and two members of the public. 152 ) APOLOGIES Councillors, Ball, Lister, Parkinson, Shaw, District Councillor Brown. 153 ) ELECTION OF A CHAIRMAN 'Councillor A J Sudworth.' Proposed. Councillor V Maloney. Seconded. Councillor Miles. Unanimous 154 ) CHAIRMAN'S DECLARATION OF ACCCEPTANCE OF OFFICE Councillor Sudworth duly gave and signed the Declaration of Acceptance of Office of Chairman. 155 ) ELECTION OF A VICE CHAIRMAN 'Councillor J Maloney' Proposed. Councillor Sudworth. Seconded. Councillor Miles. Unanimous 156 ) MATTERS INTRODUCED BY MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC None 157 ) DISTRICT COUNCILLORS' REPORTS Councillor Brown in a letter reposted on the Joint Crime Awareness event of 24 April and the interest in Homewatch Schemes. The Police 'pod' would be sited in the village on 4 June. The Community Association had many planned events. 158 ) MINUTES OF LAST MEETING 'That the Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting of 22 April be approved as a true and correct record.' Proposed. Councillor V Maloney. Seconded. Councillor J Maloney. Agreed. 159 ) MATTERS ARISING Bowling Green Electric Supply The Grant application had now been reviewed by the Wigan Investment Centre and prepared for submission. Register of Interests Councillor Miles' Declaration of Interests had been submitted to the WMBC Solicitor as well as amendments for Councillor J Maloney. Recreation Ground Trustees. Methodist Church Car Park Fence Financial Aid Request. Councillor Sudworth advised that the Trustees had met but there were insufficient present to make a decision. Plus Publications, Town Guide Information received from the company advertising the services it can provide in producing a self financing Town Guide. An example was provided and Councillor J Maloney would follow up by requesting a copy of the Mawdesley Guide. Zurich Municipal Circular received from the Company advertising a Local Council Advisory Service, principally in the areas of Health and Safety, at an annual cost of £165. For the first time the Council's own insurer, Allianz Cornhill, had circulated information regarding insurance risk. Noted. Councillor Whiteley arrived at this time 7.40pm. Henry Alty Limited. The Parish Council had dealt with this agricultural supplier for many years and the Clerk had requested an Account. The Company had agreed and confirmation of the facility had been received. Fencing for Allotments Mr Dickinson had obtained two written prices for fencing from Messrs Ainscough's. For concrete posts with single concrete panels and timber panels £237.74 and for posts and all concrete panels £394.12. 'That the allotment fence be constructed from concrete panels.' Proposed. Councillor V Maloney. Seconded. Councillor J Maloney. Unanimous. Mr Dickinson was requested to confirm the order, arrange delivery and erect the fence at the earliest opportunity. Mileage Allowances. National Joint Council for Local Government Services allowances for mileage payments have been revised from 1 April. Councillors with cars from 1000-1199cc can claim 40.4p per mile and for 1200cc and above 50.5p outwith the Parish boundaries. The Clerk receives the same rate including journeys within the Parish. WMBC Mayor Elect Councillor J Hilton, Mayor elect, had invited the Chairman to a morning service at Haigh St David's on Sunday 27 June. The Banks Foundation Letter received from the Banks Foundation drawing attention to Landfill Tax Credits and their willingness to contribute to community projects. The offer arises from operations at Rigby Quarry. The Clerk would make further enquiries. Wigan and Leigh Council for Voluntary Service Circular received seeking nominations as Trustees for the Management Board. Wrightington, Wigan and Leigh NHS Trust The Trust has been circulating a voting membership advice to local residents which would allow for a vote each year for a patient nominee on the Membership Council. Allotment Skip This had been provided. LAPTC Membership Following discussion on continued membership the subscription for payment would be presented under Accounts. Christmas Trees Letter received from the Council's suppliers, Elveden, advertising their services for the supply of trees in 2004. Pest Control at Allotments Contrary to earlier reports the WMBC Pest Control had laid the bait on the allotment where the holder had taken his pet dog and they were in discussion regarding the plotholder's claim for vet care following the poisoning of the dog. 160 ) REPORTS FROM COUNCILLORS Councillor J Maloney advised that arrangements were in hand for discussions between Jean Gidman of Groundwork and the WMBC Rights of Way Officer regarding footpaths works. In the interim Groundwork were preparing costings. Councillor J Maloney advised that on 28th June there would be a health initiative 'Stepping Out' undertaken by Age Concern with a walk along the Leeds Liverpool Canal from Astley Bridge to Appley Bridge. The Navigation Inn to Appley Bridge would be at 3pm. Age Concern was now making home visits on four days a week in Shevington. 161 ) REPORTS FROM REPRESENTATIVES WMBC Standards Committee Councillor Whiteley advised that there had been no meeting and thus no opportunity to discuss any requirement for the Parish Council's Register of Interests to be submitted to the Committee as distinct from the requirement to submit Councillor Declarations to the Borough Solicitor. Youth Club Councillor Whiteley advised that the Youth Club AGM would be held on 17th June at 7.30pm and live entertainment would also feature. There had been an enquiry regarding clearance of smashed glass from around the Club premises which it transpired was in fact being cleared regularly by Mr Dickinson, without charge to the Youth Club. Shevington and District Community Association Councillor Whiteley advised that there would be another meeting held with the Grant submission team on 8th June. School Governors St Bernadette's Councillor Whiteley advised that arrangements had been made to retain her services as a Governor when legislation removes the automatic right to a place for a Parish Councillor on the Governing Body. 162 ) TO APPOINT REPRESENTATIVES TO OUTSIDE BODIES AND COUNCIL COMMITTEES No changes to existing representations were required. 163 ) TO REVIEW THE COUNCIL'S INSURANCE The Clerk summarised the details of cover provided by the Council's insurer, Allianz Cornhill PLC, and the substantial increase in premium to £2060.69. Members were coved for death compensation and temporary disablement age 75 limit; Public Liability; Property damage covering pavilions, toilet block, storage unit, street furniture, playground equipment, office equipment, mowing equipment, Chairman's Badge and Show trophies; Libel and Slander; Fidelity Guarantee; and Legal Expenses. 'That the cover provided by the Council's insurer be accepted and the premium of £2060.69 be paid.' Proposed. Councillor Whiteley. Seconded. Councillor V Maloney. Unanimous. Following the Annual Inspection of Parish Council property replacement values would be reviewed for next year's renewal. 164 ) TO REVIEW THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THE CLERK'S EMPLOYMENT The Clerk sought to defer this item to a future Meeting as no offer on a pay had been made by Local Government. Noted. 165 ) FINANCIAL AID REQUEST. ST ANNE'S CHURCHYARD DRAINAGE 'That to the Parish Council accepts the Finance and General Purposes Committee recommendation that the sum of £1000 be pledged to the St Anne's Churchyard drainage fund, which amount will be payable on commencement of the works.' Proposed. Councillor Whiteley. Seconded. Councillor V Maloney. Unanimous. 166 ) PLANNING APPLICATIONS A/04/61037 Gathurst Hall Farm. Storage of caravans. The owners of the former caravan site situated in Green Belt had applied for permission to store caravans behind planted screening. Members had no adverse comment to make. Noted. 167 ) ACCOUNTS M Holden Salary £ 490.31 M Holden Post, Mileage, Stationery, Telephone £ 76.32 Inland Revenue Tax and NI £ 210.92 A J Sudworth Chairman's Allowance £ 80.00 WMBC Allotment pest control £ 352.50 WMBC Skip Hire and emptying £ 112.92 LAPTC Annual subscription £ 742.97 Ainscough Ltd Materials £ 30.52 Kiwi Nurseries. Plants £ 48.00 Henry Alty Ltd Seeds, compost and weedcontrol £ 78.65 Rushton's Nurseries Plants £ 144.62 G&S Dickinson Bowling Green, normal hours and materials £ 2072.66 Total £ 4440.39 Parish Council Statement Balances prior to meeting date Capital Res. £ 25520.52 Business Res £ 68064.59 Current £ 1034.00 TOTAL £ 94,619.11 'That the Accounts be approved and cheques signed in payment, due note given to Statements exhibited.' Proposed. Councillor V Maloney. Seconded. Councillor Whiteley. Unanimous. 168 ) CLERK'S REPORT All Planning Applications requiring members' attention had been brought to their notice. 169 ) DATE OF NEXT MEETING Policy Committee 3 June Annual Meeting of the Parish 10 June Parish Council 24 June There being no further business the Chairman closed the Meeting at 8.50pm
MINUTES OF SHEVINGTON PARISH COUNCIL MEETING HELD THURSDAY 24 JUNE 2004 7.30 PM SHEVINGTON LIBRARY Present; Councillors. J Maloney, ( Chairman), Lister, Miles, V Maloney, Shaw, Whiteley, the Clerk (Holden) and two members of the public. 170 ) APOLOGIES Councillors, Ball, Parkinson, Sudworth, District Councillor Brown. 171 ) MATTERS INTRODUCED BY MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC
None
172 ) DISTRICT COUNCILLORS’ REPORTS None 173 ) MINUTES OF LAST MEETING 'That the Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting of 27May be approved as a true and correct record.' Proposed. Councillor Whiteley. Seconded. Councillor Miles Agreed. 174 ) MATTERS ARISING Bowling Green Electricity Grant Application acknowledged by Awards for All. St Anne’s Churchyard Drainage Letter of thanks received from the PCC in respect of the parish Council’s promise of £1,000 when the scheme commences. Allotments Plot Letter received from plotholder of plot 1 regarding the overhanging boundary trees. Whilst there is an agreement with WMBC not to remove the hedging there is no restriction on keeping them under control. Mr Dickinson was asked to trim the overhang back. Plot 1b is in an untidy and uncultivated state. The Clerk would send a warning letter. The Clerk was also asked to inspect the boundary fence in disrepair to the rear of 250 Miles Lane and which backs on to an allotment. Allotment Pest Control Letter received from the WMBC Community Protection Department regarding the suspected poisoning of a dog by rat bait. In summary the WMBC is offering to make a contribution towards the Vet fees notwithstanding that the dog should not have been taken on the allotment by the plot holder. Allotment Fence The concrete fence extension had been started and would be complete by the weekend. Tree Survey, Memorial Park The Clerk had written to one of the two tree surgeons who have been approached regarding the undertaking of a survey and remedial work as to when a written survey can be received. Methodist Car park Boundary In the absence of a decision by the Trustees of the Recreation Ground regarding their contribution to the required works the Clerk had written again to the Secretary of the Methodist Church and on this occasion had pointed out an alternative viewpoint that repairs to the surface and no fence might be a better alternative.
Log of safety maintenance In respect of the requirement of the Council’s Insurers for the Council to maintain a log of maintenance that would provide evidence of a safety consideration, Mr Dickinson had provided the first extract. Noted. Woods to the rear of Back Lane Whilst the Minutes of the Annual Parish Meeting would be noted latter in the Meeting the Clerk had received a summary of the history of access, or lack of it, from a local resident. A file on the matter was expected before the Council could give consideration to taking up the access issues. Licence Agreement Shevington Recreation Ground The Clerk had written to the WMBC Solicitor following up two telephoned requests for guidance in the preparation of a Licence Agreement that could be used by the Recreation Ground Trustees and the Parish Council to determine future maintenance by the Parish Council. Banks Foundation In respect of a potential grant from this Landfill Fund the Clerk had approached British Waterways with a view to establishing a Picnic Area on the Canal bank on the section between Gathurst Locks and the Navigation Inn in what was an explosive blast area of Roburite. The proposal was originally suggested in the 1970’s but refused on the grounds that public safety was at risk. Canal Swing Bridge at Appley Bridge The Clerk had written again to British Waterways seeking the latest update in this long period of closure. 175 ) REPORTS FROM COUNCILLORS Councillor J Maloney on behalf of other Councillors in attendance described a warm welcome and moving address by the Bishop of Blackburn when inducting Reverend Phillip Dennison as Vicar of St Anne’s. Councillors Shaw and Ball had attended the WMBC Mayor Making Ceremony. At this point the Chairman, on behalf of Members, congratulated Councillor Shaw on his election as District Councillor for Wigan West Ward 176 ) REPORTS FROM REPRESENTATIVES Youth Club Councillor Whiteley reported on a very successful and well attended AGM at which Councillor Lister had been elected President. Community Association Councillor Whiteley reported on the Community Association Meeting attended also by both Councillors Maloney, Councillor Lister the Clerk and Mr Dickinson. Progress was clearly being made on the building scheme proposals and in respect of the social aspects of the Association. A Diary of events would be made available shortly. As one of the organisers of the August bank Holiday Fun Day Councillor Whiteley sought Parish Council financial and practical assistance towards the costs of hiring a Bouncy Castle and a Ball Pool and for the use of the Council’s PA System. The Clerk advised members that it was in their power to do so and in view of the fact that there would be no Meeting in July a Resolution to assist would be acceptable without notice if a majority of those in attendance were agreed. Unanimous. ‘That the Parish Council donates the sum of £100 to the organisers of the Fun Day to meet the cost of the Bouncy Castle and Ball Pool.’ Proposed. Councillor V Maloney. Seconded. Councillor Shaw. Unanimous. The Council’s PA system would be made available to the organisers. School Governors St Bernadette’s Councillor Whiteley advised that the Governors had been overruled in maintaining her as a Minor Authority Governor after July 2006 but she could be retained as a Community Governor without a voting right as this is a State Aided School.. The voting right was in contrast to LEA Schools where a Community Governor will have a vote. Shevington Vale School Councillor J Maloney reported that the School had experienced a very successful Arts Week. 177 ) TO RECEIVE THE MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL PARISH MEETING ‘That the Minutes of the Annual Parish Meeting and the Clerk’s Report be received by the Council.’ Proposed. Councillor V Maloney. Seconded. Councillor Lister. Unanimous 178 ) TO REVIEW THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THE CLERK’S EMPLOYMENT The Annual pay settlement had not yet been determined and the Clerk sought deferment to the August Meeting. Noted. 179 ) PLANNING APPLICATIONS A/04/ 61510 Pumping Station, Back Lane United Utilities had submitted an application for a temporary site compound and some ground profiling opposite the pumping station on Back Lane. Work on site had already commenced. Noted. A/04/61153 Millbrook School WMBC had submitted an application for an extension to the front of the building. Noted. 180 ) ACCOUNTS
Parish Council Statement Balances prior to meeting date
‘That the Accounts be approved and cheques signed in payment, due note given to Statements exhibited.’ Proposed. Councillor V Maloney. Seconded. Councillor Shaw Unanimous. 181 ) CLERK’S REPORT All Planning Applications that require Members had been brought to their attention. Boundary Committee Report on Lancashire County Council Boundaries received. Cllr Lister to review. Audited Accounts of Open Spaces Society received. 182 ) DATE OF NEXT MEETING Parish Council 26 August Policy Committee 12 August There being no further business the Chairman closed the Meeting at 8.05pm
MINUTES OF SHEVINGTON PARISH COUNCIL EXTRA-ORDINARY MEETING HELD THURSDAY 2 SEPTEMBER 2004 7.30 PM SHEVINGTON LIBRARY Present; Councillors. J Maloney, ( Chairman) Ball, Miles, V Maloney, the Clerk (Holden) and two members of the public. 183 ) APOLOGIES Councillors, Lister, Parkinson, Shaw, Sudworth, Whiteley, District Councillor Brown. The Chairman advised that extra–ordinary meeting had been called to fulfil the business of the Meeting of 26 August which could not be held as there had been a lack of a quorum on Members. 184 ) MATTERS INTRODUCED BY MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC
None in attendance but a letter had been personally delivered on the evening of 26 th August. The letter from an allotment holder thanked the Council, Cllr Maloney, Mr Horridge and Mr Dickinson for the prompt attention to the provision of a concrete fence to alleviate the harassment of an adjoining householder. Noted.
185 ) DISTRICT COUNCILLORS’ REPORTS None 186 ) MINUTES OF LAST MEETING 'That the Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting of 24 June be approved as a true and correct record.' Proposed. Councillor V Maloney. Seconded. Councillor Miles. Agreed. 187 ) MATTERS ARISING WMBC Annual Report The Annual Report of the Wigan Borough Partnership had been received. Shevington Allotment and Horticultural Society Letter received thanking the Council for the erection of the fence at the Allotments. War Memorial Plaques Quotation received from Electopak Ltd, the Council’s long established provider of engraved signage, in response to the Council’s request for refurbishment, replacement, additional name engraving and fixing of plates for the War Memorial. A quotation had earlier been received from C Horridge. The Clerk advised that a Resolution without notice would be acceptable given the present indisposition of Councillors, the fact that the expenditure was already budgeted and the lack of time in having the plaques ready for Remembrance Sunday. The Council was not obliged to accept the lowest estimate. The pecuniary interest of Mr Horridge, a co-opted member of the Council’s Policy Committee had been previously noted and he was not in attendance at the Meeting. The Clerk provided Members with the detail of the request and the quotations of both providers, for refurbishment or full replacement, the latter being £635 from Electropak Ltd and £620 from C Horridge. ‘That the Council accepts the quotation of Electropak Limited for the provision of two replacement bronze engraved plates for the War Memorial in the sum of £635.’ Proposed. Councillor Ball. Seconded. Councillor V Maloney. Unanimous. British Waterways Picnic Area Letter received commenting on a proposal from the Parish Council for a picnic area off the canal towpath and bounded by the River Douglas on land to the East of the Navigation Inn. The Clerk was awaiting a response from the Banks Foundation regarding a the possibility of a grant towards the scheme. Generally the proposal found favour with British Waterways but they could not fund the project and would be reliant on a partnership proposal. The Clerk would progress in due course. British Waterways Swing Bridge Letter received in response to the continued closure of the Finch Mill swing bridge over the Canal. Funding was now available and engineers are planning to take the scheme forward. Council Audit The Audit of Accounts to 31 March 2004 would take place on 18 October which would mean that the Internal Audit would need to be arranged and presentation of Accounts to Members would take place at the September Parish Council Meeting. Councillor J Maloney agreed to attend the Internal Audit when arranged. Christmas Tree Lighting Letter received from WMBC advising that WMBC is in the process of creating a standard specification for festive lighting. In the immediate future, if lights and transformers were in need of replacement, then extra low should be purchased. Annual Best Kept Allotment Plot Cup Letter received from Shevington Allotment and Horticultural Society advising that the winner of a very close competition was Mr E Unwin who would receive a prize of £30. A judge’s fee of £30 would need to be refunded to the Society. Noted. Boundary Signs Letter received from WMBC regarding the parish Council’s proposal to erect replacement boundary signs. An example of signs chosen for Abram was included. The matter would be discussed further at a Policy Committee Meeting. Bowling Green Pavilion Electricity supply Letter received from ‘Awards for All’ advising that the Council had been unsuccessful in an application for a grant for the provision of electricity to the Bowling Green pavilion. Members were of a view that as this was a budgeted expense the Clerk should continue with arrangements with the contractor, Scouts and United Utilities. Licensing Agreement Shevington Recreation Ground No response by way of an example agreement received from WMBC Solicitor. Cllr J Maloney would raise directly. 188 ) REPORTS FROM COUNCILLORS Councillor J Maloney wished to thank Mr and Mrs Dickinson for their efforts in pumping out the flooded area skirting the War Memorial. Contrary to remarks in the local press the drainage worked perfectly and has done since the Parish Council undertook its drainage scheme a couple of years ago. The downpour had been prolonged on already sodden ground but the consequent flood drained away quickly at full bore through a 6 inch pipe to the main drain. The water on Old Lane itself would have drained away quickly if two WMBC grids in Old Lane had not been blocked. Reported to WMBC Drainage. Councillor J Maloney reported on the closure of Back Lane to take effect ‘temporarily from Monday’. As the closure was unspecific District Councillor Brown was seeking an answer to the question – How long? Councillor J Maloney reported on the Annual August Bank Holiday Footpath Walk organised for the Parish Council by the Ramblers Association. Twenty seven walkers turned out in poor weather and on behalf of the Council he wished to thank the organisers and Mrs S Vidler, Mrs Pauline Round and Cllr V Maloney for their work in providing refreshments. Councillor J Maloney reported that agreement has been reached with Groundwork Wigan and the WMBC Rights of Way Officer for two refurbishment schemes on Footpaths 7 and 7a, the total cost of which is around £9000 and a grant of £4500 will be available. Council contribution is already budgeted, half being held over from the last financial year. Councillor J Maloney anticipated that the Village Plan questionnaire would be distributed around the end of October. Councillor J Maloney reported on the Fun Day organised by the Community Association and the Youth Club. Bad weather had spoiled the day and this was a disappointment given the sterling work Councillor Whiteley and others had put in. The most disturbing feature of the day had been the yobbish and abusive behaviour of a small group of teenagers. 189 ) REPORTS FROM REPRESENTATIVES None. 190 ) TO REVIEW THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THE CLERK’S EMPLOYMENT The Clerk provided details of the Local Government pay offer accepted by the NALC covering the year from 1 April and financial years 2005 and 2006, the respective increments being 2.75%, 2.95% and 2.95% or higher cost of living index. ‘That the Clerks salary be increased from 1 April 2004 in line with the NALC guidelines.’ Proposed. Councillor V Maloney. Seconded. Councillor Miles. Unanimous. The Clerk advised that he was satisfied with his interpretation of the Conditions of Employment but that it would be prudent for the Council to review this interpretation of the Contract before appointing a successor. Noted. 191 ) ACCOUNTS
Parish Council Statement Balances prior to meeting date
‘That the Accounts be approved and cheques signed in payment, due note given to Statements exhibited.’ Proposed. Councillor Ball Seconded. Councillor V Maloney Unanimous. 192 ) CLERK’S REPORT All Planning Applications that require Members attention had been brought to their notice Wigan CVS mailing received. Members would be interested in meeting with the District Councillors regarding the new Ward Boundaries. The Mayor of Wigan would be attending the Library 10.15am 3 September to judge posters for the Community Association.
193 ) DATE OF NEXT MEETING Parish Council 23 September Policy Committee 30 September There being no further business the Chairman closed the Meeting at 8.45pm
MINUTES OF SHEVINGTON PARISH COUNCIL MEETING HELD THURSDAY 23 SEPTEMBER 2004 7.30 PM SHEVINGTON LIBRARY Present; Councillors. J Maloney, ( Chairman) Ball, Miles, V Maloney, Whiteley, the Clerk (Holden) District Councillor Brown and three members of the public. 194 ) APOLOGIES Councillors, Lister, Parkinson, Shaw, Sudworth, District Councillor Crosby. 195 ) MATTERS INTRODUCED BY MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC
None.
196 ) DISTRICT COUNCILLORS’ REPORTS District Councillor Brown advised that the police pod had been sited in the village again during the last weekend and the new Police Officer for the area, Allison Casey had been introducing herself. The next Township meeting is Tue 28 September preceded by a Risk Forum meeting. On Wed 29 th there will be another local meeting of interested parties to discuss with the Risk Team and the Police the continuing anti- social behaviour issues. The Community Safety Officers would be introduced to the community Association Committee at its next meeting. An emergency telephone number for the CSO would be made available to a small group of selected individuals. A Credit Union scheme will be launched locally in the first week in October. The Community Association would be looking to hold a Community Awards evening in November and would be looking for nominations to recognise contributors within our community. In respect of anti social behaviour discussion took place regarding anti-social behaviour orders, the issuing of reminders to tenants of their responsibilities in respect of behaviour and the formation of a Tenants and Residents Association to combat the issue. All agreed that by no means is the anti social behaviour issue of teenage yobs and drug and alcohol abuse restricted to the Council estate. The blocked drains in Church Lane would be investigated by WMBC engineers. 197 ) MINUTES OF LAST MEETING 'That the Minutes of the extra-ordinary Parish Council Meeting of 24 June be approved as a true and correct record.' Proposed. Councillor Ball. Seconded. Councillor Whiteley. Agreed. 198 ) MATTERS ARISING
Licensing Policy Councillor J Maloney would attend a WMBC organised Forum of interested parties on 29 September aimed at discussing the impact of new Licensing legislation. LAPTC The Annual General Meeting of the LAPTC would take place on 6 November at county Hall Preston. Resolutions and names of attendees would be required to be notified by 16 October. Advance notice of a Resolution in respect of fees had been received from a number of Councils and the Clerk would provide attendees at the next Finance and General Purposes Committee with a handout setting out the arguments for and against membership and the detail behind the Resolution. Spar Woodnook Road Transfer of Justices Licence notice received advising of an application to the Magistrates Court on 7 December. Noted. Public nuisance Letter received from a resident advising that an under aged motorcyclist and his father had both been riding motorcycles on the Parish Council car park at Whitehall, with all the attendant noise involved. The resident advises that the Police became involved (by who advised, unknown) and the riding stopped, clearly to the annoyance of the offenders. The riding having stopped but noise from the irate person and his family members continued for some considerable time after. It would appear this was not the first time that the car park had been used for the purpose of teaching the teenager to ride but the car park surface had not been damaged. Clearly the Council could not condone an illegal activity, allow a nuisance to disturb neighbours or have members of the public or their property endangered by activity should they chance upon misfortune in the car park. It was agreed without vote that the best course of action would be to write to the offending parent advising of the Council’s position disallowing future use. Community Association Logo The Mayor of Wigan, Cllr. J Hilton had attended Shevington Library the previous Friday to judge poster designs for a logo for the Community Association. An excellent morning, the chosen designs would be used for a letterhead logo and for an embroidered banner. 199 ) REPORTS FROM COUNCILLORS Councillor J Maloney reported that he had recently visited Barnard Castle and had seen a Streamer Festival. These banners had been hung in the street from lamp standards and had designs representing local organisations and trades. This could be tried to good effect in Shevington and something that the Parish Council or Community Association could promote. Noted. Mr Dickinson was called upon by the Chairman to update the Council on his meeting with Pat Shatlock of the Risk Forum regarding drug taking issues evident within the Memorial Park and to the rear of the Parish Rooms. Heroin, cocaine and drug related materials had been found regularly. What was concerning was that whilst reported to the Police on numerous occasions no direct action was evident. Police were however dealing with an incident regarding a crashed motorcycle which it was believed might have a link to drugs supplier. For the Parish Council’s part, any drugs found are destroyed and a gathering area for youths in the Memorial Park has had covering shrubbery removed. Noted. 200 ) REPORTS FROM REPRESENTATIVES Youth Club Councillor Whiteley advised that the Police had been informed of the behaviour of certain teenage individuals’ intent on disruption and those responsible for the recent tile damage on the Methodist Church roof. On behalf of M Hilton Councillor Whiteley enquired as to whether any member was aware of a WMBC Community Building use survey recently carried out, as the Youth Club building had not been included. Cllr Brown undertook to make enquiries. Community Association The Clerk advised that the next open meeting would take place on 28 th September Shevington Recreation Ground Trustees Councillor J Maloney advised that the AGM would take place on 30 th September. 201 ) PLANNING APPLICATIONS None 202 ) ACCOUNTS
The Clerk presented a set of internally audited accounts for the financial year ended 31 march 2004. Members were required to resolve that in their opinion the eight questions requested by the Auditor regarding adequate controls could be answered in the affirmative. This was agreed as the questions were answered one by one. ‘That the Accounts for 2003/4 be approved and that the Chairman and the Clerk sign the Accounts and Audit certification.’ Proposed. Councillor Ball. Seconded. Councillor Whiteley. Unanimous.
Parish Council Statement Balances prior to meeting date
‘That the Accounts be approved and cheques signed in payment, due note given to Statements exhibited.’ Proposed. Councillor Ball Seconded. Councillor Whiteley. Unanimous. 203 ) CLERK’S REPORT All Planning Applications requiring members attention had been brought to their notice. Wigan Council had advised that the Constitution document was now available. A Code of Conduct was now being proposed for Employees of Local Councils. The Clerk would report back after reading. 204 ) DATE OF NEXT MEETING Parish Council 28 October Finance and general Purposes Committee 7 October (not 30 th September as previously determined) There being no further business the Chairman closed the Meeting at 9.10pm
MINUTES OF SHEVINGTON PARISH COUNCIL MEETING HELD THURSDAY 28 OCTOBER 2004 7.30 PM SHEVINGTON LIBRARY Present; Councillor J Maloney (Chairman), Councillors Ball, Miles, V Maloney, Shaw, the Clerk (Holden) and two members of the public. 205 ) APOLOGIES Councillors, Lister, Parkinson, Sudworth, Whiteley, District Councillors Brown and Crosby. 206 ) MATTERS INTRODUCED BY MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC
None.
207 ) DISTRICT COUNCILLORS’ REPORTS None 208 ) MINUTES OF LAST MEETING 'That the Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting of 23 September be approved as a true and correct record.' Proposed. Councillor Ball. Seconded. Councillor V Maloney. Agreed. 209 ) MATTERS ARISING
Banks Trust Letter received from the Trustees advising that all grant funds had been allocated and that there would be none available for the bowling green electricity proposals or the suggested picnic area on the canal bank. Opsta Letter received from the Transport group drawing attention to the 2006/11 Local Transport Plans of LCC, MPTA and GMPTA. Noted. Age Concern Letter received highlighting the Charity’s work with Wigan Borough and in particular Shevington. The insight given into local resident cases investigated indicates that in excess of £20k in State benefits was now being correctly received just during the past year. There are of course many other activities undertaken such as filling out forms, consumer and utility company problems, help in accessing home improvement grants and in carrying out safety checks and electric blanket testing. The organisation sought financial aid from the Parish Council. Councillor J Maloney declared his interest in the Charity as Chairman of the Wigan Borough Age Concern and took no part in the discussion or vote that followed. The Clerk advised Members that as there was budgeted expenditure of £400 for this purpose he was prepared to accept a Resolution without notice, unless there was to be an Amendment for a greater sum, in which case the proposition and amendment would stand adjourned to the December Meeting. ‘That the Shevington Parish Council donates the sum of £400 to Age Concern Wigan in recognition of the Charity’s continuing good works for the benefits of residents within the Parish.’ Proposed. Councillor Ball. Seconded. Councillor Shaw. Agreed. LAPTC The Annual General Meeting would take place on 6 November at County Hall Preston. Wigan Borough Partnership Convention The Convention would take place on 4 February 2005 but there would be 5 Workshops during November for preparation of contributions to a Community Plan. Motorcycle Nuisance As requested the Clerk had written to a local resident requiring both himself and his son from reiding motorcycles on the Parish Council’s car park at Whitehall Park. 210 ) REPORTS FROM COUNCILLORS Licensing Councillor Maloney provided an update on the Forum held 29 th September which had sought to give an insight into the new Legislation that would see Wigan Council responsible for Licensing premises during 2005. This is a huge task, particularly topical at this moment with clear indication that the issue of Certification of door men and women was well behind schedule. What was interesting is that Appeals against License refusals would be heard in the Magistrates Court. Credit Union Scheme Councillors J Maloney and V Maloney had attended the local launch of The Unify Credit Union. Councillor J Shaw left at this time 7.55pm. Tenants and Resident Association Councillor Ball commented on the recent Meeting to discuss progress in the tackling of anti-social behaviour which was culminating in another meeting tonight and the formation of a Tenants and residents Association. Monitoring of behaviour was continuing. 211 REPORTS FROM REPRESENTATIVES Recreation Ground Trustees The AGM had been held and discussion was now taking place regarding the fencing to the Methodist Church car Park.
MINUTES OF SHEVINGTON PARISH COUNCIL MEETING HELD THURSDAY 25 NOVEMBER 2004 7.30 PM SHEVINGTON LIBRARY Present; Councillor J Maloney (Chairman), Councillors Ball, Lister, Miles, V Maloney, the Clerk (Holden) and three members of the public. 219 ) APOLOGIES Councillors, Parkinson, Shaw, Sudworth, Whiteley, District Councillor Brown. The Chairman extended a warm welcome back to Councillor Lister following her several months of incapacity 220 ) MATTERS INTRODUCED BY MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC
None.
221 ) DISTRICT COUNCILLORS’ REPORTS Councillor Brown had requested the Clerk to comment on the success of the previous night’s Community Association Awards Evening. There would be a sum of £1200 available under the Cleaner Greener initiative and input as to how this should be spent would be discussed with the Parish Council. Anti-social Behaviour Orders might appear to be resulting in less anti-social behaviour and by way of background Councillor Maloney advised that Greater Manchester courts had issued more than any other Police area in the country 222 ) MINUTES OF LAST MEETING 'That the Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting of 28 October be approved as a true and correct record.' Proposed. Councillor Ball. Seconded. Councillor V Maloney. Agreed. 223 ) MATTERS ARISING
Age Concern Letter of thanks received from Age Concern thanking the Parish Council for the donation of £400. New Ethical Framework Regulations New regulations come into force on 4 November allowing Local Authority monitoring officers to carry out investigations into alleged breaches of the Code of Conduct and enabling Local Authority Standards Committees to make determinations following officers’ reports on breaches. North West Air Ambulance Letter received from NWAA seeking a donation towards the present upkeep and subsequent purchase of a new helicopter from the end of 2008. The Council has contributed in previous years, last year £100. Place on next Meeting Agenda. Standards Board for England New guidance booklet has been given to all Councillors and co-opted members with particular reference to dual hated members sitting on other bodies. Footpath Scheme. Groundwork Wigan and Chorley. Letter and final account received from Groundwork in respect of work carried out to footpaths 7 and 7a. The Parish Council contribution is £5487.71. Use of the path by a farmer would be discussed with the Rights of Way Officer. Royal British Legion Flag The flag had been ordered from the supplier. Christmas Trees Supply of the three trees had been confirmed and arrangements would be made directly with Mr Dickinson to supervise their siting. Lights would be connected by WMBC on Tuesday 30 November. War Memorial Plaque Profuse apologies had been received from Electropak Ltd. for the spelling mistake on the new plaque. A replacement would be forthcoming. The old plates would be returned to the Council for laying up in St Anne’s Church
LAPTC AGM The Meeting had been held but the Parish Council had not been represented. Remembrance Sunday Service Yet another year of high attendance at the Memorial Service. For the future there would be a reminder to the Police to stop the traffic moving during the two minute silence. The Order of Service would be amended to include the laying of a wreath by Greater Manchester Police. The unfortunate delay in the arrival of the bugler (the traffic in Standish having been stopped to allow for a procession to the Memorial there) would be avoided in the future as the Police had offered an escort to Shevington. The young bugler’s playing of ‘Reveille’ had in fact been excellent and he was so again in playing the ‘Last Post’ during the morning service at St Anne’s. The Chairman thanked Mr and Mrs Dickinson for their attention to the garden area. The Chairman thanked Mr Horridge for the power cleaning of the Memorial and the paved surround. Bowling Green electricity Councillor Maloney would make an approach to the head of the Wigan Borough Partnership to seek advice on funding. 224 ) REPORTS FROM COUNCILLORS Tenants and Residents Association Councillor Ball advised that the next meeting would be 6 December when a possible Constitution would be discussed. Residents had been circulated and early responses had been encouraging. Bank Holiday Walk Councillor V Maloney advised of the death of Mrs. Barbara Rigby who, with her husband Jim, had organised the Council’s Bank Holiday Walk for many years. Members were saddened to learn of her death at the end of October after a short period of illness. Councillor V Maloney suggested that the Walk should offer the opportunity for charitable sponsorship and that next year’s walk should be in memory of Barbara and raise funds for Wigan Hospice. Agreed to discuss with Mr Rigby. 225 ) REPORTS FROM REPRESENTATIVES Community Association Members and the Clerk who had attended the previous evening’s Award event at the Methodist Church were enthusiastic in their appreciation of the organisation and the evening had been very much enjoyed by all. Photographs would be available from Councillor Shaw. Councillor Brown, Chairman of the Association, was to be congratulated for organising. School Governors Vale School. Councillor J Maloney reported that the School Development Plan was under discussion. 226 ) PLANNING APPLICATIONS
A/04/62682/ Additional development Almond Brook Road An additional parcel of land, .11 hectare, was to be developed by Wainhomes. The land adjoins the existing land for which Planning Consent was granted following Appeal. No comment. 227 ) FINANCIAL AID ‘That the Parish Council donates the sum of £600 towards maintenance costs to the St Anne’s Churchyard Fund.’ Proposed. Councillor V Maloney. Seconded. Councillor Ball. Unanimous. 228 ) ACCOUNTS
Parish Council Statement Balances prior to Meeting date
‘That the Accounts be approved and cheques signed in payment, due note given to Statements exhibited.’ Proposed. Councillor V Maloney. Seconded. Councillor Miles. Unanimous. 229 ) CLERK’S REPORT All Planning Applications requiring members’ attention had been brought to their notice. The Council had received a ‘Key Partner’ Certificate from Groundwork Wigan and Chorley. Notice had been received from DEFRA of the publication of a Rural Services Review. There were regular car break-ins being reported from Gathurst Station. 230 ) DATE OF NEXT MEETING Parish Council 16 December Finance and General Purposes Committee 2 December There being no further business the Chairman closed the Meeting at 8.50pm
MINUTES OF SHEVINGTON PARISH COUNCIL MEETING HELD THURSDAY 16 DECEMBER 2004 7.30 PM SHEVINGTON LIBRARY Present; Councillor J Maloney (Chairman), Councillors Ball, Lister, Miles, Parkinson, V Maloney, Whiteley, the Clerk (Holden) District Councillors Brown, Crosby, and three members of the public. 231 ) APOLOGIES Councillors, Shaw, Sudworth. 232 ) MATTERS INTRODUCED BY MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC
None.
233 ) DISTRICT COUNCILLORS’ REPORTS Councillor Brown advised of an assessment for realigning the S bends on Wigan Lower Road and the provision of a pedestrian walkway. There was no immediate solution as there was not a budget allocation for the anticipated £250k cost of construction or for acquisition cost of land. There may be progress within a five year horizon and in the interim some attention will be given to minor aspects that can be undertaken to improve safety. Letters had been sent to Parking Enforcement and the Police in respect of a crackdown on parking miscreants in the village centre and Wardens would visit. The un-adopted potholed road to Crooke Methodist Church would cost in the region of £1000 to overlay with crushed stone. This would at best be a temporary measure and would alleviate some of the problems being experienced, particularly for the arrival, parking and departure of funeral corteges. Further enquiries would be made regarding the obstacles and potential costs to be overcome to qualify for WMBC adoption. The appropriate messages to WMBC to secure litter bins to the ground had been passed on. This simple measure may curtail some of the vandalism issues. The anti- social behaviour of large groups of young people collecting at Randall’s Corner had been reported to the Police
234 ) MINUTES OF LAST MEETING 'That the Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting of 25 November be approved as a true and correct record.' Proposed. Councillor Ball. Seconded. Councillor A Lister. Agreed. 235 ) MATTERS ARISING
Drainage for St Anne’s Churchyard Letter received from the PCC Secretary advising that preparatory work on the drainage scheme had started with an anticipated completion date before Christmas. The Clerk advised that the Council’s pledge of £1000 would be placed on the January Agenda for sanctioning the expenditure. Noted. Shevington Youth Club, Financial Aid request. Letter received from the Management Committee Secretary seeking Parish Council assistance towards the cost of a replacement pool table or, alternatively, towards the cost of paying part time leaders. The cost of a new table would be in the region of £4/500. The Clerk advised that the matter would be placed on the January Agenda. Noted. Co-op Late Shop, Gathurst Lane Transfer of Justices’ Off Licence Notice received of the intention to apply for a transfer of licence holder at the Licensing Session of the Magistrates Court on 1 February. Noted. Allotment hedge and trees Letter received from the plotholder of allotment 27 advising of an overshadowing problem caused by the oak tree in the hedgerow dividing the allotment site. The Clerk had responded with an offer to meet on site but advised that it would be likely that the Council would discuss the matter in greater detail at the next Committee Meeting on 13 January. The suggestion being made was that there should be an initial discussion with the WMBC arboriculturist ahead of that time to determine what would be permissible in order to determine the Council’s actions. Agreed.
Audit of Accounts The Accounts for the year ended 31 March 2004 had been audited without comment and the Council was required to approve the Annual Return. The Clerk would display the Notice of Conclusion of Audit for 14 days and this Notice would also advise the public how they should apply if they required a copy of the Return or Accounts. ‘That the audited Annual Return of Accounts for the year ended 31 March 2004 be approved by the Council.’ Proposed. Councillor Lister. Seconded. Councillor V Maloney. Unanimous. Bowling Green Electricity Supply Councillors J Maloney and Whiteley were presently investigating other avenues of grant assistance. Christmas Tree at Randall’s Corner The tree had been vandalised and all the lights smashed. At a future date the Council would need to review tree and lighting provision because of new guidelines for public safety. In the short term however Mr Dickinson thought that it might be possible to find sufficient lights for a lesser length of cable but if that was not practicable the tree would be unlit. Noted. 236 ) REPORTS FROM COUNCILLORS Councillor Ball reported on a successful first meeting for the proposed Tenants and Residents Association and around 20 people had attended. The next meeting would be held during January. Councillor Parkinson drew Members’ attention to press comment regarding similar problems of anti-social behaviour evident in the nearby communities of Pemberton and Orrell as were being experienced in Shevington. 237 ) REPORTS FROM REPRESENTATIVES
School Governors St Bernadette’s Councillor Whiteley reported that she had attended the excellent Nativity play at the School. There had not been a Meeting of Governors. Millbrook Councillor Whiteley reported that she had attended the excellent Nativity play at the School. There had not been a Meeting of Governors. Vale School Councillor J Maloney reported that he had attended the excellent Nativity play at the School. There had not been a Meeting of Governors. WMBC Standards Board Councillor Whiteley advised that for personal reasons she would be unable to fulfil this representative role and requested that a replacement Councillor be nominated. The Chairman thanked Councillor Whiteley for undertaking this responsibility on behalf of the Council and sought a volunteer rather than a nominee. Councillor Ball indicated a willingness to serve and this offer was accepted unanimously without vote. The Clerk would advise the WMBC Solicitor. Community Association Councillor J Maloney reported on the last Community Association Meeting which had made plans for a Programme of Events for 2005. There would be a fund raising social evening held at Gathurst Golf Club on 12 February; a Fun Day on the Recreation Ground on the last Saturday in June; a fund raising Calendar for 2006 designed by local schoolchildren and possibly Christmas Cards; a local community Yearbook was also under consideration; given its success another Awards Evening would also feature as would the Shevington in Bloom Competition. 238 ) PLANNING APPLICATIONS A/04/6269. 144 Shevington Lane. Application for 3 detached houses in hived off existing garden area. Indications were that the visibility splay had been considered but Members were of the view that the location of a second road entrance/exit so close to that of the estate on a poor visibility bend was not conducive to road safety. The Clerk was instructed to write to WMBC Planning objecting to the proposals. A/04/062946. 23-25 Parkbrook Lane. Application for 5 detached properties and a double garage. Whilst not having a disagreement as to the principle of development at the site Members were of the opinion that, as presented, it had cluttered appearance of overdevelopment. The Clerk was instructed to provide this opinion to the WMBC Planning Department. A/04/62946 9/11 Church Lane. Change of use of shop premises Existing use as a card and gift shop the application sought change of use to coffee shop during daytime trading hours. No comment. A/04/62893 Hermitage Close. Application for 1 detached property in hived off garden area. No comment. 239 ) FINANCIAL AID REQUEST. NORTH WEST AIR AMBULANCE Letter from the Service seeking a donation towards the ongoing maintenance of the existing helicopter and the purchase of a newer model in due course. ‘That the Parish Council continues to support this valued Air Ambulance Service and donates the sum of £100 towards the cost of ongoing maintenance.’ Proposed. Councillor V Maloney. Seconded. Councillor Whiteley. Unanimous. 240 ) BUDGET PLANNING UPDATE The Clerk provided members with a summary of proposed expenditure as discussed at the Finance and General Purposes Committee held 2 December. The document would be discussed in greater detail at the Policy Committee of 13 January. For the purposes of example the Clerk had utilised the anticipated end of year balance forecast net of Reserves, allowed for anticipated income in 2005, deducted the planned spend and thus identified the shortfall that would need to be Precepted. Indications were that the Precept would need to rise in order to meet the expenditure, sustain the required level of Reserves and adequate free balances. The alternative would be to reduce some of the planned expenditure and Members were requested to review the forecast to facilitate the debate that would take place on 13 January. 241 ) ACCOUNTS
Ahead of presenting the Accounts the Clerk took leave of the Chairman to raise a matter of policy in respect of payment of the Chairman’s Allowance. The Clerk expressed a view to Members that it would be appropriate to consider a payment to the Vice-Chairman presently Acting Chairman. Councillor J Maloney and Councillor V Maloney immediately declared pecuniary interests and took no part in the debate or vote that followed. ‘That the Vice Chairman should receive a Chairman’s Allowance payment of £80 and that the matter of future Chairman’s Allowance payments should be discussed at the January Policy Committee Meeting’ Proposed. Councillor Ball. Seconded. Councillor Lister. Unanimous. Councillor Lister, on behalf of members, thanked Councillor Maloney and the Clerk for undertaking duties attributable to Councillor Alan Sudworth and expressed hopes that the Chairman’s indisposition would be speedily resolved so that the Council could welcome back a much regarded colleague.
Parish Council Statement Balances prior to Meeting date
‘That the Accounts be approved and cheques signed in payment, due note given to Statements exhibited.’ Proposed. Councillor J Ball. Seconded. Councillor Whiteley. Agreed . 242 ) PARISH COUNCIL DIARY
The Clerk had anticipated presenting the diary of Meetings for 2005 to Members but regrettably had not brought copies to the Meeting. The Clerk apologised for the oversight and the matter would be placed on the January Policy Committee Agenda.
242 ) CLERK’S REPORT All Planning Applications requiring Members’ attention had been brought to their notice. The LAPTC Annual Report has been received, the AGM having been held 6 November. LAPTC circular received advising that the membership fee methodology would remain in place pending enquiries of other Associations as to how they manage their fee calculation. Cultural Partnership first Annual Review received. DEFRA circular received regarding Local Environmental Quality, otherwise known as ‘Clean Neighbourhoods’. NALC circular received in respect of the ‘Campaign for racial equality, gypsy and traveller scrutiny project’ inviting comment from Local Authorities. NALC circular received regarding a consultation on setting of local road speed limits. 243 ) DATE OF NEXT MEETING Parish Council 27 January 2005 Policy Committee 13 January 2005 The Chairman wished all Members and their families Compliments of the Season. There being no further business the Chairman closed the Meeting at 9.10pm
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