This
page will contain minutes of 2006 Parish Council meetings: MINUTES OF SHEVINGTON PARISH COUNCIL MEETING HELD ON THURSDAY 26 JANUARY 2006 7.30PM SHEVINGTON LIBRARY Present: Councillor J. Maloney (Chairman), Councillors, Ball, V Maloney, Miles, Sudworth, Whiteley. the Clerk (Holden), District Councillor Brown and two members of the public. 396) APOLOGIES Councillors, Parkinson. Shaw, District Councillor Crosby 397) COUNCILLOR ALICE LISTER The Chairman paid tribute to the lifetime of public service of Councillor Lister and asked Members to stand and observe a minutes silence in her memory. 398) MATTERS INTRODUCED BY MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC The Clerk introduced a letter from a local resident of Broomholme expressing interest in the Parish Plan leaflet received and supporting the Council’s proposals for adopting Appley Bridge Station. Attention was drawn to the poor lighting on the path to the station from Mill Lane and other issues around the station. By way of complaint the footpath at the rear of Broomholme was a target for vandals and alleged police indifference was not helping the problems that local residents faced. District Councillor Brown undertook to speak with local Police Officers. ‘That item 11, financial Aid Request Shevington o’60’s be brought forward and discussed now.’ Proposed. Councillor Brown. Seconded. Councillor Sudworth. Unanimous. The Meeting was suspended in accordance with Standing Orders. 399 ) FINANCIAL AID REQUEST SHEVINGTON O’60’S CLUB The Clerk presented financial information provided by Mr G Arstall, Treasurer to the Club and members invited Mr Arstall to comment on the Clubs activities. There had been five coach trips, 15 afternoons of activity with three talks, slide shows and bingo. The Club raises funds from bingo, raffles and bring and buy. The Meeting reconvened. ‘That the Parish Council donates the sum of £450 to Shevington O’60’s Club in support of their organised activities.’ Proposed. Councillor V Maloney. Seconded. Councillor Whiteley. Unanimous. 399) DISTRICT COUNCILLORS’ REPORTS District Councillor Brown provided Members with an insight into the issues presently being faced from illegal motorcycle riding in some areas of the Parish and nearby. The Police had produced an information pack on how to deal with incidents. GMP had also issued a circular on reducing crime. Councillor Brown sought information as to ownership of the fencing on the back footpath line of Shevington Lane near the exits to the Memorial Park, and which required repainting. He was advised that these did not belong to the Parish Council and assumingly belonged to Wigan Council. Councillor Brown was asked if there had been any progress on the issue of charging charities fro the removal of waste by Viridor and this would be investigated. The sign for Crooke Village had been erected but the residual boundary signage provided by the Township (and the Parish Council) would need further discussion. 400 ) MINUTES OF LAST MEETING ‘That the Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting of 15 December be approved as a true and correct record.’ Proposed. Councillor Ball. Seconded. Councillor Whiteley. Agreed 401 ) MATTERS ARISING Boundary signs. The Clerk had provided the Township manager with the history of the boundary signage discussions over the years. The matter would be discussed at the Policy Committee on the 2 nd February and with the Township Manager on 14 February. Library Letter received from the Director responsible for Libraries indicating a willingness to restore the Meeting Room to full use, allowing the Parish Council to re-establish use for Meetings. The Council would be informed of progress in refurbishment. Parish Council Chairman Library wallboard. Agreement had been made for the updating of the board and painting of new names is anticipated in the next few days. Standards Board for England The Board had published ‘Standards of Conduct in English Local government; The Future’ as a Discussion Paper as a response to the input from Local Authorities earlier last year. Wigan Replacement Unitary Development Plan; Deposit of Modifications A copy of the amendments proposed to the Plan had been received and the comment period was open until the 14 th February. There were no specific modifications applying to Shevington. Planning Application 144 Shevington Lane The Clerk read the Parish Council’s letter of objection to the proposals for demolition and buildings of houses at this location. The matter had yet to come before the Wigan Planning Committee. Appley Bridge Station adoption. The Clerk had received a positive response from the West Lancashire Transport Partnership Forum to the proposal to adopt Appley Bridge Station but there would be a need to submit a grant application by end of March. Agreed to defer to Policy Committee Meeting on 2 February British Waterways Board, Dog Bin and Picnic Area. There had been no response to date regarding the parish Council’s enquiries regarding the siting of a doggie bin at the swing bridge on the canal near Herons Wharf. Viridor Waste Collection The Clerk was awaiting the result of enquiries as to the collection of waste from charitable premises. The replacement bin promised for the one damaged at Whitehall Park had not been received yet. Shevington Old School Building Preservation Trust The Trustees had met twice and the bank mandate now awaited signing by three Councillors at the NatWest bank in Standish. 402) REPORTS FROM COUNCILLORS Councillor Sudworth advised that vandals were making progress in dislodging one of the bollards in front of the Muffin Man at Gathurst Lane shops. Councillor Ball advised that the family of a recently deceased young man wished to place a bench in his memory within the Memorial Park. Members were appreciative of this offer and arrangements would be made to meet with the family onsite to discuss location and style of seat. Councillor Ball advised that a new police constable had been assigned to the Parish, PC Rigby whose previous beat had been Beech Hill. Councillor J Maloney advised that there had been a swift response by the Community Safety Group to the problems created by groups of youths, some on motorcycles, within Elnup and Birley Woods. There had been a meeting with a local resident and there was interest expressed in reviving the moribund ‘Friends of Elnup Wood’. The matter would be placed on the Policy Committee Agenda for 2 February. Councillor J Maloney advised that there had been a delay in arranging a visit to the Old School building at Miles Lane due to holidays of Officers. Councillor J Maloney advised that a meeting had been arranged with Alison Jones of the Community Transport Partnership to discuss the long promised notice boards. There appeared to be a willingness to allow use of the Parish Council crest. 403 ) REPORTS FROM REPRESENTATIVES Wigan Council Standards Board Councillor Ball advised that ethics and relationships between Councillors had been the focus of attention for improving the running of the Council and training had been provided by the Audit Commission. At the last Meeting there had been four alleged cases of misconduct, none of which were proven and had been dismissed. As indicated under Matters Arising the views of the Wigan Board had been provided ahead of the Governments response document. Aspull Shevington Standish Township Forum The question of boundary signage had been discussed at the last Township Meeting and an urgent response was required to the offer of two signs. As had already been indicated the Clerk had provided more detail to the Township manager and a meeting had been arranged for 14 February. Community Association The next meeting of the Association would be 31 January and the Parish Plan launch is included on the Agenda. 404 ) PARISH COUNCIL RATE PRECEPT ‘That the Parish Council accepts the Resolution of the Finance and General Purposes Committee for a budget spend of £69,678 and a Rate Precept of £64,000 for the financial year 2006/7.’ Proposed. Councillor Ball. Seconded. Councillor V Maloney. Unanimous. The Clerk would serve the appropriate notice to the Finance Director of Wigan Council. 405 ) PARISH PLAN The full version of the Plan was now being distributed to all appropriate parties and had been delivered in shortened format to all households. Councillor J Maloney would be meeting with the Head of the High School and the School Council on the 8 th march to discuss matters involving ‘young people’ issues. The Action Plan would form part of the Agenda for the Policy Committee Meeting of 2 February. 406 ) PLANNING APPLICATIONS A/06/65775 7 Hermitage Close, garden severance for one house building. Noted. 407 ) 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 Whiteley. Unanimous. 408 ) PARISH COUNCIL MEETING DIARY ‘That the Parish Council accepts the Meeting Diary as presented by the Clerk.’ Proposed. Councillor Miles. Seconded. Councillor Sudworth. Unanimous. 409 ) CLERK’S REPORT All Planning Applications requiring Members’ attention had been drawn to their notice. Lancashire County Council Minerals and Waste Development Framework had been received LAPTC was running a Quality Parish Council workshop on 27 February. Community Futures was holding a training day for Charity Trustees Notice of new letter sizes and weights had been received from the Royal Mail The Annual Review 2004/5 of the Cultural Partnership ‘Northern Soul’ had been received from Wigan Council 410 ) DATES OF NEXT MEETINGS Parish Council 23 February Policy Committee 2 February There being no further business the Chairman closed the Meeting at 9.15pm CHAIRMAN Back to topMINUTES OF SHEVINGTON PARISH COUNCIL MEETING HELD ON THURSDAY 23 MARCH 2006 7.50PM SHEVINGTON LIBRARY Present: Councillor J. Maloney (Chairman), Councillors, Ball, V Maloney, Miles, Shaw, Sudworth, Whiteley, the Clerk (Holden), and one members of the public. 425) APOLOGIES Councillors, Parkinson, Shaw, District Councillor Crosby. The Chairman had visited Councillor Parkinson as his enforced absence from Council Meetings due to ill health was of concern to his fellow Members. The Chairman had conveyed Members’ best wishes for his recovery and advised that his apologies would continue to be accepted. 426) MATTERS INTRODUCED BY MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC None. 427) DISTRICT COUNCILLORS’ REPORTS None. 428 ) MINUTES OF LAST MEETING ‘That the Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting of 23 February be approved as true and correct record.’ Proposed. Councillor Ball. Seconded. Councillor Whiteley. Agreed 429 ) MATTERS ARISING Appley Bridge Station Adoption The Clerk advised that contact had been made with the Northern rail station adoption team and was now awaiting contact to arrange a date for a site meeting. There had been no response to the letter of intent sent to Wrightington Parish Council. Wigan Council Replacement Unitary Development Plan – Further modification The revised plan was available for inspection of the modifications until 13 April. LAPTC The Annual Conference will be held at the Park Hall Hotel Charnock Richard on 12/14 May. No Member can attend. Wigan Council, Design Guide for Residential Development The latest proposals for a design guide to residential development had been received. Councillor J Maloney undertook to review. Lancashire County Council Minerals and Waste Development Framework The last date for comment on the consultation document is 31 March, and the Clerk advised that there were no matters adversely impacting the Parish. Vitalise (Formerly Winged Fellowship) Letter received from the charitable organisation that provides subsidised holidays for disabled people and carers and which provides opportunities for volunteer help. Holidays are subsidised and the organisation was seeking financial assistance. Members requested that the matter be placed on the April Parish Council meeting agenda for consideration. Post Office Closures The Clerk had written to Neil Turner MP regarding the Government’s policy on post office closures, especially those in rural areas. An initial response advised that enquiries were being made of the Department of Trade and Industry and that in due course a fuller response would be forwarded. Waste collection from Charitable premises There had been no response to the Clerk’s letter drawing the Wigan Council’s attention to the issues that had arisen by having charitable premises classed as ‘commercial’ and thus required to pay a waste removal charge. British Waterways – Doggie bin No further contact had been made by British Waterways and the Clerk had written again asking for the siting to be discussed with the Chairman. British Waterways – Picnic Area District Councillor Brown would undertake the search to find the owner of the land that the potential picnic site would occupy. Boundary signage The Clerk had provided the Township Manager and Wigan Council Engineering Services with the Council’s requirements and costs were awaited. In the event, a request had been made for contact to be made with the Chairman. Crooke Hall Farm, Planning Application A/06/65713 The Clerk read from a letter sent to Wigan Planning advising that the Parish Council had no objections in principle to the conversion of the barn to five apartments. However comment had been made on the limitations of the parking provision and the fact that site traffic would exacerbate traffic usage at the entrance road to Crooke. Waste Collection – Viridor Waste Management Letter received from the Company advising that waste collection charges would increase by 65p per cubic metre due to a progressive increase in Landfill Tax that will see charges rise annually from the present £21 to £35 per tonne in £3 per tonne increments. Bowling Green and Allotment Notices Bowling Green membership forms had been distributed and Allotment rental notices had been passed to Mr Horridge for distribution. Old style concrete Footpath Signs The Clerk advised that there had been 15 sited in September 1983, but at most only three could now be found. It was believed that those that the majority that were left were removed when the present metal post signs were installed. Meeting Room in the Library The finalisation of the refurbishment budget was awaited and it was hoped that Shevington Library would be one of the early sites for upgrade. The small Meeting Room would be available to the Parish Council once improved. Notice Board The long awaited notice board would now be the subject of a Planning Application following a meeting between Councillor Ball, Allison Jones and a member of the Library management. The board would situated in an offset position to the Library main entrance providing a most acceptable and readily available position for viewing. 430 ) REPORTS FROM COUNCILLORS Communication Councillor Whiteley advised that she had spoken with the prospective web site advertiser and had communicated the Council’s decision not to allow an advertising link. However she had passed on information concerning the potential of a new Community page within the St Anne’s Parish Church magazine, which in view of its potential audience would also be a useful organ for the Parish Council communication. Communication enhancement would be an item on the Policy Committee Agenda on 6 April and it was agreed that the matter should be discussed further at that time. Planning Application Councillor Whiteley advised members that a Planning Application for alterations to the roofline of her residential property would be submitted to Wigan Council. Noted. Shevington High School, School Council Councillor J Maloney advised that he had been well received at the Council Meeting where he had discussed aspects of the Parish Plan, including the survey responses that reflected a negative attitude towards young people. The Council is made up of members of each year group and it had been an intelligent, thoughtful and questioning debate which reflected highly on the School. A letter of thanks would be sent to the Headteacher. There had also been a positive response to the ‘Friends of Shevington Woodland’ ideas and nominations from the School Council/pupils were anticipated shortly, after which Councillor Maloney would call the first meeting. Garden of Remembrance – vacant plinth Councillor J Maloney had been approached by Reverend Dennison as to whether the Parish Council might have any suggestions as to bringing into use a vacant stone. Clearly there would be time to discuss in detail but a memorial by way of celebration of the area’s mining history was generally favoured. This led the discussion to the Mineworkers War Memorial at John/Taylor Pit and whether the Parish Council should join with the District Councillors in placing a wreath at the Memorial on Remembrance Sunday. Further discussion would take place on these issues at a future Policy Committee Meeting. Highfield Avenue Councillor Ball reported that the Recreation Ground at the end of Highfield Avenue had been disturbed by work undertaken at the churchyard. Reverend Dennison is to take up with the contractors. Vicarage Lane Councillor Miles advised that there had been considerable fly tipping near to the rear entrance of Orica. Councillor J Maloney would raise the matter of clearance with District Councillor Brown who was already investigating the unkempt state of Vicarage Lane, not helped by the recent vandalising of the telephone box. Motor cycle misuse Councillor Ball advised of continuing problems with motorcycles on Vicarage Lane and the footpath down to Crooke. Councillor J Maloney advised that this would be discussed at the next Township community Safety meeting.. Footpath to the rear of Woodnook Shops Mr Dickinson advised that there had been complaints about the accumulation of rubbish on the pathway to the rear of the shops and along the School boundary. Child safety Councillor Sudworth drew Members attention to three recently reported incidents of the attempted luring of young children into a grey Mercedes car whose driver was believed to be wearing a hood. 431 ) REPORTS FROM REPRESENTATIVES Township Community Safety Group Councillor J Maloney advised that the next meeting would be on the 28 March. Shevington Vale Primary School Councillor J Maloney advised that the Head-teacher was presently absent due to ill health and the Deputy Head was in charge. Millbrook School Councillor Whiteley advised that the school fence had been completed at a cost in excess of £30,000 and so far vandalism had been reduced. Community Association The last Meeting had been held on 28 February and the Parish Plan had been presented by Councillor J Maloney. The Township Plan had been presented by the Township Manager Darren Barton. The AGM would be held on 28th March. Youth Club Councillor Whiteley reported that Maurice Hilton will give up the Secretary role due to ill heath. Standish Aspull Shevington Township Forum Councillor Whiteley advised that the next meeting would be held on 29 th March when the boundary signage and road speed indicators could be discussed. Standards Committee Councillor Ball had been unable to attend the last Meeting but the three cases under scrutiny had all been non actionable. 432 ) TO DECLARE A VACANCY The Clerk advised that it would be necessary to Declare a Vacancy following upon the death of Councillor Alice Lister. The Democratic Services Manager of Wigan Council would be advised and following the posting of the appropriate notices if a poll was claimed or a single candidate was nominated then the Council would receive a new elected Member at the May or June Meeting. In the event of no poll being claimed then the Council would be in a position to co-opt a Councillor at the May Meeting. Noted. 433) PLANNING APPLICATIONS None. In the absence of access to the Panning Application File any Applications would be discussed at the Policy Committee Meeting of 6 April. 434 ) FINANCIAL AID REQUEST – APPLEY BRIDGE YOUTH CLUB Letter received from the Secretary, Mrs Eileen Longmoor, seeking continued support for the Youth Club’s Outreach programme. The Club was to advertise a recruitment drive in the Appley Bridge community Association’s March newsletter. The Parish Council has previously supported this initiative and the request was within the £500 which had been budgeted. The main needs were for a computer games console and games, music CDs and arts and crafts materials. ‘That the Parish Council provides financial aid in the sum of £500 to Appley Bridge youth Club for the purchase of a computer games console and games, music CDs and arts and crafts materials.’ Proposed. Councillor Whiteley. Seconded. Councillor V Maloney. Unanimous. 435 ) 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 Sudworth. Unanimous. 436 ) CLERK’S REPORT Members Register of Interests had been updated an subject to checking would be lodged with the Borough Solicitor NALC Conference would be held at the Britannia Adelphi Hotel 22/24 September. Bookings by 8 September. Open Spaces magazine received CPRE Newsletter received Borough Wide Faith Network would meet 4 April 12pm at Leigh Town Hall 437 ) DATE OF NEXT MEETING Parish Council 27 April Policy committee 6 April There being no further business the Chairman closed the meeting at 9pm CHAIRMAN
MINUTES OF SHEVINGTON PARISH COUNCIL MEETING HELD ON THURSDAY 27 APRIL 2006 7.30PM SHEVINGTON LIBRARY Present: Councillor J. Maloney (Chairman), Councillors, Ball, V Maloney, Miles, Whiteley, the Clerk (Holden), and thirteen members of the public. 438) APOLOGIES Councillors, Parkinson, Shaw, Sudworth, District Councillors Brown and Crosby. 439) MATTERS INTRODUCED BY MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC ‘That the meeting be suspended in accord with Standing orders.’ Proposed Councillor Ball. Unanimous. Shevington Luncheon Club Mrs Warner representing the Luncheon Club presented a case for financial support from the Parish Council in the provision of cutlery and crockery. Members were of a mind to support the application and advised Mrs Warner that the matter would be discussed at the Policy Committee on 2 May with a formal proposition being placed on the May Parish Council Agenda. St Anne’s Shevington. Proposals for alterations to the Church fabric. Ten members of the public, a mix of PCC Members, Electoral Roll Members and churchgoers were in attendance and sought to bring to the Council’s notice, in their view, the perceived lack of, or poor communication and understanding of the process of proposed changes to the fabric of the Church. There were two distinct threads to the points put forward; firstly objection to specific changes to the interior of the Church, the clearest of which was the proposal to remove the pews and replacement with seats, but changes to choir stalls, the font and the erection of a Chancel screen were also mentioned; secondly, the understanding of the need for change and the acceptance of democratic process, but for which the communication was unclear and the process of comment or objection not understood. The Clerk, from memory, advised that the process would be addressed by the obtaining of a ‘Faculty’ (a consent) from the Diocese of Blackburn, and the process is conducted between the Vicar as custodian of the Church property and the PCC and the Diocese and that variously within the process there would likely be voting by the PCC, possibly also by those on the Electoral Roll (of the Church). At some stage it would be expected that a public notification would be displayed at which time members of the public and other bodies would be allowed to have their say before the Diocese confirmed the Faculty. The Clerk undertook to research the Faculty process and report to the Policy Committee on 2 May. The Chairman committed the Parish Council to a dialogue with Reverend Dennison regarding the process of communication ahead of a Meeting being advertised for 21 May. Also discussed by those attending were Church related matters concerning temporary and permanent flower holders for displays on graves and the state of bottom end of the Recreation Ground following upon drainage work. The former is a Church and Diocese matter. The latter did have the attention of the District Councillors. The Chairman thanked those attending and for putting forward their clearly deep felt concerns so moderately. The Meeting returned to session 440) DISTRICT COUNCILLORS’ REPORTS None. 441 ) MINUTES OF LAST MEETING ‘That the Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting of 23March be approved as true and correct record.’ Proposed. Councillor Whiteley. Seconded. Councillor Ball. Agreed 442 ) MATTERS ARISING St Anne's Church. Grant request. Letter received from Reverend Dennison seeking Parish Council assistance towards the anticipated £10,000 cost of providing 2.4m high security fencing to the Parish Rooms. The Planning Application had been received and would be discussed latter in the Meeting. The Clerk advised that the matter of a grant would best be discussed with the application at the Policy Committee Meeting of 2 May as there could be a technicality involved in that it was not known if the Recreation Ground Trustee had been consulted in the process. If they had, then the Parish Council Trustee Members could be faced with an issue over ‘interest’ in committing their votes at either Meeting. Parish Council Vacancy Following the death of Councillor Lister, the Clerk had advised the vacancy to the Wigan Council Democratic Services Manager on 23 March. Whether an election was called, or not, it would be hoped that the vacancy could be filled by June. Clerk vacancy advertisement The Clerk had sought to advertise the impending vacancy for a new Clerk within the Wigan Council job adverts circulated internally. There had been a positive response and arrangements can be made with the Personnel Department in due course. Post Office Closures A response to the Council’s enquiry as to the Government’s policy towards continuing support of rural Post Offices had been received from Neil Turner MP. The DTI has committed support until end of March 2008 and in the interim the Post Office is piloting new methods of providing services to rural communities. A Report is awaited in due courses at which time there will be a wider public debate. Adoption of Appley Bridge Station Letter received from Wrightington Parish Council wishing the Council success in its plans to adopt the Station. Wrightington Parish Council is also seeking to counteract the parking problems in Appley Lane North. Councillor J Maloney advised that he had spoken with a local resident who had initially objected to the Council’s proposal on the basis that increased attractiveness would increase use and make the parking situation worse. The Clerk was still awaiting contact from the rail network. Doggie Bin. Swing bridge at Appley Bridge Confirmation received from British Waterways that they would site a doggie bin at the bridge when the present piling operation was completed in about another eight weeks. Memorial Park Play Area, Service Level Agreement The basis of a Contract had been received from Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust in respect of the inspection and maintenance of the memorial park Play Area. The matter would be placed on the Policy Committee Agenda for 2 May. Footpath at Mill Lane to Herons Wharf The path remained in poor condition following works undertaken to two back gardens adjacent to the pathway. The matter had previously been reported to Wigan Council’s Rights of Way Officer and the Clerk would do so again. Crooke embankment to roadside. There was evidence of water erosion by the roadside at Crooke, just past the bridge adjacent to the marina basin. The Clerk would view and contact the Highway’s engineer as appropriate. ‘Friends of Shevington Woodland’ The High School Council had provided two volunteer names to Councillor J Maloney and he would now arrange a first meeting of the proposed new organisation. Motorcycle misuse I was reported that Wigan Council had provided Wigan Police with two off road motorcycles to assist in dealing with the problems of motorcycle misuse in adverse terrain. 443 ) REPORTS FROM COUNCILLORS Newsletter Following the last Policy Committee discussion on maters of communication, Councillor Whiteley had produced a one page newsletter bulletin for insertion to local Church magazines. Agreed that its content would be reviewed at the Policy Committee Meeting on 2 May. Gateway barrier rear of Gathurst lane shops Councillor J Maloney provided a summary of Township discussions regarding the provision of gates to the roadway to the rear of the shops. Total cost would be £3451.75 for which funding of £3265.00 had been secured, leaving a shortfall of £186.75 and the suggestion was that the Parish Council funds this difference. The matter had been previously discussed in principle at the last Policy Committee Meeting. The Clerk confirmed that in view of the limited amount and previous discussion a Resolution would be acceptable. ‘That the Parish Council provides £186.75 towards the cost of security gates to the rear of the shops at Gathurst Lane.’ Proposed. Councillor Whiteley. Seconded. Councillor Miles. Unanimous. 444 ) REPORTS FROM REPRESENTATIVES Standards Committee Councillor Ball advised that he had been unable to attend the last Meeting last week but the one case that had been discussed had been determined with no action taken. Youth Club Councillor Whiteley advised that funding of £30,000 had been confirmed for the two part time leaders’ contract for thenext year. The club has now been internally repainted. Councillor Whiteley left at this time 9.00pm. 445 ) PLANNING APPLICATIONS A/06/6591/LB Miles Lane School Permission was being sought to remove the canopy from the rear of the Grade 11 listed building. The view put forward was that the removal of this unsightly ‘shelter for vandals’ would be a marked improvement. No comment. Shevington Lane The Shevington Lane proposal for demolition of a property and building of houses which the Parish Council had objected to was due for discussion at the Wigan Council Planning Meeting of 2 May. A/06/66411 St Anne’s Church Hall 2.4m high security fence As discussed earlier the Council had been requested to grant aid the erection of the fence. The Clerk would check to see if the Secretary of the Recreation Ground Trust had been informed, as the Trust was the adjacent land owner. The Parish Council, with reduced membership and with Trustees, would need to be clear that there was no debate as to the positioning of the boundaries on the plans taken from the 1966 transaction which saw the hall transfer from Trust to Church ownership. The boundary delineation apart, the proposals, whilst soundly based in vandalism mitigation, would need to be sympathetic to the adjacent Conservation Area. Initial views expressed were that the fence lacked aesthetic quality and it was agreed that further enquiry should be made before discussing the fence and its potential funding at the Policy Committee on 2 May. 446 ) FINANCIAL AID REQUEST ‘VITALISE’ The request for a donation had been briefly discussed at the last Parish Council Meeting with a view to a resolution being put forward as an Agenda item. The Clerk reminded members of the charitable nature of this organisation in providing holidays and respite for carers and disabled people. ‘That the Parish Council donates the sum of £100 to Vitalise in support of their holiday subsidy programme.’ Proposed. Councillor. Ball. Seconded. Councillor V Maloney. Unanimous. 447 ) 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 Miles. Unanimous. 448 ) CLERK’S REPORT
449 ) DATE OF NEXT MEETING Parish Council AGM 25 May Policy Committee 2 May There being no further business the Chairman closed the Meeting at 9.40pm CHAIRMAN
MINUTES OF SHEVINGTON PARISH COUNCIL 450 ) APOLOGIES Councillors, Ball, Whiteley. District Councillor Brown 451 ) ELECTION OF A CHAIRMAN 'Councillor J Maloney.' Proposed. Councillor Sudworth. Seconded. Councillor Maloney. Unanimous 452 ) CHAIRMAN'S DECLARATION OF ACCCEPTANCE OF OFFICE Councillor J Maloney duly gave and signed the Declaration of Acceptance of Office of Chairman. 453 ) ELECTION OF A VICE CHAIRMAN 'Councillor Ball' Proposed. Councillor V Maloney. Seconded. Councillor Sudworth. Unanimous 454 ) MATTERS INTRODUCED BY MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC None 455 ) DISTRICT COUNCILLORS’ REPORTS None Letter received from Mike Crosby following his election defeat by Councillor Bland. He records his regards for the Parish Council and the relationship built over the last seven years. For avoidance of doubt his written report refers to two matters; namely to his knowledge there are no plans to close Shevington High School, and that the planning application for 144 Shevington Lane is for 12 houses and not flats. Councillor Bland will receive invitations to report to future Parish Council Meetings. 456 ) MINUTES OF LAST MEETING ‘That the Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting of 27 April be approved as a true and correct record.’ Proposed. Councillor V Maloney. Seconded. Councillor Sudworth. Unanimous. 457 ) MATTERS ARISING St Anne’s Church Hall, security fencing There were two issues, firstly the Planning Application for a 2.4metre high security fence and secondly a request for financial assistance towards its construction. The Clerk had written to Reverend Dennison explaining the Parish Council’s position in seeking to defer decision on funding pending any comment from the Recreation Ground Trustees and a decision by the Wigan Planning Committee. In respect of the Planning Application the Parish Council had advised the PCC and the Wigan Planning Department of the Council’s objection to the fence on the grounds of poor design, obtrusive visual impact given its location adjacent to the Conservation Area. Crooke Village– stream bank erosion Letter received from Wigan Department of Engineering Services in respect of the Parish Council drawing attention to the damaged fence and stream bank erosion at Crooke Road. Remedial work would be carried out immediately. Mr Dickinson would check if the work had been carried out. Wigan Local Development Framework – Consultation on draft Supplementary Planning Document ‘ Access for All’. Letter from Wigan Planning and Regeneration Department advising of the consultation period between 15 May and 27 June. Noted. Adoption of the Wigan Unitary Development Plan Letter received from Wigan Council Planning and Regeneration Department advising of the adoption of the Plan at the Wigan Council Meeting of 26 April. The validity of the Plan could be challenged in the High Court by application with six weeks of the date of adoption. Noted. Local Authority Byelaws in England; A Discussion Paper Circular letter received from ODPM enclosing a discussion paper on the procedures for making, confirming and enforcing byelaws. A White paper would be produced sometime after June. Noted. ‘Vitalise’ Letter of thanks received from the Charity in respect of the £100 donation by the Parish Council. Open Spaces Society – removing path paraphernalia Letter received from the Society drawing attention to the Governments policy on making access to paths and countryside easier by removing obstacles whilst not disturbing historic features. In order to promote this policy a donation was requested. Members were of the view that such a policy was entirely in line with the Councils thinking and actions on pathways within the Parish. The Clerk advised that it would be in order for a small donation to be made without the request being placed as a formal Agenda item. ‘That the Parish Council donates the sum of £25 to the Open Spaces Society in support of their work in promoting easy access to pathways and the countryside.’ Proposed. Councillor V Maloney. Seconded. Councillor Sudworth. Unanimous. Audit Accounts for 2005/6 would be audited by B D Stoy Hayward on 25 September and would be submitted for reconciliation and Chairman’s signature under ‘Accounts’ later in the Agenda. Corporate Assessment Stakeholder Survey Audit questionnaire received from National Audit Office in respect of the Parish Council’s view of service provision by Wigan Council. Agreed that Councillor J Maloney would assess and report back to the Policy Committee of 1 June after which the Clerk would respond ahead of the deadline of 16 June. Damage to trees in Church Lane Reported that vandals had snapped several newly planted trees in Church Lane. It was hoped that there could be early replacement. Regrettably the perpetrators had not been apprehended. Withdrawal of late night bus service The late night bus service had effectively been withdrawn following re-routing up Shevington Lane rather than follow the route to Randalls Corner. This had followed stoning of the ‘buses in incidents involving youths and in consideration of public and driver safety. Police were investigating and how long the re-routing would be in place, a considerable inconvenience for some passengers, was not yet known. Community Association Calendar The Parish Council had been advised that the Community Association calendar for 2007 was in course of production and in line with approaches to local business to support this fund raising venture was requested to subscribe £25 as a sponsor. The Clerk advised that it would be in order for a small donation to be made without the request being placed as a formal Agenda item. ‘That the Parish Council donates the sum of £25 to the Shevington and District Community Association as sponsorship support for the production of a Community calendar for 2007.’ Proposed. Councillor Sudworth Seconded. Councillor V Maloney. Unanimous. St Anne’s PCC – proposals for alterations to the Church building Following on from the last Parish Council Meeting the Clerk and the Chairman had made written and verbal representation to Reverend Dennison regarding the issues raised by parishioners under ‘Matters introduced by Members of the Public’. As a follow up Councillors J and V Maloney were invited to act as independent scrutineers for a ballot held on 21 May for Electoral Roll members of the Parish Church. The result was marginally greater than 2-1 in favour of the proposals for alterations. The PCC had undertaken to extend the consultation process regarding some of the changes before proceeding. Appley Bridge Station Adoption Councillor J Maloney advised that he had exchanged views with a resident unhappy with expenditure likely to be incurred by the Council’s proposals to adopt the Appley Bridge Station. Another issue expressed was the unsatisfactory arrangements for car parking. The parish Council’s view remained that adoption was entirely in keeping with facilitating rail journeys to and from a more pleasant environment than appertained presently. The issue of car parking had already been taken up with West Lancashire District Council by Wrightington Parish Council Station Competition The OPSTA ‘best dressed station’ last weekend had been a damp failure but with more advance planning and better weather it was hoped that next year would be an improvement. Mr Dickinson had provided some additional planting for the event but not to the extent proposed. 458 ) REPORTS FROM COUNCILLORS Parish Council Communication Councillor J Maloney advised that he still awaited a response from the Wigan Council Chief Executive as to whether the Parish Council could have space allocated in the ‘Metro Life’ quarterly magazine. Another request had been whether Rate demands could have a section allocated for a summary of Parish Council expenditure. New notice boards – outside Library and Gathurst Station Councillor J Maloney advised that he would meet with Alison Jones and Railtrack on 9 June to discuss the exact details of the proposed siting. Township Policing Councillor J Maloney reported that he had met the new Township Police Inspector, (Inspector Jones) who was working on cross border policing with Lancashire Police. There was a new Sergeant (Sergeant Turner) and two new Community Police Officers. 459 ) REPORTS FROM REPRESENTATIVES Youth Club Councillor Sudworth advised that Maurice Hilton has now resigned. Councillor Whiteley would relinquish the Chairmanship and take up the Secretary role, and that he, Councillor Sudworth was Chairman elect. Community Association Councillor V Maloney advised that the Calendar for 2007 (See also ‘Matters Arising’) had received a good response from local businesses to the extent that, with the Parish Council donation earlier, production costs would be met. Township Matters The next meeting regarding the village centre would be at 2pm on Tuesday. Matters were now behind schedule and there were conflicting views on grant availability that needed clarification. 460 NOMINATION OF MEMBERS TO REPRESENT THE COUNCIL ON OUTSIDE BODIES None required. 461 ) REVIEW OF THE COUNCIL’S INSURANCE The Clerk had reviewed the Insurance cover provided and gave details to Members. There were two minor amendments which the Clerk would attend to, the addition of the Parish Council computer and a change of name to the photocopier. ‘That the Parish Council accepts the cover provided by Allianz Cornhill PLC and accepts the premium of £2607.73’ Proposed. Councillor V Maloney. Seconded. Councillor Sudworth. Unanimous. 462 )TO REVIEW THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THE CLERK’S EMPLOYMENT The Clerk advised that unless Member’s were of a mind to amend the Terms, he was satisfied with the present contract and that the NALC/Local Government salary award from April had been agreed as part of last year’s settlement. Noted. On behalf of the Members Councillor J Maloney thanked the Clerk for his services during the past year. 463 ) PLANNING APPLICATIONS A/06/66506 Dean Cottage, Re-instatement of window The listed building at Dean Lock on the towpath was the subject of a Planning Application to re-instate a sash window which had been blocked in matching stonework many years ago. No comment. 464 ) FINANCIAL AID REQUEST, SHEVEINGTON LUNCHEON CLUB. The request for financial aid towards crockery and cutlery had been discussed at the April Parish Council Meeting and subsequently a resolution had been proposed at the May Policy Committee Meeting. ‘That the Parish Council donates £150 to the Shevington Luncheon Club for the purchase of crockery and cutlery.’ Proposed. Councillor V Maloney. Seconded. Councillor Sudworth. Unanimous. 465 ) TO CONFIRM THE SERVICE LEVEL AGREEMENT RE MEMORIAL PARK PLAY AREA ‘That the Parish Council enters into the Service Level Agreement for inspection and maintenance of the Memorial Park play Area by Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust Ltd and that the Chairman be authorised to sign on behalf of the Council.’ Proposed. Councillor V Maloney. Seconded. Councillor Sudworth. Unanimous. 466 ) ACCOUNTS The Clerk had provided members with a copy of the 2005/6 Accounts for approval and signature by the Chairman in respect of the reconciliation with Bank Statements. The Accounts were reconciled to the bank Statements produced. A signed copy of the Accounts is attached to these Minutes and arrangements are in had to undertake the independent Internal Audit. ‘That the Council approves the reconciliation of Accounts and the Chairman is authorised to sign the Accounts for 2005/6’ Proposed. Councillor Sudworth. Seconded. Councillor V Maloney. 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 V Maloney Seconded. Councillor Sudworth. Unanimous. 467 ) CLERK’S REPORT All Planning Applications requiring Members' attention had been brought to their notice. ‘Charter 88’ information received regarding local regeneration and sustainable communities, seeking support for a house of Commons Early day Motion. Agreed to discuss at next Policy Committee Meeting. NALC circular received advising that a training course was now available for enforcing the Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act 2005. 19 th to 25 th June is Refugee Week Shaw’s the Local Councils’ stationery supplier is promoting binders for computer printed Minutes and the Clerk would seek prices. 468 ) DATE OF NEXT MEETING Parish Council 22 June F&GP Committee 1 June Annual Parish Meeting 15 June There being no further business the Chairman closed the Meeting at 9.05. CHAIRMAN Back to top MINUTES OF SHEVINGTON PARISH COUNCIL MEETING Present: Councillor J. Maloney (Chairman), Councillors, V Maloney, Miles, Whiteley, District Councillor Brown, the Clerk (Holden), and five members of the public. 469) APOLOGIES Councillors, Ball, Sudworth, District Councillors Bland and O’Neill 470) MATTERS INTRODUCED BY MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC ‘That the meeting be suspended in accord with Standing orders.’ Proposed Councillor Miles. Seconded Councillor Whiteley. Unanimous. Millbrook School Playing Fields Following on from the Annual Parish Meeting, two mothers representing others in the area around Millbrook School, sought Council support for an approach to the Headteacher and Governors to allow access to the Millbrook School playing field outside of School hours. The principal reason was to be able to play in safety and secondly to reduce any perceived nuisance from children playing in the street. The Chairman invited District Councillor Brown to speak on the issue. Councillor Brown had discussed the Wigan Council ‘open access’ policy with District Councillor O’Neill and a copy of the guideline was made available to the Meeting. The School grounds had been fenced to deter vandalism but those who had taken part in the preceding debate had been convinced that only the School buildings were to be fenced and not the playing field. The consequence was young children playing in the street, admittedly at times causing some nuisance but in some instances matters were getting out of hand with children being verbally abused when merely passing certain houses. (As an aside in one quoted instance and on several occasions it may well be that one resident could be committing a Public Order offence by creating alarm, harassment and distress to the point of threatening behaviour when confronting young children.). Councillor Brown had spoken with the Headteacher and Mrs. Gray had agreed to meet with residents to discuss the situation. The residents for their part stated they were willing to work with the School to help supervise play and access, say between 6pm and 8pm and would welcome a three month trial period. There would likely be a local petition in support of the approach to the School. Given the agreement to discuss the issue, the Parish Council would advise the Headteacher of the approaches made at the Annual Parish Meeting and this evening, and would support a trial period of open access. Vandalism and anti social behaviour in the Parish The preceding issue coincided with serious problems within the Parish with the consensus opinion being that matters were out of control. Prior to the Meeting Councillors had met with some local residents of Church Lane who were dismayed at the continuing threat to their entitlement to enjoy their home and environs without abuse and damage. The particular issues were the yobs gathering around the Parish Hall, the Memorial Park and Central Drive. The loutish, stonethrowing, abusive drink and drug induced behaviour starts with gatherings from about 6pm and gets worse as the evening progresses. The Youth Club reports a downturn in behaviour since January and the Parish Council has its own evidence of anti-social behaviour collected in bin bags on a daily basis. The Chairman advised of further discussion with the Police and Community Safety Team with a view to taking decisive action to control the situation The Meeting returned to session 471) DISTRICT COUNCILLORS’ REPORTS Councillor Brown advised that most of his report had been covered in ‘Matters Introduced by Members of the Public’ but asked the Parish Council to consider additional placing of doggie bins. The Clerk advised that the Council would consider Crooke and Shevington Moor and would be placing one at Millbrook School and on the canal towpath at Appley Bridge. Councillor Brown would place dog ‘pick it up’ signs on the lamp posts in Elnup Avenue. The only other matter, which he was aware the Parish Council was already involved in, was traffic issues emanating from the playschool in Crooke. 472 ) MINUTES OF LAST MEETING ‘That the Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting of 25 May be approved as true and correct record.’ Proposed. Councillor V Maloney. Seconded. Councillor Miles. Agreed 473 ) MATTERS ARISING St Anne’s Church Hall Fencing The application for fencing that the Parish Council had objected to on the grounds of poor design had been approved by Wigan Council. Crooke footbridge damage and stream erosion The repairs had been carried out by Wigan Council but there was still concern that a child could slip below the lower barrier and into the water. The Clerk would investigate and consult with the Wigan Department of Engineering. Corporate Stakeholder Review Councillor J Maloney and the Clerk had responded positively to the Audit Commission Stakeholder Review Questionnaire regarding the service provided by Wigan Council. Charter 88 Early Day Motion – Sustainable Communities Bill The Clerk had written to Neil Turner MP seeking support for the Early Day Motion adding that the Council would wish to see some of the centralised powers of Government returned to Local Authorities with the finances to undertake them. Casual Vacancy The Notice of Vacancy had needed to be displayed again and in the event of no election being called the Parish Council could fill the vacancy by co-option after 12 July. Communication Following upon approaches to Wigan Council to have messages about the Parish Council conveyed in ‘Borough Life’ and on Rate Demands, Cllr. J Maloney had prepared a draft which would be used by the Clerk in discussion with the Wigan Council contact names provided by the Chief Executive. Viridor Waste Management In response to the Clerk’s challenge regarding failure to empty the Parish Council bins twice in April the company has provided a Credit Note of £27.48 ex Vat. Notice Boards, Library and Gathurst Station Following upon a letter which summarised the final meeting with Alison Jones of Wigan Council and contractors Wigan Council Planning and regeneration Department has confirmed that no Planning Permission is required for two notice boards. Gathurst Service Station Notice received that Planning Application A/06/66787 would be subject to a proposal to substitute designs for dwellings on three plots. The matter would be discussed later under ‘Planning Applications’. 474 ) REPORTS FROM COUNCILLORS Police and Community Safety Teams Cllr. J Maloney advised that he had been in discussion with Inspector Jones and there would be further meetings with the Community Officers to discuss strategy relating to anti- social behaviour. Development of the Recreation Ground Cllr. J Maloney reported that he had met with Barry Cross, Deputy Head of the High School, Andrew Meadows and Clare Greenwood of the Township regarding the development plans for the Recreation Ground. The proposals for developments at the High School and the Recreation Ground were to be submitted in tandem and would be discussed at the next Meeting of the Community Association before a further meeting of those involved on 4 th July. Battle of the Somme, Friday 30 th June The 90 th Anniversary of the Battle of the Somme would be remembered on the weekend 30 th June and July 1. The Union flag would be flown at half mast during the morning of 30 th June and a laurel wreath would be laid at the War Memorial. 475 ) REPORTS FROM REPRESENTATIVES Youth Club Cllr. Whiteley advised that Youth Club would be closing ahead of the AGM to be held at 7.30pm Thursday 29 June Millbrook School Councillor Whiteley reported that the School had received a good OFSTED report and the Headteacher had been praised for her leadership. 476 ) TO ACCEPT THE MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL PARISH MEETING AND TO ACTION MATTERS RAISED BY THE PUBLIC. The Minutes were accepted without vote and the Clerk was thanked for their early compilation. Matters raised for Parish Council action had been discussed under ‘Matters Introduced by Members of the Public’ (use of School playing field) and District Councillors Reports (traffic issues at Crooke). The Clerk would write to the Crooke Play School proprietors regarding issues of traffic speed and inconsiderate car parking. Cllr J Maloney would discuss with the Community Safety Team the opportunity for a leaflet drop to homeowners in Central Drive and Church Lane providing the emergency report telephone line for anti-social behaviour issues. Similar leaflets could be provided to the Churches. 477 ) CLERK APPOINTMENT PROGRESS REPORT The Clerk advised that he had compiled an initial list of 32 applicants (names undisclosed to Councillors other than the Chairman at this stage) of which 8 were from within the Parish and 16 fairly local. There was an adequate spread of expertise that met with the Council’s requirements and it would be unlikely that the Council would need to advertise again in August. All respondents had been provided with a copy of the Parish Council Action Plan, Accounts for the last two years, a summary of the powers of Parish Councils, the last Annual Parish Meeting Clerk’s Report, draft contract/terms and conditions/job description, and a summary letter wrapping up the detail of office requirements and the selection procedure. Applicants had been given to 7 th July to respond by CV and optional covering letter and acknowledgements would be sent. It was envisaged that a Short List could be compiled for 14 July with interviews following thereafter by arrangement. 478 ) PLANNING APPLICATIONS A/06/66787Gathurst Service Station Notice received that Planning Application would be subject to a proposal to substitute designs for dwellings on three plots. Having reviewed the proposed plan members had no adverse comment. Noted. A06/66802 Golden Days Nursery Application received for variation in the Planning Consent seeking the siting of an office on a mezzanine floor to be constructed without alteration to the roof profile. Noted. 479 ) 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 Whiteley Seconded. Councillor Miles. Unanimous. 480 ) CLERK’S REPORT All Planning Applications requiring Members' attention had been brought to their notice. ‘Wigan Community Safety News’ received. ‘Money Talks’ received. ‘North West Best Design Guide’ received. ‘Open Spaces Society’ newsletter received 481 ) DATE OF NEXT MEETING No meetings in July Policy Committee 3 August. Parish Council 24 August Policy Committee 31 August There being no further business the Chairman closed the meeting at 9.10pm. CHAIRMAN Back to top Held on Thursday 24 August 2006 Present: Councillor J Maloney (Chairman) Councillors Ball, Sudworth. V Maloney, Whiteley, District Councillor Brown Clerk (Holden) Clerk Designate (Harkins) and two members of the public. 482 Apologies Councillors Miles, Shaw, Parkinson and District Councillors Bland & O’Neill. Appointment of Parish Council Clerk Policy Committee Resolution from Meeting on 3 August. ‘That the Parish Council appoints Mrs Elaine Harkins Clerk Designate with immediate effect. The appointment to be at Scale Point 27, pro rata to the equivalent of 15 hours each week. Satisfactory performance leading to confirmation as Clerk at the Parish Council meeting on 14 December. To take effect 1 January 2007.’ Proposed. Councillor Whiteley. Seconded Councillor Sudworth. Unanimous. 484 District Councillors’ Reports District Councillor Brown advised that the Community Engagement and Consultation Committee met on 14 July and decided to end the Public Voice on Policing meeting structures. Instead of those meetings the Police will work with the Townships and other partners to publicise local neighbourhood meetings. Police officers will attend these meetings where any local issues or concerns can be raised. In recent weeks notices have gone up around Shevington about Anti Social Behaviour. Letters have been sent to every household explaining the Police and Local Authority stance on Anti Social Behaviour and encouraging parents to take more ownership for their children’s behaviour and whereabouts. The notices and letters seem to have been well received by the public. It has been suggested that letters should be sent out in future with the words ‘This is not a circular’ on the envelope to make sure that the person receiving it does not think it is junk mail. Councillor Ball queried the impact increasing migration might have on the Council Tax charge. He was advised that this can only be dealt with when the budget is being discussed with Wigan Council. District Councillor Bland sent a written report about the lack of access to Millbrook School grounds as a play area. She explained that having met with the mothers who approached the Parish Council and other local residents an alternative approach has been put into action, which is to tidy up the existing recreational space on High Park. This land will soon be fenced for safety and children have been using the area without animosity with adjacent property owners. It seems there hasn’t been a direct approach to the School to relax the exemption from the Open School Fields policy. 485 Minutes of the Last Meeting ‘That the minutes of the Parish Council Meeting of 22 June be approved as a true and correct record’ Proposed. Councillor I Whiteley. Seconded. Councillor V Maloney. Agreed. 486 Matters Arising Bus Services at Shevington Moor A letter was received from a resident of Shevington Moor about the generally poor bus service in Shevington Moor and the probability that the 113 (Preston Wigan) bus service will be reduced to two hourly. Also there is no direct link from Shevington Moor to Shevington and it seems that the Link taxi has a poor reputation for timekeeping. The Clerk sent the letter to Alison Jones in Wigan Planning Department and she agreed to liaise with GMPTE. Alison Jones has advised that the 113 franchise is to change to Stagecoach on 9 October but there is no change to the service minuted at GMPTE. In addition from 4 September the 639 will start and finish in Wigan, making access from Shevington Moor to Wigan easier. The letter has been forwarded to GMPTE to investigate the suggestions and to provide feedback on the adverse comment about the subsidised Link service. The Parish Council will be written to directly by GMPTE in due course. The Clerk will write to the resident to keep them informed. Northern Rail Stakeholders Day 23 July To recognise its continuing adoption work at Gathurst Station the Parish Council was to make up a party and join other adopters on special train journeys to Bridlington. The Council had initially accepted four places but regrettably the invitation was subsequently declined. Wigan Local Development Framework, Future Consultations Letter received from Wigan Council Environmental Services Department providing the timetable for future elements of the framework spread over a period of a year. These include; travel plans; protected species; air quality; waste plan; Borough spatial strategy; land allocation for employment and housing; Wigan Town Centre 15 year plan. The Chairman expressed concerns over the land at Orica. The timetable suggests that land allocation for employment and housing stage will start in October 2006. Concerns are over the allocation of the land. The Chairman wants to gain assurances that most of the land will stay Green Belt. The Clerk will write to the Director of Planning and Regeneration to seek reassurances. West Lancashire Replacement Local Plan Letter received from West Lancashire District Council advising that the Local Plan had been adopted on 5 July. Copies of the Plan can be purchased or made available for reference in due course. Information can be obtained at www.westlancsdc.gov.uk/planning. Sand and Gravel Study for Lancashire Lancashire County Council advised that the second stage of the sand and gravel resource and extraction possibilities report has been published and is available for viewing at www.lancsmwdf.com. An initial viewing does not indicate any intended workings on the Parish Council boundary at Appley Bridge where there are known sand deposits off Appley Lane South. EnCams ‘A guide to improving your local environment’ Letter received from EnCams enclosing an excellent reference directory of matters concerning Local Environmental Quality. The directory brings together guidance on a wide range of essentially different topics into one source covering, litter, dog fouling, waste, abandoned vehicles, fly posting, graffiti, neighbour noise and anti-social behaviour. The Chairman took the directory. After reading it he will pass it to Gareth Dickinson as many of the topics in the Directory cover the work he does for the Parish Council. Ordnance Survey Map Access NALC communication briefing receiving regarding mapping access at the Ordnance Survey for first tier Local Authorities. Access is available through www.ordnancesurvey.co.uk. A sample Case Studies copy has been obtained and cost is around £900 for a 3 year software licence. It was decided that this matter would be placed on the agenda for the next Policy Committee meeting. Planning Application 144 Shevington Lane A/05/65637 The application for demolition of the existing property and building of eleven dwellings had been declined by Wigan Council Planning Committee. Subsequently there had been a letter received from a local resident group thanking the Parish Council for lodging its objection to the proposals. Crooke footbridge damage After the initial repairs there was still the potential for slipping into the culvert. The Clerk has requested Wigan Highways to visit and review the hazard with a view to fencing up to the bottom rail. Charter 88 Early Day Motion – Sustainable Communities Bill Letter received from Neil Turner MP explaining Early Day Motion procedure. The Government is consulting on issues to be included in the White paper on Local Government to be published in the Autumn. In addition the review of Local Government Finances will also have been completed by then. Mr Turner believes that this will give the Parish Council opportunity to discuss and comment on the future shape of Local Government and he offered to join in discussion with the Council subject to his Parliamentary commitments. The letter extended best wishes to the Council for the excellent work it carries out in Shevington. Casual Vacancy The Council is free to co-opt a member to serve until the elections in May 2007. An Agenda item will appear until the vacancy is filled. Communication Following on from an initial response by the Chief Executive the Clerk had written to the Head of Public Relations and the Assistant Director of Revenues Services regarding publication of Council financial information and other news in such as Rate Demands and ‘Borough Life’. A meeting was now pending to discuss the Council’s request in greater detail. Dates for the meeting are still to be arranged. Notice Boards The Chairman gave an update on this matter. For two notice boards, one at Gathurst Station and one at Shevington Library, the total cost will be £3000. Grants totalling £1800 have been raised and £400 has been secured from the Brighter Borough Fund. This leaves a shortfall of £800. The Clerk advised that there was no Resolution on the Agenda for this expenditure and similarly there was no budget item. However, as the Meeting had a majority of Members available, the Clerk’s opinion was that a Resolution and vote would be acceptable rather than wait a further month. Whilst disappointing that full funding is not available the Council can afford this unbudgeted expenditure and communication and public information is fundamental to the progression of the Parish Council Plan. ‘That the Parish Council confirms its commitment to the siting of two notice boards at Gathurst Station and the Shevington Library and that a sum of £800 will be provided towards the cost. The Clerk is authorised to formalise the grant application with ‘Brighter Borough’ and commit to a Licence Agreement for the siting of a board at Gathurst Railway Station Car Park’. Proposed. Councillor V Maloney. Seconded. Councillor I Whiteley. Unanimous Millbrook School Playing Field Usage The Clerk had written following upon the issues raised by the mothers attending the June Meeting. There had been no response to the Council’s letter but the issue appears to have been resolved satisfactorily (See District Councillors Reports’ earlier). Traffic Issues at Crooke The Clerk had written to the owners of the Village Day Nursery and had subsequently spoken by telephone. There will be a written response in due course and it is likely that the Nursery’s September newsletter to parents will include the matters raised from the point of view of child and public safety. Clerk Appointment The interviews of the four candidates short listed for the Clerk vacancy had been conducted at the Ashfield Park Hotel, the cost was submitted later under Accounts. The Policy Committee had met on 3 August to propose the successor, leading to the Appointment of Mrs Elaine Harkins as Clerk designate earlier in the Meeting this evening. Junction between Mill Lane and Miles Lane – Randalls Corner Concerns were raised over regular spillages, likely diesel on the road at that junction. Councillor Brown agreed to look into this matter. Dog bin at Appley Bridge canal swing bridge E mail received from British Waterways to advise that the bin should be installed by the end of August. Appley Bridge Railway Station Adoption Members had visited the Station on 3 August during the inspection of Parish Council property and have recorded some adverse observations that need to be discussed with Northern Rail when a meeting is finally arranged. In the last few days a confused e mail has been received from a named contact at Northern Rail and it might be anticipated that formal contact will follow shortly. Boundary Signage and Speed activated Road Signs In response to correspondence by the Clerk, Andrew Meadows, Township co-ordinator has forwarded details of speed activated road signs and the necessary steps to their installation. There is again reference to the Community Association as the driver of this request. The Clerk recommended that this matter is discussed at the next Policy Committee Meeting to clarify matters with the Community Association and of ongoing costs for example once installed who pays for future moves and running costs? There was no response in respect of the Boundary Signs and the Clerk will endeavour to seek further information as to design, wording, cost and time to delivery. Councillor Whiteley will send an email to Andrew Meadows asking for the sign to read ‘Parish of Shevington’. 487 Reports from Councillors Old School building – Miles Lane Councillor Ball reported that he had noticed that the old school building had been advertised again and wondered if any progress had been made as far as acquiring the building for the Parish Council. The Chairman advised that he had met a senior funding officer in Wigan Council Planning who had advised of a new Lottery Fund. The Chairman has also spoken with a building company, who have agreed to assess the building and give a cost for the work needed. The amount needed to bid to secure the building is unknown, which is a problem. The Chairman has written to the Leader and Deputy Leader of the Council. The letter points out that the School building is the oldest building in the village. As a Grade 2 Listed building it should be kept in the community. Car Park Broad o’th Lane Councillor Whiteley raised concerns over the state of the car park, the holes at the entrance being the most immediate cause for concern. The Clerk referred to the Policy Committee Minutes of 3 August where he recommended an urgent, if only temporary, repair. As there was Wigan Council Highways work being carried out now in Shevington an approach would be made to Wigan Council for their contractor to carry out the job. Development of the Recreation Ground and High School The Chairman and Councillor Whiteley met with Andrew Meadows, Claire Greenwood and Paul Ryding to discuss a plan for the Recreation Ground and the High School. The idea is to provide a variety of outdoor facilities in the village centre and at the High School. The idea is to create a ‘Healthier Shevington.’ The plan is to have a beautifully landscaped area around the Recreation Ground and to ensure good drainage for both the Recreation Ground and the High School. The High School would be the venue for structured activities whilst the Recreation Ground would be used for more informal sporting activity. Wigan Council will help with grant applications. There is a meeting on 13 September at Shevington High School to see what progress is being made. Bank Holiday Footpath Walk - Ramblers Association Councillor V Maloney reminded everyone about the Parish Walk taking place on Monday 28 August. Meeting at 10am at St Anne’s Parish Hall and lead by Wigan Ramblers any funds raised would be donated to Leukaemia Research in memory of the late Councillor Alice Lister. Shevington Bowling Green There has never been an electricity supply to the bowling green. The Chairman has been advised by Debra green, a grant officer, that the Parish Council can apply for up to £5000 for electricity to the bowling green. The Clerk would arrange for a Bowling Club submission. 488 Reports from Representatives Youth Club Councillor Whiteley reported that she had met with Claire Greenwood to discuss grants for redevelopment of the youth club. Although there are other buildings within the parish that could be used, this shouldn’t affect our application. Letters of support from the police have also been received. In the meantime minor refurbishment is going ahead at the youth club. The gates for the youth club are going ahead. Two new leaders have also been appointed from the junior club. 489 To Co-opt a Councillor There are a couple of local people who could well be good candidates but they need to be approached. A decision needs to be made as to how and when and whether the Council should advertise locally. Planning Applications 4 Broad o’th Lane A planning Application has been received to extend the rear of the existing shop. The existing roofline will stay in place. The extension will only affect the rear of the property. There will be 2 apartments built. After considering the plan members had no objection. A/06/67086 Land to the rear of 20 Broadlands – Certificate of Lawfulness The application sought to bring a legal status to the continued use of an area of land in Elnup Wood as garden curtilage, citing usage over a period of about twenty years. The issues are complicated given that the existing legal title is presently unclear. The nub of the claim is that given no complaint by a landowner the claimant has set out a ‘woodland garden’ entered from his property by a gate in the rear fence, surrounded this ‘garden’ area by a brushwood fence and laid out pathways, plant pots and column lights. It is this area of land some 15 yards by 18 yards that is now claimed for continued use as ‘garden curtilage’. The Clerk had undertaken some site investigation and provided Members with photographs of the site. In view of the limited timescale a letter of objection had been compiled by the Clerk, agreed by the Chairman, and sent to Wigan Planning Department. The basis of the objection was that there was no implied right in the first instance to open the back fence of the existing garden to gain access. Additionally, from the paths around the fencing, it was clear that others had been denied the right to walk in the community woodlands and been obstructed by there being an inferred ‘private right’ to enjoyment. The Parish Council has concern that if the application is upheld then it could lead to permanent fencing and there could be difficulty in preventing future incursion by others. It was noted that there were now many accesses from rear gardens and fly tipping is a feature at the rear of some properties. Groundwork Wigan and Chorley were also objecting to the application. ‘That the Parish Council objects to the applicant’s proposal to continue to use some of the land within Elnup Wood as part of the curtilage of his current garden and confirms the actions of the Clerk and Chairman in writing to Wigan Planning Department.’ Proposed. Councillor Ball. Seconded Councillor Whiteley. Unanimous 491 Donation to Shevington Horticultural and Allotment Society Show. ‘That a donation of £75 be made to Shevington Horticultural and Allotment Society Show.’ Proposed. Councillor Whiteley. Seconded. Councillor Sudworth. Unanimous 492 Accounts Audit Accounts for the year to 31/3/2006 had been approved by the Council at its Meeting of 25 May 2006 (Minute 466). The Accounts had subsequently been Internally Audited and been on public display within the Library covering the statutory notice period leading up to Audit and there had, to date, been no request to inspect them. The Audit would take place 25 August and the Council was required to provide the Statement of Assurance to the Auditors. The Clerk received affirmative answers to the eight sections of the Statement.. ‘In respect of the Accounts to 31 March 2006 the Parish Council affirms its belief that it has exercised adequate controls of the financial affairs of the Council as required by Audit regulations.’ Proposed. Councillor Ball. Seconded. Councillor Sudworth. Unanimous. The Chairman and the Clerk signed the Audit submission.
Parish Council Statement Balances prior to Meeting date
‘That the Accounts for July be approved in retrospect and those for August be approved and cheques signed in payment due note given to Statements exhibited.’ Proposed. Councillor Ball. Seconded. Councillor Whiteley. Unanimous. 493 Clerk’s Report All Planning Applications requiring Members’ attention have been drawn to their notice. NALC circular received containing a survey questionnaire on Terms and Conditions which will be completed. LAPTC AGM to be held Saturday 4 November. Agenda item for September PC Meeting. LAPTC unaudited Accounts received showing a healthier financial position than has been evidenced in recent years. LAPTC/LMCTP advise that New Councillors and Clerks training courses will be held in July and October 2007, i.e. after the elections in May 2007. The Clerk Designate will try to secure a place on one of the available training days. L ancashire and Merseyside County Training Partnership are seeking 8 Clerks to be sponsored through the coursework for the Certificate in Local Council Administration Wigan Council Partnership Briefing received containing a performance assessment update Standards Board for England Newsletter received, focussing on Declaring Interests ‘Local Works’ publication received covering the same ground as ‘Charter 88’ in seeking support for the Sustainable Communities Bill. Mentioned earlier under Matters Arising Royal Mail circular received regarding postal changes by size and weight. Because of this the Parish Council may need to purchase a small scale for weighing. CPRE ‘Countryside Voice’ received. Dates of Next Meetings. Policy Meeting 31 August. Council Meeting 28 September. There being no further business the Chairman closed the Meeting at 9.30pm. CHAIRMAN MINUTES OF SHEVINGTON PARISH COUNCIL MEETING Held on Thursday 28th September 2006 Held on Thursday 28 September 2006 7.30pm Shevington Libarary Present: Councillor J Maloney (Chairman) Councillors Ball, Sudworth, V Maloney, Whiteley, Miles, Clerk (Holden), Clerk Designate (Harkins) and two members of the public. 495 Apologies Councillor Shaw and District Councillors Bland, Brown and O’Neill. Councillor Anthony Parkinson The Chairman advised that after years of service Councillor Parkinson has resigned. The Chairman expressed his sadness at receiving his resignation, commenting that over the years he had served greatly as a Councillor as well as being involved with the Community Association and the Youth Club. Members said he would be very much missed and more than welcome to join the Parish Council in the future if a vacancy arises and he is in a position to do so. The Clerk undertook to write to Councillor Parkinson thanking him for his work on the Parish Council. Councillor Alan J Sudworth The Chairman presented Councillor Sudworth with a ‘Past Chairmans Badge’ in recognition of his services as Chairman for the Parish Council, from 1989 to 2005. Matters introduced by members of the public Mr Dickinson advised that there had been a number of incidents lately where the the area between Central Drive and Old Lane has been used as a bridle path and commented on the mess left behind as a result. Mr Dickinson had the opportunity to speak with one of the horse riders and no further incidents have occurred since. Mr Dickinson advised that a great many people still park on double yellow lines on Highfield Avenue. He has contacted Wigan Council about this as the number of times vehicles park on those double yellow lines seems to be increasing and there are obvious dangers involved. Mr Dickinson advised that a Parish Council planter in Crooke Village had been knocked over by a parent driving away from the Nursery. There are further concerns that a bollard may need to be placed on the road corner to stop cars mounting the kerb there. This may need to be done in conjunction with Wigan Council. Mr Dickinson advised that work carried out a week ago on the new Wainhomes site at the bottom of Gathurst Lane caused saw dust and water to be sweep down the Lane as far as the Orica site. Mr Dickinson brought these hazardous road conditions to the attention of the Chairman who contacted Wainhomes and Wigan Council Highways Department. The roads were swept clean that same day. 497 District Councillors Reports There were no reports to bring to the attention of Members. 498 Minutes of the Last Meeting ‘That the minutes of the Parish Council Meeting of 24 August be approved as a true and correct record’ Proposed. Councillor A Sudworth Seconded. Councillor I Whiteley. Agreed. 499 Matters ArisingFencing at the Allotments Gentleman rang to express his concerns over the safety of his fence posts that corner the concrete fence on the allotments. Mr Dickinson has visited the gentleman and viewed the fence post with him. Although the problem with the fence post was not caused by the allotment fence, Mr Dickinson has cemented round the fence post to secure it. Ball Games on area between Bowling Green and disabled allotments. Lady rang to express concerns over the ball games being played on the area behind her property. Particular concerns over golf being played there and the dangers that come with it. Mr Dickinson spoke with the young children he believes to be involved. Despite that there have been further incidents and the lady has requested a No Ball Games sign. The situation will be monitored closely by Mr Dickinson who undertook to go to the area whenever a problem arises. Scouts Poster A lady whose son currently attends the Scouts has asked if the Shevington Scout Group can place posters on the Parish Council notice boards to help recruit more scouts as numbers a low at the moment. Members agreed that the posters could be displayed on them. Bowling Green A letter has been received from the Captain of St Bernadette’s ladies bowling Team thanking the greenkeepers Gareth and Harry and anyone else involved for their obvious hard work in keeping the green in such good order. She goes on to say that the green is a credit to them and the Parish Council. The Clerk will write a letter of thanks to the Captain of the team. Rural Services Review – Reviewing Standards 2006 DEFRA have sent their latest edition of the Rural Services Review. Following feedback from readers this edition is more about real people and real issues. It reflects the issues facing rural communities and describes the interesting ways in which some communities have overcome the problems. More information about this at rural.services@defra.gsi.gov.uk Greater Manchester Joint Waste Development Plan Document Letter has been received thanking the Parish Council for registering an interest in the Joint Waste Development Plan Document Issues and Options Stakeholder Events are being held on 17 October and 2 November. A booking for the events has been secured and the Chairman has agreed to attend. North West Air Ambulance Letter received asking for a donation towards their running costs. This matter will be placed on the October agenda. New Clerk Appointment Clerk has carried out a Health and Safety self-certification on the work station at her home dated 22 September 2006. The Chairman signed and dated the document at the meeting and it is now filed with the Council’s Insurance papers. The sign on the swing gate to the children’s play area has been removed and will be updated with the Clerk Designate’s details at the bottom of the sign. Allotments for Disabled People The Clerk contacted Mark Barker at Northern Rail to ask about possibility of railway sleepers being donated. He contacted Network Rail on our behalf but they no longer donate or sell railway sleepers because of the health and safety reasons connected with the chemicals used on them. He suggested I contact Murphy’s in Wigan who in turn recommended a company called Derek Fox in Preston. They charge £15 for each sleeper but didn’t take up the suggestion of donating any when they were emailed. Mr Dickinson agreed to contact Ainscough Building Supplies to find out the cost of railway sleepers from them. Hedgerow at Allotments Clerk Designate wrote to Kath Godfrey at BTCV in Wigan asking if they would like to help us tidying and in parts laying the hedgerow. She has emailed to say that they would be delighted to carry out work on the hedgerow. She is meeting the Clerk Designate and Mr Dickinson at the allotments on Monday 9 October to take a look at the work involved. Wigan Local Development Framework – Supplementary Planning Documents The Parish Council has been given the opportunity to put forward any issues or information that will go towards the preparation of the following three documents, Travel Plans, Development and Protected Species and Development and Air Quality. Consultation Outlines for the three documents were included. The Chairman and Clerk have read the Consultation Outlines. A response has been given to the questions relating to Air Quality but the Parish Council has no immediate comment to make on aspects of any of the proposals in relation to the other two topics. Land at Orica The Principal Planning Officer for Wigan Council has written to the Parish Council confirming that the limited development that will be allowed at Orica will be tightly controlled so that it does not occupy a larger area of the site than the existing buildings. Existing restrictions relating to tree protection, its status as a site of biological importance and part of a wildlife corridor will also remain in place. There is no planned development at this site presently. Council Insurance Following an Annual Inspection of Parish Council Property on 3 August 2006. Mr Dickinson has updated the maintenance schedule for Members inspection. The document is filed with the Council’s Insurance papers. Ordnance Survey Map Access The Parish Council now has up to date Shevington Parish Maps. There are three in total. One is laminated the further two are paper versions. It was suggested that one of the maps could be displayed in the meeting room at Shevington Library. Casual Vacancy Posters are now on display on Parish Council notice boards inviting interest from anyone who would like to be co-opted to the Council. A gentleman who had expressed an interest in the vacancy attended the meeting to get an idea of what it was about. Another gentleman who has expressed an interest sent his apologies for not making the meeting and will likely attend a future one. Communication The Chairman and the Clerk Designate met with the Head of Public Relations for Wigan Council to discuss ways of increasing public awareness about the work that Parish Councils do. The Head of Public Relations agreed to write a piece for the Parish Council that will go into the January edition of Borough Life. Dates to meet with the Head of Revenues Services are still to be arranged. Notice Boards A grant cheque for £400 has been received from Brighter Borough to go towards the cost of the notice boards. The artwork for the Parish crest is currently underway. Appley Bridge Railway Station Adoption The Clerk has had contact with Peter Myers from Northern Rail. A meeting on site is proposed possible dates for the meeting are 17 and 18 October. A date is yet to be confirmed. Doggie Bin at Appley Bridge Swing Canal No progress to report. The Clerk emailed Stephen Higham of British Waterways to ask when the bin will be sited. The Clerk will send another email. Boundary Signs and Speed Activated Road Signs The Clerk has been contacted by the graphic artist responsible for the design of the signs seeking a better definition for the artwork of the Parish Council crest. There has been no confirmation as to when the signs will be sited. Wigan Council have agreed that the sign can read ’Welcome to the Parish of Shevington’ however due to letter sizing it may look better if it were ‘Parish of Shevington’. Mock ups of the two versions will be seen before a decision is made. The traffic monitoring only started up again after the school holiday period. Members agreed it would be beneficial if the signs can be moved from time to time. 500 Reports from Councillors Anti Social Behaviour Councillor Ball expressed his concern over the increasing number of incidents of drug and drink induced anti social behaviour that are affecting most of the Parish Community in one way or another. The Chairman advised that he has spoken with Councillor O’Neill with a view to arranging a meeting with Chief Superintendent Brookshaw to express his concerns over the approach the Police have to these incidents and his concerns regarding the public perception of the work they do. Members agreed that feedback about how incidents are tackled would go some way to improving public perception. The Old School House on Miles Lane The Chairman explained that the Parish Council has not submitted a bid for the building as the Heritage Lottery Fund has advised that it would not be the right thing to do. The Chairman has emailed the Leader of the Council explaining that the Heritage Lottery Fund would be prepared to offer grant assistance if the Parish Council carries out a Conservation Management Plan and an Audience Development Plan. The Chairman has asked the Leader of the Council if the Cabinet can give the Parish Council time to develop these plans. The Chairman and the Clerk Designate are meeting with the Leader of the Council on 9 October. Memorial Park The Chairman advised that the police have recently asked one of Mr Dickinson’s employees to move their van off the Memorial Park area. Mr Dickinson’s company is contracted to carry out work for the Parish Council. The Chairman has contacted the Township Sergeant about this matter. There were concerns over the transit truck used by Wigan Council when they inspect the play area. The truck is too heavy for the pavement and is causing damage. The Clerk was asked to write to Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust to explain the Parish Council’s concerns. 501 Reports from Representatives Youth Club Councillor Whiteley reported that two areas of the youth club were to be refurbished. Two architects are working on the youth club and Claire Greenwood had advised that three costings may be necessary for a bid. Two new Junior Leaders have started at the Youth Club and are doing an excellent job. The gates to the youth club have been in place for the past two weeks and have already been vandalised. There are also concerns that children are using the gates to get onto the roof. Parish Council Website Councillor Whiteley advised that publishers say the Parish Plan will need to be reformatted at a cost before it can go onto the Parish Council website. ‘That the Parish Plan be reformatted so that it can go onto the Parish Council Website’ Proposed. Councillor Ball. Seconded. Councillor Sudworth. Agreed Planning Applications A/06/67439 Shevington Post Office A planning application has been received for an ATM to be installed in the shop front of Shevington Post Office. There will be two external bollards. After considering the plan Members had no objection. A/06/67409 LB and A/06/67410 Forest Fold Farm Grade 2 Listed Building. Planning applications have been received for a change of use of disused farm buildings into one dwelling with some demolition. Members agreed that the application needed fuller consideration. It will be placed on the agenda for the meeting on 3 October. 503 St Anne’s Churchyard maintenance Donation ‘That the Parish Council donates the sum of £600 towards the maintenance costs of St Anne’s Churchyard.’ Proposed. Councillor Sudworth Seconded. Councillor V Maloney. Unanimous. 504 – Accounts United Utilities Water PLC Charges bowling green & r/o 250 Miles Lane £ 89.97 Henry Alty Ltd Materials £ 56.42 E Harkins Post, Phone, Mileage, Phone/fax machine £ 152.07 V Maloney Refreshments. Bank Holiday Walk £ 24.34 Global Mapping Ltd Shevington Parish Maps £ 66.87 Staples UK Ltd Stationery £ 61.08 Ainscoughs Bldg Supplies Ltd Materials £ 345.09 Rushtons Plants £ 211.50 Bewleys Hardware Store Marterials £ 88.31 G & S Dickinson Ltd Bowling Gr, normal hrs, materials, tarmac £2746.00 M Holden Salary £ 403.53 E Harkins Salary £ 476.27 J Maloney Chairman’s Allowance £ 80.00 Inland Revenue Tax & N I £ 559.07 Shevington Rec Grd Trustees Car Park Rent £ 50.00 M Holden Mileage, post, telephone £ 18.20 St Anne’s PCC Churchyard maintenance fund £ 600.00 Wigan Council Library rent £ 60.00 I Whiteley Stationery £ 7.36 TOTAL £6096.08 Parish Council Statement Balances prior to Meeting date Capital Res £26,687.42 Business Reserve £65,797.57 Current £ 500.00 TOTAL £92,984.99 ‘That the accounts for September are approved and cheques signed in payment due note being given to statements exhibited.’ Proposed. Councillor Ball. Seconded. Councillor Whiteley. Unanimous 505 - Clerk’s Report
Dates of Next Meetings Finance Meeting 3 October Council Meeting 26 October There being no further business the Chairman closed the Meeting at 9.30pm. CHAIRMAN MINUTES OF SHEVINGTON PARISH COUNCIL MEETING HELD ON THURSDAY 26 OCTOBER 2006 7.30PM SHEVINGTON LIBRARY Present: Councillor J Maloney (Chairman) Councillors Ball, Sudworth, V Maloney, Whiteley, Miles, Clerk (Holden), Clerk Designate (Harkins) and two members of the public. Apologies Councillor Shaw and District Councillor Brown. Co option of a Councillor The Chairman advised that after attending the previous meeting as an observer, Mr John Brian Lowe had written to formally express his interest in being co-opted onto the Council. Mr Lowe was present at the meeting and on request from Councillor Ball the Chairman read out Mr Lowe’s letter to Members. The Chairman proposed a resolution. ‘That Brian Lowe be co-opted as a Parish Councillor to serve for the remainder of the term to May 2007.’ Proposed. Councillor Sudworth Seconded . Councillor Whiteley. Unanimous To Receive the Declaration of Acceptance of Office of Councillor Mr Lowe signed the Declaration of Acceptance of Office and read the statement from the Declaration to Members. Clerk Designate signed as witness to the Declaration. Matters Introduced by Members of the Public ‘That the Meeting be suspended in accord with Standing Orders’ Proposed. Councillor Ball Seconded. Councillor Sudworth. Unanimous A lady attended the meeting to express her concerns over ball games being played to the rear of her property on land that is situated between the allotments for disabled users and the Bowling Green. Prior to the meeting she had sent a letter to the Clerk Designate and she read this letter to Members. She raised concerns over golf being played on that area as she had on 3 occasions found golf balls in her garden. She explained that the noise of football being played there was disturbing her and that the footballs are hitting her fence. She explained that she did not feel this problem would ease in the winter months as the security light from the Scout Hut provides a floodlit area. When she moved into the property she understood that the area would not be used for ball games. Ideally she wants a ‘No Ball Games’ sign on the area. The Chairman advised that further consideration would be given to this matter in the next Policy Meeting. He explained that although the area is an informal open space golf is dangerous and it is likely that recommendations will be made at the Policy Meeting for ‘No Golfing’ signs to go up on the area. Other considerations will include letting the grass grow for a number of feet from the fence inwards, having the land rotivated or placing extra allotments for disabled users there. Meeting returned to session. District Councillors’ ReportsDistrict Councillor Brown sent a written report advising that in relation to the anti social behaviour issues and the damage caused in and around the Memorial Park, Councillor O’Neill and Councillor Maloney (Parish Council Chairman) were due to meet with the Township Inspector. The Community Association is having a clean up/litter pick in November and have asked if the Parish Council would like to support the event. To Approve the Minutes of the Meeting 28 September. Minutes of the Parish Council meeting of 28 September. Councillor Whiteley advised of three corrections. On page one it should read ‘the area between Central Drive and Old Lane has been used as a bridle path’. Regarding the Youth Club it should read ’two architects are working on the youth club and Claire Greenwood had advised that three costings may be necessary for a bid.’ ‘That the minutes of the Parish Council meeting on 28 September be approved as a true and correct record.’ Proposed. Councillor Ball Seconded. Councillor Whiteley. Agreed. Matters Arising Notice of Casual Vacancy for North Ward The Democratic Service Manager sent copies of a Notice of the Casual Vacancy for the North Ward. These were dated 20 October 2006 and copies were displayed on all notice boards and in the library on that day. In the event that a Poll is not requested the Parish Council will be able to co-opt at the November Meeting. St Anne’s Church Yard Maintenance Donation Letter received from Rev’d Dennison asking to pass on the Church’s grateful thanks to the Council for the donation. The Stable at Forset Fold Farm The draft historical report by Garry Miller has been received. It provides an excellent historical background for the property and the area. Greater Manchester Centre for Voluntary Organisation (GMCVO) A letter has been received from the development officer of this recently established Greater Manchester Rural Resource Unit. Initially from 2006 to 2008 the group will focus on research into which areas in Greater Manchester can be considered rural and establish relationships with local groups to investigate issues and problems with being in a rural area. The outcome of the work will be the establishment of a rural plan. The Chairman advised further consideration would be given to this at the next Parish Council meeting Bowling Green Pavillion The Clerk Designate, Chairman and Councillor Maloney met with the Captain of St Bernadette’s Ladies Bowling Team and her colleague. The ladies advised that since last meeting with the Parish Council both of them have worked towards securing grants for the pavilion and the electricity at the Bowling Green. Their initial bid to Awards for All was rejected as it was considered that the Bowling Green wasn’t open to a wide enough section of the community. In view the rejection their focus changed. Both ladies have undertaken the necessary training and are now qualified British Crown Green Instructors. They have also undergone the necessary police clearance. This has made way for their new strategy which is to introduce local primary school children to bowling and eventually creating junior bowling teams. A fresh bid to Awards for All is being submitted. The Chairman also recommended that the ladies apply for a grant to Douglas Valley. Allotments for Disabled People Derek Fox in Preston have contacted to say their charge is £16 a sleeper and not £15. At £16 each new plot would cost £240 for sleepers alone with additional costs for fixing in place and labour. Mr Dickinson has asked Ainsoughs for a price and their charge is £20 per sleeper plus VAT. Further consideration will be given to this matter at the budget meeting. Hedgerow at Allotments A lady from British Trust Conservation Volunteers (BTCV) met with Clerk Designate and Mr Dickinson at the allotments. She considered the hedge to be quite suitable for laying but felt it will require some additional planting and also the removal of some species such as elder. The work is likely to take 3-4 days. The cost to lay and stake the hedge and carry out restocking of gaps with native hedgerow species will be £600. The Parish Council will have to dispose of the brash with the use of a chipper. An additional cost may arise if a chipper has to be hired. An example of the BTCV hedgelaying is at Ashfield Park in Standish: the hedge runs alongside the A49 just past Ashfield House. Tenants of the plots shaded by the hedgerow have been advised of the proposed plans and although there is no objection to the work some believe that their plots will still be shaded even after the work has taken place. Tenants will be advised when the work will take place. The Clerk confirmed that there are funds in the budget to cover the cost. ‘That the work on the hedgerow be carried out as soon as possible using the British Trust Conservation Volunteers’ Proposed. Councillor Ball Seconded. Councillor Maloney. Unanimous Communication A date is yet to be set to meet with the Head of Revenues Services to discuss what Parish Council information can be included with next year’s Council Tax bills. The Clerk Designate will arrange a date. Shevington Play Area The Clerk Designate wrote to Wigan Leisure Culture Trust explaining Members’ concerns over a Wigan Council transit van being driven over the footpath to the play area. A letter has been returned assuring Members that this does not happen every week. The inspector who carries out the checks has advised he only drives over the pathway once every six weeks to get the heavy machinery he uses for the maintenance work to the play area. The situation will be monitored. Notice Boards The Chairman advised that Alison Jones from Wigan Council Planning and Regeneration Department has confirmed that the Notice Boards are being made. Appley Bridge Railway Station Adoption Clerk Designate, Councillor Sudworth and Mr Dickinson met at the station with Peter Myers and Carl Longfield from Northern Rail to discuss the station adoption. Mr Myers agreed that if the adoption went ahead Northern Rail would have the sloping embankment on the Southport side cut back to make tidy and treated to avoid it becoming overgrown to any extent. Would provide three planter tubs with compost for the Southport side and one planter with compost for the Manchester side. A notice board will be provided which the Parish Council will keep updated and maintain. The Council will clear the platform area of litter once a week and provide plants for the planters and maintain them. The Clerk Designate undertook to send a letter to Northern Rail confirming the Parish Council’s role and Northern Rail’s role in the adoption. If Northern Rail agrees with the details in the letter Members will consider adopting Appley Bridge Railway Station at the next Parish Council Meeting. Doggie Bin at Appley bridge Swing Canal The Clerk Designate has spoken with Stephen Higham from British Waterways a date for the siting of the bin is yet to be arranged. Boundary Signs and Speed Activated Road Sign
Councillor Whiteley showed Members examples of the Boundary Signs offered by Wigan Council. Members agreed that the sign reading ‘Welcome to the Parish of Shevington’ is the most appropriate Boundary Sign. Members felt that the choice of Wigan Council corporate colours used on the signs clashed with the Parish Council logo and either black or red would be better. Councillor Whiteley agreed to speak with Andrew Meadows about the possibility of the colours being changed. Reports from Councillors Old School House The Chairman advised that himself, Councillor Maloney and the Clerk Designate had met with the Leader of the Council and John Dean from Wigan Council Legal and Property Services. At the meeting John Dean had explained that only one bid had been received for the School House but he did not intend to recommend it as an appropriate bid to purchase the property. It was advised at the meeting that the Parish Council should go ahead as soon as possible with the Conservation Management Plan and Audience Development Plan needed to secure a grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund. The Chairman is meeting with an officer from the Heritage Lottery Fund on 16 November. Members felt that a site visit would be appropriate and the Chairman agreed to make the arrangements. The Chairman suggested that it would be proper for the bid for a grant to be done by a school house preservation fund. ‘That a bid for a grant for the Old School House on Miles Lane go ahead and be done by a School House Preservation Trust.’ Proposed. Councillor Ball. Seconded. Councillor Sudworth. Unanimous. Reports from Representatives Councillor Whiteley advised that a recent incident of anti social behaviour has led to the two new Junior Club Leaders deciding to leave. She noted that recently twelve members of the Youth Club have been issued with Good Behaviour Orders. The Community Safety Team are running multi sports sessions and will be running an Active Coaching Team at the Youth Club for boys and girls aged eight and over on Tuesday 7, 14, 21 & 28 November and Tuesday 5 December. The sessions will start at 6pm and end at 8pm. Planning Applications None to bring to Members attention. Members noted that work seems to have stopped on the new Wainhomes site on Gathurst Lane. Parish Council and Community Association Newsletter Members agreed that a joint Newsletter was a good idea but suggested that the logo at the top of each page should be used to distinguish between the two. Donation to North West Air Ambulance ‘That the Parish Council donates the sum of £100 to the North West Air Ambulance.’ Proposed. Councillor V Maloney. Seconded. Councillor Sudworth. Unanimous. 519 Donation to Standish Church Lad’s Brigade ‘That the Parish Council donates the sum of £50 to the Standish Church Lad’s Brigade.’ Proposed. Councillor Whiteley. Seconded Councillor Sudworth. Unanimous. Donation to Royal British Legion Councillor Ball felt that as the donation to the Royal British Legion had been £110 for the past 3 years it should be increased this year to £130. ‘That the Parish Council donates the sum of £130 to the Royal British Legion.’ Proposed. Councillor Ball. Seconded. Councillor Whiteley. Unanimous
M Holden Salary £ 403.53 E Harkins Salary £ 476.27 M Holden Mileage, Post, Telephone £ 29.64 E Harkins Mileage, Post, Telephone £ 38.74 Inland Revenue Tax & N.I. £ 559.07 J Maloney Chairman’s Allowance £ 80.00 Wigan Council Lease of Land Broadriding Rd £ 72.50 Ainscoughs Bldg Supplies Ltd Materials £ 390.80 MB Signs & Display Vinyl Lettering £ 47.00 Taylor & Pickles Ltd Refurbished/New Plate Sign £ 235.24 G & S Dickinson Ltd Bowling Gr, normal hrs, materials £2,551.00 NRG Group Uk Ltd Photocopier contract £ 59.93 Garry Miller Historical Bldg Report £ 48.00 Viridor Waste Collection Service £ 202.95 North West Air Ambulance Donation £ 100.00 Standish Church Lad’s Brigade Donation £ 50.00 Royal British Legion Donation £ 130.00 Bewleys Hardware Store Materials £ 156.24 Total £5630.91 Parish Council Statement Balances prior to Meeting date. Capital Res £26,798.89 Business Res £63,420.87 Current £ 500.00 TOTAL £90,719.76 Clerk’s Report
Any Other Business Queries from the Public Councillor V Maloney expressed concerns over the public contacting Mr Dickinson over the phone to deal with their queries. This is the role of the Clerk and it should remain that way. Dates for Next Meetings Policy Meeting 2 November Council Meeting 23 November There being no further business the Chairman closed the Meeting at 9.40pm. Chairman Back to topBack to Council Page Minutes of Shevington Parish Council MeetingHeld on Thursday 23 November 2006
Present – Councillor J Maloney (Chairman), Councillors Miles, Whiteley, V Maloney, Lowe, Shaw, Clerk (Holden) Clerk Designate (Harkins) and one member of the public Apologies Councillors Ball, Sudworth and District Councillor BrownThe Chairman explained to Members that the lady who usually opens the Library wasn’t well enough to do so. Central Watch couldn’t provide anyone else to open the Library so the Chairman had contacted Members earlier in the evening and invited them to his house for the Meeting.
In the absence of Mr Crosby the co-option did not go ahead and was deferred to the meeting on 14 December. Mr Crosby sent his apologies.
There were no new matters introduced by members of the public.
Councillor Brown had sent a written report detailing the outcome of the Township Community Safety Group meeting on 14 November. Discussions took place regarding anti social behaviour problems in Shevington. He noted that a recent police operation resulted in seventy-five contact cards being issued and a number of good behaviour agreements being signed. His report clearly identified that members of the public should contact the police to report all incidents. Councillor Brown noted that signs are in place around the village stating Shevington says ‘No to Anti Social Behaviour’, ‘No to Criminal Damage and Underage Drinking’. To Approve the Minutes of the Meeting of 26 OctoberCouncillor Whiteley noted that the second paragraph in Reports from Representatives should read. ‘The Community Safety Team are running multi sports sessions and will be running an Active Coaching Team at the Youth Club for boys and girls aged eight and over on Tuesday 7, 14, 21 & 28 November and Tuesday 5 December. The sessions will start at 6pm and end at 8pm.’ ‘That the minutes of the Parish Council meeting on 26 October be approved as a true and correct record.’ Proposed. Councillor Miles Seconded. Councillor Whiteley. Agreed. Wigan Replacement Unitary Development Plan - April 2006A complimentary copy has been received. The plan was adopted by the Council in April 2006 and has now been reprinted in its final form. Further copies are available at a cost of £30 plus postage of £8. An electronic version can be seen at www.wiganmbc.gov.uk. North West Air Ambulance DonationAssistant Charity Chief Executive sent a letter to the Parish Council thanking Members for their recent donation of £100 and for their continued support. Love your Post OfficeCountryside Alliance wrote asking for the Parish Council’s support in trying to keep local post offices open. They have asked the Parish Council to display one of their small posters in either the local post office or on a Parish Council Notice Board and to write asking for more posters if more are required. They also request that the Parish Council write to Jim Fitzpatrick MP, the minister responsible for Post Offices, to let him know what Local Post Offices mean to our community. The Chairman and Members agreed it would be proper to ask for more posters and to write to the MP. The Clerk Designate agreed to do this. Planning and Development Issues SurveyWigan Council’s Planning and Regeneration Department have sent a survey form for the Parish Council to fill in covering the broad issues they need to consider in drawing up the Allocations and Infrastructure Development Plan Document which will allocate land for development and identify the infrastructure necessary to serve it. The lady who attended the last Parish Council Meeting has written to the Clerk Designate advising that the problems are still ongoing. She has advised she will continue to write until changes are made to the area to stop the games being played. Hedgerow at the Allotments CommunicationThe Chairman has written a piece that can be included with the Council Tax bills for both Shevington and Haigh residents only when the new bills are sent next March. The Clerk Designate will liaise with the Assistant Director of Revenues Services to make the necessary arrangements. Notice BoardsThe Chairman reported that the Notice Boards are still being made. Appley Bridge Railway Station AdoptionPeter Myers from Northern Rail emailed the Clerk Designate to confirm that he concurred with the roles and responsibilities of the Parish Council and Northern Rail as set out in the Clerk Designate’s email to him. He did however state that there was some doubt as to the owners of the sloping embankment on the Southport side. He agreed to place ‘round up’ on it but felt he could do little more than that. He suggested that the planter for the Manchester side is provided by the Parish Council and Northern Rail are invoiced for the cost. Members agreed that the adoption of Appley Bridge Station should go ahead and that Mr Dickinson will spend one hour a week maintaining the planters at the station, keeping the platform areas litter free and updating the Notice Board as necessary. The Clerk suggested that Northern Rail should be asked to place a plaque at the station to confirm that Shevington Parish Council has adopted it. ‘That the Parish Council by agreement with Northern Rail adopts Appley Bridge Railway Station’ Proposed. Councillor Miles Seconded. Councillor Whiteley. Unanimous Doggie Bin at Appley Bridge Swing CanalThe doggie bin was sited on Friday 27 October and is well used. Boundary Signs and Speed Activated Road SignsCouncillor Whiteley advised that Andrew Meadows from Wigan Council had suggested that it will not be possible for the colours of the Boundary Signs to be changed. The Clerk has agreed to write to Wigan Council to explain why the Parish Council believes the colours should be different to Wigan Council’s corporate colours and to ask if changes will be agreed to. The Chairman advised that traffic counts are underway on several local roads at the moment in the lead up to the Speed Activated Road Signs being situated. It is expected that there will be nine situated around the Parish. Remembrance SundayThe Chairman commented on how well attended the Service was this year. He thanked the Clerk Designate for organising it and Mr Dickinson for his role in setting up the area as well as making sure everywhere was tidy before the Service took place. Members commented on the bugler’s excellent performance on the day. Reports from CouncillorsBus Services in ShevingtonCouncillor Shaw reported that a resident had complained about the number of buses that pass through Shevington as they felt it was excessive. Members agreed that the bus companies would only provide the bus services if they are well used so it is unlikely that they will stop any at present. Planning Application AppealCouncillor Whiteley advised that an appeal has been lodged in relation to the refused Planning Application for a property on Miles Lane. Members noted the information. Councillor Shaw declared an interest as he serves on Wigan Council’s Planning Committee. Bowling GreenThe Chairman reported that Hilary Mason and Kath Winstanley who are seeking grants towards the pavilion and electricity at the Bowling Green have received a £5000 grant from Douglas Valley. They are waiting to hear from Awards for All as to the success of the grant they have applied for and have made an application to the Community Chest for money to go towards bowls for the children to use. 20 BroadlandsThe Chairman advised that he and Councillor O’Neill had met with the Friends of Elnup to discuss the garden extension at the above address. It came out from the meeting that Groundwork Wigan and Chorley has had ownership of Elnup Wood since 1990 and this ownership pre-dates the current application made by 20 Broadlands. Any invasion by individual householders into the woodland is detrimental to the wider benefit of the community as it reduces freedom of access. The garden extension may also be detrimental to the woodland as trees have been damaged. It is a site of Biological Interest but this is also potentially hindered by the extension. Concerns are that other householders may follow suit. Equally there are concerns that a number of residents are fly tipping household rubbish over their gardens and into the woods. Groundwork are currently bidding for grants to help them manage the woodlands on behalf of the community and in due course letters will be sent to householders in relation to fly tipping. Cracked Flags in the Memorial Park AreaThe Chairman advised that he had mentioned his concerns to Groundwork in relation to the cracked flags. Old School BuildingThe Chairman and Councillor Miles had been on a site visit along with Carol May from the Heritage Lottery Fund. Both the Chairman and Councillor Miles noted that the building was in a poor state of repair and because of this were equally concerned that the bidding process should go ahead as quickly as possible. Carol May was pleased to note that the Parish Council had chosen to live with the encumbrance on the building as this showed the Parish Council respected the history of the building. The District Valuer believes that the building is likely to be de-valued for two reasons. Councillor Whiteley raised concerns over the fact that there will be bids going ahead for the Youth Club and for the School Building. She feels that each will be competing for Lottery Funds. Claire Greenwood from Wigan Council has suggested that this might pose a problem but the Chairman advised that Carol May had no concerns in relation to the two bids. The bids are for two very different buildings. Anti Social BehaviourThe Chairman reported that he and Councillor O’Neill had met with Inspector Glen Jones. The Inspector confirmed that there are now more officers working in the area and they intend to make sure that the problems in Shevington are resolved. The Chairman explained to the Inspector that it is important at this stage that the Public can see positive improvements as a direct result of the work done by the Police. The Chairman also advised that a recent incident where a golf buggy had been taken from Gathurst Golf Club and abandoned at the Bowling Green car park had been reported to Joanne Brewder at the Community Safety Team.
Parish PlanCouncillor Whiteley reported that the Parish Plan is now on the Website in PDF version. Youth ClubCouncillor Whiteley gave a very positive report on the Youth Club. She noted that since the Contact Cards and Good Behaviour Orders were issued there is a much better atmosphere to the Youth Club. The resources that have been ploughed into the club are starting to have a positive affect. They have been granted £6000 by Connections for a further worker and the Junior Leader has decided to stay at the Youth Club. Shevington Vale Primary SchoolThe Chairman reported that after many years he has resigned from the Governing Body at the school.
The Clerk and Clerk Designate were unable to comment on new Planning Applications as the Meeting was not held at the Library. They undertook to check the Planning Applications at the Finance Meeting on 30 November.
‘That a donation of £25 be given to the Open Spaces Society to go towards funding their time and resources in providing advice in registering land as Greens.’ Proposed. Councillor Whiteley Seconded. Councillor Lowe. Unanimous.
‘That the accounts for November are approved and cheques signed in payment due note being given to the statements exhibited’ Proposed. Councillor V Maloney Seconded Councillor Miles. Unanimous.’
Dates of Next Meetings
Finance and General Purpose 30 November. There being no further business the Chairman closed the Meeting at 9.10pm. Chairman Back to top Minutes of Shevington Parish Council Meeting
Present. Councillor J Maloney (Chairman), Councillors Miles, Sudworth, Whiteley, Clerk (Holden), Clerk Designate (Harkins) and two members of the public. 519 Apologies. Councillors Ball, Shaw, Lowe, V Maloney and District Councillor Brown.520 To Co-opt a CouncillorThe Chairman advised that Mr Michael Crosby had written to him to formally express his interest in being co-opted onto the Council. Mr Crosby was present at the meeting and the Chairman read out Mr Crosby’s letter to Members. The Chairman proposed a resolution. ‘That Michael Crosby be co-opted as a Parish Councillor to serve for the remainder of the term to May 2007.’ Proposed. Councillor Whiteley Seconded . Councillor Sudworth. Unanimous 521 To Receive the Declaration of Acceptance of Office of Councillor Mr Crosby signed the Declaration of Acceptance of Office and read the statement from the Declaration to Members. Clerk Designate signed as witness to the Declaration. 522 Matters Introduced by Members of the PublicNone 523 District Councillors’ ReportsCouncillor Brown had sent a written report that covered four separate topics. Accidents close to the canal bridge on Gathurst LanePaul Ryding from Wigan Council has emailed Councillor Brown and advised that in view of recent accidents existing warning signs and road markings have been assessed and the opinion is that there is scope for improvement. Consideration is being given to introducing a safety barrier alongside the road and specialist advice is being sought. It is likely that the proposal will be implemented in the new financial year. Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service – Integrated Risk Management Plan Proposals 2007/10 (IRMP)The Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service are looking for Stakeholders to provide their views on their IRMP. A copy of the draft IRMP and year one action plan is on their website at www.manchesterfire.gov.uk . Any responses need to be received by 23 February 2007. Road Safety Group News UpdateNewsletter received highlighting the dangers of drink driving, young person road safety issues and cycle training for youngsters. Wigan Council’s CPA Briefing No. 5 – December 2006Covering what the Corporate Assessment means to Wigan Council and how well they have been scored. The overall Comprehensive Performance Assessment score will be received on 22 February 2007. 524 To Approve Minutes of the Meeting on 23 NovemberThe Chairman noted that on page 4 under ‘Reports from Councillors’ Old School Building. The lady from the Heritage Lottery Fund is called Karen May. ‘That the minutes of the Parish Council Meeting on 23 November be approved as a true and correct record’ Proposed. Councillor Whiteley. Seconded. Councillor Miles. Agreed. 525 Matters ArisingFootpath and Tree at Naylor Farm AvenueA lady contacted the Parish Council via email and asked for advice in relation to the owner of the footpath at the side of her property. She had contacted Wigan Council who had told her they weren’t the owners. Her concerns were in relation to a tree on the footpath that has become very overgrown and the branches are wrapping around a nearby telephone wire. The Clerk Designate contacted Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust and explained that the Parish Council do not own the footpath and confirmed the nature of the problem with the tree. A lady from the Leisure and Culture Trust has agreed to visit the area and contact the lady regarding her findings. She has also agreed to keep the Clerk Designate informed of the outcome. Motorway Embankment & Bridge Between Golf Course and Naylor Farm AveConcerns have been raised over the amount of litter and broken glass which youths are leaving on the motorway embankment and across the motorway bridge. The Clerk Designate contacted the Highways Agency to report the concerns. A gentleman from the Highway Agency advised that he would contact the Department that deals with this type of issue in the North West and ask them to visit the site. Library Availability for Parish Council MeetingsThe Clerk Designate spoke with Stephen Ruffley from Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust in relation to the Library being available for Parish Council Meetings. The Clerk Designate also sent an email to confirm the meeting dates from December 2006 to February 2008. In response to the email Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust have confirmed that they can’t guarantee that the Library will be opened for the Meetings from January 2007 due to long term sickness and other staff commitments. They are currently exploring other options and will contact the Clerk Designate with the outcome. Joint Lancashire Minerals & Waste Development FrameworkTwo documents have been received in relation to managing waste and natural resources. They cover the preferred options for the strategy and explain where the ideas have come from for the strategy. There is no specific mention made to the Shevington Parish area. Shevington Conservation AreaJason Kennedy from Wigan Council Environmental Services Department has written to inform the Parish Council that he will be reviewing the conservation area for Shevington in the New Year. He advises that the Parish Council will be kept up to date with the progress of the conservation area review and will provide a draft copy once it is complete. Army Presentation Team CommunicationThe Clerk Designate confirmed that the information that can go out with the Council Tax bill can be entirely specific to Shevington. The deadline for Wigan Council receiving the final version is the end of January. Love Your Post OfficeClerk Designate received a response from Jim Fitzpatrick MP in relation to the letter sent to him on behalf of the Parish Council. The letter confirms that the Government recognises the social and economic role post offices play in rural areas and confirms that more than £2 billion has been invested into Post Offices since 1999. It goes on to say that the post offices are suffering because less and less people use them. Direct Debits, cash machines and internet banking are increasingly chosen by young and old alike to pay bills and obtain money. The letter notes that around 98% of customers making new State Pension claims have chosen direct payment and on-line tax disc renewal is on the increase. The Government recognises that they must reach the right decisions before committing more public funds. They are treating it as a matter of priority and will soon be announcing a future strategy that ensures long term stability for a national post office network. Ball Games Between the Bowling Green and Allotments for Disabled UsersThe lady who initially reported the concerns has contacted the Clerk Designate again to advise that the problem is still ongoing particularly when it isn’t raining. The Clerk Designate advised that the work to bring the fence forward from the allotments will start in the early new year. Hedgerow at the AllotmentsWork started on this on Thursday 7 December and was completed on 14 December. It took 3 days as expected. The work that has been done is very professional. Notice BoardsThe notice boards are now in place and are very impressive. The Parish Council is still waiting for keys to access the Notice boards and the Chairman advised that he would contact Alison Jones in relation to this. Appley Bridge Railway Station AdoptionNo contact has been received from Carl Longfield from Northern Rail in relation to the safety brief that is needed before the station adoption can go ahead. The Clerk Designate is still waiting for the keys for the Notice Boards on the Station platform. The Notice Board has been installed on the Southport side, the Clerk Designate will contact Northern Rail to see if it can be transferred to the Manchester side. Doggie Bin at Appley Bridge Swing BridgeThe bin was installed on 27 October and has been vandalised already. The Clerk Designate has emailed Stephen Higham at British Waterways to let him know and to ask if it can be repaired. Boundary Signs and Speed Activated Road SignsNo new information is known. 526 Reports from CouncillorsNotice Board at memorial ParkThe Chairman advised that both himself and the Clerk had spoken with a lady whose child had injured his head on the notice board at the memorial park. The Notice Board had been vandalised and the middle section had been removed so that a fresh piece could be put in. Both the Chairman and Clerk were very concerned over the boy’s injuries and his mother explained they were superficial. At this stage she has not decided whether to take the matter further. Shevington Recreation GroundThe lease to sign the tenancy of Shevington Recreation Ground from the Trustees of Shevington Recreation Ground to Shevington Parish Council has been drawn up. The deed has to be signed by three Trustees and two Parish Councillors. Members voted in favour of the lease. Two members asked for it to be noted that they are Trustees of the Recreation Ground. ‘That the lease by which the Trustees of Shevington Recreation Ground transfer the tenancy of Shevington Recreation Ground to Shevington Parish Council for the term of 99 years at a rent of one peppercorn be signed by Councillor J Maloney and Councillor V Maloney’ Proposed.Councillor Whiteley. Seconded Councillor Sudworth. Unanimous. Tenants & Residents Association Car Park Repairs at Methodist ChurchThe Chairman reported that he is meeting with a gentleman from Pro Co North West Ltd, a training providing company based in Wigan, with a view to them providing the resources for the work required. He is also hopeful that the Community Punishment Team might be able to work alongside them providing labour. 527 Reports from RepresentativesNone 528 Planning ApplicationsA/06/6785. 4 Broad o’th’Lane. (Re-submission). Noted Councillor Crosby left the Meeting at 8.30pm. 529 To Accept the Audit Report 2005/06The Chairman thanked the Clerk for his work in relation to the accounts and the clarity of the information he has provided to Members over the years. The Clerk Designate advised members that the Audit Report had been returned from BDO Stoy Hayward in which they had confirmed that the accounts were in order. The Audit fee of £411.25 will show later under Accounts. The Council will display the conclusion of the Audit. ‘That the Parish Council accepts the Audit Report in respect of the accounts to 31 March 2006’ Proposed. Councillor Whiteley Seconded. Councillor Miles. Unanimous. 530 Parish Council Gratuity and Pension SchemeLetters received from HM Revenue and Customs in respect of the Parish Council Employees’ Gratuity Fund which from the 5th April 2006, is to be titled ‘Shevington Parish Council’s Registered Pension Scheme’. In respect of the retiring Clerk the Parish Council, as the Scheme Administrator, is authorised to make a payment without tax deduction in respect of the Clerk’s 19.25 year’s service to 5 April 2006, and in respect of .75 year’s service from 6 April to 1 December 2006. The payment of a lump sum for service after 5th April is deemed an ‘unauthorised payment’ and is a taxable liability for the Clerk to settle with HRMC. (The small amount of benefit accruing from 5th April is such that a pension would be impossible to implement and is allowed to be paid subject to 40% tax). The Scheme Administrator is to advise HRMC (by way of an ‘Event Report’) the amount of the ‘unauthorised payment’ before 1 January 2008 and in doing so pay the sum of £36.92, being a levy of 15% on the taxable amount. In respect of continuing the Scheme, the Parish Council is presently proposing contributing 3/80ths of gross annual salary towards a pension for employees, subject to individual agreement and presently only involving the Clerk. The benefits payable under this scheme will allow the fund to accumulate enabling a 25% tax free lump sum to be paid at retirement, the residue of the fund providing for the purchase of an Annuity to provide a pension. The Council is to take advice as to how the Scheme is to be run. ‘That the Shevington Parish Council Registered Pension Scheme pays the sum of £6,563.25 to Michael Holden on his retirement after 20 years of service as Clerk.’ Proposed. Councillor Whiteley. Seconded Councillor Sudworth. Unanimous. ‘That the Parish Council contributes 3/80ths of salary of the Clerk to an identifiable Reserve for the purposes of providing a pension for the Clerk at a future date. The contribution is to be reviewed upon receiving advice on the administration of a Pension Scheme or in May 2007 when reviewing the Terms and Conditions of the Clerk’s Employment’. Proposed. Councillor Whiteley. Seconded Councillor Miles. Unanimous. AccountsNew Bank Mandate Details‘That the authorised signatories appearing on the bank mandate on 14 December 2006 are correct’ Proposed. Councillor Sudworth Seconded. Councillor Whiteley. Unanimous. Accounts
‘That the accounts for December be approved and cheques signed in payment due note being given to statements exhibited.’
Proposed. Councillor Whiteley Seconded. Councillor Sudworth. Unanimous.
The Chairman thanked the Clerk for his years of service to Shevington Parish Council, for the efficiency with which he has carried out his duties and for his good humour and amiability. He commented that the Clerk has served on the Parish Council for 35 years having been a Parish Councillor and Chairman before becoming Clerk in 1986. The Chairman then asked Members for a resolution to appoint the Clerk Designate as Clerk to Shevington Parish Council. ‘That Mrs Elaine Harkins be appointed as Clerk to Shevington Parish Council with effect from 1 January 2007’ Proposed. Councillor Whiteley Seconded. Councillor Miles. Unanimous. Clerk’s Report
534 Next Meeting Parish Council 25 January 2007. Members agreed that the Finance Meeting on 11 January be cancelled as the Budget for 2007/08 is on schedule. There being no further business the Chairman closed the Meeting at 8.45pm. Chairman Back to top ©2003 Shevington Parish Council |
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