This
page will contain minutes of 2007 Parish Council meetings: Minutes of Shevington Parish Council Meeting Present. Councillor J Maloney (Chairman) Councillors V Maloney, Sudworth, Ball, Lowe, Miles, Whiteley, District Councillor Bland, Clerk (Harkins) and three members of the public. 535 Apologies - District Councillor Brown, Councillors Crosby & Shaw. 536 Matters Introduced by Members of the Public None 537 District Councillors’ Reports Councillor J Maloney welcomed District Councillor Bland to the Meeting and Councillor Bland spoke for a few moments by way of an introduction to Members. District Councillor Brown had sent a written report for the Clerk to present at the Meeting. The Report included the Agenda for the last Township Forum Meeting and the Agenda and Minutes for the last Township Community Safety Group Meeting. A supporting paper from Ian Harrison on Neighbourhood Policing was also included Councillor Brown invited comments from the Members in relation to the documentation he had sent. In response Councillor Ball commented that the public seemed to know little about what the Townships were for and even less about their achievements. Councillor Ball felt improved liaison between the public and the Townships is the way forward. In his Report Councillor Brown advised that the damaged trees on Church Lane had been replaced. A copy of the Trading Standards News and the Blueprint Newsletter from the Environmental Services Department were included with the report. ‘ That item 9 Financial Aid Request for Shevington Over 60’s Club be brought forward and discussed now.’ The Meeting was suspended in accordance with Standing Orders. Financial Aid Request – Shevington Over 60’s Club The Clerk presented financial information provided by Mr G Arstall, Club Treasurer, and invited Mr Arstall to talk about the Club’s activities. Since last year the Club has been on five organised coach trips, has had afternoon entertainment with speakers and has held bring and buy sales and raffles to raise funds. The Meeting reconvened. ‘That the Parish Council donates the sum of £450 to Shevington Over 60’s Club in support of their organised activities.’ Proposed. Councillor V Maloney. Seconded. Councillor I Whiteley. Unanimous. 539 Minutes of the last Meeting (14 December) ‘That the Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting on 14 December be approved as a true and correct record’ Proposed. Councillor Sudworth. Seconded. Councillor Miles. Agreed. 540 Matters Arising The Chairman read a letter that he had received from the former Clerk. In the letter Mr Holden thanked the Chairman and the Members for the gifts they had each contributed to in order to mark his departure. He wished the Parish Council every future success and extended best wishes to his successor. Library Meeting Room Motorway Footbridge Between Golf Course and Naylor Farm Avenue Trees in Memorial Park Blocked Grid on Church Lane Fencing Round the Play Area Motorway Fence Panel on Miles Lane Bridge Greenhouses at Allotments Bowling Green Pavilion & Electricity Ball Games Between the Bowling Green and Allotments for Disabled Users Notice Boards The agreement between Shevington Parish Council and Northern Rail for the Notice Board at Gathurst has been received and has been signed by the appropriate people. Appley Bridge Railway Station Adoption Boundary Signs & Speed Activated Road Signs 541 Reports from Councillors Seat in Memorial Park Car Park Repairs – Methodist Church In relation to the repairs needed on the car park it was mentioned that some single decker buses use the car park to turn around in the middle of the village. Members felt this could only be adding to the damage to the surface. Councillor Lowe undertook to speak with the appropriate depot to make sure that this practice stops immediately. 542 Reports from Representatives Youth Club Joanne Brewder from the Community Safety Team is looking to get a group of volunteers together to work with young people in Shevington. The idea being that they will be given work to do and a good job done will be rewarded with cinema, bowling or football/rugby tickets. The Chairman noted that this has been successful in other areas in the Borough. Councillor Whiteley advised that the plans for the Youth Club are now finalised and the Club would like the Parish Council to consider providing additional funding. Anti Social Behaviour 543 Planning Applications None to report. The Planning Applications weren’t available to the Clerk as the Meeting was not held in the Library. The Clerk undertook to visit the Library before the next Meeting to look through the Planning Applications. 544 Donation to Age Concern Councillor J Maloney declared his non pecuniary interest as Director of Age Concern and took no part in the vote. ‘That the Parish Council donates the sum of £450 to Age Concern in continuing recognition of the outstanding outreach service support provided to local residents’ Proposed. Councillor Whiteley Seconded. Councillor Sudworth. Agreed. 545 Donation to Tenants & Residents Association – Alleygating Scheme ‘That the Parish Council donates £200 to the Tenants and Residents Association to go towards the cost of the Alleygating Scheme between St Anne’s Drive and Inward Drive.’ Proposed. Councillor V Maloney. Seconded. Councillor Whiteley. Agreed. 546 Finance & General Purposes Committee Rate Precept Proposition ‘That the Parish Council accepts the Resolution of the Finance and General Purposes Committee for a budget spend of £71,099 and a Rate Precept of £66,000 for the financial year 2007/8.’ Proposed. Councillor Ball . Seconded. Councillor Whiteley. Unanimous. The Clerk would serve the appropriate notice to the Assistant Director of Revenues Services for Wigan Council. 547 Accounts
‘That the accounts for January be approved and cheques signed in payment, due note being given to statements exhibited.’ Proposed. Councillor Ball. Seconded. Councillor Whiteley. Unanimous.
Policy 1 February Parish Council 22 February There being no further business the Chairman closed the Meeting at 8.55pm. Chairman Back to top ©2003 Shevington Parish Council |
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Minutes of Shevington Parish Council MeetingHeld on Thursday 22 February 2007 Present:Councillor J Maloney (Chairman), Councillors V Maloney, Whiteley, and Miles, District Councillor Bland, Clerk (Harkins) and one member of the public. ApologiesDistrict Councillor Brown, Councillors Ball, Sudworth, Lowe, Crosby and Shaw & Mr Horridge. Matters Introduced by Members of the PublicNone District Councillors’ ReportsCouncillor Brown sent a written report to the Clerk. The report included some information regarding the Township and its activities. The report covered the budget for green initiatives and engineering projects, environmental services, Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust, Children and Young People’s Services and Anti Social Behaviour. Councillor Brown also advised of the steady progress towards the One Stop Shop at Shevington Library. This idea is supported by Local Councillors and Partners. Also noted is the fact that from 1 April this year there will be an increase in the number of Police Constable Special Officers (PCSO’s) operating in the area. Included with the report were Newsletters from GM Police and Shelter and an overview of proposed actions from GM Fire Rescue Services. Minutes of Last Meeting (25 January)‘That the Minutes of the Meeting of 25 January be approved as a true and correct record’. Proposed. Councillor Whiteley Seconded. Councillor Miles. Agreed Matters ArisingBuckingham Palace Garden PartyThe Queen’s Garden Party at Buckingham Palace is on 17 July. The Parish Council has been invited to nominate the Chairman and spouse to be put forward for a ballot run by the LAPTC. The invitation is open to those who have not attended before, for this reason Chairman will not be putting his name forward. Draft Supplementary Planning Documents – Travel Plans & Development & Protected Species Redirection of MailClerk has received a letter advising that the redirection period will come to an end on 1 March unless the Parish Council chooses to extend it. The Clerk has arranged for redirection to continue for a further three months. The cost to show under accounts later. Post Office Network ConsultationPost watch have written to advise that the Post Office Consultation paper is now available on-line at www.dti.gov.uk or a copy can be obtained by telephoning 0845 0150010. Responses need to be submitted by 8 March to either: Post Office Network Consultation Or email dti.enquiries@dti.gsi.gov.uk Land inbetween Allotments and Broadriding RoadIt has been noticed that the land directly to the rear of the allotments that backs onto the terraced houses on Broadriding Road is being used for fly tipping. Wigan Council confirmed that this is unadopted land. Members agreed that the Clerk should send a letter to the neighbouring houses regarding the fly tipping. Brambles Overhanging from Memorial Park into gardens on Fern CloseA lady complained to Councillor O’Neill in relation to this matter. Councillor O’Neill advised the Clerk of the problem. Mr Dickinson has confirmed that he will attend to the problem before the start of Spring. Doggie BinsA Doggie Bin has been sited on the Recreation Ground near to the Bottle Bank area. Suggestions are that a further one should be placed near to the Parish Hall. Canal Basin at CrookeThe canal basin had become badly blocked by debris. The Clerk has reported this to the Environment Agency and they have confirmed they will remove the debris this week. Age Concern DonationA letter has been received from the Finance Manager of Age Concern. She thanks the Parish Council for the donation of £450 and confirms in her letter that the donation will contribute towards the funding of the various services they offer throughout the Borough of Wigan. Tree on LongbrookMr Dickinson advised that a tree on Longbrook had been brought down by the storms. Councillor Bland advised that she had reported this matter. Bench at Memorial ParkThe bench that was damaged by the storm has now been repaired. The Parish Council paid for the repairs. The cost to show under accounts later. Library Meeting RoomNo further word has been received in relation to the Clerk being allowed to hold a set of keys for the Library. It is unsure if the Library can be used in coming weeks. The Clerk agreed to make further enquiries. Motorway Footbridge Between Golf Course and Naylor Farm Avenue
Trees in Memorial Park Blocked Grids on Church LaneWigan Council confirmed that the grid was unblocked on 30 January, however it was reported that it was blocked again on 12 February. The Clerk contacted Wigan Council to report the blockage in the Church Lane grid again and also similar blockages in grids on Shevington Lane and Highfield Avenue. Bowling Green Pavilion & ElectricityThe new Pavilion is now in place within the boundaries of the Bowling Green area. A site visit from United Utilities to confirm the feasibility of the electricity supply for the Pavilion being run from the supply at the Scout Headquarters took place on 21 February. Further enquiries are ongoing. A legally binding document between the Parish Council and the Scout Headquarters will need to be drawn up before the supply connection can go ahead. Ball Games Between the Bowling Green and the Allotments for Disabled UsersApart from a few panels which have not yet been delivered, the boundary fence is almost complete. A Mr Aspinall who has one of the allotments suggested putting the shed that used to be at the Bowling Green within the boundaries of the allotments for disabled users, to provide a shelter and storage area. After a site visit Wigan Council confirmed that Planning Permission was not needed. The residents in the surrounding houses were advised of the decision before the work took place. No adverse comments were received. The shed is now in position. CommunicationThe Clerk has received an email from the Head of Public Relations at Wigan Council. He advises that there is not enough room for the piece regarding Parish Councils in the March edition of Borough Life Township Supplement. He has assured the Clerk that the literature will be included in the June Edition and has asked for some photos to be sent or some suggestions of possible photo shoots to include with the piece. Councillor V Maloney advised she will speak with a Mr Unwin regarding photograph options. Notice BoardsThe problem with the notice boards has been resolved and they are now in perfect working order. The Clerk requested that posters and information relevant to the village be passed to her or Mr Dickinson so that they can be displayed in the Notice Boards. Appley Bridge Station AdoptionCarl Longfield has advised that a Plaque is currently in design at their printers, the invoice has been sent for payment and the planters have been ordered and the contractor is going to liaise direct with Mr Dickinson. Boundary Signs and Speed Activated SignsThe Clerk has received an email from Andrew Meadows advising that the poles will be provided in the agreed Corporate blue. If they are to be painted black the cost is to be met by the Parish Council at £100 per pole. Andrew has no further feedback on timescales at this stage. Councillor Whiteley undertook to contact Andrew Meadows in relation to this matter. Car Park at Methodist ChurchThe Chairman advised that he will arrange a convenient time for the Community Punishment Team to come out to view the repairs needed. Parish Council LaptopThe lap top computer that was used by the previous Clerk, Mr Holden, is now being used to host the Parish Council website. Reports from CouncillorsAnti Social BehaviourThe Chairman and Councillor Whiteley reported that two youths had been shot by a pellet gun in an incident that took place outside the Youth Club. The Chairman has spoken to Sergeant Cox who advised of the Police progress so far. Members expressed concerns that if the public perceive the Police approach to this incident to be one of indifference it could undo all the good work that the Police in the area have done over recent months. The Chairman advised that he liaises weekly with Joanne Brewder, the Community Safety Officer and reports on any areas that are being used by under age drinkers. Old School BuildingThe Chairman reported that he and the Clerk had met at the school building with an architect from Lloyd Evans Prichard. During the visit the architect commented that although the building needs work it is not in a very bad state of repair. A detailed costing has been received since the visit. The Chairman has asked for a costing from another company in relation to demolition and building work. Reports from RepresentativesShevington High SchoolCouncillor Whiteley reported that at a Meeting at the High School Mr Andrew Bond confirmed that projects for the High School and Shevington Village centre will not clash. The Meeting was a positive one and it is hopeful that the LFA will provide a lot of the funding for the games area. Ground Trustees MeetingThe Chairman and Councillor V Maloney attended a Meeting of the Recreation Ground Trustees. In the Meeting it was advised that if the grants for the Youth Club are successful and the renovations go ahead they will give one hundred and forty four square metres of land to accommodate the L.F.A approved changing facilities area. Planning ApplicationsNone to report to Members Bowling Green and Allotment Fees 2007/08 ‘That the Parish Council accepts the Policy Committee recommendation that fees for the Bowling Green be increased to £14 per Member to be reviewed every 3 years and increased to £65 per Club to be reviewed annually’. Proposed Councillor Miles Seconded. Councillor V Maloney . Unanimous ‘That the Parish Council accepts the Policy Committee recommendation that fees for allotments be increased as follows and be reviewed in four years time, in 2011. Non Conforming plot £32, Large plot £29, Medium Plot £24 Small Plot £18, Chickens and Rabbits any plot £10.’ Proposed. Councillor Whiteley Seconded. Councillor Miles . Unanimous. The Clerk will provide members/tenants with written confirmation of the new charges. Funding For Youth ClubDiscussions took place but no decision was made as so few Members were present. The matter was adjourned and will be placed on the agenda for the next Parish Council Meeting in March. Community Rail DayRoger Bell from OPSTA contacted the Clerk in relation to the Community Rail Day. He is keen for both Gathurst and Appley Bridge Station to be as involved in this project as other Stations are. He suggested themes along the lines of ‘Stations in Bloom’ and the idea of local schools displaying their art work on the day. He advised that the day is meant to be all about community involvement and suggested the possibility of local residents or gardening groups being involved rather than the work being solely the responsibility of the Parish Council. The Chairman advised that he would pass on this information to the Community Association.
Capital Reserves £26,919.82 Total £61,973.12
‘That the accounts for February be approved and cheques signed in payment, due note being given to statements exhibited’ Proposed. Councillor V Maloney Seconded. Councillor Whiteley. Unanimous. 562 Clerk’s Report
Next Meetings Finance 1 March
There being no further business the Chairman closed the Meeting at 9.15pm. Chairman |
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Minutes of the Shevington Parish Council Meeting
|
E Harkins |
Salary |
£ 476.27 |
E Harkins |
Post, mileage & telephone |
£ 45.30 |
Inland Revenue |
Tax & N.I. |
£ 193.77 |
J Maloney |
Chairman’s Allowance |
£ 80.00 |
Wigan Leisure |
Enterprises Ltd Tree Works |
£ 205.63 |
Shevington Village Bowling Club |
Pavilion Base |
£ 705.00 |
Ainscoughs Building Supplies Ltd |
Materials |
£ 663.97 |
John Hy Mayor & Son Ltd |
Rock salt & spade |
£ 58.14 |
Henry Alty Ltd. |
Iron Sulphate |
£ 11.48 |
G & S Dickinson Ltd |
Bowling Gr Normal Hrs Materials |
£3,169.87 |
Appley Bridge Youth Drop In |
Donation |
£ 500.00 |
Total |
|
£6,109.43 |
Capital Reserves |
£26,919.82 |
Business Reserves |
£26,997.83 |
Current |
£ 500.00 |
Total |
£54,417.65 |
‘That the accounts for March be approved and cheques signed in payment, due note being given to statements exhibited.’
Proposed. Councillor Ball Seconded. Councillor V Maloney Unanimous.
No new planning applications to bring to Members’ attention.
Wigan & Leigh Pensioners Link are holding an Open Day in Shevington for older people. It is being held on 28 March from 10.00am to 2.00pm on a drop in basis at the Methodist Church Hall.
Connexion Spring Edition from OPSTA has been received.
The March 2007 edition of Fieldwork has been received.
Spring Edition of Countryside Voice has been received from the CPRE.
March Edition of LCR has been received from the NALC.
NALC have sent a list of revisions to the Clerk’s model Contract of Employment.
Spring Edition of MoneyTalks has been received.
Policy 12 April
Council 26 April
There being no further business the Chairman closed the Meeting at 9.10pm.
Chairman
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Present. Councillor J Maloney (chairman) Councillors Lowe, V Maloney, Ball, Clerk (Harkins) and three members of the public.
Apologies
Councillors, Miles, Crosby, Shaw, Whiteley, Sudworth and District Councillor Brown.
Matters Introduced by Members of the Public
Rats at the Allotments and Bowling Green
Mr Dickinson reported that Wigan Council’s pest control offices visited the site on Thursday 19 April and placed some poison under sheds at the allotments. The officer has confirmed that the positioning of the poison was such that no one could possibly reach it. He has also confirmed that birds do not eat the poison because they do not find the texture palatable. After concerns were raised from an allotment holder a sign has been placed to let tenants know that the poison is in position. The Clerk will write to the allotment holders whose sheds have poison underneath them. Poison that was found by an allotment holder in other areas of the allotment was placed there by Wigan Council but not at the request of the Parish Council.
Paving Stones at the Memorial Park
It was reported that the path that had been vandalised with blue paint last month is now clean. The work was done by the probation service. They did an excellent job and the Chairman will be writing to them to thank them for their work.
District Councillors’ Reports
The Chairman reported that District Councillor Brown will be in liaison with the Secretary of the Community Association to form a liaison group in relation to the Orica site.
Minutes of the Last Meeting (22 March)
‘That the Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting of 22 March be approved as a true and correct record’
Proposed. Councillor Ball Seconded. Councillor Lowe Agreed.
Matters Arising
No Dogs on the Bowling Green
The Bowling Green Member who adopted the practice of taking his dog onto the Bowling Green has complained about the new rule not to allow dogs onto the Bowling Green. The Clerk has explained that the ruling was made by the Parish Council so that every member was being allowed the same facilities. The decision by the Parish Council was in no way personal to the gentleman. In making their decision Members also considered health and safety implications and public liability concerns. The gentleman has decided not use the bowling green facilities again particularly in view of the current rat problem but asked if in future Members would make any rule changes before the start of a season. Members agreed to take this point into consideration in future.
Northern Rail – Regional Stakeholder Conference
Members have been invited to attend the Conference that is to be held on Thursday 17 May from 6pm to 9.30pm at the Centre For Life, Times Square in Newcastle. And on Monday 4 June from 6pm at the Reebok Stadium , Platinum Suite , Horwich.
The Conference will be looking at how stakeholders can work together to promote local railways.
Mayor Elect’s Civic Visit to Church
Following his election the Mayor elect, Councillor John O’Brien will be attending Morning Service at Leigh Parish Church on Sunday 20 May at 11.00am. The Chairman and spouse have been invited to attend. The Chairman and Councillor V Maloney are hopeful that they will be able to attend.
Overseas Parcels for British Forces and their Families
Tewkesbury Borough Council has written to every Local Authority in the Country looking for support against the Government’s decision not to allow food parcels to be sent to British Forces and their families free of charge while they are stationed abroad. They have asked all Councils to write to the Secretary of State for Defence to show support for a different approach to our overseas forces. Members agreed that the Clerk should write in support on behalf of the Parish Council.
Beekeeping on the Allotments
The gentleman wishing to keep bees on his allotment has advised that he will contact the British Bee keeping Association as soon as possible and give their feedback to the Clerk so that Members can make an informed decision in relation to his request.
Community Rail Day
Members agreed that no further provisions could be made for the station at Gathurst on the day.
Appley Bridge Station Adoption
Mark Barker from Northern Rail has advised that he is having problems in obtaining the planters that Northern Rail were meant to be providing and has asked if the Parish Council can obtain their own and Northern Rail will pay for them. Members agreed, that if this was to happen, the concrete Broxap planters should be bought rather than lighter ones that could be thrown onto the tracks by vandals. The Clerk will contact Mark Barker in relation to this.
Boundary Signs and Speed Activated Road Signs
The Clerk wrote to Andrew Meadows requesting the three signs that the Parish Council will pay for and asking further questions in relation to those signs and the other signs that are to be paid for by Wigan Council. The response from the Engineers Department confirmed that the signs will be located at the approved boundary locations which corresponded with the locations confirmed in the Clerk’s letter. The signs will be ordered by 27 April but the poles are not expected to be delivered for a few weeks. The signs will cost no more than £1500 each and the final value is expected to be less than this (possibly somewhere in the region of £850 each). To avoid street clutter the signs will be back to back with other district signs. However, the other three signs (effectively the Parish Council signs) will be stand alone, therefore, there will be no refund for the Parish Council.
The remaining signs will be funded by the Council at the locations previously agreed with the Parish Council. Andrew Meadows has advised that any additional signs will be assessed as applications are made but he cannot confirm at this stage if approval will be given.
Members will agree the exact location of the signs to be paid for by Wigan Council at the Policy Meeting on 3 May.
The ordered speed activated signs have not yet come in from the manufacturer,supplier and Wigan Council are chasing them up. As Wigan Council have not got them they have not been able to programme the introduction of them. They are however on their way to Wigan Council and Andrew Meadows will endeavour to have them installed and connected up as soon as is possible after they arrive.
The electricity supply and water supply for the Bowling Green have both now been installed. The first visit from a local school will be on Friday 4 May. Decision needs to be made regarding the latest opening time for the Bowling Green. The Wigan Ladies Bowling Teams tend to play Bingo after their matches to fund their refreshments which they have to have per their rules. Members agreed that the latest opening time should be 9.30pm and if possible earlier at the start and end of the season. The chairman advised that the ladies from the Bowling Club had arranged for an opening ceremony to take place on Saturday 28 April at 11.30am and Parish Councillors were invited to attend. The Clerk confirmed that she had arranged for the press to be present at the event and a photographer from the Public Relations office at Wigan Council.
The Clerk asked Members if they would be prepared to meet on Tuesday 22 May instead of Thursday 17 May as scheduled for the Annual General Meeting. The Clerk confirmed that the Library Meeting room is available on 22 May. Members agreed to reschedule the meeting date to 22 May.
Councillor Ball reported on the continued problems with drink related anti social behaviour in the area. Members are concerned by the availability of alcohol to the under aged and feel that, if nothing improves, Wigan Council’s Licensing Committee need to be involved.
Opening of the Hospice
The Chairman advised that he had attended the opening of the hospice. It has undergone refurbishment and there are now improved amenities on site and better accommodation.
Reports from Representatives
Methodist Church Car Park Repairs
The Chairman reported that Pro Co have sent a quotation for £3,555 plus VAT for a permanent repair of the car park surface.
That the Parish Council Donates £5000 to the Youth Club
Members decided to defer this to the next Meeting as Councillor Whiteley was not there to provide Members with an update on the progress with other grants.
Date for Orica Site Visit
The Clerk agreed to place this on the agenda for the Policy Meeting. Dates between 8 and 10 may or 21 or 25 May were suggested by the Chairman.
Planning Applications
A/07/68678 – Land Adjacent to former Gathurst Service Station, Gathurst lane, Shevington. – To erect 4 no detached dwellinghouses.
Members object to this application on the grounds that they believe that if approved it will create an addition that will serve as a further stepping stone into the Green belt area and will facilitate applications being made in the adjacent areas in the future. Members were particularly concerned in view of the possible link to the land at Orica, considering the current proposals for that site. The Clerk undertook to write to Wigan Council’s Planning Officer lodging the Parish Councils objection.
Agreed Fee for Bowling Green Daily Hire
The Clerk advised that, at other clubs, fees can range from £15 to upwards of £45 but recommended to Members that a suitable charge, considering the new facilities, would be £35. It was agreed that daily hire should apply to weekends only, between the hours of 10.00am to 5.00pm. The Bowling Club will co-ordinate all daily events. The Clerk agreed to create a booking form.
‘That the Parish Council charges a fee of £35 for the 2007 season for daily hire of the Bowling Green and a booking form for daily hire is created’
Proposed. Councillor V Maloney Seconded. Councillor Ball Unanimous.
The Open Spaces Society is running a campaign to save commons from clutter and are looking for donations to help them fund their campaign. The Parish Council donated £25 in November 2007 to the Open Spaces Society to go towards funding their time and resources in providing advice in registering land as Greens.
‘That the Parish Council Donates £25 to the Open Spaces Society to help fund their campaign to free commons from clutter’
Proposed. Councillor Ball Seconded. Councillor Lowe Unanimous
E Harkins |
Salary |
£ 477.77 |
E Harkins |
Post, Mileage, Telephone |
£ 55.74 |
Inland Revenue |
Tax & N.I. |
£ 190.52 |
J Maloney |
Chairman’s Allowance |
£ 80.00 |
Wigan Council |
Lease of Land |
£ 72.50 |
Wigan Council |
Non Domestic Rates |
£ 149.94 |
United Utilities |
Water Services |
£ 98.57 |
Ainscoughs Bldg Supplies |
Materials |
£ 828.04 |
John Hy Mayor & Sons Ltd |
Picket Fence Materials |
£ 169.39 |
Viridor Waste Management |
Waste Collection Contract |
£ 255.09 |
NRG Group UK Ltd |
Photocopier Contract |
£ 59.93 |
Stapels Uk Ltd |
Printer Ink and Copier Paper |
£ 33.83 |
Rushtons |
Plants |
£ 126.90 |
Shevington Bowling Club |
Electricity Installation |
£ 1328.15 |
Corlett Electrical Engineering |
Electricity supply to Pavilion |
£ 7,944.18 |
Shevington Methodist Church |
Meeting Room Hire x 2 |
£ 30.00 |
G & S Dickinson Ltd |
Bwlg Gr, Norm Hrs & Materials |
£ 4,312.99 |
Bewleys Hardware Store |
Materials |
£ 169.49 |
Open Spaces Society |
Donation |
£ 25.00 |
Total |
|
£16,399.03 |
Capital Reserve |
£27,053.10 |
Business Reserve |
£20,206.18 |
Current |
£ 2,150.31 |
Total |
£49,409.59 |
‘That the accounts for April be approved and cheques signed in payment, due note being given to statements exhibited.’
Proposed. Councillor Ball Seconded. Councillor V Maloney Unanimous
No new planning applications to bring to Members’ attention.
LAPTC Spring Conference has been postponed from 11 – 13 May to 19 – 21 October. It will be held at Park Hall. Details will follow.
A model of the new code of conduct has been received. The copy can be viewed on line at www.opsi.gov.uk/si/si-2007-.
The Spring edition of Northern Rail’s Connections magazine has been received.
The NALC have sent a copy of their response in relation to the Consultation on amendments to the Model of the Code of Conduct and their response to the consultation on the Freedom of Information Act and Data Protection (Appropriate Limit and Fees)
Policy 3 May
Annual General Meeting Tuesday 22 May
There being no further business the Chairman closed the Meeting at 9.00pm.
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Present: Councillor J Maloney (Chairman), Councillors V Maloney, Whiteley, Clerk (Harkins).
The Meeting was declared quorate.
Apologies
None
All Councillors present duly gave and signed the Declaration of Office of Councillor.
'That all other Councillors be allowed to sign the Declaration of Acceptance of Office at the next Parish Council Meeting to be held 22 May.
Proposed. Councillor Whiteley Seconded. Councillor V Maloney. Unanimous.
There being no further business the Chairman closed the Meeting at 7.45pm.
Chairman
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Present: Councillor J Maloney (Chairman) Councillors V Maloney and Ball, Clerk (Harkins) and four members of the public.
The Meeting was declared quorate.
Councillors Crosby, Whiteley, Shaw, Sudworth and Miles
All Councillors present who had not already signed the declaration on 9 May duly gave and signed the Declaration of Office of Councillor.
‘That the Declaration of acceptance of Office of Councillor for Michael Crosby, Alan Sudworth, Carol Miles and Joe Shaw be deferred to 7 June’
Proposed. Councillor V Maloney Seconded. Councillor Ball Unanimous
Election of a Chairman
‘ Jim Maloney’
Proposed. Councillor Ball Seconded. Councillor V Maloney. Unanimous.
Chairman’s Declaration of Acceptance of Office
Councillor J Maloney duly gave and signed the Declaration of Office of Chairman. The Clerk signed as witness to the declaration.
Election of a Vice Chairman
‘John Ball’
Proposed. Councillor J Maloney Seconded. Councillor V Maloney. Unanimous
Matters Introduced by Members of the Public
‘That the Meeting be suspended in accord with Standing Orders.’
Proposed Councillor Ball Seconded Councillor V Maloney. Unanimous
Two members of the St Bernadette’s ladies bowling team attended the Meeting to speak on behalf of the newly named Whitehall Ladies Team, formerly Boars Head Ladies. The ladies from Whitehall belong to the Wigan bowling league and it is a requirement of theirs that they provide refreshments for the opposing team. To pay for the refreshments they play Bingo after their matches. This, coupled with the fact that their matches can last in excess of two hours after a 7pm start, means that the 9.30pm finish that the Parish Council decided upon at the last Parish Council Meeting was impossible to achieve. Various options were discussed but the most favourable option was to have a separate gate put into the fence at the end of the Pavilion. The gate to be used as an exit point only for teams who play later that 9.30pm. The key holders to be no more than two designated individuals from the Bowling Club. The Clerk undertook to contact the Insurers to confirm with them that this proposal would not in any way affect the insurance policy.
The Chairman advised the ladies that they could consider applying for grants to fund the cost of an alarm system for the Pavilion.
The ladies thanked the Parish Council for their support.
The Meeting returned to session.
The Chairman took a few moments to express his thanks to David Brown for his services to Shevington over the past fifteen years.
Councillor O’Neill had sent a written report to the Clerk that provided the Parish Council with items of interest to Shevington. The items included:
Shevington Conservation Area being available for review.
The one stop shop at the library is now furnished and in full operation.
The Beat It Team are continuing to tidy local ‘grot spots’.
Local work in hand includes – repairs to Lawns Wood, replacement barrier to Calico Brook at Miles Lane, Shevington Moor highway safety improvements, additional tree planting in Shevington Vale/Moor and a review of all public footpaths.
General information was provided in the report and covered such topics as:
The latest Trading Standards Newsletter is available.
Public health – latest report on state of residents’ health is available.
Local unemployment - The last figure for Shevington and district was 1.6% (124 individuals) compared to a 3.7% for the Borough in general.
‘That the Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting of 26 April be approved as a true and correct record’
Proposed. Councillor Ball Seconded. Councillor V Maloney Agreed.
‘That the Minutes of the extraordinary Meeting of 9 May be approved as a true and correct record’
Proposed. Councillor J Maloney Seconded. Councillor V Maloney. Agreed
The Board has been taken down to accommodate the one stop shop. It will be stored at the Library until it is decided which room the Parish Council Meetings will take place in from now on.
Roger Bell, the Chairman of OPSTA has advised the Clerk that he has been approached by a business with an interest in getting involved with station adoption at Appley Bridge. Roger Bell has suggested a meeting with Councillors to take this a step further. The Clerk will speak to Roger Bell regarding this matter.
This document is now at consultation stage. The purpose of the document is to provide more detailed guidance on the operation of the policy on Pollution in the Wigan Unitary Development Plan. Wigan Council is now seeking feedback and would like comments on how this draft can be improved. Deadline for comments is Thursday 28 June at 5pm. All documents can be viewed and downloaded from the Council's website. www.wigan.gov.uk. The Chairman took the document away to read and give comment.
This is Wigan Council’s new system for planning policy. They are currently at the initial evidence gathering stage of the preparation process and they are undertaking a ‘Site Suggestion Exercise’ to give the opportunity for people to propose sites for development or protection from development. The Clerk has received a copy of the survey form. Responses need to be sent back by 11 June.
Wigan Council has prepared a draft report about Shevington’s Conservation Area.
No date has been given for feedback to be received. Members felt that further questions should be asked in relation to this document. It was considered that perhaps Shevington should have more than one conservation area. Members also felt that it was wise to find out if certain buildings have been listed and if not what other form of conservation could be placed on them. Likewise it was felt that Crooke should be a Conservation Area. The Clerk agreed to put forward all of the suggestions to Wigan Council as part of the Consultation process.
The Democratic Service manager has sent notices of the Casual Vacancy that has arisen since the Election on 3 May. If no applications are received to fill the vacancy by 8 June the vacancy can be filled by co-option.
The basic costs of the Election include the Returning Officer Fee, the Ward Fee, the clerical fee and the cost of the candidate packs. The Democratic Services manager has apportioned the costs for these services between Shevington and Haigh, based upon the number of electorate. The charge to Shevington for this will be £583.57. The invoice has not yet been received. Members felt that further discussions could take place regarding this matter when the invoice has been received and at a Meeting with more Members present, although the Members present had no real objections to paying the cost.
The Clerk has emailed Mark Barker for a further update but had received no feedback at the time of the Meeting.
Since the policy Meeting on 3 May the Clerk has emailed Andrew Meadows with the requested locations for the Boundary Signs that Wigan Council are to provide and a request for the one at Crooke to read ‘Welcome to the Village of Crooke in Shevington Parish Council’. No feedback has been received so far.
The Bowling Green Pavilion was officially opened on 28 April by the Chairman of the Parish Council. Photographers from Wigan Observer and Borough Life attended the opening and a piece has been included in the Wigan Observer and Shevington News. A piece about Shevington Says No will be included in the June Edition of Borough Life.
Members commented on the fact that the anti social behaviour in the village is currently on the increase again. Gangs of up to thirty youths can be regularly found at the Memorial Park and around the Parish Hall from the early evening onwards. The Chairman was able to meet and speak with all of the PCSOs and also Joanne Brewder at the opening of the one stop shop. He has made them fully aware of the problems we are facing in the village.
The grid has a broken pin making it completely insecure and therefore a hazard to both pedestrians and cyclists. The Clerk reported the matter to Wigan Council on 21 May but it has not yet been fixed. The Clerk agreed to contact Wigan Council again,
It was noted that a resident of Fern Close has removed a fence panel from their garden and moved heavy machinery across the grass at the Memorial Park through into their garden. This has caused damage to the grass in the Memorial Park and was done against Parish Council advice. The Clerk agreed to write to the occupier.
The Chairman reported that he had not yet received a start date from Keith Black at Pro Co for the carpark repairs.
The Chairman and Councillor V Maloney reported that they found the site visit to be very worthwhile. They attended the site with members of the public and members from the Community Association. The tour was informative and well conducted by Stephen Golba from Orica.
The Chairman and Councillor V Maloney attended and commented that it was an enjoyable service
The Chairman advised that he will request the attendance of the Mayor as funds from the walk will go to the Mayor’s Charity.
Councillor Ball advised that he attended the recent Standards Committee where the Model Code of Conduct was discussed. Wigan Council’s Legal Department has recommended that the Parish Council adopts the code of conduct including paragraph 12 (2) as in doing so it will enhance Members’ right to speak on some issues. Members agreed that this will be resolved at the Parish Council Meeting at the end of June
Councillor Ball advised that he will be attending a questions and answer session provided by Wigan Council to explain the Code of Conduct to Members in more depth.
It was agreed that Councillor Ball would continue to represent the Parish Council on the Standards Committee. Members hoped that Councillor Whiteley will remain a representative at the Aspull, Standish and Shevington Forum and at the Youth Club, that will be confirmed with her at the next Meeting. Councillor Ball also volunteered to be a representative for the Ground Trustees.
The initial quote for a like for like renewal with the previous year was £3,039.09. The Clerk contacted the Insurers to include further assets onto the policy. These assets are the new pavilion at the bowling green, bowls and bowling equipment stored there along with the general contents of the new pavilion. Street furniture in the form of two new notice boards, the Atco Mower and the phone fax machine. The new quote is £3,329.06.
‘That the Parish Council accepts the cover provided by Allianz Cornhill PLC and accepts the premium of £3,329.06’.
Proposed. Councillor Ball Seconded. Councillor.V Maloney Unanimous.
To Review the Terms and Conditions of the Clerk’s Employment
The Clerk advised that there had been an increase in the mileage allowance to 55.8 pence per mile. She also advised that the rise for the cost of living had not yet been agreed nationally and once this was sorted the increase would be backdated to 1 April 2007.
No new applications to report to Members
‘That the Parish Council accepts the Policy Committee’s recommendation to donate £100 for the purchase of Medals for the Local Soccer Tournament.’
Proposed. Councillor V Maloney Seconded. Councillor Ball Unanimous.
The Chairman advised that he would be donating £25 from his Chairman’s Allowance to help towards the cost of purchasing water for the event.
The Clerk provided members with a copy of the 2006/7 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 hand to undertake the independent Internal Audit.
‘That the Council approves the reconciliation of Accounts and the Chairman is authorised to sign the Accounts for 2006/7’
Proposed. Councillor V Maloney . Seconded. Councillor Ball . Unanimous.
E Harkins |
Salary |
£ 477.55 |
E Harkins |
Telephone, Post, Mileage |
£ 69.22 |
Inland Revenue |
Tax & N,I. |
£ 190.52 |
J Maloney |
Chairman’s Allowance |
£ 80.00 |
Ainscoughs Bldg Supp Ltd |
Materials |
£ 227.99 |
John Hy Mayor & Sons Ltd |
Materials |
£ 42.35 |
Henry Alty Ltd |
Pathclearer |
£ 43.97 |
Metrolite Industries |
Members Only |
£ 28.20 |
OPSTA |
Annual Fee |
£ 10.00 |
Allianz Insurance PLC |
Annual insurance Policy |
£3,329.06 |
G & S Dickinson Ltd |
Bwlg green, normal hrs, materials |
£2,795.58 |
Wigan Leisure Trust |
Soccer tournament donation |
£ 100.00 |
TOTAL |
|
£7,394.44 |
Capital Reserve |
£27,053.10 |
Business Reserve |
£86,206.18 |
Current |
£ 8,706.58 |
Total |
£121,965.86 |
‘That the Accounts be approved and cheques signed in payment, due note given to Statements exhibited.’
Proposed. Councillor Ball Seconded. Councillor V Maloney . Unanimous.
LAPTC have advised that their Annual General meeting will be held on Saturday 3 November at 10.30am at County Hall in Preston. Two representatives from the Parish Council may attend.
May Edition of LCR has been received from the NALC.
Finance Committee 7 June
Annual Parish Meeting 14 June
Parish Council 28 June
There being no further business the Chairman closed the Meeting at 9.15 pm.
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Present: Councillor J Maloney (Chairman) Councillors V Maloney, Whiteley, Miles, Ball, Clerk (Harkins) and three members of the public.
Councillors Sudworth, Shaw and Crosby
There were none.
‘That the Minutes of the Annual General Meeting of 22 May be approved as a true and correct record.’
Proposed. Councillor Ball Seconded. Councillor V Maloney Agreed
A member of Shevington Village Bowling Club has approached the Clerk in relation to introducing Junior Membership at the Bowling Green from the start of next season. This suggestion has arisen from the success of the taster sessions for local school children that were held at the Bowling Green in May and June. Members agreed that it is an excellent idea and will consider it further at the next Policy Meeting
A resident of Fern Close had reported a damaged tree in the Memorial Park that backs onto their garden. The damage was reported to Wigan Council straight away. They carried out a site visit and agreed that it was dangerous and needed to be felled. Andy Smallshaw from Wigan Council has confirmed that the tree can be felled if it is dangerous even though it is in a conservation area. The quote for the work is £442.98. The Clerk will request the work to be carried out.
After a local resident reported the condition of the footpath the Clerk contacted both Northern Rail and OPSTA. The Chairman of OPSTA, Roger Bell, emailed the Clerk and advised that a detailed discussion about issues at Appley Bridge station had taken place at the Community Rail Partnership on Friday 22 June. As to the footpath and the missing lights, it appears that the lighting has been removed possibly in an unauthorised manner by someone. The Northern Rail stations manager Andy Houston is on the case and Roger Bell will follow up with him. The condition of the footpath is the one issue in which he does not see an immediate way forward. There is a slightly technical question over the precise ownership of the footpath. It is important to find out who really owns the footpath so he has requested a map of Appley Bridge Station so that he can check out the boundaries from a rail point of view. He hopes to have the map next week, at that point he will see then where the problem should be directed.
After discussing the Conservation Area of Shevington at the last Meeting the Clerk spoke with the gentleman from Wigan Council who is working on the document. He has requested that at some point the Parish Council compiles a list of every property within the boundaries of Shevington that Members believe, because of their age or because of local interest, should either become listed buildings or be part of a conservation area. Members agreed to discuss this matter further at a future Policy Meeting.
The vacancy was not filled so the Parish Council is now free to fill the vacancy by co-option.
Mark Barker has asked for more time to allow him to locate some suitably priced planters. The suggestion from the Parish Council that two further Broxap planters be used and Northern Rail pay for them was considered a good one but Mark prefers to look at all options in view of the cost involved with the Broxap planters.
Andrew Meadows has advised that the three signs that the parish Council are paying for should be sited by the end of July. The wording on them will be Welcome to the Parish of Shevington. The poles will be black. The other signs that are being provided by Wigan Council are likely to be delayed by up to eighteen months. Andrew Meadows is set to leave Wigan Council and the Township work he does, around the middle of August to start a job with another local authority.
Wigan Council carried out the repairs at the end of May.
The room to the back of the reception area of the Library will now be the venue for future Parish Council Meetings. The room is due to be refurbished in the future.
The Chairman reported that the repairs are underway and should be completed by 29 June. It was noted that the repairs had caused minimum disruption to the car park adjacent to the flats.
The Chairman reported that the Grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund had not been awarded towards the project. Sue Fisher from the Heritage Lottery fund had advised that their budget for 2006/07 was overspent, largely as a result of the Olympic bid, and therefore the budget for 2007/08 had been substantially reduced. The Chairman has written to the various companies that were likely to be involved with the project had the bid been unsuccessful. Members were concerned over the condition of the building as it is rapidly deteriorating. The Chairman agreed to pursue a couple of other avenues suggested by Members, particularly in relation to the comment in the Local Council’s Update concerning assets being handed to the Community from Councils.
The Chairman reported on the Bank Holiday walk. It is to be held on 27 August and starts at 10.00am from Shevington Parish Rooms on Church Lane. Wigan Ramblers are leading the walk that will cover roughly six miles of local footpaths. Those taking part are asked to get sponsors for themselves. All proceeds will then go to the Mayor’s Charity Appeal, Breast Cancer Treatment in Wigan. Posters will be displayed around the village about the event.
The Car park surface needs to be repaired and it was suggested that the Highways Agency be contacted in relation to the works that are taking place on the M6 Motorway between Junctions 26 and 27 over a number of nights in July. The Clerk agreed to query the possibility of any road plainings from the repair work to the Motorway being donated to the Parish Council so that the car park can be repaired.
Councillor Whiteley reported that on 9 July she will take part in a telephone interview with the Lottery in relation to the bid for a lottery grant for the Youth Club. On the same day in the afternoon a Grants Officer from the Tudor Trust is visiting the Youth Club. Councillor Whiteley also reported that a member of the Management Committee was awarded the MBE in the recent Honours List
The Chairman reported that the Charity Commission had expressed concerns over the peppercorn rent and conditional gift of land to the Youth Club. Rev’d Dennison is writing to Wigan Council to confirm that no ownership of land is being surrendered to the Parish Council. The Parish Council will merely be maintaining the Recreation Ground. Members were concerned over the fact that the football club dug up part of the turf on the Recreation Ground and concerns were that the replacement soil is poor quality. The Chairman agreed to write to Martin Saxon about this matter.
Members reported on the recent Meeting of the Community Association. Members of Shevington Against Development had attended the Meeting and had expressed their stance in relation to any development at Orica. A further Meeting will take place on 10 July.
‘That the Parish Council donates the sum of £25 to the Community Association towards the cost of the calendars for 2008.’
Proposed. Councillor Whiteley Seconded. Councillor Miles Unanimous
‘ That the Parish Council agrees to pay the amount of £583.57 to Wigan Council to cover the cost of the Election based upon the Electorate.’
Proposed. Councillor Ball Seconded. Councillor V Maloney Unanimous.
The payment for this amount will show in Accounts later.
No one expressed an interest in the casual vacancy so the Parish Council is now able to co-opt. Posters will be displayed around the village and information will be put onto the Parish Council Website in the next couple of weeks.
No new planning applications to bring to Members’ attention.
Members noted that Planning Application A/06/67086 in relation to land to rear of 20 Broadlands had been approved for a certificate of lawful use of development. This has allowed continued use of land as part of garden curtilage. Members queried this outcome and the Chairman undertook to make further enquiries as to the ownership of the land to the rear of Broadlands.
Members also queried the felling of trees on Mill Lane. The Clerk undertook to speak with the Planning Enforcement Officer at Wigan Council about this matter.
Accounts
E Harkins |
Salary |
£ 477.55 |
E Harkins |
Post, Mileage, Telephone |
£ 44.70 |
Inland Revenue |
Tax & N.I. |
£ 190.96 |
J Maloney |
Chairman’s Allowance |
£ 80.00 |
Viridor Waste Management |
Waste Collection |
£ 129.25 |
Ainscoughs Building Supplies Ltd |
Materials |
£ 131.33 |
John Hy Mayor & Sons Ltd |
Materials |
£ 7.26 |
Henry Alty Ltd |
Plants & Path Clearer |
£ 36.04 |
Bewleys Hardware Store |
Gardening Materials |
£ 127.40 |
Shevington Electrical Services |
External Adapter & Socket |
£ 145.00 |
Shevington District Comm Assoc |
Donation |
£ 25.00 |
G & S Dickinson Ltd |
B/Green, Normal hrs, Material |
£2,925.37 |
Corlett Electrical |
Plumbing Works |
£ 291.41 |
Wigan Council |
Election Costs |
£ 583.57 |
Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust |
Meeting Room Hire |
£ 105.00 |
Total |
|
£5,299.84 |
Current Account |
£ 500.00 |
Business Reserves |
£ 72,945.99 |
Capital Reserves |
£ 27,053.10 |
Total |
£100,499.09 |
‘That the accounts be approved and cheques signed in payment, due notice being given to the bank statements exhibited.’
Proposed. Councillor Ball Seconded. Councillor Whiteley Unanimous
The Clerk presented the internally audited accounts to 31 March 2007. A copy of the accounts is attached to these Minutes. The Clerk read the eight categories of the Statement of Assurance that make up the acknowledgement of responsibility of the preparation of the statement of accounts and the Council’s internal controls.
‘That the internally audited accounts to 31 March 2007 and the Statement of Assurances are approved and that the Annual Return to the Audit Commission can be signed by the Chairman.’
Proposed. Councillor. Ball Seconded. Councillor Whiteley Unanimous
The Clerk presented the budget to the end of June and commented on areas where funds had been brought from Reserves or where one off expenditure had occurred. Copies of the Budget are attached to these Minutes.
Councillor Whiteley queried the fact that no funds had been allocated towards the Youth Club refurbishment. Members agreed that it would be discussed at the next Finance Committee Meeting.
‘That the budget to the end of June 2007 be approved.’
Proposed. Councillor Ball Seconded. Councillor Miles Unanimous
No new planning applications to bring to Members’ attention
June Edition of Fieldwork has been received.
Summer volume of Open Spaces has been received along with a copy of their annual report and accounts
624 Date of Next Meetings
Annual Inspection 2 August at 7.00pm
Council 16 August
There being no further business the Chairman closed the Meeting at 9.20pm
Chairman
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Present: Councillor J Maloney (Chairman), Councillors V Maloney, Whiteley, Sudworth, Ball, Miles and 2 Members of the Public.
Councillor Crosby and Clerk (Harkins)
Councillor O’Neill had provided the Clerk with a written report and copies of the report were passed to members at the Meeting. The report was noted and the items were discussed with particular note being given to the item regarding Curating in the Community.
‘That the Minutes of the Annual Parish Meeting of 14 June be approved as a true and correct record’
Proposed. Councillor Ball Seconded. Councillor Whiteley Agreed.
‘That the Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting of 28 June be approved as a true and correct record’
Proposed. Councillor Ball Seconded. Councillor Miles Agreed.
The Chairman of the Scouts has written to the Clerk asking when the repairs to the footpath will be completed and advising that the path is continuing to sink in its current state. It was agreed that the repairs would be carried out at the end of the following week. The Clerk will be asked to write a letter to the Chairman advising when the repairs will be done.
Wigan Council have felled the damaged tree and the gentleman who initiated the concerns over the tree has asked the Clerk to thank the Parish Council for the work that has been done.
The owner of the footpath is still in question. The Clerk is waiting for feedback from Roger Bell the Chairman of OPSTA in relation to this matter.
There has been no further progress made in relation to the planters that Northern Rail intend to provide. Mark Barker has been on leave and will continue to pursue appropriate planters for the station when he returns.
These should have sited at the end of July. The Clerk has emailed Andrew Meadows for further feedback.
Councillor Whiteley reported her concerns over the smells from Paradise Farm caused by the dumping of treated sewage. It was agreed that the Clerk should be asked to write to the Environmental Health Department to ask them to monitor the smells, the fly infestation and the road dumping of treated sewage.
It was noted that there have been continued problems in the village but there is evidence of police action.
Members agreed that it was appropriate for the carpark to be resurfaced with the road planings to fully repair the damaged areas.
‘That the Parish Council purchase a second twenty tonne load of road planings to complete the repairs to the bowling green and allotment carparks’
Proposed. Councillor Whiteley Seconded. Councillor Sudworth Unanimous.
Members agreed that the cracked flags at the Memorial Park needed to be replaced before an accident happens.
‘That the Parish Council asks the Groundwork Trust to repair/replace the flags at the memorial Park at a cost of £1000 from the Groundwork budget.’
Proposed. Councillor Sudworth Seconded. Councillor Whiteley. Unanimous.
Reports From Representatives
None
To Co-Opt a Councillor
Members hope that there will be an applicant for the vacancy in time for the September Meeting. If that is not the case the vacancy will be advertised on the Website and via posters from the end of September until it is filled.
A/07/69350 – To build 4 detached dwellings at the former Gathurst Service Station.
This is a resubmission of a previous application and Members were concerned that it is an attempt to encroach by a process of ‘creeping’ onto the Green Belt land. Members feel there needs to be a Tree Preservation Order to protect the landscape to the east of the site. The Clerk will be asked to write to the Planning Department about this matter.
Donation to Shevington Horticultural & Allotment Society Show.
‘That the Parish Council donates the sum of £75 to the Shevington Horticultural & Allotment Society Show to go towards the cost of prizes and printing’
Proposed. Councillor Whiteley Seconded. Councillor V Maloney Unanimous.
| E Harkins |
Salary |
477.77 |
| E Harkins |
Phone & Mileage |
23.14 |
| Inland Revenue |
Tax & N.I |
190.52 |
| J Maloney |
Chairman’s Allowance |
80.00 |
| Wigan Council |
Lease Of land |
72.50 |
| NRG Group Ltd |
Photocopier Contract |
59.93 |
| Ainscoughs Bldg Ltd |
Building Materials |
217.61 |
| Henry Alty Ltd |
Supplies |
100.32 |
| John Hy Mayor & Son |
Materials |
43.29 |
| Bill Morris |
Mower Clutch Plates |
68.26 |
| Shevington Bowling Club |
Plumbing Works |
197.39 |
| Communicorp |
Subscriptions |
85.80 |
| Shevington Allotment Soc. |
Judge’s fees |
30.00 |
| Shevington Allotment Soc |
Donation |
75.00 |
| G & S Dickinson Ltd |
Bwlg Gr, Norm hrs/materials |
2,980.85 |
Total |
|
4,702.08 |
August
E Harkins |
Salary |
477.55 |
| E Harkins |
Post, Phone, Mileage |
24.26 |
| Inland Revenue |
Tax & N.I. |
190.74 |
| J Maloney |
Chairman’s Allowance |
80.00 |
| E & L Haulage |
Materials |
141.00 |
| J Hy Mayor & Son |
Materials |
57.67 |
| Staples Uk Ltd |
Office Stationery |
25.45 |
| G & S Dickinson Ltd |
Bwlg Gr, norm hrs/materials |
2,973.47 |
| Shevington Allotment Soc |
Fertiliser |
45.00 |
Total |
|
4,015.14 |
| Current Account |
|
743.70 |
| Business Reserves |
|
68,287.15 |
| Capital Reserves |
|
27,198.71 |
Total |
|
96,229.56 |
‘That the accounts be approved and cheques signed in payment, due notice being given to the bank statement exhibited.’
Proposed. Councillor Ball Seconded. Councillor Whiteley Unanimous.
Date of Next Meetings
Policy 6 September
Council 27 September
There being no further business the Chairman closed the Meeting at 9.04pm.
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Present: Councillor J Maloney (Chairman), Councillors V Maloney, Whiteley, Sudworth, Ball and Miles, the Clerk (Harkins) and two members of the public.
Apologies
Councillor Crosby
District Councillors Reports
Councillor O’Neill had submitted a written report. The report included a list of local items of interest as well as a cabinet report from Wigan Council in relation to the Development and Air Quality Supplementary Planning Document. Members were particularly interested in the report covering’Homes for the Future: More affordable, more sustainable.’
The Chairman and Members expressed their thanks to Councillor O’Neill for the report he had submitted.
Minutes from the Last Meeting (16 August)
‘That the Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting of 16 August be approved as a true and correct record.’
Proposed. Councillor Ball Seconded. Councillor Whiteley Agreed.
Matters Arising
Waters Edge – New Management
Up to four Members of the Parish Council are invited to a welcome lunch on Thursday 18 October at 12pm. The Clerk has been sent a menu and an list which needs to be sent back to the pub by11 October. Members will decide who will attend and inform the Clerk by no later than 4 October.
Allotments
The Clerk has spoken to the Planning Department and to John Dean in Legal and Property Services in relation to the possibility of the Parish Council renting land to accommodate the ever increasing request for allotments. John Dean had advised that the Clerk can send a map of any land the Parish Council may be interested in and they will investigate details of the owners and decide whether or not it is possible for the land to be let to the Parish Council. Planning must be informed of any land that might be considered. The Chairman reported on a piece of land off Arbour Lane which he had been advised was going to auction on 18 October with a guide price of £1000. Members agreed that this land would be ideal for allotments providing the Tree Preservation Officer felt it was appropriate. The Chairman undertook to contact Andy Smallshaw to see if he will assess the area. The Clerk advised that the SCRAM fund could be used to purchase the land. This fund was donated to the Parish Council last year and set aside for an environmental project
Members agreed that as no other Parish Council Meeting will take place before 18 October it was prudent to make a resolution at this Meeting.
‘That after investigating the precise nature of the land, and having identified a capital sum of £1500 from the Environmental Fund and £500 from Reserve funds for Boundary Signs, the Parish Council should attempt to secure the land at Auction. A ceiling of £2000 being placed on the bidding.’
Proposed. Councillor Sudworth Seconded. Councillor Whiteley. Unanimous.
Paradise Farm – Shevington Lane – Shevington
The Clerk has been advised by Wigan Council that United Utilities pay the farmers to use the treated sewage. It is treated and perfectly safe and there have been no infestations. Farmers stock pile it until suitable weather conditions allow it to be used. The farmers also advise Wigan Council when it is being used. Wigan Council’s stance is that although the smell is unpleasant it is no worse than manure, it is just a smell that tends not to be associated with the countryside.
Footpath from Mill Lane to Appley Bridge Station
The Clerk has emailed Roger Bell, Chairman of OPSTA for more information regarding this matter. No reply has been received so far.
Boundary Signs and Speed Activated Road Signs
The Boundary signs are now in place. The Parish Council have not yet been invoiced for them.
Appley Bridge Station Adoption
Mark Barker has advised the Clerk that he is hopeful that suitable planters will be found very soon. Once a delivery date is known for them discussions will need to take place with the Station Manager over the exact siting of the planters.
Memorial Park
The broken paving stones in the Memorial Park have been replaced.
Councillor Miles left the Meeting at 8.15pm
Reports from Councillors
Riding Schools and Stables
The Chairman reported that a member of the public had raised concerns with him over horse riding in local, residential areas. This gentleman had been involved in an accident with a rider. The rider was very dismissive of him when he asked if she was covered for public liability. The Chairman has reported the incident to Joanne Brewder and the Clerk has written to the local riding schools to express the Parish Council’s concerns over the dangers involved with horse riding in the residential areas and politely requesting that riders take out the appropriate insurance cover.
Reports from Representatives
Standards Committee
Councillor Ball reported that the Standards Board have directed Wigan Council to resolve a number of issues that exist amongst Members. It is clear that if the issues are not resolved Wigan Council could well face consequences. The Standards Board have recommended additional training for Members, officers and groups to try to resolve the issues.
Councillor Miles joined the Meeting again at 8.35pm
Travel Plans – Supplementary Planning Document
Councillor Ball reported on the document confirming it to be a substantial and helpful one. He and the Chairman agreed that improved public transport will be facilitated by congestion charges.
Youth Club
Councillor Whiteley advised that the rear of the Youth Club had been cleaned but graffiti was soon covering the area again. This was reported to the Community Safety Team. The perpetrator is a member of the Youth Club and will have sanctions imposed on him there.
To Co-opt a Councillor
There has been no interest in the vacancy on the Parish Council so far. Members agreed that the vacancy should now be advertised on the Website and on posters that can be displayed in the village.
Planning Applications
A/07/69909 – St Anne’s Parish Hall – To erect a single storey side extension, installation of roof light and formation of new frontage.
Noted.
New Clerk Appointment – Progress so far
The Clerk advised Members that in total 47 information packs were sent out to people who expressed an interest in the post. The date for CVs to be returned by is 1 October. Shortlisting is likely to take place on 3 October with interviews week commencing 15 October. So far 5 CVs have been received. The applicants are from as far afield as Preston, only one applicant lives within the Parish. Councillor Miles agreed to interview the selected candidates along with the Chairman. The Clerk will find out the cost of using a room at The Ashfield House for the interviews.
In view of the appointment of a new Clerk it was agreed that the Policy Committee Meeting scheduled for 1 November could be deferred to 8 November. The Clerk will inform the Library of the date change.
Accounts
E Harkins |
Salary |
£ 477.55 |
E Harkins |
Mileage, post, phone, stationery |
£ 56.87 |
Inland Revenue |
Tax & N.I. |
£ 190.74 |
J Maloney |
Chairman’s Allowance |
£ 80.00 |
Wigan Culture Trust |
Tree Works in Memorial Park |
£ 520.50 |
Open Spaces Society |
Annual Subscription |
£ 30.00 |
Get Online Ltd |
Website Renewal |
£ 58.75 |
United Utilities |
Water Service Charge |
£ 98.57 |
H Dickinson |
Best Kept Allotment Prize |
£ 25.00 |
E Harkins |
Newspaper Advertisements |
£ 746.36 |
G & S Dickinson Ltd |
Bwlg Green, Normal Hrs, Materials |
£3,012.11 |
V Maloney |
Refreshments Bank Holiday Walk |
£ 30.00 |
Total |
£5,326.45 |
Current Account |
£ 500.00 |
Business Account |
£61,014.32 |
Capital Reserves |
£27,198.71 |
Total |
£88,713.03 |
‘That the accounts be approved and cheques signed in payment, due notice being given to the bank statement exhibited.’
Proposed. Councillor Ball Seconded. Councillor Sudworth Unanimous.
Clerk’s Report
Summer 2007 Edition of Countryside Voice has been received from the CPRE
September 2007 Edition of Fieldwork has been received.
Summer 2007 Edition of Connections has been received from Northern Rail.
LAPTC Conference will be held on Friday 19 October to Sunday 21 October at Park Hall in Charnock Richard.
September 2007 update from GMCVO has been received.
Date of Next Meeting
Policy 4 October
Council 25 October
Policy Meeting scheduled for 1 November will now be held on 8 November
There being no further business the Chairman closed the Meeting at 9.05pm.
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Minutes of Shevington Parish Council Meeting
Held Thursday 25 October
7.30pm Shevington Library
Present Councillor J Maloney (Chairman), Councillors Ball, V Maloney, Sudworth, Miles, Whiteley, Crosby, Clerk (Harkins), Clerk Designate (Pilkington) and two members of the public.
Apologies
None
Appointment of Parish Council Clerk
Policy Committee Resolution from Extraordinary Meeting on 18 October.
‘That the Parish Council appoints Mrs Krystyna Pilkington Clerk Designate with immediate effect. The appointment to be at Scale Point 23, pro rata to the equivalent of 15 hours each week. Satisfactory performance leading to confirmation as Clerk at the Parish Council meeting on 13 December. To take effect 1 January 2008.’
Proposed. Councillor Ball. Seconded Councillor V Maloney Unanimous.
Matters Introduced by Members of the Public
The Bowling Green
Mr Dickinson advised that for reasons of safety, new steps are now a feature at the Bowling Green. Almost 750 new bulbs have been planted to further enhance the appearance of the area.
District Councillors Reports
Councillor O’Neill had provided the Clerk with a written report. The report covered various topics including:
Planned road widening around the area. Members discussed the culvert for the stream on Wigan Road and felt that it may need attention during the road widening works in that area.
The ‘Beat it’ team have made further improvements in the area’s ‘grot spots’.
‘Wigan BLOOMS’ - Wigan won a cluster of prizes at Northwest in Bloom 2007. Five prizes came Wigan’s way, more than any other Borough.
Smart Neighbourhoods – This document compared the most and least affluent neighbourhoods in the Borough and suggested how improvements could be achieved.
Review of polling Arrangements – This document has confirmed that the proposal to place a polling station within the Hesketh Arms has not been recommended.
Licensing Policy Statement 2008-2010 – Councillor O’Neill provided the Parish Council with a copy of the statement. Members discussed their concerns over the sale of alcohol to those who are underage and the affect this has on the community.
The Chairman and Members asked for thanks to be noted for Councillor O’Neill’s full and informative report.
Minutes of the Last Meeting (27 September)
‘That the Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting of 27 September be approved as a true and correct record’
Proposed. Councillor Ball Seconded. Councillor Whiteley Agreed.
Matters Arising
Wigan Council Local Development Framework – House Extensions and Alterations.
The new Planning system has given Wigan Council a chance to review and introduce new guidance on house alterations and extensions. The first stage of the process is to consider the issues and options. The Parish Council is invited to inform Wigan Council of any additional issues and options that are not currently listed on the consultation paper. Comments are requested by no later than 9 November. The Clerk will read the document and send any comments forward.
Recycling Banks at Car Park
The Clerk has reported recent problems with the clothes recycling bank and white glass bank to David Bullock at Wigan Council. He has advised that he will be asking Scope to provide a larger and more useable bin, he has also suggested that an additional glass bank might be put in place.
Changes to Waste Charges from Viridor
Viridor have sent a booklet regarding proposed changes to waste charges along with a questionnaire regarding the waste disposal for the Parish Council. Mr Dickinson agreed to complete the questionnaire on behalf of the Council.
Wigan Council Local Development Framework
After consultation on Development and Air Quality, Wigan Council have updated the document and have adopted it. The Council has been supplied with a hard copy.
Christmas Tree Lights
Bewleys can supply the type of lights the Parish Council currently uses on the trees at a cost of £0.99 each. To replace the lights with the lower voltage bulb variety and with enough to fully fill a village Christmas tree could cost up to £2000 for each tree if the lights are bought from the same supplier used by Wigan Council. Members agreed that lights should be bought from Bewleys.
The Clerk confirmed that the Christmas Trees have been ordered and the suppliers will liaise with Mr Dickinson before delivering. The trees are likely to be delivered between 30 November and 3 December.
‘That John Houghton should be hired for the transporting of the fences for the Christmas Trees.’
Proposed. Councillor Ball Seconded Councillor Sudworth Unanimous.
The above resolution was discussed during Accounts but has been placed here for the sake of continuity.
Shevington Village Bowling Club
The bid that the ladies from the bowling club are making for a grant to fund the cost of shelters for the away teams will now only go forward in December. It will more than likely be January before the shelters can be ordered and sited.
Communication
Between now and the end of December, Members need to consider what information should be included on the Council Tax bill from the Parish Council. The Chairman agreed to provide the Clerk with a piece that can be included with the bill. In addition to this, the Clerk has provided a piece from the Parish Council for the Community Association Newsletter.
Parcel of Land Off Arbour Lane
The land that the Parish Council was intending to bid for was withdrawn from auction. The Clerk contacted United Utilities Property Department and expressed the Council’s interest in the land. Some of the land is to be used by United Utilities which is why it was withdrawn from auction. If the remainder of the land is to be auctioned in the future they have agreed to make the Clerk aware of the fact.
Footpath from Mill Lane to Appley Bridge Station
Still awaiting feedback from Chairman of OPSTA>
Boundary Signs and Speed Activated Road Signs
The invoice for the Parish Council will not be sent until next month. So payment of the signs will not happen until the Parish Council Meeting in November. There has been no further update regarding the speed activated road signs.
Appley Bridge Station Adoption
The Clerk has been advised in an email from the stationmaster that the planters have been sited. Mr Dickinson agreed to visit the station to see if this is the case.
Luncheon at the Waters Edge
Members who attended the luncheon had a very pleasant afternoon and asked the Clerk to write a letter of thanks to the landlord on the Parish Council’s behalf.
61 Reports from Councillors
August Bank Holiday Walk
The Chairman has received a letter of thanks from the Mayor’s secretary for the money that was raised from the Bank Holiday walk and donated to the mayor’s charity. The Chairman will write to the secretary of the Ramblers Association to advise him of the letter.
Children’s Play Area at the Memorial Park
Councillor Crosby reported on the many recent complaints from residents over the amount of broken glass that is regularly found on the play area. Vandalism of this nature is rife at the moment and has been reported. The play area is cleaned regularly and glass is removed as soon as it is reported to the Parish Council.
Reports from Representatives
Maintenance of the Recreation Ground
The Chairman has written to Steven Joshua at the Charity Commission in relation to the lease of the recreation ground. He has confirmed in his letter that the Parish Council wants only to take over the maintenance and management of the ground. His letter asks Mr Joshua to consider the option of the maintenance agreement going ahead after recording complementary resolutions by the Trustees and the Parish Council which are properly minuted by both parties.
Governor of Millbrook Primary School
Councillor Whiteley advised members that due to the pressure of her commitments with the Youth Club she has resigned as a Governor at Millbrook Primary School.
To Co-opt a Councillor
No interest has been shown in the vacancy so far. Members will speak to a gentleman they believe might be interested in becoming a Councillor.
Planning Applications
A/07/69895 – 65 Miles Lane
Members were concerned that if the plans for this property go ahead they might create access problems for the Surgery on Houghton Lane. The Clerk agreed to write to the Planning Department to express the Parish Council’s concerns.
St Anne’s Churchyard Maintenance
‘That the Parish Council donates the sum of £600 towards the maintenance costs of St Anne’s Churchyard.’
Proposed. Councillor V Maloney Seconded. Councillor Ball . Unanimous.
66 Donation to Standish Church Lads’ Brigade
Members agreed that as the donation has been for £50 for the past few years it was appropriate to increase the amount to £60. The Clerk advised that there was the money in the budget to cover this increase.
‘That the Parish Council donates the sum of £60 to the Standish Church Lads’ Brigade.’
Proposed. Councillor Ball. Seconded Councillor Whiteley . Unanimous.
67 Donation to Royal British Legion
‘That the Parish Council donates the sum of £130 to the Royal British Legion.’
Proposed. Councillor Sudworth. Seconded. Councillor Miles Unanimous
Accounts
E Harkins |
Salary |
£477.77 |
E Harkins |
Mileage, Post, phone |
£34.85 |
Inland Revenue |
Tax & N.I. |
£190.52 |
J Maloney |
Chairman’s Allowance |
£80.00 |
Wigan Council |
Pest Control |
£141.00 |
Wigan Council |
Lease of Land |
£72.50 |
Powergen |
Electricity (Bowling Green) |
£77.57 |
NRG Group UK Ltd |
Photocopier Contract |
£59.93 |
E Harkins |
Interview Room Hire |
£100.00 |
Viridor Waste Management |
Waste Collection Contract |
£255.09 |
Henry Alty Ltd |
Gardening Materials |
£49.86 |
Bewleys Hardware Store |
General Materials |
£126.08 |
Standish Church Lads Brigade |
Donation |
£60.00 |
Royal British Legion |
Donation |
£130.00 |
St Anne’s Churchyard Maintenance |
Donation |
£600.00 |
G & S Dickinson Ltd |
Normal hrs, Bowling Gr, Materials |
£2,903.00 |
Total £5358.17
Current Account |
£ 4,086.00 |
Business Account |
£57,353.88 |
Capital Reserves |
£27,368.58 |
Total £88,808.46
‘That the Accounts be approved and cheques signed in payment, due notice being given to the bank statements exhibited.’
Proposed. Councillor Whiteley Seconded. Councillor Crosby Unanimous.
Clerk’s Report
September 2007 Newsletter from the LAPTC has been received.
Society of Local Council Clerks is holding its AGM on Saturday 27 October in Coventry.
October News Update has been received from GMCVO (Greater Manchester Centre for Voluntary Organisations).
Autumn 07 Connexion booklet has been received from OPSTA.
Autumn 07 Edition of Open Spaces has been received.
External Environment Exhibition takes place on 6 November at Old Trafford Cricket Club. The exhibition starts at 11am and runs till 3pm. Members wishing to attend should advise the Clerk so that they can be registered with the organisers.
Date of Next Meetings
Policy: 8 November
Council: 22 November
Finance: 29 November
There being no further business the Chairman closed the Meeting at 8.50pm.
Chairman
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Minutes of Shevington Parish Council Meeting
Held Thursday 22 November 2007
7.30pm Shevington Library
Present: Councillor J. Maloney (Chairman), Councillors V. Maloney, Whiteley, Sudworth, Ball, Miles, Clerk (Harkins), Clerk Designate (Pilkington) and two members of the public.
Apologies
None
Co-option of a Councillor
‘That Tony Bostock be co-opted as a Parish Councillor to serve for the remainder of the term to May 2011’
Proposed. Councillor J. Maloney Seconded . Councillor Whiteley Unanimous
To receive the Declaration of Acceptance of Office as Councillor
Mr Bostock signed the Declaration of Acceptance of Office and read the statement from the Declaration to Members. The Clerk signed as witness to the Declaration.
Matters Introduced by Members of the Public
None
District Councillors Reports
(Councillor Crosby joined the meeting at 7:40 pm.)
Councillor O’Neill had sent a written report covering a range of topics which included the following:
Shop Window Advertising of Cheap Alcohol
The members discussed this and concern was expressed with regard to possible impact on the local community.
Flag Flying Protocol
The guidance was passed to the member of the public responsible.
Building Schools for the Future
A review of mainstream secondary schools is being conducted by the LA and some are being considered for closure. The members discussed this matter and expressed concern about the greater pressure that schools in the west of the LA would have to face if this were to happen.
Economic Development Update
A report had been produced by the Director of Environmental Services for the Regeneration Panel and included unemployment data for August, 2007, using the old Ward boundaries as a basis for comparison. It was noted that since 2006 unemployment had fallen slightly throughout the whole of Wigan.
New Local Area Agreement from April, 2008
The appendix dealt with ‘Economic Development and the Environment.”
Inspection of Older People’s Service
Wigan Council’s budget proposals for the coming year are being placed under greater pressure. Cost sharing between agencies, which, it had been suggested, could lead to the provision of a better service for older people, was being considered.
Wigan Town Centre – Northern Crescent
A study of this area had been made and will now be followed by a public consultation with regard to the way forward.
Waste Collection over the Christmas Period
There will be an improved service this year with no collections missing. The enhanced service will be advertised amongst residents, who will also be advised of dates when they will be able to leave Christmas trees out with the refuse for collection. The members discussed the method of disposal of the Parish Council’s Christmas trees. The Clerk to look into the matter.
Highway Markings (Broad o’th lane to Randall Ave)
These had been renewed.
Minutes of Last Meeting (25 October)
‘That the Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting of 25 October be approved as a true and correct record’
Proposed. Councillor Sudworth Seconded. Councillor Crosby Agreed.
Matters Arising
Old School Building
The Clerk has received a letter from Garth Rigby Solicitors asking if the Parish Council intend to proceed with the purchase of the property. The Clerk has advised them that they can close their files on the purchase as the grant applications were unsuccessful. The Chair is to write to John Dean to advise that, unless funding is received, the project cannot go ahead.
Recycling Banks at the Car Park
The Clerk has written to Dave Bullough at Wigan Council in relation to the excessive number of recycling banks currently sited at the car park in the village. As a result of the letter Mr Bullough has contacted the Chairman and it has been agreed that a paper bank, the Scope bank and the shoe box will be removed. A ‘skip type’ bank may well replace the four tin banks currently sited there. The situation will be monitored.
PAYE online
The Clerk sent the Annual Return for 2006/07 online this year and £150 has been credited to the Parish Council Tax and N.I. account at HM Revenues and Customs. The Tax and N.I. showing under ‘Accounts’ reflects the £150 credit.
New Telephone
The Clerk Designate provided an update of the situation with regard to the new telephone. BT had taken the first steps to reactivating their facility at her home. One or two technical hitches remain to be dealt with.
Christmas Tree Lights
A new transformer has been ordered for £45 and 200 coloured 25 watt bulbs have been ordered which will be used on the tree in the centre of the village.
Revised Salary Scales for Clerks
The revised scales have been agreed and have been confirmed by the NALC. The new scales were effective from 1 April 2007. The Clerk’s pay this month reflects the increase backdated to 1 April 2007 and is shown later under ‘Accounts’
Communication
The Chairman has provided the Clerk with a draft of the wording that is to be included on the Council Tax bill. The Clerk will Plain English the document and create a pie chart to show how the money is spent. The Chairman will approve the final version before it is sent to Wigan Council.
Appley Bridge Station Adoption
The Clerk has emailed Mark Barker regarding the Parish Council’s concerns over the lightweight style of planter that they have placed at the station. The Clerk has asked for a letter from Northern Rail confirming that they are happy for this style of planter to be used as they have previously stated that only heavyweight, unmoveable planters could be used at stations for safety reasons. The Clerk’s email also expressed concerns over the way this adoption process was going and the length of time it is taking to put anything worthwhile into fruition. Mark Barker has responded to the email and confirmed that the intention is for the planters to be secured in position by concrete. The Clerk has arranged to meet with the station manager, Mr Dickinson and the Clerk Designate on Tuesday 27 November at 2.15pm to discuss the positioning of the planters and get the adoption process fully underway as soon as possible.
Reports from Councillors
Remembrance Sunday
A short report in a local newspaper had included a photograph of several Councillors with a war veteran and his descendants beside the memorial after the ceremony. It was suggested that a copy of the original should be framed and sent to the veteran as a memento. The Clerk will write to Paul Parkinson and to the PCSOs and the Police to thank them for their help with the event.
Reports from Representatives
Standards Committee
Cllr Ball reported that the Committee are currently preparing a report on the allegations against people with regard to the misuse of public funds. There is a serious lack of trust between politicians and their employees at the moment. A team from Leeds University are to conduct a study of the situation and a report is to be sent to the Standards Board of England & Wales in January. Due to the pressure of many other commitments, Cllr Ball tendered his resignation as the Parish Council representative on the Committee with immediate effect. This was accepted.
A new representative will need to be appointed. The Clerk is to write to Michael Williamson at Democratic Services to inform him of the position and it is to be an agenda item at the December meeting.
Youth Club
Cllr Whiteley updated the Council on current funding applications.
Planning Applications
There is a proposal to develop the land adjacent to 18 Shevington Lane, which is on the corner of Braithwaite. Permission is being sought for two town houses. The members discussed the issue and expressed concern about the possible compromise of existing residents’ right of rear access to their properties. They also expressed concern about the volume of in-fill building projects in the village in general.
Donation to North West Air Ambulance
‘That the Parish Council accepts the Policy Committee’s recommendation to donate £125 to the North West Air Ambulance.’
Proposed. Councillor Ball Seconded. Councillor V. Maloney Unanimous.
To Approve the Payment of Utility Bills by Direct Debit
‘That the Parish Council accepts the Policy Committee’s recommendation that in future payment of all water bills, electricity bills and Wigan Council Rates bills is to be made by direct debit. Other appropriate bills to be paid by direct debit subject to prior approval from the Parish Council.’
Proposed. Councillor Whiteley Seconded. Councillor Sudworth Unanimous.
To Accept the Audit Report 2006/07
The Clerk advised members that the Audit Report had been returned from BDO Stoy Hayward in which they had reported two issues arising. These are as follows:
Fidelity Guarantee
The Audit recommends that the Fidelity insurance is increased from £80.000 as it is currently, to an amount that will adequately cover the bank balance throughout the year. The Parish Council will ensure that this is addressed next year when the Insurance Policy is reviewed.
Gratuity Payments
The Audit suggests that the Gratuity payment made to the retiring Clerk is above the limits prescribed in the Local Government Superannuation Regulations 1996. The Audit suggests that the Parish Council has made an ultra vires payment. The Chairman has written to the Auditor to express the Parish Council’s dismay over the fact that no question has ever been raised in relation to the Gratuity scheme previously. This is despite the fact that it was recorded in the accounts for every audit and the amounts must clearly have been too high. A letter of response from them concludes that perhaps they should have requested a copy of the Clerk’s contract during the 2006 audit and will do so in all future audits. The Chairman will liaise with the retired Clerk over this matter and if necessary lodge a formal complaint with the Auditors.
The Audit fee of £493.50 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 2007 subject to further investigations into the correct amount of gratuity payment made to the Clerk who retired in December 2006’
Proposed. Councillor Whiteley Seconded. Councillor Miles Unanimous.
Accounts
E Harkins |
Salary |
£ 562.93 |
E Harkins |
Post, Mileage, Phone |
£ 34.97 |
K Pilkington |
Salary |
£ 606.59 |
Inland Revenue |
Tax & N.I. |
£ 177.82 |
J Maloney |
Chairman’s Allowance |
£ 80.00 |
Groundwork Wigan |
Paving Repairs |
£1,175.00 |
Staples UK Ltd |
Stationery |
£ 59.10 |
Get Online Ltd |
Website Address Renewal |
£ 129.25 |
BDO Stoy Hayward |
Annual Audit |
£ 493.50 |
Ainscough Bldg Supplies |
General Materials |
£ 36.29 |
Henry Alty Ltd |
Compost & Roundup |
£ 103.29 |
North West Air Ambulance |
Donation |
£ 125.00 |
G & S Dickinson Ltd |
Bowling Gr, Norm hrs, Materials |
£3,160.91 |
Viridor Waste Management |
Waste Contract (Replacement chq) |
£ 255.09 |
Wigan Leisure & Culture |
Meeting Room Hire |
£ 45.00 |
Wigan Council |
3 Boundary Signs |
£2.258.52 |
Bewleys |
General Materials |
£ 76.03 |
Kiwi Nurseries |
Plants |
£ 186.50 |
Total £ 9565.79
Current Account |
£ 500.00 |
Business Reserves |
£51,593.81 |
Capital Reserves |
£27,368.58 |
Total |
79,462.39 |
‘That the Accounts be approved and the cheques signed in payment, due notice being given to the bank statements exhibited.’
Proposed. Councillor Ball Seconded. Councillor Bostock Unanimous
Clerk’s Report
Autumn Edition of the Countryside Voice has been received from the CPRE.
November newsletter has been received from GMCVO(Greater Manchester Centre for Voluntary Organisation)
Annual Report has been received from the LAPTC. Information includes Account for 2006/07.
Annual Report has been received from the CPRE for the period from 1 January 2006 to 31 December 2006. Minutes of their Annual General Meeting were also included. The report highlights the fact that their finances are recovering again.
Dates of Next Meetings
Finance: 29 November
Council: 13 December
There being no further business the Chairman closed the Meeting at 8:55 pm
Chairman
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Minutes of Shevington Parish Council Meeting
Held Thursday 13 December 2007
7.30pm Shevington Library
Present: Councillor J. Maloney (Chairman), Councillors Whiteley, Miles, Bostock,
Crosby, Clerk (Harkins), Clerk Designate (Pilkington) and six members of the public.
Apologies
Cllrs V. Maloney, Sudworth, Ball.
Matters Introduced by Members of the Public
Flags in the Park
A resident of Shevington had fallen while walking his dog in the park and had dislocated his shoulder. The fall had been precipitated by a gap between two flags, but, as the shoulder had popped back the next day and had not needed medical treatment, the resident only wished to make the Council aware of the issue.
Mr. Dickinson is to deal with the flags at the earliest opportunity.
Christmas Trees
The new bulbs have a power of 25 watts and the transformers have not been able to cope with them. They have been over-heating and have had to be switched off after 2 hrs. Replacing some of the bulbs by ones with a power of 15 watts had helped to alleviate the situation. Mr. Dickinson also reported that approximately sixty bulbs had been lost from the tree in the centre of the village as a result of vandalism. The other two trees have been unaffected. There is only approximately five days’ supply of bulbs left and if the vandalism continues at the same rate the Council may have to switch the lights on the tree in the centre of the village off altogether, which would be a pity.
Recycling Plastic
There has been a certain amount of pressure on the LA to provide facilities for this. Somerfield at Standish has a bank, but at present Shevington does not have one.
District Councillors’ Reports
Cllr O’Neill had provided a report which included the following items:
Busy S Bend Section of B5375 from Old Lane to Woodhouse Drive
A meeting had taken place between concerned residents and Wigan Council’s Highways’ Department on 19 November 2007. Residents attending were satisfied with the draft plans for this stretch of road, having been re-assured that the bends will not be straightened and that a footway and cycleway will be included in the scheme. These residents were also invited to contribute to a survey of traffic conditions in the area. Another discussion meeting will be arranged (probably for mid-February 2008) once the results of this are known and needs have been identified.
Edgewood – Footways’ Renewal
This has been scheduled for the fortnight beginning 10.12.07.
Highways Maintenance Programme 2007/8 (supplementary)
Carriageway resurfacing works which have and could still affect traffic in Shevington are currently on-going on the B5375 in Standish Lower Ground.
Carriageway and footway works are planned along the full length of Giants Hall Road in SLG and footway works along the full length of Churchfield (not Woodview).
Community Safety Partnership Website
This has now been officially launched and includes local statistics on crime and information on the latest initiatives to tackle it and on the agencies from which help and advice is available. The website address is: www.saferwigan.org.uk.
Walking Days
These are now the responsibility of Wigan Council in consultation with the Police. In future all churches/groups of churches must submit their requests to the Borough Highways’ Engineer before the end of November for the following year. Shevington have already done this for the morning of 29 June 2008.
Borough Bridleway Strategy and Public Rights of Way Guidance for Developers
Leaflets carrying the appropriate information have been produced.
New Growth Point Expression of Interest
£1.7bn in total will be available for investment in infrastructure in designated Growth Areas, New Growth Points and eco-towns over the period 2008-2011. In order to qualify as a New Growth Point the criteria that must be met include good sustainability, limited strategic impacts on the environment and the ability to offer at least 20% housing growth above the level in the draft Regional Spatial Strategy. Several such districts have been identified in the Greater Manchester area, but Wigan is not one of them. Wigan is included in a programme where, for the meantime, the existing housing growth figures to 2021 are maintained, but where the rate of housing development is accelerated by bringing forward housing development at a faster rate so that a 20% increase in expected development to 2016 is achieved.
Wrightington, Wigan and Leigh NHS Trust Consultation Document on Achieving Foundation Trust Status
The NHS Trust is currently undertaking a formal consultation on proposals that they should become a Foundation Trust. The consultation began on 1 October 2007 and ends on 31 December and has included Wigan Council. If approved, Foundation status would commence in the second half of 2008. Wigan Council have considered the issues arising from foundation status and have decided that, as this change would be for the benefit of the residents and businesses of Wigan, the Council should support the application.
Olympic and Paralympic Games 2012
Wigan Council are currently involved in a consultation exercise with regard to possible opportunities for the Borough arising out of this future event.
A vote of thanks to Cllr. O’Neill for providing such comprehensive reports to each Council meeting.
Minutes of Last Meeting (22 November)
‘That the Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting of 22 November be approved as a true and correct record’
Proposed. Cllr. Whiteley Seconded. Cllr. Crosby Agreed.
Matters Arising
Skip Hire
Viridor provide the cheapest service, but as a company they could be more reliable. After a discussion the Council agreed that quotations should be sought from other local companies.
Air Ambulance
A letter thanking the Council for their donation of £125 had been received.
Car Park Recycling
A letter had been received from David Bullock agreeing to the Council’s request for the removal of several of the banks and outlining his proposals for provision of banks over the Christmas period.
Binding of Archived Minutes
Costings for binding the Minutes had been received from Shaw’s. The Council discussed whether it would be better to have separately bound books of Council and Committee minutes or whether to interleave the two.
‘That Shaw’s costings should be accepted and that the Minutes of the Parish Council and Committee meetings should be interleaved and bound by the same company.’
Proposed. Cllr. Whiteley Seconded. Cllr. Miles Agreed.
Clerk Handover
The Clerk Designate has now received most documents and equipment from the retiring Clerk. The new telephone no. is now operational.
Planters at Appley Bridge Station
The Council’s planter is now on site and secured. The other still have now been secured and there has been no reply to the Clerk’s e-mail. The Council have now adopted the station and if the New Year has not secured the planters, Mr. Dickinson will remove them to a safe place on health and safety grounds.
Electricity from British Gas
I year contract – no standing charge – 9.84 p per kw – DD payments – terms and conditions to be sent to Clerk in 10 working days.
Old School House
Cllr. Maloney had written to John Dean at Legal & Property Services with regard to the availability of grants from the Coalfield Regeneration Trust. He had asked that the building option be kept open for the time being, as he will be contacting the Trust again.
Gratuity Payments
The Chair had received a cheque and the matter is now settled to the satisfaction of the Council, the previous Clerk and the auditors. Suggestions for an appropriate use of the money will be welcome.
Reports from Councillors
Age Concern
Cllr. Maloney had received a letter from Age Concern detailing the work that they had been doing in this area and asked whether the Council could do something to help. This is to be an Agenda item at the next meeting.
Community Safety
Cllr. Maloney had spoken to Joanne Brewder with regard to the positioning of mosquitoes in the park area. This is an unusual setting for them. They are voice-activated and cannot just be simply caged. They will cost £70 + VAT per 12 weeks’ rental. This matter is to be discussed further.
Reports from Representatives
Youth Club Development
Cllr. Whiteley reported that the young people had been successful in their bid for £10,000 and the Committee had been awarded £45,000 for the kitchen and toilet refurbishment. They had not reached the second stage of the Big Lottery Fund – there should have been greater emphasis on the whole community and less on youth in order for the bid to succeed. They are still awaiting the results of another bid.
St. Anne’s Parish Hall Refurbishment
The PCC have asked the Council to write a letter of support for their bids for grant funding in this area. The Chair will do this.
Recreation Ground
The misunderstanding by the Charities Board of the position continues.
Nomination of Members to Represent the Council on Outside Bodies
‘That the Parish Council intends to appoint Cllr. Crosby as their Representative on the Standards Committee.’
Proposed. Cllr. Whiteley Seconded. Cllr. Miles Unanimous.
Planning Applications
None that might cause concern.
Donation to Open Spaces Society
‘That the Parish Council accepts the Finance and General Purposes Committee’s recommendation to donate £25 to the Open Spaces Society.’
Proposed. Cllr. Bostock Seconded. Cllr. Whiteley Unanimous.
Donation to the Youth Club
‘That the Parish Council accepts the Finance and General Purposes Committee’s recommendation to donate £5,000 to Shevington Youth Club, that the funding be kept in reserves until required and that the donation be made in five equal portions at the rate of £1,000 per year.’
Proposed. Cllr. Bostock Seconded. Cllr. Crosby Unanimous.
Accounts
E Harkins |
Salary |
£ 488.36 |
E Harkins |
Post, Mileage, Phone |
£ 54.50 |
K Pilkington |
Salary |
£ 606.59 |
Inland Revenue |
Tax & N.I. |
£ 277.47 |
J Maloney |
Chairman’s Allowance |
£ 80.00 |
Elveden Farms Ltd |
Christmas Trees |
£1,169.59 |
Communicorp |
Subscription Renewal |
£ 65.00 |
Ainscough Bldg Supplies |
Building Materials |
£ 159.31 |
Henry Alty Ltd |
Turf Dressing |
£ 279.65 |
Open Spaces Society |
Donation |
£ 25.00 |
G & S Dickinson Ltd |
Bowling Gr, Norm hrs, Materials |
£3,990.47 |
Viridor Waste Management |
Skip Hire |
£ 129.25 |
Wigan Leisure & Culture |
Meeting Room Hire |
£ 48.75 |
Total |
|
£7,373.94 |
Current Account |
£ 500.00 |
Business Reserves |
£42,847.38 |
Capital Reserves |
£27,368.58 |
Total |
£70,715.96 |
‘That the Accounts be approved and the cheques signed in payment, due notice being given to the bank statements exhibited.’
Proposed. Cllr. Whiteley Seconded. Cllr. Miles Unanimous
Signatories for the bank accounts will have to change with effect from 1 January 2008
‘That Cllrs Maloney, Ball and Whiteley and Mrs. K. Pilkington are the authorised signatories for the accounts with effect from 1 January 2008.’
Proposed. Cllr. Crosby Seconded. Cllr. Whiteley Unanimous
The appropriate mandates were completed and are to be returned to the Natwest Bank at the earliest opportunity.
To Appoint Mrs K Pilkington as Clerk from 1 January 2008
‘That Mrs Krystyna Pilkington be appointed as Clerk and Responsible Finance Officer to serve from 1 January 2008.
Proposed. Cllr. Maloney Seconded. Cllr. Miles Unanimous
The Chair asked that the Council record their thanks to Clerk Harkins for the way she had worked in this position. She had been an absolute pleasure to work with.
Clerk’s Report
Ways to Tackle Climate Change
A booklet published by ‘defra’ containing guidance on how parish and town councils can become eco-friendly and containing examples of how others have made a contribution.
GMCVO – Rural resource Unit
The December newsletter had arrived.
The Society of Local Council Clerks - Practitioners’ Conference
If the Clerk wished to attend, would the Council be prepared to fund her?
The membership renewal form had also been received. Is it OK to renew.
Connections
The winter edition of Northern Rail’s magazine had been received.
Local Councils Update
The December copies were circulated.
Alty’s Christmas Opening
This was passed to the member of the public responsible.
SJS Hire Tools Ltd
They are more competitive than Ainscough’s, who buy from them and then add a profit margin to resell. Can we set up an account with them?
Managing Our Waste and Natural Resources
Literature had been received from Lancashire CC Environment Directorate.
Mr. Dickinson reported that there had been several problems in this area over the past week. Cllr. Maloney had contacted the appropriate authority and they had been dealt with very quickly.
New Polling Station
The Youth Club is now officially a polling station, with disabled access being provided by Wigan Council.
Date of Next Meeting
Finance & General Purposes Committee: 24 January at 7:20 pm
Council: 24 January at 7:30 pm
There being no further business the Chairman closed the Meeting at 8:46 pm
Chairman
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