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This page will contain a continuous record of the minutes of 2008 Parish Council meetings:

Minutes of Shevington Parish Council Meeting
Held Thursday 24 January 2008
7.30pm Shevington Library

Present:   Councillor J. Maloney (Chairman), Councillors Whiteley, Bostock, Ball, Clerk (Pilkington) and five members of the public.

 Apologies

Cllrs V. Maloney, Miles, Crosby, Sudworth.

Matters Introduced by Members of the Public

Standing Orders were suspended.

The Orica Site
A member of the public asked whether it would be possible for the Council to contact Orica on behalf of the residents of Shevington and ask the company if it would provide details of:
the contamination on the site;
the wild-life (both plant and animal) present on the site and whether there have been any protected species recorded.
After a discussion of considerable depth on the subject it was agreed that the Clerk should write to Stephen Golba at Orica.

Standing Orders were reinstated.

District Councillors’ Reports

Cllr O’Neill had sent a report.

Damaged Fencing
The damaged fencing between the library and the post office had now been replaced by a metal barrier.

Flagstones Outside Manor Pharmacy
Following several verbal complaints concerning the hazardous flagstones, Cllr O’Neill had written to the owner of the pharmacy and sent a copy of the letter to the Borough Solicitor.  Under Health & Safety regulations the responsibility for the repair of the flagstones lies with the leaseholder/owner – this being the owner of Manor Pharmacy.
This gave rise to a discussion with regard to the number of vehicles being parked in this area.  The recent refurbishment of Greenhalgh’s had resulted in vans regularly being parked on the pavement for a considerable length of time during the day.  The Council will contact the Metro’s Legal Department, making a formal complaint on residents’ behalf and asking them to enforce the ‘Street Act’ if necessary.

Street Lighting Improvements
Renewal of lighting along the full length of Shevington Lane is now in progress.

Mobile Library Service
Details of the criteria for deciding which mobile library stops should cease and which should be maintained had been provided.  Many of the existing stops are due to be phased out and the small number of users had been offered alternative facilities, which had been accepted.  Only two of the existing stops will remain, but the number of these is scheduled to be increased over the next few weeks as new routes are phased in.

Community Safety Partnership
A new ward website has been set up:    www.saferwigan.org.uk
The website includes details of local crime statistics, which stand at less than half the rates in some other parts of the Borough.

A Question of Housing
Wigan Council has commissioned a survey designed to assess current and determine future housing needs in the Borough.  16,000 randomly selected households will receive a questionnaire through the post.  Replies are anonymous and therefore completely confidential.

Smoke Alarms
GM Fire and Rescue Service will be running a campaign from mid-January to        mid-March to raise awareness of the need to check and maintain smoke alarms in order to help preserve life.

Footway Re-surfacing and Lighting Improvements
The work scheduled for Churchfield is well under way.

Borough Environmental Action Team (BEAT-IT)
The Team will be in the area the week commencing 28 January.  They will focus on Vicarage Lane, the side and rear of Woodnook Road and various Lower Ground sites.

Minutes of Last Meeting (13 December)

‘That the Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting of 22 November be approved as a true and correct record’

Proposed:   Cllr. Whiteley              Seconded:   Cllr. Bostosk                                Agreed.

Matters Arising

Skip Hire for Allotments
Declaration of Interest:  Mr. G. Dickinson – related to the owner of Blakely’s.

The Clerk had obtained quotes from a number of providers of 8 ton skips, this being deemed the most suitable size:

Viridor   (£176.25);     Birchall’s   (£158.63);     Blakely’s       (£141);
Bithell’s (£140);          McCann’s  (£140);         Selectaskip   (£151.58).

The quotations were inclusive of VAT.  

After considerable discussion, it was decided that reliability was just as important a factor in determining the choice of supplier as cost.

‘That the quote of £141 (inc. VAT) provided by Blakely’s should be accepted.’

Proposed:   Cllr. Whiteley                 Seconded:   Cllr. Bostock                             Agreed.

Car Park Recycling
The agreed banks had been removed and a new bank for cans had been introduced.  This had caused some concern over the Christmas period as it was full to overflowing because the contractors hired to empty the bank had been overwhelmed with work elsewhere and had not emptied it when necessary.  Cans needed to be cleared from the surrounding area and a complaint was raised with Wigan’s Recycling unit.

Binding of Archived Minutes
It will not be possible to interleave all Committee and Council minutes, as some of the pages are foolscap while others are A4.  Others still are stuck in an old book and need rebinding.  The Clerk had discussed the matter with Shaw’s, who had said that they would bind the Minutes in whatever form they were provided.  There was a choice of colours for the covers:  black, brown, dark green, dark blue, dark red were the most commonly available.

‘That the Minutes of the Parish Council and Committee meetings should be interleaved wherever possible and bound in dark green covers.’

Proposed:   Cllr. Bostock                   Seconded:   Cllr. Ball                                  Agreed.

Public Access to Minutes
The Clerk has been negotiating with the Library over the provision of a facility which would enable the general public to access approved Council Minutes.  A notice board inside the Library would create an increase in the clutter that the Library Staff are trying to avoid.  However, there is no objection to the approved Minutes being available for reference by the public in a loose leaf format.  The Clerk will continue to pursue the issue.

Clerk  Handover
The new Clerk has now received all documents and equipment from the retiring Clerk.  The books have been internally audited up to date and the notice informing the general public of the new Clerk’s details has been displayed on all the notice boards.  The retiring Clerk is to be asked to cancel the instruction to Virgin Media to re-direct phone calls.

Planters at Appley Bridge Station
As the Northen Rail planters had still not been secured down by the New Year,      Mr. Dickinson has removed them to the safety of the Bowling Green.  The Clerk has tried unsuccessfully to contact different representatives of Northern Rail so that the matter can be settled.

Footpath from Mill Lane to Appley Bridge Station
The Clerk had been contacted by Barry King, an independent adopter of the station, asking the Council to look into the matter of replacing the lighting that once existed along the footpath, which is much used by local residents, leading to the station from Mill Lane.  He had established that the property belongs to Northern Rail and therefore the provision of adequate lighting is their responsibility.  Again the Clerk had not met with much success in contacting Northern Rail’s operatives.

Raised Allotment Beds Project
This project is progressing very well.  It has highlighted the fact that the existing raised beds need refurbishment.

Recent Flooding in the Village
Following the recent heavy rainfalls, severe flooding had occurred over the weekend outside the Memorial Park and by Monday had spread across Church Lane, creating a small lake.  Pumps had to be used to deal with the issue, which had developed because the drainage system between the hairdresser’s and the Memorial Park is no longer working properly and is in need of maintenance.  The Chair had reported the matter to Wigan Council and the Clerk is to write to Martin Kimber.

Christmas Tree Lights
A number of issues were flagged up over the Christmas period:
The new transformers kept over-heating and tripping-out.  Their tolerance will need to be investigated before they are used again.  The Clerk is to arrange a safety check.
150 light bulbs were stolen from the tree in the centre of Shevington. Consequently there are now only 250 bulbs for three trees.  New bulbs will need to be purchased.
The pipes fitted for the trees will need to be replaced, as the thickness of the trunks seems to be increasing.

Reports from Councillors

Recreation Ground ‘Breathing Spaces’ Bid
Cllr Whiteley reported that John Whiteley, the Community Association Secretary, had been holding discussions with the Groundwork Trust with regard to the work to be carried out with the £10,000 award.  The work is due to begin in March.  Once this stage of the project is completed, there will be no money left for the pathways.  Responsibility for future maintenance and security of the area remain unresolved issues.  A plan of the development was circulated.

United Utilities’ Work in Gathurst Lane
Cllr Ball reported that the sub-contractors that United Utilities had employed to carry out the work in Gathurst Lane had failed to inform the residents in the area that the work would lead to a reduction in water pressure.  This had led to some ill-feeling which could have been avoided had these residents received leaflets through their doors prior to the commencement of the work.  One member of the public who had contacted United Utilities had formed the impression that the effects of the work had been unexpected.  Cllr Ball had notified Wigan Council of the situation.  The Clerk will write to United Utilities to complain on behalf the residents in question (copy to Martin Kimber at Wigan).

Reports from Representatives

Local Strategic Partnership Survey
The Chair circulated a report of a survey that had been carried out into possible outcomes with regard to quality of life and life opportunities for a sample of 400 babies taken equally from the most and least deprived backgrounds.  The survey is intended to help address the key problems in neighbourhoods of highest need.

Youth Club
Cllr Whiteley reported that the Committee are currently in discussion with the joiner about the installation of the new kitchen.  Graffitti of an unpleasant nature had been found on the walls of the building and Cllr Whiteley had contacted Joanne Brewder with regard to having it removed.  The Probation Team are to be contacted to arrange this.
Cllr Bostock informed the Council of a fundraiser in aid of Youth Club funds.  It will be a ‘60’s Night” held at St. James’s Club in Orrell.  It has received major sponsorship from Shearings and the DJ and other entertainers involved are giving their services free of charge.  Tickets are £5.

Planning Applications

Crooke Village Marina  –  this had been considered by the Planning Committee on 8 January.  The outcome is at present unknown.
Land adjacent to 18 Shevington Lane  –  a letter had been received from Martin Kimber informing the Council that planning permission had been granted subject to conditions.

Financial Aid Application

Mr. Gerald Arstall, the Treasurer of Shevington Over 60’s Club, presented the application for a donation towards the Club’s running costs in 2008.  All evidence had been submitted and the Clerk had audited the financial statements provided. 

‘That the Parish Council will make a donation of  £450 to Shevington Over 60’s Club towards the Club’s running costs in 2008.’

Proposed:   Cllr. Whiteley               Seconded:   Cllr. Bostock                    Unanimous.

Age Concern

Declaration of Interest:  Cllr. J. Maloney – Trustee of Age Concern Wigan Borough.

Correspondence had been received from Age Concern Wigan Borough detailing the services they are able to offer local residents over the age of 50 and requesting the Council’s continued support.  After a short discussion the Council agreed to make a donation.

‘That the Parish Council will make a donation of £500 to Age Concern Wigan Borough towards the running costs involved in providing services to local residents in 2008.’

Proposed:   Cllr. Whiteley               Seconded:   Cllr. Bostock                    Unanimous.

2008 Precept

‘That the Parish Council accepts the recommendation of the Finance & General Purposes Committee that the Precept for 2008 should be £72,000.’

Proposed:   Cllr. Ball                  Seconded.   Cllr. Whiteley                        Unanimous.

Accounts

‘That the Accounts be approved and the cheques signed in payment, due notice being given to the bank statements exhibited.’

Proposed:    Cllr. Ball                    Seconded:    Cllr. Bostock                      Unanimous

Clerk’s Report

British Gas
Terms and conditions have now been received.

LCR
The January edition had arrived.

Lancashire & Merseyside County Training Partnership
Training event on ‘Planning Applications’ on Thursday, 14 February at Howick House in Penwortham.

LAPTC
The Clerk was in receipt of the December 2007 Newsletter and details of two workshops – one on Chairmanship on 4 March and the other on the Quality Parish accreditation on 19 February – both at Howick House.  The Clerk will make arrangements to attend the workshop on 19 February.

GMCVO Rural Resource Unit
The January Newsletter was circulated.

SJS Hire Tools Ltd
The account is now up and running.

Postal Redirection Service
This had been set up and was working well.

Date of Next Meeting

Library Diary entries had indicated a double-booking on 28 February.  It was agreed that the date of the next Council Meeting be changed to 21 February at 7:30 pm.

Policy:        7 February at 7:30 pm
Council:      21 February at 7:30 pm

There being no further business the Chairman closed the Meeting at 9:20 pm

Chairman

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Minutes of Shevington Parish Council Meeting
Held Thursday 13 March 2008
7.30pm Shevington Library

Present:   Councillor Ball (Chair of Meeting), Councillors Sudworth, Miles, Crosby, Clerk (Pilkington) and 5 members of the public.

Cllr Ball extended a particular welcome to Cllr Sudworth on his return.

Apologies
Cllrs J. Maloney (Chairman), V. Maloney, Whiteley, Bostock

 Matters Introduced by Members of the Public

Standing Orders were suspended.

Appley Bridge Station (Health & Safety Matters)
A member of the public introduced himself as a Level 1 adopter of the Station and explained that this involves checking the station once a month and reporting on Health & Safety issues and other matters of concern to the entity that manages it.  He had reported the problems with regard to the footpath from Mill Lane to the Station a long time ago and has been trying to maintain them on the front boiler with both Northern Rail and Network Rail with a view to finding acceptable solutions.  The latter is the owner of the footpath and the former leases it from the latter.  A considerable discussion followed.  The Clerk had also been looking into these issues as well as those outstanding from the Station Adoption agreement and had recently spoken with representatives of Northern Rail in order to try to progress things.  They are aware of the problems and wished to assure her that they are working on them.

 District Councillors’ Reports

Cllr O’Neill had sent a report.

Highways Improvements
Cllr. O’Neill has details of the programme for footway improvements in 2008/9 (Woodview – inc. lighting), surface dressing work in Longbrook, Parkfield and Yewdale  improvements to the S bend stretches on Wigan Road and the cutting back of shrubbed areas to improve visibility from driveways in Back Lane.  The Clerk was asked to make enquiries with regard to the dates of the works.

Woodnook Bus Stop
This is to remain in its current position adjacent to the play area.

Neighbourhood Teams
The Department of Environmental Services has undergone a considerable restructuring process.  Multi-disciplinary delivery teams have been created and are in the process of being put in place.  The aim is to provide a more efficient delivery of a range of front-line services. (See letter from Martin Kimber.)

Affordable Housing Policy
A report was enclosed which detailed the debate over and the answers to the most frequently asked questions.

University of Wigan
Cllr O’Neill had received an e-mail informing him of last week’s press release re Wigan College’s bid for University status.  Wigan Council are being invited to support the bid.

Local Petitions and Call for Action Consultation
Cllr O’Neill had forwarded a copy of a report by the Deputy Chief Executive on the Government’s consultation on ‘Local Petitions and Calls for Action’ as well as a copy of the consultation document itself.  The deadline for replies was 20 March.  Both are available from the Clerk.

Heritage Lottery Fund Priority Area Status
Wigan has been designated a priority area under the HLF Strategic Plan for 2008/13.

The New Concessionary Travel Scheme
For the new scheme, GMPTE must replace the existing concessionary travel passes with a new smartcard style pass and these will be issued from March.

Council Budget 2008/9
A document from the Leader of Wigan Council was circulated.

Standing Orders were reinstated.

 Minutes of Last Meeting (21 February)

‘That the Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting of 21 February be approved as a true and correct record’

Proposed:   Cllr Crosby                 Seconded:   Cllr Miles                                  Agreed

 Matters Arising

Litter Along Canal Towpaths and River Banks
A resident had complained about the volume of litter along the canal towpaths and river banks, specifically in the area between Dean Lock and Crooke Village.  The matter had been investigated by Staff, discussed at the Finance &General Purposes meeting of 6 March.  British Waterways and the Environment Agency had been contacted and asked to look into it.  We are awaiting their responses.

Appley Bridge Station Issues
See ‘Matters Introduced by Members of the Public’.

Dog Fouling
The Clerk had received a letter from Sally Wolstencroft, the Assistant Director i/c Cleaner Greener Neighbourhoods, asking the Council to encourage the general public to provide them with quality information with regard to the times that the offences at Kilburn Drive were occurring.  There had been several complaints in recent months and the area has been regularly monitored by wardens, but with no success.  The Clerk had contacted the Cleansing Department on 29 February and asked them to remove the large volume of faeces.  Mr. Dickinson had monitored the verge of grass and had also reported a large volume of faeces along the footpath from Gathurst Lane to the Oval earlier this week.  To date there had been no evidence of a visit from the Cleansing Department to deal with the Kilburn Drive problem.  The Clerk had contacted the Cleansing Department by phone about both issues and had replied to Sally Wolstencroft in writing, informing her of the            non-attendance of the Cleansing Department with regard to the first case.

Reports from Councillors

Railway Awareness Day
The Chair had spoken to the new owner of the Station Inn at Appley Bridge Station and had received a positive response with regard to taking part in the Railway Awareness Day in July.

 Reports from Representatives

Shevington & District Community Association
Mr Andrew Moakes had been elected Vice-Chair at the recent AGM.

Youth Club
There was no report.

Standards Committee
The Committee meeting is on 18 March.

 Planning Applications

None requiring comment.

 Financial Aid Applications

The Vale Pre-School

The Vale Pre-School had submitted an application, accompanied by the documentation requested, for a grant towards the cost a new computer for the children.  The Clerk had audited the financial statements and had found no issues.

‘That the Parish Council will make a donation of £500 to The Vale Pre-School Playgroup towards the cost of computer equipment.’

Proposed:   Cllr Sudworth   Seconded:   Cllr Crosby    (3 FOR, 1 AGAINST)   Agreed

 Wigan Local Development Core Strategy Consultation

Cllr Maloney had submitted a draft reply to the Consultation.  This was circulated and discussed.  The Council wished to thank Cllr Maloney for preparing the reply.  Several members expressed concern that the literature that had been circulated to residents’ homes did not include a user-friendly means of responding.  Downloading issues had also been experienced with the electronic version. 

‘That Cllr Maloney’s reply on behalf of the Council to the Consultation on Wigan’s Local Development Core Strategy be accepted with the provision that the communication issues mentioned above be included in the reply.’

Proposed:      Cllr Crosby                Seconded:  Cllr Miles                                 Agreed

 Parish Plan

The Finance &General Purposes Committee had reviewed this at length.  It is largely on target.  More car parking provision is needed in Shevington Village and strategies need to be put in place to raise the profile of the Council.  Many local residents are not aware of the existence of the Council or of what it does.  This is to be revisited at the Policy meeting of 3 April.

 Quality Parish Council Accreditation

“The Council accepts the recommendation of the Finance and General Purposes Committee that the Council support the Clerk in her training to achieve qualified status.”

Proposed:        Cllr Miles           Seconded:      Cllr Crosby                                Agreed

 Accounts

Expenditure

Total:                                                                                                             £5,526.73

                                                                                    
Income
Shevington Bowling Club        Membership, Green Fees                              £    70.00

Total:                                                                                                             £     70.00
                       
Bank Balances as at 29 February 2008:
Current Account          £     500.00
Business Reserves    £29,392.12
Capital Reserves        £27,546.96
Total                            £57,439.08

 ‘That the Accounts be approved and the cheques signed in payment, due notice being given to the bank statements exhibited.’

Proposed:    Cllr Miles                  Seconded:    Cllr Sudworth                     Unanimous

 Budget 2008/9

“That the Council accepts the recommendation of the Finance and General Purposes Committee that the agreed budget spend for 2008/9 be set at £72,830.”

Proposed:   Cllr Sudworth              Seconded:  Cllr Miles                                  Agreed

Clerk’s Report

Orica
Mr. Steven Golba had replied to the Clerk’s letter and had suggested dates for a meeting with the Council.  The Council had discussed the dates at last week’s  Finance and General Purposes Committee meeting and selected an agreed date.  The Clerk had e-mailed their response and is awaiting a reply.

Drainage Issues in Church Lane
The Clerk had replied to the letter from Environmental Services, pointing out that the reason why the drainage was not functioning properly was because the drain in question appeared not to be attached to anything.

Shevington & District Community Association Financial Aid Application
This had been discussed at the Finance &General Purposes meeting.  The Clerk had written to the Secretary, Mr. J. Whiteley, to let him know that, while the Council would like to support this initiative, £3,500 is beyond their means at this moment in time.

United Utilities Work in Gathurst Lane
The Clerk had been contacted by the Wigan Evening Post with the view to providing them with information for an article about this. 

Village of the Year Competition
Enquiries had elicited that in Lancashire the judging is carried out purely on the merits of the application.  As well as monetary prizes for the first three in the County, the winner goes through to the national competition, when the judges will visit and a presentation will need to be made.  LALC recommend that the subject matter for the national competition is different to that for the County competition.

Greenhalgh’s Step
The Clerk had been in contact with the Legal Department with regard to this issue.  The work did not involve “Change of Use” so Wigan Council cannot impose the relevant parts of the DDA.  However, under the DDA, an individual can complain directly to Greenhalgh’s and, if he/she wishes, can take the matter to the Magistrates Courts.  This would have to be a formal complaint.  The Citizen’s Advice Bureau will advise private individuals about their rights in such circumstances.  A reply is awaited from the Planning Department to establish whether any conditions had been imposed by the Planning Committee that could be actioned.

External Auditors
The Clerk had written to the Audit Commission advising them of the Council’s reservations about the appointment of BDO Stoy Hayward as the external auditor once again.  She had received a phone-call requesting supporting information and the matter was discussed over the phone.  A written reply is awaited.

Bowling Green Fees
A member of the Village Bowling Club had asked for these to be reviewed.  This was discussed at the Finance and General Purposes Committee meeting, when the members agreed that the fees should remain unchanged.  They will be reviewed again in two years’ time.  The Clerk had written to the member to inform him of the Committee’s decision.

Venue for April Meetings

Cllr Miles had contacted Shevington Methodist Church officials about using it as a venue for meetings in April, when the library is closed.  They had agreed.

Date of Annual Parish Meeting

‘That the date of the Annual Parish Meeting be changed to Thursday, 12 June 2008.’

Proposed:    Cllr Crosby                   Seconded:    Cllr Miles                        Unanimous

Dates of Next Meetings

Policy:             3 April at 7:30 pm
Council:         24 April at 7:30 pm

There being no further business the Chairman closed the Meeting at  8:30 pm

Chairman

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Minutes of Shevington Parish Council Meeting
Held Thursday 24 April 2008
7.30pm Shevington Methodist Church

Present:   Councillor J. Maloney (Chair), Councillors Sudworth, Miles, V. Maloney, Clerk (Pilkington) and 3 members of the public.

 Apologies for Absence
Cllrs Whiteley, Crosby, Bostock.
These apologies were accepted.

Standing Orders were suspended.

Matters Introduced by Members of the Public

There were no matters introduced by members of the public.

In view of the above and the length of the relevant report, it was resolved:

‘That “Agenda Item No.155 – Meeting at Orica” be brought forward to this part of the meeting so that interested members of the public could be included in the discussion.’

Proposed:                                          Seconded:                                                Agreed

Meeting at Orica

Several members of the Parish Council had attended a meeting with the Orica (UK) management on 8 April 2008 in order to discuss issues of concern raised by members of the public at a previous Council meeting and receive an up-date on developments with regard to the future of the site. 

The report on the meeting, which had been very fruitful, was presented and was followed by a discussion of some length.  The Orica management had assured the Council that all necessary surveys with regard to contamination and protected species have been carried out by both the management and outside Bodies.  The costs of decontamination to a standard above legal requirements have been assessed.  The Orica Board have yet to decide whether they will be closing the site or keeping it open and this decision is some months away. 

It is the Council’s intention to keep themselves up-to-date and a further meeting will be arranged at an appropriate time in the future.

The members of the public thanked the Chair for the report and the discussion.

District Councillors’ Reports

Cllr O’Neill had sent, in view of his imminent retirement, his final report.  He also wished the Council every success in the future.

Ongoing Highway Issues  –  Shevington/Standish Lower Ground
Speed Reactive Signs:  because of previously recorded high speeds immediately to the south of the Z bends, Wigan Council have agreed to establish two signs, one in each direction, in that area.
Z Bend Improvements:  the proposed improvements to the Z bends have been delayed because a land ownership problem has arisen.  They will go ahead once this has been resolved.
Old Lane/Shevington Lane Junction:  the issue of accidents there is still being examined before a final decision is taken on what measures, if any, are needed.

Vision 2026
This unique project involving babies born this year and their families has just begun.  Families are being invited to join discussion groups which will be meeting at a variety of venues to voice their vision for the future of their children at the age of eighteen.  The aim of the project is to inform the development of the Sustainable Community Strategy.  A questionnaire will shortly be available on-line.

Alco-Shock – Underage Drinking Operation Points to Adults
A recent survey, carried out in the Borough jointly by the Council and the Police, has revealed that children who are under-age are obtaining alcohol via adults who are buying it for them.  Adults involved in this activity risk considerable fines if caught.

Novelty Cigarette Lighter Ban
Wigan Council’s consumer watchdogs are taking action to warn shopkeepers that it is now illegal to sell novelty cigarette lighters.  Shopkeepers who refuse to comply with the legislation could face prosecution and a fine of up to £20,000 and up to 12 months’ imprisonment.

New Concessionary Travel Scheme
GMPTE’s new smartcard National Travel Passes are now in the post to over 60s and eligible disabled people.

Council’s Childcare Sufficiency Assessment
A report on the results of a survey carried out by CYPS amongst providers and parents had been presented to Wigan Cabinet and had been published on the Council website at the end of March.

Walking Day
Following discussions between Wigan Council and the Police an agreement had been reached that the Police would continue to attend Walks of Witness.  Church    co-ordinators had been informed.

The Chair asked that a ‘vote of thanks’ be recorded to Cllr O’Neill for his many reports over the years.

Village Issues

Criminal Damage / Anti-Social Behaviour Issues
St. Anne’s Church and Hall had both been broken into recently.  This was the second time in a month.  Previously items had been stolen.  This time there had been an arson attack on the vestry.  Not only have a number of buildings in the centres of both Shevington and Appley Bridge been broken into since the beginning of the year but there have also been too many incidents of anti-social behaviour at all times of day and night.  The lack of productive action by the Police has been causing both concern and anger amongst residents.  The danger of vigilantism is becoming a real possibility.

Odour in Appley Bridge
There had recently been a very bad smell in the air around Miles Lane in Appley Bridge - possibly the result of agricultural activities in the area.  It could be something that Environmental Health might have an interest in.

Shevington Bowling Club ‘Fun Day’
The ‘Fun Day’ has been organised for this coming Saturday, 26 April and begins at 11 am.  Everyone is welcome.

Dog Bins
No costs have been agreed as yet, but the bin that is beyond repair will have to be replaced.

Police Contact with the Community
Because the Library has been closed for refurbishment for the past month, the Police had not been holding their usual weekly surgeries.  This lack of contact with the public was causing concern.

Woodnook Bus Stop
The bus drivers have a tendency to stop here to take a break and are posing a danger to other drivers.  This could be reduced if the buses were to back into Stockley Drive.

Standing Orders were reinstated.

Minutes of Last Meeting (13 March)

The Minutes had been circulated previously and it was resolved:

‘That the Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting of 13 March be approved as a true and correct record’

Proposed:                                      Seconded:                                                  Agreed

Matters Arising

Council Vacancy
The Clerk had initiated the process as advised by Democratic Services.

Railway Awareness Day
The current landlady at Gathurst Station Inn is moving on and is in the process of handing over.  However, she is willing to provide food to anyone who wants it, if she is still on site. 
Local groups may wish to have stalls.  The event needs to be advertised.  It is a good opportunity to raise the profile of both Shevington and Appley Bridge and may be something that the Community Association might wish to consider.
The stations could be decorated with bunting.

Reports from Councillors

Leylandii Issues
A resident had sought advice with regard to a neighbour’s Leylandii, which are very tall and are taking away her light.  The Criminal Justice Act 2003 (Leylandii clause) deals with the situation.  An individual has the legal right to ask the neighbour to trim any evergreen shrubs that have grown excessively tall to a reasonable height.  If the Council’s help is required, a small fee becomes chargeable.

Handling of Incidents Reported to the Police
A councillor reported that last Thursday morning he had noticed the door of his greenhouse was not as he had left it the previous evening and had found evidence of drug abuse inside.  He had reported it to the Police and was told that the local Officer would deal with it.  To date no one had visited him.

There had recently been a mutual stabbing on the Council estate.  It was a domestic incident.  The Police had attended, but residents were under the impression that the case had not been pursued, even though serious crimes had been committed.

The general public are very angry with the Police.  They are viewed as never being there when they are needed and not dealing with issues as they should.  In the past the village ‘bobby’ was frequently seen in the area and had a good relationship with the local community and was perceived as someone who ‘sorted things out’.

The Chair offered to contact the Police and put all the points raised forward.  He would also invite them to attend a Council meeting.

Motorway Fencing Panel
The Highways Agency had still not repaired the panel.

Reports from Representatives

Shevington & District Community Association
The Community Association had discussed Wigan’s Core Strategy document.

Youth Club
Congratulations were due to the Committee for their hard work in securing grant funding.  More awards have been received.

Standards Committee
More complaints have been made against Wigan’s District Councillors than against those of any other Authority in the country.  The Committee is still working towards getting the political groups to agree a Plan to reduce the number of complaints.  The Plan needs to be submitted to the Standards Board of England.

Planning Applications

The Clerk was not aware of any requiring comment.

Financial Aid Applications

Donation to Open Spaces Society
This was referred to the Policy Committee for consideration.

Meeting at Orica

This had been received under Item No.146.

Accounts

Expenditure

Total:                                                                                                           £10,796.66
                                                   
Income
Bowling Green                           Membership fees                                         £  126.00
Village Bowling Club Donation  Shelters                                                        £1356.85
HMRC                                        VAT refund                                                  £  265.15
Interest                                      Capital Reserve A/C                                     £ 149.82
Interest                                      Business Reserve A/C                                 £  233.63
      
Total:                             
                                                                                 £2131.45                      
Bank Balances as at 31 March 2008:
Current Account          £     765.15
Business Reserves    £23,688.74
Capital Reserves        £27,796.78
Total                            £52,123.67

It was resolved:

‘That the Accounts be approved and the cheques signed in payment, due notice being given to the bank statements exhibited.’

Proposed:                                           Seconded:                                             Agreed

Budget Out-Turn, 2007/8

This was deferred to the next meeting.

Clerk’s Report

Greenhalgh’s Step
Greenhalgh’s had not fulfilled planning conditions, so the Planning Department at Wigan had written to them and are awaiting a response.

Footways in Centre of Shevington
Wigan are looking into demarcating different areas with regard to ownership.

Parking Situation in Shevington Centre
Wigan are considering possible options.

Drainage Problems in Church Lane
The Clerk had recently spoken to a member of Environmental Services. 
The situation is still under investigation.

Litter Along the Canal Banks and Towpaths
The area owned by the ‘Baby Elephant’ restaurant had recently been tidied up.  However, the debris in the River Douglas has still not been removed and the area between the canal and the river was still covered with massive quantities of litter.

Appley Bridge Station Issues
The planters are now in position. 
No news with regard to the Mill Lane footpath issues.

Dog Fouling
The cleansing department seem to be on top of this in the Kilburn Drive area.

Men’s Bowling Team Fixtures
The matter had been resolved.

Casual User Car Allowance
Car allowances have gone up to 58.7p per mile with effect from 1 April.

Dates of Next Meetings

Policy:             1 May at 7:30 pm
Council:         22 May at 7:30 pm

The venue is to be confirmed.

There being no further business the Chairman closed the Meeting at 9:42 pm

Chairman

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Minutes of Shevington Parish Council Annual General Meeting
Held Thursday 22 May 2008
7.30pm Shevington Library

Present:   Councillor J. Maloney (Chair), Councillors Sudworth, Miles, V. Maloney, Bostock, Ball, Clerk (Pilkington) and three members of the public.

Election of Chairman

Only one nomination was received:  Cllr James Maloney.

It was resolved:

‘That Cllr James Maloney will serve as Chairman until the Parish Council Annual Meeting of May, 2009.’

Proposed:                                           Seconded:                                               Agreed

To Receive the Chairman’s Declaration of Acceptance of Office

Cllr James Maloney duly gave and signed the Declaration of Office of Chairman.  The Clerk signed as witness to the declaration.

Election of Vice-Chairman

Only one nomination was received:  Cllr John Ball.

It was resolved:

‘That Cllr John Ball will serve as Vice-Chairman until the Parish Council Annual Meeting of May, 2009.’

Proposed:                                           Seconded:                                               Agreed

(Cllr Bostock joined the meeting at 7:35 pm.)

Apologies for Absence
Cllrs Whiteley, Crosby;  District Cllr Liptrot.
These apologies were accepted.

Declaration of Interest

The previously circulated ‘Register of Interest’ documents had been completed and were received.  Any outstanding declarations will be received at the Finance & General Purposes Committee meeting. 

No interests were declared in this meeting’s business.
Representatives to Outside Bodies

It was resolved:

‘That the following be confirmed as representatives to outside bodies until the Parish Council Annual Meeting of May, 2009.’

Cllrs Miles, V. Maloney, J. Maloney, Sudworth, Ball, Whiteley, Bostock

Cllrs Whiteley, Sudworth.

Cllrs Sudworth, Bostock, J. Maloney, V. Maloney

Cllr M. Crosby

Proposed:                                           Seconded:                                               Agreed

Committees

The Committees, their constitutions and terms of reference were reviewed.

Committees:               ‘Finance & General Purposes’ and ‘Policy’.
Constitution:               All Parish Councillors and two co-opted members. 
                                     Quorum:  3 members.
Terms of Reference: 

                                     January, March, June, September and November.
                                     ‘Policy’ meets on the first Thursday of February, April, May,
                                     August and October.

It was resolved:

‘That no changes be made to the Committees, their constitutions or terms of reference and that Mr. G. Dickinson and Mr. C. Horridge be confirmed as co-opted members of both Committees until the Parish Council Annual Meeting of May, 2009.’

Proposed:                                           Seconded:                                               Agreed

Deeds and Trust Instruments

These were duly inspected and recorded.
The deeds to the freehold of Memorial Park are held in safe deposit at the Natwest Bank.
The deeds to the leases for the Bowling Green and the Allotments are held with the Clerk.

Standing Orders were suspended.

Proposed from the Chair:                                                                                    Agreed

Matters Introduced by Members of the Public

Notice of the Meeting
A member of the public pointed out that the notice of this meeting had only been displayed on the board outside the library the previous day.  The Clerk explained that notices had been displayed on other boards in the area at the legally required time.  Staff responsible for this activity had been very busy recently and had been unable to access this particular board any earlier.

Website
A member of the public congratulated the Council on the improvements to the website.

Orica
A member of the public asked if the Council had any information about Orica putting out feelers with regard to purchasing land in Vicarage Lane.  Letters had been sent to the District Councillors about this and rumours are rife.  The Parish Council had not been informed of any such activity on the part of Orica, but the Chair would try to find out if there is any truth to the rumours.

District Councillors’ Reports

None were presented.

The Chair had written to District Cllr O’Neill to thank him for his support and the reports he had sent over the years and to wish him a happy retirement.  Cllr O’Neill had replied, sending his ‘best wishes’ to the Council for the future.

Village Issues

Shevington Village Bowling Club ‘Fun Day’
This had been scheduled to take place in April, but had been postponed because of inclement weather.  It is now due to take place this coming Sunday.

Motorway Fencing
Repairs to this had not progressed any further, despite the fact that the Clerk had been notified by the Highway’s Agency last week that it was going to be repaired shortly.

Dog Fouling
Problems continue at the opening of the footpath in ‘The Oval’.  The replacement Dog Bin had been collected from the supplier and would soon be in situ.  There are also problems on the Recreation Ground.

‘The Oval’ Footpath
Both Wigan Council and Parish Council Staff had tidied this up, but it is still being used by ‘drinkers’.
Standing Orders were reinstated.

Proposed from the Chair:                                                                                    Agreed

Minutes of Last Meeting (24 April 2008)

The Minutes had been circulated previously.

Amendment:  Cllr Ball was present.

It was resolved:

‘That, subject to the above amendment, the Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting of 24 April be approved as a true and correct record’

Proposed:                                      Seconded:                                                     Agreed

Chairman’s Report

Motorway Fencing
The Chair had also contacted the Highways Agency with regard to this repair.  He will get in touch with them again.

Arson Investigation at St. Anne’s Church
The Chair had asked the Community Safety Sergeant to speak to the Vicar about progress with the investigation.  To date no one has been arrested or charged.

Orica
The Chair had written to Orica immediately after the April Council meeting, but to date had not received a reply.

Allotment Issues
The Chair had been approached by the Committee of Shevington Garden Club with regard to the length of the current waiting list and finding a means by which to reduce it.  A number of plots are not being used by the their lessees as they should be – some may be too large and could be divided into several smaller and more manageable plots.  The Chair will be meeting the Committee at the allotments on Friday, 23 May at 7 pm to discuss the issues.  Letters may need to be sent to lessees via the Clerk.

Reports from Councillors

Anti-Social Behaviour
A Councillor described events that had taken place in the village during recent evenings.  The Police had responded to a serious situation of nuisance, but no one had been arrested.  High-speed racing along village roads in the middle of the night is occurring once again.  The Township Group, which provided a useful forum for discussion about issues of this nature no longer meets, and the Wednesday afternoon surgeries held at the Library are not an adequate replacement.  The Chair will write to Ian Harrison to get the meetings reinstated. 

Fly-Posting on Lamp-posts
A Councillor reported that Coldshield had been working in the area and had used fly-posting to advertise their services.  The Clerk will report this to Environmental Services and ask them to deal with the issue.

Vale Royal Sign
Despite approaches made to ‘The Vale Royal’, the sign is still there.  The Clerk will ask Environmental Services to deal with the matter.

Reports from Representatives

Shevington & District Community Association
There was nothing major to report.

Shevington Youth Club
The Committee had not met since the last Council meeting.

Shevington Recreation Ground Trustees
An impasse had been reached with the Charities Commission.  The Council will need to discuss the details of the maintenance contract with the Recreation Ground Trustees.  A resolution is needed from the Ground Trustees.  A scale of fees for the football clubs also needs to be determined.

Standards Committee
No report.

Council Vacancy

Notices advertising the casual vacancy had been received from Democratic Services and had been displayed on the notice boards.  The statutory fourteen days end on Monday, 2 June.  To date no requests for an election had been received.

Railway Awareness Day

One set of bunting had been arranged – another is needed. 
The Chair will speak to the owner of the Station Inn at Appley Bridge to confirm his plans.

Village of the Year Competition

The Policy Committee had recommended that Crooke Village, which has a population of less than 5,000, be entered in the competition.  The Clerk will carry out the necessary interviews and prepare the application.

It was resolved:

‘That the Parish Council accepts the recommendation of the Policy Committee that Crooke Village be entered in the “Village of the Year”  Competition’

Proposed:                                             Seconded:                                             Agreed

The previously circulated ‘draft’ reply to the consultation was discussed.
It is a very good paper - all the salient points had been included.  A vote of thanks to Cllrs Whiteley and Miles, who had prepared it.

It was resolved:

‘That the draft document be approved and forwarded to the LALC.’

Proposed:                                             Seconded:                                             Agreed

NALC Consultations

Participatory Budgeting:  a Draft National Strategy
The draft was received, discussed and adjustments were agreed.

It was resolved:

‘That the draft document be approved, subject to adjustments, and forwarded to the NALC.’

Proposed:                                             Seconded:                                             Agreed

Sub-National Review
The draft was received, discussed and adjustments were agreed.

It was resolved:

‘That the draft document be approved, subject to adjustments, and forwarded to the NALC.’

Proposed:                                             Seconded:                                             Agreed

Sustainable Communities Act 2007 – Consultation on Draft Regulations and Statutory Guidance
The draft was received, discussed and adjustments were agreed.

It was resolved:

‘That the draft document be approved, subject to adjustments, and forwarded to the DCLG.’

Proposed:                                             Seconded:                                             Agreed

The Chair was awarded a vote of thanks for preparing the replies to all three consultations.

Best Kept Shop-Front Area Award

Vast amounts of litter are currently being dropped in the central areas of the village.  The objective of the exercise is to encourage local trades-people to take a pride in their own area.  The criteria for the award will need to be discussed and agreed.
It is to be an agenda item for the next Committee meeting.

Clerk’s Report

The Council received the Clerk’s report.

Litter on Canal Towpaths and Surrounding Areas
The Clerk had received a letter from British Waterways.  They are severely under-funded and have to prioritise.  Keeping the canal itself clear of obstacles is their first priority.  Following a discussion of the issues, it was agreed that the Clerk should contact them again in order to establish the ownership of the land between the canal and the river and to enquire about the possibility of the towpaths being up-graded.

The Statement of Receipts and Payments was received and considered.  The accounts have still to be audited.
A vote of thanks to the Clerk for her hard work.

 Accounts

Expenditure

Total:                                                                                                          £4,802.12
             
Income
Wigan MBC                               Precept                                                    £72,000.00
Bowling Green                           Membership fees                                    £       98.00

Total:                                                                                                         £72,098.00

Bank Balances as at 30 April 2008:
Current Account          £       500.00
Business Reserves    £  89,993.84
Capital Reserves        £  27,796.78

Total                           £118,290.62

 It was resolved:

‘That the Accounts be approved and the cheques signed in payment, due notice being given to the bank statements exhibited.’

Proposed:                                           Seconded:                                             Agreed

 Planning Applications

Application No. A/08/71045
(Development of 11 plots at 144 Shevington Lane)

Following a discussion, it was agreed that the Clerk should write to the Planning Department, highlighting the following:

Financial Aid Applications

The following applications had been considered by the Policy Committee:

Shevington Allotment and Horticultural Society

It was resolved:

‘‘That the Parish Council accept the recommendation of the Policy Committee that a donation of £150 be made to Shevington Allotment and Horticultural Society towards the costs of the Annual Show 2008.’

Proposed:                                             Seconded:                                             Agreed

Appley Bridge Community Association

It was resolved:

‘That the Parish Council accept the recommendation of the Policy Committee that a donation of £500 be made to Appley Bridge Community Association towards their Youth Drop-in project.’

Proposed:                                             Seconded:                                             Agreed

Dates of Next Meetings

Finance & General Purposes:             5 June at 7:30 pm
Annual Parish Meeting:                       12 June at 7:30 pm
Council:                                               26 June at 7:30 pm

There being no further business the Chairman closed the Meeting at 9:30 pm

                                             Chairman

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Minutes of Shevington Parish Council Meeting
Held Thursday 26 June 2008
7.30pm Shevington Library

Present:   Councillor J. Maloney (Chair), Councillors V. Maloney, Bostock, Ball,   Dist. Councillor Liptrot, Clerk (Pilkington) and 6 members of the public.

Apologies for Absence

Councillors Whiteley, Miles, Sudworth and Crosby.
These apologies were accepted.

Declaration of Interest

The Clerk declared a pecuniary interest in Item No.202.

Standing Orders were suspended.

Proposed:                                                Seconded:                                          Agreed

Matters Introduced by Members of the Public

Shevington Football Club
The President and Chair of the Club addressed the meeting.  The Football Club has been playing on the Recreation Ground for more than one hundred years and written records go back to 1924.  It is a community activity which engages with young people and helps to cement friendships.  In the recent past Committee membership has grown from three to ten.
In order to meet Football Association requirements, the Committee need to aim the Club towards Charter Mark standard.  Some of the criteria have already been met, but changing room facilities still need to be improved and the playing surface needs to be upgraded.  The Coal Board Regeneration Fund and other entities are interested, but will only consider making grants if the Football Club can provide proof of tenure in the form of a 25 year lease.
In return for the lease the Football Club will maintain the Recreation Ground and pay the insurance premium.  For its part, the Parish Council were asked to support the Club’s proposal and to provide a mower.
The Club’s representatives were asked to submit written proposals and costings to the Clerk.  The Council will consider them at its September Policy Committee meeting.  The Chair will inform the Chair of the Recreation Ground Trustees of the proposals and the Charities Commission will need to be consulted.  Ultimately, the decision lies with the Ground Trustees.

The representatives of Shevington Football Club left the meeting at the end of this item.

Former Gathurst Service Station Development
A member of the public raised concerns about the possibility that several trees, which are subject to a preservation order, are scheduled to be felled on the site.  A planning application with regard to this had been submitted but had subsequently been withdrawn.  The developer has the right to re-submit.  The situation will be monitored.

Orica Site
A member of the public raised concerns about the future of the Orica site.  This is a long-term issue and at present there is no news of any development in this area.

Burglary in ‘The Oval’
Residents of the ‘The Oval’ had received a letter advising them of an opportunist burglary in which a burglar had entered a house in the street through an unlocked back door, stolen the owner’s car keys and then stolen the ‘Mercedes’ car.  The letter had also advised residents of the services provided by support groups in situations of this nature.

Motorway Fencing
This has now been repaired.

District Councillors’ Reports

District Cllr Liptrot presented the report.

Lighting in Manor Rd.
Concern had been expressed by attendees of the recent Township Forum meeting that some of the Shevington Township Budget had been ceded by Local Councillors to Wigan Borough for an extension to the lighting programme at Manor Rd.  The District Councillors had accepted that consultation should have taken place beforehand, but the decision had to be taken swiftly and was made in good faith.

Road Safety Issues
Solutions to a number of issues are being considered, amongst them the possibility of an island in Almond Brook Rd.  Speeding problems in Chisacre Drive are very low in the programme of events.

Village Issues

Planter outside Booth’s in Appley Bridge
One of the concrete planters outside Booth’s had been damaged by a ‘4 x 4’ which was driven into it during a domestic dispute.  The incident had been witnessed by a nearby resident.  The planter has been moved to the Bowling Green and needs to be disposed of and replaced.

Issues at the Allotments
A skip had recently been ordered for the allotment holders and had been well-used.
A number of sightings of rats had been reported.  Wigan Council’s Pest Control team had visited and dealt with the situation very swiftly.  The current contract provides for two months cover at a time.  The Council will consider entering into an annual contract with Pest Control.

Drainage Issues in Church Lane
The recent heavy rains had led to further problems.  The Clerk is still awaiting a response from Environmental Services to her last letter.

Bus Stop at Princess Rd., Standish Lower Ground
This bus stop is positioned very close to a blind bend and buses stopping there present a hazard to traffic.  This had been discussed at the Township Forum meeting.  Cllr. Liptrot will raise the issue at Wigan.

Standing Orders were reinstated.

Proposed:                                      Seconded:                                                     Agreed

Minutes of the Annual Meeting (22 May 2008)

The Minutes previously circulated were considered.

It was resolved:

‘That the Minutes of the Parish Council Annual Meeting of 22 May be approved as a true and correct record’

Proposed:                                      Seconded:                                                     Agreed

Chairman’s Report

Allotments
The Chair and officers of Shevington Garden Club had carried out an inspection of the allotments.  Issues had been identified with regard to nine allotments and the Clerk had subsequently written to their owners.  The rules that govern the use of the allotments need to be revised.  A formal request is to be made to the Secretary of the Garden Club to submit suggestions.

The Vale Pre-School Playgroup
The Chair had received a letter from the Pre-School leaders thanking the Council for their donation.  A photograph of the children with the computer that the donation was used to purchase was enclosed.

Orica
The Chair had written to Orica’s management to ask about the use of the site as a training ground for Police dogs and had received a reply.  British Transport Police had used those areas of the site which were not contaminated or not home to protected species for this purpose.  There had been three sessions in 2007 and none so far in 2008. 
The Chair had also made enquiries with Wigan & Leigh Housing about Orica’s proposal to purchase land on the boundaries of the site.  Orica had asked if they could purchase a small piece of land attached to 1 Vicarage Lane in order to improve site access.  Legal & Property Services have decided not to go ahead and a letter is to be sent to residents to inform them of this.

Bowling Green
The electricity box at the Green is rotting and will need to be dealt with.
Lancashire Ladies had at one time used the Green, but had stopped coming because there were no tea/coffee making facilities.  This was no longer the status quo.
All Saints CE Primary School, Appley Bridge, have been the only local school to take up the invitation to include Crown Green Bowling in their curriculum and use the Green.  The children love it.  The invitation remains open to all schools.

Lawn Mower
The lawn mower has broken down and has been out of use for some time.  There are two options to be considered:  write off or repair.  An estimate for repair is to be obtained.

 Reports from Councillors

There were no reports.

 Reports from Representatives

Shevington & District Community Association
The brief meeting had included a discussion with regard to matters relating to Lancashire Day.  A meeting is scheduled for Friday 27 June to discuss planting of trees at the Recreation Ground.

Shevington Youth Club
Cllr Whiteley’s report was circulated.
Connexions funding has now ceased and the youth leader contracts have had to be terminated.  Wigan Youth Service have worked with the Committee to provide a support programme in order to keep the Club open.  Interviews for a new youth leader to work alongside the Youth Service are scheduled for 8 July.  This appointment will be funded out of Youth Club funds alone and can, therefore, only be sustained for a short period unless other funding can be accessed.  Cllr Liptrot will ask questions about the funding of Youth Worker projects.
Five young men who had taken part in the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme had successfully completed the course.
A donation made by STARA after the break-in had been used to purchase paint and the young people had used it to decorate the reception area.

Shevington Recreation Ground Trustees
Shevington Football Club’s proposals are to be discussed at the next available meeting.  News from the Charities Commission with respect to the Council’s proposals to maintain the Recreation Ground is still awaited.

Standards Committee
This had met early in June and is in the process of agreeing a new Code of Conduct that will bind all councillors.  It gives guidance to complainants and will apply to minor authorities.

 Council Vacancy

Discussion on this matter was deferred.

Railway Awareness Day

Posters and leaflets had been delivered, together with the Spring copy of ‘Connexions’ and the agenda and supporting papers for the AGM of OPSTA, and were in the process of being distributed around the Council’s notice boards, the library, local pubs and shops.
The bunting on loan from Adlington Festival Committee and St. Anne’s had been received and their deployment had been agreed.
Local plans are on target.

 Village of the Year Competition

The Clerk was still in the process of preparing the application and was delegated to forward it to LALC by the closing date, 30 June.

Best Kept Shop-Front Area

This will be discussed further at the September Committee meeting.

Clerk’s Report

The Council received the Clerk’s report.

Green Triangle Buses
The Clerk had received a response to her letter to the Green Triangle Bus Co. with regard to the hazards posed by the venue used by drivers of the No.635 bus for their breaks.  Buses drivers will in future take their breaks in Hullett Close.  The Council viewed this as an unsatisfactory alternative and asked the Clerk to write again and suggest to the bus company that they consider a completely different venue.

Letter from Cllr O’Neill
The Clerk had written on behalf of the Council to thank Cllr O’Neill for his services to the local community during his many years as a district councillor and to wish him a happy retirement.  In his reply, Cllr O’Neill had thanked the Council for the eighteen fruitful years that they had shared in trying to make the Parish a better place in which to live, work and play.

Dog Fouling
Wigan Metro’s environmental education co-ordinator, Nick Burdekin, has been assigned to consider carrying out an education campaign in the area to increase dog owners’ awareness of the need to dispose of litter safely.

Fly Posting / Vale Royal Sign
Fly posting is illegal and the Environmental Services Department have written to Stormshield Roofing, whose posters have been spotted attached to lamp posts in the area, to advise them of this. 
Wigan Metro staff have removed the Vale Royal’s abandoned advertising board.

Veteran’s Day Event
The event ill take place on Saturday, 28 June, with the parade starting at 10:15 am in Spring View.  It will end with a Service.
The organisers were not asking for financial support – they had received funding from the M.O.D. and match-funding from Wigan.  They were asking local councils to support them by encouraging their residents to attend.

Symbols on the Entrance to Memorial Park
A teacher from Shevington County Primary School had contacted the Clerk to enquire about the meaning of the symbols on the entrance to Memorial Park.  On their visit to the park, her class had identified the corn as representing farming in the area and the flower as the Lancashire rose, but what the bird symbolised remained a mystery.  The Clerk will carry out some research.

Motorway Fencing
This was repaired a couple of weeks ago.

Footpath in Mill Lane
The Clerk had written to Network Rail with regard to an accident that had befallen a resident while walking along the footpath and had received a reply.  Network Rail are looking into the matter.

Cllr Liptrot left the meeting at 8:52 pm.

End of Year Return, 2007/8

a) Appointment of Internal Auditor
Mr Simon Richards, the Council’s previous auditor, had resigned due to the pressure of work and other commitments.  Mr John McArdle, the chief Officer for Age Concern Wigan, was nominated as his replacement.

It was resolved:

‘That Mr John McArdle be appointed as the Internal Auditor for the Financial Year, 2007/8.’

Proposed:                                             Seconded:                                             Agreed

The Internal Audit will take place on Tuesday, 1 July at 1:30 pm.

b) Income and Expenditure Account, 2007/8
This had previously been presented at the Annual Council Meeting in May. 
The up-dated document was received and discussed.

It was resolved:

‘That, subject to a satisfactory internal audit, the Council approve the Income and Expenditure Account, 2007/8.’

Proposed:                                             Seconded:                                             Agreed

c) Asset Register
At present there is only a Current Asset Register.  This was received and considered.  A Fixed Asset Register needs to be set up.  Memorial Park is valued at £1 because it is held by the Parish Council in trust for the people of Shevington and could never be sold.
d) Annual Return / Statement of Accounts, 2007/8
Copies of the completed document were circulated and discussed.

It was resolved:

‘That, subject to a satisfactory internal audit, the Council approve the Annual Return /  Statement of Accounts, 2007/8.’

Proposed:                                             Seconded:                                             Agreed

e) Annual Governance Statement, 2007/8
Copies of the completed document were circulated and discussed.

It was resolved:

‘That, subject to a satisfactory internal audit, the Council approve the Annual Governance Statement, 2007/8.’

Proposed:                                             Seconded:                                             Agreed

Accounts

Expenditure

Total:                                                                                                          £4,835.63
                                                                       
Income
Allotments                                  Rents                                                          £687.00
Bowling Green                           Membership fees                                        £154.00
Total:                                                                                                            £841.00

Bank Balances as at 31 May 2008:
Current Account          £       500.00
Business Reserves    £  82,993.44
Capital Reserves        £  27,796.78
Total                           £111,290.22
It was resolved:

‘That the Accounts be approved and the cheques signed in payment, due notice being given to the bank statements exhibited.’

Proposed:                                           Seconded:                                             Agreed

Clerk’s Terms and Conditions

The Clerk’s contract was circulated and the recommendations made by the Finance & General Purposes Committee meeting of 5 June, 2008 were considered.

It was resolved:

‘That the recommendations made by the Finance & General Purposes Committee at their meeting on 5 June, 2008 with regard to the Clerk’s contract be approved.’

Proposed:                                           Seconded:                                             Agreed

The Clerk’s progression along the SR was discussed.

It was resolved:

‘That the Clerk should progress to LC Scale Point 24, back-dated to April, with immediate effect.’

Proposed:                                           Seconded:                                             Agreed

Planning Applications

None to note.

Financial Aid Applications

Lancashire Crimestoppers
A request for a donation was considered and turned down.  The Council viewed that it would be more appropriate to make a donation to Greater Manchester Crimestoppers.  The Clerk will look into this.

Vitalise
A request for a donation was considered.  Vitalise is a national Charity that subsidises planned breaks for disabled people and carers.

It was resolved:

‘That the Council will, in accordance with LGA 1972 s.137 ss.3a, make a donation of £50 to Vitalise.’

Proposed:                                           Seconded:                                             Agreed

Dates of Next Meetings

Policy (Annual Inspection of Property):             7 August at 7:00 pm
Council:                                                             28 August at 7:30 pm

There being no further business the Chairman closed the Meeting at 9:45 pm

                                                                                                                        Chairman

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Minutes of Shevington Parish Council Meeting
Held Thursday 28 August 2008
7.30pm Shevington Library

Present:   Councillor J. Maloney (Chair), Councillors V. Maloney, Bostock, Ball, Miles,   Dist. Councillor Liptrot, Clerk (Pilkington) and 3 members of the public.

 Apologies for Absence

Councillors Whiteley, Sudworth and Crosby.
These apologies were accepted.

 Declaration of Interest

None.

Standing Orders were suspended.

Proposed:                                                Seconded:                                          Agreed

Matters Introduced by Members of the Public

No matters were introduced by members of the public.

District Councillors’ Reports

Cllr Liptrot had investigated a number of issues raised at the June Council meeting:

Bus Stop at Princess Road, Standish Lower Ground
The possible repositioning of the bus stop had been discussed with representatives of GMPTE and the Highways Officer.  Because there had been no reports of accidents in that location during the past five years, a case could not be made for the bus stop’s relocation.

Mini Island at Almond Brook
The borough engineers are reluctant to introduce a mini island at this location – there is a strong possibility of its creating a rat run.  A meeting has been scheduled at the site to discuss possible road markings and a modification of the islands of safety.

Drainage Issues in Church Lane
This had recently been investigated by the Environmental Services department.  The drains were found to be heavily silted over and had been cleaned.  A camera had been introduced into the drainage system.  Much of the problem with regard to flooding was found to have been caused by tree roots.  Remedial work is scheduled to be carried out in the next fortnight.

Junction of Old Lane with Shevington Lane
Additional highway works are scheduled in the near future.

Junction 27 Entry Problems
Solutions to these need to be considered.

Lorries at Gathurst Bridge
Wigan Council are considering installing height activated signs to try to reduce the number of incidences of lorries that are too high to fit under the bridge causing obstructions with regard to other traffic.  The problem is often the result of language difficulties.  Both metric and imperial signs are in use at present.

S Bends on Wigan Road
Work on this project continues to be suspended.  Agreement over the purchase of land has still not been reached.

Village Issues

Attempted Arson
During the school holidays someone has been attempting to set fire to bins and benches.  The furniture has been cleaned up and no real damage has been done to date.

Trolleys of Food in Memorial Park
Staff at the Co-op have a policy of leaving trolleys full of beyond ‘sell by date’ items in the shop car park.  One evening they were removed from the car park and left in Memorial Park.  They had been found by Mr. Dickinson and returned.  The Clerk will write to the manager asking him to reconsider the shop’s policy with regard to items such as cardboard and food being left in the car park.
Concern was raised about young people often staying in Memorial Park all night.  They can sometimes be quite threatening to passers-by.  Many of the shopkeepers have had problems with them when they have arrived in the morning to open up.

Standing Orders were reinstated.

Proposed:                                      Seconded:                                                     Agreed

Minutes of the Last Meeting (26 June 2008)

The previously circulated Minutes were considered.

It was resolved:

‘That the Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting of 26 June 2008 be approved as a true and correct record’

Proposed:                                      Seconded:                                                     Agreed

Chairman’s Report

Shevington FC Proposals
These had been submitted and will be discussed at the Finance & General Purposes meeting next week.

Annual Parish Walk
The Chairman asked for a vote of thanks to be recorded to the following:
Jim Rigby (for organising the route), Cllr V. Maloney (for organising the refreshments), John Whiteley (for designing the posters).
The ‘Walk’ had been blessed with excellent weather and had been very enjoyable.
Donations on the day had amounted to £110 and had been forwarded to St. Anne’s for their arson restoration fund.  Outstanding sponsorship will be sent directly to St. Anne’s.

Allotment Regulations
Informal discussions had taken place between the Chairman and Shevington Garden Club with regard to the revision of the rules.  There had been considerable improvement since letters had been sent to certain tenants.  One large plot had been relinquished and divided into three.  The Chair will prepare draft changes to the regulations and these will be discussed at the Finance & General Purposes meeting.

Appley Bridge Station Issues
There had been informal discussions with Barry King (a Level1 adopter of the station).  The path from Mill Lane has recently been cut back and maintained.  Most of the time this is not the status quo.  It has been in use a long time and its continued availability could be ensured if it were registered as an official right of way.  This would need to be a joint project with Wrightington Parish Council.

Reports from Councillors

Anti-Social Behaviour
The same individuals continue to cause the same problems.
The PCSO’s will be based in Shevington more often than they have been in the past.  The Police presence will be sited in the Library.

Reports from Representatives

Shevington & District Community Association
The Lancashire Day function will take place on Thursday, 27 November from 7 pm till 11 pm and will cost £5 (including hotpot).  A ceilidh band will provide the music.  The Finance & General Purposes meeting will need to be re-scheduled.

Shevington Youth Club
The disabled toilets are now complete and the young people have visited IKEA and have selected and purchased furniture for the upstairs room.  A number of adult volunteers were involved in putting the flat-packs together.

Shevington Recreation Ground Trustees
A meeting will take place in the near future to discuss the maintenance of the Ground.  The issues and proposals will be discussed by the Council at next week’s Committee meeting.  The facilities are intended for all sports.  Shevington FC are to provide Mr. Dickinson with a fixture list so that he can plan his work schedule.

Standards Committee
Members are currently receiving training to bring them up to national standards.

Council Vacancy

Two interested parties are currently considering joining the Council.

Annual Inspection of Council Property

This had taken place on Thursday, 5 June.  A report had been circulated to Councillors.
The vandalised stumps at the entrance to the Recreation Ground have now been removed.
The curbs at the edge of the car park are in need of repair.  This work will need to be considered.
Two-thirds of the fence near the pavilion at the Bowling Geen is in place.
The edge of the bowling green is scheduled to be reset.
The Bowling Club officers have been very active in encouraging local school children to use the Bowling Green.
The allotments now look in very good condition.  Produce from the allotments had been entered into competitions at Shevington Annual Show.  It had proved a very good day.
Because of all the rain, flags in Memorial Park that need repositioning are best left as they are for the moment.  Cllrs Bostock and J. Maloney are to meet with Mr. Dickinson to assess the situation.  Major structural work may be needed.  Replacing the flags with another surface could be another option to consider.  There will be budgetary implications.

Village of the Year Competition

The completed application had been previously circulated.  It had been sent to LALC to reach them by 30 June 2008. 
Entries have now been judged and Crooke have received an award, the nature of which is as yet unknown.
The Clerk and two other representatives have been invited to attend a buffet reception at LALC in Preston on Friday, 19 September at 7:30 pm when winners will be announced. 

It was resolved:

‘That the application be approved retrospectively and that the two Crooke Village residents who had helped the Clerk prepare it be invited to accompany the Clerk to the presentation evening.’

Proposed:                                     Seconded:                                                     Agreed

Clerk’s Report

The Council received the Clerk’s report.

Dog Fouling
The Clerk and a representative of Environmental Services’ Educational Section had carried out an inspection of trouble spots in all the villages in July.  Details of suggestions for a campaign had been left with the Clerk.  It is to be discussed at next week’s Finance & General Purposes meeting.

BLints
64 nominations had been forwarded to Wigan Council at the end of July.  The exercise had involved completing a proforma for each, explaining the reasons behind the nomination, and enclosing a photograph.

Symbols on the Entrance to Memorial Park
Research had led to the identification of the bird as a crow or rook, which in heraldry represents a long quiet life or a settled habitation.  In some cultures it represents everlasting life.

Accounts, 2007/8
The internal audit had been carried out in early July and the completed papers had been forwarded to the external auditor by the deadline of 31 July.  Thanks go to John McArdle for a very thorough internal audit.

Parking Issues in Shevington
Mr. Kevin Hargreaves, Wigan Council’s Traffic Group Manager, will be attending next week’s Finance & General Purposes meeting to discuss the issues.

Railway Awareness Day
The morning had been excessively wet.  There was no B-B-Q apparent at Appley Bridge Station Inn in the afternoon.  Certain trains had carried folk artists.  These had been a great success, and Roger Bell had written to the Clerk to inform her that Northern Rail are proposing to repeat the exercise at regular intervals.  The date for next year’s event will be set soon and circulated.

Financial Aid Applications

None.

Accounts

Expenditure (July)

Total:                                                                                                          £4185.87

Expenditure (August)

Total:                                                                                                          £5736.91
                                                                       
Income (July)
HMRC                                        VAT claim                                                   £604.49
Total:                                                                                                            £604.49

Bank Balances as at 31 July 2008:
Current Account          £       500.00
Business Reserves    £  75,702.02
Capital Reserves        £  27,820.32
Total                           £104,022.34

It was resolved:

‘That the Accounts be approved and the cheques signed in payment, due notice being given to the bank statements exhibited.’

Proposed:                                           Seconded:                                             Agreed

Cllr Liptrot left the meeting at 8:45 pm.

Planning Applications

Application No. A/08/71045
Development at 144 Shevington Lane, Shevington
  A letter had been received from Planning informing the Council that the application to substitute an alternative house type had been approved. The council’s comments had been noted.

Application No. A/08/71784
Former Gathurst Service Station Development
The application to substitute an alternative house type had been re-submitted.  Only five trees are now marked as being scheduled for felling.  They no longer create the same pattern as on the previous occasion.  The Council were of the view that any trees felled should be replaced.  The Clerk is to write to the Planning Department to express the Council’s views.

Dates of Next Meetings

Finance & General Purposes:             4 September at 7:30 pm
Council:                                           25 September at 7:30 pm

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 25 September 2008
7.30pm Shevington Library

Present:   Councillor J. Maloney (Chair), Councillors Bostock, Ball, Miles, Whiteley, Clerk (Pilkington) and 3 members of the public.

 Apologies for Absence

Councillors V. Maloney, Crosby. 
These apologies were accepted.

 Declaration of Interest

None.

Standing Orders were suspended.

Proposed:                                                Seconded:                                          Agreed

Matters Introduced by Members of the Public

Height Activated Warning Signs – Gathurst Bridge
The long-term problem of large vehicles which are too tall to fit under Gathurst Bridge heading in its direction from Orrell continues to remain unresolved.  Nearby residents have suffered damage to their properties and considerable expense due to the repairs that have had to be undertaken as a result.  This is both an engineering and a safety issue and it is those funding streams that should be employed to deal with it.

Oakfield Special School
This school for the disabled is supported by Shevington Garden Club.  Its pupils have visited the allotments in the past and are due to visit again in the near future.  Permission was sought and was given for the school to be allowed to use the amenities at the Bowling Green on their next visit.

Allotment Land
There is now a very long waiting list for allotments.  The Clerk is exploring the availability of agricultural land for sale in the locality with a view to its purchase by the Parish Council for use as allotments.

District Councillors’ Reports

There were no reports from District Councillors.

Village Issues

Racing of cars through the streets in the early hours of the morning continues to be a problem. 
There have been a few issues with young people drinking excessively.  The Clerk will raise an enquiry with the Legal Department at Wigan with regard to the possibility of introducing an alcohol-free zone in part of Shevington.
The bin normally stationed outside the Youth Club had been set on fire recently.  It is currently being repaired.  Minor arson attacks have been creating problems.  The bins at the rear of the shops in the village centre had been set on fire earlier this week.  Two fire tenders had attended.  The attack had the potential to develop into a very serious situation.
The shelters and the cabin at the Bowling Green had been painted. The Bowling Club had made the arrangements.
The area at the front of the Library had been power-washed earlier this week.  It had made a tremendous improvement to its appearance.

Minutes of the Last Meeting (28 August 2008)

The previously circulated Minutes were considered.

It was resolved:

‘That the Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting of 28 August 2008 be approved as a true and correct record’

Proposed:                                      Seconded:                                                     Agreed

Chairman’s Report

More land is needed for allotments to reduce a constantly increasing waiting list.  The Clerk is looking into the matter.
The Clerk has been given another contact with regard to the issues at Appley Bridge Station – a named officer of the P.T.E.

Reports from Councillors

There were no reports from councillors.

Reports from Representatives

Shevington & District Community Association
A meeting is scheduled for Tuesday of next week.  Plans for Lancashire Day are being developed.  The ceilidh due to take place at the Youth Club in the evening has been organised for some time.  Members of the Methodist Church have agreed to transfer their weekly Coffee Morning from Friday to Thursday that week.  The Memories Group will perform sketches with a Lancastrian theme at their meeting that day.  Old photos will be on display.
It was agreed that the Youth Club’s Duke of Edinburgh Award winners should also be celebrated that day.  Their work will also be on display during the day and there will be a presentation in the evening.  Each of the five award winners will receive a £20 book token from the Parish Council.  

Shevington Youth Club
The Youth Club now have a service level agreement with the Youth Service.  The Service are providing youth workers and so far it is working out very well.  A sports worker attends on Tuesday evenings for two hours.  The Youth Club had recently been awarded £5,000 to enable the young people to go on Tall Ships Adventures.
The Committee are currently in discussions with builders over the removal of the old door at the entrance and the creation of a new entrance.  They would like to develop a less hostile exterior for the building.
Cllr Whiteley had earlier this evening accompanied a group of girls from the Youth Club to an event at which they had delivered a presentation on how they had spent their Youth Opportunities allocation.

Shevington Recreation Ground Trustees
The Trustees had met recently to discuss a number of issues, particularly the Trust’s finances.  They will be making a formal approach to the Parish Council in the near future to ask for financial assistance (under the 1976 Act) with the maintenance of the Recreation Ground.

Standards Committee
The Committee are still going through the process of revising the rules so that the number of complaints against councillors diminish.

Township Forum
Cllr Whiteley had attended and provided the report:
John Ready was elected as the new joint Chair.
Presentations were made on PACT (a community safety initiative which will involve members of the Forum in door-to-door visits) and WISDOM (a new statistics database).
The townships and North Wigan are soon to share a full-time Community Development Officer.
The issue of Police accountability to the community was raised.
The roundabout at Crow Orchard Road is to be adjusted so that drivers have to go round it as opposed to over it when turning right.
The owners of the bungalow on the corner of Old Lane are to be approached about removing the tall hedge on their boundary, as it impedes visibility.
£12,000 of funding allocated to Shevington for 2008/9 is still available for projects in the area.  It had been thought that £5,000 of the budget had been spent on the new lighting in the village centre, but that was not the case.
The Soroptimists’ Millennium Tapestry has for some years been on display at the History Shop in Wigan.  A new exhibition is scheduled for the new year and the tapestry (which is in panels relating to different areas of Wigan) needs a new home.  Cllr Whiteley had offered to investigate the possibility of housing the Shevington panel at the Library.  Permission is needed from the Library manager.
Wigan is this year a priority area for Heritage Lottery Funds. 

Parking Issues in Shevington

Kevin Hargreaves, Wigan Council’s Traffic Group Manager, had attended the Finance & General Purposes Committee meeting on 4 September at the Council’s invitation and had engaged with the Council in discussion over a variety of traffic issues.  Greater supervision and policing of parking had been explored.  The problems with regard to the height restrictions of Gathurst Bridge were raised and solutions were proposed.  It proved a very constructive discussion and the Clerk will write to Mr. Hargreaves to thank him for his time.

Council Vacancies

The Clerk reported that she had received a letter of resignation from Cllr Alan Sudworth and had written on behalf of the Council to thank him for his many years of service to the community both as a councillor (with 16 years as Chairman) and as a member of the Youth Club Committee.

It was resolved:

‘That the Clerk should write to Democratic Services to inform them of the vacancy on the Council.’

Proposed:                                         Seconded:                                                 Agreed

Mr Barry King had been invited to join the Parish Council as a co-opted member.  He had recently affirmed his acceptance and will make his declaration at the October Council meeting.

Allotment Rules

The current set of rules and two proposed sets of revisions were circulated and discussed.  They are to be circulated among members of Shevington Garden Club for consultation purposes.  A decision will be taken at the October Council meeting.  The revised rules need to be available by the end of October.

Village of the Year Competition

The Clerk and two representatives from Crooke Villagehad attended the presentation evening in Preston on Friday, 19 September.  The judges had been so impressed by the entry that they had decided to present Crooke with a ‘Special Award for Community Spirit’ and prize money of £75.  The residents have asked that the money be put towards the cost of a new notice board for the village community, replacing the one they have at present on the village green.  The Clerk is looking into the matter.  Calor Gas, the organisers of the competition, had sent a press release to the Wigan Evening Post and the Clerk had given a telephone interview to the journalist, Charles Graham.  Members of Crooke Village Community and the Clerk had attended a photocall on the Village Green this morning.

Clerk’s Report

Vitalise
The Clerk had received a letter from the Charity thanking the Parish Council for its £50 donation.

Green Triangle Buses Ltd
The Clerk had responded to the letter from Green Triangle Buses Ltd and had received a reply.  In the view of the bus company Hullett Close is the best place for their drivers to take a break.  The development of a suitable lay-by would be a better alternative, but this has sizeable cost implications.  The Clerk was asked to reply to the letter and suggest that perhaps the buses could stop in Back Lane, which, although busier, is wider and straight and cars wishing to pass the bus can see traffic coming from both directions quite clearly.

Shevington United Charities
The Clerk had been investigating current position with regard to this Charity, which was originally set up in 1900.  The Parish Council are responsible for appointing the three principal trustees every four years and there were assets involved.
It appears on Charities Commission website as having been deregistered in August, 2007.  The Clerk had sought information from the Commission and had been asked to put the request in writing. 
The Charity’s last known Secretary was Anthony Boylan, who had left to work on the continent and had handed all documents in his possession to the Council prior to his departure.  Mr. Boylan is still resident in the area and the Clerk will contact him.

Township Forum Meeting
Clerk had attended the meeting on 24 September and had found it of great interest.

Cllr Liptrot
The Clerk had written on behalf of the Parish Council to Cllr Liptrot and his family to offer the Council members’ condolences on the recent death of Cllr Liptrot’s mother-in-law, whose funeral was due to take place on Friday, 26 September. 

Financial Aid Applications

No financial aid applications had been received.

Accounts

Expenditure (September)

Total:                                                                                                          £4,145.43
           

                                               
Income (August)
Shevington Garden Club           Allotment fees                                             £130.00
Total:                                                                                                            £130.00

Bank Balances as at 31 August 2008:
Current Account          £       630.00
Business Reserves    £  75,536.52
Capital Reserves        £  27,820.32
Total                            £103,986.84

The Council are currently in credit with British Gas for their electricity supply by £184.01.

Items from the Internal Audit:
For y/e March, 2008  there were no invoices for the following ledger entries:
Item no. 256 – United Utilities - £98.57
Item no.334/b – British Gas - £43.08

It was resolved:

‘That the Accounts be approved and the cheques signed in payment, due notice being given to the bank statements exhibited.’

Proposed:                                           Seconded:                                             Agreed

Planning Applications

None to note.

Dates of Next Meetings

Changes proposed (due to clash with Lancashire Evening):
That the Finance &General Purposes Committee meeting scheduled for                  27 November be moved to 4 December.
That the Council meeting scheduled for 11 December be moved to 18 December.

It was resolved:

‘That, subject to the availability of the venue, the above mentioned changes to dates of meetings be approved.’

Proposed:                                   Seconded:                                                       Agreed

The dates of the next meetings are:
Policy:             2 October at 7:30 pm
Council:           23 October at 7:30 pm

There being no further business the Chairman closed the Meeting at 9:50 pm.

                                                                                                                        Chairman

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Present:   Councillor J. Maloney (Chair), Councillors V. Maloney, Bostock, Ball, Whiteley, Crosby, King, Miles, Clerk (Pilkington) and 4 members of the public.

Apologies for Absence

Cllr Miles
These apologies were accepted.

Declaration of Interest

Cllrs J. Maloney, V. Maloney and Ball (Shevington Recreation Ground Trustees) and Mr G. Dickinson (Shevington Recreation Ground Gardener) w.r.t Item No.256.

Cllr King w.r.t. Item No.425 – Borough in Bloom (involvement with ‘Britain in Bloom’), Item No.425 – Mini-Roundabout at Junction of Old Lane with Shevington Lane (Planning Consultant), Item No.250 – Appley Bridge Station Issues (Appley Bridge Station Adopter), Item No.258 (Planning Consultant).

Co-option of a Councillor

Nomination received:      Barry King

It was resolved:

‘That Barry King be co-opted as a Parish Councillor (representing the North Ward) to serve for the remainder of the term to May 2011.’

Proposed:                                            Seconded:                                             Agreed.

Declaration of Acceptance of Office as Councillor

Mr King signed the Declaration of Acceptance of Office and read the statement from the Declaration to Members.  The Clerk signed as witness to the Declaration.

Standing Orders were suspended.

Proposed:                                             Seconded:                                            Agreed.

Matters Introduced by Members of the Public

Pit Tubs
A member of the public enquired about the work currently in progress on the land adjacent to Richardson’s Chemists’s shop and was informed that because there had been some uncertainty with regard to the identity of the owner of the land originally designated as the site for the pit tubs, they will now be positioned on the land mentioned above.

Borough in Bloom
A member of the public had spent a very enjoyable morning at the recent Borough in Bloom exhibition at Haigh Hall and asked why Shevington had not benefited from the initiative in the way that other areas in Wigan had.  A councillor responded that Wigan Council is responsible for the project and local businesses provide sponsorship.  The District Councillors receive information about it.  Parish Councils can fit into the lower divisions of Britain in Bloom.  The possibility of being included in future years, particularly with regard to the introduction of planters on railings, will be investigated.  The Clerk will write to WLCT.

Mini-Roundabout at the Junction of Old Lane with Shevington Lane
A member of the public highlighted the problems associated with the mini-roundabout and drivers’ lack of knowledge of traffic protocols in such situations.  The Clerk will write to the Traffic Manager at Environmental Services to ask whether traffic lights set well back could be considered as a substitute for the mini-roundabout.

Notice of Council Meeting
A member of the public asked whether a notice advertising the September Council meeting had been displayed on the notice board outside the library.  The Clerk replied in the affirmative.

District Councillors Reports

No reports were presented.

Village Issues

Pot Hole
Mr Dickinson reported that a pot hole had recently appeared on the approach road to Shevington from Standish Lower Ground.  The Clerk will report this to the appropriate department at Wigan Council.

Drugs in Memorial Park
Mr Dickinson had recently found evidence in Memorial Park of drug abuse.  Should he find such evidence again, he will report it to the Clerk immediately and the appropriate authorities at Wigan will be contacted.

Shevington Bowling Green
The Bowling Green is now closed until the beginning of the new season.

Standing Orders were reinstated.

Minutes of the Last Meeting (25 September 2008)

The previously circulated Minutes were considered.

It was resolved:

‘That the Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting of 25 September 2008 be approved as a true and correct record’

Proposed:                                      Seconded:                                                     Agreed

Chairman’s Report

Raised Bed Allotments
The Chair had recently attended a meeting with Dr Kate Fallon, the Clinical Director of the Community Health Trust, and had raised the possibility of the Trust funding the refurbishment of the Council’s allotments.  Salford Health Trust currently operates such a policy.  Dr Fallon had been very interested, particularly in view of the fact that gardening is an activity that acts as an aid to health.

Old School House
John Dean from Business Support services had written to the Chair to ask what the Council’s intentions were with regard to the Old School House.  The cost of renovation had been estimated at £350,000 - £500,000, with the cost of purchasing the building at £80,000.  Only the stone part of the building is up for sale.  This is listed.  The brick part will be demolished.  The Chair will write back and ask Wigan Council to give Shevington Council until the end of the current financial year to make a decision.  A working party comprising Cllrs King, Whiteley, Ball and the Chair is to be formed.   Cllr Whiteley will contact a professional bid writer who has been recommended to her.

Reports from Councillors

Remembrance Sunday
Cllr Ball had arranged the tannoy system.

Safety Issues
Video footage from the Co-op had been viewed by the Police.  It could not be used, but was very interesting.  A number of shops had been broken into during the past week.  Loose change had been taken.  The drugs in the village could be connected.  The community needed to be warned to take care.

Appley Bridge Station Issues
Cllr King had been in contact with Steve Magner of the PTE with regard to the footpath from Mill Lane to the Station.  The Clerk will write to the Chief executive of Northern Rail.  A contact of greater seniority than members of Customer Services is needed for Network Rail.

Member’s Interests
Cllr King reported on the organisations of which he is an active member.

Reports from Representatives

Shevington & District Community Association
A meeting was scheduled for this coming Tuesday.  Arrangements for Lancashire Day celebrations on 27 November had been finalised.  John Whiteley is producing a programme of events.

Shevington Youth Club
Cllr Whiteley reported that, because there had been so much interest in the Tall Ships Adventure, another £2,000 in funding may be needed.  The young people are flown out to the Canary Islands from Liverpool and then have a gruelling time on board the ships.  They undergo training within this country before they go.

Shevington Recreation Ground Trustees
The Trustees had applied for a grant from the Council for help with the maintenance of the Recreation Ground.  The application is scheduled to be considered later during tonight’s meeting.

Standards Committee
Cllr Crosby reported that the number of complaints from the general public had reduced.

Township Forum
The Township has a new manager:  Elaine Wystwnoha.

Cllr Crosby left the meeting at 8:45 pm.

Allotment Rules

The recommendations made by the Policy Committee were further discussed.

It was resolved:

‘That the recommended amendments to the allotment rules be accepted and that allotment holders be asked to sign a tenancy agreement annually when forwarding their rent.  The Clerk will be responsible for administering the process.’

Proposed:                                          Seconded:                                               Agreed.

The Chair thanked the members of Shevington Garden Club Committee for their contributions to the process.  They are to be advised of the new procedure.

Dog Fouling Campaign

The Clerk had liaised with Nick Burdekin, Environmental Services Education Officer, and circulated draft copies of a leaflet that is scheduled to be distributed in approximately a month’s time by the ‘Wigan Reporter’ throughout all areas of the Parish, except Shevington Moor, where there are no issues of note.  Leaflets, free bags and scoops will also be available from the Library. Shevington Post Office and some local shops.  The clerk will be sent posters to display on the Council’s notice boards.  An education campaign in al local schools is also planned.
The Chair will liaise with the Editor of ‘Borough Life’ with a view to the involvement of the publication in extending the campaign to the whole of the Wigan area.

Best- Kept Shop Front Award

Copies of the previously circulated letter to be sent to shops were circulated and the Policy Committee’s recommendations were discussed.

It was resolved:

‘That the covering letter will be distributed to local shop-keepers by the end of October, entries are to be returned to the Clerk by 6 November, judging by a local celebrity will take place in December and that the winner will receive an inscribed plaque ( to be displayed for a year) and will be invited to nominate a charity, which will be the beneficiary of £100 from the Parish Council (s.137 of the 1972 Local Government Act).’

Proposed:                                          Seconded:                                               Agreed.

 Clerk’s Report

Remembrance Sunday
All arrangements are in place, although the presence of the Police has yet to be confirmed.  The Clerk had collected two wreaths last Saturday.  One is to be laid at the memorial by the Chairman.  The other will be laid by a group of Councillors and Alderman O’Neill at the Miners’ Memorial in St. Anne’s churchyard in a private ceremony.

Casual Vacancy
The Clerk had written to Democratic Services to inform them of Cllr Sudworth’s resignation and the resulting casual vacancy in the West Ward.

Traffic Issues in Shevington
The Clerk had received a report from Kevin Hargreaves, Traffic Group Manager with Wigan Council, with regard to actions that he had suggested or inititated following his meeting with the Parish Council on 4 September.

These have been cleared and are working properly.

The Area Engineer has been asked to investigate the cost of extending the lay-by towards Highfield Avenue.  Visits by Traffic Wardens have already been increased.

The Area Engineer is to write to the Co-operative advising them of illegal actions by delivery vehicles:  a copy of the letter will be sent to Greater Manchester Police.

The Area Engineer has been asked to investigate this, but it is unlikely that any action will be taken, as it is a borough-wide problem.

All the roads in Wigan have undergone conditions surveys.  The results are currently being analysed for priority in the 2009/10 works programme.  Inward Drive will be included in this assessment.

This is a borough-wide problem.  Mr Hargreaves will write to the Headteacher, asking for her support.  He will suggest that the school consider developing and deploying a Travel Plan and encouraging parents to walk their children to school whenever possible.  Traffic Warden patrols could be increased.

The Road Safety team are to investigate the possibility of a School Crossing Patrol being sited outside the school in Shevington Lane.  The school will be asked to instruct its pupils in how to cross busy main roads safely and without creating hazards for unsuspecting motorists.

Meeting with Chief Executive
The Clerk had written to the Chief Executive and had asked her if an appointment could be arranged for a meeting with the Council and is awaiting a reply.

Footpath from Vause’s Farm to Crooke
Some time ago Mr Dickinson had reported that this footpath needed cutting back.  The clerk had recently been informed that at present the Wigan Council department responsible had spent its budget for the year and will have to bid for more money.  If it does receive additional funding, the footpath will be included in its programme.  A councillor reported that the footpath in question had been cut back in late August.

Drains Outside Shevington ‘Balti House’
The blockage in this part of Shevington had been reported.

Legal & Property Services
The Clerk had written to Kevin Lawson, the Deputy Director, to enquire about the availability of land for allotments and also about the possibility of designating the centre of Shevington an alcohol-free zone.  She is awaiting a reply.

Viridor
Viridor had informed the Clerk that their charges were increased by 3% on 1 October.

Financial Aid Applications

(Cllrs J. Maloney, V. Maloney, Ball, Mr G. Dickinson withdrew from the meeting.)

Cllr Whiteley took the Chair.
The recommendations of the Policy Committee were considered.

It was resolved:

‘That the Parish Council will, under s.19 of the 1979 Local Government Act, award a grant of £3,000 to Shevington Recreation Ground Trustees to assist with the funding of the maintenance of the Ground.’

Proposed:                                       Seconded:                                       Agreed.

(Cllrs J. Maloney, V. Maloney, Ball, Mr G. Dickinson rejoined the meeting.)

The Policy Committee had considered awarding prizes to the Youth Club’s Duke of Edinburgh Award winners.

It was resolved:

‘That the Policy Committee’s recommendation that each of the five Youth Club members who have recently been recipients of the Duke of Edinburgh Award should be awarded a WH Smith’s Gift Card to the value of £20 should be accepted (s.137 of the 1972 Local Government Act).’

Proposed:                                       Seconded:                                       Agreed.

It was resolved:

‘That the Policy Committee’s recommendation that a donation of £600 be made to St. Anne’s PCC as a contribution to the upkeep of the churchyard be accepted (s.216 (6) of the 9172 Local Government Act).’

Proposed:                                       Seconded:                                      Agreed.

The size of the donation was considered.

It was resolved:

‘That the Parish Council will make a donation of £130 to the Royal British Legion (s.137 of the 9172 Local Government Act).’

Proposed:                                       Seconded:                                      Agreed.

The size of the donation was discussed.

It was resolved:

‘That the Parish Council will make a donation of £60 to the Standish Church Lads and Church Girls Brigades (s.137 of the 9172 Local Government Act).’

Proposed:                                       Seconded:                                      Agreed.

Accounts

The Policy Committee had reviewed the level of Fidelity Guarantee and had recommended that it be increased from £80,000 to £125,000.

It was resolved:

‘That the recommendation of the Policy Committee that the level of the Fidelity Guarantee be increased to £125,000 be accepted.’

Proposed:                                         Seconded:                                         Agreed.

The Clerk will forward the completed proposal to the insurers and inform the external auditors of the action.

WLCT’s report that the gates to the Children’s Play Area at Memorial Park need replacing to meet current standards had been considered by the Policy Committee.

It was resolved:

‘That the recommendation of the Policy Committee that the refurbishment of the gates at a cost of £1366 + VAT go ahead be accepted.’

Proposed:                                         Seconded:                                         Agreed.

 Expenditure (October)

Total:                                                                                                          £8,339.80

Income (September)
Village of the Year                    Prize                                                            £  75.00
Business Reserve                    Interest                                                         £472.75
Capital Deposit                         Interest                                                         £119.91   
Total:                                                                                                            £667.66

Bank Balances as at 31 September 2008:
Current Account          £       500.00
Business Reserves    £  66,038.87
Capital Deposit           £  27,820.32
Total                           £  94,359.19

It was resolved:

‘That the Accounts be approved and the cheques signed in payment, due notice being given to the bank statements exhibited.’

Proposed:                                           Seconded:                                             Agreed

The Clerk will write to the Planning Department and comment on:

The Clerk will write to the Planning Department to comment on the fact that the conversion, while not impacting on the community in general, appears to involve an extension of the original footprint of the building.

The Clerk had received a response from the Planning Department assuring the Council that there were no plans for removing trees from the site and that conditions imposed included the replacement of any trees that might need to be moved or might die within five years of the completion of the project.

The dates of the next meetings are:
Policy:                    6 November at 7:30 pm   
Council:                  20 November at 7:30 pm

There being no further business the Chairman closed the Meeting at 9:55 pm.

Chairman

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Minutes of Shevington Parish Council Meeting
Thursday 18 December 2008
7.30pm Shevington Library

Present:   Councillor J. Maloney (Chair), Councillors V. Maloney, Bostock, Miles, Whiteley, Ball, King, Dist. Cllr Liptrot, Clerk (Pilkington) and 4 members of the public.

 Apologies for Absence

Cllr Crosby, Dist. Cllrs Bland and Fairhurst.

These apologies were accepted.

 Declaration of Interest

Cllr King w.r.t Items No.292 & 304  (Planning Consultant).

Standing Orders were suspended.

Matters Introduced by Members of the Public

Police Dog Training at Orica
A member of the public requested a copy of the report from Orica about the training of police dogs on the site.  The Chair agreed to look into the matter.

Station Adoption
A member of the public enquired about the process involved in becoming a station adopter and was advised that he should contact GMPTE/Northern Rail who would provide information.

District Councillors Reports

Cllr Liptrot apologised for his absence from the November meeting and presented his report.

High-Sided Vehicle Signs in Relation to Gathurst Bridge
The District Council are still awaiting costings for the signs and have yet to reach agreement with the railway entities over the allocation of responsibilities with regard to funding the work.

Almond Brook Junction
The work planned at the junction has been postponed until the New Year.  It will be carried out on a Sunday, when the volume of traffic is lower.  The District Councillors are in discussion with the road engineers over the positioning of a mini-roundabout at the junction, as it was the site of an accident recently.

Schools for the Future
Shevington and Standish District Councillors are to meet with the Director of CYPS to discuss the future of Shevington and Standish High Schools.  There has been a suggestion that both schools will be demolished and a larger school serving both communities will be built on a site still to be identified.  The LA are considering the creation of a centre that will serve a much wider community. 

Credit Crunch Seminar
Cllr Liptrot had circulated a poster advertising a seminar on the credit crunch amongst local businesses.  A copy is to be displayed on the notice board.

Councillor’s Position
Cllr Liptrot was asked about his position and responded that he was interested in the local community and in working with other Councillors, regardless of political persuasion, for that community. 

Brighter Borough Funding
Each Councillor is allocated Brighter Borough funding annually and can use it at his/her discretion for local improvements.  Cllrs Bland and Fairhurst had recently contributed £500 to the Tall Ships project.  They have planned a project in conjunction with the PCSOs in the New Year.

Mr G. Dickinson had recently returned to work after several weeks of sick leave and was welcomed back.

Electrical Provision for Christmas Tree Lights
There had been a number of issues with the electrical provision for the Christmas tree lights.  The problems related to the tree in the centre of Shevington had been resolved but further problems had arisen with the provision for the lights on the tree at Crooke.  The latter are now on a timer.

Pot Hole on the Road from Standish Lower Ground to Shevington
The existence of the pot hole had been reported, but to date it had not been repaired.

Miles Lane Bus Shelter
This had been vandalised and the Police are investigating.  They are aware who the culprits are and the matter will be dealt with in the near future.

Shop Break-In
The Nail and Beauty Parlour had been broken into on Sunday night.

CCTV Surveillance
The District Councillors are hoping to arrange for its installation in problem areas in the village.

Standing Orders were reinstated.

The previously circulated Minutes were considered.

It was resolved:

‘That the Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting of 20 November 2008 be approved as a true and correct record’

Proposed:                                      Seconded:                                                     Agreed

Lancashire Day
The Chair asked that a formal vote of thanks to the Community Association for the organisation of Lancashire Day be minuted.  A great deal of work had been carried out by many people to make it a successful and enjoyable day.  Congratulations were due to all.  The Chair enjoyed presenting the gift cards to the Duke of Edinburgh Award winners and the opening ceremony of the pit tubs was very successful.

Allotments Boundary
The present boundary between the disabled allotments and homes in Broadriding Road does not conform to the current deeds.  The Chair and the Clerk had met with the owner of the house in question and the Clerk is to report the matter to Wigan Council – the freeholder.  The owner of the house in Broadriding Road will have to discuss the issue with Wigan Council officers.

Use of Rail Passes
A new train time-table had recently been published.  The first weekday train on which passes can be used leaves the local stations after 10 am.  The discussion that ensued flagged up a number of anomalies with regard to the use of passes.  The Chair will write to Northern Rail.

Unleashed Dogs in Memorial Park
A Councillor reported that a number of people have been exercising unleashed dogs in Memorial Park.  The area around the Memorial itself is intended for reflection.  The feasibility of “Dogs must be on a lead” signs is to be looked into.

Large Farm Vehicles
A Councillor reported concerns about the practice that large farm vehicles often have of travelling along both Back Lane and Shevington Lane at high speed.

Shevington & District Community Association
The new path around the Recreation Ground has now been laid down, but still needs compacting.  It is not hard enough yet for use by prams and bicycles

Shevington Youth Club
The new kitchen has now been installed and Cllr Whiteley had received requests from people wishing to hire it.  The Committee would like to progress with the work on the refurbishment.  Plans had been submitted.
Nine young men are going on the Tall Ships Adventure in February.  They had recently listened to a fascinating talk given by the man who runs the project.  He had made millions running ‘Budjet Car Tyres’ and wanted to help street kids, so he had set up the TSA.

Shevington Recreation Ground Trustees

(Cllr King arrived at 8:25 pm.)

The Trustees have not met recently, but the Vicar has written to the Parish Council to thank them for the grant towards the maintenance of the Ground.

Standards Committee
Nothing to report.

Township Forum
Cllr Ball had received the Minutes of the last meeting and had asked that in future a copy also be sent to the Clerk.  A small amount of Environment Initiative Fund money is available for use on projects in Shevington.  £10,000 of this money had been contributed towards the cost of new lighting in the centre of the village.  There is a dispute over when this use of the funding had been agreed.  Alderman O’Neill had written to the Township Manager to query the decision.

(Dist. Cllr Liptrot left the meeting at 8:30 pm.)

The previously circulated document was discussed.  The congestion charging poll had resulted in defeat for the fund-raising proposals.  Insufficient detail about the proposed improvements to the public transport network had been included in the referendum literature.  Some of the proposed changes could still be carried out because all funding streams had not been lost and a review is currently in progress to identify which changes are still feasible.  The Council will consider encouraging the modest changes once they are known.

The completed questionnaire was circulated.

It was resolved:

‘That the response to the consultation be approved retrospectively.’

Proposed:                                          Seconded:                                                Agreed

Government Consultation:  ‘Communities in Control:  Real People, Real Power:  Codes of Conduct for LA Members and Employees.’

Cllr Maloney presented his completed response, which was circulated and discussed.

It was resolved:

‘That the response to the consultation be approved.’

Proposed:                                          Seconded:                                                Agreed

Best-Kept Shop Front Award

The Finance & General Purposes Committee had recommended at its December meeting that, in view of the low response with regard to entries, all shop fronts should automatically be entered in the competition. 

It was resolved:

‘That the Finance & General Purposes Committee’s recommendation that all shop fronts be entered in the competition be accepted.’

Proposed:                                           Seconded:                                              Agreed

Judging had taken place on Monday, 15 December.  No results were available as yet.  A new shield will be needed.

Casual Vacancy

Nominations for a co-opted Councillor are invited.

Information Scheme

The previously circulated Publication Scheme and Schedule of Information available under the scheme was discussed.

It was resolved:

‘That the Publication Scheme and the Schedule of Information available under the Scheme be adopted with effect from 1 January 2009.’

Proposed:                                          Seconded:                                               Agreed.

The Scheme will be publicised on the website and in the library.

Clerk’s Report

Meeting with the Deputy Chief Executive
The meeting has been arranged for 10 am on Friday, 16 January. Cllr J & V Maloney, Cllr Whiteley, Cllr Miles, Cllr Ball, Cllr Bostock, Mr Dickinson and the Clerk will attend.

Lighting Along the Footpath from Mill Lane to Appley Bridge Station
The Clerk had received a reply to her letter to the Chief Executive of Northern Rail.  Responsibilities for the footpath are shared with Network Rail and Northern’s Facilities Manager is currently liaising with the former.  A site visit has recently been undertaken and Network Rail is seeking funding opportunities in the budget for 2009 with a view to reinstating the lighting columns alongside the footpath.

Dog Fouling Campaign
The Clerk had been advised that a clean up was carried out in Kilburn Drive on         2 December and the cleansing operative has been asked to check this area 2/3 times a week.

The Environmental Education team had visited St Bernadette’s and Mill Brook Primary Schools in Shevington to deliver an anti dog-fouling lesson.  Leaflets had been distributed with the Wigan Reporter to homes in the post code areas WN6 8 and WNG 9 in the week commencing 8 December and 300 leaflets had been given to Dist Cllr Angela Bland, who had agreed to deliver them in Shevington Moor.

Pooper scooper bags are available for the general public at the venues listed on the leaflet.

Speed Limit Sign – Crow Orchard Road
This sign has now been repaired.

Security at Crooke Park
The feasibility of installing gates at the entrances to Crooke Park is currently under investigation.

Mini-roundabout at the Junction of Old Lane with Shevington Lane
The Clerk circulated a list of proposed improvements, which will be implemented in the New Year.  Installation of traffic lights could not be justified at this junction.

Pot Hole on Approach to Shevington from Standish Lower Ground
This enquiry had been passed on to the road maintenance engineers.

Traffic Flow at Crooke Village Green
The road around the Green is not part of the adopted highway and therefore Wigan Council cannot erect any signs on this section of road without the landowners’ permission.

Disabled Allotment Plots
Ashton, Leigh and Wigan Community Healthcare have agreed to sponsor the development of a new plot on the allotments.

Duke of Edinburgh Award Prizewinners
The Clerk had received a letter from the Management Committee of Shevington Youth Club thanking the Council for their award of £20 tokens to the young men who had completed their D of E bronze award earlier this year.

Interim Pay Award

As discussions between the employers’ and employees’ representatives had not led to an agreement by mid-October, a decision had been taken to implement the tabled award of 2.45% with effect from April, 2008 and for the matter to go to arbitration.  Details of the award are to be found on the front page of ‘Councils Direct’.

It was resolved:

‘That the recommendations of the NJC with regard to the Clerk’s pay award be approved and implemented with immediate effect.’

Proposed:                                             Seconded:                                             Agreed

Financial Aid Applications

None had been received.

Financial Risk Assessment and Management

This had been discussed at the December Finance & General Purposes Committee meeting, when it had been recommended for approval, subject to amendments with regard to computerised book-keeping records.  These amendments had been made.

It was resolved:

‘That the Financial Risk Assessment and Management document, y/e 31 March, 2009 be approved.’

 Proposed:                                           Seconded:                                             Agreed.

Expenditure (December)

Total:                                                                                                          £7,229.24

Bank Balances as at 30 November 2008:
Current Account         £       500.00
Business Reserves     £  51,527.69
Capital Deposit            £  27,940.23
Total                           £  79,967.92

It was resolved:

‘That the Accounts be approved and the cheques signed in payment, due notice being given to the bank statements exhibited.’

Proposed:                                           Seconded:                                              Agreed

Computerisation of Book-Keeping

It was resolved:

‘That the Council’s financial records will be maintained electronically with effect from January, 2009, subject to the appropriate hard copies and electronic back-up being kept.’

Proposed:                                            Seconded:                                             Agreed

Planning Applications

Application No.A/08/72215:  Plot Adjacent to 1 Park Hey Drive
The application is to build a new house.  The Council expressed concerns about the proximity of the access point to a busy and awkward junction.  There are two ‘Give Way’ signs very close to each other.  The Clerk is to write to the Development Section at Wigan.

Dates of Next Meetings

Because of annual leave commitments of Library personnel, it was agreed that the Council meeting of 29 January be brought forward to 22 January.

The dates of the next meetings are:
Old School House Working Party:        6 January at 3 pm
Finance & General Purposes:              8 January at 7:30 pm
Finance:                                             22 January at 7:20 pm
Council:                                              22 January at 7:30 pm

There being no further business the Chairman closed the Meeting at 9:55 pm.