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AN AVALANCHE IN BRIDFORD

 AN AVALANCHE IN BRIDFORD
20 concerned citizens met on September 12th to talk again about the response of the village to the likely fall of snow this winter. The hope was for an avalanche of volunteers!
Following the meeting, the Parish Council will continue to lobby County Highways twice a year in criticism of their primary gritting route. Some new arguments were proposed and will be set out.
Until the County Council sees sense, Bridford Village must rely on self-help – or go into isolation for the duration. A team of 12 volunteers would do the task and spread the burden.
So amongst all those of you who have read so far, might there be any prepared to help out – for winter 2017-18, not for ever – with the following tasks:
3 more people to take out the gritter (we have 6)
1 or 2 more people also equipped with a suitable towing vehicle (we have 2)
1 mechanic to repair the gritter this autumn (if none we’ll take it to a commercial concern to do)
2 people who, in daylight and after the cold spell, will clean and maintain the gritter (teenagers?)
AND 1 or 2 people to share the role of administrator (snow warden) who will receive automated ice warnings and call out teams in rotation. (more sedentary types?)
Please contact Francis 01647 252750 if you can help
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Minutes Bridford Parish Council Meeting 4 September 2017

 

Minutes of a meeting of Bridford Parish Council held at Bridford Village Hall on Monday 4th September 2017 at 7.00pm
Present: Cllrs  F Miles (Chairperson), G Hearnden, E Price, A Lord, R Dowding, Mrs J P Banks (Clerk)
1 Apologies – Cllr T Evans and J Padgham
2 Declarations of Interest – none
3 Public Discussion

Warning Road Signs – the owner of Birch Tree Farm thanked the Parish Council for its support in arranging for ‘No HGV Vehicles’ warning signs at Neadon Lane end and Green Bridge end of the lane.  These have been agreed and will be supplied by Highways, with the owner covering the cost, but have yet to be put in place.

Repairs to Pound Lane – a Parishioner commented that DCC has done a good job repairing the road surface on Pound Lane (aka Bridford Hill).

Overgrown Hedges – the Parishioner also commented that as it is September, landowners can now cut their hedges.  Landowners with hedges bordering Pound Lane will be contacted and asked to arrange for them to be cut as a matter of safety.  The Chair asked the owner of the hedge on the corner of the back road to Christow, who was present at the meeting, if they would make arrangements for this to be cut.

Repairs to Church Tower – a Parishioner commented that although the downpipes are taking the water from the roof, the wall still appears to be very damp and questions whether the work recently carried out has solved the problem.

Vehicles parked on bend opposite the phone box – concern was raised by a Parishioner and a Parish Councillor over a vehicle which seems to be parked almost permanently on the bend, forcing vehicles to drive around on the wrong side of the road.   The PCSO Mark Easton will be contacted and advice sought with regards to the legality of parking here.  Parking in the village is a huge problem.  Could the grass area in front of Oxenpark Gate be used for parking vehicles?

 
Dst Cllr Amanda Ford joined the meeting at 7.15pm – the Chairperson welcomed her and invited her to speak
  Very little to report, all quiet during the summer.  The next meeting has a very heavy agenda, over viewing Strategy Performance, Infra Structure Delivery Plan, TDC Local Plan.  Cllr Ford is attending a meeting next week re the Greater Exeter Plan.  There is an acting temporary Head of Payroll, it is not known if there will be another CEO.

Cllr Ford questioned where we stand legally as a Parish if the emergency services could not get through if the main road into the village was inaccessible due to icy conditions.  Not many villages in the county are isolated by such a steep hill.  Cllr Ford will liaise with Cnty Cllr  Brook over the 500 residents limit and what grounds are that this figure is reduced by outlying properties.  What is DCC’s legal responsibility in keeping a place accessible?  We need to find grounds to change current policy.   Cllr Ford is not longer resident in the Valley and now lives in Exeter.  She will continue to serve the Teign Valley ward for the rest of her term but cannot stand for re-election next time.
Dst Cllr Amanda Ford left the meeting at 7.25pm
MATTERS ARISING
4 Minutes – the Parish Council resolved to approve the minutes of the meeting held on 3rd July 2017 as a true and accurate record of the meeting.
5 Allotments – Mr Reg Wills has kindly agreed to put in new gate posts and re-hang the gate at the top of the allotment ground.  Mr Wills had previously requested the Parish Council to purchase the new gate posts but has now advised that he has an old telegraph pole that will do the job.     The allotments were judged in August with Bridford’s Best Kept Allotment award  being won by Sam Newman.     An item in Unity magazine is asking if anyone would be interested in keeping bees at the allotments. The Parish Council considers that this is a good idea in principle but will ask the Parishioner for more information if they get sufficient interest to go ahead.
Cnty Cllr Jerry Brook joined the meeting at 7.30pm – the Chairperson welcomed him and invited him to speak.
  Cllr Brook had just driven up Pound Lane and commented that he was pleased with the work which had recently been done, but apologised for the inconvenience caused, in particular to the local pub with deliveries.  There are already skid marks on the sections of new tarred road surface.  Cllr Brook will try and ascertain whether this is the final surface or if there are plans to tar and chip it.  Grants – Cllr Brook has an allocated budget of £10,000 (£1,000 per Parish).  The Village Hall has already expressed an interest. Consideration should be given to the split of funds between organisations in the village.  The Chairperson has heard rumours that Pound Lane could be downgraded and asked if it was true.  Cllr Brook confirmed that there is no truth in the rumours, the road being the main access to Bridford.

Cllr Lord advised that there had been a recent accident on Pound Lane between a coach and two cars and that DCC Highways owns a piece of slipway on the hill opposite the quarry which, years ago, was used as an escape road.   The owner of the land adjoining it, built a bank and barricaded it up.  It needs to be established whether DCC owns or ever did own this piece of ground before involving Cllr Brook.  The Chairperson suggested a site visit with Cllr Lord to identify the area in question.
Cnty Cllr Brook left the meeting at 7.40pm
6 Play Area – following this year’s RoSPA report, the Clerk and Cllr Price inspected the fort & slide and the ‘A’ frame both of which have been recommended to be replaced.  Cllr Price suggested to the Parish Council that the fort is worth restoring as a replacement would cost many thousands of pounds and is a far better structure than a modern plastic replacement would be. This was agreed by the Parish Council.  Invitations to tender for this work will be published in Unity magazine.   The ‘A’ frame is past its sell by date with much of the wood being decayed and Cllr Price suggested that this should be removed and replaced with an outdoor table tennis table which has been discussed in the past.  This was agreed by the Parish Council
7 Bridford Hill – Pound Lane (aka Bridford Hill) was closed for two days for surface dressing work to be carried out and this has now been completed.  Thanks have been passed on to Highways Department.  A public meeting will be held on 12th September to discuss the way forward with regards to the treating of the road surface during freezing weather conditions. The Chairperson has asked for support for this very important meeting. Somebody is required to maintain the machine, not necessarily to have to work it.   The PC will continue to write to DCC  twice a  year lobbying for Bridford Hill to be returned to the primary gritting route.
8 Telephone Box – the telephone box has now been re-painted and a note of thanks has been sent to BT
9 Blue Advisory Road Signs – DCC Highways has agreed to supply two ‘No Access for HGV’s’ signs to be placed on Neadon Lane at the end of the lane leading to Birch Tree Farm and at the Green Bridge end with the cost being borne by the owner of Birch Tree Farm.   The installation of the signs will be undertaken by DCC contractors. The incorrect road junction markings on Neadon Lane although advised to DCC have yet to be rectified.
10 Village Garden – needs some re-planting.  Cllr Price will mention to Bridford Wives who have a piece of the garden that they maintain.  Advice to be obtained from Richard Hearnden re best type of plants to get.  Some monies earmarked for Village Garden could purchase plants.
11 Parish Plan – defer until October meeting to ensure timescales are being met
12 Overgrown hedge on  Church Path – following a letter sent by the Parish Council to the owner of Wide Horizons, the hedgerow bordering that property and Church Path has now been cut back.
13 Repairs to Church Tower – reply has been received from Bridford PCC in response to concerns raised by the Parish Council.
ANY OTHER MATTERS ARISING
14 Meetings attended by Parish Councillors – Councillors attended Bridford’s Planning Committee meeting re Planning Procedures and Policies relating to Bridford PC
15 District Councillors Report – dealt with earlier in meeting
16 County Councillors Report – dealt with earlier in meeting
PLANNING
For Discussion
The following planning applications were dealt with between meetings due to there being no meeting of the Parish Council in August.
17 Cedar House, Bridford – following a site visit, the Parish Council objected to this planning application (DNPA ref 0320/17)
18 Moorstone, Bridford – re  proposed change of use from Guest House / Bistro to dwelling and holiday let.  The Parish Council has no objection providing that there is just one holiday let (DNPA ref 0332/17)
19 Moorstone, Bridford – re application for Certificate of Lawfulness for an existing use.  The Parish Council has no objection (DNPA ref 0387/17)
20 Cedar House, Bridford – re proposed erection of outbuilding to provide ancillary living accommodation.  The Parish Council objects to this application (DNPA ref 0389/17)
21 10 Oxenpark Gate, Bridford – re proposed two-storey extension to dwelling.  Following a site visit, the Parish Council supports this application (DNPA ref 0392/17)
22 Any planning items for discussion since publication of the agenda

Land at Westcott, Moretonhampstead, re proposed construction of a new agricultural building (DNPA ref 0435/17)  The Parish Council asked for a site visit to be arranged.
For Information
23 Cedar House, Bridford – Application (DNPA ref 0320/17) has been withdrawn re proposed erection of outbuilding to provide ancillary living accommodation
24 Thorn Farm, Bridford – Notice of Refusal of Planning Permission re construction of ménage (20m x 40m) with 3-rail timber fence (DNPA ref 0242/17)
25 Thorn Farm, Bridford – Grant of Conditional Planning Permission re demolition of existing rear porch and steps and erection of new rear and side extensions (DNPA ref 0303/17)
26 Local Plan Review Consultation – completed by Bridford PC and returned to DNPA
27 Planning Procedures & Policies relating to Bridford Parish Council – meeting held to discuss.  To be returned to in October
28 Any planning items for information received since publication of the agenda

The Parish Council has received clarification from Lesley Smith of DALC with regard to the  discussing and commenting on planning applications which are received between meetings.
FINANCE & ACCOUNTS
29 Account balances as at 3rd July 2017

Current account

Investment account

 

  

£3,691.61

£3,744.55

£7,436.16
30 INCOME

Bank interest June

Bank interest July

 

  

£      0.16

£      0.15

£      0.31  

31 EXPENDITURE

Mrs J P Banks re July salary         £200.93

Mrs J P Banks Re August salary   £200.93

Newbury Electrical re installation of defibrillator  £160 + VAT

Mr G Dicker grass cutting April/May/June/July

 

  

 

£   401.86

£   192.00

£   206.64

£   800.50
 

32

  

Account balances as at 4 September 2017

Current account

Investment account

  

£2,891.11

£3,744.86

£6,635.97

 
(Balances include earmarked funds: £120 refundable allotment deposits / £565 Play Area /  £67.50 Village Garden / £88.76  textile bank)
The Parish Council resolved to approve the accounts and authorise the expenditure.  Cllr Dowding, delegated by the Chairperson, checked the invoices to the cheque book and the reconciliation to the bank statement.
ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION
33 Future Parish Council Meeting Dates – to comply with new transparency rules, the Parish Council must now publish on the website, a full list of meeting dates up until the end of its financial year.  Future dates were agreed as follows: October 2nd / November 6th / December 4th 2017.    January 8th / February 5th / March 5th 2018.  It was suggested that it is not a good idea to have a summer recess and that in future we should return to holding a meeting in August.
34 Any items for discussion received since publication of the agenda

The website is due its annual renewal, costs in the region of £90-£100.  Parish Council resolved to pay the renewal costs and to authorise Jarrod Poynton to make arrangements for its renewal.
ITEMS FOR INFORMATION
35 Notice of Road Closures B3193 Teign Valley Road 8.30am – 3.30pm 4th & 5th September.  Other dates may be advised.  Traffic lights to be in situ until the end of October
36 Devon Association of Local Councils AGM and Conference 10th October 2017.  No interest
37 An Introduction to Neighbourhood Planning – 4th October 2017.  No interest
38 Any items for information received since publication of the agenda

Reply received from Wastenage farms re night time working and movement of farm vehicles. Parish Council to ask for assurance that there will be no further disruption in the village during the hours of 11.00pm and 7.00am
39 Public Discussion – no further items for discussion
40 Date of next meeting – The next meeting will be held on Monday 2nd October at 7.00pm in the upstairs room of the Village Hall
 
  Original copy of minutes signed by the Chairperson    2nd October 2017
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Bridford Parish Council Agenda for PC Meeting 4th September 2017

BRIDFORD PARISH COUNCIL
Dear Parish Councillors and Members of the Public,

Parish Councillors are summoned and Members of the Public are invited to attend a meeting of Bridford Parish Council to be held at Bridford Village Hall on Monday 4th September 2017 at 7.00pm

Joan Banks

Clerk to Bridford Parish Council
AGENDA
1 Apologies
2 Declarations of Interest – Councillors to declare any personal or prejudicial interest relating to any item on the agenda
3 Public Discussion – opportunity for members of the public to comment on any items on the agenda or  to bring any other matters to the attention of the Parish Council
MATTERS ARISING
4 Minutes – Parish Council to approve the minutes of the meeting held on3rd July 2017
5 Allotments – broken gate post / Best Kept Allotment
6 Play Area
7 Bridford Hill
8 Telephone Box
9 Blue Advisory Road Signs
10 Village Garden
11 Parish Plan
12 Overgrown hedge on the church path
13 Repairs to Church Tower
ANY OTHER MATTERS ARISING
14 Meetings attended by Parish Councillors
15 District Councillors Report
16 County Councillors Report
PLANNING
For Discussion
The following planning applications were dealt with between meetings due to there being no meeting of the Parish Council in August.
17 Cedar House, Bridford – following a site visit, the Parish Council objected to this planning application (DNPA ref 0320/17)
18 Moorstone, Bridford – re  proposed change of use from Guest House / Bistro to dwelling and holiday let.  The Parish Council has no objection providing that there is just one holiday let (DNPA ref 0332/17)
19 Moorstone, Bridford – re application for Certificate of Lawfulness for an existing use.  The Parish Council has no objection (DNPA ref 0387/17)
20 Cedar House, Bridford – re proposed erection of outbuilding to provide ancillary living accommodation.  The Parish Council objects to this application (DNPA ref 0389/17)
21 10 Oxenpark Gate, Bridford – re proposed two-storey extension to dwelling.  Following a site visit, the Parish Council supports this application (DNPA ref 0392/17)
22 Any planning items for discussion since publication of the agenda
For Information
23 Cedar House, Bridford – Application (DNPA ref 0320/17) has been withdrawn re proposed erection of outbuilding to provide ancillary living accommodation
24 Thorn Farm, Bridford – Notice of Refusal of Planning Permission re construction of menage (20m x 40m) with 3-rail timber fence (DNPA ref 0242/17)
25 Thorn Farm, Bridford – Grant of Conditional Planning Permission re demolition of existing rear porch and steps and erection of new rear and side extensions (DNPA ref 0303/17)
26 Local Plan Review Consultation
27 Planning Procedures & Policies relating to Bridford Parish Council
28 Any planning items for information received since publication of the agenda
FINANCE & ACCOUNTS
29 Account balances as at 3rd July 2017

Current account

Investment account

 

  

£3,691.61

£3,744.55

£7,436.16
30 INCOME

Bank interest June

Bank interest July

 

  

£      0.16

£      0.15

£      0.31  

31 EXPENDITURE

Mrs J P Banks re July salary         £200.93

Mrs J P Banks Re August salary   £200.93

Newbury Electrical re installation of defibrillator  £160 + VAT

Mr G Dicker grass cutting April/May/June/July

 

  

 

£   401.86

£   192.00

  £   206.64

   £   800.50
 

32

  

Account balances as at 4 September 2017

Current account

Investment account

  

 

 

 

£2,891.11

£3,744.86

£6,635.97

 
  (Balances include earmarked funds: £120 refundable allotment deposits / £565 Play Area /  £67.50 Village Garden / £88.76  textile bank)
ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION
33 Future Parish Council Meeting Dates
34 Any items for discussion received since publication of the agenda
ITEMS FOR INFORMATION
35 Notice of Road Closures B3193 Teign Valley Road
36 Devon Assocation of Local Councils AGM and Conference 10th October 2017
37 An Introduction to Neighbourhood Planning – 4th October 2017
38 Any items for information received since publication of the agenda
39 Public Discussion
40 Date of next meeting – The next meeting will be held on Monday 2nd October at 7.00pm in the upstairs room of the Village Hall
   
  Joan Banks

Clerk to Bridford Parish Council
   

CIRCULATION

Newletters, Reports & Circulars

Acorn Community Newsletter

Christow PC June minutes

Dunsford PC June minutes

Devon Senior Voice Everyone’s Tomorrow

Correspondence sent

Various
Posted on

Minutes Bridford PC meeting 3rd July 2017

Minutes of a meeting of Bridford Parish Council held at Bridford Village Hall on Monday 3rd July 2017 at 7.00pm

Present: Cllrs F Miles (Chairperson), G Hearnden, E Price, R Dowding, A Lord, J Padgham, Mrs J P Banks (Clerk) and three members of the public.  Cnty Cllr Brook and Dst Cllr Ford attended for part of the meeting.
1 Apologies – Cllr T Evans
2 Declarations of Interest – none
3 Public Discussion

Works to the Church Tower – the recent addition of black drainpipes on the northern side of the church tower were brought to the attention of the Parish Council by a concerned Parishioner. The building is grade 1 listed but is under the powers of the Church. Cllr Dowding pointed out that there is also a black horizontal pipe running along the whole of the length of the church wall.  The Parish Council has no jurisdiction over this but agreed to write to Bridford PCC, whilst fully supporting the desperate need to do this work, questioning the colour of the pipework and the layout.
Dst Cllr Ford joined that meeting at 7.15pm – she was welcomed by the Chairperson and invited to speak.
Following the Grenfell Tower Disaster, the local authority is staring an assessment on its local accommodation.  The emergency and disaster plan will need to be reviewed in Council.  TDC has issued an online survey, the PC does not appear to have received details.  Cllr Ford will forward details to the Clerk.   Cllr Ford has been elected as vice Chair of Overview and Scrutiny.  She will be attending a Community Partnership meeting with the Police.
Cnty Cllr Brook joined the meeting at 7.20pm – the Chairperson welcomed him and invited him to speak.
The two planning applications re Hanson’s Quarry and the A382 at Drumbridges were both passed.  There are no current plans to re-open the quarry.  There were particular references to bat colonies and movements regarding the A382 plans.  Now approved, Central Government can be approached and when money is available, work can start.   Cnty Cllr Brook is no long on the Health committee and has gone on to Corporate.  Task work groups need to look at issues that are important to people.  One of the main complaints is potholes.   This week sees the first Public Rights of Way committee meeting, training will take place.  A full council meeting will be held on 20th July.
Cnty Cllr Brook and Dst Cllr Ford left the meeting at 7.35pm – the Chairperson thanked them both for attending and for their continued support.
Public Discussion – continued
Night time movements of farm vehicles – a number of complaints have been received regarding the disturbance by farm vehicles on the night of 7th June, tractors and trailers driving through the village at speed continuously until 5am.  Whilst it is appreciated that it is sometimes necessary to work throughout the night to get the hay baled and stored while the weather holds, it would appear the drivers of the vehicles made little or no effort to keep noise to a minimum, particularly when returning with empty trailers bumping and rattling back down the hill, neither did they drive considerately, going through the village at a rate of knots to get the next load on board.  The decision of Seven Acre Farm to bale and collect in one night was not acceptable, causing considerable stress to the neighbourhood.  The Parish Council will write to the owners of Seven Acre Farm expressing its concerns and requesting that the situation is reviewed prior to harvesting next year.
MATTERS ARISING
4 Minutes – the Parish Council resolved to approve the minutes of the meeting held on 12th June 2017 as a true and accurate record of the meeting.
5 Allotments – the Clerk will purchase a new gate post for the top gate.  Reg Wills has kindly agreed to install it and re-hang the gate.
6 Play Area – nothing further to report
7 Bridford Hill – the Parish Council agreed that a public meeting should be held to discuss the way forward regarding the gritting of the hill.  A date will be arranged in September.  The Clerk will find out when the Village Hall is available and email potential dates to the Parish Councillors so a date can be arranged and details published in Unity.

Highways will be asked what the costs would be if the PC was allowed to pay for Bridford Hill to be gritted by their contractor and if it would be possible for them to add it to the gritting  route or if the PC could sub-contract the contractor.  An alternative is for residents to treat the road outside their homes using a shovel and grit from the grit bins, but the question then arises as to how often the grit bins would be topped up if used in this way.  There is still a very large supply of salt/grit in bags stored at Seven Acre Farm.  Could these be stored around the village?  If the PC leave the Snow Warden scheme, it will no longer benefit from free supplies of salt/grit.
8 Telephone Box Maintenance – BT has confirmed that the Bridford telephone box has been added to its

repainting schedule but cannot say if it will be undertaken this year.
9 Blue Advisory Road Signs -following the discussion at last month’s meeting regarding the problems with heavy goods vehicles, Highways Department is now investigating the most appropriate type of sign and costs and will report back.  The Clerk has asked DNPA if planning permission is required.
10 Village Garden – nothing further to report
11 Parish Plan – the Clerk reported that all suggested action is running to plan and to suggested timescales.  Health – Cllr Lord has a list of residents who live on their own and may require assistance.  Cllr Miles will speak with Mrs Walker who has indicated that she would be willing to help.  It was suggested that a local team of volunteers who would be willing to visit and provide assistance should be under the direction of Acorn who would be able to undertake the necessary CRB checks.  Cllr Miles will contact Acorn to discuss.
12 Asset Register –  was reviewed at June PC meeting, the defibrillator details have been added, the revised document accepted by the PC and signed off by the Chairperson and Clerk.
ANY OTHER MATTERS ARISING
13 Meetings attended by Parish Councillors – Cllr Dowding attended a TALC meeting at which the local Police and Crime Commissioner gave a presentation.
14 District Councillors Report – presented earlier in the meeting
15 County Councillors Report – presented earlier in the meeting
PLANNING
For Discussion
16 Thorn Farm, Bridford– re proposed demolition of existing rear porch and steps, demolition of sheds and erection of new rear and side extensions (DNPA ref. 0303/17).   Comments deferred pending a site visit to the property on 8th July.
17 Any planning items for discussion since publication of the agenda
Cedar House, Bridford – re proposed erection of outbuilding to provide ancillary living accommodation (DNPA ref. 0320/17).  The PC looked at the plans and deferred making comments, agreeing that a site visit should be undertaken.
For Information
18 Land adjoining Lower Hole, Bridford – Refusal of Planning Permission  re change of use of land to equestrian and erection of four field shelters and associated hardstanding,  (DNPA ref. 0231/17)
19 Any planning items for information received since publication of the agenda – none
20 Local Plan Review Consultation – to be discussed at a meeting of the Planning Committee. See item 21.
21 Planning Procedures and Policies relating to Bridford PC – a meeting of the Planning Committee will take place on Monday 14th August
FINANCE & ACCOUNTS
22 Account balances as at 12th June 2017

Current account

Investment account

 

  

£4,381.17

£3,744.55

£8,125.72
23 INCOME

Chilcorn  re proceeds of clothing bank contents

 

  

£    44.00

£    44.00

 
24 EXPENDITURE

Mrs J P Banks re June salary

HMRC re Clerk’s PAYE quarter ended 5 July 2017

Mrs J P Banks – admin expenditure quarter ended 5 July 2017       £112.83

use of home as office quarter ended 5 July 2017   £  54.00

Mrs J P Banks – catering Annual Parish/Council Meeting 8 May (S137 payment)

Bridford Village Hall  re hire of meeting room 1 April – 30 June       £60.00

re contribution of PO rent 1 April – 30 June      £48.00

  

£  200.93

£ 220.60

 

£ 166.83

£   37.20

 

£108.00

£733.56

 
 

25

  

Account balances as at 3 July2017

Current account

Investment account

 

 

  

£3,691.61

£3,744.55

£7,436.16

 
(Balances include earmarked funds: £90 refundable allotment deposits / £565 Play Area /  £67.50 Village Garden / £88.76  textile bank)

The Parish Council resolved to approve the accounts and authorise the expenditure. Cllr Dowding, delegated by the Chairperson, checked the cheques to the invoices and the reconciliation to the bank statement.
ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION – none
26 Any items for discussion received since publication of the agenda

Bridford Rural Skip Service 15th July – TDC has requested confirmation that the lay-by will be empty first thing in the morning.  The Clerk will make up a notice and put it up in the lay-by.
ITEMS FOR INFORMATION
27 Notice of Road Closure – road from Langdale to Windmill Gate, Bridford from 10th – 14th July to enable pre patching works for 18/19 surface dressing
28 New Funding Available for Dartmoor Communities – details passed to the Village Hall committee
29 Views on Neighbourhood Policing – meeting 7 July at South Hams District Council
30 Any items for information received since publication of the agenda

Garden Waste Collection Service – subscriptions need to be renewed before 25th August to ensure continuation of garden waste collection service.
31 Public Discussion

Overgrown Hedges on Pound Lane – the hill is becoming very dangerous, there having been one accident this summer already.  Although we are still in the nesting season, hedges can be cut if considered dangerous.  The hedges are particularly overgrown and obscuring vision at Oxenpark Gate at the top of the hill and on the bend outside Southwood which is currently unoccupied.  Highways will be contacted and requested to cut back the hedges in these locations.  Other landowners with boundaries on Pound Lane will be written to in August to ask them to cut their roadside hedges.  Cllr Price will confirm the actual date for the end of the nesting season.

Cllr Lord mentioned that  a number of residents have been receiving phone calls regarding loft installation and while some may be quite legitimate people should be on their guard and wary when answering the telephone.
32 Date of next meeting – There is a summer recess in August and therefore there will be no Parish Council meeting.  The next meeting will be held on 4th September at 7.00pm in the upstairs room of the Village Hall
 

 

 

 

Original copy of minutes signed by the Chairperson  4th September 2017
 

CIRCULATION

Newletters, Reports & Circulars

Dunsford PC minutes of May meeting

Christow PC minutes of April meeting

Christow PC minutes of May meeting

Miscellaneous

Correspondence sent

Various

 

 

 
Posted on

Bridford Parish Council Agenda 3rd July 2017

 

Dear Parish Councillors and Members of the Public,

Parish Councillors are summoned and Members of the Public are invited to attend a meeting of Bridford Parish Council to be held at Bridford Village Hall on Monday 3rd July 2017 at 7.00pm

Joan Banks

Clerk to Bridford Parish Council
AGENDA
1 Apologies
2 Declarations of Interest – Councillors to declare any personal or prejudicial interest relatingto any item on the agenda
3 Public Discussion – opportunity for members of the public to comment on any items on the agenda or  to

bring any other matters to the attention of the Parish Council
MATTERS ARISING
4 Minutes – Parish Council to approve the minutes of the meeting held on 12th June 2017
5 Allotments – broken gate post
6 Play Area
7 Bridford Hill
8 Telephone Box Maintenance
9 Blue Advisory Road Signs
10 Village Garden
11 Parish Plan
12 Asset Register –  reviewed at June PC meeting, defibrillator added, now requiring signature of Chair and Clerk
ANY OTHER MATTERS ARISING
13 Meetings attended by Parish Councillors
14 District Councillors Report
15 County Councillors Report
PLANNING
For Discussion
16 Thorn Farm, Bridford– re proposed demolition of existing rear porch and steps, demolition of sheds and erection of new rear and side extensions (DNPA ref. 0303/17)
17 Any planning items for discussion since publication of the agenda
For Information
18 Land adjoining Lower Hole, Bridford – Refusal of Planning Permission  re change of use of land to equestrian and erection of four field shelters and associated hardstanding,  (DNPA ref. 0231/17)
19 Any planning items for information received since publication of the agenda
20 Local Plan Review – consultation
21 Planning Procedures and Policies relating to Bridford PC
FINANCE & ACCOUNTS
22 Account balances as at 12th June 2017

Current account

Investment account

 

  

£4,381.17

£3,744.55

£8,125.72
23 INCOME

Chilcorn  re proceeds of clothing bank contents

 

  

£    44.00

£    44.00

 
24 EXPENDITURE

Mrs J P Banks re June salary

HMRC re Clerk’s PAYE quarter ended 5 July 2017

Mrs J P Banks – admin expenditure quarter ended 5 July 2017       £112.83

use of home as office quarter ended 5 July 2017   £  54.00

Mrs J P Banks – catering Annual Parish/Council Meeting 8 May (S137 payment)

Bridford Village Hall  re hire of meeting room 1 April – 30 June       £60.00

re contribution of PO rent 1 April – 30 June      £48.00

  

£  200.93

£ 220.60

 

£ 166.83

£   37.20

 

£108.00

£733.56

 
 

25

  

Account balances as at 3 July2017

Current account

Investment account

 

 

  

£3,691.61

£3,744.55

£7,436.16

 
(Balances include earmarked funds: £90 refundable allotment deposits / £565 Play Area /  £67.50 Village Garden / £88.76  textile bank)
ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION – none
26 Any items for discussion received since publication of the agenda
ITEMS FOR INFORMATION
27 Notice of Road Closure
28 New Funding Available for Dartmoor Communities
29 Views on Neighbourhood Policing – meeting 7 July
30 Any items for information received since publication of the agenda
31 Public Discussion
32 Date of next meeting – There is a summer recess in August and therefore there will be no Parish Council meeting.  The next meeting will be held on 4th September at 7.00pm in the upstairs room of the Village Hall
 
  Joan Banks

Clerk to Bridford Parish Council

 

 
CIRCULATION

Newletters, Reports & Circulars

Dunsford PC minutes of May meeting

Christow PC minutes of April meeting

Christow PC minutes of May meeting

Miscellaneous

Correspondence sent

Various
Posted on

Minutes of Bridford Parish Council meeting 12th June 2017

Minutes of a meeting of Bridford Parish Council held on 12th June 2017 at Bridford Village Hall at 7.00pm
Present: Cllrs G Hearnden (Chair) E Price, A Lord, R Dowding, J Padgham, Mrs J P Banks (Clerk) and three members of the public.  Cnty Cllr Jerry Brook and Dst Cllr Amanda Ford were present for part of the meeting.
1 Apologies Cllrs F Miles and T Evans
2 Declarations of Interest – none
3 Public Discussion – the owner of Birch Tree Farm spoke of his concerns regarding heavy goods vehicles being directed past his home by satellite navigation systems.  A considerable amount of damage has been done to the banks, hedgerows and his own land.   DCC Highways Department has been contacted by the Parishioner.  Simon Pearson (DCC Highways) has suggested that the way forward would be to install blue advisory road signs at each end of the lane.  This will require the support of the Parish Council which has agreed to get in touch with Highways to establish what the procedure and way forward will be.

Also brought to the attention of the Parish Council is that the give way / priority road markings are wrong in two places on Neadon Lane, giving the impression that Neadon Lane veers off to the left rather than going down the hill to the main road.    It is understood that Highways Department is already aware of this but the Clerk will get in touch to ensure that arrangements are in hand to correct the road markings.
Dst Cllr Ford joined the meeting at 7.15pm
MATTERS ARISING
4 Minutes – the Parish Council resolved to approve the minutes of the Annual Parish Meeting and the Annual Parish Council Meeting held on 8th May 2017 as a true and accurate record of the meetings.
5 Allotments – the gate post has rotted through and broken off at the top of the allotment field.  The Clerk has tried unsuccessfully to persuade anybody to take on the job to replace it.    Reg Wills has a post driver.  Cllr Lord will ask him if he would be able and willing to undertake the repair.
6 Play Area – nothing new to report.  The Clerk and Cllr Price have yet to meet to discuss the replacement of the wooden fort.
7 Bridford Hill – regarding the gritting of the road surface.  Matter deferred until the next meeting when Cllr Miles will be present and can be included in the decision as to the next step forward.
8 Telephone Box Maintenance – Photos sent to BT who have yet to decide whether or not repainting of our ‘eyesore’ phone box is necessary.  The Clerk will follow it up.
9 Angler’s Cottage – Teignbridge District Council has advised that the Enforcement Order to repair the property was not complied with and the owner has now put the property up for sale.
10 Village Garden – now included on the Parish Council’s insurance policy providing £10m public liability.
11 Parish Plan – all suggested timescales are being adhered to with regards to aims and suggestions contained within the Plan.  Cllr Dowding reported that he has completed a Draft Planning Policy Guide for the Parish Council and that this will need a separate meeting to run through and discuss.
12 Defibrillator – the defibrillator is now installed on the wall of the porch outside the Village Hall.  Cllr Dowding confirmed that David Wood (First Responder) has been to check that it is all in working order and he has registered it with the Devon Ambulance Service.  First Responders have taken responsibility for its upkeep and undertaking all necessary regular checks.
13 Grass Cutting Tenders – only one tender was received which was from Mr Graham Dicker in respect of the three year contract commencing April 2017 and this has been accepted by the Parish Council.  Mr Dicker to supply an up to date copy of his public liability insurance.
ANY OTHER MATTERS ARISING
14 Meetings attended by Parish Councillors – five Councillors from Bridford attended the Three Parishes meeting hosted by Christow Parish Council on 16th May.  Two attended from Christow. There was no representation from Dunsford.     Cllrs Miles, Price and Padgham attended a planning meeting at DNPA on 12th June.
15 District Councillors Report – Dst Cllr Ford confirmed that the CEO at TDC has resigned but with all District Councillors being sworn to secrecy, she could not say any more.  The CEO will not be replaced and her workload is being shared between the existing deputy CEO who will become Head of Paid Services and other existing officers.  The mobile phone structure is now connected and up and running in the Valley giving a mobile phone signal to some but not all providers.  The NHS is holding its first ‘open day’ with a Health Fair and AGM at Newton Abbot on 22nd June.  Details to be circulated to the Parish Councillors.
Cnty Cllr Brook joined the meeting at 7.25pm
16 County Councillors Report – following the County Council election in May, it has taken until now for DCC to be up and running and operating correctly.  A Management Development meeting took place last week.

There were two important applications, the first being from Hansons Trusham Quarry re its conditions and permission to remain open.  There is a considerably large amount of valuable dolomite rock in the quarry but it is covered by poor quality aggregate on top.  The application was approved.

The second application was to widen the road from Drumbridges to Jetty Marsh Lane at Newton Abbot.  It is noted that the current road has been responsible for a number of deaths with 19,000 vehicle movements per day.  There is also a plan to construct 200-300 houses near Jetty Marsh.  The road widening will be done in three stages and will make both geographical and historical changes.

Cllr Brook mentioned that there is now a direct link to the works team to report potholes.  If he is allowed to publicise the contact details, he will do but in the meantime, he is happy for details of any potholes to be sent to him and he will forward on direct to the team.   Details of the problems at Birch Tree Farm regarding heavy vehicles were passed on to Cllr Brook who spoke to the property owner and offered to take up the matter with Highways.
Cnty Cllr Brook and Dst Cllr Ford left the meeting at 7.45pm
PLANNING
For Discussion
17 The following applications were dealt with between meetings due to the short timescales for submission of comments.  Details were circulated to Parish Councillors.

Thorn Farm, Bridford – re proposed construction of ménage (20m x 40m) with 3-rail timber fence.  Following a site visit, the Parish Council had no objections to the application (DNPA ref 0242/17)
18 Lower Westcott Farm, Doccombe, Moretonhampstead – re proposed change of use of part of field to provide riding area (15m x 25m) with associated works (DNPA ref 0199/17).  The Parish Council has no objections to this application
19 Field at Manley Mead, Bridford – application for Prior Notification re proposed agricultural store for machinery, equipment and feed (DNPA ref 0185/17).  The Parish Council has no objections to this application although it is understood that the application has currently been deferred as it is likely to need a full planning application.
20 Land adjoining Lower Hole, Bridford – re proposed change of use of land and erection of four field shelters and associated hard standing (DNPA ref 0231/17).  Following a site visit, the Parish Council had no objections to the application
21 Any planning items for discussion since publication of the agenda – none
For Information
22 Middle Heltor Farm, Bridford – Grant of Conditional Planning Permission re installation of mobile telecommunications and ancillary equipment involving the erection of 12m high telegraph pole with eight consumer antennae and four backhaul radio antennae and associated radio housing and trenching.  (DNPA ref 0145/17)
23 Tree Preservation Order: Western End, Bridford – Conditional consent has been granted to fell a tree at The Spinney (DNPA ref 0019/17)
24 Cedar House, Bridford – Grant of Conditional Planning re external works to existing outbuilding (DNPA ref 0123/17)
25 The Hide, Bridford – Certificate of Lawful Use or Development granted (DNPA ref 0124/17)
26 The Old Quarry, Pound Lane, Bridford – the Parish Council wrote to DNPA asking about the current situation at The Old Quarry.  DNPA replied:  The enforcement notice requires the cessation of the residential use of the mobile home but not its removal, a mobile home having been sited on the land for many years prior to the notice being served, but not in residential use.  The owner of the caravan was due to move out when the caravan would revert to being a site office / rest room facility for the new owner of the site who proposed to carry out caravan repairs on the land.
27 Any planning items for information received since publication of the agenda – none
FINANCE & ACCOUNTS
28 Account balances as at 3rd April 2017

Current account

Investment account

 

  

£1,806.38

£3,744.10

£5,550.48
(Balances include earmarked funds: £90 refundable allotment deposits / £565 Play Area /  £67.50 Village Garden / £44.76  textile bank)
29 INCOME

1st half of precept

VAT Refund

S J Newman re allotment rent plot 3

S J Newman re allotment deposit plot 3

Bank interest April

Bank interest May

 

  

£3,750.00

£    465.29

£        7.50

£      30.00

£        0.16

£        0.15

£4,253.10
30 EXPENDITURE

Bridford Village re hire of room for PC meetings 1 Jan – 31 Mar                £48.00

re contribution to Post Office room hire 1 Jan – 31 Mar £48.00

Mr G Dicker re grass cutting Jan/Feb/Mar

Society of Local Council Clerks annual subscription

Came & Company Annual Insurance Premium

Mrs J P Banks re April salary                    £200.93

re May salary                     £200.93

re holiday pay 2016/17   £280.20

Mrs P Clapham re completion of internal audit

Mrs J P Banks re purchase of new printer

 £     96.00

£  162.53

£    78.00

£  574.42

 

 

£  682.06

£    50.00

£    34.99

£1,678.00

 

 

 

 
31 Account balances as at 12 June 2017

Current account

Investment account

 

 

  

£4,381.17

£3,744.55

£8,125.72

 
The Parish Council resolved to approve the accounts and authorise the expenditure.  Cllr Dowding, delegated by the Chair, checked the invoices to the cheque book and the reconciliation to the bank statement.
32 Review of Financial Regulations – annual review with no amendments necessary.  Signed by the Chair and Clerk 12th June 2017
33 Review of Statement of Internal Control – annual review with one amendment made by the Clerk and being agreed by the Parish Council in connection with the wording regarding the Internal Audit.  Signed by the Chair and Clerk 12th June 2017.
34 Review of Risk Assessment – annual review with amendments being made by the Clerk and agreed by the Parish Council following the change of Insurance Company.  Details of Village Garden also added under ‘Services’ and also details of the new three year grass cutting contract.   Signed by the Chair and Clerk 12th June 2017
35 Review of Asset Register – annual review.   Defibrillator will be added to Parish Council assets.  Clerk will add this and bring document to July meeting for signature.
36 Standing Orders – document was reviewed at May meeting.  Amendment made and agreed by the Parish Council and revised document signed by the Chair and Clerk 12th June 2017
ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION
37 Future Annual Parish Meetings – the Parish Council resolved that the Annual Parish Meeting in future will be a separate meeting to be held on a different evening to the Annual Parish Council Meeting.  This will take effect in 2018.
38 Fly the Red Ensign for Merchant Navy Day – 3rd September 2017.  The Parish Council will not be participating.
39 CPA “Our Outdoors” Competition 2017 – replaces Best Kept Village Competition with different new categories.  Details to be passed on to Matt Jones (Bridford Woodland Trust)
40 Any items for discussion received since publication of the agenda – none
ITEMS FOR INFORMATION
41 Bridford Annual Rural Skip Day – Reminder 15th July 2017 at the lay-by at the top of Pound Lane from 10.00am – 4.00pm
42 Any items for information received since publication of the agenda – none
43 Public Discussion – there were no further items for discussion.
44 Date of next meeting will be 3rd July 2017 at Bridford Village Hall
 
  Original copy of minutes signed  by the Chairperson  3rd July 2017

 
Posted on

Bridford Parish Council Meeting Agenda 12th June 2017

 
Dear Parish Councillors and Members of the Public,

Parish Councillors are summoned and Members of the Public are invited to attend a meeting of Bridford Parish Council to be held at Bridford Village Hall on Monday 12th June 2017 at 7.00pm

Joan Banks

Clerk to Bridford Parish Council
AGENDA
1 Apologies Cllr F Miles
2 Declarations of Interest – Councillors to declare any personal or prejudicial interest relating to any item on the agenda
3 Public Discussion – opportunity for members of the public to comment on any items on the agenda or  to bring any other matters to the attention of the Parish Council
MATTERS ARISING
4 Minutes – Parish Council to approve the minutes of the meeting held on 8th May 2017
5 Allotments – broken gate post
6 Play Area
7 Bridford Hill
8 Telephone Box Maintenance
9 Angler’s Cottage
10 Village Garden
11 Parish Plan
12 Defibrillator – update from Cllr Dowding
13 Grass Cutting Tenders
ANY OTHER MATTERS ARISING
14 Meetings attended by Parish Councillors
15 District Councillors Report
16 County Councillors Report
PLANNING
For Discussion
17 The following applications were dealt with between meetings due to the short timescales for submission of comments.  Details were circulated to Parish Councillors.

Thorn Farm, Bridford – re proposed construction of menage (20m x 40m) with 3-rail timber fence.  Following a site visit, the Parish Council had no objections to the application (DNPA ref 0242/17)
18 Lower Westcott Farm, Doccombe, Moretonhampstead – re proposed change of use of part of field to provide riding area (15m x 25m) with associated works (DNPA ref 0199/17).  The Parish Council has no objections to this application
19 Field at Manley Mead, Bridford – application for Prior Notification re proposed agricultural store for machinery, equipment and feed (DNPA ref 0185/17).  The Parish Council has no objections to this application
20 Land adjoining Lower Hole, Bridford – re proposed change of use of land and erection of four field shelters and associated hardstanding (DNPA ref 0231/17).  Following a site visit, the Parish Council had no objections to the application
21 Any planning items for discussion since publication of the agenda
For Information
22 Middle Heltor Farm, Bridford – Grant of Conditional Planning Permission re installation of mobile telecommunications and ancillary equipment involving the erection of 12m high telegraph pole with eight consumer antennae and four backhaul radio antennae and associated radio housing and trenching.  (DNPA ref 0145/17)
23 Tree Preservation Order: Western End, Bridford – Conditional consent has been granted to fell a tree at The Spinney (DNPA ref 0019/17)
24 Cedar House, Bridford – Grant of Conditional Planning re external works to existing outbuilding (DNPA ref 0123/17)
25 The Hide, Bridford – Certificate of Lawful Use or Development granted (DNPA ref 0124/17)
26 The Old Quarry, Pound Lane, Bridford – response to Parish Council’s letter re current situation at this location
27 Any planning items for information received since publication of the agenda
FINANCE & ACCOUNTS
28 Account balances as at 3rd April 2017

Current account

Investment account

 

  

£1,806.38

£3,744.10

£5,550.48
  (Balances include earmarked funds: £90 refundable allotment deposits / £565 Play Area /  £67.50 Village Garden / £44.76  textile bank)
29 INCOME

1st half of precept

VAT Refund

S J Newman re allotment rent plot 3

S J Newman re allotment deposit plot 3

Bank interest April

Bank interest May

 

  

£3,750.00

£    465.29

£        7.50

£      30.00

£        0.16

£        0.15

£4,253.10
30 EXPENDITURE

Bridford Village re hire of room for PC meetings 1 Jan – 31 Mar                £48.00

re contribution to Post Office room hire 1 Jan – 31 Mar £48.00

Mr G Dicker re grass cutting Jan/Feb/Mar

Society of Local Council Clerks annual subscription

Came & Company Annual Insurance Premium

Mrs J P Banks re April salary                    £200.93

re May salary                     £200.93

re holiday pay 2016/17   £280.20

Mrs P Clapham re completion of internal audit

Mrs J P Banks re purchase of new printer

  

 

£     96.00

£  162.53

£    78.00

£  574.42

 

 

£  682.06

£    50.00

£    34.99

£1,678.00

 

 

 

 
31 Account balances as at 12 June 2017

Current account

Investment account

 

 

  

£4,381.17

£3,744.55

£8,125.72

 
32 Review of Financial Regulations
33 Review of Statement of Internal Control
34 Review of Risk Assessment
35 Review of Asset Register
36 Standing Orders – revised document to be signed by the Chair and Clerk following review at the May meeting
ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION
37 Future Annual Parish Meetings – Annual Parish Meeting in future to be a separate meeting on a different evening to the Annual Parish Council Meeting.
38 Fly the Red Ensign for Merchant Navy Day – 3rd September 2017
39 CPA “Our Outdoors” Competition 2017 – replaces Best Kept Village Competition
40 Any items for discussion received since publication of the agenda
ITEMS FOR INFORMATION
41 Bridford Annual Rural Skip Day – Reminder 15th July 2017
42 Any items for information received since publication of the agenda
43 Public Discussion
44 Date of next meeting will be 3rd July 2017 at Bridford Villlage Hall
   
  Joan Banks

Clerk to Bridford Parish Council

 

 
  CIRCULATION

Newletters, Reports & Circulars

Dunsford Minutes March 2017

Dunsford Minutes April 2017

Healthwatch Voices Spring 2017

Miscellaneous

Application for a non-material amendment following Grant of Planning Permission re Cedar House

Alterations to the Electoral Register

Correspondence sent

Various
Posted on

Draft Minutes of Annual Parish and Annual Parish Council Meetings 8th May 2017

Minutes of the Annual Parish Meeting held at Bridford Village Hall on Monday 8th May at 7.00pm
Present:  Cllrs F Miles (Chairperson), G Hearnden, E Price, T Evans, A Lord, R Dowding,

J Padgham, Mrs J Banks (Clerk), Simon Lee (DNPA Ranger) and eleven members of the public representing various local organisations.   Cnty Cllr Jerry Brook and Dst Cllr Amanda Ford attended for part of the meeting.
The Chairperson welcomed everyone to the meeting
Apologies – Teign Tennis Trust, Cathy Horder, Francis Leversedge, Matt Jones, David Fine
Chairperson’s Report – Cllr Miles gave a resume of the Parish Council’s past year and it’s achievements which included the repair and redesign of the splay at the bridge at Leigh Cross and the purchase of a defibrillator and the organisation of related training.
Cnty Cllr Brook joined the meeting at 7.40pm

The Chairperson welcomed Cllr Brook, congratulated him on his re-election and invited him to speak
County Councillor’s Report – DCC’s current position is a mirror image of the last seven years.  There are annual reductions in Government finance and it is a case of balancing the annual finance with the delivery of services.  The Mineral Plan sets out all the minerals that are available to us over the next seven years.  This plan is only a plan, not a program of what will happen. DCC continues to work towards getting the best of opportunities for children in care.  Education has been in the limelight over the past 12-18 months.   The funding systems is worked to a formula.  All MP’s have signed up to fight the Government for a fair system to educate today’s children who are tomorrow’s future.   Caring – there are plans to treat more people in their own homes.

The maintenance of roads is a constant battle with snippets of success. An additional £11m obtained from the Government spent over the last twelve months.

The Government is looking to DCC to make savings of £26-28m next year.   2018/19 will see difficult times with DCC having to make the best of what it has.

The Chairperson thanked Cllr Brook for his continued support to the Teign Valley.
Cnty Cllr Brook left the meeting at 7.55pm
District Councillors Report – Cllr Amanda Ford said that she had contributed towards the DAA Night Landing project at Christow which would serve the Teign Valley. It was asked if a similar project could be undertaken in Bridford.  The Clerk confirmed that the idea had already been considered by the Parish Council and decided against.  A member of the public suggested that the subject should be on the agenda at a future PC meeting for discussion.  There are no changes within the District Council as it continues to try and keep costs down.  Connection is still awaited for a mobile phone signal.  The infrastructure is there, it is a case of waiting for the independent providers to connect and this should then give coverage to the whole valley.  With regards to the internet connection, this should have been completed last November.  The hold -up is with the installation at Christow.
DNPA Ranger’s Report – see appendix (i) attached.
Gritting of Bridford Hill – Cllr Miles gave a report on the current situation regarding the gritting of Bridford Hill and several ideas were put forward as to the possible way forward which will be explored.   The question was raised over whether legally, DCC has a duty of care regarding health and safety. Should the Parish Council take legal advice?   A Parishioner said that they thought most residents would be prepared to pay a bit more each year on the precept to have the hill gritted.  DCC will be asked for costings and if the Parish could ‘buy in’ gritting services.  Fundraising could be a means of paying for it.  The Parish Council will write to the local MP.
Parish Plan – in view of time restraints, the Chair did not go through the Plan but invited anyone to take a copy or to view it on the Parish website.
Reports from individual local groups and organisations – reports were presented by representatives detailing their activities and future plans.
Open Forum – An allotment tenant reported that he has attempted to cut back the blackthorn hedge at the top of the allotments, but it needs lopping.   A member of the public thanked the Parish Councillors and Clerk for their continued work on behalf of the parishioners of Bridford
Chairperson’s closing comments – the Chairperson thanked everyone for attending the meeting.  Special thanks were given to the Clerk and members of the Parish Council and to Cnty Cllr Jerry Brook,  Dst Cllr Amanda Ford and DNPA Ranger Simon Lee.
Refreshments were served and there was then the opportunity to meet and chat with the Parish Councillors.  The Annual Parish Council Meeting then followed at which point all members of the public left!
Minutes of the Annual Parish Council Meeting held at Bridford Village Hall on 8th May.  Meeting commenced at 21.40
Present: Cllrs F Miles (existing Chairperson), G Hearnden, E Price, T Evans, R Dowding,

A Lord, J Padgham, Mrs J Banks (Clerk).  No members of the public were present.
Election of Chairperson – Cllr Francis Miles was nominated and unanimously re-elected as  Chairperson for the next twelve months.
Election of Vice Chairperson – Cllr Geoff Hearnden was nominated and unanimously re-elected as vice Chairperson for the next twelve months.
Acceptance of Office forms – were signed by the Chairperson and vice Chairperson in the presence of the Clerk.
Apologies – none
Declarations of Interests – none
Appointment of Committees and Representatives
Village Hall Cllrs Dowding and Evans
TALC Cllrs Dowding and Padgham
DNPA Consultative Committee All Parish Councillors
Bridford Trust Cllr Miles
Planning All Parish Councillors
Lengths man The Clerk
Play Area Cllr Price
Tree Warden David Price
Parish Plan Development All Parish Councillors
Allotments Representative Francis Leversedge
Allotments PC Representative The Clerk
Website The Clerk and Jarrod Poynton
Snow Warden All Parish Councillors for time being
Village Garden Cllr Miles
MATTERS ARISING
Minutes of last meeting – the Parish Council resolved to approve the minutes of the Parish Council meeting held on 3rd April 2017 as a true and accurate record of the meeting
Review of Standing Orders – the Standing Orders were reviewed. The Parish Council agreed to remove item xii in section 5 as it is not applicable to this Council.  All other reviews listed on the Standing Orders will be on the agenda for the June 2017 Parish Council meeting and in future years will be reviewed at the Annual Parish Council Meeting.
PARISH COUNCIL  AUDIT 2017
Notice of Appointment for Date for the Exercise of Electors Rights – any persons interested may inspect the Annual Return and all books, deed, contract, bills, vouchers and receipts etc by appointment only by application to the Clerk from 5th June – 14th July 2017.
Date of External Audit – 2nd June 2017
Date of Internal Audit – this took place on 8th May 2017.  No issues were identified.
Receipts and Payments Account year ended 31 March 2017 –   approved by the Parish Council and signed by the Chairperson and the Clerk
Annual Return Annual Governance Statement 2015/16

The Parish Council considered, approved and signed the Annual Governance Statement in section one.  The Parish Council answered ‘yes’ to the questions on the statement.
Annual Return Accounting Statements 2015/16 – the Parish Council considered, approved and signed the Accounting Statements in section two.
Date of next meeting – Monday 12th June in the upstairs room at Bridford Village Hall at 7.00pm
Original Minutes signed by the Chairperson   12th June 2017
Posted on

Bridford Parish Council Annual Parish Meeting and Annual Parish Council Meeting Agendas 8th May 2017

Dear Parish Councillors and Member of the Public,

Parish Councillors are summoned and Members of the Public are invited to attend the Annual Parish Meeting which will be followed by the Annual Parish Council Meeting to be held at Bridford Village Hall on Monday 8th May at 7.00pm

Joan Banks

Clerk to Bridford Parish Council
 
ANNUAL PARISH MEETING AGENDA
1 Welcome by the current Chairperson
2 Apologies
3 Chairperson’s Report
4 County Councillor’s Report
5 District Councillors Report
6 DNPA Ranger’s Report
7 Gritting of Bridford Hill – to include discussion led by Chairperson Cllr Miles
8 Parish Plan – presentation by the Chairperson Cllr Miles
9 Reports from individual local groups and organisations
10 Open Forum
11 Chairperson’s closing comments
 
REFRESHMENTS WILL BE SERVED and there will be the opportunity to meet and chat with your Parish Councillors prior to the start of the Annual Parish Council Meeting
 
ANNUAL PARISH COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA
1 Election of Chairperson
2 Election of Vice Chairperson
3 Acceptance of Office forms
4 Apologies
5 Declarations of Interests
6 Appointment of Committees and Representatives

·        Village Hall

·        TALC

·        DNPA Consultative Committee

·        Bridford Trust

·        Planning

·        Lengthsman

·        Play Area

·        Tree Warden

·        Parish Plan Development

·        Allotments Representative

·        Allotments PC Representative

·        Website

·        Snow Warden

·        Village Garden
MATTERS ARISING
7 Minutes – Parish Council to approve the minutes of the Parish Council meeting held on 3rd April 2017
8 Review of Standing Orders
PARISH COUNCIL  AUDIT 2017
9 Notice of Appointment for Date for the Exercise of Electors Rights
10 Date of External Audit
11 Date of Internal Audit
12 Receipts and Payments Account year ended 31 March 2017 to be approved by the Parish Council
13 Annual Return year ended 31 March 2017 – Parish Council to answer the questions in the Annual Governance Statement and approve the accounts in section two and the Annual Governance Statement in section one
14 Date of next meeting – Monday 5 June in the upstairs room at Bridford Village Hall at 7.00pm
 
Joan Banks

Clerk to Bridford Parish Council

 

Posted on

Minutes Bridford Parish Council Meeting 3rd April 2017

Minutes of a meeting of Bridford Parish Council held at Bridford Village Hall on Monday 3rd April 2017 at 7.00pm
Present: Cllrs F Miles (Chairperson), G Hearnden, A Lord, R Dowding, E Price, T Evans, J Padgham, Mrs J P Banks (Clerk).  No members of the public were present.
1 Apologies – Cnty Cllr Brook, Dst Cllr Ford
2 Declarations of Interest – Cllr Evans declared a personal interest in item 25
3 Public Discussion – no items for discussion
MATTERS ARISING
4 Minutes – the Parish Council resolved to approve the minutes of the meeting held on 6th March 2017 as a true and accurate record of the meeting.
5 Allotments – the agreement and rent have been received in respect of plot 3.  Three half plots remain vacant.
6 Play Area – RoSPA inspection report.  Cllr Price has examined the report and made recommendations.  Consideration must be given to replacing the  A Frame and the Fort / slide over the next two years. Enquiries will be made with regard to replacements and grant funding available.  Cllr Price and the Clerk will discuss other minor work to be done.
7 Bridford Hill

Condition of road surface  –  Simon Pearson of DCC Highways is aware of this road and has made bids for funding to carry out some resurfacing.  Recommendation for everyone to individually report potholes and damage to road surfaces direct to the website link:

httpl://new.devon.gov.uk/roadsandtransport/report-a-problem

Future gritting plans  –   it is time to send another letter to Devon County Council highlighting the problems with regard to Bridford Hill being removed from the primary gritting route.   A draft specification was agreed which will be published in Unity and on the notice board and sent out with invitations to tender to local contractors.  This is likely to be on the basis of a retainer fee and individual call out charges.

The Parish Council’s towable gritter has been left outside and is now in a very sorry state and the controls have seized up again.  If we were to revert to the Snow Warden volunteer scheme, thought would have to be given as to whether it would be better to buy the basic model and replace it every three years or to purchase a much more expensive model with a stainless steel chassis.  However, the suppliers have made it clear that all machines must be looked after and washed down after each use.

The owners of Seven Acre Farm are to be approached to see if they would be willing to assist as it is in their interest to keep the road open for the milk tanker and their own farming vehicles.

Cllr Miles will give a presentation about the gritting of the roads and conduct a discussion with the public at the Annual Parish Meeting in May.
8 Telephone Box Maintenance – BT has repaired the light and the broken glass in the telephone box but requires photographic evidence that it needs painting.  The Clerk will take photos and submit them to BT.
9 Defibrillator – Cllr Dowding reported that EDF has still to install a new three phase meter at the Village Hall  and until this is done, the electrician cannot complete the electrical works including the installation of the defibrillator outside in the porch.   The Clerk circulated a breakdown of costs showing how the defibrillator had been paid for.
10 Village Garden – now belongs to the Parish Council with the transfer formalities at HM Land Registry having been completed. The insurance company has been asked to ensure that public liability cover is extended to cover the Village Garden.
11 Parish Plan – Cllr Lord making enquiries with regard to setting up local monitoring of healthcare, has found a Parishioner who is interested in assisting.  Cllr Lord to draw up a list of residents who may require help.
12 Further training courses re first aid and defibrillator – this will be advertised again when the defibrillator is in place.
13 Parish Council Website – the Clerk will take over the updating of the Parish Council section of the website to ensure that everything we are legally required to publish in connection with the Transparency Code, is kept up to date.
ANY OTHER MATTERS ARISING
14 Meetings attended by Parish Councillors – Cllrs Miles, Dowding and Padgham attended a planning training course at South Molton.  Content more about process rather than policy and not appropriate to DNPA.

Cllr Dowding looking into Bridford Parish guidance when making planning decisions. Clerk to write to DNPA requesting training with regard to the National Park Planning Policy.   Ask Christow PC to include ‘Governance of DNPA’ and ‘Valley Neighbourhood Plan’ on the agenda for the 2017 Three Parishes meeting.

Cllr Dowding attended a recent TALC meeting which included a talk by the Police about cyber crime.

Cllrs Miles and Dowding attended a meeting of Bridford Trust which outlined uses of the land, and uses of the reserves. Events will be held in the Woodland Park to include the community with an open afternoon on 14th May.   Councillor Price to ask Bridford Trust to report any maintenance required when checking local footpaths.
15 District Councillors Report – Cllr Ford not present but sent a report.  Airband advise that the Christow mast is going live and expects to get people connected from mid April.  Cllr Ford has contacted local MP to ask him to again contact all the mobile phone providers to speed up the process as to when they will connect to the existing mobile phone infrastructure that is now present in the Valley.  A number of ‘incidences’ reported around the reservoirs.  A call for local foster carers and accommodation for Syrian Refugees.

Cllr Ford has given just under £1,000 from her Community Fund to aid and provide a night landing site for the DAA in Christow.  There are new guidelines for recycling food waste.  County Council Elections are being held on 4th May 2017.
16 County Councillors Report – no report, Cllr Brook not present.
PLANNING
For Discussion
 

 

17

 

18

 

19

 The following applications were dealt with between meetings due to the short timescales for submission of comments.  Details circulated to Parish Councillors.

The Hide, Bridford – application for Certificate of Lawfulness for proposed use as additional living accommodation (DNPA ref. 0124/17) The Parish Council has no objections to the application

Cedar House, Bridford – re proposed external works to existing outbuilding (DNPA ref 0123/17).  The Parish Council has no objections to the application

Western End, Bridford (garden of The Spinney) re tree preservation order – application to fell beech tree

(DNPA ref 17/0019).  Applicant already advised Parish Council of reasons for application. The Parish Council accepts the need for this tree to be felled
20 Middle Heltor Farm, Bridford – re proposed installation of mobile telecommunications and ancillary equipment involving the erection of 12m high telegraph pole with eight consumer antennae and four backhaul radio antennae and associated radio housing and trenching (DNPA ref 0145/17).  The Parish Council supports this application, communications being essential in the Teign Valley.
21 Any planning items for discussion since publication of the agenda – none
For Information
22 Seven Views, Pound Lane, Bridford – Grant of Conditional Planning Permission re improvements to access including replacement shed and oil tank enclosure / bin store (DNPA ref 0023/17)
23 Stonemill House, Stone Lane, Bridford – Grant of Conditional Planning Permission re change of use from agricultural to equestrian; construction of equestrian exercise area and relocation of two existing mobile field shelters (DNPA ref 0024/17)
24 Any planning items for information received since publication of the agenda – none
25 Application to divert footpaths / bridleways re Burnicombe Farm – DNPA confirmed that it had not received anything further from the landowner.  If a formal application is made  and consultations are carried out, the Parish Council will be included in that process.   The landowner has confirmed that he will be putting in a new application.
FINANCE & ACCOUNTS
26 Account balances as at 6th March 2017

Current account

Investment account

 

  

£3.257.76

£3,743.94

£7.001.70
(Balances include earmarked funds: £90 refundable allotment deposits / £565 Play Area /  £67.50 Village Garden / £44.76  textile bank)
27 INCOME

Bank interest February

Donation from Skittles teams – Village Garden

–  Play Area

  

£      0.16

£   24.50

£   40.00

£   64.66
28 EXPENDITURE

Mrs J P Banks re March salary

Mrs J P Banks reimburse admin expenditure 1 January – 31 March 2017

HMRC re PAYE quarter ended 5 April 2017

Payment to Village Hall – re percentage proceeds from textile bank

Kitsons £500 + £100 VAT + £20 disbursements re transfer title Village Garden

DALC re attendance at planning training course re Cllrs, Miles, Dowding and Padgham £75 + £15 VAT

Playsafety Ltd re RoSPA annual inspection of Play Area £94.50 + £18.90 VAT

DALC  re annual membership subscription £103.69 + £15.61 VAT – this amount will be deducted by Teignbridge from the first half of the precept payment

Mrs J P Banks reimburse cost of  Office (Word) programme £36.14 and

McAfee anti-virus programme £16.98

 

  

£192.56

£149.70

£144.60

£   33.20

£620.00

 

£   90.00

£113.40

 

£119.30

 

£  53.12

£1,515.88
29 Account balances as at 3rd April 2017

Current account

Investment account

  

£1,806.38

£3,744.10

£5,550.48
The Clerk circulated details of the breakdown of how proceeds of the Clothing Bank have been distributed since the project commenced.

The Parish Council resolved to accept the accounts and authorise the expenditure.  Cllr Dowding, being delegated by the Chairperson, checked the invoices to the cheque book and the reconciliation to the bank statement.
30 Clerk’s salary / annual increment – the Parish Council resolved to authorise annual increase w.e.f. 1st April 2017 from SCP 23 to SCP24  (£11.415 per hour)
31 Clerk’s entitlement to holiday pay – the Parish Council resolved to agree to the Clerk’s request to be paid holiday pay on a pro rata basis equating to 32 hours per annum.
ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION
32 Annual Parish Meeting – there will not be a public speaker.  The Chairperson will speak about the way forward regarding the gritting of Pound Lane and also about the Parish Plan. Public discussion will be invited.  Invitations to be sent out to all local groups inviting them to present a report if they wish to do so.

Catering to be provided by the Clerk and Cllrs Miles & Price. Posters with agenda to be prepared.    The Annual Parish Meeting will be followed by the Annual Parish Council Meeting which will include only the legally required Annual Parish business, carrying anything else forward to the June meeting.
33 Visit Dartmoor – invitation to advertise the Parish.  Cllr Miles will write an item for publication to promote Bridford.  Contact organisers of Bridford Fete to see if they would like to include their event.
34 Any items for discussion received since publication of the agenda
ITEMS FOR INFORMATION
35 Bridford Annual Rural Skip Day – will take place on 15th July 2017  in the lay-by at the top of Pound Lane from 10am – 4pm.  Notification from Teignbridge re change of contractor
36 Food Waste Recycling – update received from Teignbridge re food waste container liners.
37 Devon and Cornwall Police Alert – details of sheep worrying in Bovey Tracy and a stolen pony near Bude
38 Teign Tennis Trust – has advised that the club is applying for a loan from the LTA to support its court refurbishment this summer.  There is no liability to Trustees.  Work has commenced on upgrading the clubhouse and installing a disabled toilet.
39 Any items for information received since publication of the agenda

Notice of Road Closure outside MIll View, Bridford to complete SWW Utility works 10 – 12 July 2017.
40 Public Discussion – A Parish Councillor asked what the current situation is regarding what appears to be a used car lot in the Old Quarry on Pound Lane.  Letter to be sent to DNPA.

Item not on the agenda – Grass Cutting Contract.  Invitations to Tender have been sent out and advertised for renewal of the three year contract to include additional work to keep vacant allotments cut back.
41 Date of next meeting will be 8th May which will be the Annual Parish Meeting commencing at 7.00pm followed by the Annual Parish Council meeting.
 
 

 

 

 

………………………………………………………..Chairperson   8th May 2017
 

 

CIRCULATION

Newsletters, Reports & Circulars

TALC draft minutes January 2017

Dunsford PC minutes February 2017

Christow PC minutes January 2017

Christow PC minutes February 2017

Christow PC draft minutes March 2017

Correspondence sent

Various