GOUDHURST PARISH COUNCIL
Local Government for Goudhurst and Kilndown
AMENITIES COMMITTEE
Minutes of a Meeting held in The Jessel Room on Tuesday 27 July 2010 at 7.30 pm
PRESENT: Cllrs Mrs Stafford (Acting Chairman), Boniface, Mrs.Edmonston, Kirkby, Ward.
Mrs Gill Joye, Archivist of Goudhurst & Kilndown History Society, and Mr Alan Legg, TWBC Principal Design and Heritage Officer, were present for the first item.
APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE: Cllr Bates
DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: There were no declarations of interest.
Heritage Plaques A list of potential plaques (attached), the majority of which had been submitted by the History Society, was discussed. Mr Legg said the focus should be on people or events of significant and local influence. Consideration should be given to where the plaques could be fixed and if they could be viewed safely. It was decided to separate people/events that could be recorded with a plaque from those which did not lend themselves to this method. All people/events finally chosen, whether with or without a plaque, would be recorded in an explanatory leaflet or booklet illustrating walking and driving trails. The leaflet would be dedicated to Alfred Tiffin whose Goudhurst Jubilee and Coronation Books had stimulated an enduring interest in the history of the parish.
Mr Legg said that this project should be completed as soon as possible but that if it became necessary, he could roll over funds for the plaques into the next financial year.
It was decided that the work of choosing the final list and preparing accurate and concise details would take up too much of the Committee’s normal meeting time and that a Sub-Committee should be formed by Cllr Bates.
Cllr Mrs Stafford thanked Mrs Joye for the work that she and Mr Bob Brown were doing for GPC. She also thanked Mr Legg for his help and advice.
Amenity Lorry. The revised timetable (attached) proposed by TWBC for this service was reviewed. The reduced service would be on a Saturday with shorter stopping periods:
Goudhurst Balcombes Hill Car Park: Second Saturday of the month, 1310-1400hrs.
Kilndown Beresford Close: Fourth Saturday of the month, 1200-1245hrs.
Curtisden Green: No visits.
At the TWBC Parish Chairmen’s Meeting on 29th June, Borough Cllr Roy Bullock confirmed that the Amenity Lorry would not depart if people were waiting.
While recognizing that TWBC was trying to economise, the Committee did not consider the proposals user-friendly. It found the time reductions too drastic and foresaw that both locations would be very busy on a Saturday and impossible for a lot of working people. In particular, if the Goudhurst car park was full (not unusual, especially on sunny days) there could be congestion of waiting vehicles which could tail back to the centre of the village. It was suggested that an early morning slot would be better when the car park would be less busy. An alternative site could be the school car park if it didn’t clash with football matches and if KCC cooperated. The journey time of ten minutes from Horsmonden to Goudhurst was unrealistic. Although it was stated by Mrs Julie Mellor at the Chairmen’s Meeting that the cuts and timings were based on recorded usage, it is difficult to understand how Frittenden needs an hour and a half while Goudhurst and Curtisden Green need only fifty minutes. It is not acceptable that Curtisden Green should be cut out of the service entirely. The promised information on what can be put into the Amenity Lorry would be welcome. GPC to discuss.
Cardboard Collection Banks. Post-meeting, confirmation has been received from TWBC of proposed withdrawal of all cardboard banks in view of the door-to-door green boxes. The banks in Goudhurst are at Finchcocks and Bethany School. GPC to discuss.
Goudhurst in Bloom. Cllr Mrs Edmonston reported that judging would take place soon and that all arrangements were in place.
Goudhurst Pond. Mid Kent Fisheries have visited and the fountain is functioning well.
La Zia Maria – position of Council’s curtilage on land at the south west corner of Goudhurst Pond. Advice from KCC awaited.
Kilndown Pond. Quote awaited from Mid Kent Fisheries for removal of Cape Pond Weed
Kilndown Quarry Centre. Advice from KCC awaited.
Kilndown Bus Shelter Step and Telephone Kiosk. Remedial work had not been carried out by Mr Richard Crumpling.
Dog Fouling Signs Inventory. Cllr Boniface and Mrs Boniface were to be thanked for carrying out the major part of the survey of existing signs. The list had now been forwarded to TWBC for action.
New Finger Post and 30mph Sign on The Plain. Cllr Ward reported no progress with Kent Highways.
Village Green Status Application for Tattlebury Triangle. No reply yet received from Kent Highways to GPC’s request.
Glebe Field. An acknowledgement has been received from the Diocese of Canterbury noting our interest and confirming that they are awaiting advice from the Planning department. They have, however, noted their responsibility for maintenance when KCC relinquishes the land.
Christmas Decorations. TWBC has offered surplus Christmas decorations but the Committee did not consider they were suitable for our use.
Curtisden Green Notice Board. This is in need of urgent restoration. A quote has been received from Mr Andy Coleman to clean and treat with two coats of satin varnish for a total of £118.00. GPC is asked to approve.
Reimbursement of Expenses GPC is asked to approve Cllr Mrs Stafford’s expenses:
Plants for Water Trough 4.50
Casual Labour at War Memorial 22.07.10 10.00
Cllr Mrs. Barbara Stafford
31.07.10
Report for Parish Council 12 July 2010
Goudhurst Pond. Mid Kent Fisheries installed new plants during June. The height of the water being pumped by the fountain is not always reaching expected heights. At a site meeting on 22 June with Chairman Amenities Committee, Mr Chris Logsdon (Snr) offered to visit when in the area which will be approximately every fortnight without charge to ensure the pump is working efficiently. He may establish the pump and fountain in a suitable submerged bucket so that silt and weed does not block the pump inlet.
Kilndown Pond. Chairman Amenities Committee met Mr Chris Logsdon (Snr) of Mid Kent Fisheries (MKF) on site on 22 June. Mr David Denton attended. The objective was to check the health of the Pond. Mr Logsdon confirmed that the weed covering much of the Pond is not indigenous but is invasive. If left unchecked it will cover that part of the pond which is insufficiently deep to prevent its growth, which seems likely to be the half furthest from the Quarry Centre. Such a covering would have a bad affect on the quality of water for fish, etc. His recommended solution is to saw all plants at the effected end (two men with a “saw” dragged under water across the pond for several passes). Some pruning of overhanging plants which are inaccessible from the bank and removal of litter could be done to make this a full day’s work. Mr Logsdon will provide a written quotation for this work. He is aware of budget limitations. The pond water quality is adversely affected by the fall of leaves and he advises adding several bags of Siltex annually, perhaps at the same time as the Goudhurst Pond application. From observation, Mr Logsdon believes that this pond may be overstocked with fish. The remedy is to remove some of the smaller ones. If they are healthy (not contaminated by the many illnesses associated with goldfish) he would be like to buy the excess stock which would be used to stock new ponds. MKF will provide a written specification and quotation for all proposed works.
War Memorial Maintenance. Stone Mason Mr Howard visited on 02 July for his inspection. He told the Clerk on site that the structure is very sound and no work at all is required. Amenities Committee seeks approval to pay Mr Howard £25.00 ex-gratia for his advice, time and travel expenses.
La Zia Maria – position of Council’s curtilage on land at the south west corner of Goudhurst Pond. Minute 094/10. The Clerk with Cllrs Bates, Roberts and Rolington met on site on 01 July. Careful examination of the plans with a close inspection of the ground and boundary and fence posts show that there could be case for claiming that Council’s boundary is further to the east and south than previously thought. Members involved recommend that Council seeks the opinion of a Surveyor with experience of boundary disputes. This matter needs to resolved once and for all time. Members recommend that Council approves in principle expenditure to cover anticipated costs of a site visit by a Surveyor. Meanwhile the Clerk will seek assistance from TWBC or KCC in the first instance. Members agreed that the best way forward is to clearly establish the boundary of Council’s land before marking the ground and before contacting Sgr Chiappini further.
Goudhurst in Bloom 2010. Less than 20 entry forms for this year’s competition have been received.
Kilndown Quarry Centre. Minute 095/10. Chairman Amenities Committee met Richard Crumpling and Lynda Shepherd informally at the Quarry Centre on 25 June. The objective was for him to understand some of the history of the Quarry Centre as well as some of the current activities of the management trust relating to requests to Council for maintenance grant funding. As a result of that meeting Chairman Amenities Committee is calling a meeting of his committee on 13 July 2010 to consider several major points around the ownership of the building, the make up of the Quarry Centre Trust and the general governance. Amenities Committee will bring recommendations to Council following that meeting.
Dog Fouling. There have been complaints from the public about an increase in dog fouling in the Glebe Field in the area of the Church Room. TWBC Dog Warden has agreed to put up some new ‘No dog fouling’ notices at the three PROW entrances to the Glebe Field, but it is not possible to enforce legislation as the field is private property (Diocese of Canterbury).
Litter Bins and Street Cleansing. In an e-mail on 30 June, Cory Environmental invited all TWBC Parishes to contact them to take out contracts for litter bin emptying. However, Goudhurst only has litter bins on public land so they are covered by TWBC’s contract with Cory.
Cllr Ed Bates
04.06.10
Minutes of a Meeting held in The Jessel Room on Tuesday 01 June 2010 at 7.30 p.m.
PRESENT: Cllrs Bates (Acting Chairman), Boniface, Mrs Edmonston, Kirkby, Mrs Stafford and Ward.
APOLOGIES: There were no apologies.
DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: There were no declarations of interest.
Fegan Plaque Unveiling Ceremony. Plans for the unveiling of the first Parish historic plaque on Tuesday 15th June are advanced. The Mayor and Mayoress of Tunbridge Wells have accepted our invitation to unveil the plaque, and invitations have gone out. We anticipate about forty Old Fegan Boys and a total of about ninety people attending. The plaque is due to be delivered to site on Friday 12th [later brought forward to 8th June]. James Carmichael, Governor of HMPS Blantyre House, has kindly agreed to arrange the installation of the “lectern” at a site within the prison but outside the perimeter fence agreed with Cllrs Mrs. Stafford and Bates. GPC asked to approve payment of £622.5 to Leander Architectural for the manufacture of the plaque. Gifts totalling £120 have been received from residents of Curtisden Green to whom the Clerk has written thanking for their generosity. The ceremony will be followed by refreshments in the barn opposite hosted by Cllr Bates.
Heritage Plaque Trail. The following people with notes of worthy achievements were suggested by Cllr Mrs Stafford to add to the list of people and places already kindly supplied by Gill Joye of Goudhurst Local History Society: Alfred Tiffin, Sir Charles Jessel and Betty, Lady Jessel, Sir George Jessel, and Sir Charles James Jessel MC.
Councillors agreed that recent significant history should not be excluded such as the Tour de France Cycle Race, King of the Mountains stage finishing at the top of Goudhurst Hill (High Street). It was also agreed that events as well as persons could make worthy plaques.
It was agreed that Cllr Bates will approach the History Society to ask for their further help and liaison researching details of the whole list, with a view to producing a beauty parade from which the initial tranche of plaques will be chosen at the July Amenity Committee meeting. Mr Alan Legg, TWBC Principal Design and Heritage Officer, will be invited to the July meeting. It was further suggested that a meeting of the History Society might be a suitable venue to produce the final proposed list of tributes.
Installation of Plants in Goudhurst Pond. Mid Kent Fisheries were due to install plants in mid May. The new pond fountain is of a different type than ordered. The water plume is now uneven possibly partially blocked and when the pond level drops, falling water lands on the plastic fountain base, changing the appearance and sound. Cllr Mrs. Stafford agreed to ask Mid Kent Water for details of plants and installation date, whether a more plumed fountain nozzle is available and what can be done about the splash on the base of the fountain.
War Memorial Maintenance. Stone Mason Mr Howard has been asked to carry out the biennial inspection.
The Plain, Triangle of Land next to La Zia Maria. Minute 010/10. GPC Planning Committee has studied the official Land Registry map and is satisfied that it shows the boundary clearly. It was agreed that the Clerk and Cllrs Bates, Roberts and Rolington (as available) should meet with the owner of La Zia Maria and establish acceptance of the official boundary. It is anticipated that at this meeting the boundary would be marked with suitable spray paint as a temporary measure and photographed. Subsequently, it is proposed to install granite sets flush with the ground so as not to hinder foot traffic or grass cutting. GPC is asked to approve.
Goudhurst in Bloom. Cllr Mrs Edmonston has the organisation of this in hand, with entry forms available in Goudhurst at Weeks, the Bakers and Sizzlers, and in Kilndown at the Quarry Centre Saturday Shop.
Kilndown Quarry Centre. Re the request for financial assistance with repainting costs, councillors continue to await documentation for works and Quarry Centre Committee meetings in line with policy requirements prior to being able to consider this request. Cllr Ward confirmed that repainting work had started. [Post meeting: Mr Richard Crumpling has advised that funding is no longer requested.] Cllr Roberts has volunteered to temporary membership of the Quarry Centre Committee until the current vacancy is filled.
Kilndown bus shelter and repainting of Telephone Kiosk. There is no progress to report.
Inventory of Dog Fouling Signs. Cllr Boniface has produced an inventory of 25 dog fouling signs noting their condition. Cllr Mrs. Stafford is to check for signs in North Road area and Cllr Mrs Edmonston in Lurkins Rise area.
New Finger Post and 30mph sign on The Plain. Cllr. John Ward is to attend a meeting with Highways Services on 2nd June, where he will challenge the need for the 30mph repeater sign. If they should claim the sign to be a legal necessity Cllrs Ward and Kirkby agreed to check measurements to nearest other speed signs.
Village Green application: Tattlebury Corner. In line with Clerk’s suggestion, it was agreed that Clerk asks Kent Highways to either transfer ownership to GPC or allow GPC to register it as a Village Green under Highways’ ownership.
Village Green application: Glebe Field. In line with Clerk’s suggestion, it was agreed that Clerk applies under the Commons Act 2006, s 15(1), on the basis of the use of this Diocesan land by the residents of the parish for sports and pastimes can be proven for at least the past 20 years. (This applies to the Glebe Field along Church Road, not the area south of the vicarage along Maypole Lane.)
Reimbursement of Expenditure. GPC is asked to approve the following expenses incurred by Cllr Mrs Stafford:
Casual Labour: War Memorial Garden by Mrs Hogben. 1hr 13.05.10 £10.00
Plants for Water Trough on The Plain. Bumbles. 20.05.10 £24.00
Plants for Water Trough on The Plain. Orchard Farm. 22.05.10 £10.50
Kent Messenger Local News Column Reporter. Cllr Mrs Stafford advised that the Kent Messenger Newspaper Group is looking for someone to report local coming events. Cllr Boniface offered to seek a volunteer.
Date of Next Meeting: Tuesday, 27th July. 7.30pm. Jessel Room.
Cllr Ed Bates
02.06.10
GPC 10 May 2010, Item 8aReport to Goudhurst Parish Council of 10th May 2010
Kent Men of the Trees - A fee of £10 is due for GPC’s entry in this year’s Competition. We have been offered corporate membership at £25 p.a. which would cancel the £10 fee. GPC to decide on corporate membership.
Quarry Centre, Kilndown - We have received a request from the Chairman of the Quarry Centre Committee, Mr. Richard Crumpling, for “major support” towards £1,000 estimated for painting the exterior woodwork of the Quarry Centre. It is acknowledged that Mr. Crumpling and Ms Lynda Shepherd voluntarily look after the Quarry Centre to a high degree and arrange local fund raising. It is noted that installation of a front porch to the Quarry Centre to which GPC contributed has not yet been carried out. The Clerk is asked to check with KCC’s Tom Phillips if the KCC Member Community Grant and Local Schemes Grant are available in this financial year as both give grants for running costs and to provide Mr. Crumpling with details. Following consultation with colleagues, it is suggested that the Clerk write to Mr Crumpling explaining that GPC uses public funds which are open to public scrutiny and official audit. The council is obliged to budget ahead and provide written quotes which have to be approved at council meetings open to the public. It is suggested that the Quarry Centre Committee meet to consider written bids and completion dates for this work. A report of that committee along with a Statement of Accounts could be considered at the next Amenities Committee Meeting on 1st June. GPC is asked to approve.
Maintenance of Seats, etc on The Plain and High Street, Goudhurst - A quote for sanding and oiling the three seats, tree seat and picnic table on The Plain plus the Millennium Seat in the High Street will be presented to GPC’s full meeting. GPC to decide whether to approve or to seek more quotes.
Goudhurst in Bloom - It is hoped to attract more entrants this year with a good publicity campaign. A request for a grant of 50% of anticipated expenses for the competition and other floral works will be submitted to TWBC Leisure Services’ South East in Bloom before 8th May.
Scotney Forum - Cllr Boniface has circulated a report of the meeting on 24th April and we are grateful to him for attending. It is evident from the report that Scotney Castle staff are constantly improving and extending facilities for the general public and relating to the local community. However, it should be noted that the National Trust, at head office level, has discontinued the free Scotney Castle Community Pass.
Kent Village of the Year 2010 - An application pack has been received for this year’s competition. It is suggested that Goudhurst and Kilndown could enter separately in the Social & Community category. GPC to decide.
The Plain Triangle of Land next to La Zia Maria - It is six weeks since Mr. Chiappini, owner of La Zia Maria restaurant, asked for time to consult the extent of the curtilage to his property in his deeds. Clerk is asked to remind him that we are anxious to resolve this issue and to fix a meeting date.
Reimbursement of Expenses - GPC is asked to approve reimbursement of sums paid out by Cllr Mrs. Stafford:
Casual Labour at War Memorial paid to Mrs. L. Hogben -
1½ hrs 20.04.10 15.00
1 hr 29.04.10 10.00
Plants and Compost for War Memorial. Bumbles Plant Centre 39.74
Cllr Mrs. Barbara Stafford
02.05.10
held in The Jessel Room on Tuesday, 30th March 2010, at 7.30 p.m.
PRESENT: Cllrs Mrs. Stafford (Chairman), Mrs. Edmonston, Boniface, Kirkby, Ward.
APOLOGIES: Cllr Bates
DECLARATION OF INTEREST: Cllr Mrs Stafford, as the British Legion Poppy Appeal Organizer for Goudhurst, declared a personal interest in the grant to the British Legion’s Poppy Appeal.
Goudhurst Pond - Mid Kent Fisheries had installed a central pump/fountain but a short circuit had halted its function. [Post meeting: A replacement pump and new nozzle had been installed which functioned well. However, the three-tier spray was not as ordered by GPC. Chris Logsdon Snr of MKF was on holiday but discussions would be held on his return. Meanwhile, public reaction to the pump was sought.]
Maintenance of The Plain and War Memorial - The new grass had suffered during the hard winter and needed attention. [Post meeting: Cllr Mrs Stafford met with GPC contractor Graham Pierson and it was agreed to apply a “Seed and Feed” treatment to all grassed areas and to turf worn patches. A quote for materials was awaited and GPC approval would be sought. Cllr Mrs. Stafford would seek advice on the best treatment for the benches, including the Millennium Seat in the High Street, and picnic table.]
The Plain, Triangle of Land next to La Zia Maria - An initial meeting had been held by Cllr Crookall and the Clerk with Mr and Mrs Chiapinni. Mr Chiapinni was to check his deeds concerning the boundary of his property. Subsequent to that meeting, the leaves and grass cuttings were removed, presumably by Mr Chiapinni’s staff.
Heritage Plaques and Fegan Memorial - Research was ongoing.
Kilndown, Bus Shelter Step and Telephone Kiosk - Richard Crumpling had agreed to install ragstone to extend the concrete step for safety reasons. He would treat the flaking paint on the kiosk when weather permitted. We await completion of these tasks.
Goudhurst in Bloom - TWBC has informed that there are funds to support parish councils providing summer floral displays and/or planting. It was agreed that there should be a publicity boost this year for this excellent event and to seek funding. Cllr Mrs. Edmonston will draw up a budget forecast with the Clerk so that a submission may be made before the deadline of 14th May.
Dog Fouling Signs - We have been asked to provide an audit of dog fouling signs throughout the parish. Members of the committee will provide lists before the next committee meeting.
Honorary Tree Warden - This position is vacant following the death of Lord Cornwallis who provided much practical advice on trees in the parish. We are very pleased that Mr David Edwards has agreed to reprise this rôle which he had fulfilled some years ago when his arboreal knowledge proved invaluable. GPC is asked to approve and Clerk is asked to write to Mr Edwards.
Goudhurst Tidy Up - “Keep Goudhurst Tidy 2010” was very successful with more than sixty volunteers parish-wide. It was encouraging that people new to the area volunteered their help. Malcolm and Carol Davies organized the Curtisden Green area, Roger Blackwell organized Kilndown and Cllr Mrs Barbara Stafford, the overall Organizer, was responsible for Goudhurst. Over one tonne and a quarter of rubbish was bagged up. This was collected by TWBC’s Cleaner Borough fly-tipping squad who also provided sacks, gloves, grabbers, high-viz vests and road signs. The Clerk is asked to write to John Saunders to thank him for their continued support and cooperation. GPC has written to Gary Stevenson at TWBC to protest the possibility that the fly-tipping squad may be disbanded and its tasks out-sourced to Cory. GPC feels that the loss of rapid response and local knowledge of rural areas would have a serious impact on fly-tipping but a negligible effect on financial savings.
British Legion Poppy Appeal 2010 - The committee recommended a continuation of the donations of £25.00 each for poppy wreaths on Remembrance Sunday to Goudhurst and Kilndown Poppy Appeals. GPC is asked to confirm.
Church Room Play Area Committee - Cllr Kirkby passed on the thanks of the Play Group for GPC’s grant towards the refurbishment of their meeting place.
Finger Post on The Plain - Cllr Ward reported that KCC Highways was progressing plans for a traditional directional finger post on The Plain. It was recalled that any design must be approved by GPC and Alan Legg, TWBC Principal Design and Heritage Officer, and the question of the brown tourist signs resolved.
Village Greens - Noted with disappointment that there was no progress on applications for Village Green status for Tattlebury Corner and the Glebe Field. Clerk is asked to follow up.
Reimbursement of Expenses - GPC is asked to approve reimbursement of £35.00 to Cllr Mrs. Stafford paid out to Mrs L Hogben on 1.04.10 for work on the Goudhurst War Memorial garden.
Post Meeting
Goudhurst Post Office - The post office closed for two weeks due to a car accident by the temporary postmistress. A new replacement has been found and the post office should reopen on 13th April.
Goudhurst Village Hall - The Parish Hall Committee has had heavy maintenance costs and has asked for a grant of £750 in addition to GPC’s discretionary maintenance grant of £1750 for 2010/11, to be paid this month. See attached letter from the Treasurer of the Parish Hall Committee. Cllr Crookall has asked for details of village hall fundraising efforts and income. GPC to consider.
Goudhurst Parish Hall Committee. Letter of 11 April received asking if they may affix a small (6” x 4” approx) Assembly Point green notice to the back of the Plain notice board. This is a requirement under their Hallmark Two which they recently passed ‘with flying colours’.
Cllr Mrs Barbara Stafford
09.04.10
Report to Goudhurst Parish Council of 8th March 2010
Kilndown Bus Shelter and Telephone Kiosk. Richard Crumpling has given the Clerk an undertaking to finish the bus shelter step and to repair broken windows of the telephone kiosk by the end of March. He has agreed to make good the wrinkled paint on the telephone kiosk. The kiosk paint work should wait until the weather is warm and dry.
Goudhurst Pond Overflow. During the recent heavy rain a close watch has been kept on the pond level and the overflow pipe. GPC is very grateful to the Pond Warden, Peter Friend, and to Cllr Ed Bates for regularly clearing the pipe of debris.
Goudhurst Pond Maintenance. Mid Kent Fisheries have added barley straw, in the form of three long sausages (nets), and Siltex to the pond. It is hoped to install the central fountain pump on 3rd March. Mid Kent Fisheries/South East Water have invoiced GPC for:
Siltex (1 ton) £148.00
Delivery 75.00
Netting for straw 17.36
1 x Pump + Vulkan 43 nozzle 850.00
Application of Siltex, straw, pump 400.00
Total: 1490.36
Should weather conditions delay installation of the pump, GPC is asked to approve payment while withholding dispatch of the cheque until the work has been satisfactorily carried out. The amounts charged are well within budget and GPC is asked to approve payment.
Unauthorised Post at The Plain. Kent Highways has installed a 30 mph post on The Plain without permission or consultation. Cllrs Mrs. Stafford and Ward are cooperating in resolving the matter.
Cllr Mrs. Barbara Stafford
26.02.10
Minutes of a meeting held in The Jessel Room on Tuesday, 26th January 2010
Present: Cllrs Mrs Stafford (Chairman), Mrs Edmonston, Bates, Boniface, Kirkby and Ward. Also: Mr Alan Legg (for first three items), Mrs G Joye (for first two items).
Heritage Plaques - Mr Alan Legg, TWBC Principal Design and Heritage Officer, and Mrs Gill Joye, Archivist of Goudhurst & Kilndown Local History Society, took part in an appraisal of the project to identify parish-wide sites of buildings which are interesting due to important people having lived or worked there or interesting due to important architecture or events. It was hoped TWBC would fund the provision and installation of plaques but Mr Legg emphasized that funding was scarce and he would know more after the Cabinet Budget meeting on 04 February. Mr Legg said TWBC Conservation Officer, John Kaye, would be involved in Consent agreements for Listed buildings and when agreements and consents had been achieved, a formal letter of agreement from TWBC to each individual site owner would be needed. It was agreed GPC would research historical data and, when sites had been approved, seek permission from owners. Goudhurst Parish Council would produce and fund the accompanying leaflet. Design and colour of plaques would have to be decided. Mrs Joye undertook to do further research but would also welcome ideas from all sources. Post-meeting: Mr Legg informed Council that each plaque would cost approximately £200, depending on amount of lettering.
Fegan Memorial - Cllrs Mrs Stafford and Bates are working on the wording and presentation of this memorial. Mrs Joye offered to research the cost of a pedestal sign recently erected in Tunbridge Wells.
Conservation Area Appraisal - Fingerpost on The Plain - This item is now with the Highways Committee but it was appropriate to take advantage of Mr Legg’s presence to brief him on progress. Cllr Ward said Kent Highways Service had no objection to providing a traditional white and black sign for seven destinations on The Plain but no progress had been made on consideration of the brown tourist signs which are currently on a modern pole on The Plain. It was agreed to keep Mr Legg informed of proposals.
Goudhurst Pond Maintenance - An agreement had been drawn up with Mid Kent Fisheries and Mr Chris Logsdon as agreed at last month’s parish council meeting. Post-meeting: Mr. Logsdon advised that he planned to remove the existing barley straw and apply the Siltex treatment in the first week of February, subject to weather conditions. Mr Logsdon also informed that he had negotiated a cost of a maximum of £850 + VAT for the water pump, jet and cabling. Mr. Alan Rumens of Upper Crowbourne has once again very kindly donated fresh barley straw. Clerk is asked to write a letter of thanks.
Leaves on Goudhurst Pond Triangle Area - Following correspondence between Cllr Crookall and Sgr Chiappini, owner of La Zia Maria restaurant, it has been agreed that the Clerk will meet with Sgr Chiappini to reaffirm the dividing line between GPC and La Zia Maria property, to indicate the trees bordering La Zia Maria property which belong to the Village Hall and to reiterate Cllr Crookall’s request in his letter of 11 December 2009 that La Zia Maria remove the leaves and grass cuttings which have been deposited on GPC land. This will be a repeat of a previous meeting and it is to be hoped that this time Sgr Chiappini and his staff will understand the division of the land. With this aim, the Committee recommends that a line of bricks, fixed with Postcrete and sunk to soil level to allow mowing, be installed along the demarcation. If possible, a quotation will be presented at the council meeting for consideration. GPC is asked to approve.
Kilndown Bus Shelter and Telephone Kiosk - It was noted that when the Clerk spoke to Mr Richard Crumpling on 4th January he had undertaken to finish this work within the next 4 – 6 weeks, i.e. by 15th February. There have been requests from residents to realign the step and the Committee was concerned for GPC’s position re safety. While understanding that the recent weather might delay work, the Committee recommends that the Clerk ask Mr Crumpling for a firm date for completion of the work so that residents may be reassured. GPC asked to approve.
Electricity for Pond Pump and Christmas Lights - GPC is asked to approve a grant to Goudhurst Parish Hall Committee of the budgeted figure of £50 for 2009/10. This is normally done in November so should be paid without further delay.
CCTV Facilities - Grants to The Vine and Goudhurst Parish Hall Committee for electricity and facilities for the CCTV cameras in 2009/10 will be due at the March meeting and the Committee recommends £60 be paid then to each (£120 budgeted). GPC is asked to approve.
Litter Bin Clearance - Cllr Ward reported the litter bin in Beresford Close, Kilndown, had not been emptied. Post-meeting: TWBC has apologised and rectified the matter.
Reimbursement - GPC is asked to approve reimbursement of £10.00 to Cllr Mrs. Stafford paid out for casual labour by Mrs Lynne Hogben in January at the War Memorial garden.
Cllr Mrs. Barbara Stafford
29.01.10
Report to Goudhurst Parish Council of 11th January 2010
Goudhurst Pond Maintenance - A site meeting was held on 5th January between Cllrs Mrs Stafford and Boniface with Chris Logsdon and his team from Mid Kent Fisheries and Paul Bolas, former Chief Scientist at Mid Kent Water. It was agreed that water tests carried out thus far indicated that Siltex would be a suitable treatment to diminish the silt, and that suitable plants, fish and a central pump would improve water quality. Water tests would be carried out regularly as part of the contract with Mid Kent Water. Mr Logsdon recommended a “wide trumpet” nozzle on an Oase pump named Air Flo LM and GPC is asked to confirm, subject to it being in our price range.
Project expenditure of £2,474.00 in 2009/10 has already been approved by Minute 346/09, and Members are asked to note the attached schedule of planned payments showing forecast expenditure of £2,239.00 in 2009/10 and £1,043.00 in 2010/11. Subject to weather conditions, the work will begin in February 2010. The Clerk is to draw up a suitable contract. Cllr Mrs Stafford wished to thank Cllrs Kirkby, Bates and Boniface for their invaluable input. Mr Bolas very kindly advised Cllr Boniface on water testing, attended the site meeting and is very glad to help with further advice if needed. Clerk is asked to write and thank him for his very generous cooperation.
Christmas Lights - The lights on The Plain and High Street brought many compliments and comments that they were glad the lighting was white and traditional. Cllrs Crookall, Bates, Ward, Rolington and Mrs Stafford are to be thanked for installing and removing the lights. Cllr Noakes once again provided the Christmas tree and lights in St Mary’s Churchyard and GPC thanks him for his continued support.
Kilndown Works - It is noted that Mr Richard Crumpling has told the Clerk he will carry out the work on the Bus Shelter Step and Telephone Kiosk in the next four to five weeks.
Goudhurst Village Hall Maintenance Grant - By Minute 265/09 Council had agreed to pay the 2010/11 maintenance grant of £1,750.00 in January 2010 to cover the cost of urgent repairs, The Parish Hall Committee has reported that the need to seek the early payment is now much reduced, but not entirely eliminated, as they have made arrangements to cover the costs by other means. The matter will be held in abeyance unless we have a further request from the Parish Hall Committee.
Reimbursement - GPC is asked to approve the payment of £5.85 to Cllr Mrs. Stafford for refreshments following Pond site meeting as above.
Cllr Mrs. Barbara Stafford
08.01.10
|
AMENITIES COMMITTEE
Report to Goudhurst Parish Council of 9th November 2009
Bedgebury Forest and Pinetum Concerts - A Premises Licence Variation has been applied for. Bedgebury is seeking to move the two evenings from Saturday and Sunday to Friday and Saturday and to increase the ticket capacity from 4,999 to 5,500. On speaking with a TWBC Licencing Officer it emerged that clarification is needed on the permitted numbers per evening and how Bedgebury would cope with the extra traffic. A Representation from GPC will be prepared.
BTCV Kent Heritage Trees Project - We have been asked again this year to promote local support for BTCV’s application to the Heritage Lottery Fund for funds to promote, protect and conserve heritage trees within Kent. They need to demonstrate to the Lottery Fund that there is support for their project. GPC will submit their publicity flyer to the Parish Magazine. We will also complete their questionnaire and send copies to the local school and interested societies.
Cllr Mrs. Barbara Stafford
02.11.09
Minutes of a Meeting held at the Jessel Room on Tuesday, 29 September 2009
Present: Cllrs Mrs Stafford (Chairman), Bates, Boniface, Kirkby, Ward.
Apologies: Cllr Mrs Edmonston.
Goudhurst in Bloom - A very well supported competition this year. The winners were presented with their prizes by GPC Chairman at a reception at the Ex-Servicemen’s Club on 22 September 09.
Dench Cup for Private garden Mrs. Veronica Knight, Hunts Lane, Goudhurst
Hugo Cup for Business premises Ex-Servicemen’s Club, Goudhurst
Jonica Fox Plate for Public houses The Vine Hotel, Goudhurst
Expenses incurred were: Engraving £20. Refreshments and prizes £105.89. GPC is asked to approve payment. Cllr Mrs Edmonston and the Clerk are to be thanked for their hard work to make this competition so successful.
Village Green - It is hoped that Tattlebury Triangle can be granted Village Green status to safeguard its future. A request has been sent to KCC Estates Team Manager seeking approval.
Kent Men of the Trees - Still no news of the result of the 2009 competition but it is known that Mrs Shirley Moorhead, the local judge, paid a second visit to Goudhurst.
Quarry Pond Steps - The wooden slats of the steps down to the Quarry Pond from Church Road have been refurbished by Mr Pete Watkins. GPC is asked to approve payment of £72.00
Kilndown Bus Shelter- New Step - We await the completion of the improvements to the Bus Shelter step
Kilndown Phone Kiosk - Mr Richard Crumpling has been asked to go ahead with repainting the kiosk.
Goudhurst Pond - A number of contractors have visited the Pond to discuss improvement of the water quality and possible disposal of the silt which has built up over many years and talks are continuing. An Addendum to this Report will be circulated before the parish council meeting. Meanwhile, Mr Dave Hill has donated water lilies and Cllr Bates kindly assisted by wading into the pond to install them. The Clerk is asked to write a letter of thanks to Mr Hill.
Lurkins Rise Recreation Ground - It is confirmed that Mr Colin Langridge will cut the hedge for a cost not exceeding £80.00. GPC is asked to approve. The Report on Police and Neighbourhood Watch refers to anti-social behaviour in this area.
Football Field at Beaman Close - It was agreed that legal agreements and costings need to be progressed in the near future. It was agreed that rabbit proofing would be desirable.
Additional Litter Bin at The Plain - Following the raising of this subject at the Annual Parish Meeting, Cllr Kirkby established that The Vine would be agreeable to GPC installing a litter bin on its forecourt provided GPC arranged to empty it. It was decided that this would not be practical and that the two bins on the west side of The Plain are adequate.
Historic Plaques - It was agreed that TWBC’s Alan Legg should be contacted to see how this project would be carried forward.
Town & Country Housing - In spite of many requests the sitting area at Mary Day’s has not been planted up and nettles and brambles are in abundance. The amenity area at Woodside, Kilndown, had been in need of weeding and Cllr Ward will check. The Clerk is asked to write to the Housing Association.
Tate Fencing - Works have been very satisfactorily carried out in Goudhurst – the supports of the Notice Board have been replaced in oak and the bollard at the Millennium Seat in the High Street has been replaced. Cllr Boniface has kindly offered to apply the fluorescent strip of paint to the bollards to alert motorists and pedestrians of their existence.
Citizens’ Advice Bureau, Cranbrook - We have received a letter of thanks for our annual grant along with a chart of usage of services. From a list of 21 Wards, Goudhurst & Lamberhurst parishioners the 4th lowest users.
Emergency Planning for Kent - Cllrs Mrs Stafford, Nichol, Rolington and the Clerk attended a Training Day at Wateringbury on 03 October 09. Unfortunately the training was not aimed at parish councils who do not have a defined rôle in the complex and wide-spread scheme of emergency planning for statutory authorities. The main points were that one should not “self-deploy” but wait for trained personnel to arrive and that TWBC would look after any homeless. Knowledge of the nearest kettle and tea pot would also be useful. The Clerk has arranged for a Community Plan to be sent to GPC and on examination of that, we will decide if we wish an Emergency Planning Officer to visit.
Sustainability - TWBC Overview and Scrutiny Department has asked GPC to complete the attached questionnaire on how Goudhurst is tackling sustainability and climate change and how the borough council could support our efforts. Draft reply attached for comment at Council.
Quarry Centre Grant - Post-Committee Meeting, a request for a grant towards the porch at the Quarry Centre has been received from Mr Richard Crumpling, Chairman of that Committee. He asks for £475 which is half of the cost. In January the Chairman of the Amenities Committee offered to apply for a grant for the porch from the KCC Member Community and Local Schemes Grants but this was not taken up by the Quarry Centre. We have budgeted £200 for 2009/10 for the Quarry Centre and GPC is asked to agree that this sum be granted for the porch.
Damaged Seat - Our Pond Warden, Peter Friend, has reported a damaged arm rest on the Frank Johnson Memorial Seat on The Plain. It is not yet clear whether it was vandalism or accident. Mr. Andy Coleman, who supplied the seat, has been asked to estimate the cost of repair. GPC is asked to approve a quote which it is hoped to obtain for the council meeting.
Expenses - GPC is asked to approve following expenses for Cllr Mrs. Stafford:
Casual Labour 1½ hours 24.09.09 War Memorial and Rear of Bus Shelter £15.00
1½ hours 01.10.09 War Memorial £15.00
Cllr Mrs. Barbara Stafford
04.10.09
AMENITIES COMMITTEEReport to Goudhurst Parish Council of 14th September 2009
Goudhurst Pond and Pump - The pump is showing signs of age and will need replacing soon. Discussions are being held with a number of contractors to seek a solution of this and other pond problems and the Committee will consider the matter at its next meeting.
Kilndown Bus Shelter Step - The Committee met on site with Richard Crumpling who has kindly offered to install sandstones to solve the problem for no charge. It is anticipated that this will be accepted.
Lurkins Rise Hedge - Colin Langridge has been asked to cut the hedge and his quote is awaited.
Citizens’ Advice Bureau (CAB) - The annual grant is due. £300 is in the budget and GPC is asked to approve payment.
Kilndown Bus Shelter Area - The annual grant for out-of-pocket expenses for the maintenance of the area by Eric Skinner and Richard Crumpling is due and GPC is asked to approve payment of £40.
Payments -
B.Harrison-Stafford
Casual Labour, Bus Shelter Mrs Hogben 04.08.09 5.00
Casual Labour, War Memorial Mrs Hogben 18.08.09 10.00
Casual Labour, War Memorial Mrs Hogben 25.08.09 5.00
Bedgebury Car Parking 7.50
Cllr. Mrs. Barbara Stafford
05.09.09
Report for Goudhurst Parish Council of 13 July 2009
Historic Plaques - A planned meeting with Brian Hayward, Senior Heritage Officer at TWBC was curtailed due to his illness. A further meeting is planned.
Maintenance - Following email consultations with Committee members, the following are proposed:
Replacement of demolished bollard protecting Millennium Seat, High Street. Tate Fencing has quoted £138.00 + VAT.
Replacement in oak of corroded iron supports for main Notice Board on The Plain. Note green oak is recommended which may split due to drying process but this should not affect the structural strength or longevity. Posts to match those on the History Board. Tate Fencing has quoted £352.00 + VAT. Tate Fencing is known to the parish council and has done good work for us in the past. GPC is asked to approve above two quotes.
Repainting/refurbishment of War Memorial gates (£60.00), Litter Bins on The Plain (£110.00), Picket Fence behind Bus Shelter (£220.00) by Mr. Ross Galloway is now completed. Mr. Galloway has done an excellent job. GPC is asked to pay above amounts which had been agreed previously and Clerk is asked to write to Mr. Galloway expressing our appreciation of his work.
The Pond on The Plain needed urgent attention to deal with algae due to the hot weather. Hawkhurst Fish Farm supplied socks of barley straw. Grateful thanks are due to our Pond Warden, Romilly Wallis Hosken, and Cllrs Bates and Crookall who collected and installed the straw. GPC is asked to approve in retrospect payment of up to £200.00 + VAT to Hawkhurst Fish Farm.
Kilndown Bus Shelter – it had been agreed that the new step was too narrow. The Clerk had met with Richard Crumpling who has suggested doubling the depth, putting down grey “No.1” crushed stone with sandstone edging for the access way. We await his quote and will discuss at next Amenities meeting.
Scotney Castle - Cllr Boniface attended the latest Scotney Castle Community Forum on 18 June and a report is attached. Connection with surrounding communities is the active theme with a Discovery Room available for community activities, establishment of walking routes between Lamberhurst, Kilndown, Goudhurst and Scotney, and a possible Open Evening for local residents. Interviews are being recorded with people with past connections to Scotney or Christopher and Betty Hussey. This is an active and forward-looking Forum and we are grateful to Cllr Boniface for his attendance.
Goudhurst Tennis Club - A request for grant funding has been received to contribute to the cost of resurfacing the two tennis courts and other repairs. It is not GPC’s policy to grant public money to local organizations which should be self-supporting and we must therefore refuse this request. The Tennis Club has, however, described its coaching of the young people of the primary school and local children in general. It is suggested that if the club needed a grant for coaching or other services directly linked to the youth of this parish, a request would be considered in a sympathetic light.
Bedgebury Forest and Pinetum
- Cllr Mrs. Stafford chaired the latest meeting between Bedgebury Director, David Hiscock, and neighbouring residents on 15th June. Mr. Hiscock described his financial constraints with £1.2m costs against £850,000 income. He had no plans to increase the number of visitors to Bedgebury. The User Group which was tasked to educate users (walkers, cyclists, horse riders, dog walkers) to respect each others’ safety had not met in recent months and their Code of Conduct had not appeared. There was discussion of the aggressive huskies dog teams and Mr. Hiscock undertook to identify ways of improving awareness by their drivers of these concerns. Traffic dangers of the B2079 were discussed along with the two planning applications to improve the main car park and retain an overflow car park at the Forest’s entrance. Next meeting on 5th October 2009.
- Bedgebury’s latest visitor experience is a Green Gym under the auspices of BTCV. Cllr Boniface attended the opening and subsequent practical session and will prepare a report.
Payments - GPC is asked to approve reimbursement of Cllr Mrs. Stafford’s disbursements:
18, 23 and 30 June 09: Mrs Lynne Hogben Casual Labour, War Memorial 2 hours £20.00
22 June 09: Bucket, Goudhurst Pond. Travis Perkins, Cranbrook £2.59
Cllr Mrs. Barbara Stafford
06.07.09
MINUTES OF A MEETING OF THE AMENITIES COMMITTEE
held in The Jessel Room on Tuesday, 26th May 2009, at 7.30 p.m.
PRESENT: Cllrs Mrs. Stafford (Chairman), Mrs. Edmonston, Boniface, Kirkby, Ward.
Mrs. Gill Joye, Archivist, Goudhurst & Kilndown Local History Society for first item.
Apologies - Cllr Bates.
Historic Plaques - Mrs. Joye confirmed that she is willing to cooperate with historical research and would introduce the scheme to the Society at its next meeting. Meanwhile she had already found possible candidates for plaques. TWBC’s Senior Heritage Officer, Mr Brian Hayward, who had helped Cranbrook and Hawkhurst with their plaque schemes, had confirmed he would be very willing to be involved and a meeting between him, Mrs Joye and Amenities would be arranged. For the Fegan plaque, we await suggested wording from the Fegan Society.
Hop Pickers’ Line Meeting - Cllr Boniface briefed the meeting. KCC’s David Smith had progressed two miles of the Hawkhurst line most of which had not been developed post-railway. A link between Hawkhurst and Goudhurst could be possible for a short distance but more research was needed.
Quarry Pond - Cllr Bates and David Denton will meet shortly to review work needed.
Town & Country Housing - Cllr Mrs Edmonston reported complaints that ground maintenance had not been carried out. A site visit by Amenities will be held.
Goudhurst in Bloom - Cllr Mrs Edmonston reported that entries are coming in.
Litter Bin - Following Sir Derek Day’s request at the Annual Parish Meeting that an additional litter bin be installed on the west side of The Plain between the Ex-Servicemen’s Club and The Vine, it was recommended that no action be taken. There is a bin regularly used to the left of the entrance to the Club and members did not think TWBC would countenance another so close to it. There is an additional bin for litter in the front garden of the Club. GPC is asked to consider whether to ask The Vine to install a bin in their forecourt. Clerk is asked to write to Sir Derek.
Textile Bank - A request had been received from the Kent Air Ambulance Trust seeking a venue for a Textile Bank. The Committee considered the present recycling area, which is on TWBC’s land, was fully committed. We relied on larger villages for other types of recycling, i.e. textiles. Clerk is asked to reply.
Village Green Meeting - Cllr Boniface and the Clerk attended a one-day KCC Seminar at County Hall. Cllr Boniface said they were briefed on the background to Common Land and the 2006 Act to encourage new claims which is being piloted in Kent. The owner of any piece of land could request its registration as a Village Green. GPC to consider asking KCC Highways to register the land of Tattlebury Triangle as a Village Green to safeguard its future.
Litter - It is hoped Bedgebury Forest staff will carry out a litter pick of the B2079 and Park Lane following the two concerts on 6th and 7th June. Cllr Mrs Stafford has supplied GPC’s Risk Assessment and offered to help if they needed TWBC’s road signs.
Kent Men of the Trees Competition 2009 - We have been invited to enter this competition which judges the quality of village trees. GPC’s Tree Warden, Lord Cornwallis, is in favour of our entering. He is still concerned over the number of trees on the Millennium Green and the dead trees hanging over Maypole Lane which could loose GPC points in the competition. GPC to decide on action.
Maintenance Grant - The Committee reviewed the budgeted grant to Goudhurst Parish Hall Committee for maintenance of the Village Hall and asks GPC to pay the amount of £1,750.
Kilndown Phone Kiosk - The Committee recommended not to progress the search for uses of the Kiosk. To put it to constant use would mean easing of the door opening which could result in increased danger of vandalism, remembering the reason for retaining the red box was its heritage value.
Kilndown Bus Shelter - Concerns were expressed that the new step was not deep enough although no complaints had been received. Cllr Boniface to check and report.
Goudhurst Pond Maintenance - A specification would be drawn up for the drainage and cleaning of the pond and lists of possible contractors and grant funding providers compiled.
Dog Fouling - Cllr Kirkby noted the constant dog fouling in central Goudhurst.
BTCV (British Trust for Conservation Volunteers) - A request for donations of £100 each for the Kent Tree Warden Scheme and the Kent Pond Warden Scheme has been received. In December 2007 we sent a grant for £100 to the Pond Warden Scheme but declined to contribute to the Tree Warden Scheme as our Tree Warden did not avail himself of their services. We may well be asking BTCV for advice on the treatment for the Goudhurst Pond and therefore recommend paying a grant of £100 for the Kent Pond Warden Scheme. There is £200 in the current budget. GPC is asked to approve.
Payments - GPC asked to approve reimbursement of following:
To Cllr Mrs. Stafford:
07.05.09 Casual Labour, War Memorial 1½hours £15.00
12.05.09 Casual Labour, War Memorial ½hour 5.00
16.05.09 Staplehurst Nurseries. Plants for War Memorial 11.00
16.05.09 Bumbles Plant Centre. Plants for Water Trough 35.91
20.05.09 Notcutts Garden Centre. Plants for Water Trough 5.39
To Cllr Boniface:
Burgess Stores. Photocopies re Hop Pickers’ Line £3.00
Cllr Mrs Barbara Stafford
28.05.09
Report for Goudhurst Parish Council of 11 May 2009
Barley Straw - Mr Alan Rumens has very kindly donated a bale of barley straw for Goudhurst Pond on The Plain and the Clerk is asked to thank him for this annual generosity. Thanks also to Cllr Bates, and his son and boat, and to Cllr Nichol who removed the old bale and installed the new. Our Pond Guardian, Mr Peter Friend, will attempt to dispose of the old bale when it has drained of water.
Water Lillies - Mrs Muriel Parker has kindly donated 3 water lilies for Goudhurst Pond and Cllr Bates has installed them. So far they are doing well. Clerk is asked to thank Mrs Parker.
The Plain Maintenance - Approval in retrospect is sought for the engagement of Mr Ross Galloway to renovate the wooden furniture. His availability and good weather are the justifications for acting between meetings. (The W.I. has restored their seat independently). Mr Galloway’s work so far is excellent, in particular the restoration of the picnic table and benches. GPC is asked to approve Mr. Galloway’s engagement and payment for 2 benches, the circular tree seat, the picnic table for the sum of £280.00. He has yet to restore the two notice boards and the Millennium seat outside the Newsagents.
Future Maintenance Work - Mr Galloway has been asked to quote for:
repaint in white with a band of black bitumen at base of all posts on The Plain £380.00
repaint in black and lemon 3 litter bins £110.00
repaint the gates to the War Memorial £60.00
repaint in white the fence to the rear of the bus shelter £220.00
fix loose shingles on the North Road bus shelter roof, say £60.00
These prices are inclusive of materials, and GPC is asked to agree this expenditure.
Litter Bin - There was a request made at the Annual Parish Meeting in Goudhurst for a litter bin in the area between the Ex-Servicemen’s Club and The Vine. This will be followed up.
Remembrance Day Wreaths - It is the time of year for the British Legion to order wreaths. Last year for the first time GPC laid wreaths in Goudhurst and Kilndown on Remembrance Day and this gesture was warmly received by the public. GPC is asked to approve donations of £25.00 each to Goudhurst and Kilndown Poppy Appeals.
Quarry Pond, Kilndown - Mr David Denton, who does invaluable volunteer work in maintaining this important central area of Kilndown, needs help with clearing the pond of Cape pondweed. Cllr Bates has very kindly agreed to help by using his boat. Mr Denton has also signalled that the steps leading down from Church Road to the pond need attention, and a site visit will be carried out.
Hop Pickers’ Line. The next meeting is to be held on 13 May 2009 in the Jessel Room. Cllr David Boniface will represent GPC.
Bedgebury Concerts 2009. To note a letter from Mr Peter d’Aguilar, Marketing Officer of Bedgebury Forest dated 23 April (attached) giving details of the arrangements for the concerts on 06 and 07 June.
Cllr Mrs Barbara Stafford
30.04.09
Clerk to the Parish Council
Anthony Farnfield MBE
clerk@goudhurst.co.uk
www.goudhurst.co.uk
copyright © 2010 Goudhurst Parish Council