GOUDHURST PARISH COUNCIL
Local Government for Goudhurst and Kilndown
AMENITIES COMMITTEE
Report to Council on 14 November 2011
The Vine Hotel, Goudhurst. Minute 280/11. The Clerk has reported both the matter of the alleged out of hours selling of alcohol and the health risks associated with dogs being kept in a yard adjacent to the hotel’s kitchen.
Litter Bins and Dog Fouling in the Lurkins Rise and Bankfield Way, Goudhurst. Minute 283/11. The Clerk has applied to TWBC for two additional litter bins to be provided.
La Zia Maria – position of Council’s curtilage on land at the south west corner of Goudhurst Pond.
Minute 286/11. KCC Legal Department (file LS/A/15467/433) has agreed that Council should go ahead and mark the boundary.
The Plain – Broken Fencing Rail. Minute 288/11. The Clerk awaits advice from TWBC as to the name of the contractor who installed the fencing rail.
Christmas lights. Minute 281/11. TWBC has asked Parishes to bid for grant funding but have warned that this might be the last year they can offer support.
Kent Men of the Trees 2011 Competition. Goudhurst has received a prize of a £15.00 voucher to purchase a tree of our choice and we have been rated as one of the 10 best Parishes in Kent for the quality of our trees.
Goudhurst War Memorial. Minute 098/11. Mr Howard has inspected the War Memorial. Having repaired some small areas which required re-pointing he has declared the Memorial to be sound and in good condition. The cost is £60.00.
Chequer Field Maintenance. Agrifactors has visited and fertilised the football pitch area at a cost of £375.00 + VAT
Chequer Field Security. Clerk has fitted combination locks to the pedestrian gates on the east and south boundaries as required in the agreement with adjoining landowners.
Chequer Field Pavilion – Replacement Electric timer. Minute 290/11. B&K plan to carry out the work before the end of November 2011.
Amenities Committee
07 Nov 11
Minutes of a Meeting held on 27 September 2011 at The Jessel Room
Present: Cllrs Boniface (Chairman), Wickham and Kirkby.
Apologies: Cllr Harris
Declarations of interest: Cllr Kirkby declared a personal interest relating to the Chequer Field pavilion as an electrical contractor regarding item 12. Cllr Wickham declared a personal interest relating to the item on weed control at Chequer Field.
The Vine. Following complaints from residents living close to The Vine, of opening later than permitted in the licence, anti-social car parking by customers, noise and disturbances from customers leaving in the early hours, further information had been obtained. The police had reported that they could act against car parking only when obstruction was caused to a resident’s intended journey. This meant that they were unlikely to be able to take action late at night except on very rare occasions. Examination of the licence confirmed that The Vine is allowed to sell alcohol until only midnight on Sunday to Thursday and until 1 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday and recorded music can be played until 1 a.m. every day. A local resident has reported that he had seen alcohol sold and recorded music played at 2.15 a.m. on 16th/17th September in contravention of the terms of the licence. There have been noise complaints from other local residents. It was believed that a review of the licence could be requested by submission of complaints to TWBC. As Council is mindful of the generosity of The Vine in hosting the most useful of the CCTV cameras it was decided not to recommend a GPC-led move against The Vine at this stage, but rather to support local residents with information and advice to improve their effectiveness in making complaints.
TWBC Competition for Members of the Public. This is encouraging the submission of I.T. based project ideas that would help local people to help one another or to make it easier to report issues to the Council. It was thought that a proposal to set up a community e-mail would be a good candidate. However, as no-one had time to develop such a project in time for the 16th October deadline; it was decided to reconsider community e-mail at a future meeting.
Christmas Lights. The committee considered proposals for the replacement of old equipment. There is a grant of £400 for upgrading the lights that are draped around the Horse Chestnut tree on the Plain with low voltage, low energy lights. It was decided to invite a discussion at the next full GPC with a viewing of alternative designs.
Glebe Field. The report of the 06 September meeting with Diocese was reviewed. It was noted that the diocese did not want to sell the field but wished to let it for grazing so as to retain an interest for possible development in the long term. The point was raised that if the diocese were to sell, it may well be advised to sell at public auction so as to maximize its return. This could cause the price to be too high for GPC. The desirability of the combination of ownership by GPC and village green status was considered.
Since the meeting it was accepted that the Diocese took on all liabilities relating to the field and that GPC was writing to them to confirm its understanding of this. The committee was unclear where liabilities lay for accidents caused by failure of the goalposts which were the property of GPC.
Following a query from Cllr Boniface it had been noted that the chain used to stop vehicles driving on to the Field was broken and numerous local residents were parking on the Field overnight. In response to the query a church warden had stated that the chain mounting had been broken for about two years but the chain had been effective left hooked but not fixed on to the broken mounting. Six months ago residents had started to take advantage of this to park on the Field. The Diocese had been informed in 2010 and had stated that it intended installing a gate. This parking was thought to be a fairly serious development which could lead to the degeneration of the Field eventually reducing its value for leisure and pastimes. It was decided that members of the Amenities committee would informally repair the chain and report to the Churchwardens as soon as it was done as it would mean that they would have to resume use of their keys for unlocking.
Goudhurst in Bloom 2011. Prize giving arrangements by Cllr Mrs Russell were as follows: meet at The Goudhurst Club at 6.30 for 7pm. on Thursday 29th September. To agree expenses of £206.91 for the provision of refreshments, flowers and engraving the cups.
Litter and dog fouling. A letter from a local resident was considered. It made a strong case for two new litter bins to be installed near two benches where youngsters congregated and left litter. Recommended that GPC approach TWBC to make the case for these two new bins.
Goudhurst War Memorial Gardens and at the Horse Trough. Future maintenance arrangements. Council needs to appoint a new gardener. Whoever does the Club garden and the British Legion were both thought to be possible lines to pursue. (subsequent to the meeting Cllr Wickham has spoken to Mr Paul Landon who maintains the Goudhurst Social Club gardens. Mr Landon is keen to take on the War Memorial garden maintenance). (additionally, Mr Dennis Knight has agreed to take on the planting at the water trough at The Plain).
Goudhurst Church Room Play Area. New surface ‘Teddy Bears Picnic Party’ invitation for 4pm on Friday 14th October at the playground Back Lane.
Boundary Dispute, The Plain, Goudhurst. LS/A/15467/433. KCC Legal wrote in May and again in August 2011 to La Zia Maria. Response awaited. Council to agree on action to be taken.
Goudhurst Football Pavilion. Water Heater timer plus manual booster. It was decided to recommend whichever of the two quotes was the cheapest. Recommendation to Council is to accept quote of £250 + VAT from B & K Electrical Contractors.
Poppy Appeal. Purchase of wreaths for Kilndown and Goudhurst. Cost of two at £25 each already approved.
Heritage Trail. To receive a progress report from the Chairman of the Amenities Committee. D Boniface reported that progress was held up until he had time to produce a mock-up of the leaflet.
Lighting Goudhurst Beacon. It was decided to recommend that the beacon be lit in June 2012 to mark the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.
Chequer Field: Quote for weed control on the access path at the west end. Decided to recommend acceptance of quote of £150.00 from Complete Weed Control.
Broken rail at the Plain. It was reported that one of the steel tubes that formed the railings around the Plain was lying on the ground. It was decided to transfer it with the connection piece into the Jessel Room for safety. Refitting it into its place in the wooden posts cannot be carried out until an additional component is purchased as the pole is, in effect, too short. It was noted that a hardwood part of the gate at the East end of the church yard is also in the Jessel Room awaiting reinstallation.
Cllr David Boniface
28 Sep 11
Minutes of a Meeting held in The Jessel Room on Tuesday, 31 May 2011 at 7.30 p.m.
Present: Cllrs Mrs. Stafford (Chairman), Boniface, Kirkby, Mrs. Russell, Wickham. Mrs. Gill Joye, Chairman and 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: None
Declarations of Interest: There were no declarations of interest.
Heritage Plaques/Trail - The Committee recommends that plaques are not suitable for Goudhurst parish (explained in the Minutes of 19th April 2011) and therefore a project of a Heritage Trail, walking and driving, would be explored. It is recommended that a Heritage Trail Working Group be formed consisting of Cllrs Boniface (Leader), Kirkby, Mrs Russell, Wickham and Mrs Gill Joye. [Subsequently, Mrs. Jane Davidson, House Historian, has accepted an invitation to join the group.] The Working Group would not be an official part of parish council business for the time being in order to avoid delays, red tape and dominance of the work of the Amenities Committee. When the Trail has taken firm shape it will come back to the parish council to consider final content, design, printing and funding. Alan Legg said he would be able to assist with funding and Cllr Mrs. Stafford said she had sourced the Heritage Lottery Fund which had said that in principle they were interested in funding such projects. Mr. Legg will supply large maps of the parish and copies of the Goudhurst Appraisal. It was agreed that long standing members of the community should be consulted on history and memories and that an architectural input would be desirable. Cllr Mrs. Stafford will seek advice from originators of the Horsmonden Walking Trail and invite contributions through the Parish Magazine. It would be desirable to have the leaflets ready for the celebration of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee in June 2012. GPC is asked to approve the recommendations.
Glebe Field - Mr. Philip Bell, Diocesan Surveyor, had emailed that information was awaited from their agents. The Committee was concerned about the condition of the uncut grass in view of the Fête on 25th June and suggested seeking quotes in case of an emergency. [Following the meeting, Cllr Mrs. Stafford spoke with Mr Bell who had visited the Glebe and agreed that the Diocese would arrange a grass and hedge cut urgently. Mr Bell also said they were planning to install a gate to prevent casual vehicle use but that there would be easy access for pedestrians, prams and wheelchairs. The contractors working at St. Mary’s Church would be allowed to park on the Glebe. Cllr Mrs Stafford has passed this information to Mr. Nick Hayward, Chairman of the Fête Committee.]
Goudhurst Pond - Pond Guardian, Dave Hill, has identified the two white ducks launched onto the water by an unidentified lady as Call Ducks and said they would not be aggressive as had been the white Aylesbury ducks of some years ago. He asked that people be informed that only brown bread be given to ducks as the chemicals in white bread are harmful. There has been no response from Mid Kent Fisheries to our request to return the nozzle of the fountain after cleaning. [Post-meeting, Pond Guardian, Ed Bates, has gone to great lengths to clean the temporary nozzle so that it functions.] Pond Warden, Romilly Wallis Hosken, and Ed Bates carried out extensive water tests and Cllr Boniface will ask his colleague, Dr Paul Bolas, to interpret the findings.
Pond Triangle Area - follow-up by Mr James Piggot at KCC is still awaited.
Kilndown Quarry Centre - follow-up by Mr James Piggot of KCC is still awaited.
Goudhurst in Bloom 2011 - Cllr Mrs Russell was urgently redesigning the Application Forms as she felt they were uninviting. There had been interest in the village for the forms.
War Memorial and Water Trough - Due to the extreme winter weather there is a small amount of re-pointing needed on the War Memorial and sections of the Water Trough could usefully be polished. It is recommended that Mr Howard, the usual stone mason, be asked to pay a visit. GPC is asked to approve.
Chequer Field Maintenance - It was noted that Pearsons Landscapes had been asked to cut the grass. They have quoted £15 + VAT per cut for fortnightly mowing of the bank to the front and side the pavilion down to the south west corner farm gate, and £20 per strim monthly of the rough grass area along the western fence. GPC is asked to approve.
Chequer Field Hire - It was noted that the School had asked permission to use the Pavilion on Sports Day and this was agreed – see Minutes of Policy Meeting of 20th May. A request to hire the field (not pavilion) had been received from a resident for a 5th birthday party with a professionally organised GoKart feature. An email consultation of Councillors had agreed the hire and the Clerk was asked to send a list of Conditions and arrange a fee. It was agreed that a Protocol for the Hiring of Chequer Field and Pavilion should be drawn up by the Committee.
The Plain Fencing - The posts need repainting. A quote will be obtained from Mr Ross Galloway for consideration by GPC.
Tattlebury Triangle - Cllr Boniface asked for news of our request to KCC Highways that this be registered as a Village Green. Clerk to follow up.
Goudhurst Village Hall Maintenance Grant - It is time to pay the annual maintenance grant to the Parish Hall Committee of £1,750.00. GPC is asked to approve.
Goal Posts at Glebe Field - Post meeting it was noticed that a cross bar had come loose. Mr Ed Bates kindly inspected and found that local football fans had reinstated it.
Payments - Approval is requested for the following reimbursements to Cllr Mrs. Stafford:
Casual Labour at War Memorial/The Plain 17.05.11 10.00
Hartley Dyke Farm Shop. Plants for Water Trough 16.00
Kilndown Gardening Club. Plants for War Memorial 20.00
Next Meeting: Tuesday, 26th July 2011. 7.30 p.m. Jessel Room
Cllr Mrs. Barbara Stafford
03.06.11
Minutes of a Meeting held on 29 March 2011 at the Jessel Room
Present: Cllrs Boniface (Acting Chairman), Mrs Edmonston and Kirkby
Apologies: Cllr Bates
Declarations of Interest: Cllr Mrs Edmonston declared a personal interest in discussions on Smugglers Den Pre-School due to her close association with that group.
Glebe Field. A note prepared by Cllr Boniface was received. Members noted the view of the majority of the local residents at the meeting in the Hall on 10 March that the Glebe be made available for recreation and pastimes in perpetuity. There was little support for a lease agreement. Following the Council meeting on 14 March Council had written to the Diocesan Surveyor and Director of Property Services emphasising Council’s wish to purchase the freehold interest. County Councillor Alex King has been informed of the situation. Council understands that the matter will be considered at a Diocesan Board meeting on 31 March (post meeting Council understand this meeting has been postponed). Mr Christopher Wade, Principal Case Officer KCC Public Rights of Way) had briefed Members at a meeting in the Jessel Room on 21 March on detailed aspects of Registering a Village Green. Council awaits a response from the Diocese of Canterbury.
Goudhurst Pond. It was agreed to recommend to Council that the invoice from Mid Kent Fisheries (South East Water) for £304.00 + VAT of 14 March for Siltex and cleaning the fountain be paid. A test of the water quality by MKF is awaited. Mr Romilly Wallis-Hosken is also arranging a water quality test through BTCV. Two bales of barley straw are to be donated by local resident Mr Alan Rumens. Members expressed concern about the health of the pond plants.
Pleached Limes in High Street Goudhurst. The maintenance work has been completed by Pearson’s. It was agreed to recommend to Council that the invoice for £260.00 for this work be paid. (post meeting note: a local resident has reported that part of the work by Pearson’s has been damaged. It is thought that local youths are responsible. Police Crime Report BY4324-11 refers).
The Plain Grass Seeding. Remedial grass seeding is needed under the chestnut tree at the Plain. It was agreed that this work should be carried out as soon as possible if it is to be effective. Pearson’s quote has not yet been received but as the cost will be de-minimis it was agreed to instruct Pearson’s to go ahead under delegated authority and report to Council subsequently. The Clerk will action this.
Heritage Plaques Trail. It was noted that Yolanda Laybourne’s Smugglers Trail project proposes to introduce only 2 plaques in Goudhurst (Star & Eagle and St Mary’s Church). It was agreed that the Goudhurst Heritage Plaque trail committee should meet on 19 April to plan the next stage. Cllr Boniface is to follow up.
Chequer Field Trees. It was noted that work is required under health & safety following a Jacobs report on behalf of KCC to trees that need attention on the Chequer Field curtilage with the Primary School. Bridgland has quoted £450.00 + VAT. The Clerk has written to TWBC asking them to take this cost as Council has not yet taken formal ownership of Chequer Field. A response is awaited. It was agreed to recommend to Council that Bridgland be instructed to go ahead with the work irrespective of who is to pay.
Smugglers Den. Clerk received an e-mail from the Smugglers Den Management on 14 March seeking financial assistance. He acknowledged on 18 March seeking more financial information which is awaited. Amenities Committee understands that numbers attending the pre-school have fallen to 14 from more than 30 last year. The rental of the Church Room is £500.00 a month year round. It was noted that non-financial support had also been requested such as ideas about publicity and marketing.
Use of Chequer Field or a fund raising event on 15 May. Council has received a request from a fund raising group to use the Chequer Field as a stopping point (toilets, refilling water bottles etc) for a considerable number of fund raising cyclists. Members did not support the request from a local couple who are involved with the Charity concerned and recommend that Council encourages the group to use the Glebe Field/Church Room as in previous years.
Campaign to support local traders. A prominent local resident has contacted GPC to commend Cllr Mrs Stafford’s piece in the April Parish Magazine about supporting local traders. He has suggested that Clerk uses the GPC e-mail cascade of 150+ local residents to spread this message further amongst local residents. Amenities Cttee recommend to Council that the Clerk cascades the message (exact wording to be agreed) as suggested.
KARR and Kent Post Offices update. Article in Oast to Coast Spring 2011 edition noted. Amenities Committee believe that if local residents do not use the new Post Office facility, we will lose it. Noted that Goudhurst Newsagents do not take a salary from the Post Office; they only receive commission on sales.
AwCiRK Event “The future of Village Shops/Post Offices and Pubs in Kent” on 11 May 2011 at Lenham. Someone from GPC to attend?
Dog Fouling. Noted that the poster campaign is under way, but there has been an increase in the number of complaints from the public. Noted that a young woman with two collie type dogs was seen to be not cleaning up after her dogs in the Lurkins Rise/Bankfield Way recently.
Cllr David Boniface Clerk
31 March 11
Minutes of a Meeting held on 25 January 2011 at the Jessel Room
Community e-mail: This is a scheme proposed by Cllr David Boniface. The aim is to provide an e-facility so that subscribers know what's going on across the local area. For example it might have important local news, information about general public events ('what's on this week'), featured items reported in local papers, even TV or radio appearances of local people. For example there would be Sections for: Reminders of regular events, Dates for your diary and On the grapevine. After some discussion Members concluded that this is not a Parish Council activity and GPC should not be directly involved, but there is no reason why an individual or a group of local residents should not launch the project.
La Zia Maria – position of Council’s curtilage on land at the south west corner of Goudhurst Pond. Council Minute 233/10 refers. Members will have received separately an e-mail of 07 February from Team Leader Property, KCC (marked Confidential by the Clerk) and to decide what action is to taken.
Quarry Centre Kilndown – Ownership. Council Minute 280/10 refers. It was noted that the Property Team Leader at KCC Legal and Democratic Services had given an interim opinion by e-mail to Council on 10 December 2010. The information was far from conclusive. The situation is that KCC Legal is to check certain aspects of the matter with a long term resident of Kilndown and draw up a further report (promised before 14 February). In the meantime, the Clerk has checked with another source of legal advice; that is that subject to seeing the relevant legal documents, the situation should be quite clear at law and the firm would be able to give Council a clear opinion without delay at a fee of £200 to £250 plus VAT.
Heritage Plaques. Council Minute 180/10. Members noted that Mrs Yolanda Leybourne, Co-ordinator for the Hawkhurst Community Partnership is developing the Smugglers Trail from Rye to Goudhurst. She is working on this independently from Goudhurst Parish Council but is in touch with the Goudhurst & Kilndown Local History Society. She is approaching the owners of certain buildings in Goudhurst that have a ‘smugglers’ connection and plans to erect plaques on or near those buildings. Amenities Committee does not wish that project to clash in any way with the Parish Council’s own plans for a local Heritage Trail. Chairman, Amenities Committee will update Council verbally. Amenities Committee recommends to Council that Council does not proceed with this project until the Smugglers Trail Project sites are determined. In the meantime the Chairman of the Amenities Committee will check with Principal Design & Heritage Officer at TWBC that grant funding can be rolled over to the 2011/12 year.
Glebe Field. Council Minute 393/10 refers. Committee Members noted the procedures that can be followed to apply for Village Green status. See the KCC website www.kent.gov.uk/villagegreens and there is also advice from www.defra.gov.uk/rural/protected/commonland/tvg.htm and www.oss.org.uk/village-greens
It was noted that Council is organising a public meeting on 10 March at Goudhurst Village Hall at 8.00 pm to discuss the future of the Glebe Field.
Post meeting note – Council to receive a letter relating to the Glebe Field (attached) from the Director and Diocesan Surveyor dated 01 February and to decide on further action.
Fields in Trust – the QEII Fields Challenge. Chairman Amenities Committee has been in touch with the Project Officer of the scheme. Noted that the Glebe Field might qualify for registration, but criteria for qualification require the application be made by the field owner. The Chequer Field is unlikely to qualify without wider general public access.
Goudhurst Post Office. Members noted Council’s representation to the Post Office relating to the consultation on the proposed move from Burgess Stores to Goudhurst Newsagents. Council is adopting a neutral stance.
Dog Fouling. Mr David Denton is producing various notices and posters for local publicity.
Portable Public Address System. Minute 136/07 refers. A letter of 18 January 2011 from the Chairman of the Goudhurst Parish Hall Committee was considered. He has suggested that a second microphone for the system should be purchased to make the system easier to use when, for instance, there is a public discussion or a question and answer session being held in the Hall. It was agreed to recommend to Council that one Fixed Wired Handheld Microphone with 5m XLR-XLR cable and Pouch be purchased by Council at a cost of £90.00 from Midland Communications.
BTCV Tree Survey. Correspondence from BTCV with posters relating to a survey of trees in Kent by volunteers was considered. Cllr David Boniface will follow up.
Landscape Services – Chequer Field Maintenance Contract 2011/12. In a letter of 11 January, Landscape Services have detailed these increases for their services for 2011/12:
The cut the grass at the north and south ends of the field: +3%
To gang mow the field from April to October: +0.9%
To mow the football pitch only from November to March: +3%
To remark to white lines on the pitch: +1%
and Amenities Committee recommends that Council accepts this quotation.
Forestry Commission Land (a post 25 January meeting note). The government's proposed sale
of Forestry Commission land was not discussed at the Amenity Committee meeting 25th January, but has become a more pressing issue since. The Amenity Committee therefore recommends that full Council has the opportunity to consider the implications of this news which is of concern to many residents. (a further late note: Hawkhurst Parish Council has suggested a meeting with GPC to consider applying for Village Green status for Bedgebury Forest).
Kent Men of the Trees. See the attached letter received on 05 February 2011 inviting Council to participate in the Trees in the Village Competition 2011 at a fee of £10.00.
Approval of Payments: A grant of £50.00 to Goudhurst Parish Hall Committee for power used from the Hall supply for running the Pond pump and Christmas lights at The Plain in 2010/11.
A grant of £60.00 to Goudhurst Parish Hall Committee for power used from the Hall supply and for the use of the Hall premises for running CCTV equipment in 2010/11.
Cllr Ed Bates
30 January 2011
GPC 13 December 2010, Item 6a
Minutes of a Meeting held at 2 Clayhill Mount Goudhurst on Tuesday 30 November 2010
The Meeting was held at the home of Cllr Phil Kirkby as the Village Hall was unavailable at short notice.
PRESENT: Cllrs Bates (Chairman), Boniface, Kirkby
APOLOGIES: Cllrs Mrs Edmonston and Ward (bad weather)
DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: There were no declarations of interest.
Budget Forecast for 2011/12. After consideration, Councillors propose the attached Amenity budget for the financial year 2011 / 12 to the full council.
Community email. Cllr David Boniface outlined the advantages which could be achieved by a weekly community email newsletter. It would be free to anyone wishing to join, and used to communicate information about events, road closures, etc., with all members entitled to submit items of interest.
Councillors agreed that such a facility could enhance the quality of community life in the Parish, but would depend upon a committed and strong editor. It was also felt that in the event of such a facility, it would be appropriate for the Parish Council to maintain administrative control. Cllr David Boniface agreed to carry out more research.
Christmas lights. A £400 grant for replacement Christmas lights has been received for TWBC. It is too late to upgrade for this year, so councillors will reconsider after Christmas and establish whether significant discounts make it appropriate to look at replacements then. It was noted that members of the public attending the Council meeting 8th November, expressed a preference for small, warm white, LED lights.
Bad weather has prevented putting up the lights. In Cllr Ed Bates’ absence on holiday, it was noted that Cllr Barbara Stafford has kindly agreed to organise.
Cllr Ed Bates agreed to ask Cllr Barbara Stafford if she would kindly switch off the lights after Christmas, pending her availability to organise taking them down after 9th January.
Heritage plaque trail. Cllr Ed Bates apologised for not progressing this with more urgency, due to other commitments. Councillors considered that there is insufficient time during the present financial year to complete the trail. Cllr Ed Bates agreed to research whether there is a time scale to the funding promised by TWBC, and what steps may be required to confirm or receive the funding.
Goudhurst Pond. Councillors noted that South East Water is selling off their fisheries and consultancy business. The pond pump, planting and Siltex application were on the advice of their Chris Logsdon, who is now hopeful of buying these parts of the business to set up his own company.
Councillors noted advice from Chris Logsdon that the pump may be left on during cold weather without danger of freezing conditions causing damage to the pump.
Councillors welcomed news that David Hill has kindly volunteered to accept the role of Honorary Pond Guardian.
Kilndown Pond. Cllr Ed Bates advised Councillors of a meeting on site with David Scully of TWBC. David Scully advised that the only way to remove the invasive non indigenous plant completely would require the pond to be drained and the clay lining removed and replaced. Sawing below the waterline as recommended by South East Water would reduce the spread, but require repeated applications indefinitely. Councillors agreed that neither option is attractive or affordable.
Dog fouling. Cllr Ed Bates put forward a revised wording for the proposed dog fouling flyer, giving TWBC switchboard as the contact number, the Street Scene direct number often being unmanned. The guarantee of confidentiality and Clerk’s number as previously suggested being inappropriate as confidentiality could not be guaranteed after referral to TWBC. The poster, flyer and costings are now proposed to full Council.
Cllr Phil Kirkby drew attention to the problem of dog fouling in Brays Alley. It was considered that this may be a suitable place for flyer delivery and temporary poster display if the above is approved by full Council.
Repairs to the Millennium sea in Goudhurst High Street. Councillors noted that the seat has been repaired at no cost to Council, and that Clerk has been asked to write to Robin Chiles with Council’s thanks for his generous work.
Removal of metal stumps from The Plain. Councillors noted that the metal stumps by the electricity switch on The Plain have been driven into the ground by Pearsons, to remove any hazard.
BTCV tree offer. Councillors considered the free tree offer but were unaware of a suitable site in the Parish.
Glebe Field. Councillors reaffirmed their strong belief that the Glebe Field represents a significant amenity which has been enjoyed by the Goudhurst community for many years. Lack of continued upkeep after Goudhurst and Kilndown School use ceased is a cause of concern. It is therefore very important that Parish does all it can to ensure that the facility is not impaired or lost.
Committee recommend that this is considered by full council as an agenda item at 13th December meeting.
Date of next meeting: Tuesday 25th January 2011
Councillors thanked Cllr Phil Kirkby and his wife for his kind hospitality at short notice.
Cllr Ed Bates
2nd December 2010
Report for Parish Council 30 October 2010
Dog Fouling Notices and Flyers: Dog fouling is a problem which crops up periodically in different places in the Parish. The Amenity Committee asks for approval for the production of 15, A4 laminated posters, and 50, A5 flyers as per the attached with print on one side and the picture on the reverse. Indicative printing costs also attached.
Christmas Lights: The exiting lights are old, unreliable and will become illegal after this year’s use. The Amenity Committee asks councillors to consider replacing the existing lights used on the High Street with the type of LED lights on display. Further details to be provided at the meeting. Cllr Ed Bates 30th October 2010
Minutes of a Meeting of the Amenities Committee on 28th September 2010 in the Jessel Room
PRESENT: Cllr Bates (Chairman), Boniface, Kirkby, Ward
APOLOGIES: Cllr Mrs Edmonston
DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: There were no declarations of interest
Heritage Plaque Trail – Work to progress this project is with Cllr Bates who is arranging the date of the first sub-committee meeting. The sub-committee members are Cllrs Bates, Boniface, Glenndining, Kirkby, Ward and Mrs Joye of the Goudhurst & Kilndown Local History Society.
Amenity Lorry – Committee awaits the outcome of TWBC consultation to which Council has responded. The consultation was due for completion on 24th September.
Goudhurst Pond - The committee are pleased to note that the pump has remained working well, perhaps aided by the reduced amount of blanket weed due to the change of season. The contractual biannual application of Siltex to help clear the water and reduce silt has been carried out by Mid Kent Fisheries.
Council to approve payment of Mid Kent Fisheries’ invoice of 23 September for £200.00 + VAT.
Kilndown Pond – The committee considered a quotation received from Chris Logsdon of Mid Kent Fisheries to;
“Remove overhanging branches, cut weed and remove from water = £600 plus VAT”.
“To survey silt depths and fish stocks and remove unwanted fish as required. Apply Siltex (half a ton) as requested. £500 plus VAT. Plus cost of Siltex @ £148 per ton. If the surplus fish stocks (carp) are in good condition and of good health status we would be willing to buy these carp at £1.50 per pound”.
Amenities committee recommends taking this one step at a time, by instructing Mid Kent Fisheries to remove the overstocked fish. Council would then be aware of the condition of the fish in the pond, and receive any income from healthy fish purchased by Mid Kent Fisheries. A separate well informed decision could then be made about other works as funds allow.
Cllr John Ward agreed to contact the Pond Warden, Mr David Denton, to confirm the arrangements which allow fishing so that any action taken is with the knowledge of their interest.
La Zia Maria Boundary – Clerk has received a letter from James Pigott, KCC Legal Services, containing the terms of appointment, which he has completed and returned.
Goudhurst in Bloom – The committee thanks Cllr Mrs Edmonston for all her work organising this competition. The Award Ceremony will take place at the Ex Servicemen’s Club at 8pm, on Tuesday 5th Oct. Invitations have gone out.
Kilndown Quarry Centre – In the endeavour to confirm the ownership of the building, Clerk has received a letter from James Pigott, KCC Legal Services containing the terms of appointment, which he has completed and returned. The committee is keen that resolution of this question is progressed, to enable the relationship between the Parish and the Quarry Centre Management Committee to be clarified; Clerk has made that point to Mr Pigott.
Dog Fouling – The problem of dog mess not being cleared up in Kilndown has been brought to the attention of the Parish by residents. The Kilndown Millennium Green and verge between the green and the road is causing particular offense now.
Committee thanked Cllr Mrs Glenndining for writing an article to go in the October edition of the Kilndown Village Newsletter.
The problem has been brought to the attention of the Millennium Green Management Committee, with an offer to secure small notices facing the road, to each of their fence posts along the Millennium Green road boundary.
Cllr Glenndining is helping with the preparation of a laminated poster and leaflet suitable for door stepping in badly affected areas. These will be suitable for use in any area of the Parish. Committee have chosen a graphic subject to check by Cllr Bates that there is no copyright infringement.
Village Green Application for Tattlebury Triangle - Cllrs Bates, Boniface, Ward and Clerk are meeting at 3pm Wednesday 6th October to agree the best way forward.
Glebe Field – Committee asks Council to agree to proceed with the application for village green status without delay.
Proposed Charges for Village Hall - Committee recommends Council agrees revised charges detailed in the letter from Goudhurst Parish Hall Committee 26th July 10.
Kent Men of Trees – Committee thanks Dr Alun Griffiths, Chairman of The Kent Men of Trees, who visited the Parish on Friday 10th September. He was shown many trees in Goudhurst and Kilndown by Cllrs Mrs Stafford and Bates, and shared his considerable knowledge and expertise. He has kindly promised a written report of recommended work, which is to be received.
Draft Statement of TWBC Licensing Policy – This document includes an invitation for comment. Committee and Cllr Mrs Glenndining consider that there are no major changes to the New Licensing Policy, except the inclusion of the detail of the Police and Crime Act 2009. With regard to licensing, the Act aims to “encourage the responsible retailing of alcohol”, and one of its effects among other things is that every premises must appoint a premises license holder and designated premises supervisor. Committee suggests GPC respond with thanks for the opportunity to comment, but on this occasion GPC has no comment. As comments are invited by 4th October, Committee asks Clerk to confirm with Cllr Mrs Stafford as Chairman, to consider a prompt response being made prior to presenting to full Council.
Invitation to 2nd Kent Rail summit; 21st October 10 – No member of the committee is available to attend. Clerk has offered to do an e-mail cascade to local residents to highlight this event.
Kent Village of the Year Award – Committee commends the Millenium Green Management Committee for their part in winning for Kilndown ACRE’s award as Kent Village of the Year in the Social and Community Category.
Ministerial Statement by James Paice on the transfer of existing private sewers and lateral drains in England – It is not known at this stage whether the statement will influence law making. Committee suggests that the statement be included with papers for information in the agenda for the next full Council meeting.
Cllr Ed Bates
1st October 2010
Report for Parish Council 13th September 2010
Heritage Plaques. Council agreed in August that a sub-committee be formed to choose the final list and prepare accurate and concise details. Cllr Bates, Cllr Kirkby and Cllr Ward of the Amenity Committee have confirmed their willingness to help. Other Councillors are invited to join this sub-committee.
Amenity Lorry. Council has received further objections from residents of Curtisden Green about the proposed withdrawal of this service from Curtisden Green.
On Saturday 4th September Clerk visited the Balcombe Hill car park at approximately 1315hrs and recorded 14 parked cars and the number 26 bus on the road. This is the time it is proposed that the Amenity Lorry attends.
No reply has been received from TWBC following Clerk’s letter 16th August, and Councillors are asked to consider instructing Clerk to write a further letter to Mr Gary Stephenson at TWBC pressing for a reply regarding proposed removal of service from Curtisden Green and other schedule changes.
Cardboard Collection Banks. GPC has received a strong objection from a resident about the withdrawal of this service from Kilndown and Curtisden Green. TWBC advised GPC that this service is replaced by the door step service now established (letter from Julie Mellor 23rd July 10). Councillors are asked to consider making the resident’s representation known to TWBC.
Goudhurst in Bloom. GPC’s bid for grant funding for South East in Bloom was successful. GPC thanks TWBC for a grant of £230.
This year’s awards are to be presented by Marion Fowler at 8pm on Tuesday 28th September at the Goudhurst Ex-Servicemen’s Club.
Kilndown Bus Shelter. Council has received an invoice from Richard Crumpling 21st August for “Kilndown Bus Shelter area, grass and hedge etc. as last year @” £40. Cllr Bates visited the bus shelter 5th September, and confirms that the grass has been cut, and the hedge to the north of the shelter trimmed. Two trees (approx 1.5m high) are becoming established in the short gap between the shelter and the telegraph pole to the south of the shelter, there are weeds growing in the gravel path and invading the shelter. Councillors are asked to consider payment of this invoice and the future maintenance requirement of the area.
Kent Men of Trees. Dr Alun Griffiths, Chairman of Kent Men of Trees has been appointed judge of this year’s competition, and will be visiting Goudhurst on Friday 10th September meeting at 10am on the Tattlebury Triangle.
Draft Statement of Licensing Policy – Licensing Act 2003 – Request for comments. This document has been received by Council from TWBC. Unless Councillors wish to consider the draft policy, may a response of “no comment” be considered appropriate?
Quarry Pond, Kilndown. Following Council Minute 127/10 of 12 July 2010. The following quote has been received from Mid Kent Fisheries for Council approval:
To remove marginal overhanging branches, cut weed and remove from water = £600 plus vat
To survey silt depths and fish stocks and remove unwanted fish as required. Apply Siltex (half a ton) as requested = £500 plus vat.
Plus cost of Siltex @ £148 per ton.
If the surplus fish stocks (carp) are in good condition and of a good health status we would be willing to buy these carp at £1.50 per pound.
Reimbursement of Expenses. GPC is asked to approve Cllr Stafford’s, and Cllr Bates’ expenses:
Expenses to be claimed by Cllr Mrs Stafford
Casual Labour at War Memorial 05.08.10 £10.00
24.08.10 £10.00
02.09.10 £15.00
Expenses to be claimed by Cllr Bates
Reflectors and screws for High Street bollard £4.50
Cllr Ed Bates
5th Sep 10
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