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Sutton Bridge Parish Council
Archived Meetings News for 2012

Apr 42012

Notes on the Sutton Bridge Parish Council Meeting
held at The Curlew Centre on 27th March, 2012

OPEN FORUM

Mr. Fenton proffered his thanks to Cllr. Brewis for speaking up for him at the Planning Meeting at SHDC offices, after he found out he was not allowed to speak as he had not written in to say that he wished to do so. He was also annoyed to receive a letter from SHDC stating that planning permission had now been granted to Dodfrey's, as he understood it was to be held in abeyance for three months.

Mr. Blundell said he was very surprised that the whole of Sutton Bridge had not turned up at this meeting to protest at the massive 48% Council Tax increase in the precept for Sutton Bridge. He said that when Cllr. Dewsberry proposed the increase last November he had said the increase was necessary because a lot of 'things' needed doing, and Cllr. Brewis had said that there were 'many projects' on the go but since neither Councillor had stated what these things/projects were he supposed that the details would appear in the forthcoming Newsletter, if it ever appeared.

The reply was that the draft newsletter had already been approved and was in the process of being printed, so a statement about the projects would appear in the Newsletter which would appear in six months.

Mr Blundell added that by that time it was convenient that everybody would have forgotten the whole matter.

Mr. Southgate stated he was still concerned that the trees overhanging his garden had still not been cut back and no-one had come to his house to talk about this problem with him as had been promised.

The response was that this would be discussed later in the meeting.

Mrs. Grimwood suggested that when it came to planning matters perhaps the PC should say "no" to the things they wanted to be passed and "yes" to the things they did not want to be passed as it appeared that SHDC always took the opposite view to the SBPC.

Cllr. Brewis explained that he had asked for an extension to the time for considering the planning matters Mr. Fenton had spoken of, but a decision was later made to allow the company to continue,

1. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE with reasons – Written apologies had been received from Cllrs. Grimwood and Mrs. Hills.

2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST - to receive Declarations of Interest in accordance with the 2000 Local Government Act. Cllr. M. Booth and S. Booth both signed their declarations of interest with regard to the Allotments and the SBCCF.

3. SIGNING OF THE MINUTES – Notes from meetings on 28th February 2012 and
6th March 2012 to be accepted as minutes. Resolved.

4. POLICE MATTERS – To include update on Community Engagement Model Group – with no Police presence or PC representative present there was no report. However it was asked what had happened to the police "drop in" in Sutton Bridge, and were there any plans for it to be re-introduced, especially now there was provision for them in the new community centre. It was perceived that the use of the police office would probably have avoided the vandalism to the new community centre on the previous weekend. The vandalism had been reported to the police and a report number obtained. Both our district councillors asked that letters be sent to the Chief Constable with copies to the Chief Inspector of Lincs Police for an explanation regarding the non-presence of the police at the new drop in facility.

5. CHAIRMAN'S REMARKS: With regard to the complaint about the noise of one of the pubs in the village it was understood that the application for a music licence had been withdrawn.

• Parishioners and LFP had both made requests for information under the FOI facility. Both had been told that the information they had requested came under the heading of exempted information.

• Referring to the recent Extraordinary Meeting concerning the proposed Marina, the Chairman stated that no wonder Cllr. Eddie Poll sat there with a smug look on his face and in effect gave a two fingered sign to SBPC as he already knew that the pontoon for the Marina had been ordered months ago and was delivered to Wisbech within days of this meeting, although Cllr. Poll had stated that the figures were still being worked out.

• The Chairman also suggested that the other two representatives for the Marina also knew what was going on but had feigned ignorance.

• The Chairman accused the initiators of the Marina Project of having 'questionable morals' and Cllr Poll of operating with 'questionable ethics'

• It would also appear that Mr. Harvey (supposedly a Harbour Master and member of the Fenland District Council) who gave a presentation on the Marina at a PC meeting last year, had been in contact with a private company who had offered funding for the building of the Marina. It could therefore have been built without the need to use S106 money. Mr Harvey had now gone to live in Australia.

• The Chairman stated that the whole project should now be reviewed: why should the s106 sum of £400,000 be allocated to the project. The whole set up required a proper investigation and was based on flawed assumptions. He was asking Gary Porter to suspend the project until a review could be instigated.

6. CLERK'S REPORT - read by Mrs. Ripley (who was standing in for the absent Clerk), covered a variety of subjects, including an email received from PCSO Ben Harrington who had intimated it was better for the police to be seen on the streets than in an office. Also covered was the subject of animals grazing on the river bank and whether the appropriate notices had been posted, as well as that of trees in public places especially in relation to the PC's position of public liability and safety. Many of the trees in the village have preservation orders on them and as such special permission is required for any lopping of branches, or other remedial work.

7. TO RECEIVE REPORTS FROM DISTRICT AND COUNTY COUNCILLORS – Cllr. M. Booth stated that trees which had been planted along the far end of New Road and on towards the river had been stolen. The trees had been removed and the support posts left behind. If anyone has any information about this problem then would they contact the PC office as soon as possible.

• Rubbish dumping was still a major problem. There was a large amount of black plastic sacks in Allenby Chase, but as these were on private land and had not been placed outside the property, they had not been picked up by the refuse collectors. The matter is now very serious as many of the bags contain food scraps and are attracting vermin.

• There had been a meeting of SBMAG in February and pupils from the Peele School had been invited to attend the next meeting scheduled for 30th April, at 6.30 pm in the new community centre.

• Cllr. Booth also referred to the CCTV presentation given by Cllr. Nick Worth. It would be more costly to opt out of the system and then start up again when the new system was in place.

• Together with Cllr. Brewis £200 from their budget has been given to John Cooper at Leesons Garage for maintenance of the Rose Garden at the top end of Railway Lane.

• The SHDC were still hoping to build more affordable social housing, but still required more land to do so.

• He is encouraging residents to register for the Fuel tariff at SHDC, and a form can be obtained from the PC office to do so.

• Cllr. Brewis stated that the Library was now open thanks to a lot of hard work by the group of volunteers.

• He confirmed that Mr. Harvey of the Fenland District Council had gone to Australia permanently and that he had been arranging with a private company to build the Marina.

8. FINANCIAL MATTERS
a. Accounts for payment 27.3.12:

Payee

 Detail Chq. No.  Net VAT Total

Anglia Locksmiths

keys

#000051

16.67

3.33

20.00

The Curlew Centre

Hall hire

#000052

25.00

 

25.00

HMRC

Tax & NI

#000053

904.58

 

904.58

N J Portass

Picnic Area

#000054

325.00

 

325.00

Wingland G'cutting

Litter picking

#000055

105.00

 

105.00

Woodco

Photocopier

   #000056

11.24

2.25    

13.49
          1393.07

Plus a cheque for the Clerk's salary.

b. Money In: £0.00

Cllr. Dewsberry confirmed all invoices would be paid, that the bank reconciliation had been sent to all councillors. All allotment rents had been paid.

9. CORRESPONDENCE:
a. Items of correspondence for comment:
(i) Letter, Friends of SB Sports Pavilion – Request for information re existing pavilion (copy letter circulated to Cllrs 21.3.12)
(ii) Letter, Friends of SB Sports Pavilion – Requests relating to funding and support for new sports pavilion (copy letter circulated to Cllrs 21.3.12)
(iii) Email, Karen Johnson SHDC – Information relating to 'Evidence of need' for projects (copy circulated to Cllrs 21.3.12)
• These three items were discussed in detail and it was agreed that the present pavilion would not be demolished until plans were firmly in place for a replacement, which is currently estimated to cost approximately £400,000 and would be similar to the new one in Terrington St. Clement.
(iv) Letter, parishioner – Memorial Park trees (copy to Cllrs 21.3.12)
(v) Email, Rostron Photography – Cancellation of wedding fayre
(vi) Email, Lincs Free Press – FOI request
(vii) Email, parishioner – FOI request
(viii) Letter, SB in Bloom – Request to retain wooden notice board structure at entrance to MP – see agenda item 18
(ix) Letter, parishioner – Obstruction to footpath
• This concerns the obstruction of a footpath between Sutton Bridge and Long Sutton. This matter was on the same subject of complaint received last year. It is stated that there was not room enough to pass the implement placed across the gateway and partially blocking the Right of Way, certainly for wheelchair access, though it was disputed that it would be impossible for a wheelchair to be taken along this RoW due to the terrain and also the fact there used to be a stile and small wooden bridge. It is understood that the iron implement was placed in it's present position to deter motorcyclists from riding through the fields, but it needs to be moved a couple of feet to improve access. Cllr. M. Booth will speak with the owner prior to any further action that may be necessary.
(x) Email, parishioners – Lime Street Play Area - Request for extra play equipment
• It would appear that this email was sent by young children with a long list of what they would like to have in the play area.
(xi) Email, parishioner – Bus shelter, Bridge Road (copy to Cllrs 21.3.12) – to be included for discussion under agenda item 14
(xii) Email, PCSO B Harrington – Bus shelter, Bridge Road (copy to Cllrs 21.3.12) – to be included for discussion under agenda item 14
(xiii) Letter, SHDC Planning – Alleged breach of planning re Memorial Park public convenience building – to be included for discussion under agenda item 18
(xiv) Email, SHDC Planning – Confirmation that 'breach of planning' is unable to be enforced – to be included for discussion under agenda item 18
(xv) Email, SHDC Asset & Property Dept – Memorial Park public convenience building- to be included for discussion under agenda item 18
(xvi) Email, Lincolnshire Legal Services – Request for Information – Closed Session

b. Correspondence received for information purposes only:
(for further details please contact the Parish Office)
(i) Email, Peterborough CC – Update re Cambs & P'boro Minerals & Waste Local
Development Framework.
(ii) Email, Rural Services Network – Rural Opportunities Bulletin March 2012
(iii) Newsletter – SLCVS Issue 7 2012
(iv) Email, Rural Services Network – Weekly News Digest 5.3.12
(v) Newsletter – SLCVS Issue 8 2012
(vi) Email, SHDC – Community Builders Fund
(vii) Email, Chandlers Oil – Information re Sutton Bridge 'Community Oil Buying Group'
(viii) Email, Superact – Information re 'Bandstand Marathon 2012'
(ix) Email, LALC – Section 137 Expenditure increase to £6.80 for 2012-2013
(x) Email, LALC – Local Govt. Pay – no pay offer 2012-2013
(xi) Email, LCC – Good Citizens Awards 2012
(xii) Newsletter, Lincs Biodiversity P'ship – Background to 'The Natural Choice' White
Paper & Local Nature Partnerships
(xiii) Email, Lincs Co-op – Support for Queen's Diamond Jubilee events
(xiv) Letter, St Matthew's PCC – Thanks for contribution
(xv) Email, SHDC – 'Children in Need' grants available
(xvi) Email, SHDC – Launch of Lincs Sports Library
(xvii) Email, Rural Services Network – Weekly New Digest 19.3.12
(xviii) Newsletter – SLCVS Issue 9 2012
(xix) Letter, Lincs Community Health Servs. – Consultation on becoming a Community NHS Foundation Trust
(xx) Letter, LCC Env. Management – Hedge & Small Woodland Grant
(xxi) NALC Legal Topic Note – 'Members' conduct and registration and disclosure of interests' (distributed to Cllrs 12.3.12)
(xxii) NALC Legal Topic note – 'Pre-determination' (distributed to Cllrs 12.3.12)
(xxiii) Letter, Anglian Water – Hosepipe ban for Anglian Water customers taking effect from Thursday 5th April 2012
(xxiv) Email, Came & Co – Insurer's recommendations for Jubilee events

10. PLANNING MATTERS
Commercial:
New:
H18-0170-12 – Proposed wind turbine, Fenberry Farm, Peters Point Rd, SB –
Mr K Hargreaves, Peters Point Rd, SB.
No Objection
Granted:
H18-0010-12 – Change of use of ground floor from A1 (shops) to A5 (takeaways), 78
Bridge Rd, SB – Mr S Miah.
Refused: N/A

Other:
New: N/A

Granted: N/A

Refused: N/A

11. HIGHWAYS & FOOTWAYS
a. Update on outstanding matters
b. To report any new matters
It had been brought to the PC's attention that when the zebra crossing was put in place near Nene Lodge the pavement had been left in a state of disrepair and work to rectify the problem would soon be carried out.

Discussion then centred on the bollards on the build outs in Bridge Road, as some of these had been damaged although they were supposed to be indestructible. The Highways Department have intimated they would replace the damaged ones with a cheaper alternative, but the PC request the damaged bollards be replaced like for like otherwise it would not be uniform. The manufacturers ought also to be challenged about their claim that the bollards were indestructible.

12. TO RECEIVE REPORTS FROM WORKING PARTIES & COMMITTEES
(Unless detailed below; any action recommended in reports to be included for resolution on next agenda)

A. Churchyard and Playing Fields – Cllr Grimwood, Hills, T Rowe –
• Mrs. Ripley read out Cllr, Grimwood's report. He had commented that there were still long outstanding matters.
• The bottom of one of the park gates was rusting away.
• The knotweed in the Arnie Broughton Walk had been largely cleared and made it easier to see the new growth. A contractor from outside the village had been used to do the spraying of the knotweed originally, but such aggressive chemicals would not be needed in the future. Therefore it should be considered that any future spraying work could be done by a properly certified local contractor.
• A council led community litter pick could be organised for the same day as the refuse lorries are in Railway Lane.

B. Allotments – Cllrs Brewis, Croxford, Preston – Will report next month.

C. Personnel Committee – Cllrs Booth, Brewis, Croxford, Preston

Recommendations put forward by Personnel Committee:

(i) To resolve to confirm that Mrs J Ripley continues in her role as mentor to the Clerk; terms and arrangements as previously agreed Resolved

(ii) To resolve on Parish office official opening hours Resolved

(iii) To resolve on calling extraordinary Parish Council meetings solely for the purpose of dealing with truly extraordinary events Resolved. Cllr. Brewis stated that if a Parish Council has more than two extraordinary meetings per year then something is wrong. (The SBPC's website shows there have been at least six extraordinary meetings since May 2011).
(iv)

D. Planning – Cllrs S Booth, Brandon-King, J Rowe This item to be deleted from future agendas.

E. Footpaths & Byeways (to include update on 'The Nene Local Access Forum) – Cllrs M Booth, Hills, Preston : No Report.

F. Burial Ground Committee – Cllrs Brandon-King, Grimwood, Hills, J Rowe – Progress is very slow at present. Still awaiting the response from Premier Foods with regard to access road to the new burial ground.

G. Parish Newsletter – Cllrs Brandon-King, Dewsberry, Preston – in the process of being printed.

H. Farmers Market – Cllrs Grimwood, Hills – No report.

13. TO RECEIVE REPORTS FROM OUTSIDE BODIES REPRESENTATIVES

a. Phillips and Allen's Charities – No report

b. Voluntary Car Scheme – No report

c. SBCCFC – Cllr. S. Booth informed the meeting that:
• Peter Clery had stepped down as Chairman and Alan Barber would be acting chairman until the AGM, when proper elections would take place.
• A fund raising event in the Memorial Park was being planned for May 26th and would have a fly past of a Lancaster Bomber aircraft, together with other attractions.
• Clarification was sought on whether it would be in order to charge for entry to the memorial Park on that day. A long discussion on this matter followed with the conclusion that investigation of the Deeds to be sought for any reasons why this should, or should not be the case.
• From the gallery it was said that at previous Spring events in the Memorial Park a modest charge had been made. Therefore Cllr. Brewis proposed that as a precedent had been set it would be in order to make a charge.

d. LALC – No report.

e. Holbeach Senior Links – No report

f. Power Station Liaison – next meeting in two weeks time.

g. Kings Lynn Advisory Group Special Area of Conservation – a report on their meeting being held on the 27th March also would be given at the next PC meeting.

h. Charter of Friendship Group – it was stated that on their last visit to Sutton Bridge the people of Sedlec-Prčice had donated the first book for the new library and therefore it should now be displayed in the new library itself.

i. Grange Wind Farm Liaison Group – No report.

j. The Suttons Emergency Planning Group – No report.

k. Sutton Bridge Multi Agency Group –covered earlier.

14. TO RECEIVE UPDATE ON MATTERS RELATING TO BUS SHELTER IN BRIDGE
ROAD AND RESOLVE ON APPROPRIATE ACTION – correspondence items 9a (xi),(xii) -
• As it has been reported many times there is a lot of vandalism occurring at this particular bus shelter. This has been caused by various groups at different times of the day. Morning disruptions are caused by a large group of children waiting for the bus to the Peele School, and in the evenings it is loutish and drunken behaviour by an older group.
• It was agreed that the Clerk would send letters to various bodies to bring this type of behaviour to their attention. One letter to go to the Head of the Peele School referring to the pupils behaviour at this particular bus shelter. The other letter to the police authorities.
• A suggestion of that perhaps a school prefect could be on duty there in the mornings
• It was agreed to leave the shelter as a skeleton, with maybe a coat of paint.
• That this was a policing matter and a police presence would be more effective at the necessary times.

15. TO RESOLVE TO AUTHORISE CLLRS BRANDON-KING, BREWIS & HILLS TO TAKE PART IN DISCUSSIONS WITH REPRESENTATIVES FROM LINCS WIND FARM/CENTRICA IN RELATION TO COMMUNITY BENEFITS FOR SUTTON BRIDGE – carried fwd from Feb Meeting – it was agreed to co-opt one other to the present committee who had specialist knowledge of the workings of this type of funding

16. TO RESOLVE ON DATE FOR ANNUAL PARISH MEETING – will be held on 19th April at the same time as PREL will be giving their presentation.

17. TO RESOLVE TO RETAIN THE WOODEN NOTICE BOARD STRUCTURE AT ENTRANCE TO MEMORIAL PARK FOR USE AS OFFICIAL 'SB IN BLOOM' NOTICE BOARD – correspondence item 9a(viii) Resolved.

18. TO CONSIDER INFORMATION RELATING TO THE MEMORIAL PARK PUBLIC
CONVENIENCE BUILDING AND RESOLVE APPROPRIATELY – correspondence items 9a (xiii),(xiv),(xv) SHDC own the building, the SBPC own the land. It was agreed to accept the offer from SHDC that they remove the sanitary ware from the building and it would be made into a storage facilities for the Sutton Bridge in Bloom team and the PC.

19. TO RECEIVE UPDATE ON 'BEST KEPT VILLAGE' COMPETITION AND RESOLVE ON APPROPRIATE ACTION TO INCLUDE ARRANGEMENTS FOR PARISH COUNCIL LITTER PICKING EVENTS – it was agreed that Cllr. Grimwood would liaise with Mrs. Hardy so that both teams could work together at appropriate times and especially at times when the Saturday refuse collection was available.

20. TO RESOLVE TO AUTHORISE CLLRS BRANDON-KING & GRIMWOOD TO MEET WITH COUNCIL'S SOLICITOR IN ORDER TO OBTAIN INFORMATION WHICH WILL ASSIST IN COMPLETION OF COUNCIL'S 'INVENTORY OF LAND' - Resolved

21. TO RESOLVE ON PUTTING FORWARD REQUEST TO LCC FOR 'VILLAGE HALL' SIGN TO BE CHANGED TO; 'COMMUNITY CENTRE' OR 'CURLEW CENTRE' – carried fwd from Feb Meeting – the councillors present unanimously voted that the sign should read Curlew Centre.

22. TO RECEIVE REQUESTS FROM MEMBERS FOR CONSIDERATION AT THE DISCRETION OF THE CHAIRMAN (NOTHING MAY BE RESOLVED UNDER THIS HEADING) No requests put forward.

23. TO RESOLVE ON WHETHER THE COUNCIL SHOULD MOVE INTO CLOSED SESSION FOR DISCUSSION OF THE FOLLOWING AGENDA ITEMS ON THE
GROUNDS OF CONFIDENTIALITY (Detail of discussions not for publication by virtue of Section 100(A) para. 4 of the Local Government Act 1972);

The public left at 9.15 pm.

24. TO RESOLVE ON QUOTE FOR PRODUCTION OF PARISH COUNCIL NEWSLETTER –
Finance Committee

25. TO RESOLVE ON INCREASE IN CLERK'S SALARY IN ACCORDANCE WITH TERMS OF
CONTRACT OF EMPLOYMENT AND ANNUAL APPRAISAL – Personnel Committee

26. TO RECEIVE UPDATE ON ANY OTHER CONFIDENTIAL ADMINISTRATION & STAFFING
MATTERS – To include correspondence item 9a (xvi)

***********************************

FROM THE PUBLIC GALLERY:

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Mar 112012

Notes On Sutton Bridge Extraordinary Parish Council Meeting
Tuesday 6th March Held In The Curlew Centre

Present: Cllrs: C. Brandon-King Chairman, D. Dewsberry, Mrs. M. Preston, M. Booth, S. Booth, J. Grimwood, C. Brewis

Mr. David Pullen: Lincs Waterways Partnership, LCC Cllr. E. Poll: Executive Committee member and representative on many outside bodies, including the Inland Flood Risk Assessment Group and the Shoreline Management Group and Justin Brown, Head of Enterprise at LCC

The chairman announced that as this was a Question and Answer session only regarding the Marina Project Plans, there would be no Open Forum.

APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE: Cllrs. Mrs. Hill, Mrs. J. Rowe and T. Rowe, G. Croxford

1. Declarations of Interest: to receive Declarations of Interest in accordance with the 2000 Local Government Act:

2. Standing Orders removed for question and answer session.

A resident stated he had written to SHDC for a copy of the business plan under the freedom of Information Act, but had not received a reply. He was promised a reply within the next few days.

Cllr. C. Brandon-King asked which Business Plan the resident was referring to and was told that it was the replacement one. Cllr. C. Brandon-King said he had studied the first one in great detail.

One resident asked that vehicles towing sailing boats should not be allowed through the village as it would be impossible for them to get round the bend on the West Bank. The response was as there would be no facility to launch any boats from the Marina site (as there was no lifting equipment), this problem would not arise.

Another resident asked how many extra cars there would be; where the car park would be; and if they going to move the river bank. He was concerned about the extra traffic in an already busy road, and was worried that if the river bank was moved it would cause flooding in the Lime Street/Wharf Street area. He was also concerned about the discharging of waste water etc from the moored vessels and stated that the existing drainage system in the area was inadequate.

The response was that car parking would be at the far end of the proposed site with spaces for 25 cars and 3 spaces available for disabled parking.

Assurances had been given that the river bank would not be damaged, although Cllr. Brewis disputed this.

Concerning sewage waste from the boats: it was stated that vessels would not be allowed to discharge into the river and that the Marina would be connected to the sewerage system. Vessels would have to go to Wisbech to be pumped out, where there were facilities.

Electricity and water for the moorings would be available for the Marina, with the mains water system being connected underground into the office on the pontoon.

Another resident raised the question of speed restrictions along West Bank stating that many vehicles already exceeded the speed limit.

The cost of berthing was expected to be £125 per metre of vessel per annum. There would also be some short term mooring available, including day visiting.

A resident was concerned about the Customs & Excise and Border Control as he considered it to be too easy for any vessel to moor at the Marina from any part of the continent. Who was to stop them? The response was that this is possible now.

Cllr. C. Brandon-King asked a number of questions regarding the Project, as he considered it was 'a non starter', especially since there were already three other marinas within a 30 mile radius of Sutton Bridge. He added that there were no special services or chandlery available in Sutton Bridge.

He wanted to know how it would benefit the local economy, questioning whether vessel owners really want to come ashore to buy goods from the Co-op or spend money in the several takeaways (Chinese and fish and chips, etc) as he considered marina visitors would all buy their requirements in Tesco's prior to setting sail.

Cllr. Brandon-King then asked about the business plan stating that there appeared to be great holes in it. He said he got his information from the first business plan submitted five years ago. He was told that there is now a revised business plan reflecting the current financial situation.

He said that plans for marinas had been lodged both in King's Lynn and Great Yarmouth five years ago and they had not been built so, he doubted the viability of this application and the ability of the managing committee to run it successfully.

He also raised further questions about the use of the S106 monies: stating that originally £250,000 had been set aside for the Marina Project, and then suddenly it appeared to have also had another £150,000 added to it from another project (which had failed—the East Bank Lighthouse). He wanted to know how £150,000 had been transferred directly to the Marina, without any discussion on the matter.

It was explained later in the meeting that a pot of money had originally been set up for three Wash projects and that if one failed, then the money would go to the other two. If the second failed, then all the money would go to the third. Only if the third project failed would the money go back to the original pot. An added complication is that the time limit for the spending of this S106 money is running out.

Cllr Brandon-King next questioned the arrangements for the set up of the Community Interest Company (CIC) and quoted extracts from the Marina Project about proposed directorships. He asked how the funds would be dispersed as it was his understanding that each member was also a director. He challenged if 'they' really understood what a CIC was.

He also wanted to know how many jobs the Marina Project would create once the project was completed.

He stated that it also appears that no accounts will be available to the public and queried the Articles of Association.

Mr. Ford (from the Public Gallery and a director of Nene Marine) responded by stating that since the first presentation in the Bridge Hotel six years ago, there had been no less than 38 press releases. He said that as there had been over 100 residents present at that initial meeting, he wanted to know how many people had lodged objections since then. There was no response to this question.

Another resident wanted to know that if the proposed project was costing £800,000 and £400,000 had been pledged from the S106 fund, where was the other £400,000 coming from. The response was that funds had been secured form the East Wash Fens Waterways Partnership and other funding bodies.

Cllr. Grimwood stated that the Nene Marine was an independent group that had no Parish Council representative on its committee. More than once the Parish Council had requested Nene Marine to give a presentation, but this had not happened. Therefore, he wanted to know what the Fenland District Council's interest was in running the Marina. The response was that the LCC would own the Marina and the Fenland District Council will oversee the running of it. The buildings would remain with LCC who would lease them to Nene Marine at a peppercorn rent.

A member of the public wanted to know if Marina Project managers had acquired the necessary land on the river bank for the building of the Marina (At this point both Cllrs. M. and S. Booth declared their interest in the subject stating as their reasons that they were both tenants of Henry Smith's Charity, who allegedly own the river bank on the west Bank). Cllr Poll said that the LCC would be leasing the land from the HSC and in case of default by the Nene Marine Group, the lease would revert to the LCC.

Mr. Ford then challenged Cllr Brewis about a letter which he had written to the Lincs Free Press and had appeared that day (Tuesday). He asked Cllr. Brewis who the two Directors of Nene Marine were that he referred to in the letter, who he claimed, had spoken to him about their concerns. Mr Ford said he had asked all the other directors in the group and all denied having spoken to Cllr. Brewis. Mr. Morley (another Nene Marine director present in the public gallery) said Cllr. Brewis had not spoken to him either. Mr Ford reiterated his question: would Cllr Brewis please name the two directors he alleged he had spoken to? Cllr. Brewis declined to name anyone, saying that it was 'confidential'. Mr. Ford then suggested in no uncertain terms that Cllr. Brewis was telling untruths. Cllr. Brewis denied this was so.

Apart from answering specific questions from the Councillors and members of the public, Messrs Brown, Poll and Pullen said very little, not having been invited to make an opening statement.

FROM THE PUBLIC GALLERY:

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Mar 42012

Notes on the Sutton Bridge Parish Council Meeting
held at The Curlew Centre on 28th February, 2012

Present: Cllrs. D. Dewsberry, G.Croxford, Mrs. Preston, M. Booth, Brandon-King, Brewis, S. Booth and Mrs. Hills

OPEN FORUM

This began with the Chairman referring to the suggestion made last meeting that if many people wish to speak in Open Forum, then could it not be extended by at least five minutes?  He advised that Sutton Bridge Standing Orders provided for 15 minutes and this would remain the norm for Sutton Bridge unless Standing Orders were changed.  However, the PC were prepared to be a little lenient.  It should also be remembered that Standing Orders are occasionally suspended to allow comments from the public during the meeting.

It's not 'normal practice' to have 15 minutes - some places have 30 minutes.

Mrs. Eaton spoke about the nuisance being caused by loud music, drunken brawls and damage to bollards etc. occurring at The Anchor Inn.  She referred to the issue of licences being granted or not being granted and flouted regarding the late night music sessions that went on well into the night.  She said she had no wish to deprive anyone of being able to run a business, but there were limits to what the public could tolerate.  Mrs. Eaton commented that the licence would shortly be renewed and sought the help of SBPC to resolve the matter.   The Chairman said that this was not a Parish matter and that the PC would have no power to intervene, but that individual Councillors, if willing, could attend the licence hearing with Mrs. Eaton.

Mr. Fenton spoke of an unfortunate incident that occurred in the Memorial Park concerning a dog running loose and fouling in the park.  He spoke to the owners of the dog who were abusive in their response to his request that they remove the dog’s faeces and also to keep the dog on a lead as per the bye laws appertaining to the park.

It was agreed that dog fouling in the Memorial Park appears to be on the increase, especially in the Arnie Broughton Walk area.

Mr. Fenton went on to say that people were leaving black bags of rubbish blocking the pathways, and that parents were allowing their children to use the passage way between Lime Street and Wharf Street as a toilet.

Mrs. Giles commented on the proposed change of use at the Community Centre and voiced her opposition to such change citing that the Centre is for the community and should not be occupied by businesses.

Mrs. Blundell reported she was surprised to see under Item 7 Correspondence on the Agenda, that there is no mention of the email she had sent to the PC on February 13th concerning the disrespectful behaviour of Cllr Brewis towards a fellow councillor and the Chairman.   She added that although the clerk replied that advice had been sought from LALC and that all such matters should be referred to the Monitoring Officer at SHDC, she would have thought that the email should have been recorded as being received. The Clerk responded that as the email had been addressed to her as ‘Suzanne’ and therefore ‘personal’, she could not list it.  In addition, Mrs. Blundell had only asked her advice on the matter, which she had given.

Cllr. Brewis wanted to know what it was all about and a copy was offered to him.

Mr. Blundell said that we knew that there had been meetings in November about the Employment Tribunal and he assumed that something had been settled out of court as he had not been called as a witness.. He added that as a Sutton Bridge taxpayer he thought he was entitled to know what extra burden the Parish Council had incurred as a result of their unseemly behaviour towards the previous Parish Clerk. Certainly the voters ought to know about this. He asked when the amount of any settlement would appear in PC accounts and how it would be described. Councillor Brewis had made reference to ‘extra expenses’ a few meetings ago but he had been unspecific.

Cllr. C. B-K replied that as the matter had been settled out of court both parties were bound by a “gagging order” by law, not to divulge any details whatsoever of the case. Both parties had signed and were bound by the agreement of the out of court settlement.

(The Parish Clerk has subsequently provided the information that the ‘gagging order’ is the result of Exemption 32, Court Records, sections (1) (c) (i) and 4 (a) – as detailed in Freedom of Information Act Part II. Exemption 44, Prohibition on Disclosure – as detailed in Freedom of Information Act Part II.)

Although Mr. Blundell insisted he still had a right to know what it would cost the local tax payers and how it would appear in the PC’s accounting, again he was told that the information would not be forthcoming. The PC had taken legal advice on how the settlement figure would be concealed in the accounts and that they were following the instructions to the letter.

Mrs Giles wisely interjected that to discover the Settlement figure it would be a simple matter of subtracting one precept from another.

Mrs. Hardy wished to speak about the requested change of use for 4 rooms on the 1st floor of the Community Centre to B1 for possible office space for business use, or a purpose ancillary to the Community Centre - whatever that might mean, and stated that she is totally opposed to this proposed change.  Mrs. Hardy also said that all want to see the Community Centre do well financially, but the prime reason for its erection is for the community to use.  To change part of the building into office space goes against the principle of community use.    Also, how does such a change affect the funding which has been granted to the SBCCF from both S106 and that raised from public events?

There is also the added concern that if part of the centre is being used for a community event which could be noisy, how would this affect those working in the commercial offices?  Could they legitimately request that the noise is kept down?

If, in time to come, the PC were to take over the Community Centre, would they then become landlords to a commercial business with all the problems that that entails?
In her view this application has not been thought out properly and if granted, would not be in the public interest.

The Chairman replied that if the PC were to take over the Community Centre then they would not be running it, but would merely mothball it until new people could be found to run it.

Mr. Shapland asked for the figure of the payment regarding the Employment Tribunal and received the same response from the Chairman as had Mr. Blundell.  Mr. Shapland persisted in asking how was this going to be shown in the accounting system.

He also referred to the request for a banner advertising a Wedding Fayre to be put on the Memorial Park fence or gates.  He considered this was a commercial enterprise and not a community function so why consider it.  If the PC choose to agree to it, then does it not open up a can of worms once agreement had been given for all manner of advertising on or around the new Community Centre.

Mr. Shapland also referred to matters being discussed in closed session and in particular the bus shelter.  

The response was that this matter would be subject to getting quotations from contractors and it would be illegal for the PC to publicly discuss this.  

Mrs. Faires said she was also asking why the bus shelter was to be discussed in closed session and what had happened to the openness and transparency this PC had promised the electorate.

BUSINESS TO BE TRANSACTED

  1. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE with reasons;  The Chairman said that while the PC had been fairly relaxed about accepting verbal apologies for absence, in future they would be following the LALC directives on the correct procedure and in future apologies for absence must be given in writing prior to the meeting taking place.
  1. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST - to receive Declarations of Interest in accordance with the 2000 Local Government Act.  Cllrs. M. Booth and S. Booth both declared their interest in the Allotments and the SBCCF respectively with Cllr. S. Booth adding two other interests but these would be held in closed session.
  1. SIGNING OF THE MINUTES – Notes from meetings on 31st January 2012 and 14th February 2012 to be accepted as minutes.  Accepted.
  1. POLICE MATTERS – To include update on Community Engagement Model Group: with no Police present and Cllr. Mrs. J. Rowe absent there was no report.  Cllr. Brandon-King stated there had been a “Drop in” scheme in the Police Caravan in the old village hall car park and thought there would be one in the new specially furnished room for Police use in the new Community Centre. Cllr. M. Booth stated that there were notices giving contact telephone numbers put in the windows of the Police room.  It was also stated there had been a complaint about lorries parking illegally along the river bank.
  1. CHAIRMAN'S REMARKS:  Cllr. Brandon-King thanked Cllr. Mrs. Hills for all the work she had done as a representative on the Burial Ground committee, and also to the Newsletter committee for their input.  He reported that the Clerk’s appraisal had been successfully completed and would now be referred to the Employment Working Party.  Referring to the Open Forum timing, it was to be hoped that all residents wishing to speak would ask all their questions in the Open Forum and not interrupt during PC discussions, which meant that Standing Orders had to be suspended several times last meeting, thus taking up more time than was necessary. 
  1. CLERK’S REPORT:  covered the following items:
  1. TO RECEIVE REPORTS FROM DISTRICT AND COUNTY COUNCILLORS; Cllr. M. Booth reported that:

Cllr. Brewis reported that:

  1. FINANCIAL MATTERS

       Payee

Detail

Chq. No.

Net

VAT

Total

St Matthews Church

Donation-use of facs

#000036

250.00

  

250.00

Solo Blinds

Office blind

#000037

25.00

5.00

30.00

G Goodwin & Son

Notice board maint.

#000038

40.00

8.00

48.00

SBCCFC

Thornton Firkin fees

#000039

5000.00

1000.00

6000.00

Wingland G'cutting

Litter pick Dec-Feb

#000040

315.00

  

315.00

N Portass

Picnic area

   #000041

325.00

  

325.00

Wingland G'cutting

Pest Control

#000042

150.00

  

150.00

R Dunn

Internal Audit fee

#000043

250.00

  

250.00

J Grimwood

Exps - new lock

#000044

16.66

3.34

20.00

Lincs Ass. Local Councils

Annual sub

#000045

582.90

111.40

694.30

Woodco

Photocopier

#000046

11.24

2.25

13.49

BT

Broadband Nov-Apr

#000047

71.64

14.32

85.96

AWA

Water rates - pavilion

#000048

9.01

  

9.01
         

8190.76

b.   Money In:  

    £
As per bank reconciliation:  Allotment Rent 7.00 
SHDC – Refund Thornton Firkin fee  5000.00
  5007.00

c.   To resolve to adopt Council’s reviewed Financial Regulations – as recommended  by Finance Committee, circulated to Cllrs 16.2.12.  Resolved

The Clerk added that two more cheques had been issued, one for her expenses and one for her salary and this would be shown on the website.

9. CORRESPONDENCE:

a. Items of correspondence for comment:
(i) Letter – S B in Bloom, planting & maintenance request – see agenda point 16
(ii) Letter – SBCCFC, re arrangements for office keys – closed session
(iii) Letter – RH & RW Clutton, re allotments – closed session
(iv) Letter – Carter Jonas, re allotment land – closed session
(v) Email – Adam Rostron Photography – Request to put up Wedding Fayre advertising banner on Memorial Park fence or gates – it was stated that this was a matter for the SBCCFC. Cllr. Mrs. Hills stated that the PC cannot be a party to facilitate business ventures. After much discussion the request was refused.

b. Correspondence received for information purposes only:
(for further details please contact the Parish Office)
(i) Newsletters – SLCVS, Newsbite Issues 5 & 6 2012
(ii) Letter – Community Lincs, details of Bulk Oil Buying Scheme (details on website & notice boards)
(iii) Email – SHDC, details of 'Master Gardner' Project
(iv) Email – SHDC, details of 'Annual Big Lunch'
(v) Newsletter – Lincs Registration & Celebratory Services Newsletter
(vi) Email – Wisbech Town Council, Wisbech Mayor's Quiz Evening 9.3.12
(vii) Letter – CPRE, details of 'Wildlife in your Village' training sessions
(viii) Email – Spinal Injuries Assoc, details of 'Great Fish & Chip Supper' fundraising
(ix) Email – SHDC, details of Queen Elizabeth II Field Challenge
(x) Email – SHDC, 'Street Party' tool kit

10. PLANNING MATTERS – Cllr. S. Booth left the chamber while the following planning applications were discussed.

Commercial:
New:
H18-0098-12 – Removal of condition 5 of H18-0793-10 relating to erection of timber
fencing, Sutton Bridge Community Centre – Mr P Clery (SBCCFC).

There is some confusion here as the land in question belongs to the SBPC.

H18-0055-12 – Part use of first floor accommodation (Rooms B,C,D,E) as either
office space for business use (Class B1) or for a purpose ancillary to the
Community Centre, The Curlew Centre, Bridge Rd, SB – Applicant: SBCCF.

There seems to be a great deal of confusion regarding the change of use. It was explained that the PC have leased the land plus one metre round the "footprint" of the building to the SBCCF. If the SBCCF defaults, the property reverts to the PC. However, the PC do not intend to run the Community Centre, and in case of default the PC would moth ball the building until a new management committee was formed.

Discussion then centred on the permitted use of the new building, including whether or not it could be sub-let. In the case of any default then any sub-let lease would cease with immediate effect. The general feeling was that the building should be run for the benefit of the Parish. The Chairman stated that the planning applications/permissions are between the SBCCF and the SHDC. It is not a SBPC issue.

Public opinion suggests that since the new Community Centre, is just that - a Community Centre - it should not be used for commercial purposes. It was then argued that if space was available and unused then it would be far better for it to be let to generate income. Additionally it was regretted that this would mean that commercial premises would again be boarded up in the main road while businesses were operating from within the Community Centre.

(This discussion went on so long that Cllr. Brewis feared it would go on till 11.30 pm (past his bedtime) and left the room at 8.20 pm). The Chairman concluded that the wrong planning permission had been sought and granted and that a letter should be sent to SHDC pointing this out, and that the proper planning clauses be implemented.

Cllrs. Booth and Brewis re-entered the chamber.

H18-0125-12 – S73A CONTINUATION – Continuation of permission granted under Ref. H18-0306-07 without complying with Condition 2 (provision of acoustic screen), Felbinder UK Ltd, Tydd Bank, SB – Mr S Smeeth. No objection.

H18-0066-12 – SEC 73 MODIFICATION – Variation to Condition 2 of H18-0743-10 to allow amended works/parking bays and removal of Condition 8 of H18-0743-10 relating to signage, Sutton Bridge Marina, West Bank, SB – Lincs County Council

It was agreed to defer comment on this until after the requested Question & Answer session arranged for the 9th March.

Granted:
Refused:
H18-1017-11 – Change of use and conversion of existing shop/accom to form 3
apartments and construct 2 new semi-detached dwellings, 8a High Street, Sutton
Bridge – Mr M Crass, Burleigh Rd, Ascot.

Other:
New:
H18-0102-12 – Permission Renewal – Erection of pair of semi-detached dwellings,
217 Bridge Rd, SB – Mr M Baggaley

No objection.

Granted:
H18-1011-11 – Details of method of disposal of manure and foul water, Riverside,
East Bank, SB – Miss EJ Garner & Mr MA Mears, Rushdene, Church Gate,
Gedney.

Refused:

11. HIGHWAYS & FOOTWAYS
a. Update on outstanding matters – no report.

b. To report any new matters – LCC Highways intend to block the road running alongside the river south and west of the swing bridge as it is not necessary as a highway.

12. TO RECEIVE REPORTS FROM WORKING PARTIES & COMMITTEES
(Action recommended in reports to be included for resolution on next agenda)

A. Churchyard and Playing Fields – Cllr Grimwood, Hills, T Rowe

Cllr. Grimwood reported on the following:

• The trees in Chalk Lane had been trimmed back, but the debris had been left.

• At the East Bank Lighthouse there was graffiti on the litter bin and a vast amount of litter at the car park area.

• Cattle on the East river bank were straying into an unfenced area near the East Bank Lighthouse and concern was expressed about the Health and Safety issues that could arise

• Arnie Broughton Walk still needs a lot of work doing on it but some clearance has revealed clumps of snowdrops

• A post had been put in to stop cars entering the field behind the old Youth Club.

• It had been reported that a strong wire had been put across the pathway between Royal Close and the playing field in an apparent indiscriminate act of vandalism. This had been cut away and reported to the Police.

• In the Playground in Railway Lane South, the trees had been trimmed back on the west side of the park and looked the better for it. There remained the problem with the fencing and SHDC should remove it as it could be a possible danger for children playing there.

• The door to the electric meter at the Pavilion had been wrenched open, and Cllr. Grimwood had re-secured the door.

B. Allotments – Cllrs Brewis, Croxford, Preston – No report

C. Finance Committee – Cllrs Brandon-King, Dewsberry, Grimwood, Hills; as this had already be dealt with it was agreed to have this item removed from future agendas.

D. Personnel Committee – Cllrs Booth, Brewis, Croxford, Preston: No report

E. Planning – Cllrs S Booth, Brandon-King, J Rowe : As this matter had already been discussed it was agreed to have this item removed from future agendas. There was some discussion about the reopening of the Bargain Booze shop and requests for certain measures to be put in place if the shop is to continue trading. The SHDC Licensing Committee have taken the matter very seriously and have added the following conditions:

  1. That the Designated Premises Supervisor is to be a full time permanent member of staff to perform the required duties.
  2. In the absence of the DPS then the Premises licence holder be present.
  3. Two members of staff shall be present during trading hours.
  4. The use of an incident record book to be used when challenges of underage sales or drunkenness are made.
  5. Underage policy - Challenge 25 to be used.

Inspections and visits will continue to be made by SHDC Licensing Department, as well as Lincolnshire Police.

F. Footpaths & Byways (to include update on 'The Nene Local Access Forum) – Cllrs M Booth, Hills, Preston – Notices have been put up at Guys Head and on the East Bank about the closure of certain footpaths, but diversions were in place. Will give report next month

G. Burial Ground Committee – Cllrs Brandon-King, Grimwood, Hills, J Rowe : Cllr. Mrs. Hills gave a detailed report on progress of this project and put forward the following proposals:-

Resolutions put forward by Burial Ground Committee:

(i) To resolve to accept the quotation for the excavation of four trial holes;
subject to receipt of training certificates and a valid insurance
document; for the sum of £200 + VAT. Resolved

(ii) To consider and resolve on employing Mr Nixon to carry out the
necessary ecology survey subject to the results of trial holes. Resolved.

(iii) To resolve to support an application for £50,000 from the remaining
S106 funds for the burial ground project. After some discussion about whether to ask for £100,000 it was agreed that request for £50,000 would remain . Should further funding be required then a further request would be made. Resolved

(iv) To resolve to accept recommendations that are appropriate from Justin
Smith (Technical Director) of Cemetery Development Services. Resolved in principle subject to all conditions being met.

H. Parish Newsletter – Cllrs Brandon-King, Dewsberry, Preston – pro forma newsletter was discussed and with a few amendments agreed to go ahead.

Resolutions – Parish Newsletter working party:

(i) To resolve to accept 'terms of reference' for Newsletter Working Party
Resolved
(ii) To resolve to accept for general distribution the Parish Newsletter-
'Spring Edition' as presented by the working party - Resolved

B. Farmers Market – Cllrs Grimwood, Hills – Will make report next month

13. TO RECEIVE REPORTS FROM OUTSIDE BODIES REPRESENTATIVES

a. Phillips and Allen's Charities – No report

b. Voluntary Car Scheme – No Report

c. SBCCFC Cllr. S. Booth Reported that:

• the SBCCF website was up and running
• The CAB had started their sessions that day
• A caretaker had been employed
• The Library would be opening shortly
• Risk assessment was underway
• Village Hall sign to be changed to Community Centre or Curlew Centre. (This is a matter for LCC .

d. LALC – No report.

e. Holbeach Senior Links- Cllr Dewsberry referred to a letter.

f. Power Station Liaison – no report

g. Kings Lynn Advisory Group Special Area of Conservation : Cllr. Grimwood reported there was to be a meeting of this group on the 27th March and as he wished to attend that meeting, he tendered his apologies to the PC. The Chairman asked him to put it in writing.

h. Charter of Friendship Group – no report

i. Grange Wind Farm Liaison Group – no report

j. The Suttons Emergency Planning Group – no report

k. Sutton Bridge Multi Agency Group – next meeting to be arranged.

14. TO RESOLVE ON MR R NEWTON-DUNN, MEP PROVIDING NON-POLITICAL INFORMATION FOR INCLUSION ON PARISH WEBSITE; Resolved

15. TO RESOLVE ON PRESENTATION BY MR DAVID PULLEN (LINCS WATERWAYS P'SHIP) RE MARINA PROJECT : Resolved and agreed to invite Justin Brown and Eddie Poll. An Extraordinary Meeting will be held on 6th March, 7 pm at the Community Centre. Cllr. Brewis commented that it was unusual for there to be extraordinary meetings to hear presentations from potential developers, and asked if there was not a precedent being set. The Chairman replied that a precedent had already been set with representatives from Centrica visiting recently on two occasions.

16. TO RESOLVE TO ALLOW 'SB IN BLOOM' TO PLANT & MAINTAIN THE AREA BETWEEN AWA PUMPING STATION AND PUBLIC CONVENIENCES – correspondence item 9a.(i) – Resolved

17. TO RECEIVE REQUESTS FROM MEMBERS FOR CONSIDERATION AT THE
DISCRETION OF THE CHAIRMAN (NOTHING MAY BE RESOLVED UNDER THIS
HEADING)

18. TO RESOLVE ON WHETHER THE COUNCIL SHOULD MOVE INTO CLOSED
SESSION FOR DISCUSSION OF THE FOLLOWING AGENDA ITEMS ON THE
GROUNDS OF CONFIDENTIALITY;

19. TO RECEIVE RECOMMENDATIONS ON PROPOSED REPAIRS TO BUS SHELTER IN BRIDGE RD AND RESOLVE ON APPROPRIATE ACTION

20. TO PROVIDE UPDATE AND RESOLVE ON STAFFING AND ADMINISTRATION MATTERS TO INCLUDE:

(i) COVER ARRANGEMENTS FOR CLERK'S ANNUAL LEAVE
(ii) RECOMMENDATIONS PUT FORWARD BY INTERNAL AUDITOR IN RESPECT OF RISK ASSESSMENT
(iii) ACCESS ARRANGEMENTS FOR PARISH OFFICE – correspondence item 9a(ii)

21. TO CONSIDER INFORMATION RECEIVED FROM CARTER JONAS AND RH & RW CLUTTON RELATING TO ALLOTMENT MATTERS AND RESOLVE ON WAY FORWARD FOR WORKING PARTY – correspondence items 9a(iii) & 9a(iv)

FROM THE PUBLIC GALLERY

¦ ⇑ Back to top of page ⇑ ¦
Feb 172012

Notes on the Sutton Bridge Parish Council Meeting
held on 14th February, 2012

Present: Cllr Brandon-King (Chair), Cllr Croxford, Cllr Vicky Hills, Cllr Simon Booth, Cllr Mary Preston

An Extraordinary Parish Council Meeting was held at the Curlew Centre on Tuesday 14th February, 2012 to hear a presentation given by Simon Gamage, of Lincs Wind Farm Ltd , Consents & Environment Manager (Onshore), and to discuss the Parish Council’s response to LWF Ltd’s latest planning application for the second breach to the primary sea defence wall, north and east of the East Lighthouse. Application  H18-1024-11.  This meeting is reported under the Centrica page of this website.

¦ ⇑ Back to top of page ⇑ ¦
Feb 32012

Notes on the Sutton Bridge Parish Council Meeting
held on 31st January, 2012

Present: Cllrs. D. Dewsberry, M. Booth, Mrs. M. Preston, C. Croxford, C. Brandon-King, J. Grimwood, Mrs, V. Hills, Mrs. J. Rowe

OPEN FORUM

Mr. Clery welcomed the meeting to its new home and hoped they would find it most convenient.

Mr. Ford referred to the planning application for change of use from a hairdressers to a Take –away food shop and requested the council to think carefully about this, as there were already two fish and chip shops, a Chinese, Indian and Kebab/Pizza take-away and did not think that this small village could support yet another such shop.

Mrs. Minns again asked when would the markings be put in place at the junctions of Chestnut Terrace and Withington Street, as it was very dangerous trying to pull out into the mainstream of traffic from these roads with large vehicle blocking the view of oncoming traffic

Mrs. Giles questioned the payment to Mrs. Ripley, as the present Clerk had now been in the job for almost a year and surely could be mentored by existing Parish Councillors.

Mrs. Grimwood asked the PC to carefully consider the Planning Application for 8a High Street, as car parking was already at a premium in such a narrow road.

Mr. Blundell stated that it despite the huge protest against it, the proposed incinerator for King's Lynn was now going ahead. As a consequence, PREL were on the prowl again about progressing their incinerator. Mr. Blundell reiterated PREL's own calculations that there would be one HGV movement every four minutes. He asked for reassurance that the Parish Council take any further proposals a great deal more seriously than they had the Screening and Scoping document submitted two years ago.

Mrs Blundell made a statement about her concerns regarding the new application by Centrica for further work on the Marsh in the summer months. She said that the members of SB Parish Council will be aware that Centrica have submitted their planning application for a continuation of work on the sea defence wall, the marsh and intertidal flats east of the East Lighthouse to be carried out this summer in order to bring ashore the western marine cable to connect with the land cable connection to the Walpole Sub-station.

This will involve a second breach close the one cut last year and while the methodology has be altered in the light of 'lessons learned', there is still cause for concern about maintaining the integrity of the sea wall, especially since some remedial work took place in mid September 2011 to reinforce the sea wall after the work finished at the beginning of September.

With this in mind, she urged councillors to scrutinise the planning application carefully, which can be found at www.sholland.gov.uk/doitonline/plandev/ . The planning application number is H18-1024-11.

Local users with knowledge of the marsh and the creeks were very concerned last year that the direct line for the trench to the toe of the seawall across the marsh had the potential to allow an easy passage for water to seep under the seawall. The fact that remedial action had to be undertaken, suggests that their local knowledge was accurate.

A number of unfortunate incidents occurred on the marsh during last year's work programme, whereby heavy machinery got stuck and damaged the marsh considerably more than was envisaged and this must not happen again. It is important, therefore, with Sutton Bridge's history of flooding and sea surges that have occurred over time on this very vulnerable section of the marsh and sea wall that the Parish Council is very aware of the problems that might occur.

The consultation period ends on February 9th 2012.

Mrs. Faires stated that many people had spoken to her about how much they were impressed with the new community centre and congratulated all those who had worked so hard to bring the new building to a reality. However, she was most concerned that there was no fire escape from the upper floor and hoped this would be a priority before the upper floor was used for public activities.

Mr. Clery advised that although they had been surprised that the building had been allowed to be completed without a fire escape, they were told that it was not a requirement as the building only had a capacity for 300 people. However, in view of the proposed nursery being housed on the upper floor, a fire escape would be provided shortly.

Mrs. Faires continued by saying she did not understand Cllr. Croxford's suggestion that the open area on the Falklands Estate is not available to all and only used by people walking dogs. She said she goes there on her buggy and also takes her grandchildren there to see and identify trees, plants, birds, beetles hand other creepy crawlies. Our ages range from over 70 to under 8 years of age, so how can it not be available to all?

She also stated that a lot of time was spent discussing the bus stop at the Birches in Bridge Road, and asked what has or is being done about it, and were there not more important matters to be discussed in such depth?

Mr. Fenton had very strong grievances about the very serious effect the nearby factory was having on his home since the change of use from a joinery company to metal fabrication works, in that there were cracks in every single room of his house. His insurance assessor was going to visit his house to look at the drains, which are believed to have been damaged by the continual vibrations. The company works a 7 days per week and there is no respite from the noise. A representative from the SHDC had been to visit and suggested that the works guillotine be moved to the other side of the workshop in order to reduce the noise and vibratory effect on local residences, but this had made little difference.

Mr. Fenton was also very concerned about employees of the factory parking their cars along West Bank and blocking the view of on coming traffic, and together with their use of a fork lift truck loading HGV's, he said it was an accident waiting to happen.

Mr. Fenton also asked about the Police office at the new community centre. He said that although the light was above the door, there was never anyone in the office. Another point he made was that there is no telephone number displayed. If the office is unmanned, then surely a telephone number should be displayed in the window. He made a further suggestion that when so many people were attending a parish council meeting and all wanted to speak, would it not be better to increase the Open Forum from 15 to 20 minutes?

BUSINESS TO BE TRANSACTED

1. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE with reasons: Cllrs. Brewis and S, Booth apologies accepted.

2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST - to receive Declarations of Interest in accordance with the 2000 Local Government Act. Cllr. M. Booth had signed the book reference his interest in Allotments.

3. SIGNING OF THE MINUTES – Notes from meetings on 29th November 2011 and
10th January 2012 to be accepted as minutes. Agreed

4. POLICE MATTERS – To include update on Community Engagement Model Group – with no Police representative present Cllrs. Mrs. Rowe advised that it had been reported there was still a lot of "Cold Calling" being done on the Falklands Estate after dark by the WWF, UNICEF and other enterprises. This was quite unnerving for the majority of the elderly residents who live there. The New Inn is being reopened under new management. The 4x4 project had been completed and the refurbished vehicle had been sent to Portsmouth for delivery to The Second Chance Children's Charity. Daisy, the only girl who worked on the Project, had been chosen as one of many to carry the Olympic Torch through the county prior to the start of the Olympic Games. The Grange Wind Farm Fund was now up and running and applications would be welcomed for £500 to £5,000 by not for profit groups serving the local community. Cllr. Mrs. Hills added that cars were still being driven at high speeds throughout the village, but it appears that the police do not take the matter seriously as although they had been given the vehicle registration numbers, the vehicles were supposedly scrapped on the day of the reported offence. Previous owners declared that the vehicle had been sold a month prior to the report. Cllr. M. Booth again stated that illegal hare coursing was still an ongoing problem.

5. CHAIRMAN'S REMARKS – several councillors had helped to move the contents of the old Parish Council office into the new office at the new community centre. Unfortunately BT had not yet connected the telephone line, though it was anticipated this would be done by Friday 3rd February. The old safe from the Sports Pavilion was to be transferred to the new PC office. The Chairman thanked all those who had helped with the move. Although there had been three meetings of the personnel committee, there was no report, due to there not being a quorum.

6. CLERK'S REPORT – the Clerk gave a report on the work done since the last PC meeting. It was hoped that books would be donated to the new library by the public and the LCC who were also donating a considerable amount of books and equipment. Letters had been sent to SHDC regarding the CCTV system without a response so far. It is to be considered whether to keep this system live as it does not appear to be value for money. The costs involved for alterations to the bus stop near The Birches in Bridge Road would be approximately £1200 and the roof would also be another very expensive item to modify. Some improvement measures would be undertaken. Costs for Parish Council notice boards would also be quite expensive. Metal boards prices start from £500, with wooden ones starting at £1100. Post mounted boards are even more expensive with metal boards costing from £650 and wooden ones from £1500. A member from the gallery offered to speak to a local carpenter for quotations.

7. TO RECEIVE REPORTS FROM DISTRICT AND COUNTY COUNCILLORS – Cllr. M. Booth reported that saga of Travellers site continues, and it is anticipated that the building works could begin in April. The next SBMAG meeting would be on the 20th February in the Con. Club at 6.30 pm. There had been a very productive meeting with some of the Sutton Bridge students attending the Peele School and their input had been very positive. A small group of the students have been invited to attend the next SBMAG meeting on the 20th Feb. SHDC could be soon be building new council houses to reduce the waiting list. Our local district councillors are concerned about SHDC scrapping of the monthly Saturday refuse collections at the industrial site in Railway Lane, as well as those for Long Sutton and Holbeach, whereas all other areas appear to be retaining their service. Cllr. M. Booth also reported on the terrible state of the industrial units in Railways Lane. He also referred to the cheaper fuel campaign at present being conducted through SHDC and advertised widely in the local press. The Christmas tree lights had been tested by Mark Everitt at no charge although he could not hang the lights himself, he obtained the use of a cherry picker to enable the job to be done at a cost of £250.

Cllr. Brandon-King read a report from Cllr., Brewis stating that the Sunday 505 bus service was being increase to every 30 minutes during the day. There would be a late daily bus from starting from King's Lynn at 7.45 pm. Good news was the registry Office and Wedding Venue in Long Sutton will continue. From the floor, Mrs. Giles pointed out future renewal of bus passes would now be made through LCC instead of SHDC.

8. FINANCIAL MATTERS

a. Accounts for payment 31.1.12:

       Payee

Detail

Chq. No.

Net

VAT

Total

Came & Company

Insurance

#000023

133.01

  

133.01

Woodco

Photocopier

#000024

11.24

2.25

13.49

N J Portass

Picnic Site

#000025

325.00

  

325.00

Solo Window  Blinds

Office blinds

#000026

124.20

24.84

149.04

B T

Calls

#000027

86.44

17.28

103.72

Color-Tec

Office Rent

    #000028

185.00

  

185.00

Steve Cousins

Shower repair

#000029

158.00

31.60

189.60

Fraser Dawbarns

Legal services

#000030

250.00

50.00

300.00

Viking

Stationery

#000031

25.80

5.16

30.96

Mrs J Ripley

Staff Costs

#000032

119.00

  

119.00

Carter Jonas

Land Rent

#000033

2600.00

  

2600.00
         

4148.82

Suzanne also added that another couple of cheques had been paid out, one of which was to herself for expenses incurred.

Cllr. Croxford raised the question about the payment for the shower repair in the sports pavilion and it was suggested that any such repairs to the pavilion in future be  first  referred to the PC and quotations obtained.

b.   Money In:  

    £
As per bank reconciliation:  Allotment Rent 244.50 
VAT Repayment   637.65
Wayleave 147.38
SHDC – Refund Grasscutting  10485.92
SHDC – Refund litter & picnic area 5505.00
  17020.45

c. To receive update on 2011-2012 budget - parishioners did not get an update.

d. To resolve on contribution to St Matthews Church – as proposed by Finance
Committee 29.11.11. It was agreed to donate £250 to St. Matthew's Church with a letter of thanks for the use of the facilities enjoyed by the PC for many years.

e. To resolve on re-imbursement of funds to SBCCFC in relation to fees paid to
Thornton Firkin on behalf of the Parish Council – this relates to the sum paid to employ an agent at the insistence of SHDC while the building was being erected.

9. CORRESPONDENCE:
a. Items of correspondence for comment:

(i) Letter, Brown & Co - Advice on allotment matter – To be discussed in closed session.
(ii) Email, SHDC - 'Right to Warmth' scheme. (a parishioner in the gallery was heard to mutter that it should start right there in the library!)
(iii) Letter, Parishioner – Street Art Group. Although discussed, some query over who owns the land in question.
(iv) Email, PCSO B. Harrington – Sutton Bridge Motor Project. – this project had now been completed and the fully roadworthy vehicle had been sent to a children's charity in Portsmouth.
(v) Letter, Big Lottery Fund – Torch Relay London 2012, briefing.
(vi) Letter, HMRC – Cancellation of penalty. The PC were not at fault.
(vii) Letter, parishioner – Request for trees to be cut back. This also was cause for a long discussion about what could or could not be done. It is thought that the trees all have preservation orders on them and they were there before the houses/estate was built. It would appear there is no legal right to light. The owner of the property has been advised he is at liberty to have the offending branches cut off at the boundary of his property and throw them back over the fence as well as the annual fall of leaves. The PC will see if there is anything they can do to help this resident.
(viii) Letter, parishioner – Damage to Village Green by parked cars. Part of the Village Green is being continually damaged by vehicles cutting the corner as they park or drive by. This has resulted in an unsightly mess. There is little remedial work the PC can do to stop this inconsiderate parking, mainly due to Highways and health and safety regulations. It was suggested that as many parishioners as possible send letters of protest together with photographs to the Highways dept at LCC and asking them for their support in keeping our village presentable.
(ix) Letter, Lincs Comm. Health Service – NHS Foundation Trust.
(x) Email, Simon Gamage – Lincs Wind Farm, latest planning application. Although planning applications are no longer available on view at the PC office, these can be downloaded from the SHDC website. A request is to be sent to Mr. Gamage to visit Sutton Bridge to give an update on Centrica's latest plans at a date and venue to be agreed.
(xi) Email, FOSBPF&OS – Request to install litter bin.
(xii) Letter, Lincs Comm. Foundation – Grange Wind Farm Community Fund - this fund is now open for applications for amounts ranging from £500 to £5000 from local community not for profit groups.

b. Correspondence received for information purposes only:
(for further details please contact the Parish Office):

(i) Email, SHDC – Information re 'Garden Organic' scheme, volunteer network/training for anyone wishing to develop a Community garden or grow their own vegetables.
(ii) Letter, Came & Co – Confirmation of increase in insurance cover.
(iii) Email, Lincs Community Foundation – Grants to support rural communities, for example; countryside projects.
(iv) Letter, Santander – Confirmation of closure of bank accounts.
(v) Email, SHDC – Open Arts Exhibition, S. Holland Centre 29th Feb-6th March 2012.
(vi) Email, NHS Lincs – 'Meet your Health Trainer' days, SB Curlew Centre, Thursdays 9am – 4 pm.
(vii) Letter, Fraser Dawbarns – Confirmation of completion of office lease.
(viii) Letter, SB in Bloom – Acknowledgment and thanks for £500 grant.
(ix) Publication, CPRE – A guide to neighbourhood planning.

10 PLANNING MATTERS
Commercial:
New:
H18-1024-11, Temporary modification to primary sea defence north of SB to allow installation of electricity cable – Land East of River Nene and North of secondary
sea defence, Wingland – Lincs Wind Farm Ltd. – request for an extension of dates to be requested from SHDC Planning Department, in order that the matter first be fully discussed with the involved parties, ie Lincs Wind Farm, Environmental Agency and Natural England.

H18-1019-11, Conversion of Care home into 12 flats and associated works –
Sudeley House, Wharf St, SB – IMN Properties. – No objections apart from the observation that an area for refuse collecting be made accessible for the SHDC's vehicles.

H18-0602-11, Amendment, Change of use from joinery workshop (B1) to joinery/metal fabrication workshop (B2) – Dodfrey Engineering. Cut off date extended to 2.2.12. This is to be strongly opposed on the grounds of the totally different environment now caused to local residents. SHDC are to be requested that work be stopped until the matter is resolved to the satisfaction of nearby residents. It was also mentioned that environmental health was also involved.
.
H18-0010-12, Change of use of ground floor from A1 (shops) to A5 (takeaways), 78
Bridge Rd, SB – Mr S Miah. An objection to this application will also be made, as smells from a take-away would affect the residents in the premises above the shop.

H18-1017-11, Change of use and conversion of existing shop/accommodation to form 3 apartments and construct 2 new semi-detached dwellings – 8a High Street,
SB – Mr M Crass. Cut off date extended to 2.2.12. This application also to be strongly opposed due to it being a massive over-development, with no consideration for the extra parking spaces that would be required in such a narrow street.

Granted:
Refused:
H18-1024-10, Change of use of part of shop to one-bed flat retrospective) – 88
Bridge Rd, SB.

Other:
New:
H18-0982-11, Proposed detached garage – Holding 30, Grange Rd, Wingland –
Mr & Mrs D Copeland. Cut off date 10.1.12 – Planning WP offered no objections.

It is understood that PREL are having an Environment Impact Assessment done and likely to put in a planing application for an incinerator in the near future. It was suggested that a public meeting be called and a referendum be offered to the village so that all parishioners can have their whether they want it or not. A letter will be sent to PREL inviting them to a meeting to give an update and discuss their plans prior to their making a formal application.

Granted:
Refused:

11. HIGHWAYS & FOOTWAYS

a. Update on outstanding matters

b. To report any new matters

12. TO RECEIVE REPORTS FROM WORKING PARTIES & COMMITTEES
(Action recommended in reports to be included for resolution on next agenda)

A. Churchyard and Playing Fields – Cllr Grimwood, Hills, T Rowe – a new safety surface had been placed on the round-a-bout in the playing field. Cllrs. Mrs. Hills and J. Grimwood had met with a representative from Sutton Bridge in Bloom and had agreed the area where the paintings could be erected.
B. Allotments – Cllrs Brewis, Croxford, Preston – Nothing new to report apart from sending out reminders about keeping livestock on allotments.
C. Finance Committee – Cllrs Brandon-King, Dewsberry, Grimwood, Hills – already discussed.
D. Personnel Committee – Cllrs Booth, Brewis, Croxford, Preston. As the meeting did not take place due to there not being a quorum, there is no report.
E. Planning – Cllrs S Booth, Brandon-King, J Rowe - already discussed.
F. Footpaths & Byeways (to include update on 'The Wash Local Access Forum) – Cllrs M Booth, Hills, Preston - no report.
G. Burial Facilities Committee – Cllrs Brandon-King, Grimwood, Hills, J Rowe – Cllr. Mrs. Hills passed a hand-out to all as follows"

QUOTE

BURIAL GROUND COMMITTEE PROGRESS REPORT

Cllr. J. Rowe contacted Jon Sharpe from the Highway Authority providing him with a map of the area he considered that on the evidence that they presently know that they would be supportive of this proposal.

Cllr. Hills has obtained utility plans that show there is no evidence of water, gas, electricity or BT cables/pipes in the designated area for the proposed burial ground.

A quote has been submitted to SBPC for excavation of the 4 trial pits to ensure that ground conditions are suitable for the proposed burial ground if accepted a risk assessment, method statement and insurance certificates will be provided.

A Burial Ground meeting has been arranged for the 9th February 2012 at 10 am at the Curlew centre Parish Office.

Cllr. Hills January 2012 for Burial Ground Committee.

UNQUOTE

H. Parish Newsletter – Cllrs Brandon-King, Dewsberry, Preston – No report. Meeting to be arranged.
I. Pavilion Redevelopment – Cllrs Grimwood, Hills & J Rowe – a discussion centred on this with regard to setting up a new group. The suggested name being Friends of Sutton Bridge Football Pavilion Committee or similar, as this would put them in a better position to apply for funding.

13. TO RECEIVE REPORTS FROM OUTSIDE BODIES REPRESENTATIVES

a. Phillips and Allen's Charities – no report
b. Voluntary Car Scheme – no report
c. SBCCFC – no report
d. LALC – no report
e. Holbeach Senior Links – next meting will be in March.
f. Power Station Liaison – no report
g. Kings Lynn Advisory Group Special Area of Conservation – Cllr. Grimwood reiterated what had already been discussed saying that all were very concerned about the works being undertaken on the sea wall and so close to the last man-made breach.
h. Charter of Friendship Group – no report
i. Grange Wind Farm Liaison Group – already discussed
j. The Suttons Emergency Planning Group – no report
k. Sutton Bridge Multi Agency Group – next meeting 20th February, 6.30 pm at the Constitutional Club.
l.

14. TO RECEIVE REPORT ON FURTHER DEVELOPMENTS RELATING TO S106 FUNDS
FOLLOWING MEETING WITH MARK STANTON AND TO RESOLVE ON APPROPRIATE
ACTION – Cllr. Brandon-King stated he had a rather long report to make after his meeting with Mark Stanton and Nigel Birch. A representative of Bridge Watch was offered a copy of the report, which is reproduced below at the request of the SBPC Chairman. Cllr. Mrs. Rowe stayed while the report was read out but when she realise, as she said, that the Chairman appeared to be mixing items 14 and 15 she left the room having a declared interet in item 15.

Chairman's report to Council on the results of meetings with Mark Stanton and Nigel Burch from SHDC.

QUOTE

Mark Stanton, the Economic Development Manager at SHDC invited me to attend a meeting with him, and Nigel Burch the Economic Development Officer at SHDC. Suzanne kindly agreed to accompany me.

At that meeting, on 9th November 2011, we explained our concerns about a number of issues relating to the s106 funds administered by SHDC.

Mr Stanton explained that the £150,000 pounds [originally earmarked for the East Lighthouse Project] had been amalgamated with the £250,000 for the Nene Marina Project, and that SHDC had agreed with LCC to create a charge on the Sutton Bridge s106 fund of £400,000, as detailed in the letter sent to members of the public and the Council.

The question was asked, when, why and on whose authority had the two sums been lumped together. Mr Stanton indicated that SHDC and LCC had entered into a Joint Funding Arrangement, initially covering 'Shep Whites Marsh; The East Lighthouse and the Marina Project. It soon became apparent that Shep Whites was outside the scope of the Sutton Bridge s106 funds, and that element scrapped.

The question was also asked about the £24,254.63 of Sutton Bridge s106 funds being drawn for an 'Economic Development Capital Project Post 2007-2009'. That is, on what basis were these funds appropriated, by whom and on whose authority? I have been advised by e-mail [20/1/12], that the funds drawn off the Sutton Bridge s106 Fund, will be returned to the fund, but I don't know when.

A further question was asked – why were SHDC baulking at paying out the £5,000 for the employment of 'Agents' to supervise the building of the Community Centre? When they insisted SBPC employ them, and agreed that the cost would come from the general Sutton Bridge s106 fund. I am pleased to report that Mr Burch authorised the payment on 25/1/12.

At the conclusion of that meeting on 9th November, the SHDC representatives agreed to answer the questions raised without delay.

On 14th January 2012, not having received a response from Messrs Burch or Stanton, and on receipt of the Marine Licence Application for Nene Marine CIC Ltd, I e-mailed to Mr Burch a request to find out 'what was going on?'.

On 15th January in the absence of replies to those questions, I trawled through the SHDC web-site looking for Cabinet Minutes of decisions relating to Nene Marine Group, later to become Nene Marine CIC Ltd. I produced one and a half pages of queries, and concluded from the review of the minutes and the Joint Funding Agreement with LCC, that SHDC had appeared to have acted without authority [ultra vires] in lumping together funds from the Sutton Bridge s106 fund, for East Lighthouse and Nene Marine CIC Ltd. I requested answers to a number of questions.

They were: -

Why wasn't a payment of £9,400 to 'Nene Marine Group' detailed on the earlier letter sent explaining the disposition of Sutton Bridge s106 funds?

Why wasn't the £150,000 from the East Lighthouse returned to SHDC, as required by cabinet minute 2.7 dated 21/7/2009?

I asked for the date of signing the Joint Funding Agreement

I asked for copy documents which were required under sections 4.6, 4.8, 4.9 and 5.3 of the Joint Funding Agreement, as there was no evidence that the obligations in those clauses had been met

Why was there no reference to the £5,000 payment to Nene Marine CIC Ltd, as agreed/approved in cabinet minute C86 dated 22/2/11?

I am still waiting for answers

An urgent request for a meeting in the Parish Office for Tuesday 17th January was made by Mr Stanton. I asked Cllr Grimwood to sit in with Suzanne and me.

Prior to the meeting, I reviewed the Marine Licence Application, which had been sent to the Council for observations, and raised a number of queries with Mr Stanton.

They are: -

Why was Mr Peter Harvey still involved?

Who assessed, when and how did the background to the project include "... in response to an identified local need...."?

What was the Environment Agency's, reaction to the parking which appeared to be cutting into the riverside sea defences, as queried by SBPC on receipt of the planning application? Subsequently this was resolved to Cllr Grimwood's and my satisfaction.

The Environment Agency Representative was asked why "Application for Environment Agency consent had been made and has been agreed in principle, formal consent is scheduled to be in place February 2012? Subsequently explained to my satisfaction by telephone.

Had LCC Highways Dept been consulted on the effects of the land-side project on HGV's passing by the new parking area?

What evidence did they have, to justify the comment - "Following local consultation by the Parish Council in conjunction with District and County Councils, to provide a mooring facility to satisfy demand from the immediate area."?

What evidence did they have to justify the comments - "The Sutton Bridge Parish Council has been instrumental in promoting the scheme, and there is general local public support for this proposal"? Subsequent to this, I have reviewed the Council minutes for the whole of the Council from 2004 to 2008 and concluded that there is far more to this issue.

What evidence is there to support the comment "SHDC in conjunction with SBPC has conducted a number of local consultations. It should be noted that South Holland DC is, through an economic development fund, financially supporting this proposal."?

When is the Water Framework Directive Appraisal to be completed?

Where is the evidence that "The development proposed here will create up to 18 new local jobs …......?

Mr Stanton advised that the marina project was likely to go ahead. Land had been acquired from the owner, and the total cost would be in the region of £830,000 – £900,000, despite the MLA quoting £450,000. Following that meeting further questions were raised by both Cllr Grimwood and myself. They were submitted to Mr Burch by e-mail on 18th Jan: -

Would they provide a copy of the original business plans for the Marina, and subsequently, to support the switch of a further £150,000 of Sutton Bridge s106 funds?

Would they provide a copy of all the evidence provided by Nene Marine to support their contention that 'economic benefit will accrue to Sutton Bridge', as it is extremely difficult to see what those benefits could be?

Subsequently, I have received another e-mail from Mr Stanton on 26/1/12, to advise that, as I had claimed that SHDC had appeared to have acted 'ultra vires', that the whole issue was being referred to Lincolnshire Legal. As a result he could not answer on that specific question. However, he has offered to provide answers to all of the other questions.

I have not received answers to those questions yet.
He also provided me with the names of two individuals at LCC, who I will contact to get the up-to-date position.

Finally, do any Cllr's have any questions on the report?

UNQUOTE

Cllrs. Mrs. Hills expressed the view that the Marina Project was being singled out for rather aggressive attention. Other Councillors pointed out that they were certainly not against the Marina Project.

15. TO DISCUSS MARINE LICENCE APPLICATION FOR CONSTRUCTION AT SUTTON BRIDGE MARINA Cllr. Croxford stated his concern about inexperienced people navigating in the Wash and being a danger to other shipping. He added that he was also concerned about seals and wildlife and health and safety issues at the Marina site.

Cllr. Mrs. Rowe returned to the chamber.

16. TO DISCUSS ARRANGEMENTS FOR 'WOODLAND CREATION' PRESENTATION BY
REPRESENTATIVE FROM THE WOODLAND TRUST – this is to take place as a separate meeting

17. TO RESOLVE ON AN APPROPRIATE NUMBER OF PARISH NOTICE BOARDS AND WHERE THEY SHOULD BE SITUATED – Carried forward from November meeting – The discussion focussed on whether to have one large board at the new Community Centre or 5 – 7 others placed around the village.

18. TO RECEIVE UPDATE IN RELATION TO AN INVESTIGATION INTO THE PLANNING AND REDEVELOPMENT OF THE FALKLANDS 'OPEN AREA' – As resolved at November meeting –Cllr. Croxford stated trees had been planted on the area without permission. He queried the ownership of the land. It was also stated that many of the trees now have preservations orders on them, and that the land had developed naturally into a wild life area, with rare plants that have seeded themselves. Standing orders were suspended to allow local residents to state their objections in having the land turned into a play area for children. One resident stated that all the residents living nearest this land were retired people and that allowing it to be used as a play area would bring all kinds of trouble as it does in other local parks where access is wide open. Cllr. Booth stated that this subject had arisen time and time again, he did not think it was the PC's responsibility. He suggested that the local residents should form a residents association and thrash the matter out between themselves.

19. TO RECEIVE REQUESTS FROM MEMBERS FOR CONSIDERATION AT THE
DISCRETION OF THE CHAIRMAN (NOTHING MAY BE RESOLVED UNDER THIS
HEADING)

The general Public were requested to leave at 9. 45 pm.

20. TO RESOLVE WHETHER THE COUNCIL SHOULD MOVE INTO CLOSED SESSION FOR DISCUSSION OF THE FOLLOWING AGENDA ITEMS ON THE GROUNDS OF CONFIDENTIALITY;

21. TO PROVIDE UPDATE ON STAFFING & ADMINISTRATION MATTERS

22. TO CONSIDER INFORMATION CONTAINED IN LETTER RECEIVED FROM BROWN & CO CONCERNING ALLOTMENTS AND RESOLVE ON APPROPRIATE ACTION.

FROM THE PUBLIC GALLERY

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