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| Challock Parish Council |
COUNCIL INFORMATION
Parish Council Meetings
The next Parish Council Meeting will be held on: 23 July 2009 in the Audrey Allen room of the Challock Memorial Hall at 7.30pm.
Meeting dates for 2009 are as follows: January 22, March 19, May 14, July 23, September 24, November 19.
Parish Council meetings are open for the public to attend and you will be very welcome. The public should not speak during the meeting, however, are welcome to discuss issues with the Council during the public session. If you wish to raise an issue to be discussed by the Council at a meeting, please contact the Parish Clerk (see below). Items must be received at least one week before the meeting.
Councillors
Mrs Amanda Cottrell
Mr Roger Spicer
Mr John Ramsden
Mr Stephen Brandon
Mr Nicholas Fox
Mrs Teresa Sellens
Mr Gavin Spiers
If you would like a copy of our Freedom of Information Act document
Download it by clicking the link below:
Freedom of Information Act
Please note this document requires Adobe Reader
Profiles
This section will be completed over the coming months
John Ramsden
John resides at the Challock Post Office on The Lees and has lived in Challock for 15 years. He has been a member of the Parish Council for 12 years.
John worked as an Electrial Engineer with Southern Water Services Ltd but has recently retired.
John’s special interests on he council are: Footpaths, The Lees, being the Parish Council’s representative on the Village Hall Committee and informing villagers what is going on in the parish.
John enjoys clay shooting, target rifle shooting, 10 pin bowling and playing cards. He likes to travel the world and visit national Trust Properties.
Roger Spicer
Roger resides at Portulacea Gardens at High Snoad Wood and has lived in Challock for 7 years. He has served on the Parish Council for 5 years, serving as Vice Chair for the past 4 years. He is married with four young children and works in insurance in The City.
Roger’s work on the Parish Council to date has included project managing the development of the children’s play area (adjacent to the village hall) and initiating and managing the Trafalgar celebrations in 2005. This event was such a success that Roger organised a fireworks display and bonfire on the Lees in November 2007. Roger is also on the Goose Fair committee.
Roger says he follows rugby closely and plays golf badly!
Teresa Sellens (Nee Burch)
The Burch family have been involved in Challock for 75 years. Teresa has been part of this community for 39 of those. Teresa is married to Frank and they have two daughters. All are very actively involved in the village. The girls attend the primary school at which Frank is a govenor and Teresa is vice-chair on the PTFA. They all support and attend the Goose Fair, Church and fairs.
Teresa works at the village pre-school and is a registered childminder. From leaving school studied to be a nanny and now has over 20 years experience caring for children.
Teresa’s reasons for joining the Parish Council are simple....she loves the village, people, community spirit and would like to give something back.
She believes that she is a friendly, approachable person who offers an objective view and looks forward to the various challenges ahead. She has seen many changes in Challock and would like to be part of any in the future.
Teresa loves walking, biking, swimming and a new venture jogging (training for the Race for Life). Spending quality time with her family and friends is a must!
Steve Brandon
Steve and his family are relative ‘newcomers’ to the village having moved to Clevedon Court in November 2002, just over 5 years ago! He is married to Alison and has two boys, one attending the Primary school and the other currently at the Pre-School.
He is glad of the opportunity to stand on the Parish Council and relishes the chance to represent such a close community.
Work sees him travelling to Allington near Maidstone where he is a partner in a long-established family business that designs and fits kitchens and bedrooms.
Steve is a qualified Hypno-Psychotherapist and is keen to get back on his mountain bike now that the boys are a bit older!
Nicholas Fox
Nicholas moved to Challock from the Netherlands in 1996; having previously lived in Sheffield, Birmingham and several other places. In fact this is the longest he has lived in one place since he left home to go to university which must say something about Challock!
Nicholas joined the Parish Council on the basis that by joining in the democratic process he could perhaps help shape how the Village develops to make sure it is what we want – rather than having change imposed on us by others. The recent Local Development Workshop being one example of how villages are beginning to regain more control over their own destiny.
Many villagers will also know his wife Kay and daughter, Emma (currently studying back in the Netherlands). If you would like Nicholas to represent your views at the Parish Council do let him know via the Parish Clerk’s office.
Becoming a Parish Councillor
Elections
Elections for the Parish Council are held every four years. The next election will be May 2011. People interested in joining the Council should contact Ashford Borough Council Electoral Registration Officer or Challock Parish Clerk, for a nomination form, in March 2011. If Ashford Borough Council receives an equal number of nomination forms to places on the Council, you will automatically become a Councillor. If there are more nomination forms received than places on the Council, there will be an election.
Co-option
Occasionally, a Parish Councillor leaves before the end of their four year term, or insufficient nominations forms are received at election time. Usually such vacancies are filled by co-option. The Parish Council interview people interested in becoming a Parish Councillor and select the candidate whose skills best match the requirement on the Council at that time. Please contact the Parish Clerk if you are interested in being co-opted.
The role of a Parish Councillor
The role of a Parish Councillor has a number of basic responsibilities which essentially fall within three main categories: representing the whole electorate within the parish; delivering services to meet local needs; and striving to improve quality of life in the parish. Parish Councils can "precept" - raising a sum collected with the Council Tax each year to improve facilities and services for local people.
Individual powers include the provision and maintenance of community transport schemes, traffic calming measures, local youth projects, tourism activities, leisure facilities, car parks, village greens, litter bins, street lighting, street cleaning, burial grounds, allotments, bus shelters, commons, opens spaces, footpaths, bridleways, and crime reduction measures. They can also comment on planning applications.
Councillors have three main components to their work.
1. Decision making - Through meetings and attending committees with other elected members, Councillors decide which activities to support, where money should be spent, what services should be delivered and what policies should be implemented.
2. Monitoring - Councillors make sure that their decisions lead to efficient and effective services by keeping an eye on how well things are working.
3. Getting involved locally - As local representatives, Councillors have responsibilities towards their constituents and local organisations.
The Parish Clerk
The Parish Clerk for Challock is Mrs Kirstie Wooltorton.
You can contact the Parish Clerk on 01233 740351 (answerphone) or parishclerk@challock.org.
Meeting Minutes
Challock Parish Council Meeting -Edited minutes
Memorial Hall, Audrey Allen room
Thursday 31st July 2008, 7.30pm
Members of public present: 14
Apologies: None.
Present
Amanda Cottrell, Roger Spicer, Stephen Brandon, Teresa Sellens, John Ramsden, Nicholas Fox, Vicky Martin, Kirstie Wooltorton (Clerk) and Diane Sandy (Assistant Clerk)
Changes to Declaration of Interest
There were no changes to declaration of interest.
Agenda items
Pauline Hickson – Challock Farmers Market
Pauline Hickson explained how the proposed Challock farmers market would operate.
The farmers market would be held in the Challock village hall once a fortnight on a Friday afternoon for three hours.
A management committee would need to be formed to oversee market operations.
Pauline informed Councillors that a farmers market would bring people to the village and therefore potentially increase income for local businesses.
An e-mail has been received from Puff Miller-Thomas offering Beech Court as a venue for the farmers market. It was considered that the village hall would be the preferred venue.
Pauline informed Councillors that she would hope to start the farmers market early next year.
The Parish Council will now consult with local businesses to obtain their views on this proposal.
Minutes of Last Meeting
Minutes of 29th May 2008 meeting were signed by Amanda Cottrell as an accurate record.
Clerks Report
Landscaping
The pots of flowers at the village sign have kindly been donated by Richard Abel Landscapes.
Richard Abel Landscapes has also donated daffodils that will be planted around the village sign.
Cutting the verge between the roundabout and the Barn Shop is now carried out by KCC Landscapes as part of their grass cutting and maintenance contract.
Amanda Cottrell advised that the Parish Council will supply and plant daffodils along the verge between the roundabout and the Barn Shop.
Highway Issues
Conifer hedge overhanging the footpath in Church Lane, close to the school; Clerk has contacted the household concerned but matter now passed to Kent Highways to action as highway issue.
Cars parking on grass verge next to school gates. Clerk has contacted Kent Highways who have confirmed that additional verge markers will be installed soon.
Clerk has reported damage caused, following a road traffic accident, to sign and illuminated bollard on the central island at the Challock roundabout on the Charing side of the A252
Vandalism
More fence panels have been vandalised and Jim Smith has replaced these.
One of the wobble boards has been vandalised. KCC Landscapes has been notified and it will be replaced asap.
There has also been some vandalism to the youth shelter and the village hall guttering.
Footpaths
Walking Bus footpaths
Unfortunately the “Awards for all” grant application has been declined.
We are currently applying to Rural Kent which has funds available from the Colyer – Ferguson Trust. This fund can provide up to £5000 and would require match funding from the Parish Council.
Funding
New options for play area surfacing are still being looked at and funding opportunities investigated.
Another opportunity for funding is a Member Community Grant from Richard King. Letter from the Parish Council Chair will be sent to Richard King shortly.
Play area
ROSPA inspection has recently been undertaken. Fortunately this was completed prior to the recent vandalism.
ROSPA report awaited but no problems are envisaged.
The Forester
The Molash Forester contribution for 2008/2009 financial year for £413.60 has been received.
Further printing problems have now been resolved. The Forester is now printed by Canterbury City Council’s print room on a month by month basis.
Village Sign
The new metal silhouette sign has now been installed using the existing post. Several complimentary comments have been received.
The existing wooden sign is to be refurbished and re-sited in either the village hall or Challock church.
The Clerk contacted Puff Miller-Thomas regarding the sign being placed in Challock church and this will be discussed at the next Parochial Church Council (PCC) meeting.
Chris Duncan confirmed that if the sign is placed on the floor in the church then a faculty from the Diocesan Advisory Committee (DAC) would not be required.
If the sign is placed on the floor this would also save the expense of brackets and wall mounting.
Lees track resurfacing
Following consultation with Lees track residents the preferred choice of residents is option B. Fifteen households preferred option B for the Parish Council to provide planings and arrange for the filling of the potholes.
20 tonnes of planings have now been delivered to the stockpile on the Lees.
Jim Smith will begin filling the potholes with planings shortly.
Audit for 2007/2008
Letter from the Audit Commission requesting additional information and reason why Parish Council receipts for 2007/2008 had increased by more than 15% on the previous financial year. This is mainly due to increased recycling credits from Ashford Borough Council and a Parish Council VAT return. Reply sent.
When the external audit has been completed the Clerk will place a notice in the Forester and on the notice boards to confirm that the external audit for the financial year 2007/2008 has been completed.
Correspondence
• Letter from the Information Commissioner forwarding residents Freedom of Information (FOI) request. Reply sent to resident and Information Commissioner.
• Letter from Pauline Hickson regarding Challock Farmers Market. Agenda Item.
• Letter from the Audit Commission requesting additional information. Reply sent.
• Letter from the Charity Commission requesting the Annual return for the William Oure Charity. Annual return completed and returned.
• Letter from resident challenging the Parish Council’s refusal to his FOI request. Reply sent.
• Request from resident to have a bouncy castle on the Lees 16th August 2008 for wedding reception. Request agreed by Parish Council.
• E-mail from Freedom Group regarding proposed EDF apparatus to be sited on the Lees. Revised plans awaited.
Finances
Clerk has obtained an up to date model set of Standing Orders and Financial Regulations from NALC.
Clerk to update the Parish Council Standing Orders and Financial Regulations in line with the model set for Parish Council approval.
Forester
Amanda Cottrell congratulated Mick Maidens (Forester editor) on his production of the Forester.
It was considered necessary to discuss and agree guidelines for the publication of letters in the Forester.
It was agreed with Mick Maidens that all correspondence for the letters page in the Forester should be forwarded to the Parish Council in adequate time for the Parish Council to give a response, if required, before the printing deadline.
The Parish Council will publicise a summary of Parish Council meetings in the Forester.
It was also agreed to leave the front cover of the Forester in black and white as a colour cover would be too expensive and could not be justified.
Items for information
The Parish Council has subscribed to Kent Trading Standards to receive information via e-mail regarding doorstep criminals and current scams. Relevant messages will be displayed on our notice boards and in the Forester.
Letter has been sent to the Barn Shop from the Parish Council thanking them for their continued support of the recycling facilities.
Carl Bigwood of BMS (Faversham Road) has kindly offered to provide the rubbish bins for the Goose Fair.
Footpath AE86 links Canterbury Road to the Mill Lane bridleway. KCC PROW has confirmed that this footpath is included in their annual clearance contract and clearance work has recently been completed.
To fulfill the Parish Council’s obligations under the FOI Act the new model publication scheme will need to be adopted. This will be available to download from the Information Commissioner’s website in the autumn 2008.
Amanda Cottrell requested Clerk to send the Goose Fair invoice for use of the Lees to Ron Wilkinson.
Councillors discussed the fee charged by the Parish Council for boot fairs held on the Lees, which is currently £150. It was agreed that the fee charged should be revised to 10% of boot takings up to a maximum of £150.
Councillors approved the use of view only online banking for the Parish Council’s bank account. The agreement form was signed by Amanda Cottrell and Roger Spicer.
A request was made by a resident regarding the possibility of the Parish Council providing allotments. Although the Parish Council has no land available for allotments it will place an article in the Forester to gauge residents’ interest.
Closed meeting for Councillors to discuss residents Freedom of Information request.
The meeting closed at 8.20pm
The next Parish Council meeting is on 2nd October 2008.
Challock Parish Council Meeting (Edited minutes)
Memorial Hall, Audrey Allen room
Thursday 2nd October 2008, 7.30pm
Members of public present: 5
Apologies
Amanda Cottrell (business), Vicky Martin (personal), John Ramsden (holiday)
Present
Roger Spicer, Stephen Brandon, Nicholas Fox, Teresa Sellens, Kirstie Wooltorton (Clerk)
Changes to Declaration of Interest
There were no changes to declaration of interest.
Heather Curtin – Sure Start Children’s Centre
Heather Curtin is a Community Involvement Worker at the Sure Start Children's Centre at Hothfield.
Her role is to support families with children aged 0-5 years, as well as linking up with other agencies that work with these age groups i.e. Health visitors, midwives etc. Sure Start also offers outreach services for families in Hothfield, Charing, Godinton and Challock.
Minutes of Last Meeting
Minutes of 31st July 2008 meeting were signed by Roger Spicer as an accurate record.
Clerks Report
Landscaping
The Clerk has asked Jim Smith to replace the bedding plants in pots at the village sign with seasonal plants.
Highway Issues
Cars parking on grass verge next to school gates. Kent Highways have confirmed that additional verge markers will be installed soon.
Hedges overhanging footpaths, which were reported to the Parish Council, have now been cut.
Vandalism
Item placed in October’s Forester regarding vandalism to the play area.
More fence panels in the play area have been vandalised and the Clerk has ordered replacement panels which Jim Smith will install.
Clerk obtained quote from Kingsley Forge for the supply and fit of strengthening bars to the play area fence in the sum of £1157.00.
Clerk will investigate further options for strengthening the play area fence.
Footpaths
School walking bus footpaths
The need for the footpaths was identified following a risk assessment which was undertaken by Kent County Council’s walking bus officer, Birgitt James. The new footpaths would create a safer route from one end of the village to the other, avoiding the busy A252, not only for the school walking bus but for the whole community.
Letters have been delivered to residents inviting their comments.
Mr Smith of “Little Barn” has objected to the footpath outside his property.
Mr and Mrs Bruce of “Otterplay” support the footpaths.
Clerk to complete an application to obtain consent under Section 38 of the Commons Act 2006 and send to The Planning Inspectorate.
Funding
The Colyer-Fergusson Trust application to Rural Kent for funding towards the walking bus footpaths has been declined.
Two further applications have been made for funding towards the walking bus footpaths:
An application was made for a Member Community Grant from Richard King. This application was for £2500.
Clerk attended The Kent – Ashford Local Board meeting on Wednesday 17th September 2008 where Richard King confirmed that Challock had been successful with their application and had in fact been granted £3000 for the walking bus footpaths.
An application has also been made for a Community Grant from Ashford Borough Council. This application is for £5000.
Play area
The ROSPA report for the play area has been received.
This highlighted a few low risk items for consideration but nothing that requires attention.
A new wobble board has been installed.
Forester
As agreed at the Parish Council on 31st July 2008 a summary of Parish Council meetings will be placed in the Forester.
Village Sign
At the Parochial Church Council (PCC) meeting on Tuesday 19th August 2008 it was agreed that the wooden sign could be mounted on the wall in the vestry.
A faculty from the Diocesan Advisory Committee (DAC) will be required. The faculty fee will be in the region of £200.
Lees track
The pot holes in the Lees track have now been filled. This work was carried out by Liam and Peter Wooltorton.
Further maintenance work will be carried out as and when needed by the Parish Council as previously agreed.
Audit for 2007/2008
The external audit has been completed and returned by the Audit Commission.
Conclusion of audit and right to inspect the annual return notice has been displayed on notice boards.
EDF Energy
EDF Energy Networks has informed the Parish Council that essential works are required to upgrade the electricity supply for the village. EDF propose to install the two compact substations at the Beech Court end of the Lees.
Mr Smith of “Little Barn” objected to the substation outside his property. A new position has now been agreed with EDF to site the substation closer to the existing H poles.
The Clerk has been to see Mrs Gordon of “Haverbrack” to explain EDF’s proposals.
EDF has confirmed that revised plans will be sent to the Parish Council for approval.
A notice about EDF’s proposals has been placed in the KM newspaper and displayed on village notice boards. An item will also be placed in October’s Forester.
Clerk to enquire if EDF can install a secure electricity point on the area of the Lees between “Vic-Est” and “Tanglewood”. This electricity point could then be used for the Goose Fair.
Allotments
The Parish Council is obliged to consider the provision of allotments if more than six people make a request.
An item has been placed in the KM newspaper and so far two people have expressed an interest. An item will also be placed in October’s Forester.
Several plots in the allotments at Wye are unused and the Parish Clerk for Wye has confirmed that Challock residents are welcome to rent a plot. The cost varies depending on the size of the plot but start from £15 per year.
This could be an option that Challock residents may wish to take up.
Farmers Market
The Parish Council has sent letters to local businesses requesting their views on the proposed farmers market.
The Barn Shop has objected to the proposed farmers market.
The Post Office has no objection to the proposed farmers market.
Richard Abel Landscapes has closed.
Councillors considered the views of local businesses but thought the farmers market would be a welcome addition to the village.
Pauline Hickson informed Councillors that the farmers market will be held on the 1st and 3rd Friday of each month commencing in early March 2009.
Pauline will update Councillors at the next Parish Council meeting on 27th November 2008.
Councillors agreed to review the farmers market in July 2009.
Correspondence
•Letter from the Audit Commission confirming completion of 2007/2008 audit.
•Four letters from Mr Shirley regarding his FOI request. Reply sent to each letter.
•Letter from Freedom Group EDF Energy Networks revised plans and wayleave agreement
•Letter from Mrs Bruce in support of walking bus footpaths
•Letter from Martin Hook offering to carry out strengthening work to the youth shelter. Agreed by Councillors.
•Letter from Clare Blair asking for Parish Council assistance to locate a building plot in the village. Councillors are unaware of any suitable sites and recommended that her request is put in the Forester.
Finances
Clerk has obtained an up to date model set of Standing Orders and Financial Regulations from NALC.
The Standing Orders and Financial Regulations have been updated in line with the model set. These were approved by Councillors.
Items for information
Access from the cricket field to the A251 footpath.
KCC PROW has confirmed that they are willing to supply a wooden safety gate, free of charge.
This is subject to inspection and approval by KCC.
Councillors decided not to proceed with this as it would make access difficult for prams and although provided free of charge the Parish Council would have to pay for installation and future maintenance.
Red telephone kiosk. BT has commenced a programme of removing old kiosks.
Challock is not on the current list of kiosks to be removed but BT has confirmed that communities can apply to retain their kiosks.
Martin Hook has completed the strengthening work to the youth shelter. Clerk to send a letter of thanks to Martin Hook and Fred Beadle.
Clerk to chase KCC regarding bin emptying and raking of wood chip in the play area.
Clerk to request that the community warden makes evening visits to the play area as this is when vandalism occurs.
Clerk to contact Kent Highways regarding a resident’s request for a footpath along the A252 between Beech Court and Green Lane.
The meeting closed at 8.15pm
The next Parish Council meeting is on 20th November 2008.
Challock Parish Council Meeting (Edited Minutes)
Memorial Hall, Audrey Allen room
Thursday 20th November 2008, 7.30pm
Members of public present: 7
Apologies
None
Present
Amanda Cottrell, Roger Spicer, John Ramsden, Stephen Brandon, Nicholas Fox, Teresa Sellens, Vicky Martin, Kirstie Wooltorton (Clerk), Diane Sandy (Assistant Clerk)
Changes to Declaration of Interest
There were no changes to declaration of interest.
Minutes of Last Meeting
Minutes of 2nd October 2008 meeting were signed by Roger Spicer as an accurate record.
Clerks Report
Landscaping
Letter received from Mr Michael Varrall regarding the £1500 developer contribution for the reinstatement of the Lees and planting of hedge at Portulacea Gardens and requesting release of any remaining balance of the developer contribution. Reply sent requesting further information.
The Parish Council has paid £473.53 for the new hedge. The remaining balance is therefore £1026.47.
Councillors agreed not to return the remaining balance of £1026.47 yet as the original agreement was for the developer to plant a hedge and turf the area and then maintain it for 5 years. The Parish Council planted the hedge and the area was never turfed. Councillors agreed to review at the Parish Council meeting on 23rd July 2009.
Clerk to inform Mr Varrell of decision.
Clerk has asked Jim Smith to plant the pots at the village sign with seasonal plants.
Clerk has arranged for the Probation Service to plant daffodil bulbs at the village sign.
Highway Issues
Cars parking on grass verge next to school gates. Kent Highways have confirmed that additional verge markers will be installed soon.
Vandalism
Nothing to report.
Footpaths
The Parish Council has applied to the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs for consent under section 38 of the Commons Act 2006 to carry out restricted works on The Lees. Two new footpaths are proposed between “Otterplay” and “Tulip Tree House” and “Valentine House” and “Little Barn”. Decision awaited.
Funding
An application was made for a Community Grant from Ashford Borough Council for the walking bus footpaths. This application was for £5000.
The Parish Council has been granted £3000 of the original £5000 Community Grant application from Ashford Borough Council.
This can be added to the £3000 Member Community Grant from Richard King giving £6000 towards the total cost of £9,342 for the two walking bus footpaths.
Play area
There has been no recent vandalism to the play area fencing.
Quote received from Peter Jordan in the sum of £1015 for strengthening work to the play area fence.
Further quotes are awaited.
Kent Probation Service has cleared brambles and undergrowth from in-front of the play area which has made it more open.
Village Sign
The Parochial Church Council (PCC) has agreed that the wooden sign can be mounted on the wall in the vestry.
A faculty from the Diocesan Advisory Committee (DAC) is awaited.
The wooden sign is still at Blackforge Art awaiting refurbishment.
Lees track
Further maintenance work will be carried out as and when needed by the Parish Council as previously agreed. Clerk has asked the Jim Smith to fill in the potholes asap.
Audit for 2007/2008
Conclusion of audit and right to inspect the annual return notice was displayed on notice boards. No requests were received to inspect the annual return.
EDF Energy
A notice about EDF’s proposals was been placed in the KM newspaper and displayed on village notice boards. An item was also placed in October’s Forester.
No requests have been received to inspect the plans.
The Parish Council has made an enquiry regarding the installation of an electricity supply between “Vic-Est” and “Tanglewood”. This will provide a useful electricity hook up point for the Goose Fair. Response awaited from EDF.
Allotments
The Parish Council is obliged to consider the provision of allotments if more than six people make a request.
An item was placed in the KM newspaper and in October’s Forester. So far only three residents have expressed an interest.
Some plots in the allotments at Wye are unused but still being leased. The Parish Clerk for Wye has confirmed that Challock residents are welcome to rent a plot when they become available. The cost varies depending on the size of the plot but start from £15 per year.
Two Challock residents have contacted the Wye allotment warden and are currently on a waiting list.
Sure Start Children’s Centre
Teresa Sellens visited the Sure Start Children's Centre at Hothfield.
The Sure Start Children's Centre would like to organise a fun-day in Challock, hopefully in spring 2009. Teresa has confirmed this with the Primary School, Preschool and Pebbles toddler group.
Farmers Market
Clerk has sent a letter to the Village Hall Committee confirming the Farmers Market proposals and asking if preferential rates can be given for a regular booking such as this.
Pauline Hickson and Rosemary Jordan will look for grant funding to cover the market start up costs. The dates when the market will be held in 2009 have now been booked.
Pauline has informed both Environmental Health and Trading Standards of their intentions to start the market on Friday 6th March 2009
Clerk has checked with Ashford Borough Council that planning permission is not needed to hold the market in the village hall.
An application form and a covering letter for potential stall holders has been designed. Pauline has started visiting local markets and talking to market managers and traders.
Forester
The renewal of the editorial for the Forester is due at the end of December 2008.
Currently there are 10 issues of the Forester per year. August and September are combined as are December and January.
Consultanet has suggested having 11 issues, splitting August and September.
Having produced The Forester over the last year Consultanet would also like to increase the cost per issue from £150 to £200 making an annual production total for 11 issues of £2,200.
Assuming the printing costs remain at £256 per issue this would mean an annual increase of £956 for the production and printing of the Forester. If it remains at 10 issues then the annual increase would be £500.
For the financial years of 2006/07 and 2007/08 the Parish Council has made a deficit of £13,290 and £12,816 respectively which has been covered by savings.
The Parish Council may need to look for cost savings in the future to avoid larger than inflation increases of the Precept.
Councillors agreed to the increase in cost per issue from £150 to £200 for Consultanet. Councillors also agreed that the number of issues should remain at 10 for the time being and to consult with residents in the February issue of the Forester. Councillors suggested combining the months of October and November rather than August and September.
Oil Syndicate
The oil syndicate has been very well received and currently has 53 households registered. Jim Bristow gave an update on progress made for the Oil Syndicate.
Correspondence
•Letter from Mr Shirley requesting further information under the FOI Act. Reply sent.
•Letter from Martin Hook offering to install new bench seating in the youth shelter. Reply sent.
•Request from Jim Watson for the Cricket Club to take the Goose Fair boot fair date as well as their usual date. Councillors agreed that the boot fair date should be offered to the PFTA if they want it. Clerk to advise Jim Watson and the PFTA.
•Enquiry from Challock School PFTA regarding taking the Goose Fair boot fair date. See above.
•Request from a resident for an extra dog bin at the Beech Court end of The Lees. Councillors agreed. Clerk to arrange installation.
•Open Spaces Society – donation request. Request declined.
•Letter received from Mr Michael Varrall regarding the £1500 developer contribution for the reinstatement of the Lees and planting of hedge at Portulacea Gardens and requesting release of any remaining balance of the developer contribution. Reply sent requesting further information. See Landscaping.
•Request from a resident for litter bins to be provided at the new bus shelters. Councillors agreed. Clerk to arrange installation.
•Further request from a resident to provide an additional notice board at the post office for the display of private advertisements. Councillors agreed not to proceed with this request at the Parish Council meeting on 29th May 2008. Councillors again decided there are enough notice boards.
Model Publication Scheme
This was poposed by Roger Spicer and seconded by Amanda Cottrell. The Model Publication Scheme has now been adopted by Challock Parish Council. Clerk to arrange for display on website.
Items for Information
The Kent Probation Service has carried out various works around the village hall car park. The youth shelter and bench have been repainted. Undergrowth has been cleared around the edge of the car park and next to the play area. The timber rail fence around the car park has also been creosoted.
The Clerk has also made arrangements for the Probation Service to clear away the grass that has grown over the path linking the post office and Church Lane and to plant daffodil bulbs at the village sign.
There is no charge for the equipment and labour but the Parish Council has to pay for any materials used.
Clerk contacted Ashford Borough Council for an update on the Local Development Framework.
Ashford Borough Council still has not taken any formal stance on any site.
A second LDF workshop has been arranged for Thursday 5th March 2009, 7.00pm at the village hall. Clerk will advertise in the Forester and on the notice boards nearer the time.
Councillors asked for the Parish Council banking to be reviewed due to the current economic climate. Clerk to check the amount that would be guaranteed by the Bank of Ireland, the notice required for closing the account and the interest rates for other suitable bank or building society business accounts.
The meeting closed at 8.15pm
Comments from members of the public
Residents expressed concern over the safety of parking in Church Lane during the school run. The Parish Council have no actual powers regarding this and although strictly a Highways issue, the Parish Council agreed to send a letter to all pupils at the Primary School asking their parents to park safely and if possible at the village hall when dropping off and collecting their children.
A resident also requested more drop kerbs in Church Lane and a disabled parking space outside the school so that her disabled son can get to school. Clerk to contact Kent Highways to arrange a meeting.
The next Parish Council meeting is on 22nd January 2009.
Challock Parish Council Meeting (Edited Minutes)
Thursday 22 January 2009 7.30pm
Memorial Hall, Audrey Allen room
Members of public present: 6
Apologies
Vicky Martin (Business)
Present
Amanda Cottrell, Roger Spicer, John Ramsden, Stephen Brandon, Nicholas Fox, Teresa Sellens, Kirstie Wooltorton (Clerk), Diane Sandy (Assistant Clerk)
Changes to Declaration of Interest
There were no changes to declaration of interest.
Minutes of Last Meeting
Minutes of 20th November 2008 and 14th January 2009 (closed session) meetings were signed by Amanda Cottrell as an accurate record.
Mr Shirley
Challock Parish Council received a letter dated 19th December 2008 from Kent County Council.
This advised that Mr Shirley has brought a claim against Kent County Council claiming that land on the north side of the A252 fronting Challock Lees is a public highway and not Parish Council land.
There was a directions hearing at Canterbury County Court on Friday 16th January 2009.
Challock Parish Council was represented at the directions hearing by the Parish Council’s solicitors.
The reason for this action was deemed by the Judge as an attempt to reopen the case with Challock Parish Council from 1991.
The Judge advised Mr Shirley that if he wished to reopen the case from 1991 with Challock Parish Council he would need to take it back to the High Court by October 2009.
Clerks Report
Landscaping
Letter sent to Mr Varrell explaining situation regarding the remaining developer contribution for Portulacea Gardens.
Councillors agreed to review this at the Parish Council meeting on 23rd July 2009.
Pots with seasonal plants now at the village sign.
Daffodil bulbs planted around the village sign and along the verge towards the Barn shop.
Highway Issues
Additional verge markers have now been installed adjacent to the school. Highway Services have also put verge markers opposite the school in error. Mr Andy Edmed has advised Teresa Sellens that these impede his access with his tractor. Clerk has reported this to Jennie Wickenden of Kent Highways and they will be removed in due course.
Following a request from a resident, tarmac “fillets” have been installed outside the school to improve disabled access.
A drop kerb in Church Lane opposite “Jontree” is still awaited.
Ashford Borough Council confirmed that they will not allow a disabled parking bay in Church Lane close to the school.
During the recent cold spell the Clerk contacted Kent Highways on several occasions regarding the icy roads, particularly in Church Lane.
Kent Highways confirmed that they will not grit side roads and lanes and there are salt bins in the village for residents to use.
Roger Spicer requested a salt bin be installed near High Snoad Wood. Clerk to contact Kent Highways.
Vandalism
The bench in the youth shelter has been vandalised beyond repair. The bench has been removed from the shelter and will not be replaced at present.
School walking bus footpaths
The Parish Council has applied to the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs for consent under section 38 of the Commons Act 2006 to carry out restricted works on The Lees. Two new footpaths are proposed between “Otterplay” and “Tulip Tree House” and “Valentine House” and “Little Barn”. A decision is still awaited.
Funding
The Parish Council has been granted a £3000 Community Grant from Ashford Borough Council.
This can be added to the £3000 Member Community Grant from Richard King giving £6000 towards the total cost of £9,342 for the two walking bus footpaths.
The £3000.00 Member Community Grant from Richard King was received on 17th December 2008.
See agenda item Budget 2009 - 2010.
Play area
There has been no vandalism at the play area since the Kent Probation Service cleared brambles and undergrowth from in front of the play area, which has made it more open.
Village Sign
The Diocesan Advisory Committee (DAC) has advised that a faculty is not needed to install the wooden village sign in the church.
The wooden sign will now be refurbished by Blackforge Art and installed on the vestry wall in the church, as previously agreed.
Lees track
The Kent Probation Service has recently filled the potholes in the Lees tracks.
Further maintenance work will be carried out as and when needed by the Parish Council as previously agreed.
Farmers Market
Pauline Hickson gave an update on the progress made for the Farmers Market.
Members of the Farmers Market Management Committee are Pauline Hickson, Rosemary Jordan, Teresa Sellens, Kirstie Wooltorton and Kerry Akehurst.
Richard King has agreed to fund the Farmers Market insurance by donating £500.
Benjamin Dent from the Farmers Market Association, Peter Begley and Jen Porter from Wye Farmers Market gave a short talk about Farmers Markets.
The village hall committee confirmed that the hire fee for the Farmers Market will be £30.00 per afternoon. This can be payable in arrears.
Pauline Hickson confirmed a shortfall of £140 for start up costs. This is made up of £30 for the Kent Farmers Market joining fee, £50 for a banner and £60 for the village hall fee.
Councillors agreed to loan the Farmers Market £140.00 for start up costs. This is to be repaid to the Parish Council.
John Ramsden expressed concern for the Barn Shop if signs were placed all over the village for the Farmers Market. Signs to be reviewed.
Amanda Cottrell advised Pauline Hickson and Rosemary Jordan to apply to the Goose Fair for funding.
Clerk to contact the Kentish Express to ask them to attend the opening on 6th March 2009.
Correspondence
Two letters from Mr Shirley requesting further information under the FOI Act. Reply sent to each letter.
Letter from Kent County Council regarding Mr Shirley claim against Kent County Council. Reply sent via Parish Council’s solicitor.
Letter from Kent Police Authority. Policing Kent 2009/10 survey. Councillors agreed on Option 2.
Letter from Bishop Consultancy Ltd regarding planning appeal hearing for Brisley Farm. Reply sent
Request from Chilham Partners and Community Together (PACT) to borrow speed watch equipment with a view to possible purchase.
Budget 2009 – 2010
Budget report given to Councillors by the Parish Clerk. This report was agreed by Councillors.
Items for Information
Ashford Borough Council’s dog warden confirmed that no new dog bins can be ordered at present. He advised to contact him again in the new financial year to see if the situation has changed. Clerk will contact him at the beginning of April 2009.
Four new litter bins have been ordered and will be installed at the bus shelters, youth shelter and the play area.
A second LDF workshop has been arranged for Thursday 5th March 2009, 7.00pm at the village hall.
Request from a resident for the Parish Council to provide an emergency fund, for elderly villagers’, in times of extreme winter weather. This could possibly be funded from the William Oure Charity. Each case would have to be considered on its individual circumstances. Councillors agreed that this was a good idea and the Chilham Nursing Fund was also an option that is available.
Councillors agreed to close the Parish Council’s bank account with the Bank of Ireland due to the current economic uncertainness. Clerk to investigate alternative business account providers and advise Councillors.
The meeting closed at 8.45pm
The next Parish Council meeting is on 19th March 2009.
Challock Parish Council Meeting (Edited Minutes)
Memorial Hall, Audrey Allen room
Thursday 19th March 2009, 7.30pm
Members of public present: 29
Apologies
Amanda Cottrell (business), John Ramsden (holiday), Nicholas Fox (business)
Present
Roger Spicer, Stephen Brandon, Teresa Sellens, Kirstie Wooltorton (Clerk), Diane Sandy (Assistant Clerk)
Changes to Declaration of Interest
There were no changes to declaration of interest.
Minutes of Last Meeting
Minutes of 22nd January 2009 meeting were signed by Roger Spicer as an accurate record.
Richard Hall – Rural Kent
Unfortunately Richard was unable to attend due to last minute family emergency.
Clerk’s Report
Landscaping
Nothing to report this month.
Highway Issues
A drop kerb in Church Lane opposite “Jontree” is still awaited.
Clerk reported potholes in Blind Lane and Church Lane to Kent Highways.
A 200 litre salt bin with 100kg of grit salt can be supplied and delivered for £184.95. Councillors asked Clerk to place order.
Vandalism
Nothing to report this month.
School walking bus footpaths
The Parish Council has applied to the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs for consent under section 38 of the Commons Act 2006 to carry out restricted works on The Lees. Two new footpaths are proposed between “Otterplay” and “Tulip Tree House” and “Valentine House” and “Little Barn”.
Permission has now been granted for the walking bus footpaths by the Planning Inspectorate.
Councillors agreed that the Clerk should ask the four contractors, who had previously quoted for this work in April 2008, to re-quote.
Funding
Clerk to claim the £3,000 Community Grant from Ashford Borough Council that has been allocated for the walking bus footpaths when the invoice has been received.
Play area
New bin installed.
Kent County Council Landscape Services to continue with play area inspections for 2009-2010.
No recent problems with vandalism.
Village Sign
The refurbished wooden sign has now been installed on the vestry wall in the church.
Lees track
The Kent Probation Service has filled the potholes in the Lees tracks on Sunday 1st March 2009.
Further maintenance work will be carried out as and when needed by the Parish Council as previously agreed.
Farmers Market
Pauline Hickson gave an update on the success of the first Farmers Market held on 6th March 2009.
£140 loaned from the Parish Council for start up costs.
Article for the opening of the Farmers Market was in the Kentish Express on 12th March 2009.
A permanent sign for the Farmers Market was discussed and it was decided to leave this for the time being. A permanent sign will require planning permission.
Correspondence
•Request from Chilham Partners and Community Together (PACT) to borrow speed watch equipment with a view to possible purchase. External auditor advised Clerk to sell this equipment. After getting advice from the company that supplied the equipment, Clerk suggested selling price. Agreed by Councillors.
•Request from Martin Hook to carry out minor work to prevent puddle forming at the corner of the footpath outside Heycroft. Agreed by Councillors.
•Two letters from the Information Commissioner regarding Mr Shirley. Replies sent.
•Letter from Girlings regarding Mr Shirleys recent proceedings.
•Confirmation from Kent Association of Local Councils that deposits with the Bank of Ireland are fully guaranteed by the Irish Government.
•Request from Barbara Down for the Parish Council to agree Sunday 13th September 2009 as the date for the Goose Fair and for the Parish Council to confirm the fee payable for the Goose Fair. Councillors agreed to date and the fee payable shall be £200.
•Letter from the Returning Officer of Ashford Borough Council confirming that Challock Parish Council can co-opt to fill the vacancy of Parish Councillor.
Finances
The parish precept form was completed and returned to Ashford Borough Council by Friday 26th January 2009.
Planning applications
Unit 1 Prestige House, Landews Meadow, Green Lane, Challock, Ashford, Kent, TN25 4BL. Renovations and enhancements of farm buildings and change of use of workshop to form mixed B1, B2, B8 units.
Several residents have expressed concern over this planning application. The Clerk arranged a site meeting with our Ward Member Neil Wallace on Saturday 7th March 2009, which was well attended.
Clerk has written to the Planning Officer and Kent Highways on behalf of residents and to reconfirm the Parish Council’s objection to the application.
Clerk has also contacted Tracey Butler, the Environmental Control Officer at Ashford Borough Council.
Clerk has requested that this application be referred to the Planning Committee.
At present the application is registered as invalid and Clerk is awaiting further information from Ashford Borough Council.
Clerk will maintain regular contact with Ashford Borough Council and keep residents updated.
Councillor vacancy
Vicky Martin resigned from her Parish Councillor position on 9th February 2009.
The Clerk notified the Returning Officer at Ashford Borough Council of the resignation.
A Notice of Vacancy has been displayed on our notice boards and the Returning Officer has confirmed that the vacancy can be filled by co-option.
Items for Information
Four new litter bins have now been installed at the bus shelters, youth shelter and the play area.
A second LDF workshop was held on Thursday 5th March 2009, 7.00pm at the village hall.
Clerk to arrange for external audit to be carried out in April 2009.
Marc Sluder, Kent Community Warden, will visit Challock two ½ days per week. Marc can be contacted on 07813 695817. Clerk to advertise in the Forester.
Clerk to contact Kent Highways regarding funding situation for Faversham Road footpath.
The meeting closed at 8.10pm
The next Parish Council meeting is the AGM on 14th May 2009.
Challock Parish Council AGM Memorial Hall, Audrey Allen room
Thursday 14th May 2009, 7.30pm
Members of public present: 4
Apologies
None.
Present
Amanda Cottrell, Roger Spicer, Stephen Brandon, Nicholas Fox, Gavin Spiers, Teresa Sellens, Kirstie Wooltorton (Clerk), Diane Sandy (Assistant Clerk)
Election of Chair
Amanda Cottrell wished to remain as Chair. Amanda Cottrell was proposed by Teresa Sellens and seconded by Roger Spicer. There were no other proposals.
Election of Vice Chair
Roger Spicer wished to remain as Vice Chair. Roger Spicer was proposed by Amanda Cottrell and seconded by Stephen Brandon. There were no other proposals.
Election of Representatives
The following appointments were unanimously agreed:
Footpaths - Gavin Spiers
Challock Primary School - Roger Spicer
Village Hall Committee - John Ramsden
Parish Council Finance - Stephen Brandon
Police Forum - John Ramsden
William Oure Charity - Nicholas Fox
Play area - Teresa Sellens
KALC and Parish Forum - Amanda Cottrell
Cricket Club Liaison - Stephen Brandon
Changes to Declaration of Interest
There were no changes to declaration of interest.
Minutes of Last Meeting
Minutes of 19th March 2009 meeting were signed by Amanda Cottrell as an accurate record.
Clerk’s Report
Landscaping
Jim Smith has replaced the plants in the pots by the village sign.
Clerk to add the Lees verge at Portulacea Gardens to KCC Landscapes cutting schedule.
Clerk to request that KCC Landscapes carry out a full back-up cut of the Lees.
Clerk to ask KCC public rights of way to clear vegetation and improve the style on public footpath AE96 joining Buck Street and Kings Wood.
Highway Issues
A drop kerb in Church Lane opposite “Jontree” is still awaited.
A 400 litre salt bin with 100kg of grit salt has been delivered. Clerk to arrange installation.
Vandalism
A tent and two car batteries were recently left on the Lees. Clerk cleared these away.
A window has been broken in the cricket pavilion.
School walking bus footpaths
The new footpaths on the Lees are nearing completion.
Several approving comments have already been received.
Mr Smith has again objected to the footpath being outside his property.
Mr Smith has agreed to pay for the footpath to extend a further 8 metres beyond the existing tarmac on the Lees outside his property.
Clerk has a signed agreement from Mr Smith.
Funding
Clerk to claim the £3,000 Community Grant from Ashford Borough Council that has been allocated for the walking bus footpaths.
Play area
No recent problems with vandalism.
Clerk has asked the Kent Probation Service to clear undergrowth from around the play area.
Village Litter Pick
This event was well attended on Sunday 10th May 2009.
Correspondence
•Annual Audit form from the Audit Commission. Approved and signed at meeting.
•Parish Council Insurance renewal notice from Came and Company. £653.14 is due on 1st June 2009. Agreed.
•Kent Downs AONB Unit. New gateway signs offer. Clerk to investigate cost and report back to Councillors.
•Action with Communities in Rural Kent subscription. A year’s subscription is £35. Agreed.
Finances
The Parish Council is currently in the process of moving the bank account from the Bank of Ireland to an Abbey Business account.
Clerk is currently updating signatories for the Parish Council savings account.
Planning applications
Planning application update given to Councillors.
Unit 1 Prestige House, Landews Meadow, Green Lane, Challock, Ashford, Kent, TN25 4BL. Renovations and enhancements of farm buildings and change of use of workshop to form mixed B1, B2, B8 units.
Clerk has spoken to Doz Robinson and she has confirmed that she has no further news on a decision.
However, Doz did say that Councillor Neil Wallace has requested that should she consider the application likely to be passed, then it should be referred to the Planning Committee.
Audit for 2008/2009
Audit completed by Kevin Funnell on 22nd April 2009.
Internal Audit Report for 2008/2009 is awaited from Kevin Funnell.
Kevin Funnell was very pleased with Parish Council procedures.
Audit Commission form was signed by Amanda Cottrell and Clerk. Clerk will send to the Audit Commission for the external audit.
Items for Information
William Oure Charity - £150 payment from Mr Nightingale for the “Poor Field” has been received and banked.
Clerk has spoken to Mr Dodd about vehicles blocking Blind Lane when stopping to purchase goods at his property. Councillors asked Clerk to send a letter to Mr Dodd expressing concern at the recent expansion of his business.
Martin Hook has completed some minor work to prevent a puddle forming at the corner of the footpath outside “Heycroft”.
Kent Highways has confirmed that a bid for funding has been put forward for the Faversham Road footpath.
Clerk to investigate upgrading the woodland footpath at the Beech Court end of the Lees.
Clerk to ask Challock School secretary to send a note home with all children warning against climbing too high in the trees on the Lees.
John Ramsden attended the Molash Annual General Meeting. Clerk will advertise in the Forester and notice boards for volunteers to form a community response team which is being organised by Molash Parish Council. Full training will be given to volunteers.
There will be a village fireworks event on Saturday 7th November 2009. Clerk will arrange insurance cover for the event.
Stevens Civil Engineering has kindly offered to remove the turf on the Lees for the bonfire and reinstate the turf afterwards.
Challock School will organise a “Guy” competition.
The meeting closed at 8.30pm
The next Parish Council meeting is on 23rd July 2009.
Created on 02/04/2003 10:24 AM by admin
Updated on 06/04/2009 04:45 AM by parcon
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