Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of the Council held on Monday 23October 2006 in The Pavilion, Iden Green.

Present: Cllrs Blockley, Clarke, Hagens, Hockney, Kellett, Lake, Pitt, Reynolds

Apologies: Cllr Bailey, TWBC Cllr Dr Linda Hall

59 MINUTES: The minutes of the ordinary meeting of the Council held on 18^th September 2006 were confirmed and signed. Proposed – Cllr Lake Seconded – Cllr Reynolds

60 MINUTES: The minutes of the extra-ordinary meeting of the Council held on 9^th October 2006 were confirmed and signed. Proposed – Cllr Pitt Seconded – Cllr Hagens

61 DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST:

None declared

62 MATTERS ARISING:

Recycling in Benenden– Cllr Hockney reported that he felt the PC should seriously consider siting recycling facilities in the village. He advised that Julie Mellor, TWBC Client Services Manager, is keen to support new schemes and it could be possible to run a 6 mth trial. Julie had stated the 3 key issues which cause concern. 1: Noise 2: Resulting Rubbish 3: Frequency of Emptying. Cllr Hockney reported that TWBC tackled these issues by producing new recycling bins that are now muffled and introducing a borough recycling hit squad, which are alerted to any overflowing rubbish etc. Cllr Hagens advised that a parishioner who is a non-driver, finds it difficult to recycle efficiently, as a trip to the nearest recycling point requires a bus journey.

Cllr Reynolds reported that the PC had exercised a thorough investigation into recycling in Benenden approx 2 years ago. It had proved negative as lack of space and suitable location could not be identified. He agreed that recycling facilities should be considered but not at this moment in time with the New Primary School being a key issue. Discussion followed as to a possible location between the bowls club and the village hall. Cllr Pitt proposed more investigation was required to identify size of land needed etc. Cllr Blockley asked Cllr Hockney to prepare a full proposal for the next PC meeting.

63 Report on Parish Council Chairman’s Meeting 4-10-06

Cllr Blockley advised that 2 key issues were discussed. Firstly the Parish Charter was being re-written to conform with TWBC new structure. PC’s had felt there was not an issue with the contents but with getting TWBC to use it. Secondly, Public Toilets; TWBC are still pursuing PC’s to take on responsibility for maintenance. PC’s are agreed that as Tourism

is a Borough responsibility all toilets should stay TWBC responsibility or risk inevitable closure.

64 New Benenden C.E Primary School

Outcome of TWBC Meeting 16-10-06: Cllr Blockley advised that all Cllrs had received a letter from John Spurling, TWBC Principal Planning Officers advising that Officers are taking legal advice on how to proceed with the matter after the meeting that both Site 1 and Site 8 should be put forward to the Secretary of State, for independent examination. Cllr Blockley circulated a new TWBC Planning Services organigram showing Robert Cottrill as Director of Planning & Development, with Jim Kehoe as Head of Planning Services.

Cllr Reynolds stated that he was appalled at how the TWBC meeting had been run. Discussion followed about the lack of procedural organisation and utter dismay at how the meeting was handled.

Parish Poll: Cllr Blockley reported that he is to meet with TWBC Returning Officer to talk through the process. The purpose of the Village Poll was to get the views of the parish so that the Parish Council could properly represent them at the next consultation period. Cllr Blockley said the intention was to include both Site 1 & Site 8 in the questionnaire, showing Site 8 in two parts, 8A the glebe, and 8B the pasture. This was because it was felt that there was confusion, during the first consultation period, over the proposed location of the school building on Site 8. The questions will be set and agreed by the PC ensuring that they are not misleading or open to misinterpretation. Cllr Pitt emphasised that we must ensure parishioners are aware that although local opinion counts, the final decision on which site is chosen does not rest with the PC. Cllr Lake enquired if there will be a public meeting before the poll. Cllr Blockley stated that a public meeting would be held. Cllr Kellett reported that Borough Cllr Dr Linda Hall had enquired whether all 12 sites be reinstated. Cllr Reynolds stated that the PC original choice had been site 12 and he felt a lot of the village would vote for this site. Cllr Pitt did not think Site 12 would be reinstated unless TWBC authorised it. Cllr Blockley said that the purpose of holding a poll was to move the project forward and that he would seek advice before formulating the questionnaire. Cllr Reynolds requested attending the meeting with the Returning Officer.

65 Tree Preservation Order

Cllr Hagens reported that Dan Docker, TWBC Technical Officer Conservation & Trees had identified all trees around the Recreation Ground and Glebe Field that required a Preservation Order under Section 201. The order took effect on 9^th Oct 2006 and is on a provisional basis for a further 6 months or until the order is confirmed by the Council, whichever occurs first. Cllr Blockley advised that the order is to be kept at the Community Office and members of the public and Cllrs are free to inspect it at anytime

Conservation Enhancement Programme

Cllr Blockley reported that the replacement trees are high on the list but no timetable of scheduled works had been received. Cllr Hockney enquired about the tree which was mistakenly cut down. Cllr Blockley advised that Pat Spensley from Housing Assoc had accepted responsibility of this error and Mr Gregory has been offered a new tree but thus far has not given a decision. Cllr Hockney to clarify if the Housing Assoc is removing the 2 stumps

66 Appointment of a Council representative as a Primary School Governor

A letter had been received from Julia Reynolds, Clerk to School Governors advising that as Cllr Pitt had resigned earlier this year, there was a vacancy for a Parish Council nominee on the Board of Governors. Cllr Lake, with over forty years experience in the teaching profession was nominated to fill the vacancy. Cllr Blockley thanked Cllr Lake for accepting.

The Clerk was asked to write the to School Governors informing them of the PC nomination.

67 Benenden C.E.Primary School Travel Plan

Cllr Hagens reported on the meeting held 18 Sep 2006. Janet Greenroyd, Community Warden, advised that over 30 children had taken part in the Walking Bus scheme. Collection Points: Iden Green [12], Cherryfields [8] and Village Green [12]. Janet advised that the travel plan was now completed and the school can now formulate an official walking bus with the KCC Walking Bus Committee. It is hoped that the bus will begin operating 2 days per week as it relies on parental response and training. Report attached.

68 Planning Report

Clr Kellett reported on recent planning applications and decisions. Report attached

69 Financial Report

Payments made on Council’s behalf since September 2006

Income

TWBC Precept 6,000.00

Chq No Outgoings

051 M.Kellett - 2 TWBC Local Plans 24.00

052 Cancelled --

053 TWBC - Recharge Parish Election 1,558.57

054 KCC Landscape Services – 50% mowing village green 346.93

055 Memorial Hall Hire – replacement chq -042 27.00

056 The Village Shop – photocopying 35.80

057 Printing at Cranbrook – copying & ink 21.15

058 B.Sullivan–wages 316.80/ Broadband Setup 24.98 =341.78

059 Benenden Memorial Hall – Hire 45.00

060 Waitrose.Com – Broadband Usage 18.99

061 Printing at Cranbrook – copying & envelopes 29.05

2,448.27

The clerk reported that there was £500.00 in C/A and £21,368.65 in D/A

70 Correspondence

Cllr Blockley advised that KAPC AGM is to be held on 4-11-06. There is no requirement to attend, but if any member of PC wishes to attend, please advise Clerk before Fri 27 Oct 06.

Cllr Blockley stated that in future only items on the Agenda would be brought up at meetings, as far too many issues were being discussed under A.O.B. Please advise Clerk of any agenda items by the Tues morning which precedes the Agenda’s distribution.

Circulating folder - Cllr Blockley emphasised the need to move the correspondence file on quickly so that all PC members read items of interest. 2 correspondence folders are now in circulation.

71 A.O.B

Cllr Kellett reported that Benenden Clean-Up Day was fairly successful. Clerk felt that perhaps extra advertising could help and the plan for a “Proud of your Street” theme was planned for Spring-time 2007. Cllr Blockley thanked Natalie and Dhylis Blakemore of New Pond Road, David Sullivan of Sissinghurst and Janet Greenroyd, Community Warden for assisting with the clean up.

Cllr Kellett reported that Kent High Weald Project had moved from Cranbrook to Flimwell. Cllr Kellett to advise Clerk address for donation to Strawberry Wood Culvert Project.

Cllr Lake reported that the hedges and brambles on Hurst Dene were at a length where people are walking against them and could cause injury. Clerk to contact.

Cllr Clarke expressed concern about the replacement sign at Benenden crossroads. Not only was it significantly larger that the previous sign, it has been incorrectly worded. Cllr Clarke to contact Brian Hayward.

There being no further business, the Formal Meeting closed at 9.08pm

TWBC Cllr Peter Davies spoke on several issues ranging from:

Embarrassment at disorganisation of TWBC meeting of 16-10-06; DPD Process, over a year’s work already put in; TWBC will await full legal decision before any further action. Agreed current schooling facilites in Benenden for the 21^st century were unsatisfactory – possibly 2 options [1] KCC submit a departure application, as the ultimate arbitrator for Planning [2] Inspectorate would decide what the future is for Education in Benenden.

He agreed that there appeared to be a loophole in planning policy in that farmland can be sold without any original farm buildings and the new owner can make then an application for further buildings leading to a proliferation of unnecessary buildings, in the recent case in Benenden, in an ANOB.

Mike Findlay endorsed PC comments about the appalling way the meeting was handled on 16-10-06. He reported that he had vast experience in public meetings and he had never attended a more shambolic meeting. The conduct of the meeting was deplorable.

Brain Holmes also endorsed and congratulated PC on the efficient way that their meeting was run.

Philip Message advised that although he is in favour of recycling in the village, he would like to see somebody check around the bins daily for broken glass etc. Philip also advised that as part of the enhancement grant 4 kissing gates would be installed – at Hillyfields and Recreation Ground. Steve Barrett to install.

Cllr Blockley thanked Philip Message for his continual good work in ensuring that our footpaths are well maintained.

There being no further questions the meeting closed at 9.20pm

Next Meeting: Monday 20^th November 2006 at 8pm The Pavilion, Iden Green

HARMSWORTH MEMORIAL TRUST MATTERS

Meeting Held 23^rd October 2006

72 FINANCIAL MATTERS

Payments made on Harmsworth Trust’s behalf since September 2006

Income

BVH Wages sept 440.05

St Georges sept 115.00

555.05

Chq No Outgoing

Insurance 413.18

859 Playsafety Ltd- 2 annual reports – chq 856 damaged by post 141.00

860 Hurstway Construction – Repairs to BVH 1,747.23

861 Cancelled --

862 KCC Landscape Services 50%mowing Ben/IdenGrn Recs 1,051.59

863 Cancelled --

864 D.Dalrymple 367.83 wages / 9.50 petrol strimmer 377.33

865 B.Sullivan- wages 45.00

866 Post Office Ltd – NI & Tax Caretaker jul-sep06 361.08

867 V.Kellett – repairs & replacement window St Georges Hall 192.50

868 V.Kellett – repairs to broken hot tap St Georges Flat 36.50

4,365.41

The clerk reported that there was £500 in C/A and £7,452.42 in D/A

Transfer D/A & No2 A/C- vat refund 1,474.86

Balance in No 2 A/C 13,206.33

		Minutes for Meeting October 2006 Click for minutes for September 2006 These notes are abstracted from the original minutes-for the full and proper copy please contact the Parish Clerk
		Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of the Council held on Monday 23October 2006 in The Pavilion, Iden Green. Present: Cllrs Blockley, Clarke, Hagens, Hockney, Kellett, Lake, Pitt, Reynolds Apologies: Cllr Bailey, TWBC Cllr Dr Linda Hall 59 MINUTES: The minutes of the ordinary meeting of the Council held on 18^th September 2006 were confirmed and signed. Proposed – Cllr Lake Seconded – Cllr Reynolds 60 MINUTES: The minutes of the extra-ordinary meeting of the Council held on 9^th October 2006 were confirmed and signed. Proposed – Cllr Pitt Seconded – Cllr Hagens 61 DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: None declared 62 MATTERS ARISING: Recycling in Benenden– Cllr Hockney reported that he felt the PC should seriously consider siting recycling facilities in the village. He advised that Julie Mellor, TWBC Client Services Manager, is keen to support new schemes and it could be possible to run a 6 mth trial. Julie had stated the 3 key issues which cause concern. 1: Noise 2: Resulting Rubbish 3: Frequency of Emptying. Cllr Hockney reported that TWBC tackled these issues by producing new recycling bins that are now muffled and introducing a borough recycling hit squad, which are alerted to any overflowing rubbish etc. Cllr Hagens advised that a parishioner who is a non-driver, finds it difficult to recycle efficiently, as a trip to the nearest recycling point requires a bus journey. Cllr Reynolds reported that the PC had exercised a thorough investigation into recycling in Benenden approx 2 years ago. It had proved negative as lack of space and suitable location could not be identified. He agreed that recycling facilities should be considered but not at this moment in time with the New Primary School being a key issue. Discussion followed as to a possible location between the bowls club and the village hall. Cllr Pitt proposed more investigation was required to identify size of land needed etc. Cllr Blockley asked Cllr Hockney to prepare a full proposal for the next PC meeting. 63 Report on Parish Council Chairman’s Meeting 4-10-06 Cllr Blockley advised that 2 key issues were discussed. Firstly the Parish Charter was being re-written to conform with TWBC new structure. PC’s had felt there was not an issue with the contents but with getting TWBC to use it. Secondly, Public Toilets; TWBC are still pursuing PC’s to take on responsibility for maintenance. PC’s are agreed that as Tourism is a Borough responsibility all toilets should stay TWBC responsibility or risk inevitable closure. 64 New Benenden C.E Primary School Outcome of TWBC Meeting 16-10-06: Cllr Blockley advised that all Cllrs had received a letter from John Spurling, TWBC Principal Planning Officers advising that Officers are taking legal advice on how to proceed with the matter after the meeting that both Site 1 and Site 8 should be put forward to the Secretary of State, for independent examination. Cllr Blockley circulated a new TWBC Planning Services organigram showing Robert Cottrill as Director of Planning & Development, with Jim Kehoe as Head of Planning Services. Cllr Reynolds stated that he was appalled at how the TWBC meeting had been run. Discussion followed about the lack of procedural organisation and utter dismay at how the meeting was handled. Parish Poll: Cllr Blockley reported that he is to meet with TWBC Returning Officer to talk through the process. The purpose of the Village Poll was to get the views of the parish so that the Parish Council could properly represent them at the next consultation period. Cllr Blockley said the intention was to include both Site 1 & Site 8 in the questionnaire, showing Site 8 in two parts, 8A the glebe, and 8B the pasture. This was because it was felt that there was confusion, during the first consultation period, over the proposed location of the school building on Site 8. The questions will be set and agreed by the PC ensuring that they are not misleading or open to misinterpretation. Cllr Pitt emphasised that we must ensure parishioners are aware that although local opinion counts, the final decision on which site is chosen does not rest with the PC. Cllr Lake enquired if there will be a public meeting before the poll. Cllr Blockley stated that a public meeting would be held. Cllr Kellett reported that Borough Cllr Dr Linda Hall had enquired whether all 12 sites be reinstated. Cllr Reynolds stated that the PC original choice had been site 12 and he felt a lot of the village would vote for this site. Cllr Pitt did not think Site 12 would be reinstated unless TWBC authorised it. Cllr Blockley said that the purpose of holding a poll was to move the project forward and that he would seek advice before formulating the questionnaire. Cllr Reynolds requested attending the meeting with the Returning Officer. 65 Tree Preservation Order Cllr Hagens reported that Dan Docker, TWBC Technical Officer Conservation & Trees had identified all trees around the Recreation Ground and Glebe Field that required a Preservation Order under Section 201. The order took effect on 9^th Oct 2006 and is on a provisional basis for a further 6 months or until the order is confirmed by the Council, whichever occurs first. Cllr Blockley advised that the order is to be kept at the Community Office and members of the public and Cllrs are free to inspect it at anytime Conservation Enhancement Programme Cllr Blockley reported that the replacement trees are high on the list but no timetable of scheduled works had been received. Cllr Hockney enquired about the tree which was mistakenly cut down. Cllr Blockley advised that Pat Spensley from Housing Assoc had accepted responsibility of this error and Mr Gregory has been offered a new tree but thus far has not given a decision. Cllr Hockney to clarify if the Housing Assoc is removing the 2 stumps 66 Appointment of a Council representative as a Primary School Governor A letter had been received from Julia Reynolds, Clerk to School Governors advising that as Cllr Pitt had resigned earlier this year, there was a vacancy for a Parish Council nominee on the Board of Governors. Cllr Lake, with over forty years experience in the teaching profession was nominated to fill the vacancy. Cllr Blockley thanked Cllr Lake for accepting. The Clerk was asked to write the to School Governors informing them of the PC nomination. 67 Benenden C.E.Primary School Travel Plan Cllr Hagens reported on the meeting held 18 Sep 2006. Janet Greenroyd, Community Warden, advised that over 30 children had taken part in the Walking Bus scheme. Collection Points: Iden Green [12], Cherryfields [8] and Village Green [12]. Janet advised that the travel plan was now completed and the school can now formulate an official walking bus with the KCC Walking Bus Committee. It is hoped that the bus will begin operating 2 days per week as it relies on parental response and training. Report attached. 68 Planning Report Clr Kellett reported on recent planning applications and decisions. Report attached 69 Financial Report Payments made on Council’s behalf since September 2006 Income TWBC Precept 6,000.00 Chq No Outgoings 051 M.Kellett - 2 TWBC Local Plans 24.00 052 Cancelled -- 053 TWBC - Recharge Parish Election 1,558.57 054 KCC Landscape Services – 50% mowing village green 346.93 055 Memorial Hall Hire – replacement chq -042 27.00 056 The Village Shop – photocopying 35.80 057 Printing at Cranbrook – copying & ink 21.15 058 B.Sullivan–wages 316.80/ Broadband Setup 24.98 =341.78 059 Benenden Memorial Hall – Hire 45.00 060 Waitrose.Com – Broadband Usage 18.99 061 Printing at Cranbrook – copying & envelopes 29.05 2,448.27 The clerk reported that there was £500.00 in C/A and £21,368.65 in D/A 70 Correspondence Cllr Blockley advised that KAPC AGM is to be held on 4-11-06. There is no requirement to attend, but if any member of PC wishes to attend, please advise Clerk before Fri 27 Oct 06. Cllr Blockley stated that in future only items on the Agenda would be brought up at meetings, as far too many issues were being discussed under A.O.B. Please advise Clerk of any agenda items by the Tues morning which precedes the Agenda’s distribution. Circulating folder - Cllr Blockley emphasised the need to move the correspondence file on quickly so that all PC members read items of interest. 2 correspondence folders are now in circulation. 71 A.O.B Cllr Kellett reported that Benenden Clean-Up Day was fairly successful. Clerk felt that perhaps extra advertising could help and the plan for a “Proud of your Street” theme was planned for Spring-time 2007. Cllr Blockley thanked Natalie and Dhylis Blakemore of New Pond Road, David Sullivan of Sissinghurst and Janet Greenroyd, Community Warden for assisting with the clean up. Cllr Kellett reported that Kent High Weald Project had moved from Cranbrook to Flimwell. Cllr Kellett to advise Clerk address for donation to Strawberry Wood Culvert Project. Cllr Lake reported that the hedges and brambles on Hurst Dene were at a length where people are walking against them and could cause injury. Clerk to contact. Cllr Clarke expressed concern about the replacement sign at Benenden crossroads. Not only was it significantly larger that the previous sign, it has been incorrectly worded. Cllr Clarke to contact Brian Hayward. There being no further business, the Formal Meeting closed at 9.08pm TWBC Cllr Peter Davies spoke on several issues ranging from: Embarrassment at disorganisation of TWBC meeting of 16-10-06; DPD Process, over a year’s work already put in; TWBC will await full legal decision before any further action. Agreed current schooling facilites in Benenden for the 21^st century were unsatisfactory – possibly 2 options [1] KCC submit a departure application, as the ultimate arbitrator for Planning [2] Inspectorate would decide what the future is for Education in Benenden. He agreed that there appeared to be a loophole in planning policy in that farmland can be sold without any original farm buildings and the new owner can make then an application for further buildings leading to a proliferation of unnecessary buildings, in the recent case in Benenden, in an ANOB. Mike Findlay endorsed PC comments about the appalling way the meeting was handled on 16-10-06. He reported that he had vast experience in public meetings and he had never attended a more shambolic meeting. The conduct of the meeting was deplorable. Brain Holmes also endorsed and congratulated PC on the efficient way that their meeting was run. Philip Message advised that although he is in favour of recycling in the village, he would like to see somebody check around the bins daily for broken glass etc. Philip also advised that as part of the enhancement grant 4 kissing gates would be installed – at Hillyfields and Recreation Ground. Steve Barrett to install. Cllr Blockley thanked Philip Message for his continual good work in ensuring that our footpaths are well maintained. There being no further questions the meeting closed at 9.20pm Next Meeting: Monday 20^th November 2006 at 8pm The Pavilion, Iden Green HARMSWORTH MEMORIAL TRUST MATTERS Meeting Held 23^rd October 2006 72 FINANCIAL MATTERS Payments made on Harmsworth Trust’s behalf since September 2006 Income BVH Wages sept 440.05 St Georges sept 115.00 555.05 Chq No Outgoing Insurance 413.18 859 Playsafety Ltd- 2 annual reports – chq 856 damaged by post 141.00 860 Hurstway Construction – Repairs to BVH 1,747.23 861 Cancelled -- 862 KCC Landscape Services 50%mowing Ben/IdenGrn Recs 1,051.59 863 Cancelled -- 864 D.Dalrymple 367.83 wages / 9.50 petrol strimmer 377.33 865 B.Sullivan- wages 45.00 866 Post Office Ltd – NI & Tax Caretaker jul-sep06 361.08 867 V.Kellett – repairs & replacement window St Georges Hall 192.50 868 V.Kellett – repairs to broken hot tap St Georges Flat 36.50 4,365.41 The clerk reported that there was £500 in C/A and £7,452.42 in D/A Transfer D/A & No2 A/C- vat refund 1,474.86 Balance in No 2 A/C 13,206.33