The village of Benenden in Kent

Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of the Council held on Monday 20^th November 2006 in The Pavilion, Iden Green.

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

Apologies: Cllr Bailey, Cllr Kellett

73 MINUTES: The minutes of the ordinary meeting of the Council held on 23^rd October 2006 were confirmed and signed.

Proposed – Cllr Reynolds Seconded – Cllr Pitt

74 DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST:

Cllr Clarke expressed a personal interest in property 3092 Cott Farm, Mount le Hoe

75 MATTERS ARISING:

Recycling in Benenden– Cllr Hockney reported that Julie Mellor from TWBC would make a visit to the village to try to identify a suitable site. Cllr Blockley advised that this matter had been before the PC on at least two occasions and despite extensive research no conclusive site has been put forward that all could agree. Cllr Blockley read a letter from the Benenden Village Hall Management Committee outlining their objections to a recycling facility being placed anywhere on the village hall site. Cllr Pitt supported Cllr Hockney’s efforts and proposed further investigation in order that we show our commitment towards a resolution. Cllr Blockley acknowledged BVH’s objections and reassured all that any resolution would not be made until the future of the village hall car park had been decided.

Cllr Blockley interrupted the meeting at 8.15pm to introduce PC Gary Hastings

PC Hastings spoke on his role as the Benenden Neighbourhood Policeman. His role on 1^st October 2006 expanded to cover 3 villages: Hawkhurst, Sandhurst & Benenden. He advised that he has to check the crime that occurs in all 3 villages and deal with road traffic collisions. He patrols the village on a bike and drives through the village on patrol, virtually on a daily basis. Since starting at Hawkhurst he has introduced CCTV, drug testing including in Public Houses and the crime figures have reduced by approx 45%

He reported that the crime figures for Benenden are low. 5 crimes were reported in October, most crime theft from vehicles at Hemsted Forest. Crime figures will determine the area in which he works. He confirmed that he is contactable through the Parish Council and would forward his mobile no to the Clerk.

Cllr Blockley thanked PC Hastings for attending and asked that when he is on patrol, just 5 minutes spent in the village shop or butchers would reassure the elderly parishioners of his presence. Cllr Lake enquired if the possibility of a Mobile Police Station visiting Benenden was envisaged. PC Hastings reported that there are only 5 units for the Kent area. Cllr Lake asked that it could be considered.

Cllr Blockley reopened the meeting at 8.27pm

76 Benenden C.E Primary School

Cllr Blockley advised that TWBC have not yet notified any parties of their next step. Cllr Blockley reported that all Cllrs had received a letter from Lois Howell TWBC Head of Legal, HR and Democratic Services confirming that the Crown Prosecution Service had reviewed the election material that was the subject of complaint and decided that prosecution was not appropriate. “Although the election leaflets infringed the Section 110[1] of Representation of the People Act 1983, most candidates are well known in the local community and could be traced if necessary. In all the circumstances, I do not consider that the public interest requires proceedings against the 8 candidates.”

Cllr Blockley confirmed that the Parish Council is a legal body and always had been. The matter was now settled.

Parish Poll: Cllr Blockley reported that until TWBC decide what their action is to be, the PC can not begin to formulate the questions. Cllr Hockney enquired what the timescale would be on deciding to hold a Poll and then implementation. Cllr Blockley advised that 7 days notice is required for the public meeting, with another 7 days notice before the Poll is taken.

77 KCC Landscape Services Gang Mowing 2007

Clerk confirmed a new pricing quotation had been received, indicating a 4% increase.

All agreed that Landscape Services had provided an excellent service. Cllr Reynolds asked that The Green receive one further cut. Clerk to chase.

78 TWBC Public Consultation on Renewable Energy Supplementary Planning

Cllr Blockley requested that Clerk contact Alan Legg to obtain a hardcopy of the Consultation Document. On reading PC will be able to make a decision on suggested comment.

79 Highways

Highways Parish Schedule highlighted all current issues. Cllr Blockley & Cllr Clarke are meeting with Andrew Bray and Katie Brown on Wed 22^nd November, to address issues.

Cllr Reynolds reported item 9 – grass cutting to triangle at Nineveh now cut but poor.

Cllr Hockney reported item 7 – road damaged. Cllr Blockley confirmed Morrisons had been contracted to complete works, they need to carry out repairs.

80 TWBC Mayors Christmas Toy Appeal 2006

Cllr Blockley reported that TWBC in conjunction with St Georges Community Children’s Project had written to all P.C’s requesting donations of new and nearly new toys, to be collected and distributed amongst the most needy in the borough. Cllr Blockley proposed a donation of £50. All councilors agreed unanimously. Posters are displayed on noticeboards

81 Planning Report

Cllr Blockley reported on recent planning applications and decisions. Report attached

03092 – Mr Goodsell name to be removed and replaced with new owner

03269 – 2 bed bungalow with a proposal to increase to a 5 bed house. Whilst the footprint would remain the same the increase in volume was questionable. The proximity of surrounding properties needed to be considered.

Cllr Blockley reiterated to all councillors that if it was felt necessary for an application to be put to the Eastern Area Planning Committee, this would have to be done via one of our 3 Borough Councillors.

82 Financial Report

Payments made on Council’s behalf since October 2006

Chq No Outgoings

062 B.Sullivan – wages 380.16 / Postage 24.72 404.88

063 KAPC – Good Councillor’s Guide 9.00

064 Waitrose.Com – Broadband 18.99

065 British Telecom - Community Office 77.32

066 KAPC – 7^th Edition Local Council Administration 51.95

067 Rother Valley Press – PC Newsletter 142.00

068 Iden Green Pavilion Trust – Hall Hire 24.00

069 Printing at Cranbrook – copying & ink 26.34

070 R.B.L Poppy Appeal 16.50

770.98

The clerk reported that there was £500.00 in C/A and £20,597.67 in D/A

83 Correspondence

Cllr Blockley advised that we had written to Jim Fitzpatrick MP, Under Secretary of State with a responsibility for Post Offices, outlining our view on the essential need of our much valued Post Office and what it would mean in the event of closure.

Cllr Blockley reported that Mr Laing had received a full apology and detailed explanation regarding the low flying military helicopters from the RAF.

Finally, Cllr Blockley reported that the 5 year lease for St George’s Club expires on 31 Dec 2006. Ian Standen of Humberts will provide a review of the rent for the next 5 year period. Corrie King of Whitehead Monkton solicitors has advised an approx cost of £1,000.

A meeting with the Officers of the Club will be held once a new rent has been established.

There being no further business the formal meeting closed at 9.08pm

Cllr Blockley invited comments from members of the public.

Bill Martin had hoped to hear that there had been some progress about the school. He reported that he had been advised that we had now lost our slot with the Inspectorate.

Cllr Blockley reported that he had been advised that it was unlikely that the Borough would be able to put forward 2 sites for the Inspectors consideration.

There being no further questions the meeting closed at 9.10pm

Next Meeting: Monday 11^th December 2006 at 8pm Memorial Hall, Benenden

HARMSWORTH MEMORIAL TRUST MATTERS

Meeting Held 20^th November 2006

84 Benenden Village Hall

Cllr Clarke reported that the flooring had now been chosen – American Oak. The existing floor would be lifted between Christmas and New Year. The laying of the new floor will commence on 2^nd Jan 2007 and will include white lining of the Badminton Courts.

Cllr Clarke advised although recent renovations had been completed to the stanchions, further work was required. The area of rotten wood is to be replaced and holes drilled to the bottom of each pillar to allow for drainage.

85 Iden Green Recreation Ground

Clerk confirmed that a letter had been received from Iden Green Pavilion Trust Management Committee referring to 3 items: The dead newly planted trees, unpainted, shabby looking Parish Noticeboard and the broken fence around the children’s play area including a broken bench.

Cllr Blockley confirmed that Victor Kellett had been asked to repair the fence and replace the bench. Cllr Clarke confirmed that both the noticeboard and the planting of replacement trees are part of the Conservation Enhancement programme and although Brian Hayward had been pressed to giving a timetable of works still to complete, we have no idea of timescale at present.

86 Financial Report

Income

BVH Wages oct 440.05

St Georges oct 115.00

555.05

Chq No Outgoing

Insurance 413.18

869 D.Dalrymple – wages 374.69

870 B.Sullivan – clerk wages 45.00

871 Bates Wells & Braithwaite – planning issues 1,762.50

872 D.Dalrymple – St Georges Phonebill 42.05 2,637.42

The Clerk confirmed £500.00 in C/A and £5,370.05 in D/A

Balance in No 2 A/C

Untaxed Interest Apr06 130.31

Untaxed Interest Sep06 117.61

13,454.25

		Minutes for Meeting November 2006 Click for minutes for October 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 20^th November 2006 in The Pavilion, Iden Green. Present: Cllrs Blockley, Clarke, Hagens, Hockney, Lake, Pitt, Reynolds Apologies: Cllr Bailey, Cllr Kellett 73 MINUTES: The minutes of the ordinary meeting of the Council held on 23^rd October 2006 were confirmed and signed. Proposed – Cllr Reynolds Seconded – Cllr Pitt 74 DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: Cllr Clarke expressed a personal interest in property 3092 Cott Farm, Mount le Hoe 75 MATTERS ARISING: Recycling in Benenden– Cllr Hockney reported that Julie Mellor from TWBC would make a visit to the village to try to identify a suitable site. Cllr Blockley advised that this matter had been before the PC on at least two occasions and despite extensive research no conclusive site has been put forward that all could agree. Cllr Blockley read a letter from the Benenden Village Hall Management Committee outlining their objections to a recycling facility being placed anywhere on the village hall site. Cllr Pitt supported Cllr Hockney’s efforts and proposed further investigation in order that we show our commitment towards a resolution. Cllr Blockley acknowledged BVH’s objections and reassured all that any resolution would not be made until the future of the village hall car park had been decided. Cllr Blockley interrupted the meeting at 8.15pm to introduce PC Gary Hastings PC Hastings spoke on his role as the Benenden Neighbourhood Policeman. His role on 1^st October 2006 expanded to cover 3 villages: Hawkhurst, Sandhurst & Benenden. He advised that he has to check the crime that occurs in all 3 villages and deal with road traffic collisions. He patrols the village on a bike and drives through the village on patrol, virtually on a daily basis. Since starting at Hawkhurst he has introduced CCTV, drug testing including in Public Houses and the crime figures have reduced by approx 45% He reported that the crime figures for Benenden are low. 5 crimes were reported in October, most crime theft from vehicles at Hemsted Forest. Crime figures will determine the area in which he works. He confirmed that he is contactable through the Parish Council and would forward his mobile no to the Clerk. Cllr Blockley thanked PC Hastings for attending and asked that when he is on patrol, just 5 minutes spent in the village shop or butchers would reassure the elderly parishioners of his presence. Cllr Lake enquired if the possibility of a Mobile Police Station visiting Benenden was envisaged. PC Hastings reported that there are only 5 units for the Kent area. Cllr Lake asked that it could be considered. Cllr Blockley reopened the meeting at 8.27pm 76 Benenden C.E Primary School Cllr Blockley advised that TWBC have not yet notified any parties of their next step. Cllr Blockley reported that all Cllrs had received a letter from Lois Howell TWBC Head of Legal, HR and Democratic Services confirming that the Crown Prosecution Service had reviewed the election material that was the subject of complaint and decided that prosecution was not appropriate. “Although the election leaflets infringed the Section 110[1] of Representation of the People Act 1983, most candidates are well known in the local community and could be traced if necessary. In all the circumstances, I do not consider that the public interest requires proceedings against the 8 candidates.” Cllr Blockley confirmed that the Parish Council is a legal body and always had been. The matter was now settled. Parish Poll: Cllr Blockley reported that until TWBC decide what their action is to be, the PC can not begin to formulate the questions. Cllr Hockney enquired what the timescale would be on deciding to hold a Poll and then implementation. Cllr Blockley advised that 7 days notice is required for the public meeting, with another 7 days notice before the Poll is taken. 77 KCC Landscape Services Gang Mowing 2007 Clerk confirmed a new pricing quotation had been received, indicating a 4% increase. All agreed that Landscape Services had provided an excellent service. Cllr Reynolds asked that The Green receive one further cut. Clerk to chase. 78 TWBC Public Consultation on Renewable Energy Supplementary Planning Cllr Blockley requested that Clerk contact Alan Legg to obtain a hardcopy of the Consultation Document. On reading PC will be able to make a decision on suggested comment. 79 Highways Highways Parish Schedule highlighted all current issues. Cllr Blockley & Cllr Clarke are meeting with Andrew Bray and Katie Brown on Wed 22^nd November, to address issues. Cllr Reynolds reported item 9 – grass cutting to triangle at Nineveh now cut but poor. Cllr Hockney reported item 7 – road damaged. Cllr Blockley confirmed Morrisons had been contracted to complete works, they need to carry out repairs. 80 TWBC Mayors Christmas Toy Appeal 2006 Cllr Blockley reported that TWBC in conjunction with St Georges Community Children’s Project had written to all P.C’s requesting donations of new and nearly new toys, to be collected and distributed amongst the most needy in the borough. Cllr Blockley proposed a donation of £50. All councilors agreed unanimously. Posters are displayed on noticeboards 81 Planning Report Cllr Blockley reported on recent planning applications and decisions. Report attached 03092 – Mr Goodsell name to be removed and replaced with new owner 03269 – 2 bed bungalow with a proposal to increase to a 5 bed house. Whilst the footprint would remain the same the increase in volume was questionable. The proximity of surrounding properties needed to be considered. Cllr Blockley reiterated to all councillors that if it was felt necessary for an application to be put to the Eastern Area Planning Committee, this would have to be done via one of our 3 Borough Councillors. 82 Financial Report Payments made on Council’s behalf since October 2006 Chq No Outgoings 062 B.Sullivan – wages 380.16 / Postage 24.72 404.88 063 KAPC – Good Councillor’s Guide 9.00 064 Waitrose.Com – Broadband 18.99 065 British Telecom - Community Office 77.32 066 KAPC – 7^th Edition Local Council Administration 51.95 067 Rother Valley Press – PC Newsletter 142.00 068 Iden Green Pavilion Trust – Hall Hire 24.00 069 Printing at Cranbrook – copying & ink 26.34 070 R.B.L Poppy Appeal 16.50 770.98 The clerk reported that there was £500.00 in C/A and £20,597.67 in D/A 83 Correspondence Cllr Blockley advised that we had written to Jim Fitzpatrick MP, Under Secretary of State with a responsibility for Post Offices, outlining our view on the essential need of our much valued Post Office and what it would mean in the event of closure. Cllr Blockley reported that Mr Laing had received a full apology and detailed explanation regarding the low flying military helicopters from the RAF. Finally, Cllr Blockley reported that the 5 year lease for St George’s Club expires on 31 Dec 2006. Ian Standen of Humberts will provide a review of the rent for the next 5 year period. Corrie King of Whitehead Monkton solicitors has advised an approx cost of £1,000. A meeting with the Officers of the Club will be held once a new rent has been established. There being no further business the formal meeting closed at 9.08pm Cllr Blockley invited comments from members of the public. Bill Martin had hoped to hear that there had been some progress about the school. He reported that he had been advised that we had now lost our slot with the Inspectorate. Cllr Blockley reported that he had been advised that it was unlikely that the Borough would be able to put forward 2 sites for the Inspectors consideration. There being no further questions the meeting closed at 9.10pm Next Meeting: Monday 11^th December 2006 at 8pm Memorial Hall, Benenden HARMSWORTH MEMORIAL TRUST MATTERS Meeting Held 20^th November 2006 84 Benenden Village Hall Cllr Clarke reported that the flooring had now been chosen – American Oak. The existing floor would be lifted between Christmas and New Year. The laying of the new floor will commence on 2^nd Jan 2007 and will include white lining of the Badminton Courts. Cllr Clarke advised although recent renovations had been completed to the stanchions, further work was required. The area of rotten wood is to be replaced and holes drilled to the bottom of each pillar to allow for drainage. 85 Iden Green Recreation Ground Clerk confirmed that a letter had been received from Iden Green Pavilion Trust Management Committee referring to 3 items: The dead newly planted trees, unpainted, shabby looking Parish Noticeboard and the broken fence around the children’s play area including a broken bench. Cllr Blockley confirmed that Victor Kellett had been asked to repair the fence and replace the bench. Cllr Clarke confirmed that both the noticeboard and the planting of replacement trees are part of the Conservation Enhancement programme and although Brian Hayward had been pressed to giving a timetable of works still to complete, we have no idea of timescale at present. 86 Financial Report Income BVH Wages oct 440.05 St Georges oct 115.00 555.05 Chq No Outgoing Insurance 413.18 869 D.Dalrymple – wages 374.69 870 B.Sullivan – clerk wages 45.00 871 Bates Wells & Braithwaite – planning issues 1,762.50 872 D.Dalrymple – St Georges Phonebill 42.05 2,637.42 The Clerk confirmed £500.00 in C/A and £5,370.05 in D/A Balance in No 2 A/C Untaxed Interest Apr06 130.31 Untaxed Interest Sep06 117.61 13,454.25