The village of Benenden in Kent

Present: Cllrs Bailey, Beattie, Clarke, Hagens, Hemsley, Kellett, Lake, Reynolds, Clerk, TWBC FR + 9 members of the public

37 Apologies: Cllr PB [HOL]

38 Declarations of Interest:
JB declared a personal interest on planning application TW/11/01738 being a friend and neighbour of the applicant.
JHem declared a personal interest on planning application TW/11/01738 being a friend of the applicant.

39 Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on 20 June 2011:
PC resolved to accept the Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on Monday 18 July 2011 confirmed and signed by the Chairman. PC Resolved

40 Matters Arising:
Minute No: 28 11/12 – ERHA Affordable Housing Exhibition.
Chairman DB thanked councillors who had attended the event. ERHA expressed that the response had been good with 36 attending, several of which were local young couples. JB requested a copy of the plans. Minute No: 32 11/12 PC Chairman’s Meeting
Chairman DB advised £170k had been allocated to TWBC to celebrate the Queens Diamond Jubilee in 2012, with 50p per head to each Parish with hopefully a formula arranged by TWBC Paul Cummins to include people not on electoral role i.e. children. Special events are planned.
TWBC John Cunningham had outlined that the Queen Elizabeth Jubilee Fields Trust was a complicated procedure.
Chairman DB handed out Love Where We Live Awards leaflets – any nominations please forward to the Clerk.
EAPC change of venue was mentioned again with Parishes expressing disappointment with lack of involvement, no use of Parish Charter. Parking permit for attendees to be investigated.
PC’s expressed the value of the Street Cruiser and why was it not utilized more. Is it a question of funding or staffing? As a PC we could consider funding a visit. GR advised TWBC had confirmed there had been personnel problems due to sickness and moves within TWBC. Chairman DB asked TWBC FR to investigate.
TWBC John Cunningham had confirmed rural village will not be expected to accommodate housing originally proposed for larger parishes i.e. Hawkhurst.
Minute No: 32 11/12 TWBC Planning Training
JB confirmed she had attended the planning training for new councilors. Chairman DB thanked JB for attending.
Minute No: 22 11/12 Youth Forum
Chairman DB and GR to arrange a meeting, liaise with Clerk DB/GR/JB/JHem
Minute No: 33 11/12 TWBC LDF Development Management Policies DPD Consultation
Chairman DB thanked councilors who had contributed to the response on Older People Housing and Planning Contributions. Clerk confirmed consultation response completed.

Minute No: 22 11/12 – Standing Orders Review
Chairman DB reported TWBC Paul Cummins is unavailable at present so had contacted TWBC Keith Trowell to clarify a couple if issues. Chairman DB read TWBC KT response and confirmed the Clerk can now continue with typing of the revised Standing Orders.
JB enquired if a review of the Financial Regulations would be carried out.
Clerk confirmed the FRs would be reviewed and expected to meet with Tom Dawlings
to clarify presentation of financial reports.
Clerk would hope the revised SOs and FRs will be ready for the PC meeting in September.
Minute No: 27 11/12 – Benenden CE Primary School Exhibition
GR confirmed that there was no evidence at the exhibition to make a cost comparison for two sites.
Chairman DB advised the parishioner had reported the "cost comparison" was not in the exhibit but verbally referred to in the building where the exhibit took place.
GR reiterated only the selected site was discussed.
GR reported he had attended a School Governor meeting as PC representative, with informative news on safeguarding children in the use of Face book, Twitter and he advised a planning application for the new school should be filed by the week ending 22 July 2011.

41 KCC Vision for Kent Consultation 2011-2021:
Chairman recommended all councilors submit individual returns. The Clerk would forward the PC questionnaire and ask for any responses to be returned by 12 August 2011in order to collate and formulate PC priorities. PC Action

42 KHS Parish Report: [attached]
[i] Clerk reported on 30% cuts to budget largest of any KCC Department; the restructure of Kent Highways which as of 1 Sept will be known as KCC Highways Division; advised changes to the Winter Service Policy may mean PC’s can now purchase salt bins but would need permission from KHS on position; Kent Highways Member Fund, approach our local member with any issue we feel is important to our Parish but will not be a high priority – need to act quickly as this fund has to be allocated to a project within the month. GR reiterated that sending road sweepers to rural lanes is a waste of public money. Clerk confirmed this had been reported to TWBC before. GR expressed concern that the verges had yet to be cut this year. Clerk to report. PC/Clerk Action
[ii] Walkhurst Road – dangerous parking
Chairman DB reported after another incident of thoughtless parking at the junction of Walkhurst Road where it meets The Street at the war memorial, she was concerned that the elderly residents of Harmsworth Court had been forced to walk in the road to attend the Merry & Bright Group. DB had contacted the school, the community warden and the owner of The Bull, who had offered to put up signs on the new fence. Clerk confirmed that KHS had originally identified this issue for safety improvements for 11/12 but following cuts this budget had been abolished and only safety critical works were being implemented. Clerk suggested this issue may be suitable for member’s highway fund. Clerk to contact KCC Roger Manning and advise him of the ongoing problems. Clerk Action

43 TWBC Consultation: Review of Polling Districts, Places & Stations
Chairman DB advised TWBC proposed that only two polling stations would be used for local elections due to a low turnout at East End, polling district P, and they would subsequently vote at Benenden Village Hall with polling district O, Iden Green polling district Q would continue to vote at the Pavilion. Clerk confirmed this method had been use din the by-election 18 Nov 10. PC resolved to accept the polling arrangements review. Clerk to confirm. PC Resolved

44 Parish Council Newsletter:
Chairman DB requested all councilors to consider an article for the PC newsletter. RL to ask ML if she would still consider proof reading and Clive Turner to edit. All suggestions to be finalised before the full PC meeting in Sept and articles delivered promptly by mid Oct for a Nov delivery. Please advise Clerk of your topic. PC Action

45 Training & Development:
KALC Councillor Conference 23 July 2011 – JB to attend

46 Planning Report: [i] RL discussed previously circulated Monthly Planning Report [attached]

TW/11/01739 – Cranden Diamonds, Cranbrook Road – Erection of a portal frame building
RL confirmed that although the PC had approved this application, TWBC had given permission for further discussion and asked councilors for their comments.
GR expressed concern that the site had already been cleared with trees cut down; expanding car park area; persistent noise already perhaps improved baffling would help and suggested residents met with the owners to discuss issues. RL confirmed some councilors had re-visited the site that day and raised questions about noise and light pollution. The representative confirmed the night lighting was motion activated only and the proposed building will occupy one element of the process with no machinery.
GR advised the expansion of this industry is affecting the local community within that area, with increased noise levels in the past two years.
DB reminded councilors that no comment can be made on the existing industry only on the current application. The representative confirmed the company was not expanding. The main use of the building would be to provide improved working conditions. PC resolved to approve the planning application. GR offered to arrange a meeting with local residents and Andrew Cranshaw. Clerk to advise TWBC.
TW/11/01647 – Mr. E Barham Farm building White Gates, Stepneyford Lane, Benenden
Change of use of redundant farm building to holiday accommodation.
RL confirmed this application had been refused again by TWBC on the grounds that the
building was not worthy of retention; residential style curtilage + car parking facilities would be harmful to the character of the HWAONB and the applicant had failed to demonstrate the accommodation would be restricted to holiday lets under the C3 use in perpetuity.
PC had agreed holiday let provision had grown in popularity and felt it would have made good use of a redundant building.

47 Financial Report:
[i] Payments made on Parish Council’s behalf since 15 June 2011
Income
CHQ Donation towards Retirement Celebration 40.00
SO Harmsworth Trust – Clerk June 11 salary 100.00
TOTAL £140.00
Outgoings
Chq No Supplier
535 I/G Pavilion Trust – Hire 16 May 11 9.00
536 EDF Energy – 1Jun10-31May11 unmetered kiosk 174.20
537 M English – public toilets clean June 11 180.00
538 B Sullivan – Jun 11 sal 728.86; postage 4.32; retire card 2.30 735.58
539 Benenden Memorial Hall – PC Mtg Jun 20, Jul 18 18.00
540 KALC – Councillor Conference Sat 23 July [JB] 72.00
541 Post Office – Tax/NI B.Sullivan 1Apr-30Jun11 240.31
542 Stationery Express – b/w copies jun pc mtg; 2 packs envs 17.40
543 P Message – war memorial + shrubs to BVH 126.00
D/D Waitrose.com – Broadband July 2011 18.99 TOTAL 1591.48
After all cheques cleared
Clerk confirmed C/A held £500 and D/A held £19,448.45
Reconciled with Bank Statement 30 June 2011 Balance: £21,158.43
Uncleared cheques Total: -£1,749.98
Unlearned income Total: £40.00
Balance in D/A £19,448.45 Parish Council resolved to accept monthly finance report PC Resolved

[ii] Public Toilets Revised Rates
Clerk advised the revised rates for part yr 10/11 and full yr 11/12 had been received with the mandatory relief now applied. Total of £126.62 10/11 and £264.13 11/12 now due.

PC resolved to pay the revised rates PC Resolved

48 Correspondence:
[i] Clerk spoke on the previously circulated correspondence report [attached]
[ii] Clerk advised the KCC bus service review would affect the no. 298 Sunday service from Tunbridge Wells to Tenterden. It would not run as of 1 Jan 2012. [iii]Clerk confirmed the Data Protection Register Pack had arrived and would be completed.
PC resolved to pay £35 to register PC Resolved
[iv] Chairman DB asked for comments following the notes received from RD-H on "Future Housing & Development in Benenden"
PC discussion on the thoughts and ideas of RD-H included: a possible Parish Plan to identify local "wish list" and if residents wished to see village grow; Small local industries have evolved in appropriate places but plans to accommodate larger units may be up against "NIMBY" attitudes; in conjunction with TWBC ward walks the feedback was for little or no change to our village; continue to provide small pockets of AH but large developments may be opposed; local young people require AH which is retained; infrastructure not up to large builds i.e. drainage issues and highways issues; AONB has protected us so far keeping buildings within the village envelope and stopped development creeping out. Feofee land developed with a surgery – great idea but probably not viable. Chairman DB thanked everybody for their comments and asked councillors to forward their responses to the Clerk. PC resolved to respond to RD-H PC Resolved
[v] Chairman DB read out a letter from a resident who felt the exhibition presented ambiguous and misleading information. DB had advised the resident to KCC or BCEP Governors
[vi] Clerk reported CT had advised the parish marquee had been used for several events so far this year. 3 donations from local residents are expected.
[vii] Clerk advised a Digital TV Switchover Community Outreach Pack including an 8 minute film had been received, which offers practical help for disabled/elderly. DB/Clerk
[viii] Clerk advised PROW 119 part of the High Weald Nature Trail had a rotten bridge over a gully. Clerk had reported it to KCC Jonathan Bibby and advised TM Ramblers Association Rep

There being no further council business the meeting closed at 9.50pm

Chairman DB opened the meeting to the public

MS + RN two residents of Harmsworth Court explained how on many occasions they have had to walk in the road due to the appalling parking at the junction of Walkhurst Road and The Street. It is a hazard to pedestrians many of which are elderly using the path to come into the village. Discussion followed on how as a PC we can enforce no parking; approach owners about hedge reduction and possible fence to retain growth; yellow line possibility; step slope not addressed. Chairman DB advised the Clerk is investigating what had been proposed by KHS before the cuts and would contact KCC Roger Manning immediately BS/JC/JHem

KB Chairman of SFFDA addressed the PC on the background of the association and the improvements made since the 1990’s. SFFDA now had full organic status and are trying to change from an association to a charity. They hope to become a community orchard and part of the improvement plan is to provide storage for the fruit, which currently goes to waste and farm machinery. The pole barn would be 10 x 12 mtrs. SFFDA wrote to neighbours to discuss the proposals who held their own meeting. We were disappointed the PC did not invite us to attend the open meeting and more disappointed your decision was refusal with a "call-in" request. Surely a neutral would have been fairer. We believe we provide a fantastic resource in the community and felt it was the right way forward.
Chairman DB thanked KB for all his comments and reiterated that the PC felt that the information was not clear on the planning documents, on a site visit DB and JHgn had not identified the correct area for the proposed barn until a resident pointed out the position; the access location was not as favorable due to the narrow part of the road and bend, issues about traffic. DB apologized again for the oversight in not inviting SFFDA to the open meeting personally but PC reasons for refusal were valid. GR commented that the ownership of the area had caused problems.
RL confirmed TWBC had served a Regulation 4 notice - invalidated until further information received. KB reported the requested information is now with TWBC and asked that the PC consider a more pro-active approach in advising applicants when plans were being discussed.

DH spoke on behalf of the school governors and apologized if any information at the recent exhibition had appeared misleading but we did not declare the plans as final as the exhibition gave an opportunity for further comment. DH asked that Minute No: 27 11/12 RL comments are noted as cost comparisons were published in the PC minutes of Jan 2008.

DB thanked DH for his comments

Chair DB thanked everybody for attending. The meeting closed at 10.15pm

Note: These minutes are not intended to provide a verbatim record of the meeting and contain only a summary of those matters discussed.

Next Meeting On: Monday 19 September at 8pm At: The Pavilion, Iden Green

HARMSWORTH MEMORIAL TRUST MATTERS
Ordinary Meeting held 18 July 2011

Present: Cllrs Bailey, Beattie Clarke, Hagens, Hemsley, Lake, Kellett, Reynolds, Clerk

180 Apologies:
Cllr PB [HOL]

Cllr GR left the meeting.

181 Minutes:
The minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of Harmsworth Memorial Trust held on Monday 20 June 2011 were confirmed and signed by the Chairman. HT resolved to accept the minutes as a true record. HT Resolved

182 Matters Arising:
Minute No: 175 11/12 Benenden Recreation Ground
Clerk advised a quotation for work to the perimeter posts was still awaited from PP.
Chairman DB proposed a working group to address pitch improvements, football posts and future use. DB asked for nominations. JHgn, JHem and GR nominated.
HT resolved to accept JHgn, JHem and GR as the Ben Rec Grd working group. GR to confirm.
HT Resolved
Minute No: 176 11/12 Iden Green Recreation Ground
Chairman DB advised MK, DB and Clerk had met at I/G to assess the tree and overgrown brambles and collapsed fence behind the bus shelter. Clerk had contacted PP for a quotation for works to remove the fence. Further works may be needed to secure gaps beside the bus shelter. Chairman DB proposed the tree was cut off at a level where the greenery was still abundant. HT resolved to remove the tree completely. HT Resolved

JHem had understood that the plainings at the BVH were to be used in the car park at I/G. JC confirmed if they were not removed soon they would be used for car park improvements at BVH. Clerk to contact BL and GR. Clerk Action

183 Benenden Village Hall:
[i] BVHMC Report
BVHMC Chairman JC advised following a stage lighting annual test the electricians had advised that the stage lighting bars were no longer electrically compliant and recommended urgent replacement within the year. The bars were installed in 1977 and now require renewal. BVHMC confirmed the two main users of the stage light are Benenden Players and the Primary School.
Chairman DB advised funding could be sourced with a possibility of match funding with the associated main user. BVHMC Action

[ii] ACRK Hallmark 2
BVHMC Chairman JC advised the inspection for Hallmark 2 would take place on 20 July 11.
Chairman DB and JC signed the Health and Safety Policy Statement following JC full review.
H&S Review due May 2012.

184 St Georges Hall:
[i] Clerk advised a quotation of £250 for plastering the crack in the ceiling of the entrance hall had been received. Clerk advised LD of Benenden PreSchool had sent a request to HT to consider a quotation of £300 for decorating the preschool rooms and entrance hall. LD would hope the work could be completed during the closure for holidays.
HT resolved to carry out decorating but advised a full specification of works be produced incase further quotes required. HT Resolved

[ii] Chairman DB advised the 5 year lease for St Georges Club was due for renewal in Dec 2011. HT needed to write to St Georges Club to give 6 months notice of renewal.
RL to liaise with Clerk. HT Action

185 Finance Report Harmsworth Trust:
[i] HT resolved to accept the monthly finance report.
Payments made on Harmsworth Trust’s behalf since 15 June 2011
Income
St Georges June 11 rent 158.33
COIF 1st ¼ Dividend 11/12 2583.90 BVH June 11 wages 537.80
TOTAL 3280.03
Outgoings
Chq No Supplier
D/D Aviva – Insurance June 11 390.34
138 J Clarke – BVH Car Park lockable post 122.93
139 P Punchard – St Gs hedge + oak tree; Ben Rec 9 posts 155.00
140 D Dalrymple – salary Jun 11 inc strimming 475.20
SO COIF Inv Fund Annual Chg 317.00
SO Rate Account –BS clerk June 11 100.00
TOTAL 1560.47
After all cheques cleared

Clerk confirmed C/A held £500 and D/A held £10,380.94

Reconciled with Bank Statement 30 June 2011 Balance: £11,134.07
Uncleared cheques Total: -£753.13
Balance in D/A £10,380.94
HT A/C NO 2
Balance in No 2 A/C 1038.31 HT Noted

186 Correspondence:
None

There being no further business the meeting closed at 10.40pm

Note: These minutes are not intended to provide a verbatim record of the meeting and contain only a summary of those matters discussed.

Date of Next Meeting: Monday 19 September 2011 at 8pm
At: The Pavilion, Iden Green

		Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of the Council held on Monday 18 July 2011 in the Memorial Hall, Benenden (including Harmsworth Trust minutes) Click for minutes for ordinary meeting June 2011 These notes are abstracted from the original minutes-for the full and proper copy please contact the Parish Clerk
		Present: Cllrs Bailey, Beattie, Clarke, Hagens, Hemsley, Kellett, Lake, Reynolds, Clerk, TWBC FR + 9 members of the public 37 Apologies: Cllr PB [HOL] 38 Declarations of Interest: JB declared a personal interest on planning application TW/11/01738 being a friend and neighbour of the applicant. JHem declared a personal interest on planning application TW/11/01738 being a friend of the applicant. 39 Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on 20 June 2011: PC resolved to accept the Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on Monday 18 July 2011 confirmed and signed by the Chairman. PC Resolved 40 Matters Arising: Minute No: 28 11/12 – ERHA Affordable Housing Exhibition. Chairman DB thanked councillors who had attended the event. ERHA expressed that the response had been good with 36 attending, several of which were local young couples. JB requested a copy of the plans. Minute No: 32 11/12 PC Chairman’s Meeting Chairman DB advised £170k had been allocated to TWBC to celebrate the Queens Diamond Jubilee in 2012, with 50p per head to each Parish with hopefully a formula arranged by TWBC Paul Cummins to include people not on electoral role i.e. children. Special events are planned. TWBC John Cunningham had outlined that the Queen Elizabeth Jubilee Fields Trust was a complicated procedure. Chairman DB handed out Love Where We Live Awards leaflets – any nominations please forward to the Clerk. EAPC change of venue was mentioned again with Parishes expressing disappointment with lack of involvement, no use of Parish Charter. Parking permit for attendees to be investigated. PC’s expressed the value of the Street Cruiser and why was it not utilized more. Is it a question of funding or staffing? As a PC we could consider funding a visit. GR advised TWBC had confirmed there had been personnel problems due to sickness and moves within TWBC. Chairman DB asked TWBC FR to investigate. TWBC John Cunningham had confirmed rural village will not be expected to accommodate housing originally proposed for larger parishes i.e. Hawkhurst. Minute No: 32 11/12 TWBC Planning Training JB confirmed she had attended the planning training for new councilors. Chairman DB thanked JB for attending. Minute No: 22 11/12 Youth Forum Chairman DB and GR to arrange a meeting, liaise with Clerk DB/GR/JB/JHem Minute No: 33 11/12 TWBC LDF Development Management Policies DPD Consultation Chairman DB thanked councilors who had contributed to the response on Older People Housing and Planning Contributions. Clerk confirmed consultation response completed. Minute No: 22 11/12 – Standing Orders Review Chairman DB reported TWBC Paul Cummins is unavailable at present so had contacted TWBC Keith Trowell to clarify a couple if issues. Chairman DB read TWBC KT response and confirmed the Clerk can now continue with typing of the revised Standing Orders. JB enquired if a review of the Financial Regulations would be carried out. Clerk confirmed the FRs would be reviewed and expected to meet with Tom Dawlings to clarify presentation of financial reports. Clerk would hope the revised SOs and FRs will be ready for the PC meeting in September. Minute No: 27 11/12 – Benenden CE Primary School Exhibition GR confirmed that there was no evidence at the exhibition to make a cost comparison for two sites. Chairman DB advised the parishioner had reported the "cost comparison" was not in the exhibit but verbally referred to in the building where the exhibit took place. GR reiterated only the selected site was discussed. GR reported he had attended a School Governor meeting as PC representative, with informative news on safeguarding children in the use of Face book, Twitter and he advised a planning application for the new school should be filed by the week ending 22 July 2011. 41 KCC Vision for Kent Consultation 2011-2021: Chairman recommended all councilors submit individual returns. The Clerk would forward the PC questionnaire and ask for any responses to be returned by 12 August 2011in order to collate and formulate PC priorities. PC Action 42 KHS Parish Report: [attached] [i] Clerk reported on 30% cuts to budget largest of any KCC Department; the restructure of Kent Highways which as of 1 Sept will be known as KCC Highways Division; advised changes to the Winter Service Policy may mean PC’s can now purchase salt bins but would need permission from KHS on position; Kent Highways Member Fund, approach our local member with any issue we feel is important to our Parish but will not be a high priority – need to act quickly as this fund has to be allocated to a project within the month. GR reiterated that sending road sweepers to rural lanes is a waste of public money. Clerk confirmed this had been reported to TWBC before. GR expressed concern that the verges had yet to be cut this year. Clerk to report. PC/Clerk Action [ii] Walkhurst Road – dangerous parking Chairman DB reported after another incident of thoughtless parking at the junction of Walkhurst Road where it meets The Street at the war memorial, she was concerned that the elderly residents of Harmsworth Court had been forced to walk in the road to attend the Merry & Bright Group. DB had contacted the school, the community warden and the owner of The Bull, who had offered to put up signs on the new fence. Clerk confirmed that KHS had originally identified this issue for safety improvements for 11/12 but following cuts this budget had been abolished and only safety critical works were being implemented. Clerk suggested this issue may be suitable for member’s highway fund. Clerk to contact KCC Roger Manning and advise him of the ongoing problems. Clerk Action 43 TWBC Consultation: Review of Polling Districts, Places & Stations Chairman DB advised TWBC proposed that only two polling stations would be used for local elections due to a low turnout at East End, polling district P, and they would subsequently vote at Benenden Village Hall with polling district O, Iden Green polling district Q would continue to vote at the Pavilion. Clerk confirmed this method had been use din the by-election 18 Nov 10. PC resolved to accept the polling arrangements review. Clerk to confirm. PC Resolved 44 Parish Council Newsletter: Chairman DB requested all councilors to consider an article for the PC newsletter. RL to ask ML if she would still consider proof reading and Clive Turner to edit. All suggestions to be finalised before the full PC meeting in Sept and articles delivered promptly by mid Oct for a Nov delivery. Please advise Clerk of your topic. PC Action 45 Training & Development: KALC Councillor Conference 23 July 2011 – JB to attend 46 Planning Report: [i] RL discussed previously circulated Monthly Planning Report [attached] TW/11/01739 – Cranden Diamonds, Cranbrook Road – Erection of a portal frame building RL confirmed that although the PC had approved this application, TWBC had given permission for further discussion and asked councilors for their comments. GR expressed concern that the site had already been cleared with trees cut down; expanding car park area; persistent noise already perhaps improved baffling would help and suggested residents met with the owners to discuss issues. RL confirmed some councilors had re-visited the site that day and raised questions about noise and light pollution. The representative confirmed the night lighting was motion activated only and the proposed building will occupy one element of the process with no machinery. GR advised the expansion of this industry is affecting the local community within that area, with increased noise levels in the past two years. DB reminded councilors that no comment can be made on the existing industry only on the current application. The representative confirmed the company was not expanding. The main use of the building would be to provide improved working conditions. PC resolved to approve the planning application. GR offered to arrange a meeting with local residents and Andrew Cranshaw. Clerk to advise TWBC. TW/11/01647 – Mr. E Barham Farm building White Gates, Stepneyford Lane, Benenden Change of use of redundant farm building to holiday accommodation. RL confirmed this application had been refused again by TWBC on the grounds that the building was not worthy of retention; residential style curtilage + car parking facilities would be harmful to the character of the HWAONB and the applicant had failed to demonstrate the accommodation would be restricted to holiday lets under the C3 use in perpetuity. PC had agreed holiday let provision had grown in popularity and felt it would have made good use of a redundant building. 47 Financial Report: [i] Payments made on Parish Council’s behalf since 15 June 2011 Income CHQ Donation towards Retirement Celebration 40.00 SO Harmsworth Trust – Clerk June 11 salary 100.00 TOTAL £140.00 Outgoings Chq No Supplier 535 I/G Pavilion Trust – Hire 16 May 11 9.00 536 EDF Energy – 1Jun10-31May11 unmetered kiosk 174.20 537 M English – public toilets clean June 11 180.00 538 B Sullivan – Jun 11 sal 728.86; postage 4.32; retire card 2.30 735.58 539 Benenden Memorial Hall – PC Mtg Jun 20, Jul 18 18.00 540 KALC – Councillor Conference Sat 23 July [JB] 72.00 541 Post Office – Tax/NI B.Sullivan 1Apr-30Jun11 240.31 542 Stationery Express – b/w copies jun pc mtg; 2 packs envs 17.40 543 P Message – war memorial + shrubs to BVH 126.00 D/D Waitrose.com – Broadband July 2011 18.99 TOTAL 1591.48 After all cheques cleared Clerk confirmed C/A held £500 and D/A held £19,448.45 Reconciled with Bank Statement 30 June 2011 Balance: £21,158.43 Uncleared cheques Total: -£1,749.98 Unlearned income Total: £40.00 Balance in D/A £19,448.45 Parish Council resolved to accept monthly finance report PC Resolved [ii] Public Toilets Revised Rates Clerk advised the revised rates for part yr 10/11 and full yr 11/12 had been received with the mandatory relief now applied. Total of £126.62 10/11 and £264.13 11/12 now due. PC resolved to pay the revised rates PC Resolved 48 Correspondence: [i] Clerk spoke on the previously circulated correspondence report [attached] [ii] Clerk advised the KCC bus service review would affect the no. 298 Sunday service from Tunbridge Wells to Tenterden. It would not run as of 1 Jan 2012. [iii]Clerk confirmed the Data Protection Register Pack had arrived and would be completed. PC resolved to pay £35 to register PC Resolved [iv] Chairman DB asked for comments following the notes received from RD-H on "Future Housing & Development in Benenden" PC discussion on the thoughts and ideas of RD-H included: a possible Parish Plan to identify local "wish list" and if residents wished to see village grow; Small local industries have evolved in appropriate places but plans to accommodate larger units may be up against "NIMBY" attitudes; in conjunction with TWBC ward walks the feedback was for little or no change to our village; continue to provide small pockets of AH but large developments may be opposed; local young people require AH which is retained; infrastructure not up to large builds i.e. drainage issues and highways issues; AONB has protected us so far keeping buildings within the village envelope and stopped development creeping out. Feofee land developed with a surgery – great idea but probably not viable. Chairman DB thanked everybody for their comments and asked councillors to forward their responses to the Clerk. PC resolved to respond to RD-H PC Resolved [v] Chairman DB read out a letter from a resident who felt the exhibition presented ambiguous and misleading information. DB had advised the resident to KCC or BCEP Governors [vi] Clerk reported CT had advised the parish marquee had been used for several events so far this year. 3 donations from local residents are expected. [vii] Clerk advised a Digital TV Switchover Community Outreach Pack including an 8 minute film had been received, which offers practical help for disabled/elderly. DB/Clerk [viii] Clerk advised PROW 119 part of the High Weald Nature Trail had a rotten bridge over a gully. Clerk had reported it to KCC Jonathan Bibby and advised TM Ramblers Association Rep There being no further council business the meeting closed at 9.50pm Chairman DB opened the meeting to the public MS + RN two residents of Harmsworth Court explained how on many occasions they have had to walk in the road due to the appalling parking at the junction of Walkhurst Road and The Street. It is a hazard to pedestrians many of which are elderly using the path to come into the village. Discussion followed on how as a PC we can enforce no parking; approach owners about hedge reduction and possible fence to retain growth; yellow line possibility; step slope not addressed. Chairman DB advised the Clerk is investigating what had been proposed by KHS before the cuts and would contact KCC Roger Manning immediately BS/JC/JHem KB Chairman of SFFDA addressed the PC on the background of the association and the improvements made since the 1990’s. SFFDA now had full organic status and are trying to change from an association to a charity. They hope to become a community orchard and part of the improvement plan is to provide storage for the fruit, which currently goes to waste and farm machinery. The pole barn would be 10 x 12 mtrs. SFFDA wrote to neighbours to discuss the proposals who held their own meeting. We were disappointed the PC did not invite us to attend the open meeting and more disappointed your decision was refusal with a "call-in" request. Surely a neutral would have been fairer. We believe we provide a fantastic resource in the community and felt it was the right way forward. Chairman DB thanked KB for all his comments and reiterated that the PC felt that the information was not clear on the planning documents, on a site visit DB and JHgn had not identified the correct area for the proposed barn until a resident pointed out the position; the access location was not as favorable due to the narrow part of the road and bend, issues about traffic. DB apologized again for the oversight in not inviting SFFDA to the open meeting personally but PC reasons for refusal were valid. GR commented that the ownership of the area had caused problems. RL confirmed TWBC had served a Regulation 4 notice - invalidated until further information received. KB reported the requested information is now with TWBC and asked that the PC consider a more pro-active approach in advising applicants when plans were being discussed. DH spoke on behalf of the school governors and apologized if any information at the recent exhibition had appeared misleading but we did not declare the plans as final as the exhibition gave an opportunity for further comment. DH asked that Minute No: 27 11/12 RL comments are noted as cost comparisons were published in the PC minutes of Jan 2008. DB thanked DH for his comments Chair DB thanked everybody for attending. The meeting closed at 10.15pm Note: These minutes are not intended to provide a verbatim record of the meeting and contain only a summary of those matters discussed. Next Meeting On: Monday 19 September at 8pm At: The Pavilion, Iden Green HARMSWORTH MEMORIAL TRUST MATTERS Ordinary Meeting held 18 July 2011 Present: Cllrs Bailey, Beattie Clarke, Hagens, Hemsley, Lake, Kellett, Reynolds, Clerk 180 Apologies: Cllr PB [HOL] Cllr GR left the meeting. 181 Minutes: The minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of Harmsworth Memorial Trust held on Monday 20 June 2011 were confirmed and signed by the Chairman. HT resolved to accept the minutes as a true record. HT Resolved 182 Matters Arising: Minute No: 175 11/12 Benenden Recreation Ground Clerk advised a quotation for work to the perimeter posts was still awaited from PP. Chairman DB proposed a working group to address pitch improvements, football posts and future use. DB asked for nominations. JHgn, JHem and GR nominated. HT resolved to accept JHgn, JHem and GR as the Ben Rec Grd working group. GR to confirm. HT Resolved Minute No: 176 11/12 Iden Green Recreation Ground Chairman DB advised MK, DB and Clerk had met at I/G to assess the tree and overgrown brambles and collapsed fence behind the bus shelter. Clerk had contacted PP for a quotation for works to remove the fence. Further works may be needed to secure gaps beside the bus shelter. Chairman DB proposed the tree was cut off at a level where the greenery was still abundant. HT resolved to remove the tree completely. HT Resolved JHem had understood that the plainings at the BVH were to be used in the car park at I/G. JC confirmed if they were not removed soon they would be used for car park improvements at BVH. Clerk to contact BL and GR. Clerk Action 183 Benenden Village Hall: [i] BVHMC Report BVHMC Chairman JC advised following a stage lighting annual test the electricians had advised that the stage lighting bars were no longer electrically compliant and recommended urgent replacement within the year. The bars were installed in 1977 and now require renewal. BVHMC confirmed the two main users of the stage light are Benenden Players and the Primary School. Chairman DB advised funding could be sourced with a possibility of match funding with the associated main user. BVHMC Action [ii] ACRK Hallmark 2 BVHMC Chairman JC advised the inspection for Hallmark 2 would take place on 20 July 11. Chairman DB and JC signed the Health and Safety Policy Statement following JC full review. H&S Review due May 2012. 184 St Georges Hall: [i] Clerk advised a quotation of £250 for plastering the crack in the ceiling of the entrance hall had been received. Clerk advised LD of Benenden PreSchool had sent a request to HT to consider a quotation of £300 for decorating the preschool rooms and entrance hall. LD would hope the work could be completed during the closure for holidays. HT resolved to carry out decorating but advised a full specification of works be produced incase further quotes required. HT Resolved [ii] Chairman DB advised the 5 year lease for St Georges Club was due for renewal in Dec 2011. HT needed to write to St Georges Club to give 6 months notice of renewal. RL to liaise with Clerk. HT Action 185 Finance Report Harmsworth Trust: [i] HT resolved to accept the monthly finance report. Payments made on Harmsworth Trust’s behalf since 15 June 2011 Income St Georges June 11 rent 158.33 COIF 1st ¼ Dividend 11/12 2583.90 BVH June 11 wages 537.80 TOTAL 3280.03 Outgoings Chq No Supplier D/D Aviva – Insurance June 11 390.34 138 J Clarke – BVH Car Park lockable post 122.93 139 P Punchard – St Gs hedge + oak tree; Ben Rec 9 posts 155.00 140 D Dalrymple – salary Jun 11 inc strimming 475.20 SO COIF Inv Fund Annual Chg 317.00 SO Rate Account –BS clerk June 11 100.00 TOTAL 1560.47 After all cheques cleared Clerk confirmed C/A held £500 and D/A held £10,380.94 Reconciled with Bank Statement 30 June 2011 Balance: £11,134.07 Uncleared cheques Total: -£753.13 Balance in D/A £10,380.94 HT A/C NO 2 Balance in No 2 A/C 1038.31 HT Noted 186 Correspondence: None There being no further business the meeting closed at 10.40pm Note: These minutes are not intended to provide a verbatim record of the meeting and contain only a summary of those matters discussed. Date of Next Meeting: Monday 19 September 2011 at 8pm At: The Pavilion, Iden Green