MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF STOKE HAMMOND PARISH COUNCIL held on Monday 12^th July 2010 at 7.30pm at The Community Centre, Bragenham Side, Stoke Hammond.

PRESENT:- Cllrs Mrs K Brown (Chairman); Mr M Robinson; Mr K Chambers; Mrs E Currie; Mrs M Berrow; Mrs P Edwards and 4 members of the public.

1. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE:-

Apologies for absence were received from Cllr Mrs H Turner; County Councillor Mrs B Jennings and District Councillor Mr N Blake.

• 2. MINUTES:-
• The minutes of the meeting of the Parish Council held on Monday 14^th June 2010 were approved by the Council and signed as a true record. 
• 3. MATTERS ARISING:-
• 3.1 The Rowan tree on the verge in Lodge Lane was in a poor condition and the Clerk said he would ask Mr Keel to examine it. 
• 3.2 The equipment needed for litter picking to resume in the village had now been obtained and the clear up of litter should begin within the next two or three weeks. 
• 3.3 The Clerk confirmed that letters had been sent concerning the smells emanating from the drains in Pheobe’s Orchard and the speeding of ‘On a Mission’ coaches. There had been no response to date.
• 4. PLANNING:-
•  
• 4.1 DECISIONS:-
•  The following decision of AVDC was noted:-
• 2010/00827 - 4 Scotts Close, Stoke Hammond – two storey and single storey rear extension, first floor front extension, insertion of two dormers to create residential accommodation over garage.
• Permission granted subject to conditions 
•  
• 4.2 OTHER PLANNING MATTERS:-
• 2009/01971 – Change of use of highway land to paddock land, Kasamada,   Orchard Mill Lane, Stoke Hammond. 
• This application which was opposed by the Parish Council was due to be determined by the Development Control Committee on the 15^th July. The Clerk reported that he had received a copy of the Planning Officer’s report to that committee and that the officer was recommending approval of the application. The Parish Council were very surprised and disappointed at this possible outcome and the Clerk was asked to contact District Councillor Neil Blake to see whether he could promote the Council’s opposition at the committee meeting.
• 5. FINANCE:-
•  5.1 Payment of the following accounts was unanimously approved:-
•  

 Stoke Hammond Sports Club   Grass Cutting  £300.00

 RGC  Repairs to tractors £395.98

 Playsafety Ltd  Annual Inspection fee £104.58

 Diamond Garage Doors Repairs   £98.70

 Broker Network Ltd Balance of Insurance Premium   £49.49

 J R Keel & Son  Grass Cutting (churchyard) £200.00

 J R Keel & Son  Grass Cutting and repairs £640.00

     to road

 Roundabouts Entertainments Fees  £150.00

 EON  Street lighting by direct debit £150.02

6. ENVIRONMENT AND MAINTENANCE:-

• 6.1 There had been no further developments regarding the speed watch camera. Only 3 villages reminded interested and the potential cost is Â£800 - £1,000 each. It was unanimously decided that payment of this amount was not justified and that the Parish Council should withdraw from the arrangement.
• 6.2 The footpath between Fenny Road and Tyrells Gardens was very overgrown and almost impassable. Clerk to find out who was responsible for maintenance now that the Aylesbury Housing Association had taken over the former Council properties from the District Council. 
• 6.3 Allotments – it was decided to carry this forward if it was possible. Enquiries to be made as to the ownership of the land at Fairfields. Cllr Mrs Hazel Turner may know. 
• 6.4 There was a complaint about water constantly running down Old School Lane. It was suggested that the problem could emanate from the former pond outside the Church which had been filled in several years ago with rubble from a nearby development. It was also thought that there was a spring in Old School Lane that contributed to the problem. It was decided to find out whether it would be possible to restore the pond as a first step towards solving the water problem.
• 6.5 The Clerk raised the subject of winter maintenance in the village with particular reference to salt bins. It was essential that County Highways were informed of the number of salt bins in the village and their whereabouts so that they could be serviced with salt in the autumn. At present there were two in the village outside the Post Office and outside the Church at the top of Old School Lane. Decided to purchase further bins for Pheobe’s Orchard and Newton Road.
• 7. CORRESPONDENCE:-
•  The following letters were reported:-
• 7.1 Notice from AVDC of a decision of that Council to look again at the growth in the Vale of Aylesbury in the light of the new government’s commitment to return decision making powers on housing and planning to Local Councils. Consultation to take place.
• 8. PLAYGROUND AND COMMUNITY CENTRE LAND:-
• Annual play area safety inspection report had been received. No areas of serious risk had been identified and only minor remedial maintenance work required to some of the equipment. Clerk to ask Mr Keel to carry out whatever was necessary. 
• 9. ANY OTHER BUSINESS:-
• There was an enquiry as to who was responsible for cutting the grass areas in Tyrells Gardens. The Clerk said he thought it would be the Aylesbury Vale Housing Trust now that they had taken over the Council houses from the District Council but he would enquire and ensure that whoever was responsible was made aware of the need to cut this grass.
• 10. DATE OF NEXT MEETING:-
•  Monday 8^th September 2010 at 7.30pm. 

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MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF STOKE HAMMOND PARISH COUNCIL held on Monday 8^th March 2010 at 7.30pm at The

Community Centre, Bragenham Side, Stoke Hammond.

PRESENT:-   Cllrs Mr M Robinson (Vice Chairman); Mrs P Edwards; Mr K Chambers; Mrs H Turner; County Councillor Mrs B Jennings and 3

members of the public.

1.APOLOGIES:-

Apologies for absence were received from Councillors Mrs M Berrow; Mrs E Currie; Mrs K Brown and District Councillor Mr N Blake.

2. MINUTES:-

Minutes of the meeting of the Parish Council held on 8^th February 2010 were approved  and signed as a true record. 

3. MATTERS ARISING:-

3.1       It was reported that there was still a large and dangerous pot hole in Fenny Road outside Tyrells Manor.  Clerk to chase up Highways about this. 

3.2       The smell of sewerage in Bragenham Side was still persisting.  Clerk to chase up Anglian Water.

3.3       The refuse lorry did not appear in the village on the appointed day.  Clerk to find out whether an alternative date can be arranged.

4. PLANNING:-

4.1        DECISION:-

                        The following decision of Aylesbury Vale District Council was noted:-

MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF STOKE HAMMOND PARISH COUNCIL held on Monday 8th February 2010 at 7.30pm at The Community Centre, Bragenham Side, Stoke Hammond. PRESENT:- Cllrs Mrs K Brown (Chairman); Mrs H Turner; Mrs P Edwards; Mrs E Currie; Mr K Chambers; Mr M Robinson and 6 members of the public. 1. APOLOGIES:-Apologies for absence were received from Councillor Mrs M Berrow; District Councillor Mr N Blake and County Councillor Mr B Jennings. 2. MINUTES:- Minutes of the meeting of the Parish Council held on 11th January 2010 were approved and signed as a true record.  3. MATTERS ARISING:- 3.1 The repairs to the footbridges over the brook in Bragenham Side into Manor Road and Pheobes Orchard respectively were not proving to be very successful. There was already some deterioration and the areas would soon  become a hazard again. Clerk to ask Highways to make an inspection.  4. PLANNING:-  4.1 APPLICATIONS:-  The following application were considered:-  2009/02395 – Pump Cottage, 4 Newton Road, Stoke Hammond – Single storey rear extension. No objection. 4.2 OTHER PLANNING MATTERS:- 4.2.1 Stoke House Farm, Stoke Road, Stoke Hammond The Appeal by Mr A Kay against the refusal of the District Council to permit the creation of a new access and parking/turning area at the above site had been dismissed by an inspector. 5. FINANCE:-  5.1 Payment of the following accounts was unanimously approved:- Roy Farley  Audit fees   £50.00 Aylesbury Mains Street lighting repairs  £164.69  Fields In Trust  Annual sub   £35.00  Mazars  Audit fees  £350.75  J R Keel & Son  Demolition of bus shelter £100.00  Stoke Hammond  Grant re: SH News  £250.00  Community Association Annual sub   Society of Local Council  Clerks   £55.00  Bucks Playing Fields Association Annual sub   £20.00   Aylesbury Mains Limited Street light repairs   £42.30  Mr Rotherham  Litter picking (in settlement) £100.00 EON  Street lighting by direct debit       £150.02 5.2 OTHER FINANCIAL MATTERS:- 5.2.1 The Annual Accounts and Statement for the financial year ending 31st March 2009 were approve by the Council and signed by the Chairman. 6. ENVIRONMENT AND MAINTENANCE:- 6.1 It was reported that most of the large potholes caused by the recent weather had been dealt with. There were many others throughout the village and it was expected that these would be dealt with as soon as possible  bearing in mind that this situation was general throughout the County. 6.2 There were reports of smells in Bragenham Side which appeared to be emanating from the sewers. It was agreed that Anglia Water should be asked to check that there had been no damage to the pipes following  the recent heavy snow. 6.3 There was a fair amount of litter on the verges along the by pass. There was also graffiti on the Newton Road bridge over the by pass. These matters would be reported to Highways. 6.4 It was agreed that a letter be sent to Robert Bayham from the Parish Council thanking him for the work he did in clearing the snow from the village during the recent bad weather. 6.5 The layby in Fenny Road – this area had deteriorated. There was a large quantity of rubbish around the camper van which was still in position. There was also a generator on the site. At one time there were 4 vans in the  layby and it was agreed that Highways should now be asked to make a site visit and decide what was to be done to clean up the area and have the camper van removed.  The owner of Dairy Farm which was on the other side of the canal at this point was present and allowed to speak by the Chairman. He said that he had been trying to have the boat ‘Kasamada’ removed over a long period and he now understood that as a result of action by British Waterways the boat had moved on hopefully for good. He was also concerned at the state of the layby and was taking his own steps to try and have the camper van and other unauthorised vehicles removed.  On the other side of the road where the layby had been closed up there was somebody living in a tent. This would have to be investigated if it appeared to be permanent.  7. CORRESPONDENCE:- The following letters were reported:- 7.1 Letter from AVDC detailing 3 draft supplementary planning documents prepared for consultation. 7.2 Letter from Bucks County Council Highways regarding Newton Road and the junction at the bridge over the bypass. Some additional/larger signage was under consideration. 7.3 Letter from AVDC.  The Perfect Village Sunday application was not successful. 7.4 Letter from Coombe Hill Monument Appeal, first for financial contribution towards the cost of repairing and restoring the Coombe Hill Monument commemorating Buckinghamshire men who lost their lives in the South African War 1890 – 1902. A payment of £25 was authorised. 8. PLAYGROUND AND COMMUNITY CENTRE LAND:-  Nothing to report. 9. ANY OTHER BUSINESS:- 9.1 There had been no response to the Parish Council’s appeal to the occupier of garage number 5 in Bragenham Side to clear the contents from the garage so that it could be re-let. It was felt that adequate notice had been given and it was agreed that Mr Keel should now be asked to clear the garage and dispose of the contents. 9.2 Proposed speed gun venture with Great Brickhill, Soulbury and Drayton Parslow Parish Councils was confirmed. Clerk to arrange a viewing of the equipment now that the weather had improved. 9.3 The Council confirmed the letting of garage number 6 to the Nursery School to enable them to store some equipment. 10. DATE OF NEXT MEETING:- Monday 8th March 2010 at 7.30pm.

 2 0 0 9/ 0 2 3 9 5 –    P u m p C ot ta g e, 4 N e w to n R o a d, St o k e H a m m o n d – si n gl e st or e y re ar ex te n si o n.

P er m is si o n gr a nt e d s u bj ec t to c o n di ti o n s.

4.2          O T H E R P L A N N I N G M A T T E R S:-

                             T h er e w er e n o ot h er pl a n ni n g m at te rs.

5.           F I N A N C E :-

             5.1        Payment of the following accounts was unanimously approved:-

                        Bucks County Council               Rent of CommunityCentreLand            £450.00           

                        Aylesbury Mains                       Street lighting repairs                              £42.30

  Stoke Hammond Community Association    Hall charges                          £46.80

        I & I                                         Internet charges                                      £63.38

  EON                                        Street lighting by direct debit                  £150.02

6.         REPORT BY COUNTY COUNCILLOR MRS B JENNINGS:-

Cllr Jennings firstly presented the Parish Council with a cheque for £2,350 to cover the cost of a new bus shelter in Fenny Road.  This was from the

County Council Leader’s Fund and was awarded to Stoke Hammond at the discretion of Cllr Jennings.  The Parish Council expressed their sincere

thanks to Mrs Jennings for this very generous gesture which will facilitate the provision of a new bus stop which has been needed for some time.

 Cllr Jennings reported on the budget situation at the County Council resulting from the reduction in the grant from Central Government.  Every effort

was being made to maintain the essential services.

7.         ENVIRONMENT AND MAINTENANCE:-

7.1        Horses had been seen on the sports field causing unwelcome damage to the surface of the outfield.  It was decided to make an appeal through

the newsletter to horse riders to stop this practice otherwise other and more restrictive action would have to be taken.

7.2        There was a considerable quantity of broken branches and similar matter on parts of the outfield.  Clerk said he would approach either the

scouts or Mr Keel to clear the areas before the mowing season began.

8.       CORRESPONDENCE:-

          There following letters were reported:-

8.1          Letter from County Councillor Mrs Brenda Jennings accompanying the cheque for £2,375 previously referred to.  The Clerk said he would

respond to this letter.

8.2          Letter from Aylesbury Vale District Council informing of a mobile skate park facility available for hire from the District Council.

8.3          Letter from Bucks County Council giving details of draft parking and enforcement policy for consultation.  Agreed that this would not affect

Stoke Hammond and no further action was necessary. 

8.4          Notice of Great Brickhill Plant Fayre to be held in Great Brickhill in April.  Notices have been displayed. 

8.5          Letter from Buckinghamshire Community Action following the general meeting held on 4^th February.  Name of the organisation had been

changed to Community Impact Bucks. There would be no impact on the operation of the organisation.

8.6          Notice of Annual Inspection of playground equipment by ROSPA. 

8.7          Letter from Aylesbury Vale District Council giving details of the Summer 2010 programme for the Play Around the Parishes Project.  The

 dates allocated to Stoke Hammond were confirmed as convenient as was the arrangements within the village.  These would be confirmed to the organisers.

9.       PLAYGROUND ANDCOMMUNITYCENTRELAND:-

          It was pointed out that the honorarium agreed to be paid to Ted Andrews for keeping the children’s play area litter free had not been paid this

year.  The amount was £25 and the Clerk said that he would ensure that Mr Andrews received this sum as soon as possible.

10.     PUBLIC PARTICIPATION:-

          There was further reference to the horses on the sports field.  There was also a request for a further supply of dog bags for the shop. 

11.     ANY OTHER BUSINESS:-

Cllr Mrs Hazel Turner had received a police report giving some details of crime within the village and also the outcome of a recent speed check. 

The document was passed to the Clerk who said he would circulate it to all Councillors. 

10.        DATE OF NEXT MEETING:-            Monday 19^th April 2010 at 7.30pm.  

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MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF STOKE HAMMOND PARISH COUNCIL held on Monday 14^th June 2010 at 7.30pm at The Community Centre, Bragenham Side, Stoke Hammond.

 PRESENT:-                 Cllrs Mrs K Brown (Chairman); Mr M Robinson; Mr K Chambers; Mrs E Currie; Mrs M Berrow; Mrs P Edwards and 4 members of the public.

                              The Council observed a minute’s silence in memory of Mr Paul Smale, a village resident who had died recently.

 1.         APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE:-

 Apologies for absence were received from Mrs H Turner; County Councillor Mrs B Jennings and District Councillor Mr N Blake.

 2.         MINUTES:-

             The minutes of the annual meeting of the Parish Council held on Monday 10^th May 2010 were approved  by the Council and signed as a true record. 

 3.         MATTERS ARISING:-

 There were no matters arising. 

 4.         PLANNING:-

                                     4.1        APPLICATIONS:-

                         The following application was considered:-

 2010/00827 – 4 Scotts Close, Stoke Hammond – two storey and single storey rear extension.  First floor side extension.  Insertion of two dormers to create residential unit over garage.

 No objection.

 2010/01023 – 13 Tyrells Road, Stoke Hammond – two storey side and single storey rear extension and insertion of rear deluxe windows.

 No objection.

 4.2        DECISIONS:-

                        The following decision of AVDC was noted:-

 2010/00829 -     Rectory Farm, Newton Road, Stoke Hammond – erection of agricultural storage unit.. 

                         Work to proceed.

 5.         FINANCE:-

                  5.1        Payment of the following accounts was unanimously approved:-

                                Aylesbury Mains           Street light repairs                                   £42.30

                            J R Keel & Son              Clearing out garage 5, disposing of   Contents and clearing up grass area          £70.00

                                                            under trees

                           J R Keel & Son                         Grass cutting church and pond area        £200.00

                          J R Keel & Son                         Grass cutting village green, strimming     £240.00

                                                                          play area in recreation ground, cutting

                                                                          back hedge

                        R E Wright                   Servicing gang mowers                          £437.10

                        Aviva                           Annual Insurance renewal                     £940.41

                        Queensbury Shelters    Ltd     New Bus Shelter                                 £2,861.13

                         Stoke Hammond  Community Assn          Hall Hire                             £46.80

                            EON                            Street lighting by direct debit                  £150.02

            5.2        OTHER FINANCIAL MATTERS:-

             5.2.1     Berks, Oxon & Bucks Air Ambulance Service had written requesting a financial contribution towards their running costs which were entirely dependent upon voluntary subscription with no government aid.  The Council had donated £25 in the past and it was decided to repeat this in the current year.

 6.         REPORTS BY DISTRICT ANDCOUNTYCOUNCILLORS:-

            There were none.

 7.         ENVIRONMENT AND MAINTENANCE:-

 7.1        The trees on the verge along Lodge Lane need to be trimmed and the Clerk said he would ask Mr Keel to deal with this.

 7.2        The repairs to the fence adjacent to the bridge towards the bottom of Bragenham Lane had still not been carried out.  The Clerk to chase up Highways. 

 7.3        Arrangements for litter picking in the village had not yet been put in place. The Clerk said he was having difficulty in locating the equipment required because the mobility shop in Aylesbury was no longer in place.  It was suggested that the mobility shop in Bletchley might be able to supply what was necessary.

 7.4        The Clerk had received a letter from Transport for Buckinghamshire (Bucks County Council) in response to matters raised at the May Parish Council meeting. Confirmed that pothole repairs were in hand and should be carried out very shortly.  Footbridges from Manor Close and Pheobes Orchard into Bragenham Side had been inspected.  Signs of wear and tear had been noted and the matter had been referred to the Bridges Section for action.

 8.       CORRESPONDENCE:-

           The following letters were reported:-

 8.1          Buckinghamshire County Council – details of 2009 – 2010 Winter maintenance feedback.

8.2          Buckinghamshire County Council – reminder re: delegated budget funding for 2011/12.     

8.3          Fields in Trust - Notice of Annual General Meeting on Wednesday 16^th June at Kenilworth, Warwickshire.

8.4          Aylesbury Vale District Council – Dog waste bins and collection service.  Small increase in emptying charges notified.

8.5          StokeHammond Community Association – Notice of Annual General Meeting 15^th June 2010.

8.6          Buckinghamshire County Council – Parish Consultation Portal. This is the new system under which information is transmitted to Parish Councils by other Local Authorities.  No action required

8.7          Buckinghamshire County Council (Adults and Family Wellbeing) – Details of Social Care Surgeries to be held throughout the County, posters to be displayed.

 9.       PLAYGROUND ANDCOMMUNITYCENTRELAND:-

           Nothing to report.  The arrangements for the Village Sunday to be held on the 18^th July were now in place.

  10.     PUBLIC PARTICIPATION:-

           Unpleasant smells were now emanating from the drains in Pheobes Orchard suggesting that the dosing equipment at The Three Locks was not operating properly.  Clerk to write to the District Council and request urgent action.

 11.     ANY OTHER BUSINESS:-

 There was concern at the speed at which ‘On a Mission’ coaches were travelling through the village.  The Clerk had written to the company some time ago following an earlier complaint and there had been a positive response from the company.  The clerk said he would write again and ask that drivers be reminded of the speed limit through the village.

   12.     DATE OF NEXT MEETING:-

           Monday 12^th July 2010 at 7.30pm.                                                        

MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF STOKE HAMMOND PARISH COUNCIL held on Monday 14^th September 2009 at 7.30pm at The Community Centre, Bragenham Side, Stoke Hammond.

 PRESENT:-   Cllrs Mrs K Brown (Chairman); Mrs M Berrow; Mrs E Curry; Mr K Chambers; Mr M Robinson; District Cllr Mr Neil Blake and 35 members of the public.

1.         APOLOGIES:-

Apologies for absence were received from Cllr Mrs H Turner and County Councillor Mrs B Jennings.

2.         MINUTES:-

            Minutes of the meeting of the Parish Council held on 13^th July 2009 were approved by the Council and signed as a true record. 

3.         MATTERS ARISING:-

 3.1       The Clerk reported that the problem with the dosing equipment at The Three Locks public house and the consequent smells emanating from the drains in Pheobe’s Orchard, had been solved.  The equipment had at last been identified and action was being taken by the Brewery to get it into efficient working order and to ensure that the correct chemicals are added when required. 

 3.2       A price for the installation of the new posts on the Green and elsewhere in the village had now been accepted and the work should start in the very near future.

 3.3       There had been no action to repair the broken surfaces on the footbridges over the brook into Pheobe’s Orchard and Manor Close.  The Clerk said that he would chase this vigorously and if necessary have the matter raised at the next local forum. 

 3.4       Concern over bats nesting in the lime tree adjacent to the brook had now been resolved.  The tree would not be removed. 

4.         PLANNING:-

            4.1        APPLICATIONS:- The following application were considered:-

                         2009/01291 -     12 Scotts Close, Stoke Hammond - fell 1 Robinia tree.

                          No objection.

             4.2        DECISIONS:-

                         2009/01291 -     12 Scotts Close, Stoke Hammond - fell 1 Robinia tree.

                         Permission refused.

 4.3       OTHER PLANNING MATTERS:-

 (a)     Land fronting Fenny Road, Stoke Hammond.  The letter from a planning consultant concerning the above land had been circulated to all councillors for consideration to enable a reply to be formulated at this meeting.  There was a considerable presence of local residents who had also obtained copies of the letter.  The Chairman permitted some comment from them and it was apparent that there was unanimous opposition to any development of the site in question.  District Councillor Neil Blake explained the views of the District Council Planning Officer on the future development of sites such as this.  It would be deemed to be on the lower tier of the planning scale which meant that only very limited development would be considered.  The fact that the site was in a designated area of attractive landscape would also have some bearing on future development. 

The Parish Council were against wholesale development of the site in principle but added a rider that it was duty bound to consider any planning application that was made in the future and that their approach to such application would have to be strictly on planning grounds.  It was agreed that the clerk should reply to the planning consultant’s letter along the lines discussed at the meeting and that a copy of the reply together with a copy of the Planning Consultant’s letter be posted on the Parish Council notice board.

5.         FINANCE:-

            5.1        Payment of the following accounts was unanimously approved:-

                         Stoke Hammond Sports Club      Grass Cutting (Community field)  £450.00

                                                                        June, July & August

                        J R Keel & Son                         Grass Cutting (June & July)          £420.00

                        J R Keel & Son                         Grass Cutting (August &              £420.00

                                                                            September)

                        Aylesbury Mains Ltd                 Street Lighting                                £41.40

                        Aylesbury Mains Ltd                 Street Lighting                                £41.40

                        Aylesbury Mains Ltd                 Street Lighting                                £49.11

                        North Bucks Parishes                Annual Membership fee                  £20.00

                            Planning Consortium

                        One and One Internet Ltd          Charges re: website                        £62.03

                        British Legion                            Poppy Wreath                                £19.50

                        EON                                        Street Lighting by                         £150.02

                                                                           direct debit

5.2        OTHER FINANCIAL MATTERS:-

(a)  The Clerk reported receipt of £1,178.57 refund of VAT for the financial year ending 31^st March 2009.

(b)  Interest on the Parish Council’s Business Money Manager Account with HSBC Bank dropped from a figure of £82 in December quarter to £3.44 for the March quarter.  The rate now being paid was 0.05% gross.  The Clerk had written to the bank asking for an explanation as no notification had been received of such a drastic cut in the interest rate although one was expected due to the financial recession.  The Clerk was authorised to make enquires as to the possible permitted places to invest the Parish Council’s money and to report back in due course. 

(c)  The new insurance policy with Aviva had now been finalised and was effective on the 18^th June 2009 for 12 months.  The policy documents had been received. 

6.         REPORT BY DISTRICT COUNCILLOR NEIL BLAKE:-

Cllr Neil Blake explained that the District Council were thoroughly engaged in financial matters.  Every item of expenditure was being scrutinised to see where savings could be made. Like all Councils the District Council have been hit by the reduction in the returns from invested money and they were actively seeking out investment opportunities that would assist the Council’s income. He advised the Council that a decision had now been taken to build an incinerator on the Old Brick Works Site at Stewartby, one of three sites which had been under consideration.

7.         ENVIRONMENT AND MAINTENANCE:-

            The following items were mentioned:- 

7.1  The drain in Lodge Lane which had been causing trouble over a long period had at last been repaired. Efforts would now be made to have the road surface dealt with.

7.2  There was a suggestion that a seat or seats should be purchased by the Council for parents or others who were minding children using the playground equipment. At the moment there were no seats and it was felt that provision should be made to accommodate parents etc.  The Clerk said he would investigate prices and report back to the Council.

7.3 There was a request that the bridge from Manor Close into Bragenham Side should have a dropped kerb at the Bragenham Side end.  This would make life easier for mothers with pushchairs and people in wheelchairs.  The Council thought this was a good idea and the Clerk was instructed to approach the Highways Authority on the matter. 

7.4 Attention was drawn to the bad state of the road surface in Newton Road and the Clerk was asked to request Highways to carry out repairs. 

7.5  It was confirmed that the posts to be installed on the Village Green would be 3ft apart. 

7.6  It was reported that a car tyre had been slashed on a vehicle parked in the private parking area at Brook Cottages.  It was pointed out that as this was private land the Parish Council had no responsibility. However, the developer would be approached and asked to erect a private parking sign. 

7.7  There was again complaints about walkers leaving droppings on the playing field. It was imperative that offenders could be identified and they should be reported to the Parish Council so that the matter could be referred to the District Council with a view to proceedings being taken.  It was decided that a further dog bin be obtained to be positioned near the pond by the Church.  The bin on the Green would be repositioned as soon as the contractors were in the area again.

7.8  It was reported that the layby in Fenny Road was being resurfaced.  The Parish Council had not been advised of this and were unaware of the reason.   The mobile home was still on site.  

8.       CORRESPONDENCE:- The following items were reported by the Clerk:-

8.1 A letter from Mrs V Goddard confirming a request for a dropped kerb at the Bragenham Side end of the bridge on Manor Close. 

8.2 Letter from Bucks County Council asking Parish Council members to consider volunteering to join the Independent Education Appeal Panel to hear education appeals for Buckinghamshire. 

8.3          Invitation to attend East of England Plan 2031 Public Consultation Event at Luton on the 22^nd September.  

8.4          Letter from Buckingham County Council on planning to deal with a possible flu pandemic.

8.5          Letter from Aylesbury Vale District Council re: The Gambling Act 2005 Licensing Policy.

8.6          Notice of the AGM of the Buckinghamshire Playing Fields Association on Monday 5^th October at Aston Clinton.

8.7          Letter from Age Concern Buckinghamshire requesting a donation to their funds.

8.8          Letter from Bucks County Council concerning emergency arrangements for Parish Councils.

9.       PLAYGROUND AND COMMUNITY CENTRE LAND:-

The Annual Report and Assessment by ROSPA had been received.  There were no major problems with the play equipment. Several items needed minor adjustments. It was agreed that the report be given to Mr Keel with instructions that he deals with the various points which had been raised. 

10.     ANY OTHER BUSINESS:-

10.1        There were problems with the emptying of the litter bin in the children’s play         area.  It was not being emptied by the District Council’s contractors and had for some time been emptied by the Centre Caretaker Mr Ted Andrews.  It was suggested that an honorarium be paid to him for this work.  A decision was deferred to the next meeting to enable the Clerk to make further enquires as to the responsibility of the District Council.

10.2        The Clerk was asked to contact the Community Police Officer regarding the joint traffic calming venture which had been discussed and agreed in principle with Soulbury, Great Brickhill and Drayton Parslow Parish Council.

11.        DATE OF NEXT MEETING:-Monday 12th October 2009 at 7.30pm.  The meeting closed at 9.00pm 

The following item was then discussed by the Parish Council in committee being considered to be a matter which could not conveniently be discussed in public forum where voting by a show of hands would be required.

PARISH COUNCIL VACANCY:-

The Council had received 4 letters expressing interest in the vacancy. These were from Mr Jim Pearce, Mrs Pauline Edwards, Mr Patrick Mullins and Mr R J Smith.  After careful consideration of all the applicants and their respective merit’s the Council unanimously decided to co-opt Mrs Pauline Edwards to fill the vacancy on the Council.

MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF STOKE HAMMOND PARISH COUNCIL held on Monday 13^th July 2009 at 7.30pm at The Community Centre, Bragenham Side, Stoke Hammond.

PRESENT:-  llrs Mrs K Brown (Chairman); Mrs M Berrow; Mrs E Curry; Mr K Chambers; Mrs H Turner and 7 members of the public.

1.         APOLOGIES:- Apologies for absence were received from Cllr Mr M Robinson; District Councillor Mr Neil Blake and County Councillor Mrs B Jennings.

2.         MINUTES:-     Minutes of the meeting of the Parish Council held on 8^th June 2009 were approved by the Council and signed as a true record. 

3.         MATTERS ARISING:-

            3.1 The footpath in Old Bell Close had at last been prepared.

3.2 Situation regarding the boat Kasamada in the lay by near Mill Lane remained the same.  Although it had disappeared for some time it was now back and the mobile home was still present.  Agreed that the situation was unsatisfactory.  It was considered that the District Council should take action to enforce their own decision and the Clerk was instructed to make this clear to them and to seek the assistance of the County Councillors to get this matter finalised. It was also a matter of concern that the mobile home was using the site as a permanent base and decided that this should be investigated by the District Council’s Enforcement Officer.

3.3  The Clerk confirmed that he had been in touch with the District Council concerning the smells emanating from drains in Pheobe’s Orchard.  The Health & Safety Department of the District Council had informed the Clerk that they would take the matter up with the owners of The Three Locks public house. It was their responsibility to keep the dosing equipment properly topped up with the requisite chemicals.  Further advices were awaited.

3.4 Reported that the overgrown street light in Manor Close had now been cut back.

3.5 The shades for the lights on the crossing had now been fitted.

4.         PLANNING:-

             4.1        APPLICATIONS:- The following application was considered:-

                        2009/01015 -     7 Scotts Close, Stoke Hammond - works to 4 ash and 1 sycamore trees.  Mrs Hazel Turner declared an interest and withdrew from the discussion.                          The Council decided they had no objection to the application.

            4.2        OTHER PLANNING MATTERS:-

(a)     The boat Kasamada on the Grand Union canal near Mill Lane - dealt with under matters arising.

(b)     An appeal had been lodged by Mr A Kay against the refusal of the District Council to allow a new access and parking turning area at The Barns, Stoke House Farm, Fenny Road, Stoke Hammond.  The appeal would be dealt with by written representation.  The Parish Council had no further observations to make other than the objections set out on the original application.  A copy of the decision letter had been requested.

(c)     The Clerk had received a letter from Phillipa Jarvis, a planning consultant, acting for the owner of land between Tyrells Manor and Aylesbury Vale Housing Trust houses in Fenny Road.  The undisclosed client wished to realise the development potential of the site and requested the Parish Council to consider various options set out in the letter. It was decided that this was a matter which needed consideration and a copy of the letter would be passed to each councillor so that the Parish Council’s response to the letter could be formulated at the September meeting.  In the meantime the Clerk would acknowledge the letter and explain what was happening.

5.         FINANCE:-

            5.1        Payment of the following accounts was unanimously approved:-

                       Playsafety Limited                     Inspection fee                              £102.35

                        Signs of the Times                     Balance re: village sign etc            £338.22

                        Signs of the Times                     Memorial Seat                              £167.50

                        Adrian Sinfield                          Work re: village sign                  £2,018.25

                        Mr Rotherham                          Litter Picking                                £40.00

                        Stoke Hammond Community Assoc.      Hall Charges                      £46.80

     Keith Chambers             Printing re: Perfect Village Sunday            £25.00

     Mrs K Brown                 Expenses re: Perfect Village Sunday        £117.61

     Stoke Hammond WI                  Catering Expenses                          £30.00

                        Mr P Carroll                             Installation of Memorial Seat         £110.52

                        EON                                        Street Lighting by direct debit                        £150.02

6.         ENVIRONMENT AND MAINTENANCE:-

6.1          Overgrown hedges and bushes by zebra crossing need to be cut back.  Highways to be asked to deal with this.

6.2          Installation of the new posts on The Green was now urgent because of cars frequently accessing The Green for parking.  The matter was in hand and quotations for the costs had been obtained and a decision would be made shortly

7.       CORRESPONDENCE:-

          The Clerk reported the following:-

7.1  A letter from the Stoke Hammond Sports Club requesting permission to scatter the ashes of the late Dick Joyner, who was closely associated with the club within an area close to the Club.  Two locations had been suggested - one at the far end of the club in the large area of unused grass or at the end of the Club building by the tree.  The Parish Council were sympathetic with the request and had no objection and the Clerk was instructed to write and convey this and suggest that Mrs Joyner choose where the ashes should be scattered.  

7.2  A workshop for Aylesbury Vale Parish Clerks would be held on Thursday 8^th October at The Winslow Centre, Park Road. 

7.3  Copy of the Annual Scrutiny Report 2008/2009 had been received. 

8.       REPORT ON LOCAL FORUM:-          Cllr Mrs M Berrow gave a detailed report on the meeting of the local forum held recently in Cheddington Village Hall.  Various matters affecting the elderly had been discussed and there had been input from specialists in that field.  The Parish Council’s intention to begin Phase 3 of the Children’s Play Area (equipment for the older children) was mentioned and enquiries were being made to obtain the appropriate funding.

9.       PLAYGROUND AND COMMUNITY CENTRE LAND:-          The Clerk had received the Annual Inspection Report on the children’s playground equipment.   There were minor deficiencies needing attention and a copy of the report would be circulated to all Councillors.  Most of the points picked up by the inspector were low risk.

10.     PARISH COUNCIL VACANCY:-          It was decided to defer the co-option of a new councillor to fill the vacancy on the Parish Council until the September meeting when it was hoped a full Council would be present.  There had been notification of interest from two persons to date. 

11.     PUBLIC PARTICIPATION:-11.1   There was concern that both footbridges over the brook were in a state of disrepair. Bridge into Pheobe’s Orchard was longstanding and the one into Manor Close had also deteriorated and needed repair.  Clerk said he would keep the pressure on the County Council. 

11.2   There were reports that bats were nesting in the lime tree adjacent to the brook.  The Clerk said he would make enquires as to the legal position and whether the bats were in any way protected.  He would speak to the District Council’s Arboriculturalist

12.        DATE OF NEXT MEETING:-            Monday 14^th September 2009 at 7.30pm  

MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF STOKE HAMMOND PARISH COUNCIL held on Monday 8^th June 2009 at 7.30pm at The Community Centre, Bragenham Side, Stoke Hammond.

PRESENT:- Cllrs Mrs K Brown (Chairman); Mrs M Berrow; Mrs E Curry; Mr K Chambers; Mrs H Turner and 4 members of the public.

1.         APOLOGIES:-

Apologies for absence were received from District Councillor Mr Neil Blake and County Councillor Mrs B Jennings.

2.         MINUTES:-

            Minutes of the annual meeting of the Parish Council held on 11^th May 2009 were approved by the Council and signed as a true record. 

3.         MATTERS ARISING:-

3.1       Path in Old Bell Close still not repaired.  The area had now been cordoned off and a Bucks County Council representative had been to inspect.  Repairs promised by the end of June. 

3.2       Valley Farm, Leighton Road, Soulbury - proposed development.  Clerk confirmed that he had written to the Planning Officer setting out the Parish Council’s grounds of objection to this application. There was, however, some evidence that the application would not be proceeding as the developer had withdrawn its support.

 4.         PLANNING:-

4.1        DECISIONS:-

                        The following decision of AVDC were noted:-

2009/00498 -     22 Tyrells Road, Stoke Hammond - two storey side extension with single storey side extension and front porch 

 Permission granted subject to conditions.

4.2        OTHER PLANNING MATTERS:-

(a)     The Clerk said that he had received a copy of the minutes of a meeting of the North Bucks Parishes Planning Consortium.  The minutes contained references to the Governments plan for the South East of England and the comment was that all reference to growth to the west of Leighton Linslade had been removed from the final plan.  This was the basis of the presumption referred to above that the development at Valley Farm would not now be proceeding.

(b)     The Planning Officer had replied to the Council’s enquiry concerning the continued unauthorised use by the boat Kasamada at land off Mill Lane adjacent to the Grand Union canal.  The Planning Officer had advised that he felt that enforcement should be carried out by either the Bucks County Council or British Waterways both of whom have enforcement powers to enable them to take action more simply and quickly than the District Council.  The Parish Council did not think that this was satisfactory.  They considered that the Planning Officer should be prepared to enforce the decisions which the District Council make and which are upheld by an inspector on appeal.  The Clerk was instructed to take the matter further and discuss the matter with District Councillor Neil Blake.

5.         FINANCE:-

            5.1        Payment of the following accounts was unanimously approved:-

                        Poplars Garden Centre              Memorial Seat                              £334.98

                        Balguard Engineering Ltd           New bollards                             £4,902.45

                        J R Keel & Son                         Grass Cutting etc                          £430.00

                        Aylesbury Mains Ltd                 Street light repairs                          £41.40

                        Magic Roundabout                    Professional fee                             £140.00

                            Entertainments

                        Norwich Union                          Insurance Premium                   £1,011.65

                        SH Sports Club                         Grass Cutting                               £150.00

                        Mr Rotherham                          Litter Picking                                 £40.00

                        EON                                        Street Lighting                           £150.02

6.         REPORT BY DISTRICT COUNCILLOR MR NEIL BLAKE:-

            There were no reports.

7.         ENVIRONMENT AND MAINTENANCE:-

7.1     There were reports of smells from drains in Pheobe’s Orchard suggesting that the dowsing equipment installed at The Three Locks was not functioning efficiently. Clerk to write to the District Council.

7.2     Tree overgrowing the street light in Manor Close had still not been cut back despite requests from the Parish Council.  Clerk was asked to pursue the matter further and to find out whether there was a letting agent who could be contacted about the problem.

7.3     There were concerns about building work at 15 Manor Close.  There was evidence that dumping in pond was taking place contrary to the terms of the planning consent.  Clerk to investigate. 

7.4     The shades for the crossing lights had not yet been fitting and the Clerk was asked to chase this up.

7.5     The footbridge from Bragenham Side to Pheobe’s Orchard had also not been repaired. Clerk to follow this up also. 

8.       CORRESPONDENCE:-

          The Clerk reported receipt of the following letters:-

8.1          Letter from AVDC further information regarding dog waste bins and collection service.  New emptying charge £1.94 per empty per bin. 

8.2          Letter from Thames Valley Police with details of open day at Thames Valley Police Training Centre near Reading Saturday 8^th August. 

8.3          Copy of Stoke Hammond Neighbourhood Watch Report to be circulated.

8.4          AVDC re: Local Development Framework - Core Stretegy.  This had been agreed on the 6^th May and copies of the document had been circulated for consultation commencing 10^th June. 

8.5          Bucks County Council re: the next Local Area Forum to be held on 2^nd July at Cheddington Village Hall.  Councillor Mrs M Berrow agreed to attend on behalf of the Parish Council.

8.6          Notice of Annual General Meeting of Fields in Trust on Wednesday 17^th June at Kenilworth, Warwickshire. 

9.       PLAYGROUND AND COMMUNITY CENTRE LAND:-

The grass was not being cut to the required standard.  The area at the entrance near the children’s playground equipment was not being cut and the grass on the boundaries was also not being cut. Cllr Mrs Hazel Turner said she would raise the matter at the next meeting of the Sports Club and find out whether the club wish to continue with the grass cutting arrangements.

10.     VILLAGE SIGN AND VILLAGE SUNDAY ARRANGEMENTS:-

The sign was now completed and ready for inspection.  The contractor had commenced construction of the base and the seat had been purchased and ready for the plaques to be attached.  The chairman purchased a megaphone for use on the day. 

11.     PUBLIC PARTICIPATION:-

There was concern about the emptying of the bins in the children’s playground.  To be investigated to ascertain the present arrangements and who was responsible for the emptying.

12.        DATE OF NEXT MEETING:-   Monday 13^th July 2009 at 7.30pm

MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF STOKE HAMMOND PARISH COUNCIL held on Monday 8^th June 2009 at 7.30pm at The Community Centre, Bragenham Side, Stoke Hammond.

PRESENT:- Cllrs Mrs K Brown (Chairman); Mrs M Berrow; Mrs E Curry; Mr K Chambers; Mrs H Turner and 4 members of the public.

1.         APOLOGIES:-

Apologies for absence were received from District Councillor Mr Neil Blake and County Councillor Mrs B Jennings.

2.         MINUTES:-

            Minutes of the annual meeting of the Parish Council held on 11^th May 2009 were approved by the Council and signed as a true record. 

3.         MATTERS ARISING:-

3.1       Path in Old Bell Close still not repaired.  The area had now been cordoned off and a Bucks County Council representative had been to inspect.  Repairs promised by the end of June. 

3.2       Valley Farm, Leighton Road, Soulbury - proposed development.  Clerk confirmed that he had written to the Planning Officer setting out the Parish Council’s grounds of objection to this application. There was, however, some evidence that the application would not be proceeding as the developer had withdrawn its support.

 4.         PLANNING:-

4.1        DECISIONS:-

                        The following decision of AVDC were noted:-

2009/00498 -     22 Tyrells Road, Stoke Hammond - two storey side extension with single storey side extension and front porch 

 Permission granted subject to conditions.

4.2        OTHER PLANNING MATTERS:-

(a)     The Clerk said that he had received a copy of the minutes of a meeting of the North Bucks Parishes Planning Consortium.  The minutes contained references to the Governments plan for the South East of England and the comment was that all reference to growth to the west of Leighton Linslade had been removed from the final plan.  This was the basis of the presumption referred to above that the development at Valley Farm would not now be proceeding.

(b)     The Planning Officer had replied to the Council’s enquiry concerning the continued unauthorised use by the boat Kasamada at land off Mill Lane adjacent to the Grand Union canal.  The Planning Officer had advised that he felt that enforcement should be carried out by either the Bucks County Council or British Waterways both of whom have enforcement powers to enable them to take action more simply and quickly than the District Council.  The Parish Council did not think that this was satisfactory.  They considered that the Planning Officer should be prepared to enforce the decisions which the District Council make and which are upheld by an inspector on appeal.  The Clerk was instructed to take the matter further and discuss the matter with District Councillor Neil Blake.

5.         FINANCE:-

            5.1        Payment of the following accounts was unanimously approved:-

                        Poplars Garden Centre              Memorial Seat                              £334.98

                        Balguard Engineering Ltd           New bollards                             £4,902.45

                        J R Keel & Son                         Grass Cutting etc                          £430.00

                        Aylesbury Mains Ltd                 Street light repairs                          £41.40

                        Magic Roundabout                    Professional fee                             £140.00

                            Entertainments

                        Norwich Union                          Insurance Premium                   £1,011.65

                        SH Sports Club                         Grass Cutting                               £150.00

                        Mr Rotherham                          Litter Picking                                 £40.00

                        EON                                        Street Lighting                           £150.02

6.         REPORT BY DISTRICT COUNCILLOR MR NEIL BLAKE:-

            There were no reports.

7.         ENVIRONMENT AND MAINTENANCE:-

7.1     There were reports of smells from drains in Pheobe’s Orchard suggesting that the dowsing equipment installed at The Three Locks was not functioning efficiently. Clerk to write to the District Council.

7.2     Tree overgrowing the street light in Manor Close had still not been cut back despite requests from the Parish Council.  Clerk was asked to pursue the matter further and to find out whether there was a letting agent who could be contacted about the problem.

7.3     There were concerns about building work at 15 Manor Close.  There was evidence that dumping in pond was taking place contrary to the terms of the planning consent.  Clerk to investigate. 

7.4     The shades for the crossing lights had not yet been fitting and the Clerk was asked to chase this up.

7.5     The footbridge from Bragenham Side to Pheobe’s Orchard had also not been repaired. Clerk to follow this up also. 

8.       CORRESPONDENCE:-

          The Clerk reported receipt of the following letters:-

8.1          Letter from AVDC further information regarding dog waste bins and collection service.  New emptying charge £1.94 per empty per bin. 

8.2          Letter from Thames Valley Police with details of open day at Thames Valley Police Training Centre near Reading Saturday 8^th August. 

8.3          Copy of Stoke Hammond Neighbourhood Watch Report to be circulated.

8.4          AVDC re: Local Development Framework - Core Stretegy.  This had been agreed on the 6^th May and copies of the document had been circulated for consultation commencing 10^th June. 

8.5          Bucks County Council re: the next Local Area Forum to be held on 2^nd July at Cheddington Village Hall.  Councillor Mrs M Berrow agreed to attend on behalf of the Parish Council.

8.6          Notice of Annual General Meeting of Fields in Trust on Wednesday 17^th June at Kenilworth, Warwickshire. 

9.       PLAYGROUND AND COMMUNITY CENTRE LAND:-

The grass was not being cut to the required standard.  The area at the entrance near the children’s playground equipment was not being cut and the grass on the boundaries was also not being cut. Cllr Mrs Hazel Turner said she would raise the matter at the next meeting of the Sports Club and find out whether the club wish to continue with the grass cutting arrangements.

10.     VILLAGE SIGN AND VILLAGE SUNDAY ARRANGEMENTS:-

The sign was now completed and ready for inspection.  The contractor had commenced construction of the base and the seat had been purchased and ready for the plaques to be attached.  The chairman purchased a megaphone for use on the day. 

11.     PUBLIC PARTICIPATION:-

There was concern about the emptying of the bins in the children’s playground.  To be investigated to ascertain the present arrangements and who was responsible for the emptying.

12.        DATE OF NEXT MEETING:-   Monday 13^th July 2009 at 7.30pm

MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL MEETING OF STOKE HAMMOND PARISH COUNCIL held on Monday 11^th May 2009 at 7.30pm at The Community Centre, Bragenham Side, Stoke Hammond.

PRESENT:-                 Cllrs Mrs K Brown (Chairman); Mrs M Berrow; Mr M Robinson; Mrs E Curry; Mr K Chambers; Mrs H Turner; District Councillor Mr Neil Blake; County Councillor Mrs B Jennings and 4 members of the public.

1.         APOLOGIES:-

Apologies for absence were received from Cllr Mr B Ambler.

2.         ELECTION OF CHAIRMAN:-

            On the proposition of Cllr M Robinson, seconded by Cllr Mrs H Turner, Mrs K Brown was re-elected as Chairman for the following year.

3.         ELECTION OF VICE-CHAIRMAN:-

            It was the unanimous wish of the Council that  Cllr Mike Robinson continue as Vice-Chairman of the Council.

4.         MINUTES:-

            Minutes of the meeting held on 20^th April 2009 were approved by the Council and signed as a true record. 

5.         MATTERS ARISING:-

5.1       Footpath in Old Bell Close had still not been repaired.  Clerk to chase this up urgently.

5.2       Planting of the permanent Christmas Tree on The Green had now been completed.

6.         PLANNING:-

            6.1        APPLICATIONS:-

                        The following applications was considered:-

2009/00513 -     Valley Farm, Leighton Road, Soulbury - outline planning

(Soulbury)            application for mixed use developments to include, residential  900 dwellings etc.

This was a Soulbury Application on which the Parish Council had been invited to comment as a neighbouring Council.  Although situated some way from the proposed development there were definite traffic implications for the village because the number of houses proposed could produce around 2000 extra vehicles on the local roads.  The Parish Council took a serious view of this having just had the relief provided by the by pass and it was decided that the Clerk should write a letter to the Planning Officer registering the Council’s objection to the application on traffic grounds.  It was also pointed out that the proposal was against the local area plan and this would also be pointed out.

            6.2        DECISIONS:-

                        The following decision of AVDC were noted:-

                        2009/00128 -     Stoke Hammond Sports Club Pavilion - recreation ground, Bragenham Side, Stoke Hammond - erection of wooden                                                 structure for seating area.

                        Permission granted subject to conditions.

                        2009/00410 -     Land at Pheobe’s Orchard, Stoke Hammond - crown reduction of birch and ash trees.

                        Permission granted

                        2009/00411 -     Land to north east of Leighton Road, Stoke Hammond - fell one sycamore tree.

                        Permission granted.

                        2009/00289 -     Hunters Lodge Stable, 1 Hunters Lodge, Leighton Road,

                                                Stoke Hammond - side and rear extension.

                        Permission granted subject to conditions

            6.3        OTHER PLANNING MATTERS:-

The following applications have been withdrawn:-

                        2009/00211 & -Moat Farm, Leighton Road, Stoke Hammond - single storey

                        2009/00212       rear extension.

                        Application withdrawn.

                        2009/00187 -     Burnell Farm, Drayton Road, Stoke Hammond - continued use of land as distribution depot for turf, soil, etc.

                        Application withdrawn.

7.         FINANCE:-

            7.1        Payment of the following accounts was unanimously agreed:-

                        Stoke Hammond Sports Club      Grass Cutting                            £150.00

                        Aylesbury Mains Ltd                 Street Light Repairs                    £59.69

                        Winslow Nursery                      Christmas Tree supply & Plant    £90.75 

                        J R Keel & Son                        Grass Cutting etc (village)          £230.00

                        J R Keel & Son                         Grass Cutting Churchyard          £160.00

                        SevenDayshop.com                   Inkjet cartridges                          £11.96

                        Mr Rotherham                          Litter Picking                              £50.00

                        Rush & Warwick Ltd                Printing                                       £42.00

                        Mrs K Brown                          Various expenses                        £47.34

                        R E Wright                               Servicing of gang mower           £201.25

                        Signs of the Times                     Balance re: village sign            £3,503.40

                        EON                                        Street Lighting                         £150.0      OTHER FINANCIAL MATTERS:-

(a)     The first half year instalment of the precept - £6,000 had been received. 

8          REPORT BY DISTRICT AND COUNTY COUNCILLORS:-

            Report by District and County Councillors deferred until the Annual Assembly which followed this meeting.

9.       ENVIRONMENT AND MAINTENANCE:-

9.1          The electricity authority (EDF) were in the area reporting on trees which were causing problems with the overhead power lines.  A number of trees were to be pollarded and/or coppiced and one tree was to be removed.  This work was at no cost to the Parish Council.  The Council had no objection to what was being proposed and the Clerk was authorised to sign the forms of consent.

9.2          It was reported that the canal boat had returned to the mooring at the lay by in Fenny Road.  The mobile home was still parked there as it had been for some weeks.  Clerk to notify the Planning Officer.

9.3          Complaints about the grass cutting of verges carried out on the behalf of the Highways Authority.  Clerk to send letter of complaint to the District Council who organised the cutting.

9.4          First street light in Gaddesden Court was not working.

9.5          It was reported that there were some difficulties with the drainage at The Three Locks ph.  It was not clear whether the parties concerned were aware of the arrangement with the District Council and the Clerk was asked to make sure that proper steps were taken to resolve the problem so that there were no repercussions in Pheobes Orchard as there had been in the past.

10.     CORRESPONDENCE:-

          The Clerk reported the following letters:-

10.1        Letter from Cllr Brian Ambler formally resigning from the Parish Council. Resignation accepted.

10.2        Letter from the proprietor of Stoke Hammond Post Office and stores offering to fit and place a millennium box to be buried underneath the memorial seat which is to commemorate soldiers from the village lost in the Second World War. This offer was gratefully accepted by the Council.

10.3        Notice of the Annual General Meeting of Fields in Trust at the Ramada Hotel, Kenilworth, Warwickshire on the 17^th June next.

10.4        Letter from Buckinghamshire County Council Highways giving details of the local delegated budget schemes 2009-2010 to be discussed at a special meeting on the 20^th May. 

10.5        Notice of Meeting of the Standards Committee on the 18^th May at the Civic Centre, Aylesbury.

10.6        Letter from Aylesbury Vale District Council re: Annual Civic Service at St Mary’s Church, Aylesbury, Sunday 14^th June at 4.00pm.

10.7        Letter from Civic Centre, Aylesbury, regarding children’s summer entertainment on Tuesday 11^th August. Agreement to participate confirmed. Arrangements as last year - to be held in the Sports Club Pavilion.

10.8        Letter from Buckinghamshire County Council regarding Family Information Service Consultation.  No comment or acknowledgment required.

11.     PLAYGROUND AND COMMUNITY CENTRE LAND:-

          Nothing to report.            

12.     VILLAGE SIGN AND VILLAGE SUNDAY:-

          The sign was nearly finished and would be inspected and approved before payment of the balance.  The final account had been received and approved but payment to be withheld until after the inspection had been made.

          A quotation for the erection of the sign and associated works had been submitted by Adrian Sinfield for £1,755 plus VAT.  It was unanimously decided to accept this quotation. 

          The Clerk had located a suitable seat for the Second World War Plaques.  The cost was £340 and this was approved by the Council.  The Clerk was authorised to complete the purchase.

13.     ANY OTHER BUSINESS:-

13.1        Cllr Mrs E Curry raised the matter of the provision of allotments in the village. The subject had recently been raised at a meeting of the Gardening Club.  There had been an offer of land in the past by Mr Scott of Newton Road and it was agreed that in view of the increased demand for allotments throughout the Country the matter should be explored further.  The first step was to ascertain through the Village Newsletter how many villages would be interested in taking an allotment if the land was still open to offer for this purpose.  A suitable item would be placed in SH News.

13.2        Reported that the footpath in Old Bell Close had still not be prepared and had deteriorated even further.  The situation was now serious and the clerk was asked to contact Highways urgently.

14.        DATE OF NEXT MEETING:-             Monday 8^th June 2009 at 7.30pm.                                                       

MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF STOKE HAMMOND PARISH COUNCIL held on Monday 6^th April 2009 at 7.30pm at The Community Centre, Bragenham Side, Stoke Hammond.

 PRESENT:-                 Cllrs Mrs K Brown (Chairman); Mrs M Berrow; Mr M Robinson; Mrs E Curry; Mr K Chambers; District Councillors Mr Neil Blake and 4 m

1.         APOLOGIES:-

Apologies for absence were received from Cllrs Mrs H Turner; Mr B Ambler and  County Councillor Mrs B Jennings.

2.         MINUTES:-

             Minutes of the meeting held on 9^th March 2009 were approved by the Council and signed as a true record. 

3.         MATTERS ARISING:-

             Zebra crossing had now been completed and was in operation a problem with regard to the overhead lights was being resolved. 

            The Clerk had received notification from County Highways that the defective footpath in Old Bell Close would be repaired during April.

4.         PLANNING:-

             4.1        APPLICATIONS:-

                         The following applications were considered:-

2009/00411 -     Manor Close, Stoke Hammond - fell 1 sycamore tree.

No objection.

2009/00410 -     land at Pheobe’s Orchard, Stoke Hammond - crown reduction of birch and ash trees.

No objection subject to Clerk obtaining the views of District Council’s Tree Officer.

2009/00498 -     22 Tyrells Road, Stoke Hammond - two storey side extension with single storey side extension and front porch

No objection.

            4.2        DECISIONS:-

                        The following decision of AVDC were noted:-

2009/00166 -     Willowbridge Marina, Fenny Road, Stoke Hammond - change of use of land for creation of hand car wash with hard standing, canopied car wash area, customer seating area, jet wash and enclosure.

Permission granted subject to conditions.

2009/00240 -     Willowbridge Marina, Fenny Road, Stoke Hammond - installation of sign on proposed canopy.

Permission granted subject to conditions.

            4.3        OTHER PLANNING MATTERS:-

(a)        The Planning Department at AVDC had confirmed that they would continue to circulate the weekly bulletin in a hard copy. 

(b)        Clerk report that the boat in the Fenny Road lay by appeared to have moved on. The lay by had been cleared up and was looking much tidier.  The camper van and four wheel drive vehicle were still parked in the lay by.  The Planning Officer was aware of this and the situation would be monitored to ensure that this did not become permanent. 

5.         FINANCE:-

             5.1        Payment of the following accounts was unanimously approved:-

                        Glasdon UK Ltd                        Salt Bin                                        £151.42

                        K Chambers                             Transport Charges                          £12.00

                        SH Community Association        Hall Charges                                  £46.80

                        Mazars                                     Audit fee                                     £483.00

                        AVDC                                      Dog bin emptying                         £169.53

                        BALC                                      Annual Sub                                  £105.48

                        R J Keel & Son                         Grass Cutting & Repairs               £340.00

                        Mr Rotherham                          Litter Picking                                 £40.00

                        1 & 1                                        Internet Limited - services              £62.03

                        EON                                        Street Lighting by                         £150.02

                                                                         
            5.2        OTHER FINANCIAL MATTERS:-

(a)     Mr David Tooth who had cut small areas of grass around the Post Office Stores had requested an increase in the payment for this from £10 to £20.  The Council did not feel able to agree this 100% increase and Mr Keel would be asked to cut these areas when he does the Green.  Clerk to advise Mr Tooth and thank him for his past services.

(b)     Cllr Mike Robinson reported on his recent attendance to a funding meeting in Aylesbury. He said it had been a very worthwhile exercise and he had acquired a lot of useful information.  In particular the landfill organisation WREN had indicated quite firmly that they had funds available for projects particularly for local villages such as Stoke Hammond.  Councillors felt that this was an opportune moment to proceed with phase 3 of the children’s playground and to decide what equipment should be provided for the older generation of children.  Clerk to obtain brochures and catalogues for this purpose.

6.         REPORT BY DISTRICT COUNCILLOR MR NEIL BLAKE:-

            Cllr Blake said he had little to report as he had been away on holiday for 3 weeks and       was at present catching up with events.

7.       ENVIRONMENT AND MAINTENANCE:-

7.1          The Clerk was asked to investigate the possibility of obtaining a free bus shelter/shelters from a company called Cadeaux.  This firm supplied free shelters in return for contracts for advertising space within the shelters. 

7.2          Cllr Mrs Curry reported that the Stoke Hammond Gardening Club were interested in planting daffodil bulbs across The Green.  The Council felt that planting around the edge of The Green was preferable to having a swathe of daffodils across the centre of The Green.  Cllr Mrs Curry said she would report this to the Gardening Club and felt sure that they would be happy with this.

7.3          It was reported that cars being parked substantially on the pavements in Pheobe’s Orchard were causing an obstruction and difficulties for elderly people. There were complaints of similar parking in other parts of the village and the Clerk said he would ask the police at Wing to visit Stoke Hammond and take action to prevent this unreasonable parking.

7.4          The planting of a permanent Christmas tree on The Green was progressing and details of the cost etc were awaited from the supplier.

8.       CORRESPONDENCE:-

          The Clerk reported the following items:-

8.1          A request from Stoke Hammond Sports Club to use part of the field around the Community Centre as car parking on the occasion of a 5-a-side tournament to be held on 30^th May next.  After receiving assurances from the Chairman of the Sports Club that there would be adequate car parking marshals on duty and that any damage caused to the surface of the field would be repaired by the Sports Club, the Council unanimously agreed to allow the parking. 

8.2          Letter from Paul Foot, Bucks County Council Local Area Technician regarding the direction sign in Newton Road.  The sign has disappeared and a replacement has been requested.  The condition of the footway in Old Bell Close will be repaired some time in April and arrangements are in hand to remove the rubbish from the lay by in Fenny Road.

8.3          Letter from Bucks County Council Highways regarding flooding at Manor Close and the A4146.  This was due to an obstuction in the connecting surface water drain and would be dealt with when the next high pressure jetting machine was in the area.

8.4          Letter from AVDC with dates for the village bulk refuse collection service:-

              Tuesday 4^th August 2009                       -           12 noon to 3.30pm

              Wednesday 24^th February 2010               -           7.30am to 11.00am

              Appropriate notices will be displayed.

8.5          Letter from AVDC regarding Volunteer of the Year.  A nomination had been received for David Garner of Stoke Hammond and the Parish Council were requested to make their comment on this nomination.  This was agreed and the Clerk would write accordingly.

8.6          Letter from Bucks County Council.  They have been allocated an additional £4m funding for highway maintenance works for 2009/2010.  This funding will be targeted to carriageway defects and other highway issues raised by the Parish Councils.  The Council was asked to submit a list of locations through the District Council’s member and it was agreed that this would be done.  Cllr Mike Robinson said that he would draw up a list.

8.7          Correspondence regarding traffic on the Bletchley to Drayton Parslow road. Road racing by cars and bikes was taking place at night.  There are fears of a serious accident occurring.  Request for 50mph speed limit because the road is used regularly by farm tractors and there is a new building site on the Milton Keynes side involving heavy lorries and other vehicles turning in and out regularly during the day.  Cllr Mrs H Turner had sent an email to County Highways and the Parish Council decided that they would await a response to this before taking any action themselves.      

9.       PLAYGROUND AND COMMUNITY CENTRE LAND:-

          The Council confirmed its intention to proceed with the next phase of the children’s playground and equipment for the older children would now be considered.

10.     GARAGES IN BRAGENHAM SIDE:-

           Following the installation of the new doors the Council were now in the position to let the garages out.  It was decided that the rental should be £7.50 per week.  The Clerk had a list of names of people who were interested in taking the garage and there had also been some response to the notice in SH News.  The Council authorised the Clerk to proceed with the letting on the basis of the names so far received.

11.     ANY OTHER BUSINESS:-

11.1   The Neighbourhood Watch Committee required a representative to cover the Tyrells Road area. 

11.2   It was decided to remove the white posts on The Green and the surrounding areas and to replace them with more substantial and attractive posts. 

11.3   The problems in Lodge Lane after heavy rain were again highlighted and it was agreed that this should be one of the items to go on the list of locations to benefit from the additional funding. 

12.        DATE OF NEXT MEETING:-

            Monday 11^th May 2009 at 7.30pm to be followed by the Annual Assembly at 8.15pm

MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF STOKE HAMMOND PARISH COUNCIL held on Monday 9^th February 2009 at 7.30pm at The Community Centre, Bragenham Side, Stoke Hammond.

 PRESENT:-                 Cllrs Mrs K Brown (Chairman); Mr M Robinson; Mrs M Berrow; Mrs E Curry; Mr K Chambers and 4 members of the public.

1.         APOLOGIES:-

Apologies for absence were received from Cllrs Mr B Ambler; Mrs H Turner; District Councillor Mr N Blake and County Cllr Mrs B Jennings.

2.         MINUTES:-

Minutes of the meeting held on 12^th January 2009 were approved by the Council and signed as a true record. 

3.         MATTERS ARISING:-

Work to construct the new zebra crossing outside the Post Office had commenced but had been suspended because of the weather.

4.         PLANNING:-

            4.1        DECISIONS:-

2008/01933 -      The Barns, Stoke House Farm, Fenny Road, Stoke Hammond -   Creation of new access and parking/turning area.                        Permission refused.

Notice of  withdrawal of the following application had been given by AVDC:-

2008/02720 -     Bletchley Turf, Furnell Farm, Drayton Road, Stoke Hammond - continual use of land as distribution depot for turf, soil and supplying of aggregate and brick products for landscaping.

 Notes of the meeting of the Local Council Planning Liaison Group held on 21^st January at the AVDC Offices, Aylesbury, had been sent to the Clerk and these would be circulated for reading.

5.         FINANCE:-

                      5.1        Payment of the following accounts was unanimously approved:-

                        Bucks Playing Fields Assoc.      Annual Subscription                       £20.00

                        Bucks Community Action          Annual Subscription                       £30.00

                        Bucks County Council               Rent of Community Centre Land  £450.00

                        Stoke Hammond Community Association      Hire of Hall                 £46.80

                         Mr Rotherham                          Litter picking                                  £40.00

                        Winslow Nurseries                    Supply and Installation of              £120.00

                                                                            Christmas Tree

                        EON                                        Street Lighting                              £150.02

                                                                            by direct debit

            5.2        OTHER FINANCIAL MATTERS:-

(a)        The Council considered two quotations for cutting and strimming the churchyard. The Parish Council have agreed to finance in lieu of a lump sum grant.  The Council accepted the quotation of Robert Keel in the sum of £80 per cut to include all strimming and cutting within the churchyard boundaries.

(b)        The Clerk had obtained a price for the installation of new doors on the garages in Bragenham Side.  The price was £2,864 plus VAT at 15%.  Doors would be supplied in white primer and the Council had the option of having them fully finished in black, brown or white at a price of £98.00 per door.  The Council unanimously decided to accept the quotation and to have doors finished in brown at the additional price quoted. The Clerk was authorised to put the work in hand.

(c)        The quotation for the supply and installation of a village sign had been confirmed.  The total price including the cost of a green oak post and bracket and sleeve is £3,916. The price for a memorial sign for the Second World War to be fixed to the oak post just below the sign was £187. The Council unanimously decided to accept these figures and to put the work in hand.  It was hoped to have the sign completed and erected in time for the Perfect Village Sunday which the Parish Council had been awarded to take place on the 21^st June.

(d)        Precept 2009/2010 - after discussing figures prepared by the Clerk, and taking into consideration the reserves which the Council were likely to carry forward at the end of the current financial year it was decided to fix a precept of £12,000 for the financial year 2009/2010.  This was a unanimous decision.

(e)        The annual statement and accounts for the year ending March 2008 were approved by the Council and the Chairman was authorised to sign the annual statement as necessary.

6.       ENVIRONMENT AND MAINTENANCE:-

6.1          There were further complaints about the state of the lay by on the Fenny Road. There had been further dumping and it was reported that a mobile home had been seen there on several occasions although it appeared to come and go.  The Clerk confirmed that the County were aware of the situation.

6.2          It was pointed out that the new pavement which had been installed by the Post Office highlighted the poor state of the rest of the pavements in that area. It was unlikely that anything could be done about this but it was decided that the County would be asked to carry out some improvements and to this end Cllr Robinson said he would take some photographs of the worst parts of the pavement.

6.3          The bridge from Pheobe’s Orchard to Bragenham Side had still not been repaired and the Clerk was asked to chase this up. 

6.4          Thanks were expressed to Mr Bone for clearing the roads during the recent snowy period.

7.       CORRESPONDENCE:-

          The following items were reported:-

7.1          Letter from Friends of Buckinghamshire’s Historic Churches thanking the Parish Council for the payment of £1,100 which had enabled Stoke Hammond Parish Church to collect the grant of £10,000 from WREN.

7.2          Letter from Bucks Association of Local Councils inviting nomination of a Councillor for the Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace on 7^th July 2009. It was unanimously agreed that the Chairman Krystina Brown should be the Council’s nomination.

7.3          Notice of ‘Changing Landscapes’ funding fair to be held at Green Park, Aston Clinton on the 18^th March.  Cllrs Mr M Robinson and Mrs E Curry indicated that they would attend.

8.       PLAYGROUND AND COMMUNITY CENTRE LAND:-

          Nothing to report. 

10.        DATE OF NEXT MEETING:-            Monday 9^th  March 2009 at 7.30pm.                                                  

MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF STOKE HAMMOND PARISH COUNCIL held on Monday 12^th January 2009 at 7.30pm at The Community Centre, Bragenham Side, Stoke Hammond.

 PRESENT:-    Cllrs Mrs K Brown (Chairman); Mrs H Turner; Mr M Robinson; Mrs M Berrow; Mrs E Curry; Mr K Chambers; District Councillor Mr Neil Blake and 5 members of the public.

 1.      APOLOGIES:-

 Apologies for absence were received from Cllr Mr B Ambler and County Cllr Mrs B Jennings.

 2.         MINUTES:-

Minutes of the meeting held on 8^th December 2008 were approved by the Council and signed as a true record. 

3.         MATTERS ARISING:-

The suggestion that the Sports Club were allowing other teams and organisations to use the ground for training purposes was explained and it was clear that this was not happening and that all users of the sports field had associations with the sports club.

4.         PLANNING:-

There were no planning matters.

5.         FINANCE:-

            5.1        Payment of the following accounts was unanimously approved:-

                     Fields in Trust   (NPFA)            Annual Subscription                                £35.00  

                       Aylesbury Mains Ltd                     Street lighting                                        £225.58

                        BCC                                         Grass Cutting - Church                          £181.70

                        Society of Local Council Clerks       Annual Subscription                            £22.00

                        Mr Rotherham                          Litter Picking                                          £50.00

                        Bucks Historic Churches                                                                     £1,100.00

                        EON                                        Street Lighting by direct debit                 £449.35

The Clerk reported that EON had submitted 24 pages of calculations of revised charges going back to April 2005.  This had resulted in a payment of £449.35 under the direct debit mandate without any consultation or explanation as to the reasons why.  The Clerk said that the documents submitted could not be understood and there was no covering letter to explain why an increase in charges backdated had become necessary.  The Council felt that this was totally unsatisfactory particularly as the electricity company had helped themselves to public money without giving the Council the opportunity to consider the documents.The Clerk was instructed to write and express the Council’s dissatisfaction with the way that the supplier had handled this matter and to ask for an explanation.  He was also authorised to make enquires about changing to another supplier.

             5.2        OTHER FINANCIAL MATTERS:-

                         Consideration of the Precept was deferred until the next meeting but two important and urgent financial matters were discussed and decided:-

 (a)        The Council unanimously confirmed its decision to provide the third party funds of £1,100 to the Historic Churches Trust to enable Stoke Hammond Parish Church to receive the grant of £10,000 which had been approved subject to the church finding the third party finance.

(b)        There was a short presentation by Thames Valley Police about Community Speed Watch, a traffic monitoring scheme co-ordinated by the police and Buckinghamshire County Council but run locally by volunteers.  The suggestion was that a group of Parish Councils - ideally 4 and each contribute up to £500 in order to purchase the equipment.  Details of the training and subsequent use of the equipment was explained by the police and after some discussion the Council decided to participate in a scheme and provide £500 subject to other local parish councils being willing to join the scheme and make a similar contribution to the cost of the equipment.  The matter would now be taken forward.

6.       REPORT BY DISTRICT COUNCILLOR MR NEIL BLAKE:-

There was not much to report as the Council was now engaged in preparing its budget.  The District Council were hoping to limit the increase in Council Tax to 2%. 

 7.       ENVIRONMENT AND MAINTENANCE:-

 7.1          The County Council had advised that works in Stoke Hammond to construct the new zebra crossing outside the Post Office would commence hopefully on the 9^th January.  They are still working on the Tyrells/Fenny Road area and are hopeful of installing VAS in due course.

7.2          A tree in Manor Close was overgrowing the street light and needed to be cut back. It was thought that the tree was in the garden of 3 Manor Close and the Clerk said he would investigate as it was the responsibility of the owner to keep the tree cut back from the street light.

8.       CORRESPONDENCE:-

          The following items were reported by the Clerk:-

8.1          A letter from the Information Commissioner’s Office advising that the Parish Council was obliged to sign up to the Freedom of Information Act Requirements. The Council confirmed that they would do whatever was necessary to meet this requirement and the Clerk was instructed to obtain the necessary information.

8.2          Letter from AVDC - the District Council had recently launched and anti-fraud campaign in connection with housing and Council Tax benefit.

8.3          Letter from Hazel Turner in her capacity as President of Stoke Hammond Sports Club.  It dealt with various issues, in particular, a pending planning application for the development of an outside area for smokers and others.  It also addressed the matter of dog bins and the Council decided that they would now acquire a second dog bin for the village.

9.       PLAYGROUND AND COMMUNITY CENTRE LAND:-

           Nothing to report. 

10.     PUBLIC PARTICIPATION:-

           10.1        There were reports that waste lorries were still using the village.

      10.2        The burnt out bus in the lay-by had been removed and the owner was acquiring a new one.

      10.3        It was felt that the volume of traffic going through the village was on the increase.

      10.4        There was a request that the County Council be asked to consider including Newton Road (or some parts of it)              in their gritting programme.

11.        DATE OF NEXT MEETING:-           Monday 9^th  February 2009 at 7.30pm.   

Notes of the Council meeting on September 8th 2008.

The meeting opened with Raj Rajkimar and Nick Henstock from Bucks County Council Transportation Department updating us on the traffic calming schemes that are to be implemented. Two pedestrian crossings had been proposed but the Police had not supported the proposed crossing near Tyrells Road , as a result this would not be installed. A speed survey had shown that traffic does not slow down until the speed camera is seen and the bus stop was in too close a proximity.The crossing near the shop would be installed. ‘Dragons teeth’ and 30mph roundels would be painted on the road at all entrances to the village. They would also look into the provision of a VAS (Vehicle Activated Sign). There was no more funding available for further traffic calming measures.

Planning. Rothschild Villa, 5, Newton Road 20% to 25% crown reduction of one Horse Chestnut. Bridge Farm Cottage, Leighton Road, erection of 1.8m timber fence on eastern boundary. There were no objections to these applications. The Barns, Stoke House Farm, Fenny Road, creation of a new access. There were objections to this application.

County Councillor Brenda Jennings reported her concerns for elderly people in the area being given incorrect information with regard to living in rented accommodation and what happens when they pass away. There is no truth in the claim that Social Services clear the property in these circumstances.

The Village Post Office is interested in applying for a grant to modernize their facilities. District Councillor Neil Blake will pursue this with the Grants department at AVDC.

The hedge in Newton Road will be trimmed as soon as weather permits. The wooden bridge between Leighton Road and Phoebes Orchard had again been damaged and the surface is becoming dangerous. Repairs are urgently required. This is in hand. The owner of the hedge by Tyrells Manor has been asked to trim it back.

The Clerk reported that the costs of emptying the dog bins is going down!

Starting in November the mobile library will be in the village on alternate Wednesdays 11.45 to 12.15.

The unauthorised removal of posts on the village green to allow vehicular access would be reported to AVDC.

October 2007

It was reported that Dianne Webber has apparently six or more people interested in an allotment and Mr Scott who lives in Newton Road is willing to rent out some land for that purpose.A letter has been received from the householder at 27 Fenny Road in connection with the ongoing problem by the bus stop. This matter has been given to the District Councillor who will take the matter up with AVDC.

Planning applications have been received as follows:

Box Tree Cottage, Church Road - Demolish existing garage and erect a new one.

Oak Barn, Grove Farm, Church Road - single storey side extension (re-submission)

Unit 4, BMG Garage - Change of use to MOT testing bay

The Parish Council has no objections to these applications.

37 Bragenham Side - extension - approved with conditions

Dolphin Pub smoking shelter - approved with conditions

21 Tyrells Road - two storey side and single storey rear extension - approved

Brandywell, Church Road - two storey extension - approved

Two storey dwelling next to 10 Phoebes Orchard - refused

50% Poplar tree reduction at Tyrells Manor - approved

The District Councillor, Neil Blake, reported on the Aylesbury Vale expansion that the Government had decided that 23,000 houses were to be built. Proposals to build on the land east of the M1 had been refused. AVDC is moving offices to the The Gateway, Gatehouse, Aylesbury. The offices in Exchange Street are to be demolished and used as a temporary car park until the Theatre and Shopping Complex is built. There followed some discussion on the new shopping precinct as there have been several long established shops closed in Aylesbury due to high cost of rent and rates.

It was reported that the Dial-a-ride service operated by the Buzzer Bus was available to residents of the Village but there was a cost involved as the Buzzer operates in Bedfordshire and we are in Buckinghamshire. If anyone is interested in registering for the service please speak to Joan Coombes on (01525) 853566, particulary if you are unable to use Public Transport.

It would appear that the new 70 bus service is being well used.

The chairman proposed that signs be erected in Bragenham Side to warn motorists of the play school which operates in the Community Centre.

It was reported that the street light on the traffic island near the shop is still not working. the Clerk will follow this up.

The handyman at the Community Centre has been asked to keep an eye on the new playground equipment whilst he is at the centre.

There has been no reply as yet with regards to felling trees and planting of new trees on the banks of the stream by Phoebes Orchard.

Contractors have been instructed to cut down nettles in the copse behind Phoebes Orchard.

The overhanging tree outside number 10 Fenny Road needs to be trimmed. The Clerk is to follow up. It is the responsibility of the land owner and the County Council has the power to have the work completed and charge the land owner.

The County Council will in future not be allowing so many road closures for parties, road events and the like.

Neighbourhood Actions Group (NAG) will now be operating with fewer amount of villages in a group.

The council has now received a letter from the Sports Club with regard to football training. The Sports Club were to be asked to provide more information before a decision could be made.

The new playground was officially opened on 9th September and was a vert successful event and 82 footballs were given away. Thanks to AVDC for a grant of £5000 and Mavis Burrows for her donation of £300 made by having a sponsored silence. Thanks also go to Sports World in Bletchley for supplying the footballs and donating raffle prizes, Krystyna Brown, Mike Robinson, Hazel Turner and the ladies of the WI for supplying tea and biscuits and the MK Lions basketball team.

There will be a post-bypass party for the tweenies and maybe a trip to the MK Lions and also a Tea Dance. Details to follow in due course.

The Clerk reported that the new village notice board is still being made but should be with us shortly. The posts by the green are to be re-erected by the Green. No Cold Calling signs are to be erected in the village. He also reported that a Community Chest had been set up by the AVDC and items up to £1000 in cost are dealt wit immediately but higher amounts have to go before a Committee. It was suggested that a new bus shelter be erected by the shop on the Green, which would fall into the under £1000 grant. It was suggested that we have a Christmas tree on the Green this year.

September 2007

As there is not a Parish Council meeting in August, there is not a lot to report.

The playground is now operational and so far the feedback has been pretty good. The official opening is to be on Sunday 9th September between the hours of 3pm and 5pm. Light refreshments will be available. All are welcome.

The official opening date for the by-pass is now the 14th September.

The new bus service starts on September 3rd and a timetable can be downloaded HERE.

It has been reported to the Council that some young persons taking their dogs for a walk are depositing the “pooh” on the grass verge in Bragenham Side and not in the bins provided. Just a reminder that it is an offence not to clear up after your dogs..

June 2007

The Parish Council met on Monday 11th June where County Councillor Mrs Brenda Jennings reported that: - The by-pass is expected to be finished by September. NAGS is a forum for any concerns in Villages, not just for policing issues and a review is being undertaken of the provision of bus services in rural areas. The parish Council pointed out that an improved bus service for the village was an important issue highlighted in the Parish Plan.

Neil Blake, District Councillor, reported that: - Following the hand over of former Council properties to the Vale of Aylesbury Housing Trust, AVDC would receive a VAT refund. A Community Chest has been established and £5M is to be made available for community issues over the next ten years. Work has started on the new Theatre in Aylesbury. AVDC has confirmed their support for the expansion of Milton Keynes towards the M1 and not westwards towards Newton Longville. This also has the support of the County Council. AVDC has no intention of going over to fortnightly refuse collections, the present weekly collection will remain in place. Brown bins for the disposal of garden rubbish and cardboard are likely to be “wheeled out” over the next year.

The Parish Council has received notification that the A4146 will be closed between Old Linslade Road and the Chelmscote Junction from 2nd July to the 2nd September and between Chelmscote Junction and Stapleford Mill Road from 2nd September to 2nd January 2008. Diversions will be in place.

The Parish Council also confirmed that it is to hold a competition for a Village sign. At present the only requirement is that the words “The Thankful Village of Stoke Hammond” must feature in the design. Only 20 or so villages in the Country are entitled to use that title which is a reference to the fact that no one from the village lost their life fighting in the 1914-18 war. Further details will be announced in the near future. In the meantime residents may like to start thinking about what else to include in their entry.

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