Northwood Parish Council

Posted by NPC Admin on 4 December 2012, 9:02 pm

NORTHWOOD PARISH COUNCIL

Minutes of the Meeting of Northwood Parish Council, held in Northwood Primary School, Wyatts Lane, Northwood, Isle of Wight on Tuesday, 6 November 2012

Present: Councillors John Pullen (Chairman), Simon Boyle, Judith Ferris, Paul Fuller and Chris Riddet

In attendance:
Barbara Herbert (Clerk and RFO)
Sarah Hussey, Head teacher of Northwood Primary School
Alex Moffat, Consultant on behalf of Northwood Primary School
Gulya Isyanova, Communications Manager of BNRG Renewables UK Ltd

There were two members of the public present.

121/12-13 To receive and approve any apologies for absence
Apologies had been received from Cllrs Patrick Bentley, Ray Mew, Derek Smith, IW Cllr Roger Mazillius and PCSO Stephen Oatley

122/12-13 Co-opted Councillor
i. To consider applications received and approve the appointment to the position of co-opted councillor

RESOLVED :

THAT Mr Simon Boyle be approved as co-opted councillor for the remainder of the ensuing year

ii. To receive his declaration of acceptance of office and signed register of financial interests

RESOLVED :

THAT the signed declaration of acceptance of office and the register of financial interests of Cllr Boyle be received

123/12-13 Declarations of Interest
No expressions of interest were made at this stage

124/12-13 To receive a report by the Local Safety Neighbourhood Officer
In the absence of PCSO Oatley, the clerk presented his report on behalf of the Local Safety Neighbourhood (LSN) team, on events that had taken place since the last meeting. There had been a total of 16 calls to police over the past 30 days for a variety of reasons with the following crimes of note:
• Two incidents of criminal damage to vehicles in Wyatts Lane. Although one person had been arrested, the investigation was still ongoing
• One theft from a motor vehicle at Somerton Industrial Estate. Four people had subsequently been arrested and the investigation was still ongoing

125/12-13 Northwood Primary School’s proposed Travel Plan 2012 to 2015
The Chairman welcomed Sarah Hussey, the Head Teacher of Northwood Primary school and Alex Moffat, the author of the Travel Plan to the meeting, to inform and answer any questions councillors wished to raise on the proposed document covering the period 2012 to 2015.
Mr Moffat addressed councillors to explain the aims, objectives and targets of the Travel Plan, which had been undertaken as part of the 3 year full review. It was highlighted that the extant of the plan had been constrained by the financial resources available from within the school’s budget. The school actively promoted health and safety awareness, both for the pedestrian and for a cyclist, through the various activities available to pupils. The Plan had been tailored to enhance and endorse those objectives realistically achievable.
During discussion, councillors questioned as to how the Parish Council could support the school and suggested that identifying a safe and sustainable way to travel to school could form part of the revised Parish Plan.
A member of the public, who was present, circulated a list of 10 potential observations/questions that he wished to raise with the representatives of the school. Mr Moffat provided an appropriate response to each matter in turn.
The Chairman on behalf of the Parish Council thanked Ms Hussey and Mr Moffat for attending.

RESOLVED :

THAT a Working Party comprising of Cllrs Fuller, Riddet and Ferris scrutinise the Northwood School Travel Plan and present any recommendations identified to the next meeting of the Parish Council

The following item of business was brought forward in order to accommodate Ms Hussey and Mr Moffat, who agreed to take questions on the matter.

126/12-13 To consider the letter from the Headteacher of Northwood Primary school regarding the proposal to register the school’s interest in becoming an Academy within the Department of Education
Ms Hussey reassured the meeting that should the decision be taken to proceed with the conversion process, the school would remain part of the Cowes schools cluster and that she would continue to be a member of the board of primary school head teachers.
Mr Moffat explained that the proposal was for the school to become a stand alone academy, under the umbrella of an academy trust. The Trust, when established, would be available to other prospective academies and have a strategic role in the running of the school, delegating the day-to-day management to the governing body. Mention was made of the greater freedoms the school could enjoy, particularly in setting the school’s syllabus. However, while technically there were some freedoms, the end need to take the same Key Stage SATs remained. The curriculum would be obligatory to deliver the national requirements. Also, the same level of per-pupil funding received from the Local Authority would remain consistent with a maintained school. The priority was to retain Northwood primary school as a village school.
A member of the public raised a number of points in respect of the Academy status proposal to which an appropriate response was provided.

126/12-13 To confirm and authorise the Chairman to sign the Minutes of the previous meeting of the Parish Council held on 2 October 2012 and the Extra Ordinary meeting held on 16 October 2012

RESOLVED :

THAT the Minutes of the meeting held on 2 October and the Extra Ordinary meeting held on 16 October 2012 be confirmed and the Chairman authorised to sign them on behalf of the Parish Council

127/12-13 Matters arising on the Minutes
Minute 123/12-13 Premises Licence for Island Food and Gifts – The IW Councils Licensing (Determinations) Sub Committee had met the previous day and determined to grant a Premises Licence in accordance with the application. This was subject to the conditions proposed by the applicant within the operating schedule, to the mandatory conditions specified in the Licensing Act 2003 and also to the nine conditions agreed with the police. Cllr Fuller, who had attended the hearing on behalf of the Parish Council, advised that the Parish Council could request a review of the decision should the applicant not comply with the conditions attached to the licence.

128/12-13 Town and Country Planning
a. To consider the following applications received and make comments in accordance with the guidance for material planning considerations listed at
http://www.iwight.com/council/departments/planning/appsdip/MakingCommentsInfo.aspx
Cllr Fuller declared a non-pecuniary interest in the following items of business as he was a member of the IW Councils Planning Committee.

i. TCP14203/E Chawton Farm, Chawton Lane, Cowes – Proposed installation of Photovoltaic with associated infrastructure and fencing
Gulya Isyanova, Communications Manager of BNRG Renewables UK Ltd was present and addressed the Parish Council, providing further detailed information regarding the proposal. Councillors noted that BRG Renewables UK Ltd were investigating different options to access the site and the consultation and work already undertaken, in order to minimize the disruption to local residents and prevent any detrimental effect on the local ecology

RESOLVED :

THAT Northwood Parish Council welcomes the application TCP14203/E for the installation of rows of ground-mounted solar (photovoltaic) panels at Chawton Farm, Chawton Lane, Northwood

ii. TCP/15284/C Change of Use of land for keeping of horses; proposed stable block comprising two stables and hay store/tack room. ‘Revised Plans’ (new red outline on block plan – north point now shown correctly)(re advertised application)

RESOLVED :

THAT Northwood Parish Council raises no material planning objections in respect of application TCP/15284/C 2 Crockers Cottages, Pallance Gate, Newport, Isle of Wight, PO30 5UA

b. Councillors noted that Planning Application TCP/31184 Demolition of dwelling and outbuilding; proposed construction of 2 detached houses with carport and detached house/ garage; alterations to vehicular access had been withdrawn

129/12-13 To consider the application for a premises licence at 490 Newport Road, Northwood submitted by the IW Military History Museum Charitable Trust

Cllr Fuller declared a non-pecuniary interest as a member of the IW Council’s Licensing (Determinations) Sub Committee

RESOLVED :

THAT Northwood Parish Council raises no material objections to the application for a premises licence submitted by the IW Military History Museum Charitable Trust

130/12-13 To consider the application received under Environmental Permitting (England & Wales) regulations 2010 for Eurovia Roadstone Ltd, Medina Wharf, Arctic Road, Cowes for a permit to operate an installation for a Roadstone Coating Plant
Cllr Fuller declared a non-pecuniary interest as a member of the IW Council’s Planning Committee, left the meeting room and took no part in the discussion or decision thereon

RESOLVED :

THAT Northwood Parish Council expresses their concern in respect of the application for a permit to operate an installation for a Roadstone Coating Plant citing similar objections to those raised in respect of planning application TCP/30985 – Proposed asphalt plant together with associated ancillary facilities.
• An unacceptable increase in traffic and associated noise/pollution, in particular in the area of Artic Road
• A perceived unacceptable increase noise/pollution
• The danger posed by emissions in an increasingly populated area
• The potential for pollution/damage to the River Medina
• The nuisance to residents over a wide area from odorous emissions
• Loss of visual amenity to local residents
• Conflict with the Eco Island strategy
• The threat to future inward investment, with particular regard to good quality housing and ‘High end’ industry”

Cllr Fuller returned to the meeting room.
131/12-13 To consider the report regarding seating along the cycletrack
Cllr Fuller advised that he had emailed Teresa Mitchell, Maintenance Manager requesting the IW Council’s position on the potential installation of seating along the Cowes/Newport cycle track. However, he had not yet received a response. The clerk volunteered to follow this matter up. In the meantime Cllr Fuller would investigate costings and possible sources of funding.

RESOLVED :

THAT the report be noted

132/12-13 To receive an update on the meeting with IW Cllr V Churchman regarding Island Waste Management
Cllr Ferris confirmed that a meeting had taken place with IW Cllrs Churchman and Stephens. This had been followed by a meeting of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee attended by Cllr Fuller. As Cllr Ferris still remained dissatisfied, it was suggested that she submit a question to the next meeting of Full Council on 21 November, which could be followed by a supplementary question.

RESOLVED :

THAT Cllr Ferris circulate her two proposed questions to councillors for any comment, prior to submitting them for answer at the next meeting of the IW Full Council, on 21 November.

Cllr Riddet left the meeting room.

134/12-13 To consider replacing the three “No Cold Calling Signs”
Cllr Pullen explained that the “No Cold Calling” signs were now rather faded and required replacing. Signpost Express was the only authorised provider of such signs on the Island. The charge for their replacement would be £54 + vat each.
Councillors questioned the feasibility of personalising the signs to also feature the name of the Parish Council. Cllr Pullen agreed to investigate the matter and ascertain the likely cost.

RESOLVED :

THAT a further report be presented to the December meeting regarding the replacement of the three “No Cold Calling Signs”

135/12-13 To consider the response received from Malcolm Smith to the outstanding questions raised regarding road closures and roadworks and to decide on any further action in this regard
Councillors noted the response from Malcolm Smith and questioned, if realistically, this should be the end of the matter. As Cllr Ferris still remained dissatisfied with the responses received from both Mr Smith and Mr Hayward, it was suggested that she continue in the matter, as an individual rather than as a parish councillor. Should Cllr Ferris remain discontent and frustrated in her attempt to obtain a satisfactory response, then to return the matter to the Parish Council for further consideration.

RESOLVED :

THAT Cllr Ferris continue with her questions to the IW Council regarding road closures and roadworks as an individual, rather then as a councillor. However, should she be thwarted in gaining a satisfactory response to apprise the Parish Council.

136/12-13 Environmental Issues
i. To consider the letter dated 8 October from the IW Local Access forum regarding litter on public rights of way
Cllr P Fuller declared a non-pecuniary interest in the following item of business

RESOLVED :
THAT the letter be noted and considered again at the meeting in March.

ii. To consider the email from Natural Enterprise regarding Green Towns

RESOLVED :

THAT the email from Natural Enterprise regarding Green Towns, be noted

137/12-13 To consider making a response to the following consultations
i. Health and Wellbeing Strategy for the Isle of Wight, 2013 – 2016

RESOLVED :

THAT councillors make individual responses to the consultation on the Health and Wellbeing Strategy for the Isle of Wight, 2013 – 2016, if they so wish

ii. Isle Of Wight NHS Trust Consultation on Foundation Trust Status

RESOLVED :

THAT councillors make individual responses to the consultation on the Isle Of Wight NHS Trust Consultation on Foundation Trust Status, if they so wish

138/12-13 To receive an update in respect of the Street Games initiative
Cllr Ferris advised that the two coaches who had been so supportive of the scheme initially had suddenly advised that, due to factors beyond their control, they were now unable to assist in the scheme, at the present time. No further explanation had been provided. Unfortunately, the scheme could not be progressed any further without their support.

RESOLVED :

THAT the report be noted

139/12-13 To receive progress reports from Working Party leads
a. Traffic and Transport Issues Working Party
In the absence of Cllr Riddet, Cllr Pullen advised of a minor problem regarding a new volunteer. Cllr Ian Ward had now been in contact to resolve the issue. Concern had also been raised by some volunteer drivers regarding driving down Egypt Hill during the winter period. Mr Peter Hayward, the IW Council’s Strategic Manager, Highways & Transport had advised that the current gritting route would remain unchanged. However, he would look to deploying staff to manually grit the bus route, if deemed necessary.

b. Northwood in Bloom Working Party
Cllr Pullen reported that the supply of autumn planting from Ryde House Nurseries had been delivered some 18 trays short. The tubs at the top of Uplands Road still remained to be planted. A question was raised as to whether the full shortfall was actually required. This was agreed to be not the case, although some planted tubs could require some additional filling.

RESOLVED :

THAT Cllr Pullen, when obtaining the shortfall, discuss with Ryde House Nurseries the feasibility of only taking 6 trays with the remainder being provided in the form of a credit note, to be offset against the Spring planting

c. Parish Plan Update Working Party
In the absence of Cllr Bentley, Cllr Pullen advised of the draft questionnaire that had been circulated earlier in the day. Unfortunately, the clerk and Cllr Fuller had not had sight of the email and attachment, although they were re-assured that the content remained the same as the draft questionnaire circulated and approved at the previous meeting. It was just the layout that had been re-designed.
As time was of the essence, it was suggested for the Working Party to meet to finalise the draft, so to enable a print run of the questionnaire without any further delay. Ideally, the document needed to be delivered to all Northwood households and subsequently collected prior to the Christmas period. These arrangements would form part of the discussion by the Working Party.

d. Precept Working Party – to consider the recommendations for the Precept for 2013/14
The clerk advised that normal practice was to now advertise the proposals in the Northwood News, so that comments could be received from residents prior to any final decision being taken.

RESOLVED :

THAT the draft recommendations for the Precept for 2013/14 be advertised in the next edition of the Northwood News, for comments

140/12-13 To receive the report for information of Cllr R Mazillius, the IWC Ward Member for Cowes South and Northwood
The report of Cllr R Mazillius, the IWC Ward Member for Cowes South and Northwood, which had been circulated by email prior to the meeting was received and noted.

141/12-13 To receive an update on the IW Association of Local Councils (IWALC)
Cllr Ferris had not been required to attend any meetings of IWALC lately. However, mention was made of the IW Councils Disposals list, which had been the subject of discussion at the meeting of the Finance and General Purposes committee. It was noted that none of the list of assets were situated within Northwood.

142/12-13 Clerk’s Report
a. Administration
i. To approve Mr Mike Cox, the former Responsible Finance Officer of Ventnor Town Council, as the Internal Auditor for the 2012/13 accounts

RESOLVED :

THAT Mr Mike Cox, the former Responsible Finance Officer of Ventnor Town Council, be approved as the Internal Auditor for the 2012/13 accounts

ii. To approve that the meeting in January be held on Tuesday, 8 January, due to the bank holiday

RESOLVED :

THAT the date of the January meeting be approved as 8 January, due to the Bank Holiday

iii. To approve for Mr B Blezzard to cover the March meeting of the Parish Council, in the absence of the clerk, at a cost of £12.50 per hour plus mileage

RESOLVED :

THAT it be approved for Mr B Blezzard to cover the March meeting of the Parish Council, in the absence of the clerk, at a cost of £12.50 per hour plus mileage

b. Finance
i. The interim budget statement to the end of October 2012 and the bank reconciliation with Statement No 50 was received and noted.

ii. To authorise payment of cheques

RESOLVED :

THAT the following cheques be approved for payment
000286, £49.75, Mrs B Herbert, Clerks Expenses
000287, £18.52, Chale Parish Council, Photocopying
000288, £240.13, Ryde House Nurseries, Autumn Planting
000289, £48.98, Mr J Pullen, cost of compost for planters/tubs
000290, £25.00, Poppy Wreath, provided by the Royal British Legion

143/12-13 Correspondence
Correspondence received was listed in the report circulated with the agenda and updated further at the meeting. Particular mention was made of the following
pp Email from IW Cllr Mazillius regarding the land around Kingswell Diary being marketed as a potential development site
ss. The Hustings with Crime Commissioners candidates
yy. Email advising of Police Speeding Detection Equipment

144/12-13 Councillors’ reports
The report from Cllr Ferris who had attended the Ecoisland Global Summit on 17 October was noted. It was suggested that an invitation should be extended for an appropriate speaker to attend a meeting of the Parish Council in the Spring.

145/12-13 Future agenda items

RESOLVED :

THAT the following agenda items be agreed
January Meeting
Age UK IW Good Neighbour Scheme progress update by Mark O’Sullivan, the Manager & Development Officer
February Meeting
Navitus Bay Wind Farm – Cllr J Ferris
A Meeting in the Spring
EcoIsland

146/12-13 To undertake a brief review of the meeting
A busy agenda resulting in a long meeting

THERE BEING NO FURTHER BUSINESS THE CHAIRMAN CLOSED THE MEETING AT 9.10 PM.

Signed ……………………………………………. Dated ……………………………..