MINUTES OF THE PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE HELD ON
25 FEBRUARY 2008


Cllr K Armstrong
* Cllr C Horner
* Cllr J Barfoot
Cllr R Taylor
* Cllr K Barnes
* Cllr K Warnell (Chairman)
* Cllr P Demonti
Cllr Miss C Woodman (V/Chairman)
Cllr Mrs Hollebon (ex-officio)
* Cllr C Woodward

* Denotes present



592. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE

Apologies were received from Cllr Armstrong, Cllr Taylor and Cllr Miss Woodman.

593. MINUTES OF THE MEETING HELD ON 4 FEBRUARY 2008

Min 548 Page 244

To note that Cllr Woodward had requested that a letter be forwarded to the Highways Joint Member Panel concerning the proposed 20mph speed limit in Parsonage Lane.

RESOLVED: Having noted the above the Minutes were received as a correct record of the proceedings and signed by the Chairman.

594. DECLARATION OF INTEREST

Cllr Barfoot Personal Interest Planning Application 3/08/0240/AD/SE
The applicant is known to Cllr Barfoot.

595. PLANNING NOTIFICATIONS

i) No objections were raised on the following applications:-

3/07/2346/FP/LH Storage racks within goods yard - amended scheme reducing largest racks and changing the style T Brewer & Co Ltd, 110 Dunmow Road Applicant: T Brewer & Co Ltd

3/08/0085/FP/FH Change of use of Red, White and Blue from Public House (Class A4) to a single residential dwelling (Class C3). Demolition of rear single storey extension and replaced with conservatory extension. Demolition of rear single storey extension to existing cottage and erection of a new two storey extension to north elevation. The Red, White and Blue, Hazelend Road Applicant: Bankside Pubs Ltd Note: Members regretted the loss of the Public House.

3/08/0149/FP/MP Single storey rear extension 11 Boyd Close Applicant: Mr Mark Vincent

3/08/0150/FP/MP Convert ground floor bedroom to integral garage with new garage door 11 Boyd Close Applicant: Mr Mark Vincent

3/08/0153/FP/NB Demolition of existing garage and construction of part single, part two storey extension 12 Dane O' Coys Applicant: Mr J and Mrs A Mariathasan

3/08/0154/FP/NB Two storey rear extension 39 Warwick Road Applicant: Mr P Holmes

3/08/0161/AD/MP Business signage to premises Nockolds, 6-8 Market Square Applicant: Nockolds Solictiors LLP

3/08/0177/AD/MP 1no internally illuminated fascia sign and 1no internally illuminated roundel sign and 1no double sided internally illuminated totem sign. 43A South Road Applicant: Majestic Wine Warehouse Ltd

3/08/0203/FP/NB Single storey side extension 29 Elizabeth Road Applicant: Mr G Woolner

3/08/0204/FP/SE New door in side elevation 38 Cavell Drive Applicant: Lisa Carpenter

3/08/0212/FP/FM Two storey rear extension 76 Winchester Close Applicant: Dr & Mrs Lambert 3/08/0243/FP/SE Single storey rear extension 6 Marguerite Way Applicant: Mr and Mrs Playle

ii) Objections were made on the following applications:-

3/08/0094/FP/FH Conversion of existing 3 bedroom ground floor flat into 2no 2 bedroom flats 32 Redwood Court, Haymeads Lane Applicant: Breakaway Property Ltd Reason: The proposed conversion would represent an inappropriate form of development that would result in an increased density of residential dwellings

3/08/0095/LB/LH Conversion of existing 3 bedroom ground floor flat into 2no 2 bedroom flats 32 Redwood Court, Haymeads Lane Applicant: Breakaway Property Ltd Reason: The proposed conversion would represent an inappropriate form of development that would result in an increased density of residential dwellings

3/08/0185/FP/SE Conversion of existing integral garage to form habitable space 18 Goldings Applicant: Miss L Guy Reason: The proposal would be contrary to the Town Council's Planning Policy BS 002 The garage should be used for the housing of private vehicles and not as additional living accommodation or for any commercial activity. This would ensure that continued provision of off street parking facilities in the interests of highway safety to safeguard the amenities of adjoining occupiers and would be in accordance with Policy ENV9 and appendix iv of the East Herts Local Plan Second Review. The loss of the garage would exacerbate the already particularly bad parking problem in The Goldings.

3/08/0218/FP/SE First storey front and two and single storey side extension 1 Chequers Applicant: N & L Smith Reason: Overbearing aspect to neighbouring properties

3/08/0240/AD/SE Company name and logo, red aluminium with white logo and lettering - retrospective Concept Communications Group Ltd, 12 Birchanger Ind. Est, Stanstead Road Applicant: Mr Giles Bowes, Reason: The signage was considered to be over large with a detrimental effect to nearby amenity land Note: Cllr Barfoot took no part on the discussion on this item and abstained from the vote.

3/08/0255/FP/SE Proposed two storey dwelling house 99 Dimsdale Crescent Applicant: Mr Matthew Allerton-Austin Reason:

i Over development of a very narrow site

ii Over bearing aspect to neighbouring properties iii No adequate car parking provision was provided.

iii The following application was deferred:

3/08/0219/FP/NB Continuation of use as independent annexe - Retrospective
13 Warwick Road
Applicant: Mr A Holmes
Reason: Members sought information regarding the current use of the annexe

596. PLANNING DECISIONS

RESOLVED: that the attached list of decisions issued by East Herts Council be noted.

597. APPEALS

To note the following notification of appeal to be determined by the written representation procedure:

3/07/1588/FP/EH Single storey 2 bedroom residential dwelling and vehicular
crossover
Land rear of 57 Scott Road

RESOLVED: that the appeal be noted.

598. STREET NAMING AND NUMBERING

180 - 184 Stansted Road

Members were pleased to note that 'Bishop Gray Rise' had been accepted as the name for the above development, but requested that a letter be forwarded to East Herts Council requesting that the task of street naming be officially delegated to the Town Council, since it was felt that local members had a more detailed local and historical knowledge of the area and therefore able to recommend the most appropriate names.

599. EAST HERTS COUNCIL PLANNING POLICY DOCUMENT- PUBLIC CONSULTATION

Members had viewed the above document and proffered the following comments:

Members commended the recommendations in the document concerning environmental issues, infrastructure, guidance regarding schools and proposed public health facilities, although members were not convinced that, in the light of financial restraints, the recommendations would come to fruition. Members were disappointed to note that the document had not been circulated more widely throughout the community.

RESOLVED: that the above comments be forwarded to East Herts Council.

600. UP-DATED REPORTS
i. Boars Head, Windhill
To note that East Herts Council had contacted the owner of the property regarding the windows to seek an up-date.
601. ITEMS FOR FUTURE AGENDA

1. British Waterways Design Study (Cllr Woodward)
2. Hockerill Junction (Cllr Woodward)
3. Pollution of River Stort - Environment Agency Report (Cllr Woodward)

602. URGENT BUSINESS

Illegal Parking Dunmow Road/Raynham Road Junction

Cllr Warnell was pleased to note that the Police had taken action to remove the cars parked illegally at the above junction. However, he was disappointed to note that cars were now parking in front of the premises of Brake Brothers.

Uttlesford District Council Planning Issues

Cllr Woodward referred to a recent development on land adjacent to Beldams Lane and situated within the Uttlesford District Council boundary. Cllr Woodward requested that a letter be forwarded to Uttlesford District Council Planning Department requesting that the Town Council be consulted on any planning developments situated on the border between the two Authorities and which could have a knock on effect to the residents of Bishop's Stortford.

Meeting closed at 8.42pm

MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE TOWN COUNCIL HELD ON 18 FEBRUARY 2008

Cllr K Armstrong
* Cllr C Horner
* Cllr J Barfoot
* Cllr D Peek
* Cllr K Barnes
* Cllr R Taylor (Deputy Town Mayor)
* Cllr A Burlton
* Cllr K Warnell
* Cllr Mrs J Demonti
* Cllr Miss S Wilcock
* Cllr P Demonti
* Cllr M Wood
* Cllr R Gilbert
Cllr Miss C Woodman
Cllr A Graham
* Cllr C Woodward
* Cllr Mrs D Hollebon (Town Mayor)
* Cllr J Wyllie

* denotes present


576. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE Apologies were received from Cllr Armstrong, Cllr Graham and Cllr Miss Woodman.

577. DECLARATION OF INTEREST Cllr Wood Apton Centre Personal and Prejudicial - Trustee Cllr Woodward Planning Application 3/07/2652/AD/FP - close relative employed by Waitrose

578. SUSPENSION OF STANDING ORDERS RESOLVED: that Standing Orders be suspended to allow a presentation by
Inspector Andy Piper

579. REPRESENTATION TO THE COUNCIL BY INSPECTOR ANDY PIPER, HERTFORDSHIRE CONSTABULARY Inspector Piper opened the presentation by referring to a number of questions which had been sent to him by members:-

a) A Boards in Bishop's Stortford Town Centre

Q. What action was proposed by the Police.

A. Inspector Piper was in receipt of the Code of Practice in respect of A-boards and he had spoken to his neighbouring Officers. There had only been one complaint regarding this issue and generally it was something in which the Police did not get involved. However, any complaints received would be taken up with the Highways Authority with whom they worked in close partnership

b) Parking in Barrells Down Road and Cricketfield Lane

Q. What action was taken by Police to alleviate the problems of indiscriminate parking?

A. Police Officers were well aware of the problem at this location and neighbourhood Officers had been in attendance on a number of occasions. Letters had been placed on offending vehicles, with five fixed penalty tickets having been issued. Unfortunately, in the main, it would appear that local residents were the culprits.

c) Graffiti - All Saints Ward

Q. Graffiti in the All Saints Ward was a problem.

A. The problem at this location, and other locations in the Town, were being addressed. Currently, the Police were looking at putting together environmental days aimed at identifying the problems in order to take the necessary action. A request was made that any issues in respect of this matter, in any Wards, be notified to the Police. Two youth offenders had been arrested the previous week.

d) Allotments - London Road

Q. Possible anti-social behaviour.

A. Discussions had taken place with the Neighbourhood Managers and there would appear to be no issues of youths congregating at this location and no reports of vandalism.

e) Plaw Hatch - Fire

Q. Request for up-date.

A. Clare Andrews had been in contact with Councillors with regard to this matter.

f) Smashed Windows - Cannons Close

Q. What action had been taken in regard to this matter.

A. Currently statements were being obtained from five youths and local enquiries were on-going.

g) Incident - Sandle Road (footpath)

Q. Up-date on the attack of a local resident.

A. Enquiries were on-going.

h) Snowley Parade/Skateboard Area

Q. Members requested information on any problems regarding unsocial behaviour.

A. With regard to Snowley Parade, the Police were aware of the CCTV application. However, crime levels of antisocial behaviour were low. The previous problems caused by offenders seemed to have disappeared, although the problems might have moved onto other locations. Levels at present were not such as to warrant any problems to the Police. With regard to the skateboard area, again there was a low level of antisocial behaviour and low level drug use.

i) Dunmow Road/Raynham Road

Q. Members were concerned that vehicles were parking illegally on the bend, affecting sight lines.

A. Police would investigate.

j) Illegal Parking - Cannons Close/Stansted Road

Q. Members expressed their concern regarding the illegal parking of a commercial vehicle at the junction.

A. Police would investigate.

k) Vandalism of Footpath to rear of 7 Kingsbridge Road

Q. Reference was made to the damage incurred to fencing panels to the rear of the above property, which had happened on a number of occasions.

A. Details would be fed back to Neighbourhood Managers and would be raised at the next locality meeting.

l) Speeding - Havers Lane

Q. Members were concerned that, despite a previous request and an assurance that a speed gun would be in evidence, there had still been no sign of the speed gun.

A. Officers had been in attendance with the speed signs and would continue to give attention to this location.

m) Brief Illegal Stopping in the Town

Q. Members expressed their concern at the practice of illegal stopping outside retail/commercial premises for casual business activities and to the fact that, on one occasion this practice was being carried out by a Police Officer. It was felt that this activity did not set a good example.

A. This matter would be taken up with Police personnel. However, members were asked that, in the future, if incidents of this nature happened, the vehicle registration number should be taken.

n) Speeding - Linkside Road

Q. Reference was made to a recent incident regarding damage to property and to the speed at which traffic negotiated Linkside Road. Such speeding constituted a danger to children. A request was made for an Officer with a speed gun to be in attendance.

A. This matter would be referred back to the Neighbourhood Managers.

o) Town Council Speed Gun

Q. A request was made for information as to whether this equipment was still in Police possession.

A. The equipment was in the possession of the Police and was still regularly in use.

p) Attack in Cannons Close

Q. Was there any further information regarding the attempted mugging in Cannons Close?

A. No up-date was available at the time of the meeting. Information would be sought with a view to reporting back to the Council.

q) Illegal Immigration

Q. Was there any scrutiny of illegal immigrants?

A. There was a regular check with regard to this matter and there had been a number of arrests and people had been deported. However, this was something that was dealt with at a high intelligence level. Following on from the question and answer session above, Inspector Piper gave an update on the crime statistics for the three month period, compared to the same period last year.

There had been a general reduction in all offences of approximately 16%. Burglary from dwellings was down as was vehicle related crimes with prevention and awareness being a key issue in respect of the latter. Criminal damage was down, with only 152 recorded offences. However, shoplifting was up by 14% and this figure had been reported to the Chamber of Commerce. Statistics on shoplifting would continue to be reported to the Chamber of Commerce on a monthly basis. The Police were proactive in this field, with the aim to bring down this level of crime. Inspector Piper was pleased to report that the rate of detection was up. Operation Tarantula, a vehicle crime prevention awareness scheme, had been launched on 7 January 2008.

Theft from persons was down, with only 38 recorded offences and drugs possessions was also down by 6%. Currently, the Police were looking at running 'Project Argos', with a presentation being arranged on what measures to be taken by the public in the event of terrorism. Whilst a leaflet drop had been made to the Chamber of Commerce, it was disappointing to note that no business had indicated a desire to sign up to the Project. Two operations were currently being run by the Police, Agrarian, which was a cross border liaison with Essex, Cambridgeshire and Suffolk, sharing resources on cross border criminality and Attitude, aimed at providing extra Police cover to counter night-time antisocial behaviour. There were a number of environmental days planned for the future and, hopefully, Neighbourhood Managers would be in touch with the Town Council on this issue. In concluding the presentation, Inspector Piper was thanked for his attendance.

580. MINUTES OF THE TOWN COUNCIL MEETING HELD ON
14 JANUARY 2008 RESOLVED: that the Minutes of the Meeting held on 14 January 2008 be confirmed as a correct record of the proceedings and signed by the Town Mayor

581. COMMUNICATIONS

i) Civic Dinner - 8 March 2008 The Town Mayor reminded members of the above event and for the need to respond by the end of the week, indicating whether members wished to attend.

ii) Letter from Coral Smith The Town Mayor referred to a letter received from Miss Coral Smith, aged 10, concerning a highway matter in the vicinity of the Havers parade of shops. The Chairman of the Planning and Environment Committee had indicated that this matter would be referred to the next meeting of the Committee for discussion.

Cllr Taylor stated that the Assistant Town Clerk had made him aware of the letter, with a request that the contents be referred to the next meeting of the Highways Joint Member Panel. iii) Prayers before Council Meetings Members had been circulated with an e-mail from Cllr Barfoot informing them of the intention to hold a prayer meeting prior to the Town Council meetings. iv) Bishop's Stortford 20/20 Letter Letter from Cllr Barfoot to all members sent by post, first class. Clerk to ensure that all correspondence in the future is sent out second class. v) Stakeholders Meeting - 4 March 2008 To note that the above meeting had been cancelled and a rescheduled date was awaited.

582. QUESTIONS ASKED PURSUANT TO STANDING ORDER 24 None to date.

583. BUSINESS EXPRESSLY REQUIRED BY STATUTE None to date.

584. COMMITTEE REPORTS i) Planning and Environment Committee 7 January 2008 RESOLVED: that the minutes of the meeting be received

ii) Allotment Management Committee 28 January 2008 RESOLVED: that the minutes of the meeting be received

iii) Silver Leys Management Committee 28 January 2008 To note that Cllr Miss Woodman had tendered her apologies for the meeting. RESOLVED: that the minutes of the meeting be received

iv) Planning and Environment Committee 4 February 2008 RESOLVED: that the minutes of the meeting be received

v) Finance and General Purposes Committee 11 February 2008 Minute 569 Lease Apton Day Centre Members had been circulated with a copy of the draft lease for consideration and they confirmed the following amendments:- Page 1 that the description of the property be referred to as the Apton Centre and not the Apton Day Centre Page 17 Clause 22.1 that a reference be inserted that decoration should be when the owner deemed necessary RESOLVED: Having given effect to the above amendments, that the lease be approved Minute 570 - Burial Land RESOLVED: That the land edged green in the ownership of the Town Council be exchanged for the land edged red in the ownership of East Herts Council with the proviso of it being conditional on the Town Council receiving a proportion of any capital receipt should the land edged green be developed for any purposes in the future RESOLVED: that the minutes of the meeting be received

585. WORKING PARTIES i) Misuse of Drugs and Substances Working Party - 17 January 2008 To note that these Minutes were not yet available.

ii) Town Plan Working Party - 22 January 2008 Cllr Warnell expressed his concern that the Council was going forward with the Town Plan, involving a lot of work by Councillors and engagement with the general public, with the expectations that the completion of the Town Plan would change the future of Bishop's Stortford. However, there had been no indication fromEast Herts that any notice would be taken of any town plan document that would be produced. A great deal of work could be expended, with the ultimate result ending up in a vacuum.

Cllr Warnell felt that a written undertaking should be obtained from East Herts that the Town Plan document would be acceptable as an SPD (Supplimentary Planning document).

Cllr Gilbert stated that many villages had prepared, or were in the state of preparing, parish plans. These projects were being embarked upon with the prime purpose of setting down a vision for the future for the individual parishes and not just for adoption by the District Council, although this could be the secondary intention. Cllr Peek stated that there was pressure from the Government for local councils to produce plans and, therefore, it was a Government initiative.

The District Council would have to take into account the contents of the Plan and such a document would be given serious material consideration. He applauded the move to engage the public in a public meeting, at which it was hoped that the views of differing factions would prevail. He fully endorsed the decision of the Council to take this matter forward. Cllr Taylor stated that, at public enquiries, town plans were given considerable weight because they reflected the views of the town or parish and the desires of its people. It was not just the feelings of the District Council. He felt that the Town Plan would be taken seriously by the Planning Inspectors on appeals.

Cllr Woodward felt that there must be an assumption that the document would form part of an SPD and would represent a comprehensive vision of the Town's future direction. RESOLVED: that the Minutes be received iii) Playground Working Party - 31 January 2008 RESOLVED: that the Minutes be received iv) Town Plan Working Party - 5 February 2008 RESOLVED: that the Minutes be received

586. YOUTH COUNCIL Minutes of the Meeting held on 7 February 2008 Concern was expressed that only one third of the total youth membership had been present at the meeting and that, from past records, meetings had proved to be not very well attended. However, it was appreciated that there would be times when sickness, holidays, school trips and exams prevented Youth Councillors from being in attendance. It was felt that the lack of attendance was not down to lack of interest or enthusiasm, as the current Youth Councillors seemed to show great drive and took their roles very seriously. One of the problems could well be the rigid timetable of meetings fixed by the Town Council (first Thursdays in the month) and Cllr Demonti felt that every effort should be made to accommodate the Schools by fixing more convenient and less rigid dates.


587. GRANT APPLICATIONS i) Homestart East Herts An application had been received from Mrs K Pitt, Senior Co-ordinator, requesting a grant in the sum of £750 to enable continuation of voluntary work in Bishop's Stortford. RESOLVED: that the grant application be refused

ii) Age Concern An application had been received from Mr E Workman, Vice-Chairman and Treasurer, requesting a grant in the sum of £900 to provide the refurbishment and replacement of existing ladies and gentlemens' toilets. RESOLVED: that the grant application be refused Note: Cllr M Wood, having declared a personal and prejudicial interest in this item took no part in the voting thereon

588. ACCOUNTS AND BUDGET STATEMENT TO 31 JANUARY 2008 i) Accounts RESOLVED: that the accounts in the sum of £164,324.04 be duly authorised for payment ii) Budget Statement RESOLVED: that the contents of the statement be noted

589. PROPOSED CHANGE OF DATE OF ANNUAL TOWN MEETING FROM 31 MARCH 2008 TO 14 APRIL 2008 RESOLVED: that the date of the Annual Town Meeting be changed from
31 March 2008 to 14 April 2008

590. URGENT BUSINESS None.

591. ITEMS FOR FUTURE AGENDA

i Presentation by the Rural Housing Trust ii. Review of Standing Orders iii. Christmas period closure (2008) (Cllr Gilbert) iv. Complaints Procedure There being no further business, the meeting closed at 9.27pm

MINUTES OF MEETING OF FINANCE AND GENERAL PURPOSES COMMITTEE
HELD ON MONDAY 11 FEBRUARY 2008

* Cllr J Barfoot
* Cllr K Warnell
Cllr A Burlton (Vice-Chairman)
* Cllr M Wood
* Cllr Mrs J Demonti
* Cllr C Woodward
* Cllr R Gilbert
* Cllr J Wyllie (Chairman)
* Cllr A Graham
Cllr Mrs D Hollebon (ex Officio)

* denotes present

562. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE

Apologies were received from Cllr Burlton.

563. DECLARATION OF INTEREST

Cllr Wood Agenda Item 8 Lease to Apton Day Centre Personal

564. MINUTES OF THE MEETING HELD ON 3 DECEMBER 2007

RESOLVED: that the Minutes be received as a true record of the proceedings and be signed by the Chairman

565. MATTERS ARISING

None.

566. GERSHON SYSTEM SUB-COMMITTEE

Minutes of the Meeting held on 17 November 2007

To note that:-

i) The meeting was a Sub-Committee of the Finance and General Purposes Committee and not a Working Party of the Town Council and for future reference should be referred to as the Gershon System Sub-Committee;

ii) Cllr Mrs Demonti was a member of the Sub-Committee (not recorded) and that she had tendered her apologies for the meeting;

iii) The next meeting of the Sub-Committee was scheduled for Saturday
23 February 2008

RESOLVED: that having noted the above, the Minutes were confirmed as a correct record of the proceedings and signed by the Chairman.

567. REPORTS TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC

Cllr Wyllie confirmed that the production of the report was going ahead and that the Mayor and Chairmen of the Committees had been requested to compile their individual reports for inclusion in the Axis magazine by the start of the following week. A draft of the Town Report would be available to all members for scrutiny prior to the document being sent to press.

568. GRANTS - CALCULATION CRITERIA (Cllr Barfoot)

Members had been circulated with a copy of the attached document which had been compiled by Cllr Barfoot.

i) Criteria for payment of grants

The various proposals as set out in the report were debated, with the initial response of members being to amend/accept the proposals as follows:-

1) The grant be used for the benefit of Bishop's Stortford Town residents;

2) The validity of each application would be judged by the Council which, by its very nature, represented the population of the Town and had the ability to make such judgements;

3) If appropriate, in the case of organisations applying, current accounts should be submitted to demonstrate the need for the grant;

4) In exceptional cases grants might be given to uphold the running of a worthy cause but it should be made clear that this is an exception and would not be repeated year on year;

5) Grants would not be given to national charities.

Members, however, felt that, whilst acknowledging in principle the acceptance of the amended 1, 2, 3, and 5, there was a need to revisit item 4 in tandem with the current grant criteria policy of the Town Council. The Clerk was requested to compile a report for submission to the next meeting of the Finance and General Purposes Committee.

ii) Grant payment dates

The general feeling of members was that, contrary to what had been stated, members were very conscious of the need not to expend all the budgeted sum available in the early part of the year. Whilst there were suggestions to either dealing with grant applications once a year or possibly quarterly, it was stated that the current practice had been tried and tested and would appear in the main to work well.

iii) Funding the Grants

The Chairman referred to the proposals as set out in the document and he confirmed that the Town Council had already taken action to implement proposals 1 and 2. With regard to proposal 3, the Chairman reminded members that the only source of income to the Brazier Trust was that received from the rent of the Link Road car park, which would cease in the event of the land reverting to public open space. The Town Council would, in this situation, become responsible for all maintenance costs incurred on the Trust land.

569. LEASE APTON DAY CENTRE

Members had been circulated with a copy of the draft lease for consideration
(see attached) and they confirmed the following amendments:-
Page 1 that the description of the property be referred to as the Apton Centre and not the Apton Day Centre Page 17 Clause 22.1 that a reference be inserted in the Clause that decoration should be when the owner deemed necessary
RECOMMENDATION: Having given effect to the above amendments, that the lease be approved

In recognition of the Town Council's ownership of the building, the Clerk was requested to arrange for a plaque depicting the Town Council's logo be affixed to the building

570. BURIAL LAND

Members had been circulated with a copy of the attached plan, with a proposal under consideration that the land edged green in the ownership of the Town Council, be exchanged for the land edged red, in the ownership of East Herts Council, to facilitate an extension to the new Cemetery.

The Clerk further stated that, in order for the Town Council to further extend the boundary of the new Cemetery, other land in the ownership of the Town Council could be considered for the release of the land hatched red in the ownership of East Herts Council. However, this latter proposal would be the subject of further negotiations.
RECOMMENDATION: That the land edged green in the ownership of the Town Council, be exchanged for the land edged red in the ownership of East Herts Council with the proviso of it being conditional on the Town Council receiving a proportion of any capital receipt should the land edged green be developed for residential purposes in the future
571. TOILET AGENCY

A letter had been received from Mr Cliff Cardoza, Head of Environmental Services, East Herts Council, confirming that, following his meeting with the Clerk and in recognition of the Town Council's increasing cost of the service, the annual maintenance payment for continuing the Agency arrangement would increase from £13,000 to £15,000 per annum.

Members noted the increase and the proposal for future payment and were happy for the Town Council to continue with the Agency arrangements for a period of two years, following which, a review would take place in order to assess the situation.

572. INTERIM INTERNAL AUDIT 2007/2008 ACCOUNTS

Members had been circulated with a copy of the Interim Audit Report of the 2007/2008 Audit.

RESOLVED: that the contents be noted

573. ITEMS FOR FUTURE AGENDA

Burial Fees

574. URGENT BUSINESS

Office Accommodation

The Chairman referred members to the Minutes of the Gershon System
Sub-Committee, held on 17 November 2007, and to the suggestion made regarding the possibility of the venue for Council meetings being moved to the Rhodes Complex.

A general discussion ensued with the pros and cons of such a move being voiced. In order for members to make a meaningful appraisal and decision on this matter, the Clerk was requested to prepare a report for consideration at the Town Council meeting to be held on 17 March 2008.

RESOLVED: that the above be noted

575. DATE AND TIME OF NEXT MEETING

14 April 2008, at 7.30pm

 

MINUTES OF THE PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE HELD ON
4 FEBRUARY 2008

Cllr K Armstrong
* Cllr C Horner
Cllr J Barfoot
* Cllr R Taylor
Cllr K Barnes
* Cllr K Warnell (Chairman)
* Cllr P Demonti
* Cllr Miss C Woodman (V/Chairman)
Cllr Mrs Hollebon (ex-officio)
* Cllr C Woodward

* Denotes present


547. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE

Apologies were received from Cllr Armstrong, Cllr Barfoot and Cllr Barnes.

548. MINUTES OF THE MEETING HELD ON 21 JANUARY 2008

Cllr Woodward referred to a letter received from Hertfordshire Highways (6/12/07) concerning the proposed 20mph in Parsonage Lane and to the discussion which had ensued and not minuted. Cllr Woodward had pointed out that no engineering measures were required as signage was the only issue and that the proposal could be considered at the next meeting of the East Herts Joint Member Panel. Members concurred with
Cllr Woodward's remarks.

RESOLVED: Having noted the above the Minutes were received as a correct record of the proceedings and signed by the Chairman.

549. DECLARATION OF INTEREST

None.

550. PLANNING NOTIFICATIONS

i) No objections were raised on the following applications:-

3/07/2607/FP/MP Revised planning application for the conversion and extension of existing buildings to provide 14 no. apartments - amended plans Emery House, 3 Chantry Road Applicant: The Door Ltd

3/07/2608/LC/MP Demolition of buildings as shown on drawing no. 07/35/03 - amended plans Emery House, 3 Chantry Road Applicant: The Door Ltd

3/08/0034/FP/FM Two storey rear extension, new roof to porch and front bay window Farthings, Cricketfield Lane Applicant: Mr and Mrs Tyler

3/08/0041/FP/MP New sliding folding door opening on flank wall and erection of summer house in garden 6 Pye Gardens Applicant: John Scott

3/08/0046/FP/SE Reinstating previous use as two separate properties by re-blocking internal doorways - retrospective 19/19a Rye Street Applicant: Mrs Cragg

3/08/0052/FP/FH Proposed 2 No. 5 bed detached residential dwelling Stortford Park Cottages, Woodpecker Close Applicant: Mr Head, KX Howard Ltd

3/08/0057/FP/NB Rear first floor extension over existing ground floor extension 33 Gibbs Field Applicant: Mr and Mrs Keith Watts 3/08/0059/FP/FM Proposed first floor extension (over existing garage) 27 Kingsbridge Road Applicant: Miss Katherine Rutherford

3/08/0078/FP/MP Two storey side extension and garage. Single storey extension to front 8 Lea Close Applicant: Mrs Maria Moses 3/08/0082/FP/MP Installation of VRV condenser unit to roof of building Charringtons House, The Causeway Applicant: C/O Agent

3/08/0102/FP/SE Rear conservatory 2 Thorley Park Applicant: Mr I Baker

3/08/0107/FP/FM Replace Porch The Blue House, Thorley Street Applicant: Mrs Georgina Troman Comment: Members noted that the building was Grade II Listed and that a listed building application would follow

3/08/0128/FP/MP Detached garage building and new gates 42 Maze Green Road Applicant: Mr and Mrs C Williamson

ii) Objections were made on the following applications:-

3/07/2553/FP/NB Convert a 3 bedroom semi-detached dwelling into two 2 bedroom flats, with a single and two storey rear extension 30 Benhooks Avenue Applicant: Mr John Doyle Reason: The proposed conversion would represent an overdevelopment of the site which would be detrimental to the street scene

3/08/0048/FP/FM Front porch 8 Twyford Road Applicant: Martin Lampon Reason: The proposal would be detrimental to the street scene

3/08/0079/FP/LH Rebuild of the public house consisting of basement cellar, ground and first floor bars with associated amenities and a second floor incorporating openable glass rooflights and a bedsit apartment with external terrace and stairs, all ancillary to primary use The Bridge House, 78 South Street Applicant: Starbrook Ltd Reason: The proposed development by reason of its size and scale would be out of keeping with the locality and detrimental to the character and appearance of the Conservation Area

3/08/0094/FP/FH Conversion of existing 3 bedroom ground floor flat into 2 no. 2 bedroom flats 32 Redwood Court, Haymeads Lane Applicant: Breakaway Property Ltd Reason: The proposed conversion would represent an inappropriate form of development which would result in an increased density of residential dwellings

3/08/0095/LB/FH Conversion of existing 3 bedroom ground floor flat into 2 no. 2 bedroom flats 32 Redwood Court, Haymeads Lane Applicant: Breakaway Property Ltd Reason: The proposed conversion would represent an inappropriate form of development which would result in an increased density of residential dwellings

3/08/0103/FP/SE Conversion of garage to additional living space and create a new entrance from the side of the house 1 Richmond Close Applicant: Mr Paul Jolliffe Reason: The proposal would be contrary to the Town Council's Planning Policy BS 002 The garage should be used for the housing of private vehicles and not as additional living accommodation or for any commercial activity. This would ensure that continued provision of off street parking facilities in the interests of highway safety to safeguard the amenities of adjoining occupiers and would be in accordance with Policy ENV9 and appendix iv of the East Herts Local Plan Second Review.

551. PLANNING DECISIONS

RESOLVED: that the attached list of decisions issued by East Herts Council be noted.

552. APPEALS

None to date

553. STREET NAMING AND NUMBERING

180 - 184 Stansted Road

Members had been requested by East Herts Council to submit recommendations for the naming of the above development.

RESOLVED: that either of the following be recommended for acceptance:-

Bishop Gray Rise
William Gray Rise

In support of the recommended names, reference was made to the suggestion made by the Bishop's Stortford Local History Society and the inclusion in the list of the Bishop of London, William Gray

554. EAST HERTS COUNCIL PLANNING POLICY DOCUMENT

RESOLVED: that this matter be deferred until the next meeting

555. UP-DATED REPORTS

i Proliferation of Advertising Signs for New Development
A response had been received from Mr Terry Wilkinson, Hertfordshire Highways, confirming that arrangements would be made for the signs to be checked with a view to removing any that were unauthorised or hazardous. Members noted the above and agreed for this item to be removed from future agenda.

ii. Boars Head, Windhill
To note that East Herts Council had contacted the owner of the property regarding the windows to seek an up-date.

iii Jackson Square Car Park
A response had been received from Mr Andrew Pulham, Parking Manager, East Herts Council, confirming that exploratory talks were in progress and, once completed, further consultation would take place with the Town Council and other stakeholders.

Members noted the response and agreed for this item to be removed from future agenda.

iv A Boards
Members had been forwarded with a copy of an e-mail from Mr Terry Wilkinson, Hertfordshire Highways, confirming that, should the pilot scheme proposed for Hertford prove successful, consideration would be given by the Joint Member Panel to extend the scheme to other areas. Members noted the response and agreed to the removal of this item from future agenda. Cllr Woodward drew attention to the Clause 5 (The Law) of the Code of Practice and requested that this be drawn to the attention of the Police.

556. ITEMS FOR FUTURE AGENDA

British Waterways Design Study (Cllr Woodward)
To note that this document had been delayed and would be forwarded when completed.

557. URGENT BUSINESS

Enforcement Notices

Cllr Miss Woodman requested that East Herts Council provide a list of all the outstanding Enforcement Notices issued in respect of developments in Bishop's Stortford.

Meeting closed at 8.45pm

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