MINUTES OF ALLOTMENT MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE MONDAY 30 JULY 2007


* Cllr K Barnes
Mr L Cornell
* Cllr P Demonti
* Mr F Lacey
* Cllr Gilbert (Chairman)
* Mr T Robinson
* Cllr Peek
* Cllr Ms S Wilcock
Cllr Mrs D Hollebon (ex officio)
* Cllr M Wood
Cllr Miss C Woodman
* Cllr C Woodward (Vice-Chairman)

* denotes present

148. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE

Cllr Miss Woodman and Mr Cornell

149. SUSPENSION OF STANDING ORDERS

150. PRESENTATION BY MR MICHAEL CAMP, CHAIRMAN, BALDOCK ALLOTMENT AND LEISURE GARDENERS ASSOCIATION

The Chairman welcomed Mr Camp to the meeting. Mr Camp advised members that he was Chairman of the above Association which had recently become affiliated to the National Association of Allotment and Leisure Gardeners. He stated that the aim of the Association was to provide a trading shop and to liaise with the local District Council regarding the letting of the two allotment sites in Baldock. Membership of the National Association had enabled the group to take over the maintenance of the allotment sites from the District Council and to provide both public and employers insurance for its members. Mr Camp stated that with the help of an annual grant of £2200 from the District Council, the Association had been able to employ local business men and a farmer to fully rotavate the long term unused plots on the sites, and these were now all let.

Mr Camp advised members that the Association had also recently provided five small plots for people with disabilities. The plots had been divided into small workable areas and built onto raised beds making them easily accessible for wheelchair users. A hard standing space for cars and paths around the plots had also been provided with the help of the Hertfordshire Young Offenders Group. The group had been well supervised and had shown commitment to the work. Four of the five plots were now let to people with disabilities. Members were interested in the provision of the plots for people with disabilities and considered that such a provision was a possibility in the future on a site in Bishop's Stortford.

At the end of the presentation, the Chairman thanked Mr Camp for his attendance and Standing Orders were reinstated.

151. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

None.

152. MINUTES OF THE MEETING HELD ON 4 JUNE 2007

Min 43, Item 2. End of first paragraph.

Add: The Council should remain mindful of the Health and Safety implications in allowing vehicles onto the site.

RESOLVED: that the Minutes be received as a correct record and be signed by the Chairman

153. MATTERS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES

Min 45: Damaged Wall - Haymeads Lane Allotment Site

To note that the Clerk was awaiting the official police report of the accident before pursuing the claim.

154. CURRENT WAITING LIST AND VACANT PLOTS

Members had been circulated with a copy of the current waiting list and vacant plots. With regard to the waiting list, Cllr Demonti felt that it was distorted and did not represent the true position, as a number of persons were shown requesting more than one site. It was explained that the list was in fact a working list for use in the office which enabled staff to know who to contact first when a suitable plot became available on a particular site.

A general concern was raised with regard to the number of plots shown as empty and unusable and members felt that an inspection of these plots should be made to establish whether they could be brought under cultivation in order to satisfy the demand from people on the current waiting list.

A further concern was raised with regard to the number of plots which were let, but which had become overgrown and apparently not worked. Members suggested that the Site Agents be requested to inform the Town Council of those plots which had become overgrown in order that a suitable letter could be forwarded to the tenants. A further comment was made that perhaps the tenancy rules and regulations were not sufficiently strongly worded to ensure that the situation did not occur, and in this regard it was suggested that these should be reviewed.

155. ALLOTMENT COMPETITION

Members were informed that judging of the Allotment Competition had taken place in early July and the winner of the best overall plot was Mr O J Thake and the best site overall was Haymeads Lane. The full list of results would be forwarded to Mr Cornell shortly, well in advance of the September Harvest Supper.

A comment was made that there appeared to be a degree of apathy toward the competition both from Members and Tenants alike and it was felt that the future of the competition should be reviewed or altered as necessary in order to inject further interest.

156. FUTURE USE OF ALLOTMENTS

It was acknowledged that Bishop's Stortford as a Town was changing dramatically and there were now many residents in the Town living in flats with little or no garden. It was felt that an advertising campaign should be launched to advise the public of the existence of the allotment sites and to encourage a new generation of allotment holders. It was however acknowledged that it was first important to identify the number of plots available for lease and to establish how best to bring the currently unusable and overgrown plots back into use. In this regard, it was suggested that the Clerk, Mrs Prentice and the Chairman visit the various sites during week commencing 6 August in order to review the way forward.

157. ANY OTHER BUSINESS (MATTERS RAISED BY ALLOTMENT REPRESENTATIVES)

i) Notice Boards
Mr Lacey advised members that the Allotment and Gardens Association had recently received a grant from BAA towards the cost of providing notice boards at all the sites, and he sought permission from members to erect the notice boards inside the allotment sites. Members were happy to accede to the request.

ii) Site Agents Meeting

Mr Lacey suggested that a regular Site Agents Meeting should be arranged in order to keep both the Agents and members fully informed of issues relating to the various sites. It was agreed that a meeting should take place as soon as possible. It was felt that enthusiasm for the Allotment Competition could be established at the same time.

iii) Parking Dispute at Ward Crescent

The Chairman advised members that it had been established from Circle Anglia Housing Association that there was no covenant on the land, including the parking bay, in Everest Gardens and therefore neither residents nor allotment holders had preference over the parking bay.

158. ITEMS FOR FUTURE AGENDA

i) Publicising Vacant Allotments (Cllr Woodward)

ii) Review of Tenancy Rules and Regulations (Cllr Miss Wilcock)

iii) Review of Allotment Competition (Cllr Woodward)

159. URGENT BUSINESS

None

There being no further business, the meeting closed at 8.50pm

MINUTES OF SILVER LEYS MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE HELD ON
MONDAY 30 JULY 2007

* Cllr K Barnes
* Cllr P Demonti
* Cllr R Gilbert (Chairman)
* Cllr D Peek
* Cllr Ms S Wilcock
* Cllr M Wood
Cllr Miss C Woodman
* Cllr C Woodward (Vice-Chairman)

* denotes present


160. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE

Cllr Miss Woodman

161. DECLARATION OF INTEREST

None.

A brief discussion took place with regard to whether the Trust was included under the recently adopted revised Code of Conduct. Confirmation was requested.

162. MINUTES OF THE MEETING HELD ON 4 JUNE 2007

RESOLVED: that the Minutes of the meeting held on 4 June 2007 be confirmed as a correct record of the proceedings and signed by the Chairman.

163. MATTERS ARISING

None.

164. FINANCIAL STATEMENT

Members had been circulated with a copy of the attached statement for the period 1 April 2007 to 30 June 2007 and a further detailed statement of the financial position to 30 July 2007 was tabled for members information. Members noted that as at 30 July 2007 the total funds held by the Trust amounted to £17,014. Members wished to congratulate the Clerk for providing an excellent and informative financial statement.

RESOLVED: that the above be noted.

165. MAINTENANCE OF GROUNDS

Members had been circulated with a copy of a letter from the Rugby Club proposing an increase in the contract fee for the maintenance of the grounds from £4099 to £6750 per annum. Members noted that the contract fee had remained unchanged for six years and that the Club continued to maintain the grounds to a high standard. In view of this members were happy to recommend the increase.

RECOMMENDED: that the Annual Maintenance Contract fee be increased to £6750 per annum, with the contract being reviewed within three years.

166. ANY OTHER BUSINESS

None.

167. ITEMS FOR FUTURE AGENDA

None.

168. URGENT BUSINESS

None.

There being no further business, the meeting closed at 9.10pm

MINUTES OF THE PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE HELD ON
23 JULY 2007


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)

* Denotes present

136. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE

Apologies were received from Cllr Horner.

137. MINUTES OF THE MEETING HELD ON 2 JULY 2007

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

138. DECLARATION OF INTEREST

Cllr Demonti Personal Planning Application 3/07/1338/FP/AK
Planning Application 3/07/1382/FP/AK

139. PLANNING NOTIFICATIONS

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

3/07/1050/AD/NB Installation of new internally illuminated fascia sign, new internally illuminated projecting sign and installation of corporate banner at first floor level Unit 2 28-32 Potter Street Applicant: Fat Face Ltd

3/07/1066/AD/AK Information signage Grange Paddocks Pool and Fitness, Rye Street Applicant: Stevenage Leisure Ltd

3/07/1126/FP/LH Two storey extension to front, single storey extension to rear with a skylight to existing rear extension, attached garage and ensuite over to the side and internal alterations 30 Maze Green Road Applicant: Mr Ian and Mrs Alison Nelson

3/07/1186/FP/MP Single storey rear extension and new garage roof 3 Dalton Gardens Applicant: Mr T Kelly

3/07/1200/LB/AK Installation of 6 LCD screens, plus associated cabling Barnabas Centre, Church Lane Applicant: St James The Great, Thorley

3/07/1220/RP/CD Erection of a B1 use office building and undercroft car park 95-97 London Road Applicant: Stanley Tee Solicitors

3/07/1259/FP/LH Dwelling replacement 79 Haymeads Lane Applicant: Mr and Mrs Colin Natali

3/07/1262/FP/AK Demolition of existing shed and construction of two new sheds 142 Stortford Hall Park Applicant: Nicholas Bailey

3/07/1269/FP/AK Rear conservatory 50 The Meadows Applicant: Peter Noble

3/07/1275/FP/AK Single storey rear extension 2A Thorley Park Road Applicant: Mr K Clegg

3/07/1276/FP/AK Rear Conservatory 17 Cannons Close Applicant: Mr G Smith

3/07/1284/AD/AK Fascia sign and trough light 30 Potter Street Applicant: Christine Lord, Phase Eight

3/07/1287/FP/MP Division of existing dwelling into 2no one bed flats 11 Boyd Close Applicant: Mr M Vincent

3/07/1295/FP/AK New shop front and signage 30 Potter Street Applicant: Christine Lord, Phase Eight

3/07/1297/FP/AK Single storey rear extensions and two storey front extension Whitehall Leys, Whitehall Road
Applicant: Mr and Mrs Grange

3/07/1299/FP/SE Detached house and garage Land rear of 30 Chantry Road Applicant: Lakemount Properties Ltd Note: Members noted that a covenant, in the ownership of the resident of No 26 Chantry Road, existed regarding the right of way over the driveway access,

3/07/1304/FP/AK Two storey rear extension Sparrows Nest, Thorley Street Applicant: Mr M Williams

3/07/1315/FP/AK Single storey rear extension, front porch, tiled roof to garage 1C Chantry Close Applicant: Mr Myers

3/07/1316/FP/MP Continuation of approved roof to extension Haverbrack, 2 Barrells Down Road Applicant: Mr G Rolfe

3/07/1318/LB/AK Provide a two storey rear extension to enlarge the existing kitchen on the ground floor and make provision for a larger 4th bedroom on the first floor by relocating the existing main bathroom. Sparrows Nest, Thorley Street Applicant: Mr N Williams Note: Members wished to ensure that appropriate materials and colour pallet were used to match the existing dwelling.

3/07/1319/FP/SE Take down existing lean-to and replace with a timber framed single storey extension 30 Chantry Road Applicant: Mr Robert Mark Franklin

3/07/1324/FP/MP Small lean to conservatory (approx 3 metres x 2.4 metres) 9 Anglesey Close Applicant: Roy Cockman

3/07/1338/FP/AK Single storey side car port 32 Chantry Road Applicant: Mr G Grange

3/07/1345/FP/SE Conversion of existing double garage to annexe and construction of one new single garage 171 Hadham Road Applicant: Mr and Mrs Raine Note: Provided the annexe was not used as a habitable dwelling.

3/07/1368/FP/MP Removal of existing asbestos roof. Construction of a new roof to create a study and living room for a one bed flat. Conversion of existing disused space above the shop to create one two bedroom apartment on the first floor and two one bedroom apartments on the second and third floor 3a High Street Applicant: Tony Wilson, Wilson Family LLP

3/07/1369/LC/MP Removal of existing asbestos roof. Construction of a new roof to create a study and living room for a one bed flat. Conversion of existing disused space above the shop to create one two bedroom apartment on the first floor and two one bedroom apartments on the second and third floor 3a High Street Applicant: Tony Wilson, Wilson Family LLP

3/07/1393/AD/AK Externally illuminated acrylic lettering to be bonded directly to existing fascia 30 Potter Street Applicant: Christine Lord Phase Eight

3/07/1405/FP/AK Single storey rear and second storey side extension 21 Haymeads Lane Applicant: Mrs E Douglass

3/07/1412/FP/SE Rear 1.5 storey extension 7 Boundary Road Applicant: Paul Weaver

3/07/1414/FP/AK Extend existing garage and form parent annexe in roof space above 51 Maze Green Road Applicant: Mr G Bray

ii) Objections were made on the following applications:-

3/07/1194/FP/AK Proposed garage conversion replace garage door with window 3 Wheelwrights Close Applicant: Mr and Mrs M Hoddle Reason: The proposed development would be contrary to the Town Council's Policy BS002. 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 BE7 (ii) and appendix iv of the East Herts Local Plan. The conversion would also unbalance the street scene.

3/07/1281/AD/NB Signage to indicate new occupier, 1 no fascia sign with internal illumination, 1no projecting with internal illumination 5 South Street Applicant: T Mobile Reason: The proposal would be contrary to the Town Council's Planning Policy BS001. The provision of illuminated signage was deemed to be detrimental to the street scene and would detract from the overall ambiance of the Town.

3/07/1323/FP/MP Change of use from Job Centre (A2) to Wine warehouse (A1) Sceptre House, 43a South Road Applicant: Keydome Ltd Reason: The inadequate parking provision and access to the site rendered the premises unsuitable for a change of use from A2 to A1

3/07/1346/FP/AK Garage conversion, garage door to remain, stud wall with door internally 12 Primrose Close Applicant: Mr and Mrs Lawlor Reason: The proposed development would be contrary to the Town Council's Policy BS002. 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 BE7 (ii) and appendix iv of the East Herts Local Plan

3/07/1351/FP/AK Single storey rear extension, two storey side extension, proposed porch and proposed gable roof 4 Clayponds Applicant: Mr and Mrs Shearer Reason: i Overbearing development which would be out of keeping with the street scene ii Loss of light and detrimental to the amenity of neighbouring properties by virtue of the size and bulk of the development.

3/07/1382/FP/AK First floor extension 22 Grange Park Applicant: Mr and Mrs D Grainge Reason: Overbearing development creating loss of light to residents of No 21 Grange Road

140. PLANNING DECISIONS

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

141. APPEALS

None to date.

142. STREET NAMING AND NUMBERING

i. Development at Basbow Lane

The Developer had suggested the name Williams Close for consideration but had provided no indication of a reason for the suggestion. Members therefore recommended Fielder Close for acceptance, in recognition of the work of the eminent local politician and long serving County Councillor for the Town, Lt Col Jack Fielder, who died in 2006.

ii Development at Hockerill Street

The Developer had suggested the name The Courtyard, Hockerill Street for consideration, however members recommended the name Dearlove Place for acceptance in recognition of the former long term owners of the site and business family of the Town.

RESOLVED: that Fielder Close and Dearlove Place be recommended for acceptance.

143. CLARIFICATION OF GOVERNMENT PROPOSAL TO STREAMLINE PLANNING LAW (Cllr Armstrong)

Information in respect of the above had been circulated to members. The Chairman advised members that the information was in the form of a Consultation Document and would therefore be referred to the Town Council meeting of 13 August 2007 for discussion. The Chairman requested that members submit individual comments to the Clerk for inclusion in the Town Council's response.

144. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION AT PLANNING MEETINGS

The Chairman advised members that this item had been referred to the Planning and Environmental Committee for consideration by the Town Council at its meeting of 16 July 2007. It had been noted that East Herts Council had recently introduced a scheme, on a trial basis, whereby members of the public were able to address the Development Control Committee on any planning related matter and it had been suggested that consideration should be given to implementing a similar scheme for meetings of the Town Council's Planning and Environmental Committee.

The overwhelming consensus of opinion was that such a facility was unnecessary at Planning meetings and could be extremely time consuming. It needed to be remembered that the Committee was merely an advisory committee with no power to make planning decisions and concern was expressed that there was a danger that the public could in fact be misled into thinking that the Town Council had more power than it actually did over such matters. It was noted that the Planning Committee discussed more applications than the District Council, with its members visiting sites and spending time discussing each individual application. In addition, individual letters from members of the public were circulated to all members of the Council. It was also pointed out that the Town Council already provided an excellent service in the form of the facility for members of the public to view plans and discuss matters with a Councillor on a Saturday.

In addition to the services mentioned above, the Committee also had the power to suspend Standing Orders to allow representations and to receive presentations regarding major developments in the Town. Members of the public also had the facility to address the full Town Council meetings.

In view of the reasons provided above it was felt that to allow public participation at Planning meetings was inappropriate at this time, particularly in view of the limited powers of the Committee.

RECOMMENDED: that a policy for public participation at Planning Meetings is not adopted, in view of the reason given above.

145. UP-DATED REPORTS
i Relocation of bus stop (first raised 2 July 2007)
Members noted the e-mail response from Hertfordshire Highways,
dated 10 July 2007. Members requested that a further letter be forwarded to the Passenger Transport Unit seeking details of what action the County Council intended to take in this matter in view of the overwhelming opposition to the re-siting of the bus stop.

146. ITEMS FOR FUTURE AGENDA

Sustainable Materials for New Builds (Cllr Miss Woodman). Information requested from Mr K Steptoe, East Herts Council. Response awaited.

Withdrawal of Traffic Wardens (Cllr Demonti). Information requested from East Herts Council regarding its new Parking Policy. Response awaited.

147. URGENT BUSINESS

i) Litter Bins outside Greggs and Café Nero (Cllr Miss Woodman)
It was requested that a letter be forwarded to East Herts Council requesting re-instatement of the litter bins which were previously sited outside Greggs and the former Next Store (now Café Nero)

ii) Disabled Parking Bays, South Street (Cllr Demonti)
It was requested that a letter be forwarded to Inspector Piper requesting that action be taken against the owners of vehicles who regularly park in the disabled bays located in South Street.


There being no further business, the meeting closed at 9.15pm.


MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE TOWN COUNCIL HELD ON 16 JULY 2007

* Cllr K Armstrong
Cllr C Horner
* Cllr J Barfoot
Cllr D Peek
* Cllr K Barnes
* Cllr R Taylor
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

119. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE Apologies were received from Cllr Burlton, Cllr Gilbert, Cllr Horner, Cllr Peek and Cllr Miss Wilcock

120. DECLARATION OF INTEREST Cllr Wood Grants Age Concern Personal and Prejudicial

121. MINUTES OF THE TOWN COUNCIL MEETING HELD ON
18 JUNE 2007 RESOLVED: that the Minutes of the Town Council meeting held on 18 June 2007 be confirmed as a correct record of the proceedings and be signed by the Town Mayor.

122. COMMUNICATIONS i) Town and County Planning Workshops - Thursday 20 September 2007 Novotel Hotel, Stevenage To note the above.

ii) Shopmobility/Market The Clerk gave members details of the above which would be the subject of a report to the next meeting of the Town Council.

iii) Future Presentation by Inspector Piper, Hertfordshire Constabulary Inspector Piper would be requested to attend Town Council meetings quarterly.

iv) Carnival 2007 The Town Mayor referred to the very successful event and extended her gratitude to all Councillors, Staff and Volunteers who had taken part.

v) Council Representation The Town Mayor informed members that, to date, she had attended 13 engagements on behalf of the Council. Cllr Taylor had also undertaken a number of engagements on her behalf.

123. QUESTIONS ASKED PURSUANT TO STANDING ORDER 24 None.

124. BUSINESS EXPRESSLY REQUIRED BY STATUTE None.

125. COMMITTEE REPORTS i) Finance and General Purposes Committee 25 June 2007 Min 90 (e) (i) Carnival RESOLVED: that the budget for the 2008 Carnival be tabled for discussion at the next meeting of the Town Council Min 100 - Superannuation RESOLVED: that the concerns expressed by Cllr Gilbert be detailed in a letter to NALC RESOLVED: that the Minutes of the meeting be received. ii) Planning and Environment Committee 2 July 2007 RESOLVED: that the minutes of the meeting be received.


126. WORKING PARTIES i) Green Energy Working Party 14 June 2007 Min 75 - Electricity Pricing RESOLVED: that paragraph two be referred back to the next meeting of the Working Party for further discussion RESOLVED: that the Minutes be received ii) Former Allotment Land Working Party 25 June 2007 Min 93 - Way Forward Members referred to the reference made in the Minutes to the provision of crematorium facilities and Resolved that the current situation with Austins Crematorium Company be ascertained. RESOLVED: that the Minutes be received

127. TOWN CENTRE MANAGEMENT Minutes of the meeting held on 26 April 2007
RESOLVED: that the Minutes be noted

128. CONFIRMATION OF REPRESENTATION ON RHODES MANAGEMENT (F&GP) COMMITTEE The Clerk informed members that, under the constitution of the Rhodes Birthplace Trust, all members of the Management Committee were appointed by the Trustee and not the Town Council. RESOLVED: i) That Cllr Barfoot's appointment be confirmed ii) That Cllr Armstrong be co-opted should the need arise

129. GRANT APPLICATIONS Age Concern This matter had been referred back from the Town Council meeting held on
18 June 2007. RESOLVED: that a grant of £7,500 be approved Note: Cllr Wood, having declared a personal and prejudicial interest at the commencement of the meeting, gave factual information in respect of the application. Cllr Wood took no part in the voting thereon

130. CONSULTATION ON EAST HERTS DRAFT PARKS AND OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2007 Members had been circulated with a copy of the above Consultation document. A general comment was made that it was difficult to accept the vagueness of the strategy and how such a strategy was to be implemented. In fact, it was felt that there was no strategy and what was being proffered was a wish-list. In this respect, the Town Council more than met its obligations. The recent provision of skateboarding facilities and the rolling programme of repairs, maintenance and provision of play equipment was cited as the Town Council's contribution to meeting its open space provision. It was encouraging to note that the needs of the disabled had been addressed and that the provision of safe standards had been recognised. However, on balance, there appeared to be a bias towards the provision of large rather than small parks, with the possibility of overloading the green spaces provided within housing developments. It was, on the one hand, important that future housing developments incorporated parkland provision, however, there was a need to safeguard the protection of existing parkland from the ever increasing encroachment by residential development. RESOLVED: that the Clerk formulate a response to the Consultation document incorporating the comments above

131. PLANNING FOR GYPSY AND TRAVELLER ACCOMMODATION IN THE EAST OF ENGLAND: ISSUES AND OPTIONS - PUBLIC CONSULTATION Cllr Armstrong opened the discussion by stating that it was important that the Town Council represented the views of its constituents. He had issued a questionnaire to various patrons visiting his establishment who were representative of people from all walks of life. With regard to the content of the documentation received from East Herts Council, no one had supported having traveller sites in a rural community, and no one had supported the provision of 1,220 net additional pitches and their distribution. However, there could be seen to be benefit from the provision of the transient pitches. It was interesting to note that there was a majority view that, if the gypsy and traveller community wanted sites, then they should be the subject of the same planning procedure as everyone else and they should stand by the same principles of the planning authority.

There should be no special treatment to distinguish them from the remainder of the community. It was the different treatment which upset people and, as such, there should be the same set of rules for every individual. There was no mention in the Consultation document of the impact on schools and local facilities which would result from the provision of a gypsy and traveller site. A reference was made to the considerable number of pitches required elsewhere, particularly Basildon. Cllr Graham stated that his views came from a different perspective, as he had lived with the gypsy and traveller community. He stressed that, for those who had not worked and lived within such a community, then they were approaching this issue from the unknown. It was a fact of life that gypsies and travellers were part of the community and had been for well over 100 years.

There were quite a lot of misnomers surrounding the gypsy and traveller communities. Sites in Hertfordshire contributed to the local authority area, although he did acknowledge that there were examples of bad sites, nevertheless, they were part of the system and could not be ignored. It was necessary to look at a cohesive way of addressing the issue. There was unquestionably a lack of sites within Hertfordshire.

However, there was no feedback of information available from the gypsy and traveller public in order to make a formal and meaningful response. There had been occasions where the proper course of action had been taken to address the issue and this had worked well in many instances. The Consultation document was merely trying to grapple with a very sensitive issue. East Herts did not have a site and, therefore, it was necessary to ascertain if there was scope for providing a site.

The majority of travellers were not transient. Their culture dictated their habitat. The fears expressed were recognised, but it was necessary to look at the wider picture and lead from the front. Cllr Taylor stated that he had 10 years experience of working with gypsies and travellers and there were some good and some bad, as in all sections of society.

The best did a great deal of work and the worst caused mayhem (crime, litter, damage to property, etc). Addressing the problem would place a large burden on the Council Tax payer. Cllr Taylor stated that he had seen a great number of settled sites, some of which had been well looked after and it was not the gypsies and travellers that settled that caused the problem. East Herts Council had made strenuous attempts to provide sites in East Herts over a considerable period of time, however, a change in the law had meant that there was now no pressure to pursue the matter.

East Herts was the largest area in the County of Hertfordshire and there was a need to assist in the provision of a properly run site. Cllr Wood stated that there had been long debates many years ago on the provision of gypsy sites in East Herts, with Bishop's Stortford, Ware, Hertford and Much Hadham being suggested as possible locations.

East Herts was the largest area and a recent study had revealed that there was a shortfall of 45 pitches (35 permanent and 10 transient). It was not popular to provide sites, but in the greater scheme of things, there was a legal duty to address the issue. It could be argued that there was a case for justifying small temporary sites in both East Herts and North Herts and possibly consideration could also be given to providing a site for visiting travellers. Cllr Mrs Demonti was supportive of Option 1. RESOLVED: that the Clerk formulate the Council's response

132. STANDARDS COMMITTEE - TOWN COUNCIL REPRESENTATIVE A letter had been received from East Herts Council stating that the term of Office of the previous Town Council representative (Mrs E Woods) on the Standards Committee, ended with the local election in 2007. Nominations were being sought for a replacement. RESOLVED: that Cllr Wyllie be duly nominated to fill the vacant position

133. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION AT PLANNING MEETINGS (Cllr Wyllie) RESOLVED: That this matter be referred i) To the next meeting of the Planning and Environment Committee ii) Clerk to arrange circulation of documentation issues by East Herts Council on its procedure

134. STREET PASTORS SCHEME Members had been circulated with details of the above scheme which had the unanimous support of all members present. RESOLVED: That Cllr Armstrong be i) Duly appointed to serve as the Town Council's representative ii) That a letter confirming the appointment be forwarded to the organisation. Reference should be made that the appointment of Cllr Armstrong did not pre-suppose a financial commitment being made by the Town Council

135. ITEMS FOR FUTURE AGENDA i) Rights of Way Consultation ii) Inspector Andy Piper, Hertfordshire Constabulary iii) Consultation Document - Mental Health Services - North Essex iv) Consultation Document - Quality Care in Hertfordshire v) Shopmobility/Market vi) Carnival 2008 vii) Havers Community Centre
There being no further business, the meeting closed at 9.03pm.

MINUTES OF THE PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE HELD ON 2 JULY 2007


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)

* Denotes present



104. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE

Apologies were received from Cllr Horner.


105. MINUTES OF THE MEETING HELD ON 11 JUNE 2007

Min 63 - East Herts Affordable Housing SPD - Public Consultation

Cllr Barfoot stated that the above Minute was not a complete representation of his comments and requested that it be recorded that he fully understood the need for affordable housing in Bishop's Stortford.

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

106. DECLARATION OF INTEREST

Cllr Taylor Personal Planning Application 3/07/1223/FP/AK

Cllr Miss Woodman Personal Planning Application 3/07/1174/FP/AK

107. PLANNING NOTIFICATIONS

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

3/07/0938/FP/LH Demolition of single storey rear extension, change of use of former public house (Class A4) and internal alterations to form 2 No. dwellings (Class C3) with associated parking and gardens. Erection of 2 No. detached dwellings with associated parking and gardens. Demolition of single storey rear extension to existing cottage and erection of 2 storey extension to west elevation and single storey extension to north elevation Red, White and Blue PH, Hazel End Applicant: Bankside Development Ltd

3/07/1049/FP/NB Install new shop front plus equipment and external A/C condenser Unit 2, 28-32 Potter Street Applicant: Fat Face Ltd

3/07/1058/FP/SE Relocation of new ATM enclosure and emergency exit Tesco Stores Ltd, Bishop's Park Centre, Lancaster Way Applicant: Tesco

3/07/1070/FP/NB Cinema room to rear of existing dwelling and double garage with study over 221 Stansted Road Applicant: Michael Devanny

3/07/1094/FP/LH Construction of new roof containing new 2nd floor flat, new stairs to flat and basement Roger Carlton, Warren House, 59 Bells Hill Applicant: Roger Carlton

3/07/1111/FP/AK Two storey rear and first floor side extensions 14 Herald Close Applicant: Mr and Mrs P Perry

3/07/1120/FP/LH Two storey extension to side of property, single storey extension to front and rear and new pitched roof over existing flat roof 3 Matching Lane Applicant: Mr and Mrs Sanjay Rana

3/07/1126/FP/LH Two storey extension to front, single storey extension to rear with a skylight to existing rear extension, attached garage and en-suite over to the side and internal alterations 30 Maze Green Road Applicant: Mr Ian and Mrs Alison Nelson

3/07/1127/FP/MP Rear conservatory 153 Parsonage Lane Applicant: Mr and Mrs Wayne Menzies

3/07/1128/FP/AK Two storey front extension 62 Marguerite Way Applicant: Mr and Mrs A Mitchell

3/07/1136/FP/LH Replacement dwelling 158 London Road Applicant: Mr J Millard

3/07/1142/FP/AK Single storey rear extension 2 Squirrells Close Applicant: Mr C E Valder

3/07/1145/LB/SE Proposed roof canopy and paved area constructed to rear elevation The Boars Head PH, 30 High Street Applicant: Punch Taverns

3/07/1146/FP/SE Erection of canopy and proposed paved area The Boars Head PH, 30 High Street Applicant: Punch Taverns Comment: Members were concerned that this application would encourage noise disturbance to adjacent properties

3/07/1147/FP/NB Change of use of ground from A3 (restaurant) to
A4 (bar) 55-61 South Street Applicant: Demetrios Christopoulos Comment: Members expressed concern regarding the location of the bar which was in close proximity to other such establishments and they requested that management control and security checks were carried out

3/07/1150/FP/MP Rear extension to existing restaurant Café Masala, 10 London Road Applicant: Mr H Miah

3/07/1151/FP/NB Change of use to class B1 (a) Offices (second floor and part of first floor) Unit 1 Birchanger Industrial Estate, Stansted Road Applicant: Mr R McGowan, REM Properties Ltd

3/07/1165/FP/AK Conservatory at rear of the property 34 Norman Avenue Applicant: Mr P Brace

3/07/1170/FP/AK Two storey rear extension and single storey side extension and proposed porch 12 Heath Row Applicant: Mr W Schmitt-Figgener

3/07/1174/FP/AK 2 Storey side extension 22 The Chequers Applicant: Mr and Mrs Shaw

3/07/1176/FP/AK Erection of PVCu conservatory to the rear of the property 19 Grailands Applicant: Mr and Mrs D Bigg

3/07/1178/FP/LH Demolish existing bungalow, construct new 4 bedroom dwelling with double garage and new access 36 Hallingbury Road Applicant: PJ and SJ Quick

3/07/1208/FP/LH Detached double garage with games room over 24 Calverley Close Applicant: Mr B Liles

3/07/1219/FP/AK Single storey rear extension. Open porch/canopy on front of property and bay window 47 Bishop's Avenue Applicant: Mr and Mrs Cruxon

3/07/1225/FP/AK Loft conversion with two front and two rear dormers 18 Stansted Road Applicant: Mr and Mrs Dreblow

ii) Objections were made on the following applications:-

3/07/1054/FP/LH Storage racks within goods yard - retrospective application Land rear of 110 Dunmow Road Applicant: T Brewer Reasons:

i) Over bearing aspect due to the excessive height

ii) Over looking neighbouring gardens

iii) Detrimental to the quality of life in a residential area 3/07/1196/FP/SE Single and two storey rear extension and loft conversion with dormer 34 Pynchbek Applicant: Mr and Mrs D Range Reasons: i) Over development of the site ii) Over bearing aspect iii) Detriment to the amenity of No. 35

3/07/1214/FP/MP Change of use from B8 (storage or distribution) to B2 (general industry) to the Town and Country Planning Use Classes Order 2005 Unit 2, Haslemere Industrial Estate, Pig Lane Applicant: Mr Nick C Johns Reasons:

i) Members noted that this was a retrospective application

ii) Inappropriate change of use

iii) Close proximity to the residential properties in the area

iv) Storage of large gas cylinders which could be hazardous

v) Unacceptable noise levels

vi) Undesirable precedent Comment: East Herts Council were asked to take note of the letters of objections

3/07/1222/FP/SE Single and two storey rear extension 29 Coronation Road Applicant: Mr and Mrs Patterson Reasons:

i) Over development of the site

ii) Over bearing aspect by virtue of its size and bulk

3/07/1223/FP/AK Single storey side and rear extensions and loft conversion 11 Mazoe Road Applicant: Mr A Hasan Reasons: i) Loss of light and privacy to residents of No. 9 Mazoe Road ii) Over development of the site

iii) The following planning application was noted:-
3/07/1198/FP/LH Erection of a detached three bedroom house and single garage Windhill House, Windhill Applicant: Mr Gary Field, Maesbrook Ltd

108. PLANNING DECISIONS

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

109. APPEALS

i) To note the following appeal decisions issued by the Planning Inspectorate:-

3/06/1369/FP Two storey front, side and rear extension,
single storey pool and hot tub extension
4 Thornfield Road
Appeal Dismissed

3/06/0550/FP Two storey front, side and rear extension,
single storey pool and hot tub extension
4 Thornfield Road
Appeal Dismissed

E/05/0451/A Appeal against Enforcement Notice:
Erection of unauthorised garden building in
front garden
15 Maze Green Road
Appeal Dismissed

RESOLVED: that the appeal decisions be noted.


110. STREET NAMING AND NUMBERING

None to date.

111. PARKING ON THE PAVEMENT AT HOCKERILL (Cllr Barfoot)

Cllr Barfoot expressed his concern regarding vehicles parking on the pavements at Hockerill. A brief discussion followed in which Cllr Warnell stated that parking on the pavement was illegal and enforcement was a Police matter.

It was noted that Inspector Andy Piper, Hertfordshire Constabulary, would be attending the Town Council meeting in September and this matter would be brought to his attention. Members were of the opinion that photographs of offending vehicles could be used to facilitate discussion and Cllr Barfoot agreed to obtain pictorial evidence.

112. CLARIFICATION OF GOVERNMENT PROPOSAL TO STREAMLINE PLANNING LAW (Cllr Armstrong)

In the absence of Cllr Armstrong, it was noted that information in respect of the above had been circulated to members.

113. ROUNDABOUT AT JUNCTION OF LONDON ROAD/CRESCENT ROAD (Cllr Barfoot)

Cllr Barfoot drew members' attention to the danger of the junction between London Road and Crescent Road and Cllr Warnell reminded members that this matter had been discussed at previous meetings. Mr Peter Massie, Hertfordshire Highways, had informed the Council that no immediate plans were in place to install a humped roundabout but he had promised to make further enquiries.

Cllr Taylor pointed out that the redevelopment of the Goods Yard site could be instrumental in the lack of serious consideration by Hertfordshire Highways to install a roundabout at this location. Cllr Warnell stated that the development of the Goods Yard site could take several years and meanwhile the junction remains a danger spot.

RESOLVED: that a letter be sent to Hertfordshire Highways seeking its observations

114. PROPOSED AIRWAVE UPGRADE AT THE EXISTING HERTFORDSHIRE CONSTABULARY MAST, GREAT HADHAM ROAD ADJACENT TO WENTWORTH DRIVE

Members noted the above.

115. PROLIFERATION OF A BOARDS (CLLR MISS WOODMAN)

This matter was discussed at length and it was noted that the problem of 'A' boards was still widespread around the Town. The Council had written to Mr Peter Massie, Hertfordshire Highways, on previous occasions but as yet, no satisfactory solution had been established.

Members were reluctant to be seen as a negative influence on local businesses by insisting on the removal of the 'A' boards, however, they expressed their anxiety at the potential danger caused to members of the public by the proliferation of the 'A' boards spread along the pavements in the Town.

Cllr Taylor mentioned that some of the boards were placed several hundred yards from the premises to which they referred, which was obviously a contravention of advertising consent.

The question of enforcement by the County Council was discussed and
Cllr Barnes pointed out that Court action was costly and ineffectual.

Cllr Warnell requested that previous correspondence on this matter be located and members' comments forwarded to the Town Clerk in order for a renewed approach to be made to the relevant department at Hertfordshire Highways. Members agreed to obtain fresh photographic evidence to support their findings.

116. UP-DATED REPORTS
i Lorries accessing the Town Centre (First raised 11/6/2007)
Members noted the e-mail response from Inspector Piper,
dated 12 June 2007

117. ITEMS FOR FUTURE AGENDA

i) Sustainable Materials
Cllr Miss Woodman asked for information to be obtained in respect of sustainable materials for new builds.

ii) Traffic Wardens
Cllr Demonti expressed his concern regarding the danger posed by the withdrawl of traffic wardens in the Town. The absence of traffic attendants in South Street was noted and members suggested that the Executive of the District Council be contacted to obtain its policy on parking on double yellow lines and pay on exit in the car parks.

118. URGENT BUSINESS

iii) Bus Stop - Sainsburys
Cllr Barnes pointed out that the bus stop at the back of the former Sainsburys store had been removed and was now located outside the new Sainsburys store. A letter to be sent to County Council Passenger Transport Unit expressing members', dissatisfaction at the removal of the bus stop.


There being no further business, the meeting closed at 9.30pm.


 

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