MINUTES OF THE PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE HELD ON 30 JUNE 2008

Cllr K Armstrong
* Cllr C Horner (Vice Chairman)
Cllr J Barfoot
Cllr R Taylor (ex-officio)
* Cllr K Barnes
* Cllr C Woodward
* Cllr P Demonti (Chairman)
Cllr Ms C Woodman

* Denotes present

In attendance: Tricia Carpenter - Asst Town Clerk
4 Members of the public

. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE

Apologies for absence were received from Cllr Armstrong (Work commitment),
Cllr Barfoot, (leave), Cllr Woodman (leave) and Cllr Taylor (previous engagement)

. MINUTES OF THE LAST MEETING HELD ON 16 JUNE 2008

RESOLVED: the Minutes were confirmed as a correct record of the proceedings and signed by the Chairman.

. DECLARATION OF INTEREST

Cllr Woodward Personal Planning Application: 3/08/1021/FP/CD
The applicant was known to Cllr Woodward
. PLANNING NOTIFICATIONS

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

3/08/0687/FP/SE Single storey side and rear extension incorporating a two storey rear extension 43 The Stewarts Applicant: Mr John Amlani

3/08/0752/AD/LD Addition of a new events board and the replacement of the existing church special notice board St Michael's Church, Windhill Applicant: St Michael's PCC

3/08/0861/FP/LD Two storey rear extension 106 Dunmow Road Applicant: Mr Stuart Robertson

3/08/0892/FP/NB New shop front with roller shutter 5 South Street Applicant: Miss Rebecca Spedding, Sportswift T/A Card Factory Note: Members noted that no provision had been made for disabled access and expressed disappointment that a card shop was proposed directly adjacent to Clinton Cards, resulting in a further lack of diversity in the Town.

3/08/0895/FP/FM Proposed side extension 7 Matching Lane Applicant: Mr Marcus Bull

3/08/0896/FP/MP Proposed front dormers 10 Drovers Way Applicant: Mr Last

3/08/0897/FP/SE Proposed two storey side extension 23 Yeomans Close Applicant: Mr Robert Davison

3/08/0900/FP/SE Two storey side and rear extension 14 Brooke Gardens Applicant: Mr Jerry Walsh

3/08/0906/FP/CD New 2 bay open fronted garage 24 Calverley Close Applicant: Mr Barry Liles

3/08/0911/FP/NB Single storey rear extension and replacement of ancillary building 140 Apton Road Applicant: Dr Dominic Tisi

3/08/0929/FP/FM Replace conservatory with a single storey side/rear extension 67 Havers Lane Applicant: Mr Justin Smith

3/08/0941/FP/MP Single storey front porch with pitched roof 58 Chantry Road Applicant: Mr John Rivers

3/08/0942/FP/SE Front Porch 2 Thorley Park Road Applicant: Mr I Baker

3/08/0943/FP/SE Proposed first floor extension to form new bedroom 5 Burghley Avenue Applicant: Mr and Mrs Gibson

3/08/0956/FP/MP Proposed first floor rear extension 23 Thornfield Road Applicant: Mr William Bye

3/08/0981/FP/CD Rear conservatory 83 Stansted Road Applicant: Mrs P McNeill

3/08/0985/FP/FM First floor rear extension over existing ground floor extension 67 Prestwick Drive Applicant: Mrs D Adamo

3/08/1011/FP/MP Retrospective application for conversion from Warehouse to Islamic Cultural Centre Millers Two, Southmill Road Applicant: Herts and Essex Mosque and Islamic Cultural

3/08/1013/FP/FM Single storey porch extension 25 Gerard Avenue Applicant: Mr and Mrs Zelezinski

3/08/1019/FP/FM Single storey rear extension to replace existing conservatory 145 Heath Row Applicant: Mr Vernon

3/08/1021/FP/CD Single storey rear extension 65 Cannons Close Applicant: Mr P Sortwell Note: Members noted that Roman remains had been discovered at this site in the past and recommended that an archaeological survey take place prior to any building work.
Note: Having already declared a personal interest, Cllr Woodward took no part in the discussion or voting on this application.

3/08/1045/FP/CD Car port conversion, porch, single storey rear extension and first floor front extension 21 Gerard Avenue Applicant: Mrs Alison Barnesaliso

3/08/1055/FP/CD Alterations and extensions to existing dwelling 23 Prestwick Drive Applicant: Mrs Simone Sanderson

ii) Objections were made on the following applications:-

3/08/0846/FP/LD Two storey side and first floor front extension. Detached double car port 55 Thorley Hill Applicant: John Tancock Reason: Whilst members raised no objection to the extension to the dwelling, it was considered that the proposed car port, being sited in front of the building line would be out of keeping with the street scene and would result in the loss of a mature tree on Thorley Hill.

3/08/0893/AD/NB Fascia sign internally illuminated 5 South Street Applicant: Miss Rebecca Spedding, Sportswift T/A Card Factory Reason: Contrary to BSP001. The proposed signage would be situated in the designated Conservation area where there is a commitment to preserve and enhance the special character and appearance of the area. The provision of internally illuminated signage was deemed to be detrimental to the street scene and detracted from the overall ambience of the area.

3/08/0905/AD/NB Corporate illuminated and non-illuminated signage Unit B Birchanger Industrial Estate Stansted Road Applicant: Topps Tiles Reason: Members expressed disappointment that the application was retrospective and considered the provision of the high level signage to be excessive. Note: Cllr Barnes took no part in the discussion or voting on this item.

3/08/0914/FP/LD Conversion of garage to habitable room 37 Tailors Applicant: Mr and Mrs Mortimer Reason: Contrary to the Town Council Policy BSP002. The garage should be used for the housing of private vehicles and not as additional accommodation or for any commercial activities. This would ensure the continued provision of off street parking facilities in the interest of highway safety and would safeguard the amenities of adjoining occupiers in accordance with Policy ENV9 and appendix iv of the East Herts Local Plan 2nd review.

3/08/0970/FP/FM First floor extension above garage with dormer window 4 Westfield Road Applicant: Mr Matthew Clark Reason: The proposed development, by reason of its size, siting and design would be out of keeping with the original dwelling and detrimental to the character and appearance of the Conservation Area.

3/08/0998/FP/MP Raise roof to provide first floor accommodation and extension to create 4no bed dwelling 8 Kingsbridge Road Applicant: Mr Sean Gordon Reason: The development was considered to out of keeping with the street scene and overbearing given the size and bulk of the proposal. Members expressed concern that the dwelling was currently in multiple occupation and as such no provision of a fire escape had been included. In addition, members expressed concern at the lack of parking provision and the current infringements of the residents parking scheme by the occupiers.

3/08/1001/FP/MP Alterations and extensions to existing dwelling and conversion to 2no dwellings. 11 Boyd Close Applicant: Mr Mark Vincent Reason: Members expressed concern at the loss of a three bedroom family dwelling

3/08/1010/FP/NB Redevelopment to form 49 category 2 type sheltered housing for the elderly (38 1 bed and 11 2 bed units) communal facilities, landscaping and associated car parking Waggon and Horses, 135 Stansted Road Applicant: McCarthy and Stone Developments Ltd Reason: i The development was considered to be of unsympathetic design and the use of the brightly coloured materials inappropriate. ii Over intensification of an attractive open site iii Members objected to the loss of a community facility and considered that insufficient marketing had taken place to explore the continued use of the site as a public house. iv Loss of a mature hedge v Over development of flats in the area which would result in an alteration to the character of Stansted Road vi The development was considered to be of excessive height, which would result in over looking of adjacent properties. vii The scheme included no affordable housing provision viii Lack of parking provision for the number of properties proposed. ix The site was considered to be of archaeological significance with the possibility of remains being be lost under the footings of a three storey development.


iii) The following application was deferred pending receipt of additional information:-

3/08/0946/FP/LH Raised timber decking to rear and additional 500mm high trellis to existing south west boundary fence
26 Thorley Park Road
Applicant: Mr Mark Skeggs
Members expressed concern that the height of the decking could result in overlooking of adjacent properties and requested information concerning the precise height measurements of the decking.

. PLANNING DECISIONS

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

. APPEALS

None

. STREET NAMING AND NUMBERING

Members noted that East Herts Council had recently adopted a new policy for Street Naming and Numbering and requested that a copy of the policy be available for the next meeting.

. REGIONAL SPATIAL STRATEGY

RESOLVED: that the question of representation at the Examination in Public be referred to the next meeting.

. UP-DATED REPORTS

None.

. ITEMS FOR FUTURE AGENDA

Street Naming - New East Herts Council Policy.

. URGENT BUSINESS

None.


Meeting closed at 8.40 pm

MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE TOWN COUNCIL HELD ON 23 JUNE 2008

Cllr K Armstrong *
Cllr C Horner *
Cllr J Barfoot *
Cllr D Peek *
Cllr K Barnes *
Cllr R Taylor (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 (Deputy Town Mayor) *
Cllr Mrs D Hollebon *
Cllr J Wyllie

* denotes present

In attendance: John Ingham, Town Clerk

82. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE Apologies were received from Cllr Armstrong (business engagement), Cllr Burlton (holiday), Cllr Demonti (unavoidable delay) and Cllr Ms Wilcock (business engagement)

83. DECLARATION OF INTEREST Cllr Mrs Hollebon Personal & Prejudicial Stansted Airport G2 Airport Access from M11 and A120
Personal & Prejudicial Stansted Airport G2 Development of Second Runway
Personal & Prejudicial NATS Terminal Control North

84. SUSPENSION OF STANDING ORDERS RESOLVED: that Standing Orders be suspended to enable a presentation by
Mr N J Baker, Chairman of the Joint Parish Councils Steering Group - Proposed Eco Town at Elsenham

85. PRESENTATION BY MR N J BAKER- CHAIRMAN OF THE JOINT PARISH COUNCILS STEERING GROUP - PROPOSED ECO TOWN AT ELSENHAM Mr Baker opened by confirming that he was the Chairman of the Joint Parish Councils Steering Group, incorporating members of Stansted, Elsenham, Henham, Newport and Ugly Parish Councils.

The concern of the Steering Group was the planned Eco Town to be sited at Elsenham with a planned 5,000 population, rising to a possible 20,000. The development being a little over three miles from the boundaries of Bishop's Stortford. The Elsenham Eco Town was one of 15 developers' proposals short-listed by the Government to be built by 2016. The development was proposed when considering the East of England Plan but was rejected as it did not meet the criteria of being a new settlement. Over the next six months, the 15 proposed sites would be reduced to 10 approved sites which would be subject to the normal planning process.

The oppositions to the Eco Town were based on the effect on the character of the area, lack of adequate consultation on the selection process from the original 64 sites to the present 15, inability of the town to provide, as is suggested, employment within the town for 50% of the residents with underutilisation of existing industrial units, creation of a car borne commuter dormitory and situated on a Greenfield site. The local road network was inadequate to take the volume of traffic which would be generated and the railway service was already overstretched.

It would put further pressure on the strategic transport network. Mr Baker posed the question as to the effect that the Eco Town would have on Bishop's Stortford. The majority of people already presently living in the Elsenham area looked to Bishop's Stortford for their shopping and leisure time. The development would lead to urban sprawl and Bishop's Stortford would have to cope with an additional 8,000 vehicles trying to access the Town. The rail network would become impossible and there would be a disproportionate and detrimental impact on the educational facilities.

Uttlesford District Council was strongly opposed to the Eco Town as was Essex County Council, the later citing that the Eco Town concept, as presented by the DCLG was both flawed technically and democratically. The proposal was outside the existing Regional Framework and was a policy imposition by Central Government. The proposal was not sustainable and the location prevented it from meeting the Government's objectives. Following the presentation, a number of concerns were raised by members, primarily focusing on the effect on the transport network and the educational facilities for Bishop's Stortford. Of great concern was the potential influx of people to undertake shopping and leisure activities.

Currently, as was evident from a recent survey, over 65% of shoppers to Waitrose supermarket emanated from Essex. There was also a great danger of Bishop's Stortford being caught in a pincer movement between the eco-town of Elsenham and the proposed Harlow North development. The proposed plans would create a new community from scratch and would mean appropriating huge chunks of Greenfieldcountryside. The resultant development, along with the potential development of Stansted Airport and that proposed for south of Bishop's Stortford, would create an undesirable industrial and residential sprawl. In concluding the presentation, Mr Baker was thanked for his attendance.

86. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION None

87. MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL STATUTORY MEETING HELD ON 19 MAY 2008

Page 1 - Presentation
To note that Cllr Barnes had been presented with a plaque commemorating his 25 years as a serving Councillor on the Bishop's Stortford Town Council.

Page 5 - Powers and Duties of the Town Council (Trustees) Delete: Allotment Management Committee Insert: Management Committees RESOLVED: that having given effect to the above amendments, the Minutes were confirmed as a correct record of the proceedings and signed by the Town Mayor Note: Cllr Woodward requested that, in future the names of the officers in attendance at all meetings be recorded.

88. COMMUNICATIONS

i) Allotment Competition Members were informed that Mr Crouchman would be available to judge the Allotment Competition on the evening of Wednesday 2 July 2008. Members were requested to meet in the Council Chamber at 7.00pm.

ii) Presentation by Mr Baker Reference was made to the discussion which had taken place during the presentation by Mr Baker and members were in agreement that a letter be forwarded to the Steering Group in support of the objections. RESOLVED: that the Clerk compile an appropriate response

89. QUESTIONS ASKED PURSUANT TO STANDING ORDER 24 None. 90. COMMITTEE REPORTS i) Planning and Environment Committee 19 May 2008 RESOLVED: that the minutes of the meeting be received

ii) Finance and General Purposes Committee 19 May 2008 RESOLVED: that the minutes of the meeting be received

iii) Allotments Management Committee 19 May 2008 RESOLVED: that the minutes of the meeting be received

iv) Environmental Committee 19 May 2008 RESOLVED: that the minutes of the meeting be received

v) Planning and Development Committee 27 May 2008 Min 37 - Urgent Business - Size of Planning and Development Committee RESOLVED: that the membership of the Committee be increased by the addition of one member to eight Min 37 - Urgent Business - The Boars Head Cllr Woodward asked that it be recorded that he had mentioned other banners that had been erected on the building and that the communication with East Herts Council should be directed to the Conservation Officer in view of the building being listed and situated in a Conservation Area. RESOLVED: that the minutes of the meeting be received

vi) Allotments Management Committee 2 June 2008 RESOLVED: that the minutes of the meeting be received

vii) Silver Leys Management Committee 2 June 2008 RESOLVED: that the minutes of the meeting be received

viii) Finance and General Purposes Committee 9 June 2008 Min 67

(i) Burial Fees - Additional Burial Ground (Task and Finish Group) RESOLVED: that the Finance and General Purposes Committee be authorised to action this matter Min 67

(ii) Burial Fees - Proposed Increases RESOLVED: that the Clerk submit details of the Recommendation, formulated at the Finance and General Purposes Committee, to the next meeting of the Town Council Min 69 - Annual Governance Statement RESOLVED: that the contents of the statement be approved RESOLVED: that the minutes of the meeting be received

91. WORKING PARTIES

i) Misuse of Drugs and Substances Working Party - 17 January 2008 In the absence of the Minutes, it was Resolved that this matter be removed from future agenda.

92. YOUTH COUNCIL i) Minutes of the Meeting held on 8 May 2008 RESOLVED: that the minutes of the meeting be received. ii) Minutes of the Meeting held on 5 June 2008 Min 5 - Playground Task and Finish Group and proposed membership RESOLVED: that Youth Cllrs Boulton and Miss Latham represent the Youth Council on the Playground Task and Finish Group RESOLVED: that the Minutes be received

93. GRANT APPLICATIONS Kickstart Trust (Bishop's Stortford) Ltd An application in the sum of £250 had been received from the above Organisation, seeking a grant towards the cost of supplying one year's supply of national newspapers for the use by clients in their search for work RESOLVED: that a grant of £250 be approved

94. REMIT OF THE PLAYGROUND TASK AND FINISH GROUP RESOLVED: that the determination of the remit of the Task and Finish Group be referred to the initial meeting of the Group with a view to a report being submitted to the next meeting of the Town Council

95. MEMBERSHIP OF COMMITTEES RESOLVED: that Cllr Miss Woodman transfer from membership of the Environmental Committee to the Planning and Development Committee

96. ALTERATION OF THE ORDER OF BUSINESS RESOLVED: that under Standing Order 23 (d) the order of the Agenda be amended to allow an early discussion of item 15 Flag Flying from the Office

97. FLAG FLYING FROM THE OFFICE Cllr Wyllie expressed his concern that the Town Council did not fly the Union Flag on the Town Council building, which was something which could be done in view of the changes on rules relating to flags in the United Kingdom.

A motion proffered by
Cllr Wyllie that 'the Bishop's Stortford Conservative Association' propose that the Union Flag be flown from the Town Council Offices 'did not sit well' with a number of members who were unhappy with the reference to the Conservative Party. It was also of concern that the flying of the Union Flag alongside the Town Council's flag would require the installation of an additional flag pole for which no costings had been obtained and which would require the submission of a planning application.

RESOLVED: that the motion as referred to above be re-drafted and a report be referred to the next meeting of the Finance and General Purposes Committee to include costings and all related matters. Note: Cllr Mrs Hollebon vacated the building at 9pm, prior to the discussion on Agenda items 98, 99 and 100, on which she had declared a personal and prejudicial interest at the commencement of the meeting.

98. STANSTED GENERATION 2 - AIRPORT ACCESS FROM M11 AND A120 Members expressed their concern that the proposals were being submitted in advance of any decision on the future development of the Airport. A general view was expressed that the proposals were unwarranted and unnecessary in view of the Council's opposition to a second runway at Stansted. Concerns were expressed that new arrangements on the M11 had significant implications for traffic flow through the existing Junction 8, there would be an increase in traffic movements at the Hockerill junction should more traffic access from the south, using the route in preference to travelling south to Junction 7 to join the M11 and the environmental impact on the north east corner of the Town would be tremendous. The opportunity was being overlooked to address the need for a south east bypass. RESOLVED: that the Clerk formulate a response to the Consultation document

99 STANSTED GENERATION 2 DEVELOPMENT OF A SECOND RUNWAY RESOLVED: that this matter be referred to a Task and Finish Group to formulate a response.

100. NATS TERMINAL CONTROL NORTH Members had been circulated with a copy of the attached response to the Consultation document. RESOLVED: that the response be noted

101. URGENT BUSINESS Town Centre Enhancement To note receipt of a letter from East Herts Council. Matter to be raised at the next meeting of the Environment Committee. Former Allotment Land Task and Finish Group To convene an early meeting of the Group.

102. ITEMS FOR FUTURE AGENDA i Presentation by the Rural Housing Trust ii Regular Report from TCMP iii Regular Report from the Town Mayor Iv Presentation by Inspector Andy Piper There being no further business, the meeting closed at 9.30 pm  

MINUTES OF THE PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE HELD ON 16 JUNE 2008

Cllr K Armstrong
* Cllr C Horner (Vice Chairman)
* Cllr J Barfoot
* Cllr R Taylor (ex-officio)
* Cllr K Barnes
* Cllr C Woodward
Cllr P Demonti (Chairman)

* Denotes present

In attendance: Tricia Carpenter - Asst Town Clerk
1 Member of the public

In the absence of the chairman, the Vice Chairman, Cllr Horner took the Chair.

73. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE

Apologies for absence were received from Cllr Armstrong (Work commitment) and
Cllr Demonti (Personal commitment)

74. MINUTES OF THE LAST MEETING HELD ON 27 MAY 2008

RESOLVED: the Minutes were confirmed as a correct record of the proceedings and signed by the Chairman. Members wished to thank Louise Orme and Laura Shepherd for their attendance at the last meeting and the production of the minutes.

75. DECLARATION OF INTEREST

Cllr Taylor Prejudicial Planning Application: 3/08/0778/FP/FM,
The applicant was a close neighbour of
Cllr Taylor
Cllr Woodward Personal Planning Applications: 3/08/0827/FP/SE and 3/08/0859/FP/SE
Cllr Woodward had previous close ties to the school.
All members Personal Planning application: 3/08/0855/FP/NB. The
Town Council was Trustee to the Silver Leys Trust

. PLANNING NOTIFICATIONS

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

3/08/0718/FP/PF Alterations to existing approval (LPA ref: 3/07/1922/FP) involving timber frame with cladding/render to replace approved brick finish 2A Thorn Grove Applicant: Mrs Anne Grey

3/08/0778/FP/FM Rear conservatory 8 Havers Lane Applicant: Ms Deborah Stockdale Note: Having already declared a prejudicial interest, Cllr Taylor vacated the chamber prior to the discussion and vote on this application.

3/08/0808/FP/FM Erection of single storey side extension - (amended scheme) 65 Penningtons Applicant: Mr A Walkey

3/08/0810/FP/NB Single storey rear extension, front extension and porch, bay windows to front 51 Cannons Close Applicant: Mr Christopher Walker

3/08/0817/FP/SE Demolition and rebuild of existing rear two storey extension 1 Marshbarns Applicant: Mr and Mrs PBaldock

3/08/0827/FP/SE New build, two storey link pavilion between service block and refectory. Comprising 2 classrooms and student lounge. New openings in existing to provide connections for access Hockerill Anglo European College, Dunmow Road Applicant: Hockerill Anglo European College

3/08/0831/FP/LD Rear conservatory 27 Lower Park Crescent Applicant: Mrs L Cooper

3/08/0838/FP/SE New glazed lobby to front of store to stop wind/rain blowing into store extrance Tesco Stores Ltd, 1 Bishop's Park Centre Applicant: Tesco Stores Ltd

3/08/0848/FP/FM Minor revisions to application no: 3/07/1136/FP for a replacement dwelling, including additional dormer windows, additional velux window, minor increase in height and increase of width of window to bedroom number 2 and minor internal layout improvements 158 London Road Applicant: Mr J Millard

3/08/0859/FP/SE 3 Storey extension to existing student residential block to form 12 new student residence rooms, common room and study room, new one 3 bed staff house and one new 2 bed staff flat for residential supervision Hockerill Anglo European College, Dunmow Road Applicant: Anne Haydon, Hockerill Anglo European College

3/08/0860/FP/SE 2 storey side and rear extension 6 Apton Road Applicant Mr John Undrill

3/08/0871/FP/FM Single storey rear extension to infill between existing extension and neighbour's extension 42 Portland Road Applicant: Mrs Zoe Burnet 3/08/0879/FP/MP Two storey side extension and alterations 57 Thorley Hill Applicant: Mr and Mrs Martin

3/08/0919/FP/FM First floor extension to rear of dwelling (amendment to scheme approved under planning ref. 3/07/2325/FP) 30 Church Street Applicant: Mr Andrew Mills

3/08/0926/FP/SE First floor extension over existing double garage 41 Larksway Applicant: Mr Andy Baker 3/08/0937/OP/FM Outline planning permission for change of use of land and erection of 1no detached dwelling with access from existing highway Land adjacent to 133 and driveway to 'The Grange', Rye Street Applicant: Mr G N Keay and Mrs P J Kell 3/08/0952/FP/CD Single storey rear extension 5 Johns Road Applicant: M T Bennett

ii) Objections were made on the following applications:-

3/08/0814/FP/LH Erection of single storey rear extension with accommodation within roof and glazed link to proposed extension 4 Clayponds Applicant: Mr I Shearer Reason: i Over development of the site ii Out of keeping with the street scene. Contrary to Policy ENV1 of the East Herts Council Local Plan 2nd review.

3/08/0865/FP/FM Change of use from dwelling house (C3) to use as a guest house 35 Haymeads Lane Applicant: Mr Anand Sharma Reason: i The proposal was considered unsuitable for the area and would lead to additional traffic in an already particularly congested traffic black spot. ii Contrary to Policy STC5 of the East Herts Local Plan 2nd review iii Contrary to the Town Council Policy BSP002. The garage should be used for the housing of private vehicles and not as additional accommodation or for any commercial activities. This would ensure the continued provision of off street parking facilities in the interest of highway safety and to safeguard the amenities of adjoining occupiers in accordance with Policy ENV9 and appendix iv of the East Herts Local Plan 2nd review.

3/08/0915/FP/SE Single new detached dwelling 77 Warwick Road Applicant: Mr Frazer Edwards i Over development of the site resulting in cramming ii Alteration of the character of Warwick Road. iii Contrary to Policy ENV11 of the East Herts Local Plan 2nd review.
iii) The following application was noted:-

3/08/0855/FP/NB Two storey front extension to Squash Club
Silver Leys, Hadham Road
Applicant: Bishop's Stortford Squash Club

76. PLANNING DECISIONS

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

77. APPEALS

To note the following appeals to be determined by the written representation procedure:

3/07/2612/FP/SE Erection of a single storey rear extension, two storey side extension, front garage extension and conversion to ancillary accommodation. Loft conversion with front and rear dormers.
1 Drovers Way

3/08/0255/FP/SE Proposed two storey dwelling house
99 Dimsdale Crecent
Appellant: Mr Matthew Allerton-Austin

RESOLVED: that the appeals be noted.

78. STREET NAMING AND NUMBERING

Members had been circulated with a copy of an email received from Mr Peter Samson who had requested a street to be named in commemoration of his father, Dr Leopold Samson who had been the Head of the Herts and Essex Hospital Maternity Unit from 1948 until his death in 1974. Members were happy to add the name of Leopold Samson to the list of street names for future consideration.

It was also requested that the Local History Society be reminded of the need to forward further suggestions for street names and that the definitive list be included on the website in order to give members of the public the opportunity to comment or to suggest additional names.

RESOLVED: that the name Leopold Samson be added to the list of potential street names for future consideration.

79. UP-DATED REPORTS
None.
80. ITEMS FOR FUTURE AGENDA

Regional Spatial Strategy - Examination in Public in October. To consider representation at the hearing.

81. URGENT BUSINESS

None.


Meeting closed at 8.10 pm

MINUTES OF MEETING OF FINANCE AND GENERAL PURPOSES COMMITTEE
HELD ON MONDAY 9 JUNE 2008

Cllr A Burlton
* Cllr K Warnell
Cllr Mrs J Demonti
* Cllr M Wood
* Cllr R Gilbert
* Cllr Miss C Woodman
Cllr A Graham
* Cllr J Wyllie
* Cllr Mrs Hollebon
* Cllr R Taylor (ex-officio)

* denotes present


61. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE

Apologies for absence were received from Cllr Burlton (holiday),
Cllr Demonti (holiday), and Cllr Graham (business commitments)

62. DECLARATION OF INTEREST

None.

63. MINUTES OF THE MEETING HELD ON 31 MARCH 2008

RESOLVED: that the minutes be accepted as a true record of the proceedings and signed by the Chairman.

64. MINUTES OF THE MEETING HELD ON 19 MAY 2008

RESOLVED: that the minutes be accepted as a true record of the proceedings and signed by the Chairman.

65. MATTERS ARISING

None.

66. ACCOUNTS AND BUDGET STATEMENT TO 27 MAY 2008

(i) Accounts

Members had been circulated with a copy of the attached list of accounts for payment.

RESOLVED: that the accounts as set out in the attached schedule in the sum of £118,740.66 be duly authorised for payment

(ii) Budget Statement

Members had been circulated with the attached budget statement to
3 June 2008.

RESOLVED: that the contents of the Statement be received

67. BURIAL FEES

Members had been circulated with a copy of a report compiled by the Clerk setting out the recommended increases in the burial fees.

Concerns were expressed that, despite the additional land being transferred from East Herts Council, there was only, at best, a maximum of ten years left in the New Cemetery. This represented a major problem for the Town Council in meeting its statutory obligation and was clearly something which needed to be given consideration with some degree of urgency.

Members felt that the provision of additional burial land should come within the remit of a Task and Finish Group and they RECOMMENDED that the Town Council authorise the Finance and General Purposes Committee to action this matter.

68. FINANCIAL ACCOUNTS 2007/2008

Members had been circulated with a copy of the unaudited accounts for the financial year ended 31 March 2008.

RESOLVED: that the accounts be received

69. ANNUAL GOVERNANCE STATEMENT

Regulation 4 of the Accounts and Audit Regulations 2003, empower the Town Council to produce an Annual Governance Statement as part of its financial accounts. Members had been circulated with a copy of the Statement for approval.

RECOMMENDED: that the contents of the Statement be approved

70. BANK ACCOUNT FOR TCMP

The Chairman informed members that he had spoken to the Town Centre Manager who was currently in the process of collating information from other towns and organisations. Until such information was available, it was RESOLVED that this matter be deferred.

71. ITEMS FOR FUTURE AGENDA

None.

72. URGENT BUSINESS

None.


There being no further business the meeting closed at 8.05pm.

MINUTES OF ALLOTMENT MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE MONDAY 2 JUNE 2008

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

* denotes present

In attendance: Mr Thake

38. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE

Apologies were received from Cllr Armstrong (business commitments),
Cllr Mrs Demonti (holiday), Cllr Demonti (holiday), Mr Cornell (previous engagement).

39. SUSPENSION OF STANDING ORDERS

Not applicable.

40. PRESENTATION BY MR A LEWIS, BISHOP'S STORTFORD
BEE KEEPING ASSOCIATION

Mr Lewis was not in attendance.

41. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

None.

42. MINUTES OF THE MEETING HELD ON 28 JANUARY 2008

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

43. MINUTES OF THE MEETING HELD ON 19 MAY 2008

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

44. MATTERS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES

i) Min 523 (295) - Publicising Allotments via East Herts Council
To note that this matter would be pursued at an appropriate time.

ii) Min 523 (iv) - Tractor
The Clerk informed members that he had not pursued the joint purchase of a tractor with Birchanger Wood Trust due to the arrangement not being in the interest of the Town Council. However, a tractor had been purchased for the sole use of the Town Council.

iii) Min 528 (ii) - Haymeads Lane - Provision of Hardstand
The Clerk informed members that a quotation had been received from
PP Building Services in the sum of £1,885 to provide a car parking area.

RESOLVED: that the quotation be accepted

iv) Min 528 (iii) - Ward Crescent Allotment Site - Disposal of Compostable Waste
The Clerk confirmed that a letter had been issued to all allotment holders requesting them to discontinue the practice of dumping allotment waste on the site. The Chairman stated that only one allotment holder had responded and he read out the contents of the letter. The general feeling of members was that there was no reason why allotment holders could not compost all their waste, as was the practice on other sites.

Reference was made to a publication by East Herts Council on this very subject, which, members felt, should be sent to all allotment holders on the site. An accompanying letter should state that, if the practice continues, then the Management Committee may have to consider imposing a surcharge on the rent to cover the costs of removing the waste.

v) Min 528 (iv) - Hallingbury Road West Allotment Site
Cllr Gilbert stated that the wire netting on the western boundary of the site had been further damaged.

45. CURRENT WAITING LIST AND VACANT PLOTS

Members had been circulated with a copy of the current waiting list and vacant plots. Cllr Woodward drew attention to the detailed information contained on the individual plot holders, which he felt should be confidential, as the public display of such information might breach data protection legislation.

With regard to cultivated plots, members were informed that work had been carried out on a number of sites and the Site Agents would be contacted to establish what further action was required to bring other plots under cultivation.

Mr Lacey stated that there was now only one allotment holder on the Hallingbury Road West waiting list and two on the Cricketfield Lane site. Mr Lacey further stated that the dividing up of large plots into smaller units was a contributing factor in the take up of allotments. He made a request that the Council's Foreman be requested to strim all the vacant plots on the site.

A reference was made to the dispute with Mr Cracknell (Haymeads Lane) which would appear to have been satisfactorily concluded. However, the Clerk stated that the Site Agent's plot on Ward Crescent Allotment was in a very untidy state. Members requested that a letter be forwarded to the plot holder with a request to tidy up the site.

RESOLVED: that the current waiting list and vacant plots schedule be noted.

46. BULK DELIVERIES OF EAST HERTS COUNCIL HOUSEHOLD WASTE

The Clerk referred to an e-mail which he had received from Mr Peter Douglas, the Site Agent on Thornbera Road Allotments, with regard to the above matter.

East Herts Council's garden waste, which was collected from households, was composted and sold in bags to the public. Arrangements could also be made for bulk purchases. Mr Douglas suggested that the Town Council could arrange the collection and delivery to each site on behalf of the Allotment holders.

The general feeling of members was that it would be inappropriate for the Town Council to participate in the scheme. Nevertheless, it was suggested that a letter be forwarded to the Site Agents to gauge the feelings of the Allotment holders.

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

i) Haymeads Lane Allotment Site - Public Right of Way
Cllr Wood referred to the erection of a public footpath sign, which had been positioned at the entrance to the site. Correspondence with Herts County Council had established that a definitive footpath ran along the eastern boundary. As the path did not meet up with any other right of way and ended midway into the allotment site, the Clerk confirmed that he had written to the Rights of Way Office with a view to applying for an Extinguishment Order.

ii) Hallingbury Road West Allotment Site
Mr Lacey reported that a number of sheds had been broken into, although no equipment had been stolen. However, the sheds had been used by someone as an overnight stay. The Police had been informed.

iii) Allotments for the Disabled
Cllr Woodward referred to this matter which he was very keen to pursue, although recognising that it would be costly to implement a scheme. Nevertheless, it was agreed that costings be ascertained, with a view that such expenditure be budgeted over a two year period.

iv) Public Notices on Allotment Sites
To note that a grant of £1,000 had been received from the STACC Fund to provide notice boards for the use of allotment holders. Mr Peter Douglas was organising the installation.

v) Beekeeping
Members were disappointed that Mr Lewis had not attended the meeting and the Clerk was requested to establish whether Mr Lewis would be prepared to attend a future meeting.

vi) Informal Meetings of Site Agents
The following information was given to members:-
a) Allotment Competition
Confirmed that the Competition would continue for another year. A suggestion was made that, as an incentive to entering the Competition, a prize of a rent free allotment (equivalent to 10 rods) be offered for the best plot on the site. b) Cultivation of Empty Plots
This was proceeding both on request and as part of the drive to bring more land under cultivation. c) Hardstanding - Haymeads Lane
Quotation accepted for the work to proceed. d) Cricketfield Lane
Letters had been forwarded to all allotment holders to those persons not cultivating their plots. e) Hallingbury Road West
Boundary fencing confirmed f) Site Agents - Public Liability
Request to be added to the Town Council's Policy - not possible g) Thornbera Road - Site Agent's Shed
Cleared h) Barrells Down Road - Overgrown Foliage
Cleared i) London Road - Greenhouse
Permission given

48. ITEMS FOR FUTURE AGENDA

i) Review of Allotment Rents
ii) Dig In - School Initiative

49. URGENT BUSINESS

Cllr Woodward tabled for members' information an article entitled 'Dig In' which referred to an initiative to promote awareness of allotments for young children. Members felt that such an initiative could blend in well with the school curriculum and that a letter should be forwarded to all the JMI schools to ascertain whether they would be interested in participating. An allotment(s) close to the school could be made available, should there be a demand. The Clerk was requested to approach the following:-

Windhill (Ward Crescent/The Firs)
Thorn Grove (Haymeads/Hallingbury Road)
Northgate (Cricketfield Lane/Barrells Down Road)
Richard Whittington (Thornbera Road)
St Michael's (The Firs)
Manor Fields (Ward Crescent)
Thorley Hill (Thornbera Road)

There being no further business, the meeting closed at 8.30pm

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