Kent County Council News

Cinque Port Town of New Romney

Town Clerk’s Office Town Hall New Romney Kent TN28 8BT

Tel: New Romney 01797 362348 Mrs C. Newcombe Town Clerk and Responsible Financial Officer

Ref: CN/3005 4th November 2020

Dear Councillor,

A MEETING OF NEW ROMNEY TOWN COUNCIL WILL BE HELD REMOTELY ON WEDNESDAY 11TH NOVEMBER 2020 AT 6.45 PM.

Members of the public are welcome to follow this meeting live.

Signed:

C Newcombe

Mrs. Catherine Newcombe Town Clerk and Responsible Financial Officer

Email: [email protected]

PLEASE NOTE: The afore-mentioned meeting will be held remotely and will commence at 6.45pm.

Members of Public are welcome to join this Zoom Meeting live using the following link:

Join Zoom Meeting https://zoom.us/j/94537086623?pwd=cXY4eGRmN213WFZKWHpQcWRLdXZydz09

Meeting ID: 945 3708 6623 Passcode: 062681

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PUBLIC PARTICIPATION AT VIRTUAL TOWN COUNCIL MEETINGS 1. Who can participate in a New Romney Town Council meeting?

All Members of the Public may follow the Council meeting live via Zoom using the published invitation link. As well as members of the Council (or relevant Council Committee) and Council Officers participating remotely in the meeting, a maximum of TWO members of public may also participate remotely by submitting a question at a meeting. The question must relate to a matter affecting the parish of New Romney and/or its residents. Each submission must last no longer than 3 minutes in total.

Due to current remote working practices, any such question can be delivered by way of a written statement to be submitted by email by midday on the day of the Council meeting - to be read out by the Clerk during the meeting. The question submitted should be mindful of the 3 minute speaking time available. The reading of the question will allow for any mid-sentence delivery to be completed before being stopped at the three minute deadline. If any Member of Public does not have access to email, a question can be submitted by a representative on their behalf.

Any such questions should be emailed to: [email protected] by midday on the day of the Council meeting.

2. How and when do I have to let the council know that I want to participate?

You will need to give written notice (via email) that you would like to participate by 3pm on the Friday before the meeting, providing your name and contact details and a summary of what your question subject will be. No late notifications can be accepted.

3. What happens if more than two local residents want to participate by submitting questions to the Council?

The system will operate on the basis of “first come, first served” as identified by the Clerk. You will be notified as soon as possible after your ‘notification of wish to participate’ has been received as to whether or not you will be able to participate virtually (by the reading of your submission).

4. What will happen at the Council meeting?

Your question will be read aloud by the Clerk during the agenda item: Public Questions. If it is possible for the Chairman to provide a response to your question at the meeting, he/she will do so. If it is not possible to

2 | P a g e provide a response at that time, a response will be provided in writing – usually within 28 days of the meeting taking place.

Agendas and reports for meetings will be available at least 3 working days and usually 7 weekdays before the date of the meeting on the Town Council website. Any supplementary sheets will be available the day before the meeting and can be viewed at www.newromney-tc.gov.uk

THE LAWS OF LIBEL AND SLANDER

• These laws are very strict.

• If, in public, you say something about a person that is not true, even if you believe it to be true, you may be sued and have to pay compensation. Therefore, you need to be very careful about any criticism you wish to make of people in any written submission.

• Councillors are able to speak more freely and bluntly while in Council or Committee meetings than members of the public.

• You, as a member of the public, do not have the same protection.

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FULL COUNCIL MEETING WEDNESDAY 11TH NOVEMBER 2020 AT 6.45PM

AGENDA

1. APOLOGIES: To receive the apologies of councillors unable to attend and approve reasons for absence.

2. DISPENSATION TO PARTICIPATE: To receive and note any applications granted by the Town Clerk, on behalf of the Town Council, for dispensation to participate in Meetings of New Romney Town Council.

3. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: Councillors to declare any Disclosable Pecuniary Interests or Other Significant or Personal Interests they may have in items on the agenda this evening.

4. REPORT OF THE KENT COUNTY COUNCILLOR (Encs*): To receive the report of the County Councillor for Romney Marsh (who is requested to provide a written copy of the report).

5. REPORTS OF SHEPWAY DISTRICT COUNCILLORS (Encs*): To receive the reports of the District Councillors for New Romney’s Town and Coast Wards (who are each requested to provide a written copy of the relevant report).

6. ADJOURNMENT OF MEETING: To formally adjourn the meeting of the Council for a maximum period of fifteen minutes to allow for an allocated public session.

7. PUBLIC QUESTIONS: Members of the public may put questions to the Chairman of the Council for a period of fifteen minutes regarding matters to do with the town of New Romney and its coastal areas of Littlestone and Greatstone, including items on the agenda. Any Councillors who have declared an “Other Significant Interest” in matters to be discussed at this meeting will also have the opportunity to speak within the session set aside for public participation, in accordance with the Town Council’s Code of Conduct Item 5(3)(b), which reads as follows:

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“ Where you have an Other Significant Interest in any business of the Authority, you may... make representations, answer questions or give evidence relating to the business, provided that the public are also allowed to attend the meeting for the same purpose.”

8. RE-CONVENING OF MEETING: To formally re-convene the meeting of the Council.

9. MINUTES (Encs*): (i) To approve the minutes of the Full Council Meeting held on 14th October 2020 (Attached hereto*).

10. MAYOR’S REPORT AND COMMUNICATIONS (ENCS*): To receive and note the report of the Mayor: (i) Mayor’s Civic Function List – Enclosed herewith*. (ii) Any Communications received by or for the Mayor

11. TOWN CLERK’S REPORT (Encs*): To receive and note the Town Clerk’s report (Attached hereto*).

12. CAPITAL PROJECTS REPORT (Encs*): To receive and note the report on Capital Projects currently being undertaken, if available.  Proposed Community Hall and Sports Pavilion

13. STANDING ORDER No.14: The Mayor to consider any questions raised by Councillors, of which proper notice has been given (three working days minimum).

14. STANDING COMMITTEES (Encs*): To receive and note the minutes of the following Standing Committee meetings and resolutions detailed therein and to ratify any recommendations also detailed therein, if required:

(i) Personnel Panel (a) Meeting held on 16th October 2020 (Enclosed herewith*) (b) Meeting held on 30th October 2020 (Enclosed herewith*)

(ii) Finance & General Purposes Committee Meeting held on 21st October 2020 (Enclosed herewith*)

(iii) Planning and Environment Committee Meeting held on 28th October 2020 (Enclosed herewith*)

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15. TOWN CLERK’S FINANCIAL REPORTS FOR 2020-21: To consider final payments and receipts and bank reconciliations for September and October 2020, if available.

16. COUNCIL REPRESENTATIVES’ REPORTS (Encs*): To receive and note any written reports of Representatives on Outside Bodies, and from Councillors who have attended other meetings or fixtures on behalf of New Romney Town Council since the last ordinary meeting of the Council, if available.

 New Romney in Bloom

17. KENT COUNTY COUNCIL BUDGET CONSULTATION (Encs*): To consider submission of a Town Council response to the afore- mentioned consultation.

18. FOLKESTONE & HYTHE DISTRICT COUNCIL CORPORATE PLAN CONSULTATION (Encs*): To consider submission of a Town Council response to the afore- mentioned consultation.

19. FOLKESTONE & HYTHE DISTRICT COUNCIL HIGH STREET IMPROVEMENT FUND To delegate authority to the Town Clerk to submit an application for the afore-mentioned Grant Funding as and when the drafting of a High Street Improvement Project in line with that identified within the New Romney Socio-Economic Plan has been completed.

20. EXCLUSION OF PUBLIC AND PRESS: To consider exclusion of public and press in accordance with Standing Order No.34 (a), which states that ‘in view of the special and confidential nature of the business about to be transacted, it is advisable in the public interest that the public and press be temporarily excluded [from the meeting] and they are instructed to withdraw’ due to the fact that the following agenda items relate to legal matters.

21. ON-GOING MATTERS: To consider any updates or additional information and/or progress on any on-going legal matters (Confidential report to follow if appropriate) and to take any action thereon as may be deemed necessary.

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22. PERSONNEL MATTERS: To receive and note any report regarding Personnel Matters (Confidential report to follow if appropriate) and take any such action as may be deemed necessary thereon.

23. LAND AND TENANCY MATTERS: To consider matters pertaining to Town Council Land and Tenancies (confidential report to follow if appropriate) and take any such action as may be deemed necessary thereon.

24. CONCLUSION OF PRIVATE SESSION: To consider concluding private session, if appropriate.

Town Clerk and Responsible Financial Officer – 6th October 2020

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AGENDA ITEM 4

KCC Member for Romney Marsh Report 02.11.20 Here is my monthly report. I had this email today from my Leader Cllr. Roger Gough in response to the announcement of a second ‘Lockdown’…

Kent County Council prepared as second national lockdown looms

The Leader of Kent County Council has called on everyone in Kent to stay strong and stick to government guidance as we move into another national lockdown.

From Thursday (November 5) everyone must stay at home, leaving only for a limited set of reasons, and all ‘non-essential’ shops must close until December 2.

England's regional tiered system is then expected to be reintroduced.

KCC Leader Roger Gough said: “Once again we face an enormous challenge from coronavirus and its impact on our lives, our economy and our communities.

“My priority is to ensure that we continue to deliver, within Government guidelines, the important and trusted services we have always provided for the people of Kent.

“Our focus throughout this pandemic has been to look after the most vulnerable people in the county by maintaining essential day-to-day services, and the health and wellbeing of our residents remains our priority as we move into another national lockdown.

“Working with our partners in district and borough councils we will strive to ensure that everyone is safeguarded and that no one is left isolated.

“The community spirit we have seen throughout this challenging year has been incredible and I now urge everyone across Kent to support each other, along with their neighbours and friends, to keep Kent safe over the coming weeks.

“I know how hard the prospect of another national lockdown is, and we will do everything we can to support local businesses, many of which have already suffered and will have to now remain closed until December.

“Ultimately, we will come through this and there will be relief for businesses, livelihoods and people’s lives. It is now vital that we not only follow the guidance and stick to the rules, but that we continue to work to ensure that a robust Test and Trace system is in place.

“I want to reassure you that we are working closely with our colleagues in Public Health to make sure that this can be implemented across Kent as soon as possible.

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“Each and every one of us must continue to protect each other from this devastating virus. It is vital that we follow the Government rules to save lives, protect the NHS, keep our loved ones safe and come through this lockdown together.”

In Kent:  HWRCs will remain open for socially distanced use and can be booked here.  Social care for children and adults will continue as before  KCC will continue to support schools to remain open to pupils all the while Government says it is safe for them to do so  Bus services will continue to run and are being provided in accordance with Government guidance  Country Parks and Public Rights of Way will remain open for exercise  KCC has extended its financial support of the Covid-19 Business Helpline, adding £100,000 to keep it running until the end of the year. Businesses can get up to date support from a team of advisors. Full details are at https://www.askphil.biz  Weddings and civil partnerships during this period will not take place and we will be in touch with all couples directly as soon as possible affected by this second lockdown.

The local Public Health England team has been local contact tracing, working with Kent County Council Public Health since the pandemic started.

The KCC Public Health officers are working together with officers from other directorates in the council to implement a local track and trace system.

This will continue to be an element of the national Test and Trace system and will utilise the experience of the Kent Together helpline, using call handlers who will contact people that the Government Track and Trace system has not been able to contact.

Once contacted, the advisors will be able to give advice on isolation and testing, establish close contacts, upload details to the National Contact Tracing system, and signpost to assistance available.

KCC Public Health Director Andrew Scott-Clark said: “My message to you is simply to follow the rules of lockdown; minimise social contact with people as much as possible, minimise leaving your home as much as possible, wear a mask in public places where appropriate and maintain good hand hygiene.

“Please look out for those in your local community who may need extra support as winter approaches.

“The guidance from government is clear on who you can meet and where; please play your part to help Protect Kent and Medway and stay safe during the lockdown period.”

Support services are available at www.oneyoukent.org.uk and www.kent.gov.uk/wellbeing

There is also a specific site to help families with children or young people who might be experiencing difficulties at www.kent.gov.uk/wellbeingfamilies

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For information on how the national lockdown may be affecting other health services, click here.

If you are vulnerable and need urgent support that cannot be met through existing support networks, get in touch with Kent Together at http://www.kent.gov.uk/KentTogether or call 03000 419292.

The government’s announcement on Saturday stated people can only leave their homes for:  education  work, if you cannot work from home  exercise and recreation outdoors, with your household, support bubble or on your own with one person from another household (children under school age, as well as those dependent on round-the-clock care, such as those with severe disabilities, who are with their parents will not count towards the limit on two people meeting outside).  all medical reasons, appointments and to escape injury or harm  shopping for food and essentials  providing care for vulnerable people, or as a volunteer Non-essential shops, leisure and entertainment venues will all be closed. Click and collect services and essential shops, including supermarkets, will remain open. Pubs, bars, restaurants must close, except for takeaway and delivery services.

The Coronavirus furlough scheme will remain open until December, with employees receiving 80% of their current salary for hours not worked, up to a maximum of £2,500.

Potholes & Patching

For the latest updates to services in Kent, visit www.kent.gov.uk/coronavirus Here is the last figures I have on road repairs, still doing their best during the pandemic.

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If you see a problem, please report it online

https://webapps.kent.gov.uk/KCC.KHSFaultsGIS.Web.Sites.Public/ReportAFault.aspx

Kent County Council News

With the ever growing economic damage that Covid 19 has inflicted on the Marsh and it’s residents. At the next full Council meeting I have put a question to Mike Whiting Cabinet Member for Economic Development…

“The tourism economy in my Division of Romney Marsh, was hugely hit by the pandemic back in March and continues to struggle. What help can the Cabinet Member offer businesses in my area, and those who work for them, who continue to struggle?”

I will report back on the answer given.

Tony

Tony Hills, Kent County Councillor for Romney Marsh & F&H DC Walland & Denge Marsh ward. For details on how I will use your information please click here for my privacy notice. Mobile: 07860 295730

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AGENDA ITEM 5

District Councillor’s Report by Councillor Patricia Rolfe NRTC- Full Council – 11th November 2020

November 2020 Firstly, and as always, I hope this finds my fellow Town Councillors and Clerks well. The challenges of living with a global pandemic continue to affect our local residents and businesses and the prospect of a second lockdown (I am writing this ahead of the 5th November deadline) will affect many people’s livelihood’s and has the potential to impact the health and wellbeing of many more. However, we are in the middle of a war – against an invisible foe, and so we need to do all we can to save lives and protect the NHS. I am very conscious however, that there is a cost to that.

Here is a summary of some, but not all of the matters that I have dealt with since my last report to you in September

Community Hubs & the High Sheriff of Kent Last week I joined Jon Wilson and his Team at the Romney Marsh Day Centre when the new High Sheriff of Kent – Remony Millwater, visited the Centre to learn about its’ work, particularly, its’ key role as one of three Community Hubs that were set up across the District in Folkestone, Hythe & New Romney were co-ordinated by FHDC at the behest of the government. The range of stakeholders involved in this initiative was vast but most importantly, it was a catalyst for developing an army of willing volunteers who helped deliver the various services on offer – meals on wheels, telephone advice etc. Again, huge thanks to everyone involved and congratulations on a job well done. As we approach the next lockdown we have some comfort knowing that the hub is at the heart of our community helping to support the vulnerable

Council Meetings Full Council I have attended two meetings of Full Council. On 16th September an Extraordinary Meeting of the Council was held to discuss and approve the new Local Places and Policies Local Plan. This is an important document that will provide the basis for sustainable development across the District. Whilst some of the sites proposed for new housing developments remain controversial, the fact that the District now has an approved Plan will leave it less vulnerable to indiscriminate housing developments. An Ordinary Meeting of Full Council was held last month which covered a range of issues which included: - There continues to be the opportunity to attend Q&A sessions with the Leader, during which time Councillor Monk responds to queries from residents and Councillors about matters the Council is dealing with. They worked well and have been very informative. If any Council or Resident has a question on matters within the remit of the District Council then this forum provides an opportunity for you. All questions and associated answers are available on the Council’s website

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Overview & Scrutiny The most recent meeting of the Overview & Scrutiny Committee included, amongst other matters, a presentation by the Community Safety Partnership on the work of the Community Safety Unit. A full recording is available via the Council’s You Tube portal and this may be of interest to Town Councillors since it covers the work and remit of a very important element of the Council’s role in co-ordinating all aspects of Community Safety across the District.

I have also been appointed a member of a new Finance and Performance Scrutiny sub-Committee and will be attending the inaugural meeting tonight. This is linked to the changes that have been implemented to the way that the Overview & Scrutiny Committee works to enable its members to input into decisions that are being made at an earlier stage.

Residents’ issue I continue to deal with issues raised by local residents which include but are not limited to parking, local speeding issues, planning applications, poor housing conditions and most recently potential homelessness issues faced by tenants. Cllr Wimble and I have continued to be involved in highlighting the matter of the unlawful Traveller encampment that appeared on the A259 at Old Romney. The District Council’s enforcement Team have obtained an injunction and the current situation is that a Planning application has been submitted by the Landowner. A Principal Planning Officer summarised the situation in early October as follows:

Following complaints that the Council has received regarding hard surfacing being laid and mobile homes being brought onto this site and the serving of a Temporary Stop Notice in August, the Council has obtained an injunction until the 14th of October, when there will be a full hearing. The injunction prevents any further development or more caravans being installed on the land.

As you are no doubt aware, the Council has received a planning application (reference 20/1150/FH) for development on the site which will be determined with regard to national and local planning policy.

Any comments regarding the application can be sent to planning@folkestone- hythe.gov.uk quoting the application reference 20/1150/FH.

Oportunitas I presented the company’s Business Plan for 2020-2022 to Cabinet on 16th September. This received formal approval and will enable this key regeneration driver to continue its development of the Royal Victoria Hospital whilst maintaining its property portfolio. The Company has a role in providing income for the Council but also sets a benchmark for good practice within the Private Rental Sector.

Linked to the issue of Housing – the District Council has overseen the monumental task of bringing all of its social housing stock ‘in house’ following the demise of East Kent Housing. New systems are being put in place to 13 | P a g e address matters such as continued safety compliance, renovation of existing units and data management.

Romney Marsh Partnership I am pleased to report that Dave Illsley has taken on the role of interim RMP co- ordinator. He brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the role having previously worked for the District Council for many years. I am looking forward to working with him as we reach a pivotal stage in the development of the Partnership. Plans are still being made to submit a major funding application to the NDA to support the work of the Partnership, and in particular fund the role of Romney Marsh Partnership co-ordinator. We are in the process of preparing to bid for funding to facilitate a range of work streams that focus on 5 key areas that support projects which:  Maximise opportunities in the nuclear, tourism and high-value sectors  Improve accessibility to enable better workforce and community mobility  Encourage and support business development  Realise the workforce potential through skills development and  Enhance infrastructure

The Partnership itself involves representatives from 5 local authorities (East Sussex CC, Kent CC, Folkestone & Hythe DC, Ashford Borough Council and Rother District Council) and other key stakeholders. We will be working to develop a range of initiatives over the coming months as part of the drive to address the potential negative impacts of the decommissioning of Dungeness. The Partnership’s role in providing a strategic steer for the regeneration of the area is noted by the NDA which has approved its 5 key pillars by endorsing the workstreams identified by the RMP within its recently published socio-economic plan.

Health matters I have attended 2 meetings of the Project Board whose members are tasked with developing a new Primary Care multi-Agency Health Centre in New Romney. KCC has appointed a dedicated Project Manager and we are working with him to develop and improve the potential Business Plan for the new facility. I would suggest that creating improved localised Centres which include a wider range of health services (such as the one being proposed) would help reduce the spread of the virus since people would not have to travel. None of us know how long Covid-19 will be with us with some health professionals arguing that it is so embedded in our global community that it is something we may have to learn to both manage, but also deal with and live with.

I have also attended briefings of the KCC Health & Overview Scrutiny Committee

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New project - Everywhere means something to someone I thought you may all be interested in another exciting initiative being undertaken by the well-respected Arts charity - Strange Cargo. A summary of the project is outlined in the email I received from the charity's creative director and attached you will find some additional information. Please share this with those you know to enable as many people as possible to take part. We all need some good news stories at this time!

Quote Dear Cllr Rolfe

Thank you for your previous interest and support for our project and I am delighted to be writing to let you know that Everywhere Means Something to Someone – the people's guidebook to Romney Marsh is now up and running. When we last corresponded, we were hoping to get started shortly and we have finally raised sufficient funding to begin the project. We are arranging for 11,500 specially printed free post envelopes to be delivered to every letterbox on Romney Marsh to ensure that anyone who wants to join in will be able to do so.

I have attached a press release about the project, together with the poster and envelope images, so that you will recognise it when your envelope arrives, which has a tear off page to write on and post back to us. We would appreciate you sharing news about how to join in with your community. Strange Cargo is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year and what better way to do so, than to create a guidebook about one of the most fascinating places in the UK.

We are still fundraising towards the project, but have had support from a number of sources which means that we can begin the process of collecting the content. If you have any questions, or would like an update on progress, please don't hesitate to let me know – and we hope that you will be able to share a story too. We will endeavour to include as many stories as possible and will be printing everyone’s name who contributes a story in the finished book, even if we are unable to include every story that we receive.

Thank you and we are very much looking forward working on Romney Marsh.

Unquote

High Street Fund With the help of an Economic Development Officer and in my role as Chair of New Romney Coastal Community Team, I met with a representative of Martello BC who is keen to help us plan potential improvements to the High Street that have been identified within the New Romney Socio-Economic Plan. Cllr Wimble joined the Town Clerk, a High Street Regeneration Officer and a director from Martello BC for a socially distanced tour of the Town to enable us to identify the proposed locations for new benches, planters, signage and other improvements – most of which are noted within the aforementioned Plan. 15 | P a g e

It is hoped that New Romney Town Council members will give authority for the Town Clerk to submit applications to the FHDC High Street Fund to enable these regeneration projects to be implemented. I can provide further detail at the meeting but would observe (and I am sure that Cllr Wimble would agree) that the High Street Fund is a one off opportunity to access funding to help regenerate the business heart of our Town so we need to make the most of it as other Town Council’s across the District have already done so. Once that money is gone – it is gone!

Together with Cllr Wimble, I attended a Funding Panel meeting to look at the applications from New Romney. All successful projects are published on the Council’s website. Please note that I did not vote on any application having necessarily declared an interest in the High Street

Additional matters of note Keep safe and well everyone

I can be contacted on: [email protected] Councillor Patricia Rolfe 3rd November 2020 E&OE

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AGENDA ITEM 9 54

MINUTES of A Remote Meeting of New Romney Town Council Held on Wednesday 14th October 2020 Commencing at 6.45pm

PRESENT: The Right Worshipful the Mayor of New Romney, Councillor Paul Thomas

Town Ward: Councillors: A Rodriguez, Mrs B Lonbay Kapoor, J Rivers, and Rev Cn S McLachlan

Coast Ward: Councillors: Mrs P Metcalfe, Ms W Nevard and J Picco

In Attendance: Town Clerk - Mrs C Newcombe Finance Clerk - Mrs C T Morris Members of Public - 1 County Councillor - Councillor Hills

IN THE CHAIR The Mayor – Councillor P Thomas

The business of the Council commenced @ 6.45PM with 1 member of public in attendance.

151/2020-21 APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE Apologies were received and noted, as follows:

Councillor Wimble - who was attending a District Council meeting Councillor Coe - for technical reasons Councillor Tillson - for technical reasons Councillor Miss Hiscock - who was unwell Councillor Hardy - due to work commitments

And it was:

PROPOSED BY: Councillor Mrs Lonbay Kapoor SECONDED BY: Councillor Mrs Metcalfe

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY – that reasons for absence, as detailed above, be approved. 17 | P a g e

Further apologies for absence were subsequently received from Councillor Hardy, who had tried unsuccessfully to join the meeting late due to technical issues.

152/2020-21 DISPENSATION TO PARTICIPATE It was reported that no new applications for Dispensation to Participate had been received.

153/2020-21 DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST @ 6.53PM Councillor Ms Nevard declared a Personal Interest in matters relating to the Capital Project as she is a supporter of the Tax Payers Alliance.

154/2020-21 REPORT OF THE KENT COUNTY COUNCILLOR The report of the Kent County Councillor, which included updates regarding road repairs and sea defences, was duly received and noted with any questions first having been put and answered.

@7.00PM Councillor Rivers left the meeting due to technical issues.

155/2020-21 REPORTS OF THE DISTRICT COUNCILLORS There were no District Councillor Reports available on this occasion.

@7.05PM Councillor Hills left the meeting.

156/2020-21 ADJOURNMENT OF MEETING It was not necessary to adjourn the meeting as no questions from members of the public had been submitted in writing.

157/2020-21 PUBLIC QUESTIONS It was confirmed that no written submissions had been received from members of the public.

158/2020-21 RE-CONVENING OF MEETING Not applicable.

159/2020-21 MINUTES The Chairman presented the minutes of the Full Council meeting held on 16th September 2020, copies of which had been previously circulated to all Councillors and it was:

PROPOSED BY: Councillor Rev Cn McLachlan SECONDED BY: Councillor Picco

RESOLVED – that the minutes of the Full Council meeting held on 16th September 2020 be approved and signed as a true and correct record. NB: Councillor Ms Nevard abstained from voting as she had not been present at the afore-mentioned meeting.

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The afore-mentioned minutes are to be signed by the Chairman at the first available opportunity following this remote meeting.

160/2020-21 MAYOR’S REPORT AND COMMUNICATIONS The Mayor’s report regarding civic engagements attended during September 2020 was duly received and noted. The Mayor also provided a brief summary of draft details for Remembrance Day 2020.

@7.10PM Councillor Rivers re-joined the meeting.

161/2020-21 TOWN CLERK’S REPORT The Town Clerk’s report was received and noted and read as under:

MEETING OF FULL COUNCIL – 14TH OCTOBER 2020 TOWN CLERK’S REPORT

Actions completed since the Full Council meeting held on 16th September 2020

1) Quotations for supply and installation of various types of bollards to protect St. Martin’s Field have been collated for consideration and due to the potential high cost of the project have also been reviewed by a District Council Officer to insure best value. It has not been possible to also obtain quotations for supply and installation of various planters in the current short timeframe – but with the focus on functionality first and aesthetics second, the installation of bollards can proceed with a view to installing planters as a second layer of protection at a later stage (albeit with the intention of this second stage progressing sooner rather than later). Quotations are presented to the Council for consideration at this meeting. 2) Having confirmed consent for installation of scaffolding to front and rear of 60-62 High Street, subject to agreed conditions, a further request has now been submitted for access across St. Martin’s Field for a fixed period, the details of which are presented to Council for consideration at this meeting. 3) Having made a preliminary enquiry regarding potential submission of a grant funding application to the Folkestone & Hythe District Council High Street Fund in respect of St. Martin’s Field Protection, it has been confirmed that this project is not eligible for this funding. Therefore, a funding application will not now be submitted. Having also enquired regarding potential use of s106 funding relating to the old potato factory for High Street Area Improvements, it has also been confirmed that these funds cannot be used for the protection of St. Martin’s Field due to the very restrictive wording within the relevant s106 Agreement.

Other Matters of Report:

None. 19 | P a g e

This concludes the Town Clerk’s report.

Town Clerk 6th September 2020

The Clerk further reported the resignation of Councillor Phipps. It was also verbally reported that there would be an issue with siting of this year’s Town Christmas Tree due to the development works currently being undertaken at the location where the electrical supply is located. It was agreed that liaison with various local organisations would be undertaken with a view to arranging an alternative location.

162/2020-21 CAPITAL PROJECTS REPORT A Community Hall and Sports Pavilion Project Update Report was not available on this occasion.

163/2020-21 STANDING ORDER NO.14 No questions had been raised under Standing Order no.14.

164/2020-21 STANDING COMMITTEES (i) Councillor Mrs Metcalfe presented the minutes of the Personnel Panel meeting held on 5th October 2020, which were duly received and noted. It was then:

PROPOSED BY: Councillor Thomas SECONDED BY: Councillor Picco

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY – that ratification of recommendations made under minute references 135/2020-21 be deferred to confidential session and that confidential session be brought forward to allow the Council to consider the recommendations associated with (a) the Local Investigation and (b) the Grievance Panel Output as laid out under Minute Ref: 135/2020-21.

@7.25PM Councillor Rivers left the meeting due to technical issues.

165/2020-21 EXCLUSION OF PUBLIC AND PRESS @7.28PM having duly considered the nature of matters to be discussed, it was:

PROPOSED BY: Councillor Thomas SECONDED BY: Councillor Mrs Metcalfe

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY – that due to the sensitive nature of the information about to be considered, which may serve to identify one or more individuals and is therefore deemed to be protected data, it is advisable in the public interest that the Public and Press be temporarily excluded and they are now instructed to withdraw.

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The Member of Public left the meeting at that time and joined the virtual waiting room for re-admittance to the meeting following conclusion of private session.

All Councillors confirmed that they were not accompanied and confidential business then ensued.

@7.39PM Councillor Rivers Re-joined the meeting.

166/2020-21 PERSONNEL MATTERS (i) Output of Local Investigation Having duly considered the output of a Local Code of Conduct Investigation and having duly noted recommendations therein, it was:

PROPOSED BY: Councillor Rodriguez SECONDED BY: Councillor Picco

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY – that the recommendation detailed under Personnel Panel minute reference 135/2020-21(i) be ratified; namely that the following recommendations of the Local Investigation Report be implemented as detailed below: 1) Training on Standards Issues and Democratic Process (ie provide Code of Conduct Training for all Councillors). Then: 2) Set up a mediation meeting with a third party mediator to discuss relationships between the subject Member and the Town Council.

(ii) Output of Grievance Panel Having duly received and noted the output report of the Town Council Grievance Panel and having also duly noted recommendations detailed therein, it was:

PROPOSED BY: Councillor Picco SECONDED BY: Councillor Mrs Metcalfe

RESOLVED – that it be formally noted that the output of the appointed Grievance Panel was that the relevant grievance was upheld* and that the following actions be hereby approved and implemented: 1) New Romney Town Council issues an open letter of apology to the relevant Council Officers, including the disapproval of the words, deeds and actions of [ the named subject Member ] highlighting the breaches of Council Protocol. 2) Councillor/Council Officer Protocols laid out in Council Policy Appendix 5(xii) be strengthened. 3) A new Anti-Bullying Policy to address the shortfalls identified in this Grievance Panel Investigation and linked to both the Grievance and Complaints Procedures be introduced.

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4) Standing Orders be reviewed and changes be considered to those specifically identified in this Grievance Panel Investigation.

*The output report having been viewed by all Members present.

Having also duly noted that Council Officers had advised that they had taken their grievance to ACAS, it was:

PROPOSED BY: Councillor Thomas SECONDED BY: Councillor Rodriguez

RESOLVED – that the Chairman of New Romney Town Council act as representative of the Town Council to engage with ACAS Early Conciliation and subsequently provide the Personnel Panel with the proposed COT3 ACAS document for agreement and approval through the Personnel Panel.

167/2020-21 CONCLUSION OF PRIVATE SESSION @8.43PM it was:

PROPOSED BY: Councillor Mrs Metcalfe SECONDED BY: Councillor Rodriguez

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY – that private session be hereby concluded.

@8.44PM the Member of Public was re-admitted to the meeting and the public business of the Council was resumed.

168/2020-21 STANDING COMMITTEES (cntd) (ii)(a) Councillor Thomas presented the minutes of the Planning and Environment Committee meeting held on 15th September 2020, which were duly received and noted. (b) Councillor Thomas presented the minutes of the Planning and Environment Committee meeting held on 7th October 2020, which were duly received and noted.

169/2020-21 TOWN CLERK’S FINANCIAL REPORTS The Clerk presented final payments and receipts and final bank reconciliations for the month of August 2020.

Having duly considered the afore-mentioned financial reports, it was:

PROPOSED BY: Councillor Rev Cn McLachlan SECONDED BY: Councillor Mrs Metcalfe

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY - that the Town Clerk’s Financial Reports for August 2020 be received and approved.

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Payments and receipts for the month of August 2020 being in the amounts as detailed below:

August 2020 Payments: £20,756.16 Receipts: £3,155.90

170/2020-21 COUNCIL REPRESENTATIVES’ REPORTS Councillor Thomas’ written report highlighting salient points discussed at recent KALC (Kent Association of Local Councils) meetings was duly received and noted.

171/2020-21 ST. MARTIN’S FIELD PROTECTIVE MEASURES Having duly considered a range of alternative options for bollards to protect St. Martin’s Field from unlawful encampments, unauthorised vehicular access and incidences of anti-social behaviour, and having also considered potential cost centres from which to fund this project, it was:

PROPOSED BY: Councillor Thomas SECONDED BY: Councillor Mrs Lonbay Kapoor

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY – that identified 2019-20 underspend to a maximum amount of £38,244.00 be allocated to St. Martin’s Field Protective Measures.

It was then:

PROPOSED BY: Councillor Picco SECONDED BY: Councillor Rev Cn McLachlan

RESOLVED – that (i) the quotation for fabrication, supply and installation of 136 static galvanised and powder-coated bollards in Town colours and 8 removable galvanised and powder-coated bollards in Town colours (estimated cost £27,768.00), together with associated ground survey (at additional cost) be approved subject to the maximum allocated budget of £38,244.00 not being exceeded and that (ii) the Town Clerk be authorised to settle all relevant invoices, when received and having first ascertained that all is in order.

Councillor Rev Cn McLachlan voted against the motion and requested that her vote be recorded.

172/2020-21 REQUEST FOR ACCESS OVER TOWN COUNCIL LAND Having duly considered a request for consent for temporary vehicular access over St. Martin’s Field to reduce impact on New Romney High Street due to construction deliveries to 60-62 High Street development, it was:

PROPOSED BY: Councillor Rivers SECONDED BY: Councillor Picco

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RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY – that consent for temporary vehicular access over St. Martin’s Field be granted in respect of the referenced development works for the period specified and over the route as defined.

173/2020-21 SPORTS FIELD DRAINAGE DITCHES – IMPROVEMENT WORKS Having duly considered proposed works to be undertaken by the RMAIDB (Romney Marsh Area Internal Drainage Board) and KWT (Kent Wildlife Trust) to improve drainage, water flow and biodiversity , it was:

PROPOSED BY: Councillor Rodriguez SECONDED BY: Councillor Picco

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY – that improvement works to drainage ditches situated to the southerly and northerly boundaries of Station Road Sports Field, to be undertaken by Romney Marsh Area Internal Drainage Board in liaison with Kent Wildlife Trust and as detailed below, be approved:  Removal of low level fencing along ditch bank(s) for improved access for general on-going maintenance access  Removal of all litter and fly-tipped items from southerly ditch  De-silting of southerly ditch  Removal of up to 50% of trees along sports field edge of northerly drainage ditch  Pollarding of remaining trees along sports field edge of northerly ditch  Removal of all litter and fly-tipped items from northerly ditch  De-silting of northerly ditch at a future date  Depositing of silt to rear of sports field under trees to south westerly boundary  Depositing other biodegradable waste (logs) to rear of sports field under trees to south westerly boundary (will create improved biodiversity habitat) 174/2020-21 DEFERMENT OF BUSINESS @9.38PM Noting the late time, it was:

PROPOSED BY: Councillor Rivers SECONDED BY: Councillor Mrs Metcalfe

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY – that remaining items of business be deferred to a future meeting of the Town Council.

The Chairman thanked the Councillors and Clerks for their attendance and the meeting then concluded @ 9.40PM.

NB: All documents referred to herein are available at the Town Hall for perusal on request, except for those documents of a sensitive / legal nature discussed in private session, including documents relating to staff matters which remain Private and Confidential in accordance with Data Protection legislation.

Minutes prepared by the Town Clerk 24 | P a g e

AGENDA ITEM 10

Mayors' Report – October 2020

On Wednesday 28th October 2020, I attended the Romney Marsh Day Centre to meet with the new High Sheriff of Kent, Mrs Remony Millwater. The socially distanced meeting was requested by the High Sheriff of Kent to recognise the work of the Community Support Hub during the pandemic. She was very complimentary about the work carried out at the Community Hub. Jon Wilson took the opportunity to introduce her to both staff and volunteers and to take the her through the photo-montage timeline of the work of the Hub since the start of the lockdown. The High Sheriff also met with District Councillor Mrs Patricia Rolfe and County Councillor Mr Tony Hills.

Councillor Paul Thomas

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AGENDA ITEM 11

MEETING OF FULL COUNCIL –11TH NOVEMBER 2020 TOWN CLERK’S REPORT

Actions completed since the Full Council meeting held on 14th October 2020 1) The relevant contractor (We-Weld) was duly advised of the successful contract award in respect of fabrication, supply and installation of bollards at St. Martin’s Field. A subsequent further site visit was arranged and undertaken. 2) Consent for access across St. Martin’s Field for a fixed period has been confirmed to the applicant. 3) Further enquiries regarding any potential s106 funding which may be available to assist in funding the protection of St. Martin’s Field are in hand and on-going. 4) The Romney Marsh Area Internal Drainage Board and Kent Wildlife Trust have been advised that the proposed drainage ditch improvement works at Station Road Sports Field have been approved.

Other Matters of Report: 1) In light of the recently announced further National Lockdown, which commences on Thursday 5th November, New Romney Football and Cricket Clubs have been advised that they are not permitted to train or use the Maude Pavilion until at least 2nd December in accordance with the latest Coronavirus regulations. The Karate Club has also been advised that it will not be permitted to train on St. Martin’s Field albeit that it has been confirmed that due to the change in the weather, it is not now using the field for training. Similarly, the organisers of the 10K run which was due to make use of St. Martin’s Field on 15th November has been advised that this will not now be possible. 2) Due to the National Lockdown which prohibits the use of places of worship for group worship and the meeting of more than one person outside of any household group from 5th November, it has been necessary to cancel any arrangements for an Remembrance Service/Ceremony on 8th November. A short service/ceremony involving minimum participants has now been pre-recorded and will be posted on social media on Sunday 8th November instead. Similarly, any plans for a Burma Star service have also been cancelled and a pre-recorded service/ceremony will instead be posted on social media on Wednesday 11th November.

This concludes the Town Clerk’s report.

Town Clerk 3rd October 2020 26 | P a g e

AGENDA ITEM 12

CAPITAL PROJECT REPORT – Full Council 11th November 2020

Community Hall & Sports Pavilion Progress Report

Here is a brief summary of progress made in relation to the development of the new Community Hall and Sports Pavilion.

I chaired a meeting of the Project Steering Group in October to clarify details within the current draft of the Section 106 issue by FHDC lawyers and to discuss the way forward.

I have drafted and submitted a grant application to the Roger de Haan Charitable Trust (contents of which were approved by the Town Clerk) which will go before the charity’s Trustees at their next meeting in November. An application to the Collyer Fergusson Trust has yet to be drafted but will go before the charity’s next board meeting in March 2021

Sport England has closed its Capital Asset Fund, however, having highlighted how advanced we are with our project, I have been contacted by the Head of Investments who is looking into potential funding sources for us.

Following the allocation of part of NRTC’s 2019/2020 underspend to the project, the current funding shortfall – providing we opt to Tax is around £203,000.00

The Project Team is still on standby pending finalisation of the Section 106.

Councillor Patricia Rolfe Chair of CHSP Project Steering Group 3rd November 2020 E & O E

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AGENDA ITEM 14

MINUTES Of A Remote Meeting of New Romney Town Council’s Personnel Panel held on Friday 16th October 2020 Commencing at 10.00am

PRESENT: Councillors P Thomas, Mrs P Metcalfe, Miss J Hiscock and R Tillson

In the Chair: Councillor Mrs P Metcalfe

In Attendance: Town Clerk - Mrs C Newcombe

175/2020-21 APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE None.

176/2020-21 DISPENSATION TO PARTICIPATE No new requests for Dispensation to Participate had been processed by the Town Clerk.

177/2020-21 MINUTES Having duly considered the minutes of the Personnel Panel meeting held on 5th October 2020, copies of which had been previously circulated to Members of the Personnel Panel, it was:

PROPOSED BY: Councillor Thomas SECONDED BY: Councillor Miss Hiscock

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY – that the minutes of the Personnel Panel meeting held on 5th October 2020 be signed as a true and correct record.

NB: The afore-mentioned minutes will be signed at the earliest opportunity following this remote meeting.

178/2020-21 FINANCIAL MATTERS The Personnel Budget Comparison Report 2020-21 was duly received and noted.

179/2020-21 CLERK’S REPORT The Clerk’s report was duly received and noted.

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180/2020-21 TEMPORARY ASSISTANT CARETAKER VACANCY The very high standard of interviewees was duly noted and the recommendation to appoint the named candidate as reported to those present was put to the committee. It was: PROPOSED BY: Councillor Tillson SECONDED BY: Councillor Mrs Metcalfe

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY – that the named candidate as recommended to those present be formally appointed as temporary Assistant Caretaker for a contracted period of 6 months. 181/2020-21 EXCLUSION OF PUBLIC AND PRESS @10.11AM Having considered the nature of matters to be discussed under Agenda Item 9 and in view of the fact that sensitive personal information that may identify one or more individuals was to be discussed, it was, in accordance with the Public Bodies (Admission to Meetings) Act 1960, it was:

PROPOSED BY: Councillor Miss Hiscock SECONDED BY: Councillor Tillson

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY – that ‘in view of the special and confidential nature of the business about to be transacted, it is advisable in the public interest that the Public and Press be temporarily excluded and they are now instructed to withdraw.’

NB: There were no members of press or public present at that time.

182/2020-21 STAFF MATTERS Grievance Procedure - Output of Grievance Panel A brief verbal update was provided regarding the outcome of this matter at Full Council.

183/2020-21 CONCLUSION OF PRIVATE SESSION @10.38AM it was:

PROPOSED BY: Councillor Thomas SECONDED BY: Councillor Tillson

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY – that the private and confidential session be hereby concluded.

The Chairman thanked those present for their attendance and participation and the meeting then concluded @10.39AM.

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NB: All documents referred to herein are available for perusal on request, except for those documents of a sensitive / legal nature discussed in private session, including documents relating to staff matters which remain Private and Confidential in accordance with Data Protection legislation.

Minutes prepared by the Town Clerk

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MINUTES Of A Remote Meeting of New Romney Town Council’s Personnel Panel held on Monday 30th October 2020 Commencing at 10.00am

PRESENT: Councillors P Thomas, Mrs P Metcalfe, Miss J Hiscock and R Tillson

In the Chair: Councillor Mrs P Metcalfe

In Attendance: Town Clerk - Mrs C Newcombe Deputy Town Clerk - Mrs C T Morris

213/2020-21 APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE None.

214/2020-21 DISPENSATION TO PARTICIPATE No new requests for Dispensation to Participate had been processed by the Town Clerk.

215/2020-21 DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST None. 216/2020-21 MINUTES (i) Having duly considered the minutes of the Personnel Panel meeting held on 5th October 2020, copies of which had been previously circulated to Members of the Personnel Panel, it was:

PROPOSED BY: Councillor Thomas SECONDED BY: Councillor Miss Hiscock

RESOLVED – that the minutes of the Personnel Panel meeting held on 5th October 2020 be signed as a true and correct record.

Councillor Tillson abstained from voting as he had not been resent at the afore-mentioned meeting.

NB: The afore-mentioned minutes will be signed at the earliest opportunity following this remote meeting.

(ii) Having duly considered the minutes of the Personnel Panel meeting held on 16th October 2020, copies of which had been previously circulated to Members of the Personnel Panel, it was:

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PROPOSED BY: Councillor Tillson SECONDED BY: Councillor Thomas

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY – that the minutes of the Personnel Panel meeting held on 16th October 2020 be signed as a true and correct record.

NB: The afore-mentioned minutes will be signed at the earliest opportunity following this remote meeting.

217/2020-21 FINANCIAL MATTERS The Budget Comparison Report 2020-21 relating to the personnel budget was duly received and noted.

218/2020-21 CLERK’S REPORT The Clerk’s report was duly received and noted.

219/2019/20 ANNUAL STAFF APPRAISAL PROCESS In light of the fact that the summary report of the recent appraisal process was not yet available due to the close proximity of the appraisal interviews to this meeting, it was: PROPOSED BY: Councillor Mrs Metcalfe SECONDED BY: Councillor Miss Hiscock

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY – that this matter be deferred to the next meeting of the Personnel Panel.

220/2019-20 EXCLUSION OF PUBLIC AND PRESS @10.08AM Having considered the nature of matters to be discussed under Agenda Item 9 and in view of the fact that sensitive personal information that may identify one or more individuals was to be discussed, it was, in accordance with the Public Bodies (Admission to Meetings) Act 1960, it was:

PROPOSED BY: Councillor Tillson SECONDED BY: Councillor Thomas

NB: There were no members of press or public present at that time.

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221/2019-20 STAFF MATTERS Grievance Procedure (i) The proposed content of an ACAS COT3 Agreement resulting from a joint staff tribunal claim was presented to the Personnel Panel. Following discussion and having duly considered the information detailed therein, it was: PROPOSED BY: Councillor Mrs Metcalfe SECONDED BY: Councillor Tillson

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY – that the content of the ACAS COT3 Agreement, including associated Open Statement, be approved as presented and the afore-mentioned document be formally agreed and accepted.

NB: No Officer present to minute this meeting or provide technical support had any input in this matter; documents were presented by the Councillor authorised by Full Council to liaise with ACAS and present the relevant Agreement to the Personnel Panel for approval.

(ii) Having duly noted a financial award detailed within the approved ACAS COT3 Agreement and the need for expediency due to a binding ACAS deadline, it was:

PROPOSED BY: Councillor Thomas SECONDED BY: Councillor Miss Hiscock

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY – that due to a binding ACAS deadline requirement, the agreed financial award* [as detailed within the approved COT3 Agreement] be funded, in the first instance, from the Staffing Provision Reserve Fund.

*In the total amount of £5,000.00

(iii) It was then:

PROPOSED BY: Councillor Tillson SECONDED BY: Councillor Miss Hiscock

RECOMMENDED UNANIMOUSLY – that, in respect of the afore- mentioned financial award, the Finance and General Purposes Committee review the initial Cost Centre (identified above) and take any such action as deemed appropriate to identify a final Cost Centre.

222/2020-21 CONCLUSION OF PRIVATE SESSION @10.57AM it was:

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PROPOSED BY: Councillor Thomas SECONDED BY: Councillor Tillson

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY – that the private and confidential session be hereby concluded.

The Chairman thanked those present for their attendance and participation and the meeting then concluded @10.58AM.

Minutes prepared by the Town Clerk

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065

MINUTES of A Remote Meeting of New Romney Town Council’s Finance and General Purposes Committee Held on Wednesday 21st October 2020 Commencing at 6.45 pm

PRESENT: Councillors P J Coe, Mrs P Metcalfe, Ms W Nevard, J Picco, J Rivers, A Rodriguez and P Thomas

IN THE CHAIR: Councillor Rivers

IN ATTENDANCE: Finance Clerk - Mrs C T Morris Town Clerk - Mrs C Newcombe

184/2020-21 APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE Apologies for absence were received as follows:

Councillor Tillson - due to technical difficulties Councillor Rev Cn McLachlan - who had a prior commitment

It was:

PROPOSED BY: Councillor Thomas SECONDED BY: Councillor Coe

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY – that reasons for absence, as detailed above, be approved.

185/2020-21 DISPENSATION TO PARTICIPATE No new requests for Dispensations to Participate had been received by the Town Clerk.

186/2020-21 DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST @ 6.48PM Councillor Picco declared a Personal Interest in respect of Agenda item 11(i) due to his personal employment of a quoting contractor (Minute Ref: 194/2020-21(i) refers). @ 6.49PM Councillor Mrs Metcalfe declared a Personal Interest in respect of Agenda item 11(i) due to her personal employment of a quoting contractor (Minute Ref: 194/2020-21(i) refers). @ 6.50PM Councillor Rivers declared a Personal Interest in respect of Agenda item 11(i) due to his personal employment of a quoting contractor (Minute Ref: 194/2020-21(i) refers). @ 6.51PM Councillor Coe declared a Personal Interest in Agenda item 9(v)(a) due to his being a member of TS Veteran’s Unit Management Team (Minute Ref: 192/2020-21(v)(a) refers).

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066

@ 6.58PM Councillor Ms Nevard declared a Personal Interest in respect of Agenda item 9(i) due to her being a supporter of the Tax Payers Alliance (Minute Ref: 192/2020-21(i) refers). @ 7.15PM Councillor Coe declared a Personal Interest in respect of Agenda item 9(v)(b) due to his being a Council representative on Southlands Almshouse Trust (Minute Ref: 192/2020-21(v)(b) refers). @ 7.16PM Councillor Rodriguez declared a Personal Interest in respect of Agenda item 9(v)(b) due to his being a Council representative on Southlands Almshouse Trust (Minute Ref: 192/2020-21(v)(b) refers).

187/2020-21 ADJOURNMENT OF MEETING It was not necessary to adjourn the meeting as there were no members of public present and no questions had been received in writing.

188/2020-21 PUBLIC SESSION None.

189/2020-21 RE-CONVENING OF MEETING Not applicable.

190/2020-21 MINUTES The Chairman presented the Minutes of the Finance and General Purposes Committee meeting held on 24th August 2020 a copy of which had been previously circulated to all Councillors.

Having duly considered the afore-mentioned minutes, it was:

PROPOSED BY: Councillor Thomas SECONDED BY: Councillor Coe

RESOLVED – that the Minutes of the Finance & General Purposes Committee Meeting held on 24th August 2020, be approved and signed as a true and correct record.

NB: Councillor Ms Nevard and Councillor Rivers abstained from voting as they had not been present at the afore-mentioned meeting.

The afore-mentioned minutes are to be signed by the Chairman at the first available opportunity following this meeting.

191/2020-21 FINANCE CLERK’S REPORTS (i) The Finance Clerk’s report was received and noted and read as under:

Finance Clerk’s Report - F&GP Meeting on 21st October 2020 Actions completed since the F&GP Committee meeting held on 24th August 2020.

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067

(i) A Reserve Fund for the holding of CIL receipts has been set up (Minute Ref: 075/2020-21(i) refers). (ii) A cheque and associated documentation in respect of Grant Funding for the Romney Marsh in Bloom has been issued (Minute Ref: 076/2020-21 refers) – A duly completed Grant Monitoring Form has since been received. (vii) Initial advice in respect of the shelters on The Greens has been sought and related quotations subsequently received (Minute Ref: 574/2019-20 refers) – The seeking of two further quotations having been delayed by the Covid-19 pandemic, is now in hand.

Other Matters of Report

(i) A notice of consent in respect of events and activities at The Greens, Littlestone has been received. The consent covers the period up to and including 30th April 2024 and includes events and activities in each individual year as detailed below:

Maximum 2 x Funfairs Maximum 6 x Boot-fairs Maximum 2 x Charity Runs Maximum 1 x Emergency Services Fundraising Day (Overflow Parking) Town Council Events Siting of Ice Cream Van Siting of a Mobile Refreshment/Burger Van

(ii) The Town Council’s insurers (Zurich) have been advised of the current ‘unoccupied’ status of the Assembly Rooms and having been advised of the ongoing inspection regime have confirmed that there will be no impact on the insurance cover provided.

This concludes my report - Finance Clerk 14th October 2020

Further Matters of Report None.

(ii) The Finance Clerk’s maintenance report was received and noted and read as under:

Finance Clerk’s Maintenance Report - F&GP Meeting 21st October 2020

Routine Items of maintenance in respect of all Town Council owned lands and buildings has been carried out since the last report to the Committee as per previously awarded contracts:-

Additional non-routine items of maintenance and repair have also been carried out since the last report to the Committee, as follows:

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(i) Town Hall (a) Prepare and paint entrance lobby thresholds.

068

(b) Works undertaken to make the building Covid-19 safe carried out by the Parish Caretaker.

In hand: None.

(ii) Town Hall House and Outbuilding: (a) Light restoration works to entrance lobby being carried out by the Parish Caretaker are ongoing. (b) Repair to eaves carried out by BE Ames Ltd (S/O 49).

In hand: (a) Installation of conservation roof light (Minute Ref: 292/2017-18(i)(c) refers).

(iii) Town Hall Garden (a) Fences treated/painted by the Parish Caretaker. (b) A drain cover was replaced by BE Ames Ltd (S/O 49 H&S). (c) Excess garden waste was removed by South East Waste (SDA).

In hand: None.

(iv) Public Clock (a) Smith of Derby carried out a repair.

In hand: (a) Monitoring of and adjusting to mechanism where necessary. (b) Clock face refurbishment project.

(v) Assembly Rooms (a) A new pan connector was fitted to ladies WC by the Parish Caretaker. (b) A new syphon, flush cone and flush handle were fitted to the 2nd ladies WC by the Parish Caretaker.

In hand: None.

(vi) Community Hall (Nursery) (a) The Parish Caretaker replaced a pane of glass. (b) Necessary Tree works were carried out by M Coleman Arboriculture (S/O 49 H&S).

In hand: None.

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(vii) Maude Pavilion & Sports Field (a) A broken window was boarded up by the Parish Caretaker. (b) Tree works as recommended in the tree inspection report were carried out by M Coleman Arboriculture (570/2019-20(ii)).

069

(c) Tree works were carried out as per the ‘Blue Lanes’ multi agency project. (d) Necessary Tree works were carried out by M Coleman Arboriculture (S/O 49 H&S).

In hand: None.

(viii) Fairfield Road Recreation Ground (a) Graffiti on the skate ramp and picnic benches has been removed/painted over by the Parish Caretaker. (b) Linkage on the basket swing has been replaced on three occasions by the Parish Caretaker. (c) Graffiti on the frame of the basket swing has been sprayed over by the Parish Caretaker. (d) Works undertaken to make the area Covid-19 safe. (e) Covid-19 banners and signage have been re-fixed/replaced by the Parish Caretaker on numerous occasions (f) Regular sanitising of play equipment, benches and bins etc. carried out by the Parish Caretaker. (g) Repairs to human sundial. (h) Due to its unsafe condition the mound slide was removed, these works were carried out by M Coleman Arboriculture (S/O 49 H&S).

In hand: None.

(ix) The Greens / Hut & Winch Site (a) Gym/play equipment has been oiled/greased by the Parish Caretaker. (b) Rivets have been replaced on a commemorative bench plaque by the Parish Caretaker. (c) The padlock on the vehicular access gate having seized, was cut off and replaced by the Parish Caretaker. (d) The siting area for new huts was sprayed out by the Parish Caretaker. (e) Works undertaken to make the play/outdoor gym areas Covid-19 safe carried out by the Parish Caretaker. (f) Regular sanitising of play/outdoor gym equipment carried out by the Parish Caretaker. (g) U/S litter bin replaced by the Parish Caretaker.

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In hand: (a) Following the breakdown of welds and appearance of rust a commemorative bench is to be removed and re-worked by Broxap Ltd (under warranty).

(x) Allotment Gardens (a) The padlock on the vehicular access gate was replaced by the Parish Caretaker. (b) A stopcock tap was replaced by the Parish Caretaker.

070

(c) A section of fencing was repaired by the Parish Caretaker. (d) Litter/waste removal signage was installed by the Parish Caretaker. (e) Waste removal was carried out by South East Waste (SDA).

In hand: None.

(xi) Flagstaff Land / Princess Diana Memorial Garden None.

In hand: None.

(xii) Coney Banks None.

In hand: None.

(xiii) Garden of Remembrance (a) The Parish Caretaker has been assisted by members of New Romney Royal British Legion in ensuring the Garden of Remembrance continues to look pristine throughout the year.

In hand: None.

(xiv) Cinque Ports Place – Town Square None.

In hand: None.

This concludes my maintenance report - Finance Clerk 14th October 2020.

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192/2020-21 FINANCIAL MATTERS (i) 2019/2020 PWLB Funding it was:

PROPOSED BY: Councillor Rivers SECONDED BY: Councillor Coe

RESOLVED – that the unused 2019/2020 PWLB funding in the sum of £22,000.00, be vired to the Community Hall/Sports Pavilion Project Reserve Fund.

(ii) Expenditure Authorised in Accordance with Standing Order 49, Schedule of Payments Approved in Advance and/or Schedule ` of Delegated Authority

071

The Clerk presented her detailed list of quotations accepted/ payments made in accordance with Standing Order 49, Schedule of Payments Approved in Advance and/or Schedule of Delegated Authorities. Following due consideration it was:

PROPOSED BY: Councillor Coe SECONDED BY: Councillor Rodriguez

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY – that the afore-mentioned detailed list of quotations accepted/payments made in accordance with Standing Order 49, Schedule of Payments Approved in Advance and/or Schedule of Delegated Authorities, in the sum of £11,191.71 exc. VAT, be received and noted and cost centres be approved.

(iii) Budget vs Actual Comparison The Clerk presented her Budget vs Actual Comparison as at 30th September 2020. Following due consideration it was:

PROPOSED BY: Councillor Thomas SECONDED BY: Councillor Mrs Metcalfe

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY – that the afore-mentioned Budget vs Actual Comparison as at 30th September 2020, be received and approved.

(iv) Summary of Reserve Fund Balances The Clerk presented her Summary of Reserve Fund Balances as at 30th September 2020. Following due consideration it was:

PROPOSED BY: Councillor Picco SECONDED BY: Councillor Coe

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RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY – that the afore-mentioned Summary of Reserve Fund Balances as at 30th September 2020, be received and approved.

(v) Rental Charges (a) TS Veteran HQ Site and Hut Site No. 40 Following due consideration it was:

PROPOSED BY: Councillor Picco SECONDED BY: Councillor Rodriguez

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY – that the 2020/2021 rental charge in respect of TS Veteran HQ Site and Hut Site No. 40, in the sum of £250.00, be waived due to the pandemic.

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(b) Southlands Almshouse Trust use of Town Hall and admin Following due consideration it was:

PROPOSED BY: Councillor Rivers SECONDED BY: Councillor Mrs Metcalfe

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY – that the 2020/2021 charges in respect of Southlands Almshouse Trust use of Town Hall and admin, in the sum of £200.00, be waived due to the pandemic.

193/2020-21 THE GREENS – STREET FURNITURE The style and construction of the litter bins and commemorative benches provided at The Greens, Littlestone was discussed and it was agreed that the Clerk would carry out some research in order that the Town Council could confirm a preferred style

194/2020-21 QUOTATIONS (i) Town Hall House – Foyer Radiator Due consideration was given to the quotations received in respect of replacing the radiator in the foyer of Town Hall House.

It was:

PROPOSED BY: Councillor Coe SECONDED BY: Councillor Rodriguez

RESOLVED – that:

i) The quotation received in the sum of £846.67 plus VAT to replace the existing radiator in the foyer of Town Hall House with a traditional Victorian cast iron radiator, be accepted and funded from the Building Repair and Restoration Reserve Fund.

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ii) The Clerk be authorised to settle relevant invoices, when received, first having ascertained all is in order.

It was therefore resolved that the contract be awarded to Aquaheat Ashford Ltd.

(ii) Grounds Maintenance Due consideration was given to the quotations received in respect of grounds maintenance/ditch management. .

It was:

PROPOSED BY: Councillor Thomas SECONDED BY: Councillor Ms Nevard

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY – that:

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i) The quotations received in respect of grounds maintenance/ditch management for the three year period 2022/2024 as listed below, be accepted and funded from the relevant area budgets:

Grounds Maintenance The Greens £ 2,040.00 pa (plus VAT) Flagstaff Land £ 696.00 pa (plus VAT) Fairfield Road Recreation Ground £ 1,452.00 pa (plus VAT) Ditch Management Church Lane £ 312.00 pa (plus VAT)

ii) The Clerk be authorised to settle relevant invoices, when received, first having ascertained all is in order.

It was therefore resolved that the contracts be awarded to M Coleman Arboriculture.

195/2020-21 COMMUNITY HALL/NURSERY Having duly considered the request received from the tenant to make Covid-19 improvements to the rear of the building, it was:

PROPOSED BY: Councillor Coe SECONDED BY: Councillor Rodriguez

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY – that the Council consents to the proprietor of the nursery investigating costs and available grant funding for the installation of fencing and windows to the rear of the Community Hall/Nursery building, for consideration by the Council.

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196/2020-21 LITTER PICKING WATCH ROMNEY MARSH Having duly considered the matter of sending a letter of thanks to Litter Picking Watch Romney Marsh, formally acknowledging the assistance of their members during these difficult times, it was:

PROPOSED BY: Councillor Thomas SECONDED BY: Councillor Picco

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY – that the Mayor, in conjunction with the Clerk, the Chairman of F&GP and Councillor Picco, draft a letter of thanks to Litter Picking Watch Romney Marsh.

The Chairman thanked those present for their attendance and the meeting then concluded @ 8.06PM

Minutes prepared by the Finance Clerk

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MINUTES of A Remote Meeting of the Planning and Environment Committee Held on Wednesday 28 October 2020 Commencing at 6.45pm

PRESENT: Councillors: P D Thomas, J Picco, P J Coe, Mrs P Metcalfe, J Rivers and Ms W Nevard

In the Chair: Councillor Thomas (Chairman)

In Attendance: Planning Clerk - Mrs M Worf Town Clerk - Mrs C Newcombe One Member of the Public

197/2020-21 APOLOGIES Apologies for absence were received from :

Councillor R Tillson who was experiencing technical problems.

It was

PROPOSED BY: Councillor Rivers SECONDED BY: Councillor Picco and

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY – That reasons for absence, as detailed above, be approved.

198/2020-21 DISPENSATION TO PARTICIPATE It was reported that no new applications for Dispensation to Participate had been received.

199/2020-21 DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST @ 6.50pm Councillor Thomas declared a personal interest in Planning Application 20/1399/FH (Agenda Item 9) as the applicant is known to him.

200/2020-21 ADJOURNMENT OF MEETING It was not necessary to adjourn the meeting to accommodate a public session as no written questions/comments had been received from members of the public.

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201/2020-21 MINUTES Minutes of the Meeting Held on 7 October 2020 Having duly considered the afore-mentioned Minutes it was:

PROPOSED BY: Councillor Picco SECONDED BY: Councillor Mrs Metcalfeand

RESOLVED – that the Minutes of the Meeting held on 7 October 2020, a copy of which had been previously circulated to all Councillors, be signed as a true and correct record subject to the following two amendments :

(i) Page 50 – Minute No 143/2020-21 Delete ‘Councillor Ms Nevard abstained from voting’.

(ii) Page 52 – Minute No 149/2020-21 Delete ‘Councillor Ms Nevard left the meeting thereafter’.

202/2020-21 PLANNING CLERK’S REPORT The Planning Clerk’s report was received and noted and read as under : PLANNING CLERK’S REPORT REMOTE PLANNING and ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE MEETING - 28 OCTOBER 2020

(A) MATTERS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES OF THE MEETING HELD ON 7 OCTOBER 2020

(i) Page 52 - Minute No149/2020-21 (ii) – Request for Free Sunday Parking A letter has been forwarded to Folkestone and Hythe District Council as resolved. A response is awaited.

(B) OTHER MATTERS OF REPORT

(i) Folkestone and Hythe District Council Planning and Licensing Committee Meeting – 20 October 2020 Planning Application Y19/1275/FH – Hope All Saints Garden Centre – was considered at the above meeting. The application received approval.

(ii) Planning Application Y19/0918/FH – Littlestone Golf Club Confirmation has been received from Councillor Mrs Rolfe that the above planning application will be ‘called in’ and considered at committee.

This Concludes the Report

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76 203/2020-21 SCHEDULE OF PLANNING APPLICATIONS It was

PROPOSED BY: Councillor Coe SECONDED BY: Councillor Picco and

RESOLVED – That the observations and recommendations as under be submitted to Folkestone and Hythe District Council.

Application No. Description and Location

(i) Y18/0642/FH RE-CONSULTATION FOLLOWING SUBMISSION OF ADDITIONAL DETAILS/CHANGE IN CIRCUMSTANCE Manager’s Flat, New Inn, High Street, New Romney

Change of use and conversion of existing manager’s accommodation on ground, first and second floors to four flats together with accompanying internal and external alterations to rear elevation. RECOMMENDATION: NO OBJECTION Voting : For Application: 6 Against Application: 0 Abstained: 0

(ii) Y18/0643/FH RE-CONSULTATION FOLLOWING SUBMISSION OF ADDITIONAL DETAILS/CHANGE IN CIRCUMSTANCE Manager’s Flat, New Inn, High Street, New Romney

Listed Building Consent for change of use and conversion of existing manager’s accommodation on ground, first and second floors to four flats together with accompanying internal and external alterations to rear elevation. RECOMMENDATION: NO OBJECTION Voting : For Application: 6 Against Application: 0 Abstained: 0

(iii) 20/1399/FH Larkfield, Dymchurch Road, New Romney

Erection of replacement garage (re-submission of planning application 20/1033/FH)

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RECOMMENDATION: NO OBJECTION Voting : For Application: 5 Against Application: 0 Abstained: 1

(iv) 20/1413/FH 95 Coast Drive, Greatstone, New Romney

Erection of detached garage with studio over. RECOMMENDATION: REFUSAL – Contravenes Policies BE8(f), HB8(5) and HB8(9) Voting : For Application: 0 Against Application: 5 Abstained: 1

(v) 20/1420/FH Copplestone, North Street, New Romney

Section 73 application for removal of Condition 4 (archaeological watching brief) of Y18/1154/FH Erection of two storey side extension following demolition of single storey side extension. RECOMMENDATION: NO OBJECTION Voting : For Application: 5 Against Application: 1 Abstained: 0

(vi) 20/0904/FH 37 Littlestone Road, Littlestone, New Romney

Alteration to the shopfront, replace entrance door from centre of the shopfront to the side. RECOMMENDATION: NO OBJECTION Voting : For Application: 6 Against Application: 0 Abstained: 0

(vii) 20/1276/FH Water Tower, Madeira Road, Littlestone, New Romney

Works to a Poplar tree situated within a conservation area comprising of reduction in height to 50%, crown raise over road to provide highway clearance and reduce selected lower limbs overhanging access drive.

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RECOMMENDATION: NO OBJECTION – Subject to approval of FHDC Tree Officer. Voting : For Application: 6 Against Application: 0 Abstained: 0

(viii) 20/1470/FH Coniraya, St Andrews Road, Littlestone, New Romney

Works to trees situated within a conservation area comprising: fell four Conifers, one Elder, one Willow and one Pear and trim back to boundary a row of Conifers. RECOMMENDATION: REFUSAL – there is no evidence that the trees to be felled are unhealthy. Request inspection by FHDC Tree Officer. Voting : For Application: 0 Against Application: 6 Abstained: 0

(ix) 20/1476/FH Wallcroft, Church Road, New Romney

Extension and conversion of garage to form annex. RECOMMENDATION: REFUSAL – Contravenes Policies BE1, HB1, HB9 and HB10. Voting : For Application: 2 Against Application: 3 Abstained: 1

(x) 20/1487/FH 2 Lonbay Drive, New Romney

G1 Group of Laurel: reduce height by approx. 1.5 metres, remove selected stems and shape into individual trees, all subject of TPO No 2 of RECOMMENDATION: NO OBJECTION Voting : For Application: 6 Against Application: 0 Abstained: 0

(xi) 20/1501/FH 5 St Lawrence Court, Victoria Street, New Romney

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Crown reduce a Maple situated within a conservation area by reducing the height and laterals on side facing house (north east) by 1.5- 3 metres to rebalance. RECOMMENDATION: NO OBJECTION Voting : For Application: 6 Against Application: 0 Abstained: 0

(xii) 20/1510/FH 1 Priory Close, New Romney

Felling of a Silver Birch subject of TPO No 20 of 2006. RECOMMENDATION: NO OBJECTION – Subject to approval of FHDC Tree Officer and replanting with tree of similar species as per terms of the TPO. Voting : For Application: 6 Against Application: 0 Abstained: 0

204/2020-21 ANY FURTHER APPLICATIONS RECEIVED It was

PROPOSED BY: Councillor Coe SECONDED BY: Councillor Mrs Metcalfe and

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY – That the additional planning applications received since issue of the Agenda be discussed and voted upon and observations made submitted to Folkestone and Hythe District Council as under.

Application No. Description and Location

(i) 20/1570/FH 60 High Street, New Romney

Section 73 application for removal/variation of Condition 3 (opening hours) of planning application Y18/1527/FH – Change of use of ground floor to create a bar/restaurant unit (Class A3/A4) and a retail unit (Class A1) together with the erection of a first floor extension to create an additional 3 flats (4 in total). To amend the opening hours of the bar/restaurant.

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RECOMMENDATION: REFUSAL – Contravenes Policy SD1 Voting: For Application: 1 Against Application: 4 Abstained: 1

(ii) 20/1574/FH Gun Cottage, Fairfield Road, New Romney

Crown reduction back to previous reduction points of a Eucalyptus tree situated within a Conservation Area. RECOMMENDATION: NO OBJECTION Voting: For Application: 4 Against Application: 0 Abstained: 2

205/2020-21 SCHEDULE OF LICENCE APPLICATIONS It was

PROPOSED BY: Councillor Rivers SECONDED BY: Councillor Picco and

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY - That the observations and recommendations as under be submitted to Folkestone and Hythe District Council.

Ref: WK/202037316

Premises: Balance Bar, 60 High Street, New Romney

Application: New premise licence application for a bar, with a main bar area with seat booths which sit up to eight people. Two private rooms at the rear which can be used for private events. With food and hot drinks to be served throughout the day.

Activities: Alcohol sales on/off Monday – Thursday 11.30 – 23.00 Friday & Saturday 11.30 – 00.00 Sunday 10.00 – 22.30 with late night refreshments, recorded music and live music Friday and Saturday 23.00-00.00.

Opening Hours: Monday – Thursday 09.30 – 23.30 Friday & Saturday 09.00 - 00.30 Sunday 09.00 – 23.30

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RECOMMENDATION : REFUSAL – Contravenes Policy SD1 Voting : For Application : 1 Against Application : 5 Abstained : 0

206/2020-21 FOLKESTONE & HYTHE DISTRICT COUNCIL REPORTS/ DECISIONS/MATTERS Delegated Decisions The delegated decisions for the periods ending 1, 8 and 15 October 2020, details of which had been previously circulated, were received and noted by Members present.

207/2020-21 GOVERNMENT CONSULTATIONS ON REFORM OF THE PLANNING SYSTEM A copy of Kent Association of Local Council’s response to the Government ‘Planning for the Future White Paper’ had been previously circulated.

Following discussion it was

PROPOSED BY: Councillor Coe SECONDED BY: Councillor Picco and

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY – That a response be forwarded to the Planning Directorate stating New Romney Town Council endorse the response submitted by Kent Association of Local Councils to the Government Planning for the Future White Paper.

208/2020-21 PLANNING APPLICATION Y19/1421/FH Councillor Picco advised he had brought this matter to Committee following the FHDC Enforcement Officer’s decision to take no further action following refusal of the application by FHDC.

Following discussion it was

PROPOSED BY: Councillor Thomas SECONDED BY: Councillor Picco and

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY – That a letter be forwarded to the FHDC Enforcement Officer, copied to District Councillors Mrs P S Rolfe and W D Wimble, advising (i) New Romney Town Council is unhappy with his decision not to take further action insofar as Planning Application Y19/1421/FH is concerned as the build does not meet planning regulations; (ii) the reasoning behind the decision; and (iii) to provide the Town Council with direction of further decisions of this nature.

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NB @ 8.29pm Councillor Ms Nevard left the meeting.

209/2020/21 PARKING, NEW ROMNEY The introduction of a Highway Improvement Plan for the Parish of New Romney had been briefly discussed at the previous meeting of the Committee. (Minute No 149/2020-21 refers.)

During discussion it was agreed the first step would be to form a Task and Finish Group/Working Party that it was suggested could be made up of Councillors, District Councillor, KCC Councillor, a representative number of residents and organisations.The forming of such a Group/Working Party would be an Agenda item for discussion at a future meeting of the Committee.

Following further discussion it as

PROPOSED BY: Councillor Thomas SECONDED BY: Councillor Mrs Metcalfe and

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY – That the Chairman, Councillor Thomas, and Planning Clerk prepare a draft Briefing Note for A Task and Finish Group/Working Party for consideration by Members at a future meeting of the Committee.

210/2020-21 BUDGET REQUIREMENT 2021/2022 It was

PROPOSED BY: Councillor Thomas SECONDED BY: Councillor Picco and

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY – That the Planning and Environment Committee budget requirement for 2021-22 in the total amount of £250.00 be presented to the Finance and General Purposes Committee for consideration.

211/2020-21 COCKREED LANE DEVELOPMENT - LAND ADJOINING HOPE ALL SAINTS GARDEN CENTRE – ERECTION OF 117 DWELLINGS Councillor Thomas reported that following the Town Council’s concerns raised in respect of the lack of the spine road in the the above outline planning application he could now advise that Condition 19 of the approval of the outline application is the installation of a spine road. A watching brief would be kept.

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212/2020-21 ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS No written reports had been received.

The Meeting Concluded at 8.57pm

NB Copies of all documentation referred to within these Minutes is available for perusal on request.

Minutes prepared by the Planning Clerk

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AGENDA ITEM 16

Town Council Appointed Representatives on Outside Bodies. Report to Full Council – November 2020.

NEW ROMNEY IN BLOOM UPDATE We’re making good progress Despite the difficulties that we have all been experiencing as a result of Coronavirus good progress has been made by New Romney in Bloom. A committee has been formed [see panel below] and we had our first meeting on the 29th of September. ■ We have joined the Royal Horticultural Society ■ Opened a Bank Account ■ The Town Council have agreed to allocate an allotment, free of charge ■ We are in the process of preparing risk assessments

ARE YOU SOCIAL MEDIA SAVVY? We are looking for help in understanding and using our facebook page, if you think you can help or you know someone who can please contact Trish at : [email protected]

The committee plans to plant out the George Lane verges as a trial, due to Coronavirus. The next step is to involve members in future activities, we will let you know when.

SITE LOCATIONS AND LICENCES, Kent Highway Licences are required for all proposed planting locations, these have been applied for and we hope to receive them soon, we currently plan to plant or place displays on:

❏ The grass verges either side of George Lane where it meets the A259 High St ❏ The grass verge at the traffic lights, on the corner of Dymchurch Rd and Station Rd, adjacent to the Academy ❏ The hedged area at the traffic lights on the corner of Church Rd and Dymchurch Rd ❏ The tree lined verges either side of the pathway between the High St and Mabledon Close ❏ The grass verges on Lydd Rd either side of Church Rd Junction.

FUNDING – A KEY ISSUE We have secured funding from New Romney Town Council [£500], £150 from Lloyds Bank and other pledges amounting to £1500 in addition to applying to Folkstone and Hythe Councilʼs High Street Fund, money from this fund will enable us to locate planters in the High St.

NEW ROMNEY IN BLOOM COMMITTEE ❏ Councillor PIP METCALFE NRIB Chair ❏ PAUL REYNOLDS Fundraising, Procurement ❏ TRISH BEECHEY Treasurer/Membership/ Fundraising Events ❏ KEITH BEECHEY Communications ❏ PHILIP STAPLETON Secretary ❐ SHEILA GEORGIADES Plantsperson /Display ❏ STEVE MORGAN Fundraising Events

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AGENDA ITEM 17 KCC Budget consultation 2021-22

Watch Peter Oakford, KCC’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance, introduce the budget consultation: Peter Oakford interview - video transcript

We provide a huge range of essential services to the people of Kent, spending over £1.6 billion each year.

Our annual budget deciding how we spend money gets approved at a County Council meeting each February.

We are potentially facing our biggest financial challenge in ten years. We are facing a combination of more growth in spending than in previous years (largely arising from the COVID-19 pandemic) and the potential reduction in how much income we receive from Council Tax and business rates. We estimate our additional spending pressures (non-COVID-19 and COVID-19-specific) will be between £70m and £120m next year.

Unlike last autumn’s consultation, where we focused on spending priority areas, this year we potentially face a year of spending reductions if additional funding from government is not forthcoming. We want to be open and honest with you about this possibility.

Your views

We need to consider that we may have to make some difficult decisions in the near future, but before we do this, we would like to hear your views on:

 The future of our services – how comfortable would you be to see spending reductions on a range of services?  Council Tax - is a modest rise acceptable if it helps to sustain the services you value most? We will also use the feedback from this consultation to shape our Interim Strategic Plan and the priorities that we focus on.

Your responses will be considered by Members (councillors) at their Cabinet Committee meetings taking place throughout January 2021 before the budget is debated and approved by County Council in February 2021.

Consultation documents

 Consultation document (PDF, 1.1 MB) 56 | P a g e

 Equality impact assessment (PDF, 150.9 KB)  Word version of the consultation questionnaire (DOCX, 98.9 KB).  Complete the consultation questionnaire The consultation closes on 24 November.

You can access these documents in different formats on our consultation page.

What you have previously told us

We consulted over the summer on amending our current year’s budget in light of the additional spending pressures and loss of income arising from the COVID-19 pandemic. We thank everyone who took the time to submit a response. You told us that 'continue to lobby government for additional funding' was your top option for closing the budget gap. You will be pleased to know that we have received additional funding and our budget gap for the current financial year was closed without the need to cut services, charge users more or use reserves. You can find out more in the consultation report (PDF, 563.8 KB).

2020-21 revenue spending - excluding schools

The information below is a reminder of our 2020-21 revenue spending (agreed in February 2020).

For every £100 we spend, this is how it is split between the various services we provide:

2020-2021 budget

Here is a reminder of the current 2020-2021 budget:

 Budget Book (PDF, 5.1 MB)  How the revenue budget is financed, distributed and spent (PDF, 639.0 KB) You can read more below about council services and current year’s revenue spending. Service Total spend (per £100)

Adults and older people £35

Children's social care £12

Children's other services £9

Borrowing costs £8

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Service Total spend (per £100)

Management, support services and overheads £7

Transport services £5

Schools and high needs £5

Waste services £5

Public health £4

Highways £3

Other direct services to the public £2

Community services £2

Costs of running our operational premises £2

Schools’ services £1 How we are funded

Funding for our budget comes from many sources in addition to Council Tax, including business rates and grants from central government. Nearly half of our budget (excluding schools) is made up of money we receive from Council Tax. Each year we set a budget to decide how much we're able to spend on services for Kent residents and businesses for the next financial year, compared to how much income we're likely to get from government and local taxation to fund this.

For every £100 in funding we receive, this is how it is split between the different sources of income.

Funding source Amount (per £100)

Council Tax £46

Grants (ringfenced for a specific purpose) £19

Income from service users £16

Grants (un-ringfenced) £14

Business rates £4

Revenue support grant £1

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Services for children, young people and families

 84 children's centres and early years services  Supporting 1,600 children in care and 1,700 care leavers  Emotional wellbeing and mental health services  Health visiting and child health checks  Fostering, adoption and 10,000+ social work cases  KCC Travel Saver and home to school transport  Working with 583 schools on places, planning and access  Special educational needs and disability including transport  Apprenticeships, skills and career pathways for young people Services for all residents and communities

 Public health and wellbeing services  Sports, arts, culture and heritage  Highways, waste management and concessionary travel  Active travel, public rights of way and country parks  99 libraries, mobile libraries and archives  Community safety, emergency planning and trading standards  Protecting the natural environment  Registration and coroners' service  Economic development and strategic planning

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Services for older and vulnerable people

 Support for 4,900 adults with learning disabilities  4,100 permanent residential care placements  Respite, safeguarding and support for 152,000 carers  Support for 3,200 social care clients with mental health needs  Support for 1,200 older people in nursing care homes  Partnership working between health and social care  7,000 people receiving care and support at home  Support for 5,300 adults with physical disability and sensory needs  2,400 people using day care services in their community Our strategic priorities

We prioritise spending on services that:

 make sure children and young people get the best start in life  help communities to feel the benefits of economic growth by being in work, healthy and enjoying a good quality of life  help older and vulnerable residents to be safe and supported with choices to live independently. These are our current strategic priorities. Our Strategic Statement Annual Report gives details of how every pound spent in Kent is used to deliver better outcomes for Kent’s residents, communities and businesses.

You can find out more about the council’s finances on our finance and budget pages, including what we spend our money on and Council Tax.

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Consultation Questionnaire

Kent County Council (KCC) is potentially facing the biggest financial challenge next year, bigger than anything we have seen over the last 10 years. It is vital that we take account of as many people’s views as possible to inform the very difficult decisions we may have to make. We are seeking your views on potential areas of spending reductions and the level of Council Tax to help us shape and balance our 2021-22 Budget. Your responses will be considered by Members (Councillors) at their Cabinet Committee meetings taking place throughout January 2021 before the budget is debated and approved by County Council in February 2021.

To take part in this consultation, please visit our website www.kent.gov.uk/budget and read the Consultation Document, then complete the online questionnaire.

Completing the questionnaire online helps us to make the best use of our resources. Public computers are available from Kent libraries for you to use. However, if you are unable to take part online, please complete this version and return to:

Budget Consultation 2021-22 Kent County Council Finance - Room 3.08 Sessions House Maidstone ME14 1XQ

Please ensure your response reaches us by Tuesday 24 November 2020.

Alternative Formats: If you need this questionnaire or any of the consultation documents in an alternative format, please email [email protected] or call 03000 421553 (text relay service number: 18001 03000 421553). This number goes to an answering machine, which is monitored during office hours.

Privacy: Kent County Council collects and processes personal information in order to provide a range of public services. Kent County Council respects the privacy of individuals and endeavours to ensure personal information is collected fairly, lawfully, and in compliance with the General Data Protection Regulation. Read the full Privacy Notice on kent.gov.uk.

Section 1 – About You

Q1. Please tell us in what capacity you are completing this questionnaire: Please select the option that most closely represents how you will be responding to this consultation. Please select one option.

As a Kent resident

As a representative of a local community group or residents’ association

On behalf of an educational establishment, such as a school or college

On behalf of a Parish / Town / Borough / District Council in an official capacity

As a Parish, District or County Councillor

As a KCC employee (Kent resident)

As a KCC employee (non-Kent resident)

As a Kent business owner or representative

On behalf of a charity, voluntary or community sector organisation (VCS)

As resident from somewhere else, such as Medway

Other, please specify:

Q1a. If you are responding on behalf of an organisation (business, community group, residents’ association, council or any other organisation), please tell us the name of your organisation here:

Q2. Please tell us the first part of your postcode (this will be 3 or 4 characters):

Please do not reveal your whole postcode. We use this to help us to analyse our data. It will not be used to identify who you are.

Q3. How did you find out about this consultation? Select one option Facebook

Twitter

Instagram

From a friend or relative

Kent.gov.uk website

Local KCC County Councillor

District Council/Councillor

Newspaper

An email from KCC

A Voluntary or Community sector organisation

Other, please specify:

Section 2 – Tell us your views about spending reductions to service areas

We are likely to have make some really difficult decisions so we want to understand and be informed by what is important to you. We are now going to ask you for your views on whether you would be comfortable or not with spending reductions in service areas.

Q4. Imagine you are in charge of setting KCC's budget. Consider these major frontline service areas – for each of the 14 service areas below, please indicate whether you would be comfortable or not with a reduction in spending. Service area Comfortabl Partly Not Don’t know e comfortabl comfortabl / no e e opinion Adult Social Care (18-64) Services for people to live independently at home, access community services, or residential/nursing homes for those with long-term complex needs. Children's Social Care Support for vulnerable children, young people and families, and children in care to make sure they are protected. Fostering and adoption places and support for care leavers to find education, training and housing. Community Services Helping people get in touch with us (Contact Centre, Gateways) and access advice and support. Arts/physical activity services work with schools and local groups. Adult Education helps people develop new skills. We help bring big events to Kent. Early Help Support for children, young people and families with complex needs through targeted help (e.g. parenting support), and open access to children’s centres and youth hub services. Support for young people involved in or at risk of becoming involved in crime or antisocial behaviour. Education Services Supporting nurseries, pre-school and childcare settings to ensure quality childcare places so children are ready for school. Working with schools so all children can access a suitable place. Support for children’s needs including special education needs, disabilities, emotional wellbeing, and behaviour.

Service area Comfortabl Partly Not Don’t know e comfortabl comfortabl / no e e opinion Environment Services Enhancing and protecting Kent’s natural environment (Country Parks, Public Rights of Way and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty). Tackling issues like climate change, enabling green energy and the protection of our heritage and supporting flood protection. Highways Inspecting, repairing and maintaining roads and footways which includes soft landscaping (grass/trees). Responding to highway emergencies, managing winter gritting and severe weather responses. Developing new roads and active travel options to encourage walking and cycling. Responsible for road safety, working with partners to prevent accidents. Libraries, Registration and Archives Libraries, archives, mobile library service, support for the vulnerable to access services at home, and archive and history projects promoting Kent’s cultural heritage. Access to internet, business support, community activities, and dementia- friendly libraries. Registration of births, deaths and marriages, and citizenship ceremonies. Older People Social Care (65+) Supporting older people to live safely and independently at home (e.g. help with daily tasks) and providing day care services to help them enjoy a good quality of life. Placements in residential and nursing care homes for people needing more support or end of life care. Public Protection Services include Trading Standards (tackling scams / promoting trusted traders) and Community Wardens (supporting residents and tackling antisocial behaviour). Helping communities prepare for emergencies like severe weather. Delivering the coroners’ services to investigate unexpected deaths.

Service area Comfortabl Partly Not Don’t know e comfortabl comfortabl / no e e opinion Regeneration and Economic Development Helping the economy grow. Working with businesses/education to ensure the right skills and jobs for the future including promoting apprenticeships. Supporting projects that will help growth, our tourism sector and local food producers, and providing loans for new businesses and tackling empty properties. Social Support Supporting carers so families find the help they need. Help for people with issues like homelessness, drug/alcohol misuse, domestic abuse, those going through a crisis or loneliness. Supporting people at home to learn skills to make them feel safe and happy. Transport Services This includes subsidised bus travel across Kent (e.g. Kent Karrier) and the Kent Travel Saver for school children. We run the scheme providing free travel off-peak for senior citizens and disabled people. Keeping travel information up to date, maintaining bus stops and delivering school transport for special educational needs pupils. Waste Services Recycling and treating waste and providing Household Waste Recycling Centres. District Councils are responsible for on-street collections and we are responsible for its disposal. Providing ways to increase recycling, composting and generating energy, improving environmental outcomes.

Q4a. If you would like to tell us the reasons for your responses to Q4, please use the box below. Help us understand why you would not be comfortable and what impact you think reductions could have. (Please use an extra sheet if you need to).

The financial challenge we face in 2021-22 is significant and means we will need to make some difficult decisions in February 2021 if we do not get sufficient Government funding. It is important to understand what you would do in our situation, so we are asking you to consider your relative priorities in terms of the services we fund.

Q5. If you had to remove £1 from one of the services areas, please tell us where you would remove your £1 from?

Please only select one service area or your answer cannot be included Libraries, Registration and Adult Social Care (18-64) Archives Older People Social Care Children’s Social Care (65+)

Community Services Public Protection Regeneration and Economic Early Help Development

Education Services Social Support

Environment Services Transport Services

Highways Waste Services

Section 3 – The Council Tax we ask you to pay for services

Council Tax currently funds almost half (46%) of our total budget (excluding schools) so it’s a significant funding source for the services we provide. By contrast, the grant (Revenue Support Grant) provided by government has reduced significantly since 2013 and now funds less than 1%. Government expects councils to fund more of their

services from local taxation and therefore your Council Tax has seen modest increases in recent years.

To help fund the services you value the most, we suggest raising Council Tax by no more than the level Government expects us to set before a county-wide referendum is required. The limit is currently assumed to be just under 2% but if the limit is changed, we will need the flexibility to consider setting at a different percentage. This would partly help meet rising costs and demand for our services but will not be enough to fully cover the rising costs we have for 2021-22. Even with an increase in Council Tax, savings will still be needed to balance our budget.

Q6. Please tell us if you agree or disagree with us raising Council Tax up to (but not exceeding) the referendum limit. Please select one option.

Agree

Disagree Don’t know

Each 1% increase in Council Tax adds 23p per week (£12 per year) to a typical band C property and increases our income by approximately £7 million. Any increase in Council Tax income will mean fewer reductions would need to be made across services. Q7. If no referendum limit is set, please select one of the following options to tell us your preference for Council Tax:

I support an increase of between 0% and 1%

I support an increase of between 1% and 2%

I support an increase of between 2% and 4%

I support an increase of between 4% and 6%

I support an increase above 6%

I do not support an increase

Don’t know / no opinion

Q7a. Please tell us why you have selected this preference for Q7.

The Adult Social Care Levy was introduced by government as a way of funding social care in light of a growing national funding shortfall due to rising costs and demand and reduced government grant funding. Councils like us, that are responsible for adult social care, may be allowed to raise an additional 2% in Council Tax (as has been allowed in previous years), provided this is spent directly on the care of the most vulnerable adults and older people.

Q8. Please select one of the following options to tell us your preference about the Adult Social Care Levy: Please select one option.

I support the Council raising an additional Adult Social Care Levy on Council Tax. If this continues to be set at 2% this would increase the band C charge by a further

46p per week, or £24 per year. This would raise an additional £14.4m towards the rising costs and demands for adult social care.

I do not support the Council raising the additional Adult Social Care Levy on Council Tax. This would require KCC to reduce planned spending on social care and/or other services by £14.4m.

Don’t know / no opinion

Section 4 – doing things differently We are looking into how we might do things differently in the future to make some savings and have shown three examples in the question below. However, any savings from these would not solve the budget challenge. Q9. Please tell us whether you agree or disagree with these? Please select one option for each row. Agree Neither Disagree Don’t know agree nor disagree Reducing our number of buildings

Delivering more than one service from our buildings Delivering more services using online technology

Q10. If you have any other comments about the budget or how we might do things differently, please tell us below.

Section 5 – More About You

It is not necessary to answer these questions if you are responding on behalf of an organisation.

We want to make sure that everyone is treated fairly and equally, and that no one gets left out. That's why we are asking you these additional questions. We won't share the information you give us with anyone else. We’ll use it only to help us make decisions and improve our services. This information really helps us to understand how different people could be affected by the budget, but if you would rather not answer any of these questions, you don't have to. Q11. Are you….? Please select one option. Male

Female

I prefer not to say

Q12. Which of these age groups applies to you? Please select one option.

0-15 16-24 25-34 35-49 50-59

60-64 65-74 75-84 85+ over I prefer not to say

Q13. Do you regard yourself as belonging to a particular religion or holding a belief? Please select one option.

Yes

I prefer not to say

Q13a. If you answered ‘Yes’ to Q13, which of the following applies to you? Please select one option.

Christian Hindu Muslim I prefer not to say

Buddhist Jewish Sikh

If Other, please specify:

The Equality Act 2010 describes a person as disabled if they have a long standing physical or mental condition that has lasted, or is likely to last, at least 12 months; and this condition has a substantial adverse effect on their ability to carry out normal day-today activities. People with some conditions (cancer, multiple sclerosis and HIV/AIDS, for example) are considered to be disabled from the point that they are diagnosed.

Q14. Do you consider yourself to be disabled as set out in the Equality Act 2010? Please select one option. Yes

I prefer not to say

Q14a. If you answered ‘Yes’ to Q14, please tell us the type of impairment that applies to you. You may have more than one type of impairment, so please select all that apply. If none of these applies to you, please select ‘Other’ and give brief details of the impairment you have. Physical impairment

Sensory impairment (hearing, sight or both)

Longstanding illness or health condition, or epilepsy

Mental health condition

Learning disability

I prefer not to say

Other

Other, please specify:

A Carer is anyone who cares, unpaid, for a friend or family member who due to illness, disability, a mental health problem or an addiction cannot cope without their support. Both children and adults can be carers. Q15. Are you a Carer? Please select one option. Yes

I prefer not to say

Q16. To which of these ethnic groups do you feel you belong? Please select one option. (Source 2011 Census) White English Mixed White & Black Caribbean

White Scottish Mixed White & Black African

White Welsh Mixed White & Asian

White Northern Irish Mixed Other*

White Irish Black or Black British Caribbean

White Gypsy/Roma Black or Black British African

White Irish Traveller Black or Black British Other*

White Other* Arab

Asian or Asian British Indian Chinese

Asian or Asian British Pakistani I prefer not to say

Asian or Asian British Bangladeshi

Asian or Asian British Other*

*Other - If your ethnic group is not specified on the list, please describe it here:

Thank you for taking part in KCC’s 2021-22 budget consultation. Your feedback is important to us. If you would like to find out more about our services, or get in touch, please visit kent.gov.uk

Consultation Privacy Notice Last updated: 2nd November 2018

Who are we? Kent County Council collects, uses and is responsible for certain personal information about you. When we do so we are regulated under the General Data Protection Regulation which applies across the European Union and the United Kingdom and we are responsible as ‘controller’ of that personal information for the purposes of those laws. Our Data Protection Officer is Benjamin Watts.

The personal information we collect and use Information collected by us In the course of responding to Consultations published by Kent County Council we collect the following personal information when you provide it to us:  Postcode

 Email address if you want updates on a specific consultation

 Feedback on the consultation

 Equalities Data - Ethnicity, Religion, Sexuality, Disability or if you are a Carer

 Cookies – we use three types of cookies when you use our website. For more information about the cookies and how they are used please visit https://kahootz.deskpro.com/kb/articles/kahootz-cookie-information-ci

We use cookies to remember who you are and a few of your preferences whilst you use the website.

We do not use cookies to collect personally identifiable information about you, track your behaviour or share information with 3rd parties.

Our cookies do not contain any of your personal information and only take up about one-thousandth of the space of a single image from a typical digital camera.

All of the cookies we set are strictly necessary in order for us to provide the online service to you.

You do not need to submit any equalities information if you do not want to. KCC is committed to the principle that all our customers have the right to equality and fairness in the way they are treated and in the services that they receive. Any information you do give will be used to see if there are any differences in views for different groups of people, and to check if services are being delivered in a fair and reasonable way. No personal information which can identify you, such as your name or address, will be used in producing equality reports. We will follow our Data Protection policies to keep your information secure and confidential. Your equality data will be anonymised before sent to other teams.

How we use your personal information We use your personal information to inform you of the outcome of the consultation, if you have requested updates.

We may use your postcode to carry out a type of profiling to estimate which one of a number of lifestyle groups you are most likely to fall into. We do this using geodemographic segmentation tools. We do not make any decisions about individual service users based solely on automated processing, including profiling.

How long your personal data will be kept We will hold your personal information for up to 6 years following the closure of a consultation.

Reasons we can collect and use your personal information We rely on ‘processing is necessary for the performance of a task carried out in the public interest’ And ‘processing is necessary for compliance with a legal obligation to which the controller is subject.’ The provision of contact details, including name, address or email address is required from you to enable us to respond to your feedback on consultations. We rely on processing is necessary for reasons of substantial public interest as the lawful basis on which we collect and use your special category data for the purpose of equalities monitoring.

Further, the processing is necessary for the purposes of identifying or keeping under review the existence or absence of equality of opportunity or treatment between groups of people with the view to enabling such equality to be promoted or maintained. You can read KCC’s Equality Policy on our website http://www.kent.gov.uk/about-the- council/strategies-and-policies/corporate-policies/equality-and-diversity

Who we share your personal information with We may share your personal data and feedback with those listed below who may need to help us respond to your feedback. In some cases that may include your name and contact details. We may share your personal data with;  Services within the Council who are responsible for carrying out analysis of consultation responses.

We will share personal information with law enforcement or other authorities if required by applicable law. We use a system to log your feedback, which is provided by a third-party supplier.

Your rights Under the GDPR you have a number of rights which you can access free of charge which allow you to:  Know what we are doing with your information and why we are doing it  Ask to see what information we hold about you  Ask us to correct any mistakes in the information we hold about you  Object to direct marketing  Make a complaint to the Information Commissioners Office

Depending on our reason for using your information you may also be entitled to:  Ask us to delete information we hold about you  Have your information transferred electronically to yourself or to another organisation  Object to decisions being made that significantly affect you  Object to how we are using your information  Stop us using your information in certain ways

We will always seek to comply with your request however we may be required to hold or use your information to comply with legal duties. Please note: your request may delay or prevent us delivering a service to you. For further information about your rights, including the circumstances in which they apply, see the guidance from the UK Information Commissioners Office (ICO) on individuals’ rights under the General Data Protection Regulation. If you would like to exercise a right, please contact the Information Resilience and Transparency Team at [email protected].

Keeping your personal information secure We have appropriate security measures in place to prevent personal information from being accidentally lost or used or accessed in an unauthorised way. We limit access to your personal information to those who have a genuine business need to know it. Those processing your information will do so only in an authorised manner and are subject to a duty of confidentiality. We also have procedures in place to deal with any suspected data security breach. We will notify you and any applicable regulator of a suspected data security breach where we are legally required to do so.

Who to contact Please contact the Information Resilience and Transparency Team at [email protected] to exercise any of your rights, or if you have a complaint about why your information has been collected, how it has been used or how long we have kept it for. You can contact our Data Protection Officer, Benjamin Watts, at [email protected]. Or write to Data Protection Officer, Kent County Council, Sessions House, Maidstone, Kent, ME14 1XQ.

The General Data Protection Regulation also gives you right to lodge a complaint with a supervisory authority. The supervisory authority in the UK is the Information Commissioner who may be contacted at https://ico.org.uk/concerns or telephone 03031 231113. For further information visit https://www.kent.gov.uk/about-the-council/about-the- website/privacy-statement

AGENDA ITEM 18

FHDC Corporate Plan consultation Share your views in our draft Corporate Plan consultation

Thank you for visiting our Corporate Plan consultation page. This consultation runs from Monday 2 November 2020 until Monday 30 November 2020.

Our draft Corporate Plan sets out a plan for the next 10 years so it's really important that we find out what you think of it.

Please view the draft corporate plan before you feedback via our survey. If you would rather read a summary we've condensed this into one page which you can also view below.

You can view the one page summary of our draft Corporate Plan summary here: Draft Corporate Plan consultation summary [206.53KB]. You can view the detailed 17 page draft Corporate Plan consultation document here: Draft Corporate Plan consultation document [1.13MB].

Draft Corporate Plan 2021-2030 Questions that must be answered are marked with a red asterisk (*) 1. Are you responding as… * Please tick one box only

A resident of the district of Folkestone & Hythe

A business owner of the district of Folkestone & Hythe

An organisation or community group, please provide the name below

A regular visitor to the Folkestone & Hythe District

A district, county, parish or town councillor, please specify below

Other, please state:

2. The draft Corporate Plan sets out four proposed priorities for the council over the next ten years, which are underpinned by five key principles which will lie at the heart of everything we do.

2a. To what extent do you feel each priority reflects your needs and ambitions for the district? * Please tick one box for each priority

A great deal Somewhat Not very Not at all Don’t know much A thriving dynamic economy

Homes and infrastructure for the future

Excellent community services

Quality environment for all

2b. To what extent do you feel each of the key principles reflects your expectations of the council? * Please tick one box for each priority

A great deal Somewhat Not very much Not at all Don’t know Locally distinctive

Sustainable recovery

Greener Folkestone & Hythe

Continuous improvement

Transparent, sustainable, accessible & accountable

2c. Please tell us why:

2000 characters remaining

2d. Over the next three years the council proposes to have a series of commitments to help us achieve our 2030 ambitions. To what extent do you feel each commitment reflects your own needs and ambitions for the district? * Please tick one box for each priority

A great deal Somewhat Not very much Not at all Don’t know Support a vibrant and diverse business community

Reinvigorate the high streets

Grow the skills we need for the future

Help people access jobs and opportunity

Deliver sustainable, affordable housing

Improve outcomes and support for homeless people

Deliver a sustainable new development at Otterpool Park

Deliver a safe, accountable housing service

Digital connectivity

Safer communities

Supporting and empowering our communities

Improve health and wellbeing

Increase our resilience to climate change

Ensure an excellent environment for everyone

Grow the circular economy and reduce waste

3. To what extent do you feel our proposed commitments deliver against the proposed priorities? * Please tick one box only

A great deal

Somewhat

Not very much

Not at all

Don’t know

Please tell us why:

2000 characters remaining

Is there anything else you think the council should be considering as part of the Corporate Plan for 2021-2030?

2000 characters remaining

Do you think the plan identifies the priorities required to support the district in recovering from the pandemic? * Please tick one box only

A great deal

Somewhat

Not very much

Not at all

Don’t know

If not, what priorities are missing?

2000 characters remaining

How did you find out about this consultation? * Please tick all that apply

Email from the council

Council Facebook post

Council Twitter post

Council website

Local press

Word of mouth

Other, please state:

89 ADDITIONAL PAPERS

AGENDA ITEM 23

ALLOTMENT REPORT 9th November 2020

An inspection of New Romney Allotments took place on 16th September 2020, and the result of this was that 14 x Letter 1 were sent out to tenants, and one informal email.

The reasons were: 10 x untidy / needing weeding / inadequate cultivation 4 x boundary (rabbit) fencing not meeting criteria 4 x poor or unsafe condition of rabbit fencing 2 x rent arrears 3 x tree, fruit bush or crop planted requiring more than 12 months 2 x non-conforming / authorised shed, or other building or structure Following these letters, we received communications from 6 tenants, with reasons or queries.1 tenant surrendered their plot.

A follow up inspection took place on 26th October 2020. As a result of this the following letters were sent:

5 x Letter 1 6 x Letter 2 5 x Improvement acknowledgement letter The reasons for Letters 1 and 2 were: 8 x untidy / needing weeding / inadequate cultivation 3 x boundary (rabbit) fencing not meeting criteria 5 x poor or unsafe condition of rabbit fencing 1 x rent arrears *under negotiation 2 x tree, fruit bush or crop planted requiring more than 12 months 2 x non-conforming / authorised shed or other building or structure

There are currently 2 allotment plots being prepared for re-letting to new tenants.

Due to the low staffing situation and the subsequent COVID 19 pandemic restrictions no previous inspections had taken place during 2020. However, it is now envisaged that regular inspections will take place every 4-6 weeks, and that this will, hopefully, enable all allotment plots to be managed to a level standard. It is also planned that certain areas of the Tenancy Agreements (additional rules) are tightened, or made clearer.

Facilities and PR Clerk

END