Odell Parish Council

FELMERSHAM & RADWELL PARISH COUNCIL

MINUTES OF THE PARISH COUNCIL MEETING HELD ON MONDAY 20 NOVEMBER 2017

Attendees: Councillors: Peter Hartop (Chair), Marjorie Pipe (Vice Chair), Jason Boswell, Rosie Cheetham, Vanessa Coleman and Clive Just Borough Councillor: Doug McMurdo Parish Clerk/Responsible Finance Officer: Trevor Roff

Public: There were no members of the public in attendance Action 57/17 Parishioners Talk Time

The meeting considered the following issues:

(a) In relation to the obligations that existed in respect of the Swansholme development in Felmersham, it was reported that three people in the village had indicated a requirement for local accommodation. Should a property become available, the obligations require the allocation of each dwelling to a person in need of such accommodation with a priority in favour of residents within the Parish of Felmersham or who have a strong local connection to the Parish (before extending the search criteria to the Parishes of Pavenham, Carlton & Chellington, Odell, Sharnbrook, Bletsoe and Milton Ernest, and then to the administrative area of the Council if no allocation can be made based upon the initial allocation criteria). The Parish Council had considered and resolved to maintain a list of potential beneficiaries (previous minute 53/16(l) of the meeting held on 13 September 2016 and minute 20/17 of the meeting held on 14 March 2017 refer) and Stonewater Housing Association should be reminded of the need to consult the Parish Council if a property becomes available to ensure that local people were considered as a priority for occupancy. In addition, Stonewater would be requested to confirm the criteria for selection. PC

(b) There was concern at the impact of the rooting system of the substantial Sycamore Tree adjacent to the Felmersham Bridge [on the left hand side when exiting the village] and the Borough Council should be made aware of the potential risks to the bridge structure. PC

58/17 Apologies for Absence

Apologies for absence were received from Cllr. Drewery. Note

59/17 Declaration of Interests

Cllr. Pipe declared an interest in the appointment of the Internal Auditor, as a neighbour of the applicant, and took no part in the discussion at item 65/17(f). Note

60/17 Approval of Minutes of Parish Council Meeting Held on 12 September 2017

The meeting considered the draft minutes of the last meeting. Note

RESOLVED:

The minutes of the meeting, held on 12 September 2017, were approved and signed as a correct record. PC

(Proposed by: Cllr. Cheetham, Seconded by: Cllr. Pipe, All in favour)

61/17 Matters Arising

All matters arising were considered and updates provided as part of specific agenda items with the exception of an update in relation to the behaviour of the dog at 1 Swansholme (minute 46/17 of the last meeting refers). Following consideration of the concerns of residents, the Housing Association [Stonewater] had indicated the intention to survey the garden and boundary fence and had raised an order to erect a secure inner fence at a suitable height. This work had now been completed. Note

62/17 Reports

(a) Borough Councillor

Doug McMurdo, Borough Councillor, had prepared for the meeting a detailed update on the following key issues:

(i) Bedford Hospital: A ‘Strategic Outline Case’ has been put forward for the proposed merger of Bedford Hospital and Luton & Dunstable Hospital. The future of Bedford Hospital has been uncertain for a number of years through a succession of health reviews, the last of which proposed the transfer of maternity services to Milton Keynes Hospital which, thankfully, did not proceed. Note

The National Health Service (NHS) and local authority social care services are now the subject of the Sustainability and Transformation Partnership (STP) review covering Bedfordshire and Milton Keynes. STP processes began last year at the behest of NHS England in 44 areas across the country with a view towards improving service quality and reducing costs; that raised concerns around the future of key services at Bedford Hospital such as maternity, A & E and paediatrics. Note

The decision of Bedford Hospital and Luton & Dunstable to now pursue a merger has been undertaken independently of the STP process, although the announcement stated that such a merger aligns with the strategic objectives of the STP and that the proposal to pursue this change has the support of the Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes STP and regulators. Aside from saving an estimated £12 million a year across both hospital sites, it has been noted explicitly by Bedford Hospital’s Chief Executive, Stephen Conroy, that the merger will secure the future of maternity, A & E and paediatric services in Bedford. Whilst further detail is awaited, there is some cautious optimism that the arrangement will be positive for Bedford Hospital. Note

(ii) New Homes Consultation: A national consultation has been announced around plans for increased house building across the country. The Borough Council Local Plan 2035 is currently proposing the allocation of sites for development based on a calculated need to provide 950 new homes per year. The Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG) has now proposed a new methodology which, if agreed following a public consultation, will require the Borough Council to plan for 1,281 homes a year to 2026. Note

While it is clear that this country has not built a sufficient number of homes over many years to keep pace with demand, there is much concern about the potential implications on the scale of new homes in the rural areas should the new methodology be taken forward. There is a strong view emerging that the Local Plan must provide a strategic approach to identifying suitable sites to accommodate new homes which focuses on urban and edge of urban areas first and foremost. Note

(iii) Bedford Borough 2020 Project: The Borough Council is progressing with its plans to undertake a fundamental restructure of the organisation as part of its ‘Bedford Borough 2020’ (BB2020) project. Following a review by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PWC) during 2016, it was estimated that there was scope for savings of £10.4 million a year could be realised should its recommendations be taken forward. The findings were agreed by the Mayor’s Executive in February 2017. Note

BB2020 is now being put into action and it is intended to be fully implemented by the end of the decade; the key aspects of the project are a wholesale staff restructure as well as the ‘digitalisation’ of services. As far as residents are concerned, it is claimed that the investment of £13 million in new technology will make it easier to interact with the Borough Council. For instance, the plans will apparently improve the Council’s website and make it easier for residents to use ‘self-service’ in registering issues and being assessed for eligibility to receive support (for adult social care, housing benefit etc, with eligibility assessed by one team instead of several across various service areas). The Chief Executive has provided assurances that those who may have difficulty in using computers will receive assistance in accessing services. Changes in the upper echelons of the staffing structure have now been carried out and a provider has been selected to implement the digital element of the project. Note

(iv) Mobility Hub: The Borough Council has teamed up with the Bedfordshire Rural Communities Charity to provide a ‘Mobility Hub’ supporting those who are unable to use public transport. Users of the ‘Door to Door’ service, which provides wheelchair accessible minibuses, will be able to rent electric scooters and wheelchairs from the Mobility Hub at Bedford Bus Station for a small charge. More information is available at: http://bedsrcc.org.uk/mobilityhub/ or by calling (01234) 348000. More details on the Door to Door service is available at: http://bedsrcc.org.uk/door-to-door/ or by calling (01234) 838771. Note

(v) Covanta: Residents had until 23 October 2017 to reply to an Environment Agency consultation on the granting of a permit for the proposed Covanta Energy Recovery Facility (ERF) in Stewartby. The facility was given planning permission via a committee of both Houses of Parliament in 2013, despite protests from residents, local politicians and Bedford Borough and Central Bedfordshire Councils. The Environment Agency is now determining the conditions on which the facility can operate through the proposed permit. The facility will use municipal, commercial and industrial non-hazardous waste to produce heat and electricity. Residents have expressed their concerns in particular around the effect on air quality from the plant itself and from Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) accessing the site. Note

(vi) Network Rail: Representatives from Network Rail recently held an event at Borough Hall to inform councillors of their plans for railway improvement works. Of particular note are plans around the electrification of the line from London to Kettering. As far as Bedford is concerned, this will require reconstruction works to be undertaken at the Ford End Road and Bromham Road bridges in the town centre to allow the necessary overhead line equipment to pass beneath. This will have an effect on motorists using these routes. Note

For Ford End Road, this work will take place in 2 phases from 16 October 2017 to 30 November 2017 and from February 2018 possibly to July 2018 (for demolition and reconstruction). The first phase will still allow traffic to use the bridge as a single lane will be kept open (with a subsequent 1 way system). The second phase will be more disruptive as the bridge will be closed and a diversion put in place. Bromham Road bridge will need to be entirely demolished and reconstructed. This will have the likely effect of causing congestion issues during the period of works but a start date is yet to be agreed. Note

(vii) Roads Grant: The Government has announced a £3.5 million contribution to Bedford Borough Council’s planned £4.8 million road reconfiguration which has been described as Bedford’s ‘Northern Gateway’. The plans include a review of road markings at the Paula Radcliffe Way roundabout, upgrades to traffic lights and the potential enlargement of the Manton Lane/Clapham Road junction. It is envisaged that the scheme, identified in the map below, will begin in the summer of 2018 and be completed by spring 2020.

(viii) Town Centre Consultation: The Borough Council undertook a 3 week

consultation in October 2017 on proposals to regenerate Bedford town

centre. The ‘Bedford Masterplan’ document set out draft plans to use,

in particular, publically owned land in the urban area for

redevelopment including:

 The identification of sites for residential and employment development in locations such as those in and around the train station area and sites to the south of the river.

 The redevelopment of properties, particularly in the area connecting the train station, Midland Road and the town centre, as well as the creation of new public and green space in the urban area.

The final Masterplan will ‘set parameters for the scale, massing and materiality of new buildings within sensitive areas of the town centre. This is important so that new development is in keeping with the existing character of Bedford and responds to its context’. Note

(b) Felmersham Village Hall

The report of the Chair of the Village Hall Committee identified a number of current issues, including the following:

(i) In relation to the playing field, quotations are being obtained for the installation of bonded rubber mulch safety surfacing, or rubber chippings, underneath the play equipment as an alternative to the existing wood chippings that are proving very costly. Initial quotations varied considerably, from £10,000 to over £200,000, and the potential for grant funding support is being pursued. In addition, the Village Hall Committee are (i) looking for a maintenance person for the playing field, (ii) looking to get signage replaced as the no dogs sign has been removed and other signage is in poor condition, (iii) looking to add some picnic benches into the playing field and (iv) continuing to improve the functionality of the Ariel slide. Note

(ii) In relation to potential hiring's, many enquiries are received about the provision of bouncy castles in the Village Hall. Bouncy Castles are, however, a specific exclusion under the Hiscox insurance policy and the insurers are unwilling for cover to be written into the policy under any circumstances. If a bouncy castle will be present during any event at the Village Hall, the clear advice is that these should be sourced from individuals or firms with their own Public Liability Insurance who will not only supply the equipment, but also attend the event and supervise/operate it all times. Proof of their Public Liability Insurance should be obtained prior to any event. Note

(iii) In terms of future fundraising events, the annual quiz night is planned for Saturday 25 November 2017 commencing at 7.00pm. Note

(iv) The Village Hall Committee had received a domestic rates bill from Bedford Borough Council and this had prompted clarification of the extent to which a domestic rates liability exists. It is accepted that village halls and similar rural community buildings are not exempt from paying rates; the Local Government Finance Act 1988 (1988 Act) introduced National Non Domestic Rates and it is under this category that village halls have a rateable value upon which the rate liability is charged by the local authority. The Village Hall is, however, entitled to Rate Relief as a registered charity [in so far as it provides the facility for the benefit of the local community and the hall is hired to local voluntary and charitable groups with no element of profit]. Rate Relief is one of the principal benefits of charitable status. The mandatory rate relief for properties occupied by charities is 80% as set out in the 1988 Act. In addition, Village Halls continue to be eligible for relief on the remaining 20% at the discretion of the local rating authority. Note

The Parish Council considered the crime statistics for September and October 2017 which recorded no reported crimes during this period. Note

63/17 Update on Current Issues

(a) Highways

The Portfolio Holder, Cllr. Pipe, reported on the continuing issues of overhanging hedges and speeding traffic in the village. In addition, it was reported that the completion of the bridge works on Stafford Causeway (between the villages of Oakley and Pavenham), and the re-opening of Stafford Bridge, had relieved the traffic in Pavenham Road. Note

(b) Traffic Issues

The Portfolio Holder, Cllr. Coleman, reported on the progress with the extension of the 20mph speed limit into The High Road, Felmersham and it remained expected that installation would be completed by the end of November 2017 (minute 41/17(c) of the meeting held on 11 July 2017 and minute 52/17(b) of the meeting held on 12 September 2017 refer). Note

The Portfolio Holder also confirmed that arrangements had now been made for speed watch checks to be undertaken at appropriate locations on Saturday 16 December 2017 (minute 52/17(b) of the last meeting refers). Note

The Portfolio Holder, Cllr. Cheetham, reported that quotations had been obtained for the installation of a permanent sign at the Jubilee Lawn to encourage greater responsibility for litter clearance (minute 41/17(d) of the meeting held on 11 July 2017 refers). The options that had been considered ranged in value, up to £95.85 (excluding VAT), and the meeting considered that the solution provided by Security Safety Products offered the best value, in the sum of £74.43 (excluding VAT). Note

RESOLVED:

That the purchase of the aluminium weather proof sign from Security Safety Products for installation at the Jubilee Lawn, at a total cost of £74.43 Cllr. (excluding VAT), be approved. Cheetham

(d) Parish Trees

There were no issues to report to the meeting. Note

(e) Grounds Maintenance

There were no issues to report to the meeting. Note

(f) Radwell Matters

There were no issues to report to the meeting. Note

(g) Parish Assets

There were no issues to report to the meeting. Note

(h) Communications

The Portfolio Holder, Cllr Just, expressed concern at the continuing delays in implementing superfast broadband into the village, due apparently to other civil engineering works ongoing in the area. Borough Councillor McMurdo undertook to progress the matter with relevant Officers at Bedford Borough Council and to provide an update on likely implementation timescales. DM

(i) External Affairs

The Portfolio Holder, Cllr Drewery, had provided an update in respect of London Luton Airport. London Luton Airport Limited and Luton Borough Council are planning to invest £200 million in a Direct Air to Rail Transit (DART) system which will transport passengers between Luton Airport Parkway station and London Luton Airport. The DART is being developed to improve passenger journey time and connectivity to and from the airport using a modern, sustainable and efficient system. Currently, shuttle buses transport passengers between Parkway station and the airport but the reliability and journey time of the bus service can be affected by traffic congestion, which is difficult to predict in advance, and these issues can lead to stressful and delayed journeys to the airport. The new system will be a people-mover of the type found in major international airports around the world. Note

It is also intended that a second multi storey car park will be built to replace the spaces lost for the DART facility. There will be new office space creating two thousand jobs along with a four-star hotel on Barletta Square commencing in 2018. To the East of the airport it is proposed that there will be a new century park creating three thousand jobs in the commercial development with an upgrade to the community space to include a skate board park, two new playgrounds and a community café. Note

64/17 Planning Matters

(a) Planning Application - 40 Marriotts Close, Felmersham

The Parish Clerk reported that, in respect of Planning Application Number 17/02873/FUL, relating to the proposed erection of a single storey detached garage at 40 Marriotts Close, Felmersham, the Planning Authority had been advised that the Parish Council had no objection to the planning application. Note

RESOLVED:

That the decision to notify the Borough Council that the Parish Council had no objection to planning application 17/02873/FUL be ratified. PC

(b) Neighbourhood Planning

The Portfolio Holder for Neighbourhood Planning, Cllr. Drewery, had provided an update for the meeting on the progress with the neighbourhood plan process. This included the following information:

(i) In relation to potential sites for development, four Land Agents (representing the owners of land in Felmersham & Radwell that submitted proposals as part of the Bedford Borough Council "call for sites" process) had attended a Steering Group meeting on Saturday 30 September 2017 to give a presentation on the development proposals and aspirations for their sites. A further presentation by DLP Planning Limited, representing their clients from Old Road, Felmersham and Radwell Lakes, took place on 31 October 2017. Note

(ii) A meeting has been arranged to present the findings from the Neighbourhood Questionnaire and the call for sites presentations to Council members on Saturday 25 November 2017, commencing at 10.00am at The Sun, Felmersham. All

(iii) It is intended that there will be one day presentation event around the end of January 2018/beginning of February 2018 to present the findings from the Neighbourhood Questionnaire and the call for site presentations to the residents of Felmersham & Radwell. The Land Agents for the call for sites have been asked to attend the day to answer any questions not already raised. Note

The meeting considered the next steps in the process and acknowledged that the next stage is for the Steering Group to use the neighbourhood questionnaire analysis to identify the range of local issues/concerns and also any possible actions that may still be necessary to properly evidence the matters relevant to each of the 5 Neighbourhood Plan Themes that were identified early in the process (i.e. Housing, Infrastructure, Environment, Community and Business & Employment). Following completion of this stage, and the land agent meetings, the immediate work-streams would be to (i) prepare a detailed Issues and Options paper and then (ii) to translate the preferred options into effective planning policies. Note

Drafting the Neighbourhood Plan will then follow, initially for consultation and subsequently to a standard that will convince the Independent Examiner that it is compliant and can be recommended to proceed to the referendum. The submitted plan must be accompanied by a consultation statement and statement of compliance with the prescribed "basic conditions". Note

RESOLVED:

That the update provided in respect of the Neighbourhood Planning process be acknowledged. Note

65/17 Finance & General Administration

(a) Schedule of Receipts & Payments: 2017/2018

The schedule of receipts and payments, covering the period 1 September 2017 to 31 October 2017 and attached at Appendix A, was considered. Note

RESOLVED:

That the schedule of receipts and payments, attached at Appendix A to the minutes, be approved. PC

(Proposed by: Cllr. Cheetham, Seconded by: Cllr. Coleman, All in favour)

(b) Financial Position - Account Balances

The financial position of the Parish Council, as at 31 October 2017, was reported as follows:

Current Account £9,335.30 Business Reserve Account £8,353.01 TOTAL £17,688.31

This compares to a total balance, as at 31 August 2017, of £12,274.39. Note

RESOLVED:

That the financial position of the Parish Council, as at as at 31 October 2017, be acknowledged. Note

The meeting considered and acknowledged the Budget Monitoring Report for the period to 31 October 2017 (circulated prior to the meeting). This identified expenditure incurred and income received against the approved 2017/2018 revenue budget with no specific areas of concern or significant variances at this stage. The meeting acknowledged the need to keep the financial position under review with regular budget monitoring reports. Note

RESOLVED:

That the budget position statement, for the period to 31 October 2017, be acknowledged and the financial position be kept under review. PC

(d) Proposed 2018/2019 Budget

The meeting considered the draft budget for 2018/2019, attached at Appendix B, which had been prepared having full regard to the principles outlined in the Revenue Budget Policy Statement (approved by the Parish Council at its meeting on 10 November 2015). Note

The meeting considered each budget head of expenditure and income in turn and commented favourably on the structure of the budget that achieved a common subjective analysis. This helped to promote a consistent approach in terms of financial reporting and analysis and it also enabled improved budget comparisons to be achieved over time. Note

In preparing the draft 2018/2019 budget, the Responsible Finance Officer had considered the income received and expenditure incurred to the end of October 2017 and the previous year’s income and expenditure for the period November to March. This enabled a full year comparison to be made and, therefore, assisted the budget setting process. Due regard was also given to known items of income and expenditure for the remainder of the 2017/2018 financial year and also expenditure that had been incurred in 2017/2018 that would not be repeated in 2018/2019. Note

The proposed budget endeavours to provide essential financial support, including maintenance needs, for the range of parish assets and key areas of service. It also makes some provision for the replacement and upgrade of assets, although in reality these are often expensive and will often rely on established Reserves or other funding sources. The Parish Council does have a relatively healthy Business Reserve Account that would permit some capital or "one-off" priority investment; it is essential, however, that a reasonable balance is maintained as the annual revenue budget offers limited opportunity to replenish the Reserve. It is also important to ensure, as far as possible, that any investment has no long term ongoing revenue commitment that would otherwise put added pressure on the annual budget. Note

RESOLVED:

That the draft Revenue Budget for 2018/2019, attached at Appendix B, be approved. PC

(Proposed by: Cllr. Just, Seconded by: Cllr. Cheetham, All in favour)

(e) Proposed 2018/2019 Precept

In determining the 2018/2019 budget, due regard was given to the level of Precept to be applied. The 2017/2018 Precept had been based upon 359.48 Band D equivalent properties (being the indicative number of properties calculated as at 30 November 2016) at a £47.29 Band D Council Tax level (i.e. a total Precept of £17,000). The meeting supported a Precept of £17,500 for 2018/2019, the equivalent of a 2.9% increase to provide for a small increase in costs in 2018/2019. This will increase the Band D Council Tax to £48.68 based upon the Tax base at 30 November 2016 [Note: The Tax Base is re-calculated annually as at 30 November in each year and, as such, there may be a small variation in actual sum collected from the Precept]. Note

RESOLVED:

That, on the basis of the approved budget outlined at (d) above, the Parish Council approve the Precept of £17,500 for 2018/2019. PC

(Proposed by: Cllr. Coleman, Seconded by: Cllr. Just, All in favour)

(f) Appointment of Auditor - Financial Statements 2017/2018

The meeting considered the need to appoint an Internal Auditor in advance of financial year end and, in this regard, the existing Auditor had agreed to undertake the role for the 2017/2018 financial statements for the sum of £150. Mr. Patrick Doyle has performed this role exceptionally well in previous years and has the necessary experience and competencies. Note

The meeting considered the proposed terms of reference for the audit (circulated prior to the meeting) and these would form part of the letter of engagement of the Internal Auditor. The letter of engagement would set out the expectations of the Parish Council in respect of the Internal Audit, including a proposed plan of work. Note

RESOLVED:

(1) That Patrick Doyle be retained as the Parish Council's Internal Auditor for the 2017/2018 financial statements at a fee of £150. PC

(2) That the Terms of Reference for the Internal Audit of the 2017/2018 financial statements be approved. PC

(Proposed by: Cllr. Cheetham, Seconded by: Cllr. Coleman, All in favour)

(g) Audit Plan: 2018

The meeting considered the internal and external audit plan for 2018 (circulated prior to the meeting) which sets out the key internal control arrangements and timescale for the completion of the financial statements and the corresponding internal and external audit process. Note

As a smaller authority, with a turnover below £25,000, Felmersham & Radwell Parish Council will no longer be subject to routine external audit and there is no longer a requirement to submit the Annual Return to an External Auditor. There is still, however, a requirement to complete and publish an Annual Return by 30 June in accordance with the requirements of Regulation 13(3) of The Accounts & Audit Regulations 2011 and to comply with the Transparency Code for Smaller Authorities. Note

The 2016/2017 financial statements represents the final year of accounts for which external auditors appointed by the Audit Commission, BDO in Bedfordshire's case, will act. The Smaller Authorities Audit Appointments (SAAA) Limited, as the new sector-led successor body, announced at the end of November 2016 that it had successfully concluded the procurement process for auditors and had awarded contracts for the supply of limited assurance audit reviews for smaller authorities. Note

Three audit firms have been appointed as suppliers for the five-year period commencing 1 April 2017: PKF Littlejohn, Mazars and Moore Stephens. Contracts have been signed ahead of schedule on terms that will enable SAAA to undertake its various tasks including the quality control and monitoring of suppliers without making any further call on public funds. Further details of the audit appointment areas to be covered by the three firms will be communicated in due course. Note

Whilst smaller authorities are exempt from routine external audit, an external auditor will still be appointed in case there are questions from electors to be resolved. The Parish Council emphasised, given the change in approach, the increasing importance of the role of the Internal Auditor. This includes providing an objective and independent view on whether the internal systems and controls meet the needs of the Council, advice on any external risks facing the Parish Council and advice on any changes required to procedures/systems required to meet forthcoming changes in legislation or good governance. Note

RESOLVED:

That the Internal and External Audit Plan be approved. PC

66/17 Correspondence

Key items of correspondence received since the last meeting include:

(a) Weekly lists from the Borough Council of applications received under the Licensing Act 2003 & Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act and the Gambling Act 2005. These can be found at: http://www.bedford.gov.uk/business/licences_and_street_trading/licensing_ act_2003/applications.aspx All

(b) Regular news updates from Bedford Community Voluntary Service with details of a range of events and courses organised by the voluntary, community and social enterprise sector. Note

(c) Regular press releases from Bedford Borough Council with details of local issues, service development proposals and organised events. Note

(d) Correspondence from Ringhouse Developments, dated 18 September 2017, in respect of the proposed Wyboston Garden Village new settlement that had Note been submitted to Bedford Borough Council for consideration as part of the 2035 Local Plan.

(e) Correspondence and location plan from Borough Highways, dated 19

September 2017, outlining the proposed closure of part of footpath number 15, from Monday 9 October 2017 to Sunday 15 October 2017 to enable a new Note water main to be laid along The Slip.

(f) Details of the “Silent Soldier” initiative from the Bedfordshire Royal British Legion Community Fundraiser for the Poppy Appeal. Note

(g) Details of the Government’s announcement on 20 September 2017 of £22.8 million to support the neighbourhood planning initiative. Details are available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/228-million-boost-to-give-power- back-to-communities. Note

(h) A copy of the annual report and accounts of the Bedfordshire Association of Town & Parish Councils (BATPC) for the year ended 31 March 2017. Note

(i) A copy of the September 2017 edition (Issue 3) of the Rural Community Newsletter from Bedfordshire Police to highlight the activities and performance of the North Community Rural Team. Note

(j) Correspondence from Bedford Borough Council, dated 3 October 2017, informing that, following consideration of an application from Sharnbrook Parish Council, the whole civil parish of Sharnbrook has been designated a Neighbourhood Area. As a result of the designation, Sharnbrook Parish Council will be able to proceed to prepare a Neighbourhood Plan. Note

(k) Crime statistics for September 2017 covering the north rural area, listed in "Beat Code" order. There were no instances recorded in Felmersham and Radwell during this period. Note

(l) Correspondence from Jordans Mill, dated 5 October 2017, outlining details of the latest Children's event, Zelda's Spooky Spell Trail, in support of the Jordans Trust at the Mill from 23 to 30 October 2017. Note

(m) Correspondence from the Planning Policy Team at Bedford Borough Council, dated 5 October 2017, outlining the consultation on the proposed master plan that is being developed for the Town Centre South area of Bedford. The master plan will help shape the growth of the town including new homes, workspaces and shops. Details of the emerging proposals are available at www.bedford.gov.uk/ope. Note

(n) Correspondence from the Mayor of Bedford, dated 5 October 2017, following the ongoing dialogue with Parish Councils about the significant concerns that exists in respect of the proposed new settlements at Thurleigh Airfield, Twinwoods, Lee Farm and the expansion of Category 1 villages, such as Sharnbrook. This letter confirms his preparedness to chair a meeting of the Borough Council and representatives of Parish Councils on Monday 6 November at 6.00pm in the Council Chamber at Borough Hall. Note

(o) Correspondence from the Planning Policy Team at Bedford Borough Council, dated 6 October 2017, with a link to the results from the most recent consultation on the emerging Local Plan 2035, held between April and June 2017. There were in excess of 1,800 responses and these are summarised at the link www.bedford.gov.uk/localplan2035. The next scheduled consultation on the Local Plan 2035 will take place in February and March 2018. The correspondence also provided details of the Government consultation ‘Planning for the Right Homes in the Right Places’ with details available at the following link: https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/planning-for- the-right-homes-in-the-right-places-consultation-proposals. Note

(p) Correspondence from the English Regional Transport Association (ERTA), dated 7 October 2017, with an initial response from ERTA to the Bedford Town Centre South Master Plan Consultation. Note

(q) Correspondence from BATPC, dated 9 October 2017, in respect of the Government consultation ‘Planning for the Right Homes in the Right Places’ which concludes on 27 October 2017. Note

(r) Correspondence from BATPC, dated 9 October 2017, in respect of the reform of data protection legislation effective from 25 May 2018 and attaching a letter from the Department of Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) on the impact of the Data Protection Bill on Parish Council's. Note

(s) Invitation to the Annual General Meeting of The Villager Minibus (Sharnbrook) Ltd on Wednesday 15 November 2017 (7.30pm) at Sharnbrook Leisure Centre at Sharnbrook School. Note

(t) Correspondence from the Community Engagement Team at Bedford Borough Council in respect of the next meeting of the Parish & Town Council Network held on Tuesday 24 October 2017 at Borough Hall. Note

(u) Correspondence from "Play-Ground Supplies Limited", distributors for three playground manufactures in Europe (Stilum, Ziegler and Europlay), based in Kettering, Northants. Note

(v) A copy of the October 2017 edition (Issue 4) of the Rural Community Newsletter from Bedfordshire Police to highlight the activities and performance of the North Community Rural Team. Note

(w) Correspondence from Borough Highways, dated 12 October 2017 and 6 November 2017, outlining road closure arrangements to facilitate Remembrance Day events. Note

(x) Details of public consultation on pharmaceutical services in local areas that runs from 16 October 2017 to 15 December 2017. This is part of a Pharmaceutical Needs Assessment and responses can be on-line at http://centralbedfordshire.gov.uk/pna. Note

(y) Correspondence and location plan from Borough Highways outlining the proposed temporary road closure on Felmersham Road, Carlton from Monday 20 November 2017 to Sunday 10 December 2017, to enable the installation of a new water main. Note

(z) A copy of the Autumn edition of "Council Matters" issued by Came & Company Local Council Insurance. Note

(aa) Correspondence from Bedford Borough Council enclosing "Starting School 2018" posters with arrangements for the admission of children to lower schools. This has been displayed on the parish notice boards. Note

(bb) Correspondence from Bryony Light, dated 1 November 2017, suppliers of replacement LED streetlights. Note

(cc) The November 2017 edition of the Bedfordshire Bugle had been received and had been circulated to all Parish Councillors for consideration. Note

(dd) Crime statistics for October 2017 covering the north rural area, listed in "Beat Code" order. There were no instances recorded in Felmersham and Radwell during this period. Note

(ee) The November/December 2017 edition of the English Regional Transport Association (ERTA) newsletter. Note

(ff) Correspondence from Jordans Mill, dated 9 November 2017, outlining details of the Christmas Craft Fair at the Mill on 25 November 2017 from 10.00am until 4.00pm. Note

(gg) Further legal briefings from BATPC on the reform of data protection legislation effective from 25 May 2018. Note

67/17 Date of Next Meeting

The next meeting will take place on Tuesday 9 January 2018 commencing at 7.30pm. Note

The schedule of meeting dates for the remainder of 2018 is as follows:

Tuesday 13 March 2018 Tuesday 8 May 2018 Tuesday 10 July 2018 Tuesday 11 September 2018 Tuesday 13 November 2018 Note All meetings are scheduled to commence at 7.30pm.

APPENDIX A FELMERSHAM & RADWELL PARISH COUNCIL TRANSACTIONS: 1 SEPTEMBER 2017 - 31 OCTOBER 2017

SCHEDULE OF RECEIPTS

AMOUNT TRANSACTION DESCRIPTION RECEIVED VAT DATE £ £

14 SEPT 2017 BEDFORD BOROUGH - PRECEPT (2ND INSTALMENT) 8,500.00 -

29 SEPT 2017 BANK INTEREST 0.07 -

31 OCTOBER 2017 BANK INTEREST 0.07 -

TOTAL RECEIPTS 8,500.14 -

SCHEDULE OF PAYMENTS

AMOUNT TRANSACTION DESCRIPTION PAID VAT DATE £ £

12 SEPT 2017 A R WORBOYS - GRASS CUTTING: 23 AUGUST 2017 337.11 56.19

16 SEPT 2017 PARISH CLERK/OFFICE EXPENSES: SEPTEMBER 2017 7.99 -

18 SEPT 2017 PARISH CLERK PAYROLL: SEPTEMBER 2017 439.00 -

18 SEPT 2017 VILLAGE HALL COMMITTEE: HALL HIRE 30.00 -

25 SEPT 2017 A R WORBOYS - GRASS CUTTING: 6 SEPTEMBER 2017 337.11 56.19

25 SEPT 2017 THE COLOUR SHOP: NEIGHBOURHOOD PLANNING 125.00 -

26 SEPT 2017 B. WALLIS: NEIGHBOURHOOD PLANNING 450.00 -

10 OCTOBER 2017 A R WORBOYS - GRASS CUTTING: 21 SEPTEMBER 2017 337.11 56.19

10 OCTOBER 2017 A. MUSKETT LTD: QUARTERLY STREET LIGHT MTCE 61.20 10.20

12 OCTOBER 2017 E-on: ELECTRICITY SUPPLY 149.70 7.13

17 OCTOBER 2017 PARISH CLERK PAYROLL: OCTOBER 2017 466.90 -

25 OCTOBER 2017 PARISH CLERK/OFFICE EXPENSES: OCTOBER 2017 7.99 -

25 OCTOBER 2017 A R WORBOYS - GRASS CUTTING: 11 OCTOBER 2017 337.11 56.19

TOTAL PAYMENTS 3,086.22 242.09

APPENDIX B FELMERSHAM & RADWELL PARISH COUNCIL

PROPOSED REVENUE BUDGET: 2018/2019

EXPENDITURE (Net of VAT) BUDGET NOTES £

Amenities 7,640 Trees/Arboriculture Work 1,000 Grass Cutting – Open Space 4,500 (Note i) Street Lighting (Electricity) 600 Street Lighting (Maintenance) 220 Street Lighting (Improvements) 300 (Note ii) Play Area – Inspection 110 Play Area – Repairs & Maintenance 200 Parish Assets (Notice Boards/Bins/Bus Shelters) 500 Christmas Trees (Light Connection/Disposal) 210 (Note iii)

Employee Costs 5,970 Salary 5,600 (Note iv) Payroll Service 150 Homeworking Allowance 220

Printing, Stationery and Office Sundries 200

Professional Fees 250 Internal Auditor 150 Other Professional Fees 100

Premises Related Expenditure 880 Village Hall Hire 60 Village Hall Insurance 820 (Note v)

Other Expenditure 1,430 Training Courses 100 Donations (Villager Minibus) 100 Subscriptions (BATPC) 230 Neighbourhood Planning 1,000 (Note vi)

Insurance 560 (Note vii)

General Contingency 1,200

TOTAL EXPENDITURE 18,130

BUDGET NOTES £

INCOME

Precept 17,500 Proposed 2018/2019 Precept 17,500 (Note viii)

Other Income 630 Investment Interest 5 Grass Cutting Contribution 625 (Note ix)

TOTAL INCOME 18,130

NOTES

(i) The grass cutting budget is based upon (i) 10 cuts per annum for the churchyard, (ii) 19 cuts per annum to the playing field and (iii) 15 cuts per annum to village spaces and roadside verges (ordinarily grass cutting takes place during the period April to November). The budget is based upon a quotation for the service in 2017 and a small allowance for ongoing service needs and inflation.

(ii) Provision has been made in the budget for potential replacement or upgrade to an existing street lighting column if required.

(iii) Provision has been made for annual light connection/disconnection and tree disposal. It is assumed that residents or a sponsor from Radwell will bear the cost associated with the provision of a Christmas tree.

(iv) The budget reflects salary scales and hourly pay rates in line with the National Joint Council (NJC) negotiations for local government staff, including incremental progression and national pay awards. Allowance is also made for mileage payments at HMRC approved rates.

(v) Following competitive quotations, a 3 year Long Term Agreement with Hiscox was approved effective from 17 July 2016. The annual premium is £705.00 plus Insurance Premium Tax of £84.60 (at 12%). A small allowance has been made for the index linking of sums insured.

(vi) Provision has been made in the budget for the commitment to the Neighbourhood Planning initiative.

(vii) A three year Long Term Agreement (LTA) with Aviva has existed since 31 May 2015 with an annual premium of £474.89 (plus Insurance Premium Tax of £56.99 (12%). A small allowance has been made for the index linking of sums insured.

(viii) An increase in the Parish Precept of 2.9% to £17,500 is proposed for 2017/2018 to reflect year on year price increases. The 2017/2018 Precept was based upon 359.48 Band D equivalent properties (being the indicative number of properties calculated as at 30 November 2016) at a £47.29 Band D Council Tax level (i.e. a total Precept of £17,000). This will increase to £48.68 based upon the revised Precept [Note: The Tax Base is re-calculated annually as at 30 November in each year and, as such, there may be a small variation in actual sum collected from the Precept].

(ix) The Borough Council makes an annual contribution of £624.15 towards the cost incurred by the Parish Council in maintaining the highway verges within the villages by grass cutting in exercise of established powers under Section 96 of the Highways Act 1980. For the purpose of urban grass cutting, the minimum frequency required is six cuts per annum and the extent of urban cutting is defined as the 30/40mph speed limit sign, or the village name plate, whichever is the furthest from the centre of the villages.