ENCLOSURE 1

KENILWORTH TOWN COUNCIL

Minutes of the MEETING of the TOWN COUNCIL

commencing at 7.00 pm on 23 November 2017

PRESENT: Councillor Mrs K Dickson (in the Chair).

Councillors: Mrs M J Bates, Mrs F G Bunker, Mrs P M Cain, M F Coker, J A Cooke, R I G Davies, R G Dickson, R J Hales, Mrs R A Hill, G R Illingworth, C J Nelson and D J Shilton.

Town Clerk: Miss M S Field. Deputy Town Clerk: N A Eaton.

There were three members of the public present. The press was not represented.

The fire and safety brief was displayed on the screens prior to the commencement of the meeting.

PRAYERS

Prayers were led by Christine Flood of Methodist Church, following which the Mayor declared the meeting open.

TC.607 DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

Councillors J A Cooke and D J Shilton made a declaration of personal interest in relation to any items regarding District Council and County Council.

MAYOR’S QUESTIONS

TC.608 Councillor Mrs P Cain had submitted the following question –

“Would the Town Council consider writing to the Master of the Lord Leycester Hospital, supporting her current HLF grant bid, submitted for the hospital buildings’ much needed refurbishment?”

After consideration, it was proposed, seconded and:

RESOLVED unanimously that Kenilworth Town Council would write to the Master of the Lord Leycester Hospital, supporting her current Heritage Lottery Fund grant bid, submitted for the hospital buildings’ much needed refurbishment.

PUBLIC QUESTION TIME

TC. 609 Mr Andrew Garsed had submitted the following question, on behalf of Residents of Central Kenilworth (ROCK) –

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K:\TWNCNCL\AGENDA 2018\ENCLOSURE 1.DOCX INITIALS ……...……… “We write in connection with the recent notice to consider instigating a 20mph order for Forrest Rd. Kenilworth. Councillors will recall that in ROCK’s supportive letter on the Kenilworth Town Neighbourhood Pre-submission Plan, attention was drawn to the fact that residents were in favour of implementing 20mph zones on appropriate roads. In particular there was concern that the speed of some drivers in Southbank Rd presented a real hazard to elderly residents and the large number of pedestrians who cross the road between The Blundells alleyways including parents using buggies, children who walk to and from school or nursery, the disabled and the visually impaired. There is also the additional hazard for the many users accessing the road from Montpellier House, Wilton Court, Southbank Court and Hibbert Court not to mention for ordinary residents! The road is narrow in width taking into account parked vehicles often exacerbated by inconsiderate and illegal parking. It must also be noted that there are large buses for the disabled, regularly using the road on week days and requiring to reverse and turn into Hibbert Court.

We would respectfully ask that a formal request is submitted to the County Council for a 20mph zone in this road.”

The Chair invited Councillor J Cooke, Leader of the Council, to respond to this question. Councillor Cooke expressed sympathy but noted that, following consultation, the proposed 20 mph speed limit in Forrest Road was no longer being considered by Warwickshire County Council (WCC). Instead, they would be considering 20 mph speed limits in a wider area. The Kenilworth Neighbourhood Plan was the correct way in which such speed limits should be considered in a holistic manner. This would then feed in to any wider consultation by WCC. Finally Councillor Cooke pointed out that Mr Garsed was also at liberty to contact his WCC County Councillor directly concerning this matter.

TC.610 COMMUNICATIONS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS

The Mayor informed Members of a letter from Ashdene Gardens Residents Association, thanking the Town Council for the recent work done in Ebourne Park.

The Mayor informed Members that WCC have notified us that there will be a temporary closure of Stoneleigh Road and Albion Street from 20 December to 22 December.

The Mayor reminded Members that the Boxing Day Cyclo-Cross event will be held again this year, on a number of streets within Kenilworth. Any comments or questions are required by WDC by Monday 4th December 2017

The Mayor reported that the Local Government Boundary Commission has informed WDC of their decision with regard to the future size of Council. It was apparently a balanced decision but that they have decided that the Council should be made up of 44 Councillors. The public consultation on warding arrangements (where the wards for the 44 Councillors should be and how many Councillors in each Ward) starts on Monday 27 November 2017. A special meeting of the Licensing & Regulatory Committee has been organised on 13 December 2017 to determine this Council’s submission on Warding arrangements. Once WDC has determined its view on the Warding arrangements we will be sent a copy of the submission.

TC.611 APOLOGIES

Councillors: Mrs H M Delaney, M C Hitchins and Mrs S Shilton.

TC.612 MEMORIALS AND PETITIONS 2

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It was advised and NOTED that there were no matters under this heading.

TC.613 MINUTES

The Minutes of the Town Council held on 12 October 2017 were moved, seconded, ADOPTED and signed.

MATTERS ARISING

TC.614 KENILWORTH CHILDREN’S CENTRE GROUP (TC.551 and TC.565)

Councillor J Cooke, Leader of the Council, reported on developments at WCC, including the consultation outcome. He confirmed that an ‘outreach model’ has been proposed for centres due to close in Bertie Road and St John’s. However the St John’s centre would be kept open for one year in a ‘transition period’. A special WCC Meeting on this matter will take place on 29th November 2017, so no final decision has yet been made.

Councillor Cooke highlighted the high number of consultation responses from Kenilworth. Councillor D Shilton hoped that St John’s would succeed in any bid to be used as a Children and Family Centre (hub).

Members NOTED this update.

TC.615 WARWICK DISTRICT STANDARDS COMMITTEE (TC.593)

Councillor R Davies reported that a WDC Meeting on 15 November 2017 supported the formation of a Standards Committee of Warwick District Councillors, of which at least three (where possible) would be dual hatted members who were also either Parish or Town Council Members. The Committee would also include two independent members.

Members NOTED this update.

STANDING MATTERS

TC.616 PROGRESS REPORT - KENILWORTH NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN

Councillor G Illingworth reported that a great deal of progress had been made with the analysis of consultation responses. This now needs prompt consideration by the Neighbourhood Plan Working Group, in order to make amendments to the draft Plan. Proposed Meeting dates will be circulated.

Councillor Mrs M Bates thanked all those who had helped with the consultation analysis, including spreadsheet development.

Councillor R Hales thanked both the above Members and suggested that details of the Neighbourhood Plans’ current position are communicated on Social Media and the website.

Members NOTED this update.

TC.617 KENILWORTH DEVELOPMENT FORUM - PERIODIC PROGRESS REPORT

Councillor M Coker reported on the initial meeting of the Kenilworth Development Forum, confirming that a briefing email had been circulated to Members.

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K:\TWNCNCL\AGENDA 2018\ENCLOSURE 1.DOCX INITIALS ……...……… This Forum was a spin off from the Town Centre Management Partnership. It represented business interests rather than “politics” and will act as an influencing and consulting body, but does not make decisions.

The Forum’s first event will be the Christmas market on 02 December 2017.

Councillor R Dickson enquired whether the Forum had a website or other public face, and Councillor M Coker responded that this was to be decided but the idea would be noted. Councillor R Hales added that the Forum was embryonic and will change and adapt over time.

Members NOTED this update.

TC.618 HS2 LTD UPDATE

Councillor G Illingworth reported on the visit of Gareth Epps (Independent HS2 Construction Commissioner) on 21 November 2017. This was considered a success, with Mr Epps appearing knowledgeable and aware of local issues.

Councillor Illingworth further informed Members on a talk during this visit, from HS2 on community project funding available to Community Groups. The Town Council may need to take a lead on this due to lack of uptake in Kenilworth to date. Members considered opportunities to promote these funds and their potential.

Councillor Illingworth reported on the notification of drop-in surgeries which HS2 Ltd is holding over the next few months, intended for local communities to pop-in and find out more about HS2 in their area. None are currently planned in Kenilworth, highlighting ongoing communications issues. HS2 will take this up.

Members NOTED this update.

TC.619 UPDATING OF THE TOWN COUNCIL COMMUNITY EMERGENCY PLANAND FLOOD INCIDENT REPORTING REQUIREMENTS TO WDC

It was NOTED that there were no reports available regarding this topic and there were no incidents of floods which required reporting.

NEW MATTERS AND CORRESPONDENCE

TC.620 WARWICK DISTRICT COUNCIL CAR PARK STRATEGY 2018-2028 CONSULTATION

Members considered the Warwick District Council Car Park Strategy 2018-2028 Consultation. After full debate, it was proposed, seconded and:

RESOLVED that with respect to the Warwick District Council Car Park Strategy 2018-2028 Consultation, Kenilworth Town Council submits the following response - Kenilworth Town Council appreciates the recent visit of an officer of Warwick District Council to present and consult of the Car Parking Strategy. The Town Council cannot agree that there is adequate car parking in the town for future requirements, and are surprised by the report of the consultants. The Town Council has been unable to locate the report on the WDC website and would appreciate sight of the relevant section concerning Kenilworth.

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K:\TWNCNCL\AGENDA 2018\ENCLOSURE 1.DOCX INITIALS ……...……… We wonder on what date and at what time their investigation was carried out and whether they were made aware of the following information.  Around 2,000 new houses are due to be built in Kenilworth in the current Local Plan.  The car park in Talisman Square is to be closed and developed for Student housing with little on-site parking remaining.  The imminent opening of a new station will bring additional cars into the town centre.  The Waitrose car park is closed out of shop hours  There is an influx of cars into the Town late in the day as commuters return home and the evening economy attracts visitors.  English Heritage have to bus people from the town centre car parks on event days because the Castle car parking is limited.  The average household car ownership in Kenilworth is higher than the District average. In the draft Neighbourhood Plan the Town Council is proposing the possibility of converting one or both of the WDC car parks to a two-level semi-sunk design like the current Waitrose car park sometime in the future. This has received support from the public (with odd exceptions) and we would request the District Council to include the concept in its Strategy.

In making this resolution, Members asked for Waitrose car park opening hours to be confirmed, with the response subject to minor amendment as necessary.

TC.621 COVENTRY CITY COUNCIL LOCAL PLAN (CCCLP) AND CITY CENTRE AREA ACTION PLAN

The Chair reported that the CCCLP was submitted to the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government on 1 April 2016. Notice had been given that the Inspectors final report on the Examination of the Local Plan has now been received and sets out the Inspectors recommendations and reasons for them. The Report concludes that the Local Plan is sound and legally compliant. The reports are available for public inspection via www.coventry.gov.uk/localplan.

The final report on the City Centre Area Action Plan is expected to be published shortly and will be presented for adoption to the same Cabinet and Council meeting as the Local Plan.

Members NOTED this update.

TC.623 KENILWORTH HALF MARATHON

The Chair reported on an email from the Secretary of Kenilworth Runners, consulting with the Town Council regarding the route and arrangements for the Kenilworth Half Marathon to be held on Sunday 2 September 2018.

Kenilworth Runners are planning to start the race outside the Holiday Inn rear entrance just to the north of the clock tower, around Abbey Fields on the roads Forrest Rd, Abbey End and Bridge St along the High St into the Castle and out along the Tiltyard along Brookside Ave to Fishponds, then out to and back to the clock tower via Mortimer Rd and Warwick Rd.

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K:\TWNCNCL\AGENDA 2018\ENCLOSURE 1.DOCX INITIALS ……...……… They have submitted their plan to Warwick District Council but wanted to obtain Town Council support. They are proposing a rolling road closure and trying to avoid clashes where possible (such as making sure Sainsburys access is not affected). Kenilworth Runners propose to have some tents in Abbey Fields for registration and as a centre for a “kids run free” run for children whilst the half marathon is taking place.

After consideration, it was proposed, seconded and:

RESOLVED that Kenilworth Town Council welcome submitted proposals from Kenilworth Runners on arrangements for their half Marathon and thank them for consulting with this Council.

TC.624 KENILWORTHWEB AND SOCIAL MEDIA UPDATE

Councillor Mrs M Bates gave a verbal update on the website and social media. Statistics are being routinely analysed to ensure continuous improvement. The Notice Board is a valuable feature, currently having 31 published items. The website has had 9915 visitors in the last month, which is up 190%. The xmas display feature is in place. Social Media followers are up, but “likes” down.

Councillor R Hales reported that businesses like the Town Council website and the social media are working effectively. He felt this to be a good piece of works and offered thanks to Councillor Mrs Bates, The Town Clerk and her Deputy.

Members NOTED this update.

TC.625 KENILWORTH STATION

The Chair opened a lengthy discussion to suggest and consider ideas to commemorate the opening of the new Kenilworth Station, currently scheduled for Sunday 10th December.

Councillor J Cooke reported that an email had been received indicating no opening ceremony would take place until the new year. Members felt that the lack of clarity as to the opening of Kenilworth Station was unsatisfactory. It was proposed, seconded and:

RESOLVED that Kenilworth Town Council will contact Warwickshire County Council, requesting full details of the proposed opening of Kenilworth Railway Station, including dates, train timetables, pricing and service details. In addition the Town Council feels that defective lighting on the refurbished footbridge should be replaced. Arrangements for adequate and safe lighting of this footbridge should be reviewed.

TC.626 GRANT AND INFORMATION RE CAPITAL BASE RECEIVED FROM WDC

The Chair reported that WDC have confirmed the grant that Kenilworth Town Council will receive for Financial Year 2018-19 will be £2875, and that the capital base has been confirmed as 9719.93. These figures will be used by the Clerk and the Chair of the Finance & General Services Committee to calculate the budget and precept requirements for presentation at the January Town Council meeting.

Members NOTED this update.

TC.627 WCC WINTER GRITTING ROUTES AND WINTER SERVICE ARRANGEMENTS 6

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The Chair reported that Warwickshire County Council have published their winter service arrangements including the gritting routes. Details may be found on www.warwickshire.gov.uk/gritting. A copy of the local gritting route map can be obtained from the Town Council.

Members NOTED this update.

TC.628 PARLIAMENTARY CONSTUENCY BOUNDARY REVIEW

The Chair reported on this matter, and the current consultation concerning Kenilworth. After consideration, it was proposed, seconded and:

RESOLVED that Kenilworth Town Council notes the proposed Southern boundary between the constituencies of South Coventry and Kenilworth and Warwick and Leamington is drawn on the current District boundary. However the Town/Parish boundary between Kenilworth and was redrawn a short distance to the south a couple of years ago and it is understood that a revision to the District boundary to make them coterminous is in hand. The recently adopted Warwick District Local Plan allocates a field in this area for housing development and there is a current planning application for 135 houses in total. The currently proposed boundary cuts across this field with the majority of the proposed development lying between the two boundaries. Moving the boundary at this time would affect only Wootton Grange farm where there is minor development and only a small number of electors. Leaving the boundary as proposed, rather than on the Town (and future District ward) boundary will potentially leave the majority of these electors isolated in the Warwick and Leamington constituency rather than with rest of the development and the community of Kenilworth of which they will otherwise be part.

TC.629 OFFICER’S REPORTS

It was NOTED that there were no items to report under this heading.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

TC.630 FINANCE & GENERAL SERVICES COMMITTEE

Councillor J Cooke presented for recommendation the Minutes for the Finance and General Services Committee. After consideration, it was proposed, seconded and:

RESOLVED that the Minutes of the Finance and General Services Committee Meeting held on 09 November 2017 be APPROVED.

TC.631 STATEMENTS OF EXPENDITURE FOR THE 2017 - 2018 FINANCIAL YEAR

The statements of expenditure, inclusive of Petty Cash Expenditure, for the month of October 2017 (Month 7), including supporting documentation and trial balance, were proposed and seconded. Following this it was:

RESOLVED unanimously that the Statements of Expenditure and supporting material (inclusive of petty cash expenditure) for the month of October 2017 (Month 7), including supporting material be APPROVED. 7

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NOTICE OF MOTIONS

TC.632 Councillor D Shilton moved his motion that:

This Council formally records a vote of thanks to the Kenilworth Branch of The Round Table for its long record of fundraising in the Town including the organization of the Annual Fireworks Display which just celebrated its 30th Anniversary. This display is acknowledged to be one of the best in the country and the Santa's Sleigh street collection which both young & old recognize as the start of a traditional Kenilworth Christmas. The Council also acknowledges all of the work they do in the town and the huge financial support to other organizations through their fundraising.

During the ensuing debate, it was agreed that this vote of thanks also applied to the Kenilworth Ladies Circle, working alongside the Round Table.

Accordingly, it was proposed, seconded and:

RESOLVED unanimously that Kenilworth Town Council formally records a vote of thanks to the Kenilworth Round Table and Kenilworth Ladies Circle for their long record of fundraising in the Town including the organization of the Annual Fireworks Display which just celebrated its 30th Anniversary. This display is acknowledged to be one of the best in the country and the Santa's Sleigh street collection which both young & old recognize as the start of a traditional Kenilworth Christmas. The Council also acknowledges all of the work they do in the town and the huge financial support to other organizations through their fundraising.

TC.633 Councillor R Hales moved his motion that:

This Council writes to the Police & Crime Commissioner expressing our serious concerns regarding the recent increase in crime within the Town including burglaries, personal assaults and even armed robbery. The Council feels this increase has risen from being an operational to a strategic issue. The Council seeks an assurance from the Commissioner that appropriate resources will be made available locally to increase Police visibility in order to help alleviate residents fears and concerns.

In support of this motion, Members pointed out that any such letter should also be addressed jointly to the Chief Constable.

Accordingly, it was proposed, seconded and:

RESOLVED unanimously that Kenilworth Town Council writes to the Police & Crime Commissioner and Chief Constable expressing their serious concerns regarding the recent increase in crime within the Town including burglaries, personal assaults and even armed robbery. The Council feels this increase has risen from being an operational to a strategic issue. The Council seeks an assurance from the Commissioner and Chief Constable that appropriate resources will be made available locally to increase Police visibility in order to help alleviate residents fears and concerns.

TC.634 NEXT MEETING

It was NOTED that the next standard meeting of the Town Council will be held on Thursday 11 January 2018 in Jubilee House at 7pm.

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K:\TWNCNCL\AGENDA 2018\ENCLOSURE 1.DOCX INITIALS ……...……… The Meeting closed at 8.45 pm.

Signed: ….……………..…………………

Dated: ……………………………………

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