FELMERSHAM & RADWELL PARISH COUNCIL

MINUTES OF THE PARISH COUNCIL MEETING HELD ON TUESDAY 14 JULY 2020 CONDUCTED ON-LINE USING THE ZOOM REMOTE MEETING FACILITY Attendees: Councillors: Peter Hartop (Chair), Marjorie Pipe (Vice Chair), Matilda Boswell, Maxine Boswell and Annette Courtney Borough Councillor: Doug McMurdo Parish Clerk/Responsible Finance Officer: Trevor Roff

Public: There were three members of the public that joined the meeting Action 35/20 Parishioners Talk Time

Rob Armour (a relatively new resident to Felmersham) and Gary Cunningham (from a neighbouring village) attended the meeting to better understand how the Parish Council works and the range of issues faced at a local level. Note

Clive Just addressed the meeting and expressed concern at the recent problem of litter at the Jubilee Lawn (see agenda item 41/20(h) below). Note

Clive Just also outlined the encouraging results from a recent survey to assess the interest in establishing a village shop. About 75% of respondents considered that such provision was important or very important. Approximately 27% of households in Felmersham had responded to the survey and about 10% of Radwell households. Volunteers had offered to support the enterprise and a Steering Group had been established. The Plunkett Foundation had been approached for support and possible locations for the venture were being considered. The meeting welcomed the encouraging progress and looked forward to further updates on this local initiative. Note

36/20 Apologies for Absence

There were no apologies for absence. Note

37/20 Declaration of Interests

There were no disclosures of interest in relation to Parish Council business. Note

38/20 Approval of Minutes of Parish Council Meeting Held on 12 May 2020

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

RESOLVED:

The minutes of the meeting, held on 12 May 2020, were approved and signed as a correct record. PC

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

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39/20 Matters Arising

All matters arising were considered and updates provided as part of agenda items. Note

40/20 Reports

(a) Borough Councillor

Doug McMurdo, Borough Councillor, provided a detailed update on the following key issues:

(i) Bedford Borough Local Plan Review: Bedford Borough Council already has a Local Plan in place up to 2030, and is now looking beyond that period. The plan will set out how much growth is needed in the Borough in the coming years (housing, jobs and associated infrastructure) and where it will take place. Note

The Government requires Councils to plan for a certain level of housing growth in their local plans. As part of the next Local Plan, allocations may need to be made for between 5,000 and 15,000 additional new dwellings over a plan period up to 2040. The exact number will depend on forthcoming revisions to the Government’s housing-need formula. The main focus of the new Local Plan will be the allocation of new development sites to meet the Government’s growth targets but it may also be appropriate to update existing or add new policies to guide decisions on planning applications and to repurpose the town centre. Note

The Borough Council has recently, therefore, launched a consultation to gather comments about the range of subjects to be covered in the plan and where in the Borough new growth should be located. It will also look at policies around climate change, protecting the natural environment, quality of development, self and custom build homes, open space in new developments, and policies around the town centre. Note

This process will also open a ‘call for sites’ where people can put forward land to be allocated as a site for development in the next local plan. A consultation paper has been prepared to help people think about and comment on these issues. The deadline for submitting comments is 4 September 2020. Note

(ii) Bedford Borough COVID-19 Deep Dive: New local data from Public Health England and the Joint Biosecurity Centre, working with Bedford Borough Council, Bedfordshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, and Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes Commissioning Collaborative, have been released as part of a ‘deep dive’ in Bedford Borough. Note

The data shows that, while Coronavirus infections are still high in the Borough, they are starting to decline. The interim findings of the deep dive review has identified that women between the age of 30-59 have been the most affected in the borough. It is understood that many of these work in the health and care sector. Note

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While there were no ‘hot spots’ in the general population the interim findings identified the highest number of cases in areas around the town centre. While the initial findings suggests the rate of infection looks to be improving, it remains high compared to other areas and caution is being urged to help slow the spread of the virus. Measures to continue the downward trajectory of infection have already been put in place, including improving testing facilities at Bedford Hospital, to allow for a faster turn-around of test results. Note

(iii) Local Outbreak Control Plan: Bedford Borough Council has published its Local Outbreak Control Plan, setting out how it will respond to a local COVID-19 outbreak. With the introduction of the NHS Test and Trace programme all Unitary and County Councils were asked to produce a Local Outbreak Control Plan. These plans set out how local authorities will work with communities and partners to prevent and respond to local issues and situations related to Coronavirus and slow the spread of infection. The plan provides a specific focus on measures to support those who may be more vulnerable to the effects of Coronavirus. Note

As a key part of the NHS Test and Trace programme, the plan also describes how local residents developing symptoms associated with COVID-19 can get tested and how mobile testing units may be used to provide tests to specific locations within the Borough. It also explains how the programme will identify people who have been in contact with the infection so they can self-isolate to limit further spread. Note

(iv) Increased Planting in the Borough: The Borough Council has announced measures to plant 1,000 additional trees in the Borough, new hedgerows and increased areas of natural grass and wildflower meadows. Wildflower species, such as clover and dandelion, provide important pollen and nectar sources for insects, bees and other pollinators that are a vital part of the ecosystem. Allowing grass to grow longer produces a more sustainable natural environment and provides food and shelter for animals, bees and other insects. Note

Across the parks and open spaces of Bedford, the Borough Council has already reduced mowing, allowing large areas to grow naturally. This has seen the creation of significant areas where grasses and native plants have been allowed to grow and flower, with ecological benefits. The Borough Council is currently having a number of habitat surveys undertaken in urban open spaces including Addison Howard Park, Bedford Park and Longholme Lake. These will help to determine additional ways to improve these areas for biodiversity, including recommendations for native species and wildflower meadows. Note

The Borough Council is also bringing this approach out of the parks, and onto the streets. On roadside verges, the grass must be cut short to ensure that people can see and that junctions are safe. However, the grass is often left long at the back of the verge away from the road. This is an important way to encourage wildlife such as invertebrates, butterflies and bees into the heart of the urban area. Note

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(v) Play Areas in Bedford Borough: With ongoing concerns about the high infection rate in the Borough, the Borough Council has decided that children’s play areas will not be opening on Saturday 4 July 2020. Play areas are a risk area for infection to be spread and, with a high rate of infection locally, this decision has been taken to help slow the spread of the virus and keep people safe. Updated signage has been placed in park areas and, where possible, the Borough Council will continue to keep play areas locked and secured. Note

(b) Felmersham Village Hall

There was no formal report to consider but the meeting acknowledged that the play area remained closed for public use due to COVID-19. It was reported that, during the closure period, arrangements had been made for the perimeter fencing to the play area to be repaired and for the decayed timber edging and posts to the bark pits to be replaced. Note

(c) Bedfordshire Police Crime Statistics

The Parish Council considered the crime statistics for May and June 2020 which identified two incidents, committed in Felmersham on 28 June 2020, contrary to Section 4(a) of the Public Order Act 1986 by causing intentional harassment, alarm or distress. Note

41/20 Update on Current Issues

(a) Communications

There were no issues to report to the meeting. Note

(b) Environment

The Portfolio Holder, Cllr. Hartop, reported on the following environment related issues:

(i) River Great Ouse: The river by the bridge in Felmersham has been in almost daily use by swimmers and boaters of all ages gaining access from the Jubilee Lawn and slipway. There is no provision of a lifebelt or lifeline and clarification has been sought from the Borough Council about (i) the existence of a policy to provide a lifebelt or lifeline equipment in places where access to the river is from Borough Council owned land and (ii) whether they provide the equipment. Note

The Borough Council has confirmed that there is no such policy, and that there is no legal requirement to provide such devices. They have, however, advised that devices such as life belts can be purchased and installed at a relatively minor cost, but that the most important factor when installing these devices is the inspection regime to ensure that the lifebelts are present and not abused. Note

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The Borough Council is not in a position to provide these or put in an inspection regime. They have advised that there is currently no national guidance on the levels required for certain areas, which is all based on individual risk assessments for the area and, moreover, that some Councils have proceeded to remove all lifebelts as, in their opinion, they give the perception that it is safe to swim in the water and they are not able to keep up with the inspection regime. Note

(ii) Margaret Alleyway Garden: The Portfolio Holder reported that, as a result of disregard for COVID-19 regulations, anti-social behaviour including using the Margaret Alleway Memorial Garden as a toilet, obstructive car parking and the inordinate amount rubbish and broken glass, the trustees of the Felmersham & Radwell Community Trust have temporarily closed the gardens until further notice. Note

The meeting was advised that this garden is private land. During the temporary closure essential tree work will be undertaken to improve the amenity for future users from the parish and neighbouring villages. Note

(ii) Stone Pits – Fly Tipping: The Borough Council had now deployed resources (container lorries and hydraulic grab facilities) to remove the considerable fly tipping at Stone Pits, Carlton Road (minute 12/20 of the meeting held on 10 March 2020 refers). Note

(iv) Community Champions: Felmersham now has at least 2 Community Champion Litter pickers (Gina Gunn and Peter Hartop). Should anyone else wish to volunteer they should contact Katie Lewis at Bedford Borough Council on [email protected]. Note

(v) Fallen Trees in River Great Ouse: The Environment Agency have confirmed that their Operations Team have been instructed to remove the trees caught up on Felmersham and Radwell river bridges (minute 30/20(e) of the last meeting refers). The removal works, however, remain outstanding and further contact will be made with the Environment Agency to determine likely timescales. PC

RESOLVED:

That the update provided in respect of a range of environmental issues be acknowledged and that the actions taken or proposed be approved. PC

(c) Highways & Traffic Issues

The Portfolio Holder, Cllr. Pipe, reported on the following issues:

(i) Gully Emptying: Borough Highways have confirmed that gully emptying in the Parish had been completed on 2 July 2020 (minute 30/20(c) of the last meeting refers). A drain in the High Road, Felmersham near the junction with Grange Road, that had been completely covered with debris, had also been located and cleared on 6 July 2020 and it is now functioning correctly. Note

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(ii) Hunts Lane Carriageway Repairs: Borough Highways have undertaken temporary repairs to the carriageway in Hunts Lane, Felmersham with a planned closure on 10 September 2020 – to avoid clashes with harvest traffic – to complete the necessary permanent repairs (minute 30/20(c) of the last meeting refers). Note

(iii) Memorial Lane Carriageway Repairs: Borough Highways had been advised that there are places at the edge of the road in Memorial Lane, Felmersham where erosion is now very dangerous for pedestrians and, as a consequence, carriageway patch repairs had been completed by Borough Highways on 3 July 2020. In addition, an area near the War Memorial, had subsequently been identified and attended to. Note

(iv) Church End Carriageway Repairs: Borough Highways have scheduled permanent carriageway works in Church End, Felmersham to take place during October 2020 half term to avoid issues with school traffic. Note

(v) The Old Road Kerbing: Borough Highways had completed the works to re-set the kerbing in The Old Road, Felmersham on 6 July 2020. Note

(vi) Highway Sign Cleaning: Borough Highways had completed the cyclical highway sign cleaning in Felmersham. Note

(vii) Structural Maintenance Programme: Borough Highways have been reminded of the poor road surface on the Carlton Road, leaving Felmersham and, in addition, the poor road surface outside the mobile home park in Radwell has also been reported to them. Borough Highways have requested that these areas be considered as additions to the structural maintenance programme for a more robust treatment to be undertaken out of the capital budget. This programme is for areas of highway that require a more holistic treatment, as they are either too extensive to be dealt with from a routine maintenance point of view, or where further maintenance of a road surface would not represent best value, due to age, condition, etc. Note

Borough Highways have confirmed that they will continue to monitor these issues by way of routine and ad hoc inspections to ensure any works required in the interim are carried out to prevent any safety critical defects appearing but they are not able to provide an indication of timescale for the more substantial resurfacing work required. Note

(viii) Speed Activation Display: The Parish Council had invested in the provision of a speed activation sign to deter speeding and it had been successfully installed in The High Road, Felmersham. The meeting considered the future location of the unit and the possible purchase of an additional unit for Radwell given the continuing problem of speeding in the village. This would require a suitable post to install the sign and a volunteer to attend to it every three weeks. The meeting considered that Borough Highways could indicate a preferred location for the sign. Note

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RESOLVED:

(1) That the update provided in respect of a range of highway and transport issues be acknowledged and that the actions proposed be approved. PC

(2) That Borough Highways be requested to consider the most appropriate location for a speed activation sign in Radwell and that further consideration be given to the purchase of an additional solar powered Radar Speed Sign at a future meeting. PC

(d) Parish Assets

There were no issues to report to the meeting. Note

(e) Radwell Matters

There were no issues to report to the meeting. Note

(f) Rights of Way

The Portfolio Holder, Cllr. Peter Hartop, reported on the following issues:

(i) Overgrown Vegetation: The causeway on the Sharnbrook side of Felmersham bridge is almost impassable by pedestrians in places as a result of overgrown vegetation. Pedestrians are often observed walking on the road as a result. The overgrown vegetation needs cutting back to the level of the handrail along its entire length. Note

The matter had been referred to Sharnbrook Parish Council and, as a result, the Borough Council communicated with the land owner on 3 July 2020. The Parish Council remain concerned, however, that the offending vegetation may not be all the responsibility of the landowner; there is a ditch between the causeway and the hedge and much of the growth arises from the ditch and the causeway side of the ditch. Whilst some attention had been given to the vegetation, it remained a danger to children and dogs walking on the inside of the causeway footpath. Note

(ii) Issue: There is a need for way markers on the bridges through Pinchmill Islands as there are several opportunities to go the wrong way as fishermen paths confuse the direction of the Ouse Valley Way. This matter will be raised with Rights of Way at Bedford Borough Council. PC

(g) Daisy Bank Picnic Site

Bedford Borough Council have been advised that the Parish Council consider that a management agreement would be an appropriate mechanism for the maintenance of the proposed woodland area (rather than making a formal application under the Community Asset Transfer Policy) and the Borough Council are currently drafting a suitable licence, which will also incorporate the management agreement (minute 30/20(b) of the last meeting refers). Note

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In relation to the need to extinguish the existing picnic site designation to enable the proposed Community Nature Site/Woodland at the former Daisy Bank Picnic Site, the Borough Council have advised that there are a couple of legal issues that need to be addressed before the licence can be completed, namely (i) there is an expired lease to the Environment Agency and the legal status of this needs to be clarified; and (ii) the need to determine whether formal notice is required to terminate designation as Public Open Space. No further feedback has been provided to date. Note

The Borough Council have, since the last meeting, sought further clarification of the level of maintenance that the Parish Council intend to undertake on the site. Originally it had been hoped that the Borough Council would prepare the site for handover, dig an anti-incursion ditch and bank surrounding a 2 vehicle parking space, although the expectation is that some of this work may rely on the Parish Council/village volunteers. Accordingly, it is envisaged that the formal licence would require the Parish Council to undertake the following:

 Save to the extent that the Borough Council may assist (if any) in

preparation of the site, “Parish Volunteers” would do the ground-

works (scrub removal, round-up areas of weeds, removal of hard standing to form security banking, ditch digging and ploughing of site).

 The Parish Council would be responsible for fencing the site (post and wire deer proof fencing on all sides) – the Parish Council will have to work out how to retain a deer proof pedestrian entrance (gate) and a deer proof visitor entrance (Borough type footpath gate) eventually.

 Parish volunteers would do the planting.

 The Parish Council would undertake keeping weed growth down by

grass cutting between trees (anticipate 2-3 times/year until trees are

established and then as necessary).

 The Parish council would maintain the boundaries.

 The Parish Council would seek donations of seating.

 Volunteers would undertake the necessary tree work to ensure established trees thrive.

 A village group would be established to undertake the project, monitor progress and ensure all the necessary maintenance is undertaken in perpetuity. Note

The proposal further envisages that the Borough Council would include any litter bins on their scheduled rounds but this has not been confirmed. Note

By way of further update, The Parochial Church Council had now confirmed that an application has been submitted to the Woodland Trust for the maximum number of 420 trees, protective sleeves and stakes for planting at the end of November 2020. The trees which are small are native species and do not need to be planted immediately but will require planting within a few weeks of delivery. A request for larger sponsored trees will be made once the site has been secured and prepared. Note

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RESOLVED:

(1) That the proposed maintenance arrangements, outlined above, as the basis for the drafting of the licence for the tree planting works and the formal management agreement for the Daisy Bank site be supported. Note

(2) Subject to a final permission being granted by the Borough Council for the Parish Council to take over the Daisy bank site, quotations be obtained for the erection of deer proof fencing around the site and the provision of a large gate and pedestrian entrance to the site. PC

(3) That the sum of up to £2,000 for the fencing and £2,000 for other preparatory works be identified from Parish Council balances. PC

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

(h) Jubilee Lawn

There has been a serious problem of litter at the Jubilee Lawn and crowds of people attending the river area during late May 2020. This has generated many posts on social media about the crowds and the consequent litter. Note

In terms of ownership, the green is part of the highway and the responsibility of Bedford Borough Council, and the slip way is a “public slip way” (one of two in the Borough) and it is understood to be an Environment Agency asset. Borough Councillor McMurdo has been involved in the matter and he has spoken to the Police and Bedford Borough Council. This resulted in the Borough Council eventually clearing the litter. Councillor McMurdo is aware of the ongoing problems and has confirmed that the Borough Council will be collecting the litter regularly in the future. Note

The Parish Council had, as a consequence, issued the following statement on Felmersham & Radwell Facebook:

"During the last week in May there were literally hundreds of posts on Felmersham and Radwell Group Facebook commenting on various issues associated with crowds of people down by the river. The Parish Council wants to make it clear to everyone that they do not own, have responsibility for or administer the Jubilee Lawn (other than to cut the grass), which belongs to Borough Highways or the slipway which is an Environmental Agency asset. Similarly the Margaret Alleway Memorial Garden is privately owned by the Felmersham & Radwell Community Trust.

The Parish Council welcomes careful and considerate use of the slipway and jubilee lawn but cannot condone blatant disregard of Covid-19 regulations, incidences of anti-social behaviour which could have contributed to a public health issue and vehicle parking in places which could be described as obstructive and dangerous. These issues were reported to the Borough on the Saturday evening (30th May) with a request to temporarily close the area.

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The Borough confirmed that Bedfordshire Police attended at the weekend when they explained the restrictions to the people present about social distancing (2m) and the regulations regarding family groups (one person from another group). As no action was taken by the police, the Borough has said they would find it challenging and difficult to support an emergency closure.

The Parish Council would like to thank the “Village Champions” and all the other residents of the parish who have cleared up the mess left behind by the river and at other times elsewhere in the parish.

In order to get on top of this perennial problem the Parish Council would welcome sensible suggestions which are achievable for discussion at the next Parish Council meeting, from which any agreed action would be forwarded to the Borough Council for consideration". Note

There were a few further comments in response to the statement mainly concerned with whether it was permitted to allow boating on the river without an Environment Agency licence. No meaningful consensus suggestions were, however, forthcoming on the litter, COVID-19 or anti-social problems. Note

The riverside area has often been a matter of concern in the past, largely rubbish related, with the Borough Council commitment in the past inadequate at peak use times. The potential deployment of designated Rangers/Wardens that look after the Harrold/Odell Country Park had been suggested and could potentially be valuable in patrolling the area, helping to clear the area of litter and monitoring any antisocial behaviour. Note

RESOLVED:

That Bedford Borough Council be requested to consider the deployment of designated Rangers/Wardens that look after Harrold/Odell Country Park to patrol the Jubilee Lawn area, help clear the area of litter at peak times and to monitor any anti-social behaviour at this location. PC

42/20 Planning Matters

(a) Listed Building Consent: Rose Cottage, The Green, Radwell

The Parish Clerk reported that, in respect of Listed Building Consent Application Number 20/01087/LBC, relating to the proposed replacement windows at Rose Cottage, The Green, Radwell, Bedford, Beds, MK43 7HT, the Local Planning Authority had been advised that the Parish Council had no objection to the proposed works to the property. Note

RESOLVED:

That the decision to notify the Borough Council that the Parish Council had no objection to Listed Building Consent Application 20/01087/LBC be ratified. PC

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(b) Planning Application: Greenway Cottage, The Green, Radwell

The Parish Clerk reported that, in respect of Planning Application Number 20/01089/FUL, relating to the proposed replacement windows at Greenway Cottage, The Green, Radwell, Bedford, Beds, MK43 7HT, the Local Planning Authority had been advised that the Parish Council had no objection to the proposed works to the property. Note

RESOLVED:

That the decision to notify the Borough Council that the Parish Council had no objection to Planning Application 20/01089/FUL be ratified. PC

(c) Listed Building Consent Application: Greenway Cottage, Radwell

The Parish Clerk reported that, in respect of Listed Building Consent Application Number 20/01089/LBC, relating to the proposed replacement windows at Greenway Cottage, The Green, Radwell, Bedford, Beds, MK43 7HT, the Local Planning Authority had been advised that the Parish Council had no objection to the proposed works to the property. Note

RESOLVED:

That the decision to notify the Borough Council that the Parish Council had no objection to Listed Building Consent 20/01089/LBC be ratified. PC

(d) TPO Application: The Squash Court, Hunts Lane, Felmersham

The Parish Clerk reported that, in respect of Tree Preservation Order Application Number 20/01181/TPO, relating to the proposed (i) thinning and shaping of the crown of the Crimson King and (ii) removal of the Magnolia to ground level at The Squash Court, Hunts Lane, Felmersham, Beds, MK43 7JQ, the Local Planning Authority had been advised that the Parish Council had no objection to the proposed tree works to the property. Note

RESOLVED:

That the decision to notify the Borough Council that the Parish Council had no objection to Tree Preservation Order 20/01181/TPO be ratified. PC

(e) TPO Application: West Grange, Hunts Lane, Felmersham

The Parish Council considered the Tree Preservation Order (TPO) application that had been submitted in respect of the proposed reduction of a Sycamore tree by 50% at West Grange, Hunts Lane, Felmersham, Beds, MK43 7JQ (TPO Application Number 20/01392/TPO). Note

RESOLVED:

That the Parish Council has no objection to the proposal in respect of Tree Preservation Order application reference 20/01392/FUL and Bedford Borough Council be notified accordingly. PC

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(f) Variation of Condition Application – New Farm, Moor End Lane, Radwell

A variation of condition application has been submitted in respect of the change of use of existing agricultural buildings for use as a fleet vehicle pre- delivery inspection (PDI) facility (B2) and covered car storage (B8) at New Farm, Moor End Lane, Radwell. The application refers to external works and alterations, including cladding, flues, security fencing, widening of access and sliding gate, including variation of approved plans condition 1 attached to application 18/01848/FUL to allow for increase in building height (Variation of Condition Application Number 20/01301/S73). Note

The supporting documentation identified that the proposal is to raise the main ridge height of approved Unit B by 3 metres and southern and northern eaves by 2.1 metres and 2.4 metres respectively. It is intended that BBS Fleet Logistics (Bedford Body Shop) will occupy the building and the raising of the height of the building will allow BBS to process larger vehicles such as vans. Correspondence submitted with the application goes on to state that "the increase in height proposed will facilitate the inspection of larger vehicles such as long and short wheelbase vans. It will not materially affect the number of vehicle movements entering and exiting the site, but rather the mix and type of vehicles that will be brought in. For the avoidance of doubt this will not include large Heavy Good Vehicles (HGVs)". Note

The meeting expressed serious concern that the existing buildings at a current height of 9 metres are clearly visible on the skyline especially from across the Ouse valley at Sharnbrook. In all the years the sheds have been present there has been no attempt to mitigate the eyesore with tall trees and now there are plans to make matters worse. This is not classified as an industrial site and increasing the height of the present sheds by 30% to 12 metres is considered to be totally unacceptable in an environmentally sensitive rural area of such importance. The meeting considered that this type of activity and development should be reserved for existing industrial estates, several of which already exist near Milton Ernest. Note

RESOLVED:

That the Parish Council objects to the Variation of Condition Application Number 20/01301/S73 for the reasons outlined and Bedford Borough Council be notified accordingly. PC

(g) Neighbourhood Planning

The Portfolio Holder, Cllr. Hartop, reported that the technical consultant, AECOM, had now issued the final Strategic Environmental Assessment Environmental Report to support the emerging Felmersham & Radwell Neighbourhood Development Plan. This had been circulated to Parish Councillors and the Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group. The Environmental Report supports, with some minor amendment to the wording of Policy FR3 ‘Land at The Old Road, Felmersham’, the direction of travel in the Neighbourhood Development Plan. Note

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RESOLVED:

That the final Strategic Environmental Assessment Environmental Report be approved and that it be published on the Parish Council web-site. PC

43/20 Finance & General Administration

(a) Schedule of Receipts & Payments: 2020/2021

The schedule of receipts and payments, covering the period 1 May 2020 to 30 June 2020 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. Maxine Boswell, Seconded by: Cllr. Pipe, All in favour)

(b) Financial Position – Account Balances

The financial position of the Parish Council, as at 30 June 2020, was reported as follows:

Current Account £20,194.66 Business Reserve Account £8,384.66 TOTAL £28,579.32

This compares to a total balance, as at 30 April 2020, of £31,402.35 and includes the grasscutting contribution of £624.15 from the Borough Council. Note

RESOLVED:

That the financial position of the Parish Council, as at as at 30 June 2020, be acknowledged. Note

(c) Budget Monitoring Report – 2020/2021

The meeting considered and acknowledged the Budget Monitoring Report for the period to 30 June 2020 (circulated prior to the meeting). This identified expenditure incurred and income received against the approved 2020/2021 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 ended 30 June 2020, be acknowledged and the financial position be kept under review. PC

(Proposed by: Cllr. Hartop, Seconded by: Cllr. Maxine Boswell, All in favour)

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(d) Insurance Renewal 2020/2021: Village Hall

The Parish Council considered the insurance renewal terms for the Village Hall effective from 17 July 2020 (circulated prior to the meeting). The Parish Council had entered into a 3 year binding agreement with Ecclesiastical Insurance in July 2019, thus reducing the annual premium by 5%. The 2020/2021 insurance renewal terms (with an annual premium of £826.64, including insurance premium tax and administration fee) are in line with the existing Long Term Agreement (adjusted for index linking). A budget of £830 had been allocated in the 2020/2021 approved budget for this purpose. Note

RESOLVED:

That the insurance renewal terms with an annual premium in 2020/2021 of £826.64 (including insurance premium tax and administration fee), in line with the Long Term Agreement to 16 July 2022, be approved PC

(Proposed by: Cllr. Matilda Boswell, Seconded by: Cllr. Hartop, All in favour)

44/20 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 the following web-site link: http://www.bedford.gov.uk/business/licences_and_street_trading/licensing_a ct_2003/applications.aspx. All

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

(c) Regular listings from Bedford Borough Council of new planning applications and decisions issued at the link: https://publicaccess.bedford.gov.uk/online- applications/search.do?action=weeklyList. Note

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

(e) Product and contact details from a number of suppliers of street furniture and

play equipment. Note

(f) Correspondence from various organisations about variations to business processes and procedures, including service variations, due to the impact of COVID-19. Note

(g) Correspondence from Bedford Borough Council, dated 13 May 2020, detailing the update to the Bedford Borough Local Development Scheme to reflect the adoption of Local Plan 2030 and to include the timetable for the preparation Note of the Local Plan review (Note: The Borough Council is required to submit for examination a review of the Local Plan by January 2023).

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(h) Correspondence from Bedford Borough Council, dated 15 May 2020, detailing new guidance from the Government on neighbourhood planning. Note

(i) Receipt of a new Planning Policy Briefing Note from Bedford Borough Council, on 20 May 2020, to assist the application of new Local Plan 2030 policies 5S, 6 and 7S relating to the acceptability of development in the rural area. Note

(j) Crime statistics for the period to 26 May 2020 covering the north rural area, listed in "Beat Code" order. There were no instances recorded in Felmersham and Radwell during this period. Note

(k) Correspondence from Bedford Borough Council, dated 8 June 2020, detailing the re-opening of consultation on the review of the current Ward boundaries in the Borough. Note

(l) Details from the National Association of Local Councils of new website regulations which aims to complement government guidance on the Public Bodies (Websites and Mobile Applications) Accessibility Regulations 2018. Note

(m) Details from the Bedfordshire Association of Town and Parish Councils (BATPC) of the consultation on a new model code of conduct which is running from 6 June 2020 to 17 August 2020. Note

(n) The July 2020 edition of the Bedfordshire Bugle had been received and had been circulated to all Parish Councillors for consideration. Note

(o) Confirmation from Bedford Borough Council, on 5 July 2020, that parks and playgrounds in the Borough will remain closed until further notice due to the high local infection rate. Note

(p) A copy of the latest insights from Came & Company Local Council Insurance. Note

(q) Correspondence from Bedford Borough Council, dated 5 July 2020, detailing the publication of a Local Outbreak Control Plan by the Borough Council to set out how it will respond to a local Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. Note

(r) Crime statistics for the period to 27 May 2020 - 30 June 2020 covering the north rural area, listed in "Beat Code" order. This identified two incidents, committed in Felmersham on 28 June 2020, contrary to Section 4(a) of the Public Order Act 1986 by causing intentional harassment, alarm or distress. Note

(s) Correspondence from Bedford Borough Council, dated 8 July 2020, outlining its consultation on a new draft Housing Strategy for the period 2021 to 2026. The Borough Council and its partners have seen many successes during the period of last Housing Strategy Review (2016-2020) including securing more than £2.5 million to help reduce rough sleeping, over 440 adaptations funded by Disabled Facilities Grant from 2016-2019, over 300 empty properties brought back into use from 2016-2019, and two affordable housing schemes shortlisted for National Housing Awards. The Borough Council is now looking to build upon these successes, working proactively together in a changing environment to meet the housing needs of the Borough’s citizens identified in this new five-year strategy. Note

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(t) Correspondence from Bedford Borough Council, dated 10 July 2020, inviting representations on the Turvey and Stevington Neighbourhood Development Plans in accordance with Regulation 16 of the Neighbourhood Planning (General) Regulations 2012. Note

(u) Correspondence from Bedford Borough Council in respect of a review of Special Expenses (or Special Area Charges) - undertaken every 5 years. Special expenses are used to ensure that residents are not charged twice for the same service – i.e. by Bedford Borough Council and by a Parish or Town Council. A schedule of services provided at the local level is to be submitted by 31 July 2020. This will help the Council to confirm where services are being provided both by the Borough and Town/Parish Councils, and whether adjustments need to be made to Council Tax, to ensure they are not paying twice. Note

(v) Correspondence from Bedford Borough Council, dated 14 July 2020, outlining the commencement of consultation in respect of the next Local Plan period that will set out where growth and development of houses, jobs, schools and infrastructure etc will take place. Note

(w) Details from BATPC, dated 14 July 2020, of the briefing prepared by CPRE (Campaign for the Protection of Rural England) to raise awareness of development proposals for the Oxford-Cambridge Arc. Note

45/20 Date of Next Meeting

The next meeting will take place on Tuesday 8 September 2020 at 7.30pm. Note

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APPENDIX A FELMERSHAM & RADWELL PARISH COUNCIL TRANSACTIONS: 1 MAY 2020 - 30 JUNE 2020

SCHEDULE OF RECEIPTS

AMOUNT TRANSACTION DESCRIPTION RECEIVED VAT DATE £ £

29 MAY 2020 BANK INTEREST 1.33 - 22 JUNE 2020 BEDFORD BOROUGH - GRASSCUTTING CONTRIBUTION 624.15

30 JUNE 2020 BANK INTEREST 0.07 -

TOTAL RECEIPTS 625.55 -

SCHEDULE OF PAYMENTS

AMOUNT TRANSACTION DESCRIPTION PAID VAT DATE £ £

06 MAY 2020 CHRIS HORNE GARDENS - GROUNDS MAINTENANCE 360.00 60.00 07 MAY 2020 ICO - DATA PROTECTION FEE 35.00 - 09 MAY 2020 PLAYSAFETY LIMITED: ANNUAL INSPECTION 128.40 21.40 13 MAY 2020 A R WORBOYS - GRASS CUTTING: 7 MAY 2020 337.11 56.19 14 MAY 2020 P. DOYLE: INTERNAL AUDIT FEE 175.00 - 14 MAY 2020 CAME & COMPANY: INSURANCE RENEWAL 614.05 - 14 MAY 2020 PARISH CLERK: HOMEWORKING ALLOWANCE 96.00 - 21 MAY 2020 PARISH CLERK PAYROLL: MAY 2020 470.11 - 21 MAY 2020 BEDFORD BOROUGH COUNCIL: PAYROLL SERVICE 15.30 2.55 27 MAY 2020 HEWLETT PACKARD INSTANT INK: MAY 2020 17.99 3.00 28 MAY 2020 A R WORBOYS - GRASS CUTTING: 21 MAY 2020 337.11 56.19 22 JUNE 2020 PARISH CLERK PAYROLL: JUNE 2020 470.11 - 22 JUNE 2020 BEDFORD BOROUGH COUNCIL: PAYROLL SERVICE 15.30 2.55 22 JUNE 2020 A R WORBOYS - GRASS CUTTING: 19 JUNE 2020 337.11 56.19 26 JUNE 2020 A. MUSKETT LTD: QUARTERLY STREET LIGHT MTCE 32.00 5.33 29 JUNE 2020 HEWLETT PACKARD INSTANT INK: JUNE 2020 7.99 1.33

TOTAL PAYMENTS 3,448.58 264.73

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