TEWKESBURY TOWN COUNCIL AGENDA
To: Town Councillors You are summoned to attend a meeting of the Town Council which will be held in the Council Chamber, Town Hall, High Street, Tewkesbury, on 11th November 2019 commencing at 6:00 pm.
Members of the public and press are welcome to attend.
Debbie Hill Town Clerk 6th November 2019
1. To consider the application for co-option to Tewkesbury Town Council and to receive a short presentation from the applicant
2. To receive apologies for absence
3. To receive declarations of interest
4. To consider requests for dispensation
5. To receive written questions from members of the public
6. Public Participation (to provide members of the public/press with the opportunity to comment on items on the agenda or raise items for future consideration. In accordance with Standing Orders this will not exceed 12 minutes in total and 3 minutes per person.) 7. To note the Mayor’s announcements
8. To approve the minutes of the meetings held on 14th October 2019 and to note the change to the numbering of items for the minutes of Mayor Making 2019
9. Matters arising from the minutes – for information only
10. To note the following committee minutes: Finance Committee – 20th August 2019, Environment & Amenities – 3rd September 2019, Buildings & Moorings – 19th September 2019, Severn Ham – 19th September 2019, Planning – 4th & 18th September, Staffing – 27th September 2019
11. To receive Councillor reports for Tewkesbury Borough Council from Cllr Sztymiak and Gloucestershire County Council from Cllr Cromwell
12. To receive the finance report for September 2019 13. To receive the bank reconciliations for September
14. To receive reports from members representing the Town Council on outside bodies
15. To discuss and agree any next steps regarding the request for a reduction in speed limit on the Bredon Road
16. To consider and agree the Town Council’s response to the Borough Plan pre-submission consultation
17. To agree the terms of reference for the Climate Change Working Group
18. To consider a proposal from Cllr Cody that the Town Council declares support for the Local
Electricity Bill
19. To approve the payments list
20. To consider and agree grant applications from outside bodies
21. Correspondence
22. Pursuant to section 1(2) of the Public Bodies (Admission to Meetings) Act 1960 it is resolved that, because of the confidential nature of the business to be transacted, the public and press leave during the consideration of the following items on this agenda
23. To receive an update from the Town Clerk on the money claim served on the Town Council on 11th April 2019 and to agree the next steps
The next Full Council meeting will be December 9th 2019 at 6pm in the Town Hall
Final date for agenda items and accompanying papers for the Meeting is 7 clear days before the meeting. As part of managing the Council’s Risk Assessment, Councillors are reminded to ensure they keep their register of interests up to date. If you have any questions, please contact the Town Clerk. The Council has a duty to consider the following matters in the exercise of any of its functions: Equalities, Crime and Disorder, Health and Safety and Human Rights. Anyone wishing to attend any meetings of the Town Council who need ground floor access to do so, should inform the Clerk three days in advance of the meeting so that arrangements can be put into place.
MINUTES of the Full Council meeting held on 14th October 2019 In the Council Chamber at the Town Hall, High Street, Tewkesbury
Present: Cllrs K Brennan (Chair), P Aldridge, V Smith, C Cody, K Powell, A Rudge, C Danter, H Davis, S Raywood, M Sztymiak, J Raywood.
In attendance: D Hill (Town Clerk); J King (Assistant Town Clerk) Five members of the public
19/20 - 082 To receive apologies for absence Apologies for absence were received from Cllr Preedy (personal), Cllr Carter (business), Cllr Walker (health).
19/20 - 083 To receive declarations of interest None received.
19/20 - 084 To consider requests for dispensation None requested.
19/20 - 085 To receive written questions from members of the public One written question was received: Will the Council please implement a policy procedure in order to confirm that all formal questions to Full Council or Committees, written or verbal, are ultimately answered to the questioner's satisfaction? Is there really any point to public participation in the absence of such an expectation? Can the Council provide any justification not to implement such a policy, other than a disdain for parishioners and a determination not to be held to account? In order to address the irrefutable disconnect between the Council and the people it professes to represent, might the implementation of a Community Engagement Committee be the answer, possibly made up of a Council member chairperson on a rolling basis, and any members of the community who wish to take part, with the agenda largely determined by the community members? As part of this committee’s brief, it could review unanswered questions, establish why this is and also provide an alternative for the discredited and unfit for purpose Code of Conduct, more often than not co-opted for nefarious purposes of stymying scrutiny, entirely contrary to its intended purpose.
Answer: The Town Council responds to all written questions received in advance for inclusion at Full Council meetings. This takes the form of a written response and the questions and answers are minuted. Matters raised in the public participation session of meetings, both in Full Council and Committee meetings are also minuted.
Section 3(e) of Standing Orders states that members of the public may make representations, answer questions and give evidence at a meeting which they are entitled to attend in respect of the business on the agenda. Section 3(h) states that in accordance with 3(e) above, a question shall not require a response at the
meeting nor start a debate on the question. The chairman of the meeting may direct that a written or oral response be given. In the light of the above, the Town Council does not feel that the creation of a Community Engagement Committee is necessary.
19/20 - 086 Public participation A member of the public raised questions regarding the confidential item on the agenda. They were advised that as it is part of an ongoing litigious case and is part of the confidential session there can be no discussion on the matter.
19/20 - 087 To note the Mayor’s announcements • Mike Kean-Price, Town Crier reached 21 years’ service on 12th October – the Town Council thank him for his service and dedication over all these years. • The next Mayor’s Charity fundraiser is the Northern Soul night at the Watson Hall on 23rd November. • The Remembrance Parade will leave the Town Hall at 9.20am on Sunday 10th November. All Councillors are invited to take part but need to confirm their attendance. • Upcoming Town Council events at the Watson Hall th o 19 October – Silent Disco th o 14 December – JC Quo th o 15 February – Albino Tarantino th o 11 April – Bon Giovi
19/20 - 088 To approve the Minutes of the meeting held on 9th September 2019 It was RESOLVED to approve the minutes of the meeting held on 9th September 2019, subject to the inclusion of Cllrs Brennan & J Raywood being listed as present. Proposed by Cllr Rudge, seconded by Cllr J Raywood.
19/20 - 089 Matters arising from the Minutes – for information only 19/20-060 Press releases – not covered under current standing orders but will be included in the review of the Standing Orders - ongoing 19/20-039 Balance sheets –Town Clerk has circulated the balance sheets – complete B&M I9.025 – Future plans for the Watson Hall - Town Clerk has circulated the report and the Events Officer will be in touch to arrange a tour - complete Finance 19.07 – Issues raised by member of the public have been dealt with by email - complete Finance 19.33 – Purchase of bicorn and tricorn hats –Town Clerk has circulated the cost details - complete. 19/20-070 Hire rates – Events Officer will be circulating – complete.
19/20 - 090 To note the following Committee Minutes: Buildings & Moorings –31st July 2019 Planning – 14th August 2019 The above minutes were noted. Action: Finance Committee Minutes from August to add to next agenda.
B&M – 19.040 A Cllr asked about the survey of high level ceiling lights in the hall and what progress is being made towards LED lights. The Town Clerk advised that the
survey has not yet been done, but the report is required in order to apply for grant funding. When lightbulbs require replacement, they are replaced with LED bulbs.
19/20 - 091 To receive Councillor reports for Tewkesbury Borough Council & Gloucestershire County Council
Cllr Cody provided an update from Tewkesbury Borough Council regarding: • Climate Emergency proposal – This was passed at the last Borough Council meeting and covers the offices rather than the Borough as a whole. • The NHS Trust public consultation on Fit for Future was discussed. Public consultation on the proposals are invited and can be found on www.onegloucestershire.net. NHS Gloucestershire have been invited to the next Borough Council meeting.
Cllr Smith provided an update from Gloucestershire County Council regarding: • GCC Travel by Cycle – GCC has committed to improving the cycle network and is developing a £9 million package of improvements to make it easier to cycle across the County. A booklet had been launched this month to outline the major changes. Action: Assistant Town Clerk to email out the booklet. Current projects under construction are £1.3m upgrade to canal towpath between Hardwicke and Gloucester, as well as £1m being spend on cycleway improvement between Aylburton and Lydney. Projects in the design and consultation phase are a proposed £3.6m route between Cheltenham & Gloucester (to be built in 2020) and a £3m between Bishops Cleeve and Cheltenham. The Ashchurch Garden Town plans include a cycleway from Newtown to Ashchurch, a bridge / underpass by the motorway and then joining up to Bishops Cleeve. Further improvements for Tewkesbury are still in the planning phases. Cllr Smith thanked Tewkesbury School for their help on the day of the launch and recommends that all Cllrs try out an e-bike! Cllrs discussed the strategy for cross County working for cycle networks and raised issues about cycling / mobility scooters on the Mitton Road, particularly by the old railway line where the footpath is not wide enough. Cllrs also discussed the issue of pot holes and the dangers to cyclists if more are using the roads, what not be an issue to a car, may be a dangerous pot hole to a cyclist. Cllr Smith responded that the best solution to pot holes is the resurfacing work that is currently happening across the County, but encouraged anyone who spots a pot hole that would be an issue, to notify the Council about it via the County’s ‘Report It’ website: https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/highways/roads/report-it/
• Flood alleviation work (dredging and de-silting) is currently taking place around Tewkesbury, although the weather is affecting progress. The joint 2008 flood alleviation report recommendations are what is driving the strategy. Action: Assistant Town Clerk to circulate the report to Cllrs.
19/20 - 092 To receive the finance report for August 2019 The finance report for August 2019 was received.
The Town Clerk advised that the accounts reconcile, but there are still some minor coding issues. The Town Clerk is receiving further training on reporting and budgeting at the end of the month.
19/20 - 093 To approve a transfer of £100 from petty cash to current account It was RESOLVED to transfer £100 from petty cash to the current account. Proposed by Cllr Aldridge, seconded by Cllr Davis.
19/20 - 094 To note the conclusion of audit and the External auditor report The conclusion of audit and external auditor report were noted. There were two ‘except for’ items. The first concerning figures for the precept in 18/19 which had not been restated, due to a system error and the second relates to Section 2, Box 11. The town Council responded ‘No’ on the advice of the internal auditor, as due to the Trust position the answer is not ‘Yes’ or ‘No’. This issue should be resolved by 19/20 submission. Cllrs noted that this was a vast improvement on past submissions and thanked the staff for the hard work that they have done regarding this.
19/20 - 095 To receive an update from the Town Council Climate Change Working Group Cllr Cody provided an updated from the working group which met on 1st October. The group is investigating being a collection point for Terracycle, tree charters and planting, compost and wormeries and improved gate access between Tewkesbury and Twyning. A Cllr asked if the Forestry Commission were involved with the tree charter. Action: Assistant Town Clerk to investigate. The group are also working on terms of reference which will be brought back to Full Council for approval.
Becoming a plastic free community is a long and involved process and there are five stages. The first is to pass a motion at Town Council level, which happened in October, then it becomes a community driven event (rather than one owned directly by the Town Council). Cllr Cody has helped to form a community steering group (step 2 of the process) and the next step is to get the community involved. There is a Facebook page ‘Plastic Free Tewkesbury’ and they will be holding a stall in the High Street on 20th October.
19/20 - 096 To receive reports from members representing the Town Council on outside bodies Cllr Powell attended the Gloucestershire Market Towns Forum (GMTF) AGM on 26th September and over 40 people attended. Of particular interest was the research commissioned by GMTF and delivered by Gloucestershire University’s Countryside Research Institute. They looked at areas of interest relating to the growth of small market towns such as broadband, road access, air quality, bus services, income, employment, growth and poverty. Action: Request a copy of the report.
Cllr Sztymiak left the meeting at 19:15
19/20 - 097 To receive an update from the Planning Committee regarding the five year housing provision plans Cllr J Raywood provided a report regarding the Town & Parish Council seminar held on 24th September 2019 which covered three main areas. 1. The emerging Tewkesbury Borough Plan Submission Document – the deadline for representation is 18th December. 2. Five Year Housing Land Supply – The National Planning Policy Framework requires that Local planning authorities should identify and update annually a supply of specific deliverable sites sufficient to provide a minimum of five years’ worth of housing against their housing requirement set out in adopted strategic policies. If Tewkesbury Borough Council cannot demonstrate that it can deliver a five year housing land supply the most important planning policies for determining a planning application can be considered to be out of date and then there is no protection over the sites chosen. It has also recently been ruled, that any oversupply from a previous year, cannot be deducted from future year’s requirements. Cllrs asked why building is being permitted on a flood plain when the flood plan was adopted by the Borough Council. Unfortunately, Government legislation takes priority over local plans and ignores flooding issues. Cllrs suggested getting the local MP involved. 3. Permission in Principle – Rules are changing regarding planning permission for developments. Although similar in principle to Outline and Reserved Matters Planning Applications, the two new stages of Permission Principle Application and Technical Details consent require fewer details to be submitted and a shorter timescale of five weeks. The Town Council will need to be aware of these changing timescales.
19/20 - 098 To discuss and agree any next steps regarding the request for a reduction in speed limit on the Bredon Road Deferred to next meeting.
Cllr Smith left the meeting at this point
19/20 - 099 To approve the payments list It was RESOLVED to approve the payments list. A total expenditure of £5928.77 was authorised on the payments list. Proposed by Cllr Rudge, seconded by Cllr Powell.
19/20 - 100 To consider and agree grant applications from outside bodies Deferred to next meeting.
19/20 - 101 Correspondence • An email of thanks has been received from Tewkesbury Town North Residents’ Association for their grant enabling the planting of flower beds on the Mythe Road and tubs on the ‘Black Bear’ corner. • Councillors have received an email regarding a consultation by NALC on the draft ICO sharing code of practice.
19/20 - 102 Pursuant to section 1(2) of the Public Bodies (Admission to Meetings) Act 1960 it is resolved that, because of the confidential nature of the business to be transacted, the public and press leave during the consideration of the following items on the agenda It was RESOLVED that pursuant to section 1(2) of the Public Bodies (Admission to Meetings) Act 1960 it is resolved that, because of the confidential nature of the business to be transacted, the public and press leave during the consideration of the following items on the agenda. Proposed by Cllr Aldridge, seconded by Cllr S Raywood.
19/20 - 103 To receive an update from the Town Clerk on the money claim served on the Town Council on 11th April 2019 The Town Clerk provided an update on the money claim.
Cllr Powell declared an interest as he has worked with the claimant and left the meeting.
There being no further business, the meeting closed at 7.50 pm.
Signature of Chairman upon approval of the minutes ………….……………………….. 11th November 2019
MINUTES of the Finance Committee meeting held on 20th August 2019 In the Mayor’s Parlour at the Town Hall, High Street, Tewkesbury
Present: Cllrs T Walker (Chair), K Brennan, C Danter, J Raywood, S Raywood, P Aldridge
In attendance: D Hill (Town Clerk)
F.19.039 To receive apologies None received.
F.19.040 To receive declarations of interest Cllr Danter re: payments list - expenses (ref: F.19.054).
F.19.041 To receive dispensations None received.
F.19.042 To approve the Minutes of the Finance Committee meeting held on 25th July 2019 Deferred to next meeting.
F.19.043 Matters arising from the Minutes – for information only in relation to matters not on the agenda Deferred to next meeting.
F.19.044 To receive correspondence relating to the Finance Committee No correspondence received.
F.19.045 Public Participation There was no public participation.
F.19.046 To review bank reconciliations for July 2019 The bank reconciliations were reviewed. Action: Town Clerk to see if past Town Mayor’s name can be removed from main account.
F.19.047 To review aged debtors and creditors reports The reports were reviewed and discussed. Action: Invoice 159 to be cancelled.
F.19.048 To review income & expenditure reports for July 2019 The income and expenditure reports were reviewed.
F.19.049 To review budget reports The budget reports were reviewed.
F.19.050 To consider and agree grant applications from outside bodies It was RESOLVED to award a grant of £100 to HOPP to cover costs of producing a banner on the condition that the Town Council logo appears on the banner. Proposed by Cllr Walker, seconded by Cllr J Raywood.
F.19.051 To review the Internal Control check carried out in July Deferred to next meeting.
F.19.052 To receive an update from the Town Clerk regarding the installation of the new finance system The Town Clerk advised that the new finance system had been installed and trainings had taken place over a period of three days. The Finance Officer was undertaking a data entry exercise to upload all the current year’s data on to the new system. The Committee wished to extend thanks to the Finance Officer for her hard work.
F.19.053 To approve the attendance of the Town Clerk at the South West Challenge on 3rd October 2019 It was RESOLVED to approve the attendance of the Town Clerk at the South West Challenge on 3rd October 2019 including an overnight stay on 2nd October at a total cost of £363.67. Proposed by Cllr Aldridge, seconded by Cllr Brennan.
F.19.054 To agree the payments list It was RESOLVED to approve the payments list to a value of £13,072.12. Proposed by Cllr Aldridge, seconded by Cllr Brennan.
There being no further business the meeting closed at 12.08 pm
Signature of Chairman upon approval of the minutes …………..……………………….. 3rd October
Tewkesbury Town Council
MINUTES of the Environment & Amenities Committee meeting held on 3rd September 2019 In the Mayor’s Parlour at the Town Hall, High Street, Tewkesbury
Present: Cllrs S Raywood (Chair), J Raywood, H Davis, M Sztymiak
In attendance: J King (Assistant Town Clerk)
E&A 19/019 To receive apologies for absence Apologies received from Cllr Aldridge, Cllr Preedy & Cllr Powell.
E&A 19/020 To record declarations of interest None received.
E&A 19/021 To consider requests for dispensations None received.
E&A 19/022 To approve the Minutes of the meeting held on 2nd July 2019 It was RESOLVED to approve the minutes. Proposed by Cllr J Raywood, seconded by Cllr Davis.
E&A 19/023 Matters arising from the minutes – for information only 18/083 Overgrown paths – Ongoing – follow up with Cllr Danter. 18/083 Mythe Speed Data – Road Safety raising issue of what to do with the data provided by all Parish / Town Councils with the Road Safety group. 18/116 Neighbourhood development plan – Closed. 18/174 Tree Survey – Quotations requested – ongoing. 19/006 Car Accident – Civil claim being pursued - ongoing. 19/011 Earmarked Reserves – Circulated to Councillors – complete. 19/014 Aston Project – Details sent to Cllr J Raywood – complete. 19/015 Gander Lane Toilets – ongoing. 19/015 Gloucester Road Toilets – repairs to doors not possible – ongoing. Action: Investigate robust wooden doors as an alternative to steel. 19/017 Replacement bench – ongoing.
E&A 19/024 To receive correspondence relating to the Environment and Amenities Committee None
E&A 19/025 Public Participation There was no public participation.
E&A 19/026 To review the work programme Councillors reviewed the work programme.
Tewkesbury Town Council
E&A 19/027 To receive Income and Expenditure Reports for June & July 2019 The Income and Expenditure Reports for June & July 2019 were received.
E&A 19/028 To receive the Committee Budget Report No budget report was provided due to the switch over to the new finance system.
E&A 19/029 To approve the payments list No payments list.
E&A 19/030 To receive updates on Play Areas and agree actions
• Derrick Graham Memorial Park . Remedial work has been completed and graffiti removed.
• Warwick Place Play Area . Phase 2 site meeting next week. Work will start this Autumn. . Councillors discussed the open bin issues within Warwick Place It was RESOLVED to install two bins within Warwick Place at a cost of £600. Proposed by Cllr Sztymiak, seconded by Cllr J Raywood.
• Mitton Play Area . Damaged swing has been replaced, additional work due September. . Hedges have been cut back.
E&A 19/031 To agree the Post Installation Inspection for Warwick Place Phase Two works at a cost of £575 It was RESOLVED to agree the Post Installation Inspection for Warwick Place Phase Two works at a cost of £575. Proposed by Cllr J Raywood, seconded by Cllr Sztymiak.
E&A 19/032 To receive an update on the Play Ranger Sessions and to agree any next actions Play Ranger report to follow, but first two sessions had 70 and 100 children attending.
It was RESOLVED to run one Play Ranger session during Autumn half term at a cost of £477. Proposed by Cllr J Raywood, seconded by Cllr Davis.
E&A 19/033 To consider and agree the installation of replacement litter bins at Derek Graham play area It was RESOLVED to replace two litter bins at Derek Graham play area at a cost of £600. Proposed by Cllr J Raywood, seconded by Cllr Davis.
E&A 19/034 To review the condition report and agree any further actions required Councillors reviewed the poor items on the condition report.
Tewkesbury Town Council
Action: The next inspection of street furniture is due to take place in December. Cllr S Raywood to prepare the routes for the inspection and circulate to Councillors in October.
A quote has been received to refurbish the Smart Clock. Scaffolding will be required. There is £1500 within earmarked reserves to cover the costs.
It was RESOLVED to delegate authority to the Assistant Town Clerk up to the value of £1500 to organise the refurbishment of the Smart Clock. Proposed Cllr J Raywood, seconded by Cllr Sztymiak.
It was RESOLVED to delegate authority to the Assistant Town Clerk up to the value of £500 to organise minor repairs to the benches flagged as in poor condition on the condition report. Proposed by Cllr Sztymiak, seconded by Cllr Davis.
It was RESOLVED to replace the 2 dog bins and 2 litter bins with mixed waste bins on the Ashchurch Junction with Gannaway Lane and the Queen Margaret School gateway on York Road and to replace the missing bin outside the Queen’s Road shops at a cost of £900. Proposed by Cllr J Raywood, seconded by Cllr Davis.
Action: Bus shelters on Jubilee Way near Stonehills, belong to the County Council. One has a panel that needs replacing and both are overgrown. Report to Highways.
E&A 19/035 To receive an update on the Lincoln Green Lane noticeboard Tewkesbury Borough Council have advised that a three-way licence is not possible, but have advised that Tewkesbury Town Council should draw up a licence with the Residents Association that replicates the licence that Tewkesbury Borough Council have drawn up for the Town Council. Additional explanatory notes will need to accompany the licence for the Residents Association regarding rules for what can be displayed in the board. The Councillors confirmed that the board should now be ordered. It was RESOLVED to sign the licence agreement between Tewkesbury Borough Council and Tewkesbury Town Council regarding the Lincoln Green Lane Noticeboard. Proposed by Cllr J Raywood, seconded by Cllr Davis.
E&A 19/036 To receive an update on the Community Rights to Bid and agree any further actions The Community Right to Bid for Mitton has been submitted. The eight week review period ends on 24th September and a decision should be known shortly afterwards.
It was RESOLVED to submit a Community Right to Bid for the Town Centre Car Parks and to include the picnic areas and toilet blocks. Proposed by Cllr Sztymiak, seconded by Cllr Davis.
Tewkesbury Town Council
E&A 19/037 To discuss the budget for 2020-2021 Q Councillors discussed the budget for 2020-2021. Action: Circulate budget from October meeting last year which shows project numbers for 2020-2021.
Questions to assist with the budget: CCTV – how much would each camera cost to upgrade? Can the system be extended and what would it cost? Cost of replacement doors for Gloucester Road? Cost for Play Rangers next year? 9 days – 1 x Easter, 1 x May Half Term, 6 x Summer Holidays, 1 x Autumn Half Term. Cost of replacement bus shelter at Gupshill rather than roof repair. Could money be saved by less grass mowing during No Mow May? Gander Lane –quotation required for conversion work.
E&A 19/038 Pursuant to section 1(2) of the Public Bodies (Admission to Meetings) Act 1960 it is resolved that, because of the confidential nature of the business to be transacted, the public and press leave during the consideration of the following items on this agenda It was RESOLVED that Pursuant to section 1(2) of the Public Bodies (Admission to Meetings) Act 1960 it is resolved that, because of the confidential nature of the business to be transacted, the public and press leave during the consideration of the following items on this agenda. Proposed by Cllr J Raywood, seconded by Cllr Davis.
E&A 19/039 To review the grounds maintenance quotations and to appoint a grounds maintenance contractor for the period April 2020 – March 2023 Councillors discussed the grounds maintenance quotations. Two companies provided quotes, one declined and there was no response from one.
It was RESOLVED that the contract for the Derek Graham and Warwick Place Play Areas be awarded to Countrywide Grounds Maintenance. Proposed by Cllr Sztymiak, seconded by Cllr J Raywood.
Refer the quotations for the St Marys Road Moorings and the Town Hall garden to the Buildings and Moorings Committee. Churchill Grove was discussed as a possible ‘No Mow May’ location.
The meeting closed at 7.35pm
Signature of Chairman upon approval of the minutes …………..……………………….. 22nd October 2019 MINUTES of the Buildings & Moorings Committee meeting held on 19th September 2019 In the Mayor’s Parlour at the Town Hall, High Street, Tewkesbury
Present: Cllrs C Danter (Chair); A Rudge; S Raywood & K Brennan
In attendance: D Hill (Town Clerk)
The meeting commenced at 18:00
B&M.19.049 To receive apologies Apologies were received from Cllrs Carter (business) and Preedy (personal). Cllr Powell was not present.
B&M.19.050 To receive declarations of interest None received.
B&M.19.051 To receive dispensations None received.
B&M.19.052 To approve the Minutes of the Buildings & Moorings Committee meeting held on 31st July 2019 It was RESOLVED to approve the minutes. Proposed by Cllr Danter, seconded by Cllr Brennan.
B&M.19.053 Matters arising from the Minutes – for information only in relation to matters not on the agenda B&M 18.173 Town Hall clock – ongoing – set time to outside clock. B&M 18.185 Condition Reports – ongoing. B&M 18.187 Back of Avon wall - ongoing. B&M 19.015 Garden Room – ongoing. B&M 19.016 Drone Images – ongoing. B&M 19.022 Flood Proof Rising Posts – complete B&M 19.025 Emergency Keys – complete B&M 19.032 Watson Hall – Yes, to the best of our knowledge the Town Council is the sole trustee of the main hall in the Watson Hall – complete. B&M 19.037 3 Saffron Road – Letter to be sent. No current plans for enforcement B&M 19.039 Tudor Bar Window – Carry forward cost for Tudor Bar window to be confirmed.
B&M.19.054 To receive correspondence relating to the Buildings & Moorings Committee No new correspondence had been received.
B&M.19.055 Public Participation There was no public participation.
B&M.19.056 To receive the committee income and expenditure reports for July & August 2019 The committee income and expenditure reports for July were received. The reports for August were deferred to the next meeting.
B&M.19.057 To review the committee budget report The Committee budget report was reviewed. It was noted that the net figures for the Watson Hall had improved on previous years.
B&M.19.058 To review the valuation report on the Town council’s buildings and to resolve to recommend increases / decreases as required to buildings sums insured to the Finance Committee Deferred to the next meeting.
B&M.19.059 To receive an update on the recently installed RBS bookings system Deferred to the next meeting.
B&M.19.060 To discuss and agree committee work programmes including fire risk assessments, condition reports and inspection of the War Memorial Deferred to the next meeting.
B&M.19.061 To receive an update on the planning application for tree works in the Town Hall garden Deferred to the next meeting.
B&M.19.062 To agree to renew the service contract for the electric doors at the Town Hall with Dormakaba for one year from 29th November 2019 at a cost of £345 It was RESOLVED to renew the service contract for the electric doors at the Town Hall with Dormakaba. Proposed by Cllr Brennan, seconded by Cllr S Raywood.
B&M.19.063 To note the use of emergency powers in respect of shelving in the cellar due to health and safety reasons and the replacement of the glass washer at the Tudor Bar Deferred to the next meeting.
B&M.19.064 To agree to purchase an additional till for bar sales It was RESOLVED to purchase an additional till with wet cover and printer rolls for bar sales and at a cost of £202.94. Proposed by Cllr Brennan, seconded by Cllr Danter.
B&M.19.065 To review the net position of the Tudor Bar since the Town Council took over responsibility for the bar operation Deferred to the next meeting.
B&M.19.066 To receive an update from the Town Clerk in relation to the lease to Avon Navigation Trust Deferred to the next meeting.
B&M.19.067 To receive an update on the planning application to reinstate moorings at Prior’s Court Deferred to the next meeting.
B&M.19.068 Payments list for approval It was RESOLVED to approve payments totalling £15,220.77. Proposed by Cllr Brennan, seconded by Cllr Rudge.
B&M.19.069 Pursuant to section 1(2) of the Public Bodies (Admission to Meetings) Act 1960 it is resolved that, because of the confidential nature of the business to be transacted, the public and press leave during the consideration of the following item on this agenda Deferred to the next meeting.
B&M.19.070 To review the grounds maintenance quotations for St Mary’s Lane mooring and the Town Hall garden and to appoint a grounds maintenance contractor for the period April 2020 – March 2023 Deferred to the next meeting.
Cllr Brennan left the meeting and the meeting closed at 18:50 due to being inquorate.
Signature of Chairman upon approval of the minutes …………..……………………….. 23rd October 2019
Tewkesbury Town Council
MINUTES of the Severn Ham Committee meeting held on 19th September 2019 In the Mayor’s Parlour at the Town Hall, High Street, Tewkesbury
Present: Cllrs P Aldridge (Chair), J Raywood, C Danter, C Cody, Ms C Corsie, Mr T Perry, Mr A Purkiss, Mr A Walker
In attendance: J King (Assistant Town Clerk), Joe Urbanowicz (Dalfour Maclaren), Alison Pritchard (Dalfour Maclaren), Matt Smart (Severn Trent)
SH 19/037 To receive apologies for absence Apologies were received from Mr Lucas (personal) & Cllr Smith (business)
SH 19/038 To record declarations of interest Mr T Perry – Hay Making – item SH 19/048 Mr A Purkiss – Clerk to the Commoners
SH 19/039 To consider requests for dispensations None received.
SH 19/040 To approve the Minutes of the meeting held on 18th July 2019 It was RESOLVED to approve the minutes of the meeting held on 18th July 2019. Proposed by Cllr J Raywood, seconded by Cllr Aldridge.
SH 19/041 Matters arising from the minutes – for information only SH18/051 Tree survey – ongoing – work to take place in Autumn SH19/009 HLS options – Ms Corsie & Mr Cluley to discuss - ongoing SH19/011 Flock Health Plan – requested by Mr Cluley SH19/026 Curlew signs have been taken down – complete SH19/026 ELMS report circulated to Cllr Smith – complete SH19/027 Remarking of plots – email sent to Mr Cluley – ongoing SH19/030 Letter to EA – response under correspondence – complete SH19/036 Gate to Ham – has been filled with foam, issue remains – ongoing
Cllr Danter arrived at this point
SH 19/042 Public Participation There was no public participation.
SH 19/043 To receive an update from Severn Trent / Dalfour Maclaren Severn Trent & Dalfour Maclaren provided an update regarding the planning for the water pipe replacement across the Severn Ham. A new pipe is required as there have
Tewkesbury Town Council
been multiple leaks and a new set of pipes will also be more resilient for future capacity needs, with a longer life expectancy.
• Aim to start pipelaying in March – work will take 4-5 months • Access of plant equipment on to the Ham remains an issue. • Site investigation work will take place from w/c 23rd September onwards. • Possible site restoration options were set out. • It will disrupt the habitat. Advice from Natural England is to disturb one season by doing the work all at once, rather than staggering the work. • Issues with vehicles and weight distribution on to the Ham. TTC request that tractor type vehicles are used. Concerns regarding metal trackways on the Ham were raised and an alternative access point from Healings Mill to the Ham was discussed. Action: TTC to confirm the exact type of vehicles and the width of track approved to access the Ham. • Contractor to be appointed towards end of the year. TTC to meet with design partner when appointed. • With large plant machinery on site, it may be possible to do any other work that is required at the same time. Action: Future Proofing Group to consider. • Pedestrian signage will be provided by Severn Trent to ensure designated routes remain open and pedestrians are discouraged from the area where the works are taking place. • Severn Trent to run a campaign promoting the work that will be taking place on the Severn Ham. • A question was raised regarding the future of the old pipe that will be left in the ground and eventually collapse. Severn Trent remain the owner of the pipe and there is an ongoing duty of care for the old pipe. This is a legal obligation under the Water Industry Act. • Request for TTC to provide a formal comment back on the proposed reinstatement options. Action: TTC to provide formal response.
Severn Trent and Dalfour Maclaren left the meeting at this point.
The Committee discussed their response to the reinstatement proposals. Action: Assistant Town Clerk to circulate draft response to Committee for approval.
SH 19/044 To receive an update from Caroline Corsie, Environmental Advisor
Hay restoration project • Emorsgate seed is being sent to Mr Perry in order to spread on the restoration plots. This is the last of the seed in storage. • Hay bales for the restoration plot work have been secured from Burley Dene Meadows. Kym Jackson is happy to host a visit from TTC to Burley Dene Meadows in May / June 2020.
Tewkesbury Town Council
Feedback on DAS application to Natural England Natural England have suggested that it is a big project and that TTC consider having a project officer, as a dedicated point of contact (who could be shared with organisations such as Local Nature Partnerships). This is the way the Government is currently thinking i.e. that local authorities deliver Nature Recovery Networks (NRN) from within. Natural England would like to support but have a resource issue. The new Environment Bill (due to be passed in Spring 2020) will contain legal obligations regarding the responsibilities of local authorities. Next step is to gain evidence of clear partnership backing and to form a steering group with a wider range of partners and clear terms of reference, to create a series of individually scoped projects.
Action: Future Proofing meeting to discuss next steps regarding Nature Recovery Networks.
SH 19/045 To receive an update from Mike Cluley on claims to Severn Trent Water (STW) and the Environment Agency No update on the claims.
SH 19/046 To note receipts and payments for June & July 2019 The receipts and payments were noted.
SH 19/047 To receive the committee budget report No budget report was available as the finance system is currently being switched over to the new one.
SH 19/048 To retrospectively approve the restoration project hay spreading costs of £1400 It was RESOLVED to retrospectively approve the restoration project hay spreading costs of £1400. Proposed by Cllr Danter, seconded Cllr J Raywood.
SH 19/049 To discuss and agree the location for spreading the seed currently held in cold storage and the associated costs It was agreed that the seed would be spread on the restoration plots as previously, with the hope that it will provide hay that can be used for restoration purposes on the Severn Ham in due course.
It was advised that the thistles and nettles require cutting in order to prevent the spread of them. Action: Assistant Town Clerk to obtain a price.
SH 19/050 To agree any actions regarding the DAS quotation from Natural England Natural England were unable to provide a quotation. Referred back to the future proofing working group to consider the next steps.
Tewkesbury Town Council
SH 19/051 To discuss and agree the installation costs and location for an additional trough on the Severn Ham There is an issue with animals avoiding going to drink at the trough on the north end of the site as they are avoiding the people. Action: Assistant Town Clerk to contract Severn Trent to ask if it would be possible to install a new trough on the southern side of the Ham, lower than the Abbey Mill. Plans indicate that a pipe goes into the caravan site.
SH 19/052 To agree the next steps regarding tree work on the Severn Ham Deferred to next meeting – awaiting contact from the tree surgeon.
SH 19/053 To discuss and agree the next steps regarding any changes to the grazing arrangements for the period March 2020 – February 2021 It was agreed that any changes to the grazing arrangements will be deferred until the pipe replacement work is complete and there is no more disruption on the Ham.
SH 19/054 To discuss the arrangement for organising volunteer livestock checks In other local sites volunteer teams have been set up to walk the site and report any issues. They are not taking any responsibility, just raising issues. It was agreed that this should be explored further.
Mr Purkiss left the meeting at this point.
SH 19/055 To approve the payments list There was no payments list.
SH 19/056 Correspondence A response was received from the Environment Agency regarding the water sampling results. Action: Assistant to the Town Clerk to write to the EA with the additional information from Ms Corsie and to request less water goes over Stanshaw Pit and more coming over into the Avon, in order to reduce the silt build up.
Cllr Aldridge thanked Cllr Raywood for organising the exhibition about the Severn Ham and helping to make more people aware of what happens with the Severn Ham.
There is an issue regarding land ownership of a small area of the Severn Ham. Mr Cluley is liaising with Environment Agency to investigate the claim.
The next future proofing meeting will be on 3rd October at 9.30am
The meeting closed at 11.10 am.
Signature of Chairman upon approval of the minutes …………..………………………..7th November 2019
TEWKESBURY TOWN COUNCIL PLANNING COMMITTEE Wednesday 4th September 2019
Present: Councillors Joanne Raywood, Simon Raywood, Gavin Preedy
Members of the public: Two members of the public were present.
The meeting commenced at 19:30.
MINUTES
P.19.110 Welcome and introductions
The meeting opened at 7.30pm. The chairman welcomed all present, noting that everyone was known to each other, then issued the usual housekeeping notices.
P.19.111 To receive apologies for absence
None
P.19.112 To receive declarations of interest
None
P.19.113 To receive and consider requests for dispensations
None
P.19.114 Public participation (to provide members of the public/press with the opportunity to comment on items on the agenda or raise items for future consideration. In accordance with Standing Orders this will not exceed 12 minutes in total and 3 minutes per person)
In relation to P.19.118 a comment was made by one member of the public regarding parking and surprise was expressed that no parking was being included in the scheme.
TTC/PLANNING-MINUTES-04/09/19 1
P.19.115 To approve the minutes of the Planning Committee meeting held on 14th August 2019
Proposed by Cllr. G. Preedy Seconded by Cllr. S. Raywood It was resolved to approve the minutes.
P.19.116 To receive updates on matters arising from the minutes – for information only
Tewkesbury Borough Council has responded to the application relating to the removal of trees at the entrance to the Mythe Water Works, which gave us this committee much pause for thought at the last meeting, with a decision not to intervene.
P.19.117 To note correspondence
None
P.19.118 Proposed change of use of offices to a mixture of nine, one and two bedroom flats and studio apartments with conversion of outbuildings to provide two dwellings. Planning Application 69-70 High Street Tewkesbury Gloucestershire GL20 5LE Ref. No: 19/00686/FUL
Letter reference Date requested Expiry date DC/E07000083/PW62V8QD0K002 Wed 14 Aug 2019 Wed 04 Sep 2019
Observations:
Objection.
The Town Council objects to this application for the following reasons:
1) Parking. It is considered that there has been inadequate consideration of car parking provision for this number of dwellings.
2) Cycle Storage. It is considered that the size of the proposed area for cycle storage is inadequate for the provision of eleven cycle stands.
3) Space Standards. It is considered that many of the proposed living spaces are small and some contain obstacles such as columns and small niches. As identified by the Urban Design Officer the amenity space is very limited and of poor quality for the amount of residents.
4) Refuse Bins. The Town Council is concerned by the prospect of 22 bins being placed on the High Street weekly, which would obstruct the pavement. There is also a concern that access to the street from the bin store is such that some residents may be tempted to leave them out there.
TTC/PLANNING-MINUTES-04/09/19 2
P.19.119 Alteration & conversion works associated with the proposed change of use of buildings to dwellings. Planning Application 69 - 70 High Street Tewkesbury Gloucestershire GL20 5LE Ref. No: 19/00687/LBC
Letter reference Date requested Expiry date DC/E07000083/PW63GAQD0IQ00 Wed 14 Aug 2019 Wed 04 Sep 2019
Observations:
Objection.
The Town Council objects to this application for the following reasons:
1) Space Standards. It is considered that many of the proposed living spaces are small and some contain obstacles such as columns and small niches. As identified by the Urban Design Officer the amenity space is very limited and of poor quality for the amount of residents.
2) Refuse Bins. The Town Council is concerned by the prospect of 22 bins being placed on the High Street weekly, which would obstruct the pavement. There is also a concern that access to the street from the bin store is such that some residents may be tempted to leave them out there.
P.19.120 New additional, and relocated external plant and enclosure. Planning Application Aldi Stores Gloucester Road Tewkesbury Gloucestershire GL20 5SY Ref. No: 19/00763/FUL
Letter reference Date requested Expiry date DC/E07000083/PVI3TRQDFQJ0Y Mon 19 Aug 2019 Mon 09 Sep 2019
Observations:
No Objection.
The Town Council has no objection to this proposal in principle. However, it considers the appearance of the Palisade fencing to be overly harsh and would prefer to see the top of the brick wall raised to a uniform height throughout its length.
TTC/PLANNING-MINUTES-04/09/19 3
P.19.121 Retention of 8x PVC double sided lamp post banner signs (Each banner to display the name and heraldic device of the 8 key Yorkist and Lancastrian families involved in the battle of Tewkesbury). Planning Application Street Record Lincoln Green Lane Tewkesbury Gloucestershire Ref. No: 19/00707/ADV
Letter reference Date requested Expiry date DC/E07000083/PWL4ECQD0IL03 Wed 21 Aug 2019 Wed 11 Sep 2019 Observations:
No objection.
P.19.122 To note any additional information on the Planning Portal regarding applications to which this committee has already responded and agree further actions
None
P.19.123 To hear an update on the discourse between Councillors J and S Raywood and the Head of Development Services of Tewkesbury Borough Council with respect to the Borough Plan and to agree further actions
JR contacted the Borough regarding an error in the drawing of a boundary around the Healings Mill site in the Borough Plan, which was approved on 30th July 2019 and is at odds with the site boundary as shown correctly in the SPD. Following a meeting between JR, SR and the Head of Development Services JR now has a reply by email saying that if the Town Council writes to the Borough to request that the boundary line be redrawn correctly, the Borough will comply. It is recommended that this committee asks the Town Clerk to send such a letter to the Borough Council, on behalf of the Town Council.
Proposed by Cllr. G. Preedy Seconded by Cllr. S. Raywood The recommendation was approved.
P.19.124 To consider proposed reforms to permitted development rights to support the deployment of 5G and extend mobile coverage and agree further actions
The consultation was introduced and it was agreed that this matter will be brought back to the next Planning Committee Meeting.
There being no further business, the meeting closed at 20.38.
Signature of Chairman Date
TTC/PLANNING-MINUTES-04/09/19 4
TEWKESBURY TOWN COUNCIL PLANNING COMMITTEE Wednesday 18th September 2019
MINUTES
Present: Councillors Joanne Raywood, Simon Raywood, Gavin Preedy, Helen Davis
Public: There was one member of the public present. The meeting commenced at 19:00
P.19.125 Welcome and introductions
The meeting opened at 7.00pm. The chairman welcomed all present, noting that everyone was known to each other and issued the usual housekeeping notices.
P.19.126 To receive apologies for absence
Cllr. T. Walker (Holiday)
P.19.127 To receive declarations of interest
None
P.19.128 To receive and consider requests for dispensations
None
P.19.129 Public participation (to provide members of the public/press with the opportunity to comment on items on the agenda or raise items for future consideration. In accordance with Standing Orders this will not exceed 12 minutes in total and 3 minutes per person)
None
P.19.130 To approve the minutes of the Planning Committee meeting held on 4th September 2019
Proposed by Cllr. H. Davis Seconded by Cllr. G. Preedy It was resolved to approve the minutes.
TTC/PLANNING-MINUTES-18/09/19 1
P.19.131 To receive updates on matters arising from the minutes – for information only
Re. Item P.19.123 – this is ongoing
P.19.132 To note correspondence
Cllr. J. Raywood received an email form Annette Roberts on Saturday, stating that TBC and the TTRP have been successful in obtaining £2m funding from the Future High Streets Heritage Fund that will be used to improve street furniture and shop fronts in Tewkesbury. Cllr. J. Raywood replied to thank Borough Officers, especially Alice Goodall, for their work in securing this funding.
Becky has been circulating posters online about the trees event on the 2nd October.
The Town Clerk has received an email from Robert Hitchins Ltd, regarding a press release about progress in respect of the proposed designer outlet to be built at Ashchurch. This was read out to committee members.
The Town Council has also received an email from Tewkesbury Borough Council with regard to consultation events in connection with the masterplan for West Cheltenham.
P.19.133 Erection of a hanging sign on side elevation. Planning Application Cross House Church Street Tewkesbury Gloucestershire GL20 5AB Ref. No: 19/00488/ADV
Letter reference Date requested Expiry date DC/E07000083/PWY5Y1QD0IP01 Wed 28 Aug 2019 Wed 18 Sep 2019
Observations:
No objection
P.19.134 Erection of a hanging sign on side elevation. Planning Application The Cross House 108 Church Street Tewkesbury Gloucestershire GL20 5AB Ref. No: 19/00487/LBC
Letter reference Date requested Expiry date DC/E07000083/PWY5THQD0IP00 Wed 28 Aug 2019 Wed 18 Sep 2019
Observations:
No objection
TTC/PLANNING-MINUTES-18/09/19 2
P.19.135 Removal of two trees (Purple Beech & Cherry Blossom). 8 replacement trees to be planted as part of a new garden design. Current garden restricts views of abbey, is on a steep slope and provides too much shade. Planning Application Abbey Cottage Stables 1 Gloucester Road Tewkesbury Gloucestershire GL20 5SS Ref. No: 19/00868/TCA
Letter reference Date requested Expiry date DC/E07000083/PX7EZIQD08O01 Mon 02 Sep 2019 Mon 23 Sep 2019
Observations:
Objection.
The Town Council is reluctant to see the removal of two healthy mature trees.
P.19.136 1x Conifer to be removed in the NW corner of my garden and is becoming very large. I have three other large tree (2 of which have TPO's) which will be retained and I intend to plant 2 further small deciduous trees in other parts of the garden. Planning Application 1 Abbey Court Gloucester Road Tewkesbury Gloucestershire GL20 5SW Ref. No: 19/00875/TCA
Letter reference Date requested Expiry date DC/E07000083/PX9GGIQD0IA03 Fri 06 Sep 2019 Fri 27 Sep 2019 Observations:
No Objection.
The Town Council's Tree Warden recommends that this work is done before the end of the Autumn to enable the new trees to become established before the winter.
P.19.137 Change of use of first, second and third floor levels from offices (use class A2) to artists studio to incorporate art workshops/classes (sui generis), and associated internal alterations Planning Application 128 High Street Tewkesbury Gloucestershire GL20 5JU Ref. No: 19/00665/FUL
Letter reference Date requested Expiry date DC/E07000083/PUH0IHQD0IU02 Mon 09 Sep 2019 Mon 30 Sep 2019 Observations:
No objection
TTC/PLANNING-MINUTES-18/09/19 3
P.19.138 Internal alterations at first floor level only to include removal of section of existing partition wall, provision of new stud partition wall and new W.C., kitchen base unit and sinks, in association with proposed change of use of first, second and third floor levels from offices (use class A2) to artists studio to incorporate art workshops/classes (sui generis) Planning Application 128 High Street Tewkesbury Gloucestershire GL20 5JU Ref. No: 19/00666/LBC
Letter reference Date requested Expiry date DC/E07000083/PUHD40QD0IU00 Mon 09 Sep 2019 Mon 30 Sep 2019 Observations:
No objection
P.19.139 To note any additional information on the Planning Portal regarding applications to which this committee has already responded and agree further actions
None
P.19.140 To note the decisions made in August, in respect of planning applications to Tewkesbury Borough Council
The decisions made in August 2019 were noted.
P.19.141 To consider proposed reforms to permitted development rights to support the deployment of 5G and extend mobile coverage and agree a response
The committee considered the proposed reforms and agreed a response.
There being no further business, the meeting closed at 20:15.
Signature of Chairman Date
TTC/PLANNING-MINUTES-18/09/19 4
Tewkesbury Town Council
MINUTES OF THE STAFFING COMMITTEE MEETING HELD ON FRIDAY 27TH SEPTEMBER 2019 IN THE MAYOR’S PARLOUR, TEWKESBURY TOWN HALL AT 9.30 AM
Present: Cllrs K Brennan (Chair), S Raywood and J Raywood D Hill (Town Clerk)
1) To receive apologies Cllrs Aldridge (personal) and Davis (business). Cllr Powell was absent.
2) To receive declarations of interests None received.
3) To receive dispensations None.
4) To approve the minutes of the Staffing Committee meeting held on 2nd May 2019 It was RESOLVED to approve the minutes of the Staffing Committee meeting held on 2nd May. Proposed by Cllr J Raywood, seconded by Cllr Brennan.
5) To discuss matters rising from the last meeting – for information only None.
6) To agree Christmas opening hours and staffing cover The office will close at midday on Tuesday 24th December and will re-open at 9.30 am on Monday 30th December.
7) To discuss a programme of work for the committee Cllr Brennan had prepared a draft programme of work which was discussed and further items were added. It was agreed to hold quarterly Staffing Committee meetings on the first Monday in December, March, June and September with an additional meeting to be held on Monday 21st October, all at 4pm in the Mayor’s Parlour. Actions: Cllr Brennan to circulate the revised programme of work. Town Clerk to contact Tewkesbury Abbey re potential date in September 2020 for the Civic Service.
8) To discuss a policy for staff training It was noted that the Training Policy needs revising.
9) To review the Staffing Committee budget report The staffing budget was reviewed.
10) To approve the payments list None.
Page 1 of 2
Tewkesbury Town Council
11) Pursuant to section 1(2) of the Public Bodies (Admission to Meetings) Act 1960 it is resolved that, because of the confidential nature of the business to be transacted, the public and press leave during the consideration of the following items Proposed by Cllr S Raywood, seconded by Cllr Brennan.
12) Staffing Matters 1. Harassment of Town Clerk in relation to ongoing legal case – the Town Clerk to liaise with Thomson & Bancks to agree the best way to deal with the issues 2. Appraisals – Appraisals for the Finance Assistant and Town Clerk have been completed. 3. Incremental pay increases – It was RESOLVED to award incremental increases as follows: i. Events Officer – two points increment from 1st October ii. Finance Assistant – one point increment from 1st October iii. Town Clerk – one point increment backdated to 1st June Proposed by Cllr J Raywood, seconded by Cllr Brennan. 4. Town Clerk hours - It was RESOLVED to extend the Town Clerk working full time to 31st December 2019. To be reviewed in December.
There being no further business the meeting closed at 11.15 am.
Signature of Chairman upon approval of Minutes ...... 21st October 2019
Page 2 of 2
The Borough Plan pre-submission consultation
Last November, this council submitted a very detailed response to the Borough Plan – preferred options consultation. Councillors will be aware that the Plan is now at the pre-submission consultation stage, and that all representations must be submitted by the end of the day on 18th November.
It is important that this council considers making a representation because there have been two significant and very recent changes in the planned proposals for land within this parish. These have come about because of the Borough Council’s need to demonstrate an adequate five year housing land supply. The Borough Plan is no longer entirely consistent with the proposals in the Regeneration SPD in regard to sites at Healings Mill (TEW4) and Spring Gardens (TEW3), but it will carry greater weight in the hierarchy of planning documents than the SPD does, so we need to make our views known, in the form of a written representation.
At this stage, representations must be made on the basis that the proposal is either legally non-compliant or unsound. We need to focus on the fact that it is unsound.
With regard to the Healings Mill site, a representation has already been prepared on the grounds that the site boundary is incorrect. It should not include part of the Severn Ham. It is a SSSI, it is owned by this council, we have not been asked to sell it, and neither would we. Tewkesbury Borough Council’s Head of Development Services has already confirmed in writing that they will agree with us on this and will ask for the site boundary to be amended accordingly.
The policies for TEW3 and TEW4 are as follows:
With regard to both sites, the plan proposes a potentially greater emphasis on housing provision than hitherto, allowing for 100 dwellings on the Healings Mill site and 30-100 houses on the Spring Gardens site. The Planning Committee has referred this item to full council in order to know if the Council wishes to make a representation in respect of these housing proposals. Furthermore, if it does so wish, what does it want to say? The relevant guidance notes are below:
Climate Change Working Group
Membership: Open to all Councillors (with an elected Chair)
Reports to: Full Council (feedback at Full Council meetings)
Terms of Reference
To review the Town Council’s operation and make environmentally friendly improvements, where possible.
To promote and encourage positive climate change actions within Tewkesbury Town.
The working group has no budget and any potential costs will be referred to the appropriate Committee / Town Clerk for consideration. Motion to support the Local Electricity Bill – Background information The Town Council were contacted by Power for People (www.powerforpeople.org.uk) regarding the proposed Local Electricity Bill. They have authored the bill to help more local, clean energy generation that would benefit local communities.
They are a not-for-profit organisation campaigning for the Local Electricity Bill to become law. The Bill is currently supported by a cross-party group of 115 MPs.
The Bill aims to solve the current problem whereby local renewable energy generators, such as community energy groups, are unable to sell energy that they generate to local people. This is because of the huge setup and running costs involved in doing so.
The Bill would fix this problem by establishing a Right to Local Supply that would make the costs of selling locally generated clean energy proportionate to the scale of the operation. This would benefit the existing community energy groups across the country and, even more excitingly, create the opportunity for huge growth in such groups and other local clean energy providers.
If the Bill became law it would be excellent news for Parish and Town Councils that wished to set up their own energy companies to sell locally generated renewable energy to local people, as the set up and running costs involved would be proportionate and thus a fraction of what they are now. The revenues received by such councils could be ploughed back into local emissions reduction schemes and other local services and facilities.
The group are asking:
1. Tewkesbury Town Council to pass a motion in support of the Local Electricity Bill.
2. TTC to sign up to the campaign: www.powerforpeople.org.uk/sign-up
The Charter for Trees, Woods and People has the full backing of the following cross-sector organisations, who together formed a steering group chaired by the Woodland Trust that worked together for two years to galvanise public support and agree the final wording of the charter.
• Action for Conservation • Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Association UK • Ancient Tree Forum • Arboricultural Association • Bat Conservation Trust • Black Environment Network • Borders Forest Trust • British Association for Shooting and Conservation • Butterfly Conservation • Campaign for National Parks (CNP) • Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE) • Caring For God's Acre • Centre for Sustainable Healthcare • Church of England • CIEEM (Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management) • City of Trees • Climate Coalition • Coigach Assynt Trust • Common Ground • Confor • Confederation of Timber Industries (CTI) • Continuous Cover Forestry Group • Country Land and Business Association (CLA) • Forest School Association (FSA) • Froglife • FSC-UK (Forest Stewardship Council) • Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust • Going Wild • GreenBlue Urban • GroundWork Gallery • Grown in Britain • Institute of Chartered Foresters (ICF) • John Muir Trust • Legal Sustainability Alliance (LSA) • Llais y Goedwig • MADE (Muslim Action for Development and Environment) • Mersey Forest • National Association of Local Councils • National Forest
• National Trust • National Union of Students (NUS) • New Forest National Park Authority • National Farmers' Union (NFU) • Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action • Northern Ireland Environment Link • Order of Bards, Ovates and Druids • Plantlife • Reforesting Scotland • RFS (Royal Forestry Society) • RHS (Royal Horticultural Society) • Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh • RSPB (Royal Society for the Protection of Birds) • RSPB Wales • Small Woods Association • Soil Association • SWOG (Small Woodland Owners' Group) • Sylva Foundation • TDAG (Trees and Design Action Group) • The British Beekeepers Association • The British Druid Order • The Conservation Foundation • The Conservation Volunteers (TCV) • The Consulting Arborist Society (CAS) • The Land Trust • The Landscape Institute • The Orchard Project • The Pagan Federation • The Sherwood Forest Trust • The Tree Council • The Wildlife Trusts • The Windsor Estate • Timber Trade Federation (TTF) • Tir Coed • Trees for Cities • Wild Network • Wildlife & Countryside Link • Woodland Heritage • Woodland Trust • Woodlands.co.uk • WWF-UK
Moving forward, the charter will be steered by a UK Tree Charter Board of 13 organisations, thanks to support from players of the National Lottery through the Heritage Lottery Fund:
• Black Environment Network • Common Ground • ConFor • Landscape Institute • Llais y Goedwig • National Union of Students • National Association of Local Councils • Northern Ireland Environment Link • Royal Forestry Society • Sylva Foundation • The Tree Council • Centre for Sustainable Health Care • Woodland Trust