2009/2010 – 1
ANNUAL WISBECH TOWN COUNCIL MAYOR MAKING CEREMONY AND TOWN COUNCIL MEETING
Minutes of the Meeting of the Annual Meeting of the Town Council held on Friday 8 May 2009 at 12noon, and Monday 11 May 2009 at 7.30.
MAYOR MAKING 8 May 2009
PRESENT: The Town Mayor, Councillor JR Farmer; Deputy Mayor Mrs YP Lawrence; and Councillors Mrs C Cox; NW Frusher; LRV Fulcher; AR Green; M Hill; Mrs JR Jolley; Mrs VM Macrae; NA Meekins; PB O’Dell; DC Oliver; MA Parker; L Sims; DA Wheeler; and T Wright.
In attendance: Malcolm Moss MP and Mrs Moss; The Venerable David Fleming; the Vice- Chairman of Cambridgeshire County Council; the Town Clerk, Erbie Murat; the Town Beadle, Alister Hopkins; the Deputy Clerk (and outgoing Mayoress) Susanah Farmer; and distinguished guests.
The Mayor, Councillor Jonathan Rodney Farmer TD, asked The Venerable David Fleming to lead the Council in prayer.
The Mayor then said a few words, as detailed and tabled as part of the Annual Report for 2008/2009, as the outgoing Mayor.
1. Election of Chair of the Council to be known as the Town Mayor.
On a nomination from Cllr Mrs Cox, and seconded by Cllr Mrs Macrae, Cllr Mrs Yvonne Pamela Lawrence was ELECTED Mayor for the civic year 2009/2010 with an allowance of £3,020.
The Mayor, Cllr Mrs Lawrence and her consort proceeded to the parlour, where Cllr Mrs Lawrence was robed, and invested with the Chain of Office. She was then escorted by the Beadle to take her place on the dais.
The Town Mayor read and signed the Declaration of Acceptance of Office.
The Oath of Allegiance was administered to the Town Mayor, by the Town Clerk, Erbie Murat.
Cllr Mrs Cox toasted the Town Mayor. The Town Mayor addressed the Council.
The Leader of the Council, Cllr David Oliver gave a vote of thanks to the retiring Mayor, Cllr Jonathan R Farmer TD.
The retiring Mayor replied, thanking individuals and members for their support throughout the year.
The retiring Mayor Cllr Farmer having robed as an Alderman took his place with other Counicllors. Cont ...
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The Mayor presented Cllr and Mrs Farmer with their past Mayor and Mayoress badges.
2. Election of the Vice-Chairman of the Council to be known as Deputy Mayor. On a proposal from the Mayor, Cllr Mrs Lawrence and seconded by Cllr Mrs Cox Cllr Leslie Sims was ELECTED Deputy Mayor for the civic year 2009/2010 with no allowance.
The Beadle robed and chained the Deputy Mayor.
The Deputy took his place beside the Mayor, and pledged his loyalty and support to the Mayor.
3. Apologies and absences for 8 May 2009 – Mayor-making. Cllr HB Wegg - holiday
On a proposal from Cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr O’Dell the above absence was APPROVED.
Absent without apology: Cllr S King.
4. The Appointment of the Mayor’s Chaplain. The Mayor announced that her chaplain will be The Venerable David Fleming.
5. Adjournment of meeting The Mayor announced that the meeting would stand adjourned until Monday 11 May 2009, at 7.30, when it would reconvene in the Council Chamber.
The Mayor invited guests to join her and her other guests to partake of refreshments in the Boathouse.
The meeting adjourned at 12.45 pm
The meeting re-opened at 7.30 pm. on Monday 11 May 2009. There being no members of the public wishing to speak, the meeting commenced at 7.30 pm.
It was noted that Cllr Oliver had been selected as Leader of the Council for 2009/2010, and that Cllr Meekins had been selected as Deputy Leader. It was further noted that Cllr Mrs Macrae had been selected as Secretary of the Conservative Group.
8. Apologies for absence for 11 May 2009. Cllr Wegg - holiday Cllr Hill was late due to work commitments. On a proposal from Cllr Wright and seconded by Cllr Green the above absences were APPROVED.
Absent without apology: Cllr King
9. Appointments to outside bodies. On a proposal from Cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr O’Dell it was AGREED to ask the Clerk to circulate the existing list so that members could up-date it and return it to the Leader for amendments to be made. The list was circulated.
Cont ...
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10. Authorisation to sign cheques. On a proposal from Cllr Wheeler and seconded by Cllr Meekins it was AGREED that the Town Mayor, Deputy Mayor, Leader, and Chairman of Finance & General Purposes Committee be authorised to sign cheques on behalf of the Town Council.
11. Appointment of External Auditor. On a proposal from Cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr Green it was AGREED to continue to use Moore Stephens as the Council’s external auditor.
12. Minutes of the Town Council 14 April 2009. On a proposal from Cllr O’Dell and seconded by Cllr Wheeler the minutes of the Town Council meeting held on 14 April 2009 were APPROVED. Cllr Wright re-iterated that it was his intention that a Streetscene report feature on every Town Council agenda, and Gary Garford undertook to arrange for a short up-date to be sent to the Clerk each month for circulation to members.
13. Minutes of the meeting of the Annual Assembly of 6 April 2009. In light of the complexity of the Town’s Annual Assembly minutes and the range of outcomes that the Town Council will be pursuing as a result of Annual Assembly, the Leader, Cllr Oliver, asked members to highlight any amendments they wished to make. There were no amendments, and the minutes will pass to the next Annual Assembly for formal approval. On a proposal from Cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr Wheeler, it was AGREED to action the outcomes of Town Assembly.
14. Minutes of the Planning Committee. On a proposal from Cllr Wright and seconded by Cllr O’Dell the minutes of the Planning committee meetings held on 14 and 27 April 2009 were RECEIVED.
15. Wisbech Youth Council The following were noted by members: i) In conjunction with the Cambridgeshire Criminal Justice Board, the Town Council and Wisbech Youth Council are participating in ‘The Kids Are Alright’ positive youth stories in Fenland campaign through the Wisbech Standard. We are sending regular press releases with photos. The Wisbech Standard did not cover Malcolm Moss’s visit to the Youth Council, and had not yet covered the Play equipment consultation trip to London (although this did feature on their website) The Fenland Citizen covered both stories, using the Malcolm Moss photo. ii) The consultation trip to London was attended by 6 Youth Council Members and 5 other young people from Wisbech, together with a bevy of responsible adults. The group visited the Glamis Adventure Playground in Tower Hamlets (Literature on notice board), and the Somerford Grove Adventure Playground in Tottenham (literature on notice board). Photos from the trip may be seen on the Wisbech Town Council Official website www.wisbechtowncouncil.org.uk iii) There was a working party of the Youth Council held in the Council Chamber on Saturday 25 April attended by the Leader and the Clerk. Members of the Youth Council agreed to:
ask the Leader and the Clerk to meet with the Principal of Thomas Clarkson Community College to discuss TCCC as a viable, alternative site for the Festivals on 1st and 2nd August; Cont ...
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book the following bands for the Youth Festival on the 1st August: The Brink; the Journey; the 925’s; Satellite to Nowhere; and the Bracket – through Art&Soul Magazine in Peterborough at a cost of expenses only. have food, music and dance from the Eastern European, and Spanish speaking communities in and around Wisbech, and to liaise with Citizens Advice workers who work with the communities. book a float for Rose Fair; to prepare designs for a webpage for the Youth Council, a float for Rose Fair, and artwork for the festivals. The theme of Rose Fair would be reflected in the designs for the multi-cultural festival on 2nd August. They want everything themed to match and are considering having costumes from around the world for the float and a fancy dress competition at the festival.
16. Annual Accounts. On a proposal from Cllr Green and seconded by Cllr O’Dell the annual accounts were APPROVED and signed by the Mayor, ready to be sent to the External Auditors by 1 June 2009.
17. Clerk’s up-date The following were noted by members i) A special meeting of F&GP has been set for 7.30 pm on Tuesday 26 May 2009 following Planning Committee, to consider detailed plan and costings for the new kitchen. Should other F&GP matters arise they may be added to the agenda. The agenda will be circulated. ii) A meeting of Civic Amenities Committee has been arranged for 10 am Tuesday 26 May 2009, to progress arrangements for Armed Forces Day (Veterans); Rose Fair; and Wisbech Festival (Young Music and Multi-cultural). iii) Regular Wisbech Youth Council working parties are being held to progress Rose Fair involvement and the Festivals. iv) Wisbech Town Council’s website wisbechtowncouncil.org.uk is regularly up-dated with details of agendas, minutes and news of events. v) Land Registry have confirmed that they recognise the existence of a dispute on allotment land registrations (copy of letter attached). Wisbech Town Council will be kept informed of any developments, before registration vii) The Draft Town Plan was successfully launched at the Annual Assembly. Copies are available from the Clerk’s office or from the Wisbech Town Council’s official website. viii) New 24 volt LED decorations for the Christmas tree have been purchased, and orders placed for new 24 volt LED matting for the lampposts in the town centre using the grant money received from Fenland District Council. Members will recall that the electrical safety requirements changed obliging the Council to use 24 volt for anything below three metres. ix) The cheques have gone out for the grants as agreed. A letter of thanks was promptly received from St John Ambulance pledging first response cover whenever the Council has need of it, and also from the Wisbech Rose Fair Forum pledging an additional bus on the Saturday for the Park and Ride. x) The redundant sign pointing to the register office is to be replaced, with one that has been ordered by the County Council.
Cont ...
2009/2010 – 5 xi) The West Street Jointly funded works are now complete. The island has been moved to slow traffic down, and this means that buses can no longer get around the corner. John Knott at FDC has assured the County Council that the traffic island can be removed altogether for Rose Fair to allow large vehicles round. (John Knott has retired from FDC recently and his replacement is Martin Collins) xii) FDC has fitted a ground mounted cigarette bin for the Town Council’s use, on the left of the front door. This will be emptied by the regular cleaning operative from FDC. xiii) FDC will be inspecting Cromwell Road to indentify two suitable sites for litter bins. NOTE: Members still need to submit their returns on suitable priority sites through the Clerk. The Clerk has received and forwarded one return. xiv) I am pleased to say that the proposed recipient of the Freedom of the Town has accepted, and the Clerk is liaising to arrange a mutually convenient date for the presentation, following the production of the appropriate documentation. xv) The Town Council were unable to fly the English National flag on 23 April. The protocol is that the Union Jack must be flown as well as the national flag (and the Jack must be raised slightly higher), and our second flagpole is broken. To have it repaired will cost £641.00 plus VAT. xvi) Atelier East has an exhibition of line drawings of Wisbech by Rosemary Harvey at the Angles Theatre from 3 - 20 May 2009. All members are invited to the opening reception on 3 May between 6 and 8 pm. xvii) The Annual report has been prepared and will be circulated to members (to be tabled). xviii) Within the context of a planning appeal funding from a visit to the town centre on 18 March 2009, it was recorded that ‘In May 2008, Wisbech town centre had only 19 vacant units representing 7.9% of the total units in the town centre. This figure is substantially below the national average of 11.4% and suggests a strong town centre. However, the figure has increased to 30 vacant units (11.9% in January 2009), with the inclusion of a former Woolworth’s store’.
Matters arising from the Clerk’s Update: Item (i) On a proposal from Cllr Green and seconded by Cllr Oliver it was AGREED that the special F&GP committee meeting on 26 May 2009 be given delegated authority to make decisions on behalf of the Town Council.
Item (xiv) The Mayor announced that she would be arranging a formal presentation of the Freedom of the Town to Jody Cundy. The Clerk is to liaise to establish mutually convenient dates.
Item (xv) On a proposal from Cllr Cox and seconded by Cllr Green it was AGREED to authorise the expenditure of £641.00 + VAT, and to do whatever was necessary to repair the flagpole to facilitate the flying of the flag of St George and the Union Flag on St George’s Day in future.
Item (xi) Gary Garford reported that FDC have been speaking with the County Council to have them replace the island and carry out further remedial works on site.
18. Congratulations to Cllr Mrs Viv Macrae Members congratulated Cllr Mrs Macrae and amended her achievement to 42 kilometres (26.2 miles) in the London Marathon in 5 hours 11.01 minutes.
Cont ...
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19. Roddens Housing Association (Circle Anglia) Members NOTED the Chief Executive’s comments on the Town Plan and her pledge to support ‘reducing crime and disorder’, the establishment of tenants associations; and the Chief Executive’s wish to provide the Town Council with an annual update on all Roddens activities. progress.
Members also NOTED the easy guide to the business plan for Circle Anglia. On a proposal from Cllr Green, seconded by Cllr Oliver it was AGREED to refer the matter of allotments to the Allotments Committee Meeting of 8 June 2009.
20. Correspondence requiring responses from members. a) Members were not minded to support a cycleway along North Brink, but were minded to look at alternatives. Members would prefer to see a bridge as previously proposed. b) Members knew of no unused rooms large enough that could be rented at a nominal fee by the Wisbech Model Railway Club. c) Members noted that all the issues surrounding the Market Place had been fully discussed by the Town Council, as was the issue of eyesore buildings and the letter is to be forwarded to Gary Garford. Members felt the idea for an indoor market was excellent and would welcome an entrepreneur providing one. d) The charity EAST is to be referred to the Council’s grant opportunities and asked to apply at the appropriate time.
21. Correspondence from Cambridgeshire County Council (CCC) Members noted the following correspondence displayed on the notice board: a) Email informing the Council that they have been awarded a Heritage Lottery Grant for an archaeological excavation at the Castle. b) Letter from the Head of Strategic Planning and the cabinet member for Growth, Infrastructure and Highways called ‘Shaping the Future of Cambridgeshire over the next 20 Years.’ c) Weather the Storm - guidance through the economic downturn about health, money, housing, work, and business.
22. Correspondence from Fenland District Council (FDC) Members noted the following correspondence displayed on the notice board: a) New free advice and grant support for local businesses letter and application form to attend seminars at the Boathouse. b) Email from the Parks, open spaces & cemeteries team – wanting comments, compliments or complaints website www.fenland.gov.ouk/ccm/navigation/counicl/3c-s-procedure/ c) Letter detailing thicknesses of bin bags and location of litter bins in Wisbech as requested by members. d) Streetsafe and CCTV statistics. e) Minutes of the Fenland Links meeting of 19 March 2009. f) Letter from Bob Ollier – FDC has been unsuccessful in its bid for Heritage Lottery money for the park. g) Letter from Cllr Fred Yeulett to Cllr Farmer with Consultation Feedback from the Neighbourhood Forum.
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Matters arising from FDC Correspondence: Under item (d) Cllr Wright gave the following feedback to members from a meeting he had attended: The Police authorities are to put £135,000 towards the cost of running CCTV, which will provide three cameras. The locations for the cameras have yet to be decided and this should be done via the Neighbourhood Forums.
Under item (f) Gary Garford will consult with Bob Ollier to see what improvements can still be made to the Park now that the Heritage Lottery bid has failed. GG would arrange for a written report. Cllr Mrs Macrae informed members that she had bid for some funding from Roddens on behalf of ‘Friends of the Park’ and that a new shelter for children was now in situ. Cllr Wheeler reported the success of the dawn Chorus day
23. General Correspondence Members noted the following correspondence displayed on notice board: a) The Clerk Magazine b) Arts Industry Magazine c) Angles theatre programme d) Inside Housing e) Public consultation booklets for ‘The future of health services for south Fenland residents. f) The Local Government Association magazine. g) Cope Magazine h) Clerks & Councils Direct Magazine i) NABMA newsletter j) In Touch magazine from Cambridgeshire Health services. k) Letter and information from Equality and Human Rights Commission detailing public sector duties. l) Newsletter from the Fenland Road Safety Campaign. m) Summer Seminars leaflet from the Institute of Local Council Management.
The meeting closed at 8.38 pm
Signed…………………………
Dated……………………….
2009/2010 – 8
WISBECH TOWN FULL COUNICL Minutes of the Meeting of the Meeting of the Full Council of Wisbech Town Council held on Monday 29 June 2009 at 7.30 pm.
PRESENT: The Town Mayor, Councillor Mrs YP Lawrence; Deputy Mayor Cllr L Sims; and Cllrs Mrs C Cox; JR Farmer; NW Frusher; LRV Fulcher; AR Green; Mrs JR Jolley; Mrs VM Macrae; NA Meekins; PB O’Dell; DC Oliver; MA Parker; HB Wegg; and T Wright.
In attendance: The Town Clerk, Erbie Murat; D Horn (FDC); and G Taylor (FDC).
There being no members of the public attending, the meeting commenced at 7.30 pm.
24. Apologies and Absences Apologies: Cllr Hill – Holiday
On a proposal from Cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr O’Dell the above absence was approved.
Absences: Cllr King was again absent without apology. Cllr Green expressed his deep concerns.
25. Declarations of interest Cllr Meekins declared an interest in item 38 as a tenant of Dowgate allotments.
26. Minutes On a proposal from Cllr O’Dell and seconded by Cllr Green the minutes of the meetings of Full Council held on 8 May and 11 May 2009 were APPROVED.
27. Mike Davey – Cambridgeshire County Council, based at Fenland Hall An apology having been received from Mr Davey, a briefing paper was tabled and received by members detailing the role of the new Director.
28. Dan Horn – Fenland District Council Mr Horn up-dated members on the new management boards, which raised several questions. Members asked for a detailed written response to the questions raised.
1. Cllr Green was a fine choice as an FDC rep on the Board, but the methodology was suspect. Members required a full detail of the methodology used to select Cllr Green, and why no FDC councilors from Wisbech were involved. (Cllr Green was subsequently confirmed as the Wisbech Councilor FDC representative on the Board, and Cllr Farmer selected as the WTC rep, to join David Wheeler as the Waterlees rep). 2. Members were concerned that Wisbech is the only Board where the Chairman is not from the town – requesting a detailed reason. Again, there is no disrespect intended for Cllr Cotterell at all - but members specifically asked to know why is Wisbech being singled out? 2. Confirmation that all councilors may in fact attend the new Neighbourhood Panel meetings Neighbourhood panel meetings. 3. Confirmation that you would like a Wisbech Youth Council member representative on the Board for Wisbech.
Cont ……………….
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4. Members believed that there would be two Boards for Wisbech - One of these was to be Waterlees/Staithe, and the other for the rest of Wisbech. Members want to have formal confirmation how the decision was made that it should be one Board and why it was that no FDC councilors from Wisbech were part of that decision making process. Also they requested detailed information on what the Task Force will do and when it will be operating - what it's make-up will be - and what role WTC will be playing in setting it up and in setting its strategic and operational parameters. 5. Members raised concerns that FDC ensure that the Fenland Youth Council representative on the Wisbech Board is a Wisbech one. 6. Members raised concerns that there is no member of Wisbech Town Council on FDC's cabinet, and asked for an explanation. There are 8 FDC members returned from Wisbech, and members believe that two members of cabinet should be from Wisbech. They have raised this concern on many occasions and have yet to receive an explanation.
29. Layna Warren – Fenland District Council Gavin Taylor took Layna’s place by arrangement with the Clerk as he is the new street scene officer for Wisbech.
He has been in post six weeks. He briefed members on what the Street Scene initiative ‘s objectives were – refer to minutes of meeting for 11 May 2009.
Mr Taylor also advised members that Ghost passage was to be closed for 3 months on a3 month temporary closure order to allow for environmental works, based on a police report.
Members expressed concerns that closure orders created more problems than they solved, as demonstrated in another part of the town, and asked for a full report from the police.
Also members expressed concerns that another decision had been taken affecting Wisbech without Wisbech Councillors being consulted, and asked for a full report from FDC.
30. Mayor’s diary and announcements The Mayor announced that she has been really busy and highlighted her visit to Ely for an evening of Harp music and wine. The Mayor’s engagements list is kept by the Deputy Clerk.
31. Planning Committee On a proposal from Cllr Mrs Cox and seconded by Cllr Oliver the minutes of the Planning Committee meeting of 22 June (tabled) were AGREED by planning committee members. On a proposal from Cllr Wright and seconded by Cllr Meekins the Town Council ACCEPTED the planning committee minutes for 26 May, 8 June and 22 June 20009.
32. Allotments Committee On a proposal from Cllr Frusher and seconded by Cllr Mrs Lawrence the minutes of the Allotments Committee held on 8 June 2009 were AGREED by members of the Allotments Committee. On a proposal from Cllr Frusher and seconded by Cllr Parker the minutes of the allotments committee of 8 June 2009 were APPROVED by Town Council.
Under Allotments item 6 c) – On a proposal from Cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr Sims, the Town Council AGREED to establish a sub-committee of Wisbech Town Council with delegated authority to implement decisions on behalf of Wisbech Town Council in relation to allotments land acquisition (re-acquisition). The membership of the sub-committee is to be made up of Town Councillors who are not FDC Councillors to avoid conflict of interest. Cont ………….
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On proposal from Cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr Sims it was AGREED that the membership of the above sub-committee will be: Cllr Mrs Lawrence (Mayor); Cllr Meekins (Deputy Leader and Vice-chairman of F&GP), Cllr Hill (Vice-chairman of Allotments, the Town Clerk, Erbie Murat, with authority to call meetings of the sub-committee as required – and to include the Council’s solicitor(s) where necessary.
33. Finance & General Purposes On a proposal from Cllr Green and seconded by Cllr Oliver members AGREED the minutes and recommendations of F&GP for the meeting held on Monday 26 May 2009.
34. Civic Amenities On a proposal from Cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr Wheeler the minutes of the Civic Amenities Working Party held on 26 May 2009 were AGREED by members of the Civic Amenities working party. On a proposal from Cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr Farmer the minutes of Civic Amenities were then APPROVED by Town Council.
Members noted that the flag pole has been repaired. Members were asked by the Leader of the Council, Cllr Oliver, to notify the Clerk of any occasions that they thought fit to fly a flag – before the event.
35. Wisbech Youth Council Members noted the minutes of the Youth Council meeting held on 20 March, and the notes of the working parties held on 25 April and 23 May 2009. They also noted the Agenda for the meeting (held earlier) for 29 June 2009, and the Wisbech Music Festival poster.
Members noted that there were a core of members of the Youth Council who have attended all or most of the meetings, working parties and events that have been organised, and in that respect the Youth Council is highly successful.
36. Clerk’s up-date a) The order has been placed to have the second flagpole repaired it will cost £641.00 plus VAT. (This was repaired on 20 June) . b) The annual return has been sent to Moore Stephens. c) The kitchen is finished. d) Armed forces week is organised. A new flag has been purchased. The flag will be flying all week – formally raised on Monday 22 June at 10.30, followed by the Mayor presenting Veterans badges. There will also be a service on Sunday 29 June. Members will process at 3.15 pm. The venerable David Fleming (the Mayor-s chaplain has kindly agreed to hold a service and has prepared a service which we will circulate to all concerned. e) A flurry of adverts at the last minute means the new Town Guide is back on track for 48 pages (32 last year), and 15,000 copies (2,500 last year). Unfortunately, it will not be ready for Rosefair. f) The Youth Council has booked a stall at Rosefair (2/3/4 July), Centre4 (4 July), and will try to put on a static display about the youth council at Orchards School (11 July). g) The Youth Council has booked a float for Rose Fair – we have a 40 ft trailer; driver and insurance; and displays being built by Wisbech 14-19 Centre. We will have Alison’s street dance club with our float. h) The Civic Service and the Mayor’s at Home are being organised in consultation with the Church office. i) The Wisbech Town Festival at the Thomas Clarkson Community College is on track. We Cont ......
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have 5 acts for 1st August and 4 acts for 2nd August with many more in the pipeline. We have booked the sports hall car park and tennis courts at Thomas Clarkson Community College for 4 days; we have been promised a sound system and sound engineer; staging; bouncy castle; trampolines; food and soft drinks; and an arts exhibition. j) I have a meeting with Tony Leach on 24 June to discuss the illuminated scrolls for the Freedom of the Town to Jody Cundy. Once that is organised we will be able to agree dates for a formal presentation. k) In addition to previous letters received thank you letters have been received from the following grant recipients since the last town council meeting: West Anglia Crossroads; Home Start; Fenvision; Wisbech & District Talking Newspaper; Riding for the Disabled; Angles Theatre; Citizens Advice Bureau; Wisbech & Fenland Museum; St Augustine’s Day centre; WAODS; and the Volunteer Centre. l) We have expressed an interest in participating in a County-wide bid for funding of a new post for six months – for an administrative apprentice. m) We have acquired all the terriers that FDC have submitted to Land Registry concerning allotment land.
37. Appointments to outside bodies The Leader of the Council, Cllr Oliver, is to let the Clerk have any changes to outside body representation.
38. Dowgate Allotment site On a proposal from Cllr Green and seconded by Cllr Sims members APPROVED expenditure from reserves of £1500 being the best value of three quotations obtained by the Deputy Clerk to cut back overgrown boundary at Dowgate Allotment site. Cllr Meekins abstained.
39. Public Right of Way? – St Peter’s Church Hall wall. On a proposal from Cllr Green and seconded by Cllr Mrs Cox members AGREED not to pursue an application for this to be considered a right of way.
Members noted that there was another pedestrian way through.
On a proposal from Cllr Wright and seconded by Cllr Farmer members AGREED that the Church is notified of Council’s decision and asked to give assurances that the Church will continue to allow a through route for pedestrians. Cllr Wegg abstained.
On a proposal from Cllr Wright an seconded by Cllr Green it was AGREED to the appropriate authorities what they were doing about the drug issues that have been identified.
40. Jointly funded minor highways 2010/2011 bidding round. It was noted that Cllr King had been providing the Town Council with transport information in his capacity as County Councillor, but he has not done so for over six months, due to his protracted absence from Town Council business.
Councillor Sims volunteered to liaise with the County Council in his capacity as a County Councillor and report back to Town Council any matters pertinent to Wisbech. On a proposal from Cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr Mrs Cox members AGREED to receive reports from Cllr Sims on matters concerning Highways/transport. On a proposal from Cllr Sims and seconded by Cllr O’Dell it was AGREED not to put in a bid for jointly funded minor works for the financial year 2010/2011. Cont ......
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On a proposal from Cllr Sims and seconded by Cllr O’Dell it was AGREED to put Bowthorpe Road on hold indefinitely, and to come up with an alternative road calming proposal for Clarkson Avenue as a matter of urgency, with accurate costings showing the Town Council’s share for the Council to consider.
Members received a petition signed by 66 residents of Clarkson Avenue asking for the ‘Speed Thumps’ to be removed.
On a proposal from Cllr Green and seconded by Cllr Farmer it was AGREED that after Clarkson Avenue, the Town Council is not in a position to consider paying 25% of the cost of any jointly funded works. This used to be 10% and this would be a much more realistic figure, but only after the Town Council has approved the costings.
Members considered a verbal report that there are to be a series of traffic lights along Cromwell Road – at the Town Bridge, Weasenham Lane, Tescos, and beside the new development that are to be synchronised – the Clerk was asked to write to the County Council to obtain more information about these proposals.
41. Sponsored Stay Awake in the Council Chamber Cllr Oliver and Cllr Farmer, and Cllr Meekins declared their interest as being related to participants. On a proposal from Cllr O’Dell and seconded by Cllr Wegg members APPROVED the Girls Venture Corps using the Council Chamber for a fundraising event overnight on a date to be confirmed at no charge.
42. Re-development of Thomas Clarkson Community College Some members had viewed the plans for the new development earlier in the evening, and reported how impressed they were with the proposals.
43. Membership of Neighbourhood Management Board On a proposal from Cllr Meekins and seconded by Cllr Fulcher, it was AGREED that Cllr Farmer represent the Town Council on the Wisbech Management Board.
44. Councillor Professional Development Training Courses On a proposal from Cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr Farmer it was AGREED that Cllr Mrs Macrae undertake the training and that she assess its usefulness.
45. Entrance to Church Terrace Car Park – access by buses. It was noted that assurances have been given by the County Council to the District Council that the problem of access will be sorted out by Rose Fair.
46. Refurbishment of Clarkson Memorial Members noted that work has started on the £40,000 refurbishment of the Clarkson memorial requiring extensive scaffolding. This should be complete by the end of August – footpath access has been maintained. The work is being done by Bennie Historic Conservation of Northampton using lottery money awarded to FDC. It will include the replacement of stonework and the stabilisation of the canopy stonework to the memorial.
47. Correspondence from Cambs County Council (CCC) (displayed on the notice board) – Members noted the correspondence a) Information about the ‘Big Lunch’ – Sunday 19 July b) Copy of the Parish Path Agreement and presentation on Lost Highways. Cont ......
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48. Correspondence from Fenland District Council (FDC) (displayed on notice board) a) Election results b) Fenland’s Great Nature Challenge leaflets. c) Streetsafe statistics for April
49. General Correspondence (displayed on notice board) a) Clerk & Councils Direct magazine b) Local Government Association publications c) The Playing Field newsletter – from Cambridgeshire ACRE d) FCVS – Newsletter – Fenland Council for Voluntary Service e) The Clerk magazine f) Society of Local Council Clerks conference details g) Bulletin from the War memorials Trust h) Safety and Health Practitioner magazine i) Drug and Alcohol contacts leaflet. j) Inside Housing magazine k) Fenland Arts report on market entertainments l) East of England advice and guidance during the economic downturn] m)Business Link briefings information.
The meeting closed at 9.45 pm
Signed…………………………
Dated……………………….
2009/2010 – 14
WISBECH TOWN FULL COUNICL Minutes of the Meeting of the Meeting of the Full Council of Wisbech Town Council held on Monday 27 July 2009 at 7.30 pm.
PRESENT: The Town Mayor, Councillor Mrs YP Lawrence; Deputy Mayor Cllr L Sims; and Cllrs Mrs C Cox; JR Farmer; NW Frusher; AR Green; M Hill; Mrs JR Jolley; Mrs VM Macrae; PB O’Dell; DC Oliver; MA Parker; HB Wegg; D A Wheeler; and T Wright.
In attendance: The Town Clerk, Erbie Murat; D Horn (FDC); and G Taylor (FDC).
There being no members of the public attending, the meeting commenced at 7.30 pm.
50. Apologies and Absences Apologies: Cllr Meekins – Holiday Cllr Fulcher – Ill Health
On a proposal from Cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr Parker the above absences were approved.
51. Declarations of interest There were no declarations of interest
52. Minutes On a proposal from Cllr Green and seconded by Cllr Hill the minutes of the meeting of Town Council held on 29 June 2009 were APPROVED.
53. Flood defences up-date. Frank Leonforte and a colleague from Interserve Services, (contractors working on behalf of the Environment Agency), up-dated members and took questions.
They are considering 6 day working (inc. Saturdays) instead of the normal five day working to reduce the period of closure.
The programme of works is as follows:
Wisbech Flood Defence Scheme – Town Works South Brink
Approx 470 lin m of existing floodwall needs to be demolished and rebuilt between southside of the Kier entrance to the traffic lights at town Bridge (opposite Alexandra Rd). Rebuilding requires driving new piles between existing concrete piles, facing sheetpiles with reinforced concrete and brick cladding whilst maintaining flood defence.
Diversion route from Cromwell rd roundabout on the A47 to Weasenham Lane to Churchill Rd and then down to Freedom Rd Roundabout. Traffic would then enter town via Nene Quay and High Street.
Cont ......
2009/2010 - 15
Construction Programme including piling work, reinforced concrete and brickwork (5 day working) - Note: 6 day working is being considered.
1st Length 171 lin m ( southside of Kiers entrance to opposite Coal Wharf Rd) constructed using traffic lights 01 Oct to 16 Dec 2nd Length 161 lin m, Coal Wharf rd to opposite No 13 South Brink) 22 Oct – 15 Feb 10 – Road Closure . 3rd Length 106 lin m 05 Nov – 11 March 10 No 13 South Brink to Northside of Somers Road Junction . 4th Length 50 Lin m Sommers Road to Town Bridge. Coping brick to replace working concurrently with length 3 Piling Works due to start 01 Oct and be completed by 16 Dec 09, working Mon – Fri Civil Construction starts 14 Oct and completed by 11 March 2009 working, Mon-Fri If they work Sat, (Interserve will need Environment Agency approval) then it is possible to complete the piling work early Dec 09.
General Note Environment Agency have sent out a questionnaire to residents and businesses on 22nd June 2009 – South Brink only: 250 residents – 42 responses Most Malt drive / Riverside way 70 to Businesses – 6 responses · PE Logistics – Oldfield Lane · Maxey & Sons 1-3 south Brink · Bowser Ollard & Bently – 15 South Brink · Robert Goddard Ltd – 4 south Brink · Travis Perkins · DT Rentals – 4 South Brink Further Information · Site Meeting took place on 15 July, attended by the Town Clerk - (Chamber of commerce not represented?) Public drop-in took place on 20 July 2010 and a updated newsletter for July prepared which will be circulated to south brink residents this week. Scheme information located in Fenland at Your Service shop in Town, Tourist Information Board Notice board in town square.
North Brink (Note - not fully discussed at Town Council Meeting)
Approx 336 lin m of existing floodwall needs to be demolished and rebuilt between town bridge to Junction of Chapel Rd. Approx 200lin m of floodwall from Chapel Rd towards Barton Rd needs to be raised and repaired. Rebuilding requires driving new piles between existing concrete piles, facing sheetpiles with reinforced concrete and brick cladding whilst maintaining flood defence North Brink will be closed and diversion route will be via Chapel Rd. During Demolition / Piling Work it will be necessary to have traffic lights on the junction of North Brink and Chapel Rd
Cont ......
2009/2010 - 16
Programme
Erect Hoarding 15 March 2010- 01 April 2010 Establish road protection and find services 23 March 2010 – 12 April 2010 Temporary and permanent piling work involving demolition plant and 45t piling machine commences on 15 April – 21 May 2010. Civils Work involving reinforced concrete and brickwork starts on 30 March 2010 and scheduled to finish on 07 Sept 2010
Rebuilding 200 lin m of floodwall from Chapel Rd towards Barton Rd will be completed by 07 September 2010 commencing from 21 May 2010. The majority of this work will take place during summer recess fro Wisbech Grammar School to minimise traffic congestion and disruption.
54. Proposed Closure of Ghost Passage On a proposal from Cllr Farmer and seconded by Cllr Green members asked that the following concerns be conveyed to the new Inspector for Wisbech: a) Wisbech Town Council has not been consulted about the proposed closure. b) Members who know the area disagree with the overall police assessment presented as grounds for closure. c) The Sector Inspector and/or another senior officer regularly attended Town Council meetings. This has not happened for almost a year. Could this be re-instated.
55. Mayor’s diary and announcements The Mayor announced that she has been really busy and highlighted her visit to RAF Wyton, and her Hatstand Opera evening. The Mayor also reminded members about her coffee morning to be held at her home at 11 am on Saturday 8 August, and the Festival on 1st and 2nd August at Thomas Clarkson Community College.
56. Planning Committee On a proposal from Cllr Wright and seconded by Cllr O’Dell the Town Council ACCEPTED the Planning Committee minutes for 6 July and 20 July 2009.
57. Sub-committee of Town Council with delegated authority. On a proposal from the Mayor, and seconded by the Deputy Mayor members AGREED to defer this item to the end of the agenda.
58. Clerk’s up-date a) All electrical appliances have been safety tested. No problems. b) A representative from AVIVA has inspected the premises – upstairs and downstairs and will let us have a report relevant to our insurance. c) We have met with Tony Leach and discussed the illuminated scroll for Jody Cundy’s freedom, and are awaiting quotes d) The performers for both days of the festival have been finalised, and all arrangements made, subject to a site meeting on Saturday 1st August at Thomas Clarkson Community College, and the final round of publicity. e)Cambridgeshire Highways have been advised of members decisions relating to Clarkson, Bowthorpe, and Jointly funded generally, and asked for an up-date on traffic lights along Cromwell Rd. Cont ………….
2009/2010 - 17 f) A vacancy has arisen due to Simon King having ceased to be a Town Councillor.
On a proposal from Cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr Green it was AGREED to refer item c) to the next F&GP meeting on 19 October.
Members noted the rest of the Clerk’s report.
59. North Level District Internal Drainage Board The Clerk is to let the Board know that the following Councillors would like to attend the presentation at the Thorney offices and the following visit: Cllr Farmer, Cllr Parker, and if possible Cllr Mrs Jolley and Cllr Frusher as well.
60. Correspondence from Cambs County Council (CCC) – Members noted the following correspondence displayed on the notice board. a) Church Terrace and West Street road to be closed for re-surfacing from 17 to 20 August 2009. b) Highway maintenance leaflet including budgetary information. c) Position statement – Children’s Centre Development in Cambridgeshire. d) Written statement from the Leader of CCC, Cllr Jill Tuck at the handover of Fenland Links responsibilities to Cllr Freed Yeullett at the Oasis in Wisbech – celebration of the achievements of Fenland Links.
61. Correspondence from Fenland District Council (FDC) – Members noted the4 following correspondence displayed on the notice board. a) Parking Review 200/2009 b) Leaflet detailing the services of Fenland Association for Community Transport (FACT)
62. General Correspondence – Members noted the following correspondence displayed on the notice board. a) Clerk & Councils Direct magazine b) Local Government Association publications c) FCVS – Newsletter – Fenland Council for Voluntary Service d) The Clerk magazine e) Inside Housing magazines f) Copy of News report ‘ Will rail return to the capital of the fens? g) Annual report of Cambridgeshire Archaeology h) Fenland Arts Bulletin i) Economic downturn guidance for Trusts j) NALC Report of the Chief Executive k) COPE newsletter l) Closure Order for ghost passage Alley way background information.
57. Sub-committee item deferred from earlier. On a proposal from the Mayor and seconded by Cllr Hill it was AGREED to exclude the press and public (including Fenland District Councillors) in accordance with section 1(2) of the Public Bodies (Admission to Meetings) Act 1960, as publicity would be prejudicial to the public interest by reason of the confidential nature of the business to be transacted to consider the draft letter proposed by the Town Council’s solicitor in relation to the transfer of allotment land.
Cont ......
2009/2010 – 18
All members of Fenland District Council left the Chamber.
On a proposal from Cllr Mrs Macrae and seconded by Cllr O’Dell members AGREED to follow the recommendations of the sub-committee. The Clerk was asked to instruct Brian Bowser to issue the letter in full.
The meeting closed at 8.30 pm
Signed…………………………
Dated……………………….
2009/2010 – 19
WISBECH TOWN FULL COUNCIL Minutes of the Meeting of the Meeting of the Full Council of Wisbech Town Council held on Monday 21 September 2009 at 6.30 pm.
PRESENT: The Town Mayor, Councillor Mrs YP Lawrence; Deputy Mayor Cllr L Sims; and Cllrs Mrs C Cox; JR Farmer; NW Frusher; AR Green; Mrs JR Jolley; Mrs VM Macrae; N Meekins; PB O’Dell; DC Oliver; MA Parker; HB Wegg; D A Wheeler; and T Wright.
In attendance: Erbie Murat, Wisbech Town Clerk, and Clerk to the meeting; Susanah Farmer, (Deputy Clerk); Steve Tierney; Samantha Hoy.
Members NOTED that Miss Samantha Hoy is a candidate for the casual vacancy for Hill Ward created by the removal of Simon King for non-attendance, and that Steve Tierney had been ‘instructed‘ not to leave the Chamber.
There being no other members of the public wishing to speak, the meeting commenced at 6.35 pm.
63. Apologies and Absences Apology: Cllr Hill – Work commitments
On a proposal from Cllr Green and seconded by Cllr Meekins the above absence was approved.
Absence without apology: Cllr Fulcher
64. Declarations of interest There were no declarations of interest
65. Minutes On a proposal from Cllr Mrs Macrae and seconded by Cllr Parker the minutes of the meeting of Town Council held on 27 July 2009 were APPROVED.
66. Allotments On a proposal from Cllr Mrs Macrae and seconded by Cllr Mrs Jolley, members of the Allotments Committee APPROVED the minutes of the Allotments Committee held on 3 and 17 August 2009. On a proposal from Cllr Mrs Macrae and seconded by Cllr Frusher the minutes and recommendations of said committee were APPROVED by Council.
67. Planning On a proposal from Cllr Wright and seconded by Cllr Sims, the minutes of the Planning Committee held on 3 and 17 August 2009 were NOTED by Council.
68. Monthly written update from Fenland District Council Members noted that FDC were asked to produce monthly reports to accede to members wishes to keep presentations from officers to Council down to a minimum.
The up-date (as circulated) was NOTED. Members also NOTED that any questions arising from up-dates could be identified in future at monthly Caucus meetings (a week prior to Cont ……………….
2009/2010 - 20
Council), and the Leader (and Clerk) would be able to obtain answers prior to Council meetings. The following questions arose, to which the Clerk will obtain answers: a) What savings having there been on CCTV since taking the service in-house? b) What are the plans for having a CCTV camera on the Lynn Road? c) When will Ghost Passage be re-opened? This is an access path for infirm users. d) How often do the police patrol the area of Ghost Passage? e) Will regular patrols be made? f) What are the contact details of the new Streetscene Officer?
On proposal from Cllr Farmer and seconded by Cllr Parker it was AGREED that the Clerk should write to FDC asking what enforcement FDC are taking for contravention of planning regulations with the height of the gate?
On a proposal from Cllr Farmer and seconded by cllr Green it was AGREED that the gates are strikingly hideous.
On a proposal from Cllr Green an seconded by Cllr Oliver it was AGREED that the Clerk should write asking who is going to enforce the parking restrictions being introduced on the Lynn Road at the North End of Wisbech Park.
69. Mayor’s diary and announcements The Mayor announced that she has been really busy and highlighted that her Deputy, Cllr Sims ahs also been kept very busy. She announced that Metcalf and Petifer are donating the money that they have raised for ‘Heroes’ to the Mayor’s charity so that she may add it to the amounts she ahs raised for ‘Heroes’
Members may obtain further details of the Mayor’s engagements from the deputy Clerk.
70. The Clerk’s up-date i) The Clerk is working with FDC, the Angles theatre, and Atelier East to help the Angles Theatre put in an application for grant support to organise a cultural film festival. ii) The Clerk has acquiesced to a banner being displayed in the town to publicise the performances of High School Musical 2 by Wisbech Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society (WAODS). iii) CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SWITCH-ON WILL BE FRIDAY 4TH DECEMBER AT 6 PM. iv) The pay award has been agreed, and applicable from 1 April 2009, which will mean a variation to salaries and allowances. Spinal column points 4-10 inclusive have been increased by 1.25 %, and sc point 11 and beyond by 1 %. All allowances have been increased by 1 %. The Clerk is to notify Whiting and Partners of the variations. v) The Clerk attended the Wisbech Christmas market meeting and advise the group that WTC’s contribution is the Christmas a lights. As a consequence he was asked to speak with Bob Ollier who is obtaining quotes fro putting scaffolding sleeves into the memorial gardens to facilitate Christmas lights. The Castle will be allowing us to use their electricity supply (we hope). Cllr O’Dell will be speaking with the schools as usual to encourage groups of children. vi) The minutes of the Tourism Group held on Monday 29 July were misleading in proposing that they produce a Wisbech Town Guide. The fact that this is the Town Council’s responsibility, and that a new one has just been produced has now been clarified with them and the Clerk has offered to sit on that group if they wish. Cont ...... 2009/2010 - 21
vi) THE DEPUTY CLERK, HAS GRADUATED FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF BIRMINGHAM WITH A MASTER OF SCIENCE (MERIT) IN LOCAL GOVERNANCE. Her dissertation was on allotments.
Members gave Susanah their congratulations. vii) Moore Stephens have approved the Annual Audit – without comment. viii) We now have 15,000 copies of the new Wisbech Town Guide – it has been very well received. ix) In a meeting with consultant Chris Nelson, the Clerk has, expressed the council’s interest in principal managing the new play area being proposed for Wisbech. The Clerk has asked for a full business case and financial analysis for members to consider at the appropriate time. x) Further to a request from FDC the Clerk has said that in principle the Town Council would be pleased to work in partnership with FDC, the Wisbech Youth Council and other community organisations to plant and maintain a community garden on allotment land to be identified, and the Deputy Clerk will attend the next meeting of the group to establish feasibility. xi) The Council has been accepted for the next stage in Future Jobs funding for a part-time 6 month post for an administrative assistant (young person). xii) The Clerk has asked FDC for a full analysis of the benefits to WRC of CCTV so that members may make an informed decision about whether to continue sponsoring the service and at what level. A report will be presented to the next Finance and General Purposes Committee meeting. xiii) Wisbech Jammin was successful and showcased at the festival. xiv) The Wisbech Music Festival was successful, see item 73 on the agenda. xv) Members were invited to attend the Allotments Presentation Evening - Please let Susanah know September if you are able to attend. xvi) CPALC AGM is on 21 November – Any motions must be submitted by 15 October – papers will be circulated by 20 October. xvii) Members are invited to the AGM of CAB to be at March Town Hall 22 September at 7.30 pm – they are asking for two new trustees too, and anyone who wants to be a trustee is asked just to turn up. xix) Members are invited to attend the Fenland Road Safety Group meeting on 30 September at St Marks Church Hall, Main Road, Parson Drove.
71. Casual Vacancy Members of the public were asked to leave the Chamber while this matter was discussed. On a proposal from Cllr Farmer and seconded by Cllr Wegg it was decided on a majority, with five abstentions that this item (71) be deferred to the end of the meeting to allow a decision to be made this evening.
72. Heritage Open Days The Clerk and the Deputy Clerk opened the Council Chamber to the public for three days, and received 175 visitors. They were ably supported by Cllrs: O’Dell, Mrs Jolly, Hill, Mrs Macrae, and Meekins. Cllr Oliver and volunteers were able to open the Institute all three days, and had nearly 500 visitors for the Lillian Ream collection. We were able to distribute nearly 6,000 copies of the Town Guide in time for the Heritage weekend, and they were very well received by everyone who has commented. The significant issue that was identified
Cont ......
2009/2010 - 22 was that the leaflet about the Heritage weekend (produced by FDC) palled into insignificance when compared with the one produced for Peterborough, Colchester and Ipswich, Maldon District, and Kings Lynn – all of which were available in Wisbech Tourist Information – generally people felt that the ‘Open Days’ in Wisbech were not very well publicised or properly organised.
On a proposal from Cllr Farmer and seconded by Cllr Green it was AGREED that the Town Council takes responsibility for organisation and promotion of the Heritage weekend in Wisbech for next year, and consults with other stakeholders for the best way forward. It was NOTED that the Deputy was attending a Tourism Group meeting this evening, with the intention of becoming more involved.
73. Wisbech Music Festival Members NOTED that there were approx 500 visitors the Festival over two days and there was good press coverage. The Clerk and his family, the Deputy Clerk, Cllr Oliver and his family, and fourteen young people Stewarded the event. There was no trouble.
Thomas Clarkson Community College staff - those who were on rota to work with us - were extremely helpful and supportive. Two members of their staff who came on site during the event were a little disruptive but the situation was dealt with sympathetically by Cllr Oliver.
Saturday 1st August consisted of nine extremely good rock bands, including Wisbech bands The Brink, and The Journey. They all performed for expenses only.
On Sunday 2nd August there were eleven acts including the Chatteris brass band, Africans, Bollywood, Polish Dancing and Blues by Lexie Green and her band, again they performed for expenses only.
There was also a remarkably good Art Exhibition put on by Fenland Artists group Fenvac, and displays from the artist for the Library development, and Centre 4 Youth Centre, and the Showman’s Guild (Donald Gray) supported the event on both days. The Chairman of Fenvac, Rob Morris also took over 1,000 photos of the weekend, selected 370 and committed them to CD, which Cllr Oliver is copying so that each member of the Wisbech Youth Council who attended may have one as a keepsake.
The event was made possible by the generous sponsorship of the Sound system and sound engineer support from Tom Harlock, who had organised the Wisbech Jammin that Wisbech Town Council had sponsored during the summer. Also the Angles theatre loaned us staging and we had mats from Thomas Clarkson and the Hudson. It was a fantastic event and we would hope that it would get even better should the Council wish to do support the Music Festival again next year.
Wisbech Youth Council, who met earlier this evening are recommending to Civic Amenities Committee that the Town Council sponsor the two festivals again next year, but that they are held on different weekends, with the Rock Festival, perhaps in June and the Multicultural Festival in August. Members generally felt this was a good idea, and will await the recommendation from Civic Amenities Committee.
Members NOTED that the new Community Development Officer from FDC had pledged support for next year, and he was taking forward the request to have free use of the park.
Cont ......
2009/2010 - 23
Members also NOTED that the President and the Chairman of their Youth Committee for Rotary had pledged support for the Youth Council.
74. Power of Well-Being Members NOTED that, in having a qualified Clerk, the Council is eligible to begin the process to be able to Use the Power to Promote Well-Being. The Council also satisfies the second criteria, which requires that at least two thirds of vacancies on the council are filled at the last ordinary elections.
The Power of Well-Being is intended to be all-embracing Power allowing Council’s who have Use of it to support economic, social and environmental initiatives. This will enable the Council to work much more closely towards achieving the objectives set out in the Town Plan that has been approved. The Council will need to satisfy two further criteria in order to become eligible and then there will be an eligibility period after which the Council will be assessed before being allowed to continue using the Power.
The two further criteria to satisfy are: i) Eighty percent of councillors are to be trained in the use of the well-being power ii) The council will need to prepare and publish a statement of intent as to community engagement.
On a proposal from Cllr Meekins and seconded by Cllr Green, members AGREED to authorise the Clerk to establish the feasibility of organising the required training and in preparing a draft statement of intent as to community engagement.
75. Correspondence from Cambs County Council (CCC) – Members noted the following correspondence displayed on the notice board. a) Letter from Peter Vale - (attached) – reference Clarkson Avenue b) Cambridgeshire Transport Commission Executive Summary of Report. c) Community Engagement Strategy – public consultation details for period 1 September to 24 November 2009 (attached). If members have comments please let the Clerk know. d) Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Minerals and Waste Plan – Submission.
76. Correspondence from Fenland District Council (FDC) – Members noted the4 following correspondence displayed on the notice board. a) CCTV up-date b) CCTV report for 1 July to 31 August c) Streetsafe statistics d) Community Fairs – Wisbech one is on8 October 5 pm – 8pm at Thomas Clarkson e) Changes to Fenland Community Grant Scheme f) CCTV liaison group meeting minutes for 23 July 2009.
77. General Correspondence – Members noted the following correspondence displayed on the notice board. a) The Clerk magazine b) Inside Housing magazines c) COPE newsletter d) Sustainable communities Cont ......
2009/2010 - 24 e) IDEA ‘Working Together’ f) Opportunities magazine g) Safety & Health Practitioner newsletter h) Art & Soul magazine i) Newsletter – Institute of Occupational Safety and Health j) Environment Agency meeting minutes – Wisbech k) FCVS newsletter l) NABMA annual report m) Fens Rural Development plans n) War memorials o) Luminus newsletter
Item 71. Re-visited - Casual Vacancy On advice from the Clerk, members of the public left the Chamber. The Clerk advised that it would be inappropriate to vote on the co-option to the casual vacancy this evening on the basis that ‘the democratic process had to be upheld, and proceeding would disadvantage any candidates that had not presented themselves to the Council this evening.’
Following a short adjournment the Council were advised that the second candidate had withdrawn. On advice from the Clerk members NOTED that it was acceptable to vote on co- option to the Council this evening because there was only one candidate. Members were reminded of the rules governing co-option, and that if one member were to vote against the candidate, she could not be elected.
The vote was conducted by secret ballot, collected by the Clerk. It was AGREED to co-opt Miss Samantha Hoy, and the Clerk made an appointment with her and the Leader for the following morning to begin her induction and to have the Declaration signed.
The meeting closed at 7.55 pm
Signed…………………………
Dated……………………….
2009/2010 – 25
WISBECH TOWN FULL COUNCIL Minutes of the Meeting of the Meeting of the Full Council of Wisbech Town Council held on Monday 19 October 2009 at 6.30 pm.
PRESENT: The Town Mayor, Councillor Mrs YP Lawrence; Deputy Mayor Cllr L Sims; and Cllrs Mrs C Cox; JR Farmer; NW Frusher; AR Green; M Hill; Miss S Hoy; Mrs JR Jolley; Mrs VM Macrae; N Meekins; PB O’Dell; DC Oliver; MA Parker; HB Wegg; D A Wheeler; and T Wright.
In attendance: Erbie Murat, Wisbech Town Clerk; Penny Stocks and company from Wisbech in Bloom; Andrew Martin on behalf of the taxi drivers of Wisbech; Virginia Buckner and the Accident Blackspot Team regarding the A1101 Sutton Road.
There being three groups wishing to speak the Mayor advised them that they each had five minutes to speak.
Wisbech in Bloom
The Wisbech in Bloom team were proud to display and to circulate the various trophies they had brought back from the various competitions.
Wisbech in Bloom is a campaign run by a group of volunteers aimed at improving permanent planting, floral displays and environmental cleanliness in Wisbech town centre and the surrounding industrial, retail and residential areas.
Wisbech in Bloom, which is a sub group of Wisbech and District Tourism Development Group, has been in existence for around twenty years. The group works in partnership with Fenland District Council, Wisbech Town Council, Wisbech Chamber of Commerce, local schools, residents and businesses to bring together its annual entry in the Anglia in Bloom competition.
Wisbech was the Winner of the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) Britain in Bloom Large Town Award 2009 - Large Town/Small City (12,001-35,000 population)
At this year's Anglia in Bloom, Wisbech was awarded the RHS Gold Standard and retained the Best Large Town (12001 - 35000 residents) award it had won in 2008. It also won the best overall entry and the Anglia in Bloom Trophy.
Members were very proud of the exceptional achievements of the team.
Wisbech Taxi Drivers
Andrew Martin brought to the attention of members the proposals being considered to vary the operation of the taxi services in Wisbech being considered by Fenland District Council Licensing Committee.
He is concerned that no public consultation has taken place and that the proposals will limit the usefulness of the taxi service to users by moving the taxi drop off point to the ‘Case’ car park. Cont ......
2009/2010 - 26
He is also concerned about the ‘harsh’ points scheme that is being planned and other variations to their conditions that he believes will disadvantage the taxi drivers.
Members asked that he makes an appointment to see the Clerk so that he may investigate and take the appropriate action.
A1101 Sutton Road
The Group asked members to be aware of the following regarding the A1101 Sutton Road:
There are regular accidents there and most accidents occur in a 250 metre section between Gypsy Lane and The Romanies. The Accident Black-Spot Team are campaigning to get the black-spot remedied. They want several measures: 40 mph speed limit, double white lines and fixed safety cameras. At this Black-Spot in the 5 years that they have monitored it there has been: • 22 accidents causing more than • 36 casualties including • 7 deaths and • 11 people very seriously injured. These are only the reported accidents. This 250 metres of road has cost the community in excess of £12 million (Department for Transport figures 2005).
They asked for help and support by voting for these measures at there web-site where members could obtain more information: www.ablackspot.co.uk They also circulated a booklet containing photographs, and Virginia Buckner will let the Clerk have a copy. The Accident Black-spot Team confirmed that they had not discussed the matter with Leverington Parish Council (their local council), and noted that this was not a matter that was within the jurisdiction of Wisbech Town Council. It was also noted that a significant part of the problem was a very large hedge that exacerbated the ‘blind’ curve, and that the farmer was being approached to cut back the hedge. They have also been dealing with the County Council and Cllr Wheeler reported that the Area Joint Committee has committed to taking £250,000 to smoothing the alignment on a 250 metre blind bend, but the group believe this is insufficient, ad that their proposed measures should be implemented in addition to the ‘smoothing’.
This was clearly an emotive subject presented by a group who had suffered the loss of loved ones, and many councillors also took the opportunity to speak (without precedence). Members were reminded that this was a public participation session set up to allow members of the public to bring matters to council’s attention. Public matters were not agenda items, and this was not a question and answer session. Members were reminded that they were able to refer the matter to a future council meeting as an agenda item for full debate, but that the group should really speak with their own Parish Council first. The allotted time was extended to 8 pm giving the group 20 minutes to speak (again without precedence).
After the Accident Black-spot Team left the chamber members expressed their concerns that protocol had been breached. The Mayor apologised to members, and members RE- AFFIRMED that the public participation session was for members of the public to speak to the council within an allotted timeframe. They RE-AFFIRMED that this extension of time was not to set a precedent.
Members NOTED that their decision to support the Accident Black-spot Team was not a Cont ......
2009/2010 - 27 proper decision of the council, and that no proposals could be put to council within the public participation session. If members of the public want an item to be considered for the agenda they must notify the Clerk within the advertised notice period, and members were strongly advised that matters must be within the jurisdiction of the Town Council. Also members asked that members of the public were asked to present a prepared written statement in future(where possible).
The Mayor welcomed the new member for Hill Ward, Cllr Miss Samantha Hoy, co-opted by the Town Council to fill the Casual Vacancy created by Simon King’s non-attendance.
78. Apologies and Absences There were no apologies.
Absence without apology: Cllr Fulcher
79. Declarations of interest There were no declarations of interest.
80. Minutes On a proposal from Cllr Meekins and seconded by Cllr Green the minutes of the meeting of Town Council held on 21 September 2009 were APPROVED.
81. Planning On a proposal from Cllr Wright and seconded by Cllr Sims, the minutes of the Planning Committee held on 14 and 28 September 2009 were NOTED by Council.
82. Civic Amenities On a proposal from Cllr Wheeler and seconded by Cllr Sims, members of the Civic Amenities and Mayors Charity Sub-committee APPROVED the minutes of the Sub- committee meeting of 29 September 2009. On a proposal from Cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr Wheeler the minutes and recommendations of said committee were APPROVED by Council, including the order of procession for Remembrance Sunday as follows:
The Mayor’s Procession Town Beadle Mayor of Wisbech & Mayoress/Consort The Town Clerk Deputy Mayor & Deputy Mayoress/Consort The Leader of Wisbech Town Council with escort Deputy Leader of Wisbech Town Council with escort Past Mayors and their escorts Councillors – in order of seniority with escorts Cambridgeshire County Councillors Fenland District Councillors Other guests Deputy Clerk / Steward
Should any other dignitaries (such as MP following Deputy Mayor) arrive then they will be placed in the Mayor’s procession by the Beadle in the correct order dictated by national protocol provided by the Official Manual of the Guild of Macebearers, section 2 – 12 Option 1. Cont ……………….
2009/2010 - 28 83. Wisbech Youth Council Members RECEIVED the minutes of the Wisbech Youth Council held on 21 September 2009. On a proposal from Cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr Green members AGREED to sponsor the two elements of the Wisbech Music Festival, but on separate weekends, and AGREED to support the proposals for the Wisbech Mini Olympics with funding as outlined in the budget proposals.
84. Written Monthly Report from Fenland District Council. Members NOTED the report from Fenland District Council.
85. Mayor’s diary and announcements The Mayor has been very busy. She is looking forward to a visit from ten officers from Alconbury American Air Force base to the Council chamber and the Museum on 20 October. Members are invited to join them. The Mayor has also been able to accept an invitation to attend Ely Cathedral on 19 November on the occasion of a visit from Her Majesty the Queen and His Royal Highness Prince Phillip Duke of Edinburgh.
Members may obtain further details of the Mayor’s engagements from the deputy Clerk.
86. The Clerk’s up-date a) The Leader, the Clerk and the Deputy Clerk attended training in Peterborough organised by The Society of Local Council Clerk’s dealing with The Annual Audit, The Code of Conduct, and Freedom of Information. It was exceptionally good and extremely good value for money– see item 88 on the agenda. b) Members may be aware that historically our insurance is linked to the corn exchange since the days when FDC owned both parts of the building. We pay the insurance and Norman Jacobs re-imburses the Council 80% of it. Aviva, the insurance company for the Town Council threatened to cancel the cover unless Norman Jacobs carried out some major works to the Corn Exchange. To safeguard our position we were obliged to commission an asbestos survey downstairs and for the guttering, valleys and downpipes to be cleared and to forward the invoices to Mr Jacob. I am pleased to report that all works are complete and contractors paid. c) The Clerk has stepped down as a Trustee to Wisbech Community Development Trust (The Oasis). d) The Clerk has ceased to be a member of, and vice-chairman to, Fenland Links, as the Board has been dissolved since it was taken over by FDC. e) The Clerk has been appointed as Treasurer to Fenland Arts. f) The Clerk has been appointed a Trustee to Fenland Citizens Advice Bureau. g) The Clerk continues to be a member of the Wisbech Community Management Board for the Library. h) The Clerk continues to be a member of The Cambridgeshire Migrant Workers Forum. i) The Deputy Clerk has become a member of Wisbech Tourism Group. The Deputy Clerk is also a member of Wisbech Girls Venture Corps and The Clarkson Singers. j) The Town Council won ‘The Best Office front’ in the Wisbech in Bloom Garden Competition sponsored by Wisbech Chamber of Trade. k) We have contacted the organisers of the ‘Bandstand Marathon’ (organised in partnership with FDC), which took place in March park, and let them know that we too have a Bandstand in Wisbech. We first heard about it when the Deputy Clerk saw a poster in March Library. l) We will be contacting the other participants in Heritage weekend with a view to becoming more involved with organisng it and publicising it. m) Cameron Barber – a student at Meadowgate School is joining us on Thursday mornings and working with the Beadle as work experience. Cont ......
2009/2010 - 29 n) There is a mainstream film called ‘Still Crazy’ produced in 1998, starring Billy Connolly, about an aging Rock Band. The film opens with the band at the Wisbech Rock Festival 1977. o) Wisbech Old Peoples Welfare Association (WOPWA) has written to say that they will pay for a band in the park on the first Sunday in July. The Town Council will make the necessary arrangements.
It was suggested that the Town Council seek more sponsors for Music in the park.
87. Appointment to Outside Bodies On a proposal from Cllr Meekins and seconded by Cllr Sims the membership of outside bodies was AGREED (as circulated) with the following amendments:
Cllr O’Dell has long since replaced Cllr Green on CPALC The Neighbourhood Forum is now the Wisbech Community Management Board The Nene Waterfront Forum has ceased to exist Cllr Green is to be the formal WTC representative on WOPWA with the Mayor ex-officio Cllr Oliver is on Wisbech Library Community Management Board
88. SLCC Training (The Society of Local Council Clerks) Members NOTED the following salient points. The full briefings and training notes were displayed on the notice board. The training was £5.00 per head for members (Clerk and Deputy), and £20.00 for non-members (The Leader). This included an excellent buffet lunch.
Annual Audit – Presented by Bill Springbett, Audit Manager of Moore Stephens UK (Public Sector Group). He covered legislation and guidelines. His key points were Risk Assessments, Reserve levels, and financial regulations (procedures). Our key concerns are that we fall short of recommended reserves. He advised between 6 months and 18 months operating costs as reserves. In other respects we are confident that we meet legislation and guidelines.
Changing Standards – Presented by James Baldwin & Alex Fox, Guidance and Information advisers for ‘Standards (Board) for England. They covered the changes that have occurred in maintaining standards amongst elected representatives. They highlighted that all Councillors are governed by codes of conduct, but Clerk’s are not and that this was being looked at. They described the new system of Standards Committees and highlighted that for serious breaches and for breaches committed by senior members they would expect the Standards (Board) for England to undertake the assessment, referred by local committees. They described that pre-determination of decisions (usually prompted by coercion or bullying) were the biggest single problem and they urged members to make complaints if this is happening. They take this very seriously.
Freedom of Information - Presented by Dawn Monaghan, Senior Manager Good Practice Team. Again – a very useful session. Two salient points highlighted here: FOI requires you to hand over anything that you have. If you have a policy of non-retention (which we have) of non-essential material (i.e. plans) you only disclose what you have (i.e. minutes of the meeting). This makes dealing with FOI’s easier and cheaper. If a request comes in to us and to another authority, (i.e. Fenland District Council) who are the principle authority we are perfectly within our rights to refer the request directly to them to deal with. Cont ......
2009/2010 - 30 89. Wisbech Town Guide Members NOTED that the Town Guide has been particularly well received by businesses, schools, heritage centres, community centres, and tourist information.
The map, in particular has received a lot of praise as it is of central Wisbech designed to show clearly the car parking and main attractions of the town. This has proved extremely popular with visitors (according to Peckover House staff and volunteers for example).
Members NOTED that 9,000 have been distributed through more than fifty outlets including libraries, estate agents, schools, heritage centres, community centres and shops in the town centre. Almost every one who was originally issued with a box has asked for more, as they are going ‘like hot cakes’.
Members NOTED that the last town guide was 32 pages, 60/40 on advertising and 2,500 free copies. This time it is 48 pages, 50/50 on the advertising and 15,000 free copies – and we have been able to bring it very much up-to-date with modern attractions and places to visit as well as the fabulous heritage that Wisbech has to offer – and of course we were able to focus on this Town Council. The publication date was also brought forward by six months, which has proved to be most useful since the council ran out of town guides over a year ago. They were formally produced once every two years.
Members NOTED that the intention is to bring the next publication date forward as well, if possible. It is customary practice to publish every two years – we will aim to have another one out in 18 months.
The Clerk was commended for the ‘best ever Town Guide’ by the Mayor and by Cllr Green. Cllr Green said it was a real achievement, and the Mayor said she had read it from cover to cover, and was really proud to be the Mayor of Wisbech.
The Clerk thanked Cllr Green, Cllr Farmer and Cllr Oliver for their help as the editorial working party, and the deputy Clerk for her contribution.
90. Ghost Passage Members were not able to shed any light on whether or not Ghost Passage is a public highway. Cllr Farmer reported that Ghost Passage would be open again on 10 November 2009. He asked that Civic Amenities and Mayor’s Charity Sub-committee to consider putting Christmas Lights along Ghost Passage.
91. The future of Primary Care Out-of-Hours services – Consultation Members NOTED the consultation.
92. Budget The Chairman of Finance & General Purposes presented the budget considered by F&GP earlier in the evening, with the recommendations of F&GP for Town Council to consider. On a proposal from Cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr Wright the budget for Wisbech Town Council for the municipal year 2010/2011 was accepted fully with one amendment as follows:
£500 is added to the special projects budget to increase the allocation for Rosefair to £1,500, achieved by an income projection adjustment. The clerk is to keep the overall precept requirement of £184,400.
Cont ......
2009/2010 - 31
On a proposal from Cllr Oliver, and seconded by Cllr Wright the above proposal was AGREED. Cllr Green and Cllr Oliver commended the Clerk on his capability and financial skills in achieving the Council’s objectives to increase reserves whilst keeping the percentage increase to the budget to within 3%.
93. Correspondence from Cambs County Council (CCC) – Members noted the following correspondence displayed on the notice board. a) Agenda for Fenland Traffic Management Area Joint Committee
94. Correspondence from Fenland District Council (FDC) – Members noted the following correspondence displayed on the notice board. a) Copies of ‘Your Street Scene’ leaflet. b) Copy of ‘Making Fenland cleaner, greener and safer’ leaflet. c) Minutes of Streetsafe CCTV Liaison Group
95. General Correspondence – Members noted the following correspondence displayed on the notice board. a) Copy of Cambridgshire Community Services first Annual Review. b) Safety & Health Practitioner magazine c) Opportunity magazine no’s 36 and 37 d) Fenland Council for Voluntary Service Annual Report. e) COPE magazine (Cambridgeshire Older People’s Enterprise) f) Copies of the Standards up-date from ‘Standards for England’ g) Code of conduct case studies. h) Standards Board for England briefing on Predisposition, Predetermination or bias, and the Code of Conduct. NOTE: A copy is provided for each member.
The meeting closed at 8.40 pm
Signed…………………………
Dated……………………….
2009/2010 – 32
WISBECH TOWN FULL COUNCIL Minutes of the Meeting of the Full Council of Wisbech Town Council held on Monday 16 November 2009 at 7.30 pm.
PRESENT: The Town Mayor, Councillor Mrs YP Lawrence; and Cllrs Mrs C Cox; JR Farmer; NW Frusher; LRV Fulcher; AR Green; M Hill; Miss S Hoy; Mrs JR Jolley; Mrs VM Macrae; PB O’Dell; DC Oliver; MA Parker; HB Wegg; D A Wheeler; and T Wright.
In attendance: Erbie Murat, Wisbech Town Clerk
Prior to the meeting a public announcement was made that Members would be able to join a tour of the new cold-store on Friday 27 November at 10 am - they should meet at the front entrance gate.
96. Apologies and Absences Apologies had been received from:
Cllr Sims – Mayoral duty Cllr Meekins – Ill health
On a proposal from Cllr Mrs Cox and seconded by Cllr Green the above absences were APPROVED.
97. Declarations of interest There were no declarations of interest.
98. Minutes On a proposal from Cllr Wright and seconded by Cllr Parker the minutes of the meeting of Town Council held on 19 October 2009 were APPROVED.
99. Inspector Andy Sullivan Inspector Sullivan was not present. There had been no apology received. On a proposal from Cllr Farmer and seconded by Cllr Green it was AGREED that the Clerk would write seeking and explanation.
100. Mayor’s Diary The Mayor has had a very busy year supported by the Deputy Mayor. The Mayor has announced that her principle charity for this year is the Royal Anglians Benevolent Fund. Two bag packs have been organised at Tescos on 12 December and also in March next year to raise more funds. The Mayor will be supported by the GVC, the Guides, the ATC and St John’s.
It is the Mayor’s intention to distribute some of the Mayor’s charity fund to the cadets who help with the bag packs and support her during the year. There is £1409.08 in the bank account at present - £300 of which is held on account at all times. There is £1109.08 available for disbursement at present. The Wisbech Town Mayors Ball Committee name on the bank account has been changed to Wisbech Mayors Charities. All donation cheques should now be made payable to Wisbech Mayors Charities.
Cont ......
2009/2010 - 33
The Mayor is organising a Christmas get together for councillors and partners on Tuesday 15 December at the new 4W’s restaurant, and members should let the Deputy Clerk know if they are able to join her and Bob. There are 32 seats available.
The Mayor announced that she would be attending a function at Ely Cathedral next week to which her Majesty the Queen has been invited.
Members were asked to note that the American air-force from Alconbury is sending another delegation for the heritage talk in the Chamber on 11 December at 10 am.
101. Finance & General Purposes (F&GP) On a proposal from Cllr Green and seconded by Cllr Oliver the minutes of the F&GP committee meeting of 19 October 2009 were APPROVED.
102. Planning On a proposal from Cllr Wright and seconded by Cllr O’Dell the minutes of the Planning committee meeting of 12 and 26 October 2009 were APPROVED.
103. Wisbech Youth Council At a meeting of the Christmas Working Party of the Wisbech Youth Council on Friday 23 October, it was agreed that the Youth Council have a stall at both the Christmas Lights Switch-on and the Wisbech Christmas Market. They also agreed to bag up 200 bags of sweets for the Lions Father Christmas to give to the children at the Christmas Lights Switch- On. The next meeting will be on Friday 27 November at 5pm when the bagging will take place. Members of Rotary, present at the meeting donated £50.00 towards this activity.
Also present were mature students some of whom are Youth Workers who have just started a degree in Youth Work with Anglia Ruskin University so that they could get to know the work of the Youth Council as part of their first module. This delegation was led by Lizzi Wales the Youth Work Co-ordinator for Wisbech and District based at Centre4 in Wisbech. Wisbech Youth Council members gave a very good account of themselves to some very in- depth questioning, especially the Chairman, Stuart Murat.
104. Clerk’s up-date a) Wisbech Town Council Chamber is now registered as a venue for Civil Weddings and Civil partnerships. b) Planning compliance enforcement cases (attached) c) Letter about refurbishment of Hudson (already circulated) d) The Wisbech Youth Council has applied for match funding of £5,000 from FDC for festivals. e) Pilings on South Brink will be complete by 4 December and road re-opened. f) Over a hundred letters asking for donations for Christmas presents circulated. g) Fire officers have accepted the Town Council’s Risk Assessments. h) CCTV up-date (attached) i) We are now members of the Wash Estuary Strategy Group – see books on Notice board.
105. Remembrance Sunday and order of procession Members are asked to note that the attendance on Remembrance Sunday was at record levels and that St Peter and St Paul Church had upwards of 600 people attend, with compliments that this was the best organised Remembrance Sunday: The sound system provided by the Town Council and operated by the Deputy Clerk worked very well indeed; Cont ......
2009/2010 - 34 the flag of St George, as well as the Union flag was flown from the Town Council Chamber, and they were both flown through to Armistice; the order of procession worked very well indeed, as agreed by Town Council at the last meeting.
The Mayor’s Procession Town Beadle Mayor of Wisbech & Mayoress/Consort The Town Clerk Deputy Mayor & Deputy Mayoress/Consort The Leader of Wisbech Town Council with escort Deputy Leader of Wisbech Town Council with escort Councillors – in order of seniority with escorts Past Mayors and their escorts Cambridgeshire County Councillors Fenland District Councillors Other guests Deputy Clerk / Steward
Should any other dignitaries arrive then they will be placed in the Mayor’s procession by the Beadle in the correct order dictated by national protocol provided by the Official Manual of the Guild of Macebearers, section 2 page 24.
It was noted that the box for the Mayor was not available for the march past but that the Mayor stepping forward worked very well indeed.
The only criticism that members had was that the procession moved too fast and members asked that the Beadle take responsibility for ensuring that the procession moves at a comfortable pace for all members.
106. Christmas Lights Switch-On Friday 4 December at 6 pm Members are asked to note that the central plinth is on target for receiving the Christmas tree and this is being delivered on Monday 30 November 2009 at 6.00 am. Fenland District Council have put a height limit on the tree this year to a maximum of 25 foot from ground level, as the concrete sleeve is very new, to avoid damage. Members were reminded that the Town Council is contributing £3,000 towards the cost of preparing the central plinth to receive the Christmas tree including adequate and appropriate power supply.
The Town Council has also had to purchase new lighting for the tree to comply with Fenland District Council’s requirement to have a 24 volt power supply. New lighting has also been commissioned for the lamposts in the Market Square to comply with the same instructions. The new lighting will wrap around the columns as we are still constrained from hanging anything from the lamposts due to their inherent flimsiness.
All other lighting will be as last year, with as many of the bulbs as possible being replaced by LED bulbs.
Following representation from the Wisbech Chamber of Commerce and from the Town Clerk the Environment Agency will be stopping work, and the road along South Brink will re-open on 4 December. Cont ......
2009/2010 - 35
The work will then commence after the New Year in line with the schedule presented to the Town Council previously.
For next year, the Environment Agency has committed itself to building into the flood wall scaffold pole holders made of galvanised steel to take the Town Council’s galvanised steel scaffold poles so that festoons may be hung along South Brink from Octavia Hill House to Coalwharf Rd every seven metres – 43 festoons in total.
At time of producing the agendas the Town Council has had confirmation from Vennis that they will provide two forty foot trailers; and the Town Council has hired barriers, which Vennis will deliver and take away. Leslie Carey is bringing his fairground attractions etc as normal and we have had confirmation that Vivien the Fire engine will lead the procession, with the Lions and Father Christmas bringing up the rear. St Johns Ambulance has confirmed that its members will cover the event and the police have confirmed PCSO’s on site. Road Closure has been booked with the County Council from 8am to 10 pm.
Cllr Oliver is working on the layout o avoid the problems of last year with members being led to a point of no return, with nowhere to go. He will liaise directly with the Beadle to ensure the Beadle has clear instructions.
The procession will form up in the same order as last year, but ensuring that Father Christmas and the sleigh bring up the rear. The Youth Council will join other guests to the rear. If there is adequate police presence it will not be necessary for the Deputy Clerk to Steward the rear of the procession.
107. Wisbech Christmas Market – Monday 21 December 2009 – all day. Wisbech Town Council are providing lunch for the strollers, players etc in the Council Chamber from around 11.30 to 2.30 and then Wisbech Youth Council and Wisbech Town Council will be having mince pies (for those young enough), and sherry (for those old enough).
The Town Council, unfortunately, will be unable to participate in the ‘Visitors are welcome to use our toilets’ initiative for the duration of the Christmas Market due to yet another blockage on the gents toilets. This is the fifth time in two years that this has happened, and it is costly to resolve. The Clerk advised members that he would be seeking a permanent solution to the problem.
Cllr O’Dell reported that there is a difficulty organising children’s choirs this year as the schools will have broken up for Christmas, but he will persevere.
The Mayor will open the market at 10 am.
108. Wisbech Town Council as a venue for Weddings. The Town Council has been licensed to use the Council Chamber and the Mayors parlour for civil marriages and civil partnerships for three years. The Town Council also now has a premises licence.
On a proposal from Cllr Green and seconded by Cllr O’Dell it was AGREED that the Clerk will prepare a pricing structure for members to consider at the next F&GP meeting on 25 January 2010.
Cont ......
2009/2010 - 36 109. A1101 Sutton Road
On a proposal from Cllr Wheeler and seconded by Cllr Miss Hoy the council AGREED to affirmation of their support for the Accident Black Spot Team in calling for a 40 mph speed limit, double white lines and fixed safety cameras, subject to the findings of their own Parish Council.
Cllr Mrs Cox abstained from the vote.
110. Written Monthly report from Fenland District Council Members noted that the monthly report contained two items – CCTV and Christmas Market – both of which were already covered on the agenda, and that it had arrived late.
On a proposal for Cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr green it was AGREED that the Clerk should write to FDC asking that the monthly report includes everything that is happening in Wisbech, not already covered by separate reports, and should include: economic development; consultation opportunities; community development; and any other matters that affect Wisbech.
111. Recommendations from Planning Committee A verbal report and recommendations from the Chairman of Planning for the committee meeting of 9 November 2009 was received.
On a proposal from Cllr Green and seconded by Cllr Oliver it was AGREED that this town council is strongly opposes the moving of the taxi rank, and AGREED that the proposal from Planning Committee be forwarded to FDC as follows:
Members wish the taxi rank to remain located on the Horse Fair Bus Station. Members wish there to be better signage for taxi services and also marking-out of both the taxi rank and taxi waiting areas. Members wish there to be better regulation of other vehicle usage of the Horse fair Bus Station, especially unauthorised use by excursion buses. There was inadequate signage to direct such vehicles to the authorised waiting bays in Queens Road. Members have concerns regarding the effects of the relocation to The Case on elderly, disabled and vulnerable users of taxi services. They deem the site outside The Case to be inappropriate for reason of - the extra distance to be travelled with shopping (as it is recognised that many elderly and/or disabled users shop at Somerfield) - clientele of The Case congregating outside to smoke and/or drink could be intimidating, especially to this group of users - even if finance was found for CCTV, this would not allay fears of vulnerable users having to walk to The Case Members feel there needs to be provision for a dropping off point in the Horse Fair for the public catching buses with luggage, or mobility issues. Members wish to note that the petition of over 800 signatures indicated that public opinion wished the taxi rank to remain in the Horse Fair Bus Station. Members also wished to raise concerns over the public health issues and the penalty system for unattended vehicles if taxi drivers needed to use toilets. They wish to know what provision would be made for toilet facilities for waiting taxi drivers if the taxi rank were relocated.
Cont ......
2009/2010 - 36
112. Correspondence from Cambs County Council (CCC) (displayed on the notice board). Members noted the correspondence as follows: a) The ‘Guide to Local Government Pension Scheme’ b) ‘Your Cambridgeshire’ magazine c) ‘Shaping Places , shaping services’ consultation draft.
113. Correspondence from Fenland District Council (FDC) (displayed on the notice board). Members noted the correspondence as follows: a) Fenland Road Safety Campaign (Charlottes Way)
114. General Correspondence (displayed on the notice board). Members noted the correspondence as follows: a) CPALC newsletter b) War Memorials Trust Bulletin c) ‘Building better Markets’ NABMA d) Inside Housing Magazines e) Cambridgshire Newsletter from SLCC f) Home Start Business Plan g) COPE newsletter h) Safety and Health Practitioner magazine i) Weekly news magazines from the Local Government Association. j) The Heacham Newsletter
The meeting closed at 8.05 pm
Signed…………………………
Dated……………………….
2009/2010 – 37
WISBECH TOWN FULL COUNCIL Minutes of the Meeting of the Full Council of Wisbech Town Council held on Monday 25 January 2010 at 7.30 pm.
PRESENT: The Town Mayor, Councillor Mrs YP Lawrence; and Cllrs Mrs C Cox; JR Farmer; NW Frusher; LRV Fulcher; AR Green; Miss S Hoy; Mrs JR Jolley; Mrs VM Macrae; N Meekins; PB O’Dell; DC Oliver; MA Parker; HB Wegg; D A Wheeler; and T Wright.
In attendance: Erbie Murat, Wisbech Town Clerk; Mike Davey, Cambs County Council Service Director: Community Engagement (Fenland); Nick Seaton, Fenland District Council Building Control & Planning Compliance Manager; Aaron Lock FDC; Mick Gipp (FDC).
Members NOTED that Police Inspector Andy Sullivan and Police Sargeant Dave Bax did not attend and no apologies were received.
115. Apologies and absences Apologies for absence were received from:
Cllr L Sims - work commitments Cllr M Hill - Holiday
On a proposal from Cllr O’Dell, and seconded by Cllr Meekins the above absences were APPROVED.
116. Declarations of Interests There were no declarations of interest.
117. Minutes To confirm the Minutes of the Meeting of the Town Council held on Monday 16 November 2009 (circulated herewith).
118. Inspector Andy Sullivan The Cambridgeshire police briefing did not take place as Inspector Sullivan was not present and did not send a report.
119. Mike Davey, Service Director: Community Engagement (Fenland) Mike Davey briefed members on Cambridgeshire County Council’s and Fenland District Council’s position on Community engagement relevant to Wisbech. The district of Fenland, and particularly Wisbech has a number of council wards that are experiencing a high level of deprivation, when compared to countywide and nationwide indicators such as health, education and employment.
Following a re-organisation at Cambridgeshire County Council 12 months ago Mike Davey was successful in being appointed to take specific responsibility for Fenland. It was recognised by the County that there were huge disparities between Fenland and the rest of Cambridgeshire. Fenland, and especially Wisbech, has far higher levels of deprivation in terms of: educational attainment; employment; incomes; health; community cohesion; and
Cont ......
2009/2010 – 38 satisfaction with the area as a place to live. It is Mike’s job to work with FDC, and with other partners including town and parish councils to improve things. The County Council has earmarked £80 million to be spent in Fenland, the majority of which is to be invested in Wisbech.
Members NOTED that one of Mike’s first meetings after taking up post was with the Clerk (Erbie Murat), and that he had read with interest the Wisbech Town Plan and the Wisbech Town Guide.
Mike is lead officer on the Thomas Clarkson development (£3.2 million) + a further £400,000 from FDC for the provision of a community space. The planning application for this development is to be with the Town Council at one of its planning meetings in February.
Mike is also looking at all the resources that are available to Wisbech and has been in discussion with all 18 County Council directorates, asking them how they allocate resources across the County, and how County services relate to Wisbech.
There are a number of initiatives, and they need to establish how County, District and Town can work together.
1. COMMUNITY COHESION - He has started to address the issues by working with the police. 2. ACHIEVEMNT/ATTAINMENT - a dedicated officer has been appointed to work with schools to try to raise aspirations. It is important to give young people opportunities to try different things and to have positive experiences. 3. ECONOMIC DEVELOPEMENT/EMPLOYMENT PROSPECTS - He is looking at educational opportunities and how that firs in with young people having employment opportunities. 4. HEALTH/FITNESS/SPORT - Why are children here less healthy, and what may be done about it? 5. TRANSPORT - Some notion of integrated transport. South Lincs. is a good example of how it could work. 6. COLLABORATIVE WORKING - People do not care who is providing the service, they only care that the job is being done properly - we should all work together.
Mike is to let the Clerk have a copy of the paper to circulate to members.
Members NOTED that the County has re-affirmed its intention to provide a County Council HQ in Wisbech bringing up to 200 jobs, at an investment of £6 million. They are looking at both new build and existing building opportunities.
Following a question, members NOTED that Mark Kemp is responsible for highways and that they should report any potholes direct to the Highways department who will then take the necessary action. Members also raised concerns about the effectiveness of gritting, and illegal parking on the market place, and the infrequency of buses. These are not areas of Mike’s expertise but he will come back with clarification of the County’s position on areas of concern to Wisbech Town Councillors.
Members asked that he liaise with the Clerk where possible. Cont ......
2009/2010 – 39
120. Nick Seaton: Building Control & Planning Compliance Manager Members welcomed Nick and his two colleagues from FDC: Aaron Lock, who works with CCTV and Mick Gipp a former police superintendent who has joined Fenland today. He has taken over responsibility for CCTV. Nick gave members a briefing on value for money for Wisbech Town Council’s £25,000 annual contribution to CCTV.
The total cost of CCTV in Fenland is £438,000. Wisbech pays £25,000 a year. The other towns pay less but they have fewer cameras, and Roddons Housing association contribute.
Members NOTED that the control room is in Wisbech, (and remembered that many of them have visited and been shown the operation extensively).
There are 60 cameras in Fenland, 32 of which are located in Wisbech – most of which were protecting FDC’s assets but there were five in the town centre. Also there is one wireless (redeployable) camera in Lynn Road that is working well. It has 360 degree coverage, and may be moved to trouble spots. There is another in Norwich Road that is currently not working.
Fenland has got a grant of £35,000 for more redeployable cameras.
They run 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. They have links to police and to shop watch.
Costs have gone up since the service moved in-house, but service has improved.
Wisbech has 72% of recorded incidents, and 82% of arrests (=16 per month over the year). The biggest increase is shop-lifting.
They want to raise the profile of the team; expand system to include more wireless systems for flexibility; explore opportunities to raise an income from monitoring shop alarms and private premises etc.
Members NOTED that Wisbech will necessarily record more incidents because Wisbech has significantly more cameras, and, therefore, more people are caught on camera more often.
Members queried the possibility of having a camera for the new playground. Mike Davey will speak to appropriate officers about the possibilities.
With regard to out of date tax discs in vehicles and other road traffic infringements, CCTV is not for that purpose – they do not have the necessary officer capability to monitor all vehicles that closely.
DVLA, however, do operate a vehicle whose specific job is to indentify offenders and report direct to DVLA. FDC do report anything they happen to spot on CCTV.
Cllr Fulcher is to meet with Nick Seaton to discuss specific concerns that the raised related to his business premises.
121. Mayor’s diary This is a quiet time to the year. Christmas had been extremely busy, including Christmas Lights Switch-on, Wisbech Christmas Market, and mince pies with Wisbech Youth Council.
Cont ......
2009/2010 – 40
122. Allotments On a proposal from Cllr Frusher and seconded by Cllr Mrs Macrae members of Allotments committee APPROVED the minutes of the Allotments committee meeting of the 16 November 2009 (attached). On a proposal from Cllr Frusher and seconded by Cllr Mrs Macrae members of Council APPROVED the said minutes and recommendations.
123. Planning On a proposal from Cllr Wright and seconded by Cllr Meekins members of Planning committee APPROVED the minutes of the Planning Committee of 23 November 2009, 7 December 2009, and 4 January 2010 (previously circulated), and NOTED that the meeting of the 21 December 2009 was cancelled due to insufficient business. Members of Council NOTED the said minutes and recommendations.
124. Christmas Social Members NOTED that the Christmas Social on Monday 21 December 2009 was a very pleasant event. Members of the Youth Council and of the Town Council met over light refreshments, following the hospitability laid on by the Council for Wisbech Christmas Market entertainers.
125. Civic Amenities On a proposal from Cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr Wheeler members of Civic Amenities committee APPROVED the minutes of the Civic Amenities committee meeting held on Tuesday 17 November 2009 (attached). On a proposal from Cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr Wheeler members of Council APPROVED the said minutes and the recommendations.
126. Wisbech Youth Council Members NOTED the minutes of the big sweet wrap and working party meeting of the Wisbech Youth Council on 27 November 2009.
127. Flood Defences up-date Members NOTED that South Brink has closed to traffic from 11 January to 19 March. There were delays to the planned programme because the County Council instructed the Environment Agency to reopen South Brink to two-way traffic from 4 December to 8 January. To mitigate delays and ensure the flood defence is reinstated by 4 December the Environment Agency worked 7 days a week from 14 November to 4 December. The project will then move to North Brink at the beginning of March. Work will start at the Town Bridge and move towards Barton Road. The work is programmed to be finished by autumn 2010. Due to the size of machinery required for the work, North Brink will have to be closed to traffic.
128. Empowering Parish and Town Councils by encouraging the adoption of the Communities Act Amendment Bill in Parliament. In relation to The Sustainable Communities Act giving local communities the power to make proposals direct to Government, It was NOTED that, unfortunately, Town and Parish Councils are not included. And NOTED that an amendment proposed by NALC (National Association of Local Councils), and SLCC (Society for Local Council Clerks), would give Towns and Parishes the same rights. They affirm that Towns and Parishes should have been included in the original Act. On a proposal from Cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr Wheeler, members AGREED to support the amendment by asking the Clerk to send the following letter to Members of Parliament.
Cont ......
2009/2010 – 41
‘The Sustainable Communities Act Amendment Bill is crucial as it will ensure that Parishes and Towns are included in the Sustainable Communities Act. This Bill already has backing from MPs of all parties, and from the local works coalition of national organisations, that campaigned for the original Act to become law.’
129. Clerk’s up-date Members NOTED the Clerk’s up-date as follows: a) The Christmas Lights Switch-on went well. A Civic Amenities meeting has been set for Tuesday 2 February 2010 for councillors only to de-brief on the event and set SMART targets for next year – Specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and timed. The Wisbech Christmas Market too was very successful, with the Horsefair manager providing footfall figures as follows for the last three years: 2007 – 24,473; 2008 – 20,289; 2009 – 26,213. b) Following their remarkable Float entry last year (Multi-cultural music through the ages) The Wisbech Youth Council has entered into a partnership with Connexions, Centre4, and NACRO to put on a combined Youth Float for Rosefair this year. Fenland Youth Council has agreed to sponsor the float with a grant of £800.00 with four conditions attached. Two members of the Wisbech Youth Council are attending a project development team meeting on Weds 27 January at Connexions – Stuart Murat and Zoe Taylor. c) Wisbech Library will be opening its doors for a pre-view on Weds 27 January. The Clerk and the Leader of the Council will be joining the ‘meet and greet’ team to welcome people to the new library at 5.30 pm, and will be joined by Stuart and Zoe from the Wisbech Youth Council when they have finished their meeting at Connexions d) The Clerk has met again with Heritage Lottery – he will be gathering evidence to support an application over the next six months, and then evaluate the possibilities for the Corn Exchange. e) Wisbech in Bloom have written thanking the Town Council for the celebration event held in the Chamber on Sunday 15 November, and for the £2,000 pledged by the Town Council under their new Special Projects budget. They apparently have no actual funding from anywhere else. f) The Clerk attended a Rotary evening by invitation, and after considerable thought has decided that he will not join Rotary at this time. He will continue to focus his attention on his other commitments: Wisbech Town Council events, and new initiatives; Wisbech Youth Council events; Fenland Arts (Treasurer); and Trustee to Citizens Advice. g) The Clerk has met with Sarah Gosling from WREN (Waste Recycling Environmental) who disperses grants from landfill tax monies. We are eligible to apply and the Clerk will be commissioning an architect to draw up plans for the fire-escape for the Council chamber, and apply for planning permission. Once that is done an application will be submitted to WREN for consideration. h) It seems that we do not need to renew our application for a small lotteries grant because we do not have lotteries in the way defined by the Gambling Act 2005 – schedule 11 paragraph 39 pertains. i) We continue to receive periodic complaints from allotment tenants about the lack of maintenance, which hopefully we will be able to begin to address as soon as we reach agreement with FDC about ownership, following the meeting at the Boathouse on 21 January with FDC’s Leader and Deputy Leader. j) Fenland Arts are halfway through the project that Wisbech Town Council sponsored for this year (£1,000) to take the arts into sheltered accommodation for elderly people. k) The Deputy Clerk has joined the Wash Estuary Strategy Group on behalf of Wisbech Town Council. This is an officer group to explore opportunities to promote Wash Week 2010 Cont ……………………………….
2009/2010 – 42 that is to be held during w/c Saturday 7 August 2010. l) We have put in a web link to www.wisbech-town.co.uk, which is run by Ken Stockley, an old gentleman, who has been running this tourist site for Wisbech for ten years. m) The Deputy Clerk is a member of the Wisbech Tourism Development Group on behalf of Wisbech Town Council. This is in addition to Cllr Green and the Mayor. Their meetings have now been arranged so they do not clash with Town Council meetings. n) The Clerk is now a member of the Wisbech Christmas Market group. This is in addition to Cllr O’Dell. The footfall for the Market was 2007 – 24,473; 2008 – 20,289; 2009 – 26,213. o) The Clerk has been asked to join the ‘Raising Aspirations in Wisbech’ group. This is an officer and Headteacher group looking at developing a career related learning programme for Wisbech. The Clerk was joined by the Chairman of the Wisbech Youth Council on 14 January for the first workshop session at the Boathouse. p) The Friends of Wisbech General Cemetery have invited all councilors to attend a celebratory event on Saturday 13 Feb at 10 am, with a brief tour of the cemetery and light refreshments. q) The donations received for Treats for Christmas totaled £155.00 (see minutes of Youth Council meeting – attached). r) The Returning Officer has decided that there will be a fee of £50.00 in future for uncontested seats. There will be no charge for co-opted vacancies. s) We have received a letter from Richard Barnwell thanking the Town Council for its generous grant to the Museum. t) The Clerk as a Trustee and Health & Safety professional was asked to do a full check on the premises and operation of CAB. u) WOPWA have asked the Council to organise a band concert in the Park for Sunday 4 July from 2.30 pm to 4.00 pm. They will pay for the band (up to £200.00). v) The Valuation Agency has calculated our rateable value as £12250. This is not the amount we will pay. We are awaiting the details of this from FDC. w) We have forwarded our precept upon the charging authority for £184,400– see F&GP agenda (circulated). x) Wisbech Youth Council has been awarded £2,000 of the £5,000 they applied for from FDC via the Wisbech Neighbourhood Management Board. The Clerk is in correspondence with FDC due to a series of conditions that have been attached to the grant and also due to the exclusion of members, resulting in the Chairman of the Board and an FDC Youth Council member being left as the only two voting members. Members will be up-dated. y) The Clerk has been invited to participate with officers from partner organsations in an initial meeting to look at the development of a community space at Thomas Clarkson Community College as part of the Building Schools for the Future programme. Date to be confirmed. z) The Clerk has met with Nick Hammond (Wisbech Grammar); Andy Houghton and Matt Garrod (Thomas Clarkson); Terry Jordan (Cambs County); Lizzi Wales (Cambs County); and Phil O’Neill and Nathan (FDC – Hudson) – to discuss the Youth Council’s proposals for a Mini Olympics in Wisbech for 12 to 18 year olds – Everyone was incredibly keen to be involved in any way that they can. Six more young people have said they want to be involved and join the Youth Council.
130. Written Monthly report from Fenland District Council Members NOTED the report (attached). It was also NOTED that the compost had been moved from Algores Way Wisbech to a site in March, giving the people of Wisbech a thirty mile round trip of costly fuel and significant carbon footprint to collect free compost to help with the re-cycling initiative.
Cont ......
2009/2010 – 43
On a proposal from Cllr Meekins and seconded by Cllr Oliver it was AGREED that the Clerk writes to FDC expressing this council’s deep concerns about this unwelcome situation, and also proposing that the contractor is asked if they would deliver a lorry load of free compost to each of our allotment sites once a year.
131. Cabinets for Council Chamber Members NOTED that we have prices for oak book and display cabinets as follows: to house examples of Wisbech Town Heritage Library books in honour of Richard Barnwell’s father (£1350-£1,800); and to house the mayoral robes in keeping with the rest of the furniture in the Council Chamber £950 - £1250.
The details have been forwarded to Richard Barnwell for funding considerations and we are awaiting the outcome.
132. Fenland Citizens Advice Bureau Members NOTED that Fenland Citizens Advice has written to thank the Town Council for its support of £1,000 from its special projects fund for 2010. Members are asked to note that the Wisbech office, by the end of the third quarter has had 19,057 new enquiries. Once again debt dominates. They dealt with 7,097 new enquiries in the Wisbech wards alone in the last financial year. Last year they helped local people gain over £1,000,000 of benefits with their outreach projects (much of which was Attendance Allowance and Disability Living Allowance), and their court desk enabled 131 clients to avoid having their homes repossessed. They deal with everything from how to deal with a faulty car to neighbour disputes, bankruptcy, discrimination and redundancy.
133. Countywide Advisory Freight Map Consultation Members were asked to give their views on the Countywide Advisory Freight Map (letter and map attached). Members are concerned that the freight map does not include HGV routes in Wisbech, along the Lynn Rd, Leverington Rd and Cromwell Rd, and on proposal from Cllr Wheeler and seconded by Cllr Fulcher members AGREED that the Clerk should write expressing those concerns.
134. Wisbech Horsefair Taxi Rank On a proposal from Cllr Wright and seconded by Cllr Green Members REJECTED the content of the attached letter from Sue Beel about the proposal to relocate the Wisbech Horsefair taxi rank. They felt that the whole tone of the letter was offensive, and NOTED that many of the councillors constantly use the Horsefair and several of them use the bus service and the taxis.
On a proposal from Cllr Wright and seconded by Cllr Green members AGREED to re-affirm their original decision that the taxi rank should remain where it is but that proper signage and controls are installed.
135. The Clearing of Ice and provision of grit bins Members NOTED that Cambs County Council is offering to sell parishes and towns grit bins for around £100.00 each, which they will then keep filled with grit free of charge. The salt bins will be provided on the basis that members of the public or District/City employees will spread the salt on a voluntary basis and that the County Council will not accept any liability for this activity.
Members NOTED the clear legal advice from the Society of Local Council Clerks (SLCC). Cont .,......
2009/2010 – 44
Parish and Town Councils have a power (not a duty) (in section 43 of the Highways Act 1980) to maintain Footpaths (not the footways running alongside carriageways – where cars run). Therefore this Council has no power to maintain footways or roads in Wisbech.
There is no direct power for parish or Town Councils to buy and fill grit bins.
Members further NOTED that if any member of the public were to undertake any path or road clearance, even on a voluntary basis then he must do the job competently. If he piles up the snow and blocks the pavement, he risks being liable in nuisance. If he does the job badly and someone is injured, he may be liable in negligence.
The advice we had from the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Association for Local Councils (CALC) was less informative and more woolly.
On a proposal from Cllr Wright and seconded by Cllr Green it was AGREED that this Council has no power, no resources and no manpower to either provide bins or to take responsibility for Gritting or salting icy roads or pavements.
136. Re-location of Wisbech Practical Driving Test Centre Members NOTED the letter from the Driving Standards Agency (attached).
Members EXPRESSED THE DEEPEST OF CONCERNS about the proposal to close the test centre in Wisbech, on the basis that the Wisbech office provides test opportunities for the whole of Wisbech and District. This will affect up to 2,000 learner drivers a year.
On average it will cost people on average 26 miles round trip to get top Kings Lynn adding substantially to the costs for petrol, and for an additional hours (paid) learning time, just o get to the test location.
During the period leading up to the test learners will also be requiring double time lessons and significantly more petrol consumption to travel to Kings Lynn with their instructor for at least six familiarisation lessons pre-test.
The anticipated cost to Wisbech and district in extra spend will be in the region of £1 million annually.
On a proposal from Cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr Meekins it was AGREED that the Clerk is to write to the Driving Standards Agency in the strongest terms (Incensed, angered, strongly disagree).
137. New super-community website for residents in Wisbech It was NOTED that £80,000 has been allocated to set up a web-site for Wisbech. County Councillor Steve Tierney has become very involved with this, and has spoken with officers and the leader of the County Council. On a proposal from Cllr Farmer and seconded by Cllr Meekins it was AGREED that the Clerk should write to obtain as much information as possible from Cllr Tierney and the appropriate officer (with a view to inviting them to speak to the Town Council), and to consider the implications of the web-site and how the Town Council may become involved.
138. Correspondence from Cambs County Council (CCC) Members NOTED the following correspondence (displayed on the notice board): Cont ......
2009/2010 - 45 a) Details of carriageway repairs – road closure will be in operation from North Brink/Barton Rd junction to Chapel Rd/Harecroft Rd junction between 15 and 18 February 2010 with a diversion sign via Wisbech St Mary and Leverington. b) Presentation from the Cambridgshire ‘English as a Second Language (ESOL) Stakeholder Group. c) Copy of the Draft Migrant Workers Joint Strategic Needs Assessment Action Plan. d) Consultation on Cambridgeshire’s Third Local Transport Plan. Next Consultation Meeting in Wisbech will be at the Rose & Crown Hotel, between 2pm and 8 pm on Weds. 24 February 2010.
139. Correspondence from Fenland District Council (FDC) Members NOTED the following correspondence (displayed on the notice board): a) Copies of December Streetscene newsletter. b) Wisbech Town Council CCTV quarterly report Sept – Nov ember 2009. c) Wisbech Town Council CCTV updates for October, November and December.
140. Correspondence from Cambridgeshire NHS Members NOTED the following correspondence (displayed on the notice board): a) Keeping in Touch magazine for Cambs Community Services.
141. Correspondence from other authorities and voluntary organisations Members NOTED the following correspondence (displayed on the notice board): a) Fenland Council for Voluntary Service (FCVS) Newsletter. b) King’s Lynn & West Norfolk Local Development Framework.
142. General Correspondence Members NOTED the following correspondence (displayed on the notice board): a) Clerks and Councils Direct magazines (article on Cllr Fulcher). b) Conference and Training programme for Society of Local Council Clerks (SLCC). c) The Clerk magazine. d) Home Matters magazine (Roddons Housing Association) e) Housing Magazine. f) Inside Housing Magazines. h) Opportunities – the public sector recruitment weekly. i) Local Government Association – First magazines. j) SCOPE notification of collections to be held in Wisbech house to house between 5 to 25 April 2010, and 4 to 24 April 2011. k) Chartered Institute of Housing (CIPD) Information service fro housing professionals. l) Luminus Group newsletter m) Cope newsletter n) War Memorials Trust newsletter o) Safety & Health Practitioner magazine. p) Fire Protection Association newsletter.
The meeting closed at 9.20 pm
Signed…………………………
Dated……………………….
2009/2010 – 45
WISBECH TOWN FULL COUNCIL Minutes of the Meeting of the Full Council of Wisbech Town Council held on Monday 22 February 2010 at 6.30 pm.
PRESENT: The Town Mayor, Councillor Mrs YP Lawrence; and Cllrs Mrs C Cox; JR Farmer; NW Frusher; AR Green; M Hill; Mrs VM Macrae; N Meekins; PB O’Dell; DC Oliver; MA Parker; and T Wright.
In attendance: Erbie Murat, Wisbech Town Clerk; Alan Melton, Leader of Fenland District Council; Andy Sullivan, Sector Inspector of Police for Wisbech; and Susanah Farmer, Deputy Clerk.
Before the meeting commenced the Mayor asked everyone to stand and to observe one minutes silence in honour of the Deputy Mayor, Councillor Leslie Sims, who died on Friday 29 January.
His death is a great loss.
Members NOTED that we have received a number of letters of condolence, which are available for members to see in the Clerk’s office.
143. Apologies and absences a) Apologies were received from:
Cllr Mrs Jolley – unwell Cllr Miss Hoy – work b) On a proposal from Cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr Meekins, the above absences were APPROVED.
Members are asked to note that Cllr Wheeler was in attendance but did not sign in the attendance book.
Members are asked to note that the following Councillors were absent without apology: Cllr Fulcher and Cllr Wegg.
144. Declarations of Interests There were no declarations of interest
145. Minutes On a proposal from Cllr Wheeler and seconded by Cllr Green the minutes of the meeting of 25 January were APPROVED.
146. Alan Melton – Leader of Fenland District Council (FDC) Cllr Melton noted that it was just over a year since he last addressed Wisbech Town Council, and that there had been a great many changes in that time.
Allotments and Market Place, hopefully, will now be sorted, with investments from FDC. Cont ......
2009/2010 - 46
Unemployment in the district (mainly affecting Wisbech) peeked at 21%, but Cllr Melton has been instrumental in bringing investment to Wisbech. The budget for FDC has already been agreed to include £1.7 million to be spent on the infrastructure of the vacant land near the port development, making it more attractive to developers. The previous major developments in Algores Way and Weasenham Lane have helped Wisbech to keep its head above water, but that has come to a close now. FDC is looking at the possibility of £1 - £1.5 million land purchases in Wisbech for growth. FDC are looking for match funding for that level of development.
The whole thrust of our policies must be growth, infrastructure, investment. Recognising that Wisbech has a great potential and that we should make more of it is central to this.
1. Alan shares the vision that FDC and WTC must work together – would like to set up joint working arrangements. 2. He believes that town and parish councils could make better use of precept opportunities. 3. He believes that WTC should make a start – i.e. take control of this building. He would like to see WTC take on more assets. 4. WTC should feed into the policy making of FDC. 5. FDC would like to be pro-active in enabling WTC to be more pro-active. 6. He has pointed out to Pilsbury and Medd that WTC should be more involved with major decisions in Wisbech at the early stages. 7. WTC must be consulted in advance. Alan has spoken with Nigel Brown FDC are going to involve members of WTC before planning applications stage for major projects. At present it was recognised that WTC are ignored and something must be done as our views may differ from FDC’s and must be taken into account. 8. Through Local Development Framework (LDF) hopefully we can get it right more often. 9. 500 homes (2000) people in new development for Wisbech at the Norfolk end, which will require improved transport/roads into Wisbech. 10. Future development of port area must take into account roads limitations. 11. Fenland Council for Voluntary Service (FCVS) – cheque is there ready for Alan to sign – they need to produce business plan etc. as requested. 12. Alan hopes that the general public will have access to the Boathouse by the end of the year. 13. The infrastructure contract for the port development is out to contract now. 14. Alan gave an assurance that there will be no withdrawal by FDC of public convenience services. 15. Chris Seaton is the portfolio holder for Market Centre provision.
147. Inspector Andy Sullivan Cambridgeshire police briefing. Andy Sullivan has been on the force for 22 years. Since July he has been Sector Inspector for Wisbech. He deals with local needs through the Neighbourhood Forums. Andy looks after Wisbech North and the villages. Waterlees is stand alone.
Next neighbourhood Forum is at Trinity Church at 7.30 pm on Wednesday. Cllr Oliver reminded members that all Councillors are welcome.
Cont ......
2009/2010 - 47
Since October his staff have issued 500 parking tickets (£30.00 each) FDC are responsible for the Market Square Other priority has been Waterlees and Clarkson Working with FDC to sort out security problems in the Park Since the drinking ban in parts of Wisbech there have been 943 seizures The Waterlees Panel has set priority as Anti-Social behaviour There has been a 13.6% reduction in crime, but shoplifting is going up Asda and Horsefair are very good at catching them year There are expected to be new powers soon for Town Councils – Councillors will be able to object to licenses being issued. They are moving one of the mobile CCTV’s to Mendi’s wall, and another near the park.
The following were suggested by members:
Accolade to PCSO’s – including Ivarus Scotelev (6’7”) who speaks five or six eastern European languages. Andy Sullivan said he has put in a ceiling of 2 am for drinking. He believes that the Town Centre infrastructure does not support drinking after 2 am. Wisbech is heading towards having the lowest number of pubs in the country per head of population. Wisbech has lost the only night-club – be careful not to dampen down activity for 18- 35 year olds because there are already too few facilities. We live in a 24/7 society. Rose and Crown is the only place that tries to utilise its 24 hour licence.
In response Andy said:
PCSO’s walk the beat not officers. The strength of the section = 6 PO’s 2 Sergeants and 17 PCSO’s for the whole of the Wisbech Sector. 2 PCSO’s for Town Centre; 3 PCSO’s to Clarkson. The special constabulary consists of 2 Officers and 1 Sergeant who are eligible to patrol on their own.; 3 PCSO’s to Waterlees. Recruitment of Specials is not Andy’s remit.
148. Mayor’s diary The Mayor gave a brief overview of her engagements. She misses the late Deputy Mayor Cllr Les Sims, ‘because he did so much’.
On a proposal from Cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr Wheeler, it was AGREED that the Mayor Elect for next civic year will be Cllr Nick Meekins. On a proposal from Cllr Oliver, and seconded by Cllr Green it was further AGREED that Cllr Meekins take up the role of Deputy Mayor for the rest of this Civic year.
149. Minutes of the Finance & General Purposes Committee On a proposal from Cllr Green and seconded by Cllr O’Dell Members of F&GP APPROVED the minutes of the F&GP meeting held on Monday 25 January 2010. On a proposal from Cllr Green and seconded by Cllr O’Dell full Council then APPROVED the aforementioned minutes of F&GP and the recommendations contained therein. Cont ......
2009/2010 - 48
150. Minutes of Planning Committee meetings On a proposal from Cllr Wright and seconded by Cllr Parker Members of Planning committee ADOPTED the minutes of the Planning committee meetings on 1 February and 15 February 2010. On a proposal from Cllr Wright and seconded by Cllr Parker full Council then APPROVED the aforementioned minutes of Planning the recommendations contained therein.
151. Minutes of the Civic Amenities meeting On a proposal from Cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr Mrs Lawrence members of Civic Amenities and Mayor’s Charity Fund committee APPROVED the minutes of the meeting held on Tuesday 2 February 2010. On a proposal from Cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr Mrs Lawrence then APPROVED the aforementioned minutes and the recommendations contained therein.
152. Wisbech Youth Council Minutes of the last three meetings and details of Mini Olympics. Members NOTED that Thomas Clarkson Community College, Wisbech Grammar, The Hudson and Centre 4 have committed massive support to the Wisbech Youth Council’s Mini Olympics for May 2011:
Provision at Centre4 - Children & Young Peoples Services will provide the gymnasium in C4 Full toilet facilities (including disabled) Use of coffee bar and foyer at Queen Mary Centre for fundraising, stalls, refreshments, press interviews etc Youth support workers, volunteers and senior members for the events at C4 and Queen Mary Centre. Youth support worker for the youth council in planning and preparation of the event. Taekwon-do tasters (pre-Mini Olympics tasters and competition during)
Provision at the Hudson - All the facilities at the Hudson Leisure + following competitions: Basketball Boxing Bowls Cycling Fencing Gymnastics Handball Hockey Judo Rowing ( using four or five rowing machine) Table Tennis Tennis Volleyball Weight lifting Wrestling
Cont ......
2009/2010 - 49
Provision at Wisbech Grammar School Rugby Rounders Cricket Tennis Hockey Track Athletics Long Jump Triple Jump
Provision at Thomas Clarkson Community College Football Rugby Athletics after Easter (Track, discus, shot, javelin) Rounders Softball Netball Tennis Indoor throwing/discuss,javelin,shot
153. Clerk’s up-date a) FDC has confirmed that our precept increase for 2010/2011 amounts to 1.9% on an average band ‘D’ property, bringing the total cost to £26.73 per annum average per band ‘D’ property. This is on a gross expenditure of £194,400, with a net expenditure of £184,400. b) We have received confirmation from Jody Cundy’s agent, Emma Wade, that she is liaising with John Smith (Friends of the Park), and awaiting details from him so that she can co- ordinate Jody’s commitments. I have spoken with John and suggested he speaks with the Hudson first. c) The Mayor, Clerk and Deputy Clerk, together with six other councillors were able to attend the Licensing of the Revd Paul J West as Priest in Charge of St Peter and St Paul Church, Wisbech on 10 Feb 2010. d) The Deputy Mayor’s chain capacity having been reached once Cllr Sims name has been engraved on to it, the Clerk has ordered a new chain in silver to be crafted to the same design as the original chain (in the cabinet). The cost will be no more than £1,700 and will be paid for out of next years Civic Budget, but be ready (we hope) in time for Mayor-making. f) The Clerk has ordered the next Town Guide on the same basis as the last one. Out of 15,000 copies delivered 8 months ago, we have less that 2,000 left (compared to total distribution of 2,500 on previous occasions – over two yearly periods). They have been distributed through schools, community centres, doctors’ surgeries, estate agents, tourist information and shops. g) Cllr Steve Tierney has been contacted about the Wisbech Community Website. We are awaiting an update from him. h) A static display about the Youth Council on 15 February was put on for an event organised by the Volunteer Centre Fenland at the Queen Mary Centre. i) Draft Heads of Terms for the allotments have been agreed, and our solicitor has been instructed to proceed. j) Wisbech Arles Twinning Club are operating again, and have been advised that the council have £250 for them as part of our special projects budget from April. Cont ......
2009/2010 - 50 k) There has been some confusion about the Mart Fair and its opening date/times – it had been understood that FDC had spoken to the Showmen’s Guild about the ‘changes’. They hadn’t. Confirmation of the actual details from the Showmen’s Guild is awaited. l) The Clerk has attended several events with the Wisbech Youth Council: Raising aspirations for children held at the Boathouse; the library opening; and Connexions about Rosefair float. Wisbech Youth Council is becoming quite sought after. m) The council are registering with the Information Commissioners Office – this is a legal requirement. The cost is £35.00 n) Copies of the March Town Guide have been obtained, and circulated a copy for each member. o) Copies have also been circulated of Cambridgeshire Fens, which contains much about Wisbech including dates of Rock Festival on 6 June, Multicultural Festival on 1 August. p) Please find attached leaflet about local history events at the library during March.
154. Written Monthly report from Fenland District Council No report was received at time of circulation of Agenda. Members are asked to refer to correspondence from FDC.
155. Queen’s Diamond Jubilee June 2012 Members are asked to consider what they would like Wisbech Town Council to do for the Diamond Jubilee. Members will consider this and let the Clerk know what options they would like to be considered. This will require a great deal of planning.
156. Cambridgeshire Older People’s Enterprise (COPE) Campaign to Retain Cheque Books Members are asked to consider if they would wish to sign a petition that we have received calling upon the Financial Services Authority to insist that High Street Banks retain cheque books. This was left to members discretion.
157. Wisbech Town Neighbourhood Panel Meeting Members were reminded that this meeting will take place on Wednesday 24 February, at 7.30 pm at Trinity Methodist Church, Church Terrace, Wisbech. All members have been circulated with the details.
158. Pick a Site – we’ll put it right campaign Members are asked to consider any sites that might benefit from some work from the Cambridgeshire Youth Offending Team. It must be challenging, worthwhile and constructive. And must benefit the community but not be for profit or take paid work from someone else. Any ideas to be forwarded to the Clerk.
159. Power of Well-being training Members were asked to give the Clerk a date when all members will be able to attend training for the Power of Wellbeing – it will take two hours and may be at any location (i.e. the Council chamber) at our convenience. On a proposal from Cllr Wright and seconded by Cllr Parker it was AGREED that the Clerk would arrange the first available Saturday morning after mayor-making (9.30 -11.30) of evening (6.30 – 8.30)
160. Queen’s Garden Party We have been advised by NALC that the Queen will be hosting garden parties at Buckingham Palace on: Tuesday 22 June 2010. We are asked to nominate up to three
Cont ......
2009/2010 - 51
Councillors who will be able to attend with one guest each. Members were asked to nominate three members. The Clerk would then establish eligibility to apply and forward the names for consideration. On a proposal from Cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr Parker the following three Councillors were nominated: Cllrs Green; O’Dell; and Wegg.
161. Protect householders who clear snow in bad weather Members were asked to consider if they wish to support a call for a debate being led by Cllr David Sparks, chair of the Local Government Association (LGA) Transport and Regeneration Board. See attached information sheet. This was left to individual Councillors discretion.
162. Correspondence from Cambs County Council (CCC) (displayed on the notice board) a) Carriageway resurfacing due to be carried out 15 to 18 February from Chapel St to North Brink b) Green Vision news and strategy
163. Correspondence from Fenland District Council (FDC) (displayed on notice board) a) Wisbech Town Council CCTV updates for October, November and December. b) Safer Fenland CCTV presentation. c) Update from the Hudson: Teaching pool to open on 8 February; Changing rooms open 1 March; official opening of all new facilities end of March/early April. d) Letter circulated to ward councillors for Clarkson and Staithe from Helen Keppel the new Neighbourhood Development Officer from the Neighbourhood Services Team of FDC to help develop a community response to new arrivals in Wisbech.
164. General Correspondence (displayed on notice board) a) FACT information pack b) Cope newsletter c) NSPCC letter to raise awareness about their helpline. d) Book – Chris Godfrey’s Cambridgeshire e) FCVS newsletter f) Luminus newsletter g) Emblings – Bus service 380 will no longer leave from the bus station at 15.00 Mon-Fri, it will leave from Thomas Clarkson Community College at 15.10 (Wisbech to March). h) Cross Roads spring newsletter i) CPALC newsletter – copy already circulated to each member.
The meeting closed at 8.20 pm
Signed…………………………
Dated……………………….
2009/2010 – 52
WISBECH TOWN FULL COUNCIL Minutes of the Meeting of the Full Council of Wisbech Town Council held on Monday 22 March 2010 at 7.30 pm.
PRESENT: The Deputy Mayor (in the Chair), Cllr N Meekins; and Cllrs Mrs C Cox; NW Frusher; LRV Fulcher; M Hill; Miss S Hoy; Mrs J Jolley; Mrs VM Macrae; DC Oliver; HB Wegg; DA Wheeler; and T Wright.
In attendance: Erbie Murat, Wisbech Town Clerk; Andy Sullivan, Sector Inspector of Police for Wisbech; Keith Smith (Ferry Project); Dan Horn (FDC); and Sarah Gove (FDC).
Before the meeting commenced, the Sector Inspector Andy Sullivan (under public consultation) spoke with members. In the absence of other members of the public the Inspector was allocated the full 15 minutes.
He thanked the 8 members of Wisbech Town Council who had attended the last Neighbourhood Forum. He invited all members to attend the next meeting on Thursday 29 April between 4pm and 7pm at the Queen Mary Centre. He reported that:
Horses on Halfpenny Lane allotments had been dealt with by his officers; He had been forwarded a letter from Malcolm Moss (originally sent to Wisbech Town Council and referred on) about knives embedded in the Park. His officers and officers of Fenland District Council were dealing with the issue; There was an incident last Thursday – one person was in custody – victim is recovering in Addenbrookes following air ambulance attending – there is ongoing work by his neighbourhood police team to ensure that there is no tension in that area; Accident to railings over the bridge - In relation to recompense, there are three ways that incidents like this might be dealt with by the police depending on the circumstances: Criminal proceedings; conditional caution; or caution – criminal proceedings could lead to successful pursuance of recompense through the courts; a conditional caution might have recompense incorporated a s a condition; caution is less likely to facilitate recompense. He noted though that the majority of cases were the outcome of a road traffic accident (RTA), which was normally pursued by the insurance companies. Note: The incident with the railings would normally be pursued by Cambridgeshire County Council’s insurance company.
It was suggested that the Inspector would be invited to attend future full Council meetings.
165. Apologies and absences The Mayor Cllr Mrs Lawrence – attending Rotary dinner Cllr Green – holiday Cllr O’Dell – ill-health Cllr Parker - work commitments Cllr Farmer – work commitments
Cont ......
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On a proposal from Cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr Wright the above apologies were APPROVED.
166. Declarations of Interests There were no declarations of interest. The Mayor reminded members that they were able to declare any interests during the meeting should it be necessary.
167. Fenland District Council (FDC) Neighbourhood Management Cllr Wheeler with prior agreement from the Clerk, Mayor and Leader, introduced this item about the provision of a temporary Night Shelter in Wisbech.
He described his personal involvement and experience in supporting the Rosmini Centre, Church leaders, and the District Council in their identification of street homelessness amongst Eastern European migrants in the town.
Sarah Gove from FDC reported that FDC had been successful in its bid for central a government Migrant Impact Fund grant of £190,000 with the possibility of a further £170,000 next year.
She explained that most rough sleepers were migrants who were not eligible for mainstream support for benefits, housing or social care.
The grant is to provide a place for migrants to go if they are homeless. She reported that the police very much welcome the project.
The main reason for rough sleeping is that migrants often have employment and accommodation linked so that if they lose their jobs they are automatically made homeless with no recourse to help or support.
Referrals will be from PCSO’s (the police) and through FDC.
FDC are planning a consultation event on 1 April to which members will be invited – this will be a pre-planning event at the accommodation in Norfolk Street.
Keith Smith (Ferry Project) then spoke. There will be a maximum of 12 beds. The accommodation will be available from 9pm to 9am – it is anticipated that they will receive additional support from other organisations during the day such as the Rosmini Centre.
The Ferry Project has also identified a couple of properties that could be used for the homeless once they have found alternative employment.
It is envisaged that there will be two main purposes for the support services. They will aim to get the migrants back to work and rehomed, or repatriated.
It is anticipated that the shelter will be available by daily referral only and for a severely limited period.
168. Minutes On a proposal from Cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr Wheeler the Minutes of the Meeting of the Full Town Council held on Monday 22 February 2010 (as circulated), were AGREED.
Cont ......
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169. Finance & General Purposes Committee (F&GP) On a proposal from Cllr Meekins and seconded by Cllr Oliver, members of F&GP AGREED the minutes of the F&GP meeting held on Monday 22 February 2010.
On a proposal for Cllr Wright and seconded by Cllr Oliver, members of Full Council then AGREED the minutes of the said meeting and APPROVED the recommendations, including the amendments made and presented in the final drafts of the Staff Handbook and the Civic Handbook as circulated.
Members NOTED that both handbooks and the procedures contained therein had been finalised following comprehensive consultation, and that all members had been given every opportunity to participate fully in the consultation.
Cllr Wright asked that it was formally recorded that the Town Clerk and the staff had made an excellent job of a very difficult and time-consuming task in preparing the two handbooks.
Members NOTED that the Staff Handbook was a compilation of the Council’s policies and procedures prepared by the Town Clerk, and informed by legislation and comprehensive advice from the Cambridgshire and Peterborough Association for Local Councils; the Society of Local Council Clerks; and Fenland District Council’s Human Resources section over the last year.
Members NOTED that the Staff Handbook was a ‘Living Document’ and subject to additions and variations required by legislative changes, and that all such change requirements would be brought to the attention of the Council’s Finance & General Purposes (F&GP) Committee.
Members NOTED that the Civic Handbook had been prepared initially by the Deputy Clerk, and finalised by the Town Clerk in consultation with four former Mayors of the town: the late Cllr Sims; Cllr Green; Cllr O’Dell; and Cllr Oliver. Members NOTED that the basis for much of the Civic Handbook was informed by the Official Handbook of the Guild of Mace-Bearers, of which Guild the town Beadle is a paid member.
Members NOTED that the Civic Handbook is not the subject of legislative requirements but does adhere as far as possible to National Protocols, and that it too is a ‘Living Document’ subject to additions and variations.
On a proposal from Cllr Wright and seconded by Cllr Oliver it was AGREED to ask the Town Clerk to establish a regular review mechanism, and to arrange for the first review to be undertaken by a working party to be agreed by the Council at the first opportunity in the new Civic year.
As part of the same proposal it was further AGREED that the Handbooks are sectionalised when changes are due to be made, and the pages dated so that variations may be accounted for more readily.
170. Planning On a proposal from Cllr Wright and seconded by Cllr Oliver members ADOPTED the minutes of the Planning Committee meeting held on 1 March 2010, and NOTED that the meeting for the 15 March 2010 was cancelled due to insufficient business. Members NOTED the schedule response sent to Fenland District Council (as circulated).
Cont ......
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171. Wisbech Youth Council On a proposal from Cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr Wheeler members NOTED the minutes of the Wisbech Youth Council meeting of 22 February 2010, and AGREED to support the Youth Council’s decisions.
172. Mayor’s Diary In the absence of the Mayor, the Mayor elect advised members that he and his wife had attended half a dozen functions on behalf of the Town Council.
173. Clerk’s up-date a) The Clerk was able to report that there had been significant progress on the allotments. The legal process is in the final sages with completion expected within weeks. b) The Clerk was able to report that there had been significant progress with the ‘Freedom’. Following instructions from F&GP the Clerk made contact with John Smith and made the Council’s position clear. It has been agreed that the Freedom takes place on Thursday 20 May 2010, with a special meeting of full Council called to bestow the Freedom on Jody. The illuminated scrolls are in the final stages. c) The Clerk was able to report that there had been significant progress with the first festival (Rock Festival 6 June). The hire of the Park will be free; the provision of two 40’ x 10’ trailers by Vennis has been arranged to form staging; Donald Gary has confirmed he will provide a fairground and supply a generator to meet our electricity needs; KLFM have committed themselves to giving us a lot of promotional time; We may have a sound engineer, who we will be meeting with this week. d) The new Town Guide is on target for production in August/September. We have 1,200 copies of the current Town Guide remaining out of 15,000. It is our intention to keep 1,000 copies to be distributed at Rose Fair. e) There are continuing problems with the men’s toilet. In seeking to resolve the problem we have discovered that there were major problems with the sewage system serving the ladies toilet as well, and have now asked Norman Jacobs to sort the drains out properly – as his responsibility. The new drainage we believe was paid for by FDC when they transferred that area of the lobby downstairs to Norman Jacobs. f) Dates for your diaries:
Flower Arranging demonstration (Wisbech Tourism Group) at Emneth Central Hall on 6th April at 7.00pm – tickets £7.00 Tel: 01945 461061. Young People Wisbech Music Festival – Sunday 6 June 2010 – Wisbech Park Young People Wisbech Float for Rosefair – Saturday 3 July Young People Wisbech Multi-cultural Festival – Sunday 1 August 2010 – venue to be arranged. March St Georges Fayre – 18 April 2010 Chatteris Historical Festival - 25,26,27 June 2010 Whittlesey Festival - 12 September 2010 Wisbech Christmas Market - 20 December 2010 Young People Wisbech Mini Olympics – May 2011.
174. Written Monthly report from Fenland District Council Members NOTED the monthly report was tabled as it had arrived on the morning of the meeting.
Cont ......
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175. Correspondence from Cambs County Council (CCC) (displayed on the notice board) a) Camshare promotion – to share cars of bicycles.
176. Correspondence from Fenland District Council (FDC) (displayed on notice board) a) Fenland’s Community Strategy. b) Mobile Gym c) Wisbech Park
177. General Correspondence (displayed on notice board) a) Cope newsletter b) Newsletter from Alconbury highlighting Wisbech. c) Service changes to buses. d) War Memorials Trust magazine. e) The Clerk magazine Vol 42 – nos: 1 and 2 f) Opportunities public sector weekly magazine. g) Inside Housing three issues.
The meeting closed at 8.15 pm Signed…………………………
Dated……………………….
2009/2010 – 57
WISBECH TOWN FULL COUNCIL Minutes of the Meeting of the Full Council of Wisbech Town Council held on Monday 19 April 2010 at 7.30 pm.
PRESENT: The Mayor (in the Chair) Cllr Mrs YP Lawrence; and Cllrs Mrs CR Cox; NW Frusher; LRV Fulcher; AR Green; M Hill; Miss SP Hoy; Mrs JR Jolley; Mrs VM Macrae; NA Meekins; PB O’Dell; DC Oliver; MA Parker; HB Wegg; and T Wright.
In attendance: Erbie Murat, Wisbech Town Clerk, Clerk to the meeting; and parishioners Paul Merrell; Dawn Blunden.
Before the meeting commenced the Mayor congratulated Cllr Miss Hoy on her election to Cambridgeshire County Council.
The Clerk reported to members that David Roy Patrick had been elected to Wisbech Town Council, and also to Fenland District Council. He has not yet signed his declaration and cannot take up his duties on Wisbech Town Council until he has done so. He will do so on his return from holiday.
The two parishioners spoke about the speed thumps on Clarkson Avenue. They presented a vast array of facts and figures, photographs and copies of petitions asking for the speed thumps to be removed, and NOT replaced with any other calming measures. The evidence also showed damage to properties attributed to the speed thumps. It was NOTED that Cambridgeshire County Council were saying that they were unable to accede the residents wishes because the Town Council is no longer prepared to match fund the costs i.e. £5,000 contribution towards total costs of £10,000.
The parishioners were advised that this Council had considered the matter at a previous meeting and had decided:
1. Before the speed thumps are removed alternative road calming measures should be identified. 2. Any works are fully costed and the Town Council advised by the County Council what their share of the costs would be under jointly funded minor works (25%), so that members could make an informed decision. 3. The Town Council had made a decision that it would not be able to support any jointly funded minor works for the year 2010/2011 due to financial constraints, and there was consequently no budget provision for jointly funded minor works.
Members NOTED
1. The speed thumps were put in place nine years ago. 2. They have caused major structural damage to properties along Clarkson Avenue and there is evidence to support the fact that damage has been done. 3. Residents who live along Clarkson Avenue want the speed thumps removed and have been actively opposed to the speed thumps being put in since the beginning. 4. A petition ahs been presented by them signed by 83 residents living in Clarkson Avenue representing 45 properties giving support to the removal of the speed thumps. 5. There is no mention of replacement or alternative road calming measures, and they do not want alternative road calming measures. Cont ......
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6. The County Council is the responsible authority for Highways. 7. The County Council put the speed thumps in nine years ago. 8. The County Council has been lobbied by residents to remove them for nine years. 9. The County Council’s overall annual budget is £300 million – the Town Council’s annual budget is £194,000. 10. Members have been advised that the work is in the programme for October this year for the removal of the speed thumps.
It was NOTED that this matter would be dealt with under agenda item 189 and the parishioners were advised that they could stay for the rest of the meeting if they wished. They stayed.
178. Apologies and absences Apologies were received from:
Cllr Farmer – work commitments Cllr Parker – work commitments Cllr Wheeler – ill health
On a proposal from Cllr O’Dell and seconded by Cllr Mrs Cox the above apologies were APPROVED.
179. Declarations of Interests There were no declarations of interests
180. Cambridgeshire Constabulary report back An apology had been received from Wisbech Sector Inspector, Andy Sullivan, together with his contact details and an invitation for members to contact him directly if they had any issues to bring to his attention.
181. Fenland District Council report back No officer from FDC present: no apology, and no monthly report were received.
182. Minutes On a proposal from Cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr Miss Hoy the minutes of the meeting of the Full Town Council held on Monday 22 March 2010 (as circulated) were AGREED.
183. Finance & General Purposes Committee (F&GP) On a proposal from Cllr Green and seconded by Cllr O’Dell members AGREED to the following proposals put forward by Cllr Green as the Chairman of F&GP (at items 57 and 59 of the F&GP agenda earlier in the evening). a) AGREED to maintain the level of reserves in the Council’s Saver account at item 57 as follows:
57. Quarterly accounts – 1 January to 31 March 2010 On a proposal from Cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr O’Dell members APPROVED the quarterly accounts for the year end, and the receipts and payments for the period (attached).
On a proposal from Cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr O’Dell members AGREED to allocate all surpluses from receipts to Reserves maintained in the Council’s Saver Account. This will accrue Cont ......
2009/2010 – 59
to a total of £90,443.01 as we go into the new financial year, which is on target for achieving our target of 6 months operating costs in reserves as a minimum.
On a proposal from Cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr O’Dell members AGREED to maintain a level of £90,000 in reserves subject to emergency funding requirements.
Members NOTED that spending above precept was £13,902.43 (paid for from additional receipts). This is accounted for by the following:
New Wisbech Town Plaques ...... £1259.74 Allotments emergency works and maintenance £5697.88 Central Plinth for Christmas Tree ...... £3562.49 Emergency work to windows and ceiling ...... £3205.26
TOTAL £13,724.98
This means that the spending of surplus receipts above precept is accounted for by non-recurring, agreed and controlled expenditure.
It also means that a little over £26,000 of surplus receipts is to be allocated to the Council’s reserves in the Saver Account. b) AGREED the changes to the Allotments Committee and the Civic Amenities Committee at item 59 as follows.
59. Council committees Members NOTED that Civic Amenities Committee is now the committee responsible for the Mayors Charity fund, and also for organising all the events.
On a proposal from Cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr Meekins it was AGREED that Civic Amenities Committee is formalised as a main committee of the Council, and to include it on the meetings list at the Annual meeting.
On a proposal from Cllr O’Dell and seconded by Cllr Oliver it was AGREED that the Civic Amenities Committee will be responsible for reviewing protocol and procedures for all civic matters, and on a proposal from Cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr Wright it was AGREED to refer the review of the Civic Handbook to the Civic Amenities Committee to obviate the need to set up a separate working party.
On a proposal from Cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr O’Dell it was AGREED that the Chairman proposes acceptance of the above recommendations regarding Civic Amenities Committee at the meeting of the Full Town Council due to begin at 7.30 pm.
On a proposal from Cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr Meekins it was AGREED that the Allotments Committee be re-constituted with specific responsibility to manage the income from allotments in their entirety (ring fenced) – with £2,000 towards the Allotment Inspector’s salary, and £4,500 as an annual maintenance allocation. Members NOTED that all other on-costs (such as the time spent by the Deputy Clerk) will still be borne from the precept.
184. Planning On a proposal from Cllr Meekins and seconded by Cllr Mrs Cox members ADOPTED the minutes of the Planning Committee meeting from 29 March 2010. Members NOTED the related schedule response sent to Fenland District Council (previously circulated).
Cont ......
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185. Mayor’s up-date The Mayor reported that her distribution evening had been arranged for the following evening (Tuesday 20 April). The following were to be the beneficiaries of the Mayor Charity fund:
Royal Anglian Benevolent Fund .... £1,300 Fenland & Wisbech Museum ...... £ 250 TS Falcon ...... £ 200 Girls Venture Corps A C ...... £ 100 St John’s Ambulance ...... £ 100 272 Squadron ...... £ 100 2nd Scouts ...... £ 100 3rd Scouts ...... £ 100 14th Scouts ...... £ 100 3rd Guides ...... £ 100 Vivien Fire Engine Trust ...... £ 100 Showman’s Guild Benevolent Fund £ 100
TOTAL £ 2650.00
The Clerk reported that there was a further £577 available for distribution at the discretion of the Mayor and she would be speaking with the Deputy Clerk upon her return.
The Deputy Mayor, Cllr Meekins, thanked the Mayor for all her hard work, and said that he had been pleased to deputise for Cllr Mrs Lawrence and her husband following the sad loss of Cllr Leslie Sims.
186. Clerk’s up-date a) Jenny Huynh has been working with us as a work experience placement since 6 April until 16 April. b) Chloe Bruce has been appointed and working with us since 1 April for 25 hours a week on a 6 month contract, as part of the ‘Future Jobs’ initiative. c) They have made a significant start in photocopying two sets of minutes dating from 1969 ready for binding. d) They have made a significant start in making up a press cuttings book since Jan 2009. e) They have made a significant start in surveying all the town centre shops seeking their support for a number of initiatives such as putting up posters for the festivals; distributing town guides and newsletters; giving ‘Treats for Christmas; and putting up Christmas decorations. f) The final quarter’s accounts have been reconciled and we will be going into the new financial year with £90,000 in our saver account (as reserves). g) We have distributed 14,000 town guides leaving just around 1,000 for Rosefair. h) Sufficient advertising has been sold to produce a new town guide, which will be published in August/September 2010 – 15,000 copies again (one year early). The intention is to produce a town guide annually if there is sufficient advertising to support this. i) Notices have gone up advertising that our accounts are open to public scrutiny. j) Black and white representation of illuminated scroll for Jody Cundy’s Freedom of the Town has been received, and is attached. k) CPALC newsletter received and attached. l) Fenland Arts ‘What’s On’ newsletter received and attached.
Cont ......
2009/2010 – 61 m) A by-election is being held on 15 April, amongst other things, to choose a new Town Councillor – welcome to David Patrick. n) Dates for your diaries: Saturday Art Club at Wisbech & Fenland Museum from 10.00am to 11.00am for five weeks from Saturday 17 April Official Opening of Citizens Advice Bureau Advice Hub at the Rosmini Centre on Thursday 29 April fro 6pm to 7.30pm. RSVP [email protected] or 01223 222681. Business planning workshop – ‘Making the most of the Wisbech Adventure Playground 18 May 2010 9.30am 12.30pm, at the Oasis Centre, St Michael’s avenue followed by a buffet lunch. Young People Wisbech Music Festival – Sunday 6 June 2010 – Wisbech Park Young People Wisbech Float for Rosefair – Saturday 3 July Young People Wisbech Multi-cultural Festival – Sunday 1 August 2010 – venue to be arranged. Chatteris Historical Festival - 25,26,27 June 2010 Whittlesey Festival - 12 September 2010 Wisbech Christmas Market - 20 December 2010 Young People Wisbech Mini Olympics – May 2011.
187. Wisbech Youth Council Members are asked to note that the Wisbech Rock Festival is progressing well. FDC have agreed for the free hire of the park; Venni’s to two trailers to form covered staging; the Showman’s Guild to a fairground and a generator for the stage; Cherry Tree Recording
Studio for Sound equipment and engineer; Art & Soul magazine for bands and publicity; KLFM for bands and publicity. There is a lot more work to do - but Wisbech Youth Council are confident that there will be an excellent Wisbech Rock Festival this year.
188. Written Monthly report from Fenland District Council No report was received at time of circulation of Agenda. Members are asked to note items for FDC on the Notice Board.
189. Letter reference Clarkson Avenue Members considered the letter from the County Council referred to us by Malcolm Moss on behalf of Mr Paul Merrell, and the evidence that he and Mrs Blunden had brought to the Town Council’s attention.
The Council reviewed its previous decisions in the light of the evidence presented.
On a proposal from Cllr Mrs Macrae and seconded by Cllr Mrs Cox it was AGREED to support the residents of Clarkson Avenue in their bid to get the speed thumps removed without insisting on replacement by alternative road calming measures, but that this was solely the responsibility of Cambridgeshire County Council and that they should pay for it.
Cllr Miss Hoy asked that her opposition to the proposal be recorded, on the basis that she wanted the Town Council to pay (£5,000) - half of the £10,000 total cost in order to expedite the removal of the thumps.
On a proposal from Cllr Mrs Macrae and seconded by Cllr Mrs Cox members AGREED to ask the Clerk to write to the County Council, with a copy to Mr Moss outlining the following: Cont ......
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Members have decided that they are not in a position to contribute towards the cost of removal, but that they:
1. Fully support the removal of the speed thumps immediately. 2. Fully recognise that the residents do not want the speed thumps replaced with any other traffic calming measures. 3. Recognise that residents have strong evidence that would support legal action for recompense for damage incurred by the speed thumps. 4. Recognise the County Council’s responsibility for all Highways matters. 5. Require the County Council to discharge its responsibility as a matter of urgency.
The Mayor asked Mr Merrell if he would be kind enough to meet with the Clerk in the morning to go through the evidence and to prepare a letter.
190. Letter reference bullfighting in Arles Members considered the letter from Ian Thomas about bullfighting in Arles. Members NOTED that when Cllr Mrs Cox was Mayor of Wisbech she had attended a bull-fight in Arles where they had in fact killed the bull in honour of her (as a visiting dignitary), but that actually killing the bull was a rarity, and only happened on ‘special’ occasions. On a proposal from Cllr Mrs Cox and seconded by Cllr Miss Hoy members AGREED that this Council should not interfere with another country’s traditions.
191. Correspondence from Cambs County Council (CCC) (displayed on the notice board) a) Future Jobs Fund up-date; b) Your Cambridgeshire magazine.
192. Correspondence from Fenland District Council (FDC) (displayed on notice board) a) CCTV up-date; b) enforcement notices; c) the Crime buster newsletter.
193. General Correspondence (displayed on notice board) a) Keeping in Touch magazine from the NHS Cambridgshire Community Services; b) Inside Housing magazine c) FCVS newsletter – Review of Service d) COPE newsletter e) Luminus newsletter f) Venue East Arts magazine
The meeting closed at 8.20 pm Signed…………………………
Dated……………………….