MINUTES OF THE PARISH COUNCIL MEETING HELD IN THE VILLAGE HALL, WIXFORD
13th July 2010 AT 7.30 P.M.
Present:
Councillor Jack Fryer (in the Chair)
Councillors Angela Ballard, Colin Hales and Jon Haworth
Clerk: Karen Parnell
In attendance:
District Councillors Brian Slaughter and Daren Pemberton
County Councillor Peter Barnes
Plus four members of the public
Apologies: Cllrs Mark Sullens and Kim James
Tony Wall outlined traffic plans for the duration of the CLA Game Fair at Ragley Hall on the 23rd, 24th and 25th July 2010 Tony has been a consultant since 1998. He explained the CLA is the largest movable event in the world with 140,000 people expected. It is a celebration of the countryside which will cause traffic disruption but will bring £13 million to the local economy. This event has been planned in a year. Sat Navs will be an issue. A one-way system will be in place between Arrow and Dunnington which will be lifted ASAP. Warwickshire police will be involved and a helicopter will be used to monitor events. Many traffic lights and variable message boards will be in place. 8 entrances will be in use. Signage will be used to get cars off the A46 and M40 which are likely to be the main problem areas regarding traffic. Attempts will be made to deter drivers from using the Alcester bypass. Travelling from Wixford to Alcester between 7.30am and 10.30am each day is likely to be untenable. 40-50,000 people are expected each day between 5.00am on the Friday to around 8.00pm on the Sunday. 2,000 caravans and tents will be in place from Thursday. Traffic is likely to be affected for 12-15 miles around the area. The Highways Agency will be involved in operating the control room and a traffic census will be in place. Free parking will be available at the Fair. A leaflet drop will take place to inform residents and a newsletter produced to highlight the above issues.
Comments from the Public
None
1) Apologies
Cllrs Mark Sullens and Kim James conveyed apologies in advance of this meeting.
2) Disclosure of Interests
There were no disclosures of interests.
3) Minutes
Minutes having been circulated were confirmed as an accurate record of the Parish Council Meeting in May 2010 and were duly signed by the Chairman.
4) Matters arising therefrom
Post Box
Councillors and the Clerk met with Joe Cox from Royal Mail regarding installing a post box on the green outside of the Village Hall. This will take at least a month. The old post box will be re-erected in its original location at some point this coming winter.
Telephone Box
The possibility of using the box as a picture gallery/noticeboard will be pursued. Cllr Hales will research options.
Traffic Calming
The post for the speed visor is currently on order from WCC and after its installation the speed visor will be in place for a six month period.
5) County Councillor's report
Peter Barnes said a decision on the future of the fire stations and potential closures thereof will be made by WCC cabinet next week.
A 'livestock' sign will be erected by Moor Hall Farm.
Speed limit signs in Wixford will now be moved to facilitate possible prosecution.
WCC care homes are likely to be privatised or closed.
A pelican crossing in Bidford has been enabled by a section 106 agreement.
A new device which measures HGV activity will require around £20,000 to finance.
District Councillor's report
Daren Pemberton said the Alcester/Bidford community forum had established themes for the next year which include youth issues and traffic, safety and speeding. It is likely the forums will take over from area committees which are waning.
A 'State of the district' debate at Stratford Town Hall was well attended.
Introducing a Leaders question and answer session at SDC is being considered.
SDC has some grants to help out small shops.
SDC and Warwick DC are still looking into shared working and possibly sharing a Chief Executive: An outcome should be known in October.
6 ) Planning
Application(s) reference: 10/00853/FUL
Proposed: Change of use of existing workshop to include repair and maintenance of cars in addition to agricultural vehicles and machinery.
Part change of use only and utilisation of existing vehicular access and hardstanding
2 Crabtree Farm, Wixford, Alcester, Warwickshire B49 6DG Mr Goodwin OBJECT GRANTED WITH CONDITIONS
Application(s) reference: 10/01031/LBC
Proposed: Removal of render to front right side of cottage to expose original brick frontage. Repair the brickwork and paint to match the white of the panels in the timber frame left side of the cottage.
Horseshoe Cottage, Wixford, Alcester, Warwickshire B49 6DA Mr M Kent SUPPORT
Application(s) reference: 10/01229/FUL
Proposed: Erection of agricultural building (retrospective)
Moor Hall Farm, Wixford, Alcester, Warwickshire B49 6DL Mr Roger Brookhouse
SUPPORT
Decision
Application(s) reference: 10/00242/FUL
Proposed: Two and single storey rear extensions and glazed canopy on
side elevation At: Stone House, Wixford, Alcester, Warwickshire B49 6DA
For: Mr Stanley Russell - Object - Granted with conditions
Planning Inspectorate decision regarding Moor Hall Farm
The appeal should not succeed. Enforcement Notice upheld with correction.
7) Environment and Safety
Newsletter - Progress report
A special newsletter concentrating on traffic arrangements for the CLA Game Fair will be produced by Cllr Haworth.
Calor Village of the year competition
We have entered this competition which replaces the best kept village
competition. Judging is in August and results will be known in September. The awards ceremony is now publicised.
8) Finance
External Audit
The external audit has been forwarded - No response as yet. The relevant notice re electors rights / end of year accounts is now displayed.
Bank Reconciliation
Was produced, and expounded upon by the Clerk.
Insurances
Are up to date and we have adequate protection.
Payments between meetings
None.
9) Accounts for payment
Cheque No 342 Clerks Salary/Expenses £ 439.59
Cheque No 343 The Information Commissioner £ 35.00
Cheque No 344 Karen Parnell (Tax Refund) £ 340.92
Income
HM Customs and Excise £ 340.92
Accounts authorised for payment:
Proposed: Cllr Haworth - Seconded Cllr Ballard
Cheques Signed: Cllr Ballard - Countersigned Cllr Haworth
10) Correspondence
WCC Rights of way consultation
WCC Notification regarding LTP3 consultation
(Feedback was sought from Councillors on both consultations)
There being no further business the meeting closed at 8.35 pm
Chairman
14th September 2010
14th July, 2010