MPC Agenda Tuesday November 25th 2008 at 7.30 p.m

MIDGHAM PARISH COUNCIL AGENDA

For the meeting to be held in the Village Hall on Tuesday November 25th 2008 at 7.30 p.m.

Apologies:

Declarations of interest:

Minutes of the previous meeting:

Matters arising:

Public time:

District Councillor’s report:

Village Hall Discussion and Update

Parish Plan

Midgham Green maintenance:

Clerks’ report:
Financial statement: c/a £167.12 d/a £19,122.69
Monies received - Nil

Bills to be paid: £559.90 Parish Clerk Salary & Expenses


Planning:
New applications: 08/01753/LBC Woottens, Upper Woolhampton
Decisions: 08/01801/HOUSE Vista, Birds Lane - allowed



Correspondence: Open Spaces - Appeal for Funds
Treasurer St Matthew’s Church Council – appeal for help with costs of upkeep West Berks – Winter Service & Adverse Weather plan
Housing Strategy Consultation

Play area: Inspection report Derek



Date of next meeting: Tuesday December 23rd 2008 or January 27th 2009 at 7.30 p.m.

MPC Minutes of the meeting Tuesday October 27th 2008

MIDGHAM PARISH COUNCIL

Minutes of the meeting held in the Village Hall on Tuesday October 27th 2008 at 7.30 p.m.

Present were Mr R Disson (Chairman), Mr. D. Lombardo, Mr J Goddard, Mrs. M. Rusbridge, Mrs I Neill, the Clerk Mrs. E Berry and two members of the public.

Apologies were received from Mr J Ormrod and Mr S Sawyer.

Declarations of interest: Mrs Rusbridge noted an interest on the matter relating to Dr Markham.

Minutes: The minutes of the previous meeting were read approved and signed.

Matters arising: Meeting with WBC re Nursery Copse arranged for 26 November at 16.30. Mr Disson and Mrs Rusbridge to attend.

Public Time – No comments but thanks to Miss Hibberd for sawing up the old bench.

District Councillor’s Report: Mrs Neill reported that Shaw House has now been opened to the public.
Parish conference took place last week. Mr Disson, Mrs Rusbridge, and Mrs Berry had attended but did not feel that the matters discussed were particularly interesting or relevant.

Village Hall - A flier had been sent to all village residents asking for volunteers to help run the hall, but unfortunately only one person expressed an interest. Mr Lombardo volunteered to personally contact all residents of Birds Lane to see if anyone felt able to help. Mrs Rusbridge had attended the Village Hall conference and reported that other villages seem to make more use their halls and she felt that some people may be reluctant to get involved due to the increasing number of regulations surrounding risk assessments and health and safety matters. It may be necessary to employ someone to clean the hall between lettings.

Meeting with Dr Markham – Mr Disson circulated a suggested draft of a response to Dr Markham’s complaint. The document was discussed and formally adopted. Councillors noted that there is a difference between comments made by a Parish Council, and comments made by an individual on their own behalf.


Clerk’s report:
Financial statement: c/a £199.19 d/a £19122.69 includes parish precept £3,750

Bills to be paid: £66.00 reimbursement to clerk for new cabinets
£3.00 reimbursement to Mrs Rusbridge
The Councillors present approved this amount for payment and also an amount to renew the Midgham Parish domain.


Planning

New applications: 08/01877FULD The Barn, Old Acre

Decisions:08/01575/HOUSE Toad Hall – Approved but with conditions attached to access over Midgham Green for construction vehicles and material.
08/01599/LBC2 Water Oak - Approved
08/01295/FULD Hallcourt Farm – Approved

Correspondence:

BT Adopt a Kiosk programme – not appropriate to Midgham.
BALC AGM 8th November 2008 Theale.
South East Plan Gypsies, Travellers, & Travelling people Consultation – circulated for consideration.
Royal Berkshire Fire Authority Plan – circulated for comment.

Allotments – Clerk had received two enquiries about allotments and had referred the applicants to Woolhampton, who had advised them that they only consider Woolhampton residents. On further investigation, it seems that following a boundary review in 1991, the parish boundary was moved, and Woolhampton Village Hall and the allotments which used to be in Midgham, were ceded to Woolhampton. Clerk to write to Woolhampton parish to check on what arrangements were put in place at that time to ensure that some of the allotments could remain available, and to see if any new allotments could be created west of the current ones.
.
Play Area – No problems to report.

Midgham Green: Various quotes had been received for logs and for maintenance work. The details are to be circulated for consideration by all the councillors. Mrs Rusbridge will also obtain a further quote to add the cutting of grass in the churchyard and at the front of the village hall.

Parish Plan: 9 volunteers attended a meeting on Monday 27th October and are starting a launch group which will meet next on 10th November.

There being no other business the meeting closed at 9.10 p.m.
The next meeting will be held in the Village Hall on Tuesday 25th November 2008 at 7.30 p.m

MIDGHAM PARISH COUNCIL Agenda October 28th 2008

Agenda for the meeting to be held in the Village Hall on Tuesday October 28th 2008 at 7.30 p.m.

Apologies:

Declarations of interest:

Minutes of the previous meeting:

Matters arising:

Public time:

District Councillor’s report:

Village Hall Discussion and Update

Meeting with Dr Markham

Clerks’ report:
Financial statement: c/a £199.19 d/a £19,122.69
Monies received - £2.30 SEE Wayleaves




Bills to be paid: £66.00 Reimbursements to Parish Clerk



Planning:
New applications: 08/01801/HOUSE Vista, Birds Lane
Decisions: 08/01575/HOUSE Toad Hall- Approved
08/01295/FULD Hallcourt Farm – Approved
08/01599/LBC2 Water Oak - Approved

Correspondence: Royal Berkshire Fire & Rescue Service consultation


Play area: Inspection report Derek

Midgham Green maintenance: quotes received

Parish Plan

Date of next meeting: Tuesday November 25th 2008 at 7.30 p.m.

MIDGHAM PARISH COUNCIL -Minutes of the meeting held in the Village Hall on Tuesday September 23rd 2008 (Unapproved)

Minutes of the meeting held in the Village Hall on Tuesday September 23rd 2008 at 7.30 p.m.

Present were Mr R Disson (Chairman), Mr. D. Lombardo, Mr J Goddard, Mrs. M. Rusbridge, Mr S Sawyer, the Clerk Mrs. E Berry and two members of the public.

Apologies were received from Mr J Ormrod and Mrs I Neill.

Declarations of interest: Mr Sawyer noted an interest on the planning applications for Toad Hall and Water Oak as they are his neighbours.

Minutes: The minutes of the previous meeting were read approved and signed.

Matters arising: Hill House – a reply had been received from the planning officer at WBC confirming that following a site visit, all planning permissions were satisfied. Clerk to forward reply to Mrs Smith.

Rural Housing Trust – invitation to opening of affordable homes development. Councillors unable to attend.

Public Time – no points were raised.

District Councillor’s Report: Mrs Neill was unable to attend but had sent a message that she will arrange a meeting with WBC representatives regarding Nursery Copse. Chairman and Mrs Rusbridge will attend.

Village Hall

Discussion postponed until next meeting when Mr Ormrod would be able to present amended documents. Moira will attend CCB Village Hall conference on 4th October.

Meeting with Dr Markham

Item carried forward to next meeting as Mr Ormrod unable to attend this evening.

Clerk’s report:
Financial statement: c/a £303.73 d/a £15,372.69

Bills to be paid: Mazars external audit fee £111.63
The Councillors present approved this amount for payment.

Clerk noted that 4 drawer cabinet is faulty and that the 2 drawer has collapsed completely. Agreed to canvass other parish councils and BALC in case of spares and was authorised to spend up to £320 if necessary.
Clerk also noted that two of the Parish notice boards are open to the weather and that therefore the notices are usually ruined within days. Clerk to obtain quotes for replacement.

Planning
New applications: 08/01575/HOUSE Toad Hall – Erection of two storey extension
08/01599/LBC2 Water Oak - Change to Inglenook fireplace
08/01295/FULD Hallcourt Farm – additional drawings for information
08/01801/HOUSE Vista, Birds Lane – extension to bungalow

Decisions – none this month.


Correspondence:

West Berks Council –Junior Citizen of the year award – request for nominations
Prohibition of heavy vehicles - mainly affecting Crookham Hill
Amendments to the Permitted Development regime - relaxing the rules for minor amendments – www.planningportal.gov.uk
District Parish Conference 21st October 2008 Chairman and vice chairman to attend.
Joint Strategic Planning Unit - gravel extraction consultation document.
Brimpton Rd, Earth retaining bund – no comments received from any residents of Brimpton Rd so Chairman will make contact to see if they have any comments.

.
Play Area – No problems to report.

Midgham Green: Mrs Rusbridge had obtained a quote for logs to replace the tapes. £220 plus VAT to include installation. She will try to obtain a further quote and also alternative quotes for grass mowing and hedge trimming for the green and the play area.

Parish Plan: A meeting has been arranged for 27th October in the Village Hall with Sarah Ward from CCB. Invitation to go out to all residents.

There being no other business the meeting closed at 8.40 p.m.

The next meeting will be held in the Village Hall on Tuesday 28th October 2008 at 7.30 p.m.

MIDGHAM PARISH COUNCIL- September 23rd 2008

MIDGHAM PARISH COUNCIL
AGENDA
For the meeting to be held in the Village Hall on Tuesday September 23rd 2008 at 7.30 p.m.

Apologies:

Declarations of interest:

Minutes of the previous meeting:

Matters arising:

Public time:

District Councillor’s report:

Village Hall Discussion and Update inc Village Hall Conference 4 Oct 2008

Meeting with Dr Markham

Clerks’ report:
Financial statement: c/a £303.73 d/a £15,372.69
Monies received -

Bills to be paid: £141.00 Mazars external audit fee


Planning:
New applications: 08/01575/HOUSE Toad Hall – Erection of two storey extension
08/01599/LBC2 Water Oak - Change to Inglenook fireplace
08/01295/FULD Hallcourt Farm – additional drawings for information

Correspondence: WBC – Junior citizen of the Year Award
Prohibition of Heavy Vehicles
Amendments to permitted development regime for Householders
District Parish Conference 21 October 2008





Play area: Inspection report Derek

Midgham Green maintenance:

Parish Plan

Date of next meeting: Tuesday October 28th 2008 at 7.30 p.m.

MIDGHAM PARISH COUNCIL Minutes August 26th 2008 Unapproved

Minutes of the meeting held in the Village Hall on Tuesday August 26th 2008 at 7.30 p.m.

Present were Mr R Disson (Chairman), Mr. D. Lombardo, Mr J Goddard, Mrs. M. Rusbridge, Mr S Sawyer, Mr J Ormrod, Mrs I Neill,(district councillor) and the Clerk Mrs. E Berry and six members of the public.

Apologies There were none.

Chairman’s statement - Following discussions with other councillors, Mr Disson announced his intention to continue in the role of Chairman.

Introduction of Status Report – Mr Sawyer has produced a document for use at each meeting to record action points allocated to each councillor.

Declarations of interest: There were none.

Minutes: The minutes of the previous meeting were read approved and signed.

Matters arising: there were none.

Public Time – no points were raised.

District Councillor’s Report: Mrs Neill reported that the new waste collection is continuing smoothly. Theale parish council have been awarded £9000 from the lottery fund to aid production of their parish plan. West Berks Council has been told that they will be expected to provide 10,500 new homes for the future. Councillors have an opportunity to contribute to this matter in the spatial plan which is currently circulating.
Matters at Nursery Copse are continuing slowly and more progress should be made soon.

Village Hall

Mr Ormrod circulated a document with proposals for the administration of the day to day affairs of the hall. He will examine the conveyance document together with any other relevant information and report back to the next meeting, when a vote will be taken on the next action to take. An article has appeared in the Parish magazine asking for volunteers, but there has been no response. Mr Lombardo will draft a letter to all residents seeking more offers of help.

CCB are holding a conference on Village Halls on 4th October at Cold Ash. There were no volunteers at the meeting but the chairman will check to see if others may be able to attend.

Meeting with Dr Markham

Mr Ormrod agreed to prepare a document for discussion at the next meeting.

Clerk’s report:
Annual risk assessment Review – Mrs Rusbridge proposed acceptance of the document and Mr Ormrod seconded.

Financial statement: c/a £442.89 d/a £15,872.69

Bills to be paid: Pike Bros for repair of Midgham Green seat £111.63
Clerks salary and reimbursements £560.92
The Councillors present approved these amounts for payment.
Planning
New applications:
08/01295/FULD – Hallcourt Farm – conversion of farm building – Mr Sawyer had visited the neighbours and discussed their reservations regarding protection of trees, increased traffic and provision of water storage. They have already made their comments to WBC, and apart from these points there are no objections to the proposed development.
Decisions
08/01169 – Gardeners Cottage - Block of 3 stables - Refused
08/00911/FULD – The Barn, Old Acre – Approved
08/01082/HOUSE – Kents Down Farm - Approved

Correspondence:

West Berks Council – Supplementary Planning guidance – to be circulated.
Local Transport Plan 2 Consultation – to be circulated.
Highway Improvement Programmes – 2008/2009
Flooding Issues – Mr Goddard had replied concerning the possibility of an earth retaining bund querying where it would be built. Clerk to write to residents of Brimpton Road to ask for views and possibly hold a meeting with them and an engineer from WBC.
CPRE Bradfield District AGM 28 August 2008 and Newbury District 3 September 2008.
Bus Shelter – Allianz have replied confirming that they will reimburse the parish council for a new shelter up to the sum insured. Clerk is waiting for more details from WBC and hopes to have the information by the next meeting.
Hill House – Mr Sawyer has spoken with the owners and more information has been received from WBC reiterating that materials can be changed from the original plans, and are not subject to WBC controls.
Representations were received from members of the public following which it was agreed that the clerk would write again to the WBC regarding the conditions and asking whether the owner has applied for permission for the changes to the original plans.

Play Area – No problems to report.

Mr Lombardo and Mrs Neill left the meeting at this point.

Midgham Green: Mr Ormrod agreed to obtain estimates for scheduled maintenance of Midgham Green. The tapes will be left in place until the logs have been purchased and the new surface consolidated. Mrs Rusbridge will obtain information about logs.

Parish Plan: Mr Disson and Mrs Rusbridge will look at this further and report at the next meeting.

There being no other business the meeting closed at 9.05 p.m.

The next meeting will be held in the Village Hall on Tuesday 23 September 2008 at 7.30 p.m.

MIDGHAM PARISH COUNCIL Agenda August 26th 2008

For the meeting to be held in the Village Hall on Tuesday August 26th 2008 at 7.30 p.m.

Apologies:

Chairman’s Statement

Introduction of Status report as an aide memoire to Councillors on tasks allocated

Declarations of interest:

Minutes of the previous meeting:

Matters arising:

Public time:

District Councillor’s report:

Village Hall Discussion and Update inc Village Hall Conference 4 Oct 2008

Meeting with Dr Markham

Clerks’ report:
Annual Risk Assessment Review – document attached
Financial statement: c/a £442.89 d/a £15,872.69
Monies received - from village hall account £63.76 refund of domestic rates
£164.50 refund of drains payment
£312.68 VAT refund
Bills to be paid: £111.63 Pike Bros - repair of seat Midgham Green
£560.92 Clerks Salary & Reimbursements

Planning:
New applications: 08/01295/FULD –Hallcourt Farm – conversion of farm buildings
Decisions: 08/00911/FULD - The Barn, Old Acre – Approved
08/01082/HOUSE- Kents Down Farm - Approved

Correspondence: WBC Supplementary Planning Guidance
E M Goddard – proposed Earth retaining Bund
CPRE – AGM – 3 September 2008 & Bradfield AGM – 28 August 2008
WBC Local Transport Plan Consultation
WBC Highway Improvement Programmes

Play area: Inspection report Derek

Midgham Green maintenance:

Parish Plan

Date of next meeting: Tuesday September 23rd 2008 at 7.30 p.m.

MIDGHAM PARISH COUNCIL Minutes (Unapproved) July 22nd 2008

Minutes of the meeting held in the Village Hall on Tuesday July 22nd 2008 at 7.30 p.m.

Present were Mr R Disson (Chairman), Mr. D. Lombardo, Mr J Goddard, Mrs. M. Rusbridge, Mr S Sawyer, the Clerk Mrs. E Berry and three members of the public. As Mr Disson was unable to attend until after the start of the meeting, Mr Sawyer chaired the meeting.

Apologies were received from Mr J Ormrod and from Mrs I Neill.

Declarations of interest: There were none.

Minutes: The minutes of the previous meeting were read approved and signed.

Matters arising:

Windows at Hill House - A reply had been received from WBC that no condition of the planning permission prevents any of the windows in the development from being replaced with a non-smoked variety of glass. A member of the public also raised a query regarding the window and the overgrown hedge on the site, and it was agreed that a councillor would visit the premises to discuss the matters with the owners. The parish clerk will raise the matter again with WBC.

Public Time – these items were raised under matter arising

District Councillor’s Report: No report as the councillor was not present.

Mrs Rusbridge left the meeting at this point due to a prior engagement.

Village Hall:

Mr Lombardo queried whether it would be possible for someone to run the bookings for the village hall while a new committee was being formed and he also asked when the new committee was likely to meet. Mr Angell explained the procedures needed to act as booking secretary, including the risk analysis and Mr Disson discussed the letter which was to be issued to all residents asking for more volunteers. Mr Lombardo agreed to draft the letter and forward it to the parish clerk for issue.
Mr Disson explained that he felt more people needed to be involved in the running of the hall, but that to date, insufficient practical help had been forthcoming.

Mr Disson stated that he would be tendering his resignation as Chairman and as a councillor.
Mr Lombardo declined to continue to participate in the meeting and left at 8.15pm.
Mr Sawyer thanked Miss Hibberd for cutting the grass around the hall.
Mr Disson noted that he has some plans from an architect which he will pass to Mr Sawyer.

Meeting with Dr Markham

No comments had been received from any councillors so the matter was held over for the next meeting.

Clerk’s report:
Financial statement: c/a £426.93 d/a £15,872.69

Bills to be paid: Alpha Engraving £66.00
Village Hall Rental £180.00
The Councillors present approved these amounts for payment.

Planning
New applications:
08/01082 – Kents Down Farm – No objections
08/01169 – Gardeners Cottage - Block of 3 stables. A member of the public had raised concerns about the available acreage for horses on this site compared with the proposed number of stables. They were concerned that the stables could be used for some other purpose.
Decisions:
08/00724 – Old Acre House – approved.

Mr Sawyer reminded councillors of their responsibility to visit neighbours involved in planning applications to seek their views.

Correspondence:

West Berks Council – Temporary closure of part of New Road Hill 18/08/08 – 19/08/08
West Berks Council - Temporary Closure of Midgham Level Crossing 19/07/08 – 21/07/08 & 26/07/08 – 28/07/08.
West Berks Council – Vegetation clearance – clerk to reply querying parish council powers.
West Berks Council – Earth retaining Bund – Mr Disson reported that he had discussed this matter with some residents of Brimpton Road but noted that they should all be consulted when they return to their houses, which is scheduled for August.
A4 Bus Shelter – Clerk is waiting for a letter from WBC to confirm that the old shelter has been destroyed, and will request more information on the possible replacement.

Play Area - No report available as Mr Lombardo was not present.

Midgham Green: The blue tapes will be left in place until the logs have been purchased.

Parish Plan: no news to report.

Mr Goddard noted that the village BBQ will be held at Midgham Park Farm this year.

There being no other business the meeting closed at 8.45 p.m.

The next meeting will be held in the Village Hall on Tuesday 26th August 2008 at 7.30 p.m.

MIDGHAM PARISH COUNCIL July 2008 Agenda

For the meeting to be held in the Village Hall on Tuesday July 22nd 2008 at 7.30 p.m.

Apologies:

Declarations of interest:

Minutes of the previous meeting:

Matters arising:

Public time:

District Councillor’s report:

Village Hall

Meeting with Dr Markham

Clerks’ report:
Financial statement: c/a £ d/a £
Monies received - £312.68 refund of VAT
Bills to be paid:
Bus Shelter


Planning:
New applications:
08/01082 – Kent Down Farm
Decisions:
08/00724/CERTP - Old Acre House

Correspondence: WBC New Road Hill Closure 18/8 – 19/8
WBC Vegetation Clearance


Play area: Inspection report Derek

Midgham Green maintenance:

Parish Plan

Date of next meeting: Tuesday August 26th 2008 at 7.30 p.m.

MIDGHAM PARISH COUNCIL June 2008 Minutes

Minutes of the meeting held in the Village Hall on Tuesday June 24th 2008 at 7.30 p.m.

Present were Mr R Disson (Chairman), Mr. D. Lombardo, Mr J Goddard, Mrs. M. Rusbridge, Mr S Sawyer, Mrs I Neill, district councillor, the Clerk Mrs.E Berry and three members of the public.

Apologies were received from Mr J Ormrod.

Declarations of interest: Chairman noted an interest in a planning application for Old Acre as he lives nearby.

Minutes: The minutes of the previous meeting were read approved and signed.

Matters arising: Chairman noted that the canal is in need of repair approximately 50 yards west of last year’s breach. Clerk will write to British Waterways to ask them to inspect.
Letter received from WBC detailing possible construction of a bund at the rear of the houses in Brimpton Road. Clerk to write to Mike Goddard as he owns the land.
Four people have expressed an interest in joining the village hall committee. Chairman will arrange for them to meet with Steve Angell.

Public time: Minutes of previous meetings will be placed on the village website.
The glass has been replaced in the notice board in Birds Lane.
Query regarding the windows in the development at Hill House will be referred to WBC for clarification.

District Councillor’s Report: The new waste and recycling collection service starts this week.
The community Information service has moved to Thatcham library.
The discovery centre is reopening this week following last year’s floods.
Notices relating to Nursery Copse are with the legal officer and should be issued in the next couple of weeks.

Annual Accounts y.e. 31.03.08. & Budget Review 2008/09

The clerk presented the accounts for 2007/2008 and noted that the internal audit had been completed. They were approved by the council, proposed by Mr Disson and seconded by Mrs Rusbridge and were signed by the Chairman.

Village Hall:

One event had been held in the hall last week.
The drains have been cleared.
A letter will be sent to all residents regarding future plans for the hall when the new committee have met.

Meeting with Dr Markham

No comments had been received from any councillors so the matter was held over for the next meeting. The chairman noted his disappointment that councillors have not been more active between meetings following his request last month for a greater commitment. An emergency planning meeting held last night with WBC had been attended by himself and only one other councillor. He had received no feedback at all in relation to the local development framework.


Clerk’s report:
Financial statement: c/a 128.94 d/a £16560.01

Bills to be paid: Campaign to protect Rural England membership £28.00
Monksmead Farms £340.75
Monksmead Farms £88.12
P&P Services iro Village Hall £164.50
J Barraclough, internal audit £50.00

The Councillors present approved these amounts for payment.

Planning
New applications:
08/00911 Old Acre - Demolition of garage and erection of building – 2 councillors were against this application and 3 noted no objections therefore the council had no objection overall. They noted however that any further development should be very strictly controlled.

Decisions:
08/00682 Water Oak – Approved
08/00648 Spire Ridge Kennels - Approved

Correspondence:

P O Box – PO Box no 6203 RG19 9FP has been set up for future use.
Area Forums – WBC have suspended these temporarily with a view to finding alternative ways to communicate and consult with the public.
Community Council for Berkshire – AGM 15 July 2008
Open Spaces Society – AGM 1 July 2008
CAB – Letter of thanks for contribution to outreach service.
Readibus – AGM 10th July 2008
Thames Valley Police Authority – Have your say! & Open Day 9 August at Sulhamstead.

Play Area No problems to report.

Midgham Green: The parish council have paid for the works to the green but will be claiming the amount back from the Midgham Green residents as previously agreed. One resident has queried the width of the turning circle and feels that it may need to be slightly enlarged. The chairman will inspect to see if alteration is needed. Logs will be placed along the path to protect the edges. Some rats have been seen in the discarded grass cuttings and the clerk has written to the contractor to ask for cuttings to be removed in future.
The bench has been repaired.

Parish Plan: no news to report.

There being no other business the meeting closed at 8.45 p.m.

The next meeting will be held in the Village Hall on Tuesday 29th July 2008 at 7.30 p.m.

MIDGHAM PARISH COUNCIL May 2008 Minutes

Minutes of the meeting held in the Village Hall on Tuesday May 27th 2008 at 7.30 p.m.

Present were Mr R Disson (Chairman), Mr. D. Lombardo, Mr J Ormrod, Mrs. M. Rusbridge, Mr S Sawyer, the Clerk Mrs.E Berry and two members of the public.

Apologies were received from Mr J Goddard and Mrs I Neill.

Declarations of interest: None

Minutes: The minutes of the previous meeting were read approved and signed.

Matters arising: There were none.

Public time: There were no points raised.

District Councillor’s Report: None made as the District Councillor was not present.

Village Hall: T he chairman explained that the hall committee no longer exists as the Hall Chairman was unable to continue and there are insufficient volunteers to continue with the rest of the duties. The councillors were unanimous that every effort should be made to maintain a hall for the village although it is currently not possible to keep it open so a letter will be sent to all parishioners asking for volunteers to serve on an interim committee.
The village hall survey was also discussed together with the various alternatives for building a new hall.
The Chairman had been in contact with Dreweatt Neate who can draw up a feasibility study with a view to achieving planning permission for a new hall. This would involve selling the existing hall and the children’s play area, and building a new hall on an alternative site, although a site has yet to be identified. WBC has indicated that planning permission would only be possible if the three applications are submitted together as they have to consider significant community enhancement.
The initial fee for the study would be £1750 plus vat but there would be additional significant costs if the proposals move on to more detailed planning stages.
It was also noted that definitive proposals will have to be presented to the village and that at all stages, the development must be wholly for the benefit of the village.
The councillors voted 4-1 in favour of commissioning the feasibility study. In the meantime the hall will remain closed as there is no one to run it.

West Berkshire Planning – Local Development Framework: The Chairman and Mrs Rusbridge had attended a meeting and reported that WBC will be reassessing the boundaries for each parish. The changes could have an effect on the planning process. The chairman circulated an information pack and asked for comments back within the next 7 days.

Dr Markham: The Chairman and Mr Ormrod had held a meeting with Dr Markham to discuss his complaint regarding a planning application. Following this meeting the Chairman wished to state that if individuals discuss or communicate matters which have been discussed by the parish council, they must make it clear whether they are acting personally, or on behalf of Midgham Parish Council, as a matter of best practice. A further statement will be drafted for the next parish meeting.

Clerk’s report:
Financial statement: c/a 1019.98 d/a £17560.01

Bills to be paid Manscape Garden Services for 2007 £556.05. Clerk will request that in future the contractor removes the cut grass after mowing.
Sane Planning in the South East – councillors decided not to join.
Citizens Advice Bureau – a donation of £150 was agreed.
Community Council for Berkshire membership £30.
Open Spaces Society £30.
Parish Clerk Salary and reimbursements £507.74.
Parish Council Insurance £353.57 New quote accepted from Came & Co.

The Councillors present approved these amounts for payment.


Planning

New applications:
08/00648 Spire Ridge Kennels - no objections as long as there is only one residential property.

Decisions:
08/00363/Hall Court - Approved
08/00361/Hall Court - Approved

Correspondence:
Ramblers Work Party – clerk to ask them to pay particular attention to footpath number 3.

Play Area No problems to report.

Midgham Green: Steve and Moira will mark out the path again so that Mr Lovell can start work.

Parish Plan: Hanslip Long, Tricia Jacobs and Matthew Brooker have volunteered to work on the parish plan. Ray and Steve will organise a preliminary meeting.

Any Other Business

Clerk to chase up the repairs to the seat on the green.
Steve to buy and fit new window for the notice board.

Election of Chairman: Mr Disson was unanimously elected Chairman for the next 12 months. He duly signed the Declaration of Acceptance of Office as Chairman

There being no other business the meeting closed at 9.20 p.m.
The next meeting will be held in the Village Hall on Tuesday 24th June 2008 at 7.30 p.m.

MIDGHAM PARISH COUNCIL April 2008 Minutes

Minutes of the meeting held in the Village Hall on Tuesday April 22nd 2008 at 7.30 p.m.

Present were Mr R Disson (Chairman), Mr. D. Lombardo, Mr J Ormrod, Mrs. M. Rusbridge, the Clerk Mrs.E Berry and one member of the public.
Apologies were received from Mr. S Sawyer, Mr J Goddard and Mrs I Neill.

Declarations of interest: None

Minutes: The minutes of the previous meeting were read approved and signed.

Matters arising:
Annual Village Meeting: 24 April 2008. The District Councillor will now be unable to attend the meeting. Details of the plans for the hall and lay-by will be displayed together with the trust documents.
S106 details from WBC received. Derek will format the information so that the council can consider what action to take regarding the funds.

Public time: WBC has advised that the A4 bus shelter should be replaced during the current financial year but a check will be made for a more specific time frame. Clerk to make enquiries about a claim on the insurance.

District Councillor’s Report: None made as the District Councillor was not present.

Clerk’s report:
Financial statement: c/a 1155.41 d/a £15145.01

Bills to be paid Manscape – clerk is querying latest invoice.
Village Hall rates demand – checking to see who is liable for this.
PJ Lush for Midgham Green £1468.75
Two quotes have been received for Parish Council Insurance. These will be discussed further at the next meeting.
The Councillors present approved this amount for payment.

Invitation received from the Rural Housing Trust re an Affordable Housing scheme.
Kennet & Pang Valley Area Forum meeting 23 April 2008. No councillors able to attend.
Town & Parish Emergency Planning Training 23 June 2008. All councillors will try to attend.
Clerk to reserve places.
Open Spaces Society request for a donation for their Green Alert campaign. £50 agreed and approved.
Connecting Communities in Berkshire membership request – clerk to check details.
Quality Design Planning Document – to be circulated to councillors.
Parish Bids for the Highway & Transport Capital programme – circulated.
a)Replacement of Bus Shelter on A4 – will be replaced under the Real Time Passenger Information scheme.
b)Safe off street parking for 3 vehicles outside Midgham Village Hall – bid unsuccessful but may be resubmitted next year.
Safer Communities Partnership Newsletter circulated.

Planning
New applications:
08/00682/HOUSE Water Oak, Midgham Green

Decisions:
08/00402/LBC2 Water Oak, Midgham Green Approved
08/00299/HOUSE 6 Midgham Park Cottages Approved

Correspondence:

Letter received from Ann Clarke re landscaping at junction of Birds Lane/School Hill. Moira to look at this and make recommendations.

Report received from WBC re flooding in Midgham making a number of recommendations for action to reduce future risks. Report to be circulated to all councillors.

Play Area No problems to report.

New Play Area James is researching this.

Midgham Green: Most of the tree work is now complete but the surface of the green needs improving. James will get quotes for preparation and treatment of the green.

Village Hall Report:

All households have been sent the Village Hall survey and approximately 30 have been returned. The chairman has had informal meetings with the planning department to discuss possible solutions. A parish resident is considering donating some land for a new hall.
New vacuum will be purchased shortly.

Any Other Business

47 Birds Lane – a reply had been received from WBC explaining that most of the work has been found to be acceptable in planning terms. The completion of a bonded surface for the new access is still under observation by the planning dept. The chairman noted that the reply covers all the points raised by the parish council and explains the current position.

Mole End – Chairman has written to Dr Markham offering to have an informal meeting to discuss further points raised by him.

There being no other business the meeting closed at 9.00 p.m.

The next meeting will be held in the Village Hall on Tuesday 27th May 2008 at 7.30 p.m.

Mpc Agenda for Tuesday April 22nd 2008

MIDGHAM PARISH COUNCIL AGENDA
For the meeting to be held in the Village Hall on Tuesday April 22nd 2008 at 7.30 p.m.

Apologies:

Declarations of interest:

Minutes of the previous meeting:

Matters arising:
Annual Village Meeting set for Thursday April 24th 2008
S106 details

Public time:

District Councillor’s report:

Clerks’ report:
Financial statement: c/a £1155.41 d/a £15145.01
Bills to be paid: Manscape Garden Service £556.05
R Disson stationery £73.15
E Berry stationery £134.96
Village Hall Rates Demand £63.76
Insurance Renewal £433.52

Planning:
New applications:


Decisions:
08/00402/LBC2 Water Oak, Midgham Green Approved
08/00299/HOUSE 6 Midgham Park Cottages Approved


Correspondence:

From A Clarke re corner of bird’s Lane and Church Hill
Parish Bids for Highway & Transport Capital Programme
Quality Design – West Berkshire Supplementary Planning Document


Play area:
Inspection report Derek
New play equipment James

Midgham Green maintenance:


Village Hall report: Moira

Date of next meeting: Tuesday May 27th 2008 at 7.30 p.m.

Mpc minutes Tuesday March 25th 2008

MIDGHAM PARISH COUNCIL

Minutes of the meeting held in the Village Hall on Tuesday March 25th 2008 at 7.30 p.m.

Present were Mr R Disson (Chairman), Mr. D. Lombardo, Mr J Ormrod, Mrs. M. Rusbridge, Mr. J Goddard, the Clerk Mrs.E Berry and one member of the public. Mrs I Neill the district councillor joined the meeting at 8.15pm.

Apologies were received from Mr. S Sawyer.

Declarations of interest: None

Minutes: The minutes of the previous meeting were read approved and signed.

Matters arising:
Annual Village Meeting: 24 April 2008.The Chairman had drafted a new issue of the Midgham Messenger and Moira agreed to contact WBC to invite a speaker to attend to talk about the Parish Plan. A letter will also be sent out explaining the situation regarding the village hall.

Public time: Miss Hibberd noted that the bus shelter on the A4 has been blown over and the Chairman reported that WBC have already removed it and are considering a replacement.

District Councillor’s Report: The new waste contract has been signed and new bins should start to be delivered in April. Paices Hill site has reopened.
The Vibrant Villages scheme may be worth considering for future projects as grants may be available.
There is a planning workshop on delivering homes and Rural Housing on 6 May at Chieveley. The Chairman will be attending with one other to be arranged.
Nursery Copse – notice of compliance is progressing.

Clerk’s report:
Financial statement: c/a 163.13 d/a £16145.01

Bills to be paid BALC Subscription £43.94
The Councillors present approved this amount for payment.

The clerk is applying for a licence to operate a reply paid envelope scheme for future exercises.


Planning:
New applications:
08/00361/LBC Hall Court
08/00364/HOUSE Hall Court
08/00402/LBC2 Water Oak

Decisions:
08/00034/LBC 43 Birds Lane – Approved
08/00041/HOUSE 43 Birds Lane – Approved
07/00969/CERTE Mole End Certificate of lawfulness
07/02665/HOUSE Church View Farm – Approved
07/02760/FULD West Grange Hotel-Approved


Correspondence:

A complaint had been received from Dr Markham at Mole End regarding a recent planning issue. Information had been sent to Dr Markham and to date no reply had been received.
Light Pollution – WBC do not have a specific policy on this but it was noted that the issue could be included in the Parish Plan as the councillors agreed that there is a marked increase in the use of lights at night.
District Parish Conference – Ray had attended and reported that WBC will soon be issuing information on procedures to take during emergencies such as the recent flooding. Parishes may need to identify vulnerable individuals within their area.
Parish Plan Conference – Moira attended and found it to be a very informative day which had provided lots of ideas and sources of help for the future. A ‘champion’ will need to be appointed to carry the parish plan forward. Ray & Moira will be attending a follow up meeting on 8 April.
Rates Demand for Village Hall – Moira will check with Chairman of village hall committee to see who usually pays this.
SCOPE no one was able to do house to house collection.
Royal Berks Fire and Rescue service consultation document circulated.
Children & Young Peoples Plan – Councillors unable to attend.
Community Policing Awards – details circulated
Planning & Trading Standards Road show – details circulated.
West Berks Foster Care Association – request received too late for consideration.

Play Area No problems to report.

New Play Area James is still researching this.

Midgham Green: Contractors, PJ Lush, have started work on the trees. The new path and the turning circle have been marked out and Mr Lovell will begin work shortly..

Village Hall Report:

A downpipe is blocked and a contractor will be called to identify the problem. The vacuum cleaner has broken and the councillors agreed to the purchase of a new one.

Any Other Business

Moira proposed nomination of John Goddard to attend the Royal Garden Party. Seconded by Derek.

A query was raised about S106 money and the clerk was asked to contact Caroline Walsh to find out when the funds can be expected.

There being no other business the meeting closed at 9.25 p.m.

The next meeting will be held in the Village Hall on Tuesday 22 April 2008 at 7.30 p.m.

MPC agenda for Tuesday March 25th 2008

Midgham Parish Council agenda for the meeting to be held in the Village Hall on Tuesday March 25th 2008 at 7.30 p.m.

Apologies:

Declarations of interest:

Minutes of the previous meeting:

Matters arising:
Annual Village Meeting set for Thursday April 24th 2008

Public time:

District Councillor’s report:

Clerks’ report:
Financial statement: c/a £163.13 d/a £16145.0
Bills to be paid: BALC subscription £43.94

Planning:
New applications:
08/00361/LBC Hall Court
08/00364/HOUSE Hall Court
08/00402/LBC2 Water Oak

Decisions:
08/00034/LBC 43 Birds Lane – Approved
08/00041/HOUSE 43 Birds Lane – Approved
07/00969/CERTE Mole End Certificate of lawfulness
07/02665/HOUSE Church View Farm – Approved
07/02760/FULD West Grange Hotel

Correspondence:
WBC Light Pollution
WBC District Parish Conference
WBC Invitation to Children & Young Peoples Plan meeting 27/03/08 circulated by e-mail.
Rates Demand Village Hall
SCOPE request for house to house collectors
Letter from Mole End, Midgham Park.
West Berks Foster Care Association support request
Royal Berks Fire & Rescue service consultation document
Play area:
Inspection report Derek
New play equipment James

Midgham Green maintenance:


Village Hall report: Moira

Date of next meeting: Tuesday April 22nd 2008 at 7.30 p.m.

MPC Minutes Tuesday February 26th 2008

Present were Mr R Disson (Chairman),Mr.S.Sawyer (Vice Chairman), Mr. D. Lombardo, Mrs. M. Rusbridge, Mr. J Goddard, the Clerk Mrs.E Berry and one member of the public.

Apologies were received from Mr. Ormrod and Mrs I Neill.

Declarations of interest: None

Minutes: The minutes of the previous meeting were read approved and signed.

Matters arising:
Annual Village Meeting: 24 April 2008.The Chairman had recently attended a village hall committee meeting where the future of the hall was discussed at length, in relation to future maintenance costs and possible relocation. The subject would therefore be put on the agenda for the village meeting in order to bring it to a much wider audience to canvass views.
Flooding issues: The clerk had made a report back to WBC but no further information had been received.
Hill House: owners had confirmed that the new access is temporary for building access. Clerk to write to ask how long building works are likely to take.
Parish Planning Meeting: Sat 8th March. Mrs Rusbridge may be able to attend.
Post Watch: reply received thanking us for comments on possible closure of Chapel Row post office.
Parish websites: Mr Sawyer had attended a meeting to provide information about help with setting them up and help with drafting parish plans.
West Grange Hotel: Clerk to contact WBC as an entrance has been opened up into Cox’s Lane for which permission may not have been given.

Public time: Miss Hibberd thanked the council for the new seat by the church and stated that the hedge cutting has been carried out.

District Councillor’s Report: the councillor was not present.

Clerk’s report:
Financial statement: c/a 1112.59 d/a £16145.01

Bills to be paid Orchard Street Furniture for the new seat £469.64
Clerks salary £404.58 and £93.87 expenses £498.45

The Councillors present approved these amounts for payment.


Planning:
New applications:
07/02760/Change of use of outbuildings of West Grange Hotel-no objection but comments made.
O8/00034/Demolition of garage & replacement with new garage & studio 43 Birds Lane-no objection.
07/00969/Mole End Additional site plan for information
08/00299/HOUSE/Midgham Park Cottages single storey extension. In circulation to councillors.
Decisions: 07/02470/Land at Midgham landfill site - Approved
Stopping Up Order April Cottage. A query was raised regarding whether fencing and vehicular access is in accordance with planning permission. Clerk to contact WBC to check.
Church View Farm.Case officers report received. Permission granted.

Correspondence:

District Parish Conference 10 March Mrs Rusbridge may be able to attend together with
Mr Disson.
Housing & Supporting Strategies Consultation Event 10th March. None of the councillors will be able to attend.

Play Area No problems to report

Allotments Clerk will check with WBC to see if any of the allotments at Woolhampton belong to
Midgham parish

Midgham Green: Councillors had met further with two contractors and further quotes had been received. Mrs Rusbridge proposed that the quote from Lush be accepted and the councillors agreed, dependent upon one more piece of information which Mr Disson agreed to obtain.
Mrs Rusbridge will arrange for the plaque to be replaced on the new seat outside the church.
Ray proposed that the quote for £95 for repairs to the seat on the green be accepted and Mrs Rusbridge seconded. Clerk will arrange for work to commence.
It was reported that lorries and cars were seen driving across the green on 15th February. The chairman asked that anyone who sees this happening should try to make a note of the number plate or the name on the lorry.
The turning circle needs to be re-marked and the clerk will write to Mr Lovell to ask for a date for the commencement of work to the paths on the green.

Village Hall Report:

As previously mentioned the chairman had attended the last meeting, and a number of options had been discussed which will be brought up at the village meeting.

There being no other business the meeting closed at 9.10 p.m.

The next meeting will be held in the Village Hall on Tuesday 25th March 2008 at 7.30 p.m.

Mr Goddard announced that there will be an organ recital at the church on Saturday 1st March to raise money for the organ fund.