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Meeting minutes 15.05.2018

ALBURY PARISH COUNCIL (APC) MEETING
Minutes of the annual meeting held Tuesday 15th May 2018, 19.15 at the Village Hall

Present: Cllr Murdoch, Walne and Cllr Waples.
In attendance: Mrs J Pettitt (parish clerk), and 1 member of the public.

The chair opened the meeting at 7.20 pm

1. To elect a chairman for the year 2018/19 and sign Declaration of Acceptance of Office
Resolved, proposed Cllr Waples, seconded by Cllr Walne, to appoint Cllr Murdoch as Chair for the year 2018/19. Unanimously agreed.
Cllr Murdoch signed the declaration of acceptance of office.
2. To elect a vice-chair for the year 2018/19 and sign Declaration of Acceptance of Office
Resolved, proposed Cllr Walne, seconded Cllr Murdoch, to appoint Cllr Waples as Vice-chair for the year 2018/19. Unanimously agreed. Cllr Waples signed the declaration of acceptance of office.
3. To receive and accept apologies for absence.
Apologies were received and accepted from Cllr Wheatley.
4. To receive declarations of interest. None.
5. To confirm the minutes of the Albury Parish Council meeting held on Tuesday 3rd April 2018. Resolved that these minutes be agreed as a true and accurate record of the proceedings and be duly signed by the chair Unanimously agreed.
6. To receive reports on actions agreed at the last council meeting
These will be reported in specific agenda points.
7. To receive petitions, comments and questions from the public.
None.
8. To consider planning applications
3/18/0983/HH. Single storey timber conservatory, White Cottage, Patmore Heath, Albury. No comment.
3/18/1034/HH. Creation of first floor including dormer windows and front porch – Amendment to previous approval 3/17/1336/HH – raising ridge by 30cm, altering fenestration to rear and side elevations including proposed rear and side first floor Juliet balconies, changing porch roof to a pitched roof and addition of solar panels on roof, Ashleigh, Patmore Heath, Albury. No comment.
9. To receive bank statements, bank reconciliation and financial summary and complete mandate change forms to amend bank signatories
These were received by the Council and found to be satisfactory.
Balance at 3/4/18 £29,331.88
Income: Precept £3,450.00 Wayleave £91.12
Outgoings: As agreed 3/4/18 £1,607.10
Balance at 14/5/2018 £31,265.90
Balance per bank statements £31,770.93 – balance of £31,265.90 = £505.03
Unpresented cheques to date:101124 £38.00 (reissued), 101128 £130.00, 101132 £337.03 Total £505.03
10. To sign off the annual return and accounts previously circulated
The councillors inspected the accounts which confirm expenditure and income were below £25,000 for the year ending March 2018.
Resolved, proposed Cllr Waples, seconded Cllr Murdoch, that Albury Parish Council’s annual expenditure and income are below £25,000 and form AGAR2, containing the Certificate of Exemption, should be completed and signed. Unanimously agreed.
AGAR2 was duly completed and signed by the chair and clerk.
11. To consider the insurance renewal quote
The quote is £260.80. Resolved, proposed Cllr ¬¬¬¬¬Murdoch, seconded Cllr Walne, that the insurance be renewed with Community First @ £260.80. Unanimously agreed.
12. To agree payments due
Re-issue cheque to D Muller £38, Markwell Glass (fire-exit doors balance) £382, Community First Insurance £260.80. Total £680.80.
Resolved, proposed Cllr Murdoch, seconded Cllr Walne, that these payments be made. Unanimously agreed.
13. To receive the clerk’s report (for information only)
None.
14. To discuss actions taken to conform with new General Data Protection Regulations
The clerk has obtained a model document from the HAPTC and will complete this ready for publication on the website.
15. To discuss the Albury Newsletter Editor’s request for the parish council to take over responsibility for its production
The newsletter editor has appealed for someone to take over the role of editor but has had no responses. She has said she will carry on producing the newsletter in the interim but would like someone else to organise its distribution. The councillors briefly discussed taking over the newsletter and agreed to invite the editor to the next meeting to discuss this further.
16. To discuss the progress of the traditional village sign project
Councillors Geoff Williams and Graham McAndrew are making enquiries on our behalf as to who owns the proposed sites.
17. To discuss the progress of the discussions with HCC with respect to the hole in the bridge at Patmore Heath
Councillor Graham McAndrew has followed up with highways on our behalf, mainly to establish who made the site visit in March. The highway locality manager responded to the clerk on 19/4/18 to say he was making enquiries with Ringway. On 13th May, the clerk emailed the highway locality manager to see if there was any news and is awaiting a response.
18. To discuss a reprint of the Albury Walks leaflet
Cllr Murdoch has made enquiries with HCC about a reprint from the original printers. The clerk agreed to seek quotes from other companies. The first print run cost £618 for the printing and folding of 3500 leaflets.
19. To discuss parking issues at the village hall
The clerk agreed to chase East Herts to find out when they are going to remove the abandoned car in the village hall car park (reported in April).
20. To discuss the councillor vacancy and hear from any interested parties
Jeremy Kent attended the meeting and said he would be happy to fill the councillor vacancy. He is a retired pharmacist who has lived in the village for almost 30 years.
Resolved, proposed Cllr Murdoch, seconded Cllr Waples, that Jeremy Kent be co-opted to fill the vacancy. Unanimously agreed.
21. To suggest agenda items for the Parish Council Meeting to be held Tuesday 12th June 2018 at 7.15pm at the Village Hall
Newsletter, village sign, hole in the road as Patmore heath, village hall parking, leaflet reprint, Councillor vacancy, traffic calming and radar sign each end of the village.

The Chair closed the meeting at 8.32 pm

Meeting minutes 03.04.2018

ALBURY PARISH COUNCIL MEETING
Minutes of the meeting held Tuesday 3rd April 2018, 7.15 pm at the Village Hall

Present: Cllrs Walne, Waples (vice chair) and Wheatley
In attendance: Mrs J Pettitt (parish clerk)

The vice-chair opened the meeting at 7.20 pm

1. To receive and accept apologies for absence.
Apologies were received and accepted from Cllrs Murdoch and Clayden-Smith.
2. To receive declarations of interest. Cllr Wheatley declared an interest in point 6.
3. To confirm the minutes of the Albury Parish Council meeting held on Tuesday 6th March 2018.
Resolved that these minutes be agreed as a true and accurate record of the proceedings and be duly signed by the vice-chair. Unanimously agreed.
4. To receive reports on actions agreed at the last council meeting
None.
5. To receive petitions, comments and questions from the public
None.
6. To consider planning applications received
3/18/0508/AGPN Erection of an agricultural barn, High Hall Farm, Clapgate, Albury.
3/18/0490/CUAPN Convert agricultural outbuilding to Class B8 (storage or distribution), Piggots Farm, Albury End, Albury.
No comment.
7. To receive bank statements, bank reconciliation and financial summary
These were received by the Council and found to be satisfactory.
Balance at 6/3/18 £30,304.88
Income: None
Outgoings: As agreed 6/3/18 £89.00
Fire exit door deposit £846.00 (as agreed point 10, 6/3/18)
Website updates £38.00 (as agreed point 11, 6/2/18)
Balance at 3/4/18 £29,331.88
Balance per bank statements £29,369.88 (includes unpresented cheque £38)
8. To agree payments due
Clerk’s salary £711.36, Clerk’s expenses £52.43, Leavers gift £33.50, Easter Event £212.78, Litter picker 1 £130, Litter picker 2 £130, HAPTC annual subs £337.03 Total £1607.10
Resolved, proposed by Cllr Waples, seconded by Cllr Wheatley, that these payments be made. Unanimously agreed.
9. To receive the clerk’s report (for information only)
None.
10. To discuss the response to the councillor vacancy notice
There was no request for an election so the parish council may co-opt a councillor as soon as possible. The clerk agreed to advertise in the newsletter and on Facebook. The councillors will also ask around.
11. To discuss the condition of the railings and vegetation over the river Ash
The councillors discussed contracting someone to repair and repaint the railings and also tidy the area. The clerk agreed to approach Highways first to check if the parish council are permitted to do this and what the liabilities are.
12. To discuss the progress of actions required for the new General Data Protection Regulations
These are ongoing.
13. To discuss the Herts County Council’s assessment of the road/bridge fault at Patmore Heath
A resident confirmed that an engineer from HCC had visited the site and took numerous photographs. The clerk attempted to make contact with him for an update but Highways were unable to say who had visited. The clerk agreed to make further enquiries.
14. To receive an update of the village sign project
It has been confirmed that a sign cannot be placed on the green at Clapgate (by the bus stop). The clerk agreed to speak to a local councillor to ask for help with submitting a planning application for a spot near the bridge over the River Ash.
15. To discuss the Easter Egg Hunt held on Saturday 31st March
This was a success despite the rain. The excess eggs were donated to sell at the Albury afternoon tea on Sunday 4th April to raise funds for churchyard maintenance. Thank you to the Jane Pettitt, Cllrs Clayden-Smith, Wheatley and Walne and to Bella Clayden-Smith helping on the day.
16. To suggest agenda items for the Annual Parish Council Meeting and Annual Meeting of the Parish to be held Tuesday 1st May 2018 at 7.15pm at the Village Hall
Elect chair and vice-chair, sign-off annual return, agree insurance renewal, co-option of new councillor, Data Protection, the future of the Albury Newsletter, review of the last year’s activities.

The vice-chair closed the meeting at 8.05 pm

Meeting minutes 06.03..2018

ALBURY PARISH COUNCIL MEETING
Minutes of the meeting held Tuesday 6th March 2018, 7.15 pm at the Village Hall

Present: Cllrs Murdoch (vice-chair), Walne, Waples and Wheatley
In attendance: Mrs J Pettitt (parish clerk), and 1 member of the public.
The chairman opened the meeting at 7.15 pm

1. To receive and accept apologies for absence. Apologies were received and accepted from Cllr Clayden-Smith.
2. To receive declarations of interest. None.
3. To confirm the minutes of the Albury Parish Council meeting held on Tuesday 6th February 2018.
Resolved that these minutes be agreed as a true and accurate record of the proceedings and be duly signed by the vice-chair. Unanimously agreed.
4. To receive reports on actions agreed at the last council meeting. None.
5. To receive petitions, comments and questions from the public. None.
6. To consider planning applications received. None received.
7. To discuss renewing our Hundred Parishes Society membership at a cost of £10
It was agreed to renew this membership. Resolved, proposed by Cllr Murdoch, seconded by Cllr Waples, to renew Albury Parish Council’s membership at a cost of £10. Unanimously agreed.
8. To receive bank statements, bank reconciliation and financial summary
These were received by the Council and found to be satisfactory.
Balance at 6/2/18 £30,415.27
Income: Bank interest £12.61
Outgoings: As agreed 6/2/18 £123.00
Balance at 6/3/18 £30,304.88
9. To agree payments due
Graham’s Taxis (February) £79.00, Hundred Parishes Annual subs £10.00. Total £89.00
Resolved, proposed by Cllr Murdoch, seconded by Cllr Waples, that these payments be made. Unanimously agreed.
10. To receive the clerk’s report (for information only)
A resident requested an update with regards to the hole in the road at Patmore Heath. A resident recently asked if the railings over the River Ash bridge are to be repainted.
11. To record Councillor Benton’s resignation, and discuss who should replace him, and the fact that there is now a councillor vacancy to be filled
Councillor Benton has resigned after more than 4 years with Albury Parish Council. The councillors discussed how much he will be missed. The clerk has prepared a vacancy notice to be displayed from tomorrow until 27th March. Resolved, proposed by Cllr Waples, seconded by Cllr Walne, that Cllr Murdoch should take on the role of Chair. Unanimously agreed. Cllr Murdoch agreed to take on the position. As Cllr Murdoch was vice-chair, resolved, proposed by Cllr Walne, seconded by Cllr Wheatley, that Cllr Waples should take on the role of Vice-chair. Unanimously agreed. Cllr Waples agreed to take on the position.
12. To discuss the General Data Protection Regulations Action Plan and privacy notices
The clerk is to continue to work through the 12-point plan and also customise the necessary privacy notices.
13. To discuss the fault in the bridge at Patmore Heath and the response from Herts County Council with respect to adopting it
Highways have said the road will probably not be adopted. A resident has sent them proof of that section having once been a footpath so it may be that there is a case to have it repaired and maintained. Herts County Council contacted the clerk to say an engineer will inspect the road this week.
14. To receive an update of the village sign project
A detailed sketch of the sign has been supplied and the councillors agreed it was fine. Cllr Waples is waiting for East Herts planning department to respond to planning queries, which will help to decide if it is worth paying the fee to submit a full planning application.
15. To set a budget for the Easter Egg Hunt to be held on Saturday 31st March
The clerk agreed to buy the chocolate eggs, bags and gifts for the hunt.
Resolved, proposed by Cllr Murdoch, seconded by Cllr Waples, that a budget of £200 be allocated for these purchases. Unanimously agreed.
16. To discuss the village hall committee’s request for a grant of £1000 towards new fire escape doors
The total price to replace all four doors is £4228 including VAT. The Stansted Airport Community Trust has pledged a grant of £3,000 towards the doors. The councillors discussed paying the other £1228 as the parish council can reclaim VAT, which means the outlay will then be £1023.33. Resolved, proposed by Cllr Wheatley, seconded by Cllr Walne, that the parish council pay £1228 towards the new fire doors. Unanimously agreed.
17. To discuss the fact that the Saturday community taxi service has been cancelled due to lack of custom
The taxi has been discontinued as only 3 or 4 people were using it each week.
18. To discuss Councillor Benton’s hand-over of the grant applications for the village hall playground
The clerk will arrange to collect the information.
19. To suggest agenda items for the Parish Council Meeting to be held Tuesday 3rd April 2018 at 7.15pm at the Village Hall
Playground fund raising. Village sign. Traffic calming. Annual meeting agendas. End of financial year paperwork. Insurance policy renewal. Patmore Heath road fault.

The chairman closed the meeting at 8.15 pm

Meeting minutes 06.02.2018

ALBURY PARISH COUNCIL MEETING
Minutes of the meeting held Tuesday 6th February 19.15 hrs at the Village Hall

Present: Cllrs Benton, Clayden-Smith, Murdoch and Wheatley
In attendance: Mrs J Pettitt (parish clerk), and 2 members of the public.

The chairman opened the meeting at 7.25 pm

1. To receive and accept apologies for absence. Apologies from Cllrs Waples and Walne were received and accepted.
2. To receive declarations of interest. None.
3. To confirm the minutes of the Albury Parish Council meeting held on Tuesday 9th January 2018. Resolved that these minutes be agreed as a true and accurate record of the proceedings and be duly signed by the chairman. Unanimously agreed.
4. To receive reports on actions agreed at the last council meeting. None.
5. To receive petitions, comments and questions from the public.
The members of the public in attendance told how the banks at the roadside in Albury End are being eroded as the volume of traffic is increasing through that part of the village. Vehicles also pull in to private front gardens and driveways to allow oncoming traffic to pass. The councillors suggested the residents in that area should petition Herts County Council. Cllr Benton agreed to email Highways on the subject.
6. To consider planning applications received.
None received.
7. To receive bank statements, bank reconciliation and financial summary
These were received by the Council and found to be satisfactory.
Balance at 9/1/18, £33,029.63
Income: £0.00
Outgoings: As agreed 9/1/18, £2,614.36
Balance at 6/2/18, £30,415.27
8. To agree payments due
Graham’s Taxis (January) £123.00 Total £123.00
Resolved, proposed by Cllr Benton, seconded by Cllr Clayden-Smith that this payment be made. Unanimously agreed.
9 To receive the clerk’s report (for information only)
The treasurer of the parochial church council and Reverend Steve sent their thanks for the parish council grant towards churchyard maintenance.
10. To discuss actions necessary to comply with new general data protection regulations
The 12 steps of preparation were discussed. As we don’t hold any personal data we only need to ensure in future we have permission from relevant parties to do so.
11. To discuss adding an accounts tab to the Parish Council area of the village website
D Muller Designs quoted £35 and it was agreed that they should carry out the necessary work.
12. To discuss the request for traffic calming measures in the village
The clerk emailed the highways department but they did not acknowledge her email. Cllr Benton agreed to email Highways om the subject.
13. To receive an update of the village sign project
Councillor Waples sent the following update:
“I have been in touch with planners and had a chat with the duty planning officer re next steps. Following that I was advised to submit a pre planning letter with full details / photos/locations and had acknowledgment that they had received it all with a comment that they will take up to 20 days to come back to me.”
14. To discuss the progress of the village hall playground fund raising
Councillor Benton is still in the process of completing the various forms.
15. To discuss ideas for funding raising talks at the village hall
Postponed to a future agenda.
16. To discuss recruiting new trustees for the Albury Parochial Church Charities
No one present was able to volunteer. The clerk is to place an advert in the Albury Newsletter and on Facebook.
17. To discuss buying new crockery and cutlery for the village hall and a budget if agreed
It was decided to postpone these purchases as no one booking the hall recently has requested the use of such items and there is currently a lack of safe storage for them.
18. To discuss the village hall committee’s application for a grant towards new fire exit doors
The village hall committee have applied to the Stansted Airport Community Trust for a grant towards new fire exit doors at the village hall. They are awaiting a quote for the total cost. They have asked the parish council if they would be prepared to contribute towards the cost if there is a short fall. The village hall accounts from 1st April 2017 to date were presented to the councillors. It was suggested that another local company could quote and the Clerk agreed to arrange this. The councillors agreed to consider the grant application once a price is confirmed and any other grant is confirmed.
19. To suggest agenda items for the Parish Council Meeting to be held Tuesday 6th March 2018 at 7.15pm at the Village Hall
Playground fund raising. Village sign. Traffic calming. Annual meeting agendas. End of financial year. Insurance policy. Patmore Heath road fault.

The chairman closed the meeting at 8.05 pm

Meeting minutes 09.01.2018

ALBURY PARISH COUNCIL MEETING

Minutes of the meeting held Tuesday 9^th January 19.15 hrs at the Village Hall

Present: Murdoch, Walne and Cllr Wheatley
In attendance: Mrs J Pettitt (parish clerk), and 1 member of the public.

Councillor Murdoch opened the meeting at 7.25 pm

1. To receive and accept apologies for absence.
Apologies from Cllrs Benton, Clayden-Smith and Waples were received and accepted.
2. To receive declarations of interest. None.
3. To confirm the minutes of the Albury Parish Council meeting held on Tuesday 7th November 2017. Resolved that these minutes be agreed as a true and accurate record of the proceedings and be duly signed by Cllr Murdoch. Unanimously agreed.
4. To receive reports on actions agreed at the last council meeting
None.
5. To receive petitions, comments and questions from the public.
None.
6. To consider planning applications received.
None received.
7. To discuss the request for a grant for St Mary’s church yard maintenance and an amount if agreed.
Supporters of the churchyard maintenance fund have been raising money through holding afternoon teas at the village hall each month. These have raised approximately £500. The councillors agreed to donate a further £500 to the fund. The clerk agreed to ask for details of the annual costs of maintaining the churchyard.
Resolved, proposed by Cllr ¬¬¬Wheatley, seconded by Cllr Murdoch that a grant of £500 be donated to the St Mary’s churchyard maintenance fund. Unanimously agreed.
8. To receive bank statements, bank reconciliation and financial summary
These were received by the Council and found to be satisfactory.
Balance at 6/11/17 £35,509.57
Income: HCC grant £300.00 Bank interest £4.43
Outgoings: As agreed 7/11/17 £2,784.37
Balance at 9/1/18 £33,029.63
9. To agree payments due
Clerks salary £711.36, Litter picker 1 £130, Litter picker 2 £130, Graham’s Taxis (Nov & Dec) £290, HCC walks leaflet printing £618, Grass Cutters & Co £65, Santa chocolate selection boxes £170, Churchyard maintenance grant £500. Total £2,614.36
Resolved, proposed by Cllr ¬¬¬Murdoch, seconded by Cllr Walne, that these payments be made. Unanimously agreed.
10. To receive the clerk’s report (for information only)
A resident provided a list of parish council responsibilities which the clerk read to the councillors. HAPTC gave notice that the annual subs due in April will be £337.
11. To discuss the budget and precept for 2018/19
The parish council has had notice from East Herts Council not to include the new housing bonus grant as income when setting this year’s budget. So, the income for the next financial year will be the precept and a litter picking grant of approximately £1,400. The clerk told the councillors that the balance at the end of the financial year is estimated to be £28,900 of which £19,000 is earmarked for the village sign and playground projects. This leaves an available balance of approximately £9,900. The estimated expenditure for 2018/19 is £10,900. Setting a precept of £6,900 will give a total income of £8,300. Resolved, proposed by Cllr ¬¬¬Murdoch, seconded by Cllr Walne, that the precept be set at £6,900. Unanimously agreed.
12. To discuss recruiting new trustees for the Albury Parochial Church Charities
Postponed due to low attendance.
13. To discuss a defibrillator training date
Postponed due to low attendance.
14. To discuss the progress of the telephone kiosk library project
The library is now up and running smoothly. The pathway in front need some attention. Councillor Murdoch has reported this to highways.
15. To discuss the progress of the village hall playground fund raising
Postponed in the absence of Cllr Benton.
16. To discuss the request for traffic calming measures in the village
The councillors agreed that radar speed signs might help. It was also suggested that a petition could be launched against speeding. The clerk agreed to speak to Graham McAndrew and Highways to find out if there are grants available for traffic calming measures.
17. To discuss ideas for funding raising talks at the village hall
Postponed due to low attendance.
18. To discuss buying new crockery and cutlery for the village hall and a budget if agreed
The clerk is to investigate the amount of plates required and costs.
19. To suggest agenda items for the Parish Council Meeting to be held Tuesday 6th February 2018 at 7.15pm at the Village Hall
Playground fund raising. Village sign and site. New data protection rules. Crockery for the hall. Traffic calming.

Councillor Murdoch closed the meeting at 8.05 pm

Meeting minutes 06.11.2017

ALBURY PARISH COUNCIL MEETING 

Minutes of the meeting held Tuesday 7th November 2017 19.15 hrs at the Village Hall

Present: Cllr Walne, Cllr Waples and Cllr Wheatley
In attendance: Mrs J Pettitt (parish clerk), and 4 members of the public.

Councillor Waples opened the meeting at 7:20 pm

1. To receive and accept apologies for absence.
Apologies from Cllrs Benton, Clayden Smith and Murdoch were received and accepted.
2. Cllr Wheatley to sign a declaration of acceptance of office
The document was duly signed.
3. To receive declarations of interest. None.
4. To confirm the minutes of the Albury Parish Council meeting held on Tuesday 3rd October 2017. Resolved that these minutes be agreed as a true and accurate record of the proceedings and be duly signed by Cllr Waples. Unanimously agreed.
5. To receive reports on actions agreed at the last council meeting
None.
6. To receive petitions, comments and questions from the public.
Pam Webb said the Albury 60 plus group has been left short of money for their Christmas lunch after missing out on their usual grant from East Herts Council due to not receiving their usual email reminder to apply. The councillors agreed to write the club a cheque for £300 so that their Christmas lunch can go ahead. The clerk is to approach Councillor Graham McAndrew to see if there is any grant money available to recover this amount from. Another member of the public asked if the parish council would be prepared to buy the village hall a set of crockery to use at village events. This will be added to the next agenda for discussion.
7. To consider planning applications.
3/17/2412/LBC LBC / 3/17/2411/HH Demolition of garage. Erection of single storey side extension. Popular Hall Cottage, Albury End, Albury
No comments made.
8. To receive bank statements, bank reconciliation and financial summary
These were received by the Council and found to be satisfactory.
Balance at 2/10/17 £34,471.78
Income: cancelled cheque to CHBT (lost) £2290.14
Outgoings: As agreed 3/10/17 £1242.35
S/O to Stansted Airport trust £10.00
Balance at 6/11/17 £35,509.57
9. To agree payments due
Community taxi September invoice £161, reissue of CHBT cheque for 2nd defibrillator £2290.14, clerks expenses £33.23, 60 Plus Club £300. Total £2,784.37
Resolved, proposed by Cllr Waples, seconded by Cllr Wheatley that these payments be made. Unanimously agreed.
10. To receive the clerk’s report (for information only)
A letter regarding parking on the common land at Patmore Heath has been received.
11. To discuss the possibility of having a road at Patmore Heath adopted by Herts County Council
The clerk has emailed Jacqueline Veater who has agreed to speak to HCC regarding their non-adoption of the road in question at the time when other roads at the Heath were adopted.
12. To discuss the progress of the traditional village sign project
The company who produced the initial design has quoted £3,950 to create the finished article. This can be completed by July if we go ahead. The councillors discussed the positioning of such a sign again and are to speak to a local land owner once more about a particular site.
13. To discuss a defibrillator training date
A date will be set after Christmas as we are waiting for Community Heartbeat Trust to confirm a trainers availability.
14. To discuss the progress of the telephone kiosk library project
Cllr Murdoch is organising the installation of shelving.
15. To discuss the progress of the village hall playground fund raising
Cllr Benton is continuing to apply for grants.
16. To discuss the possibility of having traffic calming measures installed in the village
Cllr Benton emailed HCC about speeding problems in the village. The highway locality manager emailed the following response:
“You are hopefully aware that the Council are implementing a bypass scheme for the A120 which when introduced should alleviate may of the problems you have highlighted along with other areas in the vicinity that to a greater or lesser extent are impacted similarly.
Accordingly I will forward your concerns to our Major Projects Team who are delivering the bypass which I understand is pencilled for completion in 2019. On completion I also understand that they will then review what positive effects the bypass has had in reducing congestion and consequential ‘rat running’ etc. with a view to considering what localised reviews and changes might be merited after the envisaged changes in traffic movement have bedded in.”
Meanwhile the parish council are looking at traffic calming measures such as ‘village gateways’.

17. To discuss ideas for funding raising talks at the village hall
The parish council are to approach locals with interesting hobbies such as metal detecting, astronomy and cycling to see if any will agree to hold an evening of talks.
18. To discuss Christmas Walks and set a date and budget if necessary
A walk is to take place from the village hall on Friday 29th December at 10:30 followed by refreshments from 12:30.
Resolved, proposed by Cllr Waples, seconded by Cllr Walne that £200 be allocated to buy refreshments. Unanimously agreed.
19. To suggest agenda items for the Parish Council Meeting to be held Tuesday 9th January 2018 at 7.15pm at the Village Hall
Purchase of crockery for the village hall. Playground fund raising. Village sign and site. Telephone kiosk library. Defibrillator training.

Cllr Waples closed the meeting at 8:25 pm

Meeting minutes 03.10.2017

ALBURY PARISH COUNCIL MEETING
DRAFT Minutes of the meeting held Tuesday 3rd October 2017 19.15 hrs at the Village Hall

Present: Cllr Benton, Cllr Murdoch, Cllr Walne and Cllr Waples.
In attendance: Mrs J Pettitt (parish clerk), and 2 members of the public.

The chairman opened the meeting at 7.20 pm

1. To receive and accept apologies for absence. Apologies from Cllr Clayden-Smith were received and accepted.
2. To receive declarations of interest. None.
3. To confirm the minutes of the Albury Parish Council meeting held on Tuesday 12th September 2017. Resolved that these minutes be agreed as a true and accurate record of the proceedings and be duly signed by the chairman Unanimously agreed.
4. To receive reports on actions agreed at the last council meeting. None.
5. To receive petitions, comments and questions from the public.
A member of the public raised concerns that the village hall might have to close down due to running costs, and asked the parish council if they would contribute to the costs to prevent this from happening. The chairman and councillors said that the parish council would support the village hall if necessary. A member of the public mentioned this year’s harvest supper will be held on 21st October. Adult tickets are £5.00 and family tickets are £15 (2 adults and up to 3 children). All profits will go to local good causes.
6. To consider planning applications.
3/17/2175/HH Demolition of existing concrete block single-storey garage & living space at the rear of the house. Replace with a brick-built insulated two-storey extension and single storey side extension. Addition of a new brick facade at front of house to
provide additional cavity wall insulation. Addition of two new windows. Changes to existing windows and doors. The Old Vicarage, Parsonage Lane, Albury
3/17/2096/LBC Change the two bedroom windows to existing first floor rear elevation to match those on the ground floor. Thatched Cottage, Patmore Heath, Albury
No comments made.
7. To receive bank statements, bank reconciliation and financial summary
These were received by the Council and found to be satisfactory.
Balance at 12/9/17 £30,381.47
Income: Litter picking grant £1,437.28, Precept (2nd instalment) £3,450.00
Outgoings: As agreed 12/9/17 £796.97
Balance at 2/10/17 £34,471.78
8. To agree payments due
Community taxi September invoice £161, Clerk’s salary £711.36, litter picker 1 £130, litter picker 2 £130, allotment mowing August £65, telephone kiosk paint £44.99 Total £1242.35
Resolved, proposed Cllr Benton, seconded Cllr Waples that these payments be made. Unanimously agreed.
9. To receive the clerk’s report (for information only). None.
10. To discuss the parish councillor vacancy
Keith Wheatley, a resident who has previously served as a parish councillor for Albury, expressed an interest in filling the vacancy. Following a short discussion, the councillors decided he should be co-opted immediately.
Resolved, proposed Cllr Benton, seconded Cllr Waples that Keith Wheatley be co-opted as a parish councillor for Albury. Unanimously agreed.
The clerk will prepare Keith a declaration of acceptance of office to sign at the next meeting.
11. To discuss the repair of the bridge to the north of Patmore Heath and the possibility of having it adopted.
Prior to the meeting, the clerk approached local councillors for advice and emailed Herts County Council to ask why this section was not adopted when other roads around the heath were. The initial response from Highways is the adoption of that section of road may not have been considered beneficial to the public, but they are going to investigate further. The clerk agreed to approach a planning consultant for a quote for advice and production of a letter on behalf of the parish council.
12. To discuss the progress of the traditional village sign project
Designs have been received and the councillors chose a combination of two. The company will now be asked to produce a full quote and the councillors will set the final budget for the project once this has been received.
13. To discuss a defibrillator training date
The second defibrillator is now linked to the ambulance service. We are waiting for CHBT to supply available training dates so can’t advertise a date yet.
14. To discuss the progress of the telephone kiosk library project
Councillors Waples and Walne have cleaned and painted the kiosk and trimmed the hedges surrounding it. Cllr Murdoch is to arrange for shelving to be installed.
15. To discuss the progress of the village hall playground fund raising
Funding is still being applied for.
16. To discuss the village speeding problem
Little Hadham parish council have expressed an interest in running a joint DriveSafe scheme. Cllr Benton is liaising with their chair. It has been noticed that Braughing have 20 MPH zones and other traffic calming measures in place. Cllr Murdoch suggested Albury should have a 20 MPH zone by the school and traffic calming measures at the spots along the Albury Road where drivers regularly break the 30 MPH limit. Cllr Benton agreed to speak to Highways and also to ask the Braughing clerk how they managed to get their traffic calming measures put in place.
17. To discuss UK Power and the spate of unplanned power cuts
Cllr Murdoch spoke to UK Power and was told the long-term problems should have been alleviated by the fact that power is now being brought in from the east of Albury instead of from Cambridge.
18. To discuss buying the chocolate selection boxes for the Albury Father Christmas event and set a budget
Tesco are supplying the chocolates this year but the parish council are happy to supply it if this arrangement should fall through
19. To suggest agenda items for the Parish Council Meeting to be held Tuesday 7th November 2017 at 7.15pm at the Village Hall
Defibrillator training, telephone kiosk library, traditional village sign and budget, resolving the speeding problem in the village, ideas for further talks at the village hall, playground funding, Cllr Murdoch gave apologies for not being able to attend the next meeting.

The chairman closed the meeting at 8.30 pm

Meeting minutes 12.09.2017

ALBURY PARISH COUNCIL (APC) MEETING
Minutes of the annual meeting held Tuesday 12th September 2017 19.15 hrs at the Village Hall

Present: Cllr Clayden-Smith, Cllr Walne and Cllr Waples.
In attendance: Mrs J Pettitt (parish clerk), and 2 members of the public (MOP).

The vice-chairman opened the meeting at 7.20 pm

1. To receive and accept apologies for absence. Apologies from Cllr Benton and Cllr Clayden-Smith were received and accepted.
2. To receive declarations of interest. None.
3. To confirm the minutes of the Albury Parish Council meeting held on Tuesday 11th July 2017. Resolved that these minutes be agreed as a true and accurate record of the proceedings and be duly signed by the vice-chairman Unanimously agreed.
4. To receive reports on actions agreed at the last council meeting. None.
5. To receive petitions, comments and questions from the public. None.
6. To consider planning applications.
3/17/1806/FUL Access Track. Hoys Farm House, Upwick Green, Albury
3/17/1983/HH Part single, part two storey extension. Upwick House, Upwick Green, Albury
3/17/1934/HH 2 Storey Extension and Veranda to Rear of the Property. Single Storey extension to east side of the property. New double garage. New Road House, Upwick Green, Albury
3/17/2022/HH First floor rear extension (As approved under planning reference- 3/14/1634/FP). 4 Patmore Heath Cottages Patmore Heath Albury
3/17/2041/HH Demolish existing timber frame garage. Build a new 4 bay garage with 2 open bays and 2 lockable bays and a garden store. Kennel Cottage Albury End Albury
3/17/2019/HH Single storey front extension and pitching of existing flat roof to utility room, 9 Barncroft, Albury.
No comments on any of the above.
7. To receive bank statements, bank reconciliation and financial summary
These were received by the Council and found to be satisfactory.
Balance at 11/7/17,          £30,301.83
Income:                    £1,165.00
Outgoings: As agreed 11/7/17  £1,085.36
Balance at 12/9/17,          £30,381.47
8. To agree payments due
CHBT VETS membership £120, playground inspection £51.05, community taxi July& August invoices £269, external audit fee £120, web hosting/domain name renewal £83.40, allotment mowing £130, printer ink £23.52 Total £796.97
Resolved, proposed Cllr Waples, seconded Cllr Murdoch that these payments be made. Unanimously agreed.
9. To discuss Albury Village Hall finances and a request from the village hall committee for financial support from the parish council
The clerk agreed to look at the cost of advertising to promote the village hall. It was suggested that the parish council and the village hall committee meet to discuss village hall finances. The clerk agreed to organise this.
10. To receive the clerk’s report (for information only).
A resident emailed in a request for the parish council to investigate the number of unplanned power cuts in the village.
11. To discuss the parish councillor vacancy
Cllr Murdoch is in discussion with a possible applicant who may join on his retirement from his day job.
12. To discuss an email from a resident regarding a hole in the access road bridge between Patmore Heath and his property where a deed of grant of easement exists
The hole is increasing in size. A resident told the parish council that there may be a case for having Herts County Council adopt the road as a public highway. The clerk agreed to investigate this further and put in a request with the highways department. The clerk will ask if in the meantime a cover plate can be placed a cross the hole.
13. To discuss the progress of the traditional village sign project
A company is drafting a no obligation visual for pre-planning and has reserved a slot for the production of the sign should we wish to proceed.
14. To receive an update of the 2nd defibrillator installation and a defibrillator training date
The defibrillator has been installed by Keith Dewson (Albury Electrical Services). He has kindly provided this service free of charge. A training date is to be confirmed.
15. To discuss the work required to transform the telephone kiosk into a library
A message has been posted on the village Facebook page asking for volunteers to help to tidy and renovate the kiosk. Cllrs Waples and Walne hope to start clearing the greenery, cleaning and painting on Sunday 24th September.
16. To discuss the progress of the village hall playground fund raising
Postponed as Cllr Benton has the details.
17. To discuss the Patmore Heath no parking request and the effect so far
Several residents are now parking on the common land instead of the heath itself. APC has pointed out to HMWT that visitors have no way of knowing where they should or should not park because there are no signs.
18. To suggest agenda items for the Parish Council Meeting to be held Tuesday 3rd October 2017 at 7.15pm at the Village Hall
The requirement for a new playground, defibrillator training, Telephone kiosk library, traditional village sign, UKPower and power cuts, the speeding problem in the village

The vice- chairman closed the meeting at 8.40 pm

Meeting minutes 12.09.2017

DRAFT – ALBURY PARISH COUNCIL (APC) MEETING
Minutes of the annual meeting held Tuesday 12th September 2017 19.15 hrs at the Village Hall

Present: Cllr Clayden-Smith, Cllr Walne and Cllr Waples.
In attendance: Mrs J Pettitt (parish clerk), and 2 members of the public (MOP).

The vice-chairman opened the meeting at 7:20 pm

1. To receive and accept apologies for absence.
Apologies from Cllr Benton and Cllr Clayden-Smith were received and accepted.
2. To receive declarations of interest. None.
3. To confirm the minutes of the Albury Parish Council meeting held on Tuesday 11th July 2017. Resolved that these minutes be agreed as a true and accurate record of the proceedings and be duly signed by the vice-chairman Unanimously agreed.
4. To receive reports on actions agreed at the last council meeting
None.
5. To receive petitions, comments and questions from the public.
None.
6. To consider planning applications.
3/17/1806/FUL Access Track. Hoys Farm House, Upwick Green, Albury
3/17/1983/HH Part single, part two storey extension. Upwick House, Upwick Green, Albury
3/17/1934/HH 2 Storey Extension and Veranda to Rear of the Property. Single Storey
Extension to East Side of the Property. New Double Garage. New Road House, Upwick Green, Albury
3/17/2022/HH First floor rear extension (As approved under planning reference- 3/14/1634/FP).
4 Patmore Heath Cottages Patmore Heath Albury
3/17/2041/HH Demolish existing timber frame garage. Build a new 4 bay garage with 2 open bays and 2 lockable bays and a garden store. Kennel Cottage Albury End Albury
3/17/2019/HH Single storey front extension and pitching of existing flat roof to utility room, 9 Barncroft, Albury.
No comments on any of the above.
7. To receive bank statements, bank reconciliation and financial summary
These were received by the Council and found to be satisfactory.
Balance at 11/7/17 £30,301.83
Income: £1,165.00
Outgoings: As agreed 11/7/17 £1,085.36
Balance at 12/9/17 £30,381.47
8. To agree payments due
CHBT VETS membership £120, playground inspection £51.05, community taxi July& August invoices £269, external audit fee £120, web hosting/domain name renewal £83.40, allotment mowing £130, printer ink £23.52 Total £796.97
Resolved, proposed Cllr Waples, seconded Cllr Murdoch that these payments be made. Unanimously agreed.
9. To discuss Albury Village Hall finances and a request from the village hall committee for financial support from the parish council
The clerk agreed to look at the cost of advertising to promote the village hall. It was suggested that the parish council and the village hall committee meet to discuss village hall finances. The clerk agreed to organise this.
10. To receive the clerk’s report (for information only)
A resident emailed in a request for the parish council to investigate the number of unplanned power cuts in the village.
11. To discuss the parish councillor vacancy
Cllr Murdoch is in discussion with a possible applicant who may join on his retirement from his day job.
12. To discuss an email from a resident regarding a hole in the access road bridge between Patmore Heath and his property where a deed of grant of easement exists
The hole is increasing in size. A resident told the parish council that there may be a case for having Herts County Council adopt the road as a public highway. The clerk agreed to investigate this further and put in a request with the highways department. The clerk will ask if in the meantime a cover plate can be placed a cross the hole.
13. To discuss the progress of the traditional village sign project
A company is drafting a no obligation visual for pre-planning and has reserved a slot for the production of the sign should we wish to proceed.
14. To receive an update of the 2nd defibrillator installation and a defibrillator training date
The defibrillator has been installed by Keith Dewson (Albury Electrical Services). He has kindly provided this service free of charge. A training date is to be confirmed.
15. To discuss the work required to transform the telephone kiosk into a library
A message has been posted on the village Facebook page asking for volunteers to help to tidy and renovate the kiosk. Cllrs Waples and Walne hope to start clearing the greenery, cleaning and painting on Sunday 24th September.
16. To discuss the progress of the village hall playground fund raising
Postponed as Cllr Benton has the details.
17. To discuss the Patmore Heath no parking request and the effect so far
Several residents are now parking on the common land instead of the heath itself. APC has pointed out to HMWT that visitors have no way of knowing where they should or should not park because there are no signs.
18. To suggest agenda items for the Parish Council Meeting to be held Tuesday 3rd October 2017 at 7.15pm at the Village Hall
The requirement for a new playground, defibrillator training, Telephone kiosk library, traditional village sign, UKPower and power cuts, the speeding problem in the village

The vice-chairman closed the meeting at 8:40 pm

Meeting minutes 11.07.2017

ALBURY PARISH COUNCIL (APC) MEETING
Minutes of the annual meeting held Tuesday 11th July 2017 19.15 hrs at the Village Hall

Present: Cllr Benton, Cllr Murdoch, Cllr Walne and Cllr Waples.
In attendance: Mrs J Pettitt (parish clerk), and 1 member of the public (MOP).

The chairman opened the meeting at 7:20 pm

1. To complete Cllr Benton’s Declaration of Acceptance of Office
It was resolved at the 2/5/17 meeting to appoint Cllr ¬¬¬¬¬Benton as chairman for the year 2017/18. Cllr Benton signed the declaration of acceptance of office.
2. To receive and accept apologies for absence.
Apologies from Cllr Clayden-Smith were received and accepted.
3. To receive declarations of interest. None.
4. To confirm the minutes of the Albury Parish Council meeting held on Tuesday 20th June 2017. Resolved that these minutes be agreed as a true and accurate record of the proceedings and be duly signed by the chairman. Unanimously agreed.
5. To receive reports on actions agreed at the last council meeting
None.
6. To receive petitions, comments and questions from the public. None.
7. To discuss Natural England’s ‘No Parking on Patmore Heath’ request and any responses from residents
One MOP attended the meeting to say they agreed with the principle of not parking on the heath but thought that the parking area should be clarified with signs and that parking along other areas could be prevented by adding low mounds. APC clarified that parking is permitted on the common land between the boundaries of properties and the road around the heath. APC agreed to forward the MOP’s suggestions to HMWT and Natural England.
8. To discuss complaints received regarding cars parking on the lane leading to Patmore Heath near the junction with the Albury Road
The lane is the responsibility of East Herts Council. The clerk agreed to ask the highway’s department to review the situation.
9. To consider planning applications. None.
10. To receive bank statements, bank reconciliation and financial summary
These were received by the Council and found to be satisfactory.
Balance at 20/6/17, £31,157.23
Income: £0.00
Outgoings: As agreed 20/6/17, £855.40    
Balance at 11/7/17, £30,301.83
11. To agree payments due
Clerks Q1 salary £711.36, Litter picker 1 salary £130, Litter picker 2 salary £130, Community taxi £114 Total £1085.36
Resolved, proposed Cllr Benton, seconded Cllr Waples that these payments be made. Unanimously agreed.
12. To receive the clerk’s report (for information only)
None.
13. To discuss the parish councillor vacancy
Two residents expressed an interest and they are to be contacted again.
14. To discuss the progress of the traditional village sign project
A company has agreed to provide a no obligation sketch. Two new locations were discussed: the current finger post site at Clapgate and the Itch Lane noticeboard site. Once a design is ready APC will approach East Herts Council to discuss the suitability of either site and the necessary planning permission.
15. To receive and update of the 9th July village walk
Approximately 50 people attended the walks and all gave good feedback.
APC provided £100 to buy cake ingredients and other items for refreshments of which £59.90 was spent. The remaining £40.10 was used as a float and £116.40 was raised selling refreshments. After £100 is to be repaid to APC leaving a profit of £56.50.
Resolved, proposed Cllr Waples, seconded Cllr Walne that some of this money should be used to send Judi Murdoch flowers as an appreciation for her part in planning the event and for baking the cakes, and any left over should then be used to buy jugs for future events and a padlock for one of the village hall cupboards. Unanimously agreed.
Resolved, proposed Cllr Waples, seconded Cllr Walne that a new fridge freezer with a larger freezer capacity should be purchased for the village hall kitchen up to a value of £500. Unanimously agreed.
16. To receive an update of the 2nd defibrillator installation and a defibrillator training date
The defibrillator is now at The Catherine Wheel. A local electrician has offered to install it for free but will bill APC for any materials required. Training will take place on Tuesday 12th or 19th of September. This will be confirmed at the next meeting.
17. To discuss converting the telephone kiosk into a library
The clerk will draft a note for the Newsletter ask the community to volunteer to prepare the kiosk as it needs cleaning and painting and vegetation around it needs clearing. A shelving system is also required.
18. To discuss the progress of the village hall playground fund raising
The applications are progressing and it is hoped that more information will be available by the September meeting.
19. To suggest agenda items for the Parish Council Meeting to be held Tuesday 5th September 2017 at 7.15pm at the Village Hall
Playgound funding, 2nd defibrillator installation and training, Telephone kiosk library, Patmore Heath parking, village hall fridge freezer, traditional village sign
The chairman closed the meeting at 8:40 pm