Public Forum
108. To accept apologies
109. To receive declarations of interests
110. To approve the minutes of meeting held on Tuesday 18 December 2007 and Wednesday 16 January 2008

111. To note matter arising from minutes of Tuesday 18 December 2007 and Wednesday 16 January 2008

112. To decide how the Council can help influence the regeneration of Coleford speaker District Cllr Patrick Molynuex

113. To agree the submission to the Planning Inspector regarding the appeal for the planning application on Angel Farm.

114. To agree how the Council can support the Police campaign to upgrade the CCTV cameras to a digital system.

115. To agree the building works to join No 1 & No 2 the Town Houses.
116. To agree which Councillors will attend the MCTi review of the partnership strategic plan

117. To agree the contribution of the Town council to the Street Warden provision

118. To note reports from members (for information only)
119. To note reports from District and County Councillors (for information only)
120. To agree the recommendation of the Amenities Committee for the contractor to take on the grass cutting and town centre flower contracts

121. To note the decisions of the Planning Committee

122. To note correspondence (for information only, see attached list)
123. To agree payments (see attached list)

Minutes

At a Meeting of the Coleford Town Council held at the Town House, Lords Hill Walk, Coleford on Tuesday 29th January 2008, there were present:

Councillor Mr C Elsmore (Mayor)
Mrs C Allaway-Martin
Mr C Howell
Mr P Kay
Mr C Lusty
Mrs H Lusty
Mrs S Merrikin
Miss J Nicholson

Also present: County Councillor P Chamberlain,
PS Sara Sleeman, PC David McCoy

PUBLIC FORUM

A number of members of the public were present to discuss the appeal for the planning application for housing at Angel Farm. A member said that an action group was being formed and enquired whether it would be possible to use the Council offices to hold its meetings. The Mayor agreed to this on the proviso that the offices were not being used by the Council. There would be no charge for the use of the offices and contact should be made through the Clerk.

The Mayor advised the public that the Town Council would be submitting a fresh response to the District Council and it would contain, wherever possible, new information. Notably this would centre on sewage and drainage, poor access and lack of healthcare provisions.

The Town Council had a meeting planned with Welsh Water on 23rd February to discuss sewage and floodwater problems. This would be used in the response to the District Council to highlight the fact that the Town Council was actively engaged in trying to resolve the current difficulties.

Members of the public said they would be carrying out a transport survey on a similar sized estate in Coleford in order to demonstrate the impact any development at Angel Farm would have.

Councillor Chamberlain advised that he would lobby Newland Parish Council as any additional sewage and drainage water from Coleford would pass through that parish.

The Mayor thanked the public for attending and said that the Council would continue to work in close contact on this issue. The Public Forum was then closed.

108. APOLOGIES

Apologies were received from Councillors Atherley, Collins, Phelps, Weston and Thorne.

109. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

A prejudicial declaration of interest with regard to Items 113 and 117 was made by Cllr Allaway-Martin.

Personal declarations of interest with regard to Item 117 were made by Cllrs C Lusty, H Lusty and Merrikin.

110. APPROVAL OF MINUTES

The minutes of the meetings held on 18 December 2007 and 16 January 2008 were approved by those present.

111. MATTERS ARISING

There were no matters arising from the minutes.

112. ANGEL FARM PLANNING APPEAL

It was agreed that the Clerk should draft a letter to the District Council drawing together all the points of objection raised by Councillors. The letter would be emailed to Councillors before submission to the District Council.

It was agreed that photographs of previous flooding problems in Coleford should also be submitted as evidence that the present infrastructure could not cope with any additional rainwater or sewerage.

113. CCTV CAMERAS

Cllr Allaway-Martin left the meeting for the duration of this agenda item.

PC McCoy advised the Council of the current needs for upgrading the CCTV cameras in Coleford. New cameras would greatly enhance the ability to identify offenders and the upgrade was now urgently required. The cost had to be match funded which meant that £30,000 had to be raised. Any letter of support from the Town Council would be very welcomed by the Coleford Police Division.

PC McCoy advised that while new cameras could not combat poor light levels, they would give much sharper images in reasonable lighting conditions.

It was proposed that a letter of support be sent by the District Council.

Proposed: Cllr Kay Seconded: Cllr H Lusty

The proposal was agreed unanimously.

114. REGENERATION IN COLEFORD

The Mayor welcomed District Councillor Molyneaux to the meeting and invited him to talk to the Council about future proposals for the regeneration of Coleford.

Cllr Molyneaux said that he was now the portfolio holder for regeneration in the Forest of Dean. Plans were already well advanced for regeneration in Cinderford and Newent. Lydney and Coleford were next. The District Council was currently undergoing a period of internal change and had no firm plans for Coleford at the moment. He asked members of the Council for their preferred list of priorities.

Councillors offered the following

Too many new café/sandwich bars, putting pressure on existing businesses.
Too many charity shops.
Need to get a major chain store in the town.
Fear that car parking charges may drive business away.
Need to attract European money for regeneration.
Setting up a people’s cooperative along European lines.
Better access for disabled shoppers.

Cllr Molyneaux welcomed the views expressed but advised that there were no quick solutions to regeneration. The right signals had to be sent out to developers and it was vital that the District Council took a broad look in order to develop a firm stance.

It was unlikely that a major retailer could be attracted to Coleford as there was not enough floorspace in the town centre and probably insufficient customer footfall.

The issue of car parking charges was more complex than appeared. There was evidence to suggest that introducing charges discouraged workers from parking all day in central car parks thus freeing up spaces for a greater turnover of genuine shoppers. On the other hand charges could, in the future, be seen as an easy way of increasing much needed revenue.

The Mayor thanked Cllr Molyneaux for coming to the meeting and ended by saying that the need for regeneration was now and he hoped that action would be taken quickly.

115. THE TOWN HOUSE BUILDING WORKS

The Clerk presented a quotation for alterations to the Town House submitted by Bren and Son, at a total cost of £1100.00. It was proposed that the quotation should be accepted.

Proposed: Cllr Howell Seconded: Cllr Kay

The Clerk advised that work would begin during the first week in February and there would be some disruption to services whilst it was being carried out.

116. REVIEW OF PARTNERSHIP STRATEGIC PLAN

Cllrs Howell, C Lusty, H Lusty and Nicholson said that they would attend the meeting being held on Monday 4th February.

117. CONTRIBUTION TO STREET WARDEN PROVISION

Cllr Allaway-Martin left the meeting for the duration of this agenda item.

The Clerk confirmed that no response had been received from the District Council to the request for information about the current costs of Street Wardens. It was agreed unanimously to defer a decision on this matter until such time as a response was received and to withhold payments to the District Council in the meantime.

118. REPORTS FROM MEMBERS

Cllr H Lusty reported that as a member of the Office and Finance Committee, she had spent some time working in the office becoming familiar with the day to day running. This had given her a very useful understanding of the daily routine.

Cllr Howell reported that he had attended a meeting of the Gloucestershire Market Towns Forum. These were very useful meetings and some interesting visits were planned in the near future to see how market towns in other areas were being developed. He advised that subscription rates were due to rise in 2008. He stated that councillors present at the meeting had requested that future rises should be announced in September so that they can be properly incorporated into budgets.

Cllr Howell had also attended an Emergency Planning meeting at Barnwood. This had been interesting and he had emailed information to Councillors.

119. REPORTS FROM DISTRICT AND COUNTY COUNCILLORS

Cllr Allaway-Martin advised Councillors that the District Council was going through a period of considerable internal change and it may take some time for things to properly settle down.

Cllr Chamberlain said that a number of important environmental initiatives had been agreed at a recent County Council.

Members had agreed not to use plastic bags and to encourage retailers to stop their distribution. Two local Councils in Gloucestershire had already adopted this policy and Cllr Chamberlain encouraged the Town Council to do the same. Requesting that this item was placed on the next Town Council agenda

The County Council had agreed that there should be more cohesion between local councils in the way in which waste is managed.

In future all County Council sites should incorporate a useful alternative energy source contributing at least 10% of energy needs.

120. AMENITIES COMMITTEE

Members considered the recommendation of the Amenities Committee to accept a quotation from Mowtech for grass cutting and planted of flowers. It was proposed that the quotation be accepted.

Proposed: Cllr Kay Seconded: Cllr C Lusty

In view of the success of the Coleford Town Football Club it was agreed that the Council should sponsor a cup to be presented to the team. This was agreed by all members.

121. PLANNING COMMITTEE

The decisions of the Planning Committee taken at the meeting held on 8 January were noted by the Council
Cllr Howell proposed that a meeting be held to agree a planning policy to be submitted for inclusion in the District Council Plan. Consultation on the Plan closes on 5th March. It was agreed to hold a full Council meeting on Tuesday 19th February at 7.00pm to discuss this one item.

122. CORRESPONDENCE

The items of correspondence received during the month of January were noted by the Council.

123. PAYMENTS

The list of payments due for the month of January were noted by the Council. The Clerk pointed out a bill for the first instalment of work at the cemetery. Comments had been received saying the cemetery was already looking much better as a result.

It was proposed that the payments should be made.

Proposed: Cllr Kay Seconded: Cllr C Lusty


The meeting closed at 8.45pm

The next meeting will be on Tuesday 26 February 2008
 

Public Forum
127. To accept apologies
128. To receive declarations of interests
129. To approve the minutes of meeting held on Tuesday 29 January 2008 &
19 February 2008

130. To note matter arising from minutes of Tuesday 29 January 2008 &
19 February 2008

131. To determine the Council response to the new planning application for Angel Farm. P0179/08/FUL Erection of 100 houses and construction of new vehicular access.

132. To agree the contribution of the Town Council to the Street Warden provision

133. To make comment to the Forest of Dean District Council re dog fouling. (paper attached)

134. To input into Gloucestershire County Council Mineral Core strategy consultation.

135. To agree to the purchase of a safety ladder to meet health and safety requirements in the Clock Tower.

136. To agree the recommendations of the Burial Committee

137. To note the minutes of the Amenities Committee.

138. To note reports from members (for information only)
139. To note reports from District and County Councillors (for information only)
140. To note the decisions of the Planning Committee
141. To note correspondence (for information only, see attached list)
142. To agree payments (see attached list)

 

Agenda (Full)

Full Council
25 March 2008
Agenda
143. To accept apologies
144. To receive declarations of interests
145. To approve the minutes of meeting held on Tuesday 26 February 2008
146. To note matter arising from minutes of Tuesday 26 February 2008
147. To agree the Councils participation in the Planning Inquiry for the Angel Farm application.
148. To agree the Town Council’s response to Two Rivers Housing proposals for the Sunnybank estate.
149. To agree the recommendations of the Office & Finance Committee
150. To agree the recommendations of the Highways Committee
151. To note reports from members (for information only)
152. To note reports from District and County Councillors (for information only)
153. To note the decisions of the Planning Committee
154. To note correspondence (for information only, see attached list)
155. To agree payments (see attached list)

Minutes
At a Meeting of the Coleford Town Council held at the Town House, Lords Hill Walk, Coleford on Tuesday 25th March 2008, there were present:

Councillor Mr C Elsmore (Mayor)
Mr D Atherley
Mrs C Allaway-Martin
Mr C Howell
Mr P Kay
Mr C Lusty
Mrs H Lusty
Mrs S Merrikin

Also present: District Councillor D Riley
District Councillor G Bensted
County Councillor P Chamberlain,


143. APOLOGIES

Apologies were received from Councillors Collins, Phelps and Weston.

144. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

Cllr C Lusty declared a prejudicial interest in Item 149. Cllrs Atherley, Howell and H Lusty declared a personal interest in Item 149.

145. APPROVAL OF MINUTES

The minutes of the meeting held on 26 February 2008 were approved by those present.

Proposed: Cllr Howell Seconded: Cllr Merrikin

146. MATTERS ARISING

Item 134, County Council Mineral Core Strategy: Cllr Allaway-Martin said that her report would be ready by Friday 28th March.

Item 135, Clock Tower – safety ladder: The Clerk reported that a quote was being obtained for the manufacture of a replacement ladder.

147. PLANNING APPLICATION FOR ANGEL FARM

The Mayor said that the Public Inquiry into the Angel Farm application had been scheduled for 4 days commencing on Tuesday 29th April. He will represent the Council at the Inquiry.

It was agreed that the Council’s representations should include information relating to the increased pressure on scarce healthcare services that the proposed development would bring.

Care should be taken to stress the separate problems that increased surface water drainage and sewerage would cause on an already overloaded system.
Cllr Merrikin said that it would be important not to duplicate or conflict with any submissions made by the Action Group. The Clerk advised Cllr Merrikin that it would not be a conflict of interest if Cllr Merrikin attended the next meeting of the Action Group to be held on Wednesday 26th March.

148. TWO RIVERS HOUSING – SUNNYBANK ESTATE

The Mayor reported that Two Rivers Housing had to address the problems relating to Cornish Houses on the Sunnybank Estate by 2010. A meeting was being held on 25th March to explain the options to residents.

The Council was concerned at the way in which information had been allowed to slowly leak into the public domain. His had caused alarm and uncertainty amongst residents. It was agreed that the Mayor should write to the Housing Association asking for clarification.

District Cllr Riley informed the Council that the District Council Scrutiny Committee were due to look at the way the estate was being managed by the Housing Association.

The Mayor said that he had been approached on behalf of residents concerning the provision of additional disabled parking in the centre of Coleford. Members agreed that the best option would be to try to provide extra provision on the site of the old Community Centre when it was redeveloped. It was agreed that this proposal should be put to the District Council.

149. RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE OFFICE AND FINANCE COMMITTEE

Members noted the following recommendations:

· To change the Council’s payroll provider to Gloucestershire County Council.
· To change the office blinds
· To replace the office carpet.

It was proposed and agreed to accept these recommendations.

Proposed: Cllr Kay Seconded: Cllr Atherley

Cllr C Lusty left the room prior to the discussion of the next item.

Members noted the grant application payments recommended by the Office and Finance Committee.

Cllr H Lusty informed members that the construction of the greenhouse at the Forest Centre was to make provision for adults with severe disabilities and would be available for use by residents of Coleford. In the circumstances, she proposed an amendment that the Town Council defer this decision and request that the Finance & Office Committee re-look at their decision. .

Proposed: Cllr H Lusty Seconded: Cllr Howell

On being put to the vote, the amendment was carried with 4 votes in favour and 3 against.

It was then proposed and accepted that the remaining grants should be paid as recommended.

Proposed: Cllr Kay Seconded: Cllr Merrikin

Cllr C Lusty rejoined the meeting.

150. RECOMMENDATIONS OF HIGHWAYS COMMITTEE

The Clerk reported that a meeting had been held earlier in the day with the Highways Department. The minutes of the meeting would be available shortly and would contain details of proposals to resurface a number of highways.

151. MEMBERS REPORTS

Cllr Merrikin reported that Lakers School had recently received a favourable OFSTEAD report. It was agreed that the Council should send a letter of congratulation to the school.
Cllr Howell reported that he had attended the meeting at which the District Council’s Core Strategy for the Forest of Dean had been discussed. He had compiled a file of information for member and said that the District Council was looking for comments by 14th April. The Core Strategy was an important aspect and he recommended that members read the file and make comments. It was agreed that the next planning meeting on 8 April would be a full council meeting so that a Town Council response could be determined.

Cllr Allaway-Martin reported that a Community Centre meeting was being held today. Plans were on schedule to sign over the land for the site on 31st March which would then allow for a planning application to go forward.

152. REPORTS BY DISTRICT AND COUNTY COUNCILLORS

Cllr Bensted advised that no further information had been made available about proposals for car park charging. She would be attending a District Council meeting on 26th March. Cllr Allaway-Martin advised that there would be a reduction in car parking available in the old station car par during the construction of the new community centre.

153. PLANNING COMMITTEE

Members noted the recommendations made by the Planning Committee.

154. CORRESPONDENCE

Members noted the items of correspondence received during the month of March.

155. PAYMENTS

The list of payment due for the month of January were noted and agreed by the Council.

The Clerk advised that although the new contract for grass cutting did not come into effect until 1st May 2008, the contractor had agreed to start work a month earlier due to the retirement of the present contractor.

The meeting closed at 8.00 pm
 

Public Forum

1. To accept apologies
2. To receive declarations of interests
3. To approve the minutes of meeting held on Tuesday 25 March & 8 April 2008
4. To note matter arising from minutes of Tuesday 25 March & 8 April 2008
5. To hear a presentation from Two Rivers Housing about the refurbishment and redevelopment of Sunny Bank Estate
Dr David Garnet Chairman and Mr Garry King CEO
6. To hear the progress made towards the Coleford Enterprise Centre
Mrs Marilyn Cox.
7. To discuss the discrepancy in the charging for placing an headstone in Coleford Cemetery and to agree the cost.
8. To agree the action required to minimise the vandalism in Copley Drive
9. To agree an Environmental Policy
10. To discuss and agree the production of a Coleford Town Guide
11. To agree to the payment of £25,000.00 ring fenced reserves to the Coleford Partnership.
12. To agree the minutes of the Burial Committee
13. To note reports from members (for information only)
14. To note reports from District and County Councillors (for information only)
15. To note the decisions of the Planning Committee
16. To note correspondence (for information only, see attached list)
17. To agree payments (see attached list)

Minutes

At a Meeting of the Coleford Town Council held at the Town House, Lords Hill Walk, Coleford on Tuesday 29th April 2008, there were present:

Councillor Mr C Elsmore (Mayor)
Mr D Atherley (Deputy Mayor)
Mrs C Allaway-Martin
Mr D Collins
Mr C Howell
Mr P Kay
Mr C Lusty
Mrs H Lusty
Mrs S Merrikin
Mr R Phelps
Mrs J Thorne
Mr M Weston

Also present: District Councillor D Riley
County Councillor P Chamberlain

PCSO Neil Evans

Jean Birkett Two Rivers Housing
David Garnett Two Rivers Housing
Garry King Two Rivers Housing

Marilyn Cox

Roger Drury

1. APOLOGIES

Apologies were received from Councillor Mrs J Nicholson and District Councillor Grace Bensted.

2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

The Mayor, Cllr Elsmore, declared a personal interest in item 165.

3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES

The minutes of the meeting held on 26 February 2008 were approved by those present.

Proposed: Cllr Allaway-Martin Seconded: Cllr C Lusty

4. MATTERS ARISING

Item 147, The Mayor reported that the Planning Inquiry for the Angel Farm planning application was taking place this week.

Item 149, The Mayor reported that the County Council were no longer able to take on the role of payroll provider. An alternative provider was being sought.



5. TWO RIVERS HOUSING, SUNNYBANK ESTATE

The Mayor invited Mr Garry King, Chief Executive of Two Rivers Housing to address the Council on current proposals for the Sunnybank Estate.

Mr King said that when Two Rivers took over the stock of Cornish Houses in 2003, this included a commitment to review their condition by 2010. The Cornish Houses had never been intended to be a long-term housing solution and after 60 years they were beginning to show their age. There had been a large backlog of maintenance issues, additionally they were not well insulated, nor did their construction allow easy modification.

Two Rivers Housing have been carrying out a process of consultation through group meetings and on a one-to-one basis to explain options to residents and to gain opinions. Broadly speaking there were three main options:

1) Provide external cladding.

Advantages: Provide some additional insulation.
Affordable.

Disadvantages: Concrete structure remains.
Difficult to raise mortgage finance.

2) Replace concrete with brick

Advantages: Removes problem of concrete.
Easier to raise mortgage finance.
Houses will last longer.

Disadvantages: Major work, very disruptive.
Structural work to foundations.
High cost, questionable value for money.

3) Redevelopment

Advantages: More flexible housing stock.
Update other facilities, e.g. car parking

Disadvantages: Smaller gardens.

Mr King said that Two Rivers recognised that there was no one simple solution that would suit everyone, but it was important to get residents’ views and these would be included in any recommendations made to the Board.

Dr David Garnett, Chairman of the Board of Two Rivers, said that any solution had to be responsive to the needs of the residents and consultation had to be full. The Board recognised that it had a social responsibility to do deliver the correct solution. He said that he regretted some of the recent alarmist newspaper headlines and had received an apology from the editor of the Citizen for the publication of some information that had been misleading.
Answering a question from the Council, Mr King said that it was difficult to predict what the lifetime of the Cornish Houses would be if Option 1 was implemented. It depended on the rate of decay of the concrete and this was variable. However he judged that the houses would have a further lifetime of between 10 and 30 years.

Asked if Two Rivers had sold any Cornish Houses since taking over the stock, Mr King said that one or two had been sold but Two Rivers had no control over this as tenants had a legal right to buy. Currently Two Rivers held a stock of 170 Cornish Houses in the Forest of Dean and believe approximately 70 were in private hands.

Asked how many more homes would be provided under Option 3, Mr King said that it was too early to say and would depend on the views and needs expressed by the residents. There was no fixed plan and any development would take place over a number of years. He said he was aware of the need to plan to deal with additional surface water and sewerage.

Dr Garnett assured the Council that while the situation was a complicated one, Two Rivers was a charity and had no interest other than to improve the quality of the residents’ accommodation.

The Mayor thanked Mr King and Dr Garnett for their presentation.

6. ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY

The Council listened to a presentation made by members of the public in support of the Council’s wish to reduce the amount of plastic in the environment. Examples were quoted of villages such as Tisbury in Wiltshire and Modbury in Devon where traders had stopped issuing plastic bags. It was suggested that a public open meeting be held and traders including the major supermarkets should be invited. It was agreed to hold a meeting at the Community Centre in June 2008.

7. COLEFORD ENTERPRISE CENTRE

Mrs Marilyn Cox updated the Council with the latest position regarding plans for the new Enterprise Centre. Papers had been signed which would enable completion of the land deal for the site. A public consultation event will be held in May and, subject to planning consent, it was hoped to commence work in November 2008 with completion in August 2009.

Mrs Cox said that the new Centre would have a library, youth facilities, adult day care, community rooms, space for small businesses and the opportunity to deliver skills from the Centre. It would also act as a focus and a hub for surrounding parishes.

Discussions on drawing up a management agreement were still continuing.

Mrs Cox confirmed that the building would contain a number of energy saving features in its construction. The issue of surface water would also be catered for.

8. CHARGING FOR HEADSTONES IN COLFORD CEMETERY

The Council noted that there was a discrepancy in the charges for headstones in the cemetery and agreed to rectify this.

Proposed: Cllr Phelps Seconded: Cllr Collins

9. VANDALISM IN COPLEY DRIVE

The Council noted the complaint about vandalism in Copley Drive but some members were concerned that the area should not restrict the opportunity for reasonable youth activities.

Members asked PCSO Evans if he had received any complaints from residents in Copley Drive, he stated that to his knowledge no one had complained recently. It was suggested that the Council contact the Street Wardens to see if they had attended any incidents.

It was agreed that the issue should be passed to the next meeting of the Amenities Committee for consideration.

10. COLEFORD TOWN GUIDE

The Council noted the proposal by a publisher to produce a town guide. Members felt that this was generally a good idea but had some concerns about the content being local enough in terms of traders and also looked for an assurance that there would be adequate distribution of the guide.

It was agreed to invite the publisher to give a presentation at the next meeting.

11. BURIAL COMMITTEE

Members noted the report made by the Burial Committee and the recommendation of the expenditure of an additional £500 on a yew hedge. This recommendation was proposed and accepted.

Proposed: Cllr Howells Seconded: Cllr Atherley

12. MEMBERS REPORTS

Cllr Allaway-Martin distributed copies of proposals issues by the County Council for dealing with street parking regulations.

Cllr Kay congratulated Cinderford RFC for gaining promotion to Division 2 of the National League.

Proposed: Cllr Phelps Seconded: Cllr Kay

Cllr Weston expressed disappointment with the lack of progress made on the town centre flower beds. The Mayor said that the matter would be considered at the next meeting of the Amenities Committee.

13. COUNTY COUNCILLOR REPORTS

Cllr Chamberlain reported that a public meeting was to be held on 8th May 2008 at 7.30 to discuss ways of raising funds to purchase the Alms Houses in Newland. The deadline for raising £750,000 was January 2009. He urged members to attend to show their support.

14. PLANNING COMMITTEE

Members noted the decisions taken by the Planning Committee at its meetings held on 8th April and 29th April 2008.

15. EARMARKED RESERVES FOR COLEFORD COMMUNITY CENTRE

The Council noted the request from the Coleford Partnership for payment of the sums set aside by the Council for the new Community Centre as a result of a decision taken at a previous meeting. Some members were concerned that the decision should be looked at again in the light of the current position before a final decision was taken.

It was agreed that the matter would be discussed at the Full Council meeting called to take place on Tuesday 13 May 2008 at 7.00pm

16. CORRESPONDENCE

The Council noted the items of correspondence received during the month of April.

17. PAYMENTS

The Council noted the payments due for the month of April and it was proposed and agreed that they should be paid.

Proposed: Cllr Kay Seconded: Cllr Phelps

The meeting closed at 8.50pm
 

Public Forum

21. To accept apologies

22. To receive declarations of interest

23. To elect the Mayor of Coleford for the ensuing year*
(*Past Mayor presentation if applicable).

24. Mayor to sign the declaration of acceptance

25. To elect the Deputy Mayor of Coleford for the ensuing year.

26. To elect representatives for the following

· COLEFORD TOWN COUNCIL COMMITTEES

Office and Finance Committee 6 Members meets ½ yearly

Responsible for the running & general upkeep of the office and financial matters

Planning / Transport Committee 6 Members meets bi monthly

Responsible for planning applications roads & highways etc

Amenities Committee 5 Members meets ½ yearly

Responsible for the Clock Tower, Town Centre, King George V Pavilion & playing field other recreation areas, Christmas lights, Christmas concert etc

Burial Committee 5 Members meets annually

Responsible for Burial Charges, maintenance of Coleford Cemetery, grass cutting & contribution to Mile End cemetery

Public Safety Committee 6 Members meets quarterly

Responsible for the community safety, emergency services, fire, police, ambulance

· REPRESENTATIVES ON OTHER COMMITTEES

Forest Health Forum 1 (Public Safety member)

FODDC Planning: Development Control 2

Police & Community Consultative Committee 1 (Public Safety member)

Gloucestershire Playing Fields Committee 1 (Amenities member)

FODDC Joint Leisure Committee 1


Gloucestershire Market Towns Forum 1

Gloucestershire Rural Transport Partnership 1

St John’s Junior School Governors 1

Christmas Lights Committee 1 (Amenities member)

· REPRESENTATIVES ON OTHER BODIES

The Halls Charity 4

FOD Citizens Advice Bureau 1

Crime Reduction Group 1

Forestry Commission Advisory Committee 1

Stowfield Quarry Liaison Committee 1

Coleford Area MCTI Partnership 1

Bells Foundation 2

Coleford Area Parish Forum 1

William Jones Charity 1



27. To approve minutes of meetings 29 April 2008 & 13 May 2008

28. To raise matters arising from meetings 29 April 2008 & 13 May 2008

29. Community Enterprise Centre Consultation
Donna Potts Project Officer Learning Disability Modernisation Officer
Gloucestershire County Council

30. To note the end of year figures

31. To agree on the Council’s actions towards making Coleford a plastic bag free zone

32. To agree the Councils actions now the closure of Newland Street toilets has been announced.

33. To agree the Councils action about the acquisition of Town Council land at
1 Bluebell Close, Milkwall.

34. To agree the recommendations of the Amenities Committee

35. To agree the recommendations of the Finance & Office Committee




36. To agree the recommendations of the Planning and Transport Committee bi monthly highways meeting.

37. To note the decisions of the Planning Committee

38. To note reports from members (for information only)

39. To note reports from District and County Councillors (for information only)

40. To note correspondence (for information only, see attached list)

41. To agree payments (see attached list)
 

Minutes

At the Monthly Meeting of the Coleford Town Council held at the Town House, Lords Hill Walk, Coleford on Tuesday 27th May 2008, there were present:

Councillor Mr C Elsmore (Mayor)
Mr D Atherley (Deputy Mayor)
Mr D Collins
Mr C Howell
Mr C Lusty
Mrs H Lusty
Mrs S Merrikin
Ms J Nicholson
Mr R Phelps
Mrs J Thorne
Mr M Weston

PUBLIC FORUM

There were no members of the public present.

PC D McCoy invited questions from the Council concerning policing matters in the Coleford area. Cllr Weston said that he and a number of local residents had been alarmed by the criminal activities carried out by an individual whilst on bail. PC McCoy said that the police had also been concerned that bail had been granted, police requests for the individual to be held in custody had been refused by the Magistrates Court. The individual had subsequently been remanded following further offences.

Cllr Merrikin said that there had been an increase in the amount of broken glass in certain parts of Coleford. This appeared to be connected to smokers drinking outside pubs. PC McCoy asked for details of the specific locations to be passed on to him and he would arrange for the premises to be visited.

21. APOLOGIES

Apologies were received from Cllrs Allaway-Martin and Kay,
District Councillor Bensted and County Councillor Chamberlain.

22. TO RECEIVE DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

Cllr Collins declared a personal interest in Item 32 on the agenda.

23. TO ELECT THE MAYOR OF COLEFORD FOR THE ENSUING YEAR

Cllr Atherley proposed and Cllr C Lusty seconded a motion that
Cllr Elsmore be elected as Mayor.

Cllr Weston proposed and Cllr Phelps seconded a motion that
Cllr Merrikin be elected as Mayor.

Following a secret ballot, Cllr Merrikin was elected Mayor by
6 votes to 4.

Following the ballot, Cllr Elsmore thanked his fellow Councillors for their support during his term in office. On behalf of the Council and as a mark of thanks, Cllr Merrikin made a presentation to Cllr Elsmore to commemorate his two years in office as Mayor of Coleford.

24. DECLARATION OF ACCEPTANCE

Following her election, Cllr Merrikin signed a Declaration of Acceptance of Office as Mayor of Coleford and took the chair for the remaining proceedings of the meeting.

25. TO ELECT THE DEPUTY MAYOR OF COLEFORD FOR THE ENSUING YEAR

Cllr Thorne proposed and Cllr Collins seconded a motion that
Cllr Phelps be elected as Deputy Mayor.

Cllr Weston proposed and Cllr C Lusty seconded a motion that
Cllr Howell be elected as Deputy Mayor.

Following a secret ballot, Cllr Howell was elected Deputy Mayor by
6 votes to 5.

26. ELECTION OF COUNCILLORS TO COMMITTEES

Members were elected to committees as follows:

Office and Finance

Councillors Allaway-Martin, Elsmore, Howell, Kay, Thorne and Phelps.

Planning and Transport

Councillors Allaway-Martin, Elsmore, Howell, Merrikin, Phelps and Weston.

Amenities

Councillors Allaway-Martin, Collins, Howell, Kay and Thorne.

Burial

Councillors Allaway-Martin, Collins, Howell, Phelps and Thorne

Public Safety

Councillors Allaway-Martin, Elsmore, Kay, C Lusty, Phelps
and 1 vacancy.

REPRESENTATIVES ON OTHER COMMITTEES

Members were elected as representatives to other committees as follows:

Forest Health Forum

Councillor Elsmore

FoDDC Planning & Development Control

Any member of the Planning Committee



Police & Community Consultative Committee

Councillor Kay

Gloucestershire Playing Fields Committee

1 vacancy

FoDDC Joint Leisure Committee

1 vacancy

Gloucestershire Market Towns Forum

Councillor Howell

Gloucestershire Rural Transport Partnership

Councillor Elsmore

St. John’s Junior School Governors

Councillor H Lusty

Christmas Lights Committee

Councillor H Lusty

The William Jones Charity

Councillor C Lusty

The Halls Charity

Councillors Elsmore, C Lusty, Thorne and 1 vacancy

Citizens’ Advice Bureau

Councillor Elsmore

Crime Reduction Group

Councillor Phelps

Forestry Commission Advisory Committee

Councillor H Lusty

Wye Valley AONB Committee

Councillor Atherley

Stowfield Quarry Liaison Committee

Councillor Allaway Martin

Coleford Area Partnership

Councillor H Lusty

Coleford Area Parish Forum

Councillor H Lusty

Bells Foundation

Councillors Elsmore and C Lusty


27. TO APROVE MINUTES OF MEETINGS HELD ON 29 APRIL AND 13 MAY 2008

It was proposed and agreed that the minutes of the meeting held on 29th April 2008 be accepted as an accurate record.

Proposed: Cllr Phelps Seconded: Cllr Collins

It was proposed and agreed that the minutes of the meeting held on 13th May 2008 be accepted as an accurate record.

Proposed: Cllr Phelps Seconded: Cllr Thorne

28. MATTERS ARISING

The Clerk reported that the scheduled presentation on the production of a Town Guide would be at the next meeting.

Cllr Howell expressed his concern that information that had been discussed in committee had found its way into the Press before having been publicly approved by the full Council.

Cllr Howell requested that at the next Town Council meeting an amendment is made to standing orders that minutes of ‘in committee’ meetings are not placed in the public domain until they have been approved by the Council.

29. COMMUNITY ENTERPRISE CENTRE CONSULTATION

The Clerk reported that Donna Potts was unable to attend. It was hoped that a representative would be able to attend a meeting in the near future.

30. END OF YEAR FIGURES 2007/08

Members noted the end of year figures presented by the Clerk. The main points to note were that assets had increased from £190,000 to £203,000 and spending had increased form £99,000 to £148,000. Receipts had risen by 27% thanks mainly to the increased revenue from the cemetery. Staff costs had also risen as a result of the Assistant Clerk increased salary and working hours.

The Clerk said that the accounts would be checked by the Internal Auditor next week and would go to the External Auditor by the end of July.

Members expressed their thanks to the Clerk for her work in preparing the accounts.

31. MAKING COLEFORD A PLASTIC BAG FREE ZONE

Members decided that, before calling a public meeting, this issue should be referred to the Amenities Committee to formulate an Action Plan.

32. CLOSURE OF NEWLAND STREET TOILETS

The Council noted the letter from the District Council notifying closure of the Newland Street toilets with effect from 12th May 2008. The letter made no mention of money that had been set aside for refurbishment. It was agreed that Paul Smith of the District Council should be invited to a special Council meeting in order to provide an explanation of current plans.

33. LAND AT 1 BLUEBELL CLOSE, MILKWALL

Members noted that the occupier of 1 Bluebell Close had recently laid a drive across land owned by the Council and had effectively incorporated it into the garden of the property. It was agreed that the Clerk should take advice from the Council’s solicitor and send an appropriate letter to the occupier.

34. AMENITIES COMMITTEE

The Council noted the report made by the Amenities Committee. It was agreed that the Committee should formulate a water conservation policy as part of the Environment Policy and bring this back to the full Council. Subject to this, it was proposed that the report be accepted.

Proposed: Cllr Phelps Seconded: Cllr H Lusty

35. FINANCE AND OFFICE COMMITTEE

Cllrs Howell, Thorne and Atherley declared personal interests.

It was proposed and agreed that the report be accepted.

Proposed: Cllr Phelps Seconded: Cllr Howell

36. PLANNING AND TRANSPORT COMMITTEE

The Council noted the report made by the Planning and Transport Committee. It was agreed that the Clerk should write to Welsh Water concerning a damaged drain cover which needed repair.

37. PLANNING COMMITTEE

The decisions taken at the Planning Committee meeting were noted.

38. MEMBERS’ REPORTS

Cllr Phelps said that he was concerned at the level of charges being imposed by Two Rivers Housing Association for grass cutting at Sunnybank. It was agreed that the concerns should be passed to the District Council Riley for further investigation.

Cllr Elsmore reported that a meeting had been held with Welsh Water and the local MP on 2nd May concerning flooding problems. Welsh Water would be obtaining costings by the end of July for the various works required.
Further discussions would then be held at which the work would be prioritised. The priorities would then be submitted to OFWAT for approval. Cllr Elsmore said that it was important to ensure that Coleford’s needs remained high on the list of priorities.

39. REPORTS FROM DISTRICT AND COUNTY COUNCILLORS

None present.

40. CORRESPONDENCE

The Council noted the correspondence received during May 2008.

41. PAYMENTS

It was proposed and agreed that the payments for May 2008 be accepted.

Proposed: Cllr Phelps Seconded: Cllr Collins

42. DATE OF NEXT MEETING

The next meeting will be held on Tuesday 24th June at 7.00pm.

There being no further public business, the meeting closed at 8.30pm

 

Public Forum

42. To accept apologies

43. To receive declarations of interest

44. To approve minutes of meetings 27 May 2008

45. To raise matters arising from meetings 27 May 2008

46. To fill the outstanding positions on Committees and Council representatives

Public Safety
1 vacancy.

Gloucestershire Playing Fields Committee
1 vacancy

The Halls Charity
Councillors Elsmore, C Lusty, Thorne and 1 vacancy

47. To decide on the production of a Coleford Town Guide
Presentation by Tim Pearce

48. To decide on the response to the FoDDC Off Street Car parking Management – Future Plans consultation

49. To agree to the change of payroll provider to Makinson & Co of Lydney

50. To agree to amendment to standing Orders that minutes of Council meetings held in committee should not be placed into the public domain until they have been approved by Council.

51. To agree that the Council pass £5000.00 to the Coleford Partnership for the future Community Enterprise Centre.

52. To give permission to the Coleford Literary Festival to run events in the town centre area.

53. To agree to a further training day for all councillors and office staff.

54. To agree to the recommendation of the in house auditors

55. To agree the recommendations of the Amenities Committee

56. To agree the recommendations of the Finance & Office Committee

57. To note the decisions of the Planning Committee




58. To note reports from members (for information only)

59. To note reports from District and County Councillors (for information only)

60. To note correspondence (for information only, see attached list)

61. To agree payments (see attached list)
 

Minutes

 At the Monthly Meeting of the Coleford Town Council held at the Town House, Lords Hill Walk, Coleford on Tuesday 24th June 2008, there were present:

Councillor Mrs S Merrikin (Mayor)
Mr C Howell (Deputy Mayor)
Mr D Atherley
Mr C Elsmore

Also present:
County Councillors Mrs G Bensted
Mr D Riley

PUBLIC FORUM

There were no questions during the Public Forum.

42. APOLOGIES

Apologies were received from Cllrs C Lusty, H Lusty, Phelps, Thorne, Weston, Kay and Collins. Also from County Councillor Chamberlain

Cllrs Allaway- Martin and Nicholson gave no apology

As 5 councillors are required to form a quorum and only 4 were present, it was not possible to conduct the decision-making business on the agenda. These items were held over until the next meeting to be held on Tuesday 8th July.

43. COLEFORD TOWN GUIDE, PRESENTATION BY MR PEARCE

The Mayor invited Mr Pearce to give a presentation to those councillors present.

Mr Pearce distributed a number of copies of guides he already had in production for other towns. He said the guides were funded through advertising. They were seen as guides for both local people and for visitors. He anticipated producing 8000 copies for Coleford with 6500 being distributed locally and the remainder used for visitors or for those looking to move to the Coleford area.

The guide would be renewed every two years and once in circulation would represent good value for local businesses. Mr Pearce said that the guide would be produced in close relationship with the Council and would have the opportunity to proof read and approve the draft. The Council would receive a mention on the front cover and would include its views. Mr Pearce welcomed input for historical background from local groups and societies.

Although the guide was not printed on recycled paper it came from renewable resources which were explained in the guide enabled it to have a high quality finish.

Discussing distribution networks, councillors thought it would be possible to use local girl guides. In return Mr Pearce said he could offer the Guides a free advert.

Mr Pearce said that it would take about three months to produce the guide from the date it was decided to go ahead.

The Mayor thanked Mr Pearce for his presentation and said the Council would respond to him after discussion at the next full council meeting.

Before closing the meeting, Councillors discussed the presentation to be held at the Area Partnership on Friday 26th June which will focus on the floodwater problems in the Coleford area. It was agreed that Councillors Atherley, Elsmore and Howell would attend.

DATE OF NEXT MEETING

The next meeting will be held on Tuesday 8th July at 7.00pm.

The meeting closed at .735pm

 

Full Council
29 July 2008
Agenda

Public Forum

85. To accept apologies

86. To receive declarations of interest

87. To approve minutes of meetings 8 July

88. To raise matters arising from meetings 8 July

89. To fill the outstanding positions on Committees and Council representatives
Public Safety 1 vacancy.

Gloucestershire Playing Fields Committee 1 vacancy

90. To make decisions about the future of the public convenience provision in Coleford and the Town Council involvement and to decide about the invoice demanding maintenance payments received from the FoDDC on 11 June 08.
Presentation Steven Kendall FoDDC

91. To discuss the correspondence from the Wynols Community Tenants & Residents Association regarding traffic calming measures

92. To discuss and make recommendations regarding the implications of the A40/A48 contra flow system (incl. report from Cllr Sue Merrikin, Mayor)

93. To agree to Coleford gaining a designation order that will make it an arrestable offence when requested by an officer to stop drinking in a public place.

94. To agree to the junior warden scheme to clearing graves in the cemetery

95. To formalise the use of a minute secretary at all full council meetings

96. To agree that the past deputy mayors should be listed on the Mayoral board and that past deputy mayors should be invited to an unveiling and be presented with a past deputy mayors badge.

97. To make a decision regarding the proposal from Two Rivers Housing that they should transfer to the Town Council the responsibility of the grass cutting and maintenance areas for which they are responsible.

98. To decide the action the Council should take regarding the response from Two Rivers Housing about the regeneration of the Cornish type housing at Sunnybank.

99. To respond to the consultation on house hold waste being conducted by Gloucestershire County Council.

100. To agree that to the training requirements of the Clerk and Assistant Clerk identified from their recent appraisals.

101. To agree to the recommendations made as a result of the Clerks and Assistant Clerks appraisals.

102. To agree to the recommendations of the Amenities Committee

103. To agree to the recommendations of the Burial Committee

104. To agree the recommendations of the Highway meeting

105. To note the decisions of the Planning Committee

106. To note reports from members (for information only)

107. To note reports from District and County Councillors (for information only)

108. To note correspondence (for information only, see attached list)

109. To agree to the months payments (see attached list)
 

Minutes

At the Monthly Meeting of the Coleford Town Council held at the Town House, Lords Hill Walk, Coleford on Tuesday 29th July 2008, there were present:

Councillor Mrs S Merrikin (Mayor)
Mrs C Allaway-Martin
Mr D Atherley
Mr C Elsmore
Mrs H Lusty
Mr R Phelps
Mr M Weston

Also present:
County Councillor Mr P Chamberlain
District Councillors Mrs G Bensted & Mr D Riley

Gloucester Constabulary PCSO Neil Evans

PUBLIC FORUM

Mrs Gill Robins addressed the Council as Chairperson of the Wynols Community Tenants and Residents Association. And referred to her letter dated 14th July 2008. She expressed residents’ concerns about the danger speeding cars posed to children and requested that action be taken to install traffic calming measures. She also highlighted the poor state of the highway and pavements and the risk to elderly people.

The Mayor thanked Mrs Robins and said the matter was on the agenda for discussion. The Council would keep her informed about any decisions made.

Mr Williams addressed the Council in relation to correspondence with Welsh Water on the matter of floodwater issues in the Coleford area. Mr Williams said he was gathering information regarding flooding events and asked if the Council could release any information held.
The Mayor said that Mr Williams was welcome to see any information the Council held and invited him to call at the Council office during opening hours

85. APOLOGIES

Apologies were received from Cllrs Howell, Kay, C Lusty, Nicolson, and Thorne.

86. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

Cllrs H Lusty and Phelps declared personal interests in item 90, public conveniences.

87. TO APPROVE MINUTES

The minutes of the meeting held on 8th July 2008 were approved by those present and signed by the Mayor.

88. MATTERS ARISING

There were no matters arising.


89. COMMITTEES AND COUNCIL REPRESENTATIVES

Cllr Atherley agreed to join the Public Safety Committee

Cllr H Lusty agreed to join the Gloucestershire Playing Fields Committee.

90. PUBLIC CONVENIENCES

The Mayor invited Mr Kendal (FoDDC) to address the Council in relation to public conveniences in Coleford.

Mr Kendall said that an asset management strategy was being put together which would be considered by the District Council in August. He said that there was money in the budget for refurbishment of toilets but he could not pre-judge any decisions the Council might make. He said that the Council would also be considering car park charges to cover the cost of maintenance.

Mr Kendall also said that he would investigate and clarify the invoice sent to the Town Council for public convenience charges.

Councillors made their views known to Mr Kendall:

· Many promises have been made by the District Council over a 6 year period, all seem to have been forgotten and documents have been lost.
· One toilet is not sufficient for a town the size of Coleford.
· The car park toilets are well below standard with no baby changing facilities and are a focus for anti-social behaviour.
· The car park toilets are not in the best location for the majority of pedestrians.
· The toilets at Newland Street were allowed to deteriorate while repair costs escalated forcing closure.
· Despite closure, there is still a sign pointing to toilets in Newland Street.
· A number of planning applications have been granted for food outlets without toilets on the understanding that public toilets were available in Newland Street.
· The Town Council has spent a great deal of time over a number of years giving input and providing plans to the District Council.

The Mayor summed up the feeling of the Council by saying that Councillors felt that they had been badly let down.

Mr Kendal said that he was now aware of the strength of feeling and gave a commitment to conduct a thorough investigation at the District Council and agreed to report back to the next Town Council meeting.

91. WYNOLS COMMUNITY TENANTS AND RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION

Members noted the letter from Mrs Robins and agreed that the matter should be referred to the Highways Committee to be discussed with the Highways Authority.

It was agreed that many of those who might be guilty of speeding would be residents who themselves lived on the Estate. It was suggested that leaflets should be delivered to all householders. PCSO Evans offered to deliver the leaflets. He said that Mrs Robins had already been invited to join the Neighbourhood Panel.
District Councillor Riley said he was going to a meeting with Two Rivers Housing on 29th July and would ask their views.

92. A40/A48 CONTRAFLOW SYSTEM

Members expressed concerns regarding the ability of emergency services to deal with incidents in the Coleford area during the 6 months of major road-works at the A40/A48 junction. It was agreed that the Clerk should write to the Primary Care Trust, the Police, the Ambulance Trust and the Fire Brigade to establish what emergency planning systems they had in place and to ask if inter-county arrangements had been made for the duration of the road-works.

93. DRINKING IN PUBLIC PLACES

PCSO Evans reported that the trial ban on drinking in public places in Lydney appeared to be having some success and had lead to a reduction in anti-social behaviour. The Police were proposing to introduce a similar ban in Coleford. After discussion it was proposed that the Council should support this initiative.

Proposed: Cllr Atherley Seconded: Cllr Phelps

On being put to the vote, the proposal was accepted unanimously.

94. JUNIOR WARDEN SCHEME

Cllr Phelps reported that an offer had been made for the use of junior wardens to help clear undergrowth around gravestones in the cemetery while under the supervision of Street Wardens. The Clerk confirmed that all gravestones had been tested for safety and had been found to pose no risk.

It was proposed that the offer be accepted.

Proposed: Cllr Phelps Seconded: Cllr Elsmore

On being put to the vote, the proposal was accepted unanimously.

95. MINUTE SECRETARY AT COUNCIL MEETINGS

It was proposed that Alan Clarke should be formally appointed as Minute Secretary to the Council.

Proposed: Cllr Phelps Seconded: Cllr Elsmore

On being put to the vote, the proposal was accepted unanimously.

96. DEPUTY MAYORS

A personal interest was declared in this item by Cllr Atherley.

After discussion it was agreed that all past Deputy Mayors should be listed on the Mayoral Board and be presented with Deputy Mayor badges.

Proposed: Cllr Phelps Seconded: Cllr Lusty

On being put to the vote, the proposal was accepted unanimously.
97. TRANSFER OF GRASS CUTTING RESPONSIBILITIES

Members noted the proposal from Two Rivers Housing that responsibility for grass cutting should be transferred to the Council.
It was agreed that the terms of transfer should be very specific and future ownership of land also needed to be established. It was agreed that Two Rivers Housing should be invited to give a presentation at the September meeting.

98. CORNISH HOUSING AT SUNNYBANK

It was agreed to invite Two River Housing to give a presentation at the September meeting.

99. HOUSEHOLD WASTE CONSULTATION

It was agreed that the Clerk would circulated the consultation document to Councillors so that they could respond individually.

100. TRAINING OF CLERK AND ASSISTANT CLERK

Members noted the training needs identified arising from the recent appraisals of the Clerk and Assistant Clerk. The Clerk reported that the cost of training required would be approximately £200 and was well within budget. After discussion it was agreed that the training identified should be implemented.

The Clerk said that 2 hours a week would need to be set aside during office hours to implement the training.

101. TO AGREE APPRAISAL RECOMMENDATIONS

Members noted the objectives set out following the appraisal of the Clerk and Assistant Clerk, including the change of title for the Assistant Clerk to Deputy Clerk.

After discussion it was proposed that the recommendations for items 100 and 101 should be agreed.

Proposed: Cllr Phelps Seconded: Cllr Lusty

On being put to the vote, the proposals for items 100 and 101 were accepted unanimously.

102. AMENITIES COMMITTEE

Members noted the report of the Amenities Committee and after discussion it was proposed that the following recommendations should be accepted:

· That the Council support the Young Gloucestershire Youth Project up to an amount of £10,000.
· Young Gloucestershire to invoice the Council quarterly and produce a report of its activities.
· Young Gloucestershire to arrange for young people to attend a Council meeting.

Proposed: Cllr Elsmore Seconded: Cllr Allaway-Martin

· That the Royal Forest Centre should continue to use the King George V pavilion.
· All users should collect and return the key on the day of use.
· A log to be kept of faults and issues arising at the pavilion.

Proposed: Cllr Phelps Seconded: Cllr Allaway-Martin

· That all bolts and keys for the pavilion be replaced.
· No users be permitted to have keys cut.

The Clerk reported that it was currently not known how many keys were in circulation. The cost of new bolts and keys which could not be copied would be £558.

Proposed: Cllr Phelps Seconded: Cllr Allaway-Martin

The Clerk reported that urgent repair work had been carried out to the tiles in Mushet Walk. In future the area would be kept clean by the Council’s handyman. The Clerk had confirmed that any future injuries that might arise would be covered by the Council’s insurers.

Cllr Allaway-Martin reported that some areas of erosion had taken place in Mushet Walk and needed attention. It was agreed that the handyman should deal with this.

Proposed: Cllr Phelps Seconded: Cllr Elsmore

On being put to the vote, all the proposals made by the Amenities Committee were accepted unanimously.

103. HIGHWAYS

Members noted the report made by the Highways Committee and which contained the following proposals:

· A meeting be set up to discuss how the issues of HGV traffic in Coleford can be resolved.
· That once County Highways has sprayed weeds in problem areas, the District and Town Councils work together to remove the dead weeds.

Proposed: Cllr Phelps Seconded: Cllr Elsmore

On being put to the vote, the proposals made by the Highways Committee were accepted unanimously.

104. PLANNING COMMITTEE

Members note the decisions taken by the Planning Committee.

105. REPORTS FROM MEMBERS

The Mayor reported that she had attended an art exhibition at Lakers School. It had attracted a good response and some of the work will be on display at the District Council. It was hoped that it would become an annual event.

Cllr Weston expressed his concerns about the speed of traffic in St. John’s Street and the potential for damage to culverts caused by HGVs. Perhaps these were issues which could be tackled by the Highways Committee.
Cllr Atherley said he had attended a positive meeting with the Highways Authority (see item 103) and a number of issues were being tackled.

Cllr H Lusty reported that she had attended a visit to Fairford with the Market Towns Forum and had been very impressed by what was being achieved there.

Cllr Elsmore reported that a new dental practice was being set up in Lydney in October.

106. REPORTS FROM COUNTY AND DISTRICT COUNCILLORS

County Councillor Chamberlain recommended that Councillors should express views to the County Council for smaller, more flexible solutions to waste management. This would be preferable to the construction of a large-scale incinerator with the potential for hidden long-term running costs. Cllr Chamberlain added that Coleford had been listed as number 7 on the list of priorities for dealing with flooding problems in Gloucestershire and was good news. Cllr Chamberlain also said that over £1,000 had been raised at a recent event towards the cost of purchasing the Almshouses in Newland.

District Councillor Bensted said that a consultant’s survey of flooding problems in Coleford should be published in 4-6 weeks. It was likely to contain proposals for the construction of a holding tank beneath the main town car park. This would cause considerable disruption while being constructed but should produce longer-term benefits.

District Councillor Riley said that a meeting was being held with Arriva Trains next week to discuss the current service which was causing some dissatisfaction.

107. CORRESPONDENCE

The items of correspondence received during July were noted.

108. PAYMENTS

The list of payments for July were noted and agreed.

109. DATE OF NEXT MEETING

The next meeting will be held on Tuesday 26th August at 7.00pm and will convene at the King George V playing field for the annual inspection.

The meeting closed at 8.40pm

 

Councillors will meet at the King George V Pavilion for an inspection of the facilities followed by an inspection of the cemetery

109. To accept apologies

110. To receive declarations of interest

111. To approve minutes of meetings 29 July

112. To raise matters arising from meetings 29 July

113. To make decisions about the future of the public convenience provision in Coleford and the Town Council involvement and to decide about the invoice demanding maintenance payments received from the FoDDC on 11 June 08.
Presentation Steven Kendall FoDDC

114. To make comment on the attached planning applications

115. To note reports from members (for information only)

116. To note reports from District and County Councillors (for information only)

117. To note correspondence (for information only, see attached list)

118. To agree to the months payments (see attached list)

114

Temporary Traffic Order Scowles Road route 3/23ColefordGL16 Closure of Scowles Road route 3/23 from its junction with Staunton Road route B4228 t its junction with Highmeadow Road route 40068 For information
P1072/08/FUL WoodleighParkend Walk Coalway GL16 7JR Erection of a first floor extension
P1070/08/LBC 87 Gloucester Road ColefordGL16 8BN Listed Building consent of an outbuilding to create a separate dwelling.
 

Minutes

At the Monthly Meeting of the Coleford Town Council held at the Town House, Lords Hill Walk, Coleford on Tuesday 26th August 2008, there were present:

Councillor Mrs S Merrikin (Mayor)
Mr C Howell (Deputy Mayor)
Mrs C Allaway-Martin
Mr D Atherley
Mr C Elsmore
Mrs H Lusty
Mr R Phelps

Also present:

District Councillor Mrs Grace Bensted
PCSO Mr Ben Jeffries

KGV PAVILION AND PLAYING FIELD

Councillors inspected the facilities at the King George V Recreation ground. All agreed that the playing field was in excellent condition and being well maintained. The Energy Efficiency Survey which had been conducted on the pavilion was impressive and it was agreed that the Council should undertake an improvement programme for the facilities.
The pavilion should be made useable for the community but acknowledge that the primary users were the football teams. The Clerk was asked to obtain quotes for the building of a new pavilion and also to identify possible funding streams.

COLEFORD CEMETERY

Councillors were pleased with the progress that had been made with the Cemetery improvements. They asked that the contractor to weed the Garden of Remembrance and lay a more decorative layer of forest chipping on the top of the base layer. It was agreed that the hedge adjoining Owen Farm should be cut as soon as possible. Everyone agree that the cemetery was in a much better condition.

109. APOLOGIES

Apologies were received from Cllrs, Collins, C Lusty, Thorne and Weston.

The Clerk read out a letter of resignation from Cllr Nicholson whose work commitments had now taken her away from the area. It was agreed that a letter of good wishes should be sent to Cllr Nicholson and also thanking her for her services. The Clerk will also place an advert for the vacancy on the Town Council in the local press.

110. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

There were no declarations of interest.

111. TO APPROVE MINUTES

It was proposed that the minutes of the meeting held on 29th July 2008 be approved and signed by the Mayor.

Proposed: Cllr Atherley Seconded: Cllr Elsmore
112. MATTERS ARISING

Item 94: Cllr Howell said that he was concerned that the proper method of testing the safety of gravestones had not been carried out. The Clerk said she would check how this had been done.

113. PUBLIC CONVENIENCES

Mr Kendal (FoDDC) reported back following the last meeting of the Town Council. He said that the sign pointing to Newland St Toilets had now been removed and a sign placed on the closed toilets indicating the nearest conveniences in the town car park.

Mr Kendal reported that the invoice sent to the Town Council did include cleaning charges for Newland St. This had been clearly an error and arrangements would be made to readjust the amount invoiced.

Mr Kendal went on to say that the District Council Cabinet had now approved an Asset Management Strategy for Coleford which created a framework for future plans and discussions. Approval had been given for spending £60,000 on upgrading the toilets in Railway Drive car park. He said that the District Council proposed to introduce charges once the toilets had been refurbished. No decision had been taken on the level of charging yet. The District Council would also be seeking to pass responsibility for cleaning to the Town Council. Mr Kendall circulated a draft plan of the toilets.

The Mayor expressed the Council’s frustrations and concerns that despite considerable input from the Town Council, the plans were still inadequate on a number of issues. Several Councillors commented on how badly the subject had been handled by the District Council and expressed a loss of faith.

Mr Kendall said he was prepared to sit down with the Town Council and draw up plans which incorporated all views. It was agreed that a meeting would be held on Tuesday 9th September at 7.00 at the Town Council Offices.

114. PLANNING APPLICATIONS

Temporary Traffic Order Scowles Road route 3/23ColefordGL16 Closure of Scowles Road route 3/23 from its junction with Staunton Road route B4228 t its junction with Highmeadow Road route 40068 For information
P1072/08/FUL WoodleighParkend Walk Coalway GL16 7JR Erection of a first floor extension No Objection
P1070/08/LBC 87 Gloucester Road ColefordGL16 8BN Listed Building consent of an outbuilding to create a separate dwelling. Objection Increased sewage into Newland Street sewer contrary to Town Council Planning policy Access to Gloucester Road.


115. REPORTS FROM MEMBERS

Cllr Howell said he had been invited to attend a Standards Committee meeting at the District Council on 8th September.

116. REPORTS FROM COUNTY AND DISTRICT COUNCILLORS

Cllr Bensted asked if the Town Council had yet been given a date for consultation on car park charges. The Mayor confirmed that no date had yet been set by the District Council but Cllr Bensted would be informed and would be welcome at the meeting.

117. CORRESPONDENCE

The items of correspondence received during August were noted.

108. PAYMENTS

It was proposed that the list of payments for August be accepted.

Proposed: Cllr Atherley Seconded: Cllr Elsmore

109. DATE OF NEXT MEETING

The next meeting will be held on Tuesday 23rd September at 7.00pm

The meeting closed at 8.45pm


 

PUBLIC FORUM

122. To accept apologies

123. To receive declarations of interest

124. To approve minutes of meetings 26 August and 23 September 2008

125. To raise matters arising from meetings 26 August and 23 September 2008

126. To appoint Cllr Phelps to the Amenities Committee
To appoint Cllr Atherley to the Planning & Transport (Highways) Committee

127. To make a decision regarding the proposal from Two Rivers Housing that they should transfer to the Town Council the responsibility of the grass cutting and maintenance areas for which they are responsible.
Presentation

128. To meet and understand the role of the new Market Town Regeneration Officer
Miss Jessie Wainwright

129. To comment on the Forest of Dean District Council Community Emergency plan

130. To make recommendation about the placing of Dog Fouling signs in the Town.

131. To agree to sign the third edition of GCC Gloucestershire Charter.

132. To agree to the recommendations of the Amenities Committee

133. To agree to the recommendations of the Highways Committee

134. To note the decisions of the Planning Committee

135. To note reports from members (for information only)

136. To note reports from District and County Councillors (for information only)

137. To note correspondence (for information only, see attached list)

138. To agree to the months payments (see attached list)


Minutes