Ditton Parish Council
Meeting Minutes, November 2007
MINUTES OF A MEETING OF DITTON PARISH COUNCIL,
HELD IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBER
AT DITTON COMMUNITY CENTRE ON MONDAY 5th NOVEMBER 2007
[Click here for a downloadable version in Adobe PDF file format.]
PRESENT: CLLRS. M J PORTER [Chairman], J BEADLE [Vice-Chairman], R G W
BAKER, MRS A BEADLE, M BRINE, W CORDWELL, D H NUNN, & MRS J F THWAITES.
MRS S J KAVANAGH [Clerk of the Council] & MRS N GREENAWAY [Admin.Asst.]
349. OPENING OF MEETING
The Chairman opened the meeting at 7.30pm and thanked Mrs Day for her
presentation on the Heritage Centre.
Congratulations were extended to Cllr. Mrs Throssell who this month completes
ten years as a Member of Ditton Parish Council.
The Chairman advised Members that PC Roddick is now a father and has a
baby daughter. Mother and baby are doing well. PC Roddick asked that his
thanks be passed on to the Council for the kind gift.
350. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE
Apologies were RECEIVED from Cllrs. R Angel, A R Mulcuck, Mrs Throssell
and Co. Cllr. Rowe. The previously notified reasons for absence, were
ACCEPTED and APPROVED.
351. DECLARATION OF INTERESTS
Cllrs. J and Mrs A Beadle declared a personal interest in item 361 as
their daughter is now employed as a solicitor by the firm of solicitors
currently being instructed by the Council in the Ragstone Boundary dispute.
Cllr. Mrs Thwaites declared a personal interest in items 353(b) and 355(b)
as she is a member of the Heritage Trust.
Cllr. Cordwell declared an interest in items 354(b) as he lives in The
Stream.
352. CONFIRMATION & SIGNING OF MINUTES OF THE PARISH COUNCIL MEETING
HELD 3rd OCTOBER 2007
The minutes of the above meeting were CONFIRMED and SIGNED as a correct
record.
353. MATTERS ARISING
(a) Community Wardens [Page 158, Item 290]
NOTED, a reply to this Council’s communication is still awaited.
(b) Ditton Heritage Centre [Page 159, Item 291(b)(i)]
Details of the Heritage Centre’s financial situation was covered in the
presentation given earlier in the meeting by Mrs Day, who also circulated
their bank statements.
(c) Cycling Strategy (Page 168, Item 296(g)] - Reply from T&MBC
A communication from the Chief Engineer was READ and it was NOTED that
he is unaware of any proposals to put cycle lanes in Kilnbarn Road, however,
Bradbourne Lane has been identified as a potential part of a local cycling
network in the draft Cycling Strategy for Tonbridge & Malling, but
without any clear proposal as to what this would entail.
A fresh draft is being prepared by the Kent County Council and circulated
as part of a consultation exercise. All Parish Councils will be included
in the list of consultees.
354. MINUTES OF MEETINGS HELD DURING OCTOBER 2007
(a) Community Centre Committee, 8th October 2007 - Circulated
The minutes of the above meeting were presented by Cllr. Beadle and, subject
to one amendment, were CONFIRMED and SIGNED as a true record.
(b) Planning, Highways & Transportation Committee, 15h October 2007
The minutes of the above meeting were presented by Cllr. Porter and, subject
to one amendment, were CONFIRMED and SIGNED as a true record.
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ADJOURNMENT
Mr Dickenson and Mr and Mrs Shepherd of Bradbourne Lane attended in connection
with the questionnaire regarding the proposed closure of The Ford to traffic.
It was NOTED that Mr Dickenson had previously circulated inaccurate information
to residents asking for their support in opposing the closure of The Ford
and had also written to the Parish Council giving his reasons for keeping
The Ford open to traffic.
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[i] THE FORD – DECISION ON CLOSURE [Page 180, Item 326(b)
Discussion took place and the result of the questionnaire, which had been
circulated to all residents in The Stream and Bradbourne Lane, was READ.
Twenty nine responses had been received, two of which were opposed to
the closure and twenty seven in favour.
Further discussion took place and Members stressed that at no time have
the Highways Authority or Parish Council suggested that The Ford would
be closed by way of a gate, as stated in Mr Dickenson’s circular. It was
NOTED that neither party would wish to see the conservation area spoiled.
The proposal is to place bollards at the edge of the ford which are in
keeping with the area and will enable horses to pass through and children
to play.
Members voted on the proposal to close The Ford to traffic, taking into
account the wishes of the residents. Voting resulted in 4 in FAVOUR, 1
AGAINST and 2 ABSTENTIONS. The proposal was therefore CARRIED.
RESOLVED to advise the Highway Authority of this Council’s decision, which
is subject to them using bollards to prevent vehicles using the Ford that
are in keeping with the conservation area
(c) Open Spaces & Amenities Committee, 15th October 2007 - Circulated
The above minutes were presented by Cllr. Baker and, subject to the addition
of Cllr. Porter’s name to the list of attendees, were CONFIRMED and SIGNED
as a true record.
(d) Personnel Committee, 22nd October 2007 - Herewith
The above minutes were presented by Cllr. Mrs Beadle and CONFIRMED and
SIGNED as a true record.
[i] PROGRESSION PLANNING [Page 187, Item 342(b)]
RESOLVED to RATIFY the adoption of a Statement of Intent regarding progression
planning.
(e) Ditton Twinning Association, 26th September 2007
READ and NOTED.
(f) Joint Meeting with Partner Authorities and Residents, 26th September
2007
READ and NOTED.
355. CORRESPONDENCE
For Noting
The following correspondence was CIRCULATED, READ and NOTED:-
Kent County Council: Outcome of Older Person’s Strategic Review
Ton. & Malling Borough Cncl: TM Youth Forum
Awards for Gardeners who ‘Go Wild’
Summary of Accounts 2006/2007
Mr McCulloch (T&MBC) Bus Stop Dispute – London Road
KAPC: Minutes of Area Meeting held 20th September 2007 Notice of 60th
Annual General Meeting + encls
ERHA: Investing in Affordable Village Homes
Press Publishing: ‘Local Councils Update’, Issue 96 – October 2007
Gullands: ‘News’, Issue 10
Geoff Rowe: Congratulations re. Joint Initiative
T & M Crime and Disorder
Reduction Partnership: ‘Newsletter’ – September 2007, Issue 4
Barming Parish Council: Waste Recycling at Allington Incinerator
Standards Board for England: ‘Standard’, September 2007
Kenward Trust: ‘New Life’, Issue 3 2007
Kent Youth: Invitation to a Service of Lessons and Carols
(b) For Decision
Ditton Heritage Centre: Grant Aid
A request for a donation towards the re-building of the Heritage Centre
toilet block, was READ and it was NOTED that it has been customary for
them to receive 50% of the bucket collection made at the annual bonfire
night, as they are the main collectors.
RESOLVED to accede to the request and a donation of £750.00 be made
from the bucket collection.
Ditton Twinning Association: Fund Raising
A request from the Twinning Association to raffle a Christmas Hamper at
each of the Council’s Christmas dances, was READ.
RESOLVED to accede to the request.
Ditton Infant School: Childrens Christmas Party
A request from Ditton Infant School for a donation towards the childrens’
Christmas party, was READ.
RESOLVED to accede to the request and a donation of £200 be made
from the Charities Account under Sec. 173 of the LGA 1972.
Ditton Junior School: Childrens Christmas Party
A request from Ditton Junior School for a donation towards the childrens’
Christmas party, was READ.
RESOLVED to accede to the request and a donation of £200 be made
from the Charities Account under Sec. 173 of the LGA 1972
Hadlow Tower Action Group: Request for Support to Save Hadlow Tower
RESOLVED to forward a letter of support.
Leybourne Grange Riding Invitation
to Annual Christmas Nativity and School for the Disabled: Blessing Friday
7th December 2007
Anyone wishing to attend is asked to notify the Clerk as soon as possible.
The Chairman asked the Members to accept a late item of correspondence
from the Rev’d. Priscilla Payne.
The Rev’d Priscilla Payne: Aspects of Love – 11th November 2007
A request for a reduction in the hire fee for the above function being
organised by the Church was READ and it was NOTED that it is a non-profit
making event which needs to sell 150 tickets to break even. FURTHER NOTED
that ticket sales to date total 130. Discussion took place.
RESOLVED that the Council will make up the shortfall in ticket sales to
enable the Church to break even.
The Chairman moved that the Police Report be taken next to enable PCSO
Lia Bishop to return quickly to her duties.
356. REPORT FROM PARISH CONSTABLE/COMMUNITY POLICE
PCSO Lia Bishop reported on the crime figures for Ditton over the last
month which totalled 11: 1 criminal damage, 3 vehicle crimes, including
one theft of a vehicle, 2 burglaries and 5 others.
The Chairman thanked Lia for her report and for her work in the parish,
which is very much appreciated.
357. FINANCE
Accounts Received
The following accounts received were READ and NOTED:-
Ditton Junior School Grounds Maintenance 342.57
Ditton Infant School Grounds Maintenance 112.31
Advertisers Ditton Gazette Adverts 91.00
Ditton Guides Energy Reimbursement 6.27
Photocopier Photocopy Charges 10.00
Hirers Multi Sport Hire Fees 120.00
(b) Accounts for Payment
RESOLVED the following accounts be ACCEPTED, APPROVED and PAID, with the
exception of the account for Popi, which will be held pending enquiries
regarding the quality of the Gazette:-
Salaries: Gross: 14386.79 Net: 10762.17
Kent County Council: Superannuation – October 2007 2732.64
DPC Imprest Account: Reimbursement* 1484.59*
AquAid: Still Water & Sanitation 46.98
Vat 8.21 55.19
Astra Security Systems: 6 x Abloy Exec. Keys 44.10
Vat 7.72 51.82
Audit Commission 2007 Audit Fees 1950.00
Vat 341.25 2291.25
Cooks Garden Machinery: Chainsaw Repairs 25.53
Vat 4.47 30.00
CSP: Letter Heading 191.27
Vat 33.47 224.74
DCK Beavers: VAT Partial Exemption Computation 717.50
Vat 125.57 843.07
Cobra Insurance: Computer Policy Renewal 525.00
Parish Vehicle 895.65
Agriculture Vehicles 872.20
Group Personal Accident 1089.45 3382.20
Ditton Comm. Centre: Hall Hire; 21/12/07 258.00
22/12/07 258.00
31/1/.07 301.00 817.00
EDF Energy: NRRG Changing Rooms 23.22
Vat 1.16 24.38
Gold Star: Fleece & Polo Shirts 142.50
Vat 24.94 167.44
Kent County Council: 1st Internal Audit for 2008/2009 340.00
Vat 59.50 399.50
Kent County Council: Vehicle Lease Fee 1071.00
Vat 187.43 1258.43
Kent County Council: Pitchmarker, Stationery & 84.40
Sundries Vat 14.77 99.17
Landtechnics: Grease Nipple and Grease Gun 54.61
Vat 9.56 64.17
Mower Plant Services: Mower Parts 46.33
Vat 8.11 54.44
Parker Merchanting: Protective Clothing 20.50
Vat 3.60 24.10
Parkfoot Garage: Vehicle Diesel 42.55
Vat 7.45 50.00
Popi: Ditton Gazette 1579.00
Mr Pullinger: Locking Playarea – October 2007 25.00
SSG Emprise: Keyholding & Alarm Response 20.83
Vat 3.65 24.48
Sisis Equipment: Front Drive Roller 83.06
Carriage 11.99
95.05
Vat 16.63 111.68
Three Towns: Postage Book, envelopes & white tack 53.61
Vat 9.38 62.99
Travis Perkins: Timber, screws, bolt, hinges, tape
compresion elbow, hose union,
compression backplate elbow 125.99
Vat 22.06 148.05
United Balloon: Hallowe’en Balloons 32.00
Vat 5.60 37.60
IMPREST ACCOUNT – Reimbursement of October expenditure
Carried Forward 1st October 2007 1456.09
Add: PC Reimbursement 1043.91
Peter Eligate fee – 27/10/07 600.00
Reimbursement of Raffle Prizes 27/10 57.00
3157.00
Deduct: October 2007 Expenses
Voucher Charge 3.25
Annual Council Photograph 40.00
Postage Stamps 58.00
BT – Admin Line 62.85
Petty Cash 64.85
OSA Expenses 148.38
Bar Expenses 380.08
CILCA Course – Nicola 175.75
Raffle Prizes – Dances 2007 321.29
Autumn Gazette Delivery 111.54
Peter Eligate – 27/10/07 600.00
Costco Membership 37.60
Gift Vouchers - Fireworks 138.00 2141.59
Balance 1015.41
Sum to be drawn on 5th November 2007 1484.59 *
2500.00
*Sum required to restore balance to £2,500
(c) Cheque Drawn between Meetings
There were no cheques drawn between meetings.
(d) Direct Debits - Paid During September 2007
The following direct debits paid during September 2007 were READ and APPROVED:-
(i) DITTON PARISH COUNCIL GENERAL ACCOUNT
04.09.2007 WPA 491.80
05.09.2007 Mentor RBS PLC 350.13
07.09.2007 Nildram 42.82
18.09.2007 BT Direct Debits 46.83
18.09.2007 “ 56.34
20.09.2007 Pace Petroleum 19.65
20.09.2007 S & N UK 9,269.84
20.09.2007 Tonbridge & Malling BC 1,118.00
21.09.2007 Euphony 16.65
24.09.2007 EBS 46.50
24.09.2007 AMLD – Gaming Machine Lic. 153.00
24.09.2007 BOC Manchester 235.00
27.09.2007 British Gas 1,039.80
28.09.2007 Walkers Snacks 268.72
28.09.2007 Business Card 102.35
(ii) COMMUNITY CENTRE BAR ACCOUT
03.09.2007 Sky Business 306.68
10.09.2007 Post Office Ltd 87.83
30.09.2007 Nat West Account Charge 55.00
(iii) COMMUNITY CENTRE ACCOUNT
30.09.2007 Nat West Account Charge 55.00
(e) Seasonal Donations
RESOLVED the following annual seasonal donations be made under Sec. 137
of the LGA 1972:-
Age Concern £250.00
Pop-in-Club £125.00
(f) Audit - Annual Return
The External Auditors’ Certificate and opinion, which had previously been
circulated, was READ and it was NOTED that, on the basis of their review,
in their opinion the information contained in the annual return is in
accordance with the Audit Commission’s requirements and no matters have
come to their attention which give cause for concern that relevant legislation
and regulatory requirements have not been met.
Other matters not affecting their opinion which they commented upon are
set out below:-
The Council should review the level of its fidelity guarantee insurance
cover. The Audit Commission guideline level is balances plus half the
precept. (£931.00)
The Council is depreciating its fixed assets. The NALC publication “Governance
and Accountability is Local Council in England and Wales” states that
fixed assets should be recorded at current book value. This should be
an informed assessment of the open market value of the asset of the cost
of reconstructing it in its existing condition. This is usually the insured
value.
It was NOTED that a review has been undertaken of the level of the fidelity
guarantee insurance and advice sought from this Council’s internal auditor
regarding increasing the insurance as suggested, but it was agreed that
the risk to the council has been managed to such a level that it does
not warrant such an increase.
Cllr. Nunn and the Council’s accountant advised that depreciating fixed
assets is normal practice in accountancy and they do not feel it is necessary,
or correct, to change this.
(g) VAT Partial Exemption 2006-2007 - Analysis
The above information, which had been previously circulated, was READ
and it was NOTED that the VAT attributable to exempt activities was £3,417.34,
which is significantly below the exemption limit of £7,500.
(h) Increase in Fidelity Guarantee Insurance – Costs
Details of the cost of increasing the Fidelity Guarantee insurance to
the level suggested by Audit Commission, was READ and NOTED.
(i) Hallowe’en Dance – Balance Sheet
The balance sheet for the Hallowe’en Dance was READ and the profit of
£474.58 NOTED. The raffle made a profit of £152.00.
It was agreed that it was a good evening but some people had commented
that they preferred the second band to the first.
It was suggested that the people attending the Christmas dances be asked
if they would have any objection to the Peter Eligate Showband playing
at the Hallowe’en dance as well as the New Year’s Eve.
(j) Credit/Debit Card Purchases
Detail of costs to enable this Council to accept debit/credit cards was
READ and it was NOTED that it is proposed that cheques will not be accepted
by banks in the near future.
Discussion took place.
RESOLVED not to proceed with this at the present time, but to review it
again once a date for the withdrawal of cheques has been announced.
358. REPORTS FROM BOROUGH & COUNTY COUNCILLORS
A report was read from Co. Cllr. Rowe, who was unable to attend the meeting.
The Public Transport Panel scheduled for 6.11.07 has now been cancelled. A
date is awaited from West Kent Highways and Arriva who have promised to
review the concerns of Mrs Martin of 464 London Road. This will
now be dealt with outside the meeting of PTP.
T&M Youth Action Group’s next meeting will be held at Hugh Christie
School in Tonbridge commencing at 5.30pm. This meeting is open to the
public.
The Joint T&M Local Board meeting will be held at 7.00pm at Kings
Hill. Grant applications will be considered at this meeting. This meeting
is open to the public.
The Joint Transportation Board’s next meeting is scheduled for 7.30pm
on 3rd January 2007 at Kings Hill. Co. Cllr. Rowe would like to be notified
of any requests or areas of concern.
359. REPORT FROM PARISH CONSTABLE/COMMUNITY POLICE
Dealt with earlier in the meeting.
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ADJOURNMENT
Mr J Sellick attended on behalf of his sons in connection with the proposed
closure of the Ford, which they both support. Mr Sellick advised that
the thought the fireworks were brilliant and he congratulated the staff
on their efforts and in clearing up the recreation ground so efficiently
and quickly after the event.
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360. PLANNING MATTERS
(a) Plans Received for Comment
TM/07/3739/RD Details pursuant to condition 2 of TM/06/02288/FL in respect
of materials
New Road Bus. Est.
RESOLVED NO COMMENT
TM/07/3737/RD Details of soakaways, surface water, slab levels, refuse storage and collection, demolition completion, surface water gullies, piling drainage, access road, gradients and traffic calming measures submitted pursuant to conds. 5,6,7,8,9,10.11,15, 17 & 20 of TM/06/02288/FL – Alternative scheme of residential development comprising 9 no. 2 bedroom flats, 20 no. 2 bedroom houses, 66 no. 3 bedroom houses and 1 no,. 4 bedroom house (96 dwellings in total), together with the re-alignment of the public right of way (alternative dwelling mix to that approved under TM/05/01013/FL)
New Road Bus. Est.
RESOLVED NO OBJECTION SUBJECT TO THEIR BEING ADEQUATE
DRAINAGE ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE SURFACE WATER
TM/07/03714/TPOC Prune 1 no. sweet chestnut tree lift crown and thin remaining
crown by 20% TPO No.1 1964 (Ref: 12.02.14)
28 Acorn Grove
RESOLVED NO OBJECTION
TM/07/03375/FL Conversion from Club to Public House Details of Location
of Extraction Fan
42 New Road
RESOLVED NO OBJECTION
TM/07/03796/LDP Lawful Development Certificate: To reduce the area of
balesheds 4 – 8, reclad, re-roof with materials to match those of existing
sheds 9-12 Gooseling Grey.
Aylesford Newsprint
RESOLVED NO OBJECTION
(b) Plans Dealt with by Tonbridge & Malling Area Sub-Committee No.
3
The following decisions were READ and NOTED.
TM/07/03277/FL Conversion of existing garage to living Accommodation and
erection of single storey side extension incorporating replacement garage
57 Scott Close
GRANTED WITH CONDITIONS
TM/07/03219/AT Non-illuminated freestanding sign
429 London Road
REFUSED
TM/07/01897/FL Conversion and extension to existing to form four self
contained flats
16-18 New Road
REFUSED
TM/07/00249/FL Change from office
to residential
18 New Road
REFUSED
TM/07/03240/AT Free standing display units
613 London Road
GRANTED
(c) ‘B’ Lists
The following ‘B’ Lists were CIRCULATED, READ and NOTED:-
07/40 - 08.10.07; 07/41 - 15.10.07; 07/42 - 22.10.2007
(d) Agenda, Minutes, Notes etc. of Area 3 Sub-Committee
The above document was READ and NOTED.
(e) TM/07/03346/FL – Tesco DotCom Distribution Centre, Priory Park
A copy of an Aylesford resident’s communication to the Borough Council
regarding the above, was CIRCULATED, READ and NOTED.
361. RAGSTONE COURT/DITTON QUARRY BOUNDARY
It was NOTED that the Surveyor considers his report and the measurements
contained
within his report to be accurate.
A copy of this information has now been passed to the residents concerned.
362. DITTON REMEMBRANCE DAY SERVICES
All arrangements are in hand.
363. BONFIRE & FIREWORKS
(a) Report of Event
Everyone agreed it was a great success again this year. The bucket collection
at the end of the display raised £1643.11 and the sale of glow items
raised £716.62.
Several suggestions were made to improve the smooth running of the event
next year and it was agreed that a small working party be formed next
year to discuss these ideas.
Comments have been made on the abrupt ending of the event and the Clerk
was asked to make enquires with Essex Pyrotechnics to ascertain the reason.
The Chairman extended thanks to all the volunteer helpers for their hard
work, which was very much appreciated.
Cllr. Cordwell recorded thanks to the staff for all their hard work before
and after the event.
(b) Arrangements for 2008
RESOLVED to hold the event again next year and to try to obtain sponsorship.
364. MATTERS ARISING FROM “CORRESPONDENCE FOR NOTING”
There were no matters arising.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
The Chairman moved that in view of the confidential nature of the following
business about to be transacted, it is advisable in the public interest
that the press and public be excluded and instructed to withdraw from
the meeting in accordance with Standing Orders 27 & 50.
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365. CONFIDENTIAL MEMORANDUM BOOK
(a) Spinal Point Increases 2008/2009 Ref. CM 339
Confidential Memorandum Ref. CM 339 was CONFIRMED and SIGNED.
(b) Staff Salaries 2008/2009 Ref. CM 340
Confidential Memorandum Ref. CM 340 was CONFIRMED and SIGNED.
(c) Cost of Living Increase for 2007/2008
The Clerk advised that the cost of living increase has now been agreed
by the employers and unions at 2.475%. This will be backdated to 1st April
2007.
366. CLOSURE
The meeting closed at 9.25pm
Chairman
3rd December 2007
