The Redbourn Parish Council Web
IN ATTENDANCE: Mrs D Whiskin, Clerk to the Council and Mr Peter Fox DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: The Chairman declared an interest in the request for a sponsored seat on Redbourn Common in memory of his uncle. 1. Election of Chairman Having been duly nominated and seconded Councillor C O’Donovan was elected to serve as Chairman of the Common Footpaths and Open Spaces Committee for 2007/2008. 2. Election of Vice Chairman Having been duly nominated and seconded Councillor A V Bull was elected to serve as Vice Chairman of the Common, Footpaths and Open Spaces Committee for 2007/2008. 3 NOTIFICATION OF OTHER URGENT BUSINESS The Chairman agreed that the following items of urgent business (on safety grounds) could be discussed at the end of the meeting: 3.1 Planters in Harpenden Lane
3.2 Access from Aubrey Lane to the Village
3.3 Provision of a litter bin outside Jennis Sandwich Bar
4 MINUTES OF THE PREVIOUS MEETING Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that the minutes of the previous meeting held on Thursday, 5th April 2007 be approved and signed as a true record. There was no meeting in May because of the elections. 5 QUESTIONS/ISSUES FROM THE PUBLIC 5.1 Return of part of the road in North Common to common land The Chairman welcomed Peter Fox who had been invited to the meeting to discuss his proposals to take up part of the road on North Common and return it to common land. It was agreed to vary the order of business so that this issue could be discussed first. Mr Fox thanked members for permitting him to address the Committee. He said he was not part of any lobby group, was not a member of the Cricket Club, but put this proposal forward because he was concerned about the Common. He stated that each Parish Council is the guardian of the Common for a short time and has a duty to safeguard it for future generations. He was concerned at the way in which the Common is being eroded by traffic. He became aware of the extent of the erosion when he recently viewed a film of the Common which showed that the road on North Common was, at one time, much narrower than it is today. His proposal was • to take up the road which dissects the Cricket pitch and return it to grass
• to construct a turning point for traffic outside “Shanty”
• to form a new access road to the four properties on the Common which currently have an access off North Common ie “Meadow Cottage”, “Coverpoint”, “Old Pastures” and “Greenleas”
• to encourage traffic onto the Hemel Hempstead Road and Lybury Lane
Mr Fox urged members to rethink the redevelopment of the Youth Centre. He felt that the proposed building was too large and in his opinion it could be made much smaller. He felt that the proposals would cause major parking problems. The Chairman said that these two issues were not linked and should be kept separate. Planning approval had now been received for the new Parish Centre which would include facilities for the Youth Club and the community. Monies from wayleaves (rights of way across the Common) had been earmarked for this project. The proposals which Mr Fox had put before the Committee for North Common would need to be accepted by both the Parish Council and the residents of Redbourn before it could proceed further and it would take many years to reach fruition. Mr Fox said he was confident that the finance could be raised from National sources to fund the project. The Chairman pointed out that these proposals would suit some people but not others. He said the Commons Committee would take the proposal seriously but that it would take some time before a final decision could be made. A member noted that it is not just the Cricket pitch which is being eroded. Other parts of the Common have been damaged by vehicles driving over the edges and by parked vehicles. He felt that the Common should be kerbed to prevent this damage. Another member said that some of the damage to the Cricket pitch was done by contractors refurbishing the Cricket pavilion. Mr Fox reported that he was once Chairman of Commons. At one time no parking was permitted on the Common but over the years parking has been provided. He also pointed out that areas of Common have been restored in the past ie an area of asphalt playground near the former girls school and a road which linked East Common to the B4187. It was noted that when, for safety reasons, the Cricket Club asked for North Common to be closed during Cricket matches the Fire Services expressed concern that this would increase the time it takes to get to the fire station in Dunstable Road. Mr Fox said that this added ten seconds to the journey if the car was travelling at 30mph. One member felt there would be opposition to these proposals. He said the cost of carrying out the proposals would be considerable and pointed out that it would also be necessary to re-negotiate wayleaves to the four properties. He felt one answer may be to make the road on North Common a single track with passing bays. Mr Fox said the road on North Common did not comply with current standards and was not capable of taking an increased volume of traffic. He also felt that the road near Church End was dangerous. He felt there should only be one access point onto Hemel Hempstead Road and that one of the access roads should be returned to Common. Some members felt that if part of North Common road were removed this would increase the volume of traffic exiting onto the Hemel Hempstead Road near the Jolly Gardener. This is a dangerous spot with a blind bend which limits the sightlines. They felt that motorists may be using North Common, Lybury Lane and Fish Street because they felt that this is safer than exiting onto Hemel Hempstead Road at this junction. It was agreed that • This matter would be placed on the agenda of the next full council meeting
• If full council agree to take this further a circular will be sent to every household in the village seeking views Mr Fox said that it is important that the questionnaire is worded carefully and asked if he could be consulted over this issue. 6 Financial position A paper showing the current financial position was circulated and noted. 7 NICKY LINE 7.1 Park Estate Management¨ Dumping and burning of garden waste The Parish Council contractor has expressed concern at the volume of garden rubbish which is being dumped at the base of the Nicky Line on the boundary with the Park. He also pointed out that bonfires are being set alight at the base of the Nicky Line bridge which he fears may damage the brickwork. A letter was written to the Park Estate Management regarding this issue. The Secretary has spoken to the groundsman who has said that he has not dumped any rubbish although he does put leaves at the base of the Nicky Line. The contractor has been asked to keep a watchful eye and to speak to the person concerned when he next sees him dumping and/or burning rubbish. 7.2 Tree growing from base of the bridge The Clerk to report that a tree is growing from the base of the bridge on the Nicky Line and to seek permission to finance its removal from the Nicky Line grant. 7.3 Works to the NickyLine A complaint has been received from a resident adjacent to the Nicky Line whose fence was damaged by the contractors carrying out work on the Nicky Line. This was referred to Balfour Skanska and a copy sent to the resident concerned. The Clerk to ask Balfour Skanska for a site visit to monitor the works. Councillors Maidment and O’Donovan to invite Stan Pierpoint and a representative from both the District and County Council to attend. The Clerk to ask District/County what retention has been agreed to remedy any problems which may occur later but may not be readily apparent now. Members said they wished to have written confirmation and suggested we request a copy of any agreement which has been drawn up between the contractors and the District Council and County Council. 7.4 Railings near Bridge The railings near the Nicky Line bridge have been vandalised. The contractor has been instructed to replace them. 7.5 Mr Hodgson: Request for removal of the Crown of three trees on Nicky Line The Clerk to refer the letter requesting the removal of the crown of three trees to the rear of 43a Hemel Hempstead Road to the District Council. 8 PARISH PATHS 8.1 Herts County Council: Installation of kissing gates on Footpaths 15 and 37 Following the installation of one of the kissing gates the landowner withdrew permission for the installation of the remaining gates on footpaths 15 and 37. The footpaths officer is attempting to contact the landowner regarding this. In the meantime one of the gates is to be installed near Flowers Farm. 8.2 Countryside Management Service: work programme 2007/8 Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED to sign the work programme for 2007/8 and return it to Countryside Management Services. 9 RISK ASSESSMENT The railings near the Nicky Line bridge have been vandalised and the contractor has been instructed to repair them. 10 CORRESPONDENCE 10.1 Mr Pearson/Mr Oriel/Mr Tillyer/Parking on West Common Complaints have been received regarding the number of cars which are being parked on West Common and in Ben Austins. The owner of the cars has confirmed that he will move the majority of the cars off the Common but he intends to continue to park three cars on the Common. According to the deeds of properties in Ben Austins cars are not permitted to park on the section of Ben Austins which traverses the Common. The Clerk was instructed to • ask the enforcement officer to investigate whether a business is being run from a house on West Common and, if so, what measures may be taken to stop this
• ask the Community Police Officer to investigate whether any road traffic regulations are being contravened
• write to the householder and inform him that the Committee is concerned about the activities on the Common and have asked the enforcement officer and CPO to investigate
• contact the Hertfordshire Association of Parish and Town Councils and ask what action the Parish Council can take against untaxed vehicles parked on the Common - is it legal to get them towed off and crushed
• seek legal advise from the Hertfordshire Association of Parish and Town Councils regarding the clause in the deed about parking on Ben Austins
• inform Mr Oriel and Mr Tillyer of the action taken
11 Mrs P Luck: Sponsored seat on the Common Mrs Luck requested permission for a sponsored seat on the Common near the War Memorial. The Clerk was instructed to suggest that the seat should be placed either in the Cumberland Garden or on The Moor. 12 Ian Brand Solicitors: Mymms Cottage The Clerk reported that she had responded to the solicitors acting on behalf of a prospective purchaser of Mymms Cottage seeking assurance that the Parish Council has no plans to develop West Common. 13 Mr Archer: various matters 13.1 Tree on The Park The Clerk to suggest Mr Archer contacts the Secretary of the Park Estate Management regarding the tree on The Park. 13.2 Lighting on South Common The Clerk to refer the lack of lighting near South Common Cottages to Hertfordshire Highways. 13.3 Shrubbery in the Youth Centre blocking sightlines for vehicles exiting from South Common cottages The Clerk has instructed the contractor to clear the sightlines. This work has been completed. 14 CUMBERLAND HOUSE GARDEN The transfer of land has been deferred pending the agreement of an easement with EDF. The Clerk has instructed the Solicitor that the Parish Council is willing to accept the transfer of the land and will negotiate the easement itself. The Parish Council has made it clear that the continued delay in the transfer of Cumberland garden is unacceptable. 15 TREE WORKS Permission has been received for • the removal of the pine tree outside Greyfriars
• reshape the damaged Cedar outside the Old School
• reduce Chestnut outside The Dairy Farm by one third
The Clerk to seek quotations for this work. 16 OTHER URGENT BUSINESS 16.1 Planters outside the cottages in Harpenden Lane The planters outside the cottages in Harpenden Lane are beginning to deteriorate and Redbourn in Bloom are seeking permission to remove them and place the soil on the rose gardens. This was agreed. 16.2 Footpath from Aubrey Lane to the Village Mr and Mrs Brown have been writing to the contractors regarding the absence of a footpath from Aubrey Lane to the village. It is dangerous to walk in the road and it is impossible to walk on the grass verge. This matter was discussed at length at the meeting with Hertfordshire Highways. It was thought that perhaps the owners of the Ramada Jarvis Hotel may be willing to part sponsor a path. The Clerk to inform Mr and Mrs Brown that Councillor Swendell has agreed to speak to the manager at the hotel regarding sponsorship. 16.3 Litter Bin outside Jenny’s Sandwich Bar The Clerk to ask Ian Wakelam, St Albans District Council to consider placing a litter bin outside Jenny’s Sandwich Bar. 17 Date and time of next meeting The next meeting is to be held on Thursday, 5th July at 7.30 pm in the Council Chamber. The meeting closed at 9 pm. Chairman………………………………………………………………… Date……………………………………………. Return to the top of the page REDBOURN PARISH COUNCIL Minutes of Commons Footpaths and Open Spaces held on Thursday, 1st February 2007 at 7.30 pm in the Council Chamber, Redbourn Village Hall PRESENT: Councillors C O’Donovan (Chairman), A V Bull, K Maidment, Mrs M Maynard, W S Pierpoint, R Stent and A E Swendell APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE: None IN ATTENDANCE: Mrs D Whiskin, Clerk to the Council DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: None 98 NOTIFICATION OF OTHER URGENT BUSINESS The Chairman agreed that the following items of urgent business could be discussed at the end of the meeting. i) Councillor Swendell: cleanliness of village: Reasons for urgency: health and safety ii) Memorial bench: Reasons for urgency: bench delivered and is ready for installation 99 MINUTES OF THE PREVIOUS MEETING Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that the minutes of the previous meeting held on Thursday, 7th December 2006 be approved and signed as a true record. Note: January meeting cancelled 100 QUESTIONS FROM THE PUBLIC: No members of the public were present 101 Current financial position A paper showing the current financial position was circulated. It was noted that the Labour budget would be overspent but that this may be offset by monies in the grass cutting budget. Members noted that there is £1,203 in the Village Sign budget. Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that a village sign should be purchased for Harpenden Lane. Purchase of the sign for Hemel Hempstead Road will be held in abeyance pending completion of the works on the Ml. 102 NICKY LINE Balfour Beatty Skanska has asked County Council for an easement to lay an underground storm water drain from the widened M1 along the Nickey Line in Redbourn. The Nickey Line is to be closed for a couple of months and a large number of trees and vegetation will be cleared in order for machinery to gain access. The alternative route for the drain is along the Redbourn by-pass which would require the road to be reduced to a single carriageway for a period of nine months. The works will have a significant initial visual impact but new saplings will be planted to provide a thick hedge. A member has inspected the trees which are to be felled, all of which have been marked with a yellow cross. He reported that there is one tree which straddles the Nicky Line and the neighbouring garden. The garden fence has been lowered to accommodate the lower branches of the tree. He felt that perhaps this tree should also be felled as it could cause problems in the future. A condition has been imposed to require an improved surface on this length of the Nickey Line. An exhibition for local residents to voice concerns was held on Saturday, 27th January at the Ramada Jarvis hotel. Leaflets were delivered to the houses adjoining the Nicky Line. A letter has been received from Balfour Beatty Skanska stating that the proposed works would not cause flooding in Chequer Lane. They advised that the Chequer Lane Ditch should be cleared. A member expressed concern that the felling of trees may lead to flooding of the gardens adjacent to the Nicky Line. He thought the recent flooding in Rose Acre may well be a result of the trees being felled alongside the M1. The Clerk to forward these concerns to Balfour Skanska and ask what measures will be taken to ensure that the banking is not destabilised by the proposed works. One member suggested that perhaps geo textile materials may be used to stabilise the bank. 103 PARISH PATHS Julian Thornton, the footpaths officer has been informed of the following: • An oak tree was blown over in the recent high winds and is blocking the footpath to Dolittle Mill. • Hedging has been uprooted near the horses field further along the footpath and is blocking the path The footpaths officer agreed to add these to his list of works. 104 RISK ASSESSMENT There were no reported problems. CORRESPONDENCE 105 Mrs E Mack: Parking on Common Concern was expressed at the increased activity which is taking place at Cumberland House and the frequent parking of cars outside the front of the house which means cars are being driven around the bollards. The Enforcement Officer has been asked to visit the site but reported that he could find no evidence of a business being run from the premises. Members noted that a number of vans are regularly parked on site. The Clerk was instructed to • inform the householder of the complaint and enquire whether a business is operating from the site • send a copy of the complaint to the Enforcement Offier • ask the Conservation Officer to inspect the building which is Grade II listed – in particular the front windows which appear to be rotten 106 Hertfordshire Highways: Highway Drainage Outfall into Chequer Lane Ditch County has confirmed that the Chequer Lane ditch will be regraded prior to the adoption of roads in Brooke End. 107 CUMBERLANDHOUSE GARDEN The Clerk reported that the following documents were received yesterday: • HM Land Registry • Supplemental Deed Our solicitor has reported that the section 106 agreement contained a clause required by St Albans District Council that Redbourn Parish Council would observe the Section 106 as if it were an original party which means that it would be liable for obligations on their retained land. Also, in the HM Land Registry document it appears that the Parish Council will pay, rather than receive, £7,500 for the maintenance of the footpath. Members expressed concern at the length of time it is taking to resolve these issues and the Clerk was instructed to arrange a meeting with the solicitors to discuss this further. The Clerk to place a note in the Newsletter seeking suggestions for the naming of the public garden. An advertisement to be placed in the Herts Advertiser for tenders to maintain the garden. 108 TREE WORKS 108.1 Cedar Tree The Cedar Tree on East Common was damaged in the high winds and urgent work was required to make it safe. Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED to accept the quote for £220 to reshape the tree. 108.2 Horse Chestnut tree outside Old Dairy Farm The horse chestnut tree outside Old Dairy Farm has deteriorated further. County Forestry contacted the trees and woodlands officer last year to seek permission to carry out remedial works. He has agreed to progress this matter. 108.3 Tree in Shepherds Row A tree in Shepherds Row in the garden of the first house toppled over in the high winds blocking the footpath. This was reported and someone cut the tree to provide access but has left the branches in an unsafe condition. One broken branch could break off and injure a passing pedestrian. The Clerk to report this to the appropriate authority. 108.4 Tree on land leading to Millennium Site In December a tree to the left of the Millennium Site toppled over blocking the access to Kane’s Yard. The tree was cut up and the branches were placed on Parish Council leased land. This was reported to London & Cambridge and it was understood that County Forestry were contracted to remove the wood. Some has been removed but there are still some branches remaining on site. The Clerk to ask County Forestry if they intend to remove the residue. 108.5 Land between Chequer Lane and Brooke End The developers have fenced the gardens of houses in Brooke End leaving a 6’ strip between the Brooke End fence and the fences of gardens in Chequer Lane. The trees growing in the space will cause maintenance problems in the future and attempts should be made to ascertain who is responsible for the maintenance of these areas. A member agreed to find out who is dumping bags of rubbish on the site. 108.6 Trees on Common The Vice Chairman reported that he and Roy Titchmarsh had purchased and planted three trees which had been sponsored by Mrs Siddle. A mountain ash has been planted near The Cricketers Public House and the two maples facing Cumberland House on the main common replacing trees that had died. The Committee offered a vote of thanks to Councillor Pierpoint and Roy Titchmarsh for their efforts. Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that a letter of thanks be sent to Roy Titchmarsh. Members felt that Roy should be reimbursed for collecting the trees to the extent of the nursery’s delivery charge, a charge which he had saved. Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that Roy Titchmarsh should be reimbursed for the cost of carriage for the tree trees. 109 Specification for grass cutting A copy of the specification for grass cutting was circulated. It was agreed that the length of the contract should remain at three years with an option to renew to five years at the end of the three year period. Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that delegated authority be given to the Chairman, Vice Chairman and the Clerk to approve/review the specification. 110 OTHER URGENT BUSINESS 110.1 Cleanliness of the village A member reported that he had been receiving telephone calls about the cleanliness of the village and the fact that the street sweeper is no longer operating in Redbourn. The cleaning is being carried out by a team who arrive in a lorry, sweep the High Street, and leave. They do not have the same dedication to duties that a dedicated street sweeper would have. The member complained to Client Services and was told that the street cleaner was withdrawn because the barrow was being vandalised and the Parish Council did not like it being stored in the Village Hall car park. Furthermore, he stated that the District Council cannot dictate how MRS operate its contract. A letter has been sent to the District Council complaining about the poor standard of cleanliness and asking why the street cleaner was withdrawn. It was noted that the street cleaning contract will soon terminate and this is the time to influence what is written into the new contract. A note is to be placed in the newsletter requesting people report littered areas to the District Council. 110.2 Bench The bench in memory of Gordon Maidment is now ready for placing on the Common. Councillors Maidment, Pierpoint and O’Donovan agreed to meet on Sunday to organise the installation. 111 Date and time of next meeting The next meeting of Common, Footpaths and Open Spaces is to be held on Thursday, 1st March 2007 PART II In accordance with Standing Order 68 and in view of the confidential nature of the business about to be transacted, it was advisable in the public interest that the press and public be temporarily excluded and they were instructed to withdraw 112 Quotations for planter in High Street As only one quotation for the planters in the High Street was received it was agreed that this matter should be referred to the full Council. The Clerk to endeavour to obtain alternative quotations. The meeting closed at 8.45pm. Return to the top of the page REDBOURN PARISH COUNCIL Notes of the Common Footpaths and Open Spaces Committee held in the Council Chamber on Thursday, 5th October 2006 at 8pm PRESENT: Councillors W S Pierpoint (Chairman), R Stent APOLOGIES: Councillors A V Bull (illness) K Maidment (other commitment) Mrs M Maynard (illness) and A E Swendell (District Council meeting) IN ATTENDANCE: Mrs D Whiskin, Clerk to the Council, Councillor P Rosen There were no declarations of interest As only two members of the Committee were present the meeting was declared inquorate. The Chairman agreed that to ensure the smooth running of the Council’s business the meeting should go ahead and any decisions taken should be referred to full council for ratification. 57 Minutes of the previous meeting As the meeting was inquorate, and none of the members in attendance were at the previous meeting, the minutes of September’s meeting are to presented to the Committee for approval in November. 58 Open Session No questions were received from the public 59 Report from Contractor The Contractor was unable to attend the meeting therefore no verbal report was received. 60 Finance 60.1 Current Financial Position A paper showing the current financial position was noted. Concern was expressed that nearly three quarters of the labour budget had been expended halfway through the financial year. 61 Nicky Line 61.1 Request for Trees at the rear of Hemel Hempstead Road to be trimmed The Clerk reported that two residents in Hemel Hempstead Road had requested that trees on the Nicky Line at the end of their garden be trimmed. The trees are shading their gardens and interfering with TV reception. The Clerk reported that the new Management Plan states that the District Council is responsible for trees on the Nicky Line and it may be that this request should be referred to them. Councillor Pierpoint agreed to inspect the trees in question. 61.2 Management Plan An electronic version of the new Management Plan has been received. Two copies have been downloaded. One is on file in the Council Office and one has been given to Councillor Pierpoint for his comments. The sections relevant to Redbourn were circulated to members. The report highlighted the following: • Management of Nicky Line will be greatly enhanced through improved partnership working between the public, private and voluntary groups • Community involvement will increase a sense of ownership • Main factors which inhibit use are lack of/poor condition of facilities, other users (including anti social behaviour), concerns about dogs and dog mess, safety and other psychological issues (feelings of vulnerability and inertia, litter, graffiti and vandalism) • A section between Redbourn and Hemel Hempstead is a County Wildlife Site 54/018 and is an important habitat for feeding and commuting Pipistrelle Bats • In some areas the path is too narrow to allow a walker and cyclist to pass • More dog bins should be installed • Some access points need improving • County is responsible for safety inspections and maintaining the bridges and the District Council is responsible for ensuring the safety of people using the bridges to cross over public highways • Path surface under Ml bridge is poor (surface and lighting should be improved once current works on Ml are complete) • Problems with illegal access by motor cyclists, horses and vehicle based fly tipping • Potential for installation of interpretation boards along the line (some have recently been installed) • New leaflet is being developed • Management plan seeks to build on visual interest • Trees on line much valued however the prime concern is growth of large trees close to residential properties which give rise to concerns about safety, loss of light and interference with TV and phone reception • Vehicular use is prohibited (except for maintenance) • Management of vegetation is aimed at nature conservation • Management meetings to be held once a year – all interested parties to be involved • Friends Of The Nickey Line has been formed • Staff working on Nicky Line must wear identifiable clothing, be approachable by the public and be able to direct people to sources of information • Parish Council will carry out regular inspections of their sections of the trail and initiate appropriate actions when problems are identified • Parish Council will arrange for regular work to cut back vegetation that overhangs the footpath and the clearing of rubbish. They will also commission small works from the management plan, such as coppicing • District and Borough Councils are responsible for more major works such as tree works and repairs to surfacing, access steps and barriers. St Albans District Council will also include the provision of emptying of dog refuse and litter bins within its district wide grounds maintenance contract • Redbourn Parish Council is responsible for Compartment 5 (from Harpenden Lane to High Street; Compartment 6 (from High Street to Flowers Farm entrance); Compartment 7 (from Flowers Farm entrance to “Belvedere”) and Compartment 8 (from “Belvedere” to boundary with Hemel Hempstead) • Compartment 5: path considerable narrower than previous compartments – potential for path to be increased • Compartment 6: line is considerably wider that previous compartments – there is some bank erosion and a retaining wall has been constructed. Tree canopy casts extremely dense shade and has resulted in some residents pruning trees at the ends of their gardens to increase light levels • Compartment 7: Vegetation has started to encroach onto path making it extremely narrow in places • Compartment 8: There are patches where the canopy casts heavy shade onto the path and in places the path narrows with low growing branches encroaching onto the path • Dumping of garden waste is a recurring problem along almost all sections bordering onto houses • In some places dog waste is left on line • There are a number of livery yards in the vicinity of the line and this has resulted in some horse riders using the line – this is not permitted • District Council’s policy is to prohibit encroachments onto the Nicky Line • Some conflict between pedestrians and cyclists has been reported – a code of conduct for users signposted along the trail may help Overall Management Objectives • To manage the site for conservation and wildlife benefits without conflicting with access along the line • To encourage an approach to management which is complementary to the Dacorum Borough Council managed section • To comply with objectives set in the Hertfordshire Biodiversity Action Plan • To comply with objectives set in the Tree Strategy • To comply with objectives set in the Green Spaces Strategy Specific Objectives • To maintain the access onto the line and in some areas improve the step access • Promote visitor safety • Introduce structured approach to the management of vegetation under the electricity lines • To create an uneven age structure within the secondary woodland areas • To coppice most elm trees before they reach the height by which they are susceptible to Dutch elm disease • To maintain a width of 3 meters along the line wherever possible The Management Plan sets out a five year action plan. Implications for Redbourn Parish Council are as follows • Attendance at twice yearly Management Review meetings • Weekly inspection and litter pick • Paths to be kept clear of overhanging vegetation • Assessments to be made of signage both on and off the trail The following works are highlighted for the Redbourn Section of the Nicky Line – to be carried out by the District Council and/or others April 2006 to March 2007 • Coppicing in Compartments 6 and 7 – December onwards • Lay hedge in Compartment 6 – January • Treat Japanese knotweed in Compartment 6 – July/September • Thin out woodland by 20% 100m in Compartment 8 in Autumn/Winter 2006 • Carry out risk assessment of trees April 2007 to March 2008 • Treat Japanese Knotweed in Compartment 6 – July/September • Fit new steps to bridge, Redbourn High Street – August 2007 April 2008 to March 2009 • Treat Japanese Knotweed in Compartment 6 – July/September • Clear selected scrub along line to open up views in Compartment 6 – November 2008 • Remove encroaching scrub in Compartment 8 – Winter 2008 • Install chicane/resurface barrier on west side of A5183 • Amend kerbs, make crossing visible. Road access at Travellers site – February 2009 April 2009 to March 2010 • Cut hedgerow in Compartment 8 – Autumn 2009 • Treat Japanese knotweed in Compartment 6 – July/September • Crown life overhanging trees – all Compartments – Winter 2009 • Rebuild steps as ramp allowing cycle access, amend barrier – Chequer Lane – August 2009 April 2010 to March 2011 • Beyond Ver Bridge – fence in and surface narrow section – February 2010 Members agreed that horse riding should not be permitted on the Nicky Line. 63 Parish Paths 63.1 Parish Paths Programme 2007/8 A meeting has been arranged on 19th October to discuss next year’s Parish Paths programme. Members were asked to inform the Clerk of any suggestions to be included in the programme 64 Risk Assessments The risk assessments were reviewed and approved by the Finance Committee who referred them to the Common, Footpaths and Open Spaces Committee. It was agreed that the assessor should be the Chairman of the Committee and that he should sign the forms. As the meeting was inquorate it was agreed that a recommendation be made to full Council to adopt the risk assessments. The Clerk reported that at a recent training session on the Management of Play Areas the trainer (an employee of Zurich Municipal) stressed the importance of keeping a record of checks, both positive and negative. If a claim is made against the Council it is important to prove that checks were made and that no faults were found. This procedure will be implemented. 65 CORRESPONDENCE 65.1 Environment Agency: Upper Colne Flood Risk Newsletter The Upper Colne Flood Risk newsletter was noted. The Clerk was instructed to include an extract from the leaflet in the Parish Newsletter informing the public of the general enquiry line. The Clerk to give the Plans Committee a copy of the flood plain map for reference when considering applications within the floodplain. 65.2 Brooke End Resident: Overgrown hedges A complaint was received regarding overgrown hedges in Brooke End. These have now been trimmed. 65.3 TBS Hygiene: Maintenance of Dog litter bins The cost of emptying the dog litter bins is to increase from £1.90 to £2 per dog waste bin. 65.4 Request to keep area to rear of fence in Coopers Meadow clear of weeds Properties in Coopers Meadow back onto Long Cutt Play Area. Over the years an area of woodland scrub has developed. A resident has complained that the weeds and scrub have damaged her fence and expressed concerns at a dead tree near the fence which was potentially hazardous. Members were loath to clear the area as it acts as a buffer keeping children away from residential gardens, thereby minimising noise and potential acts of vandalism. Complaints have been received from residents adjacent to the footpath that youths have been kicking the fences. It was noted considerable building works have been undertaken at the property in question and it was thought that some of the damage to the fence was probably a result this. Members agreed that the dead tree should be removed as, although it was considered safe at present, it would pose problems in future. The Clerk to seek a quotation for removing the tree from Ken Scott. 65.5 The Moor: Water leak and bridge over The Moor Comments from a resident regarding the water leak on the access road and the steps taken to strengthen the bridge over The Moor were noted. The bridge to be inspected for damage following the completion of the building works. The Clerk reported that the contractor has expressed concern that the contractors are continuing to park on the Common and that if the heavy rains continue this will further damage the grass. Councillor Pierpoint agreed to inspect the site. 66 Parish Centre: Rejection of Planning Application Despite the planning officers recommendation to approve the planning application to demolish the Youth Centre and replace it with a Parish Centre the application was rejected by Plans North. The discussions at Plans North centred around loss of views which is not a valid planning reason to refuse. A meeting is to be arranged with Alan Moorhouse to ascertain how the plans may be adjusted. It was noted that the building must fulfil the needs of the community and the Parish Council. It was noted that the previous planning application had been submitted following discussions with planning, highways and conservations officers were in support of the plans. 67 Cumberland House Garden The District Council expressed concern at the suggested clause in the agreement that garden be open “at the Parish Council’s discretion”. It was suggested that the clause should read “the garden will be open from 8am to 6pm and at other times at the discretion of the Parish Council”. The District Council has now said that this will mean the garden must be open at Christmas and Bank Holidays. Members suggested a revised clause “the garden will be open from 8am to 6pm with the exception of Christmas Day and Bank Holidays and at other times the garden will be open at the discretion of the Parish Council”. This will allow the garden to be open on Christmas Day and/or Bank Holidays – staff permitting. 68 Tree Works The Clerk to seek a quotation for the removal of a dead tree on the main Common opposite “Greyfriars”. The Clerk to instruct John Pidgeon to lift the tree outside the Methodist Church. 69 Entrance to The Park Hertfordshire Highways has now acknowledged that the entrance to The Park is adopted. The Clerk has informed the insurance company. 70 Date and time of next meeting: The next meeting of the Common Footpaths and Open Spaces is to be held on Thursday, 2nd November 2006 Return to the top of the page REDBOURN PARISH COUNCIL Minutes of a meeting of the Common Footpaths and Open Spaces Committee held on 6th July 2006 at 7.30 pm in the Council Chamber, Redbourn Village Hall PRESENT: Councillors C O’Donovan (Chairman), A V Bull, Dr W S Pierpoint, R Stent and A E Swendell APOLOGIES: Councillor Mrs C Cardy, K Maidment (holiday) and Mrs M Maynard (unwell) IN ATTENDANCE: Mrs D Whiskin, Clerk to the Council 20 DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: There were no declarations of interest 21 URGENT BUSINESS: It was agreed that the following should be considered at the end of the meeting Applications from “Show and Shine” Club and Cricketers Golf Society to use the Common. 22 Minutes of the meeting Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that the minutes of the previous meeting held on Thursday, 1st June 2006 be signed as a true record 23 Open Session No members of the public were present therefore there was no open Session. 24 Council Contract Work The following points were raised: • It is essential that Cumberland House garden is properly maintained • Bearing in mind the increased costs of diesel the contractor is unwilling to take on maintenance at his current rates • Chairman and Vice Chairman agreed to draw up a specification for maintenance for Council approval • Once the specification is approved tenders will be sought • Time could be saved if weedkiller is used in garden however only certain types of weedkiller are permissible • It is important that the garden is open as soon as possible as delays are causing difficulties for the elderly accessing the Health Centre • Clerk to email District Council and Hertfordshire County Council urging them to complete the legalities as soon as possible so that the garden may open. • A resident in Chequer Lane has built a platform, using sleepers, over the ditch. This has been grassed over. The sleepers are now disintegrating making the structure dangerous. The Contractor agreed to inform the Clerk of the address so that she may write to the resident informing him that the structure is now unsafe and should be removed. If someone is injured the householder would be held responsible • Fireworks were discharged on the Common on Saturday night and the debris was left scattered on the Common. It was noted that this could have been dangerous to the public as strict safety measures have to be followed when discharging fireworks in a public area. A note to be placed in the newsletter informing the public that this is not permitted without the permission of the Parish Council. • The litter bin near the seat in the Avenue is to be moved. • People are placing dog faeces in the ordinary litter bins. It was noted that this is permissible provided it is double wrapped. The contractor reported that sometimes it is not wrapped and it is very unpleasant. The Clerk to ask TBS, the company who maintain the dog litter bins, whether they are full. It may be that this is why people using the other bins. If this is the case it may be necessary to increase the frequency of emptying. • Alcohol is being consumed in Flamsteadbury Lane and Long Cutt Play Areas. Empty bottles of vodka are regularly left in the play areas and sometimes broken glass is found which is dangerous to young children. The Contractor to inform the Clerk of the make of vodka as it may be possible to ascertain from which shop it is being purchased. • Empty lighter fuel cans are regularly found in Shepherds Row. 25 Financial position Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED to note the current financial position. 26 NICKY LINE • The Ml contractors have dug a test hole which is more than one foot deep. There are no barriers around the hole. • The Clerk to ask the Park Estate Management Committee to check whether its contractor is dumping rubbish under the bridge and, if so, to ask him to stop doing this • The Clerk to write to the Environment Agency with a copy to the Ver Valley Society informing them that there is a considerable amount of litter in the River which requires removing Following receipt of the revised Management Plan from the District Council the Clerk was asked to ascertain how Harpenden Town Council maintains the Nicky Line. The general cutting back of the line is included the Town Council’s grounds maintenance contract and the town warden walks the Nicky Line once a week to inspect and litter pick the Line. John O’Connor remove any rubbish dumped and invoice the Town Council for this work. Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that the Nicky Line Contract be extended by one year. Next year the contract is to be advertised as an annual contract with the option to renew up to three years subject to District Council funding. 27 Risk Assessment Report The safety tiles and repair kits for the play areas have been received and given to the Contractor. CORRESPONDENCE 28 Resident of Woollams: Path leading to Woollams Following a letter of complaint from a resident a footpath, leading to Woollams, has been repaired. It was noted that there are two trip points in the other path and the contractor was instructed to repair these by relaying the pavement slabs. The Clerk to ask the warden at Woollams to inform the Parish Council if there are any further problems with the paths. 29 The Moor A letter was received from a local resident asking that the Moor be cleared. The contractor informed the meeting that The Moor is safer now that foliage has been allowed to grow on the margins. He said that he is now able to stand on the vegetation whereas before he sank into the silt and mud. He reported an increase in wildlife on the Moor. The Clerk to send the resident a copy of the revised Management Plan. 30 Parish Centre The District Council has requested a copy of plans of the original Youth Centre before accepting the planning application for the new Parish Centre. 31 Cumberland House Garden Miller Homes has agreed to pay £500 towards legal costs for adoption of the footpath through the garden. A member said he was still not happy with the brickwork on the buttresses of the wall adjacent to the High Street. The Clerk to ask • Faircloth Homes for a copy of the structural report on the walls • The Conservation Officer if he would inspect the walls and advise if they are structurally sound • Colin Mason if he could supply the name of a structural engineer who could offer professional advice 32 August Recess Having been duly proposed by the Chairman it was RESOLVED that the Chairman, Vice Chairman and Clerk be given delegated powers to deal with any matters during the August recess, which in their opinion cannot wait until the September meeting. 33 Parking on West Common A member expressed concern that the Committee is not being even handed in its treatment of motorists parking on the Common. Bollards have been placed in some areas to prevent parking but motorists regularly park on West Common. It was felt that once the byelaws are updated it will be easier to deal with this problem. The new penalty procedure called sanction detection is now in place. This is a fixed penalty system which can be administered by a police officer or a community police support officer. Fixed penalty tickets are sent to the ticket office at Hertford who chase payment of the fine. The Clerk was instructed to write to people living on West Common asking them not to park on the Common. 34 Other Urgent Business Members agreed to grant permission to • the Cricketers Golf Society to hold a barbecue and erect a marquee on the Common on 23rd July • Show and Shine Club to hold event on Cricket overflow car park Both organizations were informed that the Common must be left in a clean and tidy condition. 35 Resolution Having been duly proposed by the Chairman it was RESOLVED that in view of the confidential nature of the business about to be transacted, and in accordance with Standing Order 68, it is advisable in the public interest that the press and public be temporarily excluded and they were instructed to withdraw 36 Quotations for treeworks Two quotations were received to decrease the laurel hedge on North Common, to remove two ash trees and one dead tree from the hedge. One quotation was for £590 and one was for £300. Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED to accept the quotation for £300. The Clerk to ask the contractor for a price to include cutting to ground level the Sumac tree near Church End. If the Chairman, Vice Chairman and the Clerk feel the price is reasonable this is to be included. If not, the Parish Council contractor will be asked to cut the tree. It was noted that permission from the arborist must be sought as the Sumac is in the Conservation Area. 37 Date and time of next meeting: Thursday 7th September 2006 Return to the top of the page REDBOURN PARISH COUNCIL Minutes of a meeting of the Common Footpaths and Open Spaces Committee held on 1st June 2006 at 7.30 pm in the Council Chamber, Redbourn Village Hall PRESENT: Councillors C O’Donovan (Chairman), A V Bull, Dr W S Pierpoint, R Stent and A E Swendell APOLOGIES: Councillor Mrs C Cardy (attending funeral) and Mrs M Maynard (unwell) IN ATTENDANCE: Mrs D Whiskin, Clerk to the Council 1 Election of Chairman for the year 2006/2007 Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that Councillor C O’Donovan be elected to serve as Chairman of Common Footpaths and Open Spaces for the year 2006/7 2 Election of Vice Chairman Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that Councillor Dr W S Pierpoint be elected to serve as Vice Chairman of Common Footpaths and Open Spaces for the year 2006/2007 3 DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: There were no declarations of interest 4 URGENT BUSINESS: It was agreed that the following should be considered at the end of the meeting 4.1 permission to place scaffolding on the Common for the restoration works to Old Dairy Farm barn 4.2 gridlock in village during Herts County Show 5 Minutes of the previous meeting Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that the minutes of the meeting held on 6th April 2006 be signed as a true record. 6 Council Contract Work The Committee welcomed the Parish Council contractor who attended the meeting to discuss works on the Common and open spaces. During the discussions the following points were noted/agreed: • The edges of the common would be cut by one mower width • The contractor uses a mower to cut around the trees as this is much quicker than strimming • It takes one morning’s work to cut the sightlines • The contractor is to make covers for the holes in the Common where the football nets are erected • The Contractor was instructed to erect the posts outside Cumberland House to prevent cars driving onto the Common. The Clerk to write to the occupier informing him of these works • The Clerk to inform the enforcement officer that Cumberland House is being used as a business supplying marquees, plastic tables and chairs • The Contractor is to straighten the Village sign near the War Memorial • The signs by The Moor have been vandalised and the tops have been knocked off the litter bins and litter was scattered over the Common • The hedgeline outside Meadow Cottage is to be reduced by 8ft and two ash trees are to be removed from the hedge. The Clerk to obtain quotations for this work. The contractor to mark the area to be cut with yellow paint. • The tree outside 2 Church End is 50% dead. It was agreed that the tree should be cut to ground level and permitted to regenerate. • The Clerk to seek permission from the Trees and Woodlands Officer for the above works • The wood pile by the Museum to be removed – the chippings could be placed on the garden adjacent to Silk Mill play area. • The benches on the Common require refurbishing – the sponsors of the benches may be prepared to pay for the refurbishing. It was agreed that they should be asked to pay £30 per bench and the Parish Council would pay for any amount above that sum • The roads around the Common are full of weeds. The Clerk to ask County whether they have a budget for weed spraying and whether they are intending to do any works. It was noted that in addition to weed spraying the soil in the gutters needs to be removed. 7. Financial position A paper showing the current financial position was circulated and noted. Concern was expressed at the amount of time which was spent on grass cutting but it was noted that additional grass cutting had been necessary because of the wet, warm weather. 8. NICKY LINE 8.1 Revised management plan The revised management plan was circulated. It was noted that the plan required weekly inspection and litter picking. The Clerk reported that this could be financed from the Nicky Line budget. The Clerk was instructed to liaise with Harpenden Town Council to ascertain how they dealt with management of the Nicky Line. It was noted that Harpenden had two town wardens and they subsidise the budget received from St Albans District Council. A member suggested asking the Friends of the Nicky Line if they would consider litter picking. 8.2 Funding access signs from grant provided by District Council Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that three Nicky Line signs should be purchased for erection on Chequer Lane, Gaddesden Lane and opposite the Ramada Hotel.These will be funded from the budget granted by the District Council. 8.3 Minutes of the inaugural meeting of Friends of the Nicky Line The minutes of the inaugural meeting of Friends Of The Nickey? Line were noted. A Committee has been set up and it proposes a subscription of £5 per household to finance administration and publicity. 9. Parish Paths No reports were received on the Parish Paths. A letter has been received from Countryside Management Services confirming this year’s programme. 10. Risk Assessment Reports The contractor has reported that the safety surfacing on East Common has been vandalised. A wet pour kit is being ordered to repair the hole. The play equipment has been taped off with red and white tape. 11. CORRESPONDENCE 11.1 Flamsteadbury Lane Resident: Objection to placing footpath on The Moor side of the Common A Flamsteadbury Lane resident has objected to the proposed positioning of the new footpath on The Moor side of the Common. He felt that this would mean people would cross the Hemel Hempstead Road near the Jolly Gardener which he considered to be more dangerous than crossing further along the road. Some members did not agree but thought a crossing near the Jolly Gardener was preferable as the sightlines were better. Members noted that the positioning on the Moor side was agreed at the Annual Parish Meeting, partly because this option was cheaper. Members agreed that if, after further consideration, the general consensus is that the path should be built on the other side of the road, the fact that this is more costly should not prevent this. The Clerk is to thank the resident for his comments and inform him that these will be taken into account when a final decision on the location of the path is made. 11.2 St Albans District Council: Consultation on Green Spaces Strategy The Green Spaces Strategy has recognised • the Silk Mill Play Area as one of the highest quality sites setting the benchmark • Redbourn is significantly above the minimum standard for natural and semi-natural greenspace and amenity greenspace but below the minimum standard for local parks. There are residents outside the catchment for all facilities with the exception of allotments • Redbourn War Memorial Gardens are good • Recommended standard for Natural and Semi natural Open Space is 2.26 ha per 1,000 population (rural). Redbourn is above the minimum standard by at least 5 ha (page 62) • amenity Green Space - although provision at 2.83 ha per 1,000 population appears high in comparison to other areas, a review of the site specific data highlights that this is dominated by one large site (Redbourn Common, 13.92 ha) If the Common were excluded, the level of provision per l,000 population falls to 0.29 • Silk Mill Play Area and Brooke End Play Area considered to be V good. Silk Mill Play Area is considered the highest quality site, with all bar two quality factors considered very good. • Redbourn has very little provision of both small local play areas or neighbourhood play areas • Provision for Children and Young People about right • Allotments and Community Gardens - Tassell Hall Allotments is the highest quality allotment site in the district with no evidence of vandalism and graffiti, litter, dog fouling or smells/odours. In addition, the quality of the management and maintenance and provision of bins and information and signage were rated as excellent. • Cemeteries and churchyards –St Mary’s churchyard: good The report mentions resourcing open space and generating and reinvesting resources obtained from land which is surplus to requirements. The Parish Council leases Long Cutt allotments, the Millennium Site, Long Cutt Play Area and the Panhandle from the District Council. The District Council also owns part of the green space on the corner of Lamb Lane/Shepherds Row. The Clerk to write to the District Council welcoming the Green Spaces Strategy and commenting that the District Council should ensure that no green spaces in Redbourn are sold. 11.4 Sponsored walk on 15th June Members agreed that Redbourn Junior School could hold a sponsored walk on Redbourn Common on 15th June 2006 (pm) 12. Parish Centre Councillors Bull and C O’Donovan met the planning officers to discuss the proposed Parish Centre. The officers approved the proposals and the proposed entrance from The Park. They said that Highways would not approve an entrance from the Common as this is used by parents delivering children to Ravenstone School and there is a Government directive that traffic from new developments should be separated from school traffic. Councillor O’Donovan agreed to ask for confirmation of this in writing. The planning officers did not agree to the building being turned around as this would have too much of an impact on the Common. The officers checked aerial photographs taken in 2001 and noted that there was a large tree in the grounds of the youth club which shows that South Common Cottages did not have a view of the Common. Councillor O’Donnovan has asked the architect to superimpose the proposed building onto a photograph of South Common Cottages to give an idea of the impact of the building. Members noted that the spire on the building is a lightning conductor. The final drawings should be available in two to three weeks. The planning application will be decided at Committee. 13. Cumberland House Garden A representative from Fairclough Homes has held a snagging meeting with the contractors. Once the snagging works are completed a meeting will be arranged with the Parish Council. A member noted that there are no colourful plants in the garden. The Parish Council solicitors have confirmed that they are in touch with the solicitors working for Fairclough Homes and are awaiting confirmation that they will pay the Council’s legal fees. The Clerk to inform Fairclough Homes that the grass in Cumberland House needs cutting and to remind them that the Parish Council need access to the gardens on 16th June for the judges for the Village of the Year Competition. 14. Tree Works 14.1 Tree outside 2 Church End: As noted earlier the tree outside 2 Church End is 50% dead. The Clerk to seek permission to cut the tree to ground level and permit it to regenerate. 14.2 Shepherds Row: The District Council is considering placing a Tree Preservation Order on the line of trees bordering Millers Close/Shepherds Row. The Clerk to ascertain whether this means the permission for the works at 5 Miller Close will be rescinded. 15. Beating The Bounds Councillor Pierpoint has written an account of the Beating of the Bounds which he led on Rogation Sunday and this is to be posted on the web site. He stressed that if he is unable to lead any future Beating of the Bounds, it is important that someone from the Parish Council, or a designated person, with a mobile telephone, should take responsibility for the walk as it may be necessary to summon assistance if a participant has difficulties. He noted that in the past a motorist has been stationed at designated points along the route to take home any walkers who could not continue and it may be worth considering reinstating this practice. Those walkers who completed the course were given a medallion from the Parish Council. 16. Millennium Site: bottle banks The District Council has confirmed that the road surface at the entrance to the Millennium Site is unsuitable for the stationing of the bottle banks. It was agreed that as a doorstep delivery is to be introduced next year no further efforts would be made to find a suitable site for bottle banks. 17. Village sign for entrance to village An order has been placed for the village sign to be erected at the entrance to the village. Members felt that this would best be placed close against the pallets. The Clerk to check with Redbourn in Bloom that they agree with this positioning. 18. Other Urgent Business 18.1 Scaffolding on Common for development of Old Dairy Farm Barn Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that permission would be granted for scaffolding to be erected on the Common to allow the conversion of the barn at Old Dairy Farm. The Clerk to ascertain how long the scaffolding would be in place. Any damage to the Common must be repaired following the completion of the works. 18.2 Herts Show: Road gridlock A member noted that the roads around the village were gridlocked on Sunday and it took 1 ¼ hours to travel from Beaumont Hill to Redbourn. People could not get into the village and some parents were trapped in their cars with young children. The organizers of the Show and the police have a duty to ensure that the traffic is managed in a reasonable manner. A member said that it should also be possible to organise three lanes of traffic along the bypass. This would give an escape route and would enable people to drive into the village. It was noted that following the heavy rains the car parks were extremely muddy, the mud was carried out onto the roads and motorists were parking haphazardly along the verges. Members felt that perhaps the situation could be eased by opening the Dunstable Road exit during the Herts Show. The Clerk to ascertain whether the congestion was caused by a traffic accident. 19. Date and time of next meeting The next meeting is to be held on Thursday 6th July 2006 Return to the top of the page REDBOURN PARISH COUNCIL Minutes of a meeting of the Common Footpaths and Open Spaces Committee held on 6th April 2006 at 7.30 pm in the Council Chamber, Redbourn Village Hall PRESENT: Councillors C O’Donovan (Chairman), A V Bull, Dr W S Pierpoint, R Stent and A E Swendell APOLOGIES: Councillor Mrs C Cardy (attending funeral) and Mrs M Maynard (unwell) IN ATTENDANCE: Mrs D Whiskin, Clerk to the Council 1 Election of Chairman for the year 2006/2007 Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that Councillor C O’Donovan be elected to serve as Chairman of Common Footpaths and Open Spaces for the year 2006/7 2 Election of Vice Chairman Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that Councillor Dr W S Pierpoint be elected to serve as Chairman of Common Footpaths and Open Spaces for the year 2006/2007 3 DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: There were no declarations of interest 4 URGENT BUSINESS: It was agreed that the following should be considered at the end of the meeting 4.1 permission to place scaffolding on the Common for the restoration works to Old Dairy Farm barn 4.2 gridlock in village during Herts County Show 5 Minutes of the previous meeting Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that the minutes of the meeting held on 6th April 2006 be signed as a true record. 6 Council Contract Work The Committee welcomed the Parish Council contractor who attended the meeting to discuss works on the Common and open spaces. During the discussions the following points were noted/agreed: • The edges of the common would be cut by one mower width • The contractor uses a mower to cut around the trees as this is much quicker than strimming • It takes one morning’s work to cut the sightlines • The contractor is to make covers for the holes in the Common where the football nets are erected • The Contractor was instructed to erect the posts outside Cumberland House to prevent cars driving onto the Common. The Clerk to write to the occupier informing him of these works • The Clerk to inform the enforcement officer that Cumberland House is being used as a business supplying marquees, plastic tables and chairs • The Contractor is to straighten the Village sign near the War Memorial • The signs by The Moor have been vandalised and the tops have been knocked off the litter bins and litter was scattered over the Common • The hedgeline outside Meadow Cottage is to be reduced by 8ft and two ash trees are to be removed from the hedge. The Clerk to obtain quotations for this work. The contractor to mark the area to be cut with yellow paint. • The tree outside 2 Church End is 50% dead. It was agreed that the tree should be cut to ground level and permitted to regenerate. • The Clerk to seek permission from the Trees and Woodlands Officer for the above works • The wood pile by the Museum to be removed – the chippings could be placed on the garden adjacent to Silk Mill play area. • The benches on the Common require refurbishing – the sponsors of the benches may be prepared to pay for the refurbishing. It was agreed that they should be asked to pay £30 per bench and the Parish Council would pay for any amount above that sum • The roads around the Common are full of weeds. The Clerk to ask County whether they have a budget for weed spraying and whether they are intending to do any works. It was noted that in addition to weed spraying the soil in the gutters needs to be removed. 7. Financial position A paper showing the current financial position was circulated and noted. Concern was expressed at the amount of time which was spent on grass cutting but it was noted that additional grass cutting had been necessary because of the wet, warm weather. 8. NICKY LINE 8.1 Revised management plan The revised management plan was circulated. It was noted that the plan required weekly inspection and litter picking. The Clerk reported that this could be financed from the Nicky Line budget. The Clerk was instructed to liaise with Harpenden Town Council to ascertain how they dealt with management of the Nicky Line. It was noted that Harpenden had two town wardens and they subsidise the budget received from St Albans District Council. A member suggested asking the Friends of the Nicky Line if they would consider litter picking. 8.2 Funding access signs from grant provided by District Council Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that three Nicky Line signs should be purchased for erection on Chequer Lane, Gaddesden Lane and opposite the Ramada Hotel.These will be funded from the budget granted by the District Council. 8.3 Minutes of the inaugural meeting of Friends of the Nicky Line The minutes of the inaugural meeting of Friends of the Nicky Line were noted. A Committee has been set up and it proposes a subscription of £5 per household to finance administration and publicity. 9. Parish Paths No reports were received on the Parish Paths. A letter has been received from Countryside Management Services confirming this year’s programme. 10. Risk Assessment Reports The contractor has reported that the safety surfacing on East Common has been vandalised. A wet pour kit is being ordered to repair the hole. The play equipment has been taped off with red and white tape. 11. CORRESPONDENCE 11.1 Flamsteadbury Lane Resident: Objection to placing footpath on The Moor side of the Common A Flamsteadbury Lane resident has objected to the proposed positioning of the new footpath on The Moor side of the Common. He felt that this would mean people would cross the Hemel Hempstead Road near the Jolly Gardener which he considered to be more dangerous than crossing further along the road. Some members did not agree but thought a crossing near the Jolly Gardener was preferable as the sightlines were better. Members noted that the positioning on the Moor side was agreed at the Annual Parish Meeting, partly because this option was cheaper. Members agreed that if, after further consideration, the general consensus is that the path should be built on the other side of the road, the fact that this is more costly should not prevent this. The Clerk is to thank the resident for his comments and inform him that these will be taken into account when a final decision on the location of the path is made. 11.2 St Albans District Council: Consultation on Green Spaces Strategy The Green Spaces Strategy has recognised • the Silk Mill Play Area as one of the highest quality sites setting the benchmark • • Redbourn is significantly above the minimum standard for natural and semi-natural greenspace and amenity greenspace but below the minimum standard for local parks. There are residents outside the catchment for all facilities with the exception of allotments • • Redbourn War Memorial Gardens are good • • Recommended standard for Natural and Semi natural Open Space is 2.26 ha per 1,000 population (rural). Redbourn is above the minimum standard by at least 5 ha (page 62) • • amenity Green Space - although provision at 2.83 ha per 1,000 population appears high in comparison to other areas, a review of the site specific data highlights that this is dominated by one large site (Redbourn Common, 13.92 ha) If the Common were excluded, the level of provision per l,000 population falls to 0.29 • • Silk Mill Play Area and Brooke End Play Area considered to be V good. Silk Mill Play Area is considered the highest quality site, with all bar two quality factors considered very good. • • Redbourn has very little provision of both small local play areas or neighbourhood play areas • • Provision for Children and Young People about right • • Allotments and Community Gardens - Tassell Hall Allotments is the highest quality allotment site in the district with no evidence of vandalism and graffiti, litter, dog fouling or smells/odours. In addition, the quality of the management and maintenance and provision of bins and information and signage were rated as excellent. • • Cemeteries and churchyards –St Mary’s churchyard: good The report mentions resourcing open space and generating and reinvesting resources obtained from land which is surplus to requirements. The Parish Council leases Long Cutt allotments, the Millennium Site, Long Cutt Play Area and the Panhandle from the District Council. The District Council also owns part of the green space on the corner of Lamb Lane/Shepherds Row. The Clerk to write to the District Council welcoming the Green Spaces Strategy and commenting that the District Council should ensure that no green spaces in Redbourn are sold. 11.4 Sponsored walk on 15th June Members agreed that Redbourn Junior School could hold a sponsored walk on Redbourn Common on 15th June 2006 (pm) 12. Parish Centre Councillors Bull and C O’Donovan met the planning officers to discuss the proposed Parish Centre. The officers approved the proposals and the proposed entrance from The Park. They said that Highways would not approve an entrance from the Common as this is used by parents delivering children to Ravenstone School and there is a Government directive that traffic from new developments should be separated from school traffic. Councillor O’Donovan agreed to ask for confirmation of this in writing. The planning officers did not agree to the building being turned around as this would have too much of an impact on the Common. The officers checked aerial photographs taken in 2001 and noted that there was a large tree in the grounds of the youth club which shows that South Common Cottages did not have a view of the Common. Councillor O’Donnovan has asked the architect to superimpose the proposed building onto a photograph of South Common Cottages to give an idea of the impact of the building. Members noted that the spire on the building is a lightning conductor. The final drawings should be available in two to three weeks. The planning application will be decided at Committee. 13. Cumberland House Garden A representative from Fairclough Homes has held a snagging meeting with the contractors. Once the snagging works are completed a meeting will be arranged with the Parish Council. A member noted that there are no colourful plants in the garden. The Parish Council solicitors have confirmed that they are in touch with the solicitors working for Fairclough Homes and are awaiting confirmation that they will pay the Council’s legal fees. The Clerk to inform Fairclough Homes that the grass in Cumberland House needs cutting and to remind them that the Parish Council need access to the gardens on 16th June for the judges for the Village of the Year Competition. 14. Tree Works 14.1 Tree outside 2 Church End: As noted earlier the tree outside 2 Church End is 50% dead. The Clerk to seek permission to cut the tree to ground level and permit it to regenerate. 14.2 Shepherds Row: The District Council is considering placing a Tree Preservation Order on the line of trees bordering Millers Close/Shepherds Row. The Clerk to ascertain whether this means the permission for the works at 5 Miller Close will be rescinded. 15. Beating The Bounds Councillor Pierpoint has written an account of the Beating of the Bounds which he led on Rogation Sunday and this is to be posted on the web site. He stressed that if he is unable to lead any future Beating of the Bounds, it is important that someone from the Parish Council, or a designated person, with a mobile telephone, should take responsibility for the walk as it may be necessary to summon assistance if a participant has difficulties. He noted that in the past a motorist has been stationed at designated points along the route to take home any walkers who could not continue and it may be worth considering reinstating this practice. Those walkers who completed the course were given a medallion from the Parish Council. 16. Millennium Site: bottle banks The District Council has confirmed that the road surface at the entrance to the Millennium Site is unsuitable for the stationing of the bottle banks. It was agreed that as a doorstep delivery is to be introduced next year no further efforts would be made to find a suitable site for bottle banks. 17. Village sign for entrance to village An order has been placed for the village sign to be erected at the entrance to the village. Members felt that this would best be placed close against the pallets. The Clerk to check with Redbourn in Bloom that they agree with this positioning. 18. Other Urgent Business 18.1 Scaffolding on Common for development of Old Dairy Farm Barn Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that permission would be granted for scaffolding to be erected on the Common to allow the conversion of the barn at Old Dairy Farm. The Clerk to ascertain how long the scaffolding would be in place. Any damage to the Common must be repaired following the completion of the works. 18.2 Herts Show: Road gridlock A member noted that the roads around the village were gridlocked on Sunday and it took 1 ¼ hours to travel from Beaumont Hill to Redbourn. People could not get into the village and some parents were trapped in their cars with young children. The organizers of the Show and the police have a duty to ensure that the traffic is managed in a reasonable manner. A member said that it should also be possible to organise three lanes of traffic along the bypass. This would give an escape route and would enable people to drive into the village. It was noted that following the heavy rains the car parks were extremely muddy, the mud was carried out onto the roads and motorists were parking haphazardly along the verges. Members felt that perhaps the situation could be eased by opening the Dunstable Road exit during the Herts Show. The Clerk to ascertain whether the congestion was caused by a traffic accident. 19. Date and time of next meeting The next meeting is to be held on Thursday 6th July 2006 Return to the top of the page REDBOURN PARISH COUNCIL Minutes of Common, Footpaths and Open Spaces held in the Council Chamber, Redbourn Village Hall on Thursday, 2nd March 2006 at 7.30pm. PRESENT: Councillors C O’Donovan, Chairman, A V Bull, K Maidment, R Stent, Dr W S Pierpoint APOLOGIES: Councillor Mrs C Cardy, Mrs M Maynard and A E Swendell (attending District Council meeting) IN ATTENDANCE: Mrs D Whiskin Clerk to the Council There were no declarations of interest 162 Urgent business The Chairman reported that the architect has drawn up sketch plans for the Parish Centre which should be viewed at the end of the meeting. This was considered urgent as he felt the Committee should approve the plans before referring them to full Council. 163 Minutes of the previous meeting Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that the minutes of the meeting held on 2nd February be approved and signed as a true record. 164 To note the current financial position i) Current position Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that the paper showing the current financial position be noted. ii) Tree Works: An order has been placed for works to be carried out on the Chestnut tree outside Old Dairy Farm and the £900 in this year’s budget is earmarked to finance these works. It was noted that a Prunus tree outside The Heath, which was given to the village by the guides twenty year’s ago, requires reshaping. Also the laurel hedge near Meadow Cottage needs reducing and the ash sapling in the hedge needs removing. The Clerk to ask Ken Scott and/or John Pidgeon to inspect these. 165 FOOTPATH NEAR THE MOOR The location of the proposed footpath near The Moor has been discussed on numerous occasions. The original location close to the River Red has been discounted because the materials stipulated by the Environment Agency would be unsuitable for wheelchairs. If the path is located away from the river tarmac, which is suited to wheelchair/pushchairs use, may be used. Redbourn Charities feel it would be preferable for the path to be on the opposite side of the road as this would mean that one road only, would need to be crossed to reach the path. Redbourn Care Group wish to have a spur from the footpath leading to the river so that wheelchair bound people can enjoy the river. This could still be achieved but those wishing to access the river would have to cross Chequer Lane. The contours of the Common may have to be changed if the path is placed on East Common. This may make the costs prohibitive. The Clerk to ask Hartons for alternative quotations for a footpath on each side of the road. This may be of assistance when making a final decision on the location of the path. Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that this Committee recommends to full Council that it consults with the public on which side of the road the proposed footpath on The Moor should be placed. If full Council agrees this is to form an item on the agenda of the Annual Parish Meeting. 166 NICKY LINE The contractor is in the process of clearing litter from the line. It was agreed that a general litter pick of the village should be arranged to coincide with the District Council litter pick. The Chairman and Vice Chairman are to walk the line to ascertain what works are required. The contractor has reported that plastic bags full of dog litter are being discarded under the hedges and he has requested that additional bins be placed on the Nicky Line. The cost of the bins and ongoing maintenance may be financed from the District Council grant. A grant of £5,413 has just been received for last year’s maintenance. The bins are approximately £173 and the cost of emptying is £1.90. The Clerk to liaise with the contractor and TBS (the company responsible for emptying the bins) regarding the best position for the bin and report back to the Committee. 167 PARISH PATHS i) Litter on Paths Julian Thornton, the County Footpaths Officer, has confirmed that litter on the definitive footpaths is a District Council matter. ii) Porridge Potts Complaints have been received that the Porridge Potts path is in a poor condition which means that the public is walking on the conservation margins. County will inspect this with a view to including it in next year’s capital bids. iii) Future Parish Path Projects • FP26 (which leads westwards across a large field towards The Chequers) should be inspected to ensure that it is on the correct alignment. A member feels it is misaligned at its junction with FP6 which leads to Hammonds End. The path is well used in Summer and is a popular route to and from Redbournbury Water Mill. In Winter it is difficult to follow and it would be helpful if it were rolled and visible on the ground. • FP34 – a kissing gate has been installed just south of the by pass but just beyond the gate the path is impeded by an overgrown hedge which requires cutting back. The path should provide an alternative, more attractive route, than through the industrialized area of Flowers Farm • Footpaths to the east of Cherry Tree Lane need attention. FP44 needs waymarking as path alignments through the spinny and the fields is unclear. The definitive paths to Woodend Farm and the Nicky Line in one direction and to Cherrytree House in the other should provide a pleasant alternative to walking in the Lane. The footpath sign to Cherrytree House from the lane has disappeared. The presence of these paths need re-asserting before any development of this area occurs following the Buncefield explosion. 168 RISK ASSESSMENT There were no reports of any problems on Parish Council property. 169 Parking restrictions and damage to grass verges This item was referred from full Council because comments are required by the end of March. The District Council is carrying out a review of waiting restrictions and parking on grass verges and footways and has asked for local input to identify where restrictions are no longer required or to identify dangerous locations where they should be introduced. Parking on grass verges should only be permitted if the verges have been reinforced and the Council may invest in the construction of lay-bys. The following areas were noted • Tingeys Close (grass verges damaged by parked cars) • Area opposite St Mary’s Church near Stathams Court (verges damaged by people parking visiting Stathams Court and St Mary’s Church) • Corner of Coopers Meadow (verges damaged by motorists dropping off and collecting children attending local schools) It was also noted that areas of the Common are being eroded. 170 Mr H Green: Sponsored seat in The Avenue Mr Green has asked permission to put a commemorative seat by the Cricket Pitch in memory of his father and mother who lived in the village from 1950 until early last year. The Clerk to reply that the Committee has received several requests for seats on the Common and needs to contact those concerned to ascertain if they are still interested before granting permission. 171 Greenleas: Request for a right of way Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that the Committee agrees, in principle, to granting a right of way under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act to Greenleas. The applicant is to be informed that an independent valuation should be obtained. Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that delegated authority should be given to the Chairman of the Parish Council, the Chairman and Vice Chairman of the Common, Footpaths and Open Spaces Committee and the Clerk to approve the valuation and progress the right of way. 172 Quotation from Wicksteed Leisure for replacement safety tiles for Long Cutt and East Common Play Areas The contractor met a representative from Wicksteed Leisure to inspect Long Cutt and East Common Play areas to agree the number of replacement safety tiles required. A quotation has been received for £2.139. The Clerk to liaise with the contractor to ascertain that the number of tiles mentioned in the quotation is correct. RESOLVED that delegated authority be given to the Chairman, Vice Chairman and the Clerk to progress the replacement and refurbishment of the safety tiles. The quotation is for supply only and it was agreed that John Pidgeon is to carry out the works. Councillor Stent agreed to contact Wicksteed and request a 10% discount 173 Information evening on Grounds Maintenance, St Albans District Council Councillors Bull, Pierpoint, O’Donovan and the Clerk agreed to attend the information evening on the new grounds maintenance contract. 174 Chequer Lane ditch The contractor has cleared the undergrowth from the ditch in Chequer Lane and cut back the hedge. Brian Peers, St Albans District Council, has been asked to contact the contractor regarding a blockage in the ditch which was noted by the Contractor. The Clerk to instruct the contractor to repair the metal railings in Chequer Lane. 175 Carter Jonas:unauthorized tipping on Crown Estates Carter Jonas has instructed the farmer to remove the unauthorized tipping from Crown Estates land adjacent to the Ver Valley Walk, off Chequer Lane. 176 CUMBERLAND HOUSE GARDEN Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED to accept Fairclough Homes offer of £7,500 towards maintenance of the footpath in Cumberland House garden. The Clerk to ask for the keys to the garden for one weekend so that photographs may be taken for the Anglia in Bloom portfolio. Members agreed that the garden could be handed over in six week’s time, once the additional lit bollard in installed. OTHER URGENT BUSINESS 177 Parish Centre Sketch plans for the proposed Parish Centre were circulated to members. The building has been turned around to minimize the impact on the Common. If the full Council approves the plans it is suggested that the residents of South Common Cottages be invited to attend a meeting at the Youth Club to view the plans. The plans may also be displayed at the Annual Parish Meeting. 178 DATE AND TIME OF NEXT MEETING: 6th April 2006 Return to the top of the page REDBOURN PARISH COUNCIL Minutes of Common, Footpaths and Open Spaces held in the Council Chamber, Redbourn Village Hall on Thursday, 2nd February 2006 at 7.30pm. PRESENT: Councillors C O’Donovan, Chairman, A V Bull, Mrs C Cardy K Maidment, R Stent, Dr W S Pierpoint and A E Swendell APOLOGIES: Councillor Mrs M Maynard IN ATTENDANCE: Mrs D Whiskin Clerk to the Council, Mr and Mrs L Gregory There were no declarations of interest 162 Minutes of the previous meeting Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that the minutes of the meeting held on lst January be approved and signed as a true record. 163 Village Post The brass plaque containing information on Redbourn’s Village of the Year awards is now ready for fixing to the post. Councillor Maidment agreed to install the sign when it arrives next week. 164 Cumberland House Garden Fairclough Homes were unaware that the garden was open to the public and have now locked the gates. The Parish Council has put a laminated notice on the two gates informing the public that the garden will be open once it has been officially handed over to the Parish Council. No response has been received to the Parish Council’s request for an additional £10,000 towards maintenance of the footpath. Councillor Maidment was unable to get access to the garden to inspect the wall. The Clerk to ascertain whether it would be possible for access to be made available. 165 Play Areas Mr Pidgeon has been instructed to deal with the medium risk items highlighted in the annual inspection of the play areas. The Clerk is awaiting a response from Wicksteed Leisure regarding whether it is possible to purchase a small quantity of safety tiles to enable the contractor to refurbish the safety surfacing. Wicksteed has been asked to look at the safety tiles at the entrance to Silk Mill Play area. This play area has only been open a few years and the tiles should not have lifted. 166 Council Stores The Clerk and Chairman inspected the council stores and took an inventory. The contractor has been instructed to dispose all redundant and broken items. Members agreed that the Council Stores would not be suitable for conversion for a garage for the Care Group minibus and should be kept as a Council Store. It would be possible to increase the storage available by putting in a mezzanine floor. 167 Road outside the Methodist Church Mr Brian Pidgeon has completed the remedial works to the road outside the Methodist Church. The cost of the repairs was £630. 168 Additional planting in hedge between Long Cutt Play Area and footpath The contractor has said it would be possible to transplant saplings to bridge the gap in the hedge but he is doubtful whether they would be allowed to grow. It was agreed that he should be instructed to carry out this work. 169 Entrance to Kane Haulage Yard Hertfordshire Highways has said that the pothole at the entrance to Old Station Yard is not a safety hazard as it is not line with the pedestrian route along the footpath. No reply has been received to the email to Kane Haulage requesting that he repair the hole. Hertfordshire Highways has informed the Council that it will be resurfacing this section of the High Street and would take the repairs up to and including the pothole if Kane Haulage would pay for this section of the work. The Clerk to write to Mr Kane to ascertain whether he would be prepared to do this. 170 Risk Assessment Reports The Contactor has said the seat at Long Cutt is broken and recommends it be replaced by a metal seat. The seat was a stone base with wooden slats which could be repaired but he does not think this would be cost effective. He has been informed that the budget has been set for 2006/7 and no monies were set aside for a replacement seat. It was agreed that the next time a request is received for a sponsored seat this should be used to replace one of the metal seats on the Common. The metal seat could be resited at Long Cutt play area. 171 Ver Valley Walk The Contactor has received a complaint about the amount of rubbish which is dumped in the field adjacent to the Ver Valley walk off Chequer Lane. The Clerk has taken photos of the rubbish. The Clerk to write to the Crown Commissioners, footpaths officer and the District Council requesting that the rubbish be removed. 172 North Common Footpath Concern was expressed that if the Parish Council is responsible for the footpath on North Common it may also be responsible for the other footpaths around the Common. If this is the case the costs of future repairs would be enormous. It was noted that North Common footpath had been damaged by Transco investigating gas leaks. There are a number of holes that require repair. A councillor said that when a road is adopted it includes 18” beyond the road which may mean that County is responsible. The Clerk to investigate this. 173 Chestnut Tree near Old Dairy Farm The contractor has applied to the District Council for permission to either reduce the Chestnut Tree by 30% or remove it completely. To remove the tree would cost £800, to reduce it by 30% would cost £350. Members agreed that it should be reduced by 30%. The Clerk to write to Mr Whitton to remind him that parking on the Common is not permitted. 174 Water Pump on Common near Chequer Lane Members agreed that the water pump near Chequer Lane should be made more of a feature. The Clerk to instruct the Contractor to keep the grass around the water pump cut. Councillor Swendell agreed to paint it with hammerite. 175 Nicky Line An application has been made to the District Council for £5,413.65 which is this year’s grant for the Nicky Line. The contractor has been asked to inform the Council of any works that may be required. It was agreed that the contractor should remove the litter which has accumulated in the hedges. The Chairman and Vice Chairman to walk the Nicky Line to ascertain what other works are required. The Contractor reported that water has been discharged onto the Nicky Line near Three Cherry Lane. This has washed away the top surface of the path, caused ruts and made areas very muddy. It was thought that the water may be from the Buncefield Oil Depot. This has been reported to the District Council. 176 Parish Paths The kissing gate has now been installed on Footpath 34. The hedgerow on the far side of the gate will need trimming back. The leaves on the steps from the bypass are a hazard and need clearing. A report was received from a resident regarding the difficulty of walking footpath 38 because a fence has been built at the back of the stile. Julian Thornton held a meeting with landowners near Nichols Farm. The new fence was installed because of the Ml widening scheme. The landowner agreed that the stile was unacceptably high and has agreed to keep the nearby gate unlocked. This was not very satisfactory as the ground near the gate was puddled by horses and the gate was awkward to handle. The stiles will be replaced by kissing gates once the Ml work is complete. 177 DEFRA: Notes for Guidance The Parish Council has been informed that the road from Fish Street to the end of the Youth Club grounds should be discharged from Common land status before Hertfordshire County Council will adopt the road. A copy of the guidelines for Local Authorities proposing to appropriate land forming part of a common was circulated and noted. Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that this Committee seeks the permission of the Secretary of State to discharge the common land status of the section of common which forms the tarmac road from Fish Street to the end of the Youth Club grounds. Councillor Maidment agreed to measure the section of land in question. 178 DATE AND TIME OF NEXT MEETING The next meeting of the Common Footpaths and Open Spaces meeting is to be held on Thursday, 2nd March 2006. The meeting closed at 8.30 pm. Return to the top of the page *REDBOURN PARISH COUNCIL Minutes of Common, Footpaths and Open Spaces held in the Council Chamber, Redbourn Village Hall on Thursday, 2nd February 2006 at 7.30pm. PRESENT: Councillors C O’Donovan, Chairman, A V Bull, Mrs C Cardy K Maidment, R Stent, Dr W S Pierpoint and A E Swendell APOLOGIES: Councillor Mrs M Maynard IN ATTENDANCE: Mrs D Whiskin Clerk to the Council, Mr and Mrs L Gregory There were no declarations of interest 162 Minutes of the previous meeting Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that the minutes of the meeting held on lst January be approved and signed as a true record. 163 Village Post The brass plaque containing information on Redbourn’s Village of the Year awards is now ready for fixing to the post. Councillor Maidment agreed to install the sign when it arrives next week. 164 Cumberland House Garden Fairclough Homes were unaware that the garden was open to the public and have now locked the gates. The Parish Council has put a laminated notice on the two gates informing the public that the garden will be open once it has been officially handed over to the Parish Council. No response has been received to the Parish Council’s request for an additional £10,000 towards maintenance of the footpath. Councillor Maidment was unable to get access to the garden to inspect the wall. The Clerk to ascertain whether it would be possible for access to be made available. 165 Play Areas Mr Pidgeon has been instructed to deal with the medium risk items highlighted in the annual inspection of the play areas. The Clerk is awaiting a response from Wicksteed Leisure regarding whether it is possible to purchase a small quantity of safety tiles to enable the contractor to refurbish the safety surfacing. Wicksteed has been asked to look at the safety tiles at the entrance to Silk Mill Play area. This play area has only been open a few years and the tiles should not have lifted. 166 Council Stores The Clerk and Chairman inspected the council stores and took an inventory. The contractor has been instructed to dispose all redundant and broken items. Members agreed that the Council Stores would not be suitable for conversion for a garage for the Care Group minibus and should be kept as a Council Store. It would be possible to increase the storage available by putting in a mezzanine floor. 167 Road outside the Methodist Church Mr Brian Pidgeon has completed the remedial works to the road outside the Methodist Church. The cost of the repairs was £630. 168 Additional planting in hedge between Long Cutt Play Area and footpath The contractor has said it would be possible to transplant saplings to bridge the gap in the hedge but he is doubtful whether they would be allowed to grow. It was agreed that he should be instructed to carry out this work. 169 Entrance to Kane Haulage Yard Hertfordshire Highways has said that the pothole at the entrance to Old Station Yard is not a safety hazard as it is not line with the pedestrian route along the footpath. No reply has been received to the email to Kane Haulage requesting that he repair the hole. Hertfordshire Highways has informed the Council that it will be resurfacing this section of the High Street and would take the repairs up to and including the pothole if Kane Haulage would pay for this section of the work. The Clerk to write to Mr Kane to ascertain whether he would be prepared to do this. 170 Risk Assessment Reports The Contactor has said the seat at Long Cutt is broken and recommends it be replaced by a metal seat. The seat was a stone base with wooden slats which could be repaired but he does not think this would be cost effective. He has been informed that the budget has been set for 2006/7 and no monies were set aside for a replacement seat. It was agreed that the next time a request is received for a sponsored seat this should be used to replace one of the metal seats on the Common. The metal seat could be resited at Long Cutt play area. 171 Ver Valley Walk The Contactor has received a complaint about the amount of rubbish which is dumped in the field adjacent to the Ver Valley walk off Chequer Lane. The Clerk has taken photos of the rubbish. The Clerk to write to the Crown Commissioners, footpaths officer and the District Council requesting that the rubbish be removed. 172 North Common Footpath Concern was expressed that if the Parish Council is responsible for the footpath on North Common it may also be responsible for the other footpaths around the Common. If this is the case the costs of future repairs would be enormous. It was noted that North Common footpath had been damaged by Transco investigating gas leaks. There are a number of holes that require repair. A councillor said that when a road is adopted it includes 18” beyond the road which may mean that County is responsible. The Clerk to investigate this. 173 Chestnut Tree near Old Dairy Farm The contractor has applied to the District Council for permission to either reduce the Chestnut Tree by 30% or remove it completely. To remove the tree would cost £800, to reduce it by 30% would cost £350. Members agreed that it should be reduced by 30%. The Clerk to write to Mr Whitton to remind him that parking on the Common is not permitted. 174 Water Pump on Common near Chequer Lane Members agreed that the water pump near Chequer Lane should be made more of a feature. The Clerk to instruct the Contractor to keep the grass around the water pump cut. Councillor Swendell agreed to paint it with hammerite. 175 Nicky Line An application has been made to the District Council for £5,413.65 which is this year’s grant for the Nicky Line. The contractor has been asked to inform the Council of any works that may be required. It was agreed that the contractor should remove the litter which has accumulated in the hedges. The Chairman and Vice Chairman to walk the Nicky Line to ascertain what other works are required. The Contractor reported that water has been discharged onto the Nicky Line near Three Cherry Lane. This has washed away the top surface of the path, caused ruts and made areas very muddy. It was thought that the water may be from the Buncefield Oil Depot. This has been reported to the District Council. 176 Parish Paths The kissing gate has now been installed on Footpath 34. The hedgerow on the far side of the gate will need trimming back. The leaves on the steps from the bypass are a hazard and need clearing. A report was received from a resident regarding the difficulty of walking footpath 38 because a fence has been built at the back of the stile. Julian Thornton held a meeting with landowners near Nichols Farm. The new fence was installed because of the Ml widening scheme. The landowner agreed that the stile was unacceptably high and has agreed to keep the nearby gate unlocked. This was not very satisfactory as the ground near the gate was puddled by horses and the gate was awkward to handle. The stiles will be replaced by kissing gates once the Ml work is complete. 177 DEFRA: Notes for Guidance The Parish Council has been informed that the road from Fish Street to the end of the Youth Club grounds should be discharged from Common land status before Hertfordshire County Council will adopt the road. A copy of the guidelines for Local Authorities proposing to appropriate land forming part of a common was circulated and noted. Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that this Committee seeks the permission of the Secretary of State to discharge the common land status of the section of common which forms the tarmac road from Fish Street to the end of the Youth Club grounds. Councillor Maidment agreed to measure the section of land in question. 178 DATE AND TIME OF NEXT MEETING The next meeting of the Common Footpaths and Open Spaces meeting is to be held on Thursday, 2nd March 2006. The meeting closed at 8.30 pm. Return to the top of the page minutes are draft until signed
The Parish Council minutes are now on The Parish Council Web
minutes are draft until signed *REDBOURN PARISH COUNCIL Minutes of Common Footpaths and Open Spaces held on Thursday, 4th February 2010 at 7.30 pm in Redbourn Village Hall PRESENT: C O’Donovan (Chairman), A V Bull, R Gray, R Stent, A E Swendell and Mrs E Warren IN ATTENDANCE: Mrs D Whiskin, Clerk to the Council, Mr and Mrs R McPhee, Redbourn 900 APOLOGIES: None 101 DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: None 102 MATTERS TO REPORT: Beating the Bounds, Request from P Green to bring Fair to Redbourn 103 RESOLUTION RESOLVED to vary order of business to discuss Redbourn 900 as the next item 104 REDBOURN 900 A programme of events has been arranged to celebrate the 900 Anniversary of St Mary’s Parish Church. It is the Redbourn 900 Committee’s intention that the celebration is not just church based but is to embrace the whole village and the 900 Committee sought advice on the events being held on the Common. A schedule of events for the year was circulated to members. The following points were raised • Rural Day on 23rd May – participants include local farms, Redbournbury Mill, the Ver Valley Society – Friends of the Nickey Line, nature trail from St Lukes to Recreation Centre – parking required on Common • Redbourn Carnival, 26th June – the Clerk to inform Paul Walecki that a procession would be taking place from Recreation Centre to the Common and that road closures would be helpful on North Common. It was suggested that a representative from Redbourn 900 should attend the next Hertfordshire Highways meeting on 9th March. Parish Council is invited to participate in procession • The Chairman to liaise with Redbourn 900 regarding parking on the Common for the various events – other suggested area: Herts Showground, field where steam rally is held – a shuttle bus would be necessary to take people to the Carnival • Food vendors are being invited to participate at events on the Common – procedures are being drawn up to ensure that vendors are properly insured and have the correct qualifications and licences – the 900 Committee has yet to decide whether to seek a donation from the profits or to set a sum for each pitch – members felt that if vendors were being asked to tender for a pitch the monies should go through the Parish Council and it would then be passed onto the Redbourn 900 Committee – they felt it may be preferable to seek a donation • A temporary licence is required to sell alcohol on the Common – only plastic glasses should be used • Risk assessments are being drawn up • The Committee is considering hiring large screens to show last 16 World Cup matches • The 900 Committee should liaise with Sergeant Lewis Duckett who is responsible for policing community events – Inspector Hanson is able to sanction additional police presence should this be required • Street parties on 10th July: Parish Council involvement in this event would be appreciated – perhaps by judging street parties – a member suggested that streets could perhaps design a street flag and this could be judged by the Parish Council – it was agreed that Parish Council would sanction street parties in next newsletter – it was suggested that barbecues should be placed in front gardens rather than on the road as this would overcome insurance problems – it was suggested that those streets that could not be closed could hold their party on the Common or perhaps all street parties could be moved to the Common • One of the suggestions from the 900 Committee was a community orchard but as this has now been planted it was suggested that they may wish to consider a Sculpture made up of carved railway sleepers for the orchard Parish Council involvement • Participation in procession • 900 logo to be included on minutes/agenda/newsletters • Radio press communications • Information table at events • Grant Mr and Mrs McPhee left the meeting. 105 MINUTES OF THE PREVIOUS MEETING RESOLVED that the minutes of the meeting held on 7th January 2010 be signed as a true record. 106 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION No members of the public were present 107 FINANCE 108.1 Current Position A paper showing the current financial position was circulated and noted. 109 NICKEY LINE A resident has pointed out that the “No Horse Riding” sign had been removed from the Nickey Line and was lying in the garden of the house opposite the Ramada Jarvis Hotel. PC Clayton has agreed to retrieve the sign and the contractor will re-erect it. The Contractor has agreed to erect the replacement fence during the next week or so. 110 MILLENNIUM SITE A quotation for removal of ivy and associated tree works has been received. Additional quotations are being sought. The Chairman to ask Will Dell to quote for constructing paths from the High Street, through the Community Orchard to the Nickey Line. The position of the path has been drawn onto a map but it was felt that contractors would need to visit the site before quoting. The path is to be part financed by • Using the balance of the Nickey Line Grant – this has been cleared with the District Council • Using the balance of the budget for the footpath on the Common • Using the balance of the budget for the bus shelter in Lybury Lane RESOLVED that this Committee recommends to full Council that the balance of the monies set aside for the bus shelter in Lybury Lane and the footpath on North Common be used towards the footpath from the High Street to the Nickey Line. 111 PARISH PATHS At a meeting with the Footpaths Officer to discuss this year’s Parish Paths programme it was agreed that two kissing gates would be installed back to back on footpath 27. This was thought necessary because the farmer was concerned that livestock could escape from the field onto the A5183. He is now suggesting that instead of back to back kissing gates a gate should be installed next to the existing stile. This would be locked when livestock are in the field and unlocked at other times. The farmer would be responsible for locking and unlocking the gate. It would be necessary for a sign to be erected explaining the situation. County would finance this project. Members agreed with this proposal. 112 RISK REPORT No issues had been raised during the past month. 112 FOOTPATHS ON COMMON The contractor has met a representative from Redbourn Care Group and agreed the siting of the seats on the new footpath by the Moor. CORRESPONDENCE 113 Chiltern Society: Chiltern Walk The Chiltern Way is a 278m long circular footpath around the Chilterns, a very small section is north of Redbourn. The Chiltern Society is putting together a programme of walks for 2010 for the Chiltern Way Walking Festival from 29 May to 11 June and is inviting people to join in and lead a walk to involve local people. Members noted that as the Parish Council is organising the Beating of the Bounds on 8th May and Redbourn 900 is organising walks on its Rural Day Event on 23rd May, it would be difficult to accommodate another event. The Clerk to respond to the Chiltern Society saying that the event will be advertised in the Parish Newsletter and that it will not be possible to arrange another walk as there are a number of events being organised in May. The Council would be interested in becoming involved next year. 114 Cross Channel Connections: Continental Village Market Information was circulated regarding a Continental Village Market in Redbourn. Members agreed in principle to support a Continental Village Market subject to locating a suitable venue. 115 Ben Austins Resident: Stones on the Common A resident has expressed concern at stones that have been placed on the Common to prevent erosion. The stones are painted white and his wife tripped over them in the snow. The Chairman and Councillor Stent agreed to meet him on the Common to discuss the matter. 116 Lynsey Close Residents: Overgrown trees Large Leylandii trees were planted in Lynsey Close on land owned by a developer. These have now grown to an enormous size and the residents are seeking their removal. The trees were reduced by the District Council ten years ago but as they do not own the land they are not prepared to carry out further works on them. Members agreed that the Clerk should write to the developer on behalf of the residents asking them to remove the trees. 117 Clayton: Deed of Rectification – Brooklen, Chequer Lane The solicitor has requested a rectification to a Deed of Easement dated 6th June 1966 which should have been made out to Mr and Mrs Clark, in their joint names. The solicitor has informed his client that he will have to fund the Council’s legal costs. RESOLVED to approve a rectification. 118 CUMBERLAND GARDEN The Clerk to advertise next weeding session on 3rd March. The Chairman has spoken to the contractor regarding securing the right hand gate with a padlock to prevent people opening both gates. A member said he would measure the opening to ensure that it is wide enough for wheelchair access. Some means is required to keep the left hand gate open. The Contractor has been asked to install the noticeboard which was removed from the Youth Club building. It was agreed that this should be sited on the left hand side to hide the compost bin. 119 TREE WORKS The wood pile outside the Museum was removed before Christmas but is beginning to accumulate again. 120 PARISH CENTRE 120.1 Schedule of Payments A schedule of payments based on the one produced by Councillor Bull with the addition of the £20,000 included in the 2010/11 budget was circulated. 120.2 Current position The contractor has given a new start date of 1st March 2010. 120.3 Minutes of meeting between on 22.1.2010 The minutes of a meeting between Councillor O’Donovan and the architect were circulated and noted. Once the works are commenced payment will be on a monthly basis subject to the architect’s recommendation. The Clerk to write to South Common Cottages informing them that the revised start date is 1st March. 120.4 Water Leak/theft of copper pipe Copper pipe was stolen from the Youth Club causing a flood in the men’s toilet. This will mean additional costs for dealing with the leak. The repairs were organised by the contractor. 120.5 Kitchen The flooring in the kitchen is to be vinyl. The architect should be informed if a larger cooker is to be installed as this may required a different gas supply. 121 REDBOURN MUSEUM The quotations for works to be carried out at the Museum should be available for consideration at full Council. 122 COMMON 122.1 Grass Cutting: Request to combine contract with Recreation Centre The Managing Director of Redbourn Recreation Centre had suggested that the two grass cutting contracts should be merged. Following discussion members agreed that this would not be possible as the Parish Council’s grass cutting regime varied from month to month. The grass cutting contract expires in 2009/10 but has an option to extend until 2011/12. Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED to extend the contract to 2011/12. 122.2 Damage to Common A member expressed concern at the area of Common given over to the cricket nets. He had not realised the size of the extension but on checking files the planning permission confirmed that the area for nets had doubled. The Clerk to ask the Cricket Club if the area needs protecting to allow the grass seed to germinate and establish. The Parish Council wish to know when the Common has been restored so that an inspection may be carried out. The Chairman held an onsite meeting with the contractor to discuss the damage to the Common outside “Bunchers”. He reported that this has now been repaired to a satisfactory standard. 123 BEATING THE BOUNDS – 10am – Harpenden Roundabout As Councillor Warren is unable to lead the Beating of the Bounds on 9th May members agreed that the Clerk should ask Richard Morgan if he is able to lead the event. Last year the walk started a little later and participants stopped at the Hollybush for lunch. 124 FAIR Members gave permission for the Fair to be held on the Common in April. The rides will begin to pull onto the Common on 6th April and leave on 11th April. 132 DATE AND TIME OF NEXT MEETING The next meeting is to be held on 4th March 2010 - Councillor Warren gave her apologies. The meeting closed at 9.10 REDBOURN PARISH COUNCIL Minutes of Common Footpaths and Open Spaces held on Thursday, 7th January 2010 at 7.30 pm in Redbourn Village Hall PRESENT: C O’Donovan (Chairman), A V Bull, R Gray, R Stent, A E Swendell and Mrs E Warren IN ATTENDANCE: Mrs D Whiskin, Clerk to the Council APOLOGIES: None 85 DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: None 86 MATTERS TO REPORT: Slippery paths 87 MINUTES OF THE PREVIOUS MEETING RESOLVED that the minutes of the meeting held on 3rd December 2009 be signed as a true record. 88 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION No members of the public were present 89 FINANCE 89.1 Current Position A paper showing the current financial position was circulated and noted. 90 NICKEY LINE The Clerk to check with the contractor whether he has been able to start works on the fencing bearing in mind the recent heavy snow falls. A complaint has been received regarding the number of lights which have been vandalised in the Ml bridge on the Nickey Line. The Parish Council had raised concerns that the design of the lights seemed inappropriate and could well lead to vandalism which in turn would mean costly repairs. Because of this advice was sought on who would be responsible for the repairs. We were informed that as the lights were under the M1 bridge the Highways Agency would be responsible. This complaint was passed onto them but they are now questioning whether it is their responsibility. 91 MILLENNIUM SITE Quotations have been received for the proposed footpath to the Millennium Site and for groundworks. The Chairman said he would prefer one contractor to carry out all the works. The Clerk to contact the contractor to seek a quotation for the additional path through the site to the Nickey Line. A specification for the works is required before further quotations can be obtained. The Clerk to obtain an OS map so that the exact line of the path can be marked onto the map. The path should be wide enough for disabled access. 92 PARISH PATHS Footpath 30 at Redbournbury is to be closed on 25th January 2010 for approximately one month to allow bridge works to take place. A complaint was received regarding the stile on the definitive footpath at the car park of the Ramada Jarvis hotel. The Clerk confirmed that this has been identified in the Parish Paths programme. Permission has been received from the manager of the hotel and the stile is to be replaced with a kissing gate. 93 RISK REPORT The contractor is salting the footpath through Cumberland Garden. It was agreed that next year salt should be stored in the garden for this purpose. It was noted that footpaths in Redbourn are not cleared by the District Council. A District Councillor has been liaising with the District Council regarding the purchase of a sand pedal machine which is hand operated and could be used to put sand on the paths in the High Street and other vulnerable areas in the village. The Clerk to ascertain the cost of same. The District Councillor said he thought that the District Council would be prepared to share the costs. Requests for salt bins have been received in: Pondsmead Health Centre Crouch Hall Lane Lamb Lane Ben Austins A complaint was received that the school run in Harpenden is salted but not the school run in Redbourn. The Clerk to ask the District Councillor to take this matter up on our behalf. Six lights are not working in Fish Street, opposite the Youth Club. 94 FOOTPATHS ON COMMON The footpaths on the Common have now been completed. Two benches have been purchased for the Care Group and these have yet to be installed. The Contractor has been instructed to do this as soon as possible. The Clerk to check whether Hertfordshire Highways is going to pay for the roadworks opposite the footpath. Their representative had said they would provided the contractor was on its list of approved contractors. The Clerk to write and thank the Care Group for paying for the new footpath on the Common. 95 CORRESPONDENCE 95.1 Rothamsted: Hedge – Dunstable Road Following a request from a resident that the field hedges in Dunstable road be cut lower to allow views across the valley, Rothamsted Research has provided a briefing sheet on its Farms Hedgerow Management which explains why its hedges are cut to a given height. This has been circulated to residents in Dunstable Road. Rothamsted explained that hedges adjacent to roadways and footpaths are cut annually to reduce risk of accidents and to stop hedges encroaching into the road. They abide by guidelines laid out by DEFRA and Natural England which state that “over management or trimming a hedge too severely can have a detrimental effect on conservation. In general taller bushier hedgerows provide more wildlife potential than smaller thinner hedges.” 95.2 Hertfordshire Association of Parish and Town Councils: Parking on Common for firework display The firework working party had asked the Clerk to ascertain whether it would be possible to charge motorists for parking on the Common during the firework display. A lengthy reply was received from HAPTC stating that the Council could, in theory, charge but inferring that charges should not be made. A member suggested that the firework working party could ask for donations, or charge for a programme. This matter is to be referred to the firework working party. A member felt that more should be made of the fact that all profits are given to village organisations. 95.3 Common resident: utilities across Parish Centre grounds A South Common resident has expressed concern that water, sewage and gas services run across the development site for the new Parish Centre. These concerns were passed onto the developer and the Clerk was instructed to send a copy of the developer’s reply to the resident and to inform him that the Parish Council is seeking a revised programme of works but that the development should be completed by July provided everything goes according to plan. The current bad weather may well cause some delays. 95.4 Common resident: damage to Common A resident has complained at the damage to the Common caused by the recycling lorries. This has been raised previously. The District Council has been asked to discuss this matter at the appropriate Committee meeting. A District Councillor has also spoken to an officer of the District Council who is taking this matter up with the contractors. 96 CUMBERLAND GARDEN The Clerk to place a notice in the garden asking people to keep to the path and not to slide down the slopes as this is damaging the plants. The Clerk reported that she and her assistant had worked for four hours in the garden in December but no work was carried out in January. 97 TREE WORKS No works have been carried out. 97 PARISH CENTRE 97.1 Schedule of Payments The schedule of payments was noted. 97.2 Current position The electricity cables running through the development site have been re-routed. There will be an additional cost for the new supply. The cost was deleted in the schedule of reductions because it was thought that the existing supply was sufficient. It was not realised at that time that it would be necessary to move the electrical cables which would necessitate a new supply to the proposed building. The furniture has all been moved from the Youth Club with the exception of the pool table. The contractor felt it would not be safe to carry this heavy object over the icy snow. Two skips were hired to take the redundant furniture. Everything which can be reused is being stored in Councillor Gray’s lock up. The architect said that the demolition of the old building could well be next week but that this will depend on weather conditions. 98 REDBOURN MUSEUM The roof repairs have been completed and an invoice has been received from the Architect for taking the core samples and for the preparation of the specification for the removal of the render. Keith Stanley has approved the invoice. The Architect is retiring and has suggested sharing responsibilities for completion of the works with his colleague. Keith Stanley is concerned about the division of responsibility and feels that clarification on this point is required. Members agreed that as Keith Stanley has been overseeing this project he should liaise with both parties regarding this issue and report back to the Council. 99 MATTERS FOR REPORT 99.1 Response to Street Scape Design Strategy for St Albans The Chairman has written a response to the Street Scape Design Strategy for St Albans. This is to be considered by the full Council and she has asked for the Commons Committee to comment on the document. The Committee approved the response and thanked Councillor Windle for bringing this to its attention. 99.2 Visible Street Scene Project The Clerk circulated a copy of the funding application for the visible street scene project which included the matters discussed with Councillor Donald. He was willing to include works to improve the wooded area at the entrance to the village but not the footpath leading to the Millennium Site/Nickey Line. Members were asked to inform the Clerk if they had any comments or changes they wished to make to the application. 100 DATE AND TIME OF NEXT MEETING The next meeting is to be held on 4th February 2010. REDBOURN PARISH COUNCIL Minutes of Common Footpaths and Open Spaces held on Thursday, 3rd December 2009 at 7.30 pm in Redbourn Village Hall PRESENT: C O’Donovan (Chairman), A V Bull, R Stent, A E Swendell and Mrs E Warren IN ATTENDANCE: Mrs D Whiskin, Clerk to the Council APOLOGIES: Councillor R Gray (holiday) 80 DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: None 81 MATTERS TO REPORT: Lights, Signs 82 MINUTES OF THE PREVIOUS MEETING RESOLVED that the minutes of the meeting held on 5th November 2009 be signed as a true record. 83 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION No members of the public were present 84 FINANCE 84.1 Current Position A paper showing the current financial position was circulated and noted. 84.2 2010/11 Budget The Finance Committee met last week to draw up the draft budget and has reported that it is in the difficult position trying to keep increases to a minimum bearing in mind that the Parish Council is now financing the Police Community Support Officer and has received a request from the Recreation Centre for additional funding and a request for funding from the 900 Celebrations for St Mary’s. The Finance Committee has asked the Commons Committee to consider a nil budget for the play equipment for one year. Members agreed that as that there are sufficient funds in the budgets to cover repairs it would accede to the request. 85 Nickey Line The Chairman held an on-site meeting with the contractor regarding the repairs and extension to the fencing along the Nickey Line. The work should be carried out shortly. 86 Millennium Site The Chairman and Councillor Warren met representatives from Country Forestry and Hartons Ltd to discuss proposals to clear the dead wood from the wooded area and construct a disabled path to the Community Orchard and the Nickey Line. It was suggested that 75% of the ivy should be cut at the base, leaving 25% for the wildlife. Also some dangerous trees and scrubby areas need clearing. This will allow dappled sunshine into the woodland which will allow bluebells and snowdrops to flourish. Ken Scott has agreed to provide a full report and recommend which trees need removing. Hartons will provide two quotations; one for the groundworks and one for the path. They have also been asked to provide a quotation for a continuation path from the Orchard to the Nickey Line. Jim Bennie has agreed that the surplus funds from the Nicky Line budget could be used for this project. It may be possible to obtain some grants from the Chilterns AONB but they need to assess whether Redbourn qualifies. The Care Group is keen to see a disabled access onto the Nickey Line. An alternative quotation for the earthworks is being sought from Mr Pidgeon and Mr Dell. The Clerk to • ask John Pidgeon for a quotation for a simple wood and wire fence to protect the hedging plants once they are planted • ascertain whether the Millennium site is in the conservation area 87 RISK REPORTS Two reports have been received regarding fallen trees • A tree is in danger of falling in the hedgeline between the definitive footpath and Harding Close – this has been reported to the District Council • A tree has fallen across the steps leading to the Millennium site – John Pidgeon to be instructed to remove it 88 PLAY AREAS 88.1 Annual Inspection The Clerk to place an order for an annual inspection of the play areas 88.2 Long Cutt: Litter The Clerk has checked the lease for Long Cutt play area and the map shows that the area leased includes the nomansland section between the play area and the boundary of adjacent housing. The Clerk to • Seek a quotation from John Pidgeon to clear the area • Ascertain from Christine Roach how soon the Probation Service could arrange for the works to be done. This would cost £80 per day 89 Footpath by The Moor Councillors Stent and O’Donovan have inspected the footpath and reported that the wrong surface has been put on the path extension to the River Red. The path should be porous asphalt but is crushed concrete (or similar). The foreman has agreed to check this with Mr Gibbons. The Clerk to write to the resident at 57 East Common and inform him that repairs are to be made to the road and the kerbing on the curve of the footpath outside his property is to be improved. The additional works will cost £369 and the Care Group has agreed to finance this work. Surplus soil from the footpath is being used to form banking to prevent illegal parking on the Common opposite The Cricketer’s Public House. An additional section of footpath repair is required in Lybury Lane, each side of the Avenue. One section is 10m and the other is 9m. RESOLVED to approve of this work at a cost of £860 plus VAT. A member reported that the Common at the entrance to Cumberland House is becoming damaged and he felt the only way to stop this would be to install high kerbing similar to that around the War Memorial. The Chairman and Councillor Swendell agreed to inspect the area and report back to the Committee. The Clerk to write to Councillor Churchyard, Portfolio Holder regarding the damage the dustbin lorries are causing to the Common and ask him to place an item on the agenda of the next meeting for this matter to be discussed and appropriate action taken to stop this happening. 90 Tree Works An email has been received regarding the overgrown trees around the electricity sub station on the Common near Church End. The Clerk to ask John Pidgeon to trim this back. CORRESPONDENCE 91 Land Registry: 1 South Common The Land Registry has registered the right of way to 1 South Common Cottage before awaiting the response from the Parish Council. The right of way is slightly longer than it should be and the Clerk is to ask them to rectify this error. 92 Rothamsted Experimental Station: Hedge in Dunstable Road Following a request from a Dunstable Road resident that the hedge opposite, adjacent to Rothamsted land, be cut back to improve the view, Rothamsted has reported that trimming the hedge too severely can have a detrimental effect on conservation. In general taller, bushier hedgerows provide more wildlife potential than smaller thinner hedges. The hedge has been cut to the same height for many years and as a consequence has grown thick, bushy branches at the top. This is where each year the new growth starts from. If it is cut back it would take some time for the hedge to recover. Rothamsted reported that someone has cut one section of the hedge down which has left a previously level topped hedge with a substantial drop in the in height. Members supported the stance taken by Rothamsted and agreed to circulate a copy of the letter to the residents in Dunstable Road. 93 West Common A letter was received from a resident in West Common asking who is responsible for the gravel road outside their property and seeking permission to place gravel on the road. A member had visited the resident and mistakenly informed her that he thought the Parish Council was responsible. The Clerk reported that the only section of road that the Parish Council looks after is that outside the Methodist Church. This decision was taken because this road is used by a good proportion of the village visiting the Church, Scout Hut, Tennis Club and Allotments. Other gravel drives on the Common are maintained by those people using them to access their houses. This is written into the wayleave agreements entered into by the residents. A member asked the Committee to consider putting a bollard in the middle of the road outside the Methodist Church. He said that much of the damage on this road is caused by wheel spin and that this could be avoided if people did not drive along the length of the road. Another member felt that this course of action may well cause more damage to the road. 94 CUMBERLAND GARDEN Members agreed to give permission to a resident in Miller Close to hold an Art Exhibition in Cumberland Garden on the weekend of the Open Gardens Event run by Redbourn in Bloom. It is understood that this is to be part of the 900 Celebrations. The Clerk to inform the resident that she could not charge an entry fee, the path must be kept clear, exhibits should not damage the grass. It was agreed that a list of conditions for use of the garden should be drawn up. The Clerk to • instruct John Pidgeon to padlock the right hand gate shut • check whether memorial tree from firework working party has been planted • check the current position on the car park with the District Council • ascertain from the contractors (John O’Connors) when the dead trees are to be replaced (these should be replaced with a suitable species that does not grow too tall – they could liaise with Councillor Warren regarding suitable trees) – also a tree is growing at a strange angle and needs remedial works 95 PARISH CENTRE EDF has confirmed that the electricity cable is to be moved on 14th December. The Clerk to inform the South Common residents. The works to the Centre should commence in the second week of January. Councillor O’Donovan was nominated as the councillor to liaise with the Architect. Councillor Warren asked to be involved when the colour scheme is chosen. The Clerk to ask for a new time schedule. 96 MUSEUM RESOLVED to accept the recommendation from Barry Roberts that the lowest quotation from T G Shutlar & Sons for £1,276.50 for roof repairs be accepted. 97 MATTERS FOR REPORT 97.1 Lights A High Street resident has reported a light not working. She was informed by Hertfordshire Highways that the problem is with the electricity company and a member queried whether this is also the case with the lack of electricity to the High Street clock. Three lights are not working in Hawkes Drive (near Miller Close gates) 97.2 Road signs The Clerk to report • Hemel Hempstead Road sign (near South Common Cottages) has been missing for a number of years. • Harpenden Lane road sign at entrance to Ver Road is missing • Sign at junction Ridgedown/Snatchup is missing • Heybrigge Close sign has fallen off and needs replacing 98 Date and time of next meeting The next meeting is to be held on Thursday, 7th January, 2010. REDBOURN PARISH COUNCIL Minutes of Common Footpaths and Open Spaces held on Thursday 5 November 2009 at 7.30 pm in the Council Chamber, Redbourn Village Hall. PRESENT: Councillors C O’Donovan (Chairman), A V Bull, R Gray, R Stent, A E Swendell and Mrs E Warren APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE: None IN ATTENDANCE: Mrs D Whiskin, Clerk to the Council 62 DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: None. 63 MATTERS FOR REPORT: Tullochside, Ml planting 64 MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING RESOLVED that minutes of the previous meeting held on 1st October 2009 be approved as a true record 65 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION No members of the public were present 66 FINANCE 66.1 Current position A paper showing the current financial position was circulated and noted. A member noted that the footpaths on the Common needed siding out which would increase labour costs next year. 66.2 Budget for 2010/11 Last year’s budget for Common Footpaths and Open Spaces was not increased. A paper showing expenditure against budget for the year end (31st March 2009) and expenditure against budget up until October 2009 was circulated. Members noted that the following budgets were overspent • Watering • Maintenance of dog litter bins • Rubbish clearance It was agreed that these should be increased to reflect actual expenditure. It was also agreed that, bearing in mind the increased commitments (improvements anticipated to the entrance to the village and the Millennium Site), the labour budget should be increased. The following increases are to be recommended to the Finance Committee Labour from £19,000 to £21,000 Watering from £1,450 to £1,700 Dog litter bins from £1,500 to £2,000 Rubbish clearance from £909 to £1,100 During the year the District Council informed the Parish Council that it would not be charging for leasing the Long Cutt play area or the Tassell Hall and Long Cutt Allotments therefore this budget can be decreased from £200 to £75. 66.3 Safety surfacing To give members guidance on the costs of safety surface when preparing the budget a quotation for safety surfacing for East Common and Long Cutt Play Areas was obtained A representative from Sovereign inspected the play areas and provided two options for East Common; one to replace existing wet pour surface and one to remove the wet pour surface and replace it with grassguard tiles. This surface allow grass to grow through the tiles giving the appearance of a grassed area. The advantage of this option is that it is vandal proof and is more in keeping with the Common. The total cost of wetpour would be £14,264.70. The cost of the grassguard tiles would be £3,291.91 for removal of the existing surface and £35,627.86 for replacing it with the grassguard tiles. The cost of grassguard tiles under the one piece of equipment in Flamsteadbury Lane which does not have a safety surface would be £1,539. Members expressed surprise at the cost of safety surfacing and felt that in the current economic climate it would not be advisable to proceed with replacing the safety surfacing as this would dramatically increase the precept. It was felt that the only way this could be achieved would be by grant aid. It was noted that the Finance Committee considers safety surfacing under a separate heading to the Commons Footpaths and Open Spaces budget and that this information should be forwarded to the Finance Committee. 67 NICKEY LINE 67.1 Fencing The Chairman reported that he had agreed to meet the Contractor who had been awarded the contract to erect replacement fencing on the Nicky Line but that the Contractor had been held up on his current job and was unable to attend. 67.2 25 Celebrations The Nickey Line will have been opened to the public for 25 years on December 1st 2010. The Friends of the Nickey Line are proposing to celebrate this in some way. Although still in the early stages one idea is to gather at Redbourn as this is a central location and after a walk along the Nickey Line, to unveil an interpretative board near the Old Station site. It was felt that this could be part funded from the Nickey Line budget. The Clerk to arrange a meeting with Doug Newell and Jim Bennie to discuss this further. The suggested date is 28th November 2010 at 2pm with drinks/snacks and a small exhibition in the Village Hall. RESOLVED to support this proposal. 68 MILLENNIUM SITE 68.1 Community Orchard 16 fruit trees were planted in the community orchard on the Millennium Site. It was agreed that the Committee would pay for Councillor Warren to attend a pruning course. 68.2 Disabled Access from High Street Councillor Warren presented a paper outlining the proposals for improving the area leading to the Millennium Site and the Nickey Line. The Tree Council has awarded the Parish Council a grant of £96 for hedging plants to be placed alongside the access road to Kane Haulage. CMS has said that if a trench is dug and filled with compost they will provide helpers to assist in planting the trees. A meeting was held with Isobel Crozier and Julian Thornton to discuss improvements that can be made to the area near the River Ver and that leading to the Community Orchard and the Nickey Line. These included • the provision of a path to give disabled access to the Nickey Line and Community Orchard • planting a hedge between the road and the proposed disabled path (using grant provided by Tree Council) • erection of a pole and wire fence between the road and the hedge plants to provide a demarcation line and hopefully protect them from traffic. It was thought that a pole and wire fence could be easily and cheaply re-erected if it was knocked down. • raising the profile of the Nickey Line from the High Street • clearing the short stretch of the River Ver (CMS to advise on this) • management of the wooded area • oak memorial bridge across ditch – memorial plaques for community orchard trees can be imbedded into bridge (Julian Thornton may be able to provide oak planks for building of bridge) Unfortunately, CMS is short staffed at present but they did agreed to provide a report of what works would be required. The Chairman agreed to ask Country Forestry for an assessment of the works required in the wooded area. Possible sources of funding • Nickey Line budget (meeting to be held with appropriate District Council officer) • Locality Budget • Business Grant • Street Scene improvement grant • Care Group (Peter Fox is very keen on the provision of a disabled access to the Nickey Line and thought the Care Group may be willing to assist with funding for this project) Julian Thornton had suggested the District Council be persuaded to give permissive path status to the disabled path, in which case the County Council could consider adopting it for future maintenance. RESOLVED to adopt the proposal to improve disabled access to the Nickey Line and improve the area around the River Ver including the wooded site. 69 PARISH PATHS A meeting was held between the County Footpaths Officer, a representative from Countryside Management Services and the Parish Council to discuss next year’s Parish Paths Programme. It was noted that last year’s programme had not been finalised and it was agreed that the stile in the car park at Ramada Jarvis should be replaced with the kissing gate which is in the Council Stores. The Clerk to liaise with the Manager regarding the installation. Various items were considered for inclusion in last year’s programme and these are yet to be costed. The outstanding items may be considered for this year’s programme. These are: • FP40 - Motorbike inhibitor installed near the Metro Bar • FP40 - Kissing gate installed a little further along from the motorbike inhibitor • FP38 - Bench installed near Dane End Farm (Footpaths Officer to provide bench) • FP30 - Bench installed near back ford at Redbournbury Mill (Footpaths Officer to provide bench) • FP27 - two kissing gates to be installed back to back on field along the A5183 (the Footpaths Officer to contact the landowner for permission and to report back to the Parish Council) • Sign in Beaumont Hall Lane “Public Highway to Hill Farm Lane” The Parish Path’s grant is £1,000 works to this value will be agreed. The Footpaths Officer agreed to provide replacement discs for footpath posts. 70 RISK REPORT No reports were received. 71 PLAY AREAS 71.1 Long Cutt Play Area: Birds Nest Swing As the Parish Council contractor has not yet had time to install the Birds Nest Swing the Clerk obtained a quotation for installation from Schoolscapes, the company that supplied the swing. A member noted that there have been a number of incidents of vandalism in Long Cutt Play Area and wondered whether the Committee should reconsider its proposal to install the equipment there. He felt that the Committee should think carefully about how tax payers money was being used and felt that any new equipment should be installed in East Common Play Area as this was well used and is rarely vandalised. It was noted that the swing was chosen for its robustness and other members felt that it would be wrong not to improve areas because they may be subject to vandalism. The Clerk to ask the PCSO to monitor the area regularly. RESOLVED that the Parish Council contractor be instructed to install the swing as soon as possible. 72 FOOTPATH BY THE MOOR An order has been placed with Hartons to install the footpath on The Moor. Representatives are to meet the contractor on the first day of the work to discuss the location of the path. 73 CORRESPONDENCE 73.1 Land Registry: Easement to 1 South Common Cottage The Clerk to take a photograph of the entrance and forward it to the Land Registry. 74 CUMBERLAND GARDEN Councillor Warren thanked the volunteers for attending the weeding session on 4th November. The following points ere noted • Most of the trees which were planted in the garden are thriving • Trees planted near the wall will be trained along wires next year • Two crab apples have died and need replacing • Additional bulbs will be planted • The contractor has been instructed to remove a tree but this has not yet been carried out • The noticeboard removed from the Youth Club has not yet been installed in the garden • The Clerk to ask Brian Peers when the parking regulations are to be imposed on the parking in the adjacent Car Park as some people are leaving their cars in the car park for prolonged periods. 13 places are to be marked for the Health Centre. • An additional volunteer has agreed to join the rota for opening/closing the garden. Councillor Swendell agreed to get keys cut and give the bill to the Clerk for reimbursement. 75 TREE WORKS A member advised the Committee that permission is required to cut down trees with a trunk diameter of over 3”. The trunk of the tree that was cut down near Old Dairy Farm was slightly larger that 3” but this was a safety issue as it was rotten and was in danger of falling. Photographs were taken of the condition of the tree. Country Forestry has been instructed to remove the wood pile from outside the Museum before the firework display. 76 PARISH CENTRE 76.1 Schedule of Payments to date A schedule of payments was circulated and it was noted that there have been no further payments. 76.2 EDF: routing of cable A letter from EDF regarding the delays to the re-routing of the electricity cables was noted. The Chief Executive has said that delays are being caused by the District Council estates department and further delays will be because of road closure notices which will have to be dealt with by Hertfordshire Highways. T & B Builders are meeting a representative from EDF on 9th November. The Clerk to write to the District Council and Hertfordshire Highways asking them to deal with these issues urgently. 77 LOCALITY GRANT An acknowledgement has been received for an application for a grant of £500 towards the refurbishment of the footpath on North Common. 78 FIREWORK DISPLAY Organisations for the firework display on Saturday, 7th November are nearly complete. Volunteers were requested to carry out a litter pick early Sunday morning before the Remembrance Day service. Refreshments will be served at the Methodist Church following the service. The Chairman of the Redbourn Youth Council has been invited to lay a wreath at the war memorial. 78 MATTERS FOR REPORT 78.1 Tullochside Members expressed surprise that the District Council had invited the owner of Tullochside to submit an application to extend the temporary permission for the traveller site bearing in mind that the Appeal decision stated that the caravans and tarmac etc should be removed and the area returned to its original condition in December. The Clerk to write to Peter Lilley regarding this matter. 78.2 Ml Planting Scheme The planting scheme for the Ml was emailed to the District Council in a form which was difficult to read. This has been refined by Councillor Bull into a readable version. 79 DATE AND TIME OF NEXT MEETING: 3rd December 2009 REDBOURN PARISH COUNCIL Minutes of Common Footpaths and Open Spaces held on Thursday 1 October 2009 at 7.30 pm in the Council Chamber, Redbourn Village Hall. PRESENT: Councillors C O’Donovan (Chairman), A V Bull, R Gray, R Stent. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE: Councillors A E Swendell (family commitment) and Mrs E Warren (holiday) IN ATTENDANCE: Mrs P Allcroft (Assistant to the Parish Clerk) 44 DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: None. 45 MATTERS FOR REPORT The Chairman agreed that the following matters should be discussed: 45.1 Redbourn Cricket Club: Planning Application to extend nets 45.2 Easement – 7 North Common 45.3 Redbourn Museum – damp problem 45.4 Village Clock 45.5 Seat outside Methodist church 45.6 Planting of Daffodils – Entrance to Village 45.7 Locality Grants 46 MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING RESOLVED that the minutes of the previous meeting held on 3rd September 2009 be signed as a true record. 47 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION: No public present. 48 FINANCE A paper showing the current financial position was circulated and noted. 49 CONTRACTS 49.1 General Maintenance Having been proposed by the Chairman it was unanimously RESOLVED to accept the resolution from the Chair “that this Committee approves the option in the General Maintenance Contract to extend it until 2010”. 49.2 Grass Cutting Having been proposed by the Chairman it was unanimously RESOLVED to accept the resolution from the Chair “that this Committee approves the option in the Grass Cutting Contract to extend it until 2011”. 50 NICKEY LINE 18.6 Extension of the Nickey Line Contract Having been proposed by the Chairman it was unanimously RESOLVED that the length of the Nickey Line contract be extended to 5 years renewable on an annual basis subject to receipt of a grant from the District Council. 50.2 Approval of the Nickey Line Contract Having been proposed by the Chairman it was unanimously RESOLVED that the Nickey Line contract should remain unaltered. 51 PARISH PATHS A paper on the Parish Paths Partnership (P3) Scheme was circulated. The deadline for submitting P3 work plans for 2010/1011 had been extended to 31 November 2009. Martin O’Connor suggested that Parish Councils should talk to him well before this date as quotes for work should be received before submitting forms. No grant fund would be allowed through P3 if an application was not submitted by this date. Members agreed that the matter should be deferred to the next Commons meeting so that the matter could be discussed with the Clerk. 52 RISK REPORT No reports of health and safety issues had been received. 53 PLAY AREAS Members were concerned to learn that the recently repaired safety surface at the Long Cutt Play Area had been damaged. It was noted that this had now been restored and there was little evidence of any damage. The vandalism had been reported to the police. A member reported that the Long Cutt and Flamsteadbury play areas, pathways, and surrounding hedges were littered with tins, glass, containers, papers, and some pornography. The Chairman agreed to contact the Parish Council’s Contractor to request that the two areas be litter picked as soon as possible, although if he was too busy with other works, Councillors said that they would do it. Members were disappointed that the new swing had not yet been installed, but noted that the Clerk had asked the Parish Council’s contractor to do this as a matter of priority. 54 FOOTPATH BY THE MOOR Four letters had gone out inviting quotes but to date only one had been received. Two members had met with another company representative today, and a good suggestion about the flow of the path and its crossing over the road had been received. It was noted that the CMS would give the Parish Council a £750 grant towards the cost of the path. Members RESOLVED that the decision regarding the selection of a contractor when all quotes had been received be delegated to 3 people, namely the Chair or Vice Chair, Clerk and one other member of the committee. 55 CORRESPONDENCE 55.1 Land Registry: Registration of right of way for 1 South Common, Redbourn Members had no problem with the request for registration of right of way with or without vehicles over the land adjoining the northern boundary of the land, which went over the Common, and was land on which the new Parish Centre is to be built. It was agreed that the length of the drive as shown on the plan should be clarified. The Chairman said he would visit the site to deem the correctness of the plan and confirm it with the Clerk on Monday 5 October. Members noted that objections to the Land Registry were required by 12 noon on 12 October. Members were concerned that the residents were keeping their refuse and re-cycling bins and boxes on the part of the drive which was Common. It was agreed that the residents be asked to remove them as it is unsightly and is also a health and safety issue. 55.2 Resident: request to erect a sponsored seat and plaque in Greyhound Meadow Members had no objections to the request but asked that the Clerk to advise the resident of the cost. Members agreed that the bench should be of the usual design. The Chairman said he would be willing to meet with the applicant if necessary. 55.3 CMS: Walks in Hertfordshire The information and brochure of walks was noted, and members were pleased to see that some of the walks included Redbourn. Members felt a letter of thanks should be written to the CMS for producing such an informative and agreeable booklet. 55.4 Chilterns Conservation Board: Invitation to Annual Chilterns Forum: 6th November As no other members were able to attend, it was suggested that Cllr Warren might like to go. 56 CUMBERLAND GARDEN Members looked at the Risk Assessment submitted by Cllr Warren and were impressed by the time and trouble that had obviously been taken in its production. Members agreed that the date of the activity could be amended to “1st Wednesday in every month” rather than giving specific dates, as this would mean the document would have a longer life value. It was suggested that a first aid kit should be available, and if necessary one should be purchased. 57 COMMUNITY ORCHARD The planting of fruit trees in the Village Orchard would take place on Wednesday 21 October (National Apple Day), and members agreed that 10.00 am would be a suitable time. If trees were being delivered earlier in the week, the Council Stores was thought to be a suitable place for storage. The Parish Council’s contractor had been asked to dig holes, bring water and peat for the planting. Students from St Lukes/Oaklands College, who had helped at the initial planting in June, were to be invited to attend. 58 TREE WORKS Councillor Stent had been to look at the treework that had been requested at The School House. A high, minor branch on the silver birch required trimming. Members asked that the Clerk request Mr Ken Scott to carry out the work next time he was working on the Common. 59 PARISH CENTRE 59.1 Schedule of Payments Members noted that there were no changes to the Schedule since July and that the cost of removing the asbestos was missing. The anticipated this would be in the region of £300. (Note: following the meeting the Clerk reported that this had not been included in the schedule as the works have not yet been carried out). 59.2 Moving of electricity cables Members noted the verbal confirmation received that the Parish Council does not have to finance the moving of the electricity cables although they were concerned they had not yet seen anything in writing. They noted the e-mail regarding the wayleave agreement, but felt that a 2-3 month delay for work to start after it had been signed was unfortunate and agreed that it would be preferable if the work could commence without further delay. 60 MATTERS FOR REPORT 60.1 Redbourn Cricket Club: Planning Application to extend nets Members discussed the letter and planning application that had been received to extend the nets. Members had no objections to this request. 60.2 Easement – 7 North Common Members were willing to an grant easement for access over the Common only if parking were available on the residents’ property. An easement could not be granted to park on the Common as this was not allowed. If necessary, they recommended that the Clerk refer the matter to the Council’s Solicitor. 60.3 Redbourn Museum – damp problem Members discussed the recommended actions for remedial work to cure the damp problem on the museum building. They recommended that steps 7.1, 7.2 and 7.3 should be taken immediately. The Museum will need to get quotes to carry out the works, with the roof and guttering as a priority so that work can commence as soon as possible. They also recommended that the foliage should be clipped back to allow ventilation of the damp structure. The Chairman agreed to speak with the Chairman of the Care Group to ascertain what financial help can be afforded to the Museum for this work. 60.4 Village Clock A resident has reported that the village clock had stopped. The Clerk had phoned the company to see what the procedure was to restart it. The Chairman said he would carry out preliminary checks to the outside to ascertain if the problem was related to power supply. If necessary he will contact Brian Cowland to see if he can resolve the problem. The clock timing is radio controlled and it has to receive a signal. 60.5 Seat outside Methodist Church A telephone request had been received asking that a memorial seat outside the Church be retreated with wood preserver. It was agreed that the Clerk be asked to contact the Parish council’s contractor to ask him to look at it and if necessary to give it a coat of suitable preserver. 60.6 Planting of Daffodils – Entrance to Village Councillor Bull said he would like to finance the planting of daffodil bulbs along the verge at the southern end of the High Street, near the entrance to Kanes Haulage. Members had no objections to this offer. 60.7 Locality Grants Members discussed possible applications for locality grants and suggested the following: Grant towards a footpath to the Millennium Site Grant for Youth Club equipment, possibly a computer or a digital projector. 61 DATE AND TIME OF NEXT MEETING The next meeting will be held on 5th November 2009, 7.30 pm, Council Chamber, Village Hall. Meeting closed at 8.50 pm. REDBOURN PARISH COUNCIL Minutes of Common Footpaths and Open Spaces held on Thursday 3rd September 2009 at 7.30 pm in the Council Chamber, Redbourn Village Hall PRESENT: Councillor A V Bull (Vice Chairman in the Chair), R Stent and Mrs E Warren APOLOGIES: Councillor C O’Donovan IN ATTENDANCE: Mrs D Whiskin, Mr B Welch, Chairman, Redbourn Care Group 25 MEMBERSHIP OF COMMITTEE It was pointed out that Councillor Maynard’s name had not been removed from the membership list - she stood down from the Committee in May. 26 APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE: Councillors C O’Donovan (illness), A E Swendell (District Council meeting) R Gray (other commitment) 27 DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: None. 28 MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING RESOLVED that the minutes of the previous meeting held on 2nd July 2009 be signed as a true record. RESOLVED to suspend standing orders 29 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION The Chairman of Redbourn Care Group reported that his Committee had agreed to contribute towards the footpath near The Moor. He stressed the importance of progressing this project as soon as possible so that safe access would be available for school children walking to the bus stop in Hemel Hempstead Road, elderly residents of St Matthews Care Home as well as other Redbourn residents. A meeting was held with a representative from Countryside Management Services, the Environment Agency, Redbourn Care Group and Redbourn Parish Council. A route was agreed and the Environment Agency confirmed that provided the path was 8m from the river they would not object to it being tarmac. Both Redbourn Care Group and the Parish Council agreed that this was important as the path must be wheelchair friendly. The Environment Agency also agreed to a spur leading to the river but stressed that this should be constructed in a semi permeable material. A memorial seating area is to be provided and it was suggested that the puddingstone near East Common Play Area could be moved to this site and an interpretative board provided to give some historical information of the area. Standing orders were resumed It was agreed to vary the order of business to consider item 11 on the Agenda, Footpath by the Moor as the next item. 30 The Moor RESOLVED that this committee approve the proposal to install a footpath alongside the road near The Moor. The Clerk to arrange a meeting with Hartons to finalise the route which may have to change slightly to take account of the manhole covers and cables running across the Common. Once the route is finalised three quotations will be sought. The Clerk to ascertain how much Countryside Management Services are able to contribute towards the construction of the footpath from the Heritage Grant it was awarded recently. The Clerk to inform Hertfordshire Highways that the proposed path will be used by residents from St Mathews Care Home and request an “elderly crossing” sign be placed before the blind bend in Hemel Hempstead Road. A vote of thanks was proposed to the Care Group for its contribution towards the footpath. It was suggested that the soil from the excavated path could be used to bank East Common to prevent parking. 31 FINANCE A paper showing the current financial position was circulated and noted. Members noted that the labour and grass cutting expenditure seemed high but the Chairman pointed out that this is usual for the Summer months. 32 NICKY LINE The fencing has still not been extended. The Clerk to contact the Contractor regarding this work. The Japanese Knotweed is being deal with as and when necessary. A member has liaised with Countryside Management Services who agreed to provide volunteers to clear the section of River Ver running along the edge of the Millennium Site (adjacent to the Nicky Line). The Clerk to email them regarding this. 33 PARISH PATHS The next year’s Parish Paths programme will need to be agreed in the next few months. Suggestions should be forwarded to the Clerk. 34 RISK REPORT The Clerk to circulate the risk assessment for Cumberland Garden to the Commons Committee for approval. 35 PLAY AREAS The basket swing has been delivered and is awaiting installation. 36 CORRESPONDENCE 36.1 Local residents: Parking on East and West Common 36.1.1 East Common Complaints have been received that people visiting The Cricketers are parking on the Common. Country Forestry has agreed to provide tree trunks to prevent illegal parking. It was suggested that the soil from the construction of The Moor footpath could be used to bank the area. Cars are also parking outside the museum along the area of Common near the tables. The Clerk has sent the manager of The Cricketers a map stating that parking on the Common is contrary to byelaws and showing customers the location of the cark park near the Cricket Pavilion. The Clerk to give the PCSO a letter to place on the illegally parked cars. 36.1.2 West Common The two untaxed cars have been removed from West Common but have been replaced by two taxed cars. Residents in Ben Austins have complained at the number of cars, owned by one resident, being parked in Ben Austins, sometimes too close to the bend and blocking driveways. The police have said that provided the cars are taxed and properly parked they can do nothing about this. They have been asked to regularly patrol the area and report that each time they do the cars are properly parked. Members felt that when considering this question it is necessary to take a broad view of the parking issue. If vehicles are prevented from parking in Ben Austins they will be parked elsewhere which will merely displace the problem. There is no law against the ownership of multiple vehicles. The Clerk to thank the resident for his comments and let him know that the District Council is currently carrying out a consultation exercise on the emerging core strategy. It may be worth his while informing the District Council of the parking issue in his road when responding to the consultation document. 37 Hon Keeper of the Common/resident of Ben Austins: Harebells on Common The Honorary Keeper of the Common and a resident of Ben Austins have both expressed delight at the increased number of harebells on the Common this year. 38 Tree Council: successful application for grant to plant hedge at Millennium Site Members thanked Councillor Warren for her successful application for a grant to plant a hedge at the Millennium site alongside the access road to Kane Haulage. 39 CUMBERLAND GARDEN A member thanked the Clerk, her sister and her assistant for helping with the monthly weeding session in Cumberland Garden. The Clerk to ascertain how much money is left in the planting budget. This is to be spent on bulbs. The Clerk to inform Earthworks of the weeding sessions. They may be able to provide volunteers. The owner of the cattery in Dunstable Road has said she would be willing to devote two hours of her gardener’s time to working in Cumberland Garden. The Clerk to instruct the contractor to place the remainder of the bark in the garden. He has been instructed to remove the tree near the entrance from Hawke’s Drive which will grow too large for the site to the detriment of the surrounding shrubs and trees. The noticeboard has been removed from the Youth Club and will be installed in the garden. 40 TREE WORKS 40.1 Overgrown branches Branches on trees on the Common adjacent to Lords Meadow are causing problems to pedestrians. The contractor has been asked to cut the lower branches. 40.2 Orchard Seven people have agreed to sponsor a fruit tree for the community orchard on the Millennium Site. The Clerk to ask them if they wish to chose their own tree or whether they would prefer Councillor Warren to do this. She has requested a catalogue from a specialist nursery. The nursery starts delivery at the beginning of October and delivers the trees in rotation. Ideally the trees are required by 21st October so that they may be planted on National Apple Day. The Clerk to ask Paul Sands, St Lukes, and the Transition Programme if they wish to be involved in the planting. The contractor has been asked to keep this day free, to dig the holes for the trees. The Clerk to write an article for the Common Round asking people if they would like to sponsor a fruit tree and send a press release to the local newspapers. 41 PARISH CENTRE 41.1 Schedule of Payments A schedule of the payments to date was circulated and noted. 41.2 ACRE: Comma application The grant application to Comma was unsuccessful. 41.3 JNP: Asbestos survey The asbestos survey was noted. RESOLVED to accept the quotation of £344 for removal of asbestos in the electricity fuse box. The Clerk to contact JNP to ascertain whether they are able to remove the safe at the same time as the asbestos. 41.4 Electricity Cables Members noted the email from T&B Builders regarding the delay in moving the electricity cables and the conflicting remarks regarding responsibility for same. Concern was expressed at the length of time it will take to move the cables and the Clerk was instructed to write to the Chairman of EDF seeking his support in progressing this work. 42 COMMON SURVEY In response to a recommendation from Redbourn in Bloom it was RESOLVED that CMS be asked to carry out a survey of the flora on Redbourn Common to ascertain whether the new Conservation regime has been beneficial. 43 DATE AND TIME OF NEXT MEETING The next meeting of the Commons Committee is to be held on Thursday, 1st October 2009 The meeting closed at 9.05pm. REDBOURN PARISH COUNCIL Minutes of Common Footpaths and Open Spaces held on Thursday 2 July 2009 at 7.30 pm in the Council Chamber, Redbourn Village Hall PRESENT: Councillor C O’Donovan, (Chairman), A V Bull, R Gray, R Stent and A E Swendell, IN ATTENDANCE: Mrs D Whiskin 1. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE: Councillors Mrs M Maynard (unwell) and Mrs E Warren (other commitment) 2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: None. 3. ELECTION OF CHAIRMAN Having been duly nominated and seconded it was RESOLVED that Councillor C O’Donovan be elected Chairman for the year 2009/10 4. ELECTION OF VICE CHAIRMAN Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that Councillor A V Bull be elected Vice Chairman for the year 2009/10 5. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: None 6. MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING RESOLVED that the minutes of the meeting held on 9th May be approved and signed as a true record. 7. QUESTIONS FROM THE PUBLIC: None 8. REDBOURN MUSEUM The Chairman welcomed Peter Hildebrand, Terry Wybrow and Keith Stanley to the meeting. They had been invited to attend to discuss the quotations which had been received to remedy the damp problems at the Museum. Mr Wybrow reported that the deterioration of the damp had occurred suddenly. Three specialist companies had thoroughly inspected the Museum and had provided quotations for remedial works. Mr Stanley said he felt that the problem is more extensive than was originally thought. There appears to be water penetration from above, along the parapets by the extension and, to a lesser extent, along the gable parapets. There also seems to be some penetration down the chimney. None of the quotations have addressed these issues. The Chairman reported that the Parish Council has set aside £5,308 to finance these works. Following a discussion it was agreed that • A holistic approach is required - quotations should be sought to deal with all the damp problems • The works should be completed before the Winter • The Parish Council wishes the Trustees to handle this matter • The Parish Council to contact Acorn regarding the guarantee for the damp proof work which they had carried out at the Museum • The Museum to seek professional advice from an independent surveyor – if the costs for this are over £800 three quotations should be obtained • The Museum to ask the companies that quoted for the works whether their surveyor is RICS accredited in conservation 9. FINANCE A paper showing the current financial position was circulated and noted. The Chairman reminded members that the Commons budget had not been increased this year and said he felt that the finances would be very tight. 10. NICKY LINE The fencing should be completed shortly. 11. PARISH PATHS No written reports have been received. Since the meeting a resident has complained that footpath 20 is overgrown with rapeseed needs reinstating. This has been reported to the footpaths officer. 12. RISK REPORT The Chairman noted that the contractor had reported a safety issue with a swing on East Common Play Area. The swing had been taken out of action pending its repair. 13. PLAY AREAS 13.1 Annual Inspection A copy of the Annual Inspection for 2008/9 from Craigdale was circulated and noted. The inspection was delayed because the inspector had broken her ankle. The Clerk to forward the report to the contractor and instruct him to deal with the items marked medium risk. The Inspector advised that the safety tiles should be lifted and re-laid. The contractor had filled in the gaps with wetpour but she said that this was not satisfactory. There were no items marked high risk. CORRESPONDENCE 14. St Albans District Council: Litter Pick week – 20-28th March 2010 It was agreed that the litter pick should be held on Saturday, 20th March 2010. A member suggested that a grid map of Redbourn be drawn up and residents be invited to litter pick a particular area on a day which suits them during litter pick week. 15. Bunchers, North Common: Building works Complaints have been received regarding the cement mixer, the amount of spoil and building materials on the Common outside Bunchers. The builder has been asked to remove the materials and comply with the original permission for a skip and spoil (on boards). The Chairman agreed to speak to the owner. 16. Resident: Fencing along the Ml/Nicholls Farm A resident has complained about the fencing between her fields and the Ml which has not been properly restored. This has been passed to Balfour Beatty and they have agreed to complete these works. 17. Resident: Conservation Area A complaint has been received regarding the cut of the Conservation Area. The resident was concerned that the late cut would have an adverse effect on the harebells. She was delighted that last year the area between the Pavilion and Flamsteadbury Lane was left uncut with many grasses, wild flowers and budding harebells. The Clerk had spoken to the person concerned and informed her that the cut was carried out following consultation with Countryside Management Services. The contractor was instructed to cut the Common at a higher level than normal. It was noted that when the contractor cuts the Common he takes care to cut around the clumps of harebells. 18. CUMBERLAND GARDEN A working party is weeding Cumberland Garden on the first Wednesday of the month. There are not enough volunteers to maintain the garden properly and the weeds are beginning to get out of hand. The Clerk to liaise with Councillor Warren regarding spraying the weeds. Members noted that once the shrubs have become established the weeds should decrease. It was suggested that perhaps volunteers should be encouraged to weed the garden at times to suit them rather than on one morning a month. An article is to be placed in the next newsletter. 19. PARISH CENTRE A schedule of payments to date was circulated and noted. Correspondence from the architects was circulated and noted. It was agreed that the Parish Council should endeavour to bring the dates for disconnecting the gas and electricity forward. The Clerk was instructed to write to the South Common residents informing them that the works will commence on 3rd August. 20 EROSION OF COMMON 20.1 West Common The Chairman, Councillor Stent and Ken Scott held an on site meeting discuss remedial action to stop the erosion on West Common. It was agreed that tree logs, similar to those outside The Cricketers, should be placed along the edge of the Common/access road returning the road to its original width of 10 feet. The contractor had felt the logs should be put in place after the area had been seeded in the Autumn. Members felt that the delay would cause further erosion of the Common. The Clerk reported that she had received a telephone call from a resident asking when the logs are to be installed. It was agreed that the logs should be put in place as soon as possible and the seeding would take place in the Autumn. 20.2 Entrance to The Moor The Chairman noted that the access road leading to The Moor is also being eroded by dustbin lorries and it was agreed that logs should be placed at strategic points to prevent this. Councillor Swendell agreed to inform the relevant committee that the recycling lorries are damaging the Common and to ask for the lorries to remain on the main road. 21 Footpath on North Common The Clerk to seek revised quotations for repairs to the path on North Common. 22 Footpath by The Moor The Clerk to ascertain whether Countryside Management Committee received funding for improvements to the Ver Valley Walk and, if so, whether the footpath near the Moor will be included in the improvements. Members noted that it had been agreed that it would be preferable if the path was on the other side of the road from The Moor as this would link up with the other footpaths around the Common. 23 Leaflet on benefits of Conservation on Redbourn Common Countryside Management Services provided information on the benefits of leaving areas of grass long on the Common and this has been used to draft a leaflet. RESOLVED to accept the Conservation leaflet for Redbourn Common. 24 MILLENNIUM SITE 24.1 Orchard: Report from Cllr Warren Two apple trees were planted at the Community orchard on the day the judges of the Village of the Year visited Redbourn. Other trees could be planted on 21st October as it is National apple day. Several people are interested in sponsoring trees for the Orchard and every endeavour will be made to find suitable trees for each person. Councillor Warren would like the balance of her sponsorship to be used to purchase a further two trees; one of which is to be a St Martin apple. The following people have also said they would like to donate trees: • John Pidgeon • Clerk • Richard Bullen • Redbourn in Bloom • David Curry Councillor Warren said the maximum number to aim for would be 25/50. She asked members to forward any comments they may have regarding the Community Orchard to her. Members approved the proposals and thanked Councillor Warren for her work on this project. 22.2 Application for hedging plants Members approved the proposal to plant a 30m hedge along the access road/Millennium site. Councillor Warren is enquiring about a grant to do this. 23. RESOLUTION RESOLVED that the Clerk and Chairman are given delegated authority to deal with urgent business during the August recess” 24. DATE AND TIME OF NEXT MEETING The next meeting of Commons Footpaths and Open Spaces is to be held on 3rd September 2009 REDBOURN PARISH COUNCIL Minutes of Common Footpaths and Open Spaces held on Thursday 2 July 2009 at 7.30 pm in the Council Chamber, Redbourn Village Hall PRESENT: Councillor C O’Donovan, (Chairman), A V Bull, R Gray, R Stent and A E Swendell, IN ATTENDANCE: Mrs D Whiskin 1. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE: Councillors Mrs M Maynard (unwell) and Mrs E Warren (other commitment) 2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: None. 3. ELECTION OF CHAIRMAN Having been duly nominated and seconded it was RESOLVED that Councillor C O’Donovan be elected Chairman for the year 2009/10 4. ELECTION OF VICE CHAIRMAN Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that Councillor A V Bull be elected Vice Chairman for the year 2009/10 5. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: None 6. MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING RESOLVED that the minutes of the meeting held on 9th May be approved and signed as a true record. 7. QUESTIONS FROM THE PUBLIC: None 8. REDBOURN MUSEUM The Chairman welcomed Peter Hildebrand, Terry Wybrow and Keith Stanley to the meeting. They had been invited to attend to discuss the quotations which had been received to remedy the damp problems at the Museum. Mr Wybrow reported that the deterioration of the damp had occurred suddenly. Three specialist companies had thoroughly inspected the Museum and had provided quotations for remedial works. Mr Stanley said he felt that the problem is more extensive than was originally thought. There appears to be water penetration from above, along the parapets by the extension and, to a lesser extent, along the gable parapets. There also seems to be some penetration down the chimney. None of the quotations have addressed these issues. The Chairman reported that the Parish Council has set aside £5,308 to finance these works. Following a discussion it was agreed that • A holistic approach is required - quotations should be sought to deal with all the damp problems • The works should be completed before the Winter • The Parish Council wishes the Trustees to handle this matter • The Parish Council to contact Acorn regarding the guarantee for the damp proof work which they had carried out at the Museum • The Museum to seek professional advice from an independent surveyor – if the costs for this are over £800 three quotations should be obtained • The Museum to ask the companies that quoted for the works whether their surveyor is RICS accredited in conservation 9. FINANCE A paper showing the current financial position was circulated and noted. The Chairman reminded members that the Commons budget had not been increased this year and said he felt that the finances would be very tight. 10. NICKY LINE The fencing should be completed shortly. 11. PARISH PATHS No written reports have been received. Since the meeting a resident has complained that footpath 20 is overgrown with rapeseed needs reinstating. This has been reported to the footpaths officer. 12. RISK REPORT The Chairman noted that the contractor had reported a safety issue with a swing on East Common Play Area. The swing had been taken out of action pending its repair. 13. PLAY AREAS 13.1 Annual Inspection A copy of the Annual Inspection for 2008/9 from Craigdale was circulated and noted. The inspection was delayed because the inspector had broken her ankle. The Clerk to forward the report to the contractor and instruct him to deal with the items marked medium risk. The Inspector advised that the safety tiles should be lifted and re-laid. The contractor had filled in the gaps with wetpour but she said that this was not satisfactory. There were no items marked high risk. CORRESPONDENCE 14. St Albans District Council: Litter Pick week – 20-28th March 2010 It was agreed that the litter pick should be held on Saturday, 20th March 2010. A member suggested that a grid map of Redbourn be drawn up and residents be invited to litter pick a particular area on a day which suits them during litter pick week. 15. Bunchers, North Common: Building works Complaints have been received regarding the cement mixer, the amount of spoil and building materials on the Common outside Bunchers. The builder has been asked to remove the materials and comply with the original permission for a skip and spoil (on boards). The Chairman agreed to speak to the owner. 16. Resident: Fencing along the Ml/Nicholls Farm A resident has complained about the fencing between her fields and the Ml which has not been properly restored. This has been passed to Balfour Beatty and they have agreed to complete these works. 17. Resident: Conservation Area A complaint has been received regarding the cut of the Conservation Area. The resident was concerned that the late cut would have an adverse effect on the harebells. She was delighted that last year the area between the Pavilion and Flamsteadbury Lane was left uncut with many grasses, wild flowers and budding harebells. The Clerk had spoken to the person concerned and informed her that the cut was carried out following consultation with Countryside Management Services. The contractor was instructed to cut the Common at a higher level than normal. It was noted that when the contractor cuts the Common he takes care to cut around the clumps of harebells. 18. CUMBERLAND GARDEN A working party is weeding Cumberland Garden on the first Wednesday of the month. There are not enough volunteers to maintain the garden properly and the weeds are beginning to get out of hand. The Clerk to liaise with Councillor Warren regarding spraying the weeds. Members noted that once the shrubs have become established the weeds should decrease. It was suggested that perhaps volunteers should be encouraged to weed the garden at times to suit them rather than on one morning a month. An article is to be placed in the next newsletter. 19. PARISH CENTRE A schedule of payments to date was circulated and noted. Correspondence from the architects was circulated and noted. It was agreed that the Parish Council should endeavour to bring the dates for disconnecting the gas and electricity forward. The Clerk was instructed to write to the South Common residents informing them that the works will commence on 3rd August. 20 EROSION OF COMMON 20.1 West Common The Chairman, Councillor Stent and Ken Scott held an on site meeting discuss remedial action to stop the erosion on West Common. It was agreed that tree logs, similar to those outside The Cricketers, should be placed along the edge of the Common/access road returning the road to its original width of 10 feet. The contractor had felt the logs should be put in place after the area had been seeded in the Autumn. Members felt that the delay would cause further erosion of the Common. The Clerk reported that she had received a telephone call from a resident asking when the logs are to be installed. It was agreed that the logs should be put in place as soon as possible and the seeding would take place in the Autumn. 20.2 Entrance to The Moor The Chairman noted that the access road leading to The Moor is also being eroded by dustbin lorries and it was agreed that logs should be placed at strategic points to prevent this. Councillor Swendell agreed to inform the relevant committee that the recycling lorries are damaging the Common and to ask for the lorries to remain on the main road. 21 Footpath on North Common The Clerk to seek revised quotations for repairs to the path on North Common. 22 Footpath by The Moor The Clerk to ascertain whether Countryside Management Committee received funding for improvements to the Ver Valley Walk and, if so, whether the footpath near the Moor will be included in the improvements. Members noted that it had been agreed that it would be preferable if the path was on the other side of the road from The Moor as this would link up with the other footpaths around the Common. 23 Leaflet on benefits of Conservation on Redbourn Common Countryside Management Services provided information on the benefits of leaving areas of grass long on the Common and this has been used to draft a leaflet. RESOLVED to accept the Conservation leaflet for Redbourn Common. 24 MILLENNIUM SITE 24.1 Orchard: Report from Cllr Warren Two apple trees were planted at the Community orchard on the day the judges of the Village of the Year visited Redbourn. Other trees could be planted on 21st October as it is National apple day. Several people are interested in sponsoring trees for the Orchard and every endeavour will be made to find suitable trees for each person. Councillor Warren would like the balance of her sponsorship to be used to purchase a further two trees; one of which is to be a St Martin apple. The following people have also said they would like to donate trees: • John Pidgeon • Clerk • Richard Bullen • Redbourn in Bloom • David Curry Councillor Warren said the maximum number to aim for would be 25/50. She asked members to forward any comments they may have regarding the Community Orchard to her. Members approved the proposals and thanked Councillor Warren for her work on this project. 22.2 Application for hedging plants Members approved the proposal to plant a 30m hedge along the access road/Millennium site. Councillor Warren is enquiring about a grant to do this. 23. RESOLUTION RESOLVED that the Clerk and Chairman are given delegated authority to deal with urgent business during the August recess” 24. DATE AND TIME OF NEXT MEETING The next meeting of Commons Footpaths and Open Spaces is to be held on 3rd September 2009 REDBOURN PARISH COUNCIL Minutes of Common Footpaths and Open Spaces held on Thursday 2 July 2009 at 7.30 pm in the Council Chamber, Redbourn Village Hall PRESENT: Councillor C O’Donovan, (Chairman), A V Bull, R Gray, R Stent and A E Swendell, IN ATTENDANCE: Mrs D Whiskin 1. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE: Councillors Mrs M Maynard (unwell) and Mrs E Warren (other commitment) 2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: None. 3. ELECTION OF CHAIRMAN Having been duly nominated and seconded it was RESOLVED that Councillor C O’Donovan be elected Chairman for the year 2009/10 4. ELECTION OF VICE CHAIRMAN Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that Councillor A V Bull be elected Vice Chairman for the year 2009/10 5. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: None 6. MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING RESOLVED that the minutes of the meeting held on 9th May be approved and signed as a true record. 7. QUESTIONS FROM THE PUBLIC: None 8. REDBOURN MUSEUM The Chairman welcomed Peter Hildebrand, Terry Wybrow and Keith Stanley to the meeting. They had been invited to attend to discuss the quotations which had been received to remedy the damp problems at the Museum. Mr Wybrow reported that the deterioration of the damp had occurred suddenly. Three specialist companies had thoroughly inspected the Museum and had provided quotations for remedial works. Mr Stanley said he felt that the problem is more extensive than was originally thought. There appears to be water penetration from above, along the parapets by the extension and, to a lesser extent, along the gable parapets. There also seems to be some penetration down the chimney. None of the quotations have addressed these issues. The Chairman reported that the Parish Council has set aside £5,308 to finance these works. Following a discussion it was agreed that • A holistic approach is required - quotations should be sought to deal with all the damp problems • The works should be completed before the Winter • The Parish Council wishes the Trustees to handle this matter • The Parish Council to contact Acorn regarding the guarantee for the damp proof work which they had carried out at the Museum • The Museum to seek professional advice from an independent surveyor – if the costs for this are over £800 three quotations should be obtained • The Museum to ask the companies that quoted for the works whether their surveyor is RICS accredited in conservation 9. FINANCE A paper showing the current financial position was circulated and noted. The Chairman reminded members that the Commons budget had not been increased this year and said he felt that the finances would be very tight. 10. NICKY LINE The fencing should be completed shortly. 11. PARISH PATHS No written reports have been received. Since the meeting a resident has complained that footpath 20 is overgrown with rapeseed needs reinstating. This has been reported to the footpaths officer. 12. RISK REPORT The Chairman noted that the contractor had reported a safety issue with a swing on East Common Play Area. The swing had been taken out of action pending its repair. 13. PLAY AREAS 13.1 Annual Inspection A copy of the Annual Inspection for 2008/9 from Craigdale was circulated and noted. The inspection was delayed because the inspector had broken her ankle. The Clerk to forward the report to the contractor and instruct him to deal with the items marked medium risk. The Inspector advised that the safety tiles should be lifted and re-laid. The contractor had filled in the gaps with wetpour but she said that this was not satisfactory. There were no items marked high risk. CORRESPONDENCE 14. St Albans District Council: Litter Pick week – 20-28th March 2010 It was agreed that the litter pick should be held on Saturday, 20th March 2010. A member suggested that a grid map of Redbourn be drawn up and residents be invited to litter pick a particular area on a day which suits them during litter pick week. 15. Bunchers, North Common: Building works Complaints have been received regarding the cement mixer, the amount of spoil and building materials on the Common outside Bunchers. The builder has been asked to remove the materials and comply with the original permission for a skip and spoil (on boards). The Chairman agreed to speak to the owner. 16. Resident: Fencing along the Ml/Nicholls Farm A resident has complained about the fencing between her fields and the Ml which has not been properly restored. This has been passed to Balfour Beatty and they have agreed to complete these works. 17. Resident: Conservation Area A complaint has been received regarding the cut of the Conservation Area. The resident was concerned that the late cut would have an adverse effect on the harebells. She was delighted that last year the area between the Pavilion and Flamsteadbury Lane was left uncut with many grasses, wild flowers and budding harebells. The Clerk had spoken to the person concerned and informed her that the cut was carried out following consultation with Countryside Management Services. The contractor was instructed to cut the Common at a higher level than normal. It was noted that when the contractor cuts the Common he takes care to cut around the clumps of harebells. 18. CUMBERLAND GARDEN A working party is weeding Cumberland Garden on the first Wednesday of the month. There are not enough volunteers to maintain the garden properly and the weeds are beginning to get out of hand. The Clerk to liaise with Councillor Warren regarding spraying the weeds. Members noted that once the shrubs have become established the weeds should decrease. It was suggested that perhaps volunteers should be encouraged to weed the garden at times to suit them rather than on one morning a month. An article is to be placed in the next newsletter. 19. PARISH CENTRE A schedule of payments to date was circulated and noted. Correspondence from the architects was circulated and noted. It was agreed that the Parish Council should endeavour to bring the dates for disconnecting the gas and electricity forward. The Clerk was instructed to write to the South Common residents informing them that the works will commence on 3rd August. 20 EROSION OF COMMON 20.1 West Common The Chairman, Councillor Stent and Ken Scott held an on site meeting discuss remedial action to stop the erosion on West Common. It was agreed that tree logs, similar to those outside The Cricketers, should be placed along the edge of the Common/access road returning the road to its original width of 10 feet. The contractor had felt the logs should be put in place after the area had been seeded in the Autumn. Members felt that the delay would cause further erosion of the Common. The Clerk reported that she had received a telephone call from a resident asking when the logs are to be installed. It was agreed that the logs should be put in place as soon as possible and the seeding would take place in the Autumn. 20.2 Entrance to The Moor The Chairman noted that the access road leading to The Moor is also being eroded by dustbin lorries and it was agreed that logs should be placed at strategic points to prevent this. Councillor Swendell agreed to inform the relevant committee that the recycling lorries are damaging the Common and to ask for the lorries to remain on the main road. 21 Footpath on North Common The Clerk to seek revised quotations for repairs to the path on North Common. 22 Footpath by The Moor The Clerk to ascertain whether Countryside Management Committee received funding for improvements to the Ver Valley Walk and, if so, whether the footpath near the Moor will be included in the improvements. Members noted that it had been agreed that it would be preferable if the path was on the other side of the road from The Moor as this would link up with the other footpaths around the Common. 23 Leaflet on benefits of Conservation on Redbourn Common Countryside Management Services provided information on the benefits of leaving areas of grass long on the Common and this has been used to draft a leaflet. RESOLVED to accept the Conservation leaflet for Redbourn Common. 24 MILLENNIUM SITE 24.1 Orchard: Report from Cllr Warren Two apple trees were planted at the Community orchard on the day the judges of the Village of the Year visited Redbourn. Other trees could be planted on 21st October as it is National apple day. Several people are interested in sponsoring trees for the Orchard and every endeavour will be made to find suitable trees for each person. Councillor Warren would like the balance of her sponsorship to be used to purchase a further two trees; one of which is to be a St Martin apple. The following people have also said they would like to donate trees: • John Pidgeon • Clerk • Richard Bullen • Redbourn in Bloom • David Curry Councillor Warren said the maximum number to aim for would be 25/50. She asked members to forward any comments they may have regarding the Community Orchard to her. Members approved the proposals and thanked Councillor Warren for her work on this project. 22.2 Application for hedging plants Members approved the proposal to plant a 30m hedge along the access road/Millennium site. Councillor Warren is enquiring about a grant to do this. 23. RESOLUTION RESOLVED that the Clerk and Chairman are given delegated authority to deal with urgent business during the August recess” 24. DATE AND TIME OF NEXT MEETING The next meeting of Commons Footpaths and Open Spaces is to be held on 3rd September 2009 Redbourn Parish Council Minutes of Commons Footpaths and Open Spaces held on Thursday, 3rd April 2008 at 7.30 pm in the Council Chamber, Redbourn Village Hall PRESENT: Councillors C O’Donovan (Chairman), A V Bull, Mrs M Maynard, R Gray, R Stent, A E Swendell and Mrs E Warren IN ATTENDANCE: Mrs D Whiskin, Clerk to the Council, Cllr Mrs P Schofield, Mr J Schofield, Mrs S Keeley, Steve Barnes, Balfour Beatty Skanska. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: None NOTIFICATION OF OTHER BUSINESS: Council tax increase 167 Minutes of the Previous Meeting RESOLVED that the minutes of the meeting held on 6th March be signed as a true record. 168 Nicky Line The Chairman invited Mrs Keeley and Steve Barnes, Environment Officer, Balfour Beatty Skanska, to report on the current position regarding the works being carried out on the Nicky Line as a result of the widening of the M1. The following points were reported • 3m Footpath on the Nicky Line now laid – surface is crushed brick • Installation of footpath delayed because of wet weather • A kissing gate was removed and will be re-installed • East end head fall to be reconstructed • Pipework has been laid • Problems were encountered with groundwater • A well point de-watering system is to be installed once preparation for same is completed • Water is to be pumped into neighbouring field – not into existing drains • Pumping into field will be closely monitored • Members pointed out that Balfour Beatty Skanska should be aware that there is a history of flooding in Gaddesden Lane – the cottages were built in the flood plane and have in the past been subject to flooding – the drains in Gaddesden Lane cannot cope with heavy rains • It is responsibility of Highways Agency to maintain the balancing ponds in Gaddesden Lane • The works should be completed in December and maintenance will be handed back to the Highways Agency who contract the works to Carrillion • Contractors will not provide a footpath alongside the road – this is responsibility of Hertfordshire Highways • Four pumps will control the sustainable drainage system • System designed by Atkins with approval of Environment Agency • Planting on Nicky Line agreed with Countryside Management Service – hazel, hawthorn, oaks, maples, dog rose – some trees will be 1m – information on planting on file in Council office • The wider areas will be planted – may be able to put in top soil to improve chances of survival • Planting delayed until Autumn • A post will be installed on Eastern end to prevent illegal access onto Nicky Line • A fence will be constructed at the Eastern end • Repairs will be undertaken to any sections of road damaged by the works but no engineering will take place to improve the By pass/Hemel Hempstead Road junction – Steve Barnes agreed to take this issue up with the Highways Agency • A car was set alight under the Nicky Line bridge which has caused delays to painting the bridge • Area previously planted by Redbourn in Bloom will be reinstated – it was agreed that an onsite meeting should be held to discuss planting scheme • Steve Barnes assured the Parish Council that the area will be tidied to the satisfaction of the Client’s agent. • A member reiterated the problems which had occurred in Rose Acre as a result of the removal of trees, hedges etc. The water which would have been absorbed by the trees washed down Lybury Lane, taking shingle from the M1 works. It was noted that this will be improved once the verges are seeded. The “V” ditches will help to control run off water from the verges. • The Highways Agency should be made aware of the problems that have arisen in case these are repeated in the future. • Drainage will be improved once the Ml works are complete • An additional balancing pond has been constructed by The Beeches • The water comes out through the pumping station and is pumped into the River Red • The amount of water that can be pumped is agreed with the Environment Agency • The balancing ponds have gabion walls full of shingle. Reeds will be planted to help clear some of the toxins • A control unit will trap any oil spillage • The balancing pond has the capacity to hold 100 year storms 168 Questions from the Public A member of the public expressed concern at the amount of foliage which had been removed. This was necessary to store materials/machinery to enable the works to proceed. 169 FINANCE A paper showing the current financial position was noted. Invoices have not yet been received for the clearance work that has been undertaken at the entrance to the village. 170 NICKY LINE 170.1 Maintenance Contract The maintenance contract for the Nicky Line expired September 2007. As large sections of the Nicky Line are disrupted because of the works to the Ml it was suggested that the current contract should be extended pending completion of the works. RESOLVED that the Nicky Line contract be extended pending completion of the works being carried out as a result of the widening of the Ml. 171 PARISH PATHS A member queried the number of kissing gates which had been installed following the extension to St Mary’s Churchyard. The Clerk reported that the kissing gates were agreed with Julian Thornton, the Footpaths Officer and a representative from St Mary’s Church. There are three footpaths in this area: 9a, 45 and 46. 172 RISK ASSESSMENT 172.1 Reported problems The vandalised play equipment in Flamsteadbury Lane Play area is being removed on Tuesday. A skip has been ordered for this purpose. 172.2 Training session The Clerk reported on a training session on Risk Assessment that she recently attended at which it was stated that if the Parish Council is aware of ongoing risks in play areas ie broken glass inspections should take place regularly. The Clerk to ask the PCSO to inspect the play areas regularly and report any broken glass to either the contractor or the Parish Clerk. 173 PARISH CENTRE A copies of the letters received by the Planning Inspectorate, and the Clerk’s response were circulated. It was agreed that no further action should be taken until the decision is received by the Planning Inspectorate. This is to form an item on the full Council Agenda for May. 174 PLAY AREAS Quotations are being sought from Wicksteed Leisure and Komplan for replacement equipment in Flamsteadbury Lane Play Area. A representative from Wicksteed Leisure visited the site on Tuesday and recommended that the vandalised equipment be removed. (See item 172). A member suggested that the Parish Council should give more thought to the play areas as he felt that whatever was provided in Flamsteadbury Lane was subject to vandalism. He thought that perhaps resources should be concentrated in the play area on East Common. However, he did feel that goal posts with a basketball should be provided in Flamsteadbury Lane. Other members felt it was important to upgrade and maintain all the play areas. The Clerk reported that the fencing in Long Cutt Play Area would need replacing in a few year’s time. 175 CORRESPONDENCE 175.1 Mr G Tillyer: parking on West Common Mr Tillyer has repeated his earlier complaints about the number of cars being parked in Ben Austins which are owned by a resident living on West Common. This matter has been reported to the enforcement officer, to the local police (who say that provided the cars are taxed there is nothing they can do). The Clerk reported that she has asked PC Clayton to speak to Mr Tillyer about this issue. The owner had said that he would remove some of the cars but has not done so. The Clerk to write to Mr Pearson regarding this issue. 175.2 Dr Munro: parking on North Common The Clerk to thank Dr Munro for her letter and to point out that the Parish Council holds the view that parking is not permissible on North Common. A member reported that he had read through the court ruling quoted by Dr Munro and it referred to access to properties, not parking. 175.3 Redbourn Care Group: Seat/footpath An order has been placed for the seat which the Care Group wish to sponsor. The Clerk to place an order for the second sponsored seat for Cumberland Garden. 176 CUMBERLAND HOUSE GARDEN The following points were noted. • An order has been placed for a dog litter bin • the District Council has agreed that the Parish Council may purchase a litter bin from them • Miller Homes has not yet repaired the light or the footpath • A new lock is to be placed on the gate leading to Hawkes Drive • The chairman to meet the contractor on site to agree the section of post rails to be removed - the resultant holes will need to be filled and seeded • The Chairman has recruited another volunteer for the opening/closing rota • The Clerk to write to local residents seeking further volunteers • The Clerk to ask Redbourn in Bloom if they would be happy for Cllr Warren, Mike Thain and Barbara Corbett to form a working group to take charge of Cumberland Garden. The group to be lead by Councillor Warren • Councillor Warren to draw up a planting plan for the approval of Barbara Corbett 177 TREE WORKS The Clerk was informed that a large horse chestnut tree in the service road adjacent to Myms Cottage needed attention. Both she and the Chairman visited the site but could not see a problem tree. There is a horse chestnut in the hedge but it did not seem to be causing any difficulty. The contractor to be asked to keep the tree cut in line with the hedge. The Clerk to ask the contractor to trim the Willows outside the Industrial Estate. The Clerk to ask Andrew Branch, the District Council trees and woodlands officer to inspect the trees on the corner of Fish Street Farm which require trimming. 178 THE COMMON 178.1 Dog litter bins on the Common A complaint was received regarding the frequency of emptying of the dog litter bins which had been overflowing. Our contractor had not noticed any problems. The Clerk has asked TBS the contractor responsible for emptying the bins if they would monitor the situation and inform the Parish Council if the bins are overflowing. 178.2 New footpath on Common Enquiries have been received asking when the new footpath is to be installed on the Common. The Parish Council had agreed that this would not be done until the existing paths are brought up to a satisfactory standard. One member felt that the Parish Council should bite the bullet and increase the budget sufficiently to enable the path to be constructed. 178.3 The Chairman reported that the Harpenden Rugby under 12s team has asked permission to train on the Common when their pitch is flooded. 178.4 Rogation Sunday – Beating the Bounds – 27th April The Clerk to endeavour to find someone to lead the Beating of the Bounds on Rogation Sunday. It was noted that the date coincided with the Redbourn Care Group service of dedication for the new minibus so members would only be able to walk the first section. 179 OTHER URGENT BUSINESS The Clerk to write to the District Council to seek clarification on recent press reported that the District Council tax has increased much more for villages than for residents in the town. 180 DATE AND TIME OF NEXT MEETING: Thursday 5th June 2008 Signed…………………………………………………………………………………… 5th June 2008 (Chairman) Return to the top of the page REDBOURN PARISH COUNCIL Minutes of a meeting of Commons Footpaths and Open Spaces held on Thursday 6 March 2008 at 7.30 pm in the Council Chamber, Redbourn Village Hall PRESENT: Councillors A V Bull (Chairman), R Stent, A E Swendell and Mrs E Warren IN ATTENDANCE: Mrs P Allcroft (Assistant to Clerk) APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE: Councillors C O’Donovan (holiday), R Gray (meeting), Mrs M Maynard (unwell). DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: None NOTIFICATION OF OTHER BUSINESS • Vandalism at Flamsteadbury Play Area: (i) Complaint about glass in Flamsteadbury Play Area; (ii) vandalism by fire (see Minute No 159) • Cumberland Gardens: Easter Egg Hunt – Nine Lives (see Minute No 160) • Request from Location Location Location (Channel 4) to film on Common (see Minute No 164) • Nickey Line: (i) Concerns about state of Nickey Line; (ii) request for agenda items for next Nickey Line Meeting (see Minute No 155) • Rubbish on footpath at Gaddesden Lane (see Minute No 156) • Update on problems with waste 152 Minutes of previous meeting RESOLVED to sign minutes of the previous meeting held on 6 February 2008 as a true record. 153 Questions from the public No members of the public were present. 154 FINANCE A paper showing the current financial position was noted. 155 NICKY LINE Cllr Swendell tabled a letter he is sending to Balfour Beatty Skanska. He reported that he had received many complaints about noise and lights from residents since work on the Nickey Line started. At the commencement of the M1 Widening Project it had been agreed that the waste water drainage pipe should go along the Nickey Line rather than road as it seemed a better option and avoided upheaval and inconvenience of roadworks along the by pass. However the works are taking a considerable time to complete, and the Nickey Line has had many trees removed and it looks very unattractive and is dangerous for people using it – a senior resident has fallen and broken his wrist. Concern was expressed that the Parish Council have been acting on good faith rather than on an agreed process. The time for planting is coming up, and it was felt that discussions should be held with Suzy Keeley and representatives from Balfour Beatty Skanska in order to agree dates and actions to needed to renovate the Nickey Line and bring it back to its former condition. Councillors did not want to end up with a situation where the cost of putting things right would become the financial responsibility of the Parish Council. The Clerk was asked to notify the Friends of the Nickey Line of their concerns, and ask them to take an interest in the situation. Cllr Warren also recommended that the CMS should be alerted to the situation as they were promoting walks along the Nickey Line. 156 PARISH PATHS 156.1 A resident of Downedge, whose property has a footpath running behind it had phone to complain about the accumulation of rubbish (including a dead chicken). Councillor Swendell had been litter picking along the footpath and agreed it was bad. The Clerk had reported the matter to the Litter Enforcement Officer and to Environmental Health on Monday 25 February and again a week later. 156.2 Cllr Warren said that the CMS were encouraging people to walk around the Common as part of the First Steps programme. 156.3 Rubbish had been dumped on the Gaddesden Lane footpath where in goes under the bridge at the back of Aubrey Lane. A rat had been seen. The Clerk was asked to report this to Environmental Health. 157 RISK ASSESSMENT 158 PARISH CENTRE 158.1 An e-mail had been received from Kate Ashbrook from The Open Spaces Society querying the reason for readvertisement of the Parish Centre. The Assistant Clerk had advised her that this had been due to a technicality only. There had also been four questions/objections raised, but she had been advised that the Clerk was away and answers would be forwarded on her return. 158.2 A meeting with the Architect had taken place on 26 February 2008. 159 PLAY AREAS 159.1 A letter received from Mrs S Clarke regarding the state of Long Cutt and Stephen’s Way play areas was noted. The Clerk was asked to write to Mrs Clarke informing her that they deplored the situation and were appalled by the vandalism that was regularly occurring and that the Police were being asked to take a more active role in stopping destruction and defacement of play areas. 159.2 A piece of play equipment at Flamsteadbury Play area had been damaged and burnt by vandals. The Assistant Clerk had reported this to the Police and the insurance company and a claim form was being forwarded – this to include the equipment cost and installation. Two estimates for replacement equipment would be needed for the claim. The Clerk was also asked to write to Inspector Michael Hanson at St Albans Police Station and say how appalled the Parish Council were at the lack of action being taken with regard to the offences being committed and asking for information about exactly what is being done by the Police to prevent any further vandalism. The Clerk was also asked to request John Pidgeon to tape off the damaged equipment. 160 CUMBERLAND HOUSE GARDEN 160.1 Councillors noted a reply from Miller Homes saying they were prepared to • repair the footpath and are seeking quotations to effect this work • inspect two lights mentions in a letter dated 16 January Once remedial works have been carried out they were not prepared to accept any further responsibility for the footpath or lights, and did not accept responsibility for any other aspect of the garden. The Clerk was asked to write and thank them and accept the offers made in the letter. 160.2 A letter from Mrs M Green with suggestions for further seating, a larger area of hard standing and removal of railings was noted. Councillors have already agreed that railings will be removed, and one more seat has also been agreed. The Clerk was asked to write to Mrs Green and advise her accordingly. 160.3 Cllr Warren offered her services as Honorary Director of Gardening if Redbourn in Bloom were unable to put anyone forward. 160.4 Nine Lives had written to request that they be given permission to hold their Charity Easter Egg Hunt in Cumberland Garden this year. Councillors were pleased to approve this request on the condition that care will be taken not to damage bulbs and snowdrops or other plants. They were also keen to know what charity is being supported, and whether it changes each year. The Clerk was asked to convey this to the Practice. 160.5 Ian Wakelam from St Albans District Council was waiting to talk with the Clerk on her return from holiday regarding litter bins. Emptying responsibilities need to be resolved. The cost of a dog litter bin had been approved by Full Council. 160.6 It was confirmed that Redbourn in Bloom were planning to plant snowdrops in the garden when the time was right for this to happen. 160.7 Councillors’ attention was drawn to the fact that four trees in Cumberland Garden had received damage (one of which was already rotting) by previous contractors who had cut the grass. 161 GREYHOUND MEADOW 161.1 The Clerk’s Office had received a message from a resident of North Common who reported that a very powerful spotlight had been erected by the Scouts behind his house on land which was owned by the Parish Council. The floodlight was dangerously erected, had protruding cables and was left on all night causing him sleepless nights. Cllr O’Donovan had visited the site and confirmed that the light was very powerful and unstable, and consequently the Scouts had switched off the light, and were arranging to have it more safely installed and the light redirected. They had been in touch with the resident to apologise. 161.2 When visiting Greyhound Meadow, Councillor O’Donovan had noted that the area was untidy with weeds, mattresses and other rubbish dumped on the site. Members agreed that John Pidgeon be asked to tidy the area and liaise with Cllr Swendell to remove the rubbish, or if necessary hire a skip. 162 ENTRANCE TO VILLAGE 162.1 Work had already started on tidying up the entrance to the village. The tree had been cut back and John Pidgeon had also carried out some work, and the area was looking much better. A reply had been received from Bobby Foods who said they were unable to assist the Council with the improvements suggested to enhance the village for its entry in the Anglia Bloom competition but wished us luck in our endeavours. 162.2 The Clerk was asked to contact Raffertys to remove their noticeboard at the entrance to the industrial park. It has been up for a long time and says all units have now been sold. 163 TREE WORKS A resident from Waterend Lane had complained about Willows in the High Street overhanging the path and making it difficult for residents walking along it. The Clerk was asked to contact the resident to establish where exactly the Willows were situated. 164 THE COMMON 164.1 It was agreed that the Common was looking tidy except for erosion of its verges by from vans and lorries. Councillors agreed they should walk around the Common and note the problems. 164.2 The Channel 4 TV programme “Location, Location, Location” had contacted the Clerk’s Office to ask permission to film on the Common. Councillors agreed that this would be possible, but asked the Clerk to ensure that the production company had their own insurance and request a fee. 165 OTHER URGENT BUSINESS Cllr Swendell indicated that there were problems with changes taking place with regard to waste collections. The main difficulties are that • New crews do not know routes • Discipline of crews is difficult • Much waste paper is being dropped and not picked up • Collections are being missed or are late • Public are not securing their rubbish To resolve these problems, working practises need to be revised and better management, monitoring and training is needed. 166 DATE AND TIME OF NEXT MEETING The next meeting will be held on Thursday 3 April 2008 at 7.30 pm in the Village Hall. The meeting closed at 9.05 pm. REDBOURN PARISH COUNCIL Minutes of a meeting of Commons Footpaths and Open Spaces held on Thursday 6 March 2008 at 7.30 pm in the Council Chamber, Redbourn Village Hall PRESENT: Councillors A V Bull (Chairman), R Stent, A E Swendell and Mrs E Warren IN ATTENDANCE: Mrs P Allcroft (Assistant to Clerk) APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE: Councillors C O’Donovan (holiday), R Gray (meeting), Mrs M Maynard (unwell). DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: None NOTIFICATION OF OTHER BUSINESS • Vandalism at Flamsteadbury Play Area: (i) Complaint about glass in Flamsteadbury Play Area; (ii) vandalism by fire (see Minute No 159) • Cumberland Gardens: Easter Egg Hunt – Nine Lives (see Minute No 160) • Request from Location Location Location (Channel 4) to film on Common (see Minute No 164) • Nickey Line: (i) Concerns about state of Nickey Line; (ii) request for agenda items for next Nickey Line Meeting (see Minute No 155) • Rubbish on footpath at Gaddesden Lane (see Minute No 156) • Update on problems with waste 152 Minutes of previous meeting RESOLVED to sign minutes of the previous meeting held on 6 February 2008 as a true record. 153 Questions from the public No members of the public were present. 154 FINANCE A paper showing the current financial position was noted. 155 NICKY LINE Cllr Swendell tabled a letter he is sending to Balfour Beatty Skanska. He reported that he had received many complaints about noise and lights from residents since work on the Nickey Line started. At the commencement of the M1 Widening Project it had been agreed that the waste water drainage pipe should go along the Nickey Line rather than road as it seemed a better option and avoided upheaval and inconvenience of roadworks along the by pass. However the works are taking a considerable time to complete, and the Nickey Line has had many trees removed and it looks very unattractive and is dangerous for people using it – a senior resident has fallen and broken his wrist. Concern was expressed that the Parish Council have been acting on good faith rather than on an agreed process. The time for planting is coming up, and it was felt that discussions should be held with Suzy Keeley and representatives from Balfour Beatty Skanska in order to agree dates and actions to needed to renovate the Nickey Line and bring it back to its former condition. Councillors did not want to end up with a situation where the cost of putting things right would become the financial responsibility of the Parish Council. The Clerk was asked to notify the Friends of the Nickey Line of their concerns, and ask them to take an interest in the situation. Cllr Warren also recommended that the CMS should be alerted to the situation as they were promoting walks along the Nickey Line. 156 PARISH PATHS 156.1 A resident of Downedge, whose property has a footpath running behind it had phone to complain about the accumulation of rubbish (including a dead chicken). Councillor Swendell had been litter picking along the footpath and agreed it was bad. The Clerk had reported the matter to the Litter Enforcement Officer and to Environmental Health on Monday 25 February and again a week later. 156.2 Cllr Warren said that the CMS were encouraging people to walk around the Common as part of the First Steps programme. 156.3 Rubbish had been dumped on the Gaddesden Lane footpath where in goes under the bridge at the back of Aubrey Lane. A rat had been seen. The Clerk was asked to report this to Environmental Health. 157 RISK ASSESSMENT 158 PARISH CENTRE 158.1 An e-mail had been received from Kate Ashbrook from The Open Spaces Society querying the reason for readvertisement of the Parish Centre. The Assistant Clerk had advised her that this had been due to a technicality only. There had also been four questions/objections raised, but she had been advised that the Clerk was away and answers would be forwarded on her return. 158.2 A meeting with the Architect had taken place on 26 February 2008. 159 PLAY AREAS 159.1 A letter received from Mrs S Clarke regarding the state of Long Cutt and Stephen’s Way play areas was noted. The Clerk was asked to write to Mrs Clarke informing her that they deplored the situation and were appalled by the vandalism that was regularly occurring and that the Police were being asked to take a more active role in stopping destruction and defacement of play areas. 159.2 A piece of play equipment at Flamsteadbury Play area had been damaged and burnt by vandals. The Assistant Clerk had reported this to the Police and the insurance company and a claim form was being forwarded – this to include the equipment cost and installation. Two estimates for replacement equipment would be needed for the claim. The Clerk was also asked to write to Inspector Michael Hanson at St Albans Police Station and say how appalled the Parish Council were at the lack of action being taken with regard to the offences being committed and asking for information about exactly what is being done by the Police to prevent any further vandalism. The Clerk was also asked to request John Pidgeon to tape off the damaged equipment. 160 CUMBERLAND HOUSE GARDEN 160.1 Councillors noted a reply from Miller Homes saying they were prepared to • repair the footpath and are seeking quotations to effect this work • inspect two lights mentions in a letter dated 16 January Once remedial works have been carried out they were not prepared to accept any further responsibility for the footpath or lights, and did not accept responsibility for any other aspect of the garden. The Clerk was asked to write and thank them and accept the offers made in the letter. 160.2 A letter from Mrs M Green with suggestions for further seating, a larger area of hard standing and removal of railings was noted. Councillors have already agreed that railings will be removed, and one more seat has also been agreed. The Clerk was asked to write to Mrs Green and advise her accordingly. 160.3 Cllr Warren offered her services as Honorary Director of Gardening if Redbourn in Bloom were unable to put anyone forward. 160.4 Nine Lives had written to request that they be given permission to hold their Charity Easter Egg Hunt in Cumberland Garden this year. Councillors were pleased to approve this request on the condition that care will be taken not to damage bulbs and snowdrops or other plants. They were also keen to know what charity is being supported, and whether it changes each year. The Clerk was asked to convey this to the Practice. 160.5 Ian Wakelam from St Albans District Council was waiting to talk with the Clerk on her return from holiday regarding litter bins. Emptying responsibilities need to be resolved. The cost of a dog litter bin had been approved by Full Council. 160.6 It was confirmed that Redbourn in Bloom were planning to plant snowdrops in the garden when the time was right for this to happen. 160.7 Councillors’ attention was drawn to the fact that four trees in Cumberland Garden had received damage (one of which was already rotting) by previous contractors who had cut the grass. 161 GREYHOUND MEADOW 161.1 The Clerk’s Office had received a message from a resident of North Common who reported that a very powerful spotlight had been erected by the Scouts behind his house on land which was owned by the Parish Council. The floodlight was dangerously erected, had protruding cables and was left on all night causing him sleepless nights. Cllr O’Donovan had visited the site and confirmed that the light was very powerful and unstable, and consequently the Scouts had switched off the light, and were arranging to have it more safely installed and the light redirected. They had been in touch with the resident to apologise. 161.2 When visiting Greyhound Meadow, Councillor O’Donovan had noted that the area was untidy with weeds, mattresses and other rubbish dumped on the site. Members agreed that John Pidgeon be asked to tidy the area and liaise with Cllr Swendell to remove the rubbish, or if necessary hire a skip. 162 ENTRANCE TO VILLAGE 162.1 Work had already started on tidying up the entrance to the village. The tree had been cut back and John Pidgeon had also carried out some work, and the area was looking much better. A reply had been received from Bobby Foods who said they were unable to assist the Council with the improvements suggested to enhance the village for its entry in the Anglia Bloom competition but wished us luck in our endeavours. 162.2 The Clerk was asked to contact Raffertys to remove their noticeboard at the entrance to the industrial park. It has been up for a long time and says all units have now been sold. 163 TREE WORKS A resident from Waterend Lane had complained about Willows in the High Street overhanging the path and making it difficult for residents walking along it. The Clerk was asked to contact the resident to establish where exactly the Willows were situated. 164 THE COMMON 164.1 It was agreed that the Common was looking tidy except for erosion of its verges by from vans and lorries. Councillors agreed they should walk around the Common and note the problems. 164.2 The Channel 4 TV programme “Location, Location, Location” had contacted the Clerk’s Office to ask permission to film on the Common. Councillors agreed that this would be possible, but asked the Clerk to ensure that the production company had their own insurance and request a fee. 165 OTHER URGENT BUSINESS Cllr Swendell indicated that there were problems with changes taking place with regard to waste collections. The main difficulties are that • New crews do not know routes • Discipline of crews is difficult • Much waste paper is being dropped and not picked up • Collections are being missed or are late • Public are not securing their rubbish To resolve these problems, working practises need to be revised and better management, monitoring and training is needed. 166 DATE AND TIME OF NEXT MEETING The next meeting will be held on Thursday 3 April 2008 at 7.30 pm in the Village Hall. The meeting closed at 9.05 pm. minutes are draft until signed Return to the top of the page REDBOURN PARISH COUNCIL Minutes of a meeting of Common Footpaths and Open Spaces held on Thursday 3rd January 2008 at 7.30 pm in the Council Chamber, Redbourn Village Hall PRESENT: A V Bull, (Vice Chairman in the Chair), R Stent and A E Swendell APOLOGIES: Councillors C O’Donovan (business) Mrs M Maynard (illness) and IN ATTENDANCE: Mrs D Whiskin, Clerk DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: None 112 Notification of Other Business 112.1 Financing PCSO: Reason for urgency – setting of budget imminent 113 Minutes of the meeting RESOLVED to adopt the minutes of the meeting held on Thursday, 6th December 2007 as a true record 114 FINANCE A paper showing the current financial position was noted. 115 PLAY AREAS 115.1 Annual Inspection The annual inspection report was circulated. The points raised were all medium/low risk, one being gaps in the safety tiles. Additional safety tiles were purchased last year when it was agreed that the existing tiles should be lifted and re-laid. The Clerk to check with the contractor whether he is able to carry out this work. If not, the Clerk to obtain a quotation from Wicksteed Leisure of lift and re-lay the tiles.. A copy of the report has been given to the contractor and he has been instructed to rectify all the medium risk items. A member said it would be worthwhile attending a course on risk assessment for play equipment. 115.2 Quotation of swing for Long Cutt It was agreed that the purchase of a swing for Long Cutt should be held in abeyance until the cost of repairs mentioned in the annual inspection and the installation of horse for East Common is known. 116 NICKY LINE 116.1 Ml works Concern was expressed that the works on the Hemel Hempstead junction appears to have halted. Members appreciated that there would be a lull during the Christmas and New Year but felt that there has been undue delay in progressing the works. There is a disconnected pipe on one side of the road and a pile of rubbish on the other. Works do not appear to be co-ordinated. Jobs seem to be started and then left . Members were concerned that the contractors may have hit a snag and were anxious that the works are carried out properly to avoid any future problems with flooding in the area. The Clerk was instructed to obtain a progress report. 116.2 Tree Planting Friends of the Nicky Line are carrying out coppicing works at Knott Wood on 20th January. 116.3 Walks Friends of the Nicky Line are organising two Nicky Line walks, one on 6th March and one on 16th March 2008. 117 PARISH PATHS The kissing gates should be installed in St Mary’s churchyard within the next month. 118 RISK ASSESSMENT The contractor has reported that there has been a considerable amount of broken glass in the Long Cutt play areas. CORRESPONDENCE 119 Parking on the Common A letter has been sent to all residents living around the Common pointing out the concerns of the Common Footpaths and Open Spaces Committee over the damage which is being done to the Common by vehicles either parking on, or being driven over, the Common. One resident is querying the Parish Council’s contention that the gravel road on North Common is Common as she considers it to be an ancient highway. However, she applauded the Parish Council’s attempts to protect and preserve the Common. Members noted that the gravel road was considered to be part of the Common. Since the meeting the Clerk has checked a map dated 1897 and noted that the roads on North Common were not marked on the map. The keeper of the Common has pointed out that severe damage is being caused by the fortnightly collection of recycling materials and it was agreed a letter should be sent to the District Council regarding this. He urged members to inspect measures taken at Little Gaddesden and Ashridge which are discrete and effective. 120 Redundant BT Pole Mr Tillyer has reported a redundant BT pole on East Common. The Clerk was instructed to seek its removal. 121 CUMBERLAND GARDEN The rota for opening and closing the garden is working very well. The hasp on the top of the gate is broken and needs to be repaired. The sponsored seat has been ordered and should be delivered shortly. Its location has to be agreed. Members felt that a position under the Yew trees should be avoided as the red berries would cause a nuisance in the Autumn. Councillor Bull agreed to meet Mrs Luck to approve the location of the seat. The Clerk to invite Stan Pierpoint to attend. There is a considerable amount of dead wood in the trees overhanging the entrance which should be removed and the lavender needs cutting back. A member suggested that an engraved wooden sign, displaying the name of the garden, should be erected over the top of the entrance gate from the High Street. 122 TREES All the tree work has now been carried out with the exception of the trees on the Nicky Line which should be completed next week. 123 PARISH CENTRE 123.1 Building Regulations application Cannon Morgan has appointed the structural engineer to provide the calculations and details to support the Building Regulations application. 13.2 Application to Defra for permission to carry out works on the Common The Planning Inspectorate has asked the Parish Council to repeat the consultation exercise ie advertise the notice in the Herts Advertiser and send letters to residents living around the Common and include the address of the Inspectorate in the notice and letters. As this advice was omitted from the guidance notes they have agreed to pay for the second advertisement. 133 FLAGPOLE RESOLVED to purchase a St George’s Flag to be financed from the Commons budget. 134 QUESTIONS FROM THE PUBLIC No members of the public were present. 135 OTHER URGENT BUSINESS 135.1 PCSO The Parish Council has been informed that the Police Community Support Officer is moving to Yorkshire and will not be replaced unless the Parish Council is prepared to pay half of the costs which would be approximately £15,000. In the meantime the PCSO at Wheathampstead is to cover both Wheathampstead and Redbourn. A member noted that even if the Parish Council were prepared to subsidise the appointment of a PCSO it would have no control over the day to day work of the officer who could be sent to work outside the village if the need so arose. This matter has been placed on the agenda of the Finance Committee for discussion. 136 DATE AND TIME OF NEXT MEETING The next meeting of the Common Footpaths and Open Spaces Committee is to be held on 7th February 2008 Return to the top of the page REDBOURN PARISH COUNCIL Minutes of a meeting of Commons Footpaths and Open Spaces held on Thursday 1st November 2007 at 7.30 pm in the Council Chamber, Redbourn Village Hall PRESENT: A V Bull, (Vice Chairman in the Chair), K Maidment and A E Swendell APOLOGIES: Councillors C O’Donovan (business) Mrs M Maynard (illness) and R Stent (holiday) IN ATTENDANCE: Mrs D Whiskin, Clerk, Norbert McCabe, Head of Gypsy Section, Mark Carter, Countryside Management Committee DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: None 78 Notification of Other Business 78.1 Gertrude Peak House 79 Minutes of the meeting RESOLVED to adopt the minutes of the meeting held on Thursday, 4th October 2007 as a true record 80 Variation of order of business RESOLVED to discuss grazing of horses on field adjacent to Ver Meadows Caravan Park as the first item of business. 81 Grazing of horses on field adjacent to Ver Meadows Norbert McCabe had asked members to reconsider their objections to the field adjacent to Ver Meadows being rented to a resident of Ver Meadows for the grazing. Members pointed out that there are already four sites in or close to the village: two County owned sites at Three Cherry Tree Lane and Ver Meadows and two private sites, one near Chequer Lane and Tullochside in Hemel Hempstead Road. More sites are anticipated following the publication of the East of England Report and members were concerned that granting this permission may well open the door to increasing the number of pitches on Ver Meadows. Granting permission could also be construed as rewarding gypsies for fly tipping in the adjacent field. If they control the land there is no guarantee that they will not use the field to house visitors for weddings, funerals or christenings as had happened at Tullochside. Norbert reported that there are no plans to extend Ver Meadows at present although there is no guarantee that it will not be expanded at some time in the future. In the past other sites have been expanded to achieve designation and he did not think County would wish to repeat this exercise. A member pointed out that a planning application had been submitted to extend the Barley Mow site in St Albans District but that this had been withdrawn presumably pending the outcome of the report from the East of England Development Agency informing Districts of their allocation of pitches. Norbert said that his plan was to have gypsies acting as gatekeepers tasked with minimizing problems suffered by residents living near gypsy sites. The gatekeepers could be contacted regarding nuisance/antisocial behaviour and also fly tipping. Although this has worked on some sites but he cannot guarantee its effectiveness. There was an entrance into the field adjacent to the Ver Meadows Site some time ago but this was closed when the site was upgraded. He is thinking of restoring the pedestrian access into the field and granting grazing rights to a resident. The resident would be permitted to install a shelter for the ponies. The gypsy tenant would be responsible for the field and if the rights would be withdrawn if they were abused. It was hoped that this would stop future flytipping. The prospective tenant is prepared to act as a gatekeeper and he could be granted grazing rights on a temporary basis which would allow the Gypsy Section and the Parish Council to monitor the situation. As the field is owned by Hertfordshire County Council it could grant the rights but would prefer to do so with the approval of the Parish Council. He asked members to take time to consider this proposal. He could arrange for the Parish Council to meet the proposed tenant to discuss this matter. Members said they realized that Norbert had a difficult job to do but likewise the Parish Council has to represent the village. It was agreed that this matter would be referred to full council. 82 COMMON MANAGEMENT PLAN Mark Carter, Countryside Management Services, presented a draft Management Plan for Redbourn Common. He emphasized the need to protect the areas of acid grassland which is rare in Hertfordshire and is in danger of disappearing if it is not managed correctly. The revised plan included • slight increase of the conservation areas • • conservation areas to be cut once in August/September • • grass left longer around trees • • ensure an open space is maintained through the length of The Avenue as a bat feeding corridor • • keep wood piles on the Common if practical • • remove mid channel vegetation in The Moor annually to keep 1.5m channel width • • monitor banks to ensure that nettles do not become dominant • • establish 3m wide buffer strip along bank top – conservation cut and lift alternately to preserve habitat continue to cut access paths regularly • • reduce size of willows when required for safety and tree welfare reasons – this may be necessary within the next year or so – CMS suggested fundraising or accessing grant funding to do this It was agreed that the revised plan should go out to public consultation. This could be presented to the Annual Parish Meeting, or perhaps a Celebration of Redbourn Common could be held on the Common, combined with a walk around the Common. Suggested venues were Redbourn Common or the Cricket Club with perhaps an exhibition of old photos of the Common. 83 Questions from the public No members of the public were present. 84 Financial position A paper showing the current financial position was noted. 85 NICKY LINE It was agreed at a previous meeting to fence a section of the Nicky Line by Ver Meadows and thicken the hedge line to prevent illegal access by the gypsies. The gypsy section has dug a ditch along the bypass to prevent illegal access by gypsies and it is therefore not necessary to construct the fence. CMS has also managed to acquire some plants free of charge which means a substantial saving to the Nicky Line budget. CMS has identified two areas just beyond the Ml bridge and near the Dacorum boundary that require thinning to benefit both public access and allow more light to the path which would benefit wildlife, ground flora and associated insects. This work is part of the Management Plan for the Nicky Line. They have recommended a company they use to work in sensitive areas. Friends of the Nicky Line are prepared to contribute £250 from their small lottery grant. It was noted that funds have been accumulating in the Nicky Line Budget which is granted to the Parish Council from St Albans District Council which could be used for this purpose. This money must be spent on the maintenance of the Nicky Line. RESOLVED that the Clerk works with CMS to identify areas of work required on the Nicky Line. This will be funded from (and must not exceed) the Nicky Line budget. 86 PARISH PATHS 86.1 Programme for 2008/9 RESOLVED to approve the programme for 2008/9 as follows • Install 3 kissing gates on footpaths 9/45 (St Mary’s extended Churchyard) • Install 1 kissing gate on footpath 12 (Flowers Farm) • Strim footpaths around village including regular strimming of footpaths 18/19 near Redbournbury Mill 86.2 Footpaths 1 and 37 Julian Thornton is liaising with the landowners regarding installation of kissing gates on footpaths 1 and 37. He is having difficulty making contact with the tenant of Hill Farm. Improvements are to be made to a section of footpath 37 opposite Bohemia House where it traverses the steep embankment up to the existing stile at Hill Farm. This will involve grading a path along the definitive line by cutting into the embankment and forming a timber revetment to retain the outer edge of the path to create a gentle slope. The path will be surfaced with granular material to retain the rustic appearance of the route. 87 RISK ASSESSMENT - Reports No problems have been reported. CORRESPONDENCE 88 St Albans District Council 88.1 Tree Warden Scheme A Planning Advisory booklet on trees in the District Council was circulated and noted. 88.2 Footpath 37 Diversion The diversion order for Footpath 37 was advertised on 24th October. 88.3 S&C Slatter: safety surfacing Information on overlaying safety surfacing with synthetic safety grass. The Clerk to arrange an inspection of the Play Areas and seek advice on this system from the company carrying out the inspection. 89 CUMBERLAND GARDEN 89.1 Current Position The legal papers have been signed but no further information has been received. A member noted the importance of ensuring the garden remains tranquil and is not used for ball games, skateboarding or drinking. Police support will be necessary in this regard. The Clerk to investigate the procedures for implementing bye laws for the garden. The Clerk to ask Brian Peers for advice on signage. 89.22 Seat in Cumberland Garden Mrs Luck has agreed to sponsor a seat in the garden. 90 PLAY EQUIPMENT: Play equipment for East Common Since the horse was removed from the play area in East Common the Parish Council has received requests for its replacement and a quotation for the installation of a horse complete with safety surfacing was circulated. Wicksteed Leisure report that although the horse does not have the kite mark it is still very popular and provides good play value. RESOLVED to place an order with Wicksteed Leisure to provide and install a replacement horse with wet pour safety surfacing in East Common Play Area for a cost of £6345. 91 TREE WORKS Three companies were asked to quote for various tree works on the Common and the Nicky Line. Two quotations were received. RESOLVED to accept the lowest quotation from County Forestry. 92 PARKING ON COMMON Concern was expressed at the number of cars which continue to be parked on the Common and, in particular, on West Common and the adjacent section of Ben Austins. Members felt it was unreasonable for residents to own multiple numbers of cars if they are unable to garage them. Members realized that some people living on the Common had genuine difficulties if they do not have a garden. However, the Common is being damaged by delivery lorries or dustbin lorries driving over the Common to avoid cars parked on the gravel sections of the Common. The Clerk to write to residents pointing out that the Parish Council does its best to keep the Common well maintained for the benefit of the village and asking them to help in this regard by ensuring that no cars are parked on the gravel sections of Common on collection days for the recycling and dustbin lorries. 93 PARISH CENTRE Whilst seeking advice on the completion of the Section 38 forms for permission to carry out the works on the Common a representative from Defra Common Land section in London referred the Clerk to section 5 of the guidance notes which state that “No consent is needed to maintain existing lawful works, provided the maintenance works are within the terms of the original consent. Consent is needed to extend any lawful works, where that extension prevents or impedes access” He said that it hinges on whether the works would impede access; if the works do not impede access no consent is required. The Clerk informed him that the site is already fenced so it would not impede access any more than that which exists at present. He would not say categorically that no permission was required and said it was up to the Parish Council to make that decision. They would not advise us on this matter. Following a discussion of this matter it was agreed that an application should be made under Section 38. A completed form was circulated to members for comment. 94 OTHER URGENT BUSINESS 94.1 Housing maintenance In the past the District Council has helped the elderly with garden maintenance. They now say they will not carry out garden maintenance if the elderly person has a son living nearby. A petition is being organised against plans by the District Council to transfer management of Gertrude Peak House to a housing association. 95 DATE AND TIME OF NEXT MEETING: 6th December 2007 The meeting closed at 9.15pm. Signed: …………………………………………………………………………Date ……………………………………………… Return to the top of the page Commons Footpaths & Open Spaces REDBOURN PARISH COUNCIL Minutes of Commons Footpaths and Open Spaces held on Thursday, 4th October 2007 at 7.30 pm in the Council Chamber, Redbourn Village Hall PRESENT: Councillors C O’Donovan (Chairman), K Maidment, R Stent and A E Swendell IN ATTENDANCE: Mrs D Whiskin, Clerk to the Council, Councillor Mrs M Crawley, S Pierpoint. P Fox and G Smythe attended for the showing of the film APOLOGIES: Mrs M Maynard (illness) and A V Bull (holiday) DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: None FILM OF REDBOURN COMMON Before the meeting was officially opened Peter Fox showed members a 1953 film of Redbourn Common to illustrate the narrow width of the road and how much it has been widened over the years to accommodate the increasing number of cars. Peter Fox said he realised how difficult stewardship of common land can be. He believed it is time that a new, serious and open minded effort is made to conserve and protect the Common and address past erosion by returning part of the road on North Common to Common land. He presented a written report which suggested the Parish Council enlist experts in traffic management to survey the whole of the Common, to plan the future through traffic management to encourage as much traffic as possible onto Lybury Lane and the B487 and to investigate a speed limit under 30mph for the Common area. Graeme Smythe reported that the Cricket Club were 100% behind these proposals and said that if money was an issue the Cricket Club would be prepared to fundraise for the project. A member pointed out that the Common belongs to the village and it would be necessary to consult widely to ascertain the views of the public before any action could be taken. Hertfordshire Highways expressed concerns about the proposal when it was raised at a liaison meeting and it would be necessary to get a qualified opinion from Highways on this issue. Members thanked Peter Fox for showing the film and it was agreed that perhaps the film should be shown at the Annual Parish Meeting. The meeting was convened. 60 NOTIFICATION OF OTHER URGENT BUSINESS 60.1 Village Travel Plan 60.2 Centre Bus 61 MINUTES OF THE PREVIOUS MEETING RESOLVED that the minutes of the previous meeting held on 6th September 2007 be approved and signed as a true record. 62 QUESTIONS FROM THE PUBLIC 62.1 Brambles in Shepherds Row Mr Pierpoint reported that brambles are encroaching onto Shepherds Row from 72 High Street. The Clerk was instructed to write to the householder asking him to cut back the brambles. If no response is received the Clerk was instructed to ask the contractor to carry out the works. 63 FINANCE A paper showing the current financial position was circulated. The budget for Labour is slightly overspent but it was noted that more time is spent on labour in Summer than in Winter so this will probably even out over the year. The budget may be offset by the grass cutting budget which is underspent. It was noted that the labour budget may need to be increased next year. 64 NICKY LINE Friends of Nicky Line have been asked to report any incidents of youths riding quad bikes on the Nicky Line to the police. The contractor has reported that the lock has been cut off the bollard at the entrance to the Nicky Line by Harpenden Lane. It is believed that travellers are using this entrance to gain access onto the Nicky Line and into the field adjacent to Ver Meadows where considerable amounts of rubbish have been dumped. Diesel is being stored in the water bowser on the site. There are signs of vehicles driving up the bank, from the By Pass, onto the Nicky Line. Norbert McCabe has suggested installing a stronger bollard. A meeting has been arranged with the contractor, Norbert McCabe and CMS to discuss measures to improve this area and prevent illegal access. At the gypsy/police liaison meeting Norbert McCabe reported that County was considering giving the travellers grazing rights on the field. Access would be from Ver Meadows and this would hopefully stop the travellers driving along the Nicky Line. It was felt if grazing rights were granted this would act as a deterrent to travellers dumping rubbish in the field. A member expressed concern that this may lead to the field being used to accommodate visitors when the next funeral, wedding or christening is held in Redbourn. Members also felt that to give the travellers grazing rights in the hope that this would stop them dumping rubbish in the field was tantamount to rewarding illegal behaviour. Once the travellers have a right to use the field the next step could well be an expansion of the site. The Clerk was instructed to write a strong letter to County objecting to these proposals, and to send a copy of the letter to Councillor Hills. This matter is to be placed on the agenda of the next Council meeting. CMS has considered improvements to the Nicky Line along the stretch from Harpenden Lane to beyond Ver Meadows. The hedging in this area is sparse and there is little visual protection from the By Pass. They suggested the installation of a post and rail fence and thickening the hedge with increased planting. It was agreed that a post and rail fence is also required near the Kane Haulage site. There are sufficient funds to pay for this in the Nicky Line Budget which has been accumulating over recent years. The Finance Committee has recommended that these budgets should be utilised. RESOLVED that delegated authority is granted to the Chairman of this Committee and the Clerk to arrange for the necessary works to be carried out. The Clerk has received repeated requests for the removal of two trees to the rear of properties in Hemel Hempstead Road. These trees should have been removed when tree works were undertaken by Balfour Skanska. The Clerk to liaise with Jim Bennie who had agreed to remove the trees. If he is unable to organise this work the Clerk was instructed to obtain a quotation from Country Forestry and arrange for the works to be carried out under the agency agreement with the District Council. 65 PARISH PATHS The Clerk to arrange a meeting with CMS and Julian Thornton, the Footpaths Officer, to discuss next year’s Parish Paths Programme. The Clerk reported that there are still works outstanding with this year’s programme because landowners had withdrawn their permission for kissing gates to be installed. Julian Thornton is liaising with them over this issue. 66 RISK ASSESSMENT No reports have been received. 67 PARISH CENTRE The asbestos survey on the existing building is to be undertaken on Monday. The application to Defra was delayed pending acquisition of current maps and receipt of letters from Commoners stating they have no objections to the proposals to demolish the existing building and replace it with a Parish Centre. These have now been received but Defra has informed the Clerk that the law has changed and as from 1st October applications to build on Common land have to be made under Section 38 of the Commons Act 2006. The relevant information/application form has been downloaded and is being studied. 68 Silk Mill Play Area Councillor O’Donovan is to meet the Contractor to discuss the suggested improvements to the maintenance of the Silk Mill Play Area. CORRESPONDENCE 69 Women’s Institute: Request for tree to be planted near WI seat Members did not approve a request from the WI for a tree to be planted near their seat to provide shade in the Summer. They noted that there are no other trees in this area and felt it would be inappropriate to plant a tree in this location. 70 CUMBERLAND HOUSE GARDEN The transfer documents were received for signature from KSB Law. To expedite this matter the documents were signed and the Clerk personally returned them to the solicitor. RESOLVED • to approve retrospectively the signing of the S106 agreement • to approve retrospectively the signing of the Transfer deed • to approve the revised fee of £2,000 • to authorise the Solicitor to carry out a Local Authority search 71 TREE WORKS 71.1 Mrs Pomroy: Replacement for dead tree on East Common A Cherry tree from Godly Roses would cost approximately £30. The Contractor estimates one hour’s labour to collect and plant the tree. Mrs Pomroy has been informed that the cost will be £45 and that she should send a cheque if she wishes us to progress this matter. 71.2 Mrs Luck: Commemorative Seat Mrs Luck is considering the option of a seat on The Moor or Cumberland House. 71.3 Flowering Cherry near The Heath The Clerk to seek a quotation from Countryside Forestry to cut out the dead wood and reshape a small flowering cherry near The Heath. 72 PATH ON NORTH COMMON An order has been placed for the refurbishment of the path on North Common and the construction of a path from Doctors Alley to the road. 73 PARKING ON COMMON Advice on dealing with parking on the Common from the National Association of Local Councils was circulated and noted. Members reported that cars are still parking on West Common. The Clerk was instructed to write to the householder concerned, informing him that councillors are concerned that he is continuing to park on the Common. The Clerk was instructed to ask the police to continue to check the MOT, tax and road worthiness on the cars. ANY OTHER BUSINESS 74 Crossing on the Common A member reported that due to the works on the Ml and lack of funding, the proposals agreed in the Travel Plan will not be progressed until December 2008. The design for the crossing on the Common has been prepared and it will be installed once the funding is released. A petition for a crossing was sent to Hertfordshire Highways in 2003. Members of the Travel Plan Forum repeatedly sought assurances that monies would be available to implement the proposals agreed in the Travel Plan. Assurances were given that there was a separate budget for these works. Also, a local developer paid £20,000 in S106 monies for speed reduction measures in Lybury Lane (for a development opposite Wheatlock Mead). Members queried why works being carried out on the M1 should stop the implementation of the Travel Plan. Concern was expressed that the Parish Council were not officially informed of the delays. This matter is to be discussed at the next St Albans District Council Joint Highways Meeting. The Clerk was instructed to write to the Chairman of the Joint Highways Meeting expressing concern that despite the hours of time spent by both officers and members of the public, and the assurances given during the meetings, the proposals will not be implemented until December 2008. The Clerk to seek assurance that the £20,000 S106 monies from the development off Lybury Lane are being ring fenced for Redbourn. 75 Bus Services A letter was sent to Centrebus expressing concern at the changes in the timetable which left people stranded at the bus stop unable to get to St Albans. The company has said that the change of timetable was publicised and that the service was changed because it was uneconomic. A larger bus is being used on Wednesdays to accommodate larger numbers of passengers travelling to the market at St Albans. A member said that the only way to improve the service is for the Parish Council to work with the bus companies. The Clerk was instructed to write to Steven Joseph, the Executive Director of the Campaign for Better Transport to seek ways in which sustainable travel in the district can be encouraged. 76 Road on North Common The Clerk was instructed to include an item on the agenda of the next Full Council to discuss returning the road on North Common to Common land and seek advice on how to take this issue forward. The Clerk to seek a written response from Hertfordshire Highways and PC Carson, traffic management, Mid Herts Police, on whether this proposal would be feasible. 77 Date and time of next meeting The next meeting is to be held on Thursday, 1st November 2007. The meeting closed at 8.40pm. Signed………………………………………………………..…… Date………………………………. (Chairman) Return to the top of the page REDBOURN PARISH COUNCIL Minutes of Commons Footpaths and Open Spaces held on Tuesday, 5th June 2007 at 7.30 pm in the Council Chamber, Redbourn Village Hall PRESENT: Councillors C O’Donovan (Chairman), A V Bull, Councillor, K Maidment, Mrs M Maynard, R Stent and A E SwendellIN ATTENDANCE: Mrs D Whiskin, Clerk to the Council and Mr Peter Fox DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: The Chairman declared an interest in the request for a sponsored seat on Redbourn Common in memory of his uncle. 1. Election of Chairman Having been duly nominated and seconded Councillor C O’Donovan was elected to serve as Chairman of the Common Footpaths and Open Spaces Committee for 2007/2008. 2. Election of Vice Chairman Having been duly nominated and seconded Councillor A V Bull was elected to serve as Vice Chairman of the Common, Footpaths and Open Spaces Committee for 2007/2008. 3 NOTIFICATION OF OTHER URGENT BUSINESS The Chairman agreed that the following items of urgent business (on safety grounds) could be discussed at the end of the meeting: 3.1 Planters in Harpenden Lane
3.2 Access from Aubrey Lane to the Village
3.3 Provision of a litter bin outside Jennis Sandwich Bar
4 MINUTES OF THE PREVIOUS MEETING Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that the minutes of the previous meeting held on Thursday, 5th April 2007 be approved and signed as a true record. There was no meeting in May because of the elections. 5 QUESTIONS/ISSUES FROM THE PUBLIC 5.1 Return of part of the road in North Common to common land The Chairman welcomed Peter Fox who had been invited to the meeting to discuss his proposals to take up part of the road on North Common and return it to common land. It was agreed to vary the order of business so that this issue could be discussed first. Mr Fox thanked members for permitting him to address the Committee. He said he was not part of any lobby group, was not a member of the Cricket Club, but put this proposal forward because he was concerned about the Common. He stated that each Parish Council is the guardian of the Common for a short time and has a duty to safeguard it for future generations. He was concerned at the way in which the Common is being eroded by traffic. He became aware of the extent of the erosion when he recently viewed a film of the Common which showed that the road on North Common was, at one time, much narrower than it is today. His proposal was • to take up the road which dissects the Cricket pitch and return it to grass
• to construct a turning point for traffic outside “Shanty”
• to form a new access road to the four properties on the Common which currently have an access off North Common ie “Meadow Cottage”, “Coverpoint”, “Old Pastures” and “Greenleas”
• to encourage traffic onto the Hemel Hempstead Road and Lybury Lane
Mr Fox urged members to rethink the redevelopment of the Youth Centre. He felt that the proposed building was too large and in his opinion it could be made much smaller. He felt that the proposals would cause major parking problems. The Chairman said that these two issues were not linked and should be kept separate. Planning approval had now been received for the new Parish Centre which would include facilities for the Youth Club and the community. Monies from wayleaves (rights of way across the Common) had been earmarked for this project. The proposals which Mr Fox had put before the Committee for North Common would need to be accepted by both the Parish Council and the residents of Redbourn before it could proceed further and it would take many years to reach fruition. Mr Fox said he was confident that the finance could be raised from National sources to fund the project. The Chairman pointed out that these proposals would suit some people but not others. He said the Commons Committee would take the proposal seriously but that it would take some time before a final decision could be made. A member noted that it is not just the Cricket pitch which is being eroded. Other parts of the Common have been damaged by vehicles driving over the edges and by parked vehicles. He felt that the Common should be kerbed to prevent this damage. Another member said that some of the damage to the Cricket pitch was done by contractors refurbishing the Cricket pavilion. Mr Fox reported that he was once Chairman of Commons. At one time no parking was permitted on the Common but over the years parking has been provided. He also pointed out that areas of Common have been restored in the past ie an area of asphalt playground near the former girls school and a road which linked East Common to the B4187. It was noted that when, for safety reasons, the Cricket Club asked for North Common to be closed during Cricket matches the Fire Services expressed concern that this would increase the time it takes to get to the fire station in Dunstable Road. Mr Fox said that this added ten seconds to the journey if the car was travelling at 30mph. One member felt there would be opposition to these proposals. He said the cost of carrying out the proposals would be considerable and pointed out that it would also be necessary to re-negotiate wayleaves to the four properties. He felt one answer may be to make the road on North Common a single track with passing bays. Mr Fox said the road on North Common did not comply with current standards and was not capable of taking an increased volume of traffic. He also felt that the road near Church End was dangerous. He felt there should only be one access point onto Hemel Hempstead Road and that one of the access roads should be returned to Common. Some members felt that if part of North Common road were removed this would increase the volume of traffic exiting onto the Hemel Hempstead Road near the Jolly Gardener. This is a dangerous spot with a blind bend which limits the sightlines. They felt that motorists may be using North Common, Lybury Lane and Fish Street because they felt that this is safer than exiting onto Hemel Hempstead Road at this junction. It was agreed that • This matter would be placed on the agenda of the next full council meeting
• If full council agree to take this further a circular will be sent to every household in the village seeking views Mr Fox said that it is important that the questionnaire is worded carefully and asked if he could be consulted over this issue. 6 Financial position A paper showing the current financial position was circulated and noted. 7 NICKY LINE 7.1 Park Estate Management¨ Dumping and burning of garden waste The Parish Council contractor has expressed concern at the volume of garden rubbish which is being dumped at the base of the Nicky Line on the boundary with the Park. He also pointed out that bonfires are being set alight at the base of the Nicky Line bridge which he fears may damage the brickwork. A letter was written to the Park Estate Management regarding this issue. The Secretary has spoken to the groundsman who has said that he has not dumped any rubbish although he does put leaves at the base of the Nicky Line. The contractor has been asked to keep a watchful eye and to speak to the person concerned when he next sees him dumping and/or burning rubbish. 7.2 Tree growing from base of the bridge The Clerk to report that a tree is growing from the base of the bridge on the Nicky Line and to seek permission to finance its removal from the Nicky Line grant. 7.3 Works to the NickyLine A complaint has been received from a resident adjacent to the Nicky Line whose fence was damaged by the contractors carrying out work on the Nicky Line. This was referred to Balfour Skanska and a copy sent to the resident concerned. The Clerk to ask Balfour Skanska for a site visit to monitor the works. Councillors Maidment and O’Donovan to invite Stan Pierpoint and a representative from both the District and County Council to attend. The Clerk to ask District/County what retention has been agreed to remedy any problems which may occur later but may not be readily apparent now. Members said they wished to have written confirmation and suggested we request a copy of any agreement which has been drawn up between the contractors and the District Council and County Council. 7.4 Railings near Bridge The railings near the Nicky Line bridge have been vandalised. The contractor has been instructed to replace them. 7.5 Mr Hodgson: Request for removal of the Crown of three trees on Nicky Line The Clerk to refer the letter requesting the removal of the crown of three trees to the rear of 43a Hemel Hempstead Road to the District Council. 8 PARISH PATHS 8.1 Herts County Council: Installation of kissing gates on Footpaths 15 and 37 Following the installation of one of the kissing gates the landowner withdrew permission for the installation of the remaining gates on footpaths 15 and 37. The footpaths officer is attempting to contact the landowner regarding this. In the meantime one of the gates is to be installed near Flowers Farm. 8.2 Countryside Management Service: work programme 2007/8 Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED to sign the work programme for 2007/8 and return it to Countryside Management Services. 9 RISK ASSESSMENT The railings near the Nicky Line bridge have been vandalised and the contractor has been instructed to repair them. 10 CORRESPONDENCE 10.1 Mr Pearson/Mr Oriel/Mr Tillyer/Parking on West Common Complaints have been received regarding the number of cars which are being parked on West Common and in Ben Austins. The owner of the cars has confirmed that he will move the majority of the cars off the Common but he intends to continue to park three cars on the Common. According to the deeds of properties in Ben Austins cars are not permitted to park on the section of Ben Austins which traverses the Common. The Clerk was instructed to • ask the enforcement officer to investigate whether a business is being run from a house on West Common and, if so, what measures may be taken to stop this
• ask the Community Police Officer to investigate whether any road traffic regulations are being contravened
• write to the householder and inform him that the Committee is concerned about the activities on the Common and have asked the enforcement officer and CPO to investigate
• contact the Hertfordshire Association of Parish and Town Councils and ask what action the Parish Council can take against untaxed vehicles parked on the Common - is it legal to get them towed off and crushed
• seek legal advise from the Hertfordshire Association of Parish and Town Councils regarding the clause in the deed about parking on Ben Austins
• inform Mr Oriel and Mr Tillyer of the action taken
11 Mrs P Luck: Sponsored seat on the Common Mrs Luck requested permission for a sponsored seat on the Common near the War Memorial. The Clerk was instructed to suggest that the seat should be placed either in the Cumberland Garden or on The Moor. 12 Ian Brand Solicitors: Mymms Cottage The Clerk reported that she had responded to the solicitors acting on behalf of a prospective purchaser of Mymms Cottage seeking assurance that the Parish Council has no plans to develop West Common. 13 Mr Archer: various matters 13.1 Tree on The Park The Clerk to suggest Mr Archer contacts the Secretary of the Park Estate Management regarding the tree on The Park. 13.2 Lighting on South Common The Clerk to refer the lack of lighting near South Common Cottages to Hertfordshire Highways. 13.3 Shrubbery in the Youth Centre blocking sightlines for vehicles exiting from South Common cottages The Clerk has instructed the contractor to clear the sightlines. This work has been completed. 14 CUMBERLAND HOUSE GARDEN The transfer of land has been deferred pending the agreement of an easement with EDF. The Clerk has instructed the Solicitor that the Parish Council is willing to accept the transfer of the land and will negotiate the easement itself. The Parish Council has made it clear that the continued delay in the transfer of Cumberland garden is unacceptable. 15 TREE WORKS Permission has been received for • the removal of the pine tree outside Greyfriars
• reshape the damaged Cedar outside the Old School
• reduce Chestnut outside The Dairy Farm by one third
The Clerk to seek quotations for this work. 16 OTHER URGENT BUSINESS 16.1 Planters outside the cottages in Harpenden Lane The planters outside the cottages in Harpenden Lane are beginning to deteriorate and Redbourn in Bloom are seeking permission to remove them and place the soil on the rose gardens. This was agreed. 16.2 Footpath from Aubrey Lane to the Village Mr and Mrs Brown have been writing to the contractors regarding the absence of a footpath from Aubrey Lane to the village. It is dangerous to walk in the road and it is impossible to walk on the grass verge. This matter was discussed at length at the meeting with Hertfordshire Highways. It was thought that perhaps the owners of the Ramada Jarvis Hotel may be willing to part sponsor a path. The Clerk to inform Mr and Mrs Brown that Councillor Swendell has agreed to speak to the manager at the hotel regarding sponsorship. 16.3 Litter Bin outside Jenny’s Sandwich Bar The Clerk to ask Ian Wakelam, St Albans District Council to consider placing a litter bin outside Jenny’s Sandwich Bar. 17 Date and time of next meeting The next meeting is to be held on Thursday, 5th July at 7.30 pm in the Council Chamber. The meeting closed at 9 pm. Chairman………………………………………………………………… Date……………………………………………. Return to the top of the page REDBOURN PARISH COUNCIL Minutes of Commons Footpaths and Open Spaces held on Thursday, 1st February 2007 at 7.30 pm in the Council Chamber, Redbourn Village Hall PRESENT: Councillors C O’Donovan (Chairman), A V Bull, K Maidment, Mrs M Maynard, W S Pierpoint, R Stent and A E Swendell APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE: None IN ATTENDANCE: Mrs D Whiskin, Clerk to the Council DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: None 98 NOTIFICATION OF OTHER URGENT BUSINESS The Chairman agreed that the following items of urgent business could be discussed at the end of the meeting. i) Councillor Swendell: cleanliness of village: Reasons for urgency: health and safety ii) Memorial bench: Reasons for urgency: bench delivered and is ready for installation 99 MINUTES OF THE PREVIOUS MEETING Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that the minutes of the previous meeting held on Thursday, 7th December 2006 be approved and signed as a true record. Note: January meeting cancelled 100 QUESTIONS FROM THE PUBLIC: No members of the public were present 101 Current financial position A paper showing the current financial position was circulated. It was noted that the Labour budget would be overspent but that this may be offset by monies in the grass cutting budget. Members noted that there is £1,203 in the Village Sign budget. Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that a village sign should be purchased for Harpenden Lane. Purchase of the sign for Hemel Hempstead Road will be held in abeyance pending completion of the works on the Ml. 102 NICKY LINE Balfour Beatty Skanska has asked County Council for an easement to lay an underground storm water drain from the widened M1 along the Nickey Line in Redbourn. The Nickey Line is to be closed for a couple of months and a large number of trees and vegetation will be cleared in order for machinery to gain access. The alternative route for the drain is along the Redbourn by-pass which would require the road to be reduced to a single carriageway for a period of nine months. The works will have a significant initial visual impact but new saplings will be planted to provide a thick hedge. A member has inspected the trees which are to be felled, all of which have been marked with a yellow cross. He reported that there is one tree which straddles the Nicky Line and the neighbouring garden. The garden fence has been lowered to accommodate the lower branches of the tree. He felt that perhaps this tree should also be felled as it could cause problems in the future. A condition has been imposed to require an improved surface on this length of the Nickey Line. An exhibition for local residents to voice concerns was held on Saturday, 27th January at the Ramada Jarvis hotel. Leaflets were delivered to the houses adjoining the Nicky Line. A letter has been received from Balfour Beatty Skanska stating that the proposed works would not cause flooding in Chequer Lane. They advised that the Chequer Lane Ditch should be cleared. A member expressed concern that the felling of trees may lead to flooding of the gardens adjacent to the Nicky Line. He thought the recent flooding in Rose Acre may well be a result of the trees being felled alongside the M1. The Clerk to forward these concerns to Balfour Skanska and ask what measures will be taken to ensure that the banking is not destabilised by the proposed works. One member suggested that perhaps geo textile materials may be used to stabilise the bank. 103 PARISH PATHS Julian Thornton, the footpaths officer has been informed of the following: • An oak tree was blown over in the recent high winds and is blocking the footpath to Dolittle Mill. • Hedging has been uprooted near the horses field further along the footpath and is blocking the path The footpaths officer agreed to add these to his list of works. 104 RISK ASSESSMENT There were no reported problems. CORRESPONDENCE 105 Mrs E Mack: Parking on Common Concern was expressed at the increased activity which is taking place at Cumberland House and the frequent parking of cars outside the front of the house which means cars are being driven around the bollards. The Enforcement Officer has been asked to visit the site but reported that he could find no evidence of a business being run from the premises. Members noted that a number of vans are regularly parked on site. The Clerk was instructed to • inform the householder of the complaint and enquire whether a business is operating from the site • send a copy of the complaint to the Enforcement Offier • ask the Conservation Officer to inspect the building which is Grade II listed – in particular the front windows which appear to be rotten 106 Hertfordshire Highways: Highway Drainage Outfall into Chequer Lane Ditch County has confirmed that the Chequer Lane ditch will be regraded prior to the adoption of roads in Brooke End. 107 CUMBERLANDHOUSE GARDEN The Clerk reported that the following documents were received yesterday: • HM Land Registry • Supplemental Deed Our solicitor has reported that the section 106 agreement contained a clause required by St Albans District Council that Redbourn Parish Council would observe the Section 106 as if it were an original party which means that it would be liable for obligations on their retained land. Also, in the HM Land Registry document it appears that the Parish Council will pay, rather than receive, £7,500 for the maintenance of the footpath. Members expressed concern at the length of time it is taking to resolve these issues and the Clerk was instructed to arrange a meeting with the solicitors to discuss this further. The Clerk to place a note in the Newsletter seeking suggestions for the naming of the public garden. An advertisement to be placed in the Herts Advertiser for tenders to maintain the garden. 108 TREE WORKS 108.1 Cedar Tree The Cedar Tree on East Common was damaged in the high winds and urgent work was required to make it safe. Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED to accept the quote for £220 to reshape the tree. 108.2 Horse Chestnut tree outside Old Dairy Farm The horse chestnut tree outside Old Dairy Farm has deteriorated further. County Forestry contacted the trees and woodlands officer last year to seek permission to carry out remedial works. He has agreed to progress this matter. 108.3 Tree in Shepherds Row A tree in Shepherds Row in the garden of the first house toppled over in the high winds blocking the footpath. This was reported and someone cut the tree to provide access but has left the branches in an unsafe condition. One broken branch could break off and injure a passing pedestrian. The Clerk to report this to the appropriate authority. 108.4 Tree on land leading to Millennium Site In December a tree to the left of the Millennium Site toppled over blocking the access to Kane’s Yard. The tree was cut up and the branches were placed on Parish Council leased land. This was reported to London & Cambridge and it was understood that County Forestry were contracted to remove the wood. Some has been removed but there are still some branches remaining on site. The Clerk to ask County Forestry if they intend to remove the residue. 108.5 Land between Chequer Lane and Brooke End The developers have fenced the gardens of houses in Brooke End leaving a 6’ strip between the Brooke End fence and the fences of gardens in Chequer Lane. The trees growing in the space will cause maintenance problems in the future and attempts should be made to ascertain who is responsible for the maintenance of these areas. A member agreed to find out who is dumping bags of rubbish on the site. 108.6 Trees on Common The Vice Chairman reported that he and Roy Titchmarsh had purchased and planted three trees which had been sponsored by Mrs Siddle. A mountain ash has been planted near The Cricketers Public House and the two maples facing Cumberland House on the main common replacing trees that had died. The Committee offered a vote of thanks to Councillor Pierpoint and Roy Titchmarsh for their efforts. Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that a letter of thanks be sent to Roy Titchmarsh. Members felt that Roy should be reimbursed for collecting the trees to the extent of the nursery’s delivery charge, a charge which he had saved. Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that Roy Titchmarsh should be reimbursed for the cost of carriage for the tree trees. 109 Specification for grass cutting A copy of the specification for grass cutting was circulated. It was agreed that the length of the contract should remain at three years with an option to renew to five years at the end of the three year period. Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that delegated authority be given to the Chairman, Vice Chairman and the Clerk to approve/review the specification. 110 OTHER URGENT BUSINESS 110.1 Cleanliness of the village A member reported that he had been receiving telephone calls about the cleanliness of the village and the fact that the street sweeper is no longer operating in Redbourn. The cleaning is being carried out by a team who arrive in a lorry, sweep the High Street, and leave. They do not have the same dedication to duties that a dedicated street sweeper would have. The member complained to Client Services and was told that the street cleaner was withdrawn because the barrow was being vandalised and the Parish Council did not like it being stored in the Village Hall car park. Furthermore, he stated that the District Council cannot dictate how MRS operate its contract. A letter has been sent to the District Council complaining about the poor standard of cleanliness and asking why the street cleaner was withdrawn. It was noted that the street cleaning contract will soon terminate and this is the time to influence what is written into the new contract. A note is to be placed in the newsletter requesting people report littered areas to the District Council. 110.2 Bench The bench in memory of Gordon Maidment is now ready for placing on the Common. Councillors Maidment, Pierpoint and O’Donovan agreed to meet on Sunday to organise the installation. 111 Date and time of next meeting The next meeting of Common, Footpaths and Open Spaces is to be held on Thursday, 1st March 2007 PART II In accordance with Standing Order 68 and in view of the confidential nature of the business about to be transacted, it was advisable in the public interest that the press and public be temporarily excluded and they were instructed to withdraw 112 Quotations for planter in High Street As only one quotation for the planters in the High Street was received it was agreed that this matter should be referred to the full Council. The Clerk to endeavour to obtain alternative quotations. The meeting closed at 8.45pm. Return to the top of the page REDBOURN PARISH COUNCIL Notes of the Common Footpaths and Open Spaces Committee held in the Council Chamber on Thursday, 5th October 2006 at 8pm PRESENT: Councillors W S Pierpoint (Chairman), R Stent APOLOGIES: Councillors A V Bull (illness) K Maidment (other commitment) Mrs M Maynard (illness) and A E Swendell (District Council meeting) IN ATTENDANCE: Mrs D Whiskin, Clerk to the Council, Councillor P Rosen There were no declarations of interest As only two members of the Committee were present the meeting was declared inquorate. The Chairman agreed that to ensure the smooth running of the Council’s business the meeting should go ahead and any decisions taken should be referred to full council for ratification. 57 Minutes of the previous meeting As the meeting was inquorate, and none of the members in attendance were at the previous meeting, the minutes of September’s meeting are to presented to the Committee for approval in November. 58 Open Session No questions were received from the public 59 Report from Contractor The Contractor was unable to attend the meeting therefore no verbal report was received. 60 Finance 60.1 Current Financial Position A paper showing the current financial position was noted. Concern was expressed that nearly three quarters of the labour budget had been expended halfway through the financial year. 61 Nicky Line 61.1 Request for Trees at the rear of Hemel Hempstead Road to be trimmed The Clerk reported that two residents in Hemel Hempstead Road had requested that trees on the Nicky Line at the end of their garden be trimmed. The trees are shading their gardens and interfering with TV reception. The Clerk reported that the new Management Plan states that the District Council is responsible for trees on the Nicky Line and it may be that this request should be referred to them. Councillor Pierpoint agreed to inspect the trees in question. 61.2 Management Plan An electronic version of the new Management Plan has been received. Two copies have been downloaded. One is on file in the Council Office and one has been given to Councillor Pierpoint for his comments. The sections relevant to Redbourn were circulated to members. The report highlighted the following: • Management of Nicky Line will be greatly enhanced through improved partnership working between the public, private and voluntary groups • Community involvement will increase a sense of ownership • Main factors which inhibit use are lack of/poor condition of facilities, other users (including anti social behaviour), concerns about dogs and dog mess, safety and other psychological issues (feelings of vulnerability and inertia, litter, graffiti and vandalism) • A section between Redbourn and Hemel Hempstead is a County Wildlife Site 54/018 and is an important habitat for feeding and commuting Pipistrelle Bats • In some areas the path is too narrow to allow a walker and cyclist to pass • More dog bins should be installed • Some access points need improving • County is responsible for safety inspections and maintaining the bridges and the District Council is responsible for ensuring the safety of people using the bridges to cross over public highways • Path surface under Ml bridge is poor (surface and lighting should be improved once current works on Ml are complete) • Problems with illegal access by motor cyclists, horses and vehicle based fly tipping • Potential for installation of interpretation boards along the line (some have recently been installed) • New leaflet is being developed • Management plan seeks to build on visual interest • Trees on line much valued however the prime concern is growth of large trees close to residential properties which give rise to concerns about safety, loss of light and interference with TV and phone reception • Vehicular use is prohibited (except for maintenance) • Management of vegetation is aimed at nature conservation • Management meetings to be held once a year – all interested parties to be involved • Friends Of The Nickey Line has been formed • Staff working on Nicky Line must wear identifiable clothing, be approachable by the public and be able to direct people to sources of information • Parish Council will carry out regular inspections of their sections of the trail and initiate appropriate actions when problems are identified • Parish Council will arrange for regular work to cut back vegetation that overhangs the footpath and the clearing of rubbish. They will also commission small works from the management plan, such as coppicing • District and Borough Councils are responsible for more major works such as tree works and repairs to surfacing, access steps and barriers. St Albans District Council will also include the provision of emptying of dog refuse and litter bins within its district wide grounds maintenance contract • Redbourn Parish Council is responsible for Compartment 5 (from Harpenden Lane to High Street; Compartment 6 (from High Street to Flowers Farm entrance); Compartment 7 (from Flowers Farm entrance to “Belvedere”) and Compartment 8 (from “Belvedere” to boundary with Hemel Hempstead) • Compartment 5: path considerable narrower than previous compartments – potential for path to be increased • Compartment 6: line is considerably wider that previous compartments – there is some bank erosion and a retaining wall has been constructed. Tree canopy casts extremely dense shade and has resulted in some residents pruning trees at the ends of their gardens to increase light levels • Compartment 7: Vegetation has started to encroach onto path making it extremely narrow in places • Compartment 8: There are patches where the canopy casts heavy shade onto the path and in places the path narrows with low growing branches encroaching onto the path • Dumping of garden waste is a recurring problem along almost all sections bordering onto houses • In some places dog waste is left on line • There are a number of livery yards in the vicinity of the line and this has resulted in some horse riders using the line – this is not permitted • District Council’s policy is to prohibit encroachments onto the Nicky Line • Some conflict between pedestrians and cyclists has been reported – a code of conduct for users signposted along the trail may help Overall Management Objectives • To manage the site for conservation and wildlife benefits without conflicting with access along the line • To encourage an approach to management which is complementary to the Dacorum Borough Council managed section • To comply with objectives set in the Hertfordshire Biodiversity Action Plan • To comply with objectives set in the Tree Strategy • To comply with objectives set in the Green Spaces Strategy Specific Objectives • To maintain the access onto the line and in some areas improve the step access • Promote visitor safety • Introduce structured approach to the management of vegetation under the electricity lines • To create an uneven age structure within the secondary woodland areas • To coppice most elm trees before they reach the height by which they are susceptible to Dutch elm disease • To maintain a width of 3 meters along the line wherever possible The Management Plan sets out a five year action plan. Implications for Redbourn Parish Council are as follows • Attendance at twice yearly Management Review meetings • Weekly inspection and litter pick • Paths to be kept clear of overhanging vegetation • Assessments to be made of signage both on and off the trail The following works are highlighted for the Redbourn Section of the Nicky Line – to be carried out by the District Council and/or others April 2006 to March 2007 • Coppicing in Compartments 6 and 7 – December onwards • Lay hedge in Compartment 6 – January • Treat Japanese knotweed in Compartment 6 – July/September • Thin out woodland by 20% 100m in Compartment 8 in Autumn/Winter 2006 • Carry out risk assessment of trees April 2007 to March 2008 • Treat Japanese Knotweed in Compartment 6 – July/September • Fit new steps to bridge, Redbourn High Street – August 2007 April 2008 to March 2009 • Treat Japanese Knotweed in Compartment 6 – July/September • Clear selected scrub along line to open up views in Compartment 6 – November 2008 • Remove encroaching scrub in Compartment 8 – Winter 2008 • Install chicane/resurface barrier on west side of A5183 • Amend kerbs, make crossing visible. Road access at Travellers site – February 2009 April 2009 to March 2010 • Cut hedgerow in Compartment 8 – Autumn 2009 • Treat Japanese knotweed in Compartment 6 – July/September • Crown life overhanging trees – all Compartments – Winter 2009 • Rebuild steps as ramp allowing cycle access, amend barrier – Chequer Lane – August 2009 April 2010 to March 2011 • Beyond Ver Bridge – fence in and surface narrow section – February 2010 Members agreed that horse riding should not be permitted on the Nicky Line. 63 Parish Paths 63.1 Parish Paths Programme 2007/8 A meeting has been arranged on 19th October to discuss next year’s Parish Paths programme. Members were asked to inform the Clerk of any suggestions to be included in the programme 64 Risk Assessments The risk assessments were reviewed and approved by the Finance Committee who referred them to the Common, Footpaths and Open Spaces Committee. It was agreed that the assessor should be the Chairman of the Committee and that he should sign the forms. As the meeting was inquorate it was agreed that a recommendation be made to full Council to adopt the risk assessments. The Clerk reported that at a recent training session on the Management of Play Areas the trainer (an employee of Zurich Municipal) stressed the importance of keeping a record of checks, both positive and negative. If a claim is made against the Council it is important to prove that checks were made and that no faults were found. This procedure will be implemented. 65 CORRESPONDENCE 65.1 Environment Agency: Upper Colne Flood Risk Newsletter The Upper Colne Flood Risk newsletter was noted. The Clerk was instructed to include an extract from the leaflet in the Parish Newsletter informing the public of the general enquiry line. The Clerk to give the Plans Committee a copy of the flood plain map for reference when considering applications within the floodplain. 65.2 Brooke End Resident: Overgrown hedges A complaint was received regarding overgrown hedges in Brooke End. These have now been trimmed. 65.3 TBS Hygiene: Maintenance of Dog litter bins The cost of emptying the dog litter bins is to increase from £1.90 to £2 per dog waste bin. 65.4 Request to keep area to rear of fence in Coopers Meadow clear of weeds Properties in Coopers Meadow back onto Long Cutt Play Area. Over the years an area of woodland scrub has developed. A resident has complained that the weeds and scrub have damaged her fence and expressed concerns at a dead tree near the fence which was potentially hazardous. Members were loath to clear the area as it acts as a buffer keeping children away from residential gardens, thereby minimising noise and potential acts of vandalism. Complaints have been received from residents adjacent to the footpath that youths have been kicking the fences. It was noted considerable building works have been undertaken at the property in question and it was thought that some of the damage to the fence was probably a result this. Members agreed that the dead tree should be removed as, although it was considered safe at present, it would pose problems in future. The Clerk to seek a quotation for removing the tree from Ken Scott. 65.5 The Moor: Water leak and bridge over The Moor Comments from a resident regarding the water leak on the access road and the steps taken to strengthen the bridge over The Moor were noted. The bridge to be inspected for damage following the completion of the building works. The Clerk reported that the contractor has expressed concern that the contractors are continuing to park on the Common and that if the heavy rains continue this will further damage the grass. Councillor Pierpoint agreed to inspect the site. 66 Parish Centre: Rejection of Planning Application Despite the planning officers recommendation to approve the planning application to demolish the Youth Centre and replace it with a Parish Centre the application was rejected by Plans North. The discussions at Plans North centred around loss of views which is not a valid planning reason to refuse. A meeting is to be arranged with Alan Moorhouse to ascertain how the plans may be adjusted. It was noted that the building must fulfil the needs of the community and the Parish Council. It was noted that the previous planning application had been submitted following discussions with planning, highways and conservations officers were in support of the plans. 67 Cumberland House Garden The District Council expressed concern at the suggested clause in the agreement that garden be open “at the Parish Council’s discretion”. It was suggested that the clause should read “the garden will be open from 8am to 6pm and at other times at the discretion of the Parish Council”. The District Council has now said that this will mean the garden must be open at Christmas and Bank Holidays. Members suggested a revised clause “the garden will be open from 8am to 6pm with the exception of Christmas Day and Bank Holidays and at other times the garden will be open at the discretion of the Parish Council”. This will allow the garden to be open on Christmas Day and/or Bank Holidays – staff permitting. 68 Tree Works The Clerk to seek a quotation for the removal of a dead tree on the main Common opposite “Greyfriars”. The Clerk to instruct John Pidgeon to lift the tree outside the Methodist Church. 69 Entrance to The Park Hertfordshire Highways has now acknowledged that the entrance to The Park is adopted. The Clerk has informed the insurance company. 70 Date and time of next meeting: The next meeting of the Common Footpaths and Open Spaces is to be held on Thursday, 2nd November 2006 Return to the top of the page REDBOURN PARISH COUNCIL Minutes of a meeting of the Common Footpaths and Open Spaces Committee held on 6th July 2006 at 7.30 pm in the Council Chamber, Redbourn Village Hall PRESENT: Councillors C O’Donovan (Chairman), A V Bull, Dr W S Pierpoint, R Stent and A E Swendell APOLOGIES: Councillor Mrs C Cardy, K Maidment (holiday) and Mrs M Maynard (unwell) IN ATTENDANCE: Mrs D Whiskin, Clerk to the Council 20 DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: There were no declarations of interest 21 URGENT BUSINESS: It was agreed that the following should be considered at the end of the meeting Applications from “Show and Shine” Club and Cricketers Golf Society to use the Common. 22 Minutes of the meeting Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that the minutes of the previous meeting held on Thursday, 1st June 2006 be signed as a true record 23 Open Session No members of the public were present therefore there was no open Session. 24 Council Contract Work The following points were raised: • It is essential that Cumberland House garden is properly maintained • Bearing in mind the increased costs of diesel the contractor is unwilling to take on maintenance at his current rates • Chairman and Vice Chairman agreed to draw up a specification for maintenance for Council approval • Once the specification is approved tenders will be sought • Time could be saved if weedkiller is used in garden however only certain types of weedkiller are permissible • It is important that the garden is open as soon as possible as delays are causing difficulties for the elderly accessing the Health Centre • Clerk to email District Council and Hertfordshire County Council urging them to complete the legalities as soon as possible so that the garden may open. • A resident in Chequer Lane has built a platform, using sleepers, over the ditch. This has been grassed over. The sleepers are now disintegrating making the structure dangerous. The Contractor agreed to inform the Clerk of the address so that she may write to the resident informing him that the structure is now unsafe and should be removed. If someone is injured the householder would be held responsible • Fireworks were discharged on the Common on Saturday night and the debris was left scattered on the Common. It was noted that this could have been dangerous to the public as strict safety measures have to be followed when discharging fireworks in a public area. A note to be placed in the newsletter informing the public that this is not permitted without the permission of the Parish Council. • The litter bin near the seat in the Avenue is to be moved. • People are placing dog faeces in the ordinary litter bins. It was noted that this is permissible provided it is double wrapped. The contractor reported that sometimes it is not wrapped and it is very unpleasant. The Clerk to ask TBS, the company who maintain the dog litter bins, whether they are full. It may be that this is why people using the other bins. If this is the case it may be necessary to increase the frequency of emptying. • Alcohol is being consumed in Flamsteadbury Lane and Long Cutt Play Areas. Empty bottles of vodka are regularly left in the play areas and sometimes broken glass is found which is dangerous to young children. The Contractor to inform the Clerk of the make of vodka as it may be possible to ascertain from which shop it is being purchased. • Empty lighter fuel cans are regularly found in Shepherds Row. 25 Financial position Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED to note the current financial position. 26 NICKY LINE • The Ml contractors have dug a test hole which is more than one foot deep. There are no barriers around the hole. • The Clerk to ask the Park Estate Management Committee to check whether its contractor is dumping rubbish under the bridge and, if so, to ask him to stop doing this • The Clerk to write to the Environment Agency with a copy to the Ver Valley Society informing them that there is a considerable amount of litter in the River which requires removing Following receipt of the revised Management Plan from the District Council the Clerk was asked to ascertain how Harpenden Town Council maintains the Nicky Line. The general cutting back of the line is included the Town Council’s grounds maintenance contract and the town warden walks the Nicky Line once a week to inspect and litter pick the Line. John O’Connor remove any rubbish dumped and invoice the Town Council for this work. Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that the Nicky Line Contract be extended by one year. Next year the contract is to be advertised as an annual contract with the option to renew up to three years subject to District Council funding. 27 Risk Assessment Report The safety tiles and repair kits for the play areas have been received and given to the Contractor. CORRESPONDENCE 28 Resident of Woollams: Path leading to Woollams Following a letter of complaint from a resident a footpath, leading to Woollams, has been repaired. It was noted that there are two trip points in the other path and the contractor was instructed to repair these by relaying the pavement slabs. The Clerk to ask the warden at Woollams to inform the Parish Council if there are any further problems with the paths. 29 The Moor A letter was received from a local resident asking that the Moor be cleared. The contractor informed the meeting that The Moor is safer now that foliage has been allowed to grow on the margins. He said that he is now able to stand on the vegetation whereas before he sank into the silt and mud. He reported an increase in wildlife on the Moor. The Clerk to send the resident a copy of the revised Management Plan. 30 Parish Centre The District Council has requested a copy of plans of the original Youth Centre before accepting the planning application for the new Parish Centre. 31 Cumberland House Garden Miller Homes has agreed to pay £500 towards legal costs for adoption of the footpath through the garden. A member said he was still not happy with the brickwork on the buttresses of the wall adjacent to the High Street. The Clerk to ask • Faircloth Homes for a copy of the structural report on the walls • The Conservation Officer if he would inspect the walls and advise if they are structurally sound • Colin Mason if he could supply the name of a structural engineer who could offer professional advice 32 August Recess Having been duly proposed by the Chairman it was RESOLVED that the Chairman, Vice Chairman and Clerk be given delegated powers to deal with any matters during the August recess, which in their opinion cannot wait until the September meeting. 33 Parking on West Common A member expressed concern that the Committee is not being even handed in its treatment of motorists parking on the Common. Bollards have been placed in some areas to prevent parking but motorists regularly park on West Common. It was felt that once the byelaws are updated it will be easier to deal with this problem. The new penalty procedure called sanction detection is now in place. This is a fixed penalty system which can be administered by a police officer or a community police support officer. Fixed penalty tickets are sent to the ticket office at Hertford who chase payment of the fine. The Clerk was instructed to write to people living on West Common asking them not to park on the Common. 34 Other Urgent Business Members agreed to grant permission to • the Cricketers Golf Society to hold a barbecue and erect a marquee on the Common on 23rd July • Show and Shine Club to hold event on Cricket overflow car park Both organizations were informed that the Common must be left in a clean and tidy condition. 35 Resolution Having been duly proposed by the Chairman it was RESOLVED that in view of the confidential nature of the business about to be transacted, and in accordance with Standing Order 68, it is advisable in the public interest that the press and public be temporarily excluded and they were instructed to withdraw 36 Quotations for treeworks Two quotations were received to decrease the laurel hedge on North Common, to remove two ash trees and one dead tree from the hedge. One quotation was for £590 and one was for £300. Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED to accept the quotation for £300. The Clerk to ask the contractor for a price to include cutting to ground level the Sumac tree near Church End. If the Chairman, Vice Chairman and the Clerk feel the price is reasonable this is to be included. If not, the Parish Council contractor will be asked to cut the tree. It was noted that permission from the arborist must be sought as the Sumac is in the Conservation Area. 37 Date and time of next meeting: Thursday 7th September 2006 Return to the top of the page REDBOURN PARISH COUNCIL Minutes of a meeting of the Common Footpaths and Open Spaces Committee held on 1st June 2006 at 7.30 pm in the Council Chamber, Redbourn Village Hall PRESENT: Councillors C O’Donovan (Chairman), A V Bull, Dr W S Pierpoint, R Stent and A E Swendell APOLOGIES: Councillor Mrs C Cardy (attending funeral) and Mrs M Maynard (unwell) IN ATTENDANCE: Mrs D Whiskin, Clerk to the Council 1 Election of Chairman for the year 2006/2007 Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that Councillor C O’Donovan be elected to serve as Chairman of Common Footpaths and Open Spaces for the year 2006/7 2 Election of Vice Chairman Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that Councillor Dr W S Pierpoint be elected to serve as Vice Chairman of Common Footpaths and Open Spaces for the year 2006/2007 3 DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: There were no declarations of interest 4 URGENT BUSINESS: It was agreed that the following should be considered at the end of the meeting 4.1 permission to place scaffolding on the Common for the restoration works to Old Dairy Farm barn 4.2 gridlock in village during Herts County Show 5 Minutes of the previous meeting Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that the minutes of the meeting held on 6th April 2006 be signed as a true record. 6 Council Contract Work The Committee welcomed the Parish Council contractor who attended the meeting to discuss works on the Common and open spaces. During the discussions the following points were noted/agreed: • The edges of the common would be cut by one mower width • The contractor uses a mower to cut around the trees as this is much quicker than strimming • It takes one morning’s work to cut the sightlines • The contractor is to make covers for the holes in the Common where the football nets are erected • The Contractor was instructed to erect the posts outside Cumberland House to prevent cars driving onto the Common. The Clerk to write to the occupier informing him of these works • The Clerk to inform the enforcement officer that Cumberland House is being used as a business supplying marquees, plastic tables and chairs • The Contractor is to straighten the Village sign near the War Memorial • The signs by The Moor have been vandalised and the tops have been knocked off the litter bins and litter was scattered over the Common • The hedgeline outside Meadow Cottage is to be reduced by 8ft and two ash trees are to be removed from the hedge. The Clerk to obtain quotations for this work. The contractor to mark the area to be cut with yellow paint. • The tree outside 2 Church End is 50% dead. It was agreed that the tree should be cut to ground level and permitted to regenerate. • The Clerk to seek permission from the Trees and Woodlands Officer for the above works • The wood pile by the Museum to be removed – the chippings could be placed on the garden adjacent to Silk Mill play area. • The benches on the Common require refurbishing – the sponsors of the benches may be prepared to pay for the refurbishing. It was agreed that they should be asked to pay £30 per bench and the Parish Council would pay for any amount above that sum • The roads around the Common are full of weeds. The Clerk to ask County whether they have a budget for weed spraying and whether they are intending to do any works. It was noted that in addition to weed spraying the soil in the gutters needs to be removed. 7. Financial position A paper showing the current financial position was circulated and noted. Concern was expressed at the amount of time which was spent on grass cutting but it was noted that additional grass cutting had been necessary because of the wet, warm weather. 8. NICKY LINE 8.1 Revised management plan The revised management plan was circulated. It was noted that the plan required weekly inspection and litter picking. The Clerk reported that this could be financed from the Nicky Line budget. The Clerk was instructed to liaise with Harpenden Town Council to ascertain how they dealt with management of the Nicky Line. It was noted that Harpenden had two town wardens and they subsidise the budget received from St Albans District Council. A member suggested asking the Friends of the Nicky Line if they would consider litter picking. 8.2 Funding access signs from grant provided by District Council Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that three Nicky Line signs should be purchased for erection on Chequer Lane, Gaddesden Lane and opposite the Ramada Hotel.These will be funded from the budget granted by the District Council. 8.3 Minutes of the inaugural meeting of Friends of the Nicky Line The minutes of the inaugural meeting of Friends Of The Nickey? Line were noted. A Committee has been set up and it proposes a subscription of £5 per household to finance administration and publicity. 9. Parish Paths No reports were received on the Parish Paths. A letter has been received from Countryside Management Services confirming this year’s programme. 10. Risk Assessment Reports The contractor has reported that the safety surfacing on East Common has been vandalised. A wet pour kit is being ordered to repair the hole. The play equipment has been taped off with red and white tape. 11. CORRESPONDENCE 11.1 Flamsteadbury Lane Resident: Objection to placing footpath on The Moor side of the Common A Flamsteadbury Lane resident has objected to the proposed positioning of the new footpath on The Moor side of the Common. He felt that this would mean people would cross the Hemel Hempstead Road near the Jolly Gardener which he considered to be more dangerous than crossing further along the road. Some members did not agree but thought a crossing near the Jolly Gardener was preferable as the sightlines were better. Members noted that the positioning on the Moor side was agreed at the Annual Parish Meeting, partly because this option was cheaper. Members agreed that if, after further consideration, the general consensus is that the path should be built on the other side of the road, the fact that this is more costly should not prevent this. The Clerk is to thank the resident for his comments and inform him that these will be taken into account when a final decision on the location of the path is made. 11.2 St Albans District Council: Consultation on Green Spaces Strategy The Green Spaces Strategy has recognised • the Silk Mill Play Area as one of the highest quality sites setting the benchmark • Redbourn is significantly above the minimum standard for natural and semi-natural greenspace and amenity greenspace but below the minimum standard for local parks. There are residents outside the catchment for all facilities with the exception of allotments • Redbourn War Memorial Gardens are good • Recommended standard for Natural and Semi natural Open Space is 2.26 ha per 1,000 population (rural). Redbourn is above the minimum standard by at least 5 ha (page 62) • amenity Green Space - although provision at 2.83 ha per 1,000 population appears high in comparison to other areas, a review of the site specific data highlights that this is dominated by one large site (Redbourn Common, 13.92 ha) If the Common were excluded, the level of provision per l,000 population falls to 0.29 • Silk Mill Play Area and Brooke End Play Area considered to be V good. Silk Mill Play Area is considered the highest quality site, with all bar two quality factors considered very good. • Redbourn has very little provision of both small local play areas or neighbourhood play areas • Provision for Children and Young People about right • Allotments and Community Gardens - Tassell Hall Allotments is the highest quality allotment site in the district with no evidence of vandalism and graffiti, litter, dog fouling or smells/odours. In addition, the quality of the management and maintenance and provision of bins and information and signage were rated as excellent. • Cemeteries and churchyards –St Mary’s churchyard: good The report mentions resourcing open space and generating and reinvesting resources obtained from land which is surplus to requirements. The Parish Council leases Long Cutt allotments, the Millennium Site, Long Cutt Play Area and the Panhandle from the District Council. The District Council also owns part of the green space on the corner of Lamb Lane/Shepherds Row. The Clerk to write to the District Council welcoming the Green Spaces Strategy and commenting that the District Council should ensure that no green spaces in Redbourn are sold. 11.4 Sponsored walk on 15th June Members agreed that Redbourn Junior School could hold a sponsored walk on Redbourn Common on 15th June 2006 (pm) 12. Parish Centre Councillors Bull and C O’Donovan met the planning officers to discuss the proposed Parish Centre. The officers approved the proposals and the proposed entrance from The Park. They said that Highways would not approve an entrance from the Common as this is used by parents delivering children to Ravenstone School and there is a Government directive that traffic from new developments should be separated from school traffic. Councillor O’Donovan agreed to ask for confirmation of this in writing. The planning officers did not agree to the building being turned around as this would have too much of an impact on the Common. The officers checked aerial photographs taken in 2001 and noted that there was a large tree in the grounds of the youth club which shows that South Common Cottages did not have a view of the Common. Councillor O’Donnovan has asked the architect to superimpose the proposed building onto a photograph of South Common Cottages to give an idea of the impact of the building. Members noted that the spire on the building is a lightning conductor. The final drawings should be available in two to three weeks. The planning application will be decided at Committee. 13. Cumberland House Garden A representative from Fairclough Homes has held a snagging meeting with the contractors. Once the snagging works are completed a meeting will be arranged with the Parish Council. A member noted that there are no colourful plants in the garden. The Parish Council solicitors have confirmed that they are in touch with the solicitors working for Fairclough Homes and are awaiting confirmation that they will pay the Council’s legal fees. The Clerk to inform Fairclough Homes that the grass in Cumberland House needs cutting and to remind them that the Parish Council need access to the gardens on 16th June for the judges for the Village of the Year Competition. 14. Tree Works 14.1 Tree outside 2 Church End: As noted earlier the tree outside 2 Church End is 50% dead. The Clerk to seek permission to cut the tree to ground level and permit it to regenerate. 14.2 Shepherds Row: The District Council is considering placing a Tree Preservation Order on the line of trees bordering Millers Close/Shepherds Row. The Clerk to ascertain whether this means the permission for the works at 5 Miller Close will be rescinded. 15. Beating The Bounds Councillor Pierpoint has written an account of the Beating of the Bounds which he led on Rogation Sunday and this is to be posted on the web site. He stressed that if he is unable to lead any future Beating of the Bounds, it is important that someone from the Parish Council, or a designated person, with a mobile telephone, should take responsibility for the walk as it may be necessary to summon assistance if a participant has difficulties. He noted that in the past a motorist has been stationed at designated points along the route to take home any walkers who could not continue and it may be worth considering reinstating this practice. Those walkers who completed the course were given a medallion from the Parish Council. 16. Millennium Site: bottle banks The District Council has confirmed that the road surface at the entrance to the Millennium Site is unsuitable for the stationing of the bottle banks. It was agreed that as a doorstep delivery is to be introduced next year no further efforts would be made to find a suitable site for bottle banks. 17. Village sign for entrance to village An order has been placed for the village sign to be erected at the entrance to the village. Members felt that this would best be placed close against the pallets. The Clerk to check with Redbourn in Bloom that they agree with this positioning. 18. Other Urgent Business 18.1 Scaffolding on Common for development of Old Dairy Farm Barn Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that permission would be granted for scaffolding to be erected on the Common to allow the conversion of the barn at Old Dairy Farm. The Clerk to ascertain how long the scaffolding would be in place. Any damage to the Common must be repaired following the completion of the works. 18.2 Herts Show: Road gridlock A member noted that the roads around the village were gridlocked on Sunday and it took 1 ¼ hours to travel from Beaumont Hill to Redbourn. People could not get into the village and some parents were trapped in their cars with young children. The organizers of the Show and the police have a duty to ensure that the traffic is managed in a reasonable manner. A member said that it should also be possible to organise three lanes of traffic along the bypass. This would give an escape route and would enable people to drive into the village. It was noted that following the heavy rains the car parks were extremely muddy, the mud was carried out onto the roads and motorists were parking haphazardly along the verges. Members felt that perhaps the situation could be eased by opening the Dunstable Road exit during the Herts Show. The Clerk to ascertain whether the congestion was caused by a traffic accident. 19. Date and time of next meeting The next meeting is to be held on Thursday 6th July 2006 Return to the top of the page REDBOURN PARISH COUNCIL Minutes of a meeting of the Common Footpaths and Open Spaces Committee held on 6th April 2006 at 7.30 pm in the Council Chamber, Redbourn Village Hall PRESENT: Councillors C O’Donovan (Chairman), A V Bull, Dr W S Pierpoint, R Stent and A E Swendell APOLOGIES: Councillor Mrs C Cardy (attending funeral) and Mrs M Maynard (unwell) IN ATTENDANCE: Mrs D Whiskin, Clerk to the Council 1 Election of Chairman for the year 2006/2007 Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that Councillor C O’Donovan be elected to serve as Chairman of Common Footpaths and Open Spaces for the year 2006/7 2 Election of Vice Chairman Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that Councillor Dr W S Pierpoint be elected to serve as Chairman of Common Footpaths and Open Spaces for the year 2006/2007 3 DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: There were no declarations of interest 4 URGENT BUSINESS: It was agreed that the following should be considered at the end of the meeting 4.1 permission to place scaffolding on the Common for the restoration works to Old Dairy Farm barn 4.2 gridlock in village during Herts County Show 5 Minutes of the previous meeting Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that the minutes of the meeting held on 6th April 2006 be signed as a true record. 6 Council Contract Work The Committee welcomed the Parish Council contractor who attended the meeting to discuss works on the Common and open spaces. During the discussions the following points were noted/agreed: • The edges of the common would be cut by one mower width • The contractor uses a mower to cut around the trees as this is much quicker than strimming • It takes one morning’s work to cut the sightlines • The contractor is to make covers for the holes in the Common where the football nets are erected • The Contractor was instructed to erect the posts outside Cumberland House to prevent cars driving onto the Common. The Clerk to write to the occupier informing him of these works • The Clerk to inform the enforcement officer that Cumberland House is being used as a business supplying marquees, plastic tables and chairs • The Contractor is to straighten the Village sign near the War Memorial • The signs by The Moor have been vandalised and the tops have been knocked off the litter bins and litter was scattered over the Common • The hedgeline outside Meadow Cottage is to be reduced by 8ft and two ash trees are to be removed from the hedge. The Clerk to obtain quotations for this work. The contractor to mark the area to be cut with yellow paint. • The tree outside 2 Church End is 50% dead. It was agreed that the tree should be cut to ground level and permitted to regenerate. • The Clerk to seek permission from the Trees and Woodlands Officer for the above works • The wood pile by the Museum to be removed – the chippings could be placed on the garden adjacent to Silk Mill play area. • The benches on the Common require refurbishing – the sponsors of the benches may be prepared to pay for the refurbishing. It was agreed that they should be asked to pay £30 per bench and the Parish Council would pay for any amount above that sum • The roads around the Common are full of weeds. The Clerk to ask County whether they have a budget for weed spraying and whether they are intending to do any works. It was noted that in addition to weed spraying the soil in the gutters needs to be removed. 7. Financial position A paper showing the current financial position was circulated and noted. Concern was expressed at the amount of time which was spent on grass cutting but it was noted that additional grass cutting had been necessary because of the wet, warm weather. 8. NICKY LINE 8.1 Revised management plan The revised management plan was circulated. It was noted that the plan required weekly inspection and litter picking. The Clerk reported that this could be financed from the Nicky Line budget. The Clerk was instructed to liaise with Harpenden Town Council to ascertain how they dealt with management of the Nicky Line. It was noted that Harpenden had two town wardens and they subsidise the budget received from St Albans District Council. A member suggested asking the Friends of the Nicky Line if they would consider litter picking. 8.2 Funding access signs from grant provided by District Council Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that three Nicky Line signs should be purchased for erection on Chequer Lane, Gaddesden Lane and opposite the Ramada Hotel.These will be funded from the budget granted by the District Council. 8.3 Minutes of the inaugural meeting of Friends of the Nicky Line The minutes of the inaugural meeting of Friends of the Nicky Line were noted. A Committee has been set up and it proposes a subscription of £5 per household to finance administration and publicity. 9. Parish Paths No reports were received on the Parish Paths. A letter has been received from Countryside Management Services confirming this year’s programme. 10. Risk Assessment Reports The contractor has reported that the safety surfacing on East Common has been vandalised. A wet pour kit is being ordered to repair the hole. The play equipment has been taped off with red and white tape. 11. CORRESPONDENCE 11.1 Flamsteadbury Lane Resident: Objection to placing footpath on The Moor side of the Common A Flamsteadbury Lane resident has objected to the proposed positioning of the new footpath on The Moor side of the Common. He felt that this would mean people would cross the Hemel Hempstead Road near the Jolly Gardener which he considered to be more dangerous than crossing further along the road. Some members did not agree but thought a crossing near the Jolly Gardener was preferable as the sightlines were better. Members noted that the positioning on the Moor side was agreed at the Annual Parish Meeting, partly because this option was cheaper. Members agreed that if, after further consideration, the general consensus is that the path should be built on the other side of the road, the fact that this is more costly should not prevent this. The Clerk is to thank the resident for his comments and inform him that these will be taken into account when a final decision on the location of the path is made. 11.2 St Albans District Council: Consultation on Green Spaces Strategy The Green Spaces Strategy has recognised • the Silk Mill Play Area as one of the highest quality sites setting the benchmark • • Redbourn is significantly above the minimum standard for natural and semi-natural greenspace and amenity greenspace but below the minimum standard for local parks. There are residents outside the catchment for all facilities with the exception of allotments • • Redbourn War Memorial Gardens are good • • Recommended standard for Natural and Semi natural Open Space is 2.26 ha per 1,000 population (rural). Redbourn is above the minimum standard by at least 5 ha (page 62) • • amenity Green Space - although provision at 2.83 ha per 1,000 population appears high in comparison to other areas, a review of the site specific data highlights that this is dominated by one large site (Redbourn Common, 13.92 ha) If the Common were excluded, the level of provision per l,000 population falls to 0.29 • • Silk Mill Play Area and Brooke End Play Area considered to be V good. Silk Mill Play Area is considered the highest quality site, with all bar two quality factors considered very good. • • Redbourn has very little provision of both small local play areas or neighbourhood play areas • • Provision for Children and Young People about right • • Allotments and Community Gardens - Tassell Hall Allotments is the highest quality allotment site in the district with no evidence of vandalism and graffiti, litter, dog fouling or smells/odours. In addition, the quality of the management and maintenance and provision of bins and information and signage were rated as excellent. • • Cemeteries and churchyards –St Mary’s churchyard: good The report mentions resourcing open space and generating and reinvesting resources obtained from land which is surplus to requirements. The Parish Council leases Long Cutt allotments, the Millennium Site, Long Cutt Play Area and the Panhandle from the District Council. The District Council also owns part of the green space on the corner of Lamb Lane/Shepherds Row. The Clerk to write to the District Council welcoming the Green Spaces Strategy and commenting that the District Council should ensure that no green spaces in Redbourn are sold. 11.4 Sponsored walk on 15th June Members agreed that Redbourn Junior School could hold a sponsored walk on Redbourn Common on 15th June 2006 (pm) 12. Parish Centre Councillors Bull and C O’Donovan met the planning officers to discuss the proposed Parish Centre. The officers approved the proposals and the proposed entrance from The Park. They said that Highways would not approve an entrance from the Common as this is used by parents delivering children to Ravenstone School and there is a Government directive that traffic from new developments should be separated from school traffic. Councillor O’Donovan agreed to ask for confirmation of this in writing. The planning officers did not agree to the building being turned around as this would have too much of an impact on the Common. The officers checked aerial photographs taken in 2001 and noted that there was a large tree in the grounds of the youth club which shows that South Common Cottages did not have a view of the Common. Councillor O’Donnovan has asked the architect to superimpose the proposed building onto a photograph of South Common Cottages to give an idea of the impact of the building. Members noted that the spire on the building is a lightning conductor. The final drawings should be available in two to three weeks. The planning application will be decided at Committee. 13. Cumberland House Garden A representative from Fairclough Homes has held a snagging meeting with the contractors. Once the snagging works are completed a meeting will be arranged with the Parish Council. A member noted that there are no colourful plants in the garden. The Parish Council solicitors have confirmed that they are in touch with the solicitors working for Fairclough Homes and are awaiting confirmation that they will pay the Council’s legal fees. The Clerk to inform Fairclough Homes that the grass in Cumberland House needs cutting and to remind them that the Parish Council need access to the gardens on 16th June for the judges for the Village of the Year Competition. 14. Tree Works 14.1 Tree outside 2 Church End: As noted earlier the tree outside 2 Church End is 50% dead. The Clerk to seek permission to cut the tree to ground level and permit it to regenerate. 14.2 Shepherds Row: The District Council is considering placing a Tree Preservation Order on the line of trees bordering Millers Close/Shepherds Row. The Clerk to ascertain whether this means the permission for the works at 5 Miller Close will be rescinded. 15. Beating The Bounds Councillor Pierpoint has written an account of the Beating of the Bounds which he led on Rogation Sunday and this is to be posted on the web site. He stressed that if he is unable to lead any future Beating of the Bounds, it is important that someone from the Parish Council, or a designated person, with a mobile telephone, should take responsibility for the walk as it may be necessary to summon assistance if a participant has difficulties. He noted that in the past a motorist has been stationed at designated points along the route to take home any walkers who could not continue and it may be worth considering reinstating this practice. Those walkers who completed the course were given a medallion from the Parish Council. 16. Millennium Site: bottle banks The District Council has confirmed that the road surface at the entrance to the Millennium Site is unsuitable for the stationing of the bottle banks. It was agreed that as a doorstep delivery is to be introduced next year no further efforts would be made to find a suitable site for bottle banks. 17. Village sign for entrance to village An order has been placed for the village sign to be erected at the entrance to the village. Members felt that this would best be placed close against the pallets. The Clerk to check with Redbourn in Bloom that they agree with this positioning. 18. Other Urgent Business 18.1 Scaffolding on Common for development of Old Dairy Farm Barn Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that permission would be granted for scaffolding to be erected on the Common to allow the conversion of the barn at Old Dairy Farm. The Clerk to ascertain how long the scaffolding would be in place. Any damage to the Common must be repaired following the completion of the works. 18.2 Herts Show: Road gridlock A member noted that the roads around the village were gridlocked on Sunday and it took 1 ¼ hours to travel from Beaumont Hill to Redbourn. People could not get into the village and some parents were trapped in their cars with young children. The organizers of the Show and the police have a duty to ensure that the traffic is managed in a reasonable manner. A member said that it should also be possible to organise three lanes of traffic along the bypass. This would give an escape route and would enable people to drive into the village. It was noted that following the heavy rains the car parks were extremely muddy, the mud was carried out onto the roads and motorists were parking haphazardly along the verges. Members felt that perhaps the situation could be eased by opening the Dunstable Road exit during the Herts Show. The Clerk to ascertain whether the congestion was caused by a traffic accident. 19. Date and time of next meeting The next meeting is to be held on Thursday 6th July 2006 Return to the top of the page REDBOURN PARISH COUNCIL Minutes of Common, Footpaths and Open Spaces held in the Council Chamber, Redbourn Village Hall on Thursday, 2nd March 2006 at 7.30pm. PRESENT: Councillors C O’Donovan, Chairman, A V Bull, K Maidment, R Stent, Dr W S Pierpoint APOLOGIES: Councillor Mrs C Cardy, Mrs M Maynard and A E Swendell (attending District Council meeting) IN ATTENDANCE: Mrs D Whiskin Clerk to the Council There were no declarations of interest 162 Urgent business The Chairman reported that the architect has drawn up sketch plans for the Parish Centre which should be viewed at the end of the meeting. This was considered urgent as he felt the Committee should approve the plans before referring them to full Council. 163 Minutes of the previous meeting Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that the minutes of the meeting held on 2nd February be approved and signed as a true record. 164 To note the current financial position i) Current position Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that the paper showing the current financial position be noted. ii) Tree Works: An order has been placed for works to be carried out on the Chestnut tree outside Old Dairy Farm and the £900 in this year’s budget is earmarked to finance these works. It was noted that a Prunus tree outside The Heath, which was given to the village by the guides twenty year’s ago, requires reshaping. Also the laurel hedge near Meadow Cottage needs reducing and the ash sapling in the hedge needs removing. The Clerk to ask Ken Scott and/or John Pidgeon to inspect these. 165 FOOTPATH NEAR THE MOOR The location of the proposed footpath near The Moor has been discussed on numerous occasions. The original location close to the River Red has been discounted because the materials stipulated by the Environment Agency would be unsuitable for wheelchairs. If the path is located away from the river tarmac, which is suited to wheelchair/pushchairs use, may be used. Redbourn Charities feel it would be preferable for the path to be on the opposite side of the road as this would mean that one road only, would need to be crossed to reach the path. Redbourn Care Group wish to have a spur from the footpath leading to the river so that wheelchair bound people can enjoy the river. This could still be achieved but those wishing to access the river would have to cross Chequer Lane. The contours of the Common may have to be changed if the path is placed on East Common. This may make the costs prohibitive. The Clerk to ask Hartons for alternative quotations for a footpath on each side of the road. This may be of assistance when making a final decision on the location of the path. Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that this Committee recommends to full Council that it consults with the public on which side of the road the proposed footpath on The Moor should be placed. If full Council agrees this is to form an item on the agenda of the Annual Parish Meeting. 166 NICKY LINE The contractor is in the process of clearing litter from the line. It was agreed that a general litter pick of the village should be arranged to coincide with the District Council litter pick. The Chairman and Vice Chairman are to walk the line to ascertain what works are required. The contractor has reported that plastic bags full of dog litter are being discarded under the hedges and he has requested that additional bins be placed on the Nicky Line. The cost of the bins and ongoing maintenance may be financed from the District Council grant. A grant of £5,413 has just been received for last year’s maintenance. The bins are approximately £173 and the cost of emptying is £1.90. The Clerk to liaise with the contractor and TBS (the company responsible for emptying the bins) regarding the best position for the bin and report back to the Committee. 167 PARISH PATHS i) Litter on Paths Julian Thornton, the County Footpaths Officer, has confirmed that litter on the definitive footpaths is a District Council matter. ii) Porridge Potts Complaints have been received that the Porridge Potts path is in a poor condition which means that the public is walking on the conservation margins. County will inspect this with a view to including it in next year’s capital bids. iii) Future Parish Path Projects • FP26 (which leads westwards across a large field towards The Chequers) should be inspected to ensure that it is on the correct alignment. A member feels it is misaligned at its junction with FP6 which leads to Hammonds End. The path is well used in Summer and is a popular route to and from Redbournbury Water Mill. In Winter it is difficult to follow and it would be helpful if it were rolled and visible on the ground. • FP34 – a kissing gate has been installed just south of the by pass but just beyond the gate the path is impeded by an overgrown hedge which requires cutting back. The path should provide an alternative, more attractive route, than through the industrialized area of Flowers Farm • Footpaths to the east of Cherry Tree Lane need attention. FP44 needs waymarking as path alignments through the spinny and the fields is unclear. The definitive paths to Woodend Farm and the Nicky Line in one direction and to Cherrytree House in the other should provide a pleasant alternative to walking in the Lane. The footpath sign to Cherrytree House from the lane has disappeared. The presence of these paths need re-asserting before any development of this area occurs following the Buncefield explosion. 168 RISK ASSESSMENT There were no reports of any problems on Parish Council property. 169 Parking restrictions and damage to grass verges This item was referred from full Council because comments are required by the end of March. The District Council is carrying out a review of waiting restrictions and parking on grass verges and footways and has asked for local input to identify where restrictions are no longer required or to identify dangerous locations where they should be introduced. Parking on grass verges should only be permitted if the verges have been reinforced and the Council may invest in the construction of lay-bys. The following areas were noted • Tingeys Close (grass verges damaged by parked cars) • Area opposite St Mary’s Church near Stathams Court (verges damaged by people parking visiting Stathams Court and St Mary’s Church) • Corner of Coopers Meadow (verges damaged by motorists dropping off and collecting children attending local schools) It was also noted that areas of the Common are being eroded. 170 Mr H Green: Sponsored seat in The Avenue Mr Green has asked permission to put a commemorative seat by the Cricket Pitch in memory of his father and mother who lived in the village from 1950 until early last year. The Clerk to reply that the Committee has received several requests for seats on the Common and needs to contact those concerned to ascertain if they are still interested before granting permission. 171 Greenleas: Request for a right of way Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that the Committee agrees, in principle, to granting a right of way under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act to Greenleas. The applicant is to be informed that an independent valuation should be obtained. Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that delegated authority should be given to the Chairman of the Parish Council, the Chairman and Vice Chairman of the Common, Footpaths and Open Spaces Committee and the Clerk to approve the valuation and progress the right of way. 172 Quotation from Wicksteed Leisure for replacement safety tiles for Long Cutt and East Common Play Areas The contractor met a representative from Wicksteed Leisure to inspect Long Cutt and East Common Play areas to agree the number of replacement safety tiles required. A quotation has been received for £2.139. The Clerk to liaise with the contractor to ascertain that the number of tiles mentioned in the quotation is correct. RESOLVED that delegated authority be given to the Chairman, Vice Chairman and the Clerk to progress the replacement and refurbishment of the safety tiles. The quotation is for supply only and it was agreed that John Pidgeon is to carry out the works. Councillor Stent agreed to contact Wicksteed and request a 10% discount 173 Information evening on Grounds Maintenance, St Albans District Council Councillors Bull, Pierpoint, O’Donovan and the Clerk agreed to attend the information evening on the new grounds maintenance contract. 174 Chequer Lane ditch The contractor has cleared the undergrowth from the ditch in Chequer Lane and cut back the hedge. Brian Peers, St Albans District Council, has been asked to contact the contractor regarding a blockage in the ditch which was noted by the Contractor. The Clerk to instruct the contractor to repair the metal railings in Chequer Lane. 175 Carter Jonas:unauthorized tipping on Crown Estates Carter Jonas has instructed the farmer to remove the unauthorized tipping from Crown Estates land adjacent to the Ver Valley Walk, off Chequer Lane. 176 CUMBERLAND HOUSE GARDEN Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED to accept Fairclough Homes offer of £7,500 towards maintenance of the footpath in Cumberland House garden. The Clerk to ask for the keys to the garden for one weekend so that photographs may be taken for the Anglia in Bloom portfolio. Members agreed that the garden could be handed over in six week’s time, once the additional lit bollard in installed. OTHER URGENT BUSINESS 177 Parish Centre Sketch plans for the proposed Parish Centre were circulated to members. The building has been turned around to minimize the impact on the Common. If the full Council approves the plans it is suggested that the residents of South Common Cottages be invited to attend a meeting at the Youth Club to view the plans. The plans may also be displayed at the Annual Parish Meeting. 178 DATE AND TIME OF NEXT MEETING: 6th April 2006 Return to the top of the page REDBOURN PARISH COUNCIL Minutes of Common, Footpaths and Open Spaces held in the Council Chamber, Redbourn Village Hall on Thursday, 2nd February 2006 at 7.30pm. PRESENT: Councillors C O’Donovan, Chairman, A V Bull, Mrs C Cardy K Maidment, R Stent, Dr W S Pierpoint and A E Swendell APOLOGIES: Councillor Mrs M Maynard IN ATTENDANCE: Mrs D Whiskin Clerk to the Council, Mr and Mrs L Gregory There were no declarations of interest 162 Minutes of the previous meeting Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that the minutes of the meeting held on lst January be approved and signed as a true record. 163 Village Post The brass plaque containing information on Redbourn’s Village of the Year awards is now ready for fixing to the post. Councillor Maidment agreed to install the sign when it arrives next week. 164 Cumberland House Garden Fairclough Homes were unaware that the garden was open to the public and have now locked the gates. The Parish Council has put a laminated notice on the two gates informing the public that the garden will be open once it has been officially handed over to the Parish Council. No response has been received to the Parish Council’s request for an additional £10,000 towards maintenance of the footpath. Councillor Maidment was unable to get access to the garden to inspect the wall. The Clerk to ascertain whether it would be possible for access to be made available. 165 Play Areas Mr Pidgeon has been instructed to deal with the medium risk items highlighted in the annual inspection of the play areas. The Clerk is awaiting a response from Wicksteed Leisure regarding whether it is possible to purchase a small quantity of safety tiles to enable the contractor to refurbish the safety surfacing. Wicksteed has been asked to look at the safety tiles at the entrance to Silk Mill Play area. This play area has only been open a few years and the tiles should not have lifted. 166 Council Stores The Clerk and Chairman inspected the council stores and took an inventory. The contractor has been instructed to dispose all redundant and broken items. Members agreed that the Council Stores would not be suitable for conversion for a garage for the Care Group minibus and should be kept as a Council Store. It would be possible to increase the storage available by putting in a mezzanine floor. 167 Road outside the Methodist Church Mr Brian Pidgeon has completed the remedial works to the road outside the Methodist Church. The cost of the repairs was £630. 168 Additional planting in hedge between Long Cutt Play Area and footpath The contractor has said it would be possible to transplant saplings to bridge the gap in the hedge but he is doubtful whether they would be allowed to grow. It was agreed that he should be instructed to carry out this work. 169 Entrance to Kane Haulage Yard Hertfordshire Highways has said that the pothole at the entrance to Old Station Yard is not a safety hazard as it is not line with the pedestrian route along the footpath. No reply has been received to the email to Kane Haulage requesting that he repair the hole. Hertfordshire Highways has informed the Council that it will be resurfacing this section of the High Street and would take the repairs up to and including the pothole if Kane Haulage would pay for this section of the work. The Clerk to write to Mr Kane to ascertain whether he would be prepared to do this. 170 Risk Assessment Reports The Contactor has said the seat at Long Cutt is broken and recommends it be replaced by a metal seat. The seat was a stone base with wooden slats which could be repaired but he does not think this would be cost effective. He has been informed that the budget has been set for 2006/7 and no monies were set aside for a replacement seat. It was agreed that the next time a request is received for a sponsored seat this should be used to replace one of the metal seats on the Common. The metal seat could be resited at Long Cutt play area. 171 Ver Valley Walk The Contactor has received a complaint about the amount of rubbish which is dumped in the field adjacent to the Ver Valley walk off Chequer Lane. The Clerk has taken photos of the rubbish. The Clerk to write to the Crown Commissioners, footpaths officer and the District Council requesting that the rubbish be removed. 172 North Common Footpath Concern was expressed that if the Parish Council is responsible for the footpath on North Common it may also be responsible for the other footpaths around the Common. If this is the case the costs of future repairs would be enormous. It was noted that North Common footpath had been damaged by Transco investigating gas leaks. There are a number of holes that require repair. A councillor said that when a road is adopted it includes 18” beyond the road which may mean that County is responsible. The Clerk to investigate this. 173 Chestnut Tree near Old Dairy Farm The contractor has applied to the District Council for permission to either reduce the Chestnut Tree by 30% or remove it completely. To remove the tree would cost £800, to reduce it by 30% would cost £350. Members agreed that it should be reduced by 30%. The Clerk to write to Mr Whitton to remind him that parking on the Common is not permitted. 174 Water Pump on Common near Chequer Lane Members agreed that the water pump near Chequer Lane should be made more of a feature. The Clerk to instruct the Contractor to keep the grass around the water pump cut. Councillor Swendell agreed to paint it with hammerite. 175 Nicky Line An application has been made to the District Council for £5,413.65 which is this year’s grant for the Nicky Line. The contractor has been asked to inform the Council of any works that may be required. It was agreed that the contractor should remove the litter which has accumulated in the hedges. The Chairman and Vice Chairman to walk the Nicky Line to ascertain what other works are required. The Contractor reported that water has been discharged onto the Nicky Line near Three Cherry Lane. This has washed away the top surface of the path, caused ruts and made areas very muddy. It was thought that the water may be from the Buncefield Oil Depot. This has been reported to the District Council. 176 Parish Paths The kissing gate has now been installed on Footpath 34. The hedgerow on the far side of the gate will need trimming back. The leaves on the steps from the bypass are a hazard and need clearing. A report was received from a resident regarding the difficulty of walking footpath 38 because a fence has been built at the back of the stile. Julian Thornton held a meeting with landowners near Nichols Farm. The new fence was installed because of the Ml widening scheme. The landowner agreed that the stile was unacceptably high and has agreed to keep the nearby gate unlocked. This was not very satisfactory as the ground near the gate was puddled by horses and the gate was awkward to handle. The stiles will be replaced by kissing gates once the Ml work is complete. 177 DEFRA: Notes for Guidance The Parish Council has been informed that the road from Fish Street to the end of the Youth Club grounds should be discharged from Common land status before Hertfordshire County Council will adopt the road. A copy of the guidelines for Local Authorities proposing to appropriate land forming part of a common was circulated and noted. Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that this Committee seeks the permission of the Secretary of State to discharge the common land status of the section of common which forms the tarmac road from Fish Street to the end of the Youth Club grounds. Councillor Maidment agreed to measure the section of land in question. 178 DATE AND TIME OF NEXT MEETING The next meeting of the Common Footpaths and Open Spaces meeting is to be held on Thursday, 2nd March 2006. The meeting closed at 8.30 pm. Return to the top of the page *REDBOURN PARISH COUNCIL Minutes of Common, Footpaths and Open Spaces held in the Council Chamber, Redbourn Village Hall on Thursday, 2nd February 2006 at 7.30pm. PRESENT: Councillors C O’Donovan, Chairman, A V Bull, Mrs C Cardy K Maidment, R Stent, Dr W S Pierpoint and A E Swendell APOLOGIES: Councillor Mrs M Maynard IN ATTENDANCE: Mrs D Whiskin Clerk to the Council, Mr and Mrs L Gregory There were no declarations of interest 162 Minutes of the previous meeting Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that the minutes of the meeting held on lst January be approved and signed as a true record. 163 Village Post The brass plaque containing information on Redbourn’s Village of the Year awards is now ready for fixing to the post. Councillor Maidment agreed to install the sign when it arrives next week. 164 Cumberland House Garden Fairclough Homes were unaware that the garden was open to the public and have now locked the gates. The Parish Council has put a laminated notice on the two gates informing the public that the garden will be open once it has been officially handed over to the Parish Council. No response has been received to the Parish Council’s request for an additional £10,000 towards maintenance of the footpath. Councillor Maidment was unable to get access to the garden to inspect the wall. The Clerk to ascertain whether it would be possible for access to be made available. 165 Play Areas Mr Pidgeon has been instructed to deal with the medium risk items highlighted in the annual inspection of the play areas. The Clerk is awaiting a response from Wicksteed Leisure regarding whether it is possible to purchase a small quantity of safety tiles to enable the contractor to refurbish the safety surfacing. Wicksteed has been asked to look at the safety tiles at the entrance to Silk Mill Play area. This play area has only been open a few years and the tiles should not have lifted. 166 Council Stores The Clerk and Chairman inspected the council stores and took an inventory. The contractor has been instructed to dispose all redundant and broken items. Members agreed that the Council Stores would not be suitable for conversion for a garage for the Care Group minibus and should be kept as a Council Store. It would be possible to increase the storage available by putting in a mezzanine floor. 167 Road outside the Methodist Church Mr Brian Pidgeon has completed the remedial works to the road outside the Methodist Church. The cost of the repairs was £630. 168 Additional planting in hedge between Long Cutt Play Area and footpath The contractor has said it would be possible to transplant saplings to bridge the gap in the hedge but he is doubtful whether they would be allowed to grow. It was agreed that he should be instructed to carry out this work. 169 Entrance to Kane Haulage Yard Hertfordshire Highways has said that the pothole at the entrance to Old Station Yard is not a safety hazard as it is not line with the pedestrian route along the footpath. No reply has been received to the email to Kane Haulage requesting that he repair the hole. Hertfordshire Highways has informed the Council that it will be resurfacing this section of the High Street and would take the repairs up to and including the pothole if Kane Haulage would pay for this section of the work. The Clerk to write to Mr Kane to ascertain whether he would be prepared to do this. 170 Risk Assessment Reports The Contactor has said the seat at Long Cutt is broken and recommends it be replaced by a metal seat. The seat was a stone base with wooden slats which could be repaired but he does not think this would be cost effective. He has been informed that the budget has been set for 2006/7 and no monies were set aside for a replacement seat. It was agreed that the next time a request is received for a sponsored seat this should be used to replace one of the metal seats on the Common. The metal seat could be resited at Long Cutt play area. 171 Ver Valley Walk The Contactor has received a complaint about the amount of rubbish which is dumped in the field adjacent to the Ver Valley walk off Chequer Lane. The Clerk has taken photos of the rubbish. The Clerk to write to the Crown Commissioners, footpaths officer and the District Council requesting that the rubbish be removed. 172 North Common Footpath Concern was expressed that if the Parish Council is responsible for the footpath on North Common it may also be responsible for the other footpaths around the Common. If this is the case the costs of future repairs would be enormous. It was noted that North Common footpath had been damaged by Transco investigating gas leaks. There are a number of holes that require repair. A councillor said that when a road is adopted it includes 18” beyond the road which may mean that County is responsible. The Clerk to investigate this. 173 Chestnut Tree near Old Dairy Farm The contractor has applied to the District Council for permission to either reduce the Chestnut Tree by 30% or remove it completely. To remove the tree would cost £800, to reduce it by 30% would cost £350. Members agreed that it should be reduced by 30%. The Clerk to write to Mr Whitton to remind him that parking on the Common is not permitted. 174 Water Pump on Common near Chequer Lane Members agreed that the water pump near Chequer Lane should be made more of a feature. The Clerk to instruct the Contractor to keep the grass around the water pump cut. Councillor Swendell agreed to paint it with hammerite. 175 Nicky Line An application has been made to the District Council for £5,413.65 which is this year’s grant for the Nicky Line. The contractor has been asked to inform the Council of any works that may be required. It was agreed that the contractor should remove the litter which has accumulated in the hedges. The Chairman and Vice Chairman to walk the Nicky Line to ascertain what other works are required. The Contractor reported that water has been discharged onto the Nicky Line near Three Cherry Lane. This has washed away the top surface of the path, caused ruts and made areas very muddy. It was thought that the water may be from the Buncefield Oil Depot. This has been reported to the District Council. 176 Parish Paths The kissing gate has now been installed on Footpath 34. The hedgerow on the far side of the gate will need trimming back. The leaves on the steps from the bypass are a hazard and need clearing. A report was received from a resident regarding the difficulty of walking footpath 38 because a fence has been built at the back of the stile. Julian Thornton held a meeting with landowners near Nichols Farm. The new fence was installed because of the Ml widening scheme. The landowner agreed that the stile was unacceptably high and has agreed to keep the nearby gate unlocked. This was not very satisfactory as the ground near the gate was puddled by horses and the gate was awkward to handle. The stiles will be replaced by kissing gates once the Ml work is complete. 177 DEFRA: Notes for Guidance The Parish Council has been informed that the road from Fish Street to the end of the Youth Club grounds should be discharged from Common land status before Hertfordshire County Council will adopt the road. A copy of the guidelines for Local Authorities proposing to appropriate land forming part of a common was circulated and noted. Having been duly proposed and seconded it was RESOLVED that this Committee seeks the permission of the Secretary of State to discharge the common land status of the section of common which forms the tarmac road from Fish Street to the end of the Youth Club grounds. Councillor Maidment agreed to measure the section of land in question. 178 DATE AND TIME OF NEXT MEETING The next meeting of the Common Footpaths and Open Spaces meeting is to be held on Thursday, 2nd March 2006. The meeting closed at 8.30 pm. Return to the top of the page minutes are draft until signed
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