minutes of the meeting of the virtual parish council held ... · initial: ..... 2020/2021 - 230 8....
TRANSCRIPT
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Minutes of the Meeting of the Virtual Parish Council held on the 16th June 2020.
Councillors present: Graham Pendrey (Chair), Duncan Edgar, James Rudgley, Peter Ward,
Ann Lovesey (MBE), Peter Ward, David Garrard, Di Ames
Apologies: Tim Wood, Stuart Southall, Noreen Byrne
In attendance: Councillor Philippa Martin-Moran-Bryant, Councillor Stephen Moon, 2/3
members of the public
Clerks: Joanne Lee, Anne Pape
MINUTES
1. Receive and approve apologies for absence.
Councillors Byrne, Southall, Wood
2. Declarations of interest in any matter - being prejudicial or personal. To
consider the granting of any dispensations.
None.
3. Confirm the minutes of the following meetings.
Full Council Meeting – 12th May 2020
Councillors agreed.
Public Participation - Standing Orders will be suspended for a period to allow members of
the public to address the Council
Members of the public were invited to speak. A member of the public advised they
did not wish to make any comment but wanted to listen to the meeting.
4. Ratification of decisions made in accordance with agreed delegated powers.
Councillors agreed.
See Appendix 1
5. Planning.
5.1 Discuss and agree Full Planning Application 20/01172/FUL – Greenview House,
59 Green End Road, Great Barford, Bedford, Bedfordshire, MK44 3HD –
Demolition of the existing garage and erection of a new detached garage.
Erection of single-storey side and rear extension to include replacement window
to the front facade, and additional roof light and sun tunnels to the rear roof.
Councillors discussed and agreed that there was no comment/objection.
6. Borough Councillor Report.
See Appendix 2
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Regarding 29-31 Bedford Road, Councillor Phillippa Martin-Moran-Bryant advised the
relevant planning applications set out below has been granted since 2018, as well as the 2
current applications that are pending consideration. All the permissions remain extant, so to
advise which one(s) have been implemented is difficult to say, without speaking with the
owner and vising the site.
18/01287/FUL - Change of use of retail showroom and furniture manufacturing unit (sui
generis) to supermarket (Use Class A1) and café (Use Class A3) to include a new shopfront
and external flue to the rear. Granted on 28/9/18
19/01201/FUL - Change of use from Cafe (A3) to mixed use Hairdressing (A1) and Beauty
Salon (Sui Generis), alternations and retention of shop front. Granted on 19/12/19
19/01151/ADV - Retention of internally illuminated projecting sign. Granted on 12/2/2020
19/01221/FUL - Installation of new shopfront and replacement windows. Conversion of first
floor showroom and storage into two 1 Bedroom flats and external alterations including
external staircase and first floor access door. Granted on 12/2/2020
20/00570/S73A - Retrospective application for a shutter to shop. Pending Consideration
20/00949/ADV - Installation of internally illuminated 'take away' fascia sign. Pending
Consideration
A further application has been submitted for a change of use of part of the retail unit
to a takeaway (Class A5), however this application has been invalidated, but it is
anticipated that this will be valid shortly and will be consulted upon in the same way
as the other applications. This hopefully may explain some of the queries over why an
advertisement application has been submitted for a takeaway sign, without a change
of use application
Action Councillor Phillippa Martin-Moran-Bryant to contact Highway, Bedford Borough
Council to request parking enforcements outside the new village supermarket.
7. Clerk’s Report.
See Appendix 3
Action Laptop specification to be sent to Councillor Peter Ward to ensure this is suitable
before purchase. Clerk to purchase laptop from Power Computing, Kempston.
Action Clerk to chase Highways to request confirmation as to when the authorised double
yellow lines will be installed in New Road.
Action Clerk to chase Drainage Board to advise the Parish Council when the request to clear
a fallen branch in the brook between Brook Side and Willoughby Close and also tree
cuttings in the brook at the Gamblings.
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8. Police Report.
See Appendix 4
9. Update on unauthorised boundary change in Woodpecker Close.
An update shown below was given by the Clerk.
In March the Parish Council was made aware that someone had cleared hedging from
Parish Council land in Woodpecker Close, and appeared to be preparing a hard-
standing on the land between the house and the development boundary with the
adjacent field.
The activity was confirmed by visual inspection from the public highway.
A Stop Letter was hand delivered to the residence on 03 April 2020 requesting that
work stops and the land reinstated to original status.
As the property is in joint ownership with Stonewater Homes, they were also
informed and forwarded copies of communications.
Stonewater have subsequently been in contact with the resident, and informed the PC
that, as the landowner, they will be taking up the case and investigating the situation.
We understand that due to staff being furloughed in the Covid-19 crisis, there has
been a delay in proceeding with the case. With staff now available, we are informed
that they will be undertaking further review and any necessary action.
Action Clerk to obtain further information from Stonewater.
10. Discuss and agree a plan of action for unauthorised planting in Woodpecker
Close Open space.
Councillors were updated of history in meeting notes sent to all councillors prior to
the meeting.
Councillors discussed and agreed that a letter should be written to the Riverside
Association to advise that this will be discussed at the next Parks and Open Spaces
Committee meeting and an invite be given for a representative from the Riverside
Association to join the Parks and Open spaces Committee as a permanent member of
the Committee.
Action Clerk to organise a Parks and Open Spaces Committee meeting and put “agree a plan
of action for unauthorised planting in Woodpecker Close Open Space”on the agenda.
Action Clerk to write a letter advising the Riverside Association that this will be fully
discussed at the Parks and Open Spaces Committee meeting and invite a member of
the Riverside Association to join as a permanent Committee member on future Parks
and Open Spaces Committees.
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11. Discuss and agree a plan of action for ensuring Government guidelines relating to
Covid 19 are followed at the Village Green and playing field areas.
The Clerk advised the councillors that a number of residents had commented on
issues at the village green including dogs off lead, rubbish being left behind, social
distancing, jumping from bridges into the water, parking, no toilet facilities.
The Clerk advised that parking enforcements had been contacted regarding the
parking on verges, local police had been contacted regarding social distancing not
being adhered to, Environmental services had been regularly contacted to collect
rubbish that had been left behind, Bedford Borough Council regarding dogs off leads
and Environment and Highways regarding jumping off the bridges into water.
The Parish Council agreed that a working group should be formed to keep a regular
monitor on this area to help resolve these persistent issues.
Action Clerk to contact councillors to requests volunteers to set up a working group and
report back to the next Parks and Open Spaces Committee..
Action Clerk to put results from the working group on the next Parks on Open Space
Committee.
Action Clerk to contact residents who raised concerns and advised them of Parish Council
comments.
12. Discuss and agree early cutting back of overhanging vegetation between The
Brambles and the footway alongside the Jubilee Play Area.
Councillors discussed and agreed that as the handyman had reported no sighting of
birds nesting in these bushes that it was possible to cut these hedges back early.
Action Clerk to obtain quotes to cut hedges back neatly.
Action Clerk to put quotes and discuss other areas that needs cutting around the village at the
next Parks and Open Spaces Committee.
13. Discuss and agree cutting of daffodils in the village and New Road verge for next
year and update on the New Road verge.
Councillor David Garrard advised that he had been tending to the verge on New Road
and confirmed that he will continue to work on this area to help this area recover.
The Councillors discussed and agreed that in future for the verge on New Road it was
necessary to sacrifice the daffodils and agreed to cut the grass when required and not
wait for the daffodils to die and wait 6 weeks.
The Parish Council agreed that if other areas in future became an issue then they
would be cut and the daffodils would be sacrificed however the general rule of
waiting for the daffodils to die and waiting 6 weeks will be followed.
The Parish Council also agreed that any future planting of daffodils will be planted in
clumps.
The Parish Council also discussed what to do with the deposited soil in the graveyard.
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Action Clerk to arrange a Graveyard Committee meeting at the graveyard to discuss where to
deposit the soil and other graveyard matters.
Action Clerk to update grass cutting specification.
Action Clerk to request handyman to dispose of vegetation in the graveyard as soon as
possible. Councillor David Garrard will request for the rubbish to possibly be
disposed of with a local farmer.
14. Discuss and agree plan of action following a resident query regarding car
parking issue at the top end of Green End Road northwards.
The councillors discussed and agreed that unfortunately they felt as there were no
current restrictions in this area unless vehicles were causing an obstruction there was
no action to be taken by the Parish Council. Councillors agreed they did not wish to
add to parking restrictions in that area. They agreed that the resident should notify the
police and Bedford Borough Council if any illegal parking was noticed in the future.
Action Clerk to write to resident with the Councillors comments.
15. Discuss and agree a plan of action for judging the garden competition in July.
The councillors discussed and decided that they would patrol the village and take
photos of eligible gardens for the competition.
The clerk advised there was £160 available in the budget to allocate prizes.
The councillors agreed that there would be 2 categories – large and small gardens.
The winners for each category would receive £40 garden vouchers and the second
prize for each category would receive £20 garden vouchers and third prize Highly
Commended certificates.
Action Clerk to send a list of roads for the Councillors to patrol to judge and take photos of
the gardens.
Action Clerk to put on next Parks and Open Spaces Committee to judge entries for the garden
competition.
Action Councillors to patrol village and take photos of eligible gardens for the competition.,
16. Discuss and agree a request for a commemorative bench at the Village Green.
The Councillors discussed and agreed that the next metal framed bench in the village
green could be replaced with a commemorative bench of the same type as the others.
The resident request would need to pay for the costs involved for a replacement
Commemorative bench.
Action Clerk to contact the resident and advise that the Parish Council had authorised a
replacement commemorative bench at the Village Green and advise them of the
location and advise the resident they would be expected to fund the replacement costs.
Action Clerk to gather replacement costs of the commemorative bench and advise resident.
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17. Discuss resident request for a circular walk/cycle path on LAA meadow by Great
Barford bridge.
The Councillors discussed the circular walk and agreed that this potentially was a
good idea. However this area was not Great Barford Parish, it was in Central Beds,
Blunham Parish and may extend into Moggerhanger Parish. It was agreed that the
Clerk should contact the Rights of Way officers to come out and discuss this further.
Action Clerk to contact the Rights of Way Office and organise a meeting to discuss the
circular walk. Councillors Folbigg, Councillor Rudgley and Councillor Phillippa
Martin-Moran-Bryant all requested to be part of this discussion.
18. Update on Wöllstein Way Road name suggestion.
The Parish Council were advised of an email received by the Street Numbering team
that the Developers were still requesting their new name to be used instead of
Wöllstein Way. The Parish Council agreed that due to the long history that Great
Barford had with Wöllstein that this name would be more appropriate.
Action Clerk to contact Street Numbering team to advise that the Parish Council would still
like the road name of Wöllstein Way and advise that a number of councillors had
been approached by the developer regarding the street name.
19. Discuss and agree a request for use of the Village Hall field for personal training
business.
The Parish Council discussed and agreed that the personal trainer was permitted to
use the village playing fields to train one on one training session providing a licence
had been obtained by the personal trainer, a risk assessment has been completed and
insurance is valid. The Parish council agreed that there would be no charge for using
the playing fields.
Action Clerk to contact personal trainer to advise that the Parish Council have authorised him
to use the village playing fields to use as a one to one training sessions provided he
has a BBC licence, a risk assessment has been completed by the trainer and their
insurance is valid, with copies presented to the Parish Council.
Action Clerk to contact the Parish Council insurance to confirm that the insurance covers
these activities.
Action If everything is completed and received then terms and conditions should be sent to
the personal trainer ensuring that it mentions that the Parish Council have a right in
future to review this agreement and this will be reviewed on a regular basis.
20. Discuss and agree request for small school class exercising and possible car boot
sales on the Village Hall field.
The Parish Council discussed and agreed that if the car boot sale was a one off event
and they Village Hall Association have a licence, Covid 19 restrictions are lifted
further to permit such gatherings, social distance is adhered to, Covid 19 restrictions
area adhered to and insurance covers these events and a risk assessment is completed
by the Village Hall Association then this is acceptable.
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Action Clerk to contact the Village Hall Association to advise that this is permitted providing
the above details are adhered to.
Action Clerk to contact Parish Council Insurance when car boot sale confirmed.
The Parish Council discussed and agreed the request for teachers to hold small
exercising classes on the playing fields. However, if this is for children then the
current Covid 19 restriction do not allow this to take place. If this is for adults then
they will need to ensure a risk assessment is completed for the Parish Council, Covid
19 restrictions are adhered to, the insurance covers these events and any licences are
obtained.
Action Clerk to confirm with the Village Hall Association if the exercising classes are for
children.
The Village Hall also requested that a children’s party had been cancelled at the
Village hall and they have had a requested to have a horse and handler come to the
Village hall car park for photo opportunities for the party guests. There were 60
guests over 2 hours meaning guests of 15 every half an hour.
The Parish Council agreed this was acceptable providing a risk assessment was
completed by the horse person attending, safety equipment is used and the Parish
Council and horse handler’s insurance are valid for such an event.
Action Clerk to contact the Village Hall Association to advise that this event has been agreed
to go ahead by the Parish Council providing the above details are adhered to.
21. Update and agree plan of action on the village Hall car park tidy up.
The Clerk updated the parish council that the original handyman who visited the
village hall car park advised that the job was too large for him to complete.
A second contractor visited the site and the Parish Council are currently awaiting a
quote.
Action Clerk to update councillors at the next Parks and Open Spaces Committee meeting of
the quote received.
22. Review and agree following updated documents:
22.1 Review of Effectiveness of Internal Control
22.2 Risk assessment and management (financial)
Documents reviewed and agreed by the councillors.
See Appendix 5
23. Review of accounts 2019-2020
Councillors reviewed and agreed accounts 2019-2020.
See Appendix 6.
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24. Correspondence report and information in relation to business from previous
meetings. For information only.
See Appendix 7.
25. To approve and authorise invoices received and receive schedule of receipts
See Appendix 8
Parish council agreed to the neighbourhood plan grant repayment cheque payable to
Groundwork UK for £2560.
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Appendix 1
RATIFICATION OF DECISION MADE IN ACCORDANCE WITH AGREED
CLERK DELEGATED POWERS
12/05/2020
Email sent to councillors 12/05/2020. Majority vote to leave cutting daffodils until 6
weeks after daffodils have died. Agreed that the daffodils can be cut from 01/06/2020
and to follow Royal Horticultural advice. Agreed that any new daffodils must be
planted in clumps.
25/05/2020
Items emailed to councillors and replies received by 25/05/2020
Planning Application “20/00949/ADV, Installation of internally illuminated 'take away'
fascia sign, 29 Bedford Road Great Barford Bedford Bedfordshire MK44 3JF” to your
list for comment.
Consultation expiry date is 09 June.
Please comment.
Comments sent to Planning at BBC on 28/05/2020
20/00949/ADV Advertisement Application. Proposal: Installation of internally illuminated
“Take away” fasica sign. Location: 29 Bedford Road, great Barford, Bedford, Bedfordshire,
MK44 3JF
Great Barford Parish Council do not object to the illuminated sign but would like to make the
following comments:
• The application relates to an illuminated sign only. The implication is the left-hand
business unit will become a “take-away” fast food vendor – however, there has not
been and planning application submitted for change of use to this purpose.
• The associated drawings show conflicting information and do not show the current
status of the overall site.
• Over the last three years there have been 10 planning applications submitted relating
to this site.
• The ad-hoc piecemeal approach that is taking place, is further confusing the current
and intended use of the overall site. These “piecemeal” applications do not refer to
other concurrent applications and therefore lack clarity. As individual applications,
they may be acceptable on their own, but could also have detrimental impact when
considered in conjunction with other proposals for the site. I believe various “case
officers” have been involved over time, so may not be aware of the complete picture.
• On-site parking quantity has been accepted to provide for the current supermarket,
proposed 2x first floor flats, and proposed hairdresser/beauty salon; there is no excess
parking available to support an additional business.
• If permitted, there must be consistency in design and style of signage panels and
window/door access across all three business units on this site.
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Confirm the Parish Clerk(s) official title and responsibilities.
We have recently discovered that it is not permitted to have 2 Clerks in the same parish.
Therefore we have had to retitle our positions as follows:
Joanne Lee – Clerk and Assistant Responsible Finance Officer
Anne Pape – Assistant Clerk and Responsible Finance Officer
Our responsibilities remain the same as previously to allow use to cover each other when
required.
Please comment.
Councillors agreed majority that Clerk titles OK.
Action Clerk updated job descriptions
Discuss and agree applications for ad-hoc Parish council handyman.
We have received 2 possible handymen contacts which are as follows:
Paul Clark who has confirmed he has public liability insurance. He currently works for Mr
Eddie Ellis on Greenend Road and the neighbour next door and he is able to do carpentry,
decorating and gardening.
KG Locksmith and Property Maintenance who has confirmed full liability insurance and are
also CRB/DBS checked. They live in Great Barford and cover a range of areas including
Locksmiths, Carpenter, Glazier, UPVC specialist, Fencing, decking, Ground works, Kitchen
fitting, Plumbing, Painting and decorating and all maintenance repairs. They are a company
so they would not work on an hourly rate but would produce a quote for the work required.
Please comment if you are happy for either of these to be used for future Parish work.
Councillors agreed by majority that both contractors should be used for future handyman
work.
Action: Clerk contacted handy persons to advise them of the Parish Councils decision.
Discuss and agree Local Council Insurance for 2020.
A cheque has been raised at the last Parish meeting for £2818.28 for the insurance but has not
been sent as yet.
Please confirm if you agree with the insurance email (attached) and confirm that the cheque
raised can be sent.
Parish Council agreed by majority that insurance was accepted and cheque should be sent
Action: Clerk to sent cheque to the Insurance Company.
Discuss and agree Bedfordshire Pension Fund Summary of total Local Government
Pension contributions 2019-2020.
Please see attached email for any comments.
Parish Council agreed by majority that the Bedfordshire Pension Fund Summary of Local
Government Pension contributions 2019-2020 was Ok.
Action: Clerk confirmed confirmation to BBC.
Discuss and agree Bedford Borough Council grasscutting agreement 2020
Please see attached email for any comments.
Parish Council agreed by majority to BBC grasscutting agreement.
Action: Clerk contacted BBC and completed form. Also checked with handyman that his
current ride on grass cutter has flashing beacon lights comply with regulations. One grass
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cutter applied and one did not. The handyman will install appropriate flashing lights to ensure
this now compile with regulations.
Discuss and agree a new laptop for the Clerk.
As previously advised my current laptop has been having a number of issues lately and it
spent last week in the computer repair shop. He has managed to repair this but has advised it
will not last for much longer. Please could you advise if you are happy for Power computing
to supply a new laptop for the Clerk. I am currently awaiting a quote and will forward this on
as soon as I receive this.
Parish council agreed with majority that funds should be ring fenced for a new laptop for the
Clerk when required and should be taken from Reserve funds as this had not been included in
the budget figures.
Action: Clerk to ring fence laptop funds. Await quote from Power computing.
Discuss a request from a new football team to use the football pitch and equipment next
season.
We have been approached by a new team who would like to use Great Barford playing field
for their football team. I have advised them of the current issues of rabbits. They do not wish
to take on the Great Barford title and they are called U.S Willington. I have contacted the
Insurance company regarding liability if an accident should happen. Please see attached email
(title question). Please comment.
The Parish Council agreed that the village hall playing field should be used for a football
team. There are now currently 2 football teams that would like to use the playing field.
Action: Clerk notified both football teams to confirm they both would need use of the pitch
on Sundays. The teams were advised of the rabbit issue and the update with hedge cutting
and pest control and therefore the Parish cannot confirm that the pitch will be available for
use.
Discuss resident request to remove grass verges for parking on Willoughby Close.
We have received a request from a local resident regarding removing the grass verges for
parking on Willoughby Close. Please see his request below:
Some people have double parked by blocking their own cars in not obstructing anything bar
themselves. Yet they have ended up with parking fines.
Would it not be better to take out the two green verges and open the space for parking, this
would help greatly, as there is no obstruction by the parish in taking out green spaces for new
houses and car parking.
Please comment.
The majority vote was not to remove the grass verges on Willoughby Close for extra parking.
Action GP to confirm if Parish council Land. Clerk advised the resident of Parish Council
decision.
Discuss and agree donation to the Event Committee for one day event insurance for fun
day.
Last year the Parish Council covered the insurance cost for the Fun Day. Please advise if this
goes ahead if you agree/disagree with the Parish Council funding the one day insurance cost
this year. No figures have been submitted by the Village Hall Association as yet.
Event now cancelled.
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Appendix2
Borough Council is carrying on more or less as normal. Staff are mainly working from home
and meetings are being held “virtually”. There are some delays accruing, especially in
planning, partly because of reduced staff numbers and partly because home working is
proving not to be ideal for many officers for domestic reasons. Generally however the
council and officers are learning to adapt and essential services are being maintained.
The Council is faced with major financial problems as a result of Covid 19 and at present the
likelihood, without yet more government funding, is that significant savings will have to be
identified as a matter of urgency. It is not just the extra costs caused by coping with Covid 19
but the loss of income from rates, council tax and commercial activity generally. A paper has
been issued for consideration by the next Executive which sets out the financial pressures. It
is available on line if you go to the Executive section of the main Council website. The
financial strain is such that it is bound to involve cutbacks in both capital and revenue
expenditure.
It does not help future planning that the rates of infection in Bedfordshire generally remain
very high compared to the rest of the country. The reasons are not clear and the council is
urgently seeking further information from PHE and the Office of National Statistics. This
may have a future impact given the possibility of more localised lockdowns to deal with local
“hotspots”.
Another paper before the next executive is the draft Local Plan 2040. The local plan seems
likely to have to provide up to 15,000 houses in the period between 2030 (the end of the
current plan period) and 2040. From initial discussions and presentations there is a real
prospect that again Great Barford will again be required to accept a large number of houses as
it seems likely that there will be a similar approach to spreading development around the
rural area as was taken last year. It is important that we all take every opportunity to make it
clear that Great Barford should not be turned into a commuter suburb of Bedford.
It is uncertain where the East-West rail line will eventually go but it is clearly possible that it
will come very close to Great Barford village. If the proposed connecting station between
Sandy and St Neots is in or near Tempsford, as might happen, the line will almost certainly
pass between here and Roxton, near Hill Farm and Barford House. The railway company is
currently pressing on with surveying in the area that might be affected. The consultation and
information process has been suspended because of the pandemic but will restart later in the
year. We will be working to ensure that the least damaging option is selected.
Initial: .......
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Appendix 3
CLERK REPORT
• Street Number – BBC and developers solicitors advised that Great Barford Parish
Council had not changed their view on the street name – Wollstein Way.
• Remaining yearly inspections jobs for the gym equipment completed by Caloo on 5th
June 2020.
• Request to change mooring posts by the village green. This has been reported again to
Environment Agency.
• New Road has some new galvanised street sign columns – Give Way/North End,
Footpath – nearly opposite Ouse Bank Far and Village name – south end.
• Allan Burls contacted the Parish Council to advise that due to the current situation this
has impacted on the ability to deliver the feasibility study for 59A High Street. They
have managed to complete the topographical survey. They will re-programme the
surveys as soon as possible and advise a programme of delivery.
• Complaints received regarding contractors footpath parking outside 23 Brook Lane .
BBC attended but advised that no vehicle was present at the time of the visit and also
they were unable to take action as there are no verge or footway restrictions.
• Top soil donated for general handyman use, and graveyard top ups.
• Angus Lammie has been contacted regarding cutting the bushes around the playing
fields. He was due to action this the first week of lockdown. He has advised due to
lockdown he has been unable to do this and since the ease in restrictions he is now
unable to action until after bird nesting season.
• Both Football teams who showed interest in using the playing fields next season have
been advised of the current situation regarding the hedge cutting which will be
followed by pest control. They will look for alternative arrangements if the football
pitch is not in a playable condition when the season commences.
• New UK flag received and will replace the torn flag opposite the post office.
• A site visit was completed by Environment Health and trading Standards at New
Road Industrial Estate and at the time of visit the relatively quiet. Noise and Smoke
forms were issued to be completed and returned.
• Planning Ref 20/00519/S73A - New Road, Great Barford. Stephen Moon has
confirmed that he has have asked for this application to be called in to be heard by the
Planning Committee as it seemed probable that the officers were going to approve it.
He agrees with concerns and at the very least there needs to be substantial noise
mitigation and tighter control over times of use. That said he does not believe this is
an appropriate site for this use and is concerned at the expansion and intensification of
this site over the years.
Initial: .......
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• Pathway being worn across grass area in Willoughby Way (possible short cut from
car) and concrete being laid by the fence. Councillors need to decide if any action
should be taken.
• Honours Board has been made. Clerk will collect from manufacturers.
• Weedkilling quotes currently being obtained to treat Woodpecker Close open space.
• Jubilee play area footway weedkiller applied due to overgrown weeds.
• Handyman instructed to complete weekly litter picks particularly in these areas –
village hall car park, playing fields, Woodpecker Close and village green.
• Graham Pendrey kindly repositioned the name board by the village green and gave it
a good clean.
• Phillippa Martin-Moran-Bryant has been advised of specific locations for speedwatch
vehicles to attend and will notify us if any data is released.
• SID’s to be installed by the end of July on New Road.
• Power Computing quote for replacement laptop for Clerk £997.96. Funds to be
ringfenced for when needed.
Initial: .......
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Appendix 4
Item 8. Police Report
Item 8. Police Report
Recorded Date
Committed From Committed To Offence Street Area
01/05/2020 27/04/2020 00:00 01/05/2020 00:00 Harassment - without violence (course of conduct) Great Barford
06/05/2020 01/03/2020 09:00 01/04/2020 09:00 Other criminal damage, other (Under £5,000) Roxton Road Great Barford
25/05/2020 24/05/2020 21:00 25/05/2020 07:00 Theft from a motor vehicle A421 WB From A1 Black Cat Roundabout to Renhold Junction
Great Barford
Recorded Date
Committed From Committed To Offence Street Area
02/04/2020 29/03/2020 15:10 29/03/2020 16:35 Assault occasioning actual bodily harm (ABH) Hunts Field Great Barford
04/04/2020 04/04/2020 03:10 Burglary - Business And Community High Street Great Barford
28/04/2020 28/04/2020 00:00 Harassment - without violence (course of conduct) Great Barford
15/04/2020 14/04/2020 00:00 Harassment - without violence (course of conduct) Great Barford
07/04/2020 27/03/2020 00:00 07/04/2020 00:00 Harassment - without violence (course of conduct) Great Barford
04/04/2020 03/04/2019 00:01 03/04/2020 19:40 Harassment - without violence (course of conduct) Great Barford
07/04/2020 27/03/2020 00:00 07/04/2020 00:00 Harassment - without violence (course of conduct) Great Barford
17/04/2020 17/04/2020 19:00 17/04/2020 19:13 Having possession of a controlled drug - Class B - Cannabis Green End Road Great Barford
12/04/2020 12/04/2020 00:58 Interference with a motor vehicle Hare Meadow Great Barford
15/04/2020 15/04/2020 00:00
Sending letters etc with intent to cause distress or anxiety, Malicious Communications Act 1988 Great Barford
12/04/2020 12/04/2020 00:55 Theft from a motor vehicle Hare Meadow Great Barford
01/04/2020 29/03/2020 16:00 29/03/2020 17:00 Theft if not classified elsewhere New Road Great Barford
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2020/2021 - 243
Appendix 5
Parish Council Risk Schedule Item Frequency Last reviewed Comments/actions
Parish Council Insurance:
Public and employers liability Annual June 2020 Reviewed at time of
insurance renewal
Money and fidelity guarantee Annual June 2020
Personal accident Annual June 2020
War memorial Annual June 2020
Buildings cover Annual June 2020
Buildings:
Maintenance inspection Ongoing Jan 2020
Play areas:
Play area checks Weekly Ongoing
Play area inspections (by qualified
inspector)
Annual Aug 2019
Other inspections/maintenance:
Trees – open spaces 3 yearly Oct 2019 Trees checked by
Clerk/Councillor after
high winds/ heavy
rain/snow
Benches Ongoing Jan 2020
Goal posts Ongoing Include on play
equipment check
Financial Matters:
Banking arrangements Annual May 2020
Insurance providers Annual May 2020 Renew May 2021
VAT return Claim within
time limits
Due Due. Awaiting bank
statements with new
address
Clerk’s salary review Annual July 2019
Budget agreed, monitored, reported Ongoing January 2020
Precept requested Annual January 2020
Payments approval Monthly Monthly
meeting
Bank balances Monthly Monthly
meeting
Bank reconciliations overseen by
councillors
Ongoing Finance
meetings
Chairman’s Allowance reviewed and
agreed
Annual Jan 2020 Budget setting
Councillors Allowance reviewed and
agreed
Annual Jan 2020 Budget setting
Internal Audit Annual May 2019 Due June 2020
External Audit Annual Sept 2019 Due Sept 2020
Internal check of financial records Ongoing May 2019 Renew June 2020
Initial: .......
2020/2021 - 244 Record keeping:
Minutes properly numbered On-going Jan 2020
Asset register available/updated On-going May 2020
Financial regulations available/updated On-going Sept 2020 Reviewed annually
Standing orders available/updated On-going June 2019 Reviewed annually
Backups of electronic data On-going Cloud storage
Employees & Contractors:
Contracts of employment On-going
Contractors Insurance On-going
Written arrangements with contractors On-going Mar 2019 3 year contract –
grasscutting &
maintenance
Councillors Responsibilities:
Code of Conduct adopted On-going June 2019
Register of Interests completed and
updated
On-going May 2019
Register of gifts/hospitality On-going
Declarations of interests minuted On-going
The information given above was agreed at the meeting on .......................................................
as being a correct record
Signed: ............................................................................................................. Date: .................
Chairman
Signed: ............................................................................................................. Date: .................
Clerk
Initial: .......
2020/2021 - 245
Risk assessment and management (financial) Topic Risk Identified Risk Level
(H/M/L)
Management of Risk Staff Action
Precept Not submitted L Full minute – Clerk
follow up
Annual planner
Not paid by LA L Confirm receipt Annual planner
Adequacy of
precept
H Regular review of
budget to actual
Regular review by
Finance committee and
report back to Full
Council
Other income Cash handling L Cash handling is
avoided. No Petty Cash.
Regular review
Cash banking L Regular banking Regular review
From graveyard L Burial register updated
as required. Check of
payment of fees.
Regular review by
Clerks
From allotments L Check allotments
register to payments
received.
Clerk to check
Grants Claims
procedure
M Clerk to check as
required
Clerk check
Receipt of grant
when due
M Clerk to check as
required
Clerk Check and report
Salaries Incorrect
hours/rate paid
M Check rate to
minute/contract. Check
additional hours
Chair to verify
Incorrect
deductions – NI
and income tax
M Outsource payroll Outsourced
Direct costs
and overhead
expenses
Goods not
supplied to
Council
M Follow up all orders Approval check
Invoice
incorrectly
calculated or
recorded
L Check arithmetic on
invoices and perform
bank reconciliations
Clerk to verify
Cheque payable
is excessive or
to wrong party
M Signatory initials on
cheque stub and invoices
Approval check – Full
Council Meeting
Initial: .......
2020/2021 -246 Topic Risk Identified Risk Level
(H/M/L)
Management of Risk Staff Action
Grants and
support
No power to pay
or no evidence
of agreement of
Council to pay.
M Minute Council
agreement
Councillor to verify –
Full Council Meeting
Conditions
agreed
L Agree and document any
reasonable conditions.
Clerk to check – Full
Council meeting
Election Costs Invoice at
agreed rate
L Clerk to check and
consider budget
Clerk to check
VAT VAT analysis M All items in cash book
list
Clerk verify
Charged on
sales
M Consider annually Clerk verify
Charged on
purchases
L Consider all items in
cash book lists
Clerk verify
Claimed within
time limits
M Agree returns submitted Clerk verify
Reserves –
General
Adequacy L Consider at Budget
setting
Clerk opinion. 6
months running costs
Reserves –
Earmarked
Adequacy L Consider at Budget
setting and review of
final accounts
Clerk/councillor
opinion
Unidentified
earmarked or
contingent
liability
L Review minutes Clerk/councillor
opinion.
Assets Loss, damage
etc
M Annual inspection,
update insurance and
asset registers
Annual planner
Risk or damage
to third party,
property or
individuals
M Review adequacy of
Public Liability
Insurance
Annual Planner.
Regular inspection of
open spaces and trees.
Weekly checks of play
areas with record kept.
Annual inspection of
play areas by external
inspector. Consider
‘topple tests’ in
churchyard. Tree
inspection 3 years.
Security of
buildings and
equipment
M Dummy Cameras. Annual maintenance
inspections.
Maintenance of
buildings
L Annual inspections and
maintenance as required.
Annual maintenance
inspection. Annual
inspection for fire and
electrical safety.
Initial: .......
2020/2021 -247
Topic Risk
Identified
Risk
Level
(H/M/L)
Management of Risk Staff Action
Staff Loss of key
personnel
L Hours, health, stress, training,
long term sick, early
departure – risk monitored
and managed as appropriate.
Clerk/Councillor
opinion.
Employment
Committee.
Fraud by
staff
L Fidelity guarantee value
appropriately set
Council to review
annually
Comply with
Employment
Law
L Membership of various
National and Regional bodies
Annual renewal of
affiliations
Loss Consequentia
l loss due to
critical
damage or
third party
performance
L Review adequacy of
Insurance cover
Annual planner
Legal liability Ensuring
activities are
within legal
powers
H Education as to legal powers
of the Council. .
Clerk to clarify legal
position on any new
proposals with
advisory bodies.
Proper and
timely
reporting via
the Minutes
M Review and approval of
minutes
Minutes approved at
Full Council meetings.
Approved minutes
available on the
website.
Proper
document
control
M Key documents, deeds etc. to
be copied and originals stored
with solicitors.
Data storage to comply with
GDPR
Ensure copies held
and originals with
Solicitor - ongoing
Review data storage
with respect to GDPR
- ongoing
Financial
records
Inadequate
records
L Clerk check regularly, report
to Full Council and internal
audit review
Approval of payments
and reporting of bank
balances at Parish
Council meetings.
Annual Internal audit
Minutes Accurate and
legal
L Review at following meeting. Agenda
Members
interests
Conflict of
interest
M Declarations of interest to be
documented/minuted and any
conflict addressed as
appropriate
Agenda
Delegation of
responsibilitie
s including in
emergency
situations
Delay in
taking
required
action
M Scheme of delegation Annual review
Initial: .......
2020/2021 - 248
The risk management procedures, as documented above, were considered by the Council on
………………………………………and will be reviewed again in 12 months.
The risk management procedures, as documented above, were confirmed to be in practice by the
Internal Auditor on ………………………………………
Initial: .......
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Appendix 6
Year End report 2019/2020
Draft Annual Return
Initial: .......
2020/2021 - 250
RESERVES AS OF 31/03/2020
Allocated reserves
Average speed cameras Donation £3,000.00
Village Hall car park Future repairs £10,000.00
Reserve 6 months running costs £32,500.00
Total £45,500.00
CIL balance 31/03/2020 £95,985.24
Bank balances 31/03/2020
Current account £122,294.76
Business Reserve account £48,874.00
Total £171,168.76
Balance per cashbook 31/03/2020 £168,231.25
Remaining General Reserve £26,746.01
Community Infrastructure Levy Receipts remaining
Date Application Total receipt Remaining
17/10/2017 16/00873/MAF £26,642.25 £16,058.49
19/04/2018 16/00873/MAF £53,284.50 £53,284.50
12/11/2018 16/00873/MAF £26,642.25 £26,642.25
£95,985.24
CIL funds must be spent with 5 years of receipt. See NALC Guidance CIL projects in progress for 2020/2021
Highways survey ongoing - estimate of costs
59 High Street
Traffic and Pedestrian Survey (£900 – or actual cost, if lower)
Stage 1 Road Safety Audit (£750)
Topographical Survey (£750 – or actual cost, if lower)
Design Team time (£1,500)
Total £3,900
CIL receipts expected for 2020/2021
18/02667/MAR, 59-61 Roxton Road, Great Barford
Bedford Borough Council has advised that the contribution to the Parish Council from this development is approximately £163K. This may be subject to capping which is something that the Council Officer would usually consider closer to the October / April transfers. The CIL Regulations that deal with Parish capping is 59A and can be reviewed at Paragraph 7 in the following link http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2013/982/regulation/8/made Payment of CIL from the development has yet to be paid to Bedford Borough Council.
Initial: .......
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Appendix 7
Correspondance Report Date received From Detail Action 05-May-20 BBC Press Release - Reopening
of household waste recyling center
Emailed to Councillors
12-May-20 Phillippa Martin-Moran-Bryant
Borough Councillor may report
Emailed to Councillors
18-May-20 Gill Cowie New guidance on neighbourhood planning
Emailed to Councillors
19-May-20 BBC Press Release - over 1250 items donated to Active Minds
Emailed to Councillors
20-May-20 Gill Cowie Planning Policy Briefing Local Plan 2030 Policies 5S, 6 and 7S
Emailed to Councillors
22-May-20 BBC Press Release - Donating items to Charities
Emailed to Councillors
26-May-20 James Salmon update on Great Barford bridge refurbishment scheme
Emailed to Councillors
28-May-20 Road closures Wood Lane, Willington Emailed to Councillors 29-May-20 BBC Press Release - helping to
help young trees thrive in neighbourhoods
Emailed to Councillors
02-Jun-20 BBC Press Release - Discretionary business support grant scheme now open for applicants
Emailed to Councillors
02-Jun-20 Road Closures Renhold Road Emailed to Councillors 04-Jun-20 BBC Press Release - need for
fitness instructors to register before running any session in the park
Emailed to Councillors
05-Jun-20 BBC Press release - High Street Bedford changes
Emailed to Councillors
05-Jun-20 Neighbourhood Watch Neighbourhood Watch update
Emailed to Councillors
05-Jun-20 Highways England A428 Black Cat to Caxton Gibbet - Community Forum meeting
Emailed to Councillors
06-Jun-20 Neighbourhood Watch Community Priority Crime Statistics
Emailed to Councillors
08-Jun-20 BBC Press - releaseCar Parks Reopen on Monday 15 June
Emailed to Councillors
08-Jun-20 BBC Press Release: A6 Southbound to Be Closed Overnight for Bridge
Emailed to Councillors
08-Jun-20 Local Government Boundary Commission for England
Reopening the Bedford electoral review - warding consultation
Emailed to Councillors
09-Jun-20 Jo Tester, BBC Parish &Town Council Network
Emailed to Councillors
09-Jun-20 Planning Policy, BBC Houses in Multiple Occupation: Supplementary Planning Document consultation
Emailed to Councillors
10-Jun-20 Highways England A428 Black Cat to Caxton Gibbet - Community Forum meeting
Emailed to Councillors
11-Jun-20 CPRE June newsletter Emailed to Councillors 11-Jun-20 BBC Press release - local offer Emailed to Councillors 11-Jun-20 NALC oronavirus & the future of
local government - Labour commission on local govt., housing & transport.
Emailed to Councillors
11-Jun-20 BATPC LGA Code of conduct consultation
Emailed to Councillors
Initial: .......
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Appendix 8
Payments, Direct Debits June 2020
Payments
Date Company Description Amount Cheque
No
16th June 2020 Russell Harley Grasscutting May 2020
(£1290.00)
Grasscutting May 2020 (£122.50)
£1412.50 003573
16th June 2020 Melanie Allsop GOR maintenance 7/5/2020 and
12/5/2020
£88.00 003574
16th June 2020 Edward Burnett Play area checks 12/2/19 –
19/5/2020
£531.00 003575
16th June 2020 Anglian Water
Business (National)
Ltd
Allotment Water 8/3/2020 –
15/3/2020
£13.16 003576
16th June 2020 Joanne Lee Stamps £12.36 003577
16th June 2020 CPRE Annual membership of
Countryside Charity
£36.00 003578
16th June 2020 Cheque Cancelled 003579
16th June 2020 Groundwork UK Repayment of NP grant funding £2560.00 003580
Date Company Detail Amount
May 2020 Bedford Borough
Council
NOTE: Pay date
amended to end of the
month as from
November 2019
Salary Cost (incl NI and
pension)
& payroll provision charge
£2651.13
May 2020 and June
2020
E.ON Monthly street lighting May 2020 -
£299.69
June 2020
£309.67
June 2020 TML Telephone £15.60
Ringfenced funds
Amount
Average speed cameras donation £3000
Village Hall car park maintenance
fund
£10,000
3 months running costs £15,561
Total £28,561
Initial: .......
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Community Infrastructure Levy
Development Payment Received
Silver Street £3515.64 Apr 2016
Green End Road (The Paddocks) £3878.44 Oct 2016
Green End Road (The Paddocks) £3878.43 June 2017
Linden Homes £26,642.25 Oct 2017
Linden Homes £53,284.50 Apr 2018
Linden Homes £26,642.25 Nov 2018
Project Expenditure Paid
CCTV upgrade deposit £1083 incl VAT 2016/2017
CCTV upgrade £4143 incl VAT 2017/2018
Swings £8745.60 incl
VAT
2017/2018
Tommy memorial £776.30 incl VAT 2018/2019
Information Board £30 2018/2019
2 x benches £658.32 2018/2019
Lectern £635 2019/2020
Play equipment £5667.66 2019/2020
Radar speed sign £2571 2019/202
Total CIL retained £95,985