Author: Lindsey Wood

Mere Town Council

Town Clerk – Mrs. L. C. Wood

Minutes of a meeting of the Town Council held on Monday, 12^th October 2020 at 6.00 p.m. at Duchy Manor, Springfield Road, Mere, BA12 6EW and on Zoom

 

Present in the room:  Cllrs. C. Hazzard (Chairman), A. Colman, R. Coward, G. Ings, G. Jeans, A. Mead B. Norris & Mrs. L. Traves

Present on Zoom:  Cllrs. R. Hill, J. Jordan, E. Mitchell, R. Sims, Mrs. K. Symonds

Also Mr. David Hytch

 

Public Session

Mr. David Hytch said that he wanted to speak about the outline planning application for Beaumont Business Park.  He said that he was in favour of the principle of change of use to residential of what is currently a shambolic site.  However, he was concerned at the information contained within the documents relating to the hazardous material that was on the site and who, if planning permission were to be given, would control the removal of this waste to ensure it was removed safely and the site was left in a safe condition.  Mr. Hytch also said that there were new planning regulations coming in next year which required new development to provide Electric Vehicle charging capacity to each residence and he was concerned whether there would be sufficient grid supply for this.  He also pointed out his concern for the lack of pedestrian footpath along Woodlands Road and impact on the road network that extra residential traffic, as well as construction traffic, would have.  The Chairman pointed out that the control of the removal of hazardous waste was not a material consideration for the Town Council at this outline planning stage and would be an issue for building control and for the Environmental Department at Wiltshire Council.

 

Apologies for absence received and accepted from Cllr. Philip Coward

 

151. To receive declarations of interest from members and to consider requests for new DPI dispensations.

Members are invited to declare disclosable pecuniary interests and other interests in items on the agenda as required by the Mere Town Council Code of Conduct for Members and by the Localism Act 2011.

• To receive Declarations of Interest relating to matters contained in this agenda, in accordance with the provisions of the Local Government Act 1972 in respect of officers and the Localism Act 2011 in respect of members.
• None
• To consider any dispensation requests received by the Town Clerk.
• None

 

152. Planning
153. a) Applications: (All applications can be viewed on Wiltshire Council’s website http://planning.wiltshire.gov.uk/Northgate/PlanningExplorer/ApplicationSearch.aspx – and type in the relevant application number)

 

 

Application Ref:	20/07469/OUT
Application for:	Outline Planning
Proposal:	Demolition of the existing buildings and the erection of up to 70 dwellings.
At:	Beaumont Business Park, Woodlands Road, Mere.  BA12 6BT

 

Cllr. Symonds said that she was one of the group of councillors that met with the applicants agents a couple of years ago when they wanted to discuss their proposals with the Town Council.  She said she thought that it was inevitable that the site will be developed but agreed with Mr.  Hytch and his analysis of clearing the site and also if we can make a case for a footpath to that site to be a key consideration.

Cllr. Jordan said he was disturbed that he could not see anywhere in the application that provision had been made for the present industry that is taking place on the site now.  He said he realised that warehousing and distribution does have a lower employee count but the reason that it is a scruffy site is because the present owners have let it get scruffy.  Cllr. Jordan felt that the site could accommodate 20 houses and leave sufficient room for the employment that is currently operating from the site as well.

Cllr. Mitchell said he thought the development would eventually take place and that the planners and building control would be responsible for the site clearance and any environmental issues arising from that.  However, he pointed out that there will be more traffic on the road and once developed there will be a lot more cars travelling to and from the site.

Cllr. Sims said he agreed with the points made by Cllr. Jordan

Cllr. Colman pointed out that the Economic Viability Assessment within the planning documents argues why there should be no affordable housing provided within the development and argues for a drastic reduction in CIL contributions.  He said that Mere’s housing quota to the year 2026 had been fulfilled although there was a shortfall in affordable housing.  He said that Mere needed the 30% affordable housing and a public footpath should also be provided.  Also, there is no play area for children and it is not appropriate to assume that children from this development would use the Walnut Road Play Area because it is often full to capacity.

Cllr. Hill said that the current site was unsightly and although he felt that development of the site was inevitable, he would like to see some offices and an arts centre there as well.

Cllr. Mrs. Traves said that she understood that Mere had met it s quota of housing.  She felt that access, traffic and amenities were the main issues for consideration when considering this level of development.  She pointed out that the old Hill Brush Factory site in Woodlands Road was still being developed and that the developers were struggling to sell the houses.

Cllr. Rodney Coward said that he agreed that it was inevitable that the site would be developed but stressed that we needed better infrastructure, provision for an expanded doctor’s surgery and roads.

Cllr. Mead said that the developers should provide a continuation of the footpath on to the site.

Cllr. Norris said that although this was an outline application it was submitted along with a very large number of documents but there was a significant lack of detail.  He could find no detail about drainage and felt that he could not support the application due to the lack of detail.  Furthermore, the site is falling apart because the present owners have allowed it to fall apart and the Council should say that it requires 30% affordable housing.  He also pointed out that it may be difficult to sell the new housing on the old Brush Factory site until the outcome of this site is known.

The Chairman suggested that the Town Council should ask for some Live/Work units (similar to what was built in Tisbury).  He also felt that major road improvements needed to be implemented to the road outside the Walnut Tree Public House along with a restriction to stop drivers from turning left on to Huntingford Road.

Cllr. Jeans said that this was a complex issue and pointed out that the volume of traffic going down Pettridge Lane is more than the volume of traffic going down Salisbury Street at peak times.  He said he was not against the principle of houses being built here but there should be the means for people to get into town safely by foot.  There is no satisfactory footpath along Woodands Road and I feel very strongly about a pedestrian footpath.  This could be an opportunity to get the footpath from opposite the Walnut Tree up to Angel Lane widened and remodelled so that it is accessible for all to use as an alternative to walking around Edgebridge Corner.  The Town Council has made a financial contribution towards getting the dropped kerbs put in place here.   An impact assessment to assess the impact of the extra traffic and extra people in Mere should be carried out.  We are crying out for housing for key workers.  It is common now for applicants to plead that it is not viable to provide affordable housing but it is just not tolerable to accept no affordable housing as far as I am concerned.  More and more people now being encouraged to work from home.  Fibre broadband needs to be provided.  Electric vehicle charge points should be provided with assurances that there is enough grid capacity.  Neighbours I have spoken to are largely in favour of the development but at the very least they should have a safe footpath to walk into the town centre.

Cllr. Jordan said that the infrastructure in Mere makes this development unviable.  The development places too many demands on the infrastructure.

RESOLVED that the Town Council recommends refusal of this application because members would expect a level of affordable housing and infrastructure improvements to be offered as a result of a development of this size.  This application is not proposing any community benefits that would make this proposed development acceptable in planning terms.  As an example, listed below are the community benefits that the Town Council would expect and would feel appropriate in relation to the actual needs of the proposed development:

• 30% affordable housing
• Live/Work units or a planned mix of residential and light commercial use.
• The provision of a footway for pedestrians to access the site along Woodlands Road and also provision to provide or fund a safe pedestrian route from the site to the centre of Mere by way of accessibility improvements to RoW 66/10 and 50/10 (there is no safe accessible pedestrian route to the centre of Mere from Woodlands Road at the present time as there is no footway around Edgebridge corner).
• Proposals to address major concerns about increased vehicles and vehicle safety along Pettridge Lane and on the junction of Woodlands Road with Edgebridge and highway improvements that are required as a consequence of development.
• Vehicles should be discouraged from turning left out of the development and causing obstructions and congestion along the narrow rural lanes around Huntingford and Swainsford (Please note that when determining the planning application for the adjacent development, an informative was agreed at Committee to address the same issue but this was missed off the final permission document by the planning authority. Fortunately, it was implemented by the developer as a good will gesture).
• As conditioned on the adjacent development as well as the development at Walnut Road, arterial roads within the development should be 5.5m minimum to allow for on-street parking for visitors & deliveries.
• Green space and recreational facilities for children should be provided within the development. The Walnut Road Play Area is quite often full to capacity.  Also, the original intent of on-site children’s recreation facilities was to provide peace of mind for parents that children are safe and within the site.
• Sufficient off-street parking to allow for 2 cars per house. Residents like their vehicles to be parked within site of their houses.  Garages provided are often used for other purposes.
• Contribution towards educational facilities. This, along with any other S.106 contributions should be clearly allocated and identified for the sake of clarity.
• Consideration should be given to broadband fibre to premises and individual electric vehicle charging infrastructure.
• A traffic management plan, similar to that produced by C. G. Fry & Son for the adjacent development, would be expected with a direct communication line to report breaches.

Proposal made by the Chairman, seconded by Cllr. Colman and carried with a vote of 12 for and 1 abstention. (In order not to compromise his position as Wiltshire Councillor, Cllr. Jeans abstained from discussion or voting).

 

Further points to note:

 

The Commercial Viability Report within the application states that “the site has a negative land value for any commercial development.”.  However, in the Economic Viability Assessment for development it states that “policy compliant development of the site is unviable.  It says that the reason for the overall viability issues are that the site has significant Existing Use Value and that the CIL and s.106 contributions are not sustainable.  Therefore, it is not economically viable to provide 30% affordable housing within the development.”  These would appear to be somewhat conflicting statements when considering “use” and “development” as contributing factors to the viability of the site.

 

The Economic Viability Assessment also lists 7 units within the site, all of which are in use and providing a rental income.  Whilst this may not be a high employment site in terms of numbers, this evidence may suggest that the site is still commercially viable albeit run-down by a lack of investment.  This evidence would confirm the Town Council’s view that development of the site for residential purposes only would result in the loss of an existing employment site.

 

Whilst the Town Council may prefer to see a brownfield site being utilised for development over a new greenfield site, given that the applicant’s Economic Viability Assessment (EVA) suggests that the site has such a high Existing Use Value and that, as it states, the site is yielding a rental income, members felt that as Mere has achieved its housing allocations identified within the current Wiltshire Core Strategy and there would be no community benefits or infrastructure benefits in relation to the proposed development, that the application should be refused.  Mere deserves better.

 

Section 3.2.2 of the Transport Statement produced by Hydrock says: “Clement’s Lane, which connects to the village centre, some 300m from the site, benefits from footways on at least one side of the carriageway for much of the route through the village. Where footways are not present, there are grass verges which can offer space for pedestrians to step off the carriageway.”  This is not true.  There is no footpath whatsoever around the dangerous bend and over the bridge nor is there any grass verge – in other words there is no footpath from the end of Clements Lane to the beginning of Pettridge Lane.  This is the most dangerous part of the highway into Mere and is a blind bend.  To encourage pedestrians and/or young mothers with children and pushchairs to use this route is unacceptable.

 

Section 3.2.3 of the Transport Statement produced by Hydrock says: “There are a number of Public Rights of Way (PRoW) in close proximity to the site, providing alternative leisure (indirect) routes linking to the village centre of Mere. The PRoWs within the vicinity of the site are shown in Figure 3-1.”  Whilst this statement is true, it is also necessary for someone to come out and try and walk these footpaths to see that they are not wide enough nor practical for anyone other than the most able-bodied to use.  Rights of Way MERE66/10 leading onto MERE50/10 would provide the most direct route for pedestrians to get from Clements Lane to the centre of Mere.  This route would avoid the dangerous bend (without footpath) at Edgebridge.  However, the Right of Way is narrow (too narrow for a wheelchair) and the tarmac surface is so uneven that it presents a safety hazard for any users.  Furthermore, the Right of Way is too dark to negotiate after dusk.  It would be possible, however, to bring this Right of Way up to a standard that was more user-friendly by widening it, resurfacing it and providing some low-level solar lighting bollards.  The Town Council feels that this should be included within the planning application as it would fulfil a need for the proposed development.

 

Overall, members felt that the demands and impact that such a large development would have on Mere, given that it would be adjacent to an area that has recently and is still currently undergoing development (134 houses), needs some professional assessment to see if the demands on access, highways, drainage, amenities, utilities and services can cope.

 

 

Application Ref:	20/06987/FUL
Application for:	Full Planning
Proposal:	Replace garden sheds with new garden shed
At:	The Chantry, Church Street, Mere.  BA12 6DS

 

The Clerk pointed out that the application boundaries had been drawn incorrectly on both the location plan and the site plan provided in that the location of the sheds was outside the red line application boundary but within the blue line ownership boundary.  RESOLVED to recommend approval of the above application but to point out to the planning authority that the red line/blue line boundaries were inaccurate in both the site plan and the location plan provided.   Proposal made by Cllr. Mrs. Traves, seconded by Cllr. Sims and carried with a majority vote.   (In order not to compromise his position as Wiltshire Councillor, Cllr. Jeans abstained from discussion or voting).

 

 

Application Ref:	20/08646/TCA
Application for:	Work to Trees in a Conservation Area
Proposal:	Weeping crack Willow – take back to previous pollard point.
At:	The Cottage, Old Hollow, Mere.  BA12 6EG

 

RESOLVED to recommend approval of the above application on proposal made by Cllr. Ings, seconded by Cllr. R. Coward and carried with a unanimous vote.

 

Application Ref:	20/08772/TCA
Application for:	Work to Trees in a Conservation Area
Proposal:	Small Yew Tree – Fell
At:	St. Andrews, North Road, Mere.  BA12 6HP

 

RESOLVED to recommend approval of the above application on proposal made by Cllr. R. Coward, seconded by Cllr. Ings and carried with a unanimous vote.

 

153. Future meetings and agenda items

Members agreed that the next meeting would be a hybrid meeting again.

 

Meeting closed at 7.14 p.m.

 

 

Note:  Members are reminded that the Town Council has a general duty to consider the following matters in the exercise of any of its functions: Equal Opportunities (race, gender, sexual orientation, marital status and any disability), Crime and Disorder, Health and Safety and Human Rights.

 

*Further information on these items enclosed/attached

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MERE PEACE MEMORIAL SPORTS AND RECREATION GROUND

Registered Charity No. 1093497

Minutes of a meeting of Trustees held on Monday, 12^th October 2020

 

Present:  Town Councillors Clive Hazzard (Chairman), Eric Mitchell (Vice-Chairman), Aubrey Colman, Philip Coward, Rodney Coward, Raymond Hill, Glen Ings, George Jeans, John Jordan, Alan Mead, Brett Norris, Roy Sims, Mrs. Kate Symonds & Mrs. Lesley Traves.   (This was a hybrid meeting with some members being present physically and some via Zoom)

 

Members of Mere Town Council are sole trustees of Mere Peace Memorial Sports & Recreation Ground Charity (Mere Recreation Ground Charity). 

 

 

 

1. Plans to demolish and rebuild Mere Youth Development Centre in Recreation Ground.   To comment on plans as drawn up by architect (attached).  Members were informed that the proposed front door is in exactly the same position as the existing front door and the width of the proposed building is the same as the width of the existing building.  However, the building will be much longer and will therefore extend eastwards into the Recreation Ground.

 

RESOLVED that in principle, Trustees are in favour of the plans presented subject to some of the concerns/comments below being addressed and subject to any concerns/comments from neighbours as a result of neighbour consultation being addressed:

Comments/concerns:

• Concerns about accessible toilet having a separate external door and security issues this may present.  Cllr. Colman assured members that this would have an entry system that would only be usable when the Youth Development Centre was open.
• The Clerk raised concerns about the need for a shower pointing out that by having a shower in a public premises, it increases the Legionella Risk and will require an increased level of Control Measures to be put in place by the tenants i.e. Seeds4Success https://legionellacontrol.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/hse-acop-l8-legionnaires-disease-the%20control-of-legionella-in-water-systems.pdf
• It is assumed that all windows in the toilet areas will be privacy glass.  Indeed, would it be a good idea for all ground floor windows to be privacy glass?  It is assumed that all windows would be toughened safety glass.
• Photovoltaic panels on the northern elevation of the roof may be unneighbourly and may cause some issues to neighbouring properties in White Road.  As the optimum elevation is the southern elevation, is it necessary to have PV panels on the northern elevation as well?
• It has been mentioned before that there may be a requirement for external roller-doors into the north-east elevation of the building.
• Members discussed whether it would be a good idea to move the building further south to allow for mechanical hedge cutting on the northern boundary (behind the building) but it was pointed out that in order to allow for modern machinery it would need to move 4m further south into the Recreation Ground and this was considered to be unacceptable.

 

1. Confirmation that the Recreation Ground Charity has agreed to grant a new 25-year lease to Seeds4Success with a clause to allow sub-lets to other non-profit organisations with the Mere Ward area.

 

RESOLVED that the Recreation Ground Charity has already agreed to appoint solicitors to seek to grant a new 25-year lease to Seeds4Success in accordance with the terms of the Scheme, (land not required by the Charity and public consultation), but also in accordance with the provisions of the Charities Act.  With regards to any conditions relating to sub-lets, it was agreed to seek advice from the solicitors dealing with the lease on this.  (Members raised questions as to the legal terms and differences between ‘hire’ and ‘sub-let’ and whether prior permission on any sub-lets should be made to the Recreation Ground Charity Trustees and whether these sub-lets would be in accordance with the terms of the Charity Scheme).

 

1. Confirmation approval that a joint project team has been formed of six people divided equally between Mere Recreation Ground Charity and Seeds4Success

RESOLVED to approve joint project team subject to terms of reference – no powers on decisions or finance being delegated to the team.

 

1. To open a project bank account called ?????? . This will be set up by the project team and managed by the project team who will arrange the necessary auditing.  Signatories will be?????.

 

1. To agree that the above account be used to pay architects fees, planning fees, surveyors fees, project managers fees and project construction and material charges. The account will also be used to receive grant money and any donations that are given towards the project.

 

The Town Clerk said that she had great concerns relating to points d) & e) above.  She pointed out that the Charity Commission has a requirement for auditing accounts based on a tier system of income/expenditure.  She is not sure which Charity would ultimately be accountable for the money and how it would show that accountability but pointed out that the asset would belong to the Recreation Ground Charity and therefore assumed it was most likely to be the Recreation Ground Charity’s responsibility.  At the present time the Recreation Ground Charity’s accounts do not have to be audited and we can submit a basic annual return as our income/expenditure is below the £25k limit.  The Clerk was not sure that the Charity Commission would allow a joint project team bank account and was concerned that if the Recreation Ground Charity account was to be used, given the amounts of money that would be passing through the account, it would result in significant and substantial change in audit requirements that would have administrative and financial implications.

RESOLVED for the Recreation Ground Charity to seek advice from the Charity Commission and/or Town Council finance advisers before embarking on this procedure.

 

 

1. The project team will prepare the planning application which is to be submitted in the name of Mere Recreation Ground Charity (as owners of the building/land).

RESOLVED to approve.

 

1. The project team will apply for and prepare all grant funding applications which will be in the name of Mere Recreation Ground Charity. Therefore, all applications will be signed by the Chairman of Mere Recreation Ground Charity.

RESOLVED to approve.

 

1. A minimum of three quotations will be obtained for the project. It is anticipated that the project costs will be somewhere in the region:

	£
Building	450,000.00
Contingencies	25,000.00
Project Management	25,000.00

The estimated costs were noted.

RESOLVED that the principles of the Town Council’s Procurement Policy would need to be applied.  There was a discussion about the assertion that a new build does not require VAT to be paid.  Cllr. Jeans said that it was down to the contractor.  Cllr. Colman said that this would be clarified at the time of going to quotation.

 

1. Project timescale:

• Planning – End of December 2020
• Building quotations in by End of January 2021
• Fundraising starts 1^st January 2021
• Construction starts April 2021 – September 2021

The project timescale was noted although members felt that the project timescales were unrealistic and that it would probably take at least another year.

 

Mere Town Council

Town Clerk – Mrs. L. C. Wood

 

Minutes of a meeting of the Town Council held on Monday, 5^th October 2020 at 6.00 p.m. at Duchy Manor, Springfield Road, Mere, BA12 6EW (the meeting was held inside with restrictions to meet the Town Council’s COVID-19 Secure Risk Assessment)

 

Present:  Cllrs. C. Hazzard (Chairman), A. Colman, P. Coward, R. Coward, G. Jeans (from 6.32 pm), J. Jordan, B. Norris, Mrs. K. Symonds (from 6.15 pm) & Mrs. L. Traves

Also Mr. David Drewett & Mr. John Gammie.

 

Public Session

The Chairman convened the meeting, welcoming everyone present and read out the consent notice for names of members of the public to be recorded in the Minutes.

As he had attended the meeting the Chairman took the opportunity to thank Mr. David Drewett for the splendid work he had done in repainting a large number of the street name signs around the town and he said how smart they now looked.

The Chairman also made the very sad announcement that Sue Luffman (nee Ings) had died and said that she had been a Guider for Mere Brownies/Girlguiding for 40 years. The Chairman wanted to Minute the Town Council’s appreciation for all she had done for Mere.

 

John Gammie had attended the meeting to speak in respect of the planning application for the Butt of Sherry to develop garages into a 3-bedroomed house.   Mr. Gammie said that the Butt of Sherry Preservation Society objects to the planning application and has instructed a specialist planning consultant to help with their objection submission.  He also said that the immediate neighbours have got 8 pages of objections already and he was hoping that the Town Council would support us in our objections.

 

David Drewett expressed his concern relating to the outline application that had just been submitted for up to 70 homes to be built on the Beaumont’s Business Park site.  He said that it was often the case that outline permission was granted for a number of homes and then when a full planning application was submitted it was for a much higher number of homes.  He also said that all the traffic would be funnelled down one side of the town and he could envisage a future where there will be 200+ homes (400 cars) accessing Woodlands Road.  The Chairman confirmed that the Town Council would be holding a separate meeting on Monday, 12^th October to discuss this application.

 

John Jordan said that he would like to speak in the public session because he thinks it may be inappropriate for him to speak as a councillor.  He said that he felt that Castle Hill Lane was inappropriate for any more residential properties.  Everyone who lives along there knows how congested it can get with two-way traffic trying to negotiate access in an out of their homes along a single-track road.

Lesley Traves said that she wanted to reiterate everything that John Jordan had said about Castle Hill Lane.

The Chairman said that he wanted to thank the Clerk for all her hard work she had done in trying to get the sports facilities and other council facilities reopened.  He said that this involved risk assessments, the purchase of various items to make them comply with govt. guidelines and much communication with the sports groups and users.  He asked for the Council’s thanks and appreciation to be Minuted for the Clerks work in keeping everything open.

2. Apologies for absence were received and accepted from Cllrs. Raymond Hill, Glen Ings, Eric Mitchell, Richard Pester & Roy Sims.

 

142. To receive declarations of interest from members and to consider requests for new DPI dispensations.

Members are invited to declare disclosable pecuniary interests and other interests in items on the agenda as required by the Mere Town Council Code of Conduct for Members and by the Localism Act 2011.

(a) To receive Declarations of Interest relating to matters contained in this agenda, in accordance with the provisions of the Local Government Act 1972 in respect of officers and the Localism Act 2011 in respect of members.

• Jordan declared a personal interest in planning application 20/07711/FUL
• R. Coward declared a personal interest in Minute No. 148c)

(b) To consider any dispensation requests received by the Town Clerk.

• None received

 

143. Minutes – RESOLVED to recommend approval of the Minutes of the Town Council meeting held on 20^th July 2020 and Minutes of the Town Council meeting held on 7^th September 2020 on proposal made by Cllr. Colman, seconded by Cllr. Mrs. Traves and carried with a unanimous vote of those members present.

 

144. Matters Arising
145. a) Report on meeting between Chairman & M.P. Dr. Andrew Murrrison – the Chairman said that he had held a meeting with Dr. Andrew Murrison on Friday where he had discussed the Town Council’s concerns about three issues: The closure of Fives Court, the fact that Mere Library had not yet reopened and the unauthorised encampments and issues taking place at Burton Field. Murrison had agreed to try and get some clarification about these points and said he would bring them b ack to the Town Council.

 

145. Planning
146. a) Applications: (All applications can be viewed on Wiltshire Council’s website http://planning.wiltshire.gov.uk/Northgate/PlanningExplorer/ApplicationSearch.aspx – and type in the relevant application number)

 

Application Ref:	20/07479/VAR
Application for:	Variation of Condition
Proposal	Variation of Condition 2 (approved plans) to regularise the as-built floor plans.
At	Ashmere House (former Lloyds Bank) , Castle Street, Mere.  BA12 6JE

The Clerk explained that this application related to the former Lloyds Bank building and that the original application was made in 2018/19 (18/11174/FUL) for the conversion of the existing bank to create 3 X 1-bed flats and 1 X 2-bed flat.  The Town Council objected for reasons of overdevelopment and insufficient parking.    This planning application was called in by Cllr. Jeans due to local concerns and was subsequently considered by the Southern Planning Committee on 7^th February 2019.  Cllr. Jordan who was the then Town Council Chairman, attended the meeting during which Cllr. Jeans argued for the refusal of the planning application on the grounds of overdevelopment.  This was against the officer’s recommendation for approval.  The view of the Town Council was recognised – that there were problems with parking – however the committee did not support Cllr. Jeans and voted to approve the application on the grounds that the development included parking spaces for all of the apartments.  Therefore, the application was approved subject to the development being built in accordance with the plans submitted.

It is evident from this planning application that the development was not built in accordance with the plans submitted and approved.  The new plans that have been submitted show the flats with different layouts.  It is interesting to note that the layouts show separate dining rooms in the flats but in fact, there is evidence that the flats are currently being marketed as 2-bedroom flats with the dining room being shown as a bedroom on the estate agents floor plans online.

It was pointed out that whether you call a room a bedroom or a dining room was up to the occupant but members felt that the rules were being stretched and the resulting consequences would only exacerbate the parking problems in the town centre.  Cllr Norris said that he did not support this application in the first place and the fact that it was granted by Wiltshire Council did not change his view.

RESOLVED to object to the application on the basis that the Town Council was unable to support the original plans under 18/11174/FUL due to ‘Overdevelopment’ and ‘Insufficient Parking’ and the fact that these new plans only served to exacerbate the Town Council’s original concerns.  It was further agreed to ask our Wiltshire Councillor to ‘call-in’ this application to be determined by the planning committee if he felt that this was necessary. This resolution was carried on a proposal made by Cllr. Norris, seconded by Cllr. Mead and carried with a majority vote.  (In order not to compromise his position as Wiltshire Councillor. Cllr. Jeans abstained from discussion or voting.)

 

 

Application Ref:	20/07711/FUL
Application for:	Full Planning
Proposal:	Conversion of 2 garages to holiday cottage
At:	The Butt of Sherry, Castle Street, Mere.  BA12 6JE

The Chairman said that he drove up Castle Hill Lane to view the site this morning but could not get through the lane and had to reverse back and this confirmed his thoughts that the site is not suitable for residential conversion.  Cllr. Colman said he thought the application would result in overdevelopment of the site.  Cllr. Norris said that the planning application stated that there were parking spaces for 2 vehicles which was not correct and he said that there were a number of inconsistencies with the planning application.  Cllr. P. Coward said that he recalled that the Town Council had adopted a policy of no new residential dwellings along Castle Hill Lane due to the poor access.  RESOLVED to recommend refusal of the above application for the following reasons:

1. Overdevelopment
2. Lack of off-street parking
3. Access – Castle Hill Lane has two-way traffic but is a single-track road with no pavement for pedestrians. There is a children’s play area halfway along the lane.  The lane is not appropriate for any further development.
4. Precedent – There are a number of properties in Castle Street that have garages backing onto Castle Hill Lane. Approval of this planning application would set a precedent for other property owners to apply for garage conversions along the lane.  This would further exacerbate the on-street parking problems in Castle Street and Castle Hill Lane.
5. Detrimental effect on neighbours – The conversion of these garages into a residential dwelling would create an unacceptable loss of amenity to the neighbouring property and would have a detrimental effect on their property and the surrounding properties.

It was further agreed to ask our Wiltshire Councillor to ‘call-in’ this application to be determined by the planning committee if he felt that this was necessary. This resolution was carried on a proposal made by Cllr. Colman, seconded by Cllr. Norris and carried with a majority vote.  (Having declared a personal interest in this application, Cllr. Jordan abstained from voting.  In order not to compromise his position as Wiltshire Councillor. Cllr. Jeans abstained from discussion or voting.)

 

 

Application Ref:	20/08269/TCA
Application for:	Work to Trees in a Cons. Area
Proposal:	Silver Birch – reduce back overextended limbs by up to 3 metres
At:	Vine Cottage, Castle Street, Mere.  BA12 6JH

RESOLVED to recommend approval of the above application on proposal made by Cllr. Jordan, seconded by Cllr. Mrs. Traves and carried with a unanimous vote.

 

Application Ref:	20/08049/FUL
Application for:	Full Planning
Proposal:	Conversion of barn to residential dwelling
At:	Barn A, Church Farm, Wet Lane, Mere.  BA12 6BA

Cllr. Jordan said that it looked like a nice conversion which seemed to be in keeping with the integrity of the building and the surroundings.  RESOLVED to recommend approval of the above application on proposal made by Cllr. Jordan, seconded by Cllr. Norris and carried with a majority vote.  (In order not to compromise his position as Wiltshire Councillor. Cllr. Jeans abstained from discussion or voting.)

 

 

1. c) Planning for the future – Consultation on proposals for reform of the planning system in England from Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government: The Clerk pointed out that there were actually three consultation documents that had been issued by the government to reform the planning system.

• Changes to the Current Planning System – Consultation closes 11.45 pm on 1^st October https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/changes-to-the-current-planning-system

This consultation seeks views on a range of proposed changes to the current planning system including: changes to the standard method for assessing local housing need, securing of First Homes through developer contributions, temporarily lifting the small sites threshold and extending the current Permission in Principle to major development.

• White Paper:  Planning for the Future – Consultation closes at 11.45 pm on 29^th October https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/planning-for-the-future

This consultation seeks any views on each part of a package of proposals for reform of the planning system in England to streamline and modernise the planning process, improve outcomes on design and sustainability, reform developer contributions and ensure more land is available for development where it is needed.

• Transparency & Competition: Data and Land Control – Consultation closes at 11.45 pm on 30^th October https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/transparency-and-competition-a-call-for-evidence-on-data-on-land-control

This call for evidence seeks views on proposals to require additional data from the beneficiaries of certain types of interests in land – rights of pre-emption, options and estate contracts.  It also seeks views on the design of the policy and additional evidence on the impacts of the policy.

*Please see attached Briefing Note 20-31 from Wiltshire Council + report from Town Clerk.

Members noted the information above and the Briefing Note and report from the Town Clerk.  Cllr. Jordan said he had tried reading the consultation document and felt that it had no commitment to affordable housing or council led housing and seemed to be pressing the notion of supply and demand.  There were concerns that the government were trying to take planning away from the local people who know the area and members felt that local voices should be heard more.  Cllr. R. Coward said his objection is that vast areas of greenfield sites will be lost to housing and against the loss of greenfield sites where there are brownfield sites to use first.  Cllr. Mrs. Symonds asked if Mere would ever get any credit for the large number of houses we have already absorbed.  Cllr. Colman expressed concern about the reductions to CIL payments.  Cllrs. Jordan and Hazzard agreed to submit responses to the Clerk who, in turn, was delegated to submit a response on behalf of the Town Council, encompassing their comments above.

 

146. Highways, Rivers, Footpaths, Traffic & Transport
147. a) To identify jobs for the Parish Steward, Sparkle Team of MyWiltshire reports (Parish Steward is in Mere 6 & 7^th October) – The Clerk pointed out that Mr. Drewett had suggested various jobs for the Sparkle Team on their next visit. It was pointed out that the surface of the path going down the middle of Jubilee Gardens was in poor condition but the Clerk pointed out that this was the Town Council’s responsibility.

 

147. Buildings, Open Spaces, Play Areas, Sports Grounds, Car Parks, Allotments & Cemeteries,
148. a) Lighting for Andy Young Pavilion car park – Cllr. A. Mead was concerned because it was difficult to see, in the dark, where the potholes were and felt that this would pose a safety hazard for people who were using the pavilion during the evening. The Chairman said that the pavilion was not being used at the present time and certainly not during the evening for meetings and expressed his concern about the Council spending money on providing lighting for the car park when the school’s plans for extending the car park were unknown. He said he understood the safety concerns and thought it might be possible to erect some temporary lighting.  RESOLVED to raise this as an agenda item when the building is being brought back into use of an evening.

 

148. Finance, Policy & Resources

*a) Payments – RESOLVED to approve payments set out in payment schedules attached on proposal made by Cllr. Colman, seconded by Cllr. R. Coward and carried with a unanimous vote.

1. b) Request to give financial support (donation) to the following Area Board Grant Applications:

• Healthy Mere Walking
• Our Time Project

At the Area Board meeting last week both projects were approved without condition of a Town Council financial contribution.  However, as the Healthy Mere Walking project had previously asked the Town Council for a contribution it was RESOLVED to recommend a grant to the Healthy Mere Walking project of £50.  Members agreed that if the ‘Our Time Project’ specifically asked Mere Town Council for a grant then this should be raised as a future agenda item for consideration.

*C) To discuss the setting of a policy for sports coaches or sports businesses using Town Council or Charity facilities. – Cllr. R. Coward had previously declared a personal interest in this item and offered to leave the room but the Chairman deemed that this was not necessary.  The Town Clerk had distributed a draft policy for members to consider and Cllr. Jordan felt that the recommendations contained therein should be put into practice although he expressed concern as to how they would be enforced.  Cllr. Colman said that he was acquainted with an LTA Coach who uses facilities and pays £10 per hour for their use.  Cllr. Symonds said that the policy would need to be advertised and expressed concerns about where the Council would stand if there was an accident and also said that we did not want to set a policy that would cause too much administration.  Members then talked about the level of charges that should be made with Cllr. Jordan having suggested £8.00 per hour for classes of fewer than five participants and £20 per hour for classes with more than five participants.  The Clerk offered to ask other Town & Parish Council Clerks for examples of their charge rates and to present this to the Council at a future meeting.

 

149. General Items & Consultations

*a) Wiltshire Council’s Area Board Boundary Review – The Clerk pointed out that the Area Board boundaries were being reviewed to fall in line with the electoral boundary review that took place last year.  It was pointed out that the SWW Area Board boundary was not changing and Cllr. Jeans said that it was people power that worked on this occasion.  It was agreed to submit a response confirming that the Town Council was happy with the SWW Area Board boundary.

1. b) Arrangements for ‘scaled back’ Remembrance Service – The Chairman reported that there would be no plans to hold a Remembrance Service in The Square this year. There will, however, be an Act of Remembrance held outside elsewhere where there will be a wreath laying service for invited members of official organisations. The wreaths will be moved to the War Memorial later on in the day and there will be a church Service of Remembrance in the afternoon.
2. c) Plans for Xmas Lights & Xmas Activities – RESOLVED to erect Xmas lights as usual but that there would be no switch on ceremony.
3. d) Open Consultation. Pavement Parking: Options for change https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/managing-pavement-parking/pavement-parking-options-for-change Closing date: 22.11.20

The Clerk reported that a consultation into pavement parking has been launched by the Dept. for Transport (DfT).  Current law prohibits parking on pavements in Greater London but elsewhere in England the practice is legal unless explicitly prohibited.  Local Councils have reported that pavement parking is a widespread problem and the government is considering increasing local authority powers and current legislation to allow councils to issue £70 fines to owners whose vehicles are found to be “causing an unnecessary obstruction of the pavement.”  Another option is a nationwide ban on pavement parking, although this would entail a significant change to English parking law and would require all councils to conduct an audit of roads.  Cllr. Norris felt that we ought to discourage parking on pavements as, apart from the obstruction issues, it usually leads to damage to the pavements because they are not as robust as highways.  It was also pointed out that the police do not get involved in pavement parking issues at the present time unless it is an extreme case.  RESOLVED to support a nationwide ban on pavement parking on proposal made by Cllr. Norris, seconded by Cllr. R. Coward and carried with a unanimous vote.

 

150. Future meetings and agenda items

It was agreed that the next meeting of the Town Council which would be held next week, should be a hybrid meeting with some councillors attending in person (those that do not have the capacity to join a virtual meeting) and the remaining councillors and all members of the public being invited to join via Zoom.

 

Meeting closed at 8.10 p.m.

 

Note:  Members are reminded that the Town Council has a general duty to consider the following matters in the exercise of any of its functions: Equal Opportunities (race, gender, sexual orientation, marital status and any disability), Crime and Disorder, Health and Safety and Human Rights.

 

*Further information on these items enclosed/attached

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MERE PEACE MEMORIAL SPORTS AND RECREATION GROUND

Registered Charity No. 1093497

 

For Trustees to consider:

 

1. Mere Youth Development Centre –Report & update on building project. Update on project and approval of granting of 25-year lease which will involve surveyors’ fees & solicitors fees (approx. £1500).  It was reported that there were a number of questions that needed consideration by the Town Council in more detail and it was agreed to provide these questions in more details at the meeting next week.
2. To discuss the setting of a policy for sports coaches or sports businesses using Town Council or Charity facilities – as Trustees, members were happy with the recommendations in the draft policy but agreed to wait until more information was provided before agreeing on fees to charge.
3. RESOLVED to approve the following payment:

 

Water2Business          Standing Charge for supply to old Cricket Club in Rec.                                  15.49

Mere Town Council

Town Clerk – Mrs. L. C. Wood

 

Minutes of a meeting of the Town Council held on Monday, 7^th September at 6.00 p.m. outside at Duchy Manor, Springfield Road, Mere, BA12 6EW

 

Present:  Cllrs. C. Hazzard (Chairman), A. Colman, P. Coward, R. Coward, R. Hill, G. Ings, G. Jeans (from 7.00 pm) J. Jordan, R. Pester, R. Sims, Mrs. K. Symonds & Mrs. L. Traves

15 members of public

 

Meeting convened at 7.30 p.m. with Public Session

The Chairman convened the meeting, welcoming everyone present and read out the consent notice for names of members of the public to be recorded in The Minutes.  He also explained that due to Covid-19 Government Guidelines, the meeting was being held outside in order to minimise the risk to members of the Town Council and members of the public.  He asked members of the public to ensure that they were keeping to the social distancing guidelines of 2m apart unless they were in small family bubble groups.  He also suggested that anyone wishing to speak, should speak up loudly and reiterated that the public session was a chance for members of the public to have their say on any item which is on the agenda and they should not wait until we get to that agenda item because they will not be permitted to speak during the Council meeting.

David Drewett, Oak Lane asked what had transpired about the side agreement that the Council had agreed to sign to secure the S.106 funding from the Woodlands Road development and what plans the Council had to spend the money.  The Chairman said that the funds had not yet been received but that the Town Council did have plans to spend some of the money.  He asked the Clerk to forward any information on to David Drewett in due course.

 

Martin Pester said he had come to talk about the cemetery regulations following correspondence with the Clerk over a grave that they had recently applied edging stones to.  Mr. Pester said that the family wanted to reiterate the letter they had sent and that they felt that their grave was much easier to maintain and the work that had been done enhanced the plot.  The family wanted to know why the decision was made not to allow edging in the new cemetery and felt that the regulations were out of date and this decision should be revisited.

 

Paddy Sumner of Burton Grange said that he was one of a lot of people who had a lot of concern about what is going on at Burton Field.  He wanted to ensure that Mere Town Council was aware of these concerns and what could be done.

Diane Mathiot said that one of the estate agents, Barnard Marcus, was marketing the site as having access from Southbrook which she said, meant that many of the potential buyers were thinking that they had vehicular access along the footpath.

 

Roy Sims reported that the wall along The Lynch was in a very poor state and, in his opinion, was in danger of falling down into the road.  He also mentioned that the watering can in the cemetery was broken.

 

Apologies for absence  – The Chairman reported that very sadly, Cllr. Mitchell’s wife had passed away last week which is why he was absent from the meeting tonight.  The Clerk also reported that Cllr. Norris was unable to attend the meeting tonight as he was not in the county.  RESOLVED that an extension of 3 months be specified to the period of non-attendance allowed before which automatic forfeiture then applies in respect of Cllrs. Mitchell & Norris. Apologies for absence were also received from Cllr. Mead.

 

135. To receive declarations of interest from members and to consider requests for new DPI dispensations.

Members are invited to declare disclosable pecuniary interests and other interests in items on the agenda as required by the Mere Town Council Code of Conduct for Members and by the Localism Act 2011.

• To receive Declarations of Interest relating to matters contained in this agenda, in accordance with the provisions of the Local Government Act 1972 in respect of officers and the Localism Act 2011 in respect of members.
• R. Pester declared a personal interest in agenda item 6e) (Minute No. 138e)
• Mrs. Traves declared a personal interest in planning application 20/06509/FUL
• R. Hill declared a personal interest in planning application 20/05476/FUL

 

(b) To consider any dispensation requests received by the Town Clerk – None received

 

136. Planning
137. a) Applications: (All applications can be viewed on Wiltshire Council’s website http://planning.wiltshire.gov.uk/Northgate/PlanningExplorer/ApplicationSearch.aspx – and type in the relevant application number)

 

Application Ref:	20/06509/FUL
Application for:	Full Planning
Proposal:	Demolish existing conservatory and replace with single storey rear extension.  Creation of dormer window to the front and rear of property
At:	Suncroft, Springfield Road, Mere.  BA12 6EW

 

The Chairman said that he had been to visit the property and neighbouring properties.  He pointed out that this was a fairly large single storey extension with a sedum flat roof.  Cllr. Jordan said that the extension was 10m in length and he was concerned that the extension appeared to be very close to the boundary which would leave very little space available for boundary maintenance.  A letter from a neighbouring resident was read out to the Council.

RESOLVED to recommend approval of the application but to add the following: ‘Concern has been expressed by neighbours relating to the height of this extension together with the length combined, causing an unacceptable loss of light to her patio and living room.  Although the Town Council has no actual objections to the proposed extension, we do not feel qualified to comment on this concern by the neighbour.  We would therefore request that the Local Planning Authority assess this concern when determining this planning application.’

 

Application Ref:	20/05476/FUL
Application for:	Full Planning
Proposal:	Erection of garage and rear/side extension
At:	Fairhaven, Pettridge Lane, Mere.  BA12 6DG

 

The Chairman said that he visited the site on Saturday.  He confirmed that vehicular access had already been granted and could therefore see no reason to object to the application.  Cllr. Ings expressed surprise that vehicular access had been granted but said that now that it has, he could not see any reason to object to the application and proposed that the Town Council recommend approval.  RESOLVED to recommend approval of the application on proposal made by Cllr. Ings, seconded by Cllr. Jordan and carried with a majority vote.  (Cllr. Hill, having declared a personal interest in the above application refrained from discussion or voting.  In his capacity as Wiltshire Councillor, Cllr. Jeans refrained from discussion or voting).

 

Application Ref:	20/06950/VAR
Application for:	Variation of Condition
Prroposal:	Variation of Condition 2 (materials) of planning application 19/08489/FUL – Erect oak framed extension to form larger kitchen and office to the first floor (change roofing materials to natural slate, grey coloured).
At:	Green Ridge, Barrow Street, Mere.  BA12 6AB

 

The Clerk explained that this planning application had been received this morning but the consultation deadline was on or before the next Town Council meeting.  Although prior notification had not been made available to the public by way of this matter being raised on the agenda, members RESOLVED to consider this application at tonight’s meeting.  The Clerk pointed out that the application related to the change of roofing materials – the current building has a 1960s interlocking clay tile and the applicants would like to replace the existing roof and the extension with a natural grey coloured slate.  RESOLVED to recommend approval of the application on proposal made by Cllr. P. Coward, seconded by Cllr. Mrs. Traves and carried with a majority vote.  (In his capacity as Wiltshire Councillor, Cllr. Jeans refrained from discussion or voting).

 

1. b) Concerns relating to sale of and activity on land at Burton Field – The Chairman reported that Burton Field is being split up into small plots and is being marketed with the speculation that the land has development potential. The Town Council is not aware that there is any current planning permission or extant planning permission for development of the land.  The land used to be an old greenhouse site and as such is covered in glass.  It has not been used for the last 30 – 40 years.  We have been told by residents living in the area that there are legal problems with any sale/purchase of the land because there are cautions registered with the Land Registry but we are not qualified to comment on this.  There are people on the land now with diggers, machinery and a caravan has just moved onto the land.  The Town Clerk has alerted Wiltshire Council’s Planning Enforcement office, the Duchy of Cornwall, the police, Rights of Way Officers, the CPRE and our MP.  Up until now the general response has been that we need to wait until something illegal happens before any action can be taken but we have heard last week that a Planning Contravention Notice has been served in respect of the touring caravan that has been sited and its potential occupation.  Also that an Article 4 Direction to remove Permitted Development for means of enclosure has been served on the site.  We realise that this situation is very frustrating for surrounding residents but as a Town Council, we do not have any powers of enforcement.  All we can do is keep passing on information to the authorities and keep each other informed of what is going on.

 

1. c) Planning for the future – Consultation on proposals for reform of the planning system in England from Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government: The Clerk pointed out that there were actually three consultation documents that had been issued by the government to reform the planning system.

• Changes to the Current Planning System – Consultation closes 11.45 pm on 1^st October https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/changes-to-the-current-planning-system

This consultation seeks views on a range of proposed changes to the current planning system including: changes to the standard method for assessing local housing need, securing of First Homes through developer contributions, temporarily lifting the small sites threshold and extending the current Permission in Principle to major development.

• White Paper:  Planning for the Future – Consultation closes at 11.45 pm on 29^th October https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/planning-for-the-future

This consultation seeks any views on each part of a package of proposals for reform of the planning system in England to streamline and modernise the planning process, improve outcomes on design and sustainability, reform developer contributions and ensure more land is available for development where it is needed.

• Transparency & Competition: Data and Land Control – Consultation closes at 11.45 pm on 30^th October https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/transparency-and-competition-a-call-for-evidence-on-data-on-land-control

This call for evidence seeks views on proposals to require additional data from the beneficiaries of certain types of interests in land – rights of pre-emption, options and estate contracts.  It also seeks views on the design of the policy and additional evidence on the impacts of the policy.

 

The Clerk expressed her concern that these consultation documents involved a great deal of reading & research in order to compile a considered submission to the government and although some of the deadliness would permit discussion at the next Town Council meeting, NALC were asking for our thoughts by mid-September.  She also wondered if it might be possible to obtain some kind of summary from Wiltshire Council on how the new proposals might affect the County as a whole.  Cllr. Jeans said that he would ask Wiltshire Council if they intended to make a response or summary and the Clerk agreed to distribute further information to councillors and to raise the matter for further discussion at the next meeting.

 

137. Highways, Rivers, Footpaths, Traffic & Transport

*a) Re-allocation of Road Space – letter from Cllr. Bridget Wayman to CATG Members – the Clerk explained that Cllr. Sims had asked for this to be raised on the agenda.  She reminded members that she had distributed a copy of this letter to members in August relating to money that had been distributed to Local Authorities by central government in order to identify and deliver schemes that gave greater priority to pedestrian and cyclists.  The Clerk said that the Town Council had not submitted any requests for schemes in Mere and that the larger schemes being considered centred around the allocation of cycle lanes in more built-up towns and cities i.e. Chippenham & Salisbury.

 

138. Buildings, Open Spaces, Play Areas, Sports Grounds, Car Parks, Allotments & Cemeteries,
139. a) Duchy of Cornwall allotment land rent review – the Clerk informed members that under the terms of the allotment lands rental agreement, the rent payable was reviewed every five years and was reviewable this month. A modest increase from £570 pa to £590 p.a. was suggested w.e.f. 29^th September 2020. RESOLVED to agree the suggested increase on proposal made by Cllr. Jeans, seconded by Cllr. Sims and carried with a unanimous vote.
140. b) Lighting for Andy Young Pavilion car park – Cllr. A. Mead – this item was deferred as Cllr. Mead was not present.
141. c) Water refill station – Cllr. J. Jordan said that the money that was on offer from Wessex Water seems to have disappeared but there is now money available from Wiltshire Community Fund. He asked for this item to be deferred in order to allow further research time.
142. d) To arrange liaison meeting with Sports Clubs – it was agreed that this matter should be deferred until it is deemed safe for larger gatherings to meet.
143. e) Issues relating to Cemetery Regulations – the Chairman explained that the Clerk had been corresponding with Mr. Pester & his family about issues relating to the cemetery regulations and more specifically about the fact that kerb stones had been laid around a grave in the new cemetery without requesting permission and which were against the Town Council’s regulations. The Chairman reminded members that the Town Council had made a decision, back in 2006, that resulted in different regulations between the two cemeteries in relation to the use of kerb stones. It had then been agreed that kerb stones would be allowed in the existing cemetery only if they were professionally installed and on condition that the owners agree that if the kerbs fall into disrepair the Council will be permitted to remove the kerb stones upon notice.  It was also agreed that kerbed graves will not be permitted, under any circumstances, in the new cemetery.  The Chairman said that whilst he realised that there were a number of informal memorialisation issues in both cemeteries in Mere where relatives had decorated graves with soft toys, ornaments and plastic flowers which may not be to everyone’s taste he was aware that they can bring comfort to the family concerned and we all have loved ones in the cemetery and so, as a Town Council, we try to be as relaxed and informal as we can in recognition of the fact that families are going through a very difficult time.  However, if the Town Council were to allow these edging stones or kerb stones to remain in the new cemetery then members would need to apply a change to our rules and regulations.  Hill said that the reason why this decision had been made, when the Town Council purchased the land for the new cemetery, was because the maintenance issue of the ground when kerbed graves are in situ, is far more difficult and they also present a health and safety hazard due to the tripping potential.  He pointed out that there are very few cemeteries, these days, that allow kerbed graves for Health & Safety and maintenance reasons.  Cllr. Mrs. Symonds said that her husband was buried in the cemetery and pointed out that it is not just a question of whether the family will continue to maintain the grave and the kerb stones, which she is sure they would, but she also wanted to point out that headstones and structures in the cemetery are let into the ground by several feet so as not to become loose or lean over in later years and that this is particularly important in our cemetery since the ground is clay with a tendency to become unstable.    The Clerk pointed out that apart from the requirement of prior permission, any installation in the cemetery would need to be professionally installed by monumental masons accredited with the National Association of Memorial Masons (NAMM) in order to satisfy the Town Council’s insurance for public liability purposes.  The Chairman said that the Town Council would either need to keep the regulations as they are or we would need to review them at the next meeting and he asked for a show of hands for a) those in favour of standing firm with our existing regulations (6 in favour) and b) those in favour of reviewing the regulations (3 in favour).  RESOLVED that the Town Council’s Cemetery Rules and Regulations remain unchanged and that Messrs. Pester & Sons be requested to remove the edging stones and any unauthorised permanent installations from the grave.

 

139. Finance, Policy & Resources

*a) Payments – RESOLVED to approve payments set out in payment schedules attached on proposal made by Cllr. Colman, seconded by Cllr. Ings and carried with a unanimous vote.

*b) To consider draft Procurement Policy (attached) – RESOLVED to approve and adopt the policy without amendment on but the Clerk was requested to standardise the design & layout of Town Council policies.  Proposal made by Cllr. Colman, seconded by Cllr. Mrs. Sims and carried with a unanimous vote.

1. c) To consider review of income for financial year – the Clerk said that she was concerned that the Town Council may not receive its expected (budgeted) income for the year on the basis that a lot of the sports clubs were not active at the present time. RESOLVED not to send out any invoices to any of the Sports Clubs for the 2019/20 financial year on proposal made by Cllr. P. Coward, seconded by Cllr. R. Hill and carried with a unanimous vote. The Clerk also expressed concern about invoicing businesses for their sponsorship funding for the car parks & floral displays on the basis that some of those businesses were struggling financially.  RESOLVED that the Town Council should send out invoices to the businesses for sponsorship and that if objections are received then each case will be considered individually.  Proposal made by Cllr. P. Coward, seconded by Cllr. R. Coward and carried with a majority vote.  Jeans abstained from voting or speaking.

 

140. General Items & Consultations

*a) Request from Sarum West Primary Care Network for temporary (portacabin) Hot Clinic to be located in Salisbury Street Car Park until end May 2021 – with reference to the report distributed to councillors, the Chairman said that he had received a telephone call from Dr. Tim King this morning informing him that this temporary Hot Clinic will now be going to the Nadder Centre in Tisbury.  However, he pointed out that he was very concerned about the idea of it coming into Mere and did not feel that our car park was the right venue.  He said that it would take up too many car parking spaces and proposed, from the Chair, that the Town Council should formally decline this request.  The Chairman’s proposal received a unanimous vote.  RESOLVED that the request be declined and that the report prepared by Cllrs. Colman and Symonds be sent on to the Doctors Surgery.

1. b) Plans for Remembrance Day 2020 – the Chairman reported that he and Cllr. Sims had attended the memorial for VE Day and he had arranged for The Last Post to be played. He said that what we would be able to do for Remembrance Day is still up for debate but it seemed unlikely that we would be able to encourage the sort of crowds that normally gather for the Remembrance Day Service in The Square. It was agreed to wait and see if we can get any clarification and discuss again in October.

 

141. Future meetings and agenda items

Members generally felt that they would prefer to hold a face-to-face meeting than a virtual meeting but the Clerk expressed concern at the number of public presence that had attended tonight’s meeting, pointing out that if the meeting had been held inside the numbers would exceed the risk assessment for the building and would not be able to social distance.  She reminded members that we have no idea of the numbers in terms of public participation but that the public have a right to attend a Council meeting.  Members asked the Clerk to explore the possibility of a hybrid meeting – Council members to meet face-to-face but public members to attend via Zoom or similar alternative.

 

 

Note:  Members are reminded that the Town Council has a general duty to consider the following matters in the exercise of any of its functions: Equal Opportunities (race, gender, sexual orientation, marital status and any disability), Crime and Disorder, Health and Safety and Human Rights.

 

*Further information on these items enclosed/attached

 

 

 

 

 

 

MERE PEACE MEMORIAL SPORTS AND RECREATION GROUND

Registered Charity No. 1093497

 

 

For Trustees to consider:

 

1. Mere Youth Development Centre –Extension/Refurbishment project – Update on project and approval of granting of 25-year lease which will involve surveyors’ fees & solicitors fees (approx. £1500). Also looking for councillors to volunteer to join steering group.

 

The Chairman reported that on 19^th August he and Cllr. Rodney Coward had met with David Corbin and Ross Coad who are both Trustees of Seeds4Success to discuss the rebuilding of the Youth Club building in the Recreation Ground.

 

The Chairman reminded Trustees that the Youth Club building belonged to the Mere Peace Memorial Sports & Recreation Ground Charity and was built about 40 – 50 years ago and is in need of updating.  He also reminded Trustees that the issue of extending and refurbishing the building had been discussed previously and that the Trustees had thought this was an agreeable proposition and had agreed to seek some advice about extending the length of the lease.  Indeed, money had been set aside to give as a grant towards the project.  Since then, the proposals have changed slightly and plans are now to rebuild the building with a much bigger and better building.

 

With regards to extending the lease, the Chairman said that the Clerk had made some initial enquiries with a specialist solicitor who had said that “most grant making organisations require that the organisation  in receipt of the grant has a lease for at least 25 years which cannot be brought to an end prior to the end of 25 years by the Landlord other than for a substantial breach of the terms of the lease.  The Charity has the power to grant a lease for 25 years, but this must be in accordance with the terms of the Scheme, (land not required by the Charity and public consultation), but also in accordance with the provisions of the Charities Act.  These require that in leasing land for more than 7 years the Charity must be satisfied that the terms of the lease are the best that can be achieved and obtain an independent Surveyors Report to that effect.    The Surveyor can recommend advertising the proposed terms but this is not always necessary if the proposal has been considered by a prior public meeting.  Having received the Report the Trustees have to consider that the terms of the proposed lease are the best that can reasonably be obtained for the Charity.    The lease has to be considered from the point of view of the Landlord Charity, not the tenant organisation.  There are guidelines laid down for Surveyors in these circumstances.  They take into account not only any rent paid, which is income in the hands of the Charity, but also any value in the Landlord Charity having a building which it will own on the termination of the lease.  If there are any queries please let me know.  If we were to prepare and agreed a lease you should budget a figure of £950 plus VAT for preparing and agreeing a lease.  The lease will have to be registered by the Tenant at the Land Registry and we will need to deduce the Charity’s title to the land, and have a plan of the area to be leased prepared in accordance with Land Registry requirements.’

The Chairman said that he estimated the total cost (solicitors and surveyors) would come to about £1500 + VAT.  RESOLVED to progress with the solicitors and surveyors to achieve a 25 year lease.

 

With regards to plans for the building, Cllr. R. Coward said that Seeds4Success originally wanted to include some toilets which would be accessible for the general public using the Recreation Ground.  However, it was pointed out to them that the maintenance of these toilets, if open to the general public, would be significant and very expensive and it was therefore decided that they would only be accessible when the youth club building was in use.  Cllr. Coward also said that the original plan was to use the same footprint as the existing building but he had put forward a proposal to make the building big enough to include workshops at the end – about 10 ft longer.

The Chairman pointed out that Seeds4Success are asking for some councillors (Recreation Ground Trustees) to come forward and join some of their Trustees to form a steering group to take this project forward.  Cllrs. Aubrey Colman, Glen Ings and Mrs. Lesley Traves volunteered for this role.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mere Town Council

Town Clerk – Mrs. L. C. Wood

 

DELEGATED DECISION REPORT – 17^TH AUGUST 2020

 

1. Preparation plans for community support in the event of future local lockdown (see notes below) – The Clerk reported that she was aware that central government has issued guidance to Principal Authorities (Wiltshire Council) to prepare plans for Local Lockdowns. She had spoken to Richard Jefferies and it had been agreed that, as the Community Support Group is still active, it will not be difficult to respond to calls for help should a local lockdown occur.  Indeed, Mr. Jefferies had compiled a report for the September edition of Mere Matters to reassure residents that help will be available in the same way as the last few months.
2. Briefing Note No. 20-27 – Temporary Pavement Licences Please see attached Briefing Note – the Clerk distributed a copy of a Briefing Note that had been sent out by Wiltshire Council regarding the introduction of Temporary Pavement Licences in response to central Government’s proposals to stimulate the UK economy and the introduction of the Business and Planning Bill 2020. Local Authorities were instructed to make it easier for establishments selling food and drink to apply and utilise the highway/paved area outside of their premises for siting tables and chairs. It is hoped the provision of additional seating outside will encourage economic recovery. The clerk said that she had forwarded a copy of the Briefing Note to the Chamber of Trade on the understanding that they may pass it on to their members. However, she has not received any acknowledgement from them and wondered if councillors wanted to contact one or two businesses in the town direct.
3. Planning Applications:

 

Planning Applications:

Application Ref:                      20/04741/FUL

Application for:                       Full Planning

Proposal:                                 Install 3 18ft yurts for holiday accommodation and associated works.

At:                                            Barrow Street House, Barrow Street, Mere.  BA12 6AB

DELEGATED DECISION – Support but mention concerns about increased non-local traffic using the Barrow Street junction on the A303 Trunk Road.  This junction has a high accident record and most local people are aware of this and tend to take extra precautions.  However, visitors and tourists would not be aware of this situation.

 

Application Ref:                      20/04895/FUL

Application for:                       Full Planning

Proposal:                                 Four bedroomed farm manager’s dwelling

At:                                            Whitehill Farm, Swainsford, Mere.  BA12 6JU

DELEGATED DECISION – Object:  We do not feel qualified to comment on the justification for a rural farm manager’s dwelling at Whitehill Lane, Mere.  However, we are unable to support this application on the basis that the proposed location for the dwelling is inappropriate in the open countryside resulting in a long access driveway, large four-bedroom detached dwelling with a large hardstanding, parking and turning area.  This would result in an unacceptably large amount of agricultural land being taken up in residential footprint that would be set apart from the farm buildings.  We have concerns as to the justification for such a substantial detached dwelling given the proposed use/occupancy and feel that a more modest building, located in a proximity that is closer to the road and existing access point and nearer the existing farm buildings would achieve a more sympathetic form of development.  If the planning authority feels that the agricultural need for this new dwelling in this location is justified and the proposal was thus acceptable in principle, we would request that the proposed dwelling is subject to an agricultural occupancy condition.

 

 

Application Ref:          20/06377/TCA

Application for:           Work to Trees in a Cons. Area

Proposal:                     Silver Birch Tree – reduce by 35%

At:                                Pearce Cottage, The Fields, Mere.  BA12 6EA

DELEGATED DECISION – Support.

 

Application Ref:          20/04266/FUL

Application for:           Full Planning

Proposal:                     Removal of damaged boundary walls and replace with hedge

At:                                The Stables, Bramley Hill, Mere.  BA12 6JX

DELEGATED DECISION – Support. We feel that there is no merit in retaining the existing wall and that a hedge boundary would be suitable and appropriate.  We are aware that the applicant has suggested Red Robin and Portuguese Laurel as hedging plants but we would also request that there is a condition forbidding the use of Leylandii as a hedging plant if possible as this can be very unneighbourly.

 

Application Ref:          20/06774/TCA

Application for:           Work to Trees in a Cons. Area

Proposal:                     T1 – Gleditsia Tree – crown raise 3m

At:                                The Close, Church Street, Mere.  BA12 6DS

DELEGATED DECISION – Support.

 

Application Ref:          20/06742/TCA

Application for:           Work to Trees in a Cons. Area

Proposal:                     T1 – Liquid Amber tree – crown raise over lake by 3m & reduce back lakeside

canopy by 2m

T2 – Ash tree – reduce all load bearing limbs by 3m & r4educe height by 2m

T3 – Maple tree – fell

T4 – Elm tree – fell

At:                                The Chantry, Church Street, Mere.  BA12 6D0

DELEGATED DECISION – Support.

 

4. Payments – Members approved the payments as detailed on the attached payment schedule. The Clerk said that there was nothing unusual to report and the quotation for expenditure on the new website had been previously approved.  The new website is up and running and positive comments had already been received.  However, much of the content needed changing and amending but the Clerk had not had time to contribute at the moment.  The Clerk and assistant were having a tutorial in content management next week.  Delegated decision – authorise payments to be made electronically.
5. Budget/Expenditure Report – The Clerk reported that she had carried out a Budget/Expenditure report as at 31.7.20.  You  will see that we have a surplus of £8630 which I am very pleased about because I have amended a lot of the income figures on the basis that we will not be getting much in the way of car park sponsorship and sports group income this year.  Also, I calculate that we have spent around £1000 on COVID-19 PPE extras (PPE, barriers, signs, bins etc etc) and that there will probably be more expenditure to come (we have yet to open the changing rooms and the main public toilets)  DELEGATED DECISION – Approve provisionally.  Discuss with Full Council, at September meeting, issue of reducing or cancelling income for the financial year i.e. Car Park sponsorship by businesses and Sports Group income.
6. September meeting – Advice from NALC & SLCC seems to be ‘No physical meetings’ bit new government guidance would suggest they can take place as a last resort and with social distancing measures/risk assessments.  Agreed to consider any updated guidance nearer the time.

 

 

 

 

Mere Town Council

Town Clerk – Mrs. L. C. Wood

 

Minutes of a meeting of the Town Council held on Monday, 20^th July 2020 at 7.00 p.m. outside at Duchy Manor, Springfield Road, Mere, BA12 6EW

 

Present:  Cllrs. C. Hazzard (Chairman), A. Colman, R. Coward, R. Hill, G. Ings, G. Jeans, J. Jordan, A. Mead, R. Sims, Mrs. K. Symonds & Mrs. L. Traves

 

Public Session

The Chairman convened the meeting, welcoming everyone present and read out the consent notice for names of members of the public to be recorded in The Minutes.

There were no members of the public present.  The Chairman took the opportunity to thank Cllrs. Mitchell and Cllr. Jordan for their help with the delegation consultation.  He also wanted to thank the Clerk for all the work that had been carried out in the last few months in not only keeping council services running as much as possible but in also overseeing and helping to coordinate the community support group that had been so ably managed by Mr. Richard Jefferies.  He added that the Town Council had acted quickly to provide a community support network that had proved to be extremely successful and effective with a large number of volunteers signing up to help get shopping, collect prescriptions, take dogs out for walks etc.  Mr. Richard Jefferies had managed this support group very well and had put in a tremendous amount of work.  He added that the Clerk had put in a large number of extra hours and had worked ‘her socks off’ not only keeping the Town Council running, managing the staff,  complying with new legislation, meeting deadlines for the accounts and also complying with all government guidelines and writing up risk assessments to reopen facilities.  He also pointed out that he, Cllr. Mitchell and Cllr. Jeans had not been readily available to give the Clerk the support she needed during much of this time.  The Chairman pointed out that there was a lot of admin and practical work involved in doing the risk assessments to re-open facilities and provide signage and hand sanitiser and other necessary requirements.  The Chairman also praised the grounds staff for continuing to work – albeit in a shift pattern around lockdown but now back to full staff capacity with social distancing measures in place.

There were no members of the public present, but Mrs. Traves asked if some report could be made about hedges along Castle Hill Lane that were growing out into the highway.

Mr. Jordan said that it was a pleasure to hear the Town Clock chiming again after it has been out of action for a few months.

Mr. Mead asked about the reopening of the public toilets and the Clerk explained that this would be discussed during the meeting.

 

Apologies for absence received & accepted from Cllrs. P. Coward, E. Mitchell, B. Norris & R. Pester.

 

128. To receive declarations of interest from members and to consider requests for new DPI dispensations.

Members are invited to declare disclosable pecuniary interests and other interests in items on the agenda as required by the Mere Town Council Code of Conduct for Members and by the Localism Act 2011.

• R. Coward declared a personal interest in planning application 20/04832/FUL
• G. Ings declared a pecuniary interest in Minute No. 132 a) [Recipient]

 

129. Planning
130. a) Applications: (All applications can be viewed on Wiltshire Council’s website http://planning.wiltshire.gov.uk/Northgate/PlanningExplorer/ApplicationSearch.aspx – and type in the relevant application number)

 

Application Ref:                20/04264/FUL

Application for:                 Full Planning

Proposal:                           Insertion of dormer window to the rear of the property.

At:                                     The Rondel, Castle Hill Lane, Mere.  BA12 6JB

RESOLVED that the above application is recommended for approval on proposal made by Cllr. John Jordan, seconded by Cllr. Colman and carried with a unanimous vote.

 

 

Application Ref:                20/04298/TCA

Application for:                 Work to Trees in a Cons Area

Proposal:                             T1 – Ash tree – fell

T2 – Sycamore tree – 15% crown thin & crown lift by 2m

At:                                       Highfields, Castle Hill Lane, Mere.  BA12 6JB

It was reported that the above application had already been approved by the Local Planning Authority

 

Application Ref:                20/04832/FUL

Application for|:               Full Planning

Proposal:                         Erection of portal frame barn for storage of agricultural and forestry   equipment.

At:                                    Hazelwood House, Shaftesbury Road Northeast to Limpers Hill, Limpers Hill,  Mere.  BA12 6BD

RESOLVED that the above application is recommended for approval on proposal made by Cllr. Jordan, seconded by Cllr. Sims and carried with a  majority vote in favour.  Cllr. R. Coward, having declared a personal interest in the above application, abstained from voting.

 

Application Ref:                20/04854/FUL

Application for:                 Full Planning

Proposal:                           Erection of polytunnel for animal housing

At:                                      Downs View Farm, Limpers Hill, Mere.  BA12 6BD

RESOLVED that the above application is recommended for approval on proposal made by Cllr. Sims, seconded by Cllr. Ings and carried with a unanimous vote.

 

Application Ref:                20/05163/VAR

Application for:                 Variation of Condition

Proposal:                          Variation of condition 2 of planning permission 20/00444/FUL to alter the external materials for the approved extension and repositioning of the

approved carport.

At:                                    Spree, Rook Street, Mere.  BA12 6FD

RESOLVED that the above application is recommended for approval on proposal made by Cllr. Jordan, seconded by Cllr. Mead and carried with a unanimous vote.

 

Application Ref:                20/04314/LBC

Application for:                 Listed Building Consent

Proposal:                         Replace 7 modern windows with new windows, install 5 new windows; minor internal works; new rainwater goods.

At:                                    Longmead, Barrow Street, Mere.  BA12 6AB

RESOLVED that the above application is recommended for approval on proposal made by Cllr. Mrs. Traves, seconded by Cllr. Mrs. Symonds and carried with a unanimous vote.

 

130. Highways, Rivers, Footpaths, Traffic & Transport
131. a) Highways Act 1980 – Section 116 Application – Proposed stopping up of highway adjacent to 2 New Cottages, Shaftesbury Road, Mere.

RESOLVED that the above application be recommended for approval on proposal made by Cllr. Mead, seconded by Cllr. Ings and carried with a unanimous vote.

 

131. Buildings, Open Spaces, Play Areas, Sports Grounds, Car Parks, Allotments & Cemeteries,
132. a) Repair works to windows of South Chapel – the Chairman reported that during June, the delegated decision had been to instruct the contractors to repair/replace the windows that were subject to the insurance claim on a replacement basis – as quoted and approved by the Council’s insurance company. It had also been agreed to ask the contractors to repair/replace other windows in the building that were damaged, broken or missing but not subject to the insurance claim e.g. the large first floor window on the eastern gable end (subject to these not being too overpriced) so that the building can be brought back into use for some purpose. The Chairman and Clerk had met with the contractors and it had been concluded that the extra cost that would need to be incurred directly by the Town Council was approximately £2,000.  It had therefore been agreed to ask the contractors to proceed with all the work.
133. b) Report on Covid-19 Risk Assessments and measures necessary for reopening of facilities – the Clerk reported the following:

Our COVID-19 Risk Assessments are ongoing but so far we have carried out Risk Assessments for:

The workplace – our staff – including grounds staff, office staff, street orderly and cleaner

Re-opening of Public Toilets

Re-opening of MUGA

Re-opening of Skate Park

Re-opening of Tennis Courts

Re-opening of Bowls

Re-opening of Andy Young Pavilion

Re-opening of Children’s Play Areas

The use of the School Foyer for any potential meetings:

 

The re-opening of the Children’s Play Areas was the most challenging because the government guidelines were fairly prescriptive and were met with widespread concern by my colleagues up and down the country.  Following representation by NALC and Society of Local Council Clerks and the Association of Play Institute (API) we shared specific issues and more general concerns about the wording of the document which implied adherence to the guidelines was mandatory.  This included the requirement to clean play equipment frequently, take away certain items of equipment, prescribe a one way system, monitor the use of the play areas to ensure the maximum number of users is not exceeded and/or apply a booking system.  Advice from NALC, SLCC and API suggested that a Risk Assessment was an absolute requirement and must consider the practicalities of operating the play facilities and that the outputs and conclusions of the Risk Assessment remained the responsibility of the operator, the guidance was not mandatory and is for each operator to make their own judgements on what is practical to implement whilst keeping the risk to a minimum.  I have taken the approach that good signage is key and that parents must be made aware of the potential dangers and the need to take responsibility.  With these measures in place, we have therefore reopened all the play areas.

 

The Andy Young Pavilion will be available for use from the end of this week subject to very strict conditions.  We have made some modifications, installed hand sanitiser stations, barriers and signage.  The pavilion has just been decorated and has just had a deep clean.  Use will be limited to 14 people.

 

As reported during the public session, my Risk Assessment has resulted in us not being able to reopen the ladies block or the gents block of toilets because they both contain narrow corridors and also because our Wallgate hand washing facilities will not allow 20 second washing.  However, we have re-opened the single disabled toilet for all members of the public to use.  The disabled locking mechanism has been removed and the toilet can now be bolted from the inside with social distancing queueing outside if needed.  The toilets are opened at 8 am and closed again at 4.00 pm.  They are cleaned twice daily – at around 10 am and 2 pm.  Users are requested to follow the COVID-19 guidelines for social distancing, hand-washing etc.

 

In accordance with Government Guidelines, we have not yet reopened the community changing rooms.

 

132. Finance, Policy & Resources

*a) Payments – RESOLVED to approve payments set out in payment schedules on proposal made by Cllr. Mrs. Symonds, seconded by Cllr. Colman and carried with a majority vote.  Cllr. Ings, having declared a pecuniary interest, left the meeting for this agenda item and took no part in discussion or voting.

b) S. 137 Expenditure – RESOLVED: That the Council in accordance with its powers under section 137 of the Local Government Act 1972, should incur the following expenditure which, in the opinion of the Council, is in the interests of the area of its inhabitants and will benefit them in a manner commensurate with expenditure:- Proposal made by Cllr. Jordan, seconded by Cllr. Mead and carried with a unanimous vote.  (These S.137 payments were previously recommended at the Annual Budget meeting).

Seeds4Success	To support Leisure Credit Scheme	665.00
Mere & District Linkscheme	Donation	600
Mere Matters	Donation	600
St. Johns Ambulance	Donation	75.00

 

*c) To approve End of Year Budget/Expenditure Report for 2019/20 – RESOLVED that the Budget/Expenditure report for the financial year ending 31.3.20 be approved on proposal made by Cllr. Jordan, seconded by Cllr. R. Coward and carried with a unanimous vote.

*d)  Annual Governance and Accountability Return 2019-2

1. To receive and note the Annual Internal Audit Report – the Clerk informed members that on 16^th July, Mrs. Mary White had carried out an independent examination of the Town Council’s accounting records, its compliance with relevant procedures and its risk assessments and internal control procedures. Mrs. White had agreed that, in all significant respects, the control objectives were being achieved throughout the financial year to a standard adequate to meet the needs of the council and had completed section 4 of the Annual Return, answered ‘yes’ or ‘Not Covered’ to all questions & had signed the Annual Internal Audit Report in the Annual Return accordingly.  Mrs. White had written a letter: ’On 16^th July, I carried out an internal audit of the Town Council’s Financial Statements for the year ending 31^st March 2020.  I am of the opinion that proper accounting records have been maintained by the Council, financial statements have been properly prepared and there were no issues of concern.  For the purposes of this audit the Town Clerk, Lindsey Wood, ensured that everything necessary was to hand and in good order and provided every assistance during our meeting.’  The Clerk confirmed that Mrs. White had responded ‘Not Covered’ to the statement relating to Petty Cash payments as the Council operates a reimbursement system rather than a petty cash float system.  However, the Clerk confirmed that all petty cash reimbursements had been supported by receipts and VAT appropriately accounted for.  Members expressed their gratitude to Mary White for carrying out the Internal Audit and asked for their thanks to be recorded in the Minutes.
2. To approve the Annual Governance Statement (Section 1) – Points 1 – 9 of the Annual Governance statement 2019/20 (Section 1 of the Annual Governance & Accountability Return) were read out to members and members answered ‘yes’ to each of the statements. The Annual Governance Statement was signed by the Clerk and by the Chairman in the presence of the Town Council.
3. To approve the Accounting Statements (Section 2) – members approved the accounts and supporting statements which included the bank reconciliation, identification of variances requiring explanation, reconciliation between boxes 7 & 8 and analysis of earmarked reserves which had been previously distributed to them with their agenda papers. From the information provided therein, the Accounting Statements 1-11 (Section 2 of the Annual Return) were completed and approved by the Town Council.  Confirmation of approval of the Account Statements was signed by the Clerk and by the Chairman in the presence of the Town Council.
4. To set the commencement date for the exercise of public rights – The Clerk confirmed that, as required by The Accounts & Audit Regulations 2015 the Town Council must now publish the unaudited Annual Governance & Accountability Return and the Notice for the Commencement of the Period for the Exercise of Public Rights.  Publication is on the parish website: www.merewilts.org
5. To note other information to be sent to the External Auditor and required by External Auditor as part of Intermediate Review 2019/20 – The Clerk informed members that Mere Town Council had been selected by our external auditors, for intermediate review for the 2019/20 reporting year as part of the required 5% sample of those who would otherwise be subject to a basic review. This means that the Town Council will be required to submit extra information to the external auditors including copies of minutes, agenda papers and any related reports from 2019/20 to support the setting of the budget for the subsequent financial year

134. General Items & Consultations

*a) New Model Code of Conduct – Consultation – the Clerk had supplied members with a link to information about the consultation on the new Model Code of Conduct and suggest that members should submit individual comments rather than a collective ‘Council’ comment.

 135. Future meetings and agenda items – the Chairman said that the Council does not usually meet in August and that therefore the next meeting would be held in September and whether it would be a virtual or face-to-face meeting would depend on government guidance nearer the time.

Requested agenda items:

• Lighting for Andy Young Pavilion – Cllr. Mead
• Water refill station – Cllr. Jordan

 

 Note:  Members are reminded that the Town Council has a general duty to consider the following matters in the exercise of any of its functions: Equal Opportunities (race, gender, sexual orientation, marital status and any disability), Crime and Disorder, Health and Safety and Human Rights.

 

*Further information on these items enclosed/attached

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MERE PEACE MEMORIAL SPORTS AND RECREATION GROUND

Registered Charity No. 1093497

 

 

For Trustees to approve:

 

1. Mere Youth Development Centre – remedial work required following Fixed Wire Testing report – the Clerk reported that, owing to some concerns, it had been necessary to request a Fixed Wire Testing report for the Youth Club building. This had now been carried out and the report had raised a number of remedial actions which needed to take place, some of which were fairly urgent.  Jeans Electricals had provided a quotation of £950 + VAT for the work & the Clerk wanted to know if Trustees were happy to proceed on this basis or whether they wanted to request further quotations.  RESOLVED to request that Jeans Electricals carry out the work as quoted on the basis that they have completed the Fixed Wire Testing Report and that some of the remedial action tasks could carry a risk factor if not completed as soon as possible.  Proposal made by Trustee Cllr. R. Coward, seconded by Cllr. Ings and carried with a unanimous vote.

 

 

2.  To approve the End of Year Summary income/expenditure report (within Budget/Expenditure report) and to approve the payment to Mere Town Council for maintenance charges for 2019/20 of £11,954.34. Trustees RESOLVED to approve the End of Year Summary income/expenditure report and the payment of £11,954.34 to Mere Town Council for maintenance charges for 2019/20 on proposal made by Cllr. Hazzard, seconded by Cllr. Hill and carried with a unanimous vote.