NORTHWICH TOWN COUNCIL

AUGUST RECESS COMMITTEE MEETING

MONDAY 3rd AUGUST 2009

(Minute No. 19/95 refers)

Present : Clr Mrs H Burder - Town Mayor

Clr A L Neil - P&O Committee Chairman

Clr O D Robinson - Planning Chairman

Also Present : Clr G B Cooke

Clr Mrs D Cooke

Also Present : Mr S Sharman - Chief Executive

Mrs L Armistead - Council Secretary/PA

68/09

APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE

Apologies for absence and reasons were received from Clrs S P Gough and G Mainwaring and recorded in the apologies register.

69/09

DECLARATIONS OF ANY PERSONAL AND /OR PREJUDICIAL INTEREST

None received.

70/09

FINANCE

The monthly accounts for the period 1st July 2009 to 28 th July 2008 together with financial budget statements were submitted.

RESOLVED

that the payment of the accounts submitted in the sum of £48588.14 for the above period be approved and the financial reports be approved and accepted.

71/09

PLANNING

Consideration was given to the following planning applications:

1. 09/00953/COU. Mr Wayne Garnett. Change of use to hand car wash. Motor Car Credit, Old Warrington Road , Northwich, Cheshire CW9 5LR.

Recommendation on the information received: NO OBJECTIONS.

1. 09/00957/FUL. Mr Peter Clarke. Replacement garage and utility room. 111 Moss Road , Northwich, Cheshire CW8 4BJ.

Recommendation on the information received: NO OBJECTIONS subject to no loss of amenities to neighbouring residents.

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Date Clr Mrs H Burder

Town Mayor

 

3. 09/01034/CERT. Mr Harvey . Lawful Development Certificate for proposed single storey side extension. 41 Oakleigh Rise, Northwich, Cheshire CW8 4XE Recommendation on the information received: NO OBJECTIONS subject to no loss of amenities to neighbouring residents.

1. 09/01064/FUL. Mrs S Heald. Garage conversion and single storey rear extension. 19 Drillfield Road , Northwich, Cheshire CW9 5HU.

Recommendation on the information received: NO OBJECTIONS subject to no loss of amenities to neighbouring residents.

1. 09/01071/FUM. Keyline Leisure limited. Conversion of existing two storey building into 20 x flats (resubmission 08-0345-FUM). Research Laboratories, Winnington Lane , Northwich, Cheshire .

Recommendation on the information received: NO OBJECTIONS subject to no loss of amenities to neighbouring residents.

1. 09/01081/FUL. Mr David Hardaker. Refurbishment of two storey building with demolition of existing single storey and new single storey extension to the rear. Change of use at ground floor level from B/1 to A1. Reconfigure two existing car parks into one. First Mortgage Options Ltd. 43 Chester Road , Northwich, Cheshire CW8 1HA.

Recommendation on the information received: OBJECTION on highway grounds and the reduction of car parking spaces rather than increase which could result in parking problems to residents in Chapel Street and neighbouring streets.

1. 09/01101/FUL. Mr Daniel Shirley. Proposed brick garage at rear. 92 Chester Road , Northwich, Cheshire CW8 1JH.

Recommendation on the information received: NO OBJECTIONS subject to no loss of amenities to neighbouring residents.

1. 09/01147/FUL. Mr Andy Sumner. Resubmission of approved substation building under application 08-0836-FUM. Sir John Deanes College , Monarch Drive , Northwich, Cheshire CW9 8AF.

Recommendation on the information received: NO OBJECTIONS subject to no loss of amenities to neighbouring residents.

1. 09/01163/FUL. Mr Andy Sumner. Retrospective application for a Temporary Car Park (re-submission 09/00529/FUL). Sir John Deanes College , Monarch Drive , Northwich, Cheshire CW9 8AD.

Recommendation on the information received: APRPOVAL subject to no loss of amenities to neighbouring residents.

RESOLVED

There being no further business the Town Mayor declared the meeting closed at 2.15 pm on Monday 3 rd August 2009.

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Date Clr Mrs H Burder

Town Mayor

 

NORTHWICH TOWN COUNCIL

MONDAY 6th JULY 2009

Present : Clr Mrs H Burder - Town Mayor

Clr S P Gough - Deputy Town Mayor

Councillors : D Bowden G B Cooke

Mrs D Cooke M J Donnelly

Mrs V Frame C R Garton

Mrs A Gerrard Mrs G Gough

Mrs J Illidge A L Neil

O D Robinson B Stringer

J A Turnbull R J Woodier

Also present : Mrs L Armistead – Council Secretary/PA

Mr C Shaw – Team Leader

Mrs S Lord – Asst Admin Officer

Mr D Lewis

Mr & Mrs G Lewis

Mrs V Eaton

Mr S Bailey

The Town Mayor opened the meeting at 6.00 pm.

48/09

APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE

Apologies for absence and reasons were received from Clrs N T Davies, Mrs J Davies, L Grant and G Mainwaring and recorded in the apologies register.

The Town Mayor informed the Members that Mr S Sharman, Chief Executive had given his apologies for the meeting due to personal reasons. She continued that Mr J Sharman, Operations Manager was extremely ill and that he was awaiting treatment with a specialist at hospital.

The Mayor extended the best wishes of the Members and staff to both Mr Jeff Sharman and his family and Mr Steve Sharman and his family at this difficult time.

The Mayor stated that a meeting of the Policy and Operations was being arranged to discuss this matter.

The Mayor informed the Members that Clr Tom Davies was also in hospital following a major operation and extended their best wishes for a speedy recovery to him and his family from the Councillors and staff at the Town Council.

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Date Clr Mrs H Burder

Town Mayor

 

49/09

DECLARATIONS OF ANY PERSONAL AND PREJUDICIAL INTEREST

None received.

50/09

OPEN FORUM

Mr Simon Bailey, 29 Sydney Street, Northwich and Mrs Veronica Eaton, 27 Sydney Street, Northwich attended the Open Forum to ask for Members support regarding the anti social behaviour in Sydney Street.

Clr Neil stated that the Council would forward their names and addresses to the Community Forum for their attention.

51/09

SIGNING OF THE MINUTES

RESOLVED

that the Minutes of the meeting of the Town Council held on Tuesday 2 nd June 2009 be approved as a true and accurate record and signed by the Town Mayor .

52/09

REPORTS ON COMMITTEES

RESOLVED

i. that the Minutes of the Finance and General Purposes Committee meeting held on Tuesday 30 th June 2009 be confirmed as a true record and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Finance and General Purposes Committee.

ii. that the Minutes of the Planning Committee meetings held on Tuesday 30 th June 2009 and Tuesday 26 th May 2009 be confirmed as true records and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Planning Committee.

53/09

TOWN MAYOR'S COMMUNICATIONS

The Town Mayor informed the Members that she had attended the following:

• i. 13 th June – Young Person Selection Day for the Mayoress/Consort of which Daniel Lewis was the successful candidate.

• ii. 14 th June – The Winsford Civic Service.

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Date Clr Mrs H Burder

Town Mayor

 

• iii. 16 th June - The Winsford, Middlewich and Northwich Sea Cadets Annual Inspection.

• iv. 18 th June – The 50 th Anniversary of Northwich Glass.

• v. 19 th June – The Mid Cheshire College Fashion Show at the Lifestyle Centre, Winsford.

• vi. 20 th June - The Forest Adventure for the Mid Cheshire District Scouts at the Activity Centre, Sandiway .

• vii. 21 st June - The Northwich Civic Service at St Helen's Church, Northwich which had been a very personal and touching service.

• viii. 22 nd June – Raising the flag to commemorate the start of the Fly the Flag For The Armed Services celebrations.

• ix. 27 th June – The Open Day at the Neuromuscular Centre, Winsford.

• x. 27 th June – The St Wilfrid's Primary School Summer Fair.

• xi. 30 th June – The first Community Forum meeting of Cheshire West and Chester .

• xii. 2 nd July – The Future World of Work event at Portal Premiership Golf Course.

• xiii. 3 rd July – The Open Day at Acorn Hollow Residential Home, Lostock Gralam.

• xiv. 4 th July – Northwich Carnival followed by a visit to the Scout Centenary Celebrations and Hog Roast at 1 st Northwich Scout Hut.

• xv. 5 th July – Frodsham Festival to mark the 800 th Anniversary of granting of the Charter to Invest Frodsham as a Borough.

The Mayor thanked her Deputy Mayor, Clr S P Gough for attending functions on her behalf during the month.

The Mayor presented Clr O D Robinson with a plaque to commemorate his year of office as Town Mayor. Clr Robinson thanked the Town Mayor and commented that he had thoroughly enjoyed his year of office.

The Mayor introduced Mr Daniel Lewis and stated that he had been the successful candidate in her challenge to elect a Town Mayor's Escort/Mayoress and moved that Daniel Lewis be elected Town Mayor's Escort for the ensuing year. Clr A L Neil seconded the motion.

She then invited Mr Lewis to come forward where she invested him with the Insignia of Office as the Town Mayor's Escort.

54/09

The Mayor requested permission to discuss agenda item no. 8 before agenda item no. 7

RESOLVED .

That agenda item no. 8 be discussed before agenda item no. 7

PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT OF A NEW WASTE TREATMENT PLANT AT LOSTOCK GRALAM, NORTHWICH

Mr Symon Grasby, Development Manager,Viridor Waste Management attended the meeting and gave a presentation on the proposed development.

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Date Clr Mrs H Burder

Town Mayor

 

Mr Grasby circulated a copy of the Local Community Consultation – Proposals for a new waste treatment facility in Cheshire . He gave an update on the proposals and outlined the working hours and impact on the traffic in the area.

The Members asked why the development was planned for Northwich when the waste was transported from Ellesmere Port, Macclesfield and Crewe to Runcorn. Mr Grasby responded that this was because the development was within the boundaries of the 2 authorities and excellent for rail and road network.

The Members expressed concern at the hours of transport in an already built up area and asked how many daily vehicular movements were expected. Also why did Northwich have to cater for the waste from Crewe, Macclesfield and Ellesmere Port and Mr Grasby replied that the size of the plant would be a main factor and the impact on traffic would be minimal at such a large site.

Clr Garton asked that Mr Grasby confirm his calculations for the amount of lorry movement and tonnage from the plant and Mr Grasby stated that he could only supply information on the calculations he had with him.

The Members asked whether the public consultation had resulted in any arguments or objections being raised from neighbouring residents and whether the bridge leading to the entrance of the proposed site was capable of the weight of the lorries.

Mr Grasby concluded by informing the Members that more information regarding air quality, efficiency and air pollution could be obtained from their website.

www.viridor-consultation.co.uk/lostockgralam .

The Mayor thanked Mr Grasby for attending the meeting.

RESOLVED .

That Mr Grasby be thanked for attending the meeting.

55/09

CHIEF EXECUTIVE'S COMMUNICATIONS

The Chief Executive submitted a report and in his absence the Team Leader gave an update for Members information.

Northwich Carnival

Verdin Park had been left in a good condition following the Northwich Carnival/Car Boot Sale on Saturday 4 th and Sunday 5 th July 2009'

Bowls Awareness Weekend 2009

The Bowls Awareness weekend would be held on Saturday 1 st and Sunday 2 nd August 2009.

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Date Clr Mrs H Burder

Town Mayor

 

Crazy Golf Course Vickersway Park

The new crazy golf course at Vickersway Park was now completed and the Chief Executive proposed that the Town Mayor officially open the attraction within the next few months.

a. The Inaugural Meeting of the Northwich West and Abbey Community Forum

A letter dated 8 th June 2009 from J Binyon, Area and Neighbourhood Working was submitted for Members information.

b. The Cheshire West and Chester Partnership West

The Cheshire West and Chester Partnership West – Edition 5 was submitted.

The Members were concerned that Cheshire West and Chester Council had not contacted Northwich Town Council, as the largest of the Town and Parish Council in the Northwich and Rural North Area Partnership Board to their recent meeting of the APB, especially as most of the super output areas which would be of concern would be in the town council's area.

resolved to recommend:

•  that the Town Council contact the Chief Officer at ChALC to ascertain why all Town and Parish Council were not invited to submit nominations for a place on the APB and what process had led to the selection of the representative from Helsby Parish Council.

•  that the response from ChALC be placed on the Chief Executive's report for Members information.

c. Standards Board – Evaluation Compact

c. The Standards Board – Evaluation Compact was submitted.

d. Cheshire West and Chester LSP Audit Commission update – May 2009 was available for interested Members in the Chief Executive's office.

RESOLVED

That the report be received and recommendations

approved.

56/09

OVERVIEW OF SCRUTINY COMMITTEE REVIEW

TOWN AND PARISH COUNCILS

A letter dated 12 th June 2009 from Mrs P Housely, Senior Manager of the Overview and Scrutiny Review Committee inviting the Town Council to attend the Review on Thursday 16 th July 2009 at the Lifestyle Centre, Winsford was submitted.

.

RESOLVED

that the Town Mayor, Clr Mrs H Burder and Clr O D Robinson attend the Review as representatives of the Town Council.

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Date Clr Mrs H Burder

Town Mayor

 

57/09

1 st WEST CHESHIRE LSP NETWORK CONFERENCE

An email received 16 th June 2009 from Mr R Taylor, Partnership Adviser, Cheshire West and Chester Council inviting representative from the Town Council to attend the 1 st West Cheshire LSP Network Conference at the Lifestyle Centre on Monday 20 th July 2009 was submitted.

RESOLVED .

that Clr D Bowden attend as representative of the Town Council.

58/09

ANNUAL REPORT FOR 2008-09

The Annual Report 2008-09 was submitted for Members perusal. The Council were requested to approve this report in readiness for it being published.

RESOLVED

that the Annual Report 2008-09 be approved.

59/09

AUGUST RECESS

Authorization was requested for the Town Mayor, Deputy Town Mayor, Chair of Finance and General Purposes Committee and Chair of Policy and Operations Review Committee to deal with the payment of accounts, planning applications and any business deemed urgent on behalf of our Town Council during the August Recess (Minute No. 19/95 refers).

RESOLVED

that authorization be give for the above course of action.

60/09

THE IMPORTANCE OF A UNIVERSAL POSTAL SERVICE

A letter dated 25 th June 2009 from Ms R Buck, Department for Business Innovation and Skills was submitted.

Clr Gough gave a brief update on the situation regarding the postal service and the Members agreed that the news of the non sale of Royal Mail was excellent news.

RESOLVED

that the letter be received.

There being no further business the Town Mayor declared the meeting closed at 7.10 pm on Monday 6 th July 2009

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Date Clr Mrs H Burder

Town Mayor

 

NORTHWICH TOWN COUNCIL

TUESDAY 2nd JUNE 2009

Present : Clr Mrs H Burder - Town Mayor

Clr S P Gough - Deputy Town Mayor

Councillors : D Bowden G B Cooke

Mrs D Cooke N T Davies

P Dolan Mrs V Frame

Mrs G Gough Mrs J Illidge

G Mainwaring A L Neil

O D Robinson B Stringer

R J Woodier

Also present : Mr S Sharman – Chief Executive

Mrs L Armistead – Council Secretary/PA

The Town Mayor opened the meeting at 6.00 pm.

28/09

APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE

Apologies for absence and reasons were received from Clrs Mrs J Davies, M J Donnelly, C R Garton, Mrs A Gerrard, L Grant and J A Turnbull and recorded in the apologies register.

29/09

DECLARATIONS OF ANY PERSONAL AND PREJUDICIAL INTEREST

Clr Mrs Helen Burder declared a personal interest in agenda item no. 7 – New skatepark.

Clr A L Neil declared a personal and prejudicial interest in agenda item no. 5 (5.1) Approval of Reports on Committees (Minute no. 21/09 refers).

30/09

OPEN FORUM

No members of the public were in attendance on this occasion.

31/09

SIGNING OF THE MINUTES

RESOLVED

that the Minutes of the meeting of the Town Council held on Tuesday 5 th May and the meeting of the AGM and Parish Meeting both held on Monday 18 th May 2009 be approved as true and accurate records and signed by the Town Mayor .

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Date Clr Mrs H Burder

Town Mayor

 

32/09

REPORTS ON COMMITTEES

RESOLVED

i. that the Minutes of the Finance and General Purposes Committee meeting held on Tuesday 28 th April 2009 be confirmed as a true record and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Finance and General Purposes Committee with the following amendment: That the resolution in Minute no 339/08 be amended and the following be added as no. iv to read:-

that the Members were not in agreement with sections of the Friends of the Royal British Legion Constitution especially Section 8 Disbanding of the Club part B which read:

‘On disbanding, any funds standing to the credit of the club shall be shared out amongst the current members and donors in proportion to their contribution over the previous 12 months as recorded in the minute book of the group'.

And that any further requests for funding be referred to the Grants Committee for their consideration.

ii. that the Minutes of the Finance and General Purposes Committee meeting held on Tuesday 26 th be confirmed as a true record and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Finance and General Purposes Committee with the amendment regarding Declarations of Interest already circulated being approved.

iii. that the Minutes of the Planning Committee meetings held on Wednesday 6 th May 2009 and Tuesday 26 th May 2009 be confirmed as true records and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Planning Committee.

iv. that the Minutes of the Amenities Committee meeting held on Tuesday 14 th May 2009 be confirmed as a true record and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Amenities Committee.

33/09

TOWN MAYOR'S COMMUNICATIONS

The Town Mayor commenced by thanking everyone who attended the AGM and thanked Clr Robinson for his excellent year of office.

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Date Clr Mrs H Burder

Town Mayor

 

The Town Mayor continued that she had attended the following:

i. 20 th May 2009 – Mid Cheshire College's Production of Take A Chance at the Memorial Hall, Northwich.

ii 22 nd May 2009 – Sainsbury's, Northwich to celebrate the 140 th anniversary of the store.

iii 22 nd May 2009 – A charity run in Marbury Park where she joined Alan Maddock in helping to raise money for a local charity.

iv. 25 th May 2009 – The Northwich Regatta which had been a very enjoyable day.

v. 29 th May 2009 – The Fetes de Pentecotes in Dole, France together with Clrs S P Gough, Mrs J Illidge and J A Turnbull.

The Mayor gave an outline of the itinerary for the weekend and stated that it had been a very enjoyable weekend. All the gifts that had been presented to the town at the festival were displayed in the Council Chamber and the Mayor opened the official twinning gift. The Mayor wished to extend her thanks and those of the delegation to the Mayor of Dole and his staff for their hospitality during the festival.

Clr Mainwaring thanked everyone who had presented the town at the Fetes de Pentecote and asked what would become of the gifts especially if the monetary value was below £25.

Clr S P Gough replied that all the gifts, no matter what monetary value had to be recorded in the gifts register and that in the past the perishable things had been donated to the Town Mayor for the Charity Dinner to be used as either raffle or tombola prizes. He reiterated what the Town Mayor had said about the weekend and also wished to thank the Members of the Dole Society who were of great assistance with translations etc. He concluded by thanking the Mayor for representing Northwich so well.

Clr Mrs V Frame and Clr B Stringer arrived at the meeting at 6.15 pm and apologised for being late.

34/09

CHIEF EXECUTIVE'S COMMUNICATIONS

The Chief Executive submitted a report for the period 29 th April 2009 to 26 th May 2009 for Members information.

Office Computers

The Chief Executive reported that he intended to purchase the 4 pc's and 2 printers for the office at a cost of approximately £3500.

resolved to recommend that the computers and printers be purchased in line with the Chief Executive's recommendations.

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Date Clr Mrs H Burder

Town Mayor

 

New Skate Park

The Chief Executive reported that all the reports and surveys had now been completed and the planning application had been forwarded to Cheshire West and Chester for their approval. Correspondence from the Leisure Development Office, CW&C was submitted for Members information.

RESOLVED

That the report be received.

35/09

COUNCIL SECRETARY'S REPORT

The Council Secretary submitted the following for Members information.

•  The Cheshire and Warrington Community Empowerment Programme inviting Councillors and staff to attend information modules was submitted. Any Member wishing to attend any of the modules should contact the Council Secretary to confirm attendance.

•  An invitation had been received from the Cheshire Community Action to attend a Members Evening on Tuesday 7 th July 2009 at Whitley Village Hall at 6.30 pm . Any Member wishing to attend any of the modules should contact the Council Secretary to confirm attendance.

•  The ChALC Newsletter – Issue 127 – May 2009 was submitted.

RESOLVED .

That the report be received.

36/09

THE BOUNDARY COMMITTEE – CHESHIRE WEST AND CHESTER

PATTERN OF WARDS

A letter dated 5 th May 2009 via email from Mrs J Metheringham, Review Officer, Boundary Committee for England was submitted.

The Chief Executive stated that if there were to be any ward changes then this was the time to start the process.

Clr S P Gough stated that this was a very lengthy document and needed more time for the Members to peruse it. There was also a need to supply the Councillors with ward maps and boundaries as it was virtually impossible to discuss this matter without this information.

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Date Clr Mrs H Burder

Town Mayor

 

RESOLVED .

That more information is acquired and this item be place on the next meeting of the Policy and Operations Review Committee for further discussion.

37/09

PROPOSED CHANGES TO FORMAT OF COUNCIL AGENDAS

The Town Mayor, Clr Mrs Helen Burder proposed that the format and set up of future agendas be changed. A copy of the designs together with proposed name plates and name badges were submitted for Members consideration.

Clr Mrs Burder stated that with the Quality Town Council status she felt it was a way forward to develop more modern formats and logos for the letter heads and stationery used at the Town Council and if approved in principle she would develop the stationery further.

She continued that she hoped to extend the modern development to the website and newsletters.

The Members welcomed the modernised designs but agreed that the Town Crest, Quality Council logo and Investors in People logo should remain on the stationery.

RESOLVED

that this be placed before the next meeting of the Policy and Operations Review Committee for further discussion.

38/09

INTERNAL AUDITORS FINAL REPORT

The Chief Executive submitted the Internal Auditors end of year report for 2008/09 and gave a brief update on the content.

RESOLVED .

that the Internal Auditors end of year report for 2008/09 be approved with all the recommendations to be implemented in 2009-10.

39/09

CHESHIRE WEST AND CHESTER COUNCIL – CONTRACTUAL FUNDING

A letter dated 21 st May 2009 from Mr S Robinson, Chief Executive, Cheshire West and Chester Council and an email sent on 26 th May 2009 with an agenda for the proposed meeting was submitted.

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Date Clr Mrs H Burder

Town Mayor

 

The Chief Executive reported that the Operations Manager was in the final stages of preparing a grounds maintenance portfolio for the additional services we were looking to take over.

RESOLVED

That a letter be written to Mr Robinson, including the grounds

maintenance portfolio for the additional services

40/09

REFURBISHMENT OF CEMETERY CHAPELS INTO OFFICE ACCOMODATION

Clr S P Gough gave a verbal report on the proposals to modernise the Council offices and stated that he would like to see the 2 chapels refurbished and one side turned into office accommodation with meeting room and the other be refurbished into a Council Chamber. Plans had been drawn up to show how the project could look and these were displayed in the Council Chamber for Members information.

Clr Gough continued that the Cemetery Lodge which was currently used as offices was consecrated and therefore it would have to be de-consecrated before selling the property to fund the project. He said that, at this stage, he was not asking the Members to make any decision and was only making preliminary enquiries regarding suitability and cost.

Clr N T Davies stated that he felt a great deal of discussion had already taken place regarding this project and yet he had no prior knowledge of the work or had any input into it.

Clr Gough replied that if it was brought to full council for discussion then he felt there may be too many suggestions and was in this instance only asking for approval in principle of the recommendation and implication of disposing of the house.

Clr Dolan asked whether this was the only option for office accommodations and asked whether other locations had been looked into to which Clr Gough replied that, as the buildings were in the ownership of Northwich Town Council there was no rent payable as the building was one of our own assets.

The Town Mayor suggested that this be passed to the Policy and Operations Review Committee for their consideration and reminded all the Members that they were at liberty to attend any meeting of the Town Council, whether they were on the said committee, or not.

The Chief Executive informed the Members that he had met with the Mr Steven Robinson, Chief Executive of Cheshire West and Chester in January where they discussed the suitability of the current premises. Mr Sharman stated that Mr Robinson said there was a possibility that offices in the town would become available that could be used by Northwich Town Council.

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Date Clr Mrs H Burder

Town Mayor

 

Clr Gough concluded by stating that this was ‘just the beginning' and reiterated the Town Mayors recommendation that this be passed to the Policy and Operations Review Committee for their initial recommendation.

RESOLVED

that this matter be placed on the next agenda of the Policy

and Operations Review Committee for further discussion.

There being no further business the Town Mayor declared the meeting closed at 6.55 pm on Tuesday 2 nd June 2009

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Date Clr Mrs H Burder

Town Mayor

 

NORTHWICH TOWN COUNCIL

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

MONDAY 18th MAY 2009

 

Present: Clr O D Robinson - Town Mayor

Clr Mrs H Burder - Deputy Town Mayor

Councillors: D Bowden, N T Davies, P Dolan, M J Donnelly, S P Gough, Mrs G Gough, Mrs J Illidge, A L Neil, R J Woodier

Also Present : Mr S Sharman - Chief Executive

Mr J Sharman - Operations Manager

Mrs L Armistead - Council Secretary/PA

Mrs S Lord – Assistant Admin Officer

Representatives Age Concern Cheshire

from: Mrs B Lawton and Mrs A Major

The Multi Sports Club

Mrs B Rimmer and Mr L Leech

Invited Guests: Mr T B Armistead,

Mrs S Booth – Church Wives Group

Hon. Alderman R Carey BEM JP DL

Mr D Myerscough

Mrs J Roberts – Church Wives Group

Mrs J Robinson

Mrs E Sharman

Mrs D Woodier

The Town Mayor opened the meeting at 6.00 pm

1/09 ELECTION OF TOWN MAYOR 2009-10

It was moved by Clr O D Robinson and seconded by Clr A L Neil and

RESOLVED

that Councillor Mrs Helen Burder be elected the Town Mayor of Northwich for the ensuing year

Councillor O D Robinson thereupon vacated the Chair in favour of Councillor Mrs H Burder who, after taking and signing the Declaration of Office, addressed the Members. She stated that she was proud and honoured to stand as the newly elected Town Mayor and thanked her proposer and seconder and the Members for having the faith in her ability to represent Northwich in the coming year.

She continued that she envisaged the next 12 months to be both a challenging and exciting period and hoped to raise the profile of the Council in Northwich and within the new Cheshire West and Chester area.

The Mayor stated that there were a surprising number of organizations within Northwich who provided many activities and services to the residents of the town and she intended to try and bring these organizations, clubs, societies to the attention of the public so they can receive the credit they so rightly deserve.

The Mayor then announced her chosen charities for her year of office – Age Concern Cheshire and the Vale Royal Playschemes.

The Mayor then announced a new challenge that she was launching. The challenge was aimed at 13-18 year olds who lived or attended school in Northwich who wished to be considered for the position of Mayors Consort of Mayoress. The person would be selected though a selection process which would take place on Saturday 13 th June 2009 at the Venue in Rudheath and the successful youth will be expected to attend the Civic Service which was being held on Sunday 21 st June 2009 as the Mayors Consort/Mayoress. The Consort/Mayoress would then be presented to the Town Council in July where they will be duly appointed.

The Mayor concluded that she hoped this new approach would bring a much needed younger element and opinion to the Council which would enhance the reputation of us a Quality Town Council. She finished by stating that she saw the next 12 months being an honour and exciting time with challenges and opportunities.

2/09 APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE

Apologies for absence were received from Clrs G B Cooke, Mrs D Cooke, Mrs J Davies, Mrs V Frame, C R Garton, Mrs A Gerrard, G Mainwaring, B Stringer and J A Turnbull and recorded in the apologies register

3/09 DECLARATIONS OF ANY PERSONAL AND/OR PREJUDICIAL INTEREST 

No personal or prejudicial declarations of interest were received.

4/09 RETIRING TOWN MAYOR'S CLOSING SPEECH

Clr O D Robinson firstly congratulated Clr Mrs Burder on becoming Town Mayor and stated that if she had as good a year as he and his wife had, she would have a very enjoyable year of office.

He continued that during his year of office he had met a lot of people from different walks of life and announced that he had already presented his charity cheques to the Multi Sports Club, Northwich and the Mid Cheshire Animal Welfare. Mrs Barbara Rimmer from the Multi Sports Club responded and thanked the Mayor for choosing her organisation and on behalf of all the Members of the Club, Mr Liam Leech presented the Mayor and Mayoress with a hand made collage made by the youngsters at the centre.

The Mayor concluded that he was happy to learn that the Town Mayor had chosen 2 charities from the different age spectrums and welcomed representatives from Age Concern to the meeting.

He finally thanked his wife Mrs Janine Robinson for escorting him to all his functions in a professional and friendly manner.

5/09 RETIRING TOWN MAYOR - VOTE OF THANKS 

Clr R J Woodier congratulated Clr O D Robinson and Mrs Janine Robinson on their successful year of office and thanked them for the contribution to the town during their civic year of office.

It was moved by Clr R J Woodier and seconded by Clr S P Gough and

RESOLVED

that the Council place on record its appreciation of the services rendered by Councillor O D Robinson during his term of office as Town Mayor, and that the thanks of the Council also be extended to his Mayoress, Clr Mrs Janine Robinson for so ably assisting him in carrying out these duties throughout the year.

6/09 ELECTION OF DEPUTY TOWN MAYOR

It was moved by Councillor O D Robinson and seconded by Councillor A L Neil.

RESOLVED

that Councillor S P Gough be elected the Deputy Town Mayor of Northwich for the ensuing year.

After being elected with the Insignia of Office by the Town Mayor, the newly elected Deputy Town Mayor congratulated Clr Mrs Burder on her election and wished her a successful year in office and promised to support her to the best of his ability. He continued that he wished to thank everyone who had the confidence in him to undertake this civic office which he last held in 1994. At that time he was Deputy Mayor to Mrs Mary Bowhay-Merrit who was a great ambassador for the town and was sure Clr Mrs Burder, with her reputation for speaking out for herself, would be just as admirable.

7/09 TOWN MAYOR'S ESCORT 

The Town Mayor announced that she intended to elect a young person with the help of Connexions to become her Consort/Mayoress for the ensuing year and that the selection would take place on 13 th June 2009 . The elected young person to be invested with the Insignia of Office as the Town Mayors Consort/Mayoress at the full council meeting in July 2009 and will be introduced to the town at the Mayor's Civic Service on 21 st June 2009.

It was moved by Councillor Mrs H Burder and seconded by Councillor A L Neil.

RESOLVED

that a Junior Consort/Mayoress be elected for the ensuing year.

8/09 ELECTION TO FINANCE AND GENERAL PURPOSES COMMITTEE 2009-10 

It was moved by Councillor O D Robinson and seconded by Clr S P Gough and

RESOLVED

that a Finance & General Purposes Committee be formed for the year 2009-10 and

(a) The Committee Members be Councillors:

G B Cooke Mrs D Cooke N T Davies Mrs V Frame Mrs G Gough S P Gough A L Neil O D Robinson B Stringer

(b) That the Chairman of the Committee be Clr S P Gough.

(c) That the meetings of the committee be held approximately 7 days prior to the Council meeting every month.

9/09 ELECTION TO PLANNING COMMITTEE 2009-10 

It was moved by Clr S P Gough and seconded by Clr O D Robinson and

RESOLVED

That a Planning Committee be formed for the year 2009-10 and

(a) The Committee Members be Councillors:

N T Davies Mrs J Davies M J Donnelly Mrs V Frame Mrs G Gough O D Robinson B Stringer R J Woodier

(b) The Chairman of the Committee be Clr O D Robinson.

(c) That the meetings of the committee be held approximately 7 days prior to the Council meeting every month with additional meetings being called by the Chairman if urgent planning applications are received that need a response before the next meeting.

10/09 ELECTION TO AMENITIES COMMITTEE 2009-10

It was moved by Clr S P Gough and seconded by Clr R J Woodier and

RESOLVED

That an Amenities Committee be formed for the year 2009-10 and

(a) The Committee Members be Councillors:

D Bowden Mrs V Frame S P Gough Mrs G Gough L Grant Mrs J Illidge G Mainwaring R J Woodier

(b) That the Chairman of the Committee be Clr Mrs V Frame.

(c) That the meetings be held on dates to be decided.

11/09 ELECTION TO GRANTS COMMITTEE 2009-10 

It was moved by Clr A L Neil and seconded by Clr Mrs H Burder and

RESOLVED

That a Grants Committee be formed for the year 2009-10 and

(a) The Committee Members be Councillors:

Mrs H Burder Mrs D M Cooke G B Cooke N T Davies Mrs J Illidge B Stringer O D Robinson R J Woodier

(b) That the Chairman of the Committee be Clr Mrs J Illidge

12/09 ELECTION TO TWINNING COMMITTEE 2009-10 

It was moved by Clr O D Robinson and seconded by Clr A L Neil and

RESOLVED

That a Twinning Committee be formed for the year 2009-10 and

(a) The Committee Members be Councillors:

D Bowden Mrs H Burder Mrs D Cooke N T Davies Mrs V Frame Mrs A Gerrard Mrs G Gough S P Gough O D Robinson

(b) That the Chairman of the Committee be Clr N T Davies

13/09 ELECTION TO POLICY AND OPERATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE 2009-10 

It was moved by Clr S P Gough and seconded by Clr Mrs H Burder and

RESOLVED

That a Policy & Operations Review Committee be formed for the year 2009-10 and

(a) The Committee Members be Councillors & Chairs of:-

The Town Mayor

Chairs of - Finance & General Purposes Cttee Planning Cttee,Amenities Cttee,Twinning Committee,Grants Committee

Clrs Mrs D Cooke,G B Cooke,G Mainwaring,A L Neil,B Stringer

(b) The Chairman of the Committee be Clr A L Neil

14/09 ATTENDANCES AT TOWN COUNCIL MEETINGS

A schedule of Councillors attendances at Council meetings was submitted for Members information.

RESOLVED

that the schedule be received.

15/09 REPRESENTATIVES ON OUTSIDE BODIES 

It was moved by Councillor G Mainwaring and seconded by Councillor S P Gough and

RESOLVED

that the Council be represented on outside bodies as follows:-

BODY NUMBER OF PROPOSED PERIOD

VACANCIES REPRESENTATIVE(S) OF OFFICE

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Development of the Arts Clr D Bowden 1 year

Northwich Playschemes Association Clr Mrs H Burder 1 year

Cheshire West and Chester Arts Networking Cttee Clr D Bowden 1 year

Winnington Ave. Youth Club C Clr O D Robinson 1 year

Sir John Deane's 6th Form College Clr D Bowden & Clr O D Robinson 1 year

Quality Council Forum Clr O D Robinson & Chief Executive 1 year

Winnington Park School Clr Mrs J Illidge 1 year

Rudheath High School Clr N T Davies 1 year

RESOLVED

that the schedule be received and noted.

 

 

There being no further business the Town Mayor declared the Annual General Meeting closed at 6.26 pm on Monday 18th May 2009 .

 

 

 

 

  NORTHWICH TOWN COUNCIL

TUESDAY 5 th MAY 2009

 

Present : Clr O D Robinson - Town Mayor

Mrs H Burder - Deputy Town Mayor

 

Councillors : D Bowden G B Cooke Mrs D Cooke N T Davies Mrs J Davies P Dolan Mrs V Frame C R Garton S P Gough Mrs G Gough

B Stringer J A Turnbull R J Woodier

Also present : Mr S Sharman – Chief Executive

Mr J Sharman – Operations Manager

Mrs L Armistead – Council Secretary/PA

The Town Mayor opened the meeting at 6.00 pm .

341/08 APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE

Apologies for absence and reasons were received from Clrs M J Donnelly, Mrs A Gerrard, L Grant, Mrs J Illidge and G Mainwaring and recorded in the apologies register.

342/08 DECLARATIONS OF ANY PERSONAL AND PREJUDICIAL INTEREST

None received. 

343/08 OPEN FORUM

No members of the public were in attendance on this occasion.

344/08 SIGNING OF THE MINUTES 

RESOLVED

that the Minutes of the meeting of the Town Council held on Monday 6 th April 200 9 be approved as a true and accurate record and signed by the Town Mayor .

345/08 REPORTS ON COMMITTEES

RESOLVED

i. that the Minutes of the Finance and General Purposes Committee meeting held on Tuesday 31 st March 2009 be confirmed as a true record and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Finance and General Purposes Committee.

ii. that the Minutes of the Planning Committee meetings held on Tuesday 31 st March 2009 and Monday 14 th April 2009 be confirmed as a true record and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Planning Committee.

iii. that the Minutes of the Twinning Committee meeting held on Tuesday 14 th April 2009 be confirmed as a true record and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Twinning Committee.

346/08 TOWN MAYOR'S COMMUNICATIONS

 The Town Mayor informed the Members that he had visited all the areas that the Town Council maintained and congratulated all the staff for their continued effort to ensure that the Town Council's parks and cemeteries were always a credit to the Council.

347/08 CHIEF EXECUTIVE'S COMMUNICATIONS 

The Chief Executive submitted a report for the period 1 st April 2009 to 28 th April 2009 for Members information.

Bowls Awareness Weekend - The Chief Executive reported that he had made arrangements to hold the Bowls Awareness Weekend on Saturday 1 st August 2009 and Sunday 2 nd August 2009 in Vickersway Park . He continued that the event was a great success and planned the same format as in previous years.

Adoption of Cheshire 's Consolidated Joint Municipal Waste Management Strategy 2007-2020 - The Cheshire 's Consolidated Joint Municipal Waste Management Strategy 2007-2020 is available for interested Members in the Chief Executive's office.

Equality and Human Rights Commission - The Public Sector Duties from the Equality and Human Rights Commission is available for interested Members in the Chief Executive's office.

Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service – Final Corporate Plane and Integrated Risk Management Plan - IRMP6 is available for interested Members in the Chief Executive's office.

RESOLVED

That the report be received.

348/08 COUNCIL SECRETARY'S REPORT

The Council Secretary submitted the DAN Accounts 2008/2009.

RESOLVED .

That the report be received.

349/08 AUDIT 2008-2009 

Authorization was requested for the Town Mayor and Chief Executive to sign off the year end balance sheet, together with working details for the Annual Return.

The Chief Executive enclosed copies of the Internal Auditors report for Members to approve and was awaiting the Internal Auditors final report and once this was received it could be submitted to the Audit Commission (the External Auditors)

RESOLVED .

That permission be granted for the Town Mayor and Chief Executive to sign off the year end accounts and the recommendations in the reports from the Internal Auditor be implemented.

350/08 CHANGE OF DATE FOR COUNCIL MEETING JUNE 2009 

Consequent upon the twinning delegation, in which the Town Mayor is included, was not arriving back in England until Monday 1 st June 2009 it was necessary to change the meeting date to the following evening Tuesday 2 nd June 2009.

RESOLVED

that the meeting be changed from Monday 1 st June 2009 to Tuesday 2 nd June 2009 .

351/08 CAMPAIGN TO SCRAP THE CAR PARKING FEES AT VICTORIA INFIRMARY, NORTHWICH 

This item was placed on the agenda at the request of Mrs G Bebbington who had made comments at the Open Forum at the April meeting. At the Forum, Mrs Bebbington asked for the Members support in trying to get the car parking fees at Victoria Infirmary, Northwich abolished.

The Members agreed to support this campaign and recommended that a letter be written to Westminster expressing the Members views and comments and asking why the residents of Northwich were faced with these insidious fees when the car parking fees for hospitals in Wales and Scotland are non existent.

The Members also expressed concern that the original land that the hospital was built on was in fact, originally owned by the Town Council and only transferred to the NHS with the proviso that it would be used for the benefit of the people of Northwich and surrounding areas.

RESOLVED .

that a letter be written to Westminster expressing the Members views and comments.

352/08 THE IMPORTANCE OF A UNIVERSAL POSTAL SERVICE 

A motion received from Mr C Webb, Northwest Regional Secretary for the Communications Workers Union was submitted.

Clr Gough explained that the Government were considering withdrawing privatization of Royal Mail. He continued that at the moment the postal services were delivering 6 days a week and if they partially privatize then deliveries could be reduced to 2 days a week as they are not in a position to offer a first class delivery service to areas out of built up regions.

Clr Gough stated that it would be sad to see Royal Mail be privatized and we should fight to keep the universal mail service operational. He asked that the Town Council support the motion put forward and it was unanimously agreed, with 2 abstentions received from Clrs G B Cooke and Mrs D Cooke.

RESOLVED

That a letter of support for the motion be submitted to the Communications Workers Union.

353/08 FLY A FLAG FOR THE ARMED FORCES INITIATIVE 

A letter dated 4 th April 2009 from Mike Hall MP was submitted. The letter stated that The Ministry of Defence were advising about a ‘Fly A Flag For Our Armed Forces' initiative.

The Members agreed that this was an excellent initiative but questioned how they would ascertain which veteran was to be presented with this flag and what would become of the flag should the veteran no longer be living. They continued to discuss the possibility of the chosen veteran keeping the flag but the Town Council retain the ownership of it and that it be returned as and when for presentation to another selected veteran.

The Members agreed that a new flag pole be purchased and that the flag remain in the ownership of the Town Council and be flown on the Cenotaph on the various Remembrance Days each year to represent all the present serving and ex serving members of all the armed forces.

RESOLVED

•  that the Town Council accept the ‘Fly the Flag offer.

•  that a new flag pole be purchased and erected at the Council Offices.

•  that the flag be flown each year on all remembrance and celebration days associated with the Armed Forces ie Remembrance Sunday, VE Day, VJ Day.

354/08 EMPLOYMENT LAW AND HEALTH AND SAFETY SUPPORT

A proposal for provision of Employment Law and Health and Safety Support from Mrs S Auld, Ellis Whittam was submitted.

The Chief Executive reported that the Town Council were currently supported by the SLCC for Clerks and Officers and the ChALC for the Members.

The Members expressed concern that the proposal contained more modules than was required at the Town Council and felt there was no need to change anything drastically at the present time ie contracts of employment. They also felt this was a very costly ‘insurance policy' and as the Council were happy with the current Insurers then this was non negotiable.

The Chief Executive reported that the Town Council was directed by the NJC Scheme (National Joint Council) and any changes would mean the Town Council would have to withdraw from this scheme.

RESOLVED

That no action be taken.

355/08 PAST MAYOR'S MEDALS 

This item was placed on the agenda at the request of Clr S P Gough. Costings and sample pictures of various types of medals were submitted.

Clr Gough stated that he felt past Mayors should have some recognition for their service to the Town Council and stated that, because of the cost, the circulation of the medals should only commence with the current Mayor being given one and from then henceforth.

The costings submitted were for 20 medals and the Members discussed past Mayors paying for their own medals and questioned the outcome should past Mayors not want to pay for a medal or in fact, did not want one at all.

Clr Garton stated that, even though he had never been a Mayor, he felt it was an honour to be Town Mayor and this was sufficient recognition by having their name displayed on the Honours Board and felt it did not quantify the unnecessary spending. Clr Davies, having been a past Mayor, stated that he was honoured to be Town Mayor and did not need a medal to substantiate this honour.

Clr S P Gough, having listened to the discussion withdrew the item.

RESOLVED

That the item be withdrawn and no action be taken

356/08

FINANCE AND GENERAL PURPOSES COMMITTEE MEETING

TUESDAY 28 th APRIL 2009

The Finance Chairman reported on the Finance and General Purposes Committee meeting which had taken place on Tuesday 28 th April 2009 and requested Members approval for the following recommendations put forward by the Committee. 

Finance

The monthly accounts for the period 25 th March 2009 to 21 st April 2009 together with the financial budget statements to 21 st April 2009 were submitted.

(Minute No. 338/08 refers)

 

Friends of the Royal British Legion

(Minute No. 339/08 refers)

 

Cheshire West and Chester Council – E Form Oracle Training

(Minute No. 340/08 refers)

 

RESOLVED

That the above recommendations be approved and adopted.

The Town Mayor stated that as this was his last full Council meeting he wished to place on record his thanks to all his fellow Councillors, Officers and staff at the Town Council and wished Clr Mrs Burder all the best for the ensuing year.

Clr N T Davies thanked the Town Mayor for a ‘job well done and an excellent year of office”

There being no further business the Town Mayor declared the meeting closed at 7.00 pm on Tuesday 5 th May 2009

 

 

Clr O D Robinson

Town Mayor

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NORTHWICH TOWN COUNCIL

MONDAY 6 th APRIL 2009

 

Present : Clr O D Robinson - Town Mayor

 

Councillors : D Bowden G B Cooke Mrs D Cooke N T Davies P Dolan M J Donnelly Mrs A Gerrard S P Gough Mrs G Gough L Grant Mrs J Illidge G Mainwaring B Stringer J A Turnbull R J Woodier

Also present : Mr S Sharman – Chief Executive

Mr J Sharman – Operations Manager

Mrs L Armistead – Council Secretary/PA

 

The Town Mayor opened the meeting at 6.00 pm .

313/08 APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE

Apologies for absence and reasons were received from Clrs Mrs H Burder, Mrs J Davies, Mrs V Frame, C R Garton and A L Neil and recorded in the apologies register.

314/08 DECLARATIONS OF ANY PERSONAL AND PREJUDICIAL INTEREST

None received.

The Town Mayor wished to place on record his congratulations to his fellow Councillors Mrs V Frame, S P Gough, A L Neil and R J Woodier who had recently been bestowed the title of Honorary Alderman for their continued services to Vale Royal Borough Council. The Town Mayor especially congratulated Clr R J Woodier for his dedication to Vale Royal as he was the only original Member that had been there at the beginning of Vale Royal in 1974 until the recent restructuring of the Unitary Authorities.

Clr G Mainwaring stated that it was a great achievement to have 4 Honorary Alderman serving on the Town Council who had represented the people of Northwich for Vale Royal for over 20 years.

315/08 OPEN FORUM

Ms G Bebbington, Kestrel Road, The Pippins, Northwich attended the meeting in her capacity as resident of Northwich and also as employee of Northwich Guardian who were running a very controversial campaign to get the car parking charges at the Victoria Infirmary Northwich scrapped.

Miss Bebbington stated that the charges of £3 for the first 20 minutes was disgusting and that it was questionable whether any outpatient could be consulted and treated within 20 minutes. Concern was also for the staff at the NVI, people visiting patients and people who had to make regularly visits to the NVI for treatment, who subsequently, to avoid paying daily charges were parking their vehicles in the neighbouring side streets, causing access congestion to residents properties.

Ms Bebbington stated that to date a petition of over 3200 signatures had been received and the backing of George Osborne, Shadow Councillor together with Mike Hall MP had been added to it. She was hoping that the Town Council would be able to support the campaign and asked the Council to clarify whether the land was originally bequeathed by Robert Verdin for the people of Northwich.

The Members expressed their views regarding the cost involved to maintain the car parks which is what the car parking charges were subsequently to be used for. The Members were very saddened that the car parking charges were affecting not only disadvantaged people who were attending the NVI for treatment but that this charge should be incorporated in the National Insurance that each individual pays throughout their working life.

The Members discussed a way forward with consideration being given to the first 2 hours or parking being free and to all staff being exempt from payment of car parking charges. This indirectly then would alleviate the problems caused though parking on the neighbouring roads.

The Members agreed to discuss this matter at a future meeting of the Town Council and thanked Ms Bebbington for bringing an update of this matter to the Members attention.

Clr J A Turnbull arrived at the meeting at 6.18 pm and apologized for being late.

31/08 SIGNING OF THE MINUTES 

RESOLVED

that the Minutes of the meeting of the Town Council held on Monday 2nd March 200 9 be approved as a true and accurate record and signed by the Town Mayor .

317/08 REPORTS ON COMMITTEES

RESOLVED

i. that the Minutes of the Finance and General Purposes Committee meeting held on Tuesday 24 th February 2009 be confirmed as a true record and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Finance and General Purposes Committee.

ii. that the Minutes of the Planning Committee meetings held on Tuesday 24 th February 2009 and Monday 9 th March 2009 be confirmed as a true record and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Planning Committee.

iii. that the Minutes of the Policy and Operations Review meeting held on Monday 30 th March 2009 be confirmed as a true record and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Policy and Operations Review Committee.

318/08 TOWN MAYOR'S COMMUNICATIONS

The Town Mayor informed the Members that he had no communications this month but thanked his Deputy for kindly attending a function on his behalf that very evening.

319/08 CHIEF EXECUTIVE'S COMMUNICATIONS 

The Chief Executive submitted a report for the period 25 th February 2009 to 31 st March 2009 for Members information. 

Staff Matters - The Chief Executive reported that Mr Michael Crimes, Parks and Cemetery Driver/Gardener had completed 25 years service with the Town Council on 30 th March 2009 . He continued, that Mr Crimes has started work with the Town Council in 1983 on a Youth Training Scheme for a two year period and during that time a vacancy arose and Mr Crimes was offered a full time position as Apprentice Gardener. The Chief Executive continued that Mr Crimes then trained at Reaseheath College and was now a Driver/Gardener and wished to place on record his appreciation for his loyal and dedicated service.

The Town Mayor then presented Mr Crimes with a gift and certificate of long service from the Town Council.

Rudheath Parish Council – Grounds Maintenance Contract - It has been confirmed that Northwich Town Council has won a 3-year grounds maintenance contract with Rudheath Parish Council from 1 st April 2009 to 31 st March 2012 .

Northwich Skate Park Update - All the required surveys have now been completed in regards to the proposed skate park at Manora Road , Northwich and the Chief Executive reported that he had now received plans of the park which he had displayed in the Council Chamber. He stated he was hoping to submit this application to the Planning department at CW&C within the next few weeks.

Riversdale Swing Bridge - Clr Bowden gave an update on the current situation regarding the Riversdale Swing Bridge and stated that the planning permission would be completed by October 2009 and it was hopeful the bridge would be reopened as soon as April 2010. The Members thanked Clr Bowden for attending the meeting and recommended that he remain the positive link on this project and report back to the Town Council if he had any further news.

Working Together For A Safer Cheshire West & Chester - A Strategic Partnership questionnaire was submitted for Members information. Any Member wishing to complete the questionnaire should forward them to the Council Secretary for submission to CW&C.

RESOLVED

That the report be received.

320/08 COUNCIL SECRETARY'S REPORT

The Council Secretary circulated a schedule of training dates for 2009 from the Cheshire Training Partnership. Any Member wishing to attend any of the training sessions should let the Council Secretary know in order that she can confirm places for you.

RESOLVED .

That the report be received.

321/08 NATIONAL PLAYDAY 2009 

A letter dated 12 th March 2009 from Helen Batcock, Play Development Officer, Vale Royal Borough Council requesting to use Whalley Road playing fields on Tuesday 4 th August 2009 for their very successful event was submitted.

RESOLVED .

That permission be granted once again subject to the hire terms relating to the playing fields being adhered to and that no charge be made for the hire on this occasion.

322/08 THUNDERSPRINT 2009 

An email dated 20 th March 2009 from Mr F Melling, Director of Thunderspint requesting the use of the area of land under the viaduct near Vickersway Park together with an offer to hire a ‘grandstand' at the event was submitted.

The Members unanimously agreed that the Town Council did not want to hire a grandstand and stated that the area under the viaduct did not belong to Northwich Town Council.

RESOLVED

that a letter be written to Mr Melling with copy to Mrs Andrea Peattie, Tourism Officer, CW&C informing them that no action is to be taken regarding the event and that there are areas on the outskirts of town that maybe more suitable.

323/08 CHESHIRE WEST AND CHESTER COUNCIL – EVENT WITH LOCAL COUNCILS

A letter dated 26 th March 2009 from Clr Mike Jones, Leader of the CW&C Council inviting 3 Members to attend an event on Thursday 30 th April 2009 at the Fourways Inn, Delamere at 6 pm was submitted.

RESOLVED .

that Clr N T Davies, Clr O D Robinson and the Chief Executive attend the event as representatives of the Town Council.

324/08

FINANCE AND GENERAL PURPOSES COMMITTEE MEETING - TUESDAY 31 st MARCH 2009

The Finance Chairman reported on the Finance and General Purposes Committee meeting which had taken place on Tuesday 31 st March 2009 and requested Members approval for the following recommendations put forward by the Committee.

Finance

The monthly accounts for the period 18 th February 2009 to 24 th March 2009 together with the financial budget statements to 24 th March 2009 were submitted.

resolved to recommend :

•  that the payments of the accounts in the sum of £ 38,894.68 for the above period be approved for payment and that the financial reports be noted and accepted. (Minute No 308/ 08 refers).

ii that no amendments be made to the Financial Risk Assessments at this time. (Minute Nos. 309/08 refers)

325/08 PLANNING COMMITTEE MEETING ON TUESDAY 31 ST MARCH 2009

The Planning Chairman reported that there had been 3 planning applications received and were discussed by the Members of the Planning Committee.

Clrs D Bowden and JA Turnbull abstained from voting on the recommendations put forward by the Planning Committee

Planning Applications

(Minute No.312/08 refers)

RESOLVED

That the above recommendations be approved and adopted.

 

 

There being no further business the Town Mayor declared the meeting closed at 6. 50pm on Monday 6 th April 2009

 

 

 

 

 

Date Clr O D Robinson

Town Mayor

 

 

 

 

NORTHWICH TOWN COUNCIL

MONDAY 2 nd MARCH 2009

 

Present : Clr O D Robinson - Town Mayor

Clr Mrs H Burder - Deputy Town Mayor

Councillors : G B Cooke Mrs D Cooke Mrs V Frame C R Garton S P Gough Mrs G Gough Mrs J Illidge A L Neil B Stringer J A Turnbull

R J Woodier

Also present : Mr J Sharman – Operations Manager

Mrs L Armistead – Council Secretary/PA

 

Mr D Bowden – Co-opted Councillor

The Town Mayor opened the meeting at 6.00 pm .

  284/08 APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE

Apologies for absence and reasons were received from Clrs N T Davies, Mrs J Davies, M J Donnelly, Mrs A Gerrard and G Mainwaring and recorded in the apologies register.

285/08 DECLARATIONS OF ANY PERSONAL AND PREJUDICIAL INTEREST

Clrs Mrs H Burder declared a personal and prejudicial interest in agenda item no. 8 (1) as she had produced the document ‘Inside Out', but as this document was for information only, no discussion was undertaken or decision was made, she was not asked to leave the Council Chamber.

Clr C R Garton declared a prejudicial interest in the approval of Minute No 272/08 – Amenities Meeting held on Monday 16 th February 2009 – being the Clerk to Barnton Parish Council. He asked the Members if they would like him to remove from the Chamber, but was informed that as it was only to approve the Minutes of the meeting it was not necessary. He abstained from voting on the Minutes of the Amenities Committee.

286/08 OPEN FORUM

No members of the public were in attendance on this occasion.

287/08 SIGNING OF THE MINUTES 

RESOLVED

that the Minutes of the meeting of the Town Council held on Monday 2nd February 200 9 be approved as a true and accurate record and signed by the Town Mayor .

Consequent upon the Minutes being approved, Mr D Bowden, having completed his Declaration of Acceptance of Office, was invited to take his seat on the Council and the Mayor wished him all the very best on his appointment as Councillor for the Castle Ward.

288/08 REPORTS ON COMMITTEES

RESOLVED

i. that the Minutes of the Finance and General Purposes Committee meeting held on Tuesday 27 th January 2009 be confirmed as a true record and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Finance and General Purposes Committee.

ii. that the Minutes of the Planning Committee meeting held on Monday 9 th February 2009 be confirmed as a true record and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Planning Committee.

iii. that the Minutes of the Grants Committee meeting held on Friday 13 th February 2009 be confirmed as a true record and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Grants Committee.

iv. that the Minutes of the Twinning Committee meeting held on Monday 16 th February 2009 be confirmed as a true record and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Twinning Committee.

v . that the Minutes of the Amenities Committee meeting held on Monday 16 th February 2009 be confirmed as a true record and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Amenities Committee.

289/08 TOWN MAYOR'S COMMUNICATIONS

The Town Mayor informed the Members that he had recently attended the Cheshire Cadet Poppy Appeal Prizegiving Ceremony at the De Vere Daresbury Park Hotel.

He stated that there were 13 civic chains in attendance but this had been the first time that the Northwich Mayor had been invited, but assured his Deputy and future Mayors that they would be invited to this event, which had been very enjoyable.

290/08 CHIEF EXECUTIVE'S COMMUNICATIONS 

The Chief Executive submitted a report for the period 28 th January 2009 to 24 th February 2009 Members information. 

7a - Decision on Gypsy and Traveller Sites in Vale Royal - A letter dated 23 rd January 20089 from Mr R Adams, Head of Environmental Health and Housing Services, Vale Royal Borough Council was submitted for Members information.

7b – Funding Arrangements Cheshire West & Chester Council - A letter dated 5 th February 2009 from Mr S Robinson, Chief Executive, Cheshire West &Chester Council was submitted for Members information.

7c - Regional Strategy 2010 - A series of events and meetings are planned to ensure the widest possible consultation during February to April. Further information regarding these events can be obtained from the Chief Executive or by going online to information@nwregionalstrategy.com . The next nearest meeting to Northwich will be held at the Holiday Inn, Ellesmere Port on 11 th March 2009 . Any Member wishing to attend should let the Council Secretary know in order that she could book a place.

7d – Shared Services in Northwich - Bulletin 1 from The Joint Programme Development Team was submitted for Members information.

7e – Response from the Meeting with Directors of Cheshire West & Chester Council - A letter dated 18 th February 2009 from Mr J Jeffrey, Head of Waste Management and Street Scene Services, Cheshire West & Chester Council was submitted for Members information.

RESOLVED

That the report be received.

291/08 COUNCIL SECRETARY'S REPORT

The Council Secretary circulated documents received for Members information.

•  The ‘InsideOut' Issue 1 from Connexions, Cheshire and Warrington .

•  Issue 2 of the News from Storengy UK Ltd a company of GDF Suez.

•  Issue of the Mid Cheshire Community Rail Partnership Newsletter – The Mid Cheshire Linesider.

•  ‘Your Council Is Changing' from The Boundary Committee

•  The Northwich Town Council Newsletter – February 2009

Clr Mrs Illidge stated that the newsletter was an excellent source of information and asked where it was distributed. The Council Secretary responded that this was circulated to the Library, the Information Centre, the very local schools and all local doctors' surgeries in the town.

Clr Mrs Illidge asked what the cost would be to have it distributed to all the houses in Northwich and the Secretary replied that she had, in the past, looked into the costing for a mail shot and this was quite expensive.

Clr Mrs Illidge then suggested that we extend the circulation to include local newsagents in the town and stated that she would be quite happy to take copies to pass onto her local newsagent and the Members agreed to take copies to post in their own wards each month.

The Members agreed to let the Council Secretary know how many copies they would require for circulation in their own ward.

RESOLVED .

That the report be received.

292/08 THE BOUNDARY COMMITTEE FOR ENGLAND

An Electoral Review Briefing from the Boundary Committee was submitted.

The Members expressed concern that the Executive Group at Vale Royal had made decisions about Kingsmead and the boundary changes and that the report had been circulated without any consultation with Northwich Town Council.

The Members were also concerned about the content of the document from the Boundary Committee and were uneasy that the Borough Council was not following the guidelines.

Clr Garton stated that he had, as Clerk to Barnton Parish Council, received a document from CW&C asking for representation from each Council and suggested that, if the Chief Executive had not received this document he forward it to him and subject to time restraints, this item be placed on the next agenda for further discussion.

RESOLVED .

That this item be placed on the next agenda for further discussion, subject to time restraints.

293/08 CODE OF CONDUCT COMPACT FOR CHESHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL 

Information and an update on the proposed agreement with ChALC and the Standards Committee were submitted.

The Members expressed concern that not all town and parish councils were members of ChALC and therefore they felt that not everyone would be knowledgeable of the objectives involved. The Code should specify that ChALC should involve all parishes in consultation whether or not they were members of ChALC. The Members were concerned that no arrangements were made for an early training programme for parish members of the Standards Committee. If this was not a high priority, the system would not work as well as it should.

RESOLVED

that ChALC and Cheshire West and Chester be contacted to establish that non members of ChALC would not be excluded from the process and to ascertain what arrangements had been made for training of new members of the Standards Committee.

294/08 PROPOSED VODAPHONE BASE STATION INSTALLATION AT 73761 – LUCKY PETES CHIPPY, 4 WINNINGTON LANE , NORTHWICH 

A letter dated 18 th February 2009 from Mono Consultants, Manchester was submitted.

The Members pointed out that they were unhappy with the application and felt that the site was not appropriate for the area. They felt that the other side of Winnington Lane was a more suitable area, if at all, as there were more commercial properties on that side ie garages, showrooms. They also felt that the ICI works was a much more suitable site than the one proposed. Their concerns were that this was already a highly populated area, the proximity to neighbouring properties, and the visual amenity of properties other than Winnington Lane did not appear to have been considered, nor had possible intrusion into wildlife areas.

RESOLVED .

that a letter be written to Mono Consultants to inform them that an installation at this location would be prominent within its locality and express the Members concerns

295/08 FINANCE AND GENERAL PURPOSES COMMITTEE MEETING TUESDAY 24 th FEBRUARY 2009

The Finance Chairman reported on the Finance and General Purposes Committee meeting which had taken place on Tuesday 24 th February 2009 and requested Members approval for the following recommendations put forward by the Committee.

Finance

The monthly accounts for the period 21 st January 2009 to 17 th February together with the financial budget statements to 17 th February 2009 were submitted.

resolved to recommend :

•  that the payments of the accounts in the sum of £ 43938.98 for the above period be approved for payment and that the financial reports be noted and accepted. (Minute No 278/ 08 refers).

ii that Tender 2 in the sum of £20370 be approved (Minute Nos. 279/08 and 283/08 refers)

296/08 PLANNING COMMITTEE MEETING ON TUESDAY 27 th JANUARY 2009  

The Planning Chairman reported that there had been 3 planning applications received and were discussed by the Members of the Planning Committee.

Planning Applications

(Minute No.282/08 refers)

RESOLVED

That the above recommendations be approved and adopted.

 

 

There being no further business the Town Mayor declared the meeting closed at 6. 45pm on Monday 2 nd March 2009

Date Clr O D Robinson

Town Mayor

 

 

 

 

 

 

NORTHWICH TOWN COUNCIL

MONDAY 2 nd FEBRUARY 2009

 

Present : Clr O D Robinson - Town Mayor

Clr Mrs H Burder - Deputy Town Mayor

Councillors : N T Davies P Dolan Mrs V Frame C R Garton Mrs A Gerrard S P Gough Mrs G Gough Mrs J Illidge G Mainwaring A L Neil B Stringer R J Woodier

Also present : Mr S Sharman – Chief Executive

Mrs S Lord – Asst Admin Officer

The Town Mayor opened the meeting at 6.00 pm .

238/08 APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE

 

Apologies for absence and reasons were received from Clrs G B Cooke, Mrs D Cooke, Mrs J Davies & M J Donnelly and recorded in the apologies register.

  239/08 DECLARATIONS OF ANY PERSONAL AND PREJUDICIAL INTEREST

Clrs Mrs H Burder, P Dolan, Mrs G Gough, S P Gough, A Neil and Clr B Robinson all declared a personal interest in agenda item no. 9 - Casual Vacancy for Northwich Castle Ward. These Councillors did remain in the Council Chamber during the debate and did vote thereon.

Clr Mrs H Burder declared a personal interest in agenda item no. 7f from the Chief Executives Report.

240/08 OPEN FORUM

No members of the public where in attendance on this occasion.

241/08 SIGNING OF THE MINUTES 

RESOLVED

that the Minutes of the meeting of the Town Council held on Monday 5th January 200 9 be taken as read as a true and accurate record and signed by the Town Mayor , with the following amendments:

i. Minute No 216/08 should read: that Clr Mrs Burder had declared a personal interest in item no.15 - Finance on that agenda, as she was the Northwich Town Council's representative serving on the board of Vale Royal Voluntary Services (VAVR).

ii. Minute No. 225/08 (page 460 paragraph 3) should read: Clr Mrs Burder continued that this consultation exercise had made a mockery of the whole process, and because of the costs involved, this was why Davenham did not want to take it on. Even though KLMC would never lose the contract for the grounds maintenance, the contract would be handed over to the residents for them to become Directors who would then decide who would be then contracted to carry out the work.

242/08 REPORTS ON COMMITTEES

RESOLVED

•  that the Minutes of the Policy & Operations Review Committee held on Wednesday 14 th January 2009 be confirmed as a true record and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Policy & Review Committee

243/08 TOWN MAYOR'S COMMUNICATIONS

The Town Mayor informed the Members that he had been received a family invitation to represent the Northwich Community to attend the funeral of 7 yearr old Jacob Marsland from Kingsmead, who had recently passed away.

The Town Mayor also passed his condolences to Clr Davies on the loss of his father, to Clr Mrs Illidge on the recent loss of her mother, and also Clr. Mainwaring on the loss of his twin brother. The Mayor reiterated that the Councils thoughts were with them all at this sad time.

The Mayor informed the Members that a document regarding the Boundary Committee was received too late to go onto this agenda, and it was a matter for information only the Chief Executive would supply more information to the Members with regard to this matter on his report.

244/08 CHIEF EXECUTIVE'S COMMUNICATIONS

 

The Chief Executive submitted a report for the period 30 th December 2008 to 27 th January 2009 for Members information.

 

7a Council Agendas

 

The Chief Executive had submitted a form for Members to complete regarding which Committees they wished to receive agendas for, if they were had not been elected to that particular committee. The Chief Executive stated that this was to help to keep down administrative costs for printing and posting.

 

7b Strategic Housing Market Assessment-Cheshire West and Chester Council

 

The Chief Executive submitted a letter dated 5 th January 2009 from Mr Seward, Director of Regeneration and Culture, at Cheshire West and Chester Council regarding advising Members to encourage the residents of Northwich to complete the Cheshire West and Chester Council 2009 Housing Market Assessment Document, which need to be returned by Tuesday 17 th February 2009 .

 

7c Feedback On The Area and Neighbourhood Working Consultation

 

The Chief Executive submitted a letter from Mrs F Dunning, SLP Manager from Vale Royal Borough Council together with map showing the boundaries of the Five Areas Partnership Boards, along with an questions and answers update which were raised throughout the consultation and a copy of The Partnership Bulletin from the event held on 8 th December 2008 .

 

Mr Sharman informed the Members that the Town Mayor Clr O D Robinson, Clr A L Neil and himself had attended a meeting with The Chief Executive from the Cheshire West and Chester Council at Wyvern House on Tuesday the 27 th January. Mr. Sharman informed the Members that the meeting had been very successful and believed that the Chief Executive of CWAC, Mr S Robinson had listened to what Northwich Town Council had to say and was happy at this stage to look at the request from the Northwich Town Council representatives for the extra services that they were interested in taking on.

 

Mr Sharman continued to inform the Members that Clr O D Robinson Town Mayor and Clr Mrs H Burder Deputy Town Mayor, Clr Neil and himself had also attended a meeting on the 28 th January at Winsford Civic Hall regarding Corporate Priorities of the Cheshire West and Chester Council, where the leaders of the Executive Committee of this Authority gave a presentation on the following subjects - Jobs and Enterprise, Children and Young People, Safer and Stronger Communities, Adult Health and Well-being, and Environmental Sustainability.

 

Clr Garton suggested that the Council should proceed with caution with this matter as this was very earlier stages in any discussions, and that it should be made clear that funding and services are prescribed and set out before any extra services are taken on.

 

Clr Mainwaring asked that all information regarding any proposals by the new authority would have to come back to Full Council for any decisions.

 

7d An Overview of Grant Funding Opportunites for Cheshire

 

The Chief Executive informed Members that Cheshire County Council is organising a seminar outlining the many funding sources available to Cheshire Organisations, and gave a list of dates and asked if any member of Council who wished to attend any of these meetings would let the Council Secretary know and she will make the necessary arrangements.

 

7e SLCC Conference Nottingham

 

Mr. Sharman informed the Members that he had enrolled Clr Gough and himself onto the SLCC Conference in Nottingham on the 16 th & 17 th April 2009 at the cost of £310 per delegate plus travelling expenses.

 

7f Skate Park Update

 

The Chief Executive submitted a report on the update of the Northwich Skate Park . Clr Mrs H Burder informed Mr Sharman that she could let him have some names and contact telephone numbers to assist him in arranging a meeting with the Northwich Youth Hub.

 

7g Extra Item Boundary Committee Meeting

 

The Chief Executive informed Members that Clr Garton had passed onto him a report from the Boundary Committee which was asking for any representatives to attend a meeting at Wyvern House on Tuesday 3 rd February 2009 to listen to what the Boundary Commission were proposing to put forward in connection with suggestion to the boundary changes. The Chief Executive asked if any Members were interested in attending this meeting, could they please let the Council Secretary know and arrangements will be made.

 

RESOLVED

That the report be received and adopted.

 

245/08

COUNCIL SECRETARY'S REPORT

 

The Council Secretary submitted a report for January 200 9 for Members information.

 

•  The Vale Royal Playscheme Association Report 2008.

•  An invitation from Cheshire Halton and Warrington Racial Equality Council to attend the Community Cohesion Conference on Monday 23 rd February 2009 at Chester Race Course. Any Member wishing to attend would they please inform the Council Secretary in order for places to be confirmed.

RESOLVED .

That the report be received.

 

246/08

CASUAL VACANCY – NORTHWICH CASTLE WARD

 

Consequent upon no poll being called for the casual vacancy on the Northwich Castle Ward it was now necessary to fill the vacancy by co-option.

 

A letter dated 7 th January 2009 from Mr D Bowden requesting consideration for co-option was submitted.

 

RESOLVED .

That Mr D Bowden, 14 Lodge Lane , Hartford , Northwich CW8 1PS be co-opted onto the Northwich Castle Ward.

 

247/08

UPGRADE OF ELECTRICITY SUPPLY - COUNCIL CHAMBER

 

The Chief Executive submitted a report on the problems that the Town Council were experiencing with the electricity supply to the Council Chamber and the Cemetery Chapels in Witton Cemetery Northwich.

 

RESOLVED .

• i. that a new phase three electricity supply be installed to the Council Chamber/ Cemetery Chapels, as a matter of urgency.

• ii. that other utilities i.e. gas and water supplies be installed at the same time.

• iii. that the Chief Executive commission an architectural consultant to carry out a full survey and prepare drawings for both buildings to be refurbished.

248/08

 

HIRE/LEASING OF LARGE GRASS CUTTING MACHINERY 2009

 

The Chief Executive submitted a recommendation to the Members that a specification be prepared in relation to the hire/leasing of large grass cutting machinery for the Parks Department for a 6 month period from April to the end of October 2009 and also to consider taking on this contract for a period of 3 years.

 

RESOLVED .

• i. that a specification be prepared in relation to the hire/leasing of large grass cutting machinery.

 

• ii. that suppliers of this type of machinery be invited to tender for the supply and leasing arrangements.

• iii. that all tenders received be opened at the next meeting of Finance and General Purpose Committee.

 

249/08

THE RIVERSDALE SWING BRIDGE

 

Clr Mrs Burder gave an update on the progress and situation of the installation of the New Riverdale Bridge from The Crescent, London Road over the River Weaver at Hunts Lock Northwich.

 

Clr Mrs Burder informed the Members that she had been contacted by a number of residents from the Crescent who had informed her that they believed that a new bridge was to be installed and concerns were raised as there were indications that the replacement bridge appeared to be raided to a higher level, and residents were concerned that this would impinge on their privacy, as commuters crossing the bridge would be able to see into their homes. Clr Dolan expressed a concern at the frustration at the length of time this project is taking. Clr Burder informed him that it may be a further twelve to eighteen months before it is approved and a further eighteen months before completion. Clr Burder advised the Members that it would enhance the cause if the Town Council were to be more involved in this project.

 

Clr Garton explained that the bridge needed to be a swing bridge to allow narrow boats through to the dockyard close-by. He also advised that a high level bridge would produce pockets underneath where undesirables might congregate. He went on to inform Members that there were plans in circulation at the moment and that these plans would more than likely be presented to the Town Councils Planning Committee within the near future.

.

RESOLVED .

that the Town Council contact The Weaver Valley Organisation asking to be kept informed of all progress on this project.

250/08

STANDARDS BOARD FOR ENGLAND-SURVEY

 

A letter dated January 2009 from the Chief Executive of the Stands Board of England together with a Survey document was submitted, Mr Sharman, Chief Executive explained that there were two surveys in the package that needed to be completed. He, as Chief Executive to the Council, had been asked to complete one which he was pleased to inform Members that he had already done so and returned it to the Standards Board. He continued that the Standards Board requested that a Council member with the initial surname beginning with L be elected to complete the document.

 

RESOLVED .

That Clr Mainwaring be elected to complete the required survey.

 

251/08

 

FINANCE AND GENERAL PURPOSES COMMITTEE MEETING

TUESDAY 27 th JANUARY 2009

 

The Finance Chairman reported on the Finance and General Purposes Committee meeting which had taken place on Tuesday 27 th January 2009 and requested Members approval for the following recommendations put forward by the Committee.

 

Finance

 

The monthly accounts for the period 24 th December 2008 to 20 th January 2009 together with the financial budget statements to 27 th January 2009 were submitted.

 

resolved to recommend :

 

•  that the payments of the accounts in the sum of £ 35,564.36 for the above period be approved for payment and that the financial reports be noted and accepted. (Minute No 233/ 08 refers).

ii that the rates for outside contract work for 2009/10 be approved in line with the Chief Executives and the Members of the Finance Committees recommendations (Minute NO. 234/08 refers)

 

252/08

PLANNING COMMITTEE MEETING ON TUESDAY 27 th JANUARY 2009

 

The Planning Chairman reported that there had been six planning applications received and were discussed by the Members of the Planning Committee.

 

Planning Applications

(Minute No.237/08 refers)

 

RESOLVED

That the above recommendations be approved and adopted.

 

 

There being no further business the Town Mayor declared the meeting closed at 6.37 pm on Monday 2 nd February 2009

 

 

…………………………………….. …………………………………….

Date Clr O D Robinson

Town Mayor

 

 

 

 

NORTHWICH TOWN COUNCIL

MONDAY 5 th JANUARY 2009

 

Present : Clr O D Robinson - Town Mayor

Clr Mrs H Burder - Deputy Town Mayor

Councillors : M J Donnelly Mrs V Frame C R Garton S P Gough Mrs G Gough L Grant A L Neil B Stringer R J Woodier

Also present : Mr S Sharman – Chief Executive, Mrs L Armistead – Council Secretary/PA , Mr J Sharman – Operations Manager

The Town Mayor opened the meeting at 6.00 pm and wished everyone a happy new year.

The Mayor informed the Members that Clr George Mainwaring's brother Barry had passed away over the weekend and that he had already extended the sincere condolences of the Members and staff at the Town Council to Clr Mainwaring on his sad loss.

  215/08

APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE

Apologies for absence and reasons were received from Clrs G B Cooke, Mrs D Cooke, N T Davies, Mrs J Davies, Mrs A Gerrard, Mrs J Illidge, G Mainwaring and J A Turnbull and recorded in the apologies register.

 

216/08

DECLARATIONS OF ANY PERSONAL AND PREJUDICIAL INTEREST

Clr Mrs H Burder declared a personal interest in agenda item no. 11 – Community Governance Review for Davenham and Northwich.

Clr A L Neil declared a personal and prejudicial interest in agenda item no 15 – Finance – section regarding budget requirement for grants to VR CVS, East Northwich Support and Playschemes. This item had been discussed at the F&FP meeting on 30 th December 2008 (Minute No. 210/08 refers).

Clr Mrs H Burder declared a personal interest in agenda item no. 15 – Finance - the budget requirements for CVS (VAVR) as she was the Town Council's representative on this outside body.. This item had been discussed at the F&FP meeting on 30 th December 2008 (Minute No. 210/08 refers).

Clr O D Robinson declared a personal interest in agenda item no. 15 – Finance - the budget requirements for grants to the Royal British Legion as he was a member of the organisation.

217/08

OPEN FORUM

No members of the public where in attendance on this occasion.

Mrs Barbara Lawton, Funding Officer and Mrs Alex Major, Lifelong Learning Manager from Age Concern Cheshire attended the meeting and gave a short presentation regarding the plans to create an exciting and unique building at the existing Castle and Winnington Old Friends Club on Barbers Lane , Castle.

Mrs Lawton explained that Age Concern worked across the whole of the county and that this association was for people over 55 and the scheme was introduced to get them involved with many activities that were held at centres similar to the one they hoped to create in Barbers Lane .

She continued that the building needed a lot of work to bring it to an acceptable standard and that planning permission and building regulations had already been applied for. The cost to have the centre converted together with building work would cost in the region of £350,000 and it was intended that Age Concern were going to launch a major appeal to try to raise as much capital as possible for this project.

Mrs Major stated that at other centres, they currently had many different learning courses ranging from one day to 10 weeks. These courses would involve languages, IT , photography, family history, horse riding, tai chi, bowling, painting with water colours to name but a few. They were currently about 137-145 learners each week attending courses and it was hoped to commence a green gym and gardening club in the future.

Mrs Major continued that this was a long term investment to keep the over 55's more mentally and physically active.

The Members asked what the average cost would be for the courses and were informed that a 6 week course would cost in the region of £30-£35 with a 10 week course costing in the region of £60-£85 depending on the course. The Members asked, “did the revenue from the Charity shops in the towns assist with the funding of such projects?” and Mrs Lawton replied “that unless the ‘customer' specifically asked then it would just go into the general fund”.

The Mayor asked whether there was a calendar of events and courses to help people onto the right direction of activity they want to pursue.

Clr Neil stated that the Town Council had had a long connection with the club from back in the 1950's when the land was owned by the Urban District Council. He continued that the site was very picturesque and that the Town Council used to undertake the grounds maintenance of this area. He was sure that with the right usage and security the building could be multi used for other events in the evenings. Clr Neil agreed that it was too late this year to make any consideration to this appeal, with the estimates just being finalised but recommended that the Finance and General Purposes Committee look at this later in the year.

The Town Mayor informed Mrs Lawton and Mrs Major that the Town Council had a Grants Committee who could look at this request and suggested that the Chief Executive forward a pro forma to Age Concern for their attention.

The Town Mayor thanked Mrs Lawton and Mrs Major for attending the meeting and giving the Members an insight into the planning application. 

218/08

SIGNING OF THE MINUTES

RESOLVED

that the Minutes of the meeting of the Town Council held on Monday 1 st December 2008 be taken as read as a true record and signed by the Town Mayor. 

219/08

REPORTS ON COMMITTEES 

RESOLVED

i  that the Minutes of the Planning Committee meeting s held on Friday 14 th November 2008 , Monday 15 th December 2008 and Monday 29 th December 2008 be confirmed as true record s and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Planning Committee with the following amendments:

ii  Meeting 15 th December 2008 - Minute No. 203/08 paragraph 1 should have added that Clr Mrs G Gough left the Council Chamber whilst the item was discussed and invited back once it had been agreed and therefore took no part in any discussion or voting on this application.

iii  Meeting 15 th December 2008 – Minute No. 203/08 paragraph 3 be removed completely from the recorded Minute.

iv. that the Minutes of the Finance and General Purposes Committee meeting held on Tuesday 25 th November 2008 be confirmed as a true record and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Finance and General Purposes Committee.

220/08

TOWN MAYOR'S COMMUNICATIONS

The Town Mayor reiterated his condolences to Clr Mainwaring on the sad loss of his brother during the weekend.

The Town Mayor also apologised as he had been off colour for approximately 6 weeks and informed the Members that his Charity Dinner Dance on Saturday 29 th November had been a great success and he wished to thank all his fellow Councillors who had attended for their support and the Councillors who had donated gifts for the evening. He continued that the accounts had not yet been finalized but it was hopeful that the evening raised in excess of £1000 for his charity fund.

221/08

CHIEF EXECUTIVE'S COMMUNICATIONS 

The Chief Executive submitted a report for the period 26 th November 2008 to 30 th December for Members information. 

Area and Neighbourhood Working – Partnership Event 

The Chief Executive reported that he had recently attended an event at Ellesmere Port where he met with Mr Steve Robinson, newly appointed Chief Executive of the Cheshire West and Chester Unitary Authority who happily agreed to come along to Northwich to listen to the Members views and comments regarding the services that the Town Council would like to take on.

The Chief Executive stated that he intended to go to the Partnership Event at Winsford Civic Hall on Wednesday 28 th January 2009 and Clr O D Robinson stated that he would also like to attend.

Investors in People 

The Chief Executive reported that the Town Council had once again gained the accreditation with a new standard. The Assessors report was very encouraging and in it she reported that she was impressed with the high standard of training and quality of work at the Town Council. She looked at the staff appraisal procedure and commented that this was being carried out in a fair and professional manner.

The Chief Executive wished to place on record his thanks, to not only the Council staff who took part in the interviews, but all the Council staff for their continued dedication to their jobs.

RESOLVED

That the report be received and noted.

222/08

COUNCIL SECRETARY'S REPORT

The Council Secretary submitted a report for December 2008 for Members information.

•  The ChALC newsletter no. 125 – January 2009 was submitted.

•  A training schedule for 2009 from the Cheshire Training Partnership was submitted. Any Member wishing to attend any of the training sessions should complete the form on the back of the schedule and return it to the Council Secretary in order for places to be confirmed.

RESOLVED .

That the report be received.

223/08

CASUAL VACANCY – NORTHWICH CASTLE WARD 

Consequent upon no poll being called for the casual vacancy on the Northwich Castle Ward it is now necessary to fill the vacancy by co-option.

RESOLVED .

That this item be deferred and be placed on the next agenda for further consideration.

224/08

ATHLETICS FACILITIES - VALE ROYAL 

A letter dated 26 th November 2008 from Mr C I Bottomley, Head of Leisure and Cultural Services at Vale Royal Borough Council was submitted.

RESOLVED .

That the letter be received and no action be taken.

225/08

COMMUNITY GOVENANCE REVIEW FOR DAVENHAM AND NORTHWICH

A letter dated 9 th December 2008 from Mr D Owen, Corporate Policy & Improvement Manager, Vale Royal Borough Council was submitted together with copy of the full review and latest consultation questionnaire.

Clr Mrs Burder, having declared a personal interest in this item, informed the Members that as a resident of Kingsmead, she was quite well versed in the proposals, as she had attended most of the meetings.

Mrs Burder continued to explain that the consultation document exercise made no reference to the fact that, if Kingsmead became its own parish and the Kingsmead Landscape Company withdrew from the grounds maintenance etc then who would be responsible for the grounds maintenance?.

Clr Garton stated that a small parish like Kingsmead would only have a small precept and therefore would not be able to take on the responsibilities to keep the parish in an acceptable condition.

Clr Mrs Burder continued that this consultation exercise had made a mockery of the whole process, and because of the costs involved, is why Davenham does not want to take it on. They know that when the KLC remove from the contract, the parish would have to fund the grounds maintenance themselves, and Davenham, like Kingsmead, would not have sufficient the funds or manpower to do it.

Clr Mrs Burder asked that she be considered in the responses that the Town Council would surely be making

RESOLVED .

That the Town Mayor, Deputy Town Mayor and Chief Executive complete the document - Community Governance Review of Davenham and Northwich - Consultation on a proposal to create a new parish and forward the responses back to Mr Owen.

226/08

FIRST INTERIM AUDIT REPORT 2008-09 

A copy of the Internal Auditors report was submitted.

The Chief Executive stated that this was a good report and commented on points that had been made in the report regarding the asset register. He recommended that the Council have an independent valuation company to revalue all the Councils assets and once this was completed the Chief Executive could then update the Councils insurance schedule.  

RESOLVED .

That the interim audit report be received and the Chief Executive recommendations be approved and adopted. 

227/08

CHESHIRE FIRE AND RESCUE SERVICE – DRAFT CORPORATE PLAN AND INTEGRATED RISK MANAGEMENT PLAN

CONSULTATION – DECEMBER 2008 TO FEBRUARY 2009 

A letter dated 12 th December 2008 from Mr S McGuirk, Chief Fire Officer at Cheshire Fire and Rescue Services was submitted. A hard copy of this document is available in the Chief Executives Office together with details of how to download a copy.

Clr Garton gave a brief insight into the document and stated that it made no mention about the centralised control or management plan and stated that from the information received it would be very difficult to respond at this time.

The Members requested that as Clr Garton had knowledge and understanding of this subject then he be asked to undertake the completion of this document on behalf of the Town Council 

RESOLVED .

That Clr Garton complete the feedback form and submit it to the Cheshire Fire & Rescue Service on behalf of the Town Council. 

228/08

COMMUNITIES IN CONTROL – REAL PEOPLE, REAL POWER –

CODE OF RECOMMENDED PRACTICE ON LOCAL AUTHORITY PUBLICITY – A CONSULTATION 

A letter dated 17 th December 2008 from Mr P Rowsell, Deputy Director, Local Democracy Communities and Local Government was submitted. A hard copy of this document is available in the Chief Executives Office and additional copies can be obtained if the Members wanted copies.  

RESOLVED .

That additional copies be obtained for all the Members. 

229/08

FINANCE AND GENERAL PURPOSES COMMITTEE MEETING

TUESDAY 30 th DECEMBER 2008  

The Finance Chairman reported on the Finance and General Purposes Committee meeting which had taken place on Tuesday 30 th December 2008 and requested Members approval for the following recommendations put forward by the Committee. 

Finance

The monthly accounts for the period 19 th November 2008 to 30 th December 2008 together with the financial budget statements to 30 th December 2008 were submitted.

resolved to recommend : 

i.  that the payments of the accounts in the sum of £ 54823.19 for the above period be approved for payment and that the financial reports be noted and accepted. (Minute No 212/ 08 refers).

ii.   that the Chairman of the Finance and General Purposes Committee, the Chief Executive and the Operations Manager make any necessary adjustments to the 2008-09 estimates to take in any overspend on categories that are showing signs of running over budget.

iii.   that Northwich Town Council's precept for 2009-2010 be increased by 4.5% on the 2008-2009 precept.

iv. that Northwich Town Council precept for 2009-2010 in the sum of £480,467 with £507 being taken out of the Councils balances in line with the Chief Executive's estimate report.

v. that Northwich Town Council precept against Cheshire West and Chester Unitary Authority the sum of £479,960 for 2009-2010.

RESOLVED

that the above recommendations be approved

There being no further business the Town Mayor declared the meeting closed at 6.55 pm on Monday 5 th January 2009

…………………………………….. …………………………………….

Date Clr O D Robinson

Town May or

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NORTHWICH TOWN COUNCIL

MONDAY 1 ST DECEMBER

 

Present : Clr O D Robinson Town Mayor

Councillors : G B Cooke, Mrs D M Cooke, N T Davies, P Dolan, S P Gough, Mrs G Gough, Mrs J Illidge, A L Neil, B Stringer, R J Woodier,

Also present : Mr S Sharman – Chief Executive, Mrs L Armistead – Council Secretary/PA, Mr J Sharman – Operations Manager

Miss N Gregory – Temp Clerical Assistant

 

Also Present : Mr M Clarke,Mrs E Sharman, Mrs J Robinson – Northwich Town Mayoress

The Town Mayor opened the meeting at 6.00 pm .

188/08

APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE

 Apologies for absence and reasons were received from Clrs Mrs H Burder, Mrs J Davies, M J Donnelly, Mrs V Frame, C R Garton, Mrs A Gerrard, G Mainwaring and J A Turnbull and recorded in the apologies register. 

189/08

DECLARATIONS OF ANY PERSONAL AND PREJUDICIAL INTEREST

Clr A L Neil declared a personal interest in agenda item no 10 – A Draft Compact for Cheshire West and Chester . He did remain in the Council Chamber whilst the item was discussed and took part in the discussion. He advised the Members on how they could download the information and that if required, he could get them a copy of the document.

190/08

OPEN FORUM

 No members of the public where in attendance on this occasion.

 191/08

SIGNING OF THE MINUTES

RESOLVED

that the Minutes of the meeting of the Town Council held on Monday 3 rd November 2008 be taken as read as a true record and signed by the Town Mayor.

192/08

SIGNING OF THE MINUTES

RESOLVED

that the Minutes of the meeting of the Town Council held on Monday 6 th October 2008 be taken as read as a true record and signed by the Town Mayor. 

193/08

REPORTS ON COMMITTEES

RESOLVED

i. that the Minutes of the Planning Committee meeting s held on Monday 27 th October 2008 and Friday 14 th November 2008 be confirmed as true record s and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Planning Committee.

ii. that the Minutes of the Finance and General Purposes Committee meeting held on Tuesday 28 th October 2008 be confirmed as a true record and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Finance and General Purposes Committee.

iii.  that the Minutes of the Amenities Committee meeting held on Wednesday 5 th November 2008 be confirmed as a true record and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Amenities Committee.

194/08

TOWN MAYOR'S COMMUNICATIONS

The Town Mayor informed the Members that his Charity Dinner Dance on Saturday 29 th November had been a great success and he wished to thank all his fellow Councillors who had attended for their support and the Councillors who had donated gifts for the evening. He continued that the accounts had not yet been finalised but it was hopeful that the evening raised in excess of £1000 for his charity fund.

195/08

CHIEF EXECUTIVE'S COMMUNICATIONS 

The Chief Executive submitted a report for the period 26 th October 2008 to 25 th November for Members information. 

Verbal Resignation of Clr A R Vickers 

The Chief Executive reported that he had received a verbal resignation from Clr A R Vickers on Saturday 8 th November 2008 . He stated that he informed Clr Vickers that until this was received in writing he would not be able to accept it.

He continued that on Thursday 27 th November he received a written resignation from Clr A R Vickers and intended to advertise this vacancy with the Electoral Services at Vale Royal Borough Council.

Installation of Gym Equipment in Vickersway Park  

The Chief Executive reported that 9 items of the new ‘keep fit' outdoor gym equipment has now been installed in Vickersway Park together with the required safety surfacing.

He continued that he had been to the park to look at the equipment and both adults and children were using it and hoped it was a good investment for the park.

Skatepark - Northwich 

The Chief Executive reported on the current update regarding the skate park and informed the Members that it was now necessary to arrange for a design company to prepare and estimate and drawings for the for the planning issues that were connected to the installation. The Chief Executive was still waiting for the local Youth Hub to arrange a meeting, where it was hoped we could identify and agree on a design and layout of the equipment.

RESOLVED

That the report be received and noted.

196/08

COUNCIL SECRETARY'S REPORT

The Council Secretary submitted a report for November 2008 for Members information.

•  An invitation had been received from the Strategic Partnerships to attend the 2 nd partnership event on Monday 8 th December 2008 at the Holiday Inn, Ellesmere Port at 9.00 am .

•  An invitation had been received from the Arts Council to attend a meeting regarding the future funding relationship with DAN on Monday 8 th December 2008 at the Arts Council offices in Winsford. When confirming places the time would be confirmed.

•  The next meeting of the Vale Royal Voluntary Sector Forum will be held on Tuesday 9 th December 2008 at Winnington Park Recreation Club at 10.00 am .

•  The next Vale Royal Area Meeting will be held on Thursday 11th December 2008 at Wyvern House, The Drumber, Winsford. at 7.00 pm .

Anyone wishing to attend any of the above meetings should let the Council Secretary/PA know in order that she can confirm places.

RESOLVED .

That the report be received.

197/089

LICENSING ACT 2003 – STATEMENT OF LICENSING POLICY CHESHIRE WEST AND CHESTER COUNCIL 

A letter dated 30 th October 2008 from Mr A Challinor, Licensing Manager, Vale Royal Borough Council was submitted. The draft statement is available for interested Members from the Chief Executive.

RESOLVED .

That a letter be written to Mr Challinor asking him for the current update and that the Chief Executive report back to Council once a response has been received.

198/08

A DRAFT COMPACT FOR CHESHIRE WEST AND CHESTER

Clr A L Neil declared a personal interest in this item.

A letter dated 14 th November 2008 from Mr A L Neil, Chief Executive, Voluntary Action Vale Royal was submitted.

Clr Neil informed the Members that if anyone would like a copy of the draft compact they could either download it www.valeroyalcvs.org.uk/news.html or he would be happy to provide them for you.

RESOLVED .

That the letter be received.

199/08

GAMBLING ACT 2005 – STATEMENT OF PRINCIPALS CHESHIRE WEST AND CHESTER COUNCIL 

A letter dated 30 th October 2008 from Mr A Challinor, Licensing Manager, Vale Royal Borough Council was submitted. The draft statement is available for interested Members from the Chief Executive.

RESOLVED .

That a letter be written to Mr Challinor asking him for the current update and that the Chief Executive report back to Council once a response has been received.

200/08

FINANCE AND GENERAL PURPOSES COMMITTEE MEETING

TUESDAY 25 th NOVEMBER 2008

The Finance Chairman reported on the Finance and General Purposes Committee meeting which had taken place on Tuesday 25 th November 2008 and requested Members approval for the following recommendations put forward by the Committee.

Finance

The monthly accounts for the period 22 nd October to 18 th November 2008 together with the financial budget statements to 18 th November 2008 were submitted.

resolved to recommend :

that the payments of the accounts in the sum of £ 50207.98 for the above period be approved for payment and that the financial reports be noted and accepted. (Minute No 185/ 08 refers).

Burial Fees and Charges (Minute No. 186/08 refers) 

Amenity Charges (Minute No. 187/08 refers)

RESOLVED

that the above recommendations be approved.

Consequent upon the press and public now having knowledge of this project it was not necessary to move to Part B. 

201/08

GROZONE COMMUNITY GARDEN PROJECT

An email dated 14 th November from Ms B Brockett, Groundwork was submitted.

The Chief Executive reported that he was delighted that plans were in force to use Dane Nurseries and welcomed the project.

The Members extended their support to the Grozone Community Garden Project and hoped it would create a partnership between Grozone and the Town Council and suggested that as the Chief Executive and the Operations Manager, were both qualified in horticulture, they offer to be on hand to give advice and support to this project.

The Members were concerned regarding the ‘men in sheds' scheme and stated that this should me monitored to ensure that any buildings be uniformed in order to avoid unsightly ‘sheds'.

The Members agreed that this should be brought back to Council in the future to see how the project was doing.

RESOLVED

That the Chief Executive be given authority to sign the Grozone Joint Working Commitment Pledge on behalf of the Town Council.

 

 

 

 

 

   

NORTHWICH TOWN COUNCIL

MONDAY 3 rd NOVEMBER 2008

 

 

Present : Clr O D Robinson Town Mayor

Clr Mrs H Burder Deputy Town Mayor

Councillors : G B Cooke, Mrs D M Cooke,N T Davies, Mrs J Davies,P Dolan, M J Donnelly,Mrs V Frame, C R Garton,Mrs A Gerrard, S P Gough,Mrs G Gough, G Mainwaring,A L Neil,J A Turnbull, A R Vickers,R J Woodier

Also present : Mr S Sharman – Chief Executive,Mrs L Armistead – Council Secretary/PA, Mr J Sharman – Operations Manager

The Town Mayor opened the meeting at 6.00 pm .

155/08

APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE

Apologies for absence and reasons were received from Clrs Mrs V Frame, C R Garton and B Stringer and recorded in the apologies register.

156/08

DECLARATIONS OF ANY PERSONAL AND PREJUDICIAL INTEREST

Clr Mrs H Burder declared a personal interest in agenda item no 7 – Section relating to the update of the skatepark. She did remain in the Council Chamber whilst the item was discussed.

Clrs S P Gough, A L Neil, J A Turnbull and R J Woodier all declared a personal interest in agenda item no 10 – Potential Gypsy and Traveller Sites Within Vale Royal. They did remain in the Council Chamber whilst the item was discussed and took part in the voting and decision. Clr J A Turnbull abstained from voting.

Clr Mrs H Burder declared a personal interest in agenda item no 15 – Community Governance Review of Davenham and Northwich. She did remain in the Council Chamber whilst the item was discussed.

157/08

OPEN FORUM 

No members of the public where in attendance on this occasion. 

158/08

SIGNING OF THE MINUTES

RESOLVED

that the Minutes of the meeting of the Town Council held on Monday 6 th October 2008 be taken as read as a true record and signed by the Town Mayor.

 The Town Mayor requested permission to bring forward agenda item no. 15 - Community Governance Review of Davenham and Northwich in order that Mr Owens could take leave after the presentation. 

159/08

COMMUNITY GOVERNANCE REVIEW OF DAVENHAM AND NORTHWICH 

Mr D Owen, Corporate Policy and Improvement Manager, Vale Royal Borough Council attended the meeting and gave a presentation on the Community Governance Review of Davenham and Northwich. A report from Mr Owen was submitted.

Mr Owen outlined the key issues regarding Kingsmead becoming its own parish and stated that since the Act of Parliament that was past last year for perishing there was a period of waiting strategy guidance to ensure this was feasible. He continued that since that period the Borough Council had taken further steps to look into proposals for boundary change and he stated that they would be making clear proposals to the Executive Group later in the month.

He stated that Kingsmead would be formed as a parish council and would have 15 elected Members. Davenham would have 11 Members and Northwich would retain the 21 Members but there may be a need to adjust the ward Members.

Mr Owen stated that if the Executive Group agrees to the recommendations then a public consultation would have to take place between Northwich and Davenham.

The Members expressed their concerns regarding whether the consultation would state that if Kingsmead became its own parish, the landscaping company would still incur the yearly service charge in addition to the parish precept.

The Members also asked why the boundary had been detoured round the back of Leftwich Farm as this area had been assigned as a play area for Leftwich and was a buffer area between Leftwich and Davenham.

Mr Owen was asked what percentage of response had been received from the recent consultation and what shocked to hear that there had only been an approximate 12% response.

The Town Mayor thanked Mr Owen for his presentation and Mr Owen promised to keep the Members updated of any further developments.

RESOLVED

that Mr Owen be thanked for his attendance.  

160/08

REPORTS ON COMMITTEES 

RESOLVED

i.   that the Minutes of the Planning Committee meeting s held on Monday 29 th September 2008 and Monday 13 th October 2008 be confirmed as true record s and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Planning Committee.

ii. that the Minutes of the Finance and General Purposes Committee meeting held on Tuesday 30 th September 2008 be confirmed as a true record and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Finance and General Purposes Committee.

160/08

TOWN MAYOR'S COMMUNICATIONS

The Town Mayor informed the Members that he had attended the following:

•  The Miss Northwich Competition at Winnington Recreational Club on Saturday 18 th November 2008 .

The Town Mayor reminded Members of the following:

•  Charity Market on Thursday 6 th November 2008 . Thanks to everyone who had already given items to sell and a reminder to those who still had things to donate to the stall.

•  Remembrance Sunday Service was being held at 9.45 am at St Helens Church followed by the Service of Remembrance at the War Memorial at 10.50 am on Sunday 9 th November 2008 .

•  Town Mayor's Charity Dinner on Saturday 29 th November at the Memorial Hall. Tickets £22 each available from the Council Secretary/PA

161/08

CHIEF EXECUTIVE'S COMMUNICATIONS 

The Chief Executive submitted a report for the period 24 th September 2008 to 25 th October 2008 for Members information. 

Notice of Conclusion of Audit 2007/08 

The Chief Executive reported that the report for the annual audit 2007/08 has now been completed and signed off. He stated that the issues that needed to be addressed were concerning the fidelity insurance cover being inadequate and the Chief Executive stated that he would amend this amount in due course together with the smaller issues. 

Health and Safety Inspection of Memorials 

The annual inspection of memorials is to commence in Witton and Danevalley Cemeteries in the New Year. Over the last few years , and , because the Town Council 's policy is that all headstones are now fitted with ground anchors , there has been a vast reduction on the amount of headstones in need of repair or attention. It is the Councils intention to inspect and test one section each year from now one, unless otherwise instructed.

The testing inspection has therefore been scheduled for January 2009 to commence inspection of the Roman Catholic Section in Witton Cemetery .

The local press have been informed of the ensuing tests and notices have been posted around the perimeters of each of the cemeteries and in the Council notice board , the Information Centre and the Northwich library.

Skatepark - Northwich 

The Chief Executive submitted an extensive report on the update on the Northwich Skatepark. Clr Turnbull stated that the report was justified but a contingency of say £5,000 should be added to the required sum to cover any problems that may arise. Grants could be applied for and he offered to assist the Chief Executive to help apply for any such grants.

Clr Mrs Burder pointed out that individuals could apply for grants from the Youth Capital Fund through Connexions providing they could prove it was for the benefit of a certain project.

RESOLVED

That the report be received and noted.

162/08

COUNCIL SECRETARY'S REPORT

The Council Secretary submitted a report for October 2008 for Members information.

•  The Northwich Feedback News – Area Meetings Winter 2008 update was submitted.

•  The next meeting of the Vale Royal Playschemes Association will be held on Thursday 4 th December 2008 .

•  The Cheshire Association of Local Councils have arranged a Planning Seminar on Tuesday 11 th November 2008 at Congelton Town Hall .

•  The DAN Annual Report 2007-08 is available for interested Members in the Council library.

RESOLVED .

That the report be received.

163/089

THE RIGHTS OF MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC TO SPEAK AT FULL COUNCIL MEETINGS 

Clr J Turnbull requested that this item be placed on the agenda for further discussion. As this item was going to be addressed in agenda item no. 11 – Review of Standing Orders, no recommendation be made at this time.

RESOLVED .

That this item be discussed in agenda item no. 11.

164/08

TOWN AND COUNTRY PLANNING ACT 1990 – PROPSED PUBLIC CONSULTATION ON POTENTIAL GYPSY AND

TRAVELLER SITES WITHIN VALE ROYAL 

This item was put on the agenda at the request of the Members of the Policy and Operations Review Committee following their meeting held on Monday 13 th October 2008 to discuss the proposed gypsy travellers sites at Saxon Lane , Northwich. A copy of the Committees recommendations together with letter dated 22 nd October 2008 from Mr R Ellison, Head of Planning, Vale Royal Borough Council were submitted.

RESOLVED .

That the recommendations of the P & O Review Committee be approved and adopted with the following amendments regarding planning:

•  Any development on this site was unacceptable.

•  that is this site was used, it would become a densely over populated area which could lead to and cause public health issues

165/08

REVIEW OF STANDING ORDERS 

The Auditors have recommended that the Council review their Standing Orders annually. Copy of existing Standing Orders were submitted for Members information.

The Members made comments regarding the need for change or amendment to a few of the Standing Orders and the Town Mayor stated that any changes deemed necessary would be addressed at a future meeting of the Policy and Operations Review Committee.

The Mayor continued that even if not elected to that sub committee, any Member wishing to attend could do so, or indeed submit their want for a change or requirement to the Chief Executive. 

RESOLVED

that the Standing Orders be placed on a future meeting of the Policy and Operations Review Committee for them to make the necessary amendments and that this be brought back to full Council when the amendments have been agreed.

The Chairman of the P & O Committee pointed out that any Member of the Council was invited to the meeting and also to submit any points that they wished to have considered for amendment on the Standing Orders.

166/08

CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR OPENING AND CLOSING TIMES 

Permission is requested to close the Council Offices and Registrars Office at 12 noon on Friday 19th December, 12 noon on Monday 24 th December (Christmas Eve) all day Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year's Day and to close the Parks and Cemetery Department on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year's Day

Notices advertising the closures will be posted on the Council notice board, the Information Centre and the Library.

RESOLVED

that permission be granted for the closures . 

167/08

BURIAL FEES AND CHARGES AND AMENITY CHARGES

The burial fees and charges and the amenity charges have been in force since April 200 8 and a report from the Chief Executive was submitted

RESOLVED

that a tariff of new fees and charges for burials and amenities be reviewed at the next meeting of the Finance and General Purposes Committee in order that any increase can be considered in the annual estimates.

168/08

DRAFT HISTORIC BUILT ENVIRONMENT SUPLLEMENTARY PLANNING DOCUMENT CONSULTATION

A letter dated 14 th October 2008 from Mr D Hayes, Conservation and Design Manger, Vale Royal Borough Council was submitted.

RESOLVED

•  that the Town Mayor and Chief Executive complete and return the document consultation.

•  that a letter be written to Mr Hayes asking him to ensure that the document was written in a more ‘plain English native friendly' way if they expected to receive responses from the electorate. 

Clr A L Neil apologised has he had a prior engagement and left the meeting at 6.55 pm 

169/08 

PLANNING COMMITTEE MEETING

MONDAY 27 th OCTOBER 2008

The Planning Committee Chairman reported on the Planning meeting which had taken place on Monday 27 th October 2008 and requested Members approval for the following recommendations put forward by the Committee. 

Planning Applications

(Minute No. 150 08 refers)

RESOLVED

that the above recommendations be approved and adopted . 

171 /08 

FINANCE AND GENERAL PURPOSES COMMITTEE MEETING

TUESDAY 28 th OCTOBER 2008

The Finance Chairman reported on the Finance and General Purposes Committee meeting which had taken place on Tuesday 28 th October 2008 and requested Members approval for the following recommendations put forward by the Committee.

Finance

The monthly accounts for the period 24 th September 2008 to 21 st October 2008 together with the financial budget statements to 21 st October 2008 were submitted.

resolved to recommend :

•  that the payments of the accounts in the sum of £ 29186.31 for the above period be approved for payment and that the financial reports be noted and accepted. (Minute No 154 /08 refers).

RESOLVED

that the above recommendations be approved.

There being no further business the Town Mayor declared the meeting closed at 7.00 pm on Monday 3 rd November 2008 .

………………………………….. …………………………………….

Date Clr O D Robinson

Town May or

 

 

 

 

 

NORTHWICH TOWN COUNCIL

MONDAY 6 th OCTOBER 2008

 

 

Present : Clr O D Robinson Town Mayor

Clr Mrs H Burder Deputy Town Mayor

Councillors : G B Cooke Mrs D M Cooke

N T Davies Mrs J Davies

P Dolan M J Donnelly

Mrs V Frame C R Garton

Mrs A Gerrard S P Gough

Mrs G Gough G Mainwaring

A L Neil B St ringer

J A Turnbull A R Vickers

R J Woodier

Also present : Mr S Sharman – Chief Executive

Mrs L Armistead – Council Secretary/PA

Mr J Sharman – Operations Manager

 

Members of the public : Mr M Clarke, Mr J Hadfield, Mr S Royle, Mr R Smith, Miss S Valentine

The Town Mayor opened the meeting at 6.00 pm .

129/08

APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE

Apologies for absence and reasons were received from Clrs L Grant and Mrs J Illidge and recorded in the apologies register.

130/08 

DECLARATIONS OF ANY PERSONAL AND PREJUDICIAL INTEREST

Clr Mrs H Burder declared a personal interest in agenda item no. 9. She did remain in the chamber whilst the meeting was discussed and took part in the voting thereon.

131/08

OPEN FORUM

Representatives from the Vickersway07 Allotment Association who were in attendance at the meeting were informed by the Town Mayor that the subject regarding the siting of a sub station on the allotment site, which they wanted to discuss, had been resolved earlier that day and Scottish Powers proposal to site the sub station at the Vickersway Allotment site had now been withdrawn and may possibly be installed at an alternative place and consequently there was no point in bringing the matter to the table.

132/08

SIGNING OF THE MINUTES

RESOLVED

that the Minutes of the August Recess Committee meeting held on 26 th August 2008 and the Minutes of the meeting of the Town Council held on Monday 1 st September 2008 be taken as read as true record s and signed by the Town Mayor. 

133/08

REPORTS ON COMMITTEES

RESOLVED

i. that the Minutes of the Policy and Operations Review Committee meeting held on Friday 12 th September 2008 be confirmed as a true record and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Policy and Operations Review Committee.

ii.   that the Minutes of the Planning Committee meeting held on Monday 15 th September 2008 be confirmed as a true record and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Planning Committee.

The Members requested that the planning application no. 3 (08-2091-FUL) be looked at as Vale Royal CVS had not owned the building for over 5 years and yet they were still entered as the owners of the property.

134/08

TOWN MAYOR'S COMMUNICATIONS

The Town Mayor informed the Members that he had attended the following:

•  7 th September 2008 – The Manchester Historic Vehicle Club Late Summer Run at the Lion Salt Works, Northwich.

•  13 th September 2008 – The Middlewich Town Mayor's Civic Ball at the Middlewich Civic Hall.

•  14 th September 2008 – The Middlewich Town Mayor's Civic Parade and Service.

•  19 th September 2008 – The Northwich Charity Beer Festival at the Memorial Hall, Northwich organised by the Rotary Club of Northwich.

•  21 st September 2008 – The Winsford Town Mayor's Civic Service.

•  28 th September 2008 – The Town Mayor's Charity Car Boot Sale in Verdin Park . Thanks to Clrs Dee and Brian Cooke for so ably undertaking the organising and marshalling of this event.

•  3 rd October 2008 – The Congleton Borough Mayor's Civic Dinner and Ball at the Town Hall, Congleton.

The Mayor informed the Members of complaints that he had received regarding the proposal for an additional Gypsy and Travelers site on Saxons lane Northwich and that no information had been received by the Town Council regarding this additional site.

The Mayor continued that a site had been allocated for these travelers in Hapsford several years ago and this had been made appropriate with hard standings, showers and a hard core approach road. Unfortunately the travelers had totally demolished the site. He continued that he was concerned that the Saxon's Lane site was not on the original proposed sites.

Clr Neil felt that a meeting of the Policy and Operations Review Committee should be arranged immediately to discuss this further.

The Members asked that Richard Ellison, Head of Planning at Vale Royal Borough Council be contacted to ask why the Council had not been consulted regarding the possibility of using the Saxon Lane site.

 

135/08

CHIEF EXECUTIVE'S COMMUNICATIONS 

The Chief Executive submitted a report for the period 27 th August 2008 to 30 th September 2008 for Members information.

Estimates 2009/10 

The Chief Executive reported that it was necessary to commence the setting of the Councils budgets for 2009/10 and recommended that draft estimates be prepared and placed on the agenda in January to discuss the requirements for the Town Council.

 

The Chief Executive continued that if any Member had any financial matter that they felt relevant to next years budget then this be put in writing and submitted to the Chief Executive in order that it could be submitted to the estimates meeting.  

Thundersprint 2009 

The Chief Executive reported that he had now received confirmation from Mr Melling, Managing Director of Thundersprint that he was withdrawing his proposals to provide a camp ground in Verdin Park for the 2009 event.

Rotary and Round Table Bonfire Celebrations 

The annual bonfire celebrations, organised by the Rotary and Round Table would be taking place in Verdin Park on Saturday 1 st November 2008 .

Investment In People

The Chief Executive reported that it had been 3 years since the Town Council achieved the Investment in People award and that it would need to be reviewed in December. An Assessor from the Investors in People would be attending the Town Council on 5 th December 2008 to randomly select staff to interview with a view to gaining this award again. The Assessor would also be looking at the appraisal procedure that is undertaken at the Town Council.

Staff Appraisals 

The Chief Executive reported that he intended to commence with the staff appraisals on Monday 12 th November 2008 . These appraisals took approximately 8 days to complete and a full report would be submitted to the Policy and Operations Review Committee once they had been completed.

Casual Attendants at Churchwalk Playground and Vickersway Park

The Chief Executive reported that the seasonal/ casual attendants employed at the above sites would finish their employment with the Town Council on 26 th October 2008 and that letters be sent to them thanking them for their valued service throughout the year.

RESOLVED

That the report be received and noted.

136/08

COUNCIL SECRETARY'S REPORT

The Council Secretary submitted a report for September 2008 for Members information.

•  The ChaLC Newsletter no. 123 was submitted.

•  The Cheshire Community Action Briefing Sheet – August 2008 was submitted

RESOLVED That the report be received.

137/089

COMMUNITY GOVERNANCE REVIEW OF KINGSMEAD AND DAVENHAM 

An analysis of the Borough Councils Consultation regarding the Community Governance Review of Kingsmead and Davenham was submitted.

RESOLVED That no action is taken and the document be received

138/08

POLICE PRESENCE AT EVENTS IN VERDIN PARK  

An email dated 26 th September 2008 from Sgt D Brow, Cheshire Police was submitted. The Operations Manager reported that there had recently been a spate of problems with fights and vandalism at Verdin Park when events were taking place.

Clr N T Davies commented that he should declare a personal interest in this matter at this point during the debate; he did remain in the chamber whilst this item was discussed and took part in the voting thereon.

The Chief Executive informed the Members that the Rotary and Round Table were willing to pay for this service on this occasion. The Members discussed this matter at length and agreed that the policing costs at future events must be paid for by the organisers and that this be added to the hire agreement for the park and that the onus of security and safety be the hirers responsibility.

RESOLVED That the hire agreement, have the wording “that all policing costs be the responsibility of the organisers using Verdin Park .

139/08

THE MAKING AND ENFORCEMENT OF OF BYELAWS 

A letter dated 27 th August 2008 together with consultation document from Mr S McAllister, Department of Communities and Local Government w as submitted.

Clr Vickers admitted that he was bemused about the amount of byelaws that were currently in force and the Members agreed that some should be abolished and others introduced and enforced.

RESOLVED that the Members contact the Chief Executive with their response to this consultation.

140/08

PLANNING COMMITTEE MEETING

MONDAY 29 th SEPTEMBER 2008

The Planning Committee Chairman reported on the Planning meeting which had taken place on Monday 29 th September 2008 and requested Members approval for the following recommendations put forward by the Committee.

Planning Applications

(Minute No. 122 /08 refers)

RESOLVED

that the above recommendations be approved and adopted .

141 /08 

FINANCE AND GENERAL PURPOSES COMMITTEE MEETING

TUESDAY 30 th SEPTEMBER 2008

The Finance Chairman reported on the Finance and General Purposes Committee meeting which had taken place on Tuesday 30 th September 2008 and requested Members approval for the following recommendations put forward by the Committee.

Finance

The monthly accounts for the period 27 th August 2008 to 23 rd September 2008 together with the financial budget statements to 23 rd September 2008 and financial budget statements to 23.9.08 were submitted.

resolved to recommend :

•  that the payments of the accounts in the sum of £ 37094.91 for the above period be approved for payment and that the financial reports be noted and accepted. (Minute No 126 /08 refers).

Opening of Tenders for Play Equipment at Vickersway Park

(Minute No 127/08 refers) 

Standard Level Agreement for Salaries and Wages from 1 st April 2009

(Minute No. 128/08 refers)

RESOLVED that the above recommendations be approved.

 

 

There being no further business the Town Mayor declared the meeting closed at 7. 20 pm on Monday 6 th October 2008 .

 

Date Clr O D Robinson

Town Mayor

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

NORTHWICH TOWN COUNCIL

MONDAY 1 st SEPTEMBER 2008

Present : Clr O D Robinson Town Mayor

Clr Mrs H Burder Deputy Town Mayor

Councillors : G B Cooke Mrs D M Cooke

N T Davies P Dolan

M J Donnelly Mrs G Gough

S P Gough Mrs J Illidge

B Stringer A R Vickers

R J Woodier

Also present : Mr S Sharman – Chief Executive

Mrs S Lord - Asst. Admin Officer

Mr J Sharman – Operations Manager

The Town Mayor opened the meeting at 6.00 pm .

 

100/08

APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE

 Apologies for absence and reasons were received from Clrs Mrs J Davies, R Garton, Mrs A Gerrard , Mrs V Frame, G Mainwaring, A L Neil and J A Turnbull and recorded in the apologies register.

101/08 

DECLARATIONS OF ANY PERSONAL AND PREJUDICIAL INTEREST

None received.

 

102/08

OPEN FORUM

Mr Frank Melling , Managing D ire ctor o f the Thunder Sprint gave a comprehensive report on how successful the Thunder Sprint in Northwich had been in previous years. He continued about the way the Thundersprint was organi s ed and how he found a need for extra funding for the camping facility , which in past years has been sited at Moss Road , Winnington. He went on to explain the options available to the Council if they agreed to sponsor this facility, these options were as follows:-

•  Northwich Town Council could undertake the camping aspect and could be given the franchise free of charge. With this option Northwich Town Council would keep 100% of the revenue from this facility.

•  Northwich Town Council may propose a third party contractor to undertake the management of this camping facility and any contractor must be agreed by both parties.

•  Northwich Town Co uncil must provide the camping facility with the infrastructure element which is required for the camp ground at Verdin Park .

•  Northwich Town Council to provide Thundersprint with a grant of £6.000 to cover the cost of this infrastructure.

Mr Melling continued to give further information regarding the Thundersprint and then asked the Members if they had any questions. There were a number of questions asked regarding catering and how the t own w ould benefi t overall from this funding. Mr Melling was congrat ulated on the success of the Thund er sprint over the last few years .

The Mayor thanked Mr Melling and informed him that the Chief Executive would be contacting him in the near future to inform him what the Council had resolved.

103/08

SIGNING OF THE MINUTES

RESOLVED that the Minutes of the meeting of the Town Council held on Monday 7 th July 2008 and the Minutes of the August Recess Meeting held on 4 th August 2008 be taken as read as a true record and signed by the Town Mayor.

104/08

REPORTS ON COMMITTEES

RESOLVED

i.  that the Minutes of the Planning Committee meetings held on Monday 30 th June 2008 be confirmed as true records and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Planning Committee. -

ii.   that the Minutes of the Finance and General Purposes Committee meeting held on Monday 30 th June 2008 be confirmed as a true record and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Finance Committee.

iii. that the Minutes of the Policy and Operations Review Committee meeting held on Monday 4 th July 2008 be confirmed as a true record and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the policy & Operations Review Committee.

iv.   that the Minutes of the Grants Committee meeting held on Monday 11th July 2008 be confirmed as a true record and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Grants Committee.

v.   that the Minutes of the Planning Committee meetings held on Monday 14 th July 2008 be confirmed as true records and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Planning Committee.

vii.   that the Minutes of the Policy and Operations Review Committee meeting held on Friday 18 th July 2008 be confirmed as a true record and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the P olicy & Operations Review Committee.

105/08

TOWN MAYOR'S COMMUNICATIONS

The Town Mayor informed the Members that he had attended a meeting of the Quality Cheshire Forum on Wednesday 27 th August and gave a comprehensi v e report regarding this meeting . H e informed the Member s that it was time that the Council start ed looking to the future by moving forward and getting more involved with Cheshire West and Chester Unitary Authority . He stated that a consultation document was being circulated and this need ed to be completed and returned to Vale Royal Borough Council before th e 30 th September 2008 .

The Town Mayor proposed that the Policy and Operations Review Committee consider taking on any extra services that would be beneficial to Northwich and a meeting of this Committee be organied within the next few weeks .

The Mayor continued to inform Members that he was totally against the Civic and Ceremonial issues that had initially been approved by the Cheshire West and Shadow Authority and he had concerns about the Mayor of Vale Royal, Ellesmere Port and Neston being transferred to the new Authority . H e felt the Civic Office of creating a ‘ Mayor o f Nowhere ' was totally unacceptable as most of the Town Councils in the Vale Royal Area had their own elected town Mayors. The Mayor proposed that the Chief Executive of Northwich Town Council arranged a meeting with the newly elected Chief Executive of the Cheshire West and Chester Authority.

RESOLVED

i. that a meeting be arranged of the Policy Operations Review Committee to discuss additional services and report back to full C ouncil with any recommendations.

ii.   that a meeting be arranged between the Chief Executive of Northwich Town Council and the Chief Executive of the C heshire West Unitary Authority to discuss the above recommendations.

106/08

CHIEF EXECUTIVE'S COMMUNICATIONS 

The Chief Executive submitted a report for July and August 2008 for Members information.

Bowls Awareness Weekend 

The Chief Executive reported that the Bowls Awareness Weekend which was held in Vickersway Park on Saturday 2 nd August and Sunday 3 rd August was once again a great success. He continued that over 100 children and adults were coached by the profession al Crown Green Bowls Coaches over the weekend . He stated that on the Sunday afternoon two competitions were run between Northwich Town Council and the Cheshire Coaches , with Northwich Town Council winning 83 to 70 .

T he Deaf Society of Northwich produced two teams (The Romans & The Normans) who were coached during the weekend and played in an in-house competition which was won by the Romans 27 to 22.

The Chief Executive wished to thank everyone involved who helped with the weekend and praised the staff involved with the Parks Department for the excellent condition the Park was in for this event.

Northwich Skate Park  

The Chief Executive reported that he had now received a report from Groundwork regarding the progress of the proposal for the Skate Park for Northwich. Estimates were submitted from Groundwork on the cost for the building and installing of this facility.

Due to the high cost of this project the Chief Executive had organised for a company to produce an estimate for the installation only of the equipment which had been donated to the Council in March this year.

The Chief Executive went on to advise to the Members that Vale Royal Borough Council had informed him that a sum of £17,667.00 from the Section 106 Agreements throughout the Town would be available and with the £9.000 that the Northwich Town Council had put in the 2008/09 budget, this gave a grand total of £26.667.00.

The cost of having the donated equipment installed on the site at Manora Road in Northwich would be in the region of £31.000.

The Members discussed this matter at length and it was

Resolved to recommend that:

i. Groundwork be informed that due to the high cost of this project, their services would no longer be required.

 

ii. The Council suspend Standing Orders and give the Chief Executive delegated powers to install a Skate Park in Manora Road , Northwich, using the equipment which had been donated by a local businessman.

iii.. That this SkatePark, once installed, be floodlit with the lights remaining on until 9.00pm each evening or as advised by the Planning Officer.

iv. That any shortfall in the full cost of £31,000.00 be taken out of balances.

RESOLVED That the report be received and noted.

107/08

COUNCIL SECRETARY'S REPORT

The Council Secretary submitted a report for August 2008 for Members information.

•  Cheshire Families Information Factsheet was submitted.

•  Smyle Newsletter was submitted

•  Vale Royal Playscheme Association Report & Accounts for year ending 31.3.08 was submitted

•  Vale Royal Area Meeting is to be held on Thursday 18 th September 2008 in Room 1 Wyvern House in Winsford at 7.00pm . Any Member wishing to attend should let the Council Secretary know in order to reserve places.

RESOLVED That the report be received.

108/089

STANDARDS BOARDS FOR ENGLAND – PILOT STUDY

 An email was submitted from the Principal Solicitor for Vale Royal Borough Council for the Standards Board Pilot Study. The Standards Board was keen that a mix of urban and rural town and parish councils were involved. The Cheshire Association has suggested that Winsford and Northwich Town Councils would be suitable organisations for the Pilot Scheme.

RESOLVED .

Resolved to recommend that the Council are keen to be involved and that Clr O D Robinson be the Council's representative.

109/08

BRITISH WATERWAYS WEAVER VALLEY REGIONAL PARK

APPLICATION FOR GRANT AID

A letter dated 16 th July 2008 from Mr. D Hennessy External Funding Officer from British Waterways was submitted regarding a grant towards a project of constructing the towpath from Monarchs Drive , Kingsmead to the Riversdale Swing Bridge along the River Weaver, Northwich.

Clr Mrs Burder stated that she had been in contact with Redrow Homes, who owned part of the land running along the boundary of this towpath, with a request to offer this land to the Kingsmead Landscape Management Committee but had no response whatever.

RESOLVED .

Resolved to recommend that no further action be taken.

110/08

C.C.C. CHAIRMANS GARDEN PARTY AT TATTON PARK  

A letter dated 17th July 2 008 received from Mr S Wilkinson , C hairman of Cheshire County Council was submitted.

The Members agreed that this event should be attended by the Town Mayor Clr O D Robinson, The Deputy Mayor Clr Mrs H Burder and the Chief Executive Mr S Sharman.

RESOLVED that the above Members and officers attend this event

.111/08

THUNDERSPRINT SPONSORSHIP 2009 

A letter dated 23rd Ju ly 2008 from Mr F Melling, Managing Director of the Thundersprint was submitted.

Following Mr Melling's presentation earlier in the evening the Members discussed this matter at length. They felt that this request for sponsorship was justified and would benefit the town and would therefore gain credibility for hosting this event. Clrs G B Cooke and Mrs J Illidge opposed this recommendation.

RESOLVED t o recommend that

i  The fee for the hire of Verdin Park be waived on this occasion, in accordance that the usual rules and regulation of the hire agreement be adhered too.

ii.  a grant of £6,000 be agreed to sponsor the camping ground infrastructure and that the money for this sponsorship come from the Councils balances until it can be returned and estimated for in the 2009/10 budget..

iii.  That two advertising banners informing the public that Northwich Town Council had sponsored the camping ground and facilities be installed at the two entrances of Verdin Park .

112/08

VICKERSWAY07 ALLOTMENT ASSOCIATION

A letter dated 26th July 2008 from the Chairman of the Vickersway07 Allotment Association for assistance towards installing a new water system on the allotments at Vickersway was submitted, together with three quotations for the supply and installation of this system.

 

The Operations Manager informed the Members that the Vickersway07 Allotment Association would be prepared to fund this project jointly with the Town Council.

RESOLVED that th is proposal be agreed and that th e quotation for £1,200 be agreed and implemented

113/08

SCOTTISH POWER

PROPOSED NEW GROUND MOUNTED ELECTRICITY SUBSTATION VICKERSWAY ALLOTMENT SITE NORTHWICH

A letter dated 14 th August 2008 from Mr Penn, Estates & Wayleaves Officer was submitted.

The Chief Executive informed the Members that this request had been brought to the attention of the Council earlier this year, when the Members asked Scottish Power to look at alternative sites. Unfortunately none of these other sites were suitable has they were in private ownership of which theses owners were not prepared to allow them to erect a substation on their land.

The Chief Executive went on to inform the Members that he had been in negotiations with Scottish Power as to receiving some form of rent for this site and was also still in talks with them regarding re-siting of two street lights on the area where the Council was considering installing the Northwich Skate Park.

Th e Members discussed this project and agreed in principle to the idea , on the understanding that the Chief Executive would continue to negotiate a favorable agreement with Scottish Power in regards to the moving of the street lights on Manora Road ..

RESOLVED that the request be granted subject to legal requirements and Scottish Power agreeing to re-site two street lights on Manora Road Northwich and increase the premium fee for the rent of this substation.

There being no further business the Town Mayor declared the meeting closed at 7. 20 pm on Monday 1st September 2008

 

Date Clr O D Robinson

Town Mayor

  -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NORTHWICH TOWN COUNCIL

MONDAY 8 th JULY 2008

 

 

Present : Clr O D Robinson Town Mayor

Clr Mrs H Burder Deputy Town Mayor

Councillors : G B Cooke Mrs D M Cooke

N T Davies Mrs J Davies

P Dolan M J Donnelly

Mrs V Frame C R Garton

S P Gough Mrs G Gough

L Grant Mrs J Illidge

A L Neil B Stringer

J A Turnbull A R Vickers

R J Woodier

Also present : Mr S Sharman – Chief Executive

Mrs L Armistead – Council Secretary/PA

Mr J Sharman – Operations Manager

The Town Mayor opened the meeting at 6.00 pm .

59/08

APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE

 

Apologies for absence and reasons were received from Clrs Mrs A Gerrard and G Mainwaring and recorded in the apologies register.

60/08

DECLARATIONS OF ANY PERSONAL AND PREJUDICIAL INTEREST

Clrs Mrs H Burder declared a personal interest in agenda item no. 15 – Community Governance Review for Davenham and Northwich.

61/08

OPEN FORUM

No members of the public where in attendance on this occasion.

62/08

SIGNING OF THE MINUTES

RESOLVED

that the Minutes of the meeting of the Town Council held on Monday 2 nd June 2008 be taken as read as a true record and signed by the Town Mayor. 

63/08

REPORTS ON COMMITTEES

RESOLVED

•  that the Minutes of the Planning Committee meetings held on Monday 27 th May 2008 and Monday 16 th June 2008 be confirmed as true records and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Planning Committee.

•  that the Minutes of the Finance and General Purposes Committee meeting held on Monday 27 th May 2008 be confirmed as a true record and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Finance Committee.

64/08

TOWN MAYOR'S COMMUNICATIONS

The Town Mayor informed the Members that he had attended the following:

•  4 th June 2008 – Mid Cheshire District Scouts AGM and Presentation Evening at Winnington Scout Hall, Winnington, Northwich

•  9 th June 2008 to 13 th June 2008 . Twinning visit to Carlow which had been a very enjoyable visit. The Town Mayor gave a brief insight into the visit and this was reiterated by Clr S P Gough who had also been on the visit.

•  14 th June 2008 . Hartford Rose Fete where he and the mayoress headed the procession and judged the ‘Best Queen in the Arena' and ‘Best dressed car'.

•  15 th June 2008 . The Vale Royal Civic Service at St Chad 's Church, Winsford.

•  21 st June 2008 – The Anderton Canal and River Festival.

•  21 st June 2008 – The Daneside Court Summer Fete

•  24 th June 2008 – Last Night of the Proms at the Memorial Hall.

•  26 th June 2008 – The Open Day at The Neuromuscular Centre, Winsford.

•  5 th July 2008 – Northwich Carnival where he officially opened the Carnival.

•  6 th July 2008 – His Civic Service which had been very well attended with 15 civic chains, 15 standards and approximately 200 guests being in attendance.

The Town Mayor wished to place on record his thanks to fellow Councillors S P Gough for his valued contribution to the service and Mrs H Burder for the lovely service sheets she had produced, and all his fellow Councillors who had attended.

•  7 th July 2008 – The official opening of the newly ‘refreshed' Tesco Stores, Manchester Road , Northwich.

The Town Mayor thanked his Deputy, Clr Mrs Burder for so ably attending the Davenham Rose Fete on 21 st June 2008 as he had already committed himself to attending another function.

Clr A L Neil asked the Mayor and Members if anyone was interested in becoming a trustee for Mr Abdul Mannan who lived and worked locally as an executive of a non governmental organisation in Bangla Desh. Clr Neil continued that Voluntary Action Vale Royal were helping Mr Mannan to establish a charitable trust which he hoped would raise funds in the UK to send to PPS (Polli Progot Shongshod).

65/08

CHIEF EXECUTIVE'S COMMUNICATIONS

The Chief Executive submitted a report for June 2008 for Members information.

Simon Ashbrook – 25 Year Long Service Award

The Chief Executive reported that Simon Ashbook had completed 25 years service with the Town Council and recollected the time when Simon first came to work at the Council. He continued that he was the only member of staff on the department that had never changed their job during the time at the Council, and that it was an achievement in itself to do the same job for 25 years even more so being a cemetery technician.

The Town Mayor congratulated Mr Ashbrook on his achievement and this was reiterated by all the Members and staff at the Town Council. He stated that in the time he had worked for the Council he had dug over 4,000 graves which in length would equate to over 10 miles. He joked that he could be well on his way to Nantwich by now if he was digging out an underground tunnel. He then presented him with a wall clock, voucher and certificate.

Mr Ashbrook was rather overcome and so a statement from him was read out on his behalf by the Council Secretary.

Bowls Awareness Weekend 

The Chief Executive reported that the Bowls Awareness Weekend was being held in Vickersway Park on Saturday 2 nd August and Sunday 3 rd August. As the format for previous years was proven to be successful it was going to be much the same this year.

Fit Stop Equipment

Northwich Town Council had installed 3 items of fit stop equipment in Verdin Park and this was proving to be very successful and an additional attraction for all ages.

Cheshire West and Chester Unitary Authority 

The Chief Executive reported that the Town Mayor, Council Secretary and himself had attended a meeting of ChALC which gave updated information on how the new CW&C Unitary Authority was preparing for the transition period for the change in April 2009. Papers from the meeting where circulated for Members information.

RESOLVED

That the above recommendations be approved and adopted and the report be received.

66/08

COUNCIL SECRETARY'S REPORT

The Council Secretary submitted a report for June 2008 for Members information.

•  The ChALC Newsletter no. 121 was submitted.

•  An invitation had been received from ChALC to attend the Annual Meeting 2008 at the Middlewich Civic Hall on Thursday 23 rd October 2008 at 6.30 pm .

Any Member wishing to raise a concern or interest should let the Chief Executive have them by mid August in order for him to submit them to ChALC for inclusion.

resolved to recommend that the Chief Executive, Council Secretary, Town Mayor and Clr N T Davies attend the Annual Meeting.

RESOLVED .

That the above recommendations be approved and adopted and the report be received the report be received

67/08

NEW PLAY EQUIPMENT – JAMES STREET , NORTHWICH

The Operations Manager submitted a report recommending that a specification be prepared and that suppliers of play equipment be invited to tender for the supply and installation of new play equipment complete with all the necessary safety surfacing.

The items of equipment to be replaced are a tractor multi use unit at James Street which had been in service at this location for over 20 years.

The Operations Manager continued that he had discovered that in line with the Section 106 Agreement, the Borough Council would be considering installing a complete new playground at James Street in the near future.

The Members agreed that it would be unwarranted to install new equipment this year if the Borough Council was going to install new and suggested that discussed the fit stop equipment that had recently been installed in Verdin Park, which the Operations Manager reported was being very well used.

The Members suggested that similar fit stop equipment be installed in Vickersway Park and that if James Street playground did not meet the criteria for the S106 agreement then finance for new equipment could be placed in the estimates for that year.

RESOLVED

•  that items of fit stop equipment be installed in Vickersway Park .

•  that a specification be prepared and approved playground suppliers be invited to tender for this work.

•  that all tenders received be opened at a future meeting of the Finance and General Purposes Committee.

68/08

LOCAL GOVERNMENT /EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT ELECTIONS 2009

A letter dated 23 rd May 2008 from Mr D Owen, Corporate Policy and Improvement Manager, Vale Royal Borough Council was submitted.

The Members agreed that it was more practical to hold the elections on the same day as this would avoid unnecessary costs with staffing and hire charges for the polling stations and suggested that this be agreed for all future elections.

RESOLVED

that the Chief Executive write to Mr Owen informing him that Northwich Town Council had no objections to the moving of the dates for the European Parliamentary Elections.

69/08

HISTORIC BUILT ENVIRONMENT SUPPLEMENTARY PLANNING DOCUMENT SCOPING REPORT CONSULTATION 

A letter dated 10 th June 2008 from Mr D M Hayes, Conservation & Design Manager, Vale Royal Borough Council was submitted.

A copy of the consultation document is available in the Council offices or can be downloaded from the website http://www.valeroyal.gov.uk .

RESOLVED

that the Chief Executive complete the form on behalf of the Town Council.

70/08

ANNUAL REPORT 2007-08 

The Annual Report for the town council for the period 2007-08 had now been produced and submitted for Members approval prior to it being circulated in outlets around the town.

RESOLVED

that the report be received and adopted and circulated accordingly.

71/08

THE WAY FORWARD – REFURBISHMENT OF CEMETERY CHAPELS 

This item was placed on the agenda at the request of Clr S P Gough who gave a report on the way forward in connection with his ideas and proposals to refurbish the Cemetery Chapels.

Clr Gough stated that he thought the chapels, especially the one that was just used for storage was not being used to its advantage and suggested that the Council consider changing the unused/storage chapel into an office complex.

With regard to the meeting room, he stated that the floor was just wood flooring over soil and he felt that this was a major factor in the cold weather. Also the cost to have central heating installed was quite costly but was desperate as the electricity in the building was not adequate to cover electric heating.

He suggested that the Council Chamber remain for the use of council meetings but so that it could still be reverted back if needed for a funeral but with the bonus of having new floors and central heating.

The other chapel could be changed to a mezzanine office block with maybe 6 offices and the open ended central arch could be blocked at both ends and used as a reception area, kitchen and toilets.

There would have to be drainage fitted to the chapels and an adequate power supply together with a gas supply.

The Members discussed this project and agreed in principle to the idea but recommended that we take guidance from the Vale Royal Architect department and ask them to give their professional advice on how the office complex could look.

The Council should meanwhile determine what functional needs are required for this development and look at the way to move forward with this project.

RESOLVED

that Vale Royal be approached to ascertain whether one of their architects would give guidance on this matter and that the findings be brought back to a future meeting for further discussion.

Clr C R Garton gave his apologies and left the meeting at 6.45 pm .

72/08

AUGUST RECESS 

Authorisation is requested for the Town Mayor, Deputy Town Mayor, Chair of Finance and General Purposes Committee to deal with the payment of accounts, planning applications and any business deemed urgent on behalf of the Town Council during the August recess (Minute No. 19/95 refers).

RESOLVED

that authorisation be given for the above course of action.

73/08

COMMUNITY GOVERNANCE REVIEW FOR DAVENHAM & NORTHWICH 

A letter dated 20 th June 2008 from Mr D Owen, Corporate Policy and Improvement Manager together with letter dated 23 rd June 2009 from Mrs A Bingham-Holmes, Chief Executive, Vale Royal Borough Council was submitted.

Clr Mrs H Burder, as a Kingsmead resident, informed the Members of what she had to pay in precept and grounds maintenance costs each year and asked whether Northwich would undertake the grounds maintenance if the boundaries changed and Kingsmead became a village in Northwich.

The Members agreed that as a Quality Council, Northwich could easily take on Kingsmead and Clr Mrs Burder stated that the she understood that Davenham did not want to take Kingsmead into their boundaries. The Members felt that the A556 was a natural division for the boundaries of Northwich. The Members stated that to simplify local democracy it would cause more confusion at this time if another parish council was introduced.

RESOLVED

•  that this matter be discussed by the Policy and Operations Review Committee as soon as possible in order that a report can be forwarded to Mr Owen and Mrs Bingham-Holmes.

• that the Policy and Operations Review Committee be given delegated powers to act on this item.

74/08

TOWN AND COUNTRY PLANNING ACT 1990 – PROPOSED PUBLIC CONSULTATION ON POTENTIAL GYPSY AND TRAVELLER SITES WITHIN VALE ROYAL

A letter dated 24 th June 2008 from Mr M Lynch, Planning Control Manager, Vale Royal Borough Council was submitted.

The Members discussed the various sites that had been suggested and stated that there was a site on the A56 junction of the M56 near to Stanlow that had been assigned for this purpose in the past and drains etc would still be in place there.

RESOLVED

that a letter be written to Vale Royal asking them to look at the site that was originally designated for this purpose several years ago but was disrespected and ruined by the travelers and gypies when they left.

75/08

PLANNING COMMITTEE MEETING

MONDAY 16 th and 30 th JUNE 2008

The Planning Committee Chairman reported on the Planning meetings which had taken place on Monday 16 th June 2008 and Monday 30 th June 2008 and requested Members approval for the following recommendations put forward by the Committee.

Planning Applications

(Minute No. 46/08 and 50/08 refers)

RESOLVED

that the above recommendations be approved and adopted.

76/08

FINANCE AND GENERAL PURPOSES COMMITTEE MEETING

TUESDAY 27 th MAY 2008

The Finance Chairman having declared a personal and prejudicial interest asked the Acting Chairman to report on the Finance & General Purpose Committee Meeting which had taken place on Monday 30 th June 2008 . The Acting Chair requested approval for the following recommendations put forward by the Committee.

Finance

The monthly accounts for the period 21 st May 2008 to 24 th June 2008 together with the financial budget statements to 24 th June 2008 and reconciliation sheets were submitted.

resolved to recommend:

•  that the payments of the accounts in the sum of £54093.69 for the above period be approved for payment and that the financial reports be noted and accepted. (Minute No 54/08 refers).

•  the the Committee's recommendations regarding the invoice raised from BT for the problem created by CCTV be paid in accordance with the Committee's recommendations.

RESOLVED

that the above recommendations be approved.

There being no further business the Town Mayor declared the meeting closed at 7.05 pm on Monday 7 th July 200

…………………………………….. …………………………………….

Date Clr O D Robinson

Town Mayor

 

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

NORTHWICH TOWN COUNCIL

MONDAY 2 ND JUNE 2008

 

 

Present : Clr O D Robinson Town Mayor

Clr Mrs H Burder Deputy Town Mayor

Councillors : G B Cooke Mrs D M Cooke

N T Davies Mrs J Davies

Mrs A Gerrard S P Gough

Mrs G Gough Mrs J Illidge

G Mainwaring A L Neil

J A Turnbull A R Vickers

R J Woodier

Also present : Mr J Sharman – Operations Manager

Mrs L Armistead – Council Secretary/PA

The Town Mayor opened the meeting at 6.00 pm .

 

29/08

APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE

Apologies for absence and reasons were received from Clrs M J Donnelly, Mrs V Frame, C R Garton and B Stringer and recorded in the apologies register.

30/08

DECLARATIONS OF ANY PERSONAL AND PREJUDICIAL INTEREST

Clrs Mrs H Burder, N T Davies, S P Gough, G Mainwaring, A L Neil and R J Woodier all declared a personal interest in agenda item no. 9 – Casual Vacancy.

Clrs A L Neil and G Mainwaring declared a personal interest in agenda item no. 11 – Vacancies on Outside Bodies.

31/08

OPEN FORUM

No members of the public where in attendance on this occasion.

32/08

SIGNING OF THE MINUTES

RESOLVED

that the Minutes of the meeting of the Town Council held on Tuesday 6 th May 2008 and the meeting of the AGM and Parish Meeting held on Monday 19 th May 2008 be taken as read as true records and signed by the Town Mayor. 

33/08

REPORTS ON COMMITTEES

RESOLVED

•  that the Minutes of the Planning Committee meeting held on Monday 28 th April 2008 be confirmed as a true record and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Planning Committee.

•  that the Minutes of the Finance and General Purposes Committee meeting held on Monday 28 th April 2008 be confirmed as a true record and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Finance Committee.

•  that the Minutes of the Twinning Committee meeting held on Thursday 8 th May 2008 be confirmed as a true record and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Twinning Committee.

•  that the Minutes of the Planning Committee meeting held on Monday 12 th May 2008 be confirmed as a true record and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Planning Committee.

34/08

TOWN MAYOR'S COMMUNICATIONS

The Town Mayor informed the Members that he had attended the following:

•  23 rd May 2008 – Mid Cheshire College production of Fame at the memorial Hall, Northwich which had been an excellent show.

•  1 st June 2008 – Congleton Town Mayor's Civic Service at Alsager Church , Alsager.

35/08

CHIEF EXECUTIVE'S COMMUNICATIONS 

The Chief Executive submitted a report for May 2008 for Members information.

In the absence of the Chief Executive the Operations Manager gave the report.

Bowls Awareness Weekend 2008

The Operations Manager reported that the Bowls Awareness event would be taking place on Saturday 2 nd August and Sunday 3 rd August 2008 in Vickersway Park . The format for the weekend would be similar to past years as this proved to be very successful.

Northwich Skate Park  

The Chief Executive submitted a report on the second meeting of the Northwich Skate Park Group and the Operations Manager gave an update on the current situation.

Rudheath Parish Council – Grounds Maintenance Contact 2008-09

The Operations Manager reported that Northwich Town Council had now received confirmation that the Parks and Cemetery department had won a one year grounds maintenance contract with Rudheath Parish Council. The contract runs from 12 th May 2008 to 11 th May 2009 .

RESOLVED

That the above recommendations be approved and adopted and the report be received.

36/08

COUNCIL SECRETARY'S REPORT

The Council Secretary submitted a report for May 2008 for Members information.

•  An invitation had been received from Health and Regeneration Officer, Vale Royal Borough Council to attend a Stakeholder Day on Friday 13 th June 2008 . Any Member wishing to attend should contact the Council Secretary who will reserve a place for you.

RESOLVED .

That the report be received

37/08

CASUAL VACANCY – NORTH WINNINGTON WARD

Consequent upon no poll being taken for the above vacancy, it was necessary to fill the casual vacancy by co-option (Minute No. 342/07 refers).

As three people had written to the Chief Executive and declared their interest in this vacancy, the Members agreed it was necessary to hold a ballot. Each candidate was proposed and seconded and by a majority of 8-3-3 and 1 abstain it was:

RESOLVED

that Mr Paul Dolan, 236 London Road , Northwich, Cheshire CW9 8AG be appointed to serve on the North Winnington Ward for Northwich Town Council

38/08

LOCAL GOVERNMENT REORGANISATION - ChALC 

An invitation has been received from ChALC inviting Members and Officers to attend a local government reorganisation session at Tarvin Community Centre on Monday 23 rd June 2008 .

RESOLVED

that the Chief Executive, Council Secretary, Town Mayor and Clr N T Davies attend the session.

39/08

VACANCIES ON OUTSIDE BODIES 

The Town Mayor reported that communication had been received from the Vale Royal Sports Council who had now disbanded and therefore no representation was needed from the Town Council as an outside body.

Consequent upon Clr Mrs J Davies resigning from the Vale Royal CVS a vacancy has now arisen on this outside body.

RESOLVED

that no one be appointed to the Vale Royal CVS at the present time but the amount of representatives be reconsidered at the next AGM of the Town Council.

40/08

REFURBISHMENT OF THE COUNCIL CHAMBER 

Clr S P Gough requested this item to be placed on the agenda and asked the Members to reconsider the lowering of the ceiling in the Council Chamber. He continued that the problems were more so in the winter as it was very cold and the heating did not seem suffice. Also during windy weather an amount of dust came down from the roof onto the tables and chairs.

Clr Mainwaring stated that he was in favour in principle but his fellow Councillors stated that it would be a shame to see the character of the building spoilt by lowering the ceiling.

The Members said that they would like to ascertain whether the usage of the Council Chamber justified the spending and suggested that this item be deferred until a decision has been made regarding the usage of the Council offices and the chapels

RESOLVED

that that item be deferred until a decision has been made regarding the Council Offices and chapels.

41/08

BRITISH TELECOM PAYPHONE REMOVAL

DARWIN STREET , NORTHWICH

A letter dated 21 st May 2008 from Mr R J Ellison, Head of Planning and Building Control, Vale Royal Borough Council was submitted.

The Members we sorry to learn that more heritage was being removed but agreed that with the technology of home phones and mobiles the telephone boxes were not used as much as in the past.

They suggested that we contact BT to ascertain whether we would be able to purchase the phone box or even have it donated to the Town Council for it to be sited in the ‘Open Museum' at Vickersway Park.

RESOLVED

that a letter be written to British Telecom asking them to consider letting the Town Council have one of the uncommissioned telephoned boxes.

42/08

PLANNING COMMITTEE MEETINGS

The Planning Committee Chairman reported on the Planning meetings which had taken place on Monday Tuesday 12 th May 2008 and Tuesday 27 th May and requested Members approval for the following recommendations put forward by the Committee.

Planning Applications

(Minute No.357/07 and 23/08 refers)

RESOLVED

that the above recommendations be approved and adopted.

43/08 

FINANCE AND GENERAL PURPOSES COMMITTEE MEETING

TUESDAY 27 th MAY 2008

The Finance Chairman reported on the Finance & General Purpose Committee Meeting which had taken place on Tuesday 27 th May 2008 and requested approval for the following recommendations put forward by the Committee.

Finance

The monthly accounts for the period 23 rd April 2008 to 20 th May 2008 together with the financial budget statements to 20 th May 2008 and reconciliation sheets were submitted.

resolved to recommend that the payments of the accounts in the sum of £43672.22 for the above period be approved for payment and that the financial reports be noted and accepted. (Minute No 27/08 refers).

Audit 2007/08

(Minute No 28/08 refers).

Authorisation was requested for the Chairman of the F&GP Committee and the Chief Executive to sign off the year end balance sheet and annual return.

The Council Secretary reported that the internal auditor was coming to the offices on Friday to undertake the year end accounts for 2007/08.

The Finance Chairman stated that the Town Councils balances were now healthy and wished to place on record his appreciation to the Chief Executive, Mr Stephen Sharman and the Council Secretary, Mrs Linda Armistead for their excellent effort with keeping the finances in the excellent practice.

The Town Mayor added his thanks to the Finance Chairman for his valuable contribution in keeping the balances in order.

resolved to recommend:

•  that authorisation be given to sign off the year accounts subject to the internal auditor being satisfied.

•  that any minor adjustments found by the Auditor be amended and agreed.

•  that any major adjustments found by the Auditor be ratified with the Chairman, Chief Executive and Internal Auditor before being submitted.

RESOLVED

that the above recommendations be approved.

There being no further business the Town Mayor declared the meeting closed at 6.40 pm on Monday 2nd June 2008 .

  …………………………………….. …………………………………….

Date Clr O D Robinson

Town Mayor

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

 

 

 

NORTHWICH TOWN COUNCIL

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

MONDAY 19TH MAY 2008

 

Present: Clr G B Cooke - Town Mayor

Clr O D Robinson - Deputy Town Mayor

 

Councillors: Mrs H Burder Mrs D Cooke

Mrs J Davies N T Davies

S P Gough Mrs G Gough L Grant Mrs J Illidge

G Mainwaring A L Neil

B Stringer A R Vickers

R J Woodier

 

Also Present : Mr S Sharman - Chief Executive

Mr J Sharman - Operations Manager

Mrs L Armistead - Council Secretary/PA

Representatives from:

Northwich Victoria Infirmary - Physiotherapy Unit - Ms M Atherton and Ms J Kirkham

The Neuromuscular Centre - Ms L Cannon and Miss D A Leather

Holy Trinity Church - Rv C Seddon, Mrs N Mills and Mr F Kettle

 

Invited Guests:

Mr T B Armistead, Mr & Mrs M Betts,Hon. Alderman R Carey BEM JP DL, Ms J Clark, Mr & Mrs W Cubbin, Mr H Denton, Mr P Gilligham, Mr & Mrs J Kent, Mr & Mrs S Kryger, Mr & Mrs D Myerscough, Mr & Mrs D Robinson, Mrs E Sharman, Mr & Mrs S Stanley and Mrs D Woodier

 

The Town Mayor commenced the meeting at 6.00 pm

1/08

ELECTION OF TOWN MAYOR 2008-09 

It was moved by Clr G Mainwaring and seconded by Clr A R Vickers and

RESOLVED

that Councillor O D Robinson be elected the Town Mayor of Northwich for the ensuing year.

Councillor G B Cooke thereupon vacated the Chair in favour of Councillor O D Robinson who, after taking and signing the Declaration of Office, addressed the Members. He thanked his proposer and seconder and the Members for the honour bestowed upon him and stated that he would wear the chain of office with great pride and carry out the duties in a dignified and professional manner.

He continued that the achievements of the Town Council gaining Quality Status was very rewarding especially as only a handful of councils in Cheshire had obtained this. He was sure this accolade would help Northwich go from strength to strength with the forthcoming changes to local councils.

He promised that he would endeavor to promote the town as much as possible and stated that he had not, at the present time, nominated any charity for his mayoral year. This would be decided in the near future.

He then presented the town with a gavel and block, suitably engraved for his year of office.

2/08

APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE 

Apologies for absence were received from Clrs M J Donnelly, Mrs V Frame, C R Garton, Mrs A Gerrard, and J A Turnbull and recorded in the apologies register  

3/08

DECLARATIONS OF ANY PERSONAL AND/OR PREJUDICIAL INTEREST 

No personal or prejudicial declarations of interest were received.

4/08

RETIRING TOWN MAYOR'S CLOSING SPEECH

Clr G B Cooke commenced by saying he and his Mayoress, Clr Mrs Dee Cooke had enjoyed their year of office very much. The highlights being, how honoured he was to be asked to crown the Northwich Carnival Queen and even more so when it coincided with the Twinning Festival and the mayors from our twin towns, Dole and Carlow were invited to take part in the crowning ceremony.

He continued that a lasting reminder of the twinning weekend culminated in the 3 mayors planting a tree in Verdin Park . The Mayor was also honoured to be invited, along with the Chief Executive, to Skipton to receive the Quality Status Award.

The Mayors Charity Dinner had been a great success and this was because of the generosity of the people of Northwich who supported it. The final function he attended was on the 40 year anniversary of steam trains passing through Northwich and all the Mayors from visiting towns had their final meeting on the train journey.

The Mayor then thanked his Mayoress, Clr Mrs Dee Cooke for so ably accompanying him to all his functions and for her fundraising efforts throughout the year and all his fellow Members for their confidence in him.

He continued to thank the Chief Executive, Mr Stephen Sharman for his value advice and support during his year of office and thanked him for all his help and guidance. He thanked Mrs Eileen Sharman for so ably supplying the wonderful buffets at his Mayor Making, Civic Service and Christmas party. He thanked Mrs Sheila Lord and Mr Jeff Sharman for their support and finally he thanked Mrs Linda Armistead for all her help and assistance with his mayoral functions, making sure he was in the right place at the right time and for all her help and guidance connected to the roll of Town Mayor. He then presented Mrs Armistead with a small gift from the Mayoress and himself, in appreciation of her loyalty during the year of office.

He then very proudly handed over his charity cheques to the Physiotherapy Unit at VIN, the Neuromuscular Centre and the Holy Trinity Church PCC who in return responded and informed the Mayor what the money would be used for.

He concluded by thanking everyone once again for the honour bestowed upon him during his mayoral year.

5/08

RETIRING TOWN MAYOR - VOTE OF THANKS 

Clr G Mainwaring stated that Clr Brian Cooke had gained a tremendous amount of confidence controlling the Council from chairing his first meeting at the AGM last year when he came in like a lamb and now he was leaving the office roaring. He continued that he was sure that if ex Headteacher, Mr D Myerscough was to fill in a yearly report card for Clr Cooke it would read ‘Excellent year, well done'.

It was moved by Clr S P Gough and seconded by Clr G Mainwaring and

RESOLVED that the Council place on record its appreciation of the services rendered by Councillor Brian Cooke during his term of office as Town Mayor, and that the thanks of the Council also be extended to his Mayoress, Clr Mrs Dee Cooke for so ably assisting him in carrying out these duties throughout the year.

6/08

ELECTION OF DEPUTY TOWN MAYOR

It was moved by Councillor Mrs J Illidge and seconded by Councillor A L Neil.

RESOLVED that Councillor Mrs H Burder be elected the Deputy Town Mayor of Northwich for the ensuing year.

After being elected with the Insignia of Office by the Town Mayor, the newly elected Deputy Town Mayor congratulated Clr Robinson on his election and wished him a successful year in office and promised to support him to the best of her ability. She continued that she wished to thank everyone who had the confidence in her to undertake this civic office and looked forward to gaining experience as Deputy Mayor although maybe this time next year, if successfully elected, she would have to consider drastic alterations to the mayoral robe to take into consideration her height and frame.

7/08

TOWN MAYOR'S ESCORT 

The Town Mayor announced that his Escort for the coming year would be his wife Mrs Janine Robinson.

It was moved by Councillor Mrs H Burder and seconded by Councillor G Mainwaring.

RESOLVED that Mrs Janine Robinson be elected as Town Mayor's Escort for the ensuing year.

He then invited Mrs Robinson to come forward where he invested her with the Insignia of Office as the Town Mayor's Escort.

8/08

ELECTION TO FINANCE AND GENERAL PURPOSES COMMITTEE 2008-09 

It was moved by Councillor O D Robinson and seconded by Clr A R Vickers an

RESOLVED that a Finance & General Purposes Committee be formed for the year 2008-09 and

(a) The Committee Members be Councillors:

G B Cooke, Mrs D Cooke, N T Davies, Mrs V Frame, Mrs G Gough, S P Gough, A L Neil, O D Robinson and B Stringer

(b) That the Chairman of the Committee be Clr S P Gough.

(c) That the meetings of the committee be held approximately 7 days prior to the Council meeting every month.

9/08

ELECTION TO PLANNING COMMITTEE 2008-09

It was moved by Clr S P Gough and seconded by Clr R J Woodier and

RESOLVED t hat a Planning Committee be formed for the year 2008-09 and

(a) The Committee Members be Councillors:

N T Davies, Mrs J Davies, M J Donnelly, Mrs V Frame, Mrs G Gough, O D Robinson, B Stringer and r A R Vickers

(b) The Chairman of the Committee be Clr O D Robinson.

(c) That the meetings of the committee be held approximately 7 days prior to the Council meeting every month with additional meetings being called by the Chairman if urgent planning applications are received that need a response before the next meeting.

10/08

ELECTION TO AMENITIES COMMITTEE 2008-09

The Town Mayor recommended that the Allotments and Amenities Committee be renamed The Amenities Committee

RESOLVED that the Committee be renamed The Amenities Committee

It was moved by Clr G Mainwaring and seconded by Clr Mrs H Burder and

RESOLVED that an Amenities Committee be formed for the year 2008-09 and

(a) The Committee Members be Councillors:

Mrs V Frame, S P Gough, Mrs G Gough, L Grant, Mrs J Illidge, G Mainwaring, A R Vickers and R J Woodier

(b) That the Chairman of the Committee be Clr Mrs V Frame.

(c) That the meetings be held on dates to be decided.

11/08

ELECTION TO GRANTS COMMITTEE 2008-09 

It was moved by Clr G B Cooke and seconded by Clr Mrs H Burder and

RESOLVED that a Grants Committee be formed for the year 2008-09 and

(a) The Committee Members be Councillors:

Mrs H Burder, Mrs D M Cooke, G B Cooke, N T Davies, Mrs V Frame, Mrs J Illidge, B Stringer, R J Woodier

(b) That the Chairman of the Committee be Clr Mrs J Illidge

12/08

ELECTION TO TWINNING COMMITTEE 2008-09 

It was moved by Clr O D Robinson and seconded by Clr G Mainwaring and

RESOLVED that a Twinning Committee be formed for the year 2008-09 and

(a) The Committee Members be Councillors:

Mrs H Burder, Mrs D Cooke, N T Davies, Mrs V Frame, Mrs A Gerrard, Mrs G Gough, S P Gough and O D Robinson

(b) That the Chairman of the Committee be Clr S P Gough

13/08

ELECTION TO POLICY AND OPERATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE 2008-09 

It was moved by Clr S P Gough and seconded by Clr Mrs H Burder and

RESOLVED that a Policy & Operations Review Committee be formed for the year 2008-09 and

(a) The Committee Members be Councillors & Chairs of:-

The Town Mayor

Chairs of - Finance & General Purposes Cttee Planning Cttee, Amenities Cttee, Twinning Committee, Grants Committee

and Clrs Mrs H Burder, Mrs D Cooke, G B Cooke, G Mainwaring, A L Neil and B Stringer.

(b) The Chairman of the Committee be Clr G Mainwaring.

14/08

ATTENDANCES AT TOWN COUNCIL MEETINGS

A schedule of Councillors attendances at Council meetings was submitted for Members information.

RESOLVED that the schedule be received.

15/08

REPRESENTATIVES ON OUTSIDE BODIES 

It was moved by Councillor G Mainwaring and seconded by Councillor S P Gough and

RESOLVED that the Council be represented on outside bodies as follows:-

Vale Royal Arts Council - Clr G Mainwaring - 1 year

Vale Royal Sports Council - Clr N T Davies - 1 year

Local Charities - Clr G B Cooke - 4 years

Vale Royal Council for Voluntary Services - Clr Mrs H Burder and Clr Mrs J Davies - 1 year

Development of the Arts in Northwich (DAN)- Clr A R Vickers - 1 year

Northwich Playschemes Association - Clr S P Gough and Clr J A Turnbull - 1 year

Winnington Ave. Youth Club - Clr O D Robinson - 1 year

Vale Royal of England Tourist Association - Clr L Grant - 1 year

Transport Liaison Committee - Clr G B Cooke - 1 year

Sir John Deane's 6th Form College - Clr Mrs H Burder and Clr O D Robinson - 1 year

Quality Council Forum - Clr N T Davies and Chief Executive, Mr S Sharman - 1 year

RESOLVED that the schedule be received and noted.

 

The Town Mayor informed everyone that as this meeting was coming to a close, the next meeting would be the Annual Parish meeting and following that light refreshments would be served in the Council offices and everyone was invited.

He concluded by inviting Mrs Eileen Sharman to come forward and he presented her with a bouquet of flowers in appreciation of her valuable effort in supplying the refreshments for the evening.

There being no further business the Town Mayor declared the Annual General Meeting closed at 6.30 pm on Monday 19th May 2008 .

 

 Date ……………………… … ………Clr O D Robinson, Town Mayor ...........................................................................................

  ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

NORTHWICH TOWN COUNCIL

MONDAY 3 rd MARCH 2008

 

Present : Clr B E Cooke - Town Mayor

Clr O D Robinson - Deputy Mayor

Councillors : Mrs D M Cooke N T Davies

Mrs V Frame Mrs A Gerrard

S P Gough Mrs G Gough

Mrs J E Illidge G Mainwaring

B Stringer J A Turnbull

A R Vickers R J Woodier

Also present : Mr S Sharman – Chief Executive

Mr J Sharman – Operations Manager

Mrs L Armistead – Council Secretary/PA

Mrs S Lord – Assistant Administration Officer

The Town Mayor opened the meeting at 6.00 pm .

272/07 APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE

Apologies for absence and reasons were received from Clr Mrs J Davies, M J Donnelly, C R Garton and Mrs J Illidge and recorded in the apologies register. 

273/07 

DECLARATIONS OF ANY PERSONAL AND PREJUDICIAL INTEREST

None received.

274/07

OPEN FORUM

No members of the public where in attendance on this occasion.

275/07

SIGNING OF THE MINUTES

RESOLVED

that the Minutes of the meeting of the Town Council held on Monday 4 th February 2008 be taken as read as a true record and signed by the Town Mayor.

276/07

REPORTS ON COMMITTEES

RESOLVED

•  that the Minutes of the Planning Committee meeting held on Monday 28 th January 2008 be confirmed as a true record and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Planning Committee.

•  that the Minutes of the Finance and General Purposes Committee meeting held on Monday 28 th January 2008 be confirmed as a true record and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Finance Committee.

•  that the Minutes of the Planning Committee meeting held on Friday 15 th February 2008 confirmed as a true record and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Planning Committee.

277/07

TOWN MAYOR'S COMMUNICATIONS

The Town Mayor informed the Members that he had attended the following:

•  8 th February 2008 – A line dance evening where the proceeds were donated to his charity.

•  9 th February 2008 – A display from skateboarders of the Youth Hub outside the Memorial Hall.

3. 10 th February 2008 – The Chinese New Year Celebrations in Manchester .

The Town Mayor reminded the Members of his Charity Dinner on Friday 7 th March 2008 and thanked those Councillors who had already made a contribution in the form of raffle and tombola prizes.

He asked if any Member had anything that could be used at the dinner to contact the Council Secretary who would arrange to collect them.

278/07

CHIEF EXECUTIVE'S COMMUNICATIONS 

The Chief Executive submitted a report for February 2008 for Members information.

SLCC Conference – Canary Wharf , London

The Chief Executive reported that the SLCC Conference was taking place at Canary Wharf on Thursday 24 th and Friday 25 th April 2008 . The cost for the 2-day conferenced was £350 per person plus travelling expenses.

Clr S P Gough and the Chief Executive had enrolled on this conference.

resolved to recommend that the above course of action be approved.

Vickersway Park/Churchwalk Playground – Opening and Closing Times 

The Chief Executive reported that Vickersway Park and Churchwalk Playground will open on 1 st April 2008 for the coming summer season and outlined the opening and closing times.

He continued, that tt is necessary to employ 2 or 3 temporary part time attendants on a seasonal and temporary contract. (Min No. 291/06 refers) and the Operations Manager would be conducting interviews for these vacancies over the next few weeks.

resolved to recommend that the above course of action be approved. 

Northwich Skate Park  

The Chief Executive submitted a report on a meeting he had with Groundwork to discuss the way forward with installing a skate park in Northwich.

He continued that following an article in the local newspaper a local businessman contacted the Chief Executive to inform him that he had a skate park that was 4 years old and now surplus to requirements and that if the Council paid for the haulage he would gladly donate it to them.

The Chief Executive and Operations Manager went to inspect this equipment and found it to be in excellent condition. After contacting some Members of the Council for their advice the Chief Executive accepted the very generous offer and made arrangements to have the equipment delivered to the town council depot.

The Members were very excited at the prospect of building a skate park earlier than anticipated and the Chief Executive outlined the areas that could be used for this project. The Members did express concerns regarding the location and whether we would be able to ‘muffle' the sounds from the slides to alleviate sounds to local residents.

The Chief Executive stated that if the site most appropriate was used then there was no houses for quite some distance from it. Before the skate park was installed the Members insisted that the Youth Hub be invited to give their comments on where it should be installed.

The Chief Executive stated that he had spoken to Vale Royal and they had given it their 100% backing and promised to help with any financial assistance they could.

The Members recommended that the Town Council write to the donor and thank him for his very generous donation and the Chief Executive stated that the donor would like some form of acknowledgment once the skate park was installed ie naming it after his family name or similar.

resolved to recommend:

•  that the Chief Executive find the most appropriate site.

•  that the Planning Department be contacted to ascertain whether we need planning permission to erect this type of equipment.

RESOLVED

That the above recommendations be approved and adopted and the report be received.

279/07

COUNCIL SECRETARY'S REPORT

The Council Secretary submitted a report for February 2008 for Members information.

•  Notification from Vale Royal Borough Council regarding the next Area Meeting on Tuesday 4 th March 2008 .

•  Letters of thanks had been received from The Cameo Set, The Alzheimers Society and the Neuromuscular Center for the kind donations from the Grants Committee.

•  A training schedule from the Cheshire Association of Local Councils was attached for Members information. Any Member wishing to attend any of the training courses should let the Council Secretary know in order that she may reserve places.

RESOLVED .

That the report be received

280/07

DRILLFIELD ROAD – TRAFFIC REGULATIONS

An email dated 7 th February 2008 from Mr M Jones, Engineering Assistant, Vale Royal Borough Council was submitted.

The Members supported the proposal and stated they were totally against the proposal for additional housing on Drillfield Road because of the impact the cars and vehicles would have on an already over saturated area, especially with ingress and egress onto the site.

RESOLVED

•  that a letter be written to Mr Richard Flood, Traffic Engineer Manager, Cheshire County Council outlining the Members views and comments and asking him to reconsider this application.

281/07

EQUESTRIAN AND EQUINE DEVELOPMENT SUPPLEMENTARY PLANNING DOCUMENT SCOPING REPORT CONSULTATION 

A letter dated 14 th February 2008 from Mr R Ellison, Head of Planning and Building Control, Vale Royal Borough Council was submitted. The full report on this planning consultation can be found at www.valeroyal.gov.uk.

RESOLVED

that the Chief Executive peruse the document and send a response on behalf of the Members.

282/07

RESIGNATION OF CLR P JOHNSON – WINNINGTON WARD 

An e-mail had been received from Clr Philip Johnson, tendering his resignation as Councillor for the Winnington Ward. The Chief Executive reported that he had contacted the Electoral Services Manager at Vale Royal Borough Council to advertise the vacancy.

RESOLVED

•  that this item be placed on the next agenda to fil the vacancy by co-option if no poll is taken.

ii. that a letter be written to Mr Johnson thanking him for his valued service to the Town Council during his time as a Councillor and wishing all the very best for the future.

283/07

PLANNING COMMITTEE MEETING

FRIDAY 15 TH AND MONDAY 25 TH FEBRUARY 2008

The Planning Committee Chairman reported on the Planning meetings which had taken place on Friday 15 th February 2008 and Monday 25 th February 2008 and requested Members approval for the following recommendations put forward by the Committee.

Planning Applications

(Minute No.264/07 refers)

RESOLVED

that the above recommendations be approved and adopted.

28407 

FINANCE AND GENERAL PURPOSES COMMITTEE MEETING

MONDAY 28 th JANUARY 2008

The Finance Chairman reported on the Finance & General Purpose Committee Meeting which had taken place on Monday 25 th February 2008 and requested approval for the following recommendations put forward by the Committee. 

Finance

The monthly accounts for the period 23 rd January 2008 to 19 th February 2008 together with the financial budget statements to 19 th February 2008 and reconciliation sheets were submitted.

resolved to recommend that the payments of the accounts in the sum of £37965.57 for the above period be approved for payment and that the financial reports be noted and accepted. (Minute No 269/07 refers).. 

RESOLVED

that the above recommendations be approved.

There being no further business the Town Mayor declared the meeting closed at 6.40 pm on Monday 2 nd March 2008 . 

  

Clr G B Cooke

Town Mayor

 

 

Dated……………….

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NORTHWICH TOWN COUNCIL

MONDAY 4 th FEBRUARY 2008

Present : Clr B E Cooke - Town Mayor

Clr O D Robinson - Deputy Mayor

Councillors : Mrs H Burder Mrs D M Cooke

N T Davies M J Donnelly

Mrs V Frame C R Garton

S P Gough Mrs G Gough

L Grant Ms M Griffiths

Mrs J E Illidge G Mainwaring

B Stringer J A Turnbull

A R Vickers

Also present : Mr S Sharman – Chief Executive

Mrs S Lord – Assistant Administration Officer

The Town Mayor opened the meeting at 7.00 pm.

242/07

APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE

Apologies for absence and reasons were received from Clr Mrs. J Davies, Clr Mrs A Gerrard, Clr R J Woodier and recorded in the apologies register. 

243/07 

DECLARATIONS OF ANY PERSONAL AND PREJUDICIAL INTEREST

Clr S P Gough declared an interest in the Open Forum item on the agenda.

Clr Mrs H Burder declared an interest in item no. 13 - National Play Day and anything to do with the Skate Park.

244/07

OPEN FORUM

Mr Hemming of 1 Weir Street Northwich attended the meeting and gave a brief talk on a matter regarding a planning application in connection to the organisation, Turning Point. He asked the Members if there was a need for this type of organisation in Northwich and if the Members believed that 150 London Road was the correct place for this type of organisation to be set up. Mr. Hemming requested that careful and considerate decision be given when deciding which area should be used. Mr. Hemming informed Members that he had contacted Turning point and that they had thirty visitors a day to their organisation in Northwich.

The Town Mayor asked the Members if they would like to comment on Mr. Hemmings presentation and Clr. Mainwaring pointed out that Northwich Town Council could only make a recommendation to the Planning Committee at Vale Royal Borough Council. The Planning Application was due to be considered on the 18 th February, and if Mr. Hemming still had concerns then Clr. G Mainwaring suggested that he contact the Ombudsman regarding the final decision. The Town Mayor informed Mr. Hemming that his comments would be noted and that the Council would be in touch with him following any final decisions made.

245/07

NORTHWICH SKATE PARK PROJECT

Mr Rob Wilson from the Northwich Youth Hub gave a presentation to the Members regarding the feasibility of a Skate Park in Northwich. Mr. Wilson informed the Members that approximately eight months ago he had formed a group of youths who had shown a lot of interest in the suggestion of a Skate Park in Northwich. He went on to inform the Members that this weekend the 9 th February his group with the assistance of other organisations, such as Connextions, Vale Royal Borough Council and Tribe, would be performing a Skate Jam on the area of the Law Courts outside the Memorial Hall at 11.00am, and hoped that some of the Members could find time to come and watch the demonstration.

Clr T Davies asked if this was predominantly a male activity and Mr. Wilson explained that there was already a group of young females who were very interested in this sport. Clr. Davies asked, “what is your group doing to raise funds for this project?” Mr. Wilson explained that they were applying for grants, to fund this project. Clr. Mainwaring asked about the Health and Safety aspect of a Skate Park and would people be trained? Mr. Wilson replied that most people that use Skate facilities were obviously skaters and aware of the safety aspect. Clr A R Vickers asked what was going to be done regarding litter and rubbish and the policing of the park?, and Mr. Wilson explained that he personally would be prepared to keep the site clean and tidy if necessary. Mr. Wilson also informed the Members that a Consultation exercise with local police and assistance from the Youth Support Officers was going to take place.

Clr. Mrs H Burder commended the group on their presentation and Clr Ms. M Griffiths congratulated the group on bringing this matter to the Council.  

246/07

SIGNING OF THE MINUTES

RESOLVED

that the Minutes of the meeting of the Town Council held on Monday 7 th January 2008 be taken as read as a true record and signed by the Town Mayor.

247/07

REPORTS ON COMMITTEES

RESOLVED

•  that the Minutes of the Planning Committee meeting held on Monday 31 st December 2007 be confirmed as a true record and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Planning Committee.

•  that the Minutes of the Finance and General Purposes Committee meeting held on Monday 31st December 2007 be confirmed as a true record and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Finance Committee.

•  that the Minutes of the Policy and Operations Review Committee meeting held on Thursday 3rd January 2008 be confirmed as a true record and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Policy and Operations Review Committee.

•  that the Grants Committee meeting held on Thursday 24th January 2008 be confirmed as a true record and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Grants Committee.

248/07

TOWN MAYOR'S COMMUNICATIONS

The Town Mayor informed the Members that he had attended the following:

•  3 rd January - judged the Best Dressed House in his Ward.

•  19 th January - Pantomime Cinderella at the Memorial Hall,

production by Barnton Workshop.

•  22nd January - Attended the Best Kept Station Awards.

•  26 th January – Winnington Youth Club Circus Training.

  5. The Town Mayor proposed that a small celebration take place at the close of the next Meeting to be held in March, to

celebrate the Town Council being awarded Quality Status.

resolved to recommend that the Mayors proposal be accepted.

 

249/07

CHIEF EXECUTIVE'S COMMUNICATIONS

 

The Chief Executive submitted a report for January 2008 for Members information.

Moulton Parish Council - Tender

 

The Chief Executive reported that the Council had been successful in winning the tender for the grounds maintenance work for Moulton Parish Council.

 

Clr Mainwaring proposed that the Chief Executive and his team be congratulated on the standard of work that is produced in regarding to this maintenance contract.

 

Safe Driving Awards

 

The Chief Executive reported that all the drivers employed by the Town Council had been awarded Safe Driving Awards. These awards ranged from 10 year to 32 years and are in accordance to the National Safe Driving award scheme.

 

It was proposed that these awards be presented at the next Meeting of the Full Council.

 

Northwich Skate Park

 

The Chief Executive informed the Members that a Meeting had been arranged for 18 th February 2008 at Ground Work Offices in Navigation Road, between Officers from Vale Royal Borough Council, Ground Work Trust, Northwich Skate Park Organizers and himself to discuss the way forward with the planning for a Skate Park in Northwich.

RESOLVED

That the report be received.

 

250/07

COUNCIL SECRETARY'S REPORT

 

The Council Secretary submitted a report for January 2008 for Members information.

 

•  Notification from Vale Royal Borough Council regarding the next round of Area Meetings at various venues in the area regarding a variety of topic's

•  A January Newsletter from Voluntary Action Vale Royals

 

Clr G B Cooke

Town Mayor

 

Date------------------------

-290-

.

 

RESOLVED .

That the report be received

 

251/07

 

HIRE/LEASING OF VANS AND LARGE GRASS CUTTING MACHINERY

 

The Chief Executive informed the Members that the existing contract for vehicle and Grass Cutting Machinery leasing ends on 31 st March 2008.

 

He recommended that suppliers of this type of vehicles and machinery be invited to tender for the supply and lease arrangements.

RESOLVED

•  that a specification be prepared in relation to hire/leasing of Council vans and large Grass Cutting Machinery

•  that suppliers of this type of equipment be invited to tender for the supply and lease arrangements.

 

•  that the Tenders received be open at a future meeting of the Finance and General Purpose Committee.

 

252/07

 

AMENDMENTS TO STANDING ORDERS- START TIMES OF MEETINGS

 

Clr S P Gough moved a motion that the times of all Full Council Meetings be changed and that they commence at 6.00pm on the first Monday of the month.

 

RESOLVED

that the times of all future Full Council Meetings be 6.00 pm unless otherwise stated, and that the Standing Orders be amended accordingly.

 

253/07

VALIDATION OF PLANNING APPLICATIONS LOCAL LIST CONSULTATION

 

An e-mail dated 16 th January 2008 from Mrs H Parish, Development Plan Manager, Vale Royal Borough Council was submitted.

 

RESOLVED

that the e-mail be received.

Clr G B Cooke

Town Mayor

 

 

 

Date------------------------

-291-

 

 

254/07

 

CONSULTATION ON ORDERS AND REGULATIONS RELATING TO THE CONDUCT OF LOCAL AUTHORITY MEMBERS IN ENGLAND

 

A letter dated 3 rd January 2008 from Mr P Rowsell regarding the consultation document was submitted.

 

Clr Mainwaring feels that this document is showing signs of an improvement for grass roots local government, and placing more power locally.

 

RESOLVED

that a letter and report from Mr Rowsell be received

 

255/07

NATIONAL PLAY DAY 2008

 

A letter dated 16 th January 2008 from Mrs E Thomas, Play Development Officer at Vale Royal Borough Council was submitted, regarding the use of Whalley Road for National Play Day 2008.

 

RESOLVED

 

that the application be agreed and that no fee be charged on this occasion.

 

256/07

PLANNING COMMITTEE MEETING

MONDAY 28 th JANUARY 2008

 

The Planning Committee Chairman reported on the Planning meeting which had taken place on Monday 28 th January 2008 and requested Members approval for the following recommendations put forward by the Committee.

 

Planning Applications

(Minute No.233/07 refers)

RESOLVED

that the above recommendations be approved and adopted.

 

 

 

 

Clr G B Cooke

Town Mayor

 

 

Dated……………….

 

- 292 -

 

 

 

 

257/07

 

FINANCE AND GENERAL PURPOSES COMMITTEE MEETING

MONDAY 28 th JANUARY 2008

 

The Finance Chairman reported on the Finance & General Purpose Committee Meeting which had taken place on Monday 28 th January 20087 and requested approval for the following recommendations put forward by the Committee.

 

Finance

 

The monthly accounts for the period 21st December 2007 to 22 nd January 2008 together with the financial budget statements to 22 nd January 2008 and reconciliation sheets were submitted.

 

resolved to recommend that the payments of the accounts in the sum of £32,253.11 for the above period be approved for payment and that the financial reports be noted and accepted. (Minute No 238/07 refers).

 

RESOLVED

that the above recommendations be approved.

 

 

There being no further business the Town Mayor declared the meeting closed at 7.40 pm on Monday 4 th February 2008.

 

 

 

 

Clr G B Cooke

Town Mayor

 

 

Dated……………….

 

 

 

 

NORTHWICH TOWN COUNCIL

MONDAY 7 th JANUARY 2008

 

Present : Clr O D Robinson - Deputy Town Mayor

Councillors : Mrs H Burder M J Donnelly

C R Garton Mrs A Gerrard

S P Gough Mrs G Gough

Mrs J E Illidge B Stringer

A R Vickers R J Woodier

Also present : Mr S Sharman – Chief Executive

Mrs L Armistead – Council Secretary/PA

The Deputy Town Mayor opened the meeting at 7.00 pm and informed the Members that the Town Mayor and Mayoress had submitted their apologies due to a sudden personal matter.

 

209/07

APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE

 

Apologies for absence and reasons were received from Clrs Mrs D M Cooke, G B Cookes, Mrs J Davies, N T Davies, Mrs V Frame, G Mainwaring and J A Turnbull and recorded in the apologies register.

 

210/07

DECLARATIONS OF ANY PERSONAL AND PREJUDICIAL INTEREST

Clrs Mrs A Gerrard declared a personal interest in the sections relating to Rudheath Parish Council on the agenda - item 10 Estimates 2008-09 and took no part in the discussion or voting thereon.

 

211/07

OPEN FORUM

 

No members of the public attended the open forum on this occasion.

 

212/07

SIGNING OF THE MINUTES

 

RESOLVED

that the Minutes of the meeting of the Town Council held on Monday 3 rd December 2007 be taken as read as a true record and signed by the Town Mayor.

 

Clr G B Cooke

Town Mayor

 

Dated……………….

 

- 273 -

 

 

 

213/07

REPORTS ON COMMITTEES

 

RESOLVED

•  that the Minutes of the Planning Committee meeting held on Monday 26th November 2007 be confirmed as a true record and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Planning Committee.

 

•  that the Minutes of the Finance and General Purposes Committee meeting held on Monday 26th November 2007 be confirmed as a true record and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Finance Committee.

 

214/07

TOWN MAYOR'S COMMUNICATIONS

 

In the absence of the Town Mayor the Chief Executive informed the Members that the Mayor had attend the following:

•  Northwich Town Council Carol Concert, on Saturday 9 th December 2007 which had been very poorly attended.

•  The Northwich Victoria Infirmary on Christmas Day.

 

215/07

CHIEF EXECUTIVE'S COMMUNICATIONS

 

The Chief Executive submitted a report for December 2007 for Members information.

Riversdale Swing Bridge Update

 

The Chief Executive reported that due to to victory of the Lotto election – Sustrans had been granted an award to install a new swing bridge across the River Weaver. The Connect 2 Project would take several years to complete and it could be approximately 2 years before the bridge was open.

 

Vickersway Park and Churchwalk Playground

 

Vickersway Park and Churchwalk Playground were closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Years Day as is normal practice. Staff were on duty during this period to feed the birds and animals in Vickersway Park .

 

RESOLVED

That the report be received.

Clr G B Cooke

Town Mayor

 

 

Dated……………….

- 274 -

 

 

216/07

COUNCIL SECRETARY'S REPORT

 

The Council Secretary submitted a report for December 2007 for Members information.

 

•  Notification from Cheshire County Council of intention to install a puffin crossing on A533 Winnington Lane , Northwich. Work will commence on 7 th January 2007 and is anticipated to take 2 weeks to complete.

 

•  A schedule of training seminars was circulated for Members information.

 

RESOLVED .

That the report be received

 

217/07

VICKERSWAY 07 ALLOTMENT ASSOCIATION

 

A letter dated 6 th November 2007 from the newly formed Vickersway 07 Allotment Association asking for permission to self manage the Vickersway allotments together with copy of their constitution was submitted.

 

RESOLVED

•  that the self management of the Vickersway allotments be handed over to the Vickersway07 Allotment Association from 1 st April 2008 .

 

•  that the Vickersway 07 Allotment Association pay the Town Council a peppercorn rent equating to £1 per allotment per year.

 

•  that Clr Gough be thanked for his initial involvement with the allotment holders to help to resolve the discontentment that was obvious on the allotment site.

 

•  that the Town Council continue to support the newly formed association during the set up period.

 

218/07

ESTIMATES 2008-09

 

The draft estimates 2008-09 which where considered by the Finance and General Purposes Committee at their meeting held on Monday 31 st December 2007 were submitted for Members approval prior to submission to Vale Royal Borough Council for the Town Council's precept requirements for 2008-09

 

Clr G B Cooke

Town Mayor

 

 

Dated……………….

- 275 -

 

The Finance Chair and the Chief Executive explained the sections that needed amending and moved finances accordingly.

 

RESOLVED

•  that the Christmas Festivities section be reduced by £300.

 

•  that the Skate Park section be increased by £4000 to £9000.

 

•  that the PCSO's section be discontinued.

 

•  that Northwich Town Council precept on Vale Royal Borough Council for the sum of £459292.00 (Four hundred and fifty nine thousand, two hundred and ninety two pounds) for the 2008-09 financial year.

 

219/07

REGULATION 19 OF THE TOWN AND COUNTRY PLANNING REGULATIONS 2004

 

A letter dated 13 th December 2007 from Mr P Bamford, Development Plan Manager, Vale Royal Borough Council was submitted.

 

RESOLVED

that a letter be received.

 

220/07

A556 (NORTHWICH BY PASS) TRAFFIC ORDER

 

An email received from Mr J Pearson, Engineering Dept, Cheshire County Council regarding the proposed enforcement for closure of the gap at the junction with the Northwich Bypass/Shipbrook Road was submitted.

 

The Members were in agreeance with the closure for obvious safety reasons but were concerned regarding the acceleration and deacceleration lanes coming into and out of Shipbrook Road .

 

The Members discussed suggestions that maybe Shipbrook Road should be completely closed from the bypass and that the road opposite, also off the bypass leading into Davenham should also be closed for the same safety purpose.

 

RESOLVED

that a letter be written to Mr Pearson outlining the Members views and comments.

 

 

221/07

PLANNING COMMITTEE MEETING

MONDAY 31 st DECEMBER 2007

 

The Planning Committee Chairman reported on the Planning meeting which had taken place on Monday 31 st December 2007 and requested Members approval for the following recommendations put forward by the Committee.

 

Planning Applications

(Minute No.196/07 refers)

RESOLVED

that the above recommendations be approved and adopted.

 

222/07

FINANCE AND GENERAL PURPOSES COMMITTEE MEETING

MONDAY 31 st DECEMBER 2007

 

The Finance Chairman reported on the Finance & General Purpose Committee Meeting which had taken place on Monday 31 st December 2007 and requested approval for the following recommendations put forward by the Committee.

 

Finance

 

The monthly accounts for the period 21st November 2007 to 20 th December together with the financial budget statements to 20 th December 2007 were submitted.

 

resolved to recommend that the payments of the accounts in the sum of £415493.76 for the above period be approved for payment and that the financial reports be noted and accepted. (Minute No 200/07 refers).

 

RESOLVED

that the above recommendations be approved.

 

 

There being no further business the Town Mayor declared the meeting closed at 7.30 pm on Monday 7 th January 2008 .

Clr G B Cooke

Town Mayor

 

 

 

Dated…………………………….

 

 

 

NORTHWICH TOWN COUNCIL

MONDAY 3 rd DECEMBER 2007

Present : Clr G B Cooke - Town Mayor

Clr O D Robinson - Deputy Town Mayor

Councillors : Mrs D M Cooke N T Davies

M J Donnelly S P Gough

Mrs G Gough L Grant

Mrs J E Illidge P Johnson

A R Vickers R J Woodier

Also present : Mr S Sharman – Chief Executive

Mr J Sharman – Operations Manager

Mrs L Armistead – Council Secretary/PA

Mrs S Lord – Asst Admin Officer

The Town Mayor opened the meeting at 7.00 pm

176/07

APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE

Apologies for absence and reasons were received from Clrs Mrs H Burder, Mrs J Davies, Mrs V Frame, C R Garton, Mrs A Gerrard, Ms M Griffiths, G Mainwaring, B Stringer, L Turnbull and recorded in the apologies register. 

177/07

DECLARATIONS OF ANY PERSONAL AND PREJUDICIAL INTEREST

None received

178/07

OPEN FORUM

No members of the public attended the open forum on this occasion.

179/07

BEDMINSTER BIO ENERGY PROPOSAL AT LOSTOCK SITE

Mr J Garvey, General Manager UK, Bedminster International attended the meeting and gave an update on the Bio Energy proposals for the Lostock site.

The Members expressed various concerns regarding the application on subjects relating to the length of time the waste would be in storage prior to it being processed, the omissions and the damage to the carbon footprint of landfill.

Mr Garvey continued to explain that there was no change to the original ongoing plans which were first applied for with the exception of the number of vehicles which would ‘visit' the site each day. He continued that this would increase as the original application stated that the vehicles would carry more tonnage than possible.

The Town Mayor thanked Mr Garvey for the interesting presentation.

180/07

LOCAL POLICING 

Inspector Mingelli, PC Mike Jepson and PCSO Mark Abbott attended the meeting and gave a presentation on the work of the PCSO's in Cheshire and on police related matters in the Northwich area.

Inspector Mingelli stated that the presence of the PCSO's had taken a level of crime away from the police officers who were consequently able to attend more serious offences. Anti social behaviour and drug related crimes were the main features to the work of the PCSO's and their aim was to try to work with in the neighbourhood and bring back the ‘bobby on the beat' figure.

PCSO Abbott stated that the PCSO's felt that they were building up a relationship and gained respect from locals who would inform them of any suspicious people, give car registration numbers and addresses of alleged criminals in order to help alleviate crime. He stated that the majority of crimes were committed by youths who had no parential guidance but by being a presence in the community and building a relationship with young offenders this would help to eliminate crime. The Councillors stated that it would be more beneficial if the PCSO's were given more powers to operate their job rather than having to depend on a back up service from the police officers.

Inspector Mingelli was asked about costings to employ a PCSO and why the budgets set by the police didn't include additional funding for this purpose. He replied that funding had been made available by the Borough Council and that some councils had joined together to ‘share' a PCSO. Clr Robinson commented that this cost was an extra stealth tax

PC Mike Jepson asked the Council if their were any problems in and around the town that he could assist with and the Members quoted several incidents that had happened in the past. PC Jepson promised to look into these problems and see what the outcome was.

The Town Mayor thanked Inspector Mingelli, PC Mike Jepson and PCSO Mark Abbott for the very interesting presentation.

181/07

SIGNING OF THE MINUTES

RESOLVED

that the Minutes of the meeting of the Town Council held on Monday 5 th November 2007 be taken as read as a true record and signed by the Town Mayor with the following amendment:

that Clr G Mainwaring be added to the list of apologies for absence received and recorded accordingly in the apologies register.

182/07

REPORTS ON COMMITTEES

RESOLVED

•  that the Minutes of the Planning Committee meeting held on Monday 5 th November 2007 be confirmed as a true record and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Planning Committee.

•  that the Minutes of the Finance and General Purposes Committee meeting held on Monday 5 th November 2007 be confirmed as a true record and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Finance Committee

183/07

TOWN MAYOR'S COMMUNICATIONS

The Town Mayor informed the Members that he and his Escort had attended the following functions:

•  11 th November 2007 – The Service of Remembrance at the Cenotaph, Church Road .

•  14 th November 2007 – The Rose Bowl Awards at the Grosvenor Hotel, Chester .

•  23 rd November 2007 – The presentation of the Quality Town Council Status with the Chief Executive at Skipton, Yorkshire

•  The official switch on of the Christmas Lights in the Town Square on Saturday 24 th November 2007

•  24 th November 2007 – The judging of the Miss Northwich competition at the Winnington Recreational Club, Northwich.

•  27 th November 2007 – The AGM and inspection of the Winsford, Northwich and Middlewich Sea Cadets at Bradford Road , Winsford.

184/07

CHIEF EXECUTIVE'S COMMUNICATIONS 

The Chief Executive submitted a report for November 2007 for Members information.

Installation of New Play Equipment – Verdin Park and Churchwalk Playground

A new see-saw complete with safety surface and renewal of existing safety surfacing to the swings already installed in Verdin Park has now been completed.

A new set of swings and safety surfacing has been installed at Churchwalk playground.

Verdin Park - Landscaping 

The Parks Department have recently removed the old concrete flats around the seating area at the entrance of Verdin Park and replaced it with landscaping. The flower beds have been redesigned, raised and planted with assorted polyanthus which should create a magnificent colourful display in the spring of 2008.

RESOLVED

That the report be received.

185/07

COUNCIL SECRETARY'S REPORT

The Council Secretary submitted a report for November 2007 for Members information.

•  Notice of temporary road restrictions between no. 191 London Road to its junction with Dobells Road . Pedestrian access will be maintained at all times and the work should be completed by 2 nd December 2007 .

•  Communication has been received from Mr W White inviting Members to attend the Cheshire Quality Forum on Thursday 6 th December 2007 at the Cheshire Fire Service Headquarters in Winsford. Any Member wishing to attend should let the Council Secretary know in order that places can be confirmed.

•  An invitation had been received from the Youth Work Hub inviting Members to attend the consultation day regarding a project being undertaken by a group of young skaters on 10 th December 2007 at 7.00 pm at the Youth Work Hub, Meadow Court , Northwich.

•  Notice of temporary road closure on the A556 Shurlach Road/Chester Road , Lostock Gralam/Plumley. The road will be closed from 7 th January 2008 and will take approximately 4 months to complete.

RESOLVED .

That the report be received

186/07

CHESHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL – PUBLIC CONSULTATION

A letter dated 1 st November 2007 from Mr Collins, County Manager for waste and Planning, Cheshire County Council was submitted.

RESOLVED

That the Chief Executive obtain the full document and complete and submit it on behalf of the Council.

187/07

FLY POSTING IN NORTHWICH 

A letter dated 8 th November 2007 from Mr S Bakewell, Head of Streetscene, Vale Royal Borough Council was submitted.

The Members expressed concern regarding the vagueness off the letter and requested that Mr Bakewell be contacted and ask him to address previous issues that the Town Council had requested him to.

RESOLVED

that a letter be written to Mr Bakewell asking him to address the recent issues the Members had regarding fly posting.

188/07

QUALITY STATUS 

The Chief Executive reported that, on the 6 th November 2007 , Northwich Town Council was accredited with Quality Town Status. Himself and the Mayor had attended the NALC conference in Skipton on Friday 23 rd November 2007 where they were presented with this award.

The Chief Executive brought to the Members attention the recommendation in the letter from Mr Randal Hibbert, Accreditation Panel Chairman that Members were not tendering their apologies and stating their reason for absence in the correct manner. The Chief Executive recommended that this be included in the Councils Standing Orders and that this matter be placed on the next agenda of the Policy and Operations Review Committee for their consideration..

RESOLVED

that the above course of action be approved

189/07

LOCAL GOVERNMENT REORGANISATION 

An email dated 20 th November 2007 from People and Places Leaders Bulletin regarding Local Government reorganization was submitted.

RESOLVED

that the letter be received.

190/07

RIVERSDALE SWING BRIDGE  

An email dated 25 th November 2007 from Clr Mrs H Burder regarding the Riversdale Swing Bridge Project was submitted.

RESOLVED

That the email be received. 

191/07

PLANNING COMMITTEE MEETING

MONDAY 26 th NOVEMBER 2007

The Planning Committee Chairman reported on the Planning meeting which had taken place on Monday 26 th November 2007 and requested Members approval for the following recommendations put forward by the Committee.

Planning Applications

(Minute No.169/07 refers)

RESOLVED

that the above recommendations be approved and adopted.

165/07

FINANCE AND GENERAL PURPOSES COMMITTEE MEETING

MONDAY 26 th NOVEMBER 2007

The Finance Chairman reported on the Finance & General Purpose Committee Meeting which had taken place on Monday 26 th November 2007 and requested approval for the following recommendations put forward by the Committee.

Finance

The monthly accounts for the period 31st October 2007 to 20 th November 2007 together with the financial budget statements to 20 th November 2007 were submitted.

resolved to recommend that the payments of the accounts in the sum of £32386.43 for the above period be approved for payment and that the financial reports be noted and accepted. (Minute No 173/07 refers).

Burial Fees and Charges 2008-09

(Minute no. 174/07 refers).

Amenity Charges 2008-09

(Minute no. 175/07 refers)

The Finance Chairman announced that because of the festive season the next Finance meeting was scheduled for Monday 31 st December 2007 at 3.00 pm

RESOLVED

that the above recommendations be approved.

The Town Mayor reminded the Members of the Carol Concert to be held on Saturday 9 th December 2007 in the Town Square at 3.00 pm

There being no further business the Town Mayor declared the meeting closed at 8.30 pm on Monday 3 rd December 2007 .

The Mayor and Mayoress extended an invitation to all their fellow Councillors, staff and guests to join them in a drink in the Council offices to celebrate the festive season.

 

Clr G B Cooke

Town Mayor

 

 

 

Dated…………………………….

NORTHWICH TOWN COUNCIL

MONDAY 5th NOVEMBER 2007

 

Present : Clr G B Cooke - Town Mayor

Clr O D Robinson - Deputy Town Mayor

Councillors : Mrs H Burder

Mrs D M Cooke

N T Davies Mrs J Davies

M J Donnelly C R Garton

Ms M Griffiths Mrs J E Illidge

P Johnson B Stringer

J A Turnbull A R Vickers

R J Woodier

Also present : Mr S Sharman – Chief Executive

Mrs L Armistead – Council Secretary/PA

 

The Town Mayor opened the meeting at 7.00 pm

 

151/07

APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE

 

Apologies for absence and reasons were received from Clrs Mrs V Frame, Mrs A Gerrard, S P Gough, Mrs G Gough and L Grant and recorded in the apologies register.

 

152/07

DECLARATIONS OF ANY PERSONAL AND PREJUDICIAL INTEREST

Clr C R Garton, being the Clerk of Barnton Parish Council and it being a burial authority declared a personal interest in agenda item no. 11.

 

153/07

OPEN FORUM

 

No members of the public attended the open forum on this occasion.

 

154/07

SIGNING OF THE MINUTES

 

RESOLVED

that the Minutes of the meeting of the Town Council held on Monday 1 st October 2007 be taken as read as a true record and signed by the Town Mayor 

REPORTS ON COMMITTEES

RESOLVED

•  that the Minutes of the Planning Committee meeting held on Monday 1 st October 2007 be confirmed as a true record and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Planning Committee.

 

•  that the Minutes of the Finance and General Purposes Committee meeting held on Monday 1 st October 2007 be confirmed as a true record and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Finance Committee.

156/07

TOWN MAYOR'S COMMUNICATIONS

The Town Mayor informed the Members that he and his Escort had attended the following functions:

•  2 nd October 2007 - The Winsford, Middlewich and Northwich Sea Cadets AGM at Bradford Road , Winsford.

•  10 th October 2007 - The 25 th anniversary celebrations of Making Space at James Street , Northwich.

•  11 th October 2007 – The Rudheath Community High School Prize Night

•  12 th October 2007 - A line dance evening at Lostock Club and the proceeds in the sum of £100 was donated by Lyn and Steve Kreiger to the Mayor's Charity Fund.

•  13 th October 2007 – Sir John Deane's College for their 450 th anniversary celebration day.

•  18 th October 2007 – The County High School Leftwich Presentation Evening.

•  24 th October 2007 – The 17 th Charter Night Celebrations of the Rotary Club of Northwich Vale Royal at Winnington Hall, Northwich.

The Town Mayor reminded the Members of the Service of Remembrance on Sunday 11 th November 2007 at the Cenotaph, Church Road , Northwich at 10.45 am .

The Town Mayor mentioned that he had reserved a stall at the annual charity market on Thursday 8 th November 2007 . Any Member wishing to donate cakes and biscuits to the stall would be very welcome.

157/07

CHIEF EXECUTIVE'S COMMUNICATIONS 

The Chief Executive submitted a report for Members information.

Annual Inspection Testing of Memorials

The annual inspection of memorials is to commence in Witton and Danevalley Cemeteries in the New Year.

Over the last few years, and, because the Town Council's policy is that all headstones are now fitted with ground anchors, there has been a vast reduction on the amount of headstones in need of repair or attention. It is the Councils intention to inspect and test one section each year from now one, unless otherwise instructed.

The local press have been informed of the ensuing tests and notices have been posted around the perimeters of each of the cemeteries and in the Council notice board, the Information Centre and the Northwich library.

Estimates 2008/09

The Chief Executive reported that he intended to commence the setting of the 2008-09 estimates in readiness for the Council to discuss and approve them in January 2008.

Any Members wishing to put any proposals for funding should put the request in writing to the Chief Executive prior to the formulation of the estimates.

RESOLVED

That the report be received.

158/07

COUNCIL SECRETARY'S REPORT

The Council Secretary submitted a report for October 2007.

•  Notice of proposal to install a pedestrian crossing on A533 Winnington Lane , Northwich has been received from Mr J Pearson, Engineering Assistant, Highways Services, Cheshire County Council. The crossing will be installed to the east of its junction with Appleton Street .

•  The Vale Royal Borough Council ‘Summary of Accounts 2006/07' received from Financial Services, VRBC is available for interested Members in the Town Council offices.

•  The Cheshire Local Transport Plan Delivery Report 2007 is available for interested Members in the Town Council offices. 

4. The Council Secretary read out a letter that had been received from Lostock Gralam Parish Council inviting Northwich Town Council to attend their group parish council meeting on Wednesday 14 th November 2007 at 7.00pm which is aimed at discussing the best way to oppose the proposed waste plant at Lostock Gralam. Any Member wishing ot attend should let the Council Ssecretary know in order that a place will be reserved. A petition against the proposed plant can be downloaded from www.anit-incinerator.org.uk

RESOLVED .

That the report be received

159/07

WINNINGTON SCHOOL BOARD OF GOVERNORS 

Consequent upon the resignation of Clr O D Robinson from the Board of Governors it is necessary to appoint a representative to serve on this outside body.

RESOLVED

That Clr Mrs Janet Illidge be appointed to the Board of Governors at Winnington School .

160/07

CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR OPENING AND CLOSING TIMES 

Permission is requested to close the main Council Offices and Registrars Office at 12 noon on Friday 21st December, 12 noon on Monday 24 th December (Christmas Eve) all day Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year's Day and to close the Parks and Cemetery Department on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year's Day

RESOLVED

that permission be granted for the closures.

161/07

BURIAL FEES AND CHARGES AND AMENITY CHARGES 

The burial fees and charges and the amenity charges have been in force since April 2007 and a report from the Chief Executive was submitted.

RESOLVED

that a tariff of new fees and charges for burials and amenities be reviewed at the next meeting of the Finance and General Purposes Committee in order that any increase can be considered in the annual estimates.

162/07

LOCAL GOVERNMENT REORGANISATION 

A letter dated 28 th September 2007 from Mr I Dunn, Cheshire County Council together with an open letter from the joint leaders of Congleton and Crewe and Nantwich Borough Councils and a copy of the latest People and Places Leaders Bulletin regarding Local Government reorganization was submitted.

RESOLVED

that the letter be received.

163/07

ALTERNATIVE DATES FOR PLANNING AND FINANCE MEETINGS 

To qualify for Quality Status the Council must hold their planning and finance committee meetings at least seven days prior to the full council meeting in order that the Minutes of the meeting can be ratified at the full council meeting.

RESOLVED

•  That the meetings of the planning and finance committees be held at least 7 days prior to the full council meeting in order that the Minutes can be prepared and submitted to the full council meeting for Members consideration and approval.

•  That the Chief Executive consult with the Finance and Planning Chairs to arrange suitable dates in advance. 

164/07

PLANNING COMMITTEE MEETING

MONDAY 5 th NOVEMBER 2007

The Planning Committee Chairman reported on the Planning meeting which had taken place earlier in the evening and requested Members approval for the following recommendations put forward by the Committee.

Planning Applications

(Minute No.144/07 refers)

RESOLVED

that the above recommendations be approved and adopted.

165/07

FINANCE AND GENERAL PURPOSES COMMITTEE MEETING

MONDAY 5 TH NOVEMBER 2007

The Finance Chairman reported on the Finance & General Purpose Committee Meeting which had taken place earlier in the evening and requesting approval for the following recommendations put forward by the Committee

Finance

The monthly accounts for the period 26 th September 2007 to 30 th October 2007 together with the financial budget statements to 30 th October 2007 were submitted.

resolved to recommend that the payments of the accounts in the sum of £58046.73 for the above period be approved for payment and that the financial reports be noted and accepted. (Minute No 149/07 refers).

Estimates 2007-08 – Six Month Adjustments

(Minute No 150/07 refers).

RESOLVED

that the above recommendations be approved.

 

There being no further business the Town Mayor declared the meeting closed at 7.35 pm on Monday 5 th November 2007 .

Clr G B Cooke

Town Mayor

 

Dated…………………………….

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NORTHWICH TOWN COUNCIL

MONDAY 1 st OCTOBER 2007

 

Present : Clr G B Cooke - Town Mayor

Clr O D Robinson - Deputy Town Mayor

Councillors : Mrs H Burder Mrs D M Cooke

N T Davies Mrs V Frame

C R Garton L Grant

S P Gough Mrs G Gough

Mrs J E Illidge G Mainwaring

B Stringer J A Turnbull

A R Vickers R J Woodier

Also present : Mr S Sharman – Chief Executive

Mrs L Armistead – Council Secretary/PA

Mr J Sharman – Operations Manager

 

The Town Mayor opened the meeting at 7.00 pm and welcomed Clr Mrs Janet Illidge to Northwich Town Council and wished her all the best as a new Councillor.

 

The Town Mayor reminded the Members that any item which had not been placed on the agenda in the normal manner ie 3 days prior notice in writing to the Chief Executive, would not be discussed.

124/07

APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE

Apologies for absence and reasons were received from Clrs Mrs J Davies, M J Donnelly, Mrs A Gerrard, Ms M Griffiths and P Johnson and recorded in the apologies register. 

125/07

DECLARATIONS OF ANY PERSONAL AND PREJUDICIAL INTEREST

Clr C R Garton declared a personal interest in agenda item no. 11 and this was recorded in the Declarations Received Register.

126/07

OPEN FORUM 

Clr Ron Woodier stated that at the Open Forum at the September meeting of the Town Council the Member who raised an issue without given appropriate notice should not have been allowed to speak on the matter he brought to the table.

Clr Brian Cooke, Town Mayor stated that it was most annoying to see in the local papers each week, articles relating to neighbouring parishes and towns and yet there was no mention of the events and projects that the Town Council had undertook during the month.

127/07

PARISH PLAN – NORTHWICH TOWN COUNCIL

One of the requirements to obtain Quality Status is to introduce a Parish Plan for Northwich. Mrs Bron Kerrigan, Parish Plan Development Officer, Cheshire County Council and Mr Jeremy Owens, Head of Environmental Policy, Vale Royal Borough Council attended the meeting and gave a presentation on how a Parish Plan would be beneficial to the Council.

Mrs Kerrigan stated that a Town Plan was about a group of unelected volunteers who would consult with the community and ascertain what is wanted and unwanted in the town. The plan would take approximately 18 months to complete and this could include affordable housing, debts and parenting problems, planning, environmental, economic and social issues. This could then lead to classes and help lines being introduced to help alleviate the problems.

The way forward was to start a steering group of 8-15 people and call an open meeting who would then create an action plan.

Mr Owens stated that he was aware of the large regeneration project that was being undertook in the town and advised the Council to only take on one project at a time and therefore put the Parish Plan project on hold for the time being.

The Members asked whether the local government restructuring would affect the Parish Plan proposals and Mr Owens said that it should not be affected. The Members suggested that as this was a large project that needed serious consideration and that a sub committee be formed.

RESOLVED

That this matter be discussed at a future meeting of the Policy and Operations Review Committee.

128/07

SIGNING OF THE MINUTES

RESOLVED

that the Minutes of the meeting of the Town Council held on Monday 3 rd September 2007 be taken as read as a true record and signed by the Town Mayor.

129/07

REPORTS ON COMMITTEES

RESOLVED

•  that the Minutes of the Planning Committee meeting held on Monday 3 rd September 2007 be confirmed as a true record and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Planning Committee.

•  that the Minutes of the Finance and General Purposes Committee meeting held on Monday 3 rd September 2007 be confirmed as a true record and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Finance Committee.

•  that the Minutes of the Allotments and Amenities Committee meeting held on Tuesday 18 th September 2007 be confirmed as a true record and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Allotments and Amenities Committee.

•  that the Minutes of the Policy and Operations Review Committee held on Tuesday 18 th September 2007 be confirmed as a true record and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman of the Policy and Operations Review Committee.

130/07

TOWN MAYOR'S COMMUNICATIONS

The Town Mayor informed the Members that he had attended the following functions:

•  4 th September 2007 – The induction of the new vicar, Rev Malcolm Cowan at St Helen's Parish Church .

•  16 th September 2007 – Middlewich Civic Parade and Service

•  16 th September 1007 – the RAF Battle of Britain Service of Remembrance at the Cenotaph, Church Road , Northwich

•  21 st September 2007 – The Northwich Beer Festival at the Memorial Hall, Northwich

•  22 nd September 2007 – High School Musical performed by the Mid Cheshire Amateur Operatic Society at Weaverham High School .

•  23 rd September 2007 – Winsford Civic Service

•  26 th September 2007 - A Code of Conduct Training Sesssion which he attended with the Chief Executive, Council Secretary/PA and the Admin Officer at the Civic Hall, Winsford.

131/07

CHIEF EXECUTIVE'S COMMUNICATIONS

The Chief Executive submitted a report for Members information.

Notice of Conclusion of Audit 2006/2007

The Chief Executive reported that the Annual Audit return for 2006/07 had been received from Hacker Young and he was pleased to state that this was an excellent report.

Skate Park

The Chief Executive reported that he had arranged a meeting with Mr Peter Heberlet, Development Director, Groundwork Cheshire regarding the planning of a skate park in Northwich.

Mr Heberlet suggested that if the Council wished to proceed with this venture then a steering group should be set up to discuss assistance with funding, finding the correct location and working with partnerships.

Staff Appraisals

The Chief Executive reported that he intended to commence with the annual staff appraisals on Monday 12 th November 2007 .

Resolved to recommend that the above course of action be accepted.

Casual Attendants – Churchwalk and Vickersway Park

The three casual attendants who were employed by the Town Council will be ending their contract with the Town Council on 28 th October 2007 due to the winter period.

The Chief Executive wished it to be placed on record his thanks to the staff for the excellent way they have carried out their duties during the summer months.

Resolved to recommend that a letter be written to the staff thanking them for the service throughout the summer months.

 

Staff Matters

One of the Leisure Attendants who worked at Vickersway Park has terminated his employment with the Town Council.

The Chief Executive stated that as it is the end of season he does not intend to fill the vacancy until April 2008

The Chief Executive stated that as it is the end of season he does not intend to fill the vacancy until April 2008

RESOLVED

That the report be received and noted.

132/07

COUNCIL SECRETARY'S REPORT

The Council Secretary submitted a report for September 2007.

•  An invitation has been received from A L Neil to attend the Vale Royal Voluntary Sectionr Forum at Winnington Park Recreation Club on Tuesday 2 nd October 2007 at 2 pm .

•  An invitation had been received from Ineos Enterprises to attend the Liaison meeting on Friday 5 th October 2007 at 2 pm .

Resolved to recommend that Clrs O D Robinson and N T Davies attend the Liaison meeting as representatives of the Town Council.

RESOLVED .

That the report be received and the above recommendations are approved.

133/07

CHESHIRE ASSOCIATION OF LOCAL COUNCILS – ANNUAL MEETING

A letter dated 6 th August 2007 from Mrs Jackie Weaver, Chief Officer, ChALC inviting representation to attend the Annual Meeting 2007 on Thursday 18 th October 2007 at Middlewich Civic Hall.

RESOLVED

That the Chief Executive, Clr N T Davies and the Council Secretary attend the Annual Meeting.

134/07

PROPOSED ENERGY FROM WASTE FACILITY AT LOSTOCK WORKS SITE

Letters dated 24 th August and 11 th September 2007 from Mr R Asquith, Planning Manager, Waste Recycling Group and letter dated 2 nd September 2007 from Mrs J Starkey, Clerk, Lostock Gralam Parish Council and letter dated 13 th September 2007 from Mr S Molloy, Project Leader, Planning Control, Cheshire County Council were submitted.

The Members stated that their aim was to welcome more homes and businesses in town and expressed concern that the residents in the town were not being listened to as this application had been opposed by the majority of people in the town who were canvassing to ensure the application would not be successful. The Members were concerned that the application would not only create additional traffic in an already congested area but what would happen to the waste that wouldn't burn.

The Members agreed that there were still a lot of issues in the report that needed to be challenged and continued that it was not too late for the developers to withdraw from the application. They wondered with all the opposition to the development how it had got this far in planning and suggested the Town Council write to Vale Royal Planning Department and ask whether they could meet with the Members to give their views and comments on the proposal

RESOLVED

•  That a letter be written to the Waste Recycling Group informing them that the Town Council strongly oppose the application to build an incinerator at the Lostock Site.

•  That Vale Royal Planning Department be contacted to ascertain their views and comments on the application and let them know that the Town Council strongly object to this project.

135/07

REVIEW OF LICENSING POLICY

A letter dated 29 th August 2007 from Mr A Challinor, Licensing Manager, Vale Royal Borough Council was submitted.

RESOLVED

that the letter be received.

136/07

PLAY YOUR PART – CHESHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL

An email dated 13 th September from Strategic Partnerships, Vale Royal Borough Council and forwarded to Mr J Taylor, Chief Executive, Cheshire County Council inviting representation to attend local topical debates on the County Council's continued commitment to community engagement and local working was submitted.

RESOLVED

That Clrs Mrs H Burder, N T Davies, Mrs V Frame, S P Gough, Mrs G Gough and O D Robinson attend the debates as representatives of the Town Council. 

137/07

JUBILEE FIELD/URBAN VILLAGE S106 AGREEMENT

An email dated 14 th September 2007 , received from Mrs M Ingram, Solicitor, Vale Royal Borough Council was submitted.

The Chief Executive informed the Members that the Town Council leased the land but the Winnington Avenue Youth Club actually owned their own club. He continued that he had spoken to a representative from the Winnington Avenue Youth Club who, in this first instance, was not too happy at us taking control over the club.

Clr Robinson, being the Council's representative on the outside body stated that in all the time he had been appointed to this body he had never been invited to one of their meetings.

Mrs Rees confirmed that if the Town Council were to take over the lease of the Jubilee Field there would be financial assistance available for over ten years, maybe 20 and that any repairs would be undertaken through the Borough Council/Section 106 agreement.

The Members asked whether the proposed council changes would create a problem and Mrs Rees said that once it has been agreed it was taken as official and that she was positive, the Town Council were in a position to obtain funding through the S106 agreement as the project was for the main benefit of the town and electorate. The Members concern was that if Winnington Avenue Youth Club were to remain in control and then folded then the money would be lost.

RESOLVED

That arrangements be made to take over control of Jubilee Field in line with the recommendations of Mrs Rees. 

138/2007

A559 MANCHESTER ROAD – TRAFFIC CONTROL

Clr Mainwaring reported on the situation regarding the speed of traffic along the A559 Manchester Road and stated that this was not an isolated problem as there were many roads in the town that had problems with speeding and parking.

He did not want to comment on the recent fatality but stated that if double yellow lines, 15 metres on each corner of the streets/roads in the area were installed, then this would hopefully alleviate the congestion of cars getting into and out of the side streets. He suggested that SID units be used in the area to monitor the speed of vehicles traveling along Manchester Road .

Clr Mrs Burder stated that the SID units that were currently being used on Kingsmead had proved quite successful.

RESOLVED

That Clrs Mainwaring and Grant undertake using the SID units on Manchester Road .

139/07

PLANNING COMMITTEE MEETING

MONDAY 1 st OCTOBER 2007

The Planning Committee Chairman reported on the Planning meeting which had taken place earlier in the evening and requested Members approval for the following recommendations put forward by the Committee.

Planning Applications

(Minute No. 11807 refers)

RESOLVED

that the above recommendations be approved and adopted.

140/07

FINANCE AND GENERAL PURPOSES COMMITTEE MEETING

MONDAY 3 rd SEPTEMBER 2007

The Finance Chairman reported on the Finance & General Purpose Committee Meeting which had taken place earlier in the evening and requesting approval for the following recommendations put forward by the Committee.

Finance

The monthly accounts for the period 29 th August 2007 TO 25 th September together with the financial budget statements to 28 th September 2007 were submitted.

resolved to recommend that the payments of the accounts in the sum of £51271.38 for the above period be approved for payment and that the financial reports be noted and accepted. (Minute No 122/07 refers).

Estimates 2007-08 – Six Month Adjustment

(Minute No 123/07 refers).

RESOLVED

that the above recommendations be approved.

There being no further business the Town Mayor declared the meeting closed at 8.00 pm on Monday 1 st October 2007 .

Clr G B Cooke

Town Mayor

Dated……………….

 

NORTHWICH TOWN COUNCIL

MONDAY 3^rd SEPTEMBER  2007 

 

Present           :           Clr G B Cooke           -           Town Mayor

                                    Clr O D Robinson      -           Deputy Town Mayor

                                                                       

Councillors     :           Mrs H Burder                        Mrs D M Cooke       

N T Davies                             M J Donnelly                        

Mrs V Frame                         S P Gough                  

Mrs G Gough                         G Mainwaring                       

B Stringer                               J A Turnbull                          

A R Vickers                           R J Woodier                                                                                                              

Also present   :           Mr S Sharman – Chief Executive

                                    Mrs L Armistead – Council Secretary/PA

Mr J Sharman – Operations Manager

 

The Town Mayor opened the meeting at 7.00 pm..

 

89/07

APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE

 

Apologies for absence and reasons were received from Clrs Mrs J Davies, C R Garton, L Grant, Ms M Griffiths, Mrs J Illidge and P Johnson. and recorded in the apologies register.

 

90/07

DECLARATIONS OF ANY PERSONAL AND PREJUDICIAL INTEREST

 

None received

 

91/07

OPEN FORUM

 

Clr J Turnbull, 3 Squirrel Close, Northwich asked whether the Town Council had any future plans to consider installing a skate park in a suitable area in the town.

 

The Chief Executive replied that about 4-5 years ago the Town Council undertook a feasibility study and involved the Groundwork Trust into the options for gaining a grant for such a purpose built skate park.  Once all the initial costs had been obtained the Council placed a large amount in estimates to get the project underway but this was removed from the budget and nothing had been done since then.

 

Clr Turnbull asked whether the youngsters should be consulted to see what type of park and where it would be best located.

 

 

The Members agreed in principle, with Clr Turnbull’s suggestions but agreed it would take a more lengthy approach to make sure the location of such a park was paramount.  At the last study, 3 sites were put forward and it proved, through the study,  that none of them were suitable.

 

The Members continued that the cost of the park 4-5 years ago was in the region of 250k and before funding could be placed in estimates, it would have to be proved that the usage would be worthwhile and that a grant was available to complete the project.

 

The Members agreed that the discussion should end at this stage and a feasibility study be carried out and that this item be placed on a future agenda for further discussion.

 

RESOLVED              

i.      That a feasibility study be carried out

ii       That this item be placed on a future agenda for further discussion.

 

92/07

SIGNING OF THE MINUTES

 

RESOLVED              

that the Minutes of the meeting of the Town Council held  on  Monday  2^nd July   2007 and the Minutes of the August Recess Committee Meeting held on Monday 6^th August 2007  be taken as read as    true records and signed by the Town Mayor.

                                                                     

93/07

REPORTS ON COMMITTEES

 

RESOLVED

 

i.         that the Minutes of the Planning Committee meeting    held   on    Monday   2^nd July   2007   be confirmed as  a  true  record and that the  Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Planning Committee.

 

ii.       that the Minutes of the Finance and General Purposes Committee meeting held on Monday 2^nd July   2007  be confirmed as a true record and that the Minutes be signed by the Chairman at the next meeting of the Finance Committee.

 

94/07

TOWN MAYOR’S COMMUNICATIONS

 

The Town Mayor informed the Members that he had  attended the following functions:

 

i.                     4^th & 5^th August 2007 – Bowls Awareness Weekend at Vickersway Park which had been an enormous success.

ii.                   10^th & 11^th August 2007 – Street Collection were the Mayor and Mayoress dressed as Dennis the Menace and Minnie the Minx.

iii.                  15^th August 2007 – The VJ Day Service at the Stone, near the Memorial Hall.

iv.                 27^th August 2007 – The Festival of Sport at Moss Farm Recreational Ground.   

 

95/07

CHIEF EXECUTIVE’S COMMUNICATIONS

 

The Chief Executive submitted a report for Members information.

 

 Twinning Festival 2007

 

The Chief Executive reported on the enormous success of the Twinning Festival 2007 on Friday 6^th to Monday 9^th July 2007.  He continued that both twin towns had written to thank the Town Council for their hospitality and very interesting schedule during the weekend.

 

Bowls Awareness Weekend

 

The Chief Executive reported that the Bowls Awareness Weekend held on Saturday 4^th and Sunday 5^th August 2007 had, once again, been a huge success with over 100 children and adults attending the coaching sessions.

 

The competitions held resulted in the Northwich Town Council team being beaten yet again by the Cheshire Coaches with a score of 64 to 62.

 

The Chief Executive wished to thank everyone who helped with the weekend and once again the park was in an excellent condition for this event to take place.

 

Clr G Mainwaring wished to place on record his thanks to the Chief Executive and everyone who assisted in making the event an enormous success.

 

Festival Circus – 6^th September to 9^th September 2007

 

A request had been received from N Barltrop, Festival Circus to hire Verdin Park for a small family circus, which does not include any animals, from Thursday 6^th September until Sunday 9^th September 2007.

 

 

Because of the short time scale of the request the Operations Manager, approved the application with Clr Mrs V Frame, A & A Chair.

 

Resolved to recommend that the above course of action be accepted.

 

RESOLVED

That the report be received and noted.

 

96/07                                        

                                                        COUNCIL SECRETARY’S REPORT

 

The Council Secretary submitted a report for August  2007.

 

1.      An invitation has been received from ChALC inviting Members to attend a Code of Conduct Training seminar. There are 2 training sessions to outline the new Code of Conduct that has to be adopted by 1^st October 2007.  These have been arranged as follows:

 

Wednesday 26^th September 2007 in the Weaver Group Room, Civic Hall, Winsford at 6.00 pm.  Light refreshments will be served from 5.30 pm. Or

 

Tuesday 2^nd October 2007 at Wyvern House, The Drumber, Winsford at 6.00 pm.  Light refreshments will be served from 5.30 pm.

 

As there are only limited places, any Member wishing to attend should let me know immediately in order that I can register you.

 

2.      A letter of thanks had been received from the Royal British Legion (Northwich Branch) for the donation received.  This donation covers all the poppy wreaths required by the Town Council throughout the year with the remaining amount being set aside for use to assist deserving local ex-service cases.

 

3.      A list of all Councillors names, addresses and contact numbers was submitted for Members information.

 

4.      The ChALC Newsletter No. 116 September 2007 was submitted for Members information.

 

5.      The Minutes of the Vale Royal Playschemes Association meeting held on Monday 13^th August 2007 were  submitted for Members information.

 

 

RESOLVED.

That the report be received and the above recommendations are approved.

                                                                                                                                               

97/07                                                              

POOR TELEVISION RECEPTION – TOWNBRIDGE COURT

 

A letter dated 2^nd July from Peverel  Management Services regarding the poor television reception for tenants at Townbridge Court, Northwich was submitted.

 

The Chief Execuitve stated he  was sympathetic with the problems that were being encountered but stated that there was an enormous amount or trees at the rear of the property and the Council had employed various tree surgeons over the years to ensure they were kept in a healthy condition.

 

He continued that the trees had been planted over 40 years ago on what was then a local  household waste site and obviously they had thrived throughout the years.  As this year had been one of the wettest on record this had also exacerbated the situation and helped them grow even more.

 

The Members were concerned that as the trees grew on very steep ground at the back of the development, the stability of the ground may be affected if the trees were removed and suggested that the aerial may need to be heightened to alleviate the problem.

 

The Members concluded that Townbridge Court should contact a qualified aerial engineer to ascertain the problem and let the Council have the results when received.

 

RESOLVED

That no further action be taken until the report from the Engineer has been received.

 

98/07

ANNUAL REPORT 2006/07

 

Draft copy of the first Annual Report was submitted for Members information.  The Chief Executive stated that this publication was one of the criteria required for the Council to obtain Quality Status.

 

The Members discussed the few changes that should be made to the report and wished to place on record their thanks to the Town Mayor and admin staff for producing the document.

 

 

RESOLVED

i.                     That the Annual Report be received subject to the the changes being  made.

 

ii.                   That provision be made to put the Annual Report in prominent  places ie library, information centre, doctors surgeries.

 

99/07

VALE ROYAL COMMUNITY SAFETY WARDEN SCHEMES

 

A report from the Vale Royal Community Wardens for the period April to June was submitted.

 

RESOLVED  

that the report be received.

 

100/07

REORGANISATION OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT IN CHESHIRE

 

A letter dated 2^nd August 2007 from Mrs A Bingham-Holmes, Chief Executive, Vale Royal Borough Council was submitted.

 

RESOLVED

That the letter be received.

 

101/07

ADOPTION OF THE CHESHIRE REPLACEMENT WASTE LOCAL PLAN

 

A letter dated 1^st August 2007 from Mr A Farrow, Strategic Manager, Planning, Cheshire County Council was submitted. 

 

The Members expressed concern that this major development had minimal documentation to support it and stated they were shocked after seeing reports in the local press that it had been suggested that the incinerator plant was going to be built in Northwich.  The Members agreed that a site at Runcorn/Merseyside would be far more suitable than in Northwich.

 

The Members further discussed that the consensus of the electorate in Northwich were appalled at the thought of having an incinerator at Lostock.

 

RESOLVED

That a letter be written to Cheshire County Council and the Secretary of State stating that the Members oppose the Plan and asking for  their views and comments.

 

 

 

102/07

PLANNING COMMITTEE MEETING

MONDAY 3^rd SEPTEMBER   2007

 

The Planning Committee Chairman reported on the Planning meeting which had taken place earlier in the evening and requested Members approval for the following recommendations put forward by the Committee.

 

Planning Applications

(Minute No. 83/07 refers)

 

Cheshire Planning Forum

(Minute No. 84/07 refers)

 

RESOLVED

that the above recommendations be approved and adopted.

 

103/07

FINANCE AND GENERAL PURPOSES COMMITTEE MEETING

MONDAY 3^rd SEPTEMBER  2007

 

The Finance Chairman reported on the Finance & General Purpose Committee Meeting which had taken place earlier in the evening and requesting approval for the following recommendations put forward by the Committee.

 

 

Finance

 

The monthly accounts for the period  31^st July  2007 to 28^th August  2007  together with the financial budget statements to 28^th August 2007 were submitted.

 

resolved to recommend that the payments  of the accounts in the sum of £50536.94 for the above period be  approved for payment and that the financial reports be noted and accepted. (Minute No 88/07  refers).

 

RESOLVED       

                           that the above recommendations be approved.

 

There being no further business the Town Mayor declared the meeting closed at 8.07 pm on Monday 3^rd September    2007.

 

Clr G B Cooke

Town Mayor

 

 

                                                                                                                             Dated…………