News
Community Action Plan Meeting 16th September Details
16/07/10 Report on Skelton Parish Council Meeting held on 13/07/10 at Skelton Village Hall by Jean Bloomfield
The reading room at Skelton Village Hall was full to overflowing for the
bi-monthly meeting of Skelton Parish Council. Sixteen members of the public
joined David Ray (chairman) and the other councillors. Also present were the
clerk, EDC Gordon Savage and P/C Andy Holliday. The meeting had attracted a
number of local residents from Ivegill and Ellonby who wished to make their
views known about local planning issues. Also there were two committee members
reporting back on the Local Action Plan. The chairman welcomed everyone,
thanking them for coming and said it was good to see so many visitors.
The meeting covered the usual and some less familiar items but it was dominated
by discussions on planning. The Parish Council is not the arbiter, or judge, of
such matters; its function is to alert the members of the Planning Committee at
Eden District Council of any local difficulties, conditions and circumstances.
The issue at Ivegill is in and about what is happening at the Grange. This is a
housing development where some farm buildings and sheds were converted. Through
the housing development and up the hill are some agricultural buildings, some of
which are now used for stabling horses. The original permissions, both in number
and position, do not tally with the original plans. There are complaints about
pollution and smells; the volume of traffic coming passed the houses; general
safety and the definition between livery and riding school functions/work. The
houses were built with the knowledge that there were agricultural sheds in use
through and past the houses and that permission had been granted to turn some of
these into stables. The parish councillors were unable and loath to express
views about the current and retrospective application: they felt they were
working in the dark and needed to visit the site. This they will do before
reporting back. Meantime EDC Savage is to request that the decision should be
made by the members of the planning committee themselves (where the various
parties concerned can explain their cases): he also asks that the planners
should go and look at this estate and the problems caused by the sheds, the
current use of the surrounding area and future plans.
The other major discussion was about the plans for a purpose built bungalow at
Ellonby for a lady whose health is deteriorating – here the question is about
the site of the proposed building. The plans show it outside the boundaries of
this hamlet. The reasons for this were explained in terms of getting an
available plot. Discussed were the possibilities of alternative sites and the
access that is over common land. There are special circumstances here; these
will be reflected in the report to Eden planners.
Other planning applications concerned 6, Phoenix Park, Skelton (a sunroom); High
Head Castle Farm (to use part of the café for a holiday unit); Greystoke Forest
(for the upgrade of some tracks and its use for M Sport); Bowness Farm, Lamonby
(division into two houses and an extension to one of these). These four
proposals raised few comments.
The Committee organizing the local community survey reported back to the
Council. The 222 replies to the household survey have now been analysed and the
focus of the work now moves toward turning this into an Action Plan for adoption
and publication. There is to be a workshop about future plans and actions on
Thursday 16th September in Skelton Village Hall. The evening is entitled ‘Pies,
Peas and Priorities.’
EDC Savage’s report covered the New Squares scheme; this returns to planning
soon – it is hoped some construction work can begin in the early autumn. On
other matters he talked of serious financial cuts, the various workings of the
Scrutiny Committees, and how best to get the necessary work done with various
partnerships and fewer employees. He said Gordon Nicholson (chair of Eden
District Council) would be starting to hold open weekly surgeries next month.
EDC Savage went on to describe what it meant for him to stand as an Independent
and said that after 16 years as the local district councillor, he would be
retiring next year. The chairman thanked him for the report and all it entailed.
P/C Holliday reported some crime targeting local businesses – he said that scrap
metal was again valuable and may well disappear from sheds. He asked that all
scrap and machinery be kept safe and locked away at night.
Other highway matters covered the poor state of the road running through Ivegill;
flooding on the Hutton End to Hutton-in-the-Forest road. Information about the
ownership and maintenance of the packhorse bridge is still awaited
(responsibility for its maintenance and upkeep is uncertain). At Laithes the
letter to all residents to dissuade everyone from fly tipping and also the
disappearance of the relevant signs has resulted in a request not to interfere –
as an outcome, it is hoped a committee of locals can be formed to oversee this
play area. Meantime for safety reasons a post has been repaired. The restoration
of the signpost at Hutton End has been authorized. This is the beginning of a
project to overhaul some other historic signs needing repair.
The rent of Lamonby Quarry has been agreed for 2010. Next year this piece of
land is to be advertised more widely. The tubs beside the seat opposite the
Memorial hall are to be filled and put in order.
On financial matters, Ivegill Church are to receive a grant of £2,500 from
Cumbria Waste Management Environmental Trust and have asked that the Parish
Council donate the 10% Third Party Contribution - this they agreed to do.
Skelton Crafty Kids (the after school club) has sent the necessary invoices, so
a cheque for £184 was approved. The expenses of analysing the survey (£735) were
passed, as were the various expenses of the clerk.
Finally and most important, Liz Blake is to take over as vice chair of the
Council. She was elected unanimously. She takes over from Colin Atkinson who is
resigning because of heavy work commitments. David Ray thanked him for all his
time and efforts over the years.
The next meeting will be on Tuesday 14th September 2010 at 7.30 pm in Hutton End
Village Hall.
18/05/10 Report on Skelton Parish Council Meeting held on 11/05/10 at Skelton Village Hall by Jean Bloomfield
David Ray was in the chair at the Parish Meeting, together with the Annual
General and ordinary meetings of Skelton parish Council held on May 11, 2010.
The first was for members of the general public to raise any matters they wished
- this session was over quickly as no points were raised apart from the
chairman’s concern about the extent and timing of grass verge cutting. This
seems to be getting earlier and more wide spread meaning there is less
opportunity for flowers and grass to reseed. At the Annual General Meeting the
chairman was re-elected for a further year. (The appointments of the vice-chair,
the members of the budget committee and the co-option of one further member are
to be discussed at a future meeting.)
The chairman thanked all those contributing to the work of the Council and
described the main events of the last year. Much of the ongoing work in the
planning and highway areas is acting as a liaison between the District and local
levels of government. This continues. Of interest was the withdrawal of the
Lamonby wind turbine planning application and the public enquiry that followed
about turbines at Grise Wood: a local councillor attended this hearing to speak
about the concerns of those living in the area. Following some road accidents
and incidences, the Council has had two successful campaigns concerning the
Hutton to Carlisle Road: first, winter gritting is happening along its whole
length and second, there are now chevrons and slow and bend signs on the road
near Rigg House. Since these changes there have been no reported accidents. The
accounts are audited and give details of the grants awarded during the year
(villages halls have been the main recipients in the last 12 months) – of note
is the fact that the precept has been unchanged for the last four years. Ongoing
matters are the Community Plan, the restoration of old signposts and the website
www.skeltonparish.co.uk which could and should be used more widely.
At the ordinary meeting that followed matters discussed included the ownership
and maintenance of the Packhorse Bridge at Ivegill, signposts, the grass cutting
contact and what it involves, the correct time to cut grass verges, fly tipping
at Beech Lonning and the sign at Laithes that was found in the river and,
lastly, the money reserves at the bank.
Grants were made to the Ivegill footpath group and Ivegill Church. The first of
these is about improvements to the Public Rights of Way (five kissing gates are
planned to replace the styles): £250 is to be made available so as to qualify
for further funds to be made available from elsewhere. At the church wheel chair
access includes a ramp and handrail. £500 was awarded for these changes.
Planning applications were as follows: - Dufton Farm, Thomas Close (enlarging
garden); Court Yard House, High Head Castle (exterior changes and boundary
fence); The Granary, Skelton (extensions and alterations); Greystone House,
Skelton (recreation room to holiday house); Wood Close Farm, Skelton
(agricultural building); Leas Hill, Laithes (side extension). Granted are: -
Greystone House (boundary fence) and Rigg House, Ivegill (change of roof).
The date of the next meeting is Tuesday 13th July at 7.30 pm in Skelton Memorial
Hall.
02/04/10 Report on Skelton Parish Council Meeting held on 09/03/10 at Skelton Village Hall by Jean Bloomfield
Skelton Parish Council held its March meeting in the Memorial Hall with David Ray in the Chair. Two members of the public joined the councillors for the session.Robert Towers, chair of the Community Plan Committee, gave an update on the survey that went to every household in the area. Many questionnaires have been returned but the group is still hopeful that a few more may arrive – this would make the sample more representative. He also spoke of plans to have a stand at the Skelton Show and a photographic competition. The finances of this whole exercise have yet to be confirmed.
Discussions continued about the restoration of signposts and the costs involved; the state of the roads and the absence of a reply from Highways to an earlier letter; the foundations of the packhorse bridge at Ivegill which appeared to be being undermined - its ownership and the responsibility for its upkeep; and the signs that had been erected at the Rigg House bend and the fact that the road markings have yet to be done.
Four tenders to be the Skelton green keeper and cut the grass in other areas of the parish have been received – two are being followed up to re-confirm the terms of the tender, these will be considered again at the next meeting. The farmer who had previously used the quarry land at Lamonby did not wish to rent this from the Council in the future. The land is therefore available for letting this summer. Skelton Crafty Kids have yet to provide detailed invoices for the settlement of their grant, hence no payment can be made at present. (Any invoices submitted will be considered again in the next financial year). Other recurring expenses were approved – these included the hiring of premises, clerical costs and domain maintenance.
Planning matters were as follows: - Chapelfield (the local occupancy rule is waived); Greystone House (the games room is to be a holiday cottage).
The next meeting will be the Annual Parish Meeting. This will take place at Skelton Village Hall on Tuesday 11th May. The guest speaker is Tony Brunskill.
15/01/10 Report on Skelton Parish Council Meeting held on 12/01/10 at Skelton Village Hall by Jean Bloomfield
The January meeting of Skelton Parish Council took place in
the village hall earlier this month. EDC Gordon Savage, P/C Andy Holliday
and two members of the public joined the councillors for the session that
was chaired by David Ray.
The weather and the gritting of the roads and pavements were major and
recurring topics at this meeting, together with the growing number and depth
of the potholes on the roads. It was felt that the County Council had done a
good job of keeping the main routes clear and that this should be publicly
and gratefully acknowledged. However in this rural parish, there had been
problems about the delivery of grit to the right places sufficiently often
and how that grit was being used. It was reported that the grit earmarked
and delivered for the local roads in and around the villages and hamlets was
being shipped away and vanishing in trailers and wheelbarrows for use on
private properties. The poor state of the country roads in general will have
been noted but the appalling disintegration of the road beside and below
Town End Farm, Skelton has to be emphasised. (In the context of road
surfacing, it was questioned why the blind road in Lamonby, serving nine
houses, had been attended to while others, subject to much greater use, were
still waiting. No one at the meeting could answer this question.
Other Highway matters concerned the road signs just south of the Crown Inn
crossroads – these are coming. There have also been floods on this road
nearer to Hutton. Grass cutting, which includes various dispersed areas, is
to go out to tender, this follows advice to ask for quotes on a regular
three-yearly basis.
The councillors once again discussed the older signposts in the area and the
enormous costs of restoration. It was decided to get refurbishment quotes on
two of these and compare prices – the matter will be discussed again. Some
tidying up of the playground has been done; the reseeding and new telegraph
poles will happen a little later in the year. One of the Councillors
attended and spoke at the inquiry into the Wind Farm application but the
report has been delayed as the inspector has been off work. Jean Parker was
re-elected to serve as a trustee for the Lamonby Educational Trust.
EDC Savage spoke about the roads, the budget and the New Squares scheme. On
the last of these it seems that Lowther Manelli has to be declared bankrupt
before anything can move – then it is for Sainsburys to proceed with the
original plans (it has already sunk money in this scheme) or, if this does
not happen for a return to the drawing board.
P/C Andy Holliday spoke of the state of the roads and the increased number
of accidents that had occurred because of the snow and ice. He also reported
the theft of quad bikes, damage to abandoned cars and the seemingly blind
and stupid use of Satellite Navigation systems.
Robert Towers reported back on the progress of the Community Plan. The
survey will be delivered to all households, including a covering letter,
with the Parish Notes at the end of the month: it includes a separate form
for Young People. The closing date for return - either in hard copy or on
line - is the end of February. He also spoke of the costs of this exercise,
grants and the analysis.
The following planning applications have been granted: Park View, Skelton
(alterations); Castleside, Highhead Castle, Ivegill (alterations and
conservatory); Upfront Gallery (gallery for puppet theatre and museum); 2,
Ellonby Road, Skelton (conservatory); Linton Ghyll Cottage, Ivegill
(two-storey extension). A further application to amend plans has been
received for Bowness Farm concerning a single story extension. The council
were not happy about this, which was received just before the Christmas
holiday – they suggest it should be referred back to the planning committee.
3, Chapelfield, Skelton (application for the local occupancy condition to be
removed).
Requests for grant monies have been received from the Parish Notes - £400
was awarded. The Skelton Crafty Kids Club ask for £379 but the Council
require a break down of the figures before approval is considered.
Finally, the Chairman reminded Councillors of the rules of attendance at
meetings and of disqualification should a third one running be missed
without prior authority.
The next meeting will be on Tuesday 9th March 2010 at 7.30 pm
in Skelton Villlage Hall.
20/11/09 Report on Skelton Parish Council Meeting held on 10/11/09 at Ivegill Village Hall by Jean Bloomfield
Skelton Parish Council held their November meeting earlier this month at
Ivegill Village hall. David Ray was in the chair.
There were several requests for grants. Ivegill Church Council was asking
for money to establish a memorial garden in part of the existing churchyard.
The area is smallish and cannot be used for burials - £500 is to be made
available for this to become a special quiet and peaceful spot. Second is
the Community plan: this has come to a full stop because the Community
Neighbourhood Forum, contrary to expectations, is unable to do the printing
of the actual survey papers. The Council agreed to pick up this bill so the
survey can go ahead, hopefully early next year. Third, the council agreed to
send the three churches their annual grants – this to go toward the expenses
of the churchyards. Lastly a £25 donation was sent to the Fellrunner Bus.
Also to do with money was a annual discussion about the precept – this was
set at £10,000
(which is the same as last year).
In his report P/C Holliday spoke of the theft of quad bikes, suspicious
vehicles seen in the district, unidentified vans that could have been
picking up scrap and the value of having lights on a timer in vacant houses.
Speeding was also discussed as he reiterated the pledge of the rural
policing team to look after and follow up reported incidents.
The Braisegate playground will be checked out, this following an official
inspection, the grass will also be reseeded. A warning is to be put up not
to climb on the goalpost. Use of the Lamonby quarry was queried; this is to
be followed up. The nuisance and noise from car testing and racing, together
with quarrying in Greystoke Forest was brought up. This plantation is not in
the Skelton area, though the Council are sympathetic with those living
nearby.
Planning matters were as follows: - Terry Jolley will be speaking on behalf
of the Council at the Howes Wind Farm Inquiry. With reference to new
planning applications, the clerk will be circulating the relevant numbers,
so counsellors can get the necessary information off the EDC website direct.
Some signs and signposts seem to be causing problems: the ‘no tipping’
notice at Laithes has been removed; the sign post at the Ivegill crossroads
needs repair, as does the one on the B5303 for Skelton Wood End. The state
of the signposts in general in relation to the budget was discussed. Other
matters for Highways concerned the bridge near Netherscales Farm and some
potholes at Lamonby.
The date of the next meeting is Tuesday 12th January 2010 at 7.30 pm in
Skelton Village Hall.
11/09/09 Report on Skelton Parish Council Meeting held on 08/09/09 at Hutton End Village Hall by Jean Bloomfield
Skelton Parish council held their bi-monthly meeting last
week at Hutton End Village Hall. CCC Bert Richardson had some good news to
bring to the council about safety on the Ivegill to Durdar Road, near Rigg
House. There have been a number of accidents on this bend, especially in
winter when there is frost on the ground. CCC Richardson has met with
members of Highways and the Parish Council to try and improve the safety on
this road. Two chevron and two ‘bend’ signs are to be put in place together
with ‘slow’ notices painted on the road. In addition it has been agreed that
in snowy weather, the gritters should treat the length of the road down to
Hutton-in-the-Forest instead of finishing at the Crown crossroads, as had
been the case previously. The council was very pleased to hear about these
measures and will keep matters under review. CCC Richardson was thanked for
his advice and help.
The council also discussed the latest accident at Crown Point on the B5305,
where recently a driver ended up in the stream taking with him part of the
bridge wall– this has yet to be made safe and put right. Once again a bend
is involved, the councillors are to ask for similar, or other, measures to
be taken at this location.
Skelton Nursery had applied for a grant to help pay for major improvements -
a new climbing frame, shed and other outdoor equipment. A member of staff
from this establishment explained the case saying that it would be providing
enhanced facilities for the local community. A grant of £620, which starts
the ball rolling for other grant giving bodies, was passed unanimously.
BT had written asking if the council would like to purchase the telephone
boxes at Skelton, Thomas Close and Ellonby, for £1 each. These boxes are
seldom used and no longer viable. Purchase involves looking after and
maintaining them as empty buildings. The council decided to purchase and
discuss their future at another meeting.
Others matters discussed were - the good job that the youth group had done
at the Braisegate playground: a sign at Laithes playground to say ‘no
tipping or rubbish’: the removal of the old bench at Laithes: the two tubs
outside Swinburn Farm that have yet to be put in order: the water running
onto the road near Ashcroft, Lamonby; an overgrown hedge at Lamonby Rigg and
the training courses available for councillors. The Budget committee was
appointed and a meeting arranged for October - lastly, the audit was
complete and ready for public inspection.
Planning matters were as follows: granted - Christ Church, Ivegill (ramp and
porch alterations): Town Head Farm, Unthank (poultry sheds): Lamonby Hall,
Lamonby, (slurry store). Applications were as follows: Middle Farm, Laithes
(enlarging slurry lagoon) this was discussed at length: Hawes Farm,
Calthwaite (two story extension): Upfront Gallery, Unthank (puppet theatre):
Ashcroft, Lamonby (agricultural shed) the need for this on a 4 acre holding
was questioned: Castleside, High Head Castle, Ivegill (in and external
alterations): 3 Inglewood Court, Hutton End (glass conservatory).
The next meeting will be on Tuesday 10th November at 7.30 pm in Ivegill
Village Hall.
17/07/09 Report on Skelton Parish Council Meeting held on 14/07/09 at Skelton Village Hall by Jean Bloomfield
Skelton Parish council held their July meeting at the village hall. CCC Bert
Richardson and two members of the public joined the councillors. David Ray,
chairing the meeting, opened it by welcoming Stacey Kane a new member from
the Ivegill ward.
CCC Bert Richardson opened his report by saying it was good to come and
exchange ideas. He spoke of the Rainbow County Council with no overall
majority. The work, of course goes on for the area has to be administered,
books done, etc. The cabinet is composed of 5 conservatives, 4 labour and
one independent. He has been voted vice chairman and was congratulated by
David Ray on behalf of everyone in the room. He spoke of three main matters:
first waste disposal, and two new treatment plants outside Carlisle and
Barrow, with two transfer stations at Flusco and another further west. He
sees this as an excellent investment as much can be reprocessed and the
quantity going into landfill will be much reduced. Second, he explained
about the Northern Development route round Carlisle. Bar a few details and
some technical points, this is near signing. Third was the credit crunch,
which is really serious and will mean some hardship and unemployment in
local and rural areas. A discussion on tourism and its revenues followed.
The chairman thanked CCC Richardson for his interesting report.
A big ‘thank you’ was recorded to all the members of the Skelton Community
Action Plan Committee for their hard work and progress. The next step is to
finalize the questionnaire. Bob Towers reported that things were moving on
and nearly a hundred people were interviewed at the Skelton show about their
reactions and thoughts on the local district and how it might be improved.
‘Tapping into ideas’ was the theme. A request for funding was received from
the Committee for their current expenses and future requirements. A
discussion followed because the costs of any printing and analysis are, as
yet, unquantified. It was decided that the council should underwrite these,
for one grant has already been almost promised and others should follow, as
things are being done under the guidance Action with Communities in Cumbria.
The next step is to finalize the questionnaire, print it and then get it to
each household in the parish during October. It is hoped something may be
ready to publish before Christmas. A competition for school children to
interview an older person to learn about how things were in Skelton a
generation or so ago, will run until early September.
Another request for funding was received from Blencow and Laithes Village
Hall. They plan to make a storage room at the back of the building. It was
decided to support this work with a grant of £700 – this to go either into
the building fund or to pay for the batons, insulation and new floor.
The Braisegate playground is to be painted and generally overhauled by the
Skelton Youth Group. The idea for this comes from the group themselves. As
there will be sufficient adults to supervise the various tasks, the council
thought this an excellent idea. Wood chippings will be delivered to the
site.
Highways – the following items were reported: the water on the road by
Steelgate pond comes from down the road, not from the latter overflowing,
which is what had been thought previously. (A volunteer group has now
cleared the pond.) The accident black spot near Rigg House, Ivegill has had
a speed monitor it place, now it is to get a site visit from the Chief
Engineer of the highways dept. The road is particularly prone to accidents
in the winter because of the wood, it becomes a slippery hazard when there
is ice on the road. The camber is also rather suspect. (CCC Bert Richardson
has requested that grit should be put of this road from the Crown to the
Ivegill crossroads, as and when necessary). Alan Dickinson has volunteered
to be the liaison contact for the Highways steward. Any problems should be
reported straight to him (tel. 01768484527). The owner of the picnic bench
at Laithes is being sought. It is in poor condition and, for the moment, has
been moved out of the way. However, in the long run it should be either
removed or mended.
Planning matters were as follows, applications: Ivegill Church (alterations
to entrance and ramped path); Middle Farm, Laithes (earth banked slurry
lagoon); Galley Wreay, Hutton End (refurbish and extend house); Town Head
Farm, Skelton (poultry shed, phases 1&2). The following have been granted:
Ivegill School (new door and playground update); Wood Close Farm, Skelton
(agricultural storage shed); The Old Vicarage, Ivegill (gazebo, hot tub and
sauna).
The painting of the notice board by a party from Ullswater Community College
was noted, and the history of the visit explained.
The next meeting will be on Tuesday 8th September at 7.30 pm in Hutton End
village hall.
14/05/09 Report on Skelton Parish Council Meeting held on 12/05/09 at Skelton Village Hall by Jean Bloomfield
The Annual Parish Meeting and the AGM of Skelton Parish Council
took place in Toppin Memorial Hall earlier this month with David Ray in the
Chair. Also present with the councillors were, the clerk, Carl Glynn
(development officer, Action for Communities in Cumbria), EDC Gordon Savage, P/C
Andy Holliday and two members of the public.
Carl Glynn was there to give feedback about the Community Plan. He said the
first public meeting held in March was well attended and successful. Things were
going ahead under the direction of a separate and special committee, who could
now map the way ahead with some financial support and the expectation of
receiving grants at a later date. Both Eden District Council and the County
Council are also there as backups. This project will have a presence at Skelton
show in early July.
David Ray was unanimously re-elected as Chairman and Colin Atkinson as Vice
Chairman. Stacey Kane was co-opted to the vacancy left by the retirement of
Alistair Leslie. Reviewing the year David Ray spoke of six well attended
meetings, of long discussions on the B5305, of the website, the grants awarded
and of the new ruling to pay travel expenses for councillors to attend training
sessions and meetings out with the Parish Council. He thanked the clerk and the
councillors for their interest and work. He also noted that the Community Plan
is run from elsewhere and thanked those concerned for getting things going. On
the financial side, the precept had remained the same for three years; running
costs and grants use the majority of the expenditure. The accounts were approved
and the internal audit is complete.
One of the main talking points at the meeting was the safety of the road just
south of the Crown Inn for there have been several accidents in the last few
months - mostly single vehicle ones. This has been discussed before, but as
Highways have taken no action and a further one-vehicle accident occurred
recently, it was decided to report the dissatisfaction of the Council to a wider
audience and ask P/C Holliday to use his channels of communication once again.
The request is for some kind of warning sign/lights or rumble strips to forewarn
drivers of the bend in this otherwise fairly straight piece of road.
A second major area of discussion was playgrounds. The Braisegate one is due an
update – more bark/chippings are needed, more long telegraph poles/tree trunks
and a general lick of paint all round. There has been trouble with drinking in
this area, with empty bottles and with broken glass (there is a rubbish bin
there): anyone seeing underage drinking or bad behaviour is asked to contact the
police. The recreational area in Laithes had also been reported as having
problems with its table and benches – the local councillor is to find out who is
responsible for the maintenance of this garden furniture, which is on the
playground area.
Dog fouling was again a topic. The press correspondent was asked to put a notice
in the Parish Notes. The solution to this lies with the dog owners and/or the
local residents themselves. There is a good backup service of a dog warden, bins
for waste and liaison officers BUT it is up to the local residents to report the
problem and identify the culprits.
In his report EDC Savage spoke about the reorganization of the District Council,
this has been in operation for 12 months now. He said that it made much work for
the executive post holders but seemed to be working satisfactorily. The audit
was favourable and some staff had been moved ready to deal with extra
applications for benefits. He is vice chair of Licensing and Performance
Committees and is also concerned with the crime disorder reduction partnership.
He spoke of his disappointment about the New Squares scheme saying that
consultations were in progress, many happening behind closed doors. He also said
that the football stadium was ready and the team had played their last match on
the old ground. He told the council that the problems at Greeen Hollows were,
once again, up before the planning committee very shortly.
P/C Holliday reported a theft of eggs from a local property; the fact that
licensed premises had been targets recently together with poaching in certain
areas. As regards nuisance behaviour in Skelton, he said the suspects and their
parents had been approached with some plain talking – he hopes this will have
been sufficient to put a stop to unsocial behaviour. He warned his audience
about bogus callers and those offering to do pressure washing work. On the
positive side, he reported that farm watch was working quite well.
Planning has been granted for – Browns Barn, Lamonby; Stone House, Skelton Wood
End; Hardwick House, Ellonby; Aulby Farm, Laithes; Hutton House, Skelton; and
Greystone House, Skelton. A question arose about amendments to plans in the
absence of a second consultation i.e. when is a minor amendment minor?
Other subjects were the mended light in the lichgate at St Michael’s, Skelton,
the need for the Steelgate pond to be cleared (a councillors was asked to be
responsible for this), the clear up of the pitch at Ellonby (this old bonfire
site which was often used as a dump) has been cleared and re-turfed – it looks
good. Potholes, these continue to be problematic– they seem to be a general
hazard on most local roads.
The next meeting will be on Tuesday 14th July at Toppin Memorial Hall, Skelton
at 7.30 pm. Future meetings will be at Hutton End and Ivegill.
Community Action Plan
13/03/09 Report on Skelton Parish Council Meeting held on 10/03/2009 at Skelton Village Hall by Jean Bloomfield
In the absence of David Ray, Colin Atkinson took the chair at the March meeting
of Skelton Parish Council. Three members of the public joined the Councillors,
together with the Clerk and P/C Andy Holliday.
The Community Action Plan Group of Rita Blake, Terry Jolley, Robert Towers and
Roger Whittam, with the support and advice of Carl Glynn, Development Officer,
from Action with Communities in Cumbria, have made great progress and a
consultation evening for the public on 26th March has been organized. This is an
important event for local residents in the district; it is an opportunity for
each person to put forward ideas of what they would like to see happening in the
neighbourhood in the next few years. It will be a very user-friendly evening,
with post it notes, rather than speeches, being the order of the day. From this
meeting it is planned to set up a committee representing the whole parish and
all the many active groups operating within it. This committee will then be
responsible for tapping local brains, sorting out ideas and priorities, then
shaping these into a practical and workable plan for the future. (It is likely
that grant-giving bodies will favour this type of planned and organized
approach: it has already been done in a number of different parishes in
Cumbria.) Funding for leaflets and other expenses to launch this first stage of
the enterprise was discussed and passed. The web site will be kept up to date
with details of this meeting.
In his report P/C Holliday spoke of recent thefts from farm workshops – power
tools were the target; some anti-social behaviour, which was currently being
addressed; speeding at Lamonby and potential accidents at Crown Point. He also
will try and get further details about cars coming off the road into the wood
just north of Ivegill. He warned that car owners caught driving without
insurance, or with insurance that should have been updated to include
modifications, are in danger of having their vehicles removed. He also spoke of
motor scooters and their riders – some had been seen riding pillion, without
helmets and/or lights - all of which are offences. A notice was requested giving
a warning about this in the local Parish Notes.
Requests for funding were received from the Parish Notes (£400 was awarded) and
Skelton Village Hall for outside lighting. Because of the steps, the latter is a
Health and Safety issue, some floods are advised together with security lights
toward the back of the building. £850 was passed to help pay for this work to be
done.
Highway matters included discussion about the bad state of the B5305 and other
local roads. However, the arrival of some white markings on a few roads looks
hopeful. Some metal railings need attention at Laithes and there are some bad
patches of moss in Coopers Garth.
Planning applications were as follows:- Hardrigg Hall, Ellonby (silage clamp);
Auldby Farm, Laithes (silage clamp); Stone House, Skelton Wood End (extension).
Two wind farm applications come before an inspector soon – these are at Grise
and Berrier. The Lamonby one is deferred at present.
It was decided to pay travelling expenses for councillors going outside the area
for one off journeys to conferences, inspections and training sessions, but
prior notification must be given.
Colin Atkinson read out a letter from Alistair Leslie submitting his
resignation, which was accepted, though with regret. This councillor has been a
long and valued member of the Council.
The next meeting will be on Tuesday 12th May at Skelton Village Hall. As it
includes the AGM and a speaker, the evening will start at 7.00 o’clock
13/01/09 Report on Skelton Parish Council Meeting held on 13/01/2009 at Skelton Village Hall by Jean Bloomfield
David Ray was in the chair at the January meeting of Skelton Parish Council.
Also present were 12 councillors, EDC Savage, the clerk and four members of the
public.
The Action Group working on the Parish Plan made good progress at their meeting.
As it is to be a plan for the whole community and as groups within its
boundaries will be involved – this project is to be called the Skelton Community
Plan. Moves are now to be made to identify the active groups in the vicinity so
as to pinpoint their areas of special interest and then plan a draft
questionnaire. The Chairman congratulated the group on their progress and ideas
on mapping the way ahead.
EDC Gordon Savage spoke about the New Squares scheme and its present problems
caused by the Bank’s failure to support the scheme after it had started. Funds
from the NWDA will be forthcoming to finish the new football ground with its
buildings; this will release the necessary space for the car park and Sainsburys
to start implementing their plans. He also spoke of the requirement to board up
shops and buildings when they were empty and of vandals putting glass under the
wheels of parked cars. The clerk is to contact Mark Mckay, the safety officer,
about local vandalism and other minor matters. (For anyone wishing to report
matters directly his office number is 01768212141). The other point of contact
to report vandalism or related incidences is Andy Holliday*, the local
policeman,. EDC Savage was also involved in a discussion about consultation
periods planning applications and the fact that there was insufficient time
allowed for this over the Christmas break. He said that Skelton was now a
development area, which meant that future applications were more likely to be
successful.
Planning applications have been received for Brown’s Farm, Lamonby and Greystone
House, Skelton. Granted are those for Chapelfield, Skelton and the Saw Mill at
Unthank. There are still problems at Green Hollows; full status for the lifetime
of residents was offered but refused by them. This dispute is actually not to do
with this Council. While it is sympathetic and concerned for the welfare of the
residents involved, the solution lies with other parties.
Highways matters concerned the black spot area near the woods just south of the
Crown Inn on the back road from Hutton-in-the-Forest. Several accidents have
occurred there with the Emergency services involved due to the bend in the road,
a frost pocket associated with the wood and black ice: information is also to be
sort on some less serious ones that were left unreported. The only road sign
here is a about deer – perhaps a warning sign about a bend, or ice, or both
would be helpful. The deteriorating surfaces on this road further south were
also reported. More red squirrel signs were also requested. A presentation about
the conservation of this species will be given at Ivegill Village Hall on
Tuesday, 27th of this month. Grit bins were requested outside the Dog and Gun
and at Unthank.
Details were given about the request for funding to finish a refurbishment at
Ivegill Village Hall. This is to do with a small consulting room just inside the
main door – a grant of £600 was passed to furnish this.
Other matters discussed were the lychgate light (this is to be replaced): the
payment of expenses for councillors travelling outside the area to attend
meetings and training courses (this will be discussed again).
The next meeting will be on Tuesday 10th March 09 at 7.30 pm in Skelton Memorial
Hall.
*Contact Numbers for P/C Andy Holliday
Tel: 0845 33 00 247
Mobile: 07967572 171
Email:
andrew.holliday@cumbria.police.uk
11/11/08 Report on Skelton Parish Council Meeting held on 11/11/2008 at Hutton End Village Hall by Jean Bloomfield
Six members of the public joined the Parish Councillors at the November
meeting of the Council that took place at Hutton End Village Hall; David Ray
was in the chair.
Robert Towers, who lives at Unthank, gave a report on the B5305 and efforts
that have been made to get some traffic calming measures imposed. It was
learnt that this road in now on a list (along with a number of others) for
consideration by the appropriate authority with reference to traffic calming
measures,. The clerk, with the backing of the local residents and the Parish
Council is to write confirming this and setting out the arguments for having
limits on a section of this road. The state of the minor roads was also
discussed – the floods and mud have been recurring problems. Farmers have to
get onto the fields to do the necessary work but it is their responsibility
to clear up their own mess – it was suggested that some notices about mud on
the road might be useful at certain times. Floods have been particularly bad
on the roads between Ellonby and Skelton and between Hutton-in-the-Forest
and Hutton End. Shrubs on the Lamonby road have yet to be trimmed back.
Slippery patches of moss were also reported on the Skelton pavements at
Coopers Garth and on the corner outside 3 Swinburn Cottage.
The Budget Committee suggested a precept of £10,000. Following a discussion
of various uncertainties, this was accepted: it is the same as last year.
Grants of £340 and £170 were approved for the churchyards at Hutton, Skelton
and Ivegill. A grant of £25 was made to the fellrunner bus that runs a
scheduled service through Laithes on Fridays. Ivegill Village Hall had
submitted a request for further funding, this time for the refurbishment of
a meeting room. Further details are to be requested. £20 was awarded to the
recent Flower Festival at Skelton Church in acknowledgement of the
decorations that had been given to dress up the lychgate.
The working party on the Parish Plan met in September. A further meeting is
booked for December when the facilitator of the Caldbeck plan will talk
about how his was launched and organized, also commitment in terms of both
time and costs.
The replacement of any one of the old-fashioned Fingerpost Signposts will be
very expensive and beyond the means of this council unless some outside
funding is found. It is understood that the Heritage Lottery Fund might be
interested – this will be explored. The notice board at Thomas Close is to
be checked for condition and possible renewal. The Conservation Volunteers
are to clear Steelgate Pond once again – it has got very overgrown.
Planning applications have been received for Rushgill House, Skelton Wood
End; Honey Suckle Cottage, Thomas Close; a residential Caravan at
Braithwaithe Mill; there is also an amended request for Chapelfield. The
Council has no objections to any of these requests.
The Model Publication Scheme was adopted. This means that members of the
public have access to official papers including the Parish ones. Pricing
such requests is difficult because of the time involved – after
consideration it was decided that the first five pages of any document would
be £1 per sheet, followed by 20p for each thereafter, this to be reviewed as
necessary.
The next meeting will be held on Tuesday 13th January 2009 in Skelton
Village Hall at 7.30 pm.
11/09/08 Report on Skelton Parish Council Meeting held on 09/09/2008 at Ivegill Village Hall by Jean Bloomfield
David Ray presided at the Skelton Parish Council meeting held at Ivegill Village Hall earlier this month. Also there were the clerk, EDC Gordon Savage, P/C Andy Holliday and one member of the public.
P/C Andy Holliday said the summer had been relatively quiet and that perhaps the weather was partially responsible. He spoke of some broken windows, then went on to talk about the value of scrap (beware of unidentified trucks and vans); phone scams e.g. calls out of the blue, sounding very plausible, perhaps selling books; other calls, mostly from abroad, telling the responder that he/she has won a lottery or prize (do not believe it); and solicitors from abroad asking for money to claim legacies from unknown relations of the same name. The chairman thanked P/C Holliday for his guidance and advice.
EDC Savage spoke about the new system for Councillors at the District Council and of his part in it. He is on the monitoring panel; this assesses the quality of the data coming through, checking targets and the efficiency of management. The Performance Panel meets quarterly and holds the executive to account: if targets are not reached, or are unsatisfactory, this has to be explained. The Eden Corporate Plan is agreed for three years ahead; this sets clear directions and priorities. He spoke about the progress of the New Squares scheme saying that the new football pitch it going to plan and will be ready in November. With a little patience, the parking problems will also be sorted out. The chairman thanked him for bringing the meeting up to date.
A request for funding was received from Hutton End Village Hall. The refurbished kitchen needs reflooring. The Council decided on a grant of £800.
Highways problems should be reported to the Highways Officer either directly to the Hot Line, to the clerk or to one of the local representatives – these are Terry Jolley (Ivegill area) William Pearson (Laithes) Roger Whitttam (Lamonby) and Colin Atkinson (Skelton).
Planning applications were as follows. Granted were: Honeysuckle Cottage, Thomas Close (sunroom); the Old Barn, Skelton (picture framing business); the Inch, Lamonby (double garage). The following applications are received: Roehill, Highbridge, (barn conversion to dwelling) and Glenhush, Skelton (amendment to the 2003 application). Withdrawn for further inspection are variations to conditions at Greenhollows Caravan Site.
A discussion took place about meetings out with the Parish that Councillors should know about, and perhaps attend, to keep themselves and this Council up-to-date. The trouble is that very often these take place during the day and that there are too many of them for any one person to attend. It was suggested that Councillors should have special fields of interest and try to attend anything that came within their own special area. This will be discussed again. The audit was all in order and passed. Arrangements were made for the six members of the Budget Committee to meet.
Other matters were as follows - the council will liaise with individuals to decorate the lychgate for the Flower Festival on the 4/5 October, a small grant to cover expenses was agreed. The footpath near Greystone House, Skelton is to be altered under a new initiative about walking to school.
A Community Plan has yet to be discussed by a working party; it needs vision to get beyond the stage of working out what it is trying to do, who should do it to and how to translate future plans into action.
The next meeting will be on Tuesday 11th November 2008 at 7.30 pm in Hutton End Village Hall.
12/07/08 Report on Skelton Parish Council Meeting held on 08/07/2008 at Skelton Village Hall by Jean Bloomfield
Skelton Parish Council held their July meeting at the Village Hall earlier
this month. Cumbria County Councillor Bert Richardson, Eden District
Councillor Gordon Savage and Mark Mckay (Safety Officer) joined the parish
councillors and three members of the public for the evening. David Ray was
in the chair.
Mark Mckay had come to introduce himself and explain his new role. The term
‘Safety Officer’ does not seems to quite match the job that he has been
appointed to do for the District Council. He has come to help the Parish
Councils solve some of their problems. Safety, in this context, covers a
number of areas from crime and disorder to fires - he is also interested in
all the kinds of problems that tend to come with young people and teenagers,
with transport, or its absence, and anything where he can act as an
intermediary between the councillors and the various officers/agencies
concerned. There has been a change in the police emphasis in some matters
and Mark Mckay would like to hear about difficulties as they arise but he
can only help if things/incidences are reported to his office (01768212141).
He will be working closely and as an intermediary with many services. (A
fairly immediate concern is about the restoration of open fireplaces using
chimneys that have not been in service for some time; some decorative
surrounds are unsuitable for direct heat, while other multi-fuel stoves may
need a stainless steel flu fitted from top to bottom.) The chairman thanked
Mark Mckay for coming and for his helpful information.
In his report EDC Savage spoke about the new system of committees and the
four scrutiny panels that operate in the District Council. The new
organization is all geared to give the councillors a greater say in
decisions and, hopefully, to get them through rather quicker. He asked for
topics for review saying that they should be sent to the Town Hall direct.
He also said the South End development was well under way. On the topic of
small scale building/development in Skelton there is some good news. It is
likely that some small-scale work will be allowed soon and Skelton will
cease to be a ‘no growth’ village.
CCC Richardson applauded three of his senior officers who would be retiring
soon – the Treasurer, the Head of Legal Services and the officer in charge
of setting up the Recycling scheme – had all done splendid work and would be
sadly missed. He then reviewed the work of the Highways saying that the cut
back in finance from central funds had hit this department’s work very hard
and that poor maintenance and lack of drainage was all too evident on many
of the roads in the area. Because of the poor state of maintenance recently,
extra funding has been released to this department and some necessary
patching is being carried out. He said that local stewards are to be
appointed to keep a watch on nearby areas: it was hoped that this new system
would help with the transmission of information (so that amongst other
things, any drains or gutters not working properly could be cleared quickly
Other matters were: the restructuring of Penrith Hospital - a bid for
finance had been submitted, and grass cutting on the bank beside High Garth
Meadows, Ivegill – this is an steep awkward spot - CCC Richardson will look
into this to see who is responsible.
Councillors had three major topics to discuss, these concerned signposts,
dogs and a Community Plan. With reference to the latter and after much
deliberation, it was decided to follow advice and plan for one: all
councillors are to be asked to attend a workshop with VAC about consultation
with the community, how to go about the task and the availability of grants.
This will be a long, slow process demanding commitment in both time and
effort, this from local people as well as the councillors.
A survey of older signposts in the parish is now done and the restoration
costs of one or two received – this is to be on the agenda at the next
meeting. In a slightly different context, advice was asked about the
legality of erecting signs beside the road for special events. Are these
litter and to be cleared up as rubbish or are they legal? CCC Richardson is
to discuss this with the legal department and get an official policy for all
to understand and follow.
Roaming dogs and their dirt was again discussed at length. It is very
disappointing, especially for those who do clear up after their dogs, that
the village is still far from clean. (Despite the nice plants in various
tubs and pots round the village, it has been decided that Skelton will not
be entering the Cumbria in Bloom competition this year because of this
nuisance.) The dog warden is to be involved again. More notices will be put
up in Braisegate when new ones become available.
Planning applications have been received about the following: - clay
extraction at Thackwood (a site visit has been made, conditions about
subsequent landscaping are to be imposed): Stonehouse, Skelton Wood End
(barn conversion): Old Barn, Skelton, (change of use of existing barn to
mixed usage): Rushgill, Skelton Wood End, (rear lobby and internal changes):
Honey Suckle Cottage, Thomas Close (extension and sun room). The
applications for Roe Hill, Highbridge, Dalston have been withdrawn.
Other items on the agenda or raised were the pond at Steelgate,(conservation
volunteers are to be asked to do maintenance work on this). The council has
received notification from BT that the phone boxes at Ellonby, Hutton End
Lamonby and Thomas Close are to be closed, this is unfortunate but
inevitable as they are used so infrequently.
The next Meeting will be at Ivegill Village Hall on Tuesday 9th September
2008 at 7.30 pm.
10/06/08 Report on Skelton Parish Council Meeting held on 13/05/2008 at Skelton Village Hall by Jean Bloomfield
Skelton Parish Council held its Annual Meetings at the village hall earlier
this month. Also at the meeting were two speakers from Voluntary Action
Cumbria, EDC Gordon Savage, PlC Andy Holliday, four members of the public
and the Clerk.
The council stood for a minute in silence to remember the lives and work of
two former councillors - Edwin Irving and Tom Parker. Both were well known
farmers, both served the council with distinction for many years, were
willing volunteers and active in many ways in the general welfare of the
parish. They will be remembered with gratitude and affection in the
community. Later, EDC Savage reiterated this and added his personal thanks
to Edwin Irving and Tom Parker.
David Ray, chairman, thanked everyone for attending and welcomed the two
speakers who had been asked to talk about Community Plans - their purpose,
worth, finance and how to set about preparing and doing one for the local
area. Lorraine Rockmister gave the presentation and passed round some
relevant literature and examples. Later Julia Wilson took a full part in
answering a number of questions that arose from the talk and how the Skelton
web site might help in the collection and distribution of relevant
information. The chairman thanked them for their help and explanations:
Community Plans will be an item on the agenda for the next meeting.
The Chair and Vice-chair of the Council and Chair of the Budget Committee
were all re-elected: these are David Ray and Colin Atkinson respectively,
with the later also responsible for the budget.
The subject of safety on the Wigton Road (B5305) was raised yet again, this
time by a member of the public. Although there are bends, dips, many
entrances to farms and dwellings and the number of accidents/incidents
(including fatalities) is above average for a road of this type, it seems
that the road does not meet the necessary criteria. It is neither a village
nor are there many pedestrians (fortunately for there are no paths and the
traffic is fast moving). The trouble is that on the straight parts of the
road, the HGVs, who should be travelling at 40 mph, are going at speeds way
beyond this figure - many cyclists and car drivers are guilty of high speeds
too. This council is pressing to have the problem acknowledged and something
done - it will keep trying.
In his review of the year, the chairman said the accounts are all in order,
the internal audit is done and they ready for inspection. There was little
change in the yearly costs of administration, grants to the halls were
higher than previously but this had been budgeted for - reserves were more
than adequate.
He noted that four Councillors had been co-opted over the year and that some
problems/tasks remained outstanding namely the state of the signposts and
speed on the Wigton Road. On the plus side were the new web site and the
grants that had been awarded. He thanked the councillors and the clerk for
their advice and work over the last 12 months.
In his report EDC Savage spoke about Taking Eden Forward a report about the
future organization of the District Council. The new system comes into force
in June, when business will be organized round the six cabinet members with
portfolios. He said the Southend project was now tied up legally and it was
the people of Penrith that had turned down the proposal for a town Council.
Later the question was asked as to why the Penrith businesses had not been
contacted with reference to this consultation. The chairman thanked the EDC
Savage for his talk.
PlC Andy Holliday spoke about thefts from farms of diesel, quad bikes,
machinery and scrap metals. He asked for anything suspicious to be reported
and recommended linking up with farm watch and using smart water as a
marking fluid. He went on to talk about youth disorder and how best to
tackle this problem. It can be difficult especially when parents appear
disinterested about their teenagers behaviour and the damage caused. He
would like people to contact him when incidents are witnessed - evidence is
needed for purposes of identification. For the benefit of the community as a
whole, it is hoped the school grounds can remain open outside of school
hours but this can only happen if the area is properly used and respected.
Some questions followed and PlC Holliday was thanked for his advice and
updates.
Others matters discussed were the promised dog fouling signs that have yet
to arrive, the play area at Laithes which has been used as a dumping place
for tree Clippings (not allowed), the Wildlife Trust that is planning
surveys of the local churchyards (to be referred to the church wardens) the
road surface in Pennine View and a street light near these properties.
Planning applications for the following properties have been granted: The
Green, Skelton (garden extension): Bownass Farm, Lamonby (extension): Tor
House, Skelton (detached garage and workshop): West View, Ivegill
(extension). These have been received: Yew Tree House, Skelton (listed
building seeking to extend into the barn): Stone House, Skelton Wood End
(porch and internal reorganization):
Rushgill House, Skelton Wood End, (listed building seeking to extend).
The meetings of the council will continue to circulate round the three halls
in the parish. The next meeting of the Council will be on Tuesday 8th July
at 7.30 pm in the Toppin Memorial Hall, Skelton.
17/03/08 Report on Skelton Parish Council Meeting held on 11/03/2008 at Skelton Village Hall by Jean Bloomfield
David Ray was in the chair at the March meeting of Skelton Parish Council.
The councillors were joined by the clerk, four members of the public and EDC
Gordon Savage.
It was good to hear that, thanks to the skills of one of the councillors,
the parish now has its own website at
www.skeltonparish.co.uk; it is also
possible to reach this using the Google function. (Just be careful that you
get the right Skelton, not the one in Yorkshire.)
The next meeting in May includes the annual review – it was decided to ask a
speaker from Voluntary Action Cumbria to come to this and address the
meeting. The council needs some help with the idea of doing a Parish or
Community Plan; this to help councillors with future projects.
EDC Gordon Savage’s report covered the working of the District Council, the
budget and the need to find £300,000 worth of savings, the bye election in
Morland, the Report Living Well Beyond Retirement (to be published later),
the appeal against the refusal of turbines at Hoff and enforcement notices
at Green Hollows. (Residents in holiday accommodation have been offered
tenancy rights for their life times only; caravans would then revert once
again to holiday accommodation.) The Chairman thanked EDC Savage for his
contribution. The District Councillor is also challenging the apparent
embargo on the building of new houses in the parish. Skelton has a full
range of facilities, except a regular bus or train service, and is afraid it
will lose some of its amenities if it is unable to build any new houses at
all for a number of years.
The curbing has been done at Lamonby, the notice board outside the school
has been mended at Skelton and a new one erected at Thomas Close. There
seems to be precious little improvement about the dog dirt in the village;
the meeting was reminded that reports could lead to prosecution: it is
thought that most dog owners are good citizens but that a few have little or
no, intension of clearing up after their pets and that these residents need
challenging in some way. More ‘No Fouling’ notices are to be put up. Others
matters featured were signposts and grit bins, both of which with be
discussed again in the future.
Highway matters included; the Pennine View road surface which has still not
been attended to; a temporary speed limit at Hutton-in-the-Forest
accompanying road closures nearby, these for two weeks from 17th March;
encroaching dykes at the top of Lamonby; the Beaconside dip where bridge
repairs has been started but left incomplete with stones about; a missing
‘one in seven’ hill sign at Ivegill and some potholes near Crown Farm and
the Sculpture Valley
Planning applications have been received about: a garden extension onto
agriculture land (The Green, Skelton); a living room extension (Bownass
Barn, Lamonby); a detached garage and workshop (Tor House, Skelton); and an
appeal to the secretary of State has been lodged about a detached house at
4, Chapelfield.
The common land at the former Lamonby School is now registered with the
Parish Council having the beneficial title. One of the councillors is to
find out what, if any, rights exist for the commoners.
The next meeting will be on Tuesday 13th May at 7.00pm in Skelton Village
Hall.
08/02/08 Report on Skelton Parish Council Meeting held on 08/01/2008 at Skelton Village Hall by Jean Bloomfield
Colin Atkinson presided at the January
meeting of Skelton Parish Council held in Toppin Memorial Hall. Five
members of the public, EDC Gordon Savage and PC Andy Holliday joined the
councillors and the clerk. The three major topics involving long and
detailed discussion were speed on the Wigton Road and how to control it, dog
dirt in the village of Skelton and the precept and the budget.
A recent survey of the type and speed of vehicles on the B5305 found the average speed to be 49mph - this on a road that has a number of house
and farm entrances on it, several blind dips, corners and occasionally
animals on their way from one pasture to another. An average speed of
49 mph implies many faster cars, bicycles and wagons - indeed speeds of
68mph and 78 were recorded with motorcycles going even faster. PC Andy
Holliday is to ask the camera van if it has any statistics for this stretch
of road between Crown Point to the far side of the Unthank Z-bend.
This is all in an effort to get some kind of limits introduced on a road
where speeding is frequent and a number of accidents - some serious -
have occurred. Highways is to be contacted again quoting Rosley,
further west on the same road, as an example of a successful speed
restricted area.
The subject of dog dirt
was raised once again, this time by a member of the public. It seems
that the majority of dog owners behave responsibly clearing up after their
dogs. However, there are a few who do not pick up dirt and others who
allow their dogs to roam unsupervised. It was agreed to try to arrange
for dirt bags to be made available at the shop, to request another bin at
the Braisgate end of the village and to raise publicity about this problem
and the responsibility of ownership.
The finances of the Council were reviewed together with future costs,
commitments and possible requests for grants. Following a detailed discussion
it was decided to keep the precept at £10,000, which is the same as last
year.
EDC Savages report covered playground money (that was already spoken for), a
review of Services for the Elderly, the worry that some Green Hollows
residents have about having the correct type of planning permission for
their caravans, EDC budgets, a review of polling districts and the
relatively old turbine that has fallen at Hesket New Market.
PC Andy Holliday spoke
of police procedures, parental visits and cautions for juveniles, speeding,
marking agricultural equipment, damage to property, keeping an eye on the
Braisgate playgound and two local burglaries. He asked that all incidences
of vandalism be reported to him.
Planning applications received are as follows:-Rushgill House, Skelton Wood
End (bothy conversion); Green Hollows (permission to re-site caravans); Tor
house, Skelton ( garage in garden); Middle Farm, Laithes (agricultural
building). The sun rooms / conservatory at both Beaconside, Ivegill
and at Low Dyke, Calthwaite have been granted. The application for a barn
conversion at Yew Tree House, Skelton is now withdrawn.
Other issues arising included the website, streetlights not working, the Berrier Turbine application
(which has yet to be received), grit bins and salt, river erosion near a
road at Ivegill, flooding on Red lane End and registering land at Lamonby.
The next meeting will be on Tuesday 11th march in Skelton Village Hall at
7.30pm.
16/11/07 Report on Skelton Parish Council Meeting held on 13/11/2007 at Ivegill Village Hall by Jean Bloomfield
Five members of the public joined the councillors and clerk of Skelton
Parish Council at their Autumn Meeting. It was held at Ivegill Village Hall.
Also taking part was CCC Bert Richardson.
The public, who all lived near the Wigton Road (B5305), were there to
highlight the need to have some kind of speed restriction on this road. This
has been discussed before and problems reported to highways and the police.
Recently there has been a fatality at Hutton and two crashes further up the
road near Crown Point and its dip. CCC Bert Richardson is to check if this
matter is on the agenda of the Highways Authority while others are to look
at a crash group website and report back in January.
There were five particular topics discussed at the meeting. Each of these
took time to talk through – these subjects were:- grants to the three
churchyards in the parish, flooding at Skelton lych-gate, the up-and-coming
website, retaining the old cast iron signposts and the safety of the school
buildings (together with some graffiti at the millennium playground).
The churchyard grants were increased by about 30% this year with the
intention that this rise should last two years - £340 will go to both Hutton
and Skelton, and £170 to Ivegill.
Secondly, there was flooding in Skelton Church in the summer when the
heavens opened, a river rushed down the hill toward the lych-gate, the
drains near here could not cope and the water poured down the path into the
church. The council is to meet Highways and ask for the road water to be
diverted by some means toward and down the lane.
Next, Skelton’s website is up and running - at the moment it can be found
amongst the Skelton Show show pages. It is in its early stages but growing.
William Pearson has set this up on behalf of the Council.
Signposts of the older, cast iron type are popular and the Council have
discussed saving and restoring them on several occasions. Now a survey is to
be done by a specialist of all the older posts in the parish. The Heritage
Lottery Fund is interested in this type of work, so it is hoped that some
restoration can be organized before too long. Distinctive signposts can give
an area a certain sense of identity.
Lastly, children have been reported on the school roof. It is difficult to
know how to tackle this one. It was decided to write to the headmaster and
seek news about any further episodes. Graffiti has also appeared in the
Braisgate playground – camping, fires and graffiti are not permitted in this
area and the police will be keeping an eye on this problem.
Planning applications have been received about - the Barn, Rushgill,
Skelton, (conversion of small barn to holiday accommodation) and Green
Hollows to change the conditions of various caravan sites. Granted are
Belmont Farm, Ivegill (holiday lets): Pennine View, Lamonby (change of use,
barn to living accommodation): Old Sawmill, units 1 & 2, Unthank End,
Skelton (change of use to office accommodation).
CCC Bert Richardson’s report centred on the plans of the local Primary Care
Trust and the reorganization of the hospitals, so that the local/cottage
hospitals are to stay open but have fewer beds.. The consultation documents
about these plans are out and meetings are taking place over the district.
These meeting are important and are being advertised in the Herald. He spoke
about the success of the recycling initiative in the area saying that it was
a ‘good news story’ and had meant that heavy fines had been avoided. His
finished by talking about the tight budget and the stiff requirements coming
from Central Government. There is little leeway for choices he said. In
response to a query he agreed to check the county’s document about policy on
planning for wind turbines. This has proved difficult to obtain with short
response deadline times.
Highway matters concerned a twisted signpost at Ivegill and a request to
keep the new curb edges at Hutton and along the B5305 back and clean; work
on some curbing on the west side of the road in Lamonby is to start soon.
Other matters covered were: a grant of £300 to the Parish Notes; a request
to the Fellrunner for more information and a small change to the code of
conduct at meetings - this allows the public and council members with an
interest in an agenda item, to speak at the invitation of the chairman.
The next meeting will be at Skelton Memorial Hall on Tuesday 8th January 08
at 7.30 pm.
Minutes of Skelton Parish Council meeting held at Hutton End Village Hall on 11/09/2007
Present
Mr W. Armstrong, Mr A. Dickinson, Mr A. Leslie, Mr B. Parker, Mr D. Ray. (Chair), Ms J. Naylor (Clerk), Mrs. E. Blake, Mr. S. Grierson, Mr. A Mckillop, Mr J. Parkinson, Mr. R. Whittam, Mr.T Jolley, Mr. I. Mounsey, Miss J. Wright. 3 members of the public.
The public were invited to contribute:
Mr William Donald spoke
heatedly about the Parish Council's handling of the issue of gates at the
lane end at Lamonby Quarry. In particular he took issue with the
representations made by Cllr. Parker to the County Council. It was not
clear what the issue was and it was suggested that he put the complaints in
writing so that the Council understood exactly what the complaint was.
He complained that the Clerk was not prepared for the meetings as she had
not brought a copy of his letter to the previous meeting. He wanted a
copy of the letter the Council had sent to the Inspectorate. Cllr.
Parker took issue at the manner and nature of the complains made against him
and requested that the council take steps to protect him from such
aggression at future meetings. The Clerk suggested to Mr. Donald
that in future he contacted the Council by either by way of letter or by way
of a telephone call to her prior to the meetings rather than him address the
meetings as he did. Any matters could then be put on the agenda.
07/037 Apologies - Resolved: apologies received from Mr. Atkinson and Mr. Grierson.
07/038 Minutes - Resolved: the minutes from the previous meeting held on10/07/2007 were signed as a true record of the meeting except 07/033 where a slight alteration was made to this minute regarding punctuation.
07/039 Matters Arising. Mr. Armstrong wanted clarification on the
code of conduct being adopted and an explanation as to why he had had to
complete so many copies of the declaration of interests.
Resolved: The
position was explained as to the adoption of the new code of conduct and the
need for a new declaration of interests.
07/040 Declaration of Interest - Resolved: Cllr Dickinson was a member of Hutton End Village Hall Committee who had approached the Council for a contribution towards the cost of chairs and tables for the hall.
07/041 Reports. Resolved: There were no reports as there were no representatives of the Police, County Council or District Council.
07/042 Highways. Resolved:
- a) Ivegill sign still needed at the Hutton-in-the-Forest wall.
- b) The welcome to Skelton sign had been erected and the to Council had been thanked by a Parishioner.
- c) There had been a fatality on the road at Hutton-in-the-Forest near the show ground. Clerk to contact the police or highways to see if this may persuade them to erect a speed indicator sign.
- d) Clerk to chase up a request for a speed indicator at Lamonby.
- e) Ivegill school hedge needs trimming, clerk to report.
07/043 Planning. Resolved: The current applications and recent decisions were reported to the Council. There were no particular comments regarding any of them.
07/044 Correspondence. Resolved:
1556 - Correspondence items discussed
including funding for Parish Plans and other funding.
1574 -
Invitation to wind turbine meetings had been circulated.
1571- UCC
requests for projects discussed.
07/045 Account to Pay. Resolved: To pay the following expenses:- Clerk's expenses - £37.58; Hire of hall - Hutton End - £12.00.
07/046 Requests for Funding. Resolved: a donation to given to Hutton End Village Hall Committee towards the replacement of tables and chairs. A donation of £600 was thought appropriate given a recent donation to Skelton Village Hall Committee. If the committee provide the Council with an invoice they could benefit by the Council reclaiming the VAT.
07/047 Audit Report. The Audit
Commission has insisted on a risk assessment being conducted over financial
matters. The Council however considered that the risks had been
addressed over previous years and the measures taken minimised risks.
Resolved: The Clerk should ask the Audit Commission for a specimen
risk assessment and that A. Mckillop and D. Ray and Clerk form a sub
committee to discuss the options.
07/048 Renovation of the
signposts. No progress had been made on the renovations because we had not
had the survey report as to how many signs were involved.
Resolved:
Cllr Parkinson was to ask the renovator to survey Skelton Parish and let us
know how many signs needed renovating. If free then he should proceed
to survey and quote. If there was a charge for the survey then
dependant on the costs, the Council may need to re-consider.
07/049 Date of Next Meeting. Resolved: that the date of the next Parish Council Meeting will be 13/11/2007 at Ivegill Village hall.
Any other business. The council needed to change its standing
orders to allow members of the public to address the meetings in order to
comply with the new Code of Conduct that had been adopted.
Resolved:
A sub committee
would meet to discuss exactly the working of the order. Cllrs.
volunteering to join the sub committee were:- Cllrs. Parker,
Whittam, Dickinson, Atkinson, and Parkinson.