No report – deferred to April’s meeting.

Applications Received

WP/2011/0410/F – erection of 2 no new dwellings with access from Harrowick Ln – revised scheme & additional information – land adj 1 Harrowick Ln – Mr S Watkins

WP/2012/0074/F – general internal alterations together with an extension to the front & conversion of the garage to a playroom & store – 60 Dowthorpe Hill – Mr & Mrs I Catlin

WP/2012/0089/F – construction of UPVc conservatory with lower section constructed in fascia brickwork – 11 Streeton Way – Mr M Hart

WP/2012/0092/F – front, rear & side extension & new roof dormers – 15 Gray Cl – Mr S Bush

WP/2012/0093/F – removal of existing roof to bungalow & construction of new roof with 2 no bedrooms, bathroom & access stairs in new roof space – 46 Dowthorpe Hill – Mr & Mrs S Greenhow

It was agreed to request a site viewing on WP/2012/0092/F.  No further comment was required on the other applications received.

(a)    Northampton Borough Council – upcoming events – noted

(b)    Space Partnerships – noted

(c)     Billing Waste Treatment Plant – update – noted.

(a)    Library Opening Hours – Consultation – following discussion, it was agreed that the PC support the opening of EB Library on a Sunday, but feel that a trial period & review should be put in place.

(b)    Connect County Bus Services – Clerk to ask NCC to forward information to village magazines.

(c)     Northamptonshire County Council Budget Decision – can be viewed at www.northamptonshire.gov.uk

(a)    Parish Forum – meeting to be held at 7pm on 11 April.  Cllrs Cahill & Wright & Clerk to attend.

(a)    SLCC Events Management Course – the Clerk reported on the benefits of the course.

(b)    SLCC Assertiveness Skills & Behaviour Course – it was approved for the Clerk to attend the course.

(a)    Request for Grit Bins – footpath Berry Close to All Saints Church – the request has been forwarded to NCC.

(b)    Parking in Earls Barton – The Square & junction Northampton Rd/West Way – update – the junction of Northampton Rd/West Way has been put forward for a traffic regulation review due to begin in April.  Parking on The Square will be dealt with as part of the Neighbourhood Plan.

(c)     Revocation of Weight Restrictions – Grendon Rd – noted

(d)    Street Doctor Reporting – Parish Councillors should forward any items which need reporting to the Clerk, who will then forward them onto Street Doctor.

Under Section 4 of the Code of Conduct, this matter was discussed in confidence and members of the public were asked to leave the room.

Details were noted.  No objection from EBPC.

It was agreed that EBPC should not provide links to business websites.

It was resolved to note the proposed changes without make representation to the consultation.

As Cllr Morrall sits on the Licensing Committee, he took no part in the discussion.  It was resolved to support the application with the proviso that a cap of 30 evening events per year is agreed.  Should the licence be granted, it was agreed that a Liaison Group be set up to include members of the PC, residents and representatives from Whites to discuss any issues if they arise. 

A meeting between the Events Committee and EBSA will take place at 7.30 on Monday 19 March.  An advertisement will be placed in the village magazines for the events on Bank Holiday Monday.

It was resolved to accept the following proposals:

1.      The Neighbourhood Plan Project Group & Community Champions as set out in Appendix 1 are agreed.

2.      The minutes of the Project Group’s first meeting are noted.

3.      The Project Mandate and Business Case are approved – further project management documentation to be approved by Cllr Wright and the Clerk.

4.      The response letter from the Borough Council of Wellingborough be noted.

5.      The draft communications strategy be approved.

6.      Website Option 3 be approved and £600 be released to cover these costs.

7.      The dates for the launch events be noted and confirmation by as many Councillors as can attend.

8.      The draft Residents Survey be approved for upload to website and to be printed for inclusion in the May edition of Barton Today, with delegated powers passed to Cllr Wright and the Clerk to approve costings for printing and additional material for the launch event up to a cost of £2000.00.

9.      A prize draw for a £20 voucher as an incentive to complete the survey be approved.

10.   That the positions of Project Executive – Cllr Cahill and Project Manager – James Wilson, be approved.

11.   That advertisements to be placed in village magazines be approved.

(a)    Crime Figures and Report – 10 crimes were reported in February.  Residents should be aware of a spate of burglaries in the village and take all necessary precautions.

(b)    2012 Force Open Day – will take place on Saturday 12 May, 11am-4pm at Wootton Hall Park.

(c)     Response from Chris-Heaton Harris MP – a letter was read out by the Clerk which outlined Mr Heaton-Harris’ support for new Police Commissioners.

(a)    Barton Feast 2012 – a grant of £150.00 was agreed for the band at the Barton Feast

(b)    Clerks Pension Scheme – the Clerk updated members on the new scheme to be introduced for Clerks.

It was resolved to adopt the minutes as a correct record.

Cllrs Higham and Page declared an interest in agenda item 049/12.  Cllrs I and K Abbott declared an interest in agenda item 060/12.  Cllr Blackwell declared an interest in agenda item 059/12 (WP/2011/0410/F).

Apologies were received from Cllr Gough who is due to be deployed next week.  EBPC wish him well and look forward to his safe return.

No members of the public addressed the council.

No report – deferred to March’s meeting.

Applications Received

WP/2011/0453/F – development of 6 residential units with associated roads & landscaping – access from Blackwell Cl – additional information, further additional plans & information, further revised drawings – Blitz Factory, Broad St – Mr Duncan Brebner, Life Space Developments Ltd

Appeals Received

Appeal Ref Number – H2835/A/12/2168915 – An appeal has been made to the Secretary of State against the decision of the Borough Council of Wellingborough to refuse the proposed development – outline application with all material matters reserved except access for up to 65 dwellings, public open space & associated infrastructure at land rear of 1 to 73  Compton Way.

It was resolved to object to WP/2011/0453/F and ask that a footpath from Broad Street to Blackwell Close be included in the scheme.  The Clerk will make representation to Appeal Number H2835/A/12/2168915 stating that the government has agreed a transitional period of 18 months to two years to allow local councils to put in place up to date planning policies and Neighbourhood Plans (EBPC can already show that we have plans in place to develop a Neighbourhood Plan), and stating that a precedent has already been set in backing a refusal in planning permission on similar grounds, relating to an application in Woodford in 2010.

(a)    Northamptonshire Centre for Independent Living – on notice board

(b)    Victim Support – Letter of Thanks - noted

(c)     Gt Billing Stakeholders Meeting – minutes & newsletter – held by Clerk

(a)    Street Lighting Private Finance Initiative – Opportunity for Local Lighting Authorities – Clerk to request further details regarding maintenance service.

(a)    Ward Walk – Summary Update – BCW has agreed to consider Barkers Canteen as a building of historical interest.

(b)    PRECEPT 2012/13  - details noted.

(a)    NCALC update – held by Clerk

(b)    ACRE Village Hall Forum – passed to Cllr Wright

(c)     SLCC Events Management Course – it was agreed that the Clerk could attend the training course on 1 March and report back at the next PC meeting.

(a)    Highway Newsletter – held by Clerk

(b)    Parking in Earls Barton – The Square & Junction Northampton Rd/West Way – the Clerk will contact Helen Howard, NCC, for advice on how to proceed with setting traffic regulations for these areas.

(c)     Tebbutts Yard – the clerk advised that following an inspection, no work will be carried out on resurfacing the carriageway.  The Clerk will arrange a meeting with NCC, PC, residents and local businesses to discuss solutions to cars damaging property when turning in Tebbutts Yard.

(d)    Rights of Way – Fingerposts – it was resolved to ask NCC Rights of Way to provide fingerposts to footpaths on the outskirts of the village and those that require new posts, but not to those within the confines of the village.

(e)    Footpath & Verges work – Janes Estate – work is due to commence 20 February.  NCC has advised that the verges will not be hardened as part of the works programme.

Members to look at review website and report back with responses at the next PC meeting.

Cllr Wright reported that the Annual Litter Pick is scheduled for Friday 13^th to Monday 16^th April.  BCW to provide equipment and the dog warden and environmental officers will also visit.

A new treasurer has been appointed, as have the new leader and assistant leader, who start work in February.

It was noted that the licence application for Whites Nurseries has been withdrawn.  In response to the letter to BCW regarding concerns with the consultation process, a reply was received advising that new reforms are to be brought in later this year which should address the concerns raised.

The Events Committee will meet with the Earls Barton Sports Association to discuss ideas for an event on Monday 4 June 2012.  Events planned will include the lighting of a beacon and a firework display.

Members voted against taking part in Safari Northampton.

Following discussion it was resolved to retain James Wilson Associates services initially for Stage 1 of the project.  A follow up letter to BCW and an advertisement relating to Neighbourhood Planning for the village magazines were approved.

(a)    Crime Figures & report – 16 crimes were reported in January.  The priorities for the quarter have been set at parking problems (schools), speeding nuisance and street nuisance (ASB).

(b)    Website – Police Input – it was resolved that the Clerk contact the website managers and if it’s possible to provide a page for police input, this will be arranged.

(c)     Proposed PCSO Funding Arrangements – responses from NCC & Chris Heaton-Harris MP – correspondence was received from NCC and Chris Heaton-Harris confirming that NCC would no longer be funding PCSOs.  It was resolved to send a letter to both parties suggesting that the election of Police Commissioners be scrapped and the funding put aside for the canvassing and elections be used instead to fund PCSOs.

(d)    Annual Policing Priorities & Policing Budget – Summary of Consultation Findings – held by Clerk.

(a)    ¾ Year Bank Reconciliation – members resolved to approve the ¾ year bank reconciliation.

(b)    Review of Effectiveness of Internal Controls for 2012/13 – members resolved to approve the review of the effectiveness of internal controls for 2012/13.

(c)     Treework Quote – Salcey Arborcare to be instructed to carry out work to tree on The Knoll.

(d)    Update of Signatories – it was resolved to update the signatories on the Nat West Business Current and Reserve accounts.

It was resolved to adopt the minutes as a correct record.

Cllrs Higham and Page declared an interest in item 031/12.  Cllrs I Abbott & K Abbott declared an interest in item 040/12.

Eric Franklin attended to speak to the members about the Quality Parish Scheme.  It was decided that a decision on whether to work towards Quality Parish Status be deferred until November, due to workload currently involved in Neighbourhood Planning.

Apologies for absence were approved for Cllrs T Brassington and R Gough.

Members of the public attended to express concerns over the licence application for Whites Nurseries on the grounds of noise and crime issues. There was also deep concern over the handling of the consultation process, the level at which the consultation was advertised and notification of licence application.  There is no objection to occasional events but worries about noise every night.  There was disappointment expressed that the Parish Council did not object to the application when it was discussed at committee level, based on the number of objections received and a request was made for the committee’s decision to be overturned.  James and Eddie White attended the meeting to explain that the local council asked them to apply for the licence in order to legalise the business and events that they currently hold and they have no interest in upsetting local residents.  They have sent an email to BCW to confirm that they would like the licence application to be revised to state a midnight cut off for events.  They explained that they are very careful about the types of bookings that they accept in order to minimise noise nuisance, however it was noted that the main concern is the times and activities listed on the licence application submitted and consulted on.  Cllr Wright explained that members of the public are able to attend the Licensing Committee meeting at BCW when a decision will be reached on the application.  Thanks were expressed to Cllr Blackwell and the Parish Council for their help in securing a new parking bay in Aggate Way.

No report – deferred to February.

Applications Received

WP/2011/0499/F – reserved matters application pursuant to conditions 1 & 2 of permission WP/2009/0348/O for the erection of a self-contained bungalow to be constructed in the rear garden of 3 Aggate Way having vehicular access from Park Lane – minor changes to the proposed external appearance – land at rear 3 Aggate Way fronting Park Lane – Mrs B White

WP/2011/0573/F – installation of 1 no 600mm microwave dish – Water Tower, Wellingborough Rd – T-Mobile (UK) Ltd

WP/2011/0574/F – 2 storey rear extension, internal modifications & vehicular pavement crossover for the benefit of a disabled wheelchair user – 55 Doddington Rd – Mr J Butlin, Wellingborough Homes

No comments were required on the applications received.

(a)    Billing STW Stakeholders Liaison Meeting – 11 January – noted

(b)    All Saints Church Christmas Tree Festival – letter advising £2300 was raised.

(c)    Shire Community Services – leaflets regarding rural transport held by Clerk

(d)    AON – Local Council Insurance Proposal – noted as currently tied into contract with Came & Co.

(a)    Draft Revenue Budget 2012/13 & Medium Term Financial Plan 2012/13 to 2015/16 – anyone wishing to take part in the consultation can visit www.northamptonshire.gov.uk/thelocaldeal

(a)    Changes to Garden Waste Collection – Response – a letter from BCW explaining the reasons behind the suspension of brown bin collections was read out to the Parish Council.

(a)    Northamptonshire Larger Council’s Partnership – Thursday 26 January – Chair and Clerk to attend

(a)    Highways Newsletter – held by the Clerk

(b)    MGWSP – Parish Satisfaction Questionnaire – to be completed by the Clerk

Cllrs Higham and Page declared an interest in this item and did not take part in discussions.

Resolution 1 – “Earls Barton Parish Council at the meeting of 9 January 2012 agree to fully support the objections and petitions of local people against Whites Nurseries Application for a licence under the Licensing Act 2003 dated 15 December 2011, on the grounds of the adverse impact on local people young and old of noise, the proposed times and the open ended threat of the application and strongly urges the Licensing Committee to refuse the application.  Earls Barton Parish Council does, however, welcome an amended application which is not so open ended and better defines the days and times when events will take place and the types of events permitted.”  This resolution was proposed by Cllr Blackwell and seconded by Cllr Wright.  Following discussion the resolution was passed with a vote with 6 in favour and 3 abstaining.  A letter of objection will be forwarded to the Northamptonshire Licensing Partnership with copies to relevant parties.

Resolution 2 – “Earls Barton Parish Council makes a formal complaint against the totally inadequate consultation held during the Christmas and new year holiday period with no consideration or publicity given to local residents who could be adversely affected.”  This resolution was proposed by Cllr Blackwell and seconded by Cllr Bond.  Following discussion the resolution was passed with a unanimous vote and the clerk will forward a letter to the Northamptonshire Licensing Partnership with copies to relevant parties.

It was resolved to book The Grange Sports Field for Monday 4 June for a Parish Council event.  The Clerk will organise a meeting with the Festival Committee and an advert will be placed in the village magazines asking how people would like the Parish Council to mark the Jubilee.

Cllr Wright advised that he would be attending a meeting at BCW regarding the Joint Core Strategy, and there was no mention of EBPC’s letter relating to our objections to a Wilby Way development in the notes for the meeting.  Cllr Wright would bring this to the meetings attention.  It was agreed that the Clerk write to the Parish Council’s of Wilby, Great Doddington, Ecton, Mears Ashby and Grendon asking for their support in requesting the Borough Council do not include Wilby Way as a preferred option in any consultation document for the Core Strategy.

It was resolved to give delegated powers to Cllrs Wright to complete the consultation on behalf of EBPC.  Included in his response would be comments relating to litter on highways and proposals to reduce noise levels of roads, specifically mentioning the A45.  The Clerk was asked to arrange a meeting with the school head teachers and representatives from NCC and EBPC to discuss Safer Routes to School.

It was agreed that the Clerk contact NCALC to arrange for someone to attend a future Parish Council meeting to explain Quality Parish Council status and its benefits.

It was agreed that a meeting be arranged with James Wilson to discuss Neighbourhood Plans on Monday 16 January 2012, at the Youth Club.

The Parish Council has agreed to budget towards approximately half of the project.  One village company has come forward to contribute towards the project and it was decided that the Clerk follow up with other village companies to see if there is any more interest before a decision is made at February’s Parish Council meeting whether to go ahead with the project.

(a)    Crime figures & Report – there was no representative from the police in attendance.  The Clerk advised that 8 crimes were reported in Earls Barton in December, a significant decrease on the previous month.  The first Rural E-panel posting for January had been circulated and the proposed priorities are Parking Problems outside Rural Schools, Speeding Nuisance and Street Nuisance (ASB).  If agreed, these priorities will be targeted across the Wellingborough Rural Sector.  Insp Lyall acknowledged EBPC’s concerns over the E-panel approach and explained that this was currently a trial which would be reviewed.  The Clerk reported on a partnership meeting held with the police where parking issues in Earls Barton were discussed and it was agreed to discuss these at February’s meeting.  The Clerk has also sent a copy of the letter sent to Dr Blantern of NCC regarding funding cuts for PCSOs to Chris Heaton-Harris MP.

(a)    Report of Grounds Maintenance Committee Meeting & approve minutes – it was resolved to adopt the minutes as a correct record.

(b)    Approve awarding of Grounds Maintenance Contracts – the recommendations of the Grounds Maintenance Committee were approved.  The Clerk will write to all the contractors who entered the tender process to thank them and advise if they were successful.

(c)    Report of the Finance Committee Meeting & approve minutes – it was resolved to adopt the minutes as a correct record.

(d)    Approve Precept 2012/13 – it was resolved to approve the Finance Committee’s recommendation for Precept 2012/13 (total figure £91058.  Band D equivalent £48.80 – a reduction of £4.94 on last year)

(e)    Approve Grants 2012/13 – it was resolved to approve the Finance Committee’s recommendation for grant approval for 2012/13.

(f)     Approve Recommendations from Finance Committee for Risk Assessment/Asset Register – it was resolved to approve the Risk Assessment and Asset Register for January 2012.

(g)    ½ Year Bank Reconciliation – it was resolved to approve the Bank Reconciliation for September 2011.

It was resolved to adopt the minutes as a correct record.

Cllrs Higham & Page declared an interest in agenda item 013/12.  Cllrs I Abbott & K Abbott declared an interest in agenda item 020/12.  Cllr Blackwell declared an interest in planning application number WP/2011/0574/F.

Apologies for absence were approved from Cllr Morrall (on Borough Council business) & Cllr Gough.  Cllr Blackwell apologised for arriving late due to Borough Council business.