The Parish Council met on 9 January 2008

Planning applications

Recommended for approval:

Mr J Carr, 6 Cherry Tree Avenue:  a single storey extension.

D. and J. Wyse, 28 Priam's Way:  single storey extension and alterations.   Recommended conditions that the change of use of the garage to a play room from the original approved application limits the provision for car parking and that the alterations to the garden must make adequate facility to prevent on-road parking or parking on the right of way across Council owned property, and be of gravel surface because of the limited drainage on the immediate pavement area, and that, since there will now be no access to the rear of the property a bin-box container mirroring the main building materials must be constructed and used to maintain the quality of the street scene.

Not recommended for approval:

Mr and Mrs Gruby, 2 Bar Close:  two storey extension and double garage/store.    The garage overbearing with regard to neighbouring properties.

Mr and Mrs Drake, 12 Bury Road:  extensions to convert a bungalow into a chalet style bungalow:   overbearing nature of the development, over-development of the site, impingement on the street scene by the change of roof direction and invasion of privacy of neighbouring properties because of the balcony.

Solopark PLC, 30 Mingle Lane:  demolition of existing house.   Demolition would adversely affect the conservation area and street scene.

Solopark PLC. 30 Mingle Lane:  erection of two houses.   The proposed development was not reflective of the conservation area and was overbearing as shown in the accompanying plans.   The proposed scheme did not fit comfortably into the context and contained inaccuracies in the plans.   An increase of houses would lead to more traffic on an already busy road contrary to the statement in the proposal that Mingle Lane is a quiet road.  Concerns also as to the amount and nature of work on the trees on the site.

Approval has been given for:

R J Bird, 28 Mingle Lane:  retention of boundary gate and fence, subject to appraisal by the SCDC conservation team.

Mr and Mrs Mack, 33 Hawthorne Road:  extensions.

Trees

Dr. & Mrs. Jewell, The Grove, Bury Road:  maintenance of trees within conservation area.  Recommended approval.

County Council report

Cllr. Orgee reported that a planning application for the new library in Great Shelford was now out for consultation.   Road issues in Greenfield Close were being considered by the County Council.   There might not be adequate central government funding for the over 60s bus passes which were due to begin on 1 April.   There had been damage at several recreation grounds.   Councils were encouraged to report to the Police problems of dangerous driving and parking.  The Chairman emphasised particular dangers at the junction of London Road and Bury Road.

District Council report

Cllr. Nightingale reported that sweeping of Vicarage Lane had been accomplished but access paths to Cox's Close from Church Street had not been attended to.   Enforcement action on outstanding items at Greenhedges Farm was still to be completed.   Action on the development at Hill Trees, Babraham Road, had been delayed on appeal.

Cllr. Berent reported on the work of the SCDC Climate Change Committee.   He would enquire where low voltage light bulbs could be deposited.

Finance

In determining the precept for the year 2008/09 at £44,000, several items requiring large expenditure were considered:  thatching the Slaughterhouse, £5000, relaying tarmac track to pavilion, about £3000, replacing milestone, about £500, election costs £1000, increase in costs of grass cutting due to return of the Cricket Club, about £1000.   Unpredictable future costs included extension of the cemetery, management of the allotments and removal of the skate-board.   In addition money must be added to the pavilion fund.

Cyclepath to Sawston

Representatives attending a site meeting about the cyclepath's crossing of the A1301 in Sawston were from Sawston Village College, the County Council, Highways Authority, Police, the Parish Councils of Sawston, Great Shelford and Stapleford and Trumpington Ward.  Immediately apparent dangers of the crossing were the speed of vehicles, traffic density and the fact that the bollard shelter could barely accommodate three persons with bicycles at a maximum.   Discussed were warning lights, repositioning the crossing, extending the cyclepath with traffic light controls as far as the access to Spicers from the by-pass, and crossing the road closer to Stapleford.   The whole road from The Grove, site of another serious accident on 6 January, needed to be reviewed.  A meeting would be arranged to consider future action.

Future meetings

An extra-ordinary meeting would be held on 23 January 2008 to address general business matters and other items arising.   The date of the February meeting would be changed from Wednesday 13th February to Tuesday 12th February to facilitate the Clerk's absence at a training course.

The Parish Council held an extraordinary meeting

on 23 January 2008

Planning application

Not recommended for approval

Mrs Porter, 5 Granta Terrace: bungalow.   Over-development of the site.   The proposed site would impair the privacy of the existing house, as being too close.   Inadequate provision for car parking in relation to a narrow road carrying a high volume of traffic, especially lorries.

Amended application for information only

B. Hedwig, 3 Greenfield Close:  alterations to the rear extension

Enforcement

The enforcement officer had visited 10 Bury Road about use of an external building.   A planning application for change of use was required.

Trees

Mr and Mrs Robinson, Stapleford Hall:  maintenance of trees with preservation orders.  Recommended for approval.

Finance

The Clerk was authorised to purchase of an additional filing cabinet for storage of parish data.

Members received an up-dated income and budget summary showing current balances and the proposed 2008-09 budget.   It was confirmed that the precept of £44000, advised to the District Council, should stand.

It was agreed to grant £160 to the Stapleford Show to cover insurance and hall hire.

It was agreed to give £200 towards the estimated cost of £900 for the erection of a new flag pole at the church.

Parish Council election on 1st May

The election would be advertised each month in the Messenger and on notice boards, stressing the opportunity for interested people to attend a Council meeting to gain awareness of the business covered.   The election date would be 1 May.

Annual Parish Meeting

It was agreed to hold the Annual parish meeting on Thursday 24 April in the Community Lounge at Cox's Close at 7.30 pm. Letters would be sent to all organisations offering them the opportunity to make a report on their activities.

Recreation Ground

A request was discussed from Stapleford Cricket Club regarding grass cutting and the pavilion, marking of the football pitch and review of the annual charges, postponed from the December meeting.   There would be need for a further five cuts of the recreation ground which would probably cost £500.  A meeting about this would be arranged with representatives of the Cricket Club and Football Club.

JWM had said that work was needed to remove tree boughs for access by grass cutting machinery. It was agreed to seek their tender for the work.   Cllr Dean reported that a Cherry Tree had been broken in the play area and a replacement should be considered.

Bus shelter

There are concerns about dangerous rubbish in the bus shelter and it was agreed to ensure that adequate safety is observed.

Slaughterhouse

The green bin provided is too small for grass cuttings and a second bin would be expensive. It was agreed that Mike Allen should consider alternative means of disposing of grass cuttings.

Police liaison meeting

The Chairman, together with Cllrs Cornish and Farrar, had attended the police liaison meeting on 7 January 2008.  The following items had been raised:

Anti-social parking and driving, particularly the speed of vehicles as they leave the village from the junction of Bury Road and London Road This had resulted in frequent accidents, damaging the wall of The Grove (a priority target for the police); and vandalism at the Pavilion.

The speeding and accident issued would again be brought to the attention of the County Council and also of our Member of Parliament, Andrew Lansley.

Parish office

The Clerk reported the possibility of establishing a parish office in conjunction with the Church in the cottage attached to the Johnson Hall. It was agreed that he should make enquiries of the PCC and report back.

The Mobile Warden Service lacks a Chairman.

The Parish Council met on Tuesday 12 February 2008

Planning 

Withdrawal of application:

Mr and Mrs Drake, 12 Bury Road: extensions

Applications approved by SCDC

Mr and Mrs Gruby, 2 Bar Close: two storey extension and double garage/store.

Mr J Carr, 6 Cherry Tree Avenue: single storey extension.

Mr T Dama, 74 London Road: car port

Dr and Mrs T.G. Quinnell, 142 Hinton Way:  extensions and garage

Amended application for information

Mr and Mrs C.E. Salisbury, 108 Hinton Way:  extension and alterations - reduction in size of extension

Enforcement

Hill Trees, Babraham Road:  appeal concerning use of adjacent land had been dismissed.

Slaughterhouse

Confirmation has been received of the grant for rethatching and the contract has been awarded to Mr Helme.   Work will commence as soon as possible.   The District Council had asked for photographs of the work done in 1977/78.

Recreation ground

Mr Keith Oakes, representing Stapleford Cricket Club was welcomed to the meeting.  He explained that Cricket Club members were prepared to assume responsibility for preparation of the square and rolling the field.   They would also carry out some refurbishment to the shower facilities and toilets in the pavilion.    The Parish Council recognised the need to mow the outfield weekly during the season.   The contractors would be asked about costs and the days for the work, preferably a Thursday, commencing on April 17.   The Cricket Club's annual fees would be raised to £400, subject to endorsement by the Club committee.  To solve the problems of encroachment on the wicket by a football pitch a meeting of the Recreation Ground Committee would be held on 26 February with attendance requested of both Cricket and Football club representatives.   Cllr Beresford-Knox hoped that the return would give an opportunity for a youth cricket side.   The Council was pleased to see cricket returning to the village.

It was agreed to accept a tender for trimming the hedgerow on the north side of the recreation ground from P. Hinsby at a cost of £150 plus VAT, and a tender for removal of the skateboard from W. French at a cost of £280.

Cemetery

A meeting had been held with Carter Jonas as agents for the Diocese of Ely.   Acquisition of an acre of land to the eastern side of the existing cemetery had been considered.  The cost of the purchase from the Diocese was estimated to be £12000 including legal costs, although there might also be compensation due to the agricultural tenant.  Cllr. Farrar estimated that, at the present rate of usage, one acre would provide sufficient grave spaces for a period of 115 years.   He recommended that a purchase be limited to 0.4 acre, which would provide grave spaces for 43 years.   After discussion it was agreed that an acre be acquired and it be suggested that the land purchased could be leased back to the tenant farmer until required.   It was agreed that Carter Jonas should proceed with negotiations with the Diocesan Board of Finance.

A request had been received for provision of a seat in memory of a Stapleford resident.   It was agreed to welcome the offer and to ask the family concerned where they would like it to be placed. The Council would fix the seat in place.

Allotments

The meeting with Carter Jonas also considered the possibility that the Council could assume management of the allotments, initially for a three year pilot scheme.   The lack of an Allotment Users Association led to inconsistency in management of the 42 plots and in the regularity of payments.   It was agreed that Carter Jonas should proceed with negotiations with the Diocesan Board of Finance.   A sample copy of a tenancy agreement for the allotments would be requested.

Bus shelter   The resident who had volunteered to look after the bus shelter would be provided with the necessary cleaning equipment, under the terms of risk assessment.

Village sign   Attention had been drawn to the potential wood rot at the foot of the village sign.   Contact is to be made with local craftsmen to consider whether the sign requires attention.

Clerk's professional development    Mr. Pett reported that this was a requirement of the CiLCA course he was undertaking.   Members agreed to support him, although Cllr Farrar questioned the relevance of training on burial grounds as the Clerk was not prepared to retain archive material in his property and Cllr Farrar administered requests for burials etc.

District Council reports

Cllr Nightingale reported that the District Council's Scrutiny Committee would hold their meeting at Great Shelford Memorial Hall on 17 March between 5.30 and 8.00 p.m.    One million pounds had been withdrawn from the North Stowe developers and this might allow progress on plastic recycling.

Cllr Dipple reported that the District Council was reviewing its housing stock in consultation with tenants to ascertain the most economic provision.   A paper had been issued by the County Council about speed limits and work being undertaken on A and B class roads.  This gave an opportunity to investigate issues on the A1301.

Cllrs. Berent and Nightingale reported that the application for demolition of 30 Mingle Lane had been approved by the Chairman's Planning Delegation Meeting despite rejection of the plan by this Council.   Although consent had been given, demolition could not proceed until an appropriate alternative development had been approved.

Cllr Berent reported that use of the £250,000 for climate change was being considered and grants were possible for energy saving projects.   Parish representatives were being sought for membership of an advisory group under the leadership of the Sustainability Staff.   A study was in progress about renewable resources.

Cyclepath to Sawston

Further details were awaited from Sawston Parish Council regarding progress on the crossing of the A1301 by the cyclepath to Sawston.   The Council considered that re-routing of the cyclepath under the old railway bridge would be prohibitive.   It was agreed to seek the assistance of Sustrans, the sustainable transport charity, in extending Cycle Route 11.

Parish Paths Partnership  It was agreed that the Council does not wish to take over from the County Council responsibility for the maintenance of public footpaths in Stapleford.

Burglaries    The Community Support Officer would be prepared to address the Council on burglaries.   It was agreed to invite him to the March or April meetings, or alternatively to the Annual parish Meeting.

Magog Trust   Cllr French reported that the Magog Trust was to carry out a survey on the use of the downland.

Fire hydrants   Cambridge Water Company would be informed about water hydrant signs which had been knocked down near the entrance to The Chestnuts.

The Parish Council met on 12 March 2008

Planning

Applications

Christopher Dee, 47 Priam's Way: conversion of storage shed to a study - recommended for approval.

Mrs Shelford, 10 Bury Road:  an annexe for short-term let (retrospective application) - recommended for approval with the condition that the annexe remains within the curtilage of 10 Bury Road to prevent formation of two residences.

Applications decided by the District Council

Solopark, 30 Mingle Lane:  total demolition of dwelling and annexe - approved

D and J Wyse, 28 Priam's Way: single storey extension and alterations - approved

Mrs. Porter, 5 Granta Terrace: bungalow - refused

Trees Lady Sulston, 39 Mingle Lane:  reduction in height of 4 fir trees.   Recommended for approval.

Annual Parish Meeting   It was agreed to order the pamphlet, drawn up by the Clerk, for advertising the Annual Parish Meeting at a cost of £120.   Councillors would deliver the pamphlets.

Parish Council election   The election would be on 1 May 2008.   Completed nomination forms must be delivered to the Returning Officer at South Cambridgeshire Hall no later than noon on Friday 4 April 2008.   The Chairman thanked Cllrs. Cornish and Dixon, who were not standing for re-election, for their contribution to Council work over the last four years, and this was warmly supported by members.

Recreation ground   The Recreation Ground committee met on 26 February   The meeting had resolved the problems of pitch positions and had made arrangements for the Cricket Club to do some minor repairs to the pavilion ready for the new season.   The hedge on the north side of the recreation ground has been trimmed and the skate board has been removed.   It was agreed to accept the insurance offer for renewal of the damaged safety surface in the swings area.   An order for the work would be placed with Park Leisure.   Brian Jeffs was thanked for the conscientious manner in which he had worked on keeping the recreation ground tidy.

New Pavilion   Delay in work on the new Pavilion project was a cause for concern.   Difficulties in gaining funding were the major stumbling block especially as potential sources of funds continually changed the criteria.  Current funds stood at £62,000 with a potential £50,000 from the District Council.  With a contribution from the precept for 2008-09 of £15,000 this gave funding of £127,000, but estimates for the current plans exceeded £350,000. The possibility of a loan would be considered.   It was agreed to seek a meeting on 25 March with Keith Warth.   Members thanked Cllr Dixon for his hard work in trying to make the project viable over a considerable number of years.

Slaughterhouse   The District Council has confirmed its grant for thatching the Slaughterhouse.   The contract has been awarded to Mr Helme.   Work will commence as soon as possible.

Cemetery   With effect from 1 April charges will be for an interment £70, for purchase of exclusive right £90, for a memorial £80 and for an additional inscription £45.   Mike Allen was thanked for the conscientious manner in which he worked on maintaining the cemetery.

Finance 

It was agreed to appoint LGS Services as internal auditors.   It was agreed that receipts from sports clubs be transferred to the New Pavilion account.

County Council report

Cllr Dr Kenney reported that the domestic waste recycling centre would now be beside the Addenbrooke's Access Road to facilitate access from the city.   A second Park and Ride site was proposed at Trumpington to the south of the M11 junction 11.   Four kilometres of the Guided Bus facility had been completed and experiments were in progress for the best type of bus to use on it.   Trading Standards had applied for Beacon Status.   The Trumpington Growth Plan was working to the time-line set.   It was agreed that Cllr Pepperell would attend the Tackling Congestion Conference at Shire Hall, Cambridge, on Thursday 18 March.

District Council report

Cllr. Nightingale reported that painting of the garage doors in Gog Magog Way had been approved by the Housing Department.   The development at Hill Trees, Babraham Road, was subject to enforcement action.   Any action concerning enforcement at Long Acre was dependent on receipt of a landscape scheme.

Cyclepath to Sawston   It was agreed to support the petition initiated by the joint meeting held at Sawston.   It was noted that there was inadequate main road lighting, and that the cyclepath lighting needed refurbishment.  There was concern about accidents at the junction of Bury and London Roads, and the danger for builders repairing the wall of The Grove.  The possibility of a speed camera was mooted.   Cllr Orgee would seek the support of the Highways Department.   Contact would be made with the Cambridge Cycling Campaign.

The Mobile Warden Service is now without a Chairman and a warden.   Cllr. Bow would welcome suggestions of potential postholders.

Community School   The School Governors are investigating how to make the school site more secure.   Work is in progress for a tree bark path and gates.

The Parish Council met on 9 April 2008

Elections

There had been only eight nominations for the nine places on the Parish Council and thus there would be no poll.   There were three candidates for the position of District Councillor.  Keith Dixon and Victor Cornish were thanked for their work over the last four years.    It was regretted that they could not be present for their last meeting.

Planning

Mr and Mrs Harris, 10 St Andrew's Close for extensions and modifications.   Approval recommended with the condition that the annex should not allow development into two properties.

Mr and Mrs P Carr, 39 Gog Magog Way for extension.   Approval recommended with the condition that since a hydrotherapy pool and fitness room is included, a change of use application must be required if a business were to be set up.

Mr and Mrs N Drake, 12 Bury Road for extension.   Refusal recommended because of the overbearing nature of the development, over-development of the site, impingement on the street scene by changed roof direction and invasion of neighbours' privacy.

Trees   Mrs Gleave, 74 London Road, thinning and removal of five trees.   Recommended approval.

Roads   The recommendation was reaffirmed that the new development off Gog Magog Way should be called Chalk Hill, although the owner of a house in Haverhill Road with the same name had objected.   It was thought that the postcode would differentiate it.   Support was confirmed for an application made for upgrading footpath No.2 in Stapleford and footpaths Nos. 7 and 10 in Babraham to bridleways.   The petition about dangers on the A1301 had received some 600 signatures.

County Council report:

Rebuilding Shelford Library had been approved.   The appeal had been dismissed against refusal of planning permission for affordable housing on land adjacent to Shelford Rugby Club.   The County Council had been awarded a high Grade 4 for use of resources.   Central government funding to the County Council increased by only 2% and to the District Council by only 1%.   There would be significant pressures on funding.    Forecasts for 2009-2010 were similar.   The decision about a site for an eco-town would by-pass County and District Councils.  Such a development, with 8000 homes, was possible at Hanley Grange, south of Sawston.   No date had been set for commencement of the 12-week consultation period.   The new Chief Executive of the County Council was Mark Lloyd.   David Lines of Highways Department would attend a site meeting about road safety on the A1301 but was unlikely to have funds for any action.   The requirements for control of traffic congestion to qualify for the government grant of £500m were still being discussed.

District Council report:

Enforcement action on outstanding items at Greenhedge Barn was in progress.   The District Council was replacing fascias and guttering on the garages in Gog Magog Way.   The door frames would be repaired and doors and frames redecorated.   Enforcement against unauthorised development at Hill Trees in Babraham Road was in process.

Post Office Closures    Since there are three offices within a three mile radius the Parish Council had no specific local points to make.   Satisfaction was expressed with the quality of service at Great Shelford post office.

New Pavilion   The working party had met twice, with members of the Tennis and Cricket Clubs.  The Football Club had apologised for absence.   There were many ideas about fund raising and involvement of people in various tasks.   The news was welcomed that the Hill Partnership had promised to make a donation of £15,000 on commencement of building.   The design by Keith Warth would be adopted.   Since planning permission would expire on 6 May 2008 a new application would have to be made.

Cemetery   A letter had been published in the Stapleford Messenger about the cemetery.   Michael Farrar had written a response.   It was agreed that the editor be asked to inform the Clerk about any such letters about the Council, so that they could be checked for accuracy.  The Diocesan Board of Finance had confirmed that the Parish Council could purchase an additional acre for the cemetery from them.

Recreation Ground   To prevent damage to the grass, a post would be erected to prevent access to the ground by the pavilion.   The goal mouths would be re-seeded once the football season was over.   Protruding nails on the Tennis Club store would be attended to.   A dead tree would be removed and a suitable replacement would be considered.   The grass would be treated by the contractor at a cost of £460.

Mowing   Various tree branches in the village needed to be removed to facilitate mowing, which was about to commence.    The cost was estimated at £140.

Land in Church Street  Landscaping was now complete.   The work of Bill French on enhancing the village scene was appreciated.   A suitable occasion would be arranged for its opening.

Allotments - The Diocesan Board of Finance did not wish to entrust management of the allotments to the Parish Council.

                      

  STAPLEFORD ANNUAL PARISH MEETING 2008

   CHAIRMANS REPORT

The present Parish Council is shortly coming to the end of its four year term

of office and I wish to put on record the good work done and time given for

the community by our two retiring members, Councillors Victor Cornish and

Keith Dixon.   Our new council starts its work in May when we shall welcome

one new member, Mrs. Lucy Howson, to the council, but this still leaves us

one short of our full compliment.  This is a particularly disappointing

situation from an electorate of over 1400, and is despite all the personal

approaches made by existing members to encourage new faces.

Consequently there will not be a Parish Council election on May 1st.

In May 2008 we welcomed the appointment of our new Parish Clerk, Nick

Pett, who has settled in extreemly well.  He has brought a new dimension

to the council, and is very much hoping to achieve Quality Clerk status in the

near future, both for himself and the council.  On a personal note, I would

like to express my appreciation for all his assistance, and for the exemplary

control of the Council's finances which I know are appreciated by all.

During the last year the Parish Council has met on 14 occasions; three of

which were extra-ordinary meetings.  On every occasion planning items

have appeared on the Agenda, and a total of 53 applications dealt with,

including those relating to tree work.

 Planning

There have been no large scale developments to consider.

Probably the most significant item has been that of the application to

demolish No. 30 Mingle Lane, consisting of a large dwelling and annex,

situated in a conservation area.  It's replacement was to be for 2 town style

houses with a large overall footprint and having four levels.

The Parish Council was minded to reject both the plans for demolition of

property within the conservation area, and demolition of the existing house

and erection of two houses within the conservation area.

However the demolition of 30 Mingle Lane was approved by SCDC's

planning committee despite our rejection.  Although consent was given,

demolition cannot proceed until an appropriate alternative development

is approved.  Until such time, any demolition would be a criminal offence.

Approval of the Hill Farm site development for affordable housing was

finally given the go ahead in August 2007, but I understand that work is

unlikely to start before late summer 2008.  The Parish Council has

recommended to SCDC, the name of Chalk Hill for this development.

 Other Matters

Without wishing to duplicate items likely to be covered by other reports

which follow on tonight, I would like to mention the following:

a) Parish Council Meetings

Every meeting continues to have a 15 minute slot where members of the

public can take up matters of public interest.  This has proved to be

extreemly productive, not only for the public but also to the Councillors,

especially in relation to planning matters, which are usually taken as the

next Agenda item.

During the year, all Councillors agreed to conform to the new Code of

Conduct requirements.  A small group was formed to draw up a Risk

Assessment policy, led by Councillor Jackie Bow, and it is intended to get

this ratified by the new council.

b) Roads/Footpaths/River

The continuing proliferation of cars in the locality has caused parking

problems from time to time.  Good cooperation with local business's such

as the Magpie Garage and NST has resulted in other organisations such

as Welch's Transport, The Rose and Longbow Public Houses offering a

day time parking facility.  However certain problems still exist in Heffer

Close, which remains an unrestricted public highway.

Speeding through the village has caused, in particular, numerous

collisions with the property of Grove House, and site visits are still awaited

by decision makers in Cambridge County Council.  

This is coupled with our concern to make the cycleway to Sawston a safer

route, and site visits have been made to the crossing point outside the

Parish.  A  further meeting with other Parish Councils and Cambridge

County Council officers is awaited.

The Parish Council is well aware of the poor state of our roads and footpaths,

with many repairs being confined to patchwork status.  We continue to

press the County Council for better treatment but invariably receive the

same reply of insufficient finances available.

Members have resolved their support for the Shelford and District Bridleway

Groups application, S53 Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, to upgrade

footpath No.2 and public footpaths Nos. 7 and 10 to Bridleway status.

The Environmental Agency have done a first class job in clearing the banks

and riverbed in our local area for the passage of the River Granta.

c) Transport

A revised improved bus timetable for our local No.31 service came into

effect on 10th March 2008 following representations made by the Parish

Council to the County Council.

d) Licensed land at Church Street

Villagers will be aware that following the granting of a 25 year licence

from SCDC to the Parish Council, Bill French and his team have

undertaken a remarkable transformation of this area, with the help of a

small grant from the Parish Council.

A beautiful wooden seat has been constructed by Ted Fishenden in

memory of the late Basil Beavis.  It is intended to have a suitable opening

in the near future as well as giving this area a suitable name.

e) SCDC owned garages in Gog Magog Way

The past 12 months has seen little visible progress on improving the street

scene of this run-down area.  Lately, however, SCDC have inspected the

site and have agreed to undertake structual repairs to the fabric of the

garages before repainting is commenced.

f) Developments of importance outside the Parish

The Chairman recently attended a seminar for Parish Councils held at

Shire Hall entitled 'Tackling Congestion in Cambridge'.

Much debate took place about the £500m on offer from the Government

for transport infrastructure improvements and the possible introduction

of congestion charge.

Within the last week or so the government has announced a programme

for the possible siting of eco-towns; one of which is earmarked to be

situated just south of the Sawston by-pass and named Hanley Grange.

Local M.P's, County Councillors, District Councillors, CPRE and Parish

Councillors were invited to a meeting at Whittlesford Memorial Hall.  We

are already into a 12 week consultation period, ending at the end of June,

and without exception all present opposed the scheme.  This proposal

will affect all of us in Stapleford in many ways.

g) People news

Firstly I would like to thank all members of the Parish Council for their

help and service they have given to the council and the community over

the past year.  Each of them has delegated areas of responsibility

within the village, and their efforts are evident for all to see.

I couple these thoughts with:

Brian Jeffs for his difficult job in making the existing Pavillion

presentable for our users.

Mike Allen for the superb work at the cemetery and slaughterhouse land.

Bill and James French for undertaking many ad-hoc jobs in the village

and the regular maintenance of Clerk's Piece.

Norman Leeks who has just stood down after 20 years regularly

attending the needs of the bus shelter.  We are very grateful to his

successor Jack Taylor for taking over from Norman.

As I write these notes, we shall very shortly be bidding farewell to Colin

White, Miles and Sue from the Spar Shop.  Soon it will change hands

after 25 years of stewardship under Colin, and the friendship and service

we have taken for granted for so many years will be replaced by new

faces.  We wish them all well, good health and happiness whether they

retreat into retirement mode or seek pastures new.

My final words of appreciation go to our elected County and District

Councillors for their support at our regular meetings.

That, ladies and gentlemen, concludes my report.

 

      David Pepperell

    Chairman.

New Pavilion and Community Room 2007-8

We are very grateful to Keith Warth for the original design and the Hill Partnership for their new design for a pavilion with a community room which tried to match the criteria required by a major grant giving body.

After much discussion over the last year with major grant giving bodies  we have a new group of fund raisers which is now active and we are determined that a start must be made on the new pavilion in the next twelve months. We need all the help we can get. Many people have said that we need a new pavilion with a community room bigger than the Johnson Hall with good catering facilities. Now is the time to get involved. Will you make a donation? Do you know or work for a business which would give us a grant or donate new furniture and fittings?  Do you have ideas for a fund raising event? Every donation will be recognised by being written on a board or in a book. This building could rekindle the community spirit which existed in the village during the sixties and seventies when the school pool and leisure rooms were built with donations and volunteer labour. We shall be making a major fund raising effort during the next six months.

Keith Dixon April 2008

The Parish Council met on 12 May 2008

Cllr Pepperell was elected Chairman for the ensuing year, and Cllr Bow was elected Vice Chairman.   The proposed policy for Risk Assessments was adopted with an addition concerning assessment of risks when more than £35000 is invested in one holding bank.   A policy and procedure would be established for recognising personal contributions to village life.   In the meantime 28 June was set as a suitable occasion to recognise previous contributors.   The award of funds to support the Shelford/Stapleford Youth Initiative was deferred until more information was available.

Duties for the ensuing year and appointment of representatives to outside bodies will be as follows:

Responsibility	Councillor
Transport liaison	David Pepperell
Police liaison	Lucy Howson
Roads/footpaths and street lighting	Wendy Elsbury
Eco-Towns	Lucy Howson
Flood protection	Michael Farrar
Cemetery administration	Michael Farrar
Cemetery maintenance	David Pepperell
Clerk's Piece maintenance	Margaret French
Recreation ground working group	Richard Beresford-Knox
Contact with sports clubs/pavilion user groups	Richard Beresford-Knox
Children's playground	Gay Dean
New pavilion working grooup	Jackie Bow
Village properties	Richard Beresford-Knox
Village risk assessments	Jackie Bow
Trees/bulb planting/grass cutting	Margaret French
Village Handymen liaison	David Pepperell/The Clerk
Website working group	To be arranged
Parish Plan working group	To be arranged
Community Association representative	D Pepperell/Wendy Elsbury
Feoffees charity (Committee Member)	David Pepperell/Jackie Bow
CALC liaison	Michael Farrar
Village Mobile Warden Service	Jackie Bow
Community School governor	Gay Dean
Magog Trust liaison	Margaret French
Planning	The Clerk

A possible Parish Plan Group and a group to review the website will be considered.   Review of the website format and contents was held over to the next meeting.

Planning   An application by Christopher Dee, 47 Priam's Way, for conversion of storage shed to a study has been approved by SCDC.   An application by Mrs Porter, 5 Granta Terrace, for a bungalow was refused by SCDC and has gone to appeal.  The Council endorsed its previous objections.

County Council    Cllr. Orgee reported that Cllr Mrs Tuck is expected to be nominated as Leader of the County Council and a new cabinet is expected to be formed.

Hanley Grange   District Cllr. Berent reported that a combined parish council action group is challenging the potential eco-town development at Hanley Grange.   Cllrs Elsbury, Howson and Pepperell had attended recent meetings.   It was agreed to allocate £500 for this and a further £250 could be made available at a later date if required.   Hanley Grange would be an agenda item for the next meeting.   There is extensive information on the web site and also in many emails forwarded by the action group.

Recreation Ground

Cllr Bow and the Clerk are to meet the Cambs FA on 16 May concerning the new pavilion project. Grass at the recreation ground has been treated at a cost of £460.   A contract for the replacement of the swings was awarded to SportEquip at a cost of £460.   A contract was awarded to JWM for removal of branches of trees at the recreation ground to facilitate grass cutting.

Cemetery   Webb and Partners of Sawston wer appointed to act for the Council in the purchase of land for a cemetery extension.

Roads   A1301 issues and traffic and parking in the village were discussed.  The Community Support Offucer and David Lines of Highways would be asked for support.   A petition by residents was necessary, with possible yellow lines and phased parking times.   There are concerns about the state of the footpath from Cox's Close to Church Street.  It is the responsibility of SCDC, and Cllr. Berent will pursue the matter.   Members of the public reported anti-social and dangerous parking in Church Street, Priam's Way, Hawthorne Road and Dolphin Way, and presented a list of car registration numbers, which was passed to Cllr Bow for investigation.   Attention was drawn to the poor quality of work on resurfacing the footpaths in Greenfield Close.

Land in Church Street   The official opening of the land, to be named Basil's Piece, would be on 29 June.   Refreshments would be arranged and those associated with the project will be invited to attend.   Letters of thanks have been sent to all the volunteers who helped in the landscaping.

School   The school Moat Project was well underway.

Mobile Warden Service    A new warden had been appointed for the Mobile Warden Service.

The Parish Council met on 11 June 2008

Puhlic intervention   The resident of Keeper's Cottage spoke about his planning application and was given time to explain aspects of the plans to members.   Two people then spoke on their opposition to this application.    Another person then explained their concerns about the application at 30 Mingle Lane.

Planning applications

J. Culbert, Keeper's Cottage, Haverhill Road:  extensions following part demolition of existing house.    Decision delayed in view of the plethora of information received from objectors and the applicant's statement that the plans had been amended.   A site visit would be made to gain a better impression of the impact of the development.   An overlay was requested to clarify the proposal.

Solopark Ltd, 30 Mingle Lane:  extensions and modifications.   Decision postponed in view of concern about tree work needed in the conservation area and possible omission from the plan of trees, screening No 32, that would be removed.   Also concern about construction of a double storey on the existing garage and about windows facing No 32 which could affect privacy.   Clarification is to be sought on these matters and a further site visit made.

Because of the need to further discuss these last two applications an extension of the consultation dateswould be sought and an extra-ordinary meeting would be held on 30 June 2008.

Mr A Gresham, 10 Vine Close:  conservatory.   Recommended for approval with suggested obscure glass in the elevation facing the neighbouring property.

Greene King, the Tree public house, Bar Lane:  timber shelter.   Not approved as the proposed building woould be detrimental to the street scene and required the removal of the tree which is symbolic of the name.

Mrs Flanagan, 26 Priam's Way:  conservatory.   Approved with suggested obscure glass in the elevation facing the neighbouring property.

Work affecting trees subect to a perservation order at 37 Bar Lane was approved.

Hanley Grange   The Action Group is working effectively and support has been gained for information stalls in Cambridge.   Councillors have been sent details of meetings including the public meeting in Great Shelford on 19 June at 7.30pm.   One of the banner posters at Bury Road junction has been removed by persons unknown.

Roads   The Clerk reported on meetings with the Community Police Support Officer and County Council Highways.    The CPSO would give warning notices before prosecuting cars illegally and anti-socially parked in Church Street, Heffer Close, Dolphin Way, Priam's Way, Hawthorne Road, Gog Magog Way, Bury Road and Bar Lane, especially when blocking footpaths.   Highways were sympathetic to parking restrictions at the Priam's Way/Church Street and Dolphin Way/London Road junctions, as well as to re-aligning the Bury Road/London Road.   They would consider provision of white lines at junctions on the Vine Farm and Priam's Way estates.   Progress has been made in addressing the A1301 speed limit, providing barriers by Grove House and extending barriers to form a safe area at the cycle crossing.   It was agreed to concentrate on issues pertaining to the A1301.   The letter to residents of Priam's Way about the extent of the highway and grass cutting, was broadly agreed but is to be reviewed by the Vice-Chairman before dispatch.   It was agreed to object to the proposal to move the footpath at Dernford Farm, since it wouold give not benefit walkers.

District Council

The M11 roundabout has to be modified before progress can be made on the Addenbrooke's Access Road.   The County Council has loaned £18 million to the contractors for constructing the bridge.   Plans for 375 houses at the Bell Language School site have been agreed, and will require major road works between Granhams Road and Wort's Causeway.   Enforcement issues are still underway in relation to Hilltrees, Uplands, Longacre and Green Hedges Barns.  A matter concerning development in Priam's Way has been resolved.   The tree officer is involved in issues in the vicinity of The Chestnuts and the paths behind the Slaughterhouse.

Recreation ground   The safety surface under the swings has been replaced.

Slaughterhouse   The Slaughterhouse has been thatched, invoice paid and grant applied for.

A letter of appreciation would be sent to Mr. Helme for his work on the Slaughterhouse.

Cemetery   Procedures for the purchase of the land for the cemetery extension were discussed.   It was not agreed to provide access to funds between meetings to meet legal fees.  The solicitors advised that their expertise did not encompass the specialised work in letting the land back to the tenant for agricultural use.    Cllr Farrar suggested that other solicitors who did have this expertise should be employed.

Website and Parish Plan   Views were expressed about the quality of the website without implied criticism, but it was necessary to maintain a review over time.  Limited progress has been made in the formulation of a Parish Plan and both items would be the subject of articles in the Messenger.

Youth Initiative   Funds will not be allocated to support the Shelford/Stapleford Youth Initiative until an application is made.   The Chairman acknowledged the generous donation from a parishioner received for this work, which would be passed on.

Land in Church Street   Posters are to be displayed to publicise the opening of the land in Church Street on 29 June 2008 at 11.30am.

Village show   Cllr Elsbury would enlist the support of other councillors in ensuring that arrangements for presentations at Village Show are progressed.

Collier Recreation Ground   The Council was pleased to note that the Vicarage Lane entrance for access to the Collier Recreation Ground had been opened.   The information that has come to light on the historical development of the ground engendered differing views and the file remains with the Clerk.

Gravel workings   Cllr Bow reported that excavation of sand and gravel was marginally behind schedule. She was, however, impressed by the attention to health and safety and there were no significant issues raised by neighbours about traffic movements.

There was an extra-ordinary meeting of the Parish Council  30 June 2008

Public intervention   Mrs Meyer, McDonald and Mr Bailey endorsed their objections to the proposed development at Keeper's Cottage, emphasising the size of the development, its incursion into the green belt, that it was disproportionate to the original footprint, and that, if built to the curtilage, there was the danger of domestic spread.

Planning

Application by J Culbert, Keeper's Cottage, Haverhill Road:  extensions following part demolition of existing house.   All members were given the opportunity to express their views on the plans.   The opinion was expressed that the proposed development had attempted to address the inspectorate objections, reduced the range of disparate buildings, with the heights of the proposed structures not particularly visible or harmful to the overall rural scene, and that the development compared favourably with the size of other properties in the area.   Concerns were, however, expressed about the potential increase in the overall footprint and the potential for business use.

Cllr Farrar summarised the overall good points in that the development retained the cottage, was a single storey development, though parts of the building were below existing ground levels, and there was an increased distance from the adjacent House on the Hill.  It was a large development but was now not a total demolition.   He referred to sections of the Local Plan, particularly E76 with reference to enhancement and protection, P1/2 restricting development unless essential, HG13 that the development should not exceed 50% of existing building, HG15 referring to total demolition, GB2 on impact with reference to the green belt and EN 28 on the setting of the building.   A proposal that the application should be refused was rejected by four votes to two with one abstention.

Cllr. Nightingale intervened to say that the application would go before the conservation officer and that all buildings would be demolished on completion.   He also inferred that, with the strength of objections from neighbours, the matter could be referred to the Chairman's Committee.

It was agreed by five votes to two to recommend the application for approval, with the conditions that there are no future permitted development rights, that the use of the premises be restricted to domestic/residential purposes within the designated curtilage, that strict conditions be in place to limit disturbance and access during the works, that on completion all surplus buildings be removed, that suitable tree screens be introduced to avoid overlooking or invasion of privacy, and that approval by professional officers should include English Heritage, Historic Buildings Trust, the Conservation Officer and the Chief Planning Officer.

Application by Solopark Ltd., 30 Mingle Lane: extensions and modifications.   In response to issues raised at the last meeting, SCDC had stated that the Trees Officer would review the need to maintain screening, that the two storey extension above the garage would not extend beyond the rear elevation of the neighbour's annexe and that there are no first floor windows in the south elevation of the extension above the existing garage.   SCDC would attach a condition preventing any first floor openings being added to this elevation at a later date.

The application was recommended for approval.

County Council report

Representatives of the promoters of Hanley Grange gave a presentation to County Council members and officers on 27 May, talking about Phase 1 of the scheme with 7,000 houses and a possible later Phase 2 with another 3,000 houses.  The total of 8,000 houses has therefore grown to a possible 10,000.  It was even more confusing when a potential 12800 houses were inferred.  On 29 May at a meeting at the Local Government Association headquarters in London eco town proposals were shortlisted.  Many of the proposals were characterised by a lack of detail.   There is conflict of interest, and a danger that central government sets a policy for the development which leaves local authorities capable of only cosmetic changes.

Outline planning permission had been given to the Trumpington Meadows application (1,200 houses) on the former Monsanto site.  There are concerns about the traffic capacity of the M11 and Addenbrookes Access Road junctions and concerns about likely rat running if the junctions were unable to cope.  The guided bus would begin in March 2009 but the Addenbrookes Access Road would not be open until Clay Farm was developed.   Cllr Orgee accepted the suggestion that opening the link to the M11 could ease traffic congestion.

Lack of local agreement has led to the establishment of a review group to investigate alternatives to the proposed City Congestion charge.

Cemetery   Cllr Farrar will take charge of the purchase of land for extending the cemetery.  He will be listed as Cemetery Administrator in Council details.

Telephone box   It was agreed to object to the removal of the phone box by the Rose public house, as there was a need to maintain services on a main road.

Parish sign   Councillors resolved to seek estimates to repair the post of the Parish sign opposite the Johnson hall and to establish the work required on the sign itself.

Recreation Ground   The cricket club would be asked to cordon the cricket square to prevent damage by soccer players when training. Ms R Bow would be paid up to £20 to clean the kitchen in the pavilion.

Roads   Cllrs Bow and Pepperrell were nominated to attend the South Cambridgeshire Traffic and Speeding Summit Meeting on 22 July.

The Chairman was pleased to report that, following his action, the sign at the entrance to the village had been replaced.

The Parish Council met on 9 July 2008

Parish Council   There had been three responses to an advertisement for the co-option of an additional member of the Council.   It was agreed to await the closing date of 31 July and consider selection at the September meeting.

Planning

Approval has been given by SCDC for the following:

Mr and Mrs Harris, 10 St Andrew's Close: extensions and modifications.

Mr and Mrs N Drake, 12 Bury Road: extension

Mr and Mrs P Carr, 39 Gog Magog Way: extension

Mr A Gresham, 10 Vine Close: conservatory

Solopark Ltd, 30 Mingle Lane: extensions and modifications.

Recommended refusal:

Mr S Anderson, 3 Dukes Meadow: extensions.   The plans were incomplete.

Recommended approval:

S Flack, 10 Church Street: extension

Mr M Patten, 12 Gog Magog Way: extensions.   Condition recommended that obscure glass    be required to preserve privacy.

Recreation Ground   JWM have removed the removal of branches of recreation ground trees to facilitate grass cutting.   Cleaning the rides in the playground area was discussed.   This led to discussion on the need to review casual staff job descriptions in view of the way that the pavilion was left.   The fire extinguishers in the pavilion had been serviced.

New pavilion   Cllr Bow reported on the somewhat abortive meeting with Cambs FA about funding for the New Pavilion.  The working group had not met recently but background work continued.   She was concerned that the existing building posed risk problems.   Cllr Pepperell reported that a public works loan in excess of £200000 could be acquired at an interest rate of 4.75% and the current amount being drawn from the precept would cover the repayments.  It was resolved that this was an option that the working group should consider.  To retain community interest it was paramount that work begins as soon as possible.

Cemetery   The extension would now cost about £13214.   It was agreed to advance £300 now for legal expenses.    Cllr. Farrar was authorised to sign an undertaking that the Council will pay all proper and reasonable fees.

Councillors agreed to give £250 from s.137 funds to the Shelford & Stapleford Youth Initiative.   The spoil pile in the cemetery needs to be cleared.

Land in Church Street   The opening of Basil's Piece was carried out on 29 June.

Parish Plan   Mrs Foreman and Mrs Warth would be formally approached to be involved in forming a Parish Plan group.   Cllr Farrar was willing to be a member of the group and the names of those originally interested in this work could again be contacted.

Spar Shop   Presentation of mementos to Colin White, Sue Johnson and Miles Nicholas in recognition of their roles in the Spar Shop was carried out at the Village Show on 28 June.

County Council report

Hanley Grange: consultation has ended and a draft sustainability proposal is awaited from central government which will set the criteria for eco-towns and also name the sites selected. High quality housing fringe developments are supported rather than eco-town development.  The sustainable Communities Act is under County and District Council consultation.

Post Office Closures - County Councillor Brown is working with SCDC.    There would be a meeting at South Cambs Hall on 16 July at 7.30pm.

The No 31 bus is not being used.   It was accepted that the fact that tickets were not interchangeable with other routes discourages its use.

School   Cllr Dean reported that a new deputy head appointment is to be made at the primary school.  It was agreed to support the Moat site in an application to Cambridge Water Village Life Fund.

Police   Cllr Pepperell reported on the Neighbourhood Policing Meeting held on 7 July. Whilst speeding and alcohol are issues there are no reported knife crimes in the area. The notes will be circulated in the next correspondence file.

Roads   Concern continues about the state of the footpath from Cox's Close to Church Street, which is the responsibility of SCDC.   There are also problems with the school hedge and overhanging branches.

There is concern about the need to repaint or to apply markings in Bar Lane, Haverhill Road and the Bury Road/London Road junction.  The letter to residents of Priam's Way is now to be checked by Highways to see if the content is accurate.

Cllr Farrar was informed at a meeting that the first phase of the Addenbrookes Access Road would open earlier than previously indicated.   County Cllr Orgee reported that planning conditions made opening of the Access Road dependent on the completion of work at the M11 junction.   He would discuss with Highways the dangers to cyclists and pedestrians at the Hills Road Bridge works.  He felt it would be useful to make a joint bid to highways with Sawston PC about making the cycle crossing safer.   Mr Chisholm would be asked to work on this bid.

The Council met on Tuesday 19 August 2008

Vacancy on Parish Council   There had been three responses to a notice of the vacancy.  The Clerk would provide members with a ballot paper and details for a selection to be made.

Planning approvals:

S Flack, 10 Church Street for extension

Mrs Flanagan, 26 Priam's Way for a conservatory

Greene King: timber shelter at the Tree Public House

Planning applications:

Mr S Anderson, 3 Dukes Meadow: extensions

Mr J Barrett, 7 Bury Road: garage

Mr G Remnant, 86 Haverhill Road: extensions.

  - all recommended for approval.

Dr S Nasser, 44 Priam's Way: extension and garage - not recommended for approval as overbearing in its size and relationship to other properties in the area, as well as being over- development of the site, and because it would cause loss of light for adjacent properties, could increase surface water and thus need additional soakaways in an area with risk of flooding, would invade the privacy of adjacent properties, since new windows on the north side must have obscured glass fitted, and required a landscaping scheme by the garage if the hedgerow were removed.

Tree work   Mr J Adcock, 49 Mingle Lane.    It was agreed that one tree should be removed but recommended that the birch be appropriately pruned.

South Cambridgeshire District Council

Cllr. Nightingale will investigate concerns that trees at 30 Mingle Lane are not being protected as required by the planning permission.

The Addenbrooke's Access Road remains on course to open in September 2009.  The second phase, which commenced in April, includes a new three span bridge crossing the main railway line.  Work on the Shelford Road junction should be completed in January 2009 and this will be followed by work on the Hauxton Road junction with the M11.  This may be a light controlled junction and thus a mass of lanes and islands. It is a condition that the M11 works are completed before the road can be opened.

There was need for continuing vigilance about the proposed Hanley Grange development, about which there would be a meeting on 1 September.

Uplands, Hinton Way, Great Shelford:  a new planning application had been submitted.

Priam's Way and Hawthorne Road:  There would be a site visit to consider concerns about flooding from poor surface water drainage.  Similar concerns in Collier Way were being investigated.   The drains and associated soakaways seem unable to cope and work is being undertaken with the County Council to try and solve the problem.   Often, because cars are parked over them, the gutters cannot be swept to prevent the drains clogging up and the drains cannot be cleaned because the cleaning team cannot get access to them.

New Pavilion   A meeting had been held with Mrs. Lampshire of the District Council about funding for the New Pavilion.   The Council has now received a formal notification.   The football and cricket clubs have submitted development plans which will facilitate further applications to the Football Association and to other bodies.  Plans are awaited from the tennis club.   There are many documents to complete as well as the planning application and public works loan application.  Cllr Elsbury suggested that the Village Show returns to a marquee on the recreation ground next year to enhance fund raising and awareness. The working party is to meet in early September.

Recreation ground: 

Extra weekly grass cutting had been cancelled and brambles had been cleared from the rear of the pavilion.   Tenders are required to remove nettles from the rear of the play area as they pose a risk, and this was approved.

The views of Mr Jeffs about the work he undertakes were raised and Council agreed to acknowledge this work.

Cemetery

It was agreed to apply for change of use of the agricultural land being purchased for the extension to the cemetery.

The spoil heap in the cemetery needs to be removed to free grave spaces.  The Clerk reported that this would be burned as soon as the dangers associated with the harvest were over.

Roads

A letter had pointed out the need to reinstate yellow lines in Heffer Close and the possibility of a disabled parking space.   Cllr Elsbury would raise the matters with the Highways Authority.

Further information was needed about additional marker posts on the grass triangle by the Johnson Hall in the conservation area, which were proposed as part of the Safer Routes to School scheme.

Cllrs Pepperell and Elsbury will attend the meeting re A1307 to reduce speed limit.

Upgrading the footpath from the village to the Magog Downs was supported, provided that attention is paid to the malfunctioning of the offlets which lead to dangerous levels of surface water in heavy rain, that additional measures are taken to reduce the speed limit, that the path is extended to Babraham Road, and that consideration is given to the dangers of cars parking on the verge at the entrance to the downland.

The Parish Council met on 10 September 2008

Cooption:  Mrs. Anne Marie Laing was co-opted as a Parish Councillor to fill the vacancy following the election.

Affordable housing   Pat Daniels of Granta Housing Association explained how to apply for affordable housing on the Hill Farm development, and the criteria for its allocation.   The properties would be advertised in Homelink after Christmas 2008 and those interested would then have six days to respond with an expression of interest, termed a bid.   The Housing Association would put applicants into bands according to need.   It was suggested that a list should be established of people in the village who were interested.

County Council:   Addenbrooke's access road will open in September 2009, but depends on alterations to M11 junction.   Consultation on the Minerals and Waste Local Plan continues until 20th October.  The Shelford library rebuilding has been delayed by legal issues.

District Council:   Concerns have been expressed about lighting and security on the cycle path to Sawston. It was suggested that CCC Highways are contacted directly.   Planning approval has been given for the hotel at Uplands.   New signs have been erected at Chestnuts and the problem presented by boundary trees is being addressed.

Planning:

Application approval:  Mr Barrett, 7 Bury Road: garage

The application for change of use of land being acquired for cemetery extension will be varied to allow possible use as allotments.   Payment of £335 for the planning application was approved.   Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Minerals and Waste Plan:  location of the waste site on the city side was supported.   Hanley Grange:  a statement of accounts will be requested and it will be asked whether it was intended to hold any balance or to make repayment to the Council.

Highways   The Safer Routes to School Initiative would like to place additional marker posts on the green outside the Johnson Hall.   It was agreed that this was inappropriate in the conservation area and would not enhance safety.   The proposed letter to residents of Priam's Way about grass areas and parking has been reviewed by Highways who endorse it but prefer to be the authority sending it.    It was agreed to hold up the letter for the time being.   Upgrading the footpath along Haverhill Road is being considered and there are hopes of creating a 1.5m wide path inside the hedgerow.    It was agreed to allow removal of the hedgerow in the first field in Haverhill Road to facilitate working.   The phone box in London Road was used only three times in the last year.   BT would maintain it in working order for £500 per annum, or the village could purchase it for £1 to preserve the street scene.    It was agreed to await further information.   Bury Road footpaths are to be refurbished and street signs have been replaced.   Minor bids for 2009-2010 will be discussed at the next meeting.

Crime   Five persons had been responsible for the graffiti incidents.   Cllr Bow was thanked for removing some of the offensive work.   The Council is responsible for removing graffiti from the bus shelter, and Michael Allen was asked to do this.   Formation of neighbourhood watches in the village would be investigated.

Village show   The possibility was discussed of a marquee next year for the Village Show which could be used on Friday and Saturday evenings for village events to raise money for the Pavilion fund.  Quotations would be obtained before further consideration.

Parish property   The post of the Village Sign needs to be renewed, though this will mean breaking the brickwork at the base.   The sign also needs refurbishment.  It was agreed to seek village opinion via the Messenger.

The Parish Council met on Wednesday 8 October 2008

Mrs. Anne Layng was welcomed to the meeting as a new member of the Council.

Matters of public interest

Some 33 people attended the meeting, following recent injury to two children going to Sawston Village College, to express concern about the danger presented to users of the cycle crossing on the Sawston bypass.   About eight persons addressed the Council, suggesting lengthening the island at the cycle crossing, warning drivers of the existence of the crossing, imposition of a speed limit, provision of traffic lights, diversion of the cycleway through the grounds of Dingle Dell, and moving the crossing further towards Sawston, so that there would be only one road to cross.   Attention was also drawn to the narrow footway beside Bridge End Cottage.   A cyclist thought the crossing safe, though speed needed to be reduced, and possibly the island should be lengthened.

The Chairman recalled the history of the site since the cycle path was constructed and the school bus taken off.   The Parish Council had asked for the 30mph speed limit to be extended over the bridge and for a 40mph limit beyond that.   This had not been supported by the County Council.  He believed that the County Council did not act until there was a death or serious injury.   The Parish Council had joined with others in a site meeting in January and had watched children's behaviour.   The problem had also been raised at police liaison meetings.

Michael Farrar drew attention to the lack of both staff time and funds for the County Council to take action even on dangerous issues, such as this crossing.   The programme of speed limit reviews gave no hope that the limit on this site, with its present accident record, would be reviewed at all soon.   Installation of traffic lights on a delimited road existed in other counties and could be pursued.  Diversion of the cycle path through private property at Dingle Dell had not been explored by the County Council and remained a possibility.

Planning

Applications approved

Mr. S. Anderson, 3 Duke's Meadow:  extensions

Mr. G. Remnant, 86 Haverhill Road:  extensions

Dr. S. Nasser. 44 Priam's Way:  extension and garage

Appeal dismissed

Mrs. M.J. Porter, Woodlin, 5 Granta Terrace:  two bedroomed bungalow

Applications

Debbie & Stephen Mack, 33 Hawthorne Road:  amended application for enlarged bedroom window.   For information only.   No comment.

Mr. J. Culbert, Keeper's Cottage, Haverhill Road:  amended application for changes in area and depth of basement and for spreading excavated soil over adjacent land.   Approval recommended subject to the agreement of the District Council's ecology officer that no damage would be caused to the chalk surface and no damage would result from surface water run off.  The normal site working conditions should be applied.

Mr. A. McGurk, Meadow Croft Barn, Gog Magog Way:  retrospective application for erection of gates.    Approval recommended.

Tree work

Mrs. Gleave, 74 London Road:  felling two sycamores on frontage and trimming two other trees by 10%.   Recommended that the two sycamores on the frontage should be trimmed, rather than being felled, so as to preserve the present streetscape, but that the other two trees could be trimmed.

Mr. Bhattacharyya, 20 Bury Road:  pollarding lime tree to previous pollarding line.   Approval recommended.

County Council

Cllr. Kenney reported that it had been difficult to find a site for the waste recycling centre.   The site first proposed was at Bishop's Road, then at Hauxton and now back in Trumpington.   It would serve South Cambs as well as the City, and so would be better sited on the north side of the M11 roundabout.   The County Council now suggested a site on the Addenbrooke's Access Road on the other side from the Glebe Farm development.   Shelford people said that it would clog up traffic.   She had suggested that the District Council could collect big items of refuse once a quarter.

District Council

Planning applications at the Spicer site had been deferred because of traffic considerations.

The Inspector considering the Local Development Plan had concluded that the District needed a further 2000 sites.   After allowance for existing applications, this would probably be 1400.   Consideration had therefore turned to objection sites.   Those in Stapleford had been discarded immediately, but a site in Woollard's Lane, Great Shelford was being considered.

If the County Council approved the funding, the District Council would have a grant of £200,000 for sustainable action by parishes.   There would be two or three demonstration parishes in the District.   Any grants to households for insulation would be repayable when the house was sold.  It was likely that grants would go to parishes who were already active in this way.   Cllr. Kenney recommended the Smartlife Centre, King's Hedges Drive, for information on sustainable construction.

New Pavilion   Jackie Bow reported that documents were needed from the clubs to support the South Cambridgeshire grant.   Football Foundation funding had been discussed, but the working party was minded to proceed without it.   A Public Works Board loan must be investigated.   The plans for the pavilion were now out of date and Keith Warth was preparing revised ones.  Someone might be employed to write applications for grants.   The total cost of the project would be about £500,000.   Donors were being sought so as to reduce the amount borrowed.   It was hoped that funding would meet some more of the cost.

Neighbourhood watch  Cheryl Hagger had proposed that neighbourhood watches be set up in the village.   She had been promised a pack by the police, and hoped that the idea would spread around the village.

Roads   A new gulley has been installed in the road at Priam's Way and no further flooding had followed recent heavy rain.

Minor highway bids are invited for minor highway and traffic schemes, on condition that the Parish Council contributed a sum based on the number of electors.   Wendy Elsbury suggested improvement and extension of the pedestrian route from Hill Farm (Chalk Hill) to the school, improvement of the footway in Mingle Lane towards Duke's Meadow and marking of a disabled space in Heffer Close.   Also suggested was lengthening the traffic island at the cycle crossing, for which the support of other parishes should be sought.    The cost could not be estimated, but a joint application might be adequate.   The Chairman would approach Sawston Parish Council.  Cllr. Nightingale would speak to the Parish Councils of Great and Little Shelford.   Cllr. Kenney would ascertain the cost.

Grant for the school moat   It was agreed on the proposal of Wendy Elsbury that £200 be given each year for five years, subject to annual review, for maintaining the school moat.   The Headteacher would be asked whether, in return, access to the moat could be arranged.

Telephone box   BT offered a choice between paying £500 a year to keep the telephone box in working order, or buying it for a pound without keeping it working.   It was agreed to purchase the box, and probably resite it to avoid suggestion that it was usable.

Remuneration of staff   The Council made the annual review of staff remuneration.

Village tidying   A further clear-up could arranged after Christmas.  Jackie Bow has the necessary equipment of badges, aprons etc.

Speedwatch   A new police initiative, asks for teams of volunteers to operate a radar meter, provided by the police, on selected roads.   The team would not work in their own area and would be careful to avoid confrontation with drivers whose numbers they had noted.

The Parish Council met on Wednesday 12 November 2008

Planning permission

Mr. A. McGurk, Meadow Croft Barn, Gog Magog Way:  retrospective application for erection of gates.

Planning applications

Amended application:  Mrs. Anderson, 3 Duke's Meadow to change pergola for lobby extension.  Recommended approval.

Cambridge Preservation Society, Round House, Gog Magog Hills estate:  demolition and rebuilding of boundary wall with appropriate materials.   Recommended approval.

Mandarin Hotel Group and St John's College:  hotel, associated car parking and landscaping at Whitefields/Uplands, Hinton Way.  No recommendation made, upon information that the application had already been approved.  Members were concerned about potential increase in traffic and possible introduction of traffic calming in Hinton Way.  The Council should be involved in any discussions about this.   This request will be sent also to County Council Highways division with a request for data on traffic movements which might affect a decision.

Mrs Bye, 13 Priam's Way: extension.  Recommended approval.

Mr J Field, 11a Church Street: conversion of garage to annexe.   A planning officer was said to have previously agreed the conversion.   Members were concerned about dangers of vehicle access onto Church Street.   Loss of two vehicle spaces increased the danger,   Members were also concerned that the garage could be a self-contained dwelling.   Vehicles should be required to leave the premises in forward gear.   Recommended refusal.

Dr Louise Guron, 28 Bury Road: extensions.  Recommended approval provided that any windows in side elevation are of obscure glass to preserve privacy for adjoining property.

Mr R Bower, 4 Aylesford Way: conservatory.   Recommended approval provided that side facing no.2 is of solid construction or of obscure glass to preserve privacy for adjoining property.

Work on trees - permissions:

Mrs. Gleave, 74 London Road:  thinning and removal of five trees.

Mr. Bhattacharyya, 20 Bury Road:  pollarding lime tree.

Work on trees - recommended for approval:

Mrs Savage, 1 Sternes Way: reduction in maple tree

Mrs Gruby, 2 Bar Close: reduction of row of beech trees in adjacent garden of 8 Gog Magog Way.

Mrs Trower, 2 Gog Magog Way: reduction of three chestnut trees.

County Council:

Sawston Cycle Crossing   Cllr. Orgee reported that vehicle movements were not exceptional.   Richard Preston had sent a standard letter responding to the issues raised.   The schools' encouragement of pupils to cycle was welcomed.   Review of the speed limit would not necessarily lead to its reduction.  The crossing might be relocated with contribution from a central grant of £3.6 million, which would have to be matched by CCC and might include access to s.106 funds.   CCC officers are working to refresh the crossing.   The County Council Cabinet had recognised the need to address the issues.   Plans to redevelop the industrial site might lead to a controlled crossing at the dual carriageway section of the Sawston by-pass.   It was agreed to write to Cllr. Bradney, the responsible Cabinet member, and to County Council officers P Crack and M Davies, with a copy to R McMurray Planning Officer for SCDC, and to request a joint meeting.   Mr Chisholm raised the continuing concerns about the Sawston crossing and the letters which had been received from Sustrans and CCC Highways. The former were investigating the possibility of transferring the cycle track to the Dingle Dell side and that a reduction in the speed limit may be reviewed in 2009.

Regional Spatial Strategy is part of the East of England Plan.   Cllr. Orgee reported that Government requires a compilation by 2011 of a review covering down to 2031.  This raised issues about timing and the scale of housing needs and building.   There was a wide variation in the answers required.   Proposals were sought from developers for sites for more than 2000 houses by the end of October.   Hanley Grange had again been cited with an estimated 14000 houses.   4000 houses were needed in the Great Shelford area.

The Parish Council had supported in principle the Bury Farm site provided it was for affordable housing and that buildings of architectural merit on the south side of the footpath to Babraham should be retained.   It was agreed that preference be given to developments to the north of Cambridge since pressure on infrastructure and possible sites in the south was too great. The Council was pleased that sites in Gog Magog Way and in Hinton Way/Mingle Lane were not included.

District Council

Cllr Berent referred to the Communities and Local Government Eco-towns consultation and s.106 agreements. Two new posts are being created - s.106 agreement officer and monitoring officer. There are doubts under the Spatial Strategy about employment opportunities in this area.   Cllr Nightingale explained that the concerns about the temporary library will be resolved by additional lighting, books available in the Free Church and at Chaston Way.

Cemetery   additional land for the cemetery.

that the vendor be contacted to ascertain their views on any use of the new land for temporary allotments.

that three quotations be sought for the erection of a stock proof fence which is a requirement within 28 days of the sale completion.

New Pavilion   They resolved to authorise the appointment of an administration assistant to seek out funding sources at a capped fee of £200 per month subject to review.

Finance   Payment of expenses and fees for new councillors to attend training sessions was approved.   Purchase of a remembrance wreath and a raffle gift for village dance was approved.

Roads   A bid has been made for minor improvements, including Sawston crossing, Mingle Lane footpath adjacent to the church and the Anvil Close/Bar Lane junction.

The Council met for an extra meeting on 3 December 2008

Conduct of meetings   It is a sensitive issue but there is need to observe protocols at meetings by speaking through the Chair.   It was agreed that the County and District councillors would be approached by the Chairman.

Parish Plan  An initial meeting has been held and sufficient people have shown interest to proceed.

Tree work

Mr J Mundell, 23 Church Street - agreed without comment.

Mr Lomas, Green Hedge farmhouse - agreed in principle if the tree is dangerous.

Roads   There were concerns about faulty street lights on the footpath to Cox's Close, Priam's Way and Gog Magog Way.   A note would be placed in the Messenger with the phone number to contact about lighting.   The Council had been thanked for dealing with graffiti.  Unfortunately some of them were showing through the paint and SCDC would be contacted.  The Safer Routes to School working group reported that the protective railing at the end of Vicarage Lane would be extended, but hazard markers will not be placed on the grass triangle outside the Johnson Hall.   An application to purchase the phone box has been made but the cost may be prohibitive because of the need for electrical work.   Work on the footway to Magog Down will be in two tranches.   Bags of dog excreta are being left on the roadside between the recreation ground and Bar lane, and SCDC Environmental Officers will be asked to investigate and possibly bring about a prosecution as it is a health risk.   JW Maintenance had planted free extra daffodil bulbs.  It was agreed to seek tenders for grass cutting for 2009-2012.

Cemetery   Charges will be increased to match those in Great Shelford and from 1st April 2009 would be £80 for interment, £110 for exclusive right, £120 for erection of memorial and £55 for an additional inscription, with double charges for non-parishioners.   The costs of installation of memorial seats in the cemetery will be discussed with Mr. Allen.  Cllr Farrar again asked that the spoil heap be removed as soon as possible.

Recreation Ground  The police have been contacted about vandalism caused by cars being driven over the recreation ground.   Concern was expressed about sub-letting to other sports clubs by clubs who have an agreement to use the ground.   The idea of providing marquees for the village show was agreed to be far too expensive to pursue.

Bus shelter    The Chairman reported that despite his efforts the problem of the interrupted electrical supply has not been resolved by the County Council.

School   The Community Primary School thanked the Council for their grant.   Access to the Moat would be available on Village Show days and also on request.   A substantive deputy headteacher has been appointed at the Community Primary School.

Standards   Government consultation on proposed revised standards legislation concerns the conduct of members in their private role, including criminal acts, and possible application of the Code to local government employees.   It was agreed that the suggestions were apposite.

Meeting with District Council   The liaison meeting between the District Council and parish councils was poorly attended.  The main points were development of police liaison and development of the A14 now that Northstowe house-building has been delayed.

The Parish Council met on Wednesday 10 December 2008

Planning approvals

Cambridge Preservation Society, the Round House, Gog Magog Hills: demolition and rebuilding of boundary wall.

Mr J Field, 11a Church Street: amendment - conversion of garage to annexe.

Applications (all recommended for approval):

Stapleford Parish Council, land next cemetery in Mingle Lane:  change of use of agricultural land to burial ground.

Stapleford Parish Council, recreation ground, Gog Magog Way: erection of pavilion following demolition of existing pavilion and shed.

Mr W Powell, 53 Bury Road:  extension, provided it is ensured that bay window on the rear elevation protects privacy of adjacent property.

Tree work:

Mr M Heafford, 20 Vine Close:  work on a number of trees - five approved, but a conifer should be pruned and not felled.

County Council - Cllr. Orgee's report:

For the cycleway on the A1301 continued pressure needed to gain s.106 funds.  Interested persons should attend the January meeting at which Richard Preston of the County Council will speak.

County Council finances:  Government grant is now in the second year of a three year cycle and funding will again be below inflation, and so increase pressure on county resources to meet needs.   The final budget will be agreed in February and any increase in council tax will be capped at under 5%.

Regional Spatial Strategy:  the housing target for period to 2031 exceeds local council expectations.   The calculation of need relates to job extrapolation and this is where the difference lies.   Three sites are earmarked but the whole county must be reviewed to challenge time scales and figures.   There are possibilities for expansion in the City, Cambourne and Northstowe, in another new settlement or alongside transport corridors, e.g. the A47.   For a new settlement five possible sites are Hanley Grange, Waterbeach, Alconbury, Six Mile Bottom and Mereham.

Guided bus:  s.106 funding should meet any shortfall.   A traffic consultant, appointed to relieve pressure on officers, has a budget of £80,000 and will report in summer 2009.  The rejection in a Manchester referendum of road charging will be carefully considered.

South Cambridgeshire District

The District Council has agreed that transfer of the housing stock is in the best interest of tenants but due processes are to be carried out.   No traffic calming measures are planned for Hinton way as part of the hotel development.  Pressure needs to be sustained for flashing warning lights and a pelican crossing.

New pavilion   There were no external applications for the support officer role for the New Pavilion working group.  The Clerk has been appointed to the post.

Finance   Councillors considered the quarterly report and the proposed budget.   A proposal was carried to increase the precept by £2000, much of which will be covered by increase in the number of properties in the village.   It was also agreed to take money from the reserves to meet the costs of the burial ground extension which would still leave reserves of more than the precept. The external auditor has completed the audit and has made no recommendations.

The Parish Council met on Wednesday 14 January 2009

Planning

Applications approved by SCDC:

Mr R Bower of 4 Aylesford Way for a conservatory

Mrs Bye of 13 Priam's Way for extension

Mr J Field of 11a Church Street for conversion of garage to annexe.

Dr Louise Guron 28 Bury Road Stapleford for extensions

Tree work approved by SCDC

Mr M Heafford of 20 Vine Close for a conifer to be felled because of potential risks to buildings

Roads   The first section of the path beside Haverhill Road has been partially completed.  Temporary signs are to be installed to indicate usage of the path and a further surface covering is to be laid.   Environmental Health officers have made a site visit to assess necessary action on graffiti.  Concerns about mud on the Haverhill Road and poor parking in Bar Lane have been reported to the police.   Cllrs Laing, Dean and Elsbury will attend the next meeting of the pressure group for improving the Sawston Cycle crossing.

Slaughterhouse   The window has been repaired at minimal cost.

Bus shelter   No progress in restoring the lighting and bus-service sign.

Cemetery   The spoil heap at the far end is being dealt with.   The agreement for purchase of additional land for the cemetery will permit short-term use of the land for allotments.

County Council report:

Little progress concerning the cycle-path crossing on the A1301.

The Regional Spatial Strategy has not resolved planning issues, since present data does not address concerns about demand, although Government requires a speedy response.

South Cambridgeshire District Council report:

There have been misleading reports about provision of a third refuse collection bin in the City.

Strategic Partnership Chest grants are now being accepted.

Climate change structure group plan, 2009-2012, is being implemented with plans to support twelve councils in Year One with grants for insulation and then in Year Two to develop larger schemes.   The schemes will require a councillor to act as  champion.

Action has been taken to alleviate the problems of work in Bury Road on Sundays.  Planning comments to SCDC should include reference to working hours.

There are difficulties in installing traffic calming in Hinton Way since Government regulations prohibit flashing warning lights.   Suggestion that a cycle footpath be made from the station to Babraham Road roundabout with upgraded street lights is supported by Great Shelford PC.   The roundabout road surface may be replaced.

Work is to be undertaken on the Granham's Road/Cambridge Road junction now that the development at Abberley House is being occupied.

Finance   The new pavilion funds have been temporarily placed in Cambridge Building Society following the closure of the Skipton BS Office.   An account is to be opened with the Norwich and Peterborough Building Society.   A precept of £46000 for the coming year was agreed.

Parish Plan   The Council agreed to support the Parish Plan.

Freedom of Information scheme was adopted as from 1 January 2009 as required by law.

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The Parish Council met on Wednesday 11 February 2009

Planning

Applications approved by SCDC:

Stapleford Parish Council, for change of use of agricultural land to extension for burial ground.

Stapleford Parish Council, for the erection of a pavilion following the demolition of the existing pavilion and shed.

Mr W Powell, for extension at 53 Bury Road Stapleford.

Other applications

Amended application by Mr and Mrs Mack, 33 Hawthorne Road.

An application by Mr and Mrs P. Carr for extensions and boundary walls was not recommended. A plan for extensions to the house had been recommended for approval last year, and had been approved by SCDC and building had commenced.   The current plans showed amendments to the original design for the house.  Comments could not be made on these amendments.   Approval for the boundary wall was not recommended since it was expected to have a detrimental impact on the openness of the street scene, exacerbated since am obtrusive white rendered wall was proposed.   Permission for change of use must be sought for this property should any business venture be considered.   The media suggested that such activity could be taking place without an application.   Such activity could exacerbate parking difficulties in the area caused by the number of builders' vehicles.

This application is subject to the conditions that the Council now applies to all applications, that work should occur only between 8am and 5pm Monday to Friday and between 8am and noon on Saturday.

Tree application by Mr F Shelford, 10 Bury Road, for trimming four trees was recommended  for approval, although it was for trees in the garden of the neighbouring property at 8 Bury Road.

Cambridgeshire County Council report:

Buses in Cambridgeshire. Smartcard compatible ticket machines have been installed and all bus operators entering the city centre have signed the quality bus partnership between the County Council, City Council and bus operators. It aims to provide an efficient, reliable, clean, modern transport system and encourage a shift from car use.

Addenbrooke's Access Road   Work at the Shelford Road Junction started on January 26th and will finish in July.   Works on the Hauxton Road Junction will start in March. Improvements to the A10/M11 junction will start in May.   The road works are on schedule to be completed by Autumn 2009.

New Foot/Cycleway from Trumpington to Harston  Implementation will be brought forward to be ready when the road works for the M11/A10 roundabout and the Addenbrooke's Access road are scheduled at the end of this year.

Cycleway on the A1301 does not meet the definition of an available safe route, and so from Feb. 24th free home to school transport will be provided for Sawston Village College pupils living in the Shelfords and Stapleford.

Cambridgeshire Transport Commission   Consultation began on 27th January and comments can be made on a new web site.   Nothing had been decided. The Commission will hold public meetings in the Spring to discuss options and will report to the County Council in the summer.

Gritting had to be prioritised due to a national grit shortage.

South Cambridgeshire District Council:

SCDC members are not taking an increase in remuneration this year.

Rogue Traders are operating in this area

Hotel at Hinton Way, Great Shelford:  changes to the planning application may involve the transport of about a million tonnes of waste soil.

The system of flood warning and prevention seems not to have been working well recently.  A report is being sought from SCDC officers and the Environment Agency.

Cemetery

Contracts have been exchanged for the purchase of additional land for the cemetery.   Completion could be on 9 March 2009 or earlier.   Authority was given for transfer of funds as required.   Cllr French retired from the meeting whilst tenders were considered and it was agreed to accept that submitted by James French for a post and three-rail fence of treated timber around the new cemetery at a cost £2900, including making a temporary access from the turning area.   Appreciation was expressed of the gift by Mr M Flanagan of wrought iron gates could be incorporated in the entrance.

Sawston cycleway crossing

There has been a public meeting under the County Council.  Insufficient credence has been given to the work by this Council in addressing the matter in 2007 and throughout 2008.  It was only when parental pressure had been brought to bear that the education transport appeal process was invoked by providing pupils with free transport.  Further improvements will follow.  There was dissatisfaction that reaching the decision had taken so long.  Clarification was sought about when pupils travel to extra-curricular activities.  The responsibility is upon parents if children use the crossing.

New Pavilion

The working group are moving towards an application for a Public Works loan and documents have been sent to SCDC for further financial support.   Since the planning application has been approved tenders are being sought for preparing detailed plans which will then be sent to builders, asking for tenders.  The building needs to be insulated if social functions are to be held in it.   Since the recreation ground is leased from SCDC permission for the building must be obtained from them.   Leases concerning the recreation ground, pavilion and tennis club are to be studied.

Recreation ground

In view of the cost and lack of adequate space a request for a local Skate board park cannot be entertained.   Stapleford Twinning Association wished to use the recreation ground on 11 July to celebrate the 30th anniversary of twinning with Villedômer.  More detail was required of a request for funding.   Permission must be sought from SCDC for any fireworks display.

Roads

A planned drain cleaning programme has been advertised in the village.   Gulleys in Haverhill Road had not been modified or cleaned during construction of the path.   Environmental Health would be informed about dog fouling, fly tipping of rubbish and potential water pollution.   The team removing graffiti would be thanked.   The next section of the path alongside Haverhill Road has been partially completed.  Clarification is sought whether bollards are to be erected both sides of the entrance to Magog Down.

Finance

An account has not been opened at the Norwich and Peterborough BS for the pavilion funds. Other councils will be consulted on a suitable appointment of internal auditor.   Further information was requested before considering financial support for the Cambridge Music Festival.

Affordable housing

Granta Housing has issued details re Hill Farm Development and notices have been displayed.

Parish property   The lighting and electric signing at the bus shelter has yet to be repaired.  The Slaughterhouse notice boards have been replaced and are in use.

Freedom of Information   The Freedom of Information Act information guide will be completed and the completed file will be submitted to members.

Memberships   The Council will not participate in the Cambridge Partnership for Speed cameras.   Membership of the Rural Services Network will be taken up.

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The Parish Council met on Wednesday 11 March 2009

Planning

Amended application by Mr and Mrs P. Carr for extensions was recommended for approval at the last meeting and again by email consultation.   This decision was confirmed.

Application by Mr and Mrs Mundell, 23 Church Street, for a detached garage was recommended for approval.

Cambridgeshire County Council report

Finance: The County Council agreed its budget on 12 February 2009 with a council tax rise of 3.9%.  The net result of the council taxes set by the County Council, District Council, Fire Authority, Police Authority and the Parish Council will be an increase in the council tax of a band D property by about £1 a week.

Council performance   The County Council has been awarded four stars (the highest rating) for its use of resources.  This is the same as last year.

Future development  The County Council is responding to Government consultation on criteria for eco towns.  Although Hanley Grange was withdrawn by the promoters from the eco towns process Government has assessed the scheme.  The County Council considers that Hanley Grange should not be a specified location in the final eco towns criteria, although Northstowe could be a prototype eco town.

Regional Spatial Strategy   Serious discussion has been limited.   Inadequate data meant that proposals could not be assessed because criteria for future growth had yet to be be agreed.  Lower growth could be addressed by the strategy of further growth in Cambridge, existing new settlements and market towns.  Higher growth could be addressed through either a substantial increase in the size of Cambridge City or by creating new settlement(s) or expansion along transport corridor(s).  The approach eventually decided upon (once growth rates have been agreed) could have impact on Stapleford.

Traffic:  The Transport Commission is collecting views.  The closing date for submissions is 13 March 2009.

President Obama   An invitation may be sent to President Obama to open the redeveloped Shelford library if he is in the country at a suitable time.  An invitation has already been sent for him to open Stapleford pavilion.

South Cambridgeshire District Council report

Council tax will increase by 4.5%.

Building development exception sites have been decided and Powell's garage in Great Shelford is one of them.

Further enforcement is in progress for Hill Trees, Babraham Road.

Cemetery

The purchase of additional land for the cemetery was completed on 10 March.  The overall costs have been as follows:

 Land purchase  £10000.00

 Legal fees: Diocese  £1445.50

 Legal fees: agent £1247.75

 Legal fees: Council  £776.25

 Search fees £78.26

 Planning fee SCDC £167.50

 Total costs  £13715.26

The fencing will now be erected and the spoil heap will be spread on the new land, so releasing grave space in the old burial area.

Sawston Village College

There will be a consultation meeting on 19 March about the proposed trust status for Sawston Village College.

Recreation ground

NST is no longer sponsoring the football and there will be a name change.   The cricket club is allowing other teams to play on the recreation ground without the Council's agreement.

The request from Stapleford Twinning Association for the use of the recreation Ground to celebrate 30 years of twinning with Villedomer was agreed.   The Council may approve a grant of £250 for this event but a formal request and details of insurance cover are required, especially if a fireworks display is part of the event.   A safety inspection of play equipment is to be carried out by ROSPA in April.

New Pavilion   Existing leases for the recreation ground need to be resolved before work begins on a pavilion.   Clarity about them would be sought for the next meeting.   The working group reported that the working drawings are being completed and papers have been sent to SCDC.   As from April the funding will consist of:

Stapleford Parish Council allocated reserves 94000

Donation  15000

SCDC  50000

Public works Loan  200000

Parish fund raising  25000

Potential donors  50000

Total  464000

The estimated cost of the building is set not to exceed £450000.

Parish Plan    Mr. Geoff Hale gave a report on the parish plan steering committee.   The points made by Mr Hale included the fact that 11 members are working on the plan and the officers are Geoff Hale, Chairman, Lynda Warth, Minutes Secretary and Meetings Organiser, Treasurer, Chris Cooper, and Publicity Group, Kathleen Foreman, Karen Andrews and Peter Schofield.   The application for a grant of £500 from Cambridgeshire ACRE had been successful.  Next steps are to prepare an article for the Messenger and the APM leaflet and a questionnaire to all households. The Council resolved to make a grant of £300 to support this activity and thanked the group for their work.  Funds will be released when a bank account is established and the money will be subject to appropriate monitoring.

Allotments  Further information would be sought from Carter Jonas and the Diocesan Board of Finance on how many allotments were in use.  Cllr French is to complete the national questionnaire.

Bus Shelter   The lighting and electric signing at the bus shelter has yet to be repaired despite various approaches.   The roof of the bus shelter requires attention.

The Annual Parish Meeting will be on Thursday 7 May.

Roads   Notices for drainage clearance were displayed but not all drains and gutters could be cleared because of parked vehicles; the issue of the gullies not being adequately cleaned has been noted by CCC highways and will be investigated.   A response has been received from SCDC Environmental Health and that they will address the issues of fly tipping and dog fouling.  Potholes were noted and are a major issue after the winter weather.   The next meeting of the action group for improving Sawston Cycle crossing will be on 17 March at 7.30pm.   The next section of the path alongside Haverhill Road has been partially complete and wooden posts were stolen.

Finance

An account has been opened at the Norwich and Peterborough BS for the pavilion funds.  Recommendation is sought of an alternative internal auditor.  Three tenders for grass cutting were considered and the tender from JW Maintenance was accepted.   Insurance cover will be renewed with Zurich for buildings and public liability.

Police   Several cars have been broken into in the Bar Lane/Mingle lane area. There has also been further damage at the tennis club as well as cold calling issues.

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The Parish Council met on Wednesday 8 April 2009

Planning

Applications approved by SCDC:

Mr and Mrs Mundell, 23 Church Street for detached garage.

Mr J Moy, 2B Dolphin Way, for a roof light recommended approval

Mrs Sarah Philbrook, 8A Gog Magog Way, for extensions and alterations.

Trees: work had been done at the Vicarage, Mingle Lane, without consulting the Parish Council.    Members were divided in their views but no action will be taken.

Cambridgeshire County Council report:

Regional Spatial Strategy:  various growth scenarios have been tested.  The County Council believes that the need for 75000 new homes up to 2031 is already met in existing planning decisions.   This should remove need for new sites, particularly those at Hanley Grange and between Trumpington and Great Shelford.

South Cambridgeshire District Council report

There is potential for youth work in rooms in public houses between 6 and 9pm.  There may be a trial run in June.

Enforcement is planned for Hill Trees, Babraham Road, where cars are being sold.

The Olympic Champion Swimming activity is being promoted and all are urged to take advantage or it.

The Housing Futures consultation will be taken to full Council on 23 April.  Two articles in the April edition of the Stapleford Messenger, opposing the sale of housing by the District Council, had caused concern.   (The Parish Council responded that the Messenger is a church publication and responsibility for material published lies there and with the editor.   The village, however, needs to know what is happening and regular articles maintain transparency.)

Roads

Additional signing to improve the Sawston Cycle crossing may soon be available.  The potential development of the industrial site adjacent to the bypass may lead to a light controlled junction.  The benefit to pupils is minimal.   The Council agreed in principle to work with the Magog Trust to install up to six additional posts at the entrance to the Down. At a meeting with a representative of County Council highways the following problems were noted:  Potholes in Finch's Close and Gog Magog Way

 Footway from Johnson Hall past the church

 Footways in Finch's Close and between Bar Lane and Chalk Hill

 Street signs in Church Street and Haverhill Road

 Footway clearance from Vine Close to Sternes Way

 Road Surface at junction of London Road and Bury Road.

Funds are limited but priority should be given to the minor bid for the footway from the Johnson Hall past the church.   County Councillors should be informed if nothing was done about the potholes.

Cemetery

There has been a meeting with SCDC Tree officer and James French about the fence and hedge for the new burial area. SCDC will provide all the hawthorn hedging and some trees.   SCDC have to approve the fencing.   The plan for access and the division of the new area needs to be agreed.   The layout of the original area should be appropriate.

Affordable housing

Two visits have been made to view the new properties at Chalk Hill.  Thanks were expressed to Pat Daniels of Granta Housing for making these possible.  It was agreed that the development enhanced the village scene.   Sale and letting of the properties is slow in the current financial climate and four of the shared equity homes are now for rent.  There was concern that it now appears that the shared equity dwellings can be fully purchased. This should be clarified.

Recreation Ground:

Grass cutting has commenced.   Because of bird nesting pruning the hedgerow adjacent to Gog Magog Way was postponed.   Damage to the play area was discussed and it was resolved to contact Wicksteed Leisure to make the necessary repairs.   In an accident on 6 April a car had finished on the recreation ground damaging the surface. The damage was being repaired.   The action of the cricket club was discussed in allowing Sawston Cricket Club to use the recreation ground for their fixtures.  This was without the consent of the Council, which posed problems about the lease and insurance.  An urgent meeting is to be arranged with the Cricket Clubs to resolve the matter.

Parish Council property

Council resolved to allow the Youth Initiative to store games equipment in the Slaughterhouse.  An electrician will investigate the supply problems at the bus shelter.

Meetings   The Clerk had attended the consultation meeting to consider formation of the Henry Morris Trust, which would link Stapleford Community Primary School.   Cllrs. Farrar and Pepperell would attend the South Cambridgeshire Traffic Management Area Joint Committee on 20 April.   No one would attend the Common Land/Open Spaces conference in Norwich on 27 April since it was not relevant to the parish. Cllrs. Farrar and Pepperell would attend the Parish Forum meeting on 23 July.

Police

The police did not respond to vandalism by a group of young people in the play area on Friday 3 April.   The area had to be closed until the mess had been cleared by a councillor. The police action was raised at the liaison meeting held on 6 April.  An apology had been given and the force is to investigate.  At this meeting there had been ongoing concerns about anti-social behaviour, traffic issues and the possibility of a Speedwatch day.

Finance

It was agreed to transfer the new pavilion funds from Cambridge Building Society to Norwich and Peterborough Building Society.   The £500 grant for the Parish Plan is held in the account and the £300 grant from the Council has yet to be paid.

The external auditor has said that the accounts must be available from the 15 April. The final balance sheet was agreed.   No alternative internal auditor has yet been found.  Since the accounts have to be sent to the external auditor by 1 June, it was agreed to retain LGS.

Annual Parish Meeting, Thursday 7th May 2009

Report by the Chairman of the Parish Council

The first meeting of the new Parish Council took place in May 2008 at which the Councillors, from an uncontested election, duly completed their Declaration of Acceptance of Office.  These were received and endorsed by the Clerk as Proper Officer.  We welcomed Mrs. Lucy Howson on this occasion, and later in October, Mrs Annie Laing was to join us, following a ballot from three candidates, to bring us up to our full compliment. I had the privilege of being elected as Chairman for the ensuing year, whilst Cllr. Bow was elected as Vice Chairman. In November 2008, one of our former Councillors, Victor Cornish, sadly passed away and the Parish Council paid tribute to his excellent work on the council in the Thanksgiving Service held at the Parish Church. During the last year (May 2008-April 2009) the Parish Council met on 14 occasions; including August 2008, which is a month when we do not normally meet.

Planning

Until December 2008, planning applications received, including tree work, were matching very much the number handled in the previous period, but since early 2009, the economic downturn has witnessed a considerable reduction (around 30 in total compared with 53 in the previous May-April period). The majority related to minor extension work, but in particular, two applications stretched across several meetings:

a)  Keeper's Cottage, off Haverhill Road, for extensions following part demolition of the existing house.

b)  30, Mingle Lane for extensions and modifications to the existing house.

The Parish Council decided that in their comments to SCDC on planning applications, a clause referring to "enforcement limitations on out of hours workings" would become standard practice. The need arises from several problems occurring in this area with building work practices. The Parish Council fully supported many meetings convened to oppose the nearby Hanley Grange development, and awarded £500 towards the Hanley Grange Action Group.

Other Matters

All households in Stapleford will have received in the last few days a  yellow reminder leaflet of tonight's meeting, in which a summary of the 2008-2009 highlights have been listed, together with those of an 'ongoing basis'. I therefore refer to some of these and other matters very briefly in order to avoid duplication.

Presentation to former staff at the Spar Shop.

The proceeds of the village collection were made to Colin, Sue and Miles at the Village Show on 28 June, as well as a Social event held at the Tree Public House.  They continue to enjoy "retirement" in many ways!

Slaughterhouse Re-Thatching.

Work was successfully completed and SCDC were thanked for their grant contribution.

SCDC Garages in Gog Magog Way.

Thanks to SCDC for structural repairs and repainting of these garages in a 'visually sensitive' area of the village.

Moat Project.

The Parish Council supported the work on the Moat Project with a financial grant, and congratulations to all concerned for a job well done.

Basil's Piece, Church Street.

For long neglected and an eyesore, the lease of the land from SCDC ensured a transformation with landscaping features in memory of the late Basil Beavis.  It was formerly opened on 29 June by relatives from the Beavis family, and remains a credit to everyone associated with its implementation and upkeep.

Parish Plan

Following an appeal in the Stapleford Messenger to get this project off the ground, for a second time, it continues to make very good progress and the Parish Council were pleased to award an initial grant of £300 towards start-up costs. An additional grant for £500 was realised from SCDC.

Safer Crossing Facility on A1301

The Parish Council have always supported this project although outside our village boundary, primarily involving the safe passage of school children to Sawston Village College.  We have instigated site visits with other linked bodies to get a successful outcome.  Hopefully the County Council will come up with positive action towards the year end, and in the meantime a free bus service is being provided as the County Council have deemed this crossing unsafe using current assessment criterion.

Bus Shelter/Real Time Bus Information

Since last November when the bus information indicator board was installed, neither the board nor the shelter light has worked.  Despite the 'buck passing' by higher authorities has still not resolved the matter, but we live in hope!

Personnel

Our thanks again, in particular, to our Parish Clerk, Nick Pett, who has settled in extremely well since appointed in May 2007.  His ability to deal with the increasing quantity and complexity of new legislation is appreciated, much of it due to Government influence!

I would also like to offer my appreciation to Cllr. Mrs Bow, Vice Chairman, who has done much work with respect to the ongoing Pavilion project, and also to all Councillors who have dutifully carried out their assigned roles of responsibility around the village.  I couple these thoughts with Mike Allen for the superb work at the Cemetery and Slaughterhouse Land, Brian Jeffs for making the best of a difficult job in keeping our old Pavilion presentable, Jack Taylor for regularly cleaning the Bus Shelter, Bill and James French for undertaking many ad-hoc jobs in the village, and the regular maintenance of Clerk's Piece and J W Maintenance at Royston, for the village grass cutting including that of the Recreation Ground.

My final words of appreciation go to our elected County and District Councillors for their support at our regular meetings.

Parish Council reports

The new pavilion project   The working party has met several times in the last year and plans are now with the respective professionals and the tendering process will commence as soon as these plans are received. Significant alterations were made to try and meet the criteria laid down by the Football Foundation but the Council found them to be very constraining. As a result funding will be gained from a public works loan, current donors, an award from SCDC and from the funds made available from the precept. Currently the reserves amount to £95000.

Recreation ground  Cricket was played on the recreation Ground again last summer after a gap of three years. Unfortunately, some games had to be transferred elsewhere due to inconsistencies in the pitch due to under preparation the previous winter. This year preparations are much more advanced and expectations are for a much improved playing surface The cricket club are exploring ways of making better utilisation of the square and meeting the council's desire for youth cricket to return to Stapleford.

NST strikers have had sole use of the recreation ground over the winter and virtually the whole recreation ground has some form of football being played on it; be it 11-a-side Mini League or just training for the very youngest children. The Club have invested in new portable goals for the main pitch.

In spite of the hard winter the grass looks in good shape due in part to the council investing in a treatment of weed killer and fertiliser last spring. We have just started weekly mowing in readiness for the cricket. The surface around the swings at the Gog Magog end was renewed during the summer as it had become a safety risk. Only essential repairs to the pavilion are currently being undertaken in the run up to starting building the new pavilion

Children's playground  The children's playground continues to be well utilised. Sadly, a week before Easter we had a large group of teenagers who used the area for a late evening party resulting in rubbish and glass being liberally distributed over the site which led to the need to close the playground the following day until cleaning and safety checks could be undertaken. Unfortunately, one of the spring mounted rides in the playground has failed recently either due to wear and tear or misuse and has been removed. It had been thrown by the group of teenagers onto the tennis courts. The council are currently investigating options for its repair.

The Cemetery

Land was first purchased for a cemetery in 1881, which had to be extended in 1930 and again in 1949, to make a total of 1.2 acres.   An additional acre has now been purchased from the Diocese of Ely at a cost of £10,000.00 plus £3260 in fees.   There were only 51 grave spaces left in the present cemetery, but the extension will provide space for burials for the next hundred years.   The new area remains to be fenced and, since much of it will not be needed for some years, part may be used for allotments.

Other parish property

This year has seen two items worthy of note in relation to parish property. The roofing of the Slaughter House, which was completed last spring, is a fine piece of thatching workmanship from an obviously highly skilled craftsman and should last for many years. We did receive a significant grant from South Cambs District Council to help with the funding. The opening of Basil Piece, Church Street, in July is a fine example of what can be achieved in a very small corner of the village, thanks to all concerned.

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The Parish Council met on Wednesday 13 May 2009

David Pepperell and Jackie Bow were re-elected as Chairman and Vice-Chairman for the coming year.

Review of allocation of duties:

David Pepperell: transport liaison; feoffee charities (committee member) community association representative; cemetery maintenance.

Jackie Bow: feoffee charities (committee member), village mobile warden service, risk assessments, new pavilion working group, twinning.

Michael Farrar:  cemetery administration, CALC liaison, web site.

Richard Beresford-Knox:  recreation ground working group, contact with sports clubs/pavilion user groups, village properties.

Gay Dean: community school governor, children's playground (recreation ground).

Wendy Elsbury: community association representative, roads/footpaths and street lighting.

Margaret French: trees/bulb planting/grass cutting (excluding cemetery), Clerk's Piece maintenance, Magog Trust liaison, allotments, Village Hall Charity Trustee.

Lucy Howson: police liaison inc traffic issues, eco-towns planning.

Annie Laing: flood protection, youth work.

The Clerk is responsible (with Chairman) for liaison with the village handymen and holds planning applications.

Planning

Mr and Mrs Carr, 39 Gog Magog Way, revised design of personnel gate:  no objection.

Tree work

Mrs Huff, 6 Gog Magog Way, removal of limb on a willow:  recommend approval.

Cambridgeshire County Council report

Hills Road bridge in Cambridge:  single-lane delays caused by work for the guided bus would soon be resolved.   The northern section of the guided bus route would be completed by September 2009, and the southern section by February 2010.

Cambridge Central Library: there had been delays caused by the need to change contractors.

Transport of chemicals to Duxford works was narrowly approved, although the County Council had expressed concern that it posed risks.

South Cambridgeshire District Council reports:

To avoid problems, ambulance crews have been told how to find The Chestnuts.

The s.106 agreement for the Clay Farm estate had been changed to facilitate building and to release funding for the Addenbrooke's Relief Road.

The initiative for Youth Clubs to meet in public houses would commence in September 2009.

The owner of Hill Trees, Babraham Road, which was subject to an enforcement order, had made a planning application.

Slaughterhouse

The Shelford and Stapleford Youth Initiative is storing equipment in the Slaughterhouse.

Recreation ground

An insurance claim has been made concerning the play area.   A contract for removal of trees on the recreation ground was agreed at a maximum fee of £75.

Recent vandalism at the pavilion was discussed.   The police were involved and the broken window had been temporarily boarded up.   Boarding would be fitted internally and externally to secure the building.   The locks had been changed.  The police agreed to make additional evening visits to the recreation ground.   A contract has been signed for drawings for the new pavilion.

Bus shelter

There has been no progress in resolving the lighting issue at the bus shelter.

Annual Parish Meeting

The date for the 2010 Annual Parish Meeting was set as Thursday 29 April 2010.

Expenses

It was agreed on the proposal of Cllr Farrar, seconded by Cllr Howson, that the Parish Council publish annually on its notice boards and on its website, and offer for publication in the Stapleford Messenger, a statement for the period of the most recent local government year showing the total attendances of each Member of the Council at its meetings, compared with the number that each member was eligible to attend, and the total of expenses claimed by each member during the same period.   It was noted that District and County Councils publish annually the expenses claimed by each Member.   It was also agreed that an appropriate form be used to claim expenses.

Community Primary School

The statutory period of announcement for the formation of the Henry Morris Trust runs from 18 May to 22 June.   Since the School would then achieve Trust Status, thee was anxiety about the future of the Collier Recreation Ground.   The County Council is a trustee of this charity and enquiries are to be made there.

There are to be changes in the secretarial staffing with four part-time staff.   

Internal alterations to the building will improve security and access.   The Travel Planner will be issued to all families as part of Safer Routes to School.   Red Nose day raised £350.

Finance

Payment of invoices amounting to £2006.15 was approved.

£350 was given to support the 30th anniversary on 14th July of twinning with Villedômer in France.   £100 was given to the East Anglian Children's Hospice.

Since the Parish Council did not have a constitution, the Norwich and Peterborough Building Society would not provide an account for it.   An additional account would be opened instead with the Cambridge Building Society, so ensuring separation of the general accounts from the fund for the new pavilion.   LSG were reappointed as Internal Auditors.

The Magog Trust has been told about possible sharing of the cost of posts at the Downland.