Gilling West Parish Council Minutes of Meeting September 10th 2008
The Chairman Coun. Brian Metcalfe opened the meeting by thanking councilors for their work carried out since the last meeting.
New High Street footpath: The Chairman reported that the County Council Highways had improved white lines, but so far, nothing had been done to alter the kerb. Coun. Metcalfe will action this.
Hanson Quarry Lorries: Coun. Maureen Howarth reported that although there had been a reduction in complaints, she would seek assurances from the quarry operator that measures to utilize the upgraded A66 agreed to be put in place with their drivers, were being adhered to and maintained.
War Memorial: The Clerk reported that Pickard’s had promised refurbishment work would be undertaken in the very near future and she would continue to press for this.
Village roadside nameplates: Coun. David Allison reported on cleaning and improvement of existing nameplates, but stated that the Forcett Lane sign needed replacing - the Clerk undertook to order this.
Overhanging branches-trees near bowling green: Trees require heavy pruning. Coun. Allison undertook to establish what work is required to resolve this.
29 Bus Service to Richmond & Darlington: Letters of complaint had been received about buses not turning up and this would be taken up with the operator.
Bus Shelter Footpath map: The map displayed is in need of replacing and a new frame is required. An estimate will be sought from Mr. M. Stafford.
Richmond East Area Meeting: will be held on Wed. 12th November.
Temporary closure of public bridleway: As a safety precaution, the bridleway at Hartforth is temporarily closed.
The Big Tidy Up 2008: Richmondshire District Council is involved in the country’s biggest ever litter tidy up, during September.
BT Payphone Removals Programme: Public payphone removals discussed.
Dog Warden Services: to be changed in relation to stray dogs.
Christmas festivities: Unanimously agreed to order a tree approximately 20 feet high from the Zetland Estates. Coun. Michael Gauntlett will compare features and prices for the purchase of new tree lights.
CE Electric UK: A Priority Services Register is to be established, giving priority to their most vulnerable customers in the community and those most affected in the event of a power failure. This is particularly important for the elderly, infirm, those medically dependent on electricity such as those with dialysis and others in danger through loss of power. Customers on the register will be given priority and every assistance possible. Coun. Howarth undertook to assist in developing a register, over time, for this village and to liaise with CE Electric staff to widen the message for inclusion on the register.
Any other Business:
1) The Chairman thanked Coun. Allison for the excellent remedial work on the Beck, carried out in conjunction with the Environment Authority. A full report including photographs produced on the 6th September flood, were also most helpful.
Sincere thanks were expressed to all farmers, especially Paul Bradley, for drainage work carried out, which alleviated the situation this year.
A meeting with Mr. John Cronin relating to garden and other matters concerned with clearing of the third arch of the bridge were discussed.
Coun. Allison proposed that to direct water flow through the fields, two further holes be put into the Cricket Field wall and also suggested improvements to drainage at Sedbury Lane and Ewdon House.
RDC to be contacted by Coun. Howarth to ensure the regular maintenance/-clearing programme of ditches and drains is sustained.
Coun. William Heslop stated that to prevent flooding, he had cleared the old drain on Mr. H. Bird’s land to the rear of High Street properties.
The Clerk will write to the Fire and Rescue Authority, thanking them warmly, for their support and help during the recent floods.
2) Music Live Evening: The Chairman stated that complaints had been received on both the level and hours of music, during the latest event. It is hoped to resolve this for another year.
3) Recycling: Coun. Heslop reported on recycling matters and the developing liaison of RDC with Hambleton District Council.
4)Coun. Allison reported that the Goal posts in the play area need replacing. Action by Garry Hudson.
5) Pumping Station: The screening hedge needs trimming. Coun. Heslop will request Paul Bradley first, and if not, Mac Plant to carry out the work.
6) Clerk’s Retirement: To assist in succession planning, a suitable job specification needs to be developed, prior to the post being advertised. Pending the resignation of Sheila Hillary, she very kindly agreed to contribute to this process. It was resolved that the Clerk be given time to reach her decision on timing, after 44 years supporting this Parish Council.
The next meeting will be on Wednesday 3rd December in the John Ross Suite, at 7.30 p.m.