Present: Cllrs Stutt, J.Turner, Hodgson, Bowers, Griffiths, Gledhill, Cooper & Johnson. Cty Cllr Rawlinson &
WPC Middleton

Apologies: Cllrs Judge, Holman & N.Turner. PCSO Sandra Brown

The Minutes of the meeting held 27th June 2007 were confirmed and signed as a correct record.

POLICE: Cllrs were informed that the Police have secured a push bike from Redrow Homes which will be used for patrols in the village and will be stored at the Community Centre. Work continues on establishing a "sub-station" in the village , possibly located in a building on the Church grounds. Cllrs were each issued with the current Police Newsletter a copy of which will be posted in the notice boards. WPC Middleton discussed the issues in the newsletter advising Cllrs of the targets for 2007/8 which included speeding in villages & anti-social behaviour.
WPC Middleton advised Cllrs of the new communication system "PACT" and informed them that cards and an explanation leaflet can be located at the Post Office.

TAAG: Cllr Bowers reported that she and Cllr Johnson had attended the previous TAAG meeting and discussed the topics raised. Cllrs were informed of TDC's requirement to allocate 24 traveller sites in the District. Cllr Bowers advised that TDC are querying the number of sites and also advised that there will be a public consultation exercise during which the PC will have the opportunity to take part.

FOOTPATHS: The Clerk advised Cllrs of DCC's Public Footpath Diversion Order 2007 for Footpath no 3 Winkleigh. A copy of the official notice will be posted in the notice board.

Vandalism: the Clerk reported to Cllrs on a complaint form the Post Office regarding
Vandalism to the bollard and paving stones outside the Post Office. The Clerk
informed Cllrs that she had reported the incident to DCC Highways who would
address the issue. WPC Middleton had already stated that she was aware of this
incident.

FIRE HYDRANTS: The Clerk reported that she had now received three maps from
the Fire Service identifying the locations of the Fire Hydrants in the village. A copy
had been issued to Cllr Cooper as the Emergency Plan representative.

WINKLEIGH STEERING GROUP: The Chairman reported on the most recent
meeting of the steering group advising that it had been held to discuss the wording of
the brief to consultants. The Chairman noted the attendance at the meeting of a Parish
Councillor and a member of the public who wished to address issues regarding
Gerrydown Business Park. The Chairman stated that he would e-mail Mr Briggs at
TDC again requesting a formal meeting with the Parish Council to discuss
Gerrydown as agreed at the last PC meeting.

2.7.7 Guest Speaker: County Councillor John Rawlinson

Cllr Rawlinson referred to the letter sent to him by the Clerk on behalf of Winkleigh Parish Council and addressed each item :

i) The hedge at Twonsend Hill : Cllr Rawlinson advised that this matter was in hand but that Sheri Henry was on leave. Cllr Bowers stated that she had been in communication with Sheri and had experienced difficulties getting hold of her, Cllr Rawlinson suggested a meeting between Sheri Henry and Parish Council reps.
ii) Flashing Signs on Townsend Hill: Cllr Rawlinson advised that this matter was in hand , that the lower sign is to be moved during the summer holidays and that automatic timers were to be installed. Cllr Rawlinson requested that the Parish Council keep him informed on this issue.
iii) Drain on A3124 between Sports Centre & Cemetery : Cllr Rawlinson said that the PC needed to clear their ditch before DCC could address their problems at this site. Cllr J.Turner said that there had been a site meeting with Sheri Henry and that it had been agreed that the PC will inform DCC with as much notice as possible of the date when the PC drain will be cleared and DCC will site visit at the same time.
iv) Contacting DCC: Cllr Rawlinson advised that the customer care line should be the first point of contact when reporting highways issues or alternatively e-mail northareahm@devon.gov.uk . Sheri Henry is the Highways Superintendent and will address the majority of issues.

Cllr Rawlinson reported to the PC on the application for Unitary Status for Exeter. Cllrs were advised that the Government had given an "amber light" and that financial security must be proven by September before Exeter could get approval. Cllr Rawlinson stated that the implication of Exeter becoming a unitary authority were huge and detailed some of the issues.

Cllr Rawlinson then took questions from Cllrs:

Cllr Hodgson queried the position with the Community Centre. Cllr Rawlinson responded that the new government report was awaited and that specific parts of this report could effect the position with negotiations for the Community Centre. Mr Rawlinson further stated that Winkleigh has a lot of support within DCC.

Cllr Rawlinson agreed to investigate the following issues : Speed restrictions to 20mph around the operational times of the school flashing lights, the start date for work on Clifford's Way and the S106 money to education from Redrow homes.

PUBLIC PERIOD

Mrs Miller addressed the Parish Council and requested that the following be formally recorded: In May of this year the PC had a full election and the community was asked to come out and vote which they did and 11 seats are now held. Winkleigh Fair is a long standing tradition of Winkleigh and the PC has always participated particularly with the Fair Opening. This year only two Cllrs attended the opening which is very disappointing.

Mr Wright addressed the PC in connection with the later agenda item regarding the Recycling Pavilion. Mr Wright stated that the site had become an eye-sore and that there was increasing incidents of illegal dumping and fly-tipping. Mr Wrights stated that the PC has stopped the arranged closure of the pavilion. Cllr Bowers responded that she had already explained to Mr Wright the reasons behind previous actions taken and stated that the matter was on the agenda tonight for the whole Council to fully discuss the issue as agreed at the June meeting.

Ms Mondy addressed the PC advising that the sight lines at the junction at Eggesford Road are vulnerable due to construction traffic from the development site and vehicles from the Garage parked past the sight line.

Mr Camilleir addressed the PC and asked that the PC ensure that the drains in the parish are checked and cleared regularly. He also advised that he was trying to get planning permission to locate a mobile office at the DCC compound on Winkleigh Airfield and that he has the support of DCC and Cty Cllr Rawlinson. Mr Camilleri advised that TDC would not support his application and that Cllr Rawlinson had suggested that he send a copy of his e-mail to all Parish Cllrs which Mr Camilleri was going to do.

A) Returned from TDC

a) 1/0584/2007/FUL: Proposed new bungalow, 58 Westoctts Drive, Winkleigh: APPROVED

B) New Applications

a) 1/0720/2007/FUL: Conversion of a block of 4 garages into additional facilities for residents - Little Acorns, Seckington Lane, Winkleigh : Cllr J.Turner proposed approve, 2nd Cllr Hodgson: voting: All in Favour: MOTION CARRIED: APPROVED

b) 1/0806/2007/FUL: Alteration/replacement of existing general purpose agricultural building, Honeymead, Clotworthy Farm, Winkleigh Cllr Hodgson declared an interest and left the meeting. Cllr J.Turner stated that he was mindful of the parking problems around this access and the junction into Hatherleigh Road with BT vans. Following discussions Cllr Turner proposed that the application be APPROVED but request that consideration be given to the need for the access on the south side is left for BT Vans to be parked in the interest of road safety - 2nd Cllr Cooper: voting 6 for, 0 against, 1 abstention: MOTION CARRIED.

4.7.7. FINANCE

It was proposed by Cllr J.Turner that the following invoices be approved for payment by the Parish Council:

TDC ( ¼ Road Sweeping) £ 587.50 Cheque 1198
A.Ware (1/4 Cemetery Maint + authorised repairs) £ 322.00 1199
N.Bullen ( Clerks Salary x 2 + expenses July) £ 876.42 1200
Winkleigh Community Centre ( Hire) £ 28.50 1201

2nd Cllr Hodgson: All in Favour: MOTION CARRIED.

5.7.7. Current business matters

a) Discussions on Clerks Reports
There were no discussions on the Clerks Reports

b) DCC Highways issues (07/07)
Cllr Bowers reported on the site meeting with Sheri Henry (DCC Highways Superintendent) and advised that all Cllrs had been issued with a report. Cllr Bowers stated that she was frustrated that there had been no response from Sheri Henry following the meeting. Cllr Cooper queried what had been agreed for the area outside the Kings Arms as recently an ambulance had experienced difficulties accessing the Square. It was agreed that as this was discussed during the site meeting, the PC must chase DCC for a response.
Cllr J.Turner reminded Cllrs that the PC must contact DCC when they are ready to address the ditch at the cemetery.

c) Winkleigh Cemetery (06/07)

1.Soil bunker: Cllr Hodgson reported that Cllrs had visited the site further to last months agreement. Cllr Gledhill raised a number of points including querying the requirement for a license to remove consecrated land from the cemetery. Cllr Gledhill stated that the PC should not be considering large expenditure on this project stating that a concrete base and formal sides are unnecessary. Cllr Hodgson responded that there needs to be control over the dumped soil and that accessibility and containment were essential further stating that historically a less formal system has proven itself unsuccessful. Cllr Hodgson said that he accepted that the costs originally raised may be too high and proposed that discussions as adjourned until he September meeting to allow investigations into alternative costs for a concrete base and block walled structure - 2nd Cllr J.Turner : voting 5 for, 2 against: MOTION CARRIED

2.The provision of grave markers : Discussions on this item were postponed until September

3.Annual Headstone inspection: Cllr Hodgson reported that the annual inspection of the Headstones in Winkleigh Cemetery was completed on 24/7/7. All monuments had been considered safe with no actions requiring attention.

Cllr J.Turner reported that there will soon be a need to cut some of the lower limbs from the boundary oak trees.

d) Parish Plan/Land Use (6)
The Chairman referred to the meeting of the Winkleigh Steering Group. Cllrs were advised that the PC were asked to appoint a nominee for the panel to select the Consultants for the production of the Development Brief for Winkleigh Airfield. Cllr J.Turner referred to the Chairman's earlier comments that the Development Brief will belong to TDC and said that he was concerned that the report could be slanted towards what TDC want for Winkleigh Airfield and not what Winkleigh PC wants adding that he still felt that the PC should be addressing the issues at Gerrydown Business Park as a priority.
Following discussions Cllr Bower proposed that Winkleigh Parish Council nominate the Chairman, Cllr Stutt, to stand on the panel - 2nd Cllr Hodgson: All in favour.

The Chairman asked for specific details to highlight during the process. Cllrs discussed a number of issues including querying how the consultants plan to get the views of the community and how they will communicate with the PC. The Chairman stated that the PC need to prepare themselves to ensure that the right things are addressed during the process. Cllr Bowers suggested that the PC await notification of the dates and arrange an extraordinary meeting to discuss.

Cllr Griffiths queried what was happening with the Parish Plan., Cllr Bowers suggested that an update be posted in the next addition of DW.

e) Recycling Pavilion (06/07)
Cllr Bowers gave an update on the situation with the recycling pavilion advising that TDC had contacted the PC and advised that they were going to close the pavilion. Cllr Bowers reported that she had advised TDC that the PC had not yet agreed to this further to their discussions at the June meeting and that the matter was on this agenda for discussion. The pavilion therefore remains on site. Cllr Bowers reported that there are incidents of illegal dumping and fly tipping but that this was a relatively new development as the pavilion has been at its current location for several years without this problem adding that she felt the first steps to be taken by the PC was to erect clear signs advising people of the correct use of the pavilion and advising of appropriate locations to take other recyclable and non recyclable items. Cllrs discussed at length. Cllr Hodgson stated that improved communication with TDC and South Molton Recycling would help alleviate some of the problems and proposed urgent discussions with the appropriate department at TDC - 2nd J.Turner: voting 6 for, 0 against, 1 abstention ( Cllr Gledhill) : MOTION CARRIED. Cllr Bowers further proposed that the pavilion remains for the time being & the PC erect notices advising of fines for fly-tipping and locations for appropriate places to deposit items and that this matter be looked at again at the October meeting : 2nd Cllr Hodgson: voting 5 for, 0 against, 1 abstention (Cllr Gledhill): MOTION CARRIED.

f) The Orchards (06/07)
The Chairman read out the letter received from Ms Skinner at TDC following written request for notification of outcome of meeting with the Legal Department. All Cllrs had been issued with a copy. Cllrs stated their disappointment with the handling of this planning application and were agreed that there was no further action could be taken at this time.

g) Cemetery Bungalow Sewerage
The Clerk reported that following the request for quotations for the sewerage pipe-work no quotes had been received. Cllr Johnson queried if there had been any reported problems from the Bungalow especially in light of the recent weather and was advised by the Clerk that there had not. Following discussions Cllr Hodgson proposed that the Clerk request further quotes for consideration at the September meeting - 2nd Cllr J.Turner: All in favour: MOTION CARRIED.

h) Parking on Exeter Road/A3124 junction ( 06/07)
Cllr N Turner was not at the meeting. This item was moved to the next agenda.

i) Litter bin provision ( 06/07)
Cllr Bowers informed Cllrs that she had completed the litter bin audit and reported on the results. Cllrs discussed and suggested the Clerk initially contact Andrew Ware regarding the concrete bin at the Ring 'o' Bells site. Cllr Johnson said that he had been approached by residents who had requested additional bins in the village. Cllr Johnson proposed that the PC cost the provision of 3 litter pickers and 3 pairs f protective gloves for local residents - 2nd Cllr Hodgson: All in favour: MOTION CARRIED. Cllr Johnson agreed to action.

j) Conservation (01/07)
Cllr Bowers reported on the site visit with TDC's Conservation Officer in connection with Castle Street and read out an e-mail received following the visit. Cllr Bowers proposed that the PC write to Peter Kemp in TDC's Legal Department highlighting the problems, referring to the original communications with TDC and the photographs taken by Mr Tucker - 2nd Cllr Cooper: All in favour: MOTION CARRIED.

k) Sewerage (09/07)
The Clerk read out the response received from South West Water regarding sewerage capacity in Winkleigh. Cllr Hodgson stated that SWW had not given the PC the information they had requested and that the PC still need to know the unit capacity of the new sewerage plant as it is very relevant to future planning issues and especially as we are about to embark on negotiations for the new Development Framework. Cllr Bowers proposed that the PC write again to SWW requesting a formal response to their original query enclosing copies of the original request and the response received : 2nd Cllr Hodgson: All in favour: MOTION CARRIED.

6.7.7 NEW BUSINESS

a) Communications (06/07)
Cllr Johnson suggest a parish council surgery in the community centre on a Wednesday when the market /coffee morning is held. Cllrs discussed but came to no formal agreement. Cllrs Johnson & Bowers said that they would attend.

b) Environment Agency Consultation Document (07/07)
Cllrs had all had the opportunity to comment on this document as it was circulated and all comments received were noted. Cllrs did not wish to discuss the document further and it was agreed to send off responses as received.

c) Defra Consultation on Rights of Way(07/07)
Cllrs had all had the opportunity to view the Defra communications. No Cllrs wished to discuss the matter further at the meeting. No action taken.

PUBLIC PERIOD II

7.7.7. LATE ITEMS AT THE CHAIRMAN'S DISCRETION

1. Cllr Holman had reported to the Clerk prior to the meeting that she was concerned about Japanese Knotweed at Carrion Pit Lane. Cllr J.Turner agreed to informally contact Mr Parker the Landowner.
2. Cllr Cooper queried the position with the children's play area. Cllr J.Turner reported that the unsafe equipment had been removed and that some funding has been secured for improvements.
3. Cllr Bowers requested that the PC write to the Fair Committee and thank them for their efforts for Fair week 2007.

There were a number of magazines and circulars for Cllrs to take.

There being no further matters to discuss the meeting was declared closed at 10.31pm.