Wellington Town Council planning minutes October 2006

Minutes of the 114th planning meeting of Wellington Town Council held in the United Reformed Church Hall in Fore Street, Wellington on Monday, 2nd October 2006 at 6pm

PRESENT: Councillor D. Mitton (chairman), who presided, Councillor P. Critchard (vice-chairman), Councillors Mrs G. Copley, Mrs V. Stock-Williams, Councillors A. Govier, G. James, S. Palmer and E. Warren, and the clerk A. Brown, the assistant to the clerk Mrs J. Thorne, and Taunton DBC planning officer Mr A. Pick. There were apologies from Councillors V. Byrne, R. Henley, C. Hindley, N. Wilson. There were 2 members of the public present.

13964 REFUSED PLANNING APPLICATION
The town council received details of applications for planning permission to be determined in accordance with the delegation agreement with Taunton Deane Borough Council of 9th September 1996 and it was resolved to REFUSE planning permission for the following application: (a) Erection of a two storey extension at 35 Blackmoor Road, Wellington (43/2006/088 because the development, by reason of its poor design, appearance and detailing, would appear an incongruous and discordant addition, which would detract from the character and appearance of the dwelling and cause demonstrable harm to the street scene. Members received a copy of the report of the planning officer recommending refusal. A letter was received from Mrs R. Barrett, of 34 Blackmoor Road, stating she had no objections in principle but that the extension would come right up to her land. Mr Pick stated that the primary issue was the proposed flat roof of the extension: if a pitch roof was provided the plan would be approved. Standing orders were suspended to allow the applicant, Mr J. Baker to speak. The extension was to provide a modest amount of accommodation for his son. Much of the extension would be hidden from view by trees at the front of his house. There was a similar flat roof extension just 150 yards away and seven other flat roof extensions in close proximity. He did not consider the extension would adversely affect the street scene. Councillor Critchard proposed, with Councillor Copley seconding, that the application should be approved but the proposal was defeated by 4 votes to 3. A proposal by Councillor Stock-Williams, seconded by Councillor Govier, that the application should be refused by carried 4-3 with 1 abstention.

13965 COMMENTS TO TAUNTON DBC ON PLANNING APPLICATIONS
It was agreed to inform Taunton DBC that the town council was in favour of the following plans: (a) Erection of a dwelling on land adjacent to Oakhill, Pyles Thorne Road, Wellington, revised design for 43/2005/143 (43/2006/119) providing there is no objection on highway grounds and providing there is no undue overlooking or loss of privacy for neighbours. The clerk reported that the revisions were the provision of 2 additional dormer windows which the Deane planners were quite happy about. The previous application in January 2006 had been supported by the town council subject to the highway and overlooking conditions.

13966 COMMENTS TO SOMERSET COUNTY COUNCIL ON PLANS
It was agreed to inform Somerset County Council that the town council was in favour of the following plans: (a) Proposed provision of a new 5-bay Elliott nursery unit at Wellesley Park Primary School, Homefield, Wellington (43/2006/109: Councillor Govier declared an interest as a county councillor); (b) Change of use from residential to a children’s home (for two children and two carers) at 4 Corams Lane, Wellington (43/2006/122. The clerk reported that the house was the former headmaster’s house of Corams Lane School but was now part of the Adult Learning and Leisure Complex. Councillor Warren proposed that the application should be deferred until the next meeting as it had only just been received and there were no comments from the Deane planning officers. The clerk stated that comments had to be in by 20th October and that the county council had stated that the 6th November would be too late. There was no seconder for Councillor Warren’s proposal. Councillor James proposed, with Councillor Govier seconding, that the town council should approve the application and this was carried with Councillor Warren voting against. Councillor Palmer declared an interest as a county council employee working closely with the children’s unit and Councillor Govier declared an interest as a county councillor.

13967 DEFERRED APPLICATION: 58-60 MANTLE STREET
The clerk reported that an application had been received that day for the demolition of a car showroom and first floor flat and 2 workshops to the rear at 58-60 Mantle Street, Wellington (43/2006/113CA). It was a revised scheme of the one which the town council had approved earlier this year. The main difference was that there would be a gap between the houses fronting Mantle Street with a new road leading to the proposed 12 dwellings to the rear (6 two bedroom flats, 4 town houses and 2 mews cottages). The garage showroom would be demolished and a new 2 bedroom house built adjoining 62 Mantle Street. The Deane, who had refused the previous plan, were now happy to have a gap in the street frontage whereas previously they wanted a continuous frontage with the new development accessed through an archway. The conservation area application had only been received that morning but had been included on the agenda to keep councillors informed of the latest developments. He recommended that the application should be deferred until the November meeting by which time the actual planning application should have been received. Mr Malcolm Turner, of Turner Holden, for the applicants, was happy for the application to be deferred until the November meeting on 6th November when he would attend. It was agreed to defer consideration of the plan until the November meeting.

THE MEETING CLOSED AT 6.25PM

Wellington Town Council minutes October 2006

Minutes of the meeting of Wellington Town Council held in the United Reformed Church Hall in Fore Street, Wellington on Monday, 2nd October 2006 at 7pm.
PRESENT: Councillor D. Mitton (chairman), who presided, Councillor P. Critchard (vice-chairman), Councillors Mrs C. Biscoe, who arrived at 7.11pm, Mrs G. Copley and Mrs V. Stock-Williams, Councillors R. Bowrah, A. Govier, G. James, S. Palmer and E. Warren, and the clerk A. Brown and the assistant to the clerk Mrs J. Thorne. There were apologies from Councillors V. Byrne, R. Henley, C. Hindley and N. Wilson. There were 4 members of the public present.

13968 CHAIRMAN’S ANNOUNCEMENTS
The chairman, Councillor D. Mitton reported that during September he had attended on behalf of the council the presentation of the Queen’s Award for enterprise and innovation to Fox Bros and two charity fund raising events organised by the chairman of Somerset County Council. The vice chairman Councillor P. Critchard had presented a cheque for £700 as a grant from the town council to Wellington Carnival Committee and had attended the celebrations to mark the centenary of Wellington Commmunity Centre. Councillor Govier thanked all who had arranged the food and other activities at the centenary event. The chairman also referred to the impending publication of the Government White Paper on the future of Local Government which was due out in November/December this year.

13969 POLICE MATTERS
In the absence of Sgt Doc Nurse, the monthly police report was presented by PC Nick Feetenby, who stated that during September there had been 65 crimes reported to the police for the Wellington area which included Wiveliscombe, Milverton and the surrounding villages. There had been one town centre domestic burglary and a distraction burglary at West Buckland where a bogus plumber claimed to be checking taps while an accomplice opened the back door. There had been 4 burglaries from industrial areas including Bagley Road, plus 4 thefts from motor vehicles (2 of which were not locked at all) in the Co-op and Vintage car parks. There had been no theft of motor vehicles. A person in Howard Road had been arrested for possessing cannabis. There had been no night time assaults which showed that Pubwatch was effective: 3 people had been banned from local pubs. There had been some arrests for disorder in the town centre to nip it in the bud before it became more serious. The Shopwatch scheme linking shops to the police was proving successful. Two men, who were seen acting suspiciously and carrying heavy bags had been arrested and found to have stolen lead from the roofs at the rear of Cloud 9 in Fore Street. No arrests had been made during the Wellington carnival which had been successful with no issues of public disorder. The police had seized much alcohol from youths and had poured it away. Councillor Bowrah thanked the police and the “specials for the excellent job they had carried out on carnival night. The chairman thanked PC Feetenby for attending and his report.

13970 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION TIME: WELLINGTON IN BLOOM
Mrs Isobel Ward, the chairman of Wellington in Bloom Committee, reported that Wellington had not won the trophy for the best medium sized floral town in the West this year but had come second, winning a silver gilt award which was the standard down from a gold. She circulated to members the feedback sheets from the Bloom judges and invited members to the awards evening on 13th October 2006 at 6.30pm.

13971 PPT: CENTENARY OF WELLINGTON COMMUNITY CENTRE
Mr Ken Winhall, the secretary of Wellington Community Centre, thanked all who had supported the centre’s centenary celebrations on Sunday, 1st October 2006.

13972 MINUTES OF SEPTEMBER COUNCIL MEETINGS
The minutes of the council meetings held on 4th September 2006, as previously circulated to councillors, were received, taken as read and confirmed as correct.

13973 LUDLOW VISIT AND CITTASLOW MOVEMENT
With reference to minutes 139l58 and 13959 a detailed report (attached to these minutes) was received from Councillor Mitton on a weekend visit to Ludlow food town made by Councillor Stock-Williams and the chairman with officers and councillors from Taunton DBC and members of Wellington Economic Partnership. He stressed that the involvement of the community was necessary for a successful food town and that registering an expression of interest in Cittaslow did not commit the council. He suggested that representatives from Cittaslow UK should be invited to invited to explain the movement at a council/public meeting and this was agreed. It was reported that the Wellington food festival would be held in a marquee in the Conservative Club car park on Saturday, 2nd December.

13974 BETH ROWLEY GRANT REQUEST
A letter was received from Beth Rowley, of All Saints’ Vicarage, 62 Rockwell Green, asking the town council to consider making a donation towards the £3,000 costs of her “GAP project” as a teacher in Malawi. On the proposition of Councillor James, seconded by Councillor Govier, it was agreed to make a grant of £200 and to ask her for a report on the project on her return.

13975 RENTS OF BASINS ALLOTMENTS
A report was received from the clerk suggesting that the council should consider increasing the rents of the allotments at the Basins, pointing out that there had been expenditure of £1,440 and income of only £461 during the past year. More expense was likely for fencing and turning an overgrown area near the entrance into additional allotments during the coming year. On the proposition of Councillor Warren, seconded by Councillor Stock-Williams, it was agreed that with effect from 1st January 2007 the rents of the large plots should be increased from £10 to £12 and that the rents of the smaller plots should be increased from £6 to £7.

COUNCILLOR BOWRAH LEFT THE MEETING HERE AT 7.38PM

13976 RESIGNATION OF COUNCILLOR HORSMAN
A letter was received from Councillor A. Horsman resigning as a councillor for Wellington West ward with effect from 13th September 2006 because of his move to live in Taunton. A councillor since May 2003, he thanked fellow members and the clerk for their support during his time on the council and wished the town council and the community continued success and prosperity. The chairman thanked Councillor Horsman for his services on the town council and stated that he would be sorely missed. The clerk reported that a casual vacancy had been declared and that the closing date for a request from 10 electors in the West ward for a by-election to fill the vacancy was Wednesday, 11th October 2006, otherwise it would be filled by the council by co-option. If there was an election it would be held not later than 7th December 2006.

13977 MEMBERSHIP OF WELLINGTON ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP
It was agreed to elect Councillor Mitton as a town council representative on Wellington Economic Partnership in place of Councillor Horsman.

13978 FOOTPATH AND TONE PLAY AREA MAINTENANCE GRANTS
With reference to minute 13476 the clerk reported that footpath grants of £1,540 and Tone play area maintenance grants of £735 had been received from Taunton Deane Borough Council, the same amounts as for 2005.. The report was noted.

13979 HERITAGE OPEN DAYS LEAFLET
With reference to minute 13941 a letter was received from Taunton DBC stating that forms and letters about Heritage Open Days had been sent to Wellington Museum and local churches but nothing had been heard back. The letter was noted.

13980 BUCKWELL-SCOTTS LANE FOOTPATH STOPPING-UP
With reference to minute 13948 a letter was received from Somerset County Council stating that because of the large number of objections received, the proposed stopping up of part of the Buckwell-Scotts Lane footpath would not be proceeding. The letter was noted.

13981 DIRECTION SIGNS FOR ARTS CENTRE AND CINEMA
With reference to minute 13944 an email was received from Mr Ian Titcombe, of Somerset Highways, stating that Wellington Arts Centre and the Wellesley Theatre did not met the criteria for the provision of tourism signing. He suggested that finger posts similar to those in Taunton High Street and near the entrance to Wellington Park might be suitable. It was agreed to contact Taunton DBC to find out the cost.

13982 BULFORD LANE RESTRICTED WIDTH SIGNS
With reference to minute 13955 an email was received from Mr Titcombe stating that the restricted width signs for Bulford Lane had been ordered and should be in place within the next three months. The letter was noted.

13983 MANTLE STREET SPEED SIGN
With reference to minute 13940 an email was received from Mr Titcombe stating that he could not provide a permanent electronic flashing sign for Mantle Street as these were only provided at specific accident sites. However he would arrange for a speed visor sign to be provided. This was an electronic matrix sign which would show speeds up to 45mph and record the speeds. It did not record higher speeds as that encouraged boy racers as experience elsewhere had shown. The sign would be kept in place for 5 days from Monday to Friday: past experience had shown that such signs were often vandalised over weekends. The letter was noted.

13984 TALKING TOMORROW’S TAUNTON DEANE
With reference to minute 13757 a letter was received from Taunton DBC enclosing a copy of the summary of consultation responses and stating that the town council would have more opportunities to put forward its views on the preparation of the Community Strategy and Local Development Framework. The letter was noted.

13985 QUOTE FOR ERECTION OF CHRISTMAS LIGHTS
With reference to minute 13512 a quote of £6,521.82 was received from Deane DLO for the erection and subsequent removal of the town council’s Christmas decorations for High Street, South Street, North Street, Fore Street, Mantle Street and Rockwell Green. On the proposition of Councillor Warren, seconded by Councillor Critchard, it was agreed to accept the quote (the cost in 2005 was £5,956.13). The clerk reported that the switch on of the lights would be on Friday, 1st December 2006 at 7pm.

13986 WELLINGTON SCOUTS GRANT REQUEST
With reference to minute 13945 a letter of thanks was received from Wellington Scouts for the grant of £400 towards the cost of attending the World Scout Jamboree. The letter was noted.

13987 CCTV CAMERA IN LANCER COURT
With reference to minute 13932 the clerk reported that a new CCTV camera had been installed in Lancer Court and was working satisfactorily. The report was noted.

13988 REMEMBRANCE SERVICES
A letter was received from the Wellington branch of the Royal British Legion inviting the chairman and councillors to attend the Field of Remembrance service at Wellington Baptist Church on Sunday, 5th November at 11.45am, the 2 Minutes Silence Service in the town centre on Saturday, 11th November at 11am, and the Remembrance Day Service and Poppy Laying Ceremony in Wellington Park on Sunday, 12th November at 3.15pm. The letter was noted.

13989 WELLINGTON ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP
With reference to minute 13958 a report was received from Mrs J. Thorne, assistant to the clerk, on the meeting of Wellington Economic Partnership held on 18th September 2006. This stated that the WEP had agreed to support the proposed Wellington postcard co-operative; that the date of the proposed Wellington Food Expo had been changed from 21st September to 2nd December to avoid a clash with the monthly Wellington Farmers Market; that a successful visit had been made to Ludlow; that it had been agreed to set up an executive group (Councillors A. Govier and D. Mitton and Messrs D. King and J. Pragnell) to support the food town initiative; that it had been agreed to set up a task and finish group to push forward the future development of Cornhill; and that it had been agreed to invite a representative from the Blackdown Hills Leader Plus Organisation to serve on the food town steering group. The date for the next WEP meeting was Monday, 13th November 2006 at 6pm. Report was noted.

13990 MARKET AND COASTAL TOWNS ASSOCIATION
The chairman reported that he and Councillor Stock-Williams and other members of Wellington Economic Partnership had had a meeting with the director of the Market and Coastal Towns Association on 19th September 2006 and as a result had registered an interest in the participation of Wellington in the Market and Coastal Towns Initiative. The register of interest had to be received by the association by 29th September and if Wellington was to take part in the initiative a formal application had to be made before the end of November 2006. The MCTA, a new and independent organisation which supported the development of vibrant, healthy and sustainable market and coastal towns across the South West, would only include 10 new towns in its 2007 programme. He recommended that the town council supported the registration of interest and took part in the application process. This was agreed.

13991 PLANNING DECISIONS BY TAUNTON DBC
The clerk reported that Taunton Deane Borough Council had approved the following plans: (a) Conversion of integral garage to habitable accommodation and construction of canopy on front elevation at 18 Immenstadt Drive, Wellington (43/2006/097: delegated decision); (b) Erection of single storey extension at 40 Blackdown Road, Rockwell Green, Wellington (43/2006.099: delegated decision); (c) Erection of extension to 43 Sylvan Road, Wellington as amended by applicants letter dated 9th September 2006 and drawing No. D03 (43/2006/101: delegated decision); (d) Conversion of public house into 3 dwellings, demolition of skittle alley and other outbuildings and erection of 3 dwellings at the Three Cups, 32-34 Fore Street, Wellington (43/2006/012); (e) Erection of dwelling on land at the rear of 36 Rockwell Green, Wellington as amended by agents letter dated 28th June 2006 and accompanying drawing No. 1316/06.1 issue 2 (43/2006/039); (f) Erection of two storey extension to rear and porch to front at 10 Stoneleigh, Tonedale, Wellington (43/2006/092: delegated decision); (g) Erection of single storey extension at 27 Sylvan Road, Wellington (43/2006/095: delegated decision); (h) Conversion of offices to one 2 bedroom terraced house, two 1 bedroom flats and two 2 bedroom flats at 5 and 6 White Hart Lane, Wellington revised scheme of 43/2005/102 as amended by plans received 4th August 2006 (43/2006/081); (i) Installation of 15m shared floodlight/telecommunications lattice mast in place of existing 15m floodlighting pole, mounted antenna and transmission dish (resulting in overall height of 17.5m) with associated equipment cabinets at ground level at Wellington Rugby Football Club, Corams Lane, Wellington (43/2006/096); (j) Retention of shed to rear of 17 Gillards Close, Rockwell Green, Wellington as amended by applicants letter dated 2nd September 2006 and accompanying drawing (43/2006/089); (k) Erection of block of four garages to rear of 1, 2, 3 and 5 Cleve Flats, Mantle Street, Wellington (43/2006/078: delegated decision); (l) Erection of dwelling and refurbishment of existing accommodation to form two dwellings at 15a Fore Street, Wellington as amended by drawing 23/09/06P/B and email received 25th September 2006 (43/2006/075).

13992 PLANNING DECISIONS BY COUNTY COUNCIL
The clerk reported that Somerset County Council had approved the following plans: (a) Proposed prefabricated children’s centre and new footpath at Beech Grove Primary School, Courtland Road, Wellington (43/2006/087).

13993 COUNCIL INCOME/EXPENDITURE TO 30TH SEPTEMBER 2006
A report was received from the clerk showing that the council’s income for the period from 1st April 2006 to 30th September 2006 was £84,931 (£122,249 estimated for the full year to 31st March 2007) and that expenditure for the same period was £48,448 (£143,150 estimated for the full year to 31st March 2007). The report was noted.

13994 ACCOUNTS FOR PAYMENT
On the proposition of Councillor Critchard, seconded by Councillor Stock-Williams, it was agreed to authorise the payment of the following accounts and the signing of the following cheques: St John’s Primary School £369.80 for school crossing patrol for Summer term 2006; Hinewood Cleaning Service £48 for town centre bus shelter cleaning and office window cleaning for August 2006; Wireless CCTV £13.70 for telephone calls for CCTV; Taunton Deane Borough Council £250 for museum rent for quarter from 1/10/06 to 31/12/06; Mr T. Parkman £250 for cutting hedges and keeping paths tidy at Basins allotments during 2006; Taunton Deane Community Transport Ltd £164 for subsidised patient transport to Musgrove Hospital, Taunton during August 2006; Inland Revenue £665.35; Mr A. Brown £100 petty cash; Mrs J. Thorne £72.48 for additional hours of work during September 2006; Eden Foods £240 for carnival reception buffet; Wine and Cheese Shop £95.01 for drinks for carnival reception buffet.

13995 PAPERS, REPORTS, NEWSLETTERS ETC
The clerk reported that the following reports, newsletters etc had been received and were available for members to read if they wished: What’s On in Taunton Deane leaflet for October 2006; Tree Council letter about National Tree Week (22 November to 3 December); NALC direct information service bulletin No. 640; September and October issue of Lillebonne Town Council’s municipal magazine; The Clerk magazine for September 2006.

THE MEETING CLOSED AT 8.06PM

Wellington Town Council minutes September 2006

Minutes of the meeting of Wellington Town Council held in the United Reformed Church Hall in Fore Street, Wellington on Monday, 4th September 2006 at 7pm.

PRESENT: Councillor D. Mitton (chairman), who presided, Councillor P. Critchard (vice-chairman), Councillors Mrs V. Byrne, Mrs G. Copley and Mrs V. Stock-Williams, Councillors R. Bowrah, R. Henley, C. Hindley, A. Govier, G. James, S. Palmer and E. Warren, and the clerk A. Brown and the assistant to the clerk Mrs J. Thorne. There were apologies from Councillors A. Horsman and N. Wilson. There were 10 members of the public present.

13936 DEATH OF FORMER COUNCILLOR VAL BUISSINK
Councillors stood in silent tribute in memory of former councillor Mrs Val Buissink, who was a town councillor from 1995 to 1999, who died on 21st August 2006 and whose funeral took place on 4th September 2006, attended by Councillors C. Hindley and A. Govier. The chairman said Mrs Buissink had been a battling councillor who had taken up many issues and who had contributed much to the civic life of the town.

13937 CHAIRMAN’S ANNOUNCEMENTS
The chairman, Councillor D. Mitton reported that he had represented the council at a number of functions during the past month, including the unveiling of a plaque at Wellington Sports Centre in memory of the late town and Deane councillor Maurice Jennings, the presentation of council grant cheques to Taunton CAB and Skintight Samba Band, and Wellington Flower Show, which demonstrated that there was a lot of talent within Wellington. He and the clerk had an interesting meeting with town and parish councillors from West Sussex who had visited Wellington to find out about the delegated planning scheme which the town council had with Taunton Deane Borough Council.

13938 PRESENTATION OF PLAQUE TO JAMES HOOPER WHO CLIMBED MOUNT EVEREST
The chairman, Councillor D. Mitton presented a plaque to James Hooper, from Wellington, who is the second youngest Briton to climb Mount Everest, on behalf of the town council in recognition of his great achievement on 19th May 2006 at the age of 19 years and 28 days. He wished him well for his further adventures.

13939 POLICE MATTERS
Sgt Doc Nurse reported that volume crime had been relatively low in August, with 1 domestic burglary which had been a distraction burglary by bogus water board officials at an elderly resident’s house in Rookery Terrace; 3 commercial burglaries – at a pub for which a man had been arrested, at the Co-op supermarket and a Fore Street shop; 3 thefts from cars: there had been a spate of such thefts at the end of July and when a juvenile had been arrested for criminal damage a number of stolen car stereos were found when his home had been searched; 3 bikes, all left unlocked, had been stolen and 1 car stolen: a family member of the victim had been charged with theft. The pubwatch scheme was still running with monthly meetings: 3 people had been banned from local pubs for 12 months. He was looking at police shifts to see if more and later police cover could be provided on Friday and Saturday evenings. Councillor Bowrah welcome the possibility of extra police hours on Fridays and Saturdays. Councillor Byrne drew attention to anti-social problems caused at St John’s Churchyard by some youngsters and Sgt Nurse urged the public to ring the police when problems occurred: the police would try to respond as quickly as possible. Councillor Henley expressed concerns that the Kings Arms pub was seeking an extension of its late night licence from 2am to 3am on Fridays and Saturdays.
Sgt Nurse replied that there had been discussions about the application: the Kings Arms had licensed door staff from 9pmon Fridays and Saturdays and the police were working with them to provide support for the door staff to try to minimise the amount of violence. In reply to Councillor Henley, he stated that quite a lot of alcohol had been confiscated from youngsters on the streets. He was thanked for his attendance.

13940 LETTER FROM MR AND MRS M. BURN ASKING FOR SPEED CAMERAS TO BE INSTALLED IN MANTLE STREET
A letter from Mr and Mrs Burn of 1 Trinity Close, Wellington, asking for speed cameras to be installed in Mantle Street following a recent accident was considered by councillors. Sgt Nurse was asked for his comments and he told councillors that often the cause of accidents was due to driver error or hazards in the road rather than speeding. He said the highways authority collated all the information from accidents and it was then decided what was the best way forward but the fact there was not a speed camera there suggested it was not an accident blackspot. Councillors also considered an email from Ian Titcombe of Somerset Highways, who said there were no plans for traffic calming in Mantle Street and the on-street parking was necessary and had a traffic calming effect. It was agreed to contact the highways authority and suggest the installation of an electronic flashing sign warning drivers to slow down.

13941 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION TIME:HERITAGE OPEN DAYS LEAFLET
Mrs Isabel Ward, the chairman of Wellington in Bloom Committee, told members she was disappointed to find Wellington had not been included on Taunton DBC Heritage Open Days leaflet. Members agreed to contact Mr David McCubbin in the tourism department of Taunton DBC to find out which organisations had been contacted about the leaflet in Wellington.

13942 PPT: FRIENDS OF WELLINGTON PARK
Mrs Pauline Sturgess, the chairman of Friends of Wellington, reported that their summer season had finished and that there had been an average attendance of 150 each Sunday and that they were now working on their programme for 2007. They tried to have new faces each year and also young people as well as the big bands. They were always willing to listen to new ideas for entertainment. It was hoped to have a big evening performance during the summer and two Winter events, at Tonedale House and to celebrate the Chinese New Year in February. It had been a successful year. The chairman commented that the Sunday music in the Park provided a wonderful and relaxing afternoon. Councillor Copley congratulated Mrs Ward and Mrs Sturgess and their supporters on their excellent work during the year.

13943 MINUTES OF AUGUST COUNCIL MEETINGS
The minutes of the council meetings held on 7th August 2006, as previously circulated to councillors, were received, taken as read and confirmed as correct.

13944 DIRECTION SIGNS FOR ARTS CENTRE AND CINEMA
With reference to minute 13923 consideration was given to a letter from Wellington Arts Association asking for the town council’s support for the erection of direction signs for the arts centre in Eight Acre Lane and the Wellesley Cinema in Mantle Street. On the suggestion of Councillor Govier it was agreed to have a comprehensive look at signs in the town with Mr Ian Titcombe, of Somerset Highways.

13945 GRANT REQUEST FROM WELLINGTON SCOUTS
A letter was received from four Wellington Scouts, Jennifer Altria, James Dadd, David Weaver and Sam Pope asking the town council to consider giving financial support for their attendance at the World Scout Jamboree in England in 2007, the total cost of which was £4,200 which included a subsidy for Scouts attending from poorer nations. So far £1,800 had been raised. The recommendation from the Finance Committee was £100 for each Scout. On the proposition of Councillor Bowrah, seconded by Councillor James, it was agreed to make a grant of £100 for each Scout attending, up to a maximum of £400 and to ask for a post-Jamboree report.

13946 WELLINGTON AND AREA COMMUNITY STRATEGY 2006-2010
Consideration was given to setting up a working party of councillors to examine in detail the Wellington and Area Community Strategy 2006-2010 prepared by Taunton Deane Local Strategic Partnership. It was agreed that Councillors Copley, Govier, Mitton and Wilson should be the working party to report back to the council.

13947 NEW NURSERY UNIT AT WELLESLEY PARK SCHOOL
With reference to minute 13888 a letter was received from Somerset County Council stating that the planning application for the siting of a new nursery unit at Wellesley Park Primary School had been withdrawn. Councillor Govier reported that a re-drawn plan was likely to be submitted in the near future. The report was noted.

13948 BUCKWELL-SCOTTS LANE FOOTPATH STOPPING-UP
With reference to minute 13922 a letter was received from the county council stating that the town council’s objection to the proposed stopping up of part of the Buckwell to Scotts Lane public footpath had been noted. The letter was noted.

13949 COMMUNITY SPEED WATCH
With reference to minute 13907 the clerk reported that he and Councillors Mitton and Palmer had carried out a speed check at the new site at Tone on 16th August 2006 when 4 motorists had been reported for exceeding the 30mph (38-43mph). The majority of cars had been within the limit. The report was noted.

13950 TAUNTON CAB GRANT
With reference to minute 13869a letter of thanks was received from Taunton and District CAB for the town council grant of £1,200. The letter was noted.

13951 REDEVELOPMENT OF FORMER ADVANCE BITUMEN FACTORY
With reference to minute 13882 it was reported that a pre-exhibition briefing would be held for councillors at 1.45pm on 12th September 2006 at Rockwell Green Christian Centre about the proposed redevelopment of the former Advance Bitumen factory at Westford. A public exhibition would run from 2.30pm to 8pm on the same day. The report was noted.

COUNCILLOR BOWRAH LEFT THE MEETING HERE AT 8.04PM

13952 FUTURE USE OF TOWN COUNCIL OFFICES
With reference to minute 13839 Councillor Henley referred to a report by Taunton DBC for its review board meeting on 7th September 2006 which stated that the cost of £45,000 for a lift at 28 Fore Street was not the best value for money and that the search should continue for suitable alternative premises with the present arrangements of the town council meeting in the URC Church continuing. After some discussion Councillor Warren proposed, with Councillor Copley seconding, that a letter should be sent to Taunton DBC stating that the town council wanted to make it clear that it still felt that the best option is for improvements to be carried out to 28-30 Fore Street to meet reasonable disability access requirements; that the chances of finding suitable alternative premises in a town centre location are extremely remote and that the present situation is likely to drag on unresolved for some years which is not satisfactory. The proposal was carried 7-0 with 5 abstentions.

COUNCILLOR HENLEY LEFT THE MEETING HERE AT 8.17PM

13953 AUDIT OF COUNCIL’S ACCOUNTS FOR 2005-2006
With reference to minute 13778 members received a copy of the report of the external auditors Moore Stephens which stated that the town council’s accounts for 2005-2006 were all in order. The report was noted.

13954 TOWN CENTRE RETAIL SURVEY FOR 2006
A report was received from Taunton DBC about the Wellington Town Centre Retail Survey which provides a detailed assessment of shopping provision with Wellington town centre during the summer of 2006. Members also received a copy of the retail area changes in the last 12 months. The report was noted.

13955 BULFORD LANE WIDTH SIGNS
An email was received from Mr Ian Titcombe, of Somerset Highways, stating that there had been traffic problems/incidents caused by wide vehicles using the narrow Bulford Lane and asking if the town council would support the proposed erection of advisory width signs at both ends of Bulford Lane. On the proposition of Councillor Byrne, seconded by Councillor Critchard, it was agreed to support the erection of the advisory width signs.

13956 FREE CHRISTMAS PARKING
An e-mail was received from Mr Jon Pallett, Taunton DBC car parks manager, confirming that free parking would be available in Wellington at the South Street, North Street and Longforth Road car parks on the four Saturdays prior to Christmas, namely 2nd, 9th, 16th and 23rd December 2006. The letter was noted.

13957 PLAQUE FOR LATE COUNCILLOR MAURICE JENNINGS
With reference to 13911 a letter was received from Mrs Margaret Jennings thanking the town council and Taunton DBC for the plaque erected at Wellington Sports Centre to commemorate the work of the late Councillor Maurice Jennings over the provision of the sports centre. The letter was noted.

13958 WELLINGTON ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP
With reference to minute 13926 a detailed report was received from Mrs J. Thorne, the assistant to the clerk, on the WEP meeting held on 17th August 2006 when it was stated that 37 shops had agreed to join the Wellington Chamber of Trade free parking scheme; that more than 60 local retail, farm produce, processors and farmers had attended two successful private sector events to launch Wellington Food Town; that a one-day Food Expo would be held on 21st October; that the aims of the Cittaslow Movement had been outlined with a recommendation that the town council should seek membership; a Food Town Steering Group had been approved with its first meeting planned for 30th August; that a food town newsletter had been produced and distributed to local food producers; that a fact finding visit to Ludlow had been organised for 8th-9th September; that the WEP should submit a completed expression of interest form to the Market and Coastal Towns Initiative; and that a presentation had been received from Mr Colin Spackman, the secretary of Wellington Museum and Local History Society, about the proposed creation of a postcard co-operative to promote the town by offering Wellington-branded goods such as postcards and tea towels for sale to the public. It was reported that the next WEP meeting would be on 18th September 2006.

13959 MEMBERSHIP OF CITTASLOW MOVEMENT
Consideration was given to a recommendation from Wellington Economic Partnership that the town council should seek membership of the Cittaslow Movement and invite a representative to attend a town council meeting. After some discussion it was agreed to defer a decision pending a report from Councillor Mitton on the visit to Ludlow to find out more information.

13960 PLANNING DECISIONS BY TAUNTON DBC
The clerk reported that Taunton Deane Borough Council had approved the following plans: (a) Erection of industrial unit at plot 19, Rylands Farm industrial estate, Bagley Road, Rockwell Green, Wellington (43/2006/073); (b) Erection of single storey extension at 19 Parker Close, Wellington (43/2006/083: delegated decision); (c) Erection of one 4 bed detached house on land adjoining 22 Howard Road, Wellington (43/2006/077); (d) Conversion of public house into 3 dwellings, demolition of skittle alley and other outbuildings at the Three Cups, 32-34 Fore Street, Wellington (43/2006/013LB); (e) Erection of two dwellings to replace dwelling to be demolished at 17 Oaken Ground, Rockwell Green, Wellington (43/2006/079); (f) Erection of 11 one bed dwellings on land to the rear of Sans Ombre and Garden House, White Hart Lane, Wellington as amended by e-mails dated 21st June 2006 and 5th July 2006 and agents letter and accompanying plans 002A, 003A and 004A received 31st July 2006 (43/2006/057); (g) Application to fell trees within Wellington conservation area to the rear of 12 Fore Street, Wellington 943/2006/074T); (h) Erection of conservatory to rear of 40 Warren Street, Rockwell Green, Wellington (43/2006/086: delegated decision); (i) Construction of flood alleviation works related to proposed development at Tonedale Business Park, Milverton Road, Wellington (43/2006/082).

13961 COUNCIL INCOME/EXPENDITURE TO 31ST AUGUST 2006
A report was received from the clerk showing that the council’s income for the period from 1st April 2006 to 31st August 2006 was £44,061 (£122,249 estimated for the full year to 31st March 2007) and that expenditure for the same period was £43,819 (£143,150 estimated for the full year to 31st March 2007). The report was noted.

13962 ACCOUNTS FOR PAYMENT
On the proposition of Councillor Critchard, seconded by Councillor Govier, it was agreed to authorise the payment of the following accounts and the signing of the following cheques: Wellington Carnival Committee £700 grant; BT £307.23 for fax, telephone, internet and email calls and service charges for quarter to 6/8/06; Taunton Deane Community Transport Ltd £140 for subsidised hospital patient transport to Taunton for July 2006; Inland Revenue £665.35; Mr A. Brown £150 petty cash; Hinewood Cleaning Service £48 for town centre bus shelter cleaning and window cleaning for July 2006; Somerset Association of Local Councils £115 balance for Certificate in Local Council Administration training course for Mrs J. Thorne; Konica Minolta £92.34 for photocopying servicing charges to 16/8/06; Moore Stephens £411.25 for external audit of town council 2005-2006 accounts; Wellington United Reformed Church £75 for use of hall for council meetings for July, August and September 2006.

13963 PAPERS, REPORTS, NEWSLETTERS ETC
The clerk reported that the following reports, newsletters etc had been received and were available for members to read if they wished: August 2006 issue of InterAction magazine from Local Government International Bureau; NALC direct information service bulletin No. 638; September 2006 issue of The Clerk; September 2006 issue of Fieldwork magazine from Campaign for the Protection of Rural England; Autumn issue of Thatch magazine from Community Council for Somerset; Urbanscape product catalogue 2006 of urban furniture.
THE MEETING CLOSED AT 8.29PM

Wellington Town Council planning minutes September 2006

Minutes of the 113th planning meeting of Wellington Town Council held in the United Reformed Church Hall in Fore Street, Wellington on Monday 4th September 2006 at 6pm

PRESENT: Councillor D. Mitton (chairman), who presided, Councillor P. Critchard (vice-chairman), Councillors Mrs V. Byrne, Mrs G. Copley, Mrs V. Stock-Williams, Councillors, A. Govier, C. Hindley, G. James, S. Palmer and E. Warren, and the clerk A. Brown, the assistant to the clerk Mrs J. Thorne, and Taunton DBC planning officer Mr J. Hamer. There were apologies from Councillor A. Horsman. There was 1 member of the public present.

13934 COMMENTS TO TAUNTON DBC ON PLANNING APPLICATIONS
It was agreed to inform Taunton DBC that the town council was in favour of the following plans: (a) Retention of a shed to the rear of 17 Gillards Close, Rockwell Green, Wellington (43/2006/089); (b) Erection of single storey extension to care home at The Wheelhouse, Linden Hill, Wellington (43/2006/100); (c) Erection of dwelling and refurbishment of existing accommodation to form two dwellings at 15a Fore Street, Wellington (43/2006/075) subject to amendments to windows as per planning officer’s recommendations.

13935 UPDATE ON SOMERFIELD SUPERMARKET REDEVELOPMENT
Giving an update on the Somerfield supermarket redevelopment in High Street, Mr Hamer stated that discussions were continuing between the developers, Somerset highway authority, and local residents who have a right of way on the site. He said there had been a meeting that afternoon about the development and it had been positive and he was hopeful a solution would soon be reached. Members asked when the development was likely to start and Mr Hamer replied that Somerfield were keen to proceed with it as soon as possible and were hoping to have the store open by late next year.
THE MEETING CLOSED AT 6.14PM

Wellington Town Council minutes August 2006

Minutes of the meeting of Wellington Town Council held in the United Reformed Church Hall in Fore Street, Wellington on Monday, 7th August 2006 at 7.35pm.

PRESENT: Councillor D. Mitton (chairman), who presided, Councillors Mrs C. Biscoe, who arrived at 7.55pm, Mrs G. Copley, Mrs V. Stock-Williams and Mrs N. Wilson, Councillors R. Bowrah, R. Henley, A. Horsman, G. James, S. Palmer and E. Warren, and the clerk A. Brown and the assistant to the clerk Mrs J. Thorne. There were apologies from Councillors V. Byrne, C. Hindley and A. Govier. There were 9 members of the public present.

13889 CHAIRMAN’S ANNOUNCEMENTS
The chairman, Councillor D. Mitton reported that he had represented the council at a number of functions during the past month, including Rockwell Green Primary School’s end of year concert, the launch of Wellington Food Town and Wellington Cricket Club’s annual club day. The vice chairman, Councillor P. Critchard had represented the council at the Popham House fete.

13890 POLICE MATTERS
Sgt Doc Nurse was unable to attend because of duty commitments so there was no police report.
13891 MINUTES OF JULY COUNCIL MEETINGS
The minutes of the council meetings held on 3rd July 2006, as previously circulated to councillors, were received, taken as read and confirmed as correct.

13892 BLACKDOWN HILLS TRAIL INTO WELLINGTON
A detailed informative and interesting talk on the creation of a number of circular walks/trails on the Blackdown Hills with a link into Wellington was given by Mr Gavin Saunders, the project manager of the Neroche Scheme which also aims at improving the quality of the landscape of the Blackdown Hills area of outstanding natural beauty, making it richer in wildlife, making it more accessible, understandable and enjoyable for residents and visitors, celebrating its history and culture, and making the landscape more relevant to those who livings depend on it. It was a £3 million landscape partnership scheme supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund. It was hoped that the main implementation of the scheme, which would also help Wellington Monument to a limited extent, would start in October 2006 and would run until 2010. He was thanked for his talk.

13893 WELLINGTON POSTCARD CO-OPERATIVE
Mr Colin Spackman, the secretary of Wellington Museum and Local History Society, presented an informative report on the proposed setting up of a Wellington postcard co-operative to promote the town by obtaining a wider range of Wellington branded goods such as postcards, tea towels and baseball caps for sale to the public. Currently individual retailers were dissuaded from ordering Wellington branded goods because minimum order quantities were expensive. It was proposed to offer retailers and others the opportunity to take part in a co-operative that purchased postcards etc in bulk and then spread the order across co-op members. Potential members included local book shops, newsagents, card shops, garden centres, hotels, homes, local village outlets and organisations such as Friends of Wellington Park and the Museum, which was prepared to co-ordinate the co-operative in return for a small administration charge to boost its funds. The co-operative’s chances of success were much greater if it was supported and promoted by the town council, Taunton DBC and Wellington Chamber of Trade and other bodies interested in promoting Wellington’s image and economy. The next step would be to identify supporters and experts whose knowledge and contacts could help in getting the co-operative up and running. No funding was required as it should be financially self sufficient from the outset. It was hoped to have the goods available next Spring. The chairman felt it was an excellent opportunity to start selling Wellington. The council agreed to support the initiative and that, if there was any practical backing required, the council would consider that at its next meeting. Mr Spackman was thanked for his presentation.

13894 POPHAM ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS
Reporting on proposed celebrations to mark the 400th anniversary of the death of Sir John Popham, Councillor Stock-Williams stated that the main commemorative events would take place on the weekend 9th-10th June 2007. On Saturday, 9th June there would be a walk covering the main points of interest such as the original site of his house, the site of the original almshouses and the present almshouses and his tomb at St John’s Church. The walk would be followed by a cream tea in the church hall. It was also hoped to organise a visit to see Popham’s Pit in the Blackdown Hills where he is reputed to have fallen and died during a hunting trip. In the evening it was hoped to arrange a concert of appropriate music. On Sunday, 10th June a commemorative service would be held in St John’s Church. On Saturday, 2nd November 2006 a talk would be given by Douglas Rice, author of a book on Sir John, at Wellington Junior School at 7.30pm and early in the Summer term 2007 talks would be given in assembly at schools in Wellington and Nynehead on Sir John. It was hoped to encourage further interest in primary schools in the life and events of this period in history, especially in Wellington. Throughout the summer months there would be an exhibition about Sir John in Wellington Museum, using material from the county archives. Efforts were being made to trace living descendants of Sir John so that they could be kept informed of the planned programme. She was thanked for her report.

13895 SCAFFOLDING AT FORMER DISCOUNT STORES
With reference to minute 13824 an e-mail was received from Taunton DBC stating that the scaffolding to the former discount stores in High Street, Wellington was provided to buttress the external façade of the building as internal buttressing from internal walls had failed due to fracturing at the junction of the two walls. The erection of the scaffold negated further action under Section 77 and 78 of the Building Act 1984 as the building was effectively made safe. Certain matters had been brought to the attention of the owners, Somerfield Ltd, two weeks earlier. The final onus was on the owners. The letter was noted.

13896 MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES – FIT FOR THE FUTURE
With reference to minute 13859 a letter was received from Somerset Partnership NHS and Social Care stating that following the closure of Stratfield House, Wellington and the move of inpatient beds to Pyrland House, Taunton, the current provision of services to the Wellington area were community mental health team services for older people; day hospital for older people on the Wellington Community Hospital site; day service for older people in South Street; community mental health team service for adults; provision of inpatient services for adults and older people in Taunton at Rydon House and Pyrland House respectively. In addition specialist residential care was provided by Wellington House commissioned by the local authority and the partnership. The letter was noted.

13897 PROVISION OF ADDITIONAL ALLOTMENTS
With reference to minute 13862 an e-mail was received from Taunton DBC stating that it was unlikely that allotments could be provided on the Cades Farm housing scheme at this late stage unless part of the recreational open space was sacrificed. It was hoped to set up a system for taking money from small developers towards allotments and the provision of allotment land under the new Local Development Framework. There was no system currently in place. It would work in the way that contributions for play and playing fields currently worked. The letter was noted.

13898 COUNTY DRAFT RIGHTS OF WAY IMPROVEMENT PLAN
With reference to minute 13875 a letter was received from the county council stating that the town council’s comments would be considered in the process of finalising the Rights of Way Improvement Plan later this year. The letter was noted.

13899 PEDESTRIAN CROSSING IN NORTH STREET
With reference to minute 13738 a letter was received from Somerset Highways turning down the town council’s requested improvements to the pedestrian crossing in North Street near the junction with Victoria Street/Courtland Road because of the cost (£80,000 to £150,000) and because there had been only one accident in the past five years. Low cost measures such as improving signing and lining were to be investigated. The letter was noted.

13900 AGE CONCERN ACTIVE LIVING CENTRES
With reference to minute 13874 a letter was received from Age Concern Somerset stating that Age Concern was fully committed to ensuring co-ordination and co-operation across services rather than duplication aand had already been in contact with the Healthy Living Centre Trust, Wellington and District University of the Third Age, Wellington Over-55s Club and WHERE. The letter was noted.

13901 ELECTORAL REVIEW OF TAUNTON DEANE BOROUGH
With reference to minute 13627 a letter was received from The Boundary Committee for England enclosing an executive summary of the final recommendations for Taunton Deane. It was agreed to note the letter. The clerk reported that the recommendations were exactly as approved by the town council on 9th January 2006, namely transfer of 150 electors in the Waterloo Road and Corams Lane area from Wellington North ward to Wellington West ward and 709 electors in the Hoyles Road area from Wellington East ward to Wellington West ward to provide a better balance of electoral quality so that councillors represented more or less the same number of electors in the various wards. The report was noted.

13902 PLAN FOR DEMOLITON OF WALL TO REAR OF NATWEST BANK
With reference to minute 13850 a letter was received from Taunton DBC stating that the plan for the demolition of a wall to the rear of Natwest Bank, Fore Street, Wellington had been withdrawn. The letter was noted.

13903 ERECTION OF DWELLING AT REAR OF 32 MANTLE STREET
With reference to minute 13820 a letter was received from Taunton DBC stating that the plan for the erection of a dwelling on land at the rear of 32 Mantle Street, Wellington had been withdrawn. The letter was noted.

13904 ERECTION OF DIRECTION SIGN FOR WELLINGTON PARK
With reference to minute 13860 the clerk reported that a site meeting with Somerset Highways had taken place on 28th July 2006 and that the cost of providing a sign saying “The Park” on the existing large directional sign board outside of One Stop Shop in High Street would be £50. It was agreed to meet the cost of the park sign. The clerk also reported that the cost of providing two signs saying “Village Hall” either side of the traffic lights at Rockwell Green would be £213. The signs had been requested by a representative of the village hall. It was agreed to find out if Rockwell Green Village Hall Committee was prepared to pay for the signs.

13905 FOOTPATH GUIDES GRANT
With reference to minute 13602 the clerk reported that the £1,240 balance of the grant from Somerset County Council towards the cost of printing the town council’s new footpath guides had been received. The report was noted.

13906 VANDALISM OF TONE PLAY AREA PICNIC TABLE
With reference to minute 13558 the clerk reported that a cheque for £429 had been received from the council’s insurers for the destruction of the picnic table at the Tone play area. The report was noted.

13907 COMMUNITY SPEED WATCH
With reference to minute 13866 the clerk reported that he and the chairman had carried out a check on Wellington Relief Road on 12th July 2006 when 3 motorists had been reported for exceeding the 40mph limit, ranging from 47 to 51mph. The vast majority of the 400 cars checked had been driving within the speed limit. The report was noted.

13908 TONE HILL TRAFFIC PROBLEMS
With reference to minute 13872 the clerk reported that following a site meeting with the police, an additional community speed watch site had been agreed near the Tone business park. The report was noted.

13909 WELLINGTON FOOD TOWN
With reference to minute 13827 the clerk reported that the start of the launch of the Wellington Food Town campaign had begun with presentations/meetings with traders and producers on the 18th and 20th July 2006. The report was noted.

13910 PLAQUE FOR EVEREST CLIMBER JAMES HOOPER
With reference to minute 13822 the clerk reported that the presentation of the commemorative plaque to James Hooper, of Mantle Street, Wellington, the second youngest Briton to climb Mount Everest, would take place at the council meeting on 4th September 2006. The report was noted.

13911 MAURICE JENNINGS MEMORIAL PLAQUE
With reference to minute 13791 the clerk reported that the plaque to mark the important role that the late town councillor Maurice Jennings played in the building of Wellington Sports Centre in 1973, would be unveiled at the sports centre on Wednesday, 9th August 2006 at 6.30pm by his widow Mrs Margaret Jennings. The report was noted.

13912 CARNIVAL COMMITTEE GRANT REQUEST
A letter, application form and accounts were received from Wellington Carnival Committee asking the town council to consider making a grant of £700 to meet the costs of providing signs and barriers for the 2006 carnival. On the proposition of Councillor Mitton, seconded by Councillor Bowrah, it was agreed to make a grant of £700. Councillor Warren declared an interest as president of the carnival committee and left the hall while this item was considered.

13913 SPORTS CLUBS FEDERATION GRANT REQUEST
A letter and application form were received from Wellington Federation of Sports Clubs asking the town council to consider making a grant of £500 towards the £2,000 costs of a Festival of Youth Sport to be held at the end of August 2006. As there were no accounts showing the current financial position of the federation – despite twice being asked for the accounts – it was decided not to make a grant.

13914 TRACKING OF PLANNING APPLICATIONS
A letter was received from Taunton DBC stating that the Deane had recently introduced a new IT package for the registration and tracking of planning applications to provide all information in electronic form and to streamline the planning registration process. The letter was noted.

13915 TAUNTON CAB GRANT
A letter was received from Taunton and District Citizen Advice Bureau thanking the council for its grant of £1,200 and giving details of its work at the twice-weekly sessions in Wellington where over 220 clients had been seen. The letter was noted.

13916 WELLINGTON PLANNING COMPLAINTS
A letter was received from Taunton DBC detailing the 17 planning complaints received in Wellington during the second quarter of 2006. The letter was noted.

13917 COUNTY HIGHWAY ISSUES
A report was received from Somerset County Council detailing highway enquiry statistics and the carrying out of repairs through its Somerset Direct customer care system. The letter was noted.

13918 NEW WASTE COLLECTION ARRANGEMENTS
A letter was received from Taunton DBC stating that Phase 4 of “Sort It” – the new waste and recycling arrangements – would come into operation in October 2006 and would cover Wellington East ward and Rockwell Green and Wellington West ward. The letter was noted.

13919 TREE PRESERVATION ORDER AT 12 FORE STREET
A letter was received from Taunton DBC stating that tree preservation orders had been placed on 2 pear trees and 1 apple tree on land to the rear of 12 Fore Street, Wellington. The letter was noted.

13920 CHILDREN’S CENTRE UPDATES
Details were received from the county council on children’s centres showing that the design of the proposed new centre for Wellington at Beech Grove Primary School had been approved. This was noted.

13921 NON ATTENDANCE AT COMMUNITY CENTRE AGM
A letter was received from Wellington Community Centre expressing disappointment at the non attendance of a council representative at the centre’s AGM in July. The chairman, who is the council’s representative, reported that he had been unable to attend because of other commitments and had informed the centre accordingly. He would try to attend the next centre meeting.

13922 STOPPING UP OF BUCKWELL-SCOTTS LANE FOOTPATH
A letter was received from Somerset County Council asking for the town council’s views on the proposed stopping of part of the public footpath between Buckwell and Scotts Lane, Wellington. It was decided to object because the width of the path would be reduced. The clerk reported that three local residents had objected.

13923 SIGNS FOR ARTS CENTRE AND WELLESLEY CINEMA
A letter was received from Wellington Arts Association asking for the town council’s help over the suggested erection of direction signs on the bypass and in the town centre for the arts centre and Wellesley Cinema. It was agreed to defer consideration of this request until the September council meeting.

COUNCILLORS HENLEY, WILSON AND WARREN LEFT THE MEETING HERE AT 8.25PM

13924 ANNUAL DEANE-PARISHES MEETING
A letter was received from Taunton DBC inviting the town council to the annual meeting between the Deane and parish/town councils to be held at North Curry Village Hall on Wednesday, 4th October 2006 at 7pm when the theme would be rural policing. It was agreed that Councillors Mitton and Bowrah should represent the town council at the meeting.

13925 COUNCILS’ VISIT RE DELEGATED PLANNING SCHEME
The clerk reported that representatives from Rustington Parish Council, Littlehampton Town Council and the director of Sussex and Surrey Association of Local Councils would be visiting the town council on 16th August 2006 to discuss the unique planning delegation scheme which the town council had with Taunton DBC. The report was noted.

13926 WELLINGTON ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP
With reference to minute 13876 a report was received from Mrs J. Thorne, the assistant to the clerk, on the WEP meeting held on 11th July 2006 when it had been reported that Taunton DBC had agreed a grant of £30,000 for the Wellington Food Town project. It was also possible that a grant of £8,000 might be available from the Blackdown Hills Business Association. Taunton DBC was working closely with Somerset Food Links to develop a programme of support and a range of projects to take forward the Food Town concept. The next WEP meeting would be held on Thursday, 17th August 2006 at 6pm. It was agreed that Councillor Mitton should represent the council on the proposed Food Town Steering Group and that Councillors Mitton and Stock-Williams should represent the council on a visit to Ludlow on 8th/9th September 2006 during its food festival on a fact finding tour. No suggestions or recommendations were put forward for inclusion on the agenda for the next WEP meeting on 17th August.

13927 PLANNING DECISIONS BY TAUNTON DBC
The clerk reported that Taunton Deane Borough Council had approved the following plans: (a) Erection of dwelling on land to rear of 31 Blackmoor Road, Wellington (revised scheme of 43/2005/025) as amplified by applicant’s letter received 21st July 2006 (43/2006/053); (b) Internal alterations and refurbishment alterations, including new windows to flats at 43 High Street, Wellington (43/2006/058LB); (c) Erection of single storey extension to rear of 17 Alexandra Road, Wellington (43.2006/071: delegated decision); (d) Replace slates on roof to rear of 45 High Street, Wellington as amended by applicants letter dated 20th June 2006 (43/2006/067LB); (e) Erection of two storey extension at Ferndale, Lower Westford, Wellington (43/2006/070: delegated decision); (f) Erection of dwelling on land at rear of 6 Pyles Thorne Close, Wellington (43/2006/068); (g) Installation of additional dormer window on south west elevation, Swanwick, Church Green, Wellington (43.2006/064: delegated decision); (h) Application to fell 3 oak trees including in Taunton Deane Borough (Wellington No. 1) Tree Preservation Order 1996 on land adjoining Chelston House Farm, Chelston, Wellington (43/2006/060T); (i) Erection of boundary wall, Squirrel Cottage, 30a Fore Street, Wellington as amended by applicants plan received 28th June 2006 (43/2006/021 and 43/2006/022LB); (j) Erection of extension and dormer window to allow conversion of 2nd garage into additional living space at Greenlands, 46 Wellesley Park, Wellington (43/2006/061: delegated decision); (k) Erection of conservatory at 71 Burrough Way, Wellington (43/2006/069: delegated decision); (l) Erection of two storey extension at 62 Tone Hill, Wellington as amended by drawing No. 048-06 1 Rev A received 13th June 2006 and applicants letter dated 23rd June 2006 with accompanying photographs and drawing (43/2006/054: delegated decision). The clerk reported that Taunton DBC had refused the following plans: (a) Erection of dwelling on land adjoining 32 Seymour Street, Wellington (43/2006/030); (b) Formation of access to form parking area at 74 Waterloo Road, Wellington, re-submission of 43/2005/062 (43/2006/035).

13928 PLANNING DECISIONS BY SOMERSET COUNTY COUNCIL
The clerk reported that Somerset County Council had approved the following plan: (a) Construction of new 3 bay tennis court with associated floodlighting at Court Fields Community School, Mantle Street, Wellington (43/2006/0630).

13929 COUNCIL INCOME/EXPENDITURE TO 31ST JULY 2006
A report was received from the clerk showing that the council’s income for the period from 1st April 2006 to 31st July 2006 was £43,435 (£122,249 estimated for the full year to 31st March 2007) and that expenditure for the same period was £35,523 (£143,150 estimated for the full year to 31st March 2007). The report was noted.

13930 ACCOUNTS FOR PAYMENT
On the proposition of Councillor Horsman, seconded by Councillor James it was agreed to authorise the payment of the following accounts and the signing of the following cheques; Taunton CAB £1,200 grant; Skintight Samba Band £500 grant; Councillor D. Mitton £621.60 travelling expenses; The Carly Press Ltd £2,168.46 for 1,000 copies of footpath guides; The Carly Press Ltd £83.55 for paper, ink cartridges and stationery; Inland Revenue £665.35 for income tax and national insurance; Mr A. Brown £150 petty cash; Hinewood Cleaning Service £146 for cleaning town centre bus shelters and office window cleaning for June 2006 and the six monthly cleaning of 8 other bus shelters in the town; EDF Energy £11.06 for electricity for Rackfield light; The Consortium £390.81 for new shredder, bookcase and punch; Shaw & Sons
£13.50 for book; Society of Local Council Clerks £64.75 for 2 books; Taunton Deane Borough Council £211.50 for repairs to safety surface at Tone play area; Taunton Deane Community Transport Ltd £164 for subsidised hospital patient transport for June 2006; Wireless CCTV Ltd £51.14 for phone calls for CCTV; Society of Local Council Clerks £70 registration fee; EDF Energy £155.18 for electricity for office and chamber from 14/4/06 to 31/7/06; Somerset County Council £400 for repayment of contribution towards Fore Street notice board; Judith Goss Florists £45 for flowers for local war graves for May, June and July 2006.

13931 WELLINGTON CEMETERY
Members received a copy of the final 9-page report of the Wellington Cemetery Task and Finish Group dealing with the future of the cemetery which only has about 10 years worth of burial space remaining. It was agreed to accept the report, which was presented by Alastair Higton, Taunton DBC scrutiny officer, and which recommended that the cemetery be extended onto a site adjacent to the current cemetery and that the turning circle and parking at the top of the cemetery be retained.

13932 CCTV CAMERA
Members received a copy of a report by the clerk and his assistant outlining problems which had occurred with the CCTV camera in Lancer Court since its installation in April 2006. It had failed to work on five or six occasions and despite being returned to the suppliers for examination it had continued to provide a highly unsatisfactory service. It had broken down yet again. It was agreed to write to the company, Wireless CCTV expressing the council’s complete dissatisfaction with camera and asking for a new replacement camera or the council’s money back.

13933 PAPERS, REPORTS, NEWSLETTERS ETC The clerk reported that the following reports, newsletters etc had been received and were available for members to read if they wished: What’s On within Taunton Deane for August 2006; Countryside Voice magazine for Summer 2006 from Campaign for Protection of Rural England; Summer 2006 issue of the Tree Guardian newsletter; July 2006 issue of The Clerk; July 2006 issue of Clerks & Councils Direct; NALC direct information service bulletins Nos. 635 and 636; European newsletter No. 147 on regional policy.
THE MEETING CLOSED AT 9.25PM

Wellington Town Council planning minutes August 2006

Minutes of the 112th planning meeting of Wellington Town Council held in the United Reformed Church Hall in Fore Street, Wellington on Monday 7th August 2006 at 6pm

PRESENT: Councillor D. Mitton (chairman), who presided, Councillors Mrs G. Copley, Mrs V. Stock-Williams and Mrs N. Wilson, Councillors R. Bowrah, R. Henley, A. Horsman, G. James, S. Palmer and E. Warren, and the clerk A. Brown, the assistant to the clerk Mrs J. Thorne, and Taunton DBC planning officer Mr J. Hamer. There were apologies from Councillors Mrs V. Byrne, A. Govier, and C. Hindley. There were 9 members of the public present.

13882 A PRE-APPLICATION PRESENTATION FOR PROPOSED REDEVELOPMENT OF THE FORMER ADVANCE BITUMEN FACTORY AT WESTFORD, WELLINGTON
Planning consultant Mr Malcolm Turner gave a pre-application presentation for a proposed redevelopment of the former Advance Bitumen factory at Westford, Wellington. The proposal was for a mix of 69 housing units ranging from one bedroom studio flats to four bedroom detached houses including about 15 units of affordable housing. Mr Turner said they would be holding one or two exhibitions about the scheme in the village hall in Rockwell Green for local residents and would be notifying neighbours around the site. Members were told the housing would be in keeping with the surrounding area and would be in a cottage style. There would also be a central green open space with a concealed car parking area. It was also proposed there would be a pedestrian access out of the site down a private lane. The site also takes in Westford Plastics and the company has been offered alternative sites at Chelston Business Park and Rylands Business Park. Mr Turner said although the development would result in more traffic on the roads in Rockwell Green than at present it would about a third less of the traffic in the area as when the Advance Bitumen Factory was in operation when there was a considerable amount of HGV vehicles using the roads. It was also estimated that a peak times there would be about 50 to 55 cars an hour. Taunton DBC planning officer John Hamer said the proposal looked in principle to be acceptable and appeared to meet Government guidelines. On the previous application concerns about flooding about were raised but members were told the Environment Agency were now happy with the proposal.

13883 REPORT BY JOHN HAMER OF TAUNTON DBC ABOUT PLANNING APPLICATION 43/2006/051Mr Hamer presented a report to members regarding application ref 43/2006/051 the erection of 2 first floor extensions and 1 two storey extension at 18 Wellesley Park, Wellington. The application was received by Taunton DBC on 24 April 2006 and was identified as a parish delegation application. Wellington Town Council notified the neighbours and two letters of objection was received. Although the application should have been referred to the town council, due to an administrative error at Taunton DBC, an approval certificate was generated and issued on 15 June. Mr Hamer said the applicant therefore had valid planning permission for the development. Members heard from objectors to the application including Mr R McCubbin, of 20 Wellesley Park, who requested permitted development rights at first floor level and in the roof of the south elevation of the proposed second storey extension be withdrawn. Mr Hamer said the approval certificate mistakenly made reference to the east elevation. Mr McCubbin has lodged a formal complaint with Taunton DBC. Mr K Coombes and Ms N Villmeter, of 16 Wellesley Park, also objected to the application and said they had concerns about privacy and wanted the bottom of the window to be above 6 feet 6 inches in height from floor level or have the windows installed on the south side of the roof. Mr Hamer said since issuing the planning certificate the applicant had agreed to increase the cill level of the proposed roof lights to 1.8m. He said in his view the adjacent properties would not be adversely affected by the proposal and the recommendation of approval was the appropriate one. He asked the town council to confirm the decision made. Members received copies of letters from the objectors and letters sent to them by Taunton DBC apologising for the error in granting the approval. Members agreed not to confirm the report and to state their extreme disappointment at the situation.

13884 APPROVED PLANNING APPLICATIONS
The town council received details of applications for planning permission to be determined in accordance with the delegation agreement with Taunton Deane Borough Council of 9th September 1996 and it was resolved to approve planning permission for the following applications: (a) Erection of two storey extension to side and single storey extension to rear of 12 Shuteleigh, Wellington (43/2006/076). There was a letter of objection from Mr H R Pierce who had concerns about drainage. However following a letter from planning consultants confirming the drainage system would be overhauled and renewed Mr Pierce was happy with the proposal. The planning officer recommended approval subject to conditions of time limit, materials and no further first floor windows; (b) Erection of single storey extension at front, first floor extension at side and two storey extension at rear plus a replacement conservatory at 1 Sylvan Road, Wellington (43/2006/065). There was a letter of objection from Mr H Wright concerning blocking of light. The planning officer considered the proposal would not harm any residential amenity of the area and recommended approval subject to conditions of time limit, materials, garage for domestic use only, obscure glazing, and no further first floor windows.

13885 DEFERRED PLAN FOR NATWEST BANK
With reference to minute 13850 an application for the partial demolition of existing boundary wall to the rear of NatWest Bank, 12 Fore Street, Wellington (43/2006/072LB), the clerk reported the plan had now been withdrawn.
13886 COMMENTS TO TAUNTON DBC ON PLANNING APPLICATIONS
It was agreed to inform Taunton DBC that the town council was in favour of the following plans: (a) Erection of one 4 bed detached house on land adjoining 22 Howard Road, Wellington (43/2006/077), a letter of objection was received by Mrs P J Corner stating the proposed dwelling would be imposing and dominant and overdevelopment on a cramped site ; (b) Erection of industrial unit park at Monument View, Summerfield Avenue, Chelston Business Park, Wellington (46/2006/009); (c) Erection of two new dwellings to replace existing dwelling to be demolished at 17 Oaken Ground, Rockwell Green, Wellington (43/2006/079); (d) Conversion of offices to one 2 bedroom terraced house, two one-bedroom flats and two 2 bedroom flats at 5 and 6 White Hart Lane, Wellington, revised scheme (43/2006/081). A letter was received by Wellington Community Centre outlining concerns about emergency access from the centre. Members were in favour providing emergency access to the community centre was protected and retained; e) Construction of flood alleviation works related to the proposed development 43/2004/119, Tonedale Business Park, Milverton Road, Wellington (43/2006/082) subject to the footpath between Linden Drive and Burchills Hill via ‘thunderbridge’ being safeguarded and enhanced; (f) Display of internally illuminated fascia and projecting sign at Bristol and West Building Society, 5-7 South Street, Wellington, (43/2006/085A); (g) Installation of new shop front at 14 High Street (Fox & Sons) Wellington (43/2006/090); (h) Installation of 15m shared floodlight/telecommunications lattice mast in place of existing 15m floodlighting pole, mounted antenna and transmission dish (resulting in an overall height of 15.7m) with associated equipment cabinets at ground level at Wellington Rugby Football Club, Corams Lane, Wellington (43/2006/096)

13887 APPLICATION TO REMOVE TREES REAR OF 12 FORE STREET
Plans were received to remove trees on land to rear of 12 Fore Street, Wellington (43/2006/074T). It was reported that tree preservation orders had now been received on this site so the town council did not consider this application.

13888 COMMENTS TO SOMERSET CC ON PLANNING APPLICATIONS
It was agreed to inform Somerset CC that the town council was in favour of the following plans: (a) Siting of new 5-bay Elliott nursery unit at Wellesley Park Primary School, Wellington (43/2006/080); (b) Proposed prefabricated children’s centre and new footpath at Beech Grove Primary School, Courtland Road, Wellington (43/2006/087)
THE MEETING CLOSED AT 7.29PM

Wellington Town Council minutes July 2006

Minutes of the meeting of Wellington Town Council held in the United Reformed Church Hall in Fore Street, Wellington on Monday 3rd July 2006 at 7.15pm (late start due to planning meeting over-running)

PRESENT: Councillor D. Mitton (chairman), who presided, Councillor P. Critchard (vice chairman), Councillors Mrs V. Byrne, Mrs G. Copley, Mrs V. Stock-Williams and Mrs N. Wilson, Councillors R. Bowrah, R. Henley, C. Hindley, A. Govier, A. Horsman, S. Palmer, and the clerk A. Brown and the assistant to the clerk Mrs J. Thorne. There were apologies from Councillors C. Biscoe and G. James. There were 8 members of the public present.

13853 CHAIRMAN’S ANNOUNCEMENTS
The chairman, Councillor D. Mitton reported that he had represented the council at a number of functions during the past month, including a trip to Wells Cathedral for a Somerset schools country dancing event, Rockwell Green Primary School fete and the 50th anniversary of Abbeyfield Homes.

13854 POLICE MATTERS
Sgt Doc Nurse reported that during June there had been a distraction burglary at Wiveliscombe by a bogus water worker and a burglary in Wellington town centre where the ground floor window had been left open and a handbag taken. There had been 4 thefts from motor vehicles; 9 offences of criminal damage for which 3 people had been arrested; 5 assaults with 4 arrests made: including a violent assault at Rockwell Green and one at the Sportsman when property had been damaged and youths hurt: people had been arrested and bailed: the offences were drug related. There had been a public disorder incident in High Street for which a person had been arrested and charged. There had been 4 thefts of mopeds, which had all been found and returned to their owners, and £10,000 worth of cigarettes had been stolen from the Co-op depot at Chelston: 4 people had been arrested and some of the cigarettes had been recovered. During the month long knife amnesty in Wellington 73 items had been handed into Wellington police station including 47 domestic knives, 17 non domestic items, 7 weapons including a knuckle duster, 1 baton and 1 sawn-off rifle. In the Taunton area 555 items had been handed in. He reported that thanks to the excellent work of PC Mickey Dunn 5 youths aged 14/17 had been arrested for 12 commercial burglaries, 3 thefts and criminal damage offences following a crime spree between February and June of this year. Much stolen property had been recovered and returned to owners. Sgt Nurse also reported he was trying to set up a pubwatch scheme to deal with violent behaviour: 11 out 13 local licensees had attended the first meeting. The scheme would also involve banning orders. It was hoped to launch the scheme on 18th July 2006. The chairman congratulated Sgt Nurse and his officers for their hard work and their successful detection results and also thanked Sgt Nurse for attending the meeting.

13855 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION TIME: WELLINGTON IN BLOOM
The chairman of Wellington in Bloom Committee, Mrs Isabel Ward reported that the Britain in Bloom judge would be visiting Wellington on 19th July 2006, beginning in Wellington Park at 9.30am. Three committee members had spent an hour removing fly posters put up around the town the previous Friday, 30th June. On her suggestion it was agreed to write to Taunton DBC’s conservation officer, Di Hartnell about the lack of progress over improving the state of 18 Fore Street, a listed building.

13856 PPT: FLOWERS FOR LOCAL WAR GRAVES
Mrs M. Summers, the Wellington Royal British Legion Poppy organiser, recalled that there were 26 war graves at Wellington Cemetery and that the town council generously provided the funding for the flowers which were regularly put on the graves by children from Rockwell Green Primary School. She presented the chairman with a RBL Certificate of Appreciation in recognition of the town council’s support of the Legion’s War Graves Flowers Scheme which, she said, was greatly appreciated.

13857 PPT: STINGING NETTLES ON PATH AT WELLESLEY PARK
Mrs Higgs, of Burrough Way, stated that there were still stinging nettles on the public footpath from Wellesley Park to the relief road by the western boundary of Wellesley Park Primary School although she had raised the problem a couple of weeks ago. The clerk replied that after being contacted by Mr Higgs he had taken the matter up with both the school and the county council who were responsible and had been told that the work would be carried out last week, but that had not been done. It was agreed to press the County Council to clear the nettles as soon as possible.

13858 MINUTES OF JUNE COUNCIL MEETINGS
The minutes of the council meetings held on 5th June 2006, as previously circulated to councillors, were received, taken as read and confirmed as correct.

13859 MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES – FIT FOR THE FUTURE
Consideration was given to a letter from Somerset Partnership NHS and Social Care Trust and its consultation document “Mental Health: Fit for the Future.” After some discussion it was agreed to express concern that there appeared to be no specific provision in the report for Wellington and to ask the Trust what services would be provided in the future for Wellington residents who had mental health problems – in the way of care within the community or at special units.

13860 ERECTION OF SIGNS INDICATING DIRECTION OF THE PARK
Councillor Byrne reported that recently she had had to help direct a visitor to the town park and suggested that there was a need to erect signs to direct motorists how to reach the park. There were no signs in the town centre. It was agreed to ask the county council to erect such signs and to arrange a site meeting.

13861 KEEPING DOGS ON LEADS
With reference to minute 13829, consideration was given to the suggestion of asking Taunton DBC to make a byelaw requiring dogs to be kept on leads. Councillor Hindley, on behalf of Councillor James (who was unable to attend), proposed that Taunton DBC should be asked to make such a byelaw but there was no seconder.

13862 PROVISION OF ADDITIONAL ALLOTMENTS
Councillor Bowrah pointed out that there were no allotments in the Wellington East ward at all and Councillor Stock-Williams pointed out that there were 12 people on the town council’s allotment waiting list. Both felt that consideration should be given to possibly providing allotments as part of the Cades Farm housing scheme. The clerk reported that 10 allotments were available at a private site at Oaken Ground, Rockwell Green owned by Mr W. Lane and that the charge was £10 a plot. It was also reported that Karen Hughes, of Taunton DBC, was looking for the provision of allotments in the Wellington East ward. It was agreed to contact Taunton DBC about this.

13863 CRACKS IN FOOTPATH BY ROCKWELL GREEN WATER TOWERS
Councillor Wilson reported that concerns had been raised by members of the public about cracks in the footpath near Rockwell Green water towers running from RWG Village Hall to Warren Street. It was agreed to investigate and report the matter to the appropriate authority. It was also agreed to check if the water towers were listed as buildings of historic/architectural interest.

13864 BUSINESS RATES EXEMPTION
With reference to minute 13871 a letter was received from the Lyons Inquiry into Local Government acknowledging receipt of the town council’s letter about business rates exemption. The letter was noted.

13865 SQUIRREL COURT PARKING PROBLEMS
With reference to minute 13793 a letter was received from Taunton DBC stating that the current traffic restrictions in Squirrel Court were patrolled as part of the normal patrolling pattern for Wellington and that the parking attendants would be briefed that there seemed to be a particular problem. It was suggested that all the private areas were provided with lockable posts as had been provided on other parts of Squirrel Court. The letter was noted.

13866 COMMUNITY SPEED WATCH
With reference to minute 13835 the clerk reported that he and Councillor Palmer had carried out a speech check in Station Road near the Holyoake Street junction on 14th June 2006 when no motorists had been reported for speeding.

13867 RETENTION OF FENCE AT 80 LABURNUM ROAD
With reference to minute 13618 the clerk reported that an appeal had been lodged with the Secretary of State against the decision of Taunton DBC to refuse permission for the retention of a fence at 80 Laburnum Road, Wellington. The report was noted.

13868 WELLINGTON GREEN SPACES
With reference to minute 13834 the clerk reported that a useful meeting of the town council’s Green Spaces Working Party had been held on 14th June 2006 with Taunton DBC officers and that a detailed report on suggestions for improving the green spaces at Dobree Park, Howard Road, Hoyles Road, Roly Poly Green, Tonedale Play Area, Wellington Recreation Ground and Wardleworth Way Woodland would be available in the near future. The report was noted.

13869 TAUNTON CAB GRANT REQUEST
A letter, grant application form and accounts were received from Taunton Citizens Advice Bureau asking the town council to consider making a grant of £1,200 towards the £1,850 running costs of the Wellington outreach. On the proposal of Councillor Mitton, seconded by Councillor Govier, it was agreed to make a grant of £1,200.

13870 SKINTIGHT SAMBA BAND GRANT REQUEST
A grant application form was received from the newly formed Skintight Samba Band, of Wellington, asking the town council to consider making a grant of £500 towards the £1,500 cost of buying musical instruments. No accounts were available as the band has just been formed. On the proposition of Councillor Mitton, seconded by Councillor Critchard, it was agreed to make a grant of £500 subject to the grant being repaid if the band did not go ahead and subject to the band performing at local events.

13871 TRAFFIC DANGER IN NORTH STREET
A letter was received from Mrs J. Knight asking for the provision of a pedestrian crossing or speed humps in North Street by the Victoria Arms because a nearby bend was dangerous due to restricted visibility. The chairman reported that he and other councillors had had a site meeting with County Highways and the landlord. It had been agreed to put a slow sign on the road near the fire station and the landlord was going to erect a mirror on his own property to give a view around the corner for anyone crossing the road to the public house car park.

13872 TONE HILL AND WATERLOO ROAD TRAFFIC PROBLEMS
A letter was received from Mr C. Sweet about the high speed of traffic on the B3187 at Tone Hill, Wellington, which had resulted in his garden wall being knocked down twice, and about the parking of vehicles on the western side of Waterloo Road between Courtland Road and the Dolphin Inn, forcing vehicles on the wrong side of the road near a bend which was dangerous. Councillors also received a copy of the reply from Mr Ian Titcombe, Taunton Deane area traffic engineer, to Mr Sweet’s letter. Standing orders were suspended to allow Mr Sweet to speak. Councillor Govier reported that a site meeting had been held at Waterloo Road with Mr Titcombe and it had been agreed that double yellow lines should be put round the junctions of Bovet Street and George Street with Waterloo Road to keep these as clear as possible. A balance had to be struck as many residents in the area had no garages and parked in the road. It was agreed to ask the police to carry out a speed check in the Tone Hill area and to ask if it could be included as a community speed watch site.

13873 SPEEDING ON OLDWAY ROAD
A letter was received from Mr J. King referring to a road traffic accident which had occurred on 28th June 2006 at the junction of Oldway Road (A38 relief road) with Hoyles Road and to the high speeds of traffic using the 40mph road. He asked for speed monitoring to be carried out. It was agreed to ask the police to do this and also for the town council’s community speed watch volunteers to carry out a check.

13874 AGE CONCERN ACTIVE LIVING CENTRES
A letter was received from Age Concern Somerset stating that it hoping to form 50 active living centres across Somerset, including one in Wellington, as part of the Partnerships for Older People led by the county council, primary care trusts, district councils and voluntary sector groups such as Red Cross, Age Concern and WRVS to promote healthy lifestyles for the over 50s. The letter also summarised details of each intended Somerset Active Living Centre and invited the town council’s comments. It was agreed to welcome the idea of the centres but to point out that there was already a Wellington Healthy Living Centre Trust in existence as well as a local U3A group. The chairman stated he was an Age Concern volunteer.

13875 COUNTY DRAFT RIGHTS OF WAY IMPROVEMENT PLAN
Members received a copy of the County Council’s draft rights of way improvement plan consultation leaflet. It was agreed to refer it to the town council’s Footpaths Committee to make any comments which had to be received by 28th July 2006.

13876 WELLINGTON ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP
With reference to minute 13843 no recommendations or suggestions were put forward for the inclusion on the agenda for the next WEP meeting to be held on Tuesday, 11th July 2006 at 6pm.

COUNCILLOR HORSMAN LEFT THE MEETING HERE AT 8.37PM

13877 PLANNING DECISIONS BY TAUNTON DBC
The clerk reported that Taunton Deane Borough Council had approved the following plans: (a) Erection of two single storey extensions at 6 Hawthorne Road, Wellington (43/2006/059: delegated decision); (b) Application to carry out tree work to one beech tree within Wellington conservation area at 93 Mantle Street, Wellington as amended by agents e-mail received on 13th June 2006 (43/2006/062T); (c) Erection of conservatory to rear of property at 10 Millstream Gardens, Wellington (43/2006/055: delegated decision); (d) Erection of 1.23m fence to two sides of front of property at 23 Humphreys Road, Wellington (43/2006/052: delegated decision); (e) Installation of replacement shop fronts at Loose Ends and Wellington Cobbler, White Hart Lane, Wellington (43/2006/047: delegated decision); (f) Conversion of first and second floors to two flats and internal and external alterations, 10 Fore Street, Wellington (43/2006/023LB); (g) Conversion of storage area to living accommodation and internal alterations to existing accommodation, 10 Fore Street, Wellington (43/2006/024: delegated decision); (h) Erection of single storey extension to front and extension of existing garage at 25 Sylvan Road, Wellington (43/2006/042:delegated decision); (i) Demolition of existing garage and construction of two storey side extension at 9 Corner Close, Wellington (43/2006/045: delegated decision); (j) Installation of solar panels at 187 Barn Meads Road, Wellington (43/2006/048: delegated decision); (k) Conversion of mill buildings into residential (148 dwellings) and commercial units and associated exterior works, Tonedale Business Park, Milverton Road, Wellington (43/2004/119 and 43/2004/120LB); (l) Conversion of part of outbuilding, internal and external alterations including raising height of roof to form flat to rear of 33 High Street, Wellington as amended by agents letter dated 11th April 2006 and accompanying plan 1291/05/1 ISS 4 (43/2006/008LB and 43/2006/009); (m) Erection of two storey extension at Wellington House Nursing Home, Longforth Road, Wellington, revised design to 43/2005/013 (43/2006/056); (n) Fell one eucalyptus tree within Wellington conservation area at 3 Court Terrace, Wellington (43/2006/049T).

COUNCILLOR BOWRAH LEFT THE MEETING HERE AT 8.40PM

13878 COUNCIL INCOME/EXPENDITURE TO 30TH JUNE 2006
A report was received from the clerk showing that the council’s income for the period from 1st April 2006 to 30th June 2006 was £41,498 (£122,249 estimated for the full year to 31st March 2007) and that expenditure for the same period was £32,562 (£143,150 estimated for the full year to 31st March 2007). The report was noted.

13879 ACCOUNTS FOR PAYMENT
On the proposition of Councillor Govier, seconded by Councillor Critchard, it was agreed to authorise the payment of the following accounts and the signing of the following cheques: Wellington in Bloom Committee £1,000 grant (to replace previous cheque inadvertently paid back into town council’s account); Taunton Deane Borough Council £250 for museum lease for 1/7/06 to 30/9/06; Taunton Deane Community Transport Ltd £88 for subsidised hospital patient transport for May 2006; Mr A. Brown £1,608.38; Mrs J. Thorne £289.92; Inland Revenue £665.35 for income tax and national insurance; Hinewood Cleaning Service £48 for cleaning town centre bus shelters and chamber/office window cleaning for May 2006; Wireless CCTV Ltd £11.88 for phone calls between April and June 2006.2265

13880 CLOSURE OF LUNCH CLUB
Councillor Hindley reported that Wellington Lunch Club at the Northfield Centre would be closing from 12th July 2006 because there were no new volunteers to replace the long serving volunteers who had run the club for many years.

13881 PAPERS, REPORTS, NEWSLETTERS ETC
The clerk reported that the following reports, newsletters etc had been received and were available for members to read if they wished: June issue of InterAction from Local Government International Bureau; NALC direct information service bulletins Nos. 633 and 634; June issue of CDC News from Coachdrivers Club of Great Britain.

THE MEETING CLOSED AT 8.50PM

Wellington Town Council planning minutes July 2006

Minutes of the 111th planning meeting of Wellington Town Council held in the United Reformed Church Hall in Fore Street, Wellington on Monday 3rd July 2006 at 6pm

PRESENT: Councillor D. Mitton (chairman), who presided, Councillor P. Critchard (vice-chairman), Councillors Mrs V. Byrne, Mrs G. Copley, Mrs V. Stock-Williams and Mrs N. Wilson, who arrived at 6.58pm, Councillors R. Bowrah, A. Govier, R. Henley, who arrived at 6.58pm, A. Horsman, C. Hindley and S. Palmer, and the clerk A. Brown, the assistant to the clerk Mrs J. Thorne, and Taunton DBC planning officer Mr J. Hamer. There were apologies from Councillors Mrs C. Biscoe and G. James. There were 6 members of the public present.

13848 WHITE HART LANE APPLICATION
With reference to minute 13819 further consideration was given to a plan for the erection of 11 one bedroom dwellings on land to the rear of Sans Ombre and Garden House, White Hart, Wellington (43/2006/057) following a site meeting held on 19th June 2006. Mr Hamer reported that amended plans showed the living accommodation on the first floor and the bedroom on the ground floor; the existing boundary wall and new boundary would be built to a height of 1.5m – 1.8m to prevent any overlooking from the ground floor windows; and the first floor windows facing existing bungalows would have obscure glazing. Taunton DBC’s Planning Committee was being recommended by the officers to approve the application at its meeting on 5th July 2006 subject to the completion of a 106 agreement to provide for a contribution towards leisure facilities. Councillor Critchard moved that approval should be recommended but there was no seconder. Councillor Byrne moved, with Councillor Copley seconding, that refusal should be recommended on the grounds of inadequate access and increased congestion in White Hart Lane. The motion was carried 3-1 with 4 abstentions.

13849 COMMENTS TO TAUNTON DBC ON PLANNING APPLICATIONS
It was agreed to inform Taunton DBC that the town council was in favour of the following plans: (a) Erection of a dwelling on land to the rear of 31 Blackmoor Road, Wellington, revised scheme of 43/2005/025 (43/2006/053); (b) Internal alterations and refurbishment alterations, including new windows to flats at 43 High Street, Wellington (43/2006/058LB: subject to the views of the conservation officer); (c) Replace slates on roof to rear of 45 High Street, Wellington (43/2006/067LB); (d) Erection of dwelling (outline application) on land to rear of 6 Pyles Thorne Close, Wellington (43/2006/068); (e) Erection of industrial unit at Plot 19, Rylands Farm Industrial Estate, Bagley Road, Rockwell Green, Wellington (43/2006/073: subject to the hours of working/noise emission levels being the same as the existing conditions covering the rest of the industrial estate with no working on Sundays, Christmas Day and Bank Holidays, subject to the colour of the unit blending in with existing units. It was also agreed to suggest that the owner be asked to erect a larger location sign. Members considered a letter from Mrs D. Land, of Westlands, Bagley Green, about hours of working, noise emission levels, colour of unit, vehicle traffic, external lighting and disposal of water from unit. Councillor Govier declared a prejudicial interest and left the hall while this item was considered).

13850 DEFERRED PLAN FOR NATWEST BANK
It was agreed to defer until the August meeting, pending the provision of further information, consideration of a plan for the partial demolition of an existing boundary wall to the rear of Natwest Bank, 12 Fore Street, Wellington (43/2006/072LB).

13851 UPDATE ON SOMERFIELD SUPERMARKET REDEVELOPMENT
Giving an update on the Somerfield supermarket redevelopment in High Street, Mr Hamer stated that the delay in starting the project was due to the fact that the Section 106 agreement on highway issues had not yet been signed. It had been approved by the Deane’s legal department and by Somerfield but Somerset highway authority was still checking that the agreement was acceptable. The Deane and the applicants were chasing county highways to get the issues resolved. Both were equally frustrated by the delay. Councillor Govier reported that he had been assured by county officers that a legally binding document covering all the highway issues with would be drawn up with Somerfield soon. He agreed to take the matter up again with the county council to try to speed things up. Councillor Bowrah questioned whether the scaffolding erected outside the former discount store (to be demolished as part of the Somerfield development) was safe. It was agreed to take the matter up with Taunton DBC and the county council.

13852 UPDATE ON CADES FARM HOUSING SCHEME
Giving an update on the Cades Farm housing scheme Mr Hamer reported that the scheme was subject to a quite complex 106 agreement covering affordable/social housing and commuted sums for the future maintenance of open spaces (number of years). The Deane was seeking to get the best deal from the developers for affordable housing on the site. The aim was that 35% of the total of dwellings on the site should be affordable housing. It was hoped there would be agreement before too long. It was agreed to write to Taunton DBC stating that the town council would like to see the greatest number of social houses possible. Referring to the suggestion by some town councillors that allotments might be considered as part of the Cades Farm scheme, Mr Hamer pointed out that there was nothing in the local plan for allotments. There was no Deane policy for allotments. If it was felt at the stage of receiving the detailed planning application that allotments should be provided, then it might be possible to consider using some of the land earmarked for open space.

THE MEETING CLOSED AT 7.05PM