PARISH COUNCIL
Minutes of the meeting held in the Village Hall on Thursday 6th November 2008
65 Present: Cllrs Miles (Chairman), Rootham (Deputy), Allen, Rowlett, Waller, Timms (Borough) and Alison McLaven (Clerk). 2 members of the public were also present.
66 Apologies: Cllrs Norton and Watts67 Discussion with Lyn Martin-Bennison and Councillor John Bailey
67.1 Councillor Bailey had instigated meetings between the Parishes and the Chief Executive and himself in order to improve the relationship between the Borough and the Parishes. This was the first of 18 such meetings.
67.2The main points discussed were making communication better and addressing problems associated with planning decisions.
68 Open session for the Public
68.1 Mr Derry addressed the meeting on his concerns that as one of the objectives of the Parish Council was improved communication it was not doing as well as it could. The spending of the Section 106 money had originally had a large meeting of the public and although a working group had been set up little else had been heard. He realised the Parish was land poor and pointed out that the village was unaware of the nature of alternative draft proposals now being discussed. He was advised that work was still in progress and that a very positive meeting with the Borough had already been held. Should draft proposals be formally approved later at this meeting the village would be advised via the Newsletter.
68.2 There was discussion regarding the village web site, which appears not to be fully functional at the moment. Mr Derry had set up a village ‘blog’ and would like to publish draft minutes rather than wait 2 months to see the approved minutes. Lynn Martin- Bennison suggested producing a resume of the meeting, summarising decisions made.
68.3 Councillor Miles proposed and Councillor Allen seconded that the minutes be produced within a week of the meeting and they be published on a notice board and the Blog in total but clearly marked ‘draft’ or ‘unapproved’. Councillor Rootham counter proposed an amendment that we produce a resume reflecting and highlighting topics, but was uniquely separate and not identifiable as minutes. Councillor Waller seconded this. This was defeated by 2 votes to 3.The original motion was therefore, carried. Councillor Rootham and Councillor Waller asked to have their objections minuted because of previous legal advice taken. The minutes would be scrutinised by 2 Councillors before publication. Councillors Miles & Rootham
69 Minutes of meeting 11th September 2008 and matters arising
69.1 Several errors needed correction and it was agreed that following correction they be signed as a true record of the meeting and copies circulated to Councillors.
69.2 The excavations at Orlingbury Hall appear to have stopped but the Clerk to contact Mr Rennie to check the situation.
70 Development Plan
70.1 Councillor Allen proposed that the document previously discussed on spending the S106 money be approved. Councillor Rootham seconded and meting unanimously approved.
70.2 It was noted that Joe Hubbard, Deputy Chief Executive of WBC, was aware of the working document and felt that it should be able to go ahead. The Developers would have to agree the plan but he saw no major problems and hoped the money would be released within the next ten days.
70.3 Councillor Allen was thanked for his hard work on the project.
70.4 Joe Hubbard will contact the Highways about the traffic calming money.
70.5 There is the possibility of highways money being available for small works. Resurfacing the pavement where the bush has been removed, and dropped curbs were discussed. Councillor Allen will contact ACRE as they are the ones liaising for the highways.
71 Progress on Parish Plan
71.1 Communication was discussed earlier
72 New Tenancy Agreement for Allotments
72.1 Councillor Rootham had produced an agreement, and Councillor Miles had an agreement that had been downloaded from the National Society of Allotment owners website. It was agreed that they would get together and agree the final document.
72.2 Councillor Rootham had had sight of a document showing the access to the land was 15feet from the edge of the ditch. Councillor Miles asked to be given a copy of this so that he could consult with the local residents over this. It was agreed important that the access for vehicles should be kept, if only for access for burial purposes, and that land was not lost.
72.3 Water would not be supplied to the site as the only obligation of the Council was to provide ‘earth for cultivation’.
72.4 Rod Derry has done a lot of work making a plan to accommodate 12 allotments on the ground currently available. It was agreed that he should allocate the allotments with current users having priority choice of plot. The agreements to be signed as soon as they are available.
72.5 It was agreed that the rent be set at £5.00 per plot per year.
72.6 Rod Derry was thanked for all his hard work.
72.7 It was noted that an article about the allotments was produced by Councillor Miles for the newsletter, but was omitted at the final cut by the Editor.
73 Adoption of model publication scheme
73.1 It was agreed to adopt the scheme. Councillor Allen had reservations about the document.
74 Correspondence
74.1 NCC had asked if the street lighting installed in Norlinton Close was functioning correctly. It appeared it was but the Clerk would write to confirm that the road had actually been adopted yet.
74.2 WBC had advised that BT was seeking to remove payphones but they could be acquired by Councils for £500 a year serviced or £1 with nothing in it. Clerk to advise both that the Orlingbury one was now a listed building.
74.3 New permitted Development order – copies of regulations to be circulated to individual Councillors.
74.4 Remaining correspondence would be circulated in the pack.
75 Financial Matters
75.1 BDO Stoyhayward (auditors) had approved the annual return with the only issues being asset valuation and fidelity guarantee. It was agreed to pay the accounts to hand and then leave only £2000 in the current account, transferring the remainder to the reserve account.
75.2 Councillor Allen proposed, Councillor Waller seconded, all in favour of the following accounts being approved for payment.
508 E-on (elec supply Jan-Jun) £861.37509
E-on (electricity maintenance) £1209.08
510 S Miles (mower maintenance& petrol) £103.66
595 BDO Stoyhayward (audit) £141.00
596 Royal British Legion ( wreath) £20.00
597 Mrs A McLaven (salary) £282.42
75.3 Current Account balance at 29 October is £7923.73
75.4 Reserve Account balance at 29 October is £7508.9875.5 ACRE had advised of an interim salary increase for Parish Clerks, SCP 15 is now £8.238p per hour increased from £7.846. This has been backdated to 1st April 2008.
Reports from external meetings attended (if any)
76.1 Councillor Miles and the Clerk had attended the Parish Forum.
76.1.1 It had been agreed to continue meeting twice a year in the Council Chamber rather than visit the parishes.
76.1.2 Paul Howard, who is employed by both the Borough and the County, gave a talk on emergency plans and asked to be e-mailed copies of emergency plans.
76.1.3 The Borough had plans for the provision of sport and sporting facilities of all types but did not have the appropriate funding
76.1.4 Next meeting to be on February 25th 2009 is the next meeting and as many councillors as possible to asked to attend.
77 Planning applications and decisions
77.1 WP/ 2008/0519/CA – Demolition of 2 barns, land adjacent to the Lodge, Taggies Yard for Mr Ben Norton and Miss Rebecca Denton. Comments were made rgarding over-development of the site, increased traffic density through Norlinton Close to exit on Harrowden Road and a site viewing would be requested.
77.2 WP/2008/0491/F single storey extension to front & rear including conversion to granny annexe – 6 Isham Road for Mr & Mrs Cole. It would be requested that all site traffic be contained within the site and Isham Road not obstructed.
77.3 Concerns were raised about the two new properties on Harrowden Road not using Norlinton Close for vehicular access. Clerk to contact the enforcement officer.
78. Village Hall Nothing to report
79. Any Other Business
79.1 Councillor Rowlatt had had details (placed through her letter box) of a plot of land for sale on Harrowden Road put through her box. No action could be taken over this unless formal notification of planning intention was received
79.2 Councillor Timms spoke about the availability of Smart-Water at a price. However it was thought that Charlotte Cook could get it free through Neighbourhood Watch, this to be checked out.
79.3 Councillor Allen suggested that once the development costings had been approved then a meeting should be convened to progress matters. This was agreed.
79.4 Clerk to write to Helen Howard, copying John Bailey to ask if the ‘speed review’ has been concluded and what has been approved.
79.5 To comply with new regulations future agendas would have to be more detailed and precise. This could prove problematic, especially with late planning applications.
79.6 The Chairman asked for volunteers to form a flag escort for the British Legion Remembrance Day Service in the Parish Church on Sunday November 9th.
80. Date of the next meeting
80.1 To be held on the Village Hall on Thursday January 8th 2009.
There being no further business the meeting was closed at 10.20pm, with thanks from the Chair to those attending.
………………………. ……………………….
Chairman Date
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
September 11th 2008 minutes
ORLINGBURY PARISH COUNCIL
Minutes of the meeting held in the Village Hall on Thursday 11th
September 2008
53 Present: Cllrs Miles (Chairman), Rootham (Deputy), Allen, Rowlett, Waller Watts, Timms (Borough) and Alison McLaven (Clerk). .
54 Apologies: Were received and accepted from Cllr Norton.
55 Minutes of meeting 3rd July 2008 and matters arising
55.1These were signed as a true and correct record. It was asked if the tone of the minutes could report central issues with more vigour. A lot of the previous meeting was very positive, but the records appeared bland. Discussion followed and it was agreed that after the minutes are completed both Councillor Miles and Councillor Allen would check through to make sure all issues are covered. It was noted that minutes are just a brief outline of what went on at a meeting, not a verbatim report. Councillor Rootham suggested that important issues be reported upon in the Parish Magazine, so that villagers are kept update with progress. It was felt important in our recording of minutes to highlight our resolve to move things forward and highlight the development plan. It was also then agreed to discuss the agenda at the end of the meeting and put major issues at the top of the agenda.
55.2 45.5 The Pulse Park application has been rejected out by the planning inspector
55.3 45.8 The Clerk to write to a senior officer (from the Police or County? Cant remember which) to attend the next meeting and comment on traffic survey.
55.4 45.10 The implement blocking the bridle way has been removed.
55.5 46.1 The obsolete lamppost on the corner of Rectory Lane and Lammas close has been replaced.
55.6 46.2 The village phone box is due to be painted before the end of the year.
55.7 47.2 The clerk will reinstate the standing order for garage rent
55.8 47.3 Still no bills from e-on but an unmetered supplies agreement has been signed in regard of our 42 lampposts.
55.9 49.1 The Borough Council will only allow the Clerk one copy of a planning application. There are concerns that Parish Councillors need more time to study plans to make informed observations on planning applications. Councillor Timms advised re the planning committee meetings, that Borough Councillors are only given outline details to start with and if they want further information they can go to the files and look. The PC can ask for an extension to the time limit if it is a major plan that requires a public meeting.
55.10 50.7 Felicity Webber had advised the Clerk that the S106 monies had been collected. She then phoned Councillor Allen to ask if the Parish Council would allow the monies to be used for a pocket park in Little Harrowden. Councillor Allen advised her that there were coherent plans in action for the appropriate village use of this grant money. Clerk to write to Lynn Martin-Bennison and ask if the traffic calming monies have been spent.
55.11 52.1 Councillor Miles attended the Audit Commission Focus group, Earls Barton, Finedon and Mears Ashby also attended. They spoke to an Inspector from Bristol giving their views on the Borough Council, telling of issues in the past. It was felt that the provision of services was all right, but communication was a problem, the Parish forum was discussed as the idea was good, but when attended the Parishes are just told what is being done for the town, and nothing to do with the Parishes.
55.12 52.3 Clerk to chase up re reported excavations – to clarify the situation with the Borough as the constant noise from earth moving equipment is causing a problem as it is happening in evenings and over the weekend as well as during the day
55.13 Clerk to give a copy of the planning document to all councillors with these minutes.
56.Correspondence
56.1 NCC Waste management – one of the preferred sites for waste management is adjacent to the A14 and A43 by Pytchley. Councillor Timms read a letter that the borough councillors had received from Joe Hubbard in relation to a television programme the previous evening, where waste from residents with their address on had been found on a waste site in India. All the county recycling is traceable and it would appear that any contaminated paper waste is placed in landfill. Councillor Miles is going to put information regarding this in the Parish Magazine.
56.2 Smartwater- Councillor Timms explained about this further, costs could be reduced if the Parish Council or Neighbourhood Watch co ordinate the distribution. Councillor Miles will contact Charlotte Cook. The meeting was advised that all church property was marked with similar water containing the appropriate postcode.
56.3 Councillor Bailey and Lyn Martin-Bennison would like to attend a Parish Council meeting, the dates have been sent to her PA.
46.2 The remainder of the correspondence was passed around the Councillors.
57 Financial Matters
57.1 Councilor Rowlett proposed and Councillor Watts seconded, all in favour of the following accounts being approved for payment. 506 E-on (electricity maintenance) £119.12
507 Mrs A McLaven (salary) £235.38
58. Reports from external meetings attended (if any)
58.1 Councillor Waller had attended a meeting with the Police. A point was made about the Police response to speed issues, their response had not been helpful, as a lot of work had been done by the village, and the Police did not follow this through with vigour or with the co-operation of volunteer villagers. It was noted that the Police do respond well in emergency situations.
58.2 Councillor Miles and the Clerk had attended a stakeholder meeting about the A43. It will be 2015 before action will be taken to overcome congestion. There will be further meetings.
59. Planning applications and decisions
59.1 Decisions 23rd July
WP/2008/0269/F – demolition of existing house and construction of new house, detached house and related site development works – Derwent Builders – granted
59.2 WP/2008/0150/OEIA – outline proposal for 3000 dwellings, retail commercial facilities non-residential institutions, neighbourhood centre, open spaces, facilities and infrastructure. – an identical application to WP/2007/0750/OEIA – our previous comments can just be moved to this application.
60. Traffic and section 106 monies
60.1 Councillor Allen was thanked for his exceptional work on behalf of us all.
60.2 Councillor Allen explained that a newly established Development Working Party met on three occasions in July and August discussing Section 106 matters overlapping the development plan. This working party followed the large amount of work done on the traffic survey, petition and audit and responded to the need to progress rapidly. The idea of a working party was to give quality time to making key decisions.
Traffic- Prior to the Development Group Meetings there had been a detailed audit of the roadways and the Green, which was divided into 3 parts, repairs safety pruning and improvements. Councillors Waller and Rowlett and the Clerk met with Verity Chilvers and Andrew Leighton from the County Council, who walked the village with our substantial list and added to it.
May Gurney WSP will deal with the safety pruning issues. Other matters need to wait until December when a Highways Traffic and Speed review will conclude its work and this could result in funding being available not only for scheduled repairs but for relocation of integral speed and village signs.S106 funding awarded to NCC for traffic calming resulting from additional effects of increased traffic from the Norlinton Close Development, it was envisaged, would finance Harrowden Road Developments. In addition costings for the village gateways and signs had been received; Councillor Allen had made a map of improvements, and enhancement. The gateways and associated planting will also need to be maintained professionally. Following discussions it was agreed to call a meeting to firm up all these ideas, a date to be arranged as soon as possible.
The Council was presented with a progress report on developments arising from the Highways audit and NCC acknowledgements.
106
Councillors were reminded that much work had been accomplished by earlier working parties but that a range of projects originally studied require the acquisition of land or agreement of landowners and this had proved impossible to secure.
Given the support by the villagers for a range of measures to regulate and calm ‘through’ traffic to ensure that open village spaces were safe and secure for villagers a range of small changes designed to enhance existing public spaces were projects now focused on as achievable options.
60.3 Priorities, therefore, concentrated on health, safety, and villager wellbeing, a) focusing on replacing signs, refurbishing footpaths, remarking roads, resiting signs and b) dealing with trees and shrubs overgrowing the highway, and village gateways. Works funding and grants would be secured from the NCC for these and 106 would be used where funding from the NCC would not be forthcoming.
The next priorities were a) seating on the village green, a centre of village sign on the small green and b) parking for people using the church and green c) resiting of the Village Notice Board with a paved and planted area, and a seat in the vicinity.
Councillor Allen had researched into 106 spending and there is no restrictive definition on use of S106 funding to enhance public space.
60.4 It was felt that the village would probably not object to the precept being increased to cover maintenance of the projects though additional costings had been included in projects to account for this.
61. Allotments
61.1 Councillor Allen declared an interest.
61.2 Following the development group meeting, and the response from the Church, about future use of allotment ground for burial purposes, it was determined that the need for additional burial sites would be gradual, the 26 existing plots within the churchyard being used at about 2 per year. Extra land from the allotment site would be unlikely to be needed for at least ten years. The allotment site would therefore, remain.
It was decided to reallocate the allotment site to enable a larger number of users and to enable future gradual use as an additional burial ground. It was agreed to contact the owners, who have been given notice to leave the site, and ask if they wish to continue with the allotment for the next season. The site would then be re divided, and a new contract drawn up for tenants to sign.
Councillor Rootham has agreed to draw up a draft contract for the next meeting.
61.3 A note to be put in the newsletter advising people what is happening 61.4 There was discussion about the access to the allotments. Clerk to find the tenancy and access agreement.
62. Village Hall62.1 Councillor Watts stepped down from the village hall committee. As Councillor Rootham is already on the committee he will report to the council. It was felt important that there is representation from the Parish Council at the village hall committee.
63. Any Other Business
63.1 Councillor Waller reported there was a light out at the garages, lamp 26
63.2 It was agreed that the agenda for the November meeting would run as follows, apologies, open session, minutes of previous meetings, development plan, and progress on Parish Plan, followed by usual items.
64. Date of the next meeting
64.1 This will be Thursday 6th November 2008.
There being no further business the meeting was closed at 9.35, with thanks from the Chair to those attending.
………………………. ……………………….
Chairman Date
BR
Clerk
Clerk
Clerk
Clerk
ORLINGBURY PARISH COUNCIL
Minutes of the meeting held in the Village Hall on Thursday 11th
September 2008
53 Present: Cllrs Miles (Chairman), Rootham (Deputy), Allen, Rowlett, Waller Watts, Timms (Borough) and Alison McLaven (Clerk). .
54 Apologies: Were received and accepted from Cllr Norton.55 Minutes of meeting 3rd July 2008 and matters arising55.1These were signed as a true and correct record. It was asked if the tone of the minutes could report central issues with more vigour. A lot of the previous meeting was very positive, but the records appeared bland. Discussion followed and it was agreed that after the minutes are completed both Councillor Miles and Councillor Allen would check through to make sure all issues are covered. It was noted that minutes are just a brief outline of what went on at a meeting, not a verbatim report. Councillor Rootham suggested that important issues be reported upon in the Parish Magazine, so that villagers are kept update with progress. It was felt important in our recording of minutes to highlight our resolve to move things forward and highlight the development plan. It was also then agreed to discuss the agenda at the end of the meeting and put major issues at the top of the agenda.
55.2 45.5 The Pulse Park application has been rejected out by the planning inspector
55.3 45.8 The Clerk to write to a senior officer (from the Police or County? Cant remember which) to attend the next meeting and comment on traffic survey.
55.4 45.10 The implement blocking the bridle way has been removed.
55.5 46.1 The obsolete lamppost on the corner of Rectory Lane and Lammas close has been replaced.
55.6 46.2 The village phone box is due to be painted before the end of the year.55.7 47.2 The clerk will reinstate the standing order for garage rent
55.8 47.3 Still no bills from e-on but an unmetered supplies agreement has been signed in regard of our 42 lampposts.55.9 49.1 The Borough Council will only allow the Clerk one copy of a planning application. There are concerns that Parish Councillors need more time to study plans to make informed observations on planning applications. Councillor Timms advised re the planning committee meetings, that Borough Councillors are only given outline details to start with and if they want further information they can go to the files and look. The PC can ask for an extension to the time limit if it is a major plan that requires a public meeting.55.10 50.7 Felicity Webber had advised the Clerk that the S106 monies had been collected. She then phoned Councillor Allen to ask if the Parish Council would allow the monies to be used for a pocket park in Little Harrowden. Councillor Allen advised her that there were coherent plans in action for the appropriate village use of this grant money. Clerk to write to Lynn Martin-Bennison and ask if the traffic calming monies have been spent.
Clerk
Clerk55.11 52.1 Councillor Miles attended the Audit Commission Focus group, Earls Barton, Finedon and Mears Ashby also attended. They spoke to an Inspector from Bristol giving their views on the Borough Council, telling of issues in the past. It was felt that the provision of services was all right, but communication was a problem, the Parish forum was discussed as the idea was good, but when attended the Parishes are just told what is being done for the town, and nothing to do with the Parishes.55.12 52.3 Clerk to chase up re reported excavations – to clarify the situation with the Borough as the constant noise from earth moving equipment is causing a problem as it is happening in evenings and over the weekend as well as during the day
55.13 Clerk to give a copy of the planning document to all councillors with these minutes.
56.Correspondence
56.1 NCC Waste management – one of the preferred sites for waste management is adjacent to the A14 and A43 by Pytchley. Councillor Timms read a letter that the borough councillors had received from Joe Hubbard in relation to a television programme the previous evening, where waste from residents with their address on had been found on a waste site in India. All the county recycling is traceable and it would appear that any contaminated paper waste is placed in landfill. Councillor Miles is going to put information regarding this in the Parish Magazine. 56.2 Smartwater- Councillor Timms explained about this further, costs could be reduced if the Parish Council or Neighbourhood Watch co ordinate the distribution. Councillor Miles will contact Charlotte Cook. The meeting was advised that all church property was marked with similar water containing the appropriate postcode.
56.3 Councillor Bailey and Lyn Martin-Bennison would like to attend a Parish Council meeting, the dates have been sent to her PA.
46.2 The remainder of the correspondence was passed around the Councillors.
57 Financial Matters
57.1 Councilor Rowlett proposed and Councillor Watts seconded, all in favour of the following accounts being approved for payment. 506 E-on (electricity maintenance) £119.12
507 Mrs A McLaven (salary) £235.38
58. Reports from external meetings attended (if any)
58.1 Councillor Waller had attended a meeting with the Police. A point was made about the Police response to speed issues, their response had not been helpful, as a lot of work had been done by the village, and the Police did not follow this through with vigour or with the co-operation of volunteer villagers. It was noted that the Police do respond well in emergency situations.
58.2
Councillor Miles and the Clerk had attended a stakeholder meeting about the A43. It will be 2015 before action will be taken to overcome congestion. There will be further meetings.
59. Planning applications and decisions
59.1 Decisions 23rd July
WP/2008/0269/F – demolition of existing house and construction of new house, detached house and related site development works – Derwent Builders – granted
59.2 WP/2008/0150/OEIA – outline proposal for 3000 dwellings, retail commercial facilities non-residential institutions, neighbourhood centre, open spaces, facilities and infrastructure. – an identical application to WP/2007/0750/OEIA – our previous comments can just be moved to this application.
60. Traffic and section 106 monies
60.1 Councillor Allen was thanked for his exceptional work on behalf of us all.60.2 Councillor Allen explained that a newly established Development Working Party met on three occasions in July and August discussing Section 106 matters overlapping the development plan. This working party followed the large amount of work done on the traffic survey, petition and audit and responded to the need to progress rapidly. The idea of a working party was to give quality time to making key decisions.
Traffic- Prior to the Development Group Meetings there had been a detailed audit of the roadways and the Green, which was divided into 3 parts, repairs safety pruning and improvements. Councillors Waller and Rowlett and the Clerk met with Verity Chilvers and Andrew Leighton from the County Council, who walked the village with our substantial list and added to it.
May Gurney WSP will deal with the safety pruning issues. Other matters need to wait until December when a Highways Traffic and Speed review will conclude its work and this could result in funding being available not only for scheduled repairs but for relocation of integral speed and village signs.S106 funding awarded to NCC for traffic calming resulting from additional effects of increased traffic from the Norlinton Close Development, it was envisaged, would finance Harrowden Road Developments. In addition costings for the village gateways and signs had been received; Councillor Allen had made a map of improvements, and enhancement. The gateways and associated planting will also need to be maintained professionally. Following discussions it was agreed to call a meeting to firm up all these ideas, a date to be arranged as soon as possible.
The Council was presented with a progress report on developments arising from the Highways audit and NCC acknowledgements.
106
Councillors were reminded that much work had been accomplished by earlier working parties but that a range of projects originally studied require the acquisition of land or agreement of landowners and this had proved impossible to secure.
Given the support by the villagers for a range of measures to regulate and calm ‘through’ traffic to ensure that open village spaces were safe and secure for villagers a range of small changes designed to enhance existing public spaces were projects now focused on as achievable options.
60.3 Priorities, therefore, concentrated on health, safety, and villager wellbeing, a) focusing on replacing signs, refurbishing footpaths, remarking roads, resiting signs and b) dealing with trees and shrubs overgrowing the highway, and village gateways. Works funding and grants would be secured from the NCC for these and 106 would be used where funding from the NCC would not be forthcoming.
The next priorities were a) seating on the village green, a centre of village sign on the small green and b) parking for people using the church and green c) resiting of the Village Notice Board with a paved and planted area, and a seat in the vicinity.
Councillor Allen had researched into 106 spending and there is no restrictive definition on use of S106 funding to enhance public space.
60.4 It was felt that the village would probably not object to the precept being increased to cover maintenance of the projects though additional costings had been included in projects to account for this.
61. Allotments
61.1 Councillor Allen declared an interest.61.2 Following the development group meeting, and the response from the Church, about future use of allotment ground for burial purposes, it was determined that the need for additional burial sites would be gradual, the 26 existing plots within the churchyard being used at about 2 per year. Extra land from the allotment site would be unlikely to be needed for at least ten years. The allotment site would therefore, remain.
It was decided to reallocate the allotment site to enable a larger number of users and to enable future gradual use as an additional burial ground. It was agreed to contact the owners, who have been given notice to leave the site, and ask if they wish to continue with the allotment for the next season. The site would then be re divided, and a new contract drawn up for tenants to sign.
Councillor Rootham has agreed to draw up a draft contract for the next meeting.
61.3 A note to be put in the newsletter advising people what is happening 61.4 There was discussion about the access to the allotments. Clerk to find the tenancy and access agreement.
62. Village Hall62.1 Councillor Watts stepped down from the village hall committee. As Councillor Rootham is already on the committee he will report to the council. It was felt important that there is representation from the Parish Council at the village hall committee.
63. Any Other Business
63.1 Councillor Waller reported there was a light out at the garages, lamp 26
63.2 It was agreed that the agenda for the November meeting would run as follows, apologies, open session, minutes of previous meetings, development plan, and progress on Parish Plan, followed by usual items.
64. Date of the next meeting
64.1 This will be Thursday 6th November 2008.
There being no further business the meeting was closed at 9.35, with thanks from the Chair to those attending.
………………………. ……………………….
Chairman Date
BR
Clerk
Clerk
Clerk
Clerk
ORLINGBURY PARISH COUNCIL
Minutes of the meeting held in the Village Hall on Thursday 11th
September 2008
53 Present: Cllrs Miles (Chairman), Rootham (Deputy), Allen, Rowlett, Waller Watts, Timms (Borough) and Alison McLaven (Clerk). .
54 Apologies: Were received and accepted from Cllr Norton.55 Minutes of meeting 3rd July 2008 and matters arising55.1These were signed as a true and correct record. It was asked if the tone of the minutes could report central issues with more vigour. A lot of the previous meeting was very positive, but the records appeared bland. Discussion followed and it was agreed that after the minutes are completed both Councillor Miles and Councillor Allen would check through to make sure all issues are covered. It was noted that minutes are just a brief outline of what went on at a meeting, not a verbatim report. Councillor Rootham suggested that important issues be reported upon in the Parish Magazine, so that villagers are kept update with progress. It was felt important in our recording of minutes to highlight our resolve to move things forward and highlight the development plan. It was also then agreed to discuss the agenda at the end of the meeting and put major issues at the top of the agenda.
55.2 45.5 The Pulse Park application has been rejected out by the planning inspector
55.3 45.8 The Clerk to write to a senior officer (from the Police or County? Cant remember which) to attend the next meeting and comment on traffic survey.
55.4 45.10 The implement blocking the bridle way has been removed.
55.5 46.1 The obsolete lamppost on the corner of Rectory Lane and Lammas close has been replaced.
55.6 46.2 The village phone box is due to be painted before the end of the year.55.7 47.2 The clerk will reinstate the standing order for garage rent
55.8 47.3 Still no bills from e-on but an unmetered supplies agreement has been signed in regard of our 42 lampposts.55.9 49.1 The Borough Council will only allow the Clerk one copy of a planning application. There are concerns that Parish Councillors need more time to study plans to make informed observations on planning applications. Councillor Timms advised re the planning committee meetings, that Borough Councillors are only given outline details to start with and if they want further information they can go to the files and look. The PC can ask for an extension to the time limit if it is a major plan that requires a public meeting.55.10 50.7 Felicity Webber had advised the Clerk that the S106 monies had been collected. She then phoned Councillor Allen to ask if the Parish Council would allow the monies to be used for a pocket park in Little Harrowden. Councillor Allen advised her that there were coherent plans in action for the appropriate village use of this grant money. Clerk to write to Lynn Martin-Bennison and ask if the traffic calming monies have been spent.
Clerk
Clerk55.11 52.1 Councillor Miles attended the Audit Commission Focus group, Earls Barton, Finedon and Mears Ashby also attended. They spoke to an Inspector from Bristol giving their views on the Borough Council, telling of issues in the past. It was felt that the provision of services was all right, but communication was a problem, the Parish forum was discussed as the idea was good, but when attended the Parishes are just told what is being done for the town, and nothing to do with the Parishes.55.12 52.3 Clerk to chase up re reported excavations – to clarify the situation with the Borough as the constant noise from earth moving equipment is causing a problem as it is happening in evenings and over the weekend as well as during the day
55.13 Clerk to give a copy of the planning document to all councillors with these minutes.
56.Correspondence
56.1 NCC Waste management – one of the preferred sites for waste management is adjacent to the A14 and A43 by Pytchley. Councillor Timms read a letter that the borough councillors had received from Joe Hubbard in relation to a television programme the previous evening, where waste from residents with their address on had been found on a waste site in India. All the county recycling is traceable and it would appear that any contaminated paper waste is placed in landfill. Councillor Miles is going to put information regarding this in the Parish Magazine. 56.2 Smartwater- Councillor Timms explained about this further, costs could be reduced if the Parish Council or Neighbourhood Watch co ordinate the distribution. Councillor Miles will contact Charlotte Cook. The meeting was advised that all church property was marked with similar water containing the appropriate postcode.
56.3 Councillor Bailey and Lyn Martin-Bennison would like to attend a Parish Council meeting, the dates have been sent to her PA.
46.2 The remainder of the correspondence was passed around the Councillors.
57 Financial Matters
57.1 Councilor Rowlett proposed and Councillor Watts seconded, all in favour of the following accounts being approved for payment. 506 E-on (electricity maintenance) £119.12
507 Mrs A McLaven (salary) £235.38
58. Reports from external meetings attended (if any)
58.1 Councillor Waller had attended a meeting with the Police. A point was made about the Police response to speed issues, their response had not been helpful, as a lot of work had been done by the village, and the Police did not follow this through with vigour or with the co-operation of volunteer villagers. It was noted that the Police do respond well in emergency situations.
58.2
Councillor Miles and the Clerk had attended a stakeholder meeting about the A43. It will be 2015 before action will be taken to overcome congestion. There will be further meetings.
59. Planning applications and decisions
59.1 Decisions 23rd July
WP/2008/0269/F – demolition of existing house and construction of new house, detached house and related site development works – Derwent Builders – granted
59.2 WP/2008/0150/OEIA – outline proposal for 3000 dwellings, retail commercial facilities non-residential institutions, neighbourhood centre, open spaces, facilities and infrastructure. – an identical application to WP/2007/0750/OEIA – our previous comments can just be moved to this application.
60. Traffic and section 106 monies
60.1 Councillor Allen was thanked for his exceptional work on behalf of us all.60.2 Councillor Allen explained that a newly established Development Working Party met on three occasions in July and August discussing Section 106 matters overlapping the development plan. This working party followed the large amount of work done on the traffic survey, petition and audit and responded to the need to progress rapidly. The idea of a working party was to give quality time to making key decisions.
Traffic- Prior to the Development Group Meetings there had been a detailed audit of the roadways and the Green, which was divided into 3 parts, repairs safety pruning and improvements. Councillors Waller and Rowlett and the Clerk met with Verity Chilvers and Andrew Leighton from the County Council, who walked the village with our substantial list and added to it.
May Gurney WSP will deal with the safety pruning issues. Other matters need to wait until December when a Highways Traffic and Speed review will conclude its work and this could result in funding being available not only for scheduled repairs but for relocation of integral speed and village signs.S106 funding awarded to NCC for traffic calming resulting from additional effects of increased traffic from the Norlinton Close Development, it was envisaged, would finance Harrowden Road Developments. In addition costings for the village gateways and signs had been received; Councillor Allen had made a map of improvements, and enhancement. The gateways and associated planting will also need to be maintained professionally. Following discussions it was agreed to call a meeting to firm up all these ideas, a date to be arranged as soon as possible.
The Council was presented with a progress report on developments arising from the Highways audit and NCC acknowledgements.
106
Councillors were reminded that much work had been accomplished by earlier working parties but that a range of projects originally studied require the acquisition of land or agreement of landowners and this had proved impossible to secure.
Given the support by the villagers for a range of measures to regulate and calm ‘through’ traffic to ensure that open village spaces were safe and secure for villagers a range of small changes designed to enhance existing public spaces were projects now focused on as achievable options.
60.3 Priorities, therefore, concentrated on health, safety, and villager wellbeing, a) focusing on replacing signs, refurbishing footpaths, remarking roads, resiting signs and b) dealing with trees and shrubs overgrowing the highway, and village gateways. Works funding and grants would be secured from the NCC for these and 106 would be used where funding from the NCC would not be forthcoming.
The next priorities were a) seating on the village green, a centre of village sign on the small green and b) parking for people using the church and green c) resiting of the Village Notice Board with a paved and planted area, and a seat in the vicinity.
Councillor Allen had researched into 106 spending and there is no restrictive definition on use of S106 funding to enhance public space.
60.4 It was felt that the village would probably not object to the precept being increased to cover maintenance of the projects though additional costings had been included in projects to account for this.
61. Allotments
61.1 Councillor Allen declared an interest.61.2 Following the development group meeting, and the response from the Church, about future use of allotment ground for burial purposes, it was determined that the need for additional burial sites would be gradual, the 26 existing plots within the churchyard being used at about 2 per year. Extra land from the allotment site would be unlikely to be needed for at least ten years. The allotment site would therefore, remain.
It was decided to reallocate the allotment site to enable a larger number of users and to enable future gradual use as an additional burial ground. It was agreed to contact the owners, who have been given notice to leave the site, and ask if they wish to continue with the allotment for the next season. The site would then be re divided, and a new contract drawn up for tenants to sign.
Councillor Rootham has agreed to draw up a draft contract for the next meeting.
61.3 A note to be put in the newsletter advising people what is happening 61.4 There was discussion about the access to the allotments. Clerk to find the tenancy and access agreement.
62. Village Hall62.1 Councillor Watts stepped down from the village hall committee. As Councillor Rootham is already on the committee he will report to the council. It was felt important that there is representation from the Parish Council at the village hall committee.
63. Any Other Business
63.1 Councillor Waller reported there was a light out at the garages, lamp 26
63.2 It was agreed that the agenda for the November meeting would run as follows, apologies, open session, minutes of previous meetings, development plan, and progress on Parish Plan, followed by usual items.
64. Date of the next meeting
64.1 This will be Thursday 6th November 2008.
There being no further business the meeting was closed at 9.35, with thanks from the Chair to those attending.
………………………. ……………………….
Chairman Date
BR
Clerk
Saturday, October 11, 2008
October Costings for 106 Money
Orlingbury Parish Council
(n.b some tables are not correctly formatted)
Development Costings(subject to quotations being confirmed and competitive tendering)
Funding streams include 106 funding (Harrowden Road Traffic Calming + Leisure funding),County Councillor project pump priming and Highways devt grants).
1. Village sign and mountings
i. Custom made timber sign frame and canopy £650
ii. Timber feature £1250
iii. Pruning tree (removal of lower branches £150
iv. 3D sign £2000
v. You are here info lectern £400
vi. Planter feature £1250
vii. Regular maintenance# £1000 £6700
2. Gateways.Village name signs, re-siting, speed signs, lighting and planters
i. Planning permission and legal £4000
ii. N.C.C. quote for signs etc £500xs 8 £4000
iii. Entrance fencing and planters £650 xs 8 £5200
iv. Regular maintenance# £2000 £15200
3. New seats on village green
i. Circular seat (chestnut tree) £1500
ii. 3 additional seats @ £450 £1350 £2850
4. Village notice-board (re-siting) and associated area with bench
i. Move and create seating area £1500
ii. Regular maintenance# £1000 £2500
5. Parking for four and signage
i. Construction with concrete grass blocks £2985
ii. Bollards @ £50 each (10) £500
iii. Sign £100
iv. Regular maintenance# £1000 £4585
6. Boundary posts for village green, parking area and small green @£50 each (80) £4000 £4000
7. project Design and promotion £500 £500
Sub-total £36335
8. Maintenance
I. Mowing machine for voluntary cutting of green £7500 £7500
Total £44835
PRA 2008
(n.b some tables are not correctly formatted)
Development Costings(subject to quotations being confirmed and competitive tendering)
Funding streams include 106 funding (Harrowden Road Traffic Calming + Leisure funding),County Councillor project pump priming and Highways devt grants).
1. Village sign and mountings
i. Custom made timber sign frame and canopy £650
ii. Timber feature £1250
iii. Pruning tree (removal of lower branches £150
iv. 3D sign £2000
v. You are here info lectern £400
vi. Planter feature £1250
vii. Regular maintenance# £1000 £6700
2. Gateways.Village name signs, re-siting, speed signs, lighting and planters
i. Planning permission and legal £4000
ii. N.C.C. quote for signs etc £500xs 8 £4000
iii. Entrance fencing and planters £650 xs 8 £5200
iv. Regular maintenance# £2000 £15200
3. New seats on village green
i. Circular seat (chestnut tree) £1500
ii. 3 additional seats @ £450 £1350 £2850
4. Village notice-board (re-siting) and associated area with bench
i. Move and create seating area £1500
ii. Regular maintenance# £1000 £2500
5. Parking for four and signage
i. Construction with concrete grass blocks £2985
ii. Bollards @ £50 each (10) £500
iii. Sign £100
iv. Regular maintenance# £1000 £4585
6. Boundary posts for village green, parking area and small green @£50 each (80) £4000 £4000
7. project Design and promotion £500 £500
Sub-total £36335
8. Maintenance
I. Mowing machine for voluntary cutting of green £7500 £7500
Total £44835
PRA 2008
Monday, October 6, 2008
July 3rd 2008 Minutes
ORLINGBURY PARISH COUNCIL
Minutes of the meeting held in the Village Hall on Thursday 3rd July 2008
43 Present: Cllrs Rootham (Chairman), Allen, Rowlett, Waller, Timms (Borough) and Alison McLaven (Clerk). .
44 Apologies: Were received and accepted from Cllrs Miles, Norton and Watts.
45 Minutes of meetings 1st May 2008 and 3rd June 200845.1 The Clerk apologised for the minutes of 3rd June, being a draft and not making sense. It was agreed that they should be altered to read ‘ the whole building is very high and doest not fit in with the street scene. Councillor Rootham to sign the revised copy.45.2 The minutes of 1st of May were missing the information about the telegraph pole light – The Clerk will add this paragraph and Councillor Rootham will sign the revised copy.45.3 There were no matters arising from the 3rd June minutes.
45.4 31.5 Councillor Allen had circulated a copy of the planning document and the Clerk will put a hard copy in with all the minutes when they are circulated
45.5 Councillor Timms asked about the minutes concerning the Pulse Park. He was informed that these were on the Annual Parish Meeting minutes. He advised the meeting that the Planning Inspector had thrown out the plans for the pulse park. There was discussion about the presentation at the Parish Meeting and the lack of Borough Councillors, Councillor Timms advised that the Borough found it difficult to attend these meetings as anything they said could be used against them during the planning process. It was felt they should attend, but not say anything and that the meeting be advised of the situation.
45.6 Councillor Allen had met with Councillor Miles, who was attending a focus group and had asked for incidences such as mentioned above to take to the meeting.
45.7 31.2 The hedge – Councillor Allen, Councillor Waller and the Clerk, possibly Councillor Miles are to meet with Verity Chilvers from the County on 10th July and walk the village to discuss the problems raised from the original walk around the village, which includes the hedge. If the hedges are highways problem, then we shall insist they are removed as soon as possible. The meeting should help say who is responsible for what and also to help cost projects for calming and improving. It was commented on that the Councillors do not want to come to evening meetings.
45.8 It was asked if there had been any response to the traffic survey. It was felt that the Clerk should write to ask a senior officer to attend and make comment on the survey.
45.9 37.1 It is noted that Atkins are no longer the County’s partner, it is now May Gurney. Councillor Timms informed the meeting that they are dealing with a backlog of work, but it was asked how it was since most of the staff were the same.
45.10 37.2 it was reported that Councillor Watts had spoken to the owner of the implement blocking the bridle way, and is looking into the matter. Councillor Rowlett reported that Highways had come out to look at the matter and agreed it was a safety issue. There should be 2 meters if it is a footpath but bridle ways need 3 meters. Highways have spoken to the landowner and he now has 28 days to move it. They will issue an enforcement notice on 17th July if nothing has been done. The county are trying to prioritise cutting footpaths back, there is a worry that 2 horses cannot get past the blockage. Councillor Rowlett was thanked for this information and asked to pursue the matter.
46. Correspondence
46.1 Councillor Allen declared an interest. A costing has been received from ABB for the cost of moving the light at the top of Lammas close. The cost of moving the light and installing a new column was £1029.00 plus VAT. The Clerk was asked to contact ABB and ask if they could just move the lamp to an adjacent post. If this is not possible then they should go ahead and move the light.
46.2.1 English Heritage advising us that the phone box is now a listed building. BT has been informed of this. Clerk to contact BT and ask if they could now paint the box and also remove the notice saying that coins cannot be used. Councillor Miles be asked to include this information in the newsletter.
46.3 The remainder of the correspondence was passed around the Councillors.
47. Financial Matters
47.1 The accounts were approved. It was noted that the Oversixties grant had been paid at the start of this financial year. That money was building up in the kitty but that this had been ring fenced for replacing the mower.
47.2 Wellingborough Homes and the Borough had both been receiving rent for the garage. The money paid to the Borough had been transferred to Wellingborough Homes but this meant that we are well in advance of our payments. As the problem arose through standing orders for payment, the Clerk has cancelled both standing orders and received a direct debit form (which gives the council more control) and she will start this once we have caught up on ourselves.
47.3 There have been no bills from e-on since January, the Clerk contacted them and found that they have no up to date inventory, later in the meeting it was discovered that the information they have is the correct information, and the Clerk will advise them of this, and that we shall have new lamps once the Norlinton Close development is completed. The Clerk had advised that we will not be able to pay the invoices until our September meeting, but it was suggested that we pay the bill in installments, as they have not been able to send the bills on time.
47.4 The Auditor had noted that a previous VAT claim had been totaled incorrectly, the customs and excise had not noticed this either and there had been an extra £465.94 claimed. This money has to be repaid.
47.4 The Annual Report was approved.
47.5 The following accounts were approved for payment. 590 Orlingbury Village Hall (rent) £ 37.80591 ABB (electricity maintenance) £198.49
592 Mrs D Sisman (audit) £ 80.00593 HM Customs & excise (VAT repayment) £465.94594 Mrs A McLaven (salary) £235.38
48. Reports from external meetings attended (if any)
48.1 None had taken place.
49. Planning applications and decisions
49.1 Discussion took place on planning meetings, it was agreed that these have to take place because of timescale issues. It was felt that the other items added were not appropriate. It was questioned if we could look at the plans in advance, with out members of the public. Councillor Timms advised that the plans have to be looked at and commented on at the time, we could not have a meeting to discuss them and then a meeting to make a decision. Members of the public have a right to attend meetings but should only speak during public question time and not have the meeting stopped so that they can talk. The Clerk to ask if we can have seven copies of the plans so they can be distributed before the meetings.
50. Traffic and section 106 monies
50.1 It was agreed to discuss these items together.
50.2 There was an update of the situation. The Clerk to contact Councillor Bailey regarding the grant for a gateway into the village.
50.3 The meeting that is taking place on the 10th should help focus matters, as we should know what is to be done by the County and what we need to do ourselves.
50.4 There are overlap issues with the section 106 monies. There was discussion on how to progress matters. It was agreed to set up a group with 4/5 councillors and co-opt members of the public as and when. This development group will consult over 3 meetings and have some concrete plans costed for the September meeting. The dates for the meetings were agreed as 31st July, 6th August, and 21st August. It was agreed the Councillors would be Councillor Rootham, Councillor Rowlett, Councillor Allen and Councillor Miles, Councillor Waller was unable to attend the meetings but asked to be involved before hand if possible.
50.5 A villager had offered to keep a piece of grass tidy outside the village hall.
50.6 A copy of the report produced by the Police was shown to the meeting, but it did not reflect the speeding pattern.
50.7 An email from Lyn Martin-Bennisons’ PA advised that the section 106 money has not been invoiced yet. The Clerk was asked to email and ask how the £1500 for improving road signs and £5000 for traffic calming had been spent. (to quote from agreement).
51. Village Hall51.1 Councillor Watts remains on the Village Hall committee
52. Any Other Business
52.1 Councillor Miles is attending a focus group about communication with the Borough and will discuss matters that concern us, and also when people have been helpful. Previous similar meetings were discussed.
52.2 Councillor Allen will attend a meeting with for the Partnership with community Police. Councillors Rootham and Waller will also try to attend.
52.3 One of the councillors is aware of a large excavation in the grounds of Orlingbury Hall. There are concerns about the large amount of water that will be involved in these 2 large ponds. The Clerk will check with the Borough and Anglian Water to see if any permissions are need and if they have been sought
Date of the next meeting
The next meeting will be 4th September, and Councillor Waller offers her apologies in advance.
There being no further business the meeting was closed at 9.35, with thanks from the Chair to those attending.
………………………. ……………………….
Chairman Date
Minutes of the meeting held in the Village Hall on Thursday 3rd July 2008
43 Present: Cllrs Rootham (Chairman), Allen, Rowlett, Waller, Timms (Borough) and Alison McLaven (Clerk). .
44 Apologies: Were received and accepted from Cllrs Miles, Norton and Watts.
45 Minutes of meetings 1st May 2008 and 3rd June 200845.1 The Clerk apologised for the minutes of 3rd June, being a draft and not making sense. It was agreed that they should be altered to read ‘ the whole building is very high and doest not fit in with the street scene. Councillor Rootham to sign the revised copy.45.2 The minutes of 1st of May were missing the information about the telegraph pole light – The Clerk will add this paragraph and Councillor Rootham will sign the revised copy.45.3 There were no matters arising from the 3rd June minutes.
45.4 31.5 Councillor Allen had circulated a copy of the planning document and the Clerk will put a hard copy in with all the minutes when they are circulated
45.5 Councillor Timms asked about the minutes concerning the Pulse Park. He was informed that these were on the Annual Parish Meeting minutes. He advised the meeting that the Planning Inspector had thrown out the plans for the pulse park. There was discussion about the presentation at the Parish Meeting and the lack of Borough Councillors, Councillor Timms advised that the Borough found it difficult to attend these meetings as anything they said could be used against them during the planning process. It was felt they should attend, but not say anything and that the meeting be advised of the situation.
45.6 Councillor Allen had met with Councillor Miles, who was attending a focus group and had asked for incidences such as mentioned above to take to the meeting.
45.7 31.2 The hedge – Councillor Allen, Councillor Waller and the Clerk, possibly Councillor Miles are to meet with Verity Chilvers from the County on 10th July and walk the village to discuss the problems raised from the original walk around the village, which includes the hedge. If the hedges are highways problem, then we shall insist they are removed as soon as possible. The meeting should help say who is responsible for what and also to help cost projects for calming and improving. It was commented on that the Councillors do not want to come to evening meetings.
45.8 It was asked if there had been any response to the traffic survey. It was felt that the Clerk should write to ask a senior officer to attend and make comment on the survey.
45.9 37.1 It is noted that Atkins are no longer the County’s partner, it is now May Gurney. Councillor Timms informed the meeting that they are dealing with a backlog of work, but it was asked how it was since most of the staff were the same.
45.10 37.2 it was reported that Councillor Watts had spoken to the owner of the implement blocking the bridle way, and is looking into the matter. Councillor Rowlett reported that Highways had come out to look at the matter and agreed it was a safety issue. There should be 2 meters if it is a footpath but bridle ways need 3 meters. Highways have spoken to the landowner and he now has 28 days to move it. They will issue an enforcement notice on 17th July if nothing has been done. The county are trying to prioritise cutting footpaths back, there is a worry that 2 horses cannot get past the blockage. Councillor Rowlett was thanked for this information and asked to pursue the matter.
46. Correspondence
46.1 Councillor Allen declared an interest. A costing has been received from ABB for the cost of moving the light at the top of Lammas close. The cost of moving the light and installing a new column was £1029.00 plus VAT. The Clerk was asked to contact ABB and ask if they could just move the lamp to an adjacent post. If this is not possible then they should go ahead and move the light.
46.2.1 English Heritage advising us that the phone box is now a listed building. BT has been informed of this. Clerk to contact BT and ask if they could now paint the box and also remove the notice saying that coins cannot be used. Councillor Miles be asked to include this information in the newsletter.
46.3 The remainder of the correspondence was passed around the Councillors.
47. Financial Matters
47.1 The accounts were approved. It was noted that the Oversixties grant had been paid at the start of this financial year. That money was building up in the kitty but that this had been ring fenced for replacing the mower.
47.2 Wellingborough Homes and the Borough had both been receiving rent for the garage. The money paid to the Borough had been transferred to Wellingborough Homes but this meant that we are well in advance of our payments. As the problem arose through standing orders for payment, the Clerk has cancelled both standing orders and received a direct debit form (which gives the council more control) and she will start this once we have caught up on ourselves.
47.3 There have been no bills from e-on since January, the Clerk contacted them and found that they have no up to date inventory, later in the meeting it was discovered that the information they have is the correct information, and the Clerk will advise them of this, and that we shall have new lamps once the Norlinton Close development is completed. The Clerk had advised that we will not be able to pay the invoices until our September meeting, but it was suggested that we pay the bill in installments, as they have not been able to send the bills on time.
47.4 The Auditor had noted that a previous VAT claim had been totaled incorrectly, the customs and excise had not noticed this either and there had been an extra £465.94 claimed. This money has to be repaid.
47.4 The Annual Report was approved.
47.5 The following accounts were approved for payment. 590 Orlingbury Village Hall (rent) £ 37.80591 ABB (electricity maintenance) £198.49
592 Mrs D Sisman (audit) £ 80.00593 HM Customs & excise (VAT repayment) £465.94594 Mrs A McLaven (salary) £235.38
48. Reports from external meetings attended (if any)
48.1 None had taken place.
49. Planning applications and decisions
49.1 Discussion took place on planning meetings, it was agreed that these have to take place because of timescale issues. It was felt that the other items added were not appropriate. It was questioned if we could look at the plans in advance, with out members of the public. Councillor Timms advised that the plans have to be looked at and commented on at the time, we could not have a meeting to discuss them and then a meeting to make a decision. Members of the public have a right to attend meetings but should only speak during public question time and not have the meeting stopped so that they can talk. The Clerk to ask if we can have seven copies of the plans so they can be distributed before the meetings.
50. Traffic and section 106 monies
50.1 It was agreed to discuss these items together.
50.2 There was an update of the situation. The Clerk to contact Councillor Bailey regarding the grant for a gateway into the village.
50.3 The meeting that is taking place on the 10th should help focus matters, as we should know what is to be done by the County and what we need to do ourselves.
50.4 There are overlap issues with the section 106 monies. There was discussion on how to progress matters. It was agreed to set up a group with 4/5 councillors and co-opt members of the public as and when. This development group will consult over 3 meetings and have some concrete plans costed for the September meeting. The dates for the meetings were agreed as 31st July, 6th August, and 21st August. It was agreed the Councillors would be Councillor Rootham, Councillor Rowlett, Councillor Allen and Councillor Miles, Councillor Waller was unable to attend the meetings but asked to be involved before hand if possible.
50.5 A villager had offered to keep a piece of grass tidy outside the village hall.
50.6 A copy of the report produced by the Police was shown to the meeting, but it did not reflect the speeding pattern.
50.7 An email from Lyn Martin-Bennisons’ PA advised that the section 106 money has not been invoiced yet. The Clerk was asked to email and ask how the £1500 for improving road signs and £5000 for traffic calming had been spent. (to quote from agreement).
51. Village Hall51.1 Councillor Watts remains on the Village Hall committee
52. Any Other Business
52.1 Councillor Miles is attending a focus group about communication with the Borough and will discuss matters that concern us, and also when people have been helpful. Previous similar meetings were discussed.
52.2 Councillor Allen will attend a meeting with for the Partnership with community Police. Councillors Rootham and Waller will also try to attend.
52.3 One of the councillors is aware of a large excavation in the grounds of Orlingbury Hall. There are concerns about the large amount of water that will be involved in these 2 large ponds. The Clerk will check with the Borough and Anglian Water to see if any permissions are need and if they have been sought
Date of the next meeting
The next meeting will be 4th September, and Councillor Waller offers her apologies in advance.
There being no further business the meeting was closed at 9.35, with thanks from the Chair to those attending.
………………………. ……………………….
Chairman Date
May 1st 2008 Minutes
ORLINGBURY PARISH COUNCIL
Minutes of the meeting held in the Village Hall on Thursday 1st May 2008
29 Present: Cllrs Miles (Chairman), Allen, Rowlatt, Waller and Watts plus Alison McLaven (Clerk).
30 Apologies: Were received and accepted from Cllr Rootham
31Minutes of meeting 6th March 2008 and matters arising.
031.1 After correcting the word finger post to sign (18.8), it was agreed that they be signed as a true record and copies circulated to members.
31.2 28.1 There has been no response from the Hall owner about the hedge, Councillor Miles will contact them but if after 10 days there has been no response the clerk will write to Highways. It was felt that there are two other areas of concern that need to be treated in the same way, towards Little Harrowden, the hedge has been cut back in line with the verge making vision difficult and the hedge of the paddock on Isham Road. The Clerk will write to Highways about these as well. A walk around the village will take place to assess the state of footpaths, signposts etc, on Thursday 8th May at 6.45pm.
31.3 18.5 – The welcome pack is now in the Church. The pack has been updated by Councillor Allen.
31.4 18.4- The list of councillors is in the newsletter – it was agreed to make the agenda contain the priorities so that they can be reported on.
31.5 18.6 – The planning guide is available on line from the Borough Council Web site.
31.6 24.8 – Still no answer whether or not the Section 106 monies has been received by the Borough, the Clerk to write, and also ask if the £1500, and £6000 have been received for road signs and traffic calming and if so how the money was spent.
32 Correspondence
32.1 Highways had sent a DVD about rights of way, Councillor Miles to review and deal with appropriately
32.2 Wellingborough Homes- notice of rent increase for the garage (20p now £8 inc VAT), as previously unaware that VAT was being charged the Clerk to get a statement and confirm that it is being charged and then reclaim the VAT.
32.3 Borough Council – Town Centre Consultation Feedback, concerns re lack of use of on-line response, Councillor Rowlatt to complete questionnaire
32.4 Monthly Crime report – 1 all other crimes in March
32.5 The remainder of the correspondence was passed around the councillors
33. Financial Matters
33.1 The follow monies had been received: BCW precept £3969.00 VAT £ 572.07 NCC grasscutting £ 224.74
33.2The following accounts were agreed for payment. Councillor Watts proposed, Councillor Waller seconded and all in favour.Chq No £584 ABB – electricity maintenance 168.93585 Allianz – insurance 494.84586 Northants CALC – subscription 115.00587 A McLaven – salary April/May 235.38588 Pages – maintenance of mowers 644.81589 Orlingbury over 60’s grant 100.00
34 Section 106Councillor Allen had spoken to Councillor Bailey and there is a possibility, although it needs exploring, of using the £39,000 as our 25% contribution towards a bigger capital grant (£156,000), which would allow us to put more into leisure and traffic improvements. Discussion of this took place with concerns that more money might compound the problem of spending it. The worst problem is that the village is land poor. The allotments and garden of tranquillity were also discussed. It was agreed that the groups needed to be got going and before the July meeting and they need to have been given terms of reference so that they can report back to the September meeting.
35 Traffic
35.1Councillor Miles had attended a meeting in Earls Barton for community policing, each village had its own problems, but he advised the meeting of the problem of speeding in Orlingbury and it was agreed that it would be a 3 month project for the community Police. A flyer had been issued to each house and the Police had received a good response to this. It was felt that the signs regarding the scheme had been placed very high on posts, and in some unreadable places.
35.2The Clerk will send copies of the traffic survey to Peter Bone, Councillor Bailey, Highways and its new partner MGWSP.
35.3The Highways department will place flashing signs at the edges of the village over a five week period.
36. Planning applications and decisions
There were no applications to discuss.
37. Any Other Business37.1 It is a matter of urgency that a meeting is arranged with Atkins to discuss realigning the village signs 37.2 The bridle way to Pytchley is blocked with a plough, Councillor Rowlatt had received complaints from residents that were unable to get through with horses. Councillor Watts will have a word with the landowner.
37.3 A company working on behalf of BT have contacted us with regard to taking back the pole at the top of Lammas Close. We have to move the light from the post before they can take it back. Clerk to look into the cost.
38. Dates of next meetings.These will be 3rd July 2008, 4th September 2008, 6th November 2008 and 8th January 2009, 5th March 2009, 2nd April 2009 (Annual Parish Meeting) and 7th May 2009 (Annual General Meeting), at 7.30 in the village hall.
There being no further business the meeting was closed at 9.25pm – with thanks from the Chair to those attending for their input and support.
Signed: ……………………………………..
Date: …………………………….
Minutes of the meeting held in the Village Hall on Thursday 1st May 2008
29 Present: Cllrs Miles (Chairman), Allen, Rowlatt, Waller and Watts plus Alison McLaven (Clerk).
30 Apologies: Were received and accepted from Cllr Rootham
31Minutes of meeting 6th March 2008 and matters arising.
031.1 After correcting the word finger post to sign (18.8), it was agreed that they be signed as a true record and copies circulated to members.
31.2 28.1 There has been no response from the Hall owner about the hedge, Councillor Miles will contact them but if after 10 days there has been no response the clerk will write to Highways. It was felt that there are two other areas of concern that need to be treated in the same way, towards Little Harrowden, the hedge has been cut back in line with the verge making vision difficult and the hedge of the paddock on Isham Road. The Clerk will write to Highways about these as well. A walk around the village will take place to assess the state of footpaths, signposts etc, on Thursday 8th May at 6.45pm.
31.3 18.5 – The welcome pack is now in the Church. The pack has been updated by Councillor Allen.
31.4 18.4- The list of councillors is in the newsletter – it was agreed to make the agenda contain the priorities so that they can be reported on.
31.5 18.6 – The planning guide is available on line from the Borough Council Web site.
31.6 24.8 – Still no answer whether or not the Section 106 monies has been received by the Borough, the Clerk to write, and also ask if the £1500, and £6000 have been received for road signs and traffic calming and if so how the money was spent.
32 Correspondence
32.1 Highways had sent a DVD about rights of way, Councillor Miles to review and deal with appropriately
32.2 Wellingborough Homes- notice of rent increase for the garage (20p now £8 inc VAT), as previously unaware that VAT was being charged the Clerk to get a statement and confirm that it is being charged and then reclaim the VAT.
32.3 Borough Council – Town Centre Consultation Feedback, concerns re lack of use of on-line response, Councillor Rowlatt to complete questionnaire
32.4 Monthly Crime report – 1 all other crimes in March
32.5 The remainder of the correspondence was passed around the councillors
33. Financial Matters
33.1 The follow monies had been received: BCW precept £3969.00 VAT £ 572.07 NCC grasscutting £ 224.74
33.2The following accounts were agreed for payment. Councillor Watts proposed, Councillor Waller seconded and all in favour.Chq No £584 ABB – electricity maintenance 168.93585 Allianz – insurance 494.84586 Northants CALC – subscription 115.00587 A McLaven – salary April/May 235.38588 Pages – maintenance of mowers 644.81589 Orlingbury over 60’s grant 100.00
34 Section 106Councillor Allen had spoken to Councillor Bailey and there is a possibility, although it needs exploring, of using the £39,000 as our 25% contribution towards a bigger capital grant (£156,000), which would allow us to put more into leisure and traffic improvements. Discussion of this took place with concerns that more money might compound the problem of spending it. The worst problem is that the village is land poor. The allotments and garden of tranquillity were also discussed. It was agreed that the groups needed to be got going and before the July meeting and they need to have been given terms of reference so that they can report back to the September meeting.
35 Traffic
35.1Councillor Miles had attended a meeting in Earls Barton for community policing, each village had its own problems, but he advised the meeting of the problem of speeding in Orlingbury and it was agreed that it would be a 3 month project for the community Police. A flyer had been issued to each house and the Police had received a good response to this. It was felt that the signs regarding the scheme had been placed very high on posts, and in some unreadable places.
35.2The Clerk will send copies of the traffic survey to Peter Bone, Councillor Bailey, Highways and its new partner MGWSP.
35.3The Highways department will place flashing signs at the edges of the village over a five week period.
36. Planning applications and decisions
There were no applications to discuss.
37. Any Other Business37.1 It is a matter of urgency that a meeting is arranged with Atkins to discuss realigning the village signs 37.2 The bridle way to Pytchley is blocked with a plough, Councillor Rowlatt had received complaints from residents that were unable to get through with horses. Councillor Watts will have a word with the landowner.
37.3 A company working on behalf of BT have contacted us with regard to taking back the pole at the top of Lammas Close. We have to move the light from the post before they can take it back. Clerk to look into the cost.
38. Dates of next meetings.These will be 3rd July 2008, 4th September 2008, 6th November 2008 and 8th January 2009, 5th March 2009, 2nd April 2009 (Annual Parish Meeting) and 7th May 2009 (Annual General Meeting), at 7.30 in the village hall.
There being no further business the meeting was closed at 9.25pm – with thanks from the Chair to those attending for their input and support.
Signed: ……………………………………..
Date: …………………………….
March 6th 2008 Minutes
ORLINGBURY PARISH COUNCIL
Minutes of the meeting held in the Village Hall on Thursday 6th March 2008
15 Present: Cllrs Miles (Chairman), Rootham, Allen, Norton, Rowlatt, Waller and Alison McLaven (Clerk). There were 9 members of the public in attendance.
16 Apologies: Were received and accepted from Cllrs Watts and Timms (Borough).
17 Open session for the public.17.1 There were questions about the traffic survey and these will be dealt with fully, during the meeting as the agenda item is reached.
17.2 Transport through the village is still very heavy early in the morning, unfortunately this can not be stopped but the speed should be monitored. It was mentioned if the employer and/or agency supplying staff could be asked to notify their staff to cut speed through the village.
17.3 A team trained with the speed camera was also discussed, but there is a prioritised waiting list. The Parish Council are frustrated like the public, but the criteria for speed cameras etc are based on the number of reportable and fatal accidents, which the village fortunately does not have. We also do not have a school, a crossing, a shop all of which add to the need for traffic restrictions.17.4 There was a comment on how wonderfully litter free the village is. Thanks to be passed on to the volunteers who pick up litter.
18 Minutes of meeting 10th January 2008 and matters arising.18.1 These were signed as true & correct record, once the word stalled was changed to slowed as it gave the wrong impression.
18.2 Open space study had been received but it was very vague.
18.3 Neighbourhood watch had supplied a list of vunerable elderly
18.4 List of councillors was not in the newsletter due to lack of space
18.5 Welcome pack gone to newly occupied houses, but not yet placed at the back of the church18.6 Clerk to get copy of planning guide lines and distribute to councillors
18.7 The gate onto Harrowden Road by Norlington Close is only in use during building work and will be just for emergency services once the work is completed.
18.8 The finger post for Lammas Close is impossible for people see it is between two walls
19 Minutes of the meeting 30th January 2008 and matters arising
19.1 These were signed as a true and correct record
19.2 Nothing had yet been done about the damaged signs, although Councillor Rootham can report the Dovecote sign is being replaced. A private CCTV camera recorded an incident in Little Harrowden at the same time.
19.3 Concrete and post left on side of road. Removal to be arranged.
19.4 The Notice Board has been replaced. The fete committee arranged for the costs to be paid from their special fund. Discussion followed on whether or not it needed to be resited. It was agreed that the traffic survey group look at the matter, as it was felt it could be a safety issue.
20 Correspondence
20.1 NCC –minerals and waster framework – comments by 1st May20.2 Atkins – grass cutting payment of £224.74 towards cutting highways.20.3 Audit Commission – BDO Stoyhayward to continue as district Auditor, cost
for this years audit to be £135.0020.4 Monthly Crime reports – Dec 0 crime, Jan 3 other crimes
20.5 Village of year application – the village took part last year and received a comprehensive report. It was felt that it would be advisable to wait a few years before reapplying.
20.6 Nick Price (Police) – information on parking regulations.
21 Financial MattersThe following accounts were approved for payment, Councillor Rootham proposed, Councillor Rowlatt seconded, all in favour ofChq No 504 A McLaven (salary ) £235.38505 P Allen (welcome pack expenses) £41.89
22 Reports from external meetings attended
22.1 Councillors Miles and Allen had attended the Parish Forum. Councillor Bailey had ‘had a go’ at the speaker as they were only talking about Wellingborough Town. The next meeting will be 29th October.
23.1 Decision 16th JanWP/2007/0607/F – extension to garage, 3 Northampton Road granted.
23.2Pulse Park. Concerns that it is joining Kettering and Wellingborough into one town. The Isham By-pass appears on the plans. A meeting for the village to be arranged so that everyone can be aware of the plans. This to take part during the Annual Parish Meeting
23.3`WP /2008/0089/F – 17 Pytchley Road, Derwent BuildersDemolition of existing house and construction of new dwelling house, detached garage and related site development works.Concerns that the development is out of keeping with the village, that it does not suit the street scene, that it is overdevelopment of the site, increasing the footprint on the site. Councillor Rootham is concerned that all local residents are not aware of this.
24 Section 106 Monies24.1 Thanks to Trevor Haste for his help and advice given to Councillor Allen24.2 As soon as money is given for section 106 instead of land problems start to arise. Councillor Allen explained what had happened previously, but after a lot of work all the schemes required land that is not forthcoming. The dilemma is to find a solution.
24.3 A recent suggestion was to use the allotment area as a play area/tranquillity garden. The area is to be given back to the church for burials, but there would still be space for a garden. A number of people who live in the vicinity attended a meeting and for a variety of reasons they did not want a playspace, but a tranquillity garden was a possibility.
24.4 The Allotment holders have to be re-sited, an offer of land on Pytchley Road was investigated, but the land is no good for growing crops.
24.5 New ideas include extra seating on the green, a village sign, dog litter bins, disabled parking, traffic calming measures, possibly hading over some money to neighbouring villages that have land to have a joint recreation area (this is the least likely option).
24.6 The way forward is to look at different ideas and have 3 adequately costed and reasearched proposals by September with a view to putting 1 or 2 in action by Sept 09.
24.7 Councillor Rootham suggested a 4 gateways to the village, giving the impression of the road narrowing, causing traffic to slow.
24.8 CouncllrsThe question of whether or not the money has been received by the Borough Council was raised, as we have not yet been informed.
24.9 Councillor Allen proposed and Councillor Miles seconded, all in favour of 3 groups – a) Garden of tranquillity b) Traffic/village safety c) environment enhancement (seats & signs).Councillor Miles then proposed and Councillor Waller seconded, all in favour that Councillors Miles and Allen work out the most suitable people to work on each project and set up three groups with a strong emphasis on villagers joining in. A written brief to be given to each group.
25. Traffic survey.
25.1 Councillor Allen had produced a report, a copy of which is on file. Thanks given to all people that had helped with the survey.
25.2 The recommendations of the report are to discuss the Parish Council priorities and kick start them. The Local Authorities to be invited to attend the Annual Parish meeting, and traffic to be an agenda item at the meeting.
25.3 The add on to the petition already produced by the Widdups is going slow due to Councillor Rootham’s time constraints. It was agreed all councillors to circulate the petition to the houses in their areas.
25.4 The report to be posted on the website.
25.5 The meeting was closed for members of public to have their say. It was felt that something should be done. It is a culture thing if people get into the habit of driving slowly through the village, then new traffic will follow. It should be made difficult for a rat run to function through the village. Flashing signs are thought to be effective, but cost a great deal of money. The scarecrow festival did slow traffic. Sat Nav’s are sometimes to blame as they don’t all show the weight limit and lorries therefore come through the village. When there is an incident on the A509 or A14 traffic is diverted through the village.
25.6 It was agreed the Clerk should invite the Police, the chair of the Police Authority, Peter Bone MP and Councillor Bailey to the Annual Parish meeting.
25.7 Councillor Allen made a final point that it was most inspiring to see so many people taking part, the village pulling together.
26. Allotments26.1 Letters have gone out to the allotment holders giving 12 months notice, unfortunately they don’t know where they can move to as the moment.
SM27. Village Hall
27.1 The hall is well used and the bookings very good.
28 Any Other Business
28.1 The hedge out side the hall is still causing problems for traffic. Councillor Rowlatt proposed Councillor Allen seconded all in favour of the Clerk to write to the owner and ask them to cut it back.
28.2 There was an abandoned car in the village, but it has been removed.
28.3 Councillor Miles to organise a flyer to be put around the village detailing information about the Pulse Park, Upper Redhill and the traffic problems, hopefully all items to be addressed at the Annual Parish Meeting on 3rd April.
28.4 The mower is being sent to Pages for its annual service within the next few days.
There being no further business the meeting was closed at 9.30pm – with thanks from the Chair to those attending for their input and support
Minutes of the meeting held in the Village Hall on Thursday 6th March 2008
15 Present: Cllrs Miles (Chairman), Rootham, Allen, Norton, Rowlatt, Waller and Alison McLaven (Clerk). There were 9 members of the public in attendance.
16 Apologies: Were received and accepted from Cllrs Watts and Timms (Borough).
17 Open session for the public.17.1 There were questions about the traffic survey and these will be dealt with fully, during the meeting as the agenda item is reached.
17.2 Transport through the village is still very heavy early in the morning, unfortunately this can not be stopped but the speed should be monitored. It was mentioned if the employer and/or agency supplying staff could be asked to notify their staff to cut speed through the village.
17.3 A team trained with the speed camera was also discussed, but there is a prioritised waiting list. The Parish Council are frustrated like the public, but the criteria for speed cameras etc are based on the number of reportable and fatal accidents, which the village fortunately does not have. We also do not have a school, a crossing, a shop all of which add to the need for traffic restrictions.17.4 There was a comment on how wonderfully litter free the village is. Thanks to be passed on to the volunteers who pick up litter.
18 Minutes of meeting 10th January 2008 and matters arising.18.1 These were signed as true & correct record, once the word stalled was changed to slowed as it gave the wrong impression.
18.2 Open space study had been received but it was very vague.
18.3 Neighbourhood watch had supplied a list of vunerable elderly
18.4 List of councillors was not in the newsletter due to lack of space
18.5 Welcome pack gone to newly occupied houses, but not yet placed at the back of the church18.6 Clerk to get copy of planning guide lines and distribute to councillors
18.7 The gate onto Harrowden Road by Norlington Close is only in use during building work and will be just for emergency services once the work is completed.
18.8 The finger post for Lammas Close is impossible for people see it is between two walls
19 Minutes of the meeting 30th January 2008 and matters arising
19.1 These were signed as a true and correct record
19.2 Nothing had yet been done about the damaged signs, although Councillor Rootham can report the Dovecote sign is being replaced. A private CCTV camera recorded an incident in Little Harrowden at the same time.
19.3 Concrete and post left on side of road. Removal to be arranged.
19.4 The Notice Board has been replaced. The fete committee arranged for the costs to be paid from their special fund. Discussion followed on whether or not it needed to be resited. It was agreed that the traffic survey group look at the matter, as it was felt it could be a safety issue.
20 Correspondence
20.1 NCC –minerals and waster framework – comments by 1st May20.2 Atkins – grass cutting payment of £224.74 towards cutting highways.20.3 Audit Commission – BDO Stoyhayward to continue as district Auditor, cost
for this years audit to be £135.0020.4 Monthly Crime reports – Dec 0 crime, Jan 3 other crimes
20.5 Village of year application – the village took part last year and received a comprehensive report. It was felt that it would be advisable to wait a few years before reapplying.
20.6 Nick Price (Police) – information on parking regulations.
21 Financial MattersThe following accounts were approved for payment, Councillor Rootham proposed, Councillor Rowlatt seconded, all in favour ofChq No 504 A McLaven (salary ) £235.38505 P Allen (welcome pack expenses) £41.89
22 Reports from external meetings attended
22.1 Councillors Miles and Allen had attended the Parish Forum. Councillor Bailey had ‘had a go’ at the speaker as they were only talking about Wellingborough Town. The next meeting will be 29th October.
23.1 Decision 16th JanWP/2007/0607/F – extension to garage, 3 Northampton Road granted.
23.2Pulse Park. Concerns that it is joining Kettering and Wellingborough into one town. The Isham By-pass appears on the plans. A meeting for the village to be arranged so that everyone can be aware of the plans. This to take part during the Annual Parish Meeting
23.3`WP /2008/0089/F – 17 Pytchley Road, Derwent BuildersDemolition of existing house and construction of new dwelling house, detached garage and related site development works.Concerns that the development is out of keeping with the village, that it does not suit the street scene, that it is overdevelopment of the site, increasing the footprint on the site. Councillor Rootham is concerned that all local residents are not aware of this.
24 Section 106 Monies24.1 Thanks to Trevor Haste for his help and advice given to Councillor Allen24.2 As soon as money is given for section 106 instead of land problems start to arise. Councillor Allen explained what had happened previously, but after a lot of work all the schemes required land that is not forthcoming. The dilemma is to find a solution.
24.3 A recent suggestion was to use the allotment area as a play area/tranquillity garden. The area is to be given back to the church for burials, but there would still be space for a garden. A number of people who live in the vicinity attended a meeting and for a variety of reasons they did not want a playspace, but a tranquillity garden was a possibility.
24.4 The Allotment holders have to be re-sited, an offer of land on Pytchley Road was investigated, but the land is no good for growing crops.
24.5 New ideas include extra seating on the green, a village sign, dog litter bins, disabled parking, traffic calming measures, possibly hading over some money to neighbouring villages that have land to have a joint recreation area (this is the least likely option).
24.6 The way forward is to look at different ideas and have 3 adequately costed and reasearched proposals by September with a view to putting 1 or 2 in action by Sept 09.
24.7 Councillor Rootham suggested a 4 gateways to the village, giving the impression of the road narrowing, causing traffic to slow.
24.8 CouncllrsThe question of whether or not the money has been received by the Borough Council was raised, as we have not yet been informed.
24.9 Councillor Allen proposed and Councillor Miles seconded, all in favour of 3 groups – a) Garden of tranquillity b) Traffic/village safety c) environment enhancement (seats & signs).Councillor Miles then proposed and Councillor Waller seconded, all in favour that Councillors Miles and Allen work out the most suitable people to work on each project and set up three groups with a strong emphasis on villagers joining in. A written brief to be given to each group.
25. Traffic survey.
25.1 Councillor Allen had produced a report, a copy of which is on file. Thanks given to all people that had helped with the survey.
25.2 The recommendations of the report are to discuss the Parish Council priorities and kick start them. The Local Authorities to be invited to attend the Annual Parish meeting, and traffic to be an agenda item at the meeting.
25.3 The add on to the petition already produced by the Widdups is going slow due to Councillor Rootham’s time constraints. It was agreed all councillors to circulate the petition to the houses in their areas.
25.4 The report to be posted on the website.
25.5 The meeting was closed for members of public to have their say. It was felt that something should be done. It is a culture thing if people get into the habit of driving slowly through the village, then new traffic will follow. It should be made difficult for a rat run to function through the village. Flashing signs are thought to be effective, but cost a great deal of money. The scarecrow festival did slow traffic. Sat Nav’s are sometimes to blame as they don’t all show the weight limit and lorries therefore come through the village. When there is an incident on the A509 or A14 traffic is diverted through the village.
25.6 It was agreed the Clerk should invite the Police, the chair of the Police Authority, Peter Bone MP and Councillor Bailey to the Annual Parish meeting.
25.7 Councillor Allen made a final point that it was most inspiring to see so many people taking part, the village pulling together.
26. Allotments26.1 Letters have gone out to the allotment holders giving 12 months notice, unfortunately they don’t know where they can move to as the moment.
SM27. Village Hall
27.1 The hall is well used and the bookings very good.
28 Any Other Business
28.1 The hedge out side the hall is still causing problems for traffic. Councillor Rowlatt proposed Councillor Allen seconded all in favour of the Clerk to write to the owner and ask them to cut it back.
28.2 There was an abandoned car in the village, but it has been removed.
28.3 Councillor Miles to organise a flyer to be put around the village detailing information about the Pulse Park, Upper Redhill and the traffic problems, hopefully all items to be addressed at the Annual Parish Meeting on 3rd April.
28.4 The mower is being sent to Pages for its annual service within the next few days.
There being no further business the meeting was closed at 9.30pm – with thanks from the Chair to those attending for their input and support
February 2008 Orlingbury Parish Plan
The Orlingbury Parish Plan February 2008
It has been suggested that a Parish Plan should be constructed to give focus, direction and continuity to the work of the Parish Council.
The village has experienced great change in the last five years. Changes have included:
Continued growth of the village due to housing development
Changes in the composition of village population and increases in a) the numbers of villagers approaching or past retirement and b) the numbers of villagers travelling from the village for employment purposes
Larger numbers of new villagers
Closure of the village post-office and possible closure of the public house
Use of village roadways as thoroughfare for traffic travelling from A roads
Increases in the speed and frequency of through traffic.
A regular turnover of Parish Councillors.
Significant growth in the Northampton area involving regular updating of regional proposals for growth and development.
There is a need for the Parish Council to be up to speed with regional and local developments so that it may play a pro-active as well as a cooperative and reactive role to developments. Inevitable changes in the composition of the Council mean require the council to:
· Be absolutely, clear about its role and function in relation to the village needs and the priorities of Borough and County Councils. This requires:
o Induction of new members in to their role
o Established Parish Council procedures and good communication to ensure early consideration and actionning/ resolution of issues
o Detailed Knowledge of the relevant policies of the local councils and where they overlap with local needs
o Good communication and working relationships with Councils and Councillors
· Develop clarity about priorities for short, medium and long term.
· Strengthen communication with parishioners and move towards greater consultation to ensure that expertise is effectively used and agreed priorities are achieved.
· Determine short and medium term priorities as a working group to achieve focus of objectives
It is suggested that the Parish Council develop first, an achievable set of priorities with a time line to achieve these. From a position of confidence, say after a period of one year, it should then strive to develop a wider consultation process involving all interested villagers.
As a working set of achievable priorities, it is suggested the PC focus initially on developing and improving communications in the broadest sense i.e.
Priority 1
Parish Council Development
Procedures and Responsibilities
i. Improve decision making by actionning decisions with appropriate time-spans for achieving actions and monitoring of agreed actions.
ii. Ensure secure relationships with key community organisations including local councils and community police.
iii. Councillors have agreed responsibilities and report to the PC about progress.
iv. Ensure emergency planning and support procedures are in place
v. Respond to local planning proposals with consistency and due reflection.
Improvement of Communication & Consultation with villagers to ensure:
i. Newcomers get to know the village and its key organisations and services quickly.
ii. There is clarity about what needs to be done in the village and support for its development.
Priority 2
Roads and Pathways
Safety Given the increase in housing in the village and the increase in the volume, speed and size of traffic, the PC work in cooperation with current and future housing developers, the county council and the police to
i. Audit the extent of concerns through survey and consultation.
ii. Ensure that current traffic calming funding for the Harrowden Road is used.
iii. Create a traffic calming/pedestrianisation and regulation system throughout the village.
iv. Create a safe network of footpaths and crossing points.
Maintenance, Lighting and Cleanliness of all pavements and pathways
i. Ensure that all unsafe surfaces are scheduled for repair and all dog fouling and littering of footpaths is minimised.
ii. Ensure that all boundary shrubbery and road verges are maintained and trimmed so that there is no obstruction to pedestrians and drivers.
Priority 3
106 Development Funding
Liaise with parish scoping groups to ensuring the proposals for the use of 106 money and contingency proposals receive professional support from the Borough Council.
b. Resulting in
i. 3 adequately, costed and researched proposals result in a PC decision
ii. Proposals to reflect diversity of community need through consultation and, to if possible, relate to the PC priorities and to be interrelated.
iii. All elements within the chosen project being resolved.
Priority 4
Village allotments
Given the need to develop the existing allotment area for a) extra-burial ground and b) a possible 106 project, the PC should work with stakeholders, the BC and landowners to facilitate the securing of a convenient and local replacement plot.
© PRA 2008-01-11
It has been suggested that a Parish Plan should be constructed to give focus, direction and continuity to the work of the Parish Council.
The village has experienced great change in the last five years. Changes have included:
Continued growth of the village due to housing development
Changes in the composition of village population and increases in a) the numbers of villagers approaching or past retirement and b) the numbers of villagers travelling from the village for employment purposes
Larger numbers of new villagers
Closure of the village post-office and possible closure of the public house
Use of village roadways as thoroughfare for traffic travelling from A roads
Increases in the speed and frequency of through traffic.
A regular turnover of Parish Councillors.
Significant growth in the Northampton area involving regular updating of regional proposals for growth and development.
There is a need for the Parish Council to be up to speed with regional and local developments so that it may play a pro-active as well as a cooperative and reactive role to developments. Inevitable changes in the composition of the Council mean require the council to:
· Be absolutely, clear about its role and function in relation to the village needs and the priorities of Borough and County Councils. This requires:
o Induction of new members in to their role
o Established Parish Council procedures and good communication to ensure early consideration and actionning/ resolution of issues
o Detailed Knowledge of the relevant policies of the local councils and where they overlap with local needs
o Good communication and working relationships with Councils and Councillors
· Develop clarity about priorities for short, medium and long term.
· Strengthen communication with parishioners and move towards greater consultation to ensure that expertise is effectively used and agreed priorities are achieved.
· Determine short and medium term priorities as a working group to achieve focus of objectives
It is suggested that the Parish Council develop first, an achievable set of priorities with a time line to achieve these. From a position of confidence, say after a period of one year, it should then strive to develop a wider consultation process involving all interested villagers.
As a working set of achievable priorities, it is suggested the PC focus initially on developing and improving communications in the broadest sense i.e.
Priority 1
Parish Council Development
Procedures and Responsibilities
i. Improve decision making by actionning decisions with appropriate time-spans for achieving actions and monitoring of agreed actions.
ii. Ensure secure relationships with key community organisations including local councils and community police.
iii. Councillors have agreed responsibilities and report to the PC about progress.
iv. Ensure emergency planning and support procedures are in place
v. Respond to local planning proposals with consistency and due reflection.
Improvement of Communication & Consultation with villagers to ensure:
i. Newcomers get to know the village and its key organisations and services quickly.
ii. There is clarity about what needs to be done in the village and support for its development.
Priority 2
Roads and Pathways
Safety Given the increase in housing in the village and the increase in the volume, speed and size of traffic, the PC work in cooperation with current and future housing developers, the county council and the police to
i. Audit the extent of concerns through survey and consultation.
ii. Ensure that current traffic calming funding for the Harrowden Road is used.
iii. Create a traffic calming/pedestrianisation and regulation system throughout the village.
iv. Create a safe network of footpaths and crossing points.
Maintenance, Lighting and Cleanliness of all pavements and pathways
i. Ensure that all unsafe surfaces are scheduled for repair and all dog fouling and littering of footpaths is minimised.
ii. Ensure that all boundary shrubbery and road verges are maintained and trimmed so that there is no obstruction to pedestrians and drivers.
Priority 3
106 Development Funding
Liaise with parish scoping groups to ensuring the proposals for the use of 106 money and contingency proposals receive professional support from the Borough Council.
b. Resulting in
i. 3 adequately, costed and researched proposals result in a PC decision
ii. Proposals to reflect diversity of community need through consultation and, to if possible, relate to the PC priorities and to be interrelated.
iii. All elements within the chosen project being resolved.
Priority 4
Village allotments
Given the need to develop the existing allotment area for a) extra-burial ground and b) a possible 106 project, the PC should work with stakeholders, the BC and landowners to facilitate the securing of a convenient and local replacement plot.
© PRA 2008-01-11
January 29th Traffic Survey
Traffic Problems in Orlingbury Parish Council Report January 29th 2008
(n.b some tables are not correctly formatted)
1.0 Summary
Villagers have significant concerns about traffic, roads and footpaths in Orlingbury.
Consultations, petitions, police monitoring, a traffic survey and an audit of roads and footpaths reveal unprecedented increases in speed, volume and incidence of heavy vehicles which threaten the safety and wellbeing of villagers.
This report highlights the need to improve the regulation and calming of traffic in Orlingbury. It also shows the need to improve roads, signage and pathways. It signifies the urgent need to consult further with the community, to work with local council authorities, developers and the highways authority and to provide costed and funded programmes for rapid improvement.
2.0 Headlines
§ A well supported petition illustrates that most villagers are very concerned about traffic in Orlingbury:to be (currently being completed)
“We, the undersigned raise this petition in order to highlight the need to:
a) Enforce current restrictions on heavy vehicles of more than 7.5 tonnes, travelling through Orlingbury
b) Reduce the volume and speed of traffic through the village.”
§ Police speed monitoring shows high density of speeding traffic passing through Orlingbury.
§ Most drivers exceed village speed limits, particularly on the Northampton Road.
§ Observers confirm that incoming and outgoing traffic, on all routes, is travelling at high speed
§ A traffic survey shows continuous and very dense movement at peak travelling times.
§ Roads most affected by high traffic volume during these times are the Pytchley and Harrowden Roads.
§ The build up of traffic begins well before dawn.
§ An audit shows that signs fail to prevent speeding, and road verges are ill-maintained and often offer no refuge from speeding traffic.
3.0 Background
A major priority in the Orlingbury Parish Council plan[1] is to improve safety and well-being near roads, footpaths and recreation space by a) regulating traffic flow and b) improving roads and footpaths. This would have an immediate effect on the quality of life of villagers as a place for safe living, leisure and recreation. This priority stems from growing concerns from villagers including:
· Increase in traffic. High volume, high speed and larger size of vehicles passing through Orlingbury. In recent years this flow pattern has become significantly greater.
· Nuisance and noise pollution. This occurs particularly during the early hours, and is worsened by new patterns of travel through the village to shift work in neighbouring workplaces.
· Poor regulation of heavy commercial vehicles travelling through the village. There is restricted access to vehicles over 7.5 tonnes on all roads, but this restriction is not enforced.
· Outdated and ill-maintained road and footpath infrastructure. There has been no improvement to village roads, footpaths or recreation space to accommodate a recent increase in new housing and additional traffic flow.
· Variable, safe pedestrian access within the village, and poor care for pedestrian safety beyond the village.
Pavements within the village are good in parts but non-existent in key areas of the village e.g. at essential crossing points. Roads out of the village, particularly the Harrowden Road, offer no footpaths and no verges for refuge from traffic.
· Poor warning signs and restricted pedestrian and driver visibility. Speed restriction signs are placed too close to the village, or are obstructed by bends or shrubbery, allowing insufficient warning time to drivers. High hedgerows, and ill-maintained boundary hedges and shrubbery, restrict pedestrian and driver vision.
· Absence of sensible traffic calming. All surrounding villages have road calming measures in place. These range from village “gateways” and chicanes to courteous reminders to reduce speed and radar triggered reminder boards. There are no such procedures in Orlingbury.
· No safe recreation spaces. The village is compact with no designated Parish recreation area. The one small, public recreation space, the village green, is unfenced and located at the centre of heavy traffic flow.
The volume of traffic is particularly great during the hours of commuting to and from work and school. Orlingbury’s position between three congested trunk roads, the A14, A43 and the A508, and an absence of traffic calming procedures in Orlingbury, in contrast to all surrounding villages, favour it as a “rat run” for traffic. Motorists appear to try to save time and distance, and to avoid trunk road traffic congestion, by using minor roads. Traffic has recently increased further due to the establishment of a number of logistics/ commodity distribution centres on the nearby industrial estate at Burton Latimer. Works traffic, which extends from the early hours of the morning, includes heavy delivery vehicles.
4.0 Policy of Highways Authority and the County Council
In a recent response from Northamptonshire County Council, in reply to a letter from Peter Bone MP expressing concerns about traffic on the Northampton Road in Orlingbury, the chief executive writes:
One of our villagers commented:
“Does someone have to die/be injured before aid can be given for traffic calming?”
5.0 Expressions of concern
5.1 Police Monitoring
A police monitoring of traffic speed on the Isham and Northampton Roads, in the week of the 5th of November, revealed the following:
Date of Police Survey
5/11/2007 to 12/11/2007 (7days)
No. of Vehicles
7520
9020
Volume of Vehicles per day
1074 (45 vehicles per hour)
1288 (54 vehicles per hour)
Road
Northampton Rd.
Isham Rd.
Location of Survey
At Telegraph Post 27
At horses warning sign
Speed Limit warning
30
30
No./% exceeding limit
6611 88%
4624 51%
No./5 exceeding 35 m.p.h
5122 68%
2158 24%
Speed below which 85% travelled
46 mph
38 mph
Maximum Speed
81 mph
56 mph
The volume of traffic averages 45 vehicles per hour on the Northampton Road and 54 per hour on the Isham Road. These figures use a 24 hour average, so they do not demonstrate peaks in traffic flow. Clearly, the bulk of traffic passing through Isham and Northampton Roads exceeds the speed limit.
5.2 Reported incidents
Fortunately there are, so far, no recently reported accidents resulting in injury or death to villagers. The following anecdotal examples, collected in the last month, illustrate the range of concerns:
1. A car, driven by an early morning shift worker, overshot the Isham/Harrowden Road junction at the village green, resulting in the car mounting a steep bank and demolishing a boundary wall to a cottage.
2. A Pedestrian on the Harrowden Road narrowly missed serious injury when an incoming vehicle, passing wide to avoid her, was met head on by an oncoming car travelling in the middle of the road, at speed, out of the village.
3. Villagers watched as a commercial van travelling at speed seriously injured the dog they were walking.
4. A parked car, on the Isham road, received a glancing scrape from an incoming car travelling at speed.
5. An incoming car swerved off the Northampton Road ploughing through a landscaped area.
5.3 Village Petition
In August a small petition was organized to raise protest at the large volume of traffic coming through the village at high speed. 80 signatures were collected. The petition was extended in January 2008 to include all villagers. The petition stated:
“We, the undersigned raise this petition in order to highlight the need to:
c) Enforce current restrictions on heavy vehicles of more than 7.5 tons travelling through Orlingbury.
d) Reduce the volume and speed of traffic through the village.”
It resulted in the collection of XXXX signatures i.e. xxxx% of all villagers. Petition to be completed GOOD RESPONSE!
5.4 Audit of Footpaths and Roads
A brief survey of footpaths and roads reveals the following:
1. Footpaths and Pavements
a. Pavements are, in places, in need of replacement.
b. Recent building in the village has, in places, destroyed surfaces in places
c. Whilst the village is generally well served with pavements, there is a notable absence of pavement particularly at key road crossing points e.g. at the Isham and Harrowden Roads junction, and at the Northampton Road to Allotment area crossings
d. There is no paved provision on the village green to enable safe crossing.
2. Boundaries and verges
a. Driver vision, and safe pedestrian access to entering the Harrowden Road from the Isham Road, is obstructed by dense shrubbery.
b. Walled boundaries on the eastern edge of the Harrowden Road are thickly covered in ivy which hides road signs, and restricts driver and pedestrian sight lines, at bends.
c. All road edges on the Harrowden Road have dense and high hedges which are overgrown and intrude on to the verges . They prevent safe walking and walker refuge from traffic.
d. Sight lines for drivers and pedestrians are significantly restricted, especially on the numerous blind bends..
3. Road signs and village boundaries.
a. There is no logic to the positioning of village signs and speed signs. Currently, village signs are placed at a reasonable distance from the first building. Speed signs are often too close to the village to give adequate warning. Speed signs in surrounding villages are generally more closely synchronized with village signs e.g. Little Harrowden.
b. On the Pytchley Road a steep approach to the village, with a blind summit before the village edge, gives little advanced warning of the village to motorists. The speed restriction sign here is placed within the village boundary after the first house, and shortly after the blind summit.
c. On the Harrowden Road the speed restriction signs are placed after a blind bend, and one is covered with ivy.
5.5 Village Traffic Survey
In response to village concerns, a traffic survey was conducted in the period 23rd to 25th January. The survey, voluntarily undertaken by over 30 villagers, recorded the volume and type of vehicles using the roads.
On the Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, at six selected times between 7.00 a.m. and 6.00 p.m. surveyors recorded numbers and types of vehicles travelling in to Orlingbury. Surveyors were stationed in sheltered vantage points, either in houses or safely parked cars, near each of the four major roads. In response to concerns about heavy traffic during the hours of darkness, some villagers also agreed to do a “post-midnight” shift to measure through-traffic in this very early morning period.[2]
5.6 Analysis
5.6.1 Chart 1 Traffic entering the village
The following chart shows the total volume of traffic entering the village during six selected hours between 7.00 a.m. and 6.00 p.m. This only records six hours of movement, and it does not include significant volume generated from within the village or traffic flow out of Orlingbury. The vast majority of vehicles are cars but observations also show a small number of heavy vehicles over the restricted limit of 7.5 tonnes as well as a significant number of commercial vehicles.
5.6.2 Chart 2 Average numbers of vehicles travelling into Orlingbury between 07.00 and 09.00
All traffic coming in to the village, as well as traffic starting in Orlingbury is likely to travel past the village green. This means that pedestrians waiting or crossing at this area, notably school children waiting for school buses, are confronted with a constant stream of traffic.
Cycle/
Motorcycle
Car
Light Van or truck(com’l)
Over 7.5 tons (com’l)
Mini-bus/bus
Farm vehicle
Totals
Road
7 to 8
H’den
0
57.3
29.6
1.6
1.6
0
62.6
N’ton
0
26
3.6
0.3
0
0
30
Py’ley
1
149
25
1
3
0
179
Isham
1
43.6
10
0.3
0
0
55
326.6
8 to 9
H’den
1.3
78
21.3
3
2
0
139
N’ton
0
62
13
0
0
0
75
Py’ley
2.3
255.6
24.3
1
1
0
284.3
Isham
0
63.3
5.6
1.3
1.3
0.3
76.3
574.6
Total Number of vehicles entering the village between 07.00 and 09.00 a.m.
901.2
Between 07.00 and 09.00, an average of 901 vehicles enter the village and are likely to use the intersections at the village green
5.6.3 Chart 3 Traffic Volumes at Peak Times between 7.00 and 9.00 a.m. and 4.00 and 6.00 p.m.
The next chart shows the average flow of traffic at peak times. Whilst flow in the morning is concentrated between 7.00 and 8.00, observations show peak times spread beyond 4.00 to 6.00 in the late afternoon. The most significant and dense incoming movements in the morning are on the Pytchley Road. In the evening, the greatest concentration is incoming on the Harrowden Road. This passage of vehicles is believed to be to and from the place of work (and possibly schools). These figures give a clear idea of congestion on the incoming sides of roads but do not indicate equal volumes of traffic leaving the village on the opposite side.
5.6.3 Chart 4 Volume throughout the day
The next chart shows the ebb and flow of traffic at selected times throughout the day. There are a not insignificant number of large commercial vehicles as well as trucks exceeding the restricted 7.5 tonnes level.
5.6.4 Chart 5 Total incoming volume within selected time periods
5.6.5 Traffic Count: Early hours
Three villagers also counted the type and volume of traffic from 5.00 a.m. to 6.00 a.m. This was undertaken to determine the nuisance value of transport which is frequently reported by villagers as being fast moving and often very noisy. Drivers are observed ,during the hours of darkness, to pay even less attention to the Highway Code. Such traffic movements often keep villagers awake on the Isham and Northampton Roads. Movements are attributed to shift workers travelling to and from the Burton Latimer industrial estate.
Chart 6. Early Morning Sample
5-6 a.m.
Cycle/
Motorcycle
Car
Light Van or truck(com’l)
Over 7.5 tons
(com’l)
Mini-bus/bus
Farm vehicle
Total
Flow
Northampton Road
0
26.3
3.3
0
0
0
29.6
Isham Road
0
18
6.5
4
0
0
24.5
6.0 Survey Overview
The method of surveying had the advantage that observers were, generally in the warmth of their houses. In the hours of darkness it was generally possible to make a distinction between types of vehicles, though it was sometimes difficult to spot restricted vehicles.
Limitations of personnel prevented surveying around the clock, counting traffic on both sides of the road or village generated traffic. Notwithstanding, the survey gives a very clear picture of patterns i.e. peaks and periods of relative calm, and clearly reveals a picture of significant congestion and danger.
The busiest roads are the Pytchley and Harrowden Roads, but all roads receive high traffic volume which is generally travelling at speed.
During the three days observers note:
o The illegal, and disturbingly frequent, use of mobile phones
o Driving in the middle of the road ;(one driver was travelling on the wrong side of the road).
o Nose to tail travelling at speed.
o Travel above the speed limit through the entire village
o The use of full headlights coming out of the village during darkness
7.0 Recommendations
This report endorses Priority 2 of the Parish Council Plan Roads and Pathways i.e.
a. Safety
Given the increase in housing in the village and the increase in the volume, speed and size of traffic, the PC work in cooperation with current and future housing developers, the county council and the police to:
i. Audit the extent of concerns through survey and consultation. Feb. 2008
ii. Ensure that current traffic calming funding for the Harrowden Road is used[3]. Sept.2008
iii. Plan and create an agreed traffic calming/pedestrianisation and regulation system throughout the village. Sept.2009
iv. Create a safe network of footpaths and crossing points. Sept.2009
b. Maintenance, Lighting and Cleanliness of all pavements and pathways
i. Ensure that all unsafe surfaces are scheduled for repair and all dog fouling and littering of footpaths is minimised. Apr.2008
ii. Ensure that all boundary shrubbery and road verges are maintained and trimmed so that there is no obstruction to pedestrians and drivers. Apr. 2008
The following additional recommendations are made:
The results of this report should be shared with villagers to inform a preliminary meeting to discuss Priority 2 and future options. Proposals for improvements should be used at the meeting as an additional kick-start for consultation. Local Authority representatives and developers should be invited to this meeting.
A working group, comprising key parish councillors responsible for Priority 1 together with interested villagers, a county councillor and the community police officer (say 6-8 people), in close consultation with villagers, should be charged with “making things happen”
A more detailed audit should be quickly conducted to verify exact areas of concern in terms of signs, road and verges and footpath maintenance.
A range of proposals for road improvements, and options for traffic regulation and calming, should be costed in co-operation with the highways authority and the range of options presented to villagers.
The fairly strict timelines for improvement, set out in the Parish Plan, should be adhered to in order to give focus to rapid and effective resolution.
Copies of this report should be sent to key authorities.
Acknowledgements
Many thanks to the following people who gave up their valuable time to act as surveyors on the 21 sessions during the 3 days of survey
Day of Survey
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Early morning
Mid-day
Early evening
Wil. McKeown
Rob and Anne Widdup
John & Charlotte Cook
Rose and Mike Newmam
Brenda and Patrick White
Gerry Rowlatt
Trish Robinson
Margaret Johnson
Jan and Rod Derry
Chris and David Staff
Pat Waller
Lloyd Beech
Adrienne Greenbank
Don and Molly Pettitt
Wil. McKeown
Rob and Anne Widdup
Alan & Angela West
Peter Allen
Rose and Mike Newmam
Tim Norton
Judith & Peter Marshall
Gerry Rowlatt
Jan and Rod Derry
Chris and David Staff
Andy Gosling
Eloise Brown
Adrienne Greenbank
Don and Molly Pettitt
Pat Collings
Peter Robinson
Kath Gosling
Brian Lewis
Brenda and Patrick White
Rose and Mike Newmam
Pat Waller
Jan and Rod Derry
Chris and David Staff
Claire Robinson
Simon Watson
Adrienne Greenbank
Claire Robinson
Simon Watson
© Peter Allen Jan. 29th 2008
[1] Priority 2 ( Parish Council Plan) Roads and Pathways
a. Safety Given the increase in housing in the village and the increase in the volume, speed and size of traffic, the PC work in cooperation with current and future housing developers, the county council and the police to
i. Audit the extent of concerns through survey and consultation. Feb. 2008
ii. Ensure that current traffic calming funding for the Harrowden Road is used. Sept.2008
iii. Create a traffic calming/pedestrianisation and regulation system throughout the village. Sept.2009
iv. Create a safe network of footpaths and crossing point. Sept.2009
b. Maintenance, Lighting and Cleanliness of all pavements and pathways
i. Ensure that all unsafe surfaces are scheduled for repair and all dogs’ mess and littering of footpaths is minimised. Apr.2008
ii. Ensure that all boundary shrubbery and road verges are maintained and trimmed so that there is no obstruction to pedestrians and drivers. Apr. 2008
[2] Volunteer surveyors surveyed for each of the nine, two hour sessions during the 3 day period. To keep things as simple as possible, Traffic was recorded coming into the village. Recording was done on prepared sheet using tally marks.
N.B Tally marks are written as groups of five lines. The first four lines are vertical, and every fifth line runs diagonally across the previous four vertical lines. The resulting mark is known as a five-bar gate, from its similarity to the same.
[3] Funding made available for traffic calming as a condition for the development of Norlington Close.
(n.b some tables are not correctly formatted)
1.0 Summary
Villagers have significant concerns about traffic, roads and footpaths in Orlingbury.
Consultations, petitions, police monitoring, a traffic survey and an audit of roads and footpaths reveal unprecedented increases in speed, volume and incidence of heavy vehicles which threaten the safety and wellbeing of villagers.
This report highlights the need to improve the regulation and calming of traffic in Orlingbury. It also shows the need to improve roads, signage and pathways. It signifies the urgent need to consult further with the community, to work with local council authorities, developers and the highways authority and to provide costed and funded programmes for rapid improvement.
2.0 Headlines
§ A well supported petition illustrates that most villagers are very concerned about traffic in Orlingbury:to be (currently being completed)
“We, the undersigned raise this petition in order to highlight the need to:
a) Enforce current restrictions on heavy vehicles of more than 7.5 tonnes, travelling through Orlingbury
b) Reduce the volume and speed of traffic through the village.”
§ Police speed monitoring shows high density of speeding traffic passing through Orlingbury.
§ Most drivers exceed village speed limits, particularly on the Northampton Road.
§ Observers confirm that incoming and outgoing traffic, on all routes, is travelling at high speed
§ A traffic survey shows continuous and very dense movement at peak travelling times.
§ Roads most affected by high traffic volume during these times are the Pytchley and Harrowden Roads.
§ The build up of traffic begins well before dawn.
§ An audit shows that signs fail to prevent speeding, and road verges are ill-maintained and often offer no refuge from speeding traffic.
3.0 Background
A major priority in the Orlingbury Parish Council plan[1] is to improve safety and well-being near roads, footpaths and recreation space by a) regulating traffic flow and b) improving roads and footpaths. This would have an immediate effect on the quality of life of villagers as a place for safe living, leisure and recreation. This priority stems from growing concerns from villagers including:
· Increase in traffic. High volume, high speed and larger size of vehicles passing through Orlingbury. In recent years this flow pattern has become significantly greater.
· Nuisance and noise pollution. This occurs particularly during the early hours, and is worsened by new patterns of travel through the village to shift work in neighbouring workplaces.
· Poor regulation of heavy commercial vehicles travelling through the village. There is restricted access to vehicles over 7.5 tonnes on all roads, but this restriction is not enforced.
· Outdated and ill-maintained road and footpath infrastructure. There has been no improvement to village roads, footpaths or recreation space to accommodate a recent increase in new housing and additional traffic flow.
· Variable, safe pedestrian access within the village, and poor care for pedestrian safety beyond the village.
Pavements within the village are good in parts but non-existent in key areas of the village e.g. at essential crossing points. Roads out of the village, particularly the Harrowden Road, offer no footpaths and no verges for refuge from traffic.
· Poor warning signs and restricted pedestrian and driver visibility. Speed restriction signs are placed too close to the village, or are obstructed by bends or shrubbery, allowing insufficient warning time to drivers. High hedgerows, and ill-maintained boundary hedges and shrubbery, restrict pedestrian and driver vision.
· Absence of sensible traffic calming. All surrounding villages have road calming measures in place. These range from village “gateways” and chicanes to courteous reminders to reduce speed and radar triggered reminder boards. There are no such procedures in Orlingbury.
· No safe recreation spaces. The village is compact with no designated Parish recreation area. The one small, public recreation space, the village green, is unfenced and located at the centre of heavy traffic flow.
The volume of traffic is particularly great during the hours of commuting to and from work and school. Orlingbury’s position between three congested trunk roads, the A14, A43 and the A508, and an absence of traffic calming procedures in Orlingbury, in contrast to all surrounding villages, favour it as a “rat run” for traffic. Motorists appear to try to save time and distance, and to avoid trunk road traffic congestion, by using minor roads. Traffic has recently increased further due to the establishment of a number of logistics/ commodity distribution centres on the nearby industrial estate at Burton Latimer. Works traffic, which extends from the early hours of the morning, includes heavy delivery vehicles.
4.0 Policy of Highways Authority and the County Council
In a recent response from Northamptonshire County Council, in reply to a letter from Peter Bone MP expressing concerns about traffic on the Northampton Road in Orlingbury, the chief executive writes:
One of our villagers commented:
“Does someone have to die/be injured before aid can be given for traffic calming?”
5.0 Expressions of concern
5.1 Police Monitoring
A police monitoring of traffic speed on the Isham and Northampton Roads, in the week of the 5th of November, revealed the following:
Date of Police Survey
5/11/2007 to 12/11/2007 (7days)
No. of Vehicles
7520
9020
Volume of Vehicles per day
1074 (45 vehicles per hour)
1288 (54 vehicles per hour)
Road
Northampton Rd.
Isham Rd.
Location of Survey
At Telegraph Post 27
At horses warning sign
Speed Limit warning
30
30
No./% exceeding limit
6611 88%
4624 51%
No./5 exceeding 35 m.p.h
5122 68%
2158 24%
Speed below which 85% travelled
46 mph
38 mph
Maximum Speed
81 mph
56 mph
The volume of traffic averages 45 vehicles per hour on the Northampton Road and 54 per hour on the Isham Road. These figures use a 24 hour average, so they do not demonstrate peaks in traffic flow. Clearly, the bulk of traffic passing through Isham and Northampton Roads exceeds the speed limit.
5.2 Reported incidents
Fortunately there are, so far, no recently reported accidents resulting in injury or death to villagers. The following anecdotal examples, collected in the last month, illustrate the range of concerns:
1. A car, driven by an early morning shift worker, overshot the Isham/Harrowden Road junction at the village green, resulting in the car mounting a steep bank and demolishing a boundary wall to a cottage.
2. A Pedestrian on the Harrowden Road narrowly missed serious injury when an incoming vehicle, passing wide to avoid her, was met head on by an oncoming car travelling in the middle of the road, at speed, out of the village.
3. Villagers watched as a commercial van travelling at speed seriously injured the dog they were walking.
4. A parked car, on the Isham road, received a glancing scrape from an incoming car travelling at speed.
5. An incoming car swerved off the Northampton Road ploughing through a landscaped area.
5.3 Village Petition
In August a small petition was organized to raise protest at the large volume of traffic coming through the village at high speed. 80 signatures were collected. The petition was extended in January 2008 to include all villagers. The petition stated:
“We, the undersigned raise this petition in order to highlight the need to:
c) Enforce current restrictions on heavy vehicles of more than 7.5 tons travelling through Orlingbury.
d) Reduce the volume and speed of traffic through the village.”
It resulted in the collection of XXXX signatures i.e. xxxx% of all villagers. Petition to be completed GOOD RESPONSE!
5.4 Audit of Footpaths and Roads
A brief survey of footpaths and roads reveals the following:
1. Footpaths and Pavements
a. Pavements are, in places, in need of replacement.
b. Recent building in the village has, in places, destroyed surfaces in places
c. Whilst the village is generally well served with pavements, there is a notable absence of pavement particularly at key road crossing points e.g. at the Isham and Harrowden Roads junction, and at the Northampton Road to Allotment area crossings
d. There is no paved provision on the village green to enable safe crossing.
2. Boundaries and verges
a. Driver vision, and safe pedestrian access to entering the Harrowden Road from the Isham Road, is obstructed by dense shrubbery.
b. Walled boundaries on the eastern edge of the Harrowden Road are thickly covered in ivy which hides road signs, and restricts driver and pedestrian sight lines, at bends.
c. All road edges on the Harrowden Road have dense and high hedges which are overgrown and intrude on to the verges . They prevent safe walking and walker refuge from traffic.
d. Sight lines for drivers and pedestrians are significantly restricted, especially on the numerous blind bends..
3. Road signs and village boundaries.
a. There is no logic to the positioning of village signs and speed signs. Currently, village signs are placed at a reasonable distance from the first building. Speed signs are often too close to the village to give adequate warning. Speed signs in surrounding villages are generally more closely synchronized with village signs e.g. Little Harrowden.
b. On the Pytchley Road a steep approach to the village, with a blind summit before the village edge, gives little advanced warning of the village to motorists. The speed restriction sign here is placed within the village boundary after the first house, and shortly after the blind summit.
c. On the Harrowden Road the speed restriction signs are placed after a blind bend, and one is covered with ivy.
5.5 Village Traffic Survey
In response to village concerns, a traffic survey was conducted in the period 23rd to 25th January. The survey, voluntarily undertaken by over 30 villagers, recorded the volume and type of vehicles using the roads.
On the Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, at six selected times between 7.00 a.m. and 6.00 p.m. surveyors recorded numbers and types of vehicles travelling in to Orlingbury. Surveyors were stationed in sheltered vantage points, either in houses or safely parked cars, near each of the four major roads. In response to concerns about heavy traffic during the hours of darkness, some villagers also agreed to do a “post-midnight” shift to measure through-traffic in this very early morning period.[2]
5.6 Analysis
5.6.1 Chart 1 Traffic entering the village
The following chart shows the total volume of traffic entering the village during six selected hours between 7.00 a.m. and 6.00 p.m. This only records six hours of movement, and it does not include significant volume generated from within the village or traffic flow out of Orlingbury. The vast majority of vehicles are cars but observations also show a small number of heavy vehicles over the restricted limit of 7.5 tonnes as well as a significant number of commercial vehicles.
5.6.2 Chart 2 Average numbers of vehicles travelling into Orlingbury between 07.00 and 09.00
All traffic coming in to the village, as well as traffic starting in Orlingbury is likely to travel past the village green. This means that pedestrians waiting or crossing at this area, notably school children waiting for school buses, are confronted with a constant stream of traffic.
Cycle/
Motorcycle
Car
Light Van or truck(com’l)
Over 7.5 tons (com’l)
Mini-bus/bus
Farm vehicle
Totals
Road
7 to 8
H’den
0
57.3
29.6
1.6
1.6
0
62.6
N’ton
0
26
3.6
0.3
0
0
30
Py’ley
1
149
25
1
3
0
179
Isham
1
43.6
10
0.3
0
0
55
326.6
8 to 9
H’den
1.3
78
21.3
3
2
0
139
N’ton
0
62
13
0
0
0
75
Py’ley
2.3
255.6
24.3
1
1
0
284.3
Isham
0
63.3
5.6
1.3
1.3
0.3
76.3
574.6
Total Number of vehicles entering the village between 07.00 and 09.00 a.m.
901.2
Between 07.00 and 09.00, an average of 901 vehicles enter the village and are likely to use the intersections at the village green
5.6.3 Chart 3 Traffic Volumes at Peak Times between 7.00 and 9.00 a.m. and 4.00 and 6.00 p.m.
The next chart shows the average flow of traffic at peak times. Whilst flow in the morning is concentrated between 7.00 and 8.00, observations show peak times spread beyond 4.00 to 6.00 in the late afternoon. The most significant and dense incoming movements in the morning are on the Pytchley Road. In the evening, the greatest concentration is incoming on the Harrowden Road. This passage of vehicles is believed to be to and from the place of work (and possibly schools). These figures give a clear idea of congestion on the incoming sides of roads but do not indicate equal volumes of traffic leaving the village on the opposite side.
5.6.3 Chart 4 Volume throughout the day
The next chart shows the ebb and flow of traffic at selected times throughout the day. There are a not insignificant number of large commercial vehicles as well as trucks exceeding the restricted 7.5 tonnes level.
5.6.4 Chart 5 Total incoming volume within selected time periods
5.6.5 Traffic Count: Early hours
Three villagers also counted the type and volume of traffic from 5.00 a.m. to 6.00 a.m. This was undertaken to determine the nuisance value of transport which is frequently reported by villagers as being fast moving and often very noisy. Drivers are observed ,during the hours of darkness, to pay even less attention to the Highway Code. Such traffic movements often keep villagers awake on the Isham and Northampton Roads. Movements are attributed to shift workers travelling to and from the Burton Latimer industrial estate.
Chart 6. Early Morning Sample
5-6 a.m.
Cycle/
Motorcycle
Car
Light Van or truck(com’l)
Over 7.5 tons
(com’l)
Mini-bus/bus
Farm vehicle
Total
Flow
Northampton Road
0
26.3
3.3
0
0
0
29.6
Isham Road
0
18
6.5
4
0
0
24.5
6.0 Survey Overview
The method of surveying had the advantage that observers were, generally in the warmth of their houses. In the hours of darkness it was generally possible to make a distinction between types of vehicles, though it was sometimes difficult to spot restricted vehicles.
Limitations of personnel prevented surveying around the clock, counting traffic on both sides of the road or village generated traffic. Notwithstanding, the survey gives a very clear picture of patterns i.e. peaks and periods of relative calm, and clearly reveals a picture of significant congestion and danger.
The busiest roads are the Pytchley and Harrowden Roads, but all roads receive high traffic volume which is generally travelling at speed.
During the three days observers note:
o The illegal, and disturbingly frequent, use of mobile phones
o Driving in the middle of the road ;(one driver was travelling on the wrong side of the road).
o Nose to tail travelling at speed.
o Travel above the speed limit through the entire village
o The use of full headlights coming out of the village during darkness
7.0 Recommendations
This report endorses Priority 2 of the Parish Council Plan Roads and Pathways i.e.
a. Safety
Given the increase in housing in the village and the increase in the volume, speed and size of traffic, the PC work in cooperation with current and future housing developers, the county council and the police to:
i. Audit the extent of concerns through survey and consultation. Feb. 2008
ii. Ensure that current traffic calming funding for the Harrowden Road is used[3]. Sept.2008
iii. Plan and create an agreed traffic calming/pedestrianisation and regulation system throughout the village. Sept.2009
iv. Create a safe network of footpaths and crossing points. Sept.2009
b. Maintenance, Lighting and Cleanliness of all pavements and pathways
i. Ensure that all unsafe surfaces are scheduled for repair and all dog fouling and littering of footpaths is minimised. Apr.2008
ii. Ensure that all boundary shrubbery and road verges are maintained and trimmed so that there is no obstruction to pedestrians and drivers. Apr. 2008
The following additional recommendations are made:
The results of this report should be shared with villagers to inform a preliminary meeting to discuss Priority 2 and future options. Proposals for improvements should be used at the meeting as an additional kick-start for consultation. Local Authority representatives and developers should be invited to this meeting.
A working group, comprising key parish councillors responsible for Priority 1 together with interested villagers, a county councillor and the community police officer (say 6-8 people), in close consultation with villagers, should be charged with “making things happen”
A more detailed audit should be quickly conducted to verify exact areas of concern in terms of signs, road and verges and footpath maintenance.
A range of proposals for road improvements, and options for traffic regulation and calming, should be costed in co-operation with the highways authority and the range of options presented to villagers.
The fairly strict timelines for improvement, set out in the Parish Plan, should be adhered to in order to give focus to rapid and effective resolution.
Copies of this report should be sent to key authorities.
Acknowledgements
Many thanks to the following people who gave up their valuable time to act as surveyors on the 21 sessions during the 3 days of survey
Day of Survey
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Early morning
Mid-day
Early evening
Wil. McKeown
Rob and Anne Widdup
John & Charlotte Cook
Rose and Mike Newmam
Brenda and Patrick White
Gerry Rowlatt
Trish Robinson
Margaret Johnson
Jan and Rod Derry
Chris and David Staff
Pat Waller
Lloyd Beech
Adrienne Greenbank
Don and Molly Pettitt
Wil. McKeown
Rob and Anne Widdup
Alan & Angela West
Peter Allen
Rose and Mike Newmam
Tim Norton
Judith & Peter Marshall
Gerry Rowlatt
Jan and Rod Derry
Chris and David Staff
Andy Gosling
Eloise Brown
Adrienne Greenbank
Don and Molly Pettitt
Pat Collings
Peter Robinson
Kath Gosling
Brian Lewis
Brenda and Patrick White
Rose and Mike Newmam
Pat Waller
Jan and Rod Derry
Chris and David Staff
Claire Robinson
Simon Watson
Adrienne Greenbank
Claire Robinson
Simon Watson
© Peter Allen Jan. 29th 2008
[1] Priority 2 ( Parish Council Plan) Roads and Pathways
a. Safety Given the increase in housing in the village and the increase in the volume, speed and size of traffic, the PC work in cooperation with current and future housing developers, the county council and the police to
i. Audit the extent of concerns through survey and consultation. Feb. 2008
ii. Ensure that current traffic calming funding for the Harrowden Road is used. Sept.2008
iii. Create a traffic calming/pedestrianisation and regulation system throughout the village. Sept.2009
iv. Create a safe network of footpaths and crossing point. Sept.2009
b. Maintenance, Lighting and Cleanliness of all pavements and pathways
i. Ensure that all unsafe surfaces are scheduled for repair and all dogs’ mess and littering of footpaths is minimised. Apr.2008
ii. Ensure that all boundary shrubbery and road verges are maintained and trimmed so that there is no obstruction to pedestrians and drivers. Apr. 2008
[2] Volunteer surveyors surveyed for each of the nine, two hour sessions during the 3 day period. To keep things as simple as possible, Traffic was recorded coming into the village. Recording was done on prepared sheet using tally marks.
N.B Tally marks are written as groups of five lines. The first four lines are vertical, and every fifth line runs diagonally across the previous four vertical lines. The resulting mark is known as a five-bar gate, from its similarity to the same.
[3] Funding made available for traffic calming as a condition for the development of Norlington Close.
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