.

195.01

 195.02

 195.03

16.196

 16.197

16.198

16.199

 16.200

200.01

200.02

200.03

200.04

200.05

 16.201

 16.202

 16.203

16.204

16.205

 16.206

16.207

16.208

208.01

208.02

208.03

16.209

209.01

 209.02

16.210

210.01

210.02

16.211

16.212

Mr. J. Tanner from Hollins, Architects, Surveyors & Planning Consultants, Framlingham talked to the council about a proposed development at Green Farm Yard.  It’s in the very early stages and wanted the Councils views in terms of the type and quantity of housing in this area.  It was shown there could be an area for communal use, whether this is a room, rather than a full village hall, or a wildlife area with a pond.  Points were made to Mr. Tanner about the water issue in the area already and concern that the current infrastructure wouldn’t be able to cope with extra properties.   Mr. Tanner was very helpful and open and asked for feedback from the Council.

Cllr Jane Storey spoke after Mr. Brownlie and offered to get Highways to help in terms of posts for the speedwatch signs. Due to elections on 4^th May 2017 there will be no cabinet meeting due to being in election mode.

Cllr Roy Barker said that Mid Suffolk may no longer cut the grass that they have currently been doing and it could be given out for local companies to do.

There is no update on Moon Lane, Cllr. Barker was told that there have been more cars going to Moon Lane.  The footpaths at Westhorpe have been ploughed up.  The footpath at Saracens Hill is no more as it’s 10 year period is up.

Contributions by Members of the Public

Mr. A. Brownlie gave an update on the speed watch group.  There’s been 40 drivers over 35mph when the team have been out with the camera on the corner of the crossroads by the pub.  Commercial vehicles including couriers seem to be the majority of the speeding vehicles caught.  There are 3 signs out, on temporary posts, could these be put on more permanent posts?

Thanks are given to Mr. A. Kilbee for sorting out the loan of the equipment from Gislingham Parish Council for 3 out of 4 weeks each month.

Apologies and approval of absence

Mrs. D. Sewell gave her apologies for being unable to attend due to her husband receiving medical treatment.

Mrs. M. Webb gave her apologies for being unable to attend due to being on holiday.

Mr. A. Kilbee proposed and Mr. J. Miller seconded and it was agreed to accept these absences.

Approve minutes of the Parish Council meeting held on 14^th. February, 2017

Mr. J. Black proposed, seconded by Mr. J. Miller and agreed that the minutes were a correct record and the Chairman then signed the minute book.

To receive any pecuniary or non-pecuniary declarations of interest from Members and any Gifts of Hospitality.

Nothing from any of the Councillors.

Matters arising from the meeting held on 14^th. February, 2017

Speed watch initiative – Gislingham PC have said they will loan the speed watch equipment 2 or 3 weeks of each month.

Defibrillator – The Clerk has completed the confirmation of grant form and supplied the Councils bank details to enable to receive the grant.  The Clerk still needs to contact UK Power Networks to see if being a Council whether anything can be done to reduce the quote of £2,562.00 + VAT to install a power supply.

The Chairman has looked into solar power units to power the defibrillator instead of getting a power supply through UK Power Networks.  Mrs. C. Winter has tweeted UK Power Networks in a hope of getting a response.

If any Councillors have anything they wish to share on the Council’s Facebook account, then please pass onto the Chairman for him to add onto Facebook.

Welcome to Finningham signs.  What are the prices of the gateways that the Councillors marked last month to price up. Have Glasdon got back to Mr J. Black with prices? There are 3 different designs and the Chairman wondered if these gates could be part of a road safety initiative.

The Great British Spring Clean – Friday 21^st, Saturday 22^nd & Sunday 23^rd April 2017.  Who is going to organise each day and where is the ‘collection point’ for equipment.  Carried over to next meeting due to time constraints.

Chairman’s Report

The Chairman thanked Mrs. M. Webb for running last month’s meeting.  He endorses the idea of monitoring the Church heating system on both arrival and departure.  The Chairman has distributed the mowing rota for the year’s maintenance of the Churchyard and Cemetery but in spite of appeals in the Newsletter, no further volunteers have come forward.

The Chairman had a rather interesting situation where the family of a recently deceased person requested that he be buried next to his brother in a reserved plot in the Cemetery.  The plot was reserved by the wife of the brother.  With the help of Mr. Ian Jackson, who was conducting the burial it was established who had rights on the reserved plot and whether the recently deceased person could be buried in this reserved plot, which he could.  This leads to whether the Council should consider reservation plot markers again.

The Chairman attended a seminar by the Suffolk Preservation Society, which he will give details about at the next meeting.

To approve additional funds for the purchase a flag which can by flown on the flagpole at all times, rather than just using on special occasions.  During the meeting last month the cost of £56.54 + VAT was approved for the purchase of a St. George flag.  The price was incorrect and it is actually £66 + VAT for the flag and £9.95 + VAT for delivery.  A total of £75.95 + VAT.  Is the Council still happy to go ahead with this purchase?

Mrs. C. Winter proposed, seconded by Mr. J. Black and agreed to continue with the purchase of the St. George’s flag even with it costing a little bit more.

To discuss and approve to create a sub committee for the defibrillator install now the grant has been awarded. 

Mrs. C. Winter said she would be happy to be part of the sub committee along with her husband Mr. C. Winter and she thought Mrs. M. Webb would also be happy to be part of the sub committee.

The Council approved at the last meeting for a Councillor to attend the ‘Heritage Training’ on Tuesday 14^th March 2017 at a cost of £40.  When the Clerk went to book this, it was offered to join the Suffolk Preservation Society for £30 per annum, and the training course would then be free. Therefore in the interest of public money expenditure the Chairman and Clerk used their powers to join for £30 rather than pay a one off £40 for this training.  Therefore could the Council approve this retrospectively.

Carried over to next meeting due to time constraints.

To approve the amended Equal Opportunities, Health & Safety and Child & Vulnerable Adult Protection policies.  With the help of Mr Winter, the policies presented last month have been amended to be more ‘current’.

Mr. J. Miller proposed, seconded by Mr. A. Kilbee and agreed to approve these amended policies.

To discuss and consider what the Council is able to do to help with the continued issue with sewage along Gislingham Road when there is heavy rainfall.  The clerk has received emails from residents along Gislingham Road stating that there were issues again with sewage coming up from the main hole covers when there’s heavy rain. Both the Clerk and the Chairman have been in contact with Anglian Water to see what is happening with regards to this issue.

The Clerk needs to contact Anglian Water and invite them to a Parish meeting for the village to share their concerns and views with the issue of foul water.

To discuss a pre-application of a proposed site at Gosford House to build a bungalow. The only details currently given show the proposed site next to Highview.

Carried over to next meeting due to time constraints.

Correspondence Received

A recycling Claim of £59.59 for the glass recycling bank is being processed

SALC have a new email address being admin@salc.org.uk .

Section 137 expenditure limit has been set for 2017 – 2018 at £7.57

Finance

Clerk’s report

Previous meeting, last balance reported was from 27/01/2017

Current account £3,092.82 (£450 unpresented cheque to Finn PCC) after then £2,642.82

Deposit account £3,313.36 41p bank interest

Balances as of 27/02/2017

Current account £2,642.82 (£84.64 uncleared cheques to) after then £2,558.16

Receipts since 29/01/17 – £0

Payments since 29/01/17 – £450 (uncleared cheques)

Deposit account £3,313.36

Requests for payment as listed below and to review matters coming forth.

Mrs. A. Kilbee proposed, seconded by Mr. J. Black and agreed to authorise the following payments

SPS – £30 – Annual membership to Suffolk preservation Society

FIELDENS – £87.96 – Service on the mower

LADYWELL ACCOUNTANCY SERVICES – £28 – PAYE service 2016-2017

N. HILL – £351.96 – clerks hours between 8/11/16 – 12/3/17

N. HILL – £30.30 – expenses

HMRC – £88.20 – PAYE

NEST – £8.89 – pension contribution, which is via DD

Totalling £625.31

Planning

To consider applications.  All planning applications received up to the date of the meeting will be discussed.

0610/17 –  Proposal T1 on application plan – Irish yew tree in front garden adjacent to drive – reduce in height to approx.. 3.5  – 4 metres and cut back hard/remove outer side branches, T2 on application plan – oak tree standing in rear garden – pollard at primary fork formation. T2 on application plan – coppice.  Yew Tree House, Church Lane, Finningham, IP14 4JB.

No comment by the Council

Decisions

GRANTED – 0083/17 – Planning permission.  Application of single storey side extension dwelling including rear conservatory following removal of existing garage and erection of new detached garage – revision to scheme approved under application reference 4005/16.  Farm View, Wickham Road, Finningham, IP14 4HT.

Questions to the Chairman

When the plans for Green Farm Yard are shared with the village, could it be canvassed to how Finningham goes forward so as many people as possible have a chance to share views etc.

Items to be discussed at the next meeting and included in the April’s agenda.

Grave markers for reserved plots in the Cemetery.

The Chairman then closed the meeting at 9.40pm

16.177

16.178

16.179

16.180

16.181

181.01

181.02

181.03

181.04

181.05

181.06

16.182

16.183

16.184

 16.185

 16.186

16.187

16.188

16.189

16.190

190.01

190.02

 190.03

16.191

191.01

191.02

16.192

192.01

192.02

16.193

 16.194

Cllr Roy Barker said that with Mid Suffolk moving into Endeavour House in Ipswich, the Council will have a presence in Stowmarket, at 54 Ipswich Street, Stowmarket.

He reminded everyone that if they notice anything strange going on in the village to call 101 and tell the Police.  If they spot hare coursing, then to call 999.

There seems to be a problem where litter where council vehicles collecting litter are losing it from their vehicles due to not securing it properly.  Therefore is any litter is escaping from council vehicles, then to report to himself, with as much information as possible about the vehicle including it’s registration number. Roy.Barker@midsuffolk.gov.uk

He has tried to get an update on Moon Lane, but there is nothing to share.  There is an endorsement notice 1600187 on a large wooden cart lodge at Hilldrop, Wickham Road as it shouldn’t be there.

Contributions by Members of the Public

None

Apologies and approval of absence

Mr. A. Kilbee gave his apologies at the previous meeting as he knew he would be on holiday and unable to attend this meeting.

Mrs. M. Webb proposed and Mrs. D. Sewell seconded and it was agreed to accept this absence.

Approve minutes of the Parish Council meeting held on 10^th. January, 2017

Mr. J. Miller proposed, seconded by Mrs. D. Sewell and agreed that the minutes were a correct record and the Vice Chairman then signed the minute book.

To receive any pecuniary or non-pecuniary declarations of interest from Members and any Gifts of Hospitality.

Nothing from any of the Councillors.

Matters arising from the meeting held on 10^th. January, 2017

Speed watch initiative – Has anyone seen the speed watch group in action?  Yes, 2 Councillors have seen them in action.

Defibrillator – A quote has come through from UK Power Networks of £2,562.00 + VAT to install a power supply, but this does not include a meter kiosk or hockey stick. The Clerk has chased about the grant application as there hasn’t been anything since the application was submitted.  Thank you to Mrs. C. Winter for the successful application of the grant.  The clerk is to question UK power networks if there’s a department that can help with getting a lower priced quote.

Letter to the occupier of Shadwell House regarding the trees – The Chairman has received a phone call with regards to this.  The Chairman was informed the trees are periodically checked for signs of danger but at this moment in time they are unable to do anything else about the matter.  It was agreed to send a letter in April to inquire about the current position in dealing with the trees.

Welcome to Finningham signs.  What are the prices of the gateways that the Councillors marked last month to price up.  A quote has been requested but no prices have been received yet.

Surgery at the Book Sale – Did anyone ask any questions to any Councillors?  No, nothing was asked.

The Chairman has set up ‘finningham parish council’ on Facebook.  Has anyone seen this?  No

Chairman’s Report

There was not one to share.

To discuss, consider and approve purchasing a flag which can by flown on the flagpole at all times, rather than just using on special occasions.  During the Chairman’s report last month, he suggested using the flagpole more, which the Council were in agreement with. The cost of a St. George flag is £56.54 + VAT.  A specially made one with the Finningham Sign or another design is £222.66 + VAT.

Mr. J. Downie proposed, seconded by Mr. J. Black and agreed to purchase the St. George’s flag.

To discuss, consider and potentially approve a payment of £80 to Finningham Church.  It’s believed that after the last Council meeting in the Church on 10^th January 2017, not all the heaters were turned off. Therefore the Church have worked out that an additional amount of electric has been used to the value of £80.  The heaters that were not turned off were the pew heaters.  Can anyone remember turning these on or seeing a member of the public turning these on?  How do we ensure in the future, that all heating is turned off after the Council meeting and also that heating hasn’t been left on by others using the Church before the Councillors turn up for their meeting.

Mr. J. Black proposed, seconded by Mrs. D. Sewell and agreed to make this payment.  It was also agreed that 2 Councillors would check on entering the church for a meeting, that no heaters are on.  If any heaters are on, then Mr. D. Bell would be notified.  On leaving the Church after a meeting 2 Councillors will check that all heaters are turned off.

To discuss, consider and approve a Councillor attending the ‘Heritage Training’ on Tuesday 14^th March 2017.  There is a cost of £40 for this training which covers recent changes in the heritage sector and informs Councillors on best practice when responding to heritage related applications.

Mrs. D. Sewell proposed, seconded by Mrs. C. Winter and agreed for Mr. A. Kilbee to attend this training course.

To approve the Equal Opportunities, Health & Safety and Child & Vulnerable Adult Protection policies.  Mrs. D. Sewell has kindly created these for the Council, as agreed last month, to enable the Council to apply for grants.

To carry over to the next meeting with amendments and additions.

The clerk needs to contact SALC about a template formal complaint procedure and to also ensure contractors used by the Council have public liability insurance. She also needs to check that the Church have a health and safety policy and also Public Liability insurance due to the Council holding their meetings in the Church.

To consider whether Finningham gets involved with ‘The Great British Spring Clean’ this year.  The ‘Community Clear Up Weekend’ is being promoted by the Government which takes place 3 – 5 March 2017.  There isn’t enough time to promote via the newsletter for the clean up weekend to be 3 – 5 March, so should Finningham consider another weekend to get people involved in a Spring Clean of the village?

The Council agreed that Finningham should get involved with ‘The Great British Spring Clean’ but to allow time to promote the date etc Finningham will do it Friday 21^st, Saturday 22^nd & Sunday 23^rd April.

To consider a replacement tree warden within the village.  Ian Armstrong has resigned as the Village Tree Warden, therefore the Council need to consider a replacement.

It was suggested to put something in the newsletter about the vacancy and if anyone had expertise in this area and would like to be the tree warden.

To discuss, consider and approve for a service on the mover to be completed before the growing season.  The cost of this will be in the region of £120.

Mrs. M. Webb proposed, seconded by Mrs. D. Sewell and agreed for a service to be completed on the mower.

Correspondence Received

SALC has emailed with details of the new external auditors which comes into effect from 2017/2018 – 2021/2022.  The new external auditors will be PKF Littlejohn LLP and the expected fee for this service will be £200 a year.

S106 money to use towards outdoor sports equipment – MSDC have sent an offer letter to the Chairman.  Thank You needs to go to the Chairman for his time and effort with meeting with Gillian Hilder and completing the required grant application forms and also to Mrs. D. Sewell for creating the 3 policies, at short notice, to enable to grant application to be completed.

James Tanner from Hollins Architects, Surveyors & Planning consultants have sent an email as they are wishing to meet up with the Council with the possibility of re-developing the existing farm yard for residential use at Green Farm.  I have invited them to attend our next meeting on Tuesday 14^th March 2017.  The Clerk is to email asking is he could bring site plans/map to enable the Councillors to see the area to be developed.

Finance

Clerk’s report

Previous meeting, last balance reported was from 29/12/2016

Current account £3,206.77 (£100 unpresented cheque)

Deposit account £3,312.95

Balances as of 27/02/2017

Current account £3,092.82 (£450 uncleared cheques to Finn PCC) after then £2,642.82

Receipts since 29/01/17 – £0

Payments since 29/01/17 – £113.95 (uncleared cheque & 1 approved payment from last month)

Deposit account £3,313.36 – 41p bank interest

Requests for payment as listed below and to review matters coming forth.

Mrs. M. Webb proposed, seconded by Mrs. D. Sewell and agreed to authorise the following payments

FPCC – £80.00 – Electric

J. LAWES – £4.64 – hinges & screws

Totalling £84.64

Planning

To consider applications.  All planning applications received up to the date of the meeting will be discussed.

None

Decisions

GRANTED 4943/16 – Listed building consent. Replace two 1970’s “Boulton & Paul” bedroom windows. The Old Bakery, Gislingham Road, Finningham, IP14 4HZ

GRANTED 4382/16 – Planning permission.  Application for variation of condition 12 following grant of planning permission under application 2451/13.  Green Farm, Wickham Road, Finningham, IP14 4HT

GRANTED – 4383/16  – Listed building consent.  Works to enable conversion of existing barn outbuildings to form single residential dwelling with garaging/stores.  Green Farm, Wickham Road, Finningham, IP14 4HT.

GRANTED – 4565/16 – Planning permission.  Erection of detached two bay cart lodge.  Green Farm, Wickham Road, Finningham, IP14 4HT

Questions to the Vice Chairman

No questions, just a comment from the Vice Chairman, Mrs. M. Webb apologising for her absence for the next meeting as she will be on holiday.  Mrs. D. Sewell also apologised that she will be unable to attend the next meeting.

Items to be discussed at the next meeting and included in the March’s agenda.

Policies

Notice Board

Spring Clean – who is going to organise it.

The Vice Chairman then closed the meeting at 9pm

16.161

 16.162

16.163

16.164

16.165

165.01

165.02

165.03

165.04

165.05

165.06

 16.166

16.167

 16.168

16.169

 16.170

16.171

171.01

171.02

171.03

171.04

171.05

16.172

172.01

172.02

16.173

173.01

173.02

16.174

16.175

None

Contributions by Members of the Public

Before the Chairman asked for Mr. A. Brownlie to address the Council he wanted to make the Council’s position on the Community Speed Watch clear.

The Chairman explained the Council has the responsibility to spend the money wisely and to the benefit of the Community at large.  There are certain rules to which it has to abide before it can allocate funds to any project or scheme. The Council are responsible to the maintenance of the Green, Churchyard & Cemetery.  Also to keep any trees which are on these areas in good health & remove any hazardous branches.  The recreational equipment also falls is under the Council.  Any expenditure considered by the Council has to be debated at open Council meetings so the public can participate.

The Council are all painfully aware that the speeding question is one that has to be addressed before there is a fatality in the village.

The Chairman’s own recommendation would be to borrow the equipment for a period of time and assess its efficacy before launching into the expenditure of purchasing the equipment.  Our neighbours at Gislingham are prepared to loan us theirs as they are not using it.  As Mr. Brownlie and his team are fully training, there is no reason why they could not start immediately.

Mr. Brownlie made his presentation to the Council.  He said he enquired reducing the speed limit near Rob Hall Corner and tried to get the local MP, Jo Churchill involved.  The cost of changing a speed limit would be around £5000.  Mr. Brownlie talked about the 13 accidents within the village, but due to an ambulance only attending on 1 occasion, then only 1 accident has officially been recorded.  Mr. Brownlie explained how the Community Speed Watch works, that letters are sent to people being caught over 35 mph. There are 4 approved sites as the sites have to follow certain criteria.

Another member of the public expressed their views of speeding traffic along Wickham Road by the railway bridge.

Another member of the public expressed the safety of the people in the village more important than potentially antagonising people if they are caught speeding in the village.

Mrs. C. Winter asked Mr. Brownlie the question how would it be known if using the equipment, borrowed from Gislingham is effective to reducing speeding in the village.  He replied that there are figures produced by the Police, based on information given to them on the amount of speeding motorists caught, and these figures show there’s a reduction in people caught speeding over a year period.

Mr. Brownlie informed the Council that 6 people of his team are trained with the potential of 2 more.

Mr. Brownlie wanted to share his Thanks to J.Lawes at Bacton who have kindly donated 6 brand new High Viz jackets.

The Chairman asked the Council if they support the Community Speed Watch Scheme and if they agree to borrow the equipment from Gislingham for a 3 month period.

Mr. J. Downie proposed and Mrs. M. Webb seconded and it was unanimously agreed that the Council support the Community Speed watch scheme and they should borrow the equipment for 3 months to see it’s impacted on reducing speed within the village and for people to travel at the speedlimits within the village.

The footpath warden didn’t have anything to report.

Apologies and approval of absence

Mr. J. Black running late due to trains from London, but arrived around 7.50pm.

Approve minutes of the Parish Council meeting held on 8^th. November, 2016

Mrs. M. Webb proposed, seconded by Mrs. D. Sewell and agreed that the minutes were a correct record and the Chairman then signed the minute book.

To receive any pecuniary or non-pecuniary declarations of interest from Members and any Gifts of Hospitality.

Nothing from any of the Councillors.

Matters arising from the meeting held on 8^th. November, 2016

Speed watch initiative – Mr Brownlie has been invited to share plans and reasons behind wanting to purchase the equipment and why the Council are being asked for a contribution/donation of £500. Mr. Brownlie addressed the Council earlier in the meeting.

Defibrillator – Still waiting to hear back from the grant application and from EDF re cost of installing an electrical supply.

Letter to the occupier of Shadwell House regarding the trees – this has been sent, but as yet, no response.  It was suggested to speak to SALC and using their legal service, see what the cost of sending out a letter via a solicitor would be.

Any update on the Welcome to Finningham signs.  The Clerk has e-mailed the Clerk of Stowupland about their new village signs to see if they needed permission.  They did not seek planning permission. Mr. J. Black has been in correspondence with Mr David Irving, Temporary Highway Engineer at SCC.  He has given options of how the Council can install these gateways, whether it’s through SCC or the Council applies for a licence to install themselves using an Approved Contractor.

Has there been any feedback/comments on the article in the newsletter around what the Parish Council does and how it spends its money?  This never made the newsletter before Christmas, but it’s now in the current newsletter which has recently been sent to all households in the village.  Mrs. D. Sewell was praised for her article in the newsletter. There has been no feedback.

Building supplies left on the Green whilst work is being carried on a property nearby – has anyone been able to speak to the owners/workmen to ensure the Green is left in the same condition as it was found?  The Chairman has said the owner is aware of their responsibility and that gutter drainage is being routed away from the Green.

Chairman’s Report

The Chairman said he would like to re-introduce the surgery at the Book Sales held at the Church once a month.  As a number of Councillors are regular attenders at the Book Sales, it should not be difficult to man this.

The key safe for the secure shed is now installed.  The key for the secure shed hasn’t be placed inside as yet, just to see if the key safe attracts any attention.  At this time of year, the equipment isn’t needed.

The Council have been following the recommendation of Flying the Union Flag from the pole on certain dates, but these dates are few and far between.  Therefore could the flagpole be utilised more and fly different flags in between the ‘special’ dates.  The Councillors thought it was a good idea, therefore prices will be obtained for different flags.

The Chairman gives his apologies for his absence at the meeting in February due to visiting family in South Africa.  He has asked Mrs. M. Webb, Vice Chairman to hold the reins .  Mrs. M. Webb said she would and she also shares her apologies for not being able to make the meeting in March due to being on holiday.

To discuss, consider and approve making a contribution to the Friends of Finningham Speed Camera initiative or to purchase the equipment on their behalf using their current donations.

This item was already discussed earlier in the meeting.

To make a final decision on whether to approve if the Parish Council should have a Facebook page/account.  Who is happy and willing to run this, if approved? Mr. A. Kilbee proposed, seconded by Mrs. D. Sewell and agreed for Finningham Parish Council to have a Facebook account.  Both Mr. A. Kilbee and Mrs. D. Sewell will set this up and be administrators.

To discuss, consider and approve replacing the current notice board.  The current notice board has quite a lot of rotten wood, to the extend that one of the hinges on the door has completely come away from the wooden frame. The Chairman has completed a quick fix to secure the door back to the hinge.  The Chairman has looked at replacement costs, an Oak notice board would cost £1,300, an aluminium backed one would cost £853.50 which would take 9 A4 sheets x 2.  This needs to be looked into further before a final decision and potential purchase is made.

To discuss and approve whether the Council create and adopt policies for the following areas – Equal Opportunities, Health & Safety, Child & Vulnerable Adult Protection and Environmental.  Without these, the Council will be unable to apply for grants via MSDC or other Council based grants.  Without these, The Chairman isn’t able to submit the grant application for a grant for money to put towards replacing the slide and swings.  If approved, who is able to willing to complete these?  Mrs. D. Sewell proposed, seconded by Mr. A. Kilbee and agreed that Mrs. D. Sewell will complete these policies for the Council to enable grants to be applied for.

Correspondence Received

The Neighbourhood Planning Bill, currently passing through Parliament, brings with it the promise of improvements in clarity about the status and timing of the impact of neighbourhood planning system. It proposes automatic effect of neighbourhood plans accepted at a referendum, without the need for adoption by the local planning authority (LPA). Also, emerging neighbourhood plans must be taken account of by the LPA where they are post-examination and as far as they are material to an application under consideration.

The precept form needs to be signed, based on the agreed and approved precept figure set at the last meeting.

SALC has shared their provisional annual membership fees for 2017-2018.  SALC are increasing their fees by 3% so the annual fee will be around £243.70 but the final figure which is based on electoral figures will be sent out at the beginning of April. 2016-2017 membership fee was £236.98.

UK Power Networks – Do you or someone you know need extra support during a power cut?  Although power cuts don’t happen very often when they do they can be worrying.  UK Power Networks is the electricity network and it proves a ‘Priority Services Register’ for people who might need extra help in a power cut.
You can find more details and register by visiting www.ukpowernetworks.co.uk/prioritysupport or by calling 0800 169 9970.

Police & Crime Commissioner for Suffolk – A Fairer share for Suffolk – read his assessment on www.suffolk-pcc.gov.uk and then email fairshareforsuffolk@suffolk.pnn.police.uk by Friday 20^th January 2017.

Finance

Clerk’s report – following on from approval at the last meeting, to allow pensions payments to come out of the current account, a bank mandate needs to be signed by 2 signatories on the bank account to allow this to happen.

Previous meeting, last balance reported was from 28/10/2016

Current account £4,101.22 (£63 unpresented cheque for key safe)

Deposit account £3,312.95

Balances as of 29/12/2016

Current account £3,206.77 (£100 unpresented cheque)

Receipts since 26/09/16 – £0

Payments since 26/09/16 – £894.45 (uncleared cheque & approved payments from last month)

Deposit account £3,312.95 –

Requests for payment as listed below and to review matters coming forth.

Mrs. D. Sewell proposed, seconded by Mrs. M. Webb and agreed to authorise the following payments

MISS. N HILL – £13.95 – Expenses

FPPC – £300 – Cutting of the rough grass in the churchyard

FPPC – £150 – Hiring of the church

Totalling £463.95

Planning

To consider applications.  All planning applications received up to the date of the meeting will be discussed.

4384/16 – Green Farm, Wickham Road, Finningham, IP14 4HT

Works to enable to conversion of existing barn outbuildings to form single residential dwelling with garaging/stores (variation of listed building consent 1433/14.

4382/16 – Green Farm, Wickham Road, Finningham, IP14 4HT

Application for variation of condition 12 following grant of planning permission under application 2451/13.  Change of use and works to enable conversion of existing barn and outbuildings to form of single residential dwelling with garaging/stores. Erection of new entrance gates.

4565/16 – Green Farm, Wickham Road, Finningham, IP14 4HT

Erection of detached two bay cart lodge.

4943/16 – The Old Bakery, Gislingham Road, Finningham, IP14 4HZ

Replace two 1970’s “Boulton & Paul” bedroom windows.

The Council had no comments on any of the above applications.

Decisions

GRANT – 4005/16 – Farm View, Wickham Road, Finningham, IP14 4HT

Erection of a single storey side extension to dwelling including rear conservatory following removal of existing garage and erection of new a detached garage

Any member of the public wanting specific details of any plans should contact the clerk beforehand.

GRANT – 4261/16 – Hilldrop, Wickham Road, Finningham, IP14 4HT

Retention and completion of existing storage building.

DO NOT WISH TO OBJECT – 4709/16 – Lautrec, Gislingham Road, Finningham, IP14 4HY

Lift canopy of Weeping Willow over garden to approx. 4m to improve light, remove 2x limbs overhanging neighbours garden to north to improve light, shorten overextended limb to north west by approx. 4m to reduce loading.

Questions to the Chairman

None.

Items to be discussed at the next meeting and included in the February’s agenda.

The cost of a legal letter via SALC.

More information on a replacement notice board.

The Chairman then closed the meeting at 9.24pm

Minutes for the Parish Council meeting held on

Tuesday, 8^th. November, 2016,

in St. Bartholomew’s Church, Finningham, starting at 7:30pm

16.144

16.145

16.146

16.147

 16.148

148.01

148.02

148.03

148.04

 16.149

 16.150

16.151

16.152

 16.153

16.154

16.155

155.01

155.02

155.03

155.04

155.05

155.06

16.156

156.01

156.02

16.157

157.01

157.02

16.158

16.159

None

Contributions by Members of the Public

The footpath warden shared that she hasn’t been able to walk the paths in Finningham due to breaking her arm, but if anyone had any issues/concerns with the footpaths to let her know.

Apologies and approval of absence

Mr. J. Black & Mr. J. Miller sent their apologies as they were unable to attend the meeting.

Mrs. D. Sewell proposed, seconded by Mrs. C. Winter and agreed to accept the absences.

Approve minutes of the Parish Council meeting held on 11^th. October, 2016

Mrs. M. Webb proposed, seconded by Mr. J. Downie and agreed that the minutes were a correct record and the Chairman then signed the minute book.

To receive any pecuniary or non-pecuniary declarations of interest from Members and any Gifts of Hospitality.

Nothing from any of the Councillors.

Matters arising from the meeting held on 11^th. October, 2016

Defibrillator – has the form been completed to apply for the grant? – No as figures relating to ambulance time responses were needed to complete the form before it could be submitted.

Letter to the occupier of Shadwell House regarding the trees – It was suggested to include a copy of a solicitors letter, where the issue of the trees was trying to be dealt with.

Any update on the Welcome to Finningham signs – no update.

Have there been any feedback/comments on the article in the newsletter around what  the Parish Council does and how it spends its money? – The article didn’t make the newsletter, therefore it will go in the next issue.

Chairman’s Report

The Chairman reported that he has been moving equipment into the new metal storage unit.  It should be able to accommodate the Friends of Finningham marques if a mezzanine is erected inside, which the Friends of Finningham are looking to sort out..

The Chairman is still completing the forms to obtain the S106 money which can be used towards outdoor play equipment only.  Planning approval may have to be obtained.  Looking at the prices of a outdoor table tennis table and safety matting, the S106 money of £1,407.07 wouldn’t cover all of this and the Council may have to put £650 to cover the shortfall. The question was asked of the Council whether they would be happy to use reserves to cover this, which they are.  Approval will be obtained, once confirmation of the grant has been give.

With regards to the grant to help replace the slide and swings, the grant would only cover a third of the total cost which is around £10,000. Cllr Jane Storey said she could potentially give £3000, therefore there is still a difference of around £3000, which the Council would have to either pay or find another source to pay this.

The monthly coffee and book sale are now established and maybe it’s worth a try again to have a PC surgery to share what the Parish Council do.

To discuss and consider having a bus shelter in the village. Were there any more responses for the Council to consider following the final piece in the newsletter from Mrs. M. Webb asking for views. Nothing else has come from the newsletter so it was unanimously agreed not to continue due to lack of interest.

To discuss, consider and approve making a contribution of the Friends of Finningham Speed Camera initiative.

Friends of Finningham have put in £500, Mr. A. Brownlie is looking to raise £500 and looking to Finningham Parish Council for £500.  The Parish Council would like more information before making a decision.  Therefore it was suggested to invite Mr. A. Brownlie and the rest of the people working on this to do a presentation at the next meeting in January 2017.

To consider and discuss whether the Parish Council should have a Facebook page/account. The Chairman should have feedback on how Gislingham PC run their Facebook account.  Who is happy and willing to run this, if approved?  The only information found out was that the Clerk of Gislingham PC ran the Facebook page. So will carry over to the next meeting to make a final decision.

To discuss and approve the pension contribution that the Council have to make to their employee, the Clerk.  Contributions have to be made via the Councils bank account.  Qualifying earnings cannot be used to work out contributions due to the Clerks earning being less than the threshold.  Therefore contribution is worked out using certification, of which there are 3 tiers.  Tier 1 – pensionable earnings of the worker’s basic pay.  Tier 2 – pensionable earnings must be at least 85% of total earnings (including commission, bonuses & overtime).  Tier 3 – pensionable earnings to include basic pay, commission, overtime & bonuses. Mrs. M. Webb proposed, seconded by Mrs. C. Winter and agreed to make pension contributions using the tier 1 option.

To finish discussing and approve the budget and precept for 2017-2018

Mr. A. Kilbee proposed, seconded by Mrs. D. Sewell and agreed to increase the precept by 3% to £6,695 for 2017-2018.

Correspondence Received

Precept Consultation. SALC shared that potentially Government could introduce automatic referendums if they deem precept increases to be ‘excessive’ regardless of the parish being in agreement of the increase.

Traffic lights at the crossroads by The White Horse pub.  It was felt they were not needed as very little work was being carried out and whether the Parish Council could do anything to help to have these temporary traffic lights be removed.

Faulty defibrillators – Government have issued a warning around 2 types of machines, manufactured by Physio-Control that are potentially faulty.

MSDC were disappointed that the Council didn’t want to be part of the housing survey.  They wanted to talk to the Clerk or Chairman to try and understand why and explain the benefit of having the village complete the survey.  After attempts by the Clerk to speak to the person in question they were given the Chairman’s number.  The Chairman never received a call.

It has been reported to Highways about the trees/hedging opposite The Old Bakery.  As yet, there has been no response.

MSDC should be sending the new electoral register via email to the Clerk by the end of the year.

Finance

Clerk’s Report

Previous meeting, last balance reported was from 26/9/2016

Current account £5,126.08 (7 cheques totalling £1,454.32 not yet presented, once presented balance will be £3,671.76)

Deposit account £3,312.54

Balances as of 28/10/2016

Current account £4,101.22 (£63 unpresented cheque for key safe)

Receipts since 26/09/16 – £665.01 (glass recycling credit and refund of VAT)

Payments since 26/09/16 – £1,689.96 (uncleared cheques & approved payments from last month)

Deposit account £3,312.95 – £0.41 interest

Requests for payment

Mrs. D. Sewell proposed, seconded by Mrs. C. Winters and agreed to authorise the following payments:

MISS N. HILL – £527.45 – Salary

MISS. N. HILL – £31.30 – Expenses

HMRC – £131.80 – PAYE

MR. A. KILBEE – £20.90 – Travel expenses

MR. A BROWNLIE – £120 – 2 x cuts of the Green

FRIENDS OF FINNINGHAM- £100 – Annual donation of use of website and magazine

Totalling £931.45

Planning

To consider applications –

None to consider.

Decisions & to consider planning matters coming forth.

No decisions to share

Questions to the Chairman

The 30mph road sign along Westhorpe Road is still bent over and hasn’t been righted/replaced.

There is concern that building supplies have been left on parts of The Green and the grass wont be made good afterwards.

Items to be discussed at the next meeting and included in the January’s agenda.

Apart from what has been mentioned earlier, a replacement notice board needs to be discussed due to the poor state of repair of the current one.

The Chairman then closed the meeting at 9.00pm

16.124

16.125

16.126

 16.127

16.128

 16.129

129.01

129.02

129.03

129.04

16.130

  16.131

  16.132

 16.133

 16.134

  16.135

  16.136

16.137

16.138

138.01

138.02

138.03

138.04

138.05

138.06

138.07

138.08

16.139

139.01

139.02

16.140

140.01

140.02

16.141

 16.142

Cllr Roy Barker reported that the footpath closures are still in consultation.  He doesn’t have any extra news to share on the former middle school in Bacton.  The question was asked of Cllr Barker whether any conditions re The Green were included in the granting of planning permission of Green Farm Barn. He said he would look into it but doubts it.

Cllr Barker shared that MSDC and Babergh Council will be moving into Endeavour House, Ipswich.  Potentially there maybe a hub within Mid-Suffolk so people won’t have to travel to Endeavour House.

It was also shared there was an enforcement notice on a residential caravan within the village.

Cllr Barker was made aware by the Council that ruts along the footpath around Eastlands is still a problem making it hard to walk it.

Contributions by Members of the Public

There were no members of the public.

Apologies and approval of absence

Mr. J. Black was unable to attend the meeting.

Mr. A. Kilbee proposed, seconded by Mrs. D. Sewell and agreed to accept the absence.

Approve minutes of the Parish Council meeting held on 13^th. September, 2016

Mr. J. Downie proposed, seconded by Mrs. C. Winter and agreed that the minutes were a correct record and the Chairman then signed the minute book.

Approve minutes of the Extraordinary Parish Council meeting held on 4^th. October, 2016

Mrs. D. Sewell proposed, seconded by Mrs. M. Webb and agreed that the minutes were a correct record and the Chairman then signed the minute book.

To receive any pecuniary or non-pecuniary declarations of interest from Members and any Gifts of Hospitality.

Nothing from any of the Councillors.

Matters arising from the meeting held on 13^th. September, 2016

Mrs C. Winter regarding the defibrillator – The grant form needs to be completed with the Chairman and Clerk as it’s believed some of the questions on the grant form only the Chairman or the Clerk knows the answers to.  They will arrange between them when they can meet up to complete.

The clerk was unable to attend the training approved on 13^th September, therefore the approval can carry forward to the next clerks information and networking training day.

Letter to the occupier of Shadwell House regarding the trees – This has yet to be completed but it was agreed it needs to be established whether the occupier is dealing with the issue that has been raised in 2 letters written to them.

Mrs. M. Webb, bus shelter – Mrs. Webb has had 1 response since putting something in the newsletter.  She will put a final call out in the upcoming newsletter to allow everyone to respond if they want to before the Council make a final decision.

Chairman’s Report

The Chairman wanted to thank all of those who have given up their time and energy to assist in keeping the Churchyard and Cemetery tidy during the summer months.

The Chairman wanted to thank Mr John Sewell on behalf of the Council for helping to erect the new security shed for the Council’s maintenance equipment. The move of the equipment from Mr. J. Downie’s house to the shed can then happen once the safe-keeping of the key is resolved.

The Chairman shared that he received a call from a concerned resident about the state of the potholes in Gislingham Road and the flooding there (at the intersection of the B1113).  This gentleman stated he has been clearing the run-off channels himself, but feels he can no longer continue doing this and asked if the Council could ask for volunteers.

The first part of the application for the S106 money and the Grant for the play equipment has been sent to Gillian Hillier.  Hopefully more ideas on accessing funds will be gained when the Chairman attends a Grants Seminar on 19^th October in Lavenham.

The Council did not obtain Planning Permission to have work done on the oak trees on the Green prior to it going ahead.  It has been checked with the appropriate department of MSDC and we do not have to apply to remove dead and/or dangerous branches.  Thanks to our clerk for bringing this to the Chairman’s attention.

To discuss and consider the approval of the purchase of a heavy duty digital lock safe.  Now the new metal container has been erected, there are only 2 keys for this.  As there are more than 2 people who need to gain access, it’s thought a digital lock safe is attached to the unit, where a key is then kept inside.  Therefore people who need to have access to the unit, can.  The Chairman would then keep the other key. The cost is £44 + VAT & £8.50 shipping.

Mrs. D. Sewell proposed, seconded by Mrs. C. Winter and agreed to purchase the digital lock safe and to not position it in an obvious place.

To discuss, consider and approve whether to create a simple document to explain to everyone in the village the purpose of the Parish Council and what it can and can’t do and also where and how the precept is spent.

After discussion it was agreed for a simple document to be produced.  Mrs. D. Sewell has offered to do this and to put it in the next newsletter.  Mrs. D. Sewell said can refer to her notes from her Councillor training course.

To consider and discuss whether the Parish Council should have a Facebook page. Other Councils do and could this be a different way of sharing information with people within the village. i.e. Gislingham Parish Council shared the recent notification of the road closures along the B1113 at the end of October. If the Council agree to this, should it be the Clerk that manages this?

The Chairman will speak to Gislingham PC to see who manages their account and also does it cause any issues.  This can then be shared at the next meeting to allow the Council to approve whether or not to set a Facebook account up.  Mrs D. Sewell said she will speak to Mr. J. Black to see whether he would be happy to run the account if the Council decide to go ahead with it next month.

To discuss the budget for next year and to consider what the precept should be set at. This needs to take into consideration what the Council are currently wishing to purchase, new slide and swing set (a grant may be obtained to cover all or majority of the cost), defibrillator (again a grant is being sort to cover a lot of this cost), Welcome to Finningham road signs, maintenance of the trees on the Green, a replacement notice board and potentially needing to put some money towards the sports equipment that may be purchased with the S106 money that the Council have available to it.

The budget was discussed and slight amendments made to the provisional budget to consider and approve at the next meeting.

To discuss and consider the Council replacing the Notice Board which is opposite the White Horse pub. It has been noticed that this wooden Notice Board has seen better days and is in need of replacing.  Should the Council go for another wooden one, or consider a different material which may be longer lasting, but looks like wood to fit in with the surroundings.

It was discussed that a new Notice will be needed in the future, but the Council felt the budget may not allow this to happen in the next budget year.

 To accept and approve the Annual Return from the external auditors, BDO. Issues arising report – Minor issues – Figure in box 1 of current year’s figures does not agree by £1 to the figure in box 7 on the last years audited annual return.  Minor issue – The smaller authority must implement the recommendations made by the internal auditor to improve the financial systems.(This is where the Council need to have it’s money in reserves in line with the policy set by the Council, which has been addressed).  Minor issue – fixed assets included at a valuation – all assets should be included at cost and not be revalued. The cost value of assets is not expected to change unless an asset is ever disposed of or scrapped. Therefore the Clerk needs to re-do the asset register with the values of cost, rather than the values that it would be to replace the items, if needed.

Mrs. D. Sewell proposed, seconded by Mr. J. Downie and agreed to accept the Annual Return and the minor issues detailed in the report.

To discuss, consider and approve helping Bacton and the surrounding cluster of villages with a housing needs survey.  MSDC and CAS will collate the survey, the only cost to Finningham Parish Council will be printing and potential postage costs, unless we are able to distribute the survey in the village ourselves. Once completed, where could people return there forms so they could be collected, to be able to send back in one batch?

Mr. J. Downie proposed, seconded by Mrs. D. Sewell and agreed not to continue with this survey.

Correspondence Received

Renewal of the ICO has been confirmed with a certificate of the Council’s cover.

Recycling claim of £42.50 will be paid into the bank account by 13^th October.

VAT claim has been processed, awaiting confirmation and the money to be paid into the bank account.

Highways have emailed re the leaning tree on the BT line along Wickham Road, Finningham. ‘If a private tree is leaning on a cable then we would suggest contacting the relevant utility operator’.

Invite to visit the recycling centre at Gt. Blakenham on one of the following dates. Wednesday 30^th November 6pm – 8pm, Saturday 3^rd December 10am – 12pm, Thursday 8^th December 10am – 12pm or Monday 12^th December 2pm – 4pm.  Would the Council like me to book any of these dates for the Council to visit this centre?

Halloween Posters created by the Police have been sent via email to enable people to print for themselves, or to forward to anyone that may find the need to use one of these posters.

As already emailed out, temporary road closure of the B1113 between 24^th October 2016 and 4^th November between 7pm and 5am.

OneSuffolk website service is no longer free but the Chairman has now able to use the old website, so will continue to use this, rather than using the OneSuffolk site that was suggested to use.

Finance

Clerk’s Report

Previous meeting, last balance reported was from 26/8/2016

Current account £2,747.49 (£167.20 & £5.50 not yet presented, once presented balance £2,2574.79)

Deposit account £3,312.54

Balances as of 26/9/2016

Current account £5,126.08 (7 cheques totalling £1,454.32 not yet presented, once presented balance will be £3,671.76)

Receipts since 26/08/16 – £3,250 (the 2^nd part of the precept)

Payments since 26/08/16 – £871.41

Deposit account £3,312.54

Requests for payment

Mrs. M. Webb proposed, seconded by Mrs. D, Sewell and agreed to authorise the following payments:

MSDC – £55.64 – annual play inspection 2016

MR. A BROWNLIE – £180 – 3 x cuts of the Green

REECE SAFETY PRODUCTS LTD – £63 – digital lock safe

Totalling £298.64

Planning

To consider applications –

4005/16 – Erection of a single storey side extension to dwelling including rear conservatory following removal of existing garage and erection of a detached garage. Farm View, Wickham Road, Finningham, IP14 4HT.

4052/16 – Leaning unbalanced Oak tree to pollard. Oversized oak tree to reduce to 30%. Cherry tree shading various other well established trees and roots causing trip hazard requires felling. Martins, Church Lane, Finningham, IP14 4JB

The Council have no issues with these applications.

Decisions & to consider planning matters coming forth.

3332/16 DOES NOT WISH TO OBJECT – Trim branches on mature Walnut Tree.  Hollis House, Wickham Road, Finningham, IP14 4HT

Questions to the Chairman

Who owns the land & property on the corner opposite the Old Bakery, Gislingham Road?  Some of the hedge has been cut back, but other parts haven’t and it’s sticking out into the road.  It was unknown who owns the property, but the Clerk said she would make Highways aware of the hedging.

Items to be discussed at the next meeting and included in the November’s agenda.

Nothing extra was shared.

The Chairman then closed the meeting at 9.44pm

16.72

16.73

16.74

16.75

16.76

76.01

76.02

76.03

76.03

16.77

16.78

16.79

16.80

16.81

16.82

16.83

16.84

16.85

16.86

16.87

16.88

16.89

16.90

90.01

90.02

90.03

90.03

90.04

90.05

90.06

16.91

91.01

91.02

16.92

92.01

92.02

16.93

16.94

16.95

There were no visiting speakers.

Contributions by Members of the Public

The Chairman invited the member of the public to contribute later, when the item he wished to contribute on, appears later on in the agenda.

Apologies and approval of absence

None

Approve minutes of the Parish Council meeting held on 14^th. June, 2016

Mrs. S. Webb proposed, seconded by Mr. J. Downie and agreed that the minutes were a correct record and the Chairman then signed the minute book.

To receive any pecuniary or non-pecuniary declarations of interest from Members and any Gifts of Hospitality.

Nothing from any of the Councillors.

Matters arising from the meeting held on 14^th. June, 2016

Mrs. C. Winter regarding the defibrillator – will planning be needed?

MSDC have shared that they don’t normally support defibrillator’s to be attached to a listed building or for them to be positioned in a Conservation area due to their appearance and would encourage for alternative solutions to be sort that are less sensitive.

Mrs. D. Sewell suggested if a new notice board was considered to replace the current one, then the defibrillator could be attached near to that, if there is still power there, from the telephone box was there. The Clerk needs to look into whether there is still power to the area near the notice board.

Mrs. M. Webb, bus shelter – next steps. Mrs. M. Webb will write an article to put into the village newsletter asking for people’s views/comments to having a bus shelter in the village.

Mr. J. Black ‘Welcome to Finningham’ signs. Any news on case number 141331?

There is still no news even having chased MSDC.

Former Bacton Middle School site – any extra news?

Mrs. C. Winter attended a meeting earlier in the day on 12^th July 2016, where there was a mock up of the proposal, showing between 80 to 120 houses, which could be made up of flats or houses.  There is a current proposal of 120 homes.  Mrs. C. Winter feels that the Council have done all they can to try and help Bacton.

Chairman’s Report

The Chairman has had confirmation that Westhorpe will give Finningham the preferential hire rates, enjoyed by Westhorpe residents to Finningham residents, for their village hall due to the fact we agreed for S106 money to go to their cause.

The Chairman has had an meeting with Gillian Hilder from MSDC with regards to funding/grants and she said that Finningham can have £1,407.35 to use for outdoor sports, but the village needs to prove there is a need for it. An idea is to have an outdoor table tennis table, to be situated on the Green.  The grant money has to be claimed within a year.

The Chairman has also been looking for quotes for a new set a swings, as the current ones do not meet the current BS standards.  The cost of replacing the swings are around £6,000. The Chairman will see what grants can be gained, but it seems that there will not be enough money within the any grants to cover replacing the slide as well.

Friends of Finningham Report

A meeting has been arranged for 11^th August 2016 to consolidate the committee and various officers.  All positions will be filled to enable the group to continue and benefit the village.

To discuss The Green – the maintenance and development for sports equipment.

Is there a need within the village for sports facilities on The Green?  There is play equipment for the children in the village, what about the rest of the population within the village?

This is talked through during the Chairman’s report.

 To discuss and approve the asset register. Is everyone happy with the replacement costs that are covered by the Council’s insurance.

The Chairman will get up to date replacement values for the Councils equipment.

To consider and approve the cleaning of the slide.  Cost to be in the region of £150.

The quote has been lowered to £80 as it’s been established through the providers of the slide, that no chemicals should be used due to the treatment put on the timbers of the slider when it was first sited.

It was proposed by Mrs. D. Sewell and seconded by Mr. J. Downie and agreed for the cleaning of the slide, at the lower quote of £80.

To discuss and approve the removal of a dead branch, which is currently hanging over the swings on The Green.  A quote hasn’t been received in time to be included in the agenda.

It was agreed that due to this being a health & safety issue, the Council must have this dead branch removed.

To consider, discuss and approve the updated risk assessment completed by Mrs. M. Webb. This has been sent to all Councillors to read prior to the meeting.

It was proposed by Mr. J. Miller and seconded by Mr. J. Black and agreed to amend the risk assessment slightly, to add the churchyard into the assessment and the severity of using the grass cutting equipment to 3.  Any new volunteer using the Council equipment are currently shown how to use it.  It was agreed there needs to be a training sheet produced and situated within the new metal container where all the equipment will be kept.

To consider, approve and adopt the NALC Financial Regulations 2016 for the coming year. The clerk has already emailed out the amended figures in the document, more suitable to Finningham Parish Council.

It was proposed by Mr. A. Kilbee and seconded by Mrs. D. Sewell and agreed to adopt the financial regulations with the amended figures.

To consider and discuss whether the Council should have a debit card to allow purchases to be made online/over the phone.

It was agreed that the idea is good in principal and would it be better for the Council to have another account with a smaller balance which has the debit card attached it.  The Clerk is to look into this with Barclays to see whether a limit can be put onto a debit card.  Safe guards need to be looked into, before getting a debit card.

 To discuss, consider and approve whether the Council would like to consider develop a Community Emergency Plan.  There is a workshop on the 27^th July at West Suffolk House, Bury St Edmunds from 09:30 – 12:30 which is designed to help people find out more about what is involved, what support is available & to introduce the plan templates. This session is free.

It was agreed that having a community emergency plan is a good idea and that 1 Councillor will attend the free workshop.

To discuss whether the Council should have it’s own website rather than within the Friends of Finningham website.  Options of addresses, finninghamparishcouncil.co.uk or finninghamparishcouncil.org.uk both priced at £7.19/year. Under the transparency code fund, we are able to obtain grants for setting up a website, monthly ongoing website costs, even hours up to 3 hours a month for updating the website.  If the Council choses to set up it’s own website, then consideration will need to be taken into how much the Council gives Friends of Finningham so use of the village newsletter.

There are current issues with the Friends of Finningham website, which is taking a while to resolve.  OneSuffolk offer a website service, which a lot of parish & town councils use for their websites.  If this is used, the old site can be re-directed to it.  It’s felt the main reason for the contribution to Friends of Finningham is for the use of the newsletter and the Chairman said he would share more Council related information with the newsletter editor.

 To discuss flooding within the village. We need to encourage as many people as possible within the village to report this, whether via phone, writing/emailing or logging online.

Reporting rain and run off water on roads or pavements and blocked drains – http://highwaysreporting.suffolk.gov.uk/

Drainage or flooding enquiries – email floods@suffolk.gov.uk

Write –  Suffolk County Council, Endeavour House, 8 Russell Road, Ipswich, IP1 2BX

Call Highways – 0345 606 6171

The Chairman invited the member of the public to talk and share his views on the issue of flooding within the village.  The rainfall was measured on 20^th June 2016, being 31mm. The pumping station outside of the village isn’t able to cope when there is heavy rainfall. The manholes covers in Gislingham Road overflow, discharging effluent. This has been reported to Anglian Water, on 2 different occasions when the rainfall has been high.  John Daniels, from the Environmental Agency will meet Anglian Water to discuss the matter, but it’s felt there needs to be a long term strategy to manage this issue.  It was requested for Finningham Parish Council to try and help with this matter and the current water and drainage services cannot cope if there are any extra properties built.  The member of the public was advised that Finningham Parish Council will help as much as it can, but it’s felt the issue needs to be taken with Suffolk County Council.

To discuss, consider and approve the quote of £383 + VAT to complete modifications to the slide handles, to comply with current BS standards.  This has appeared in the annual play inspection report for the last 2 years, that the handles no longer comply.

It was agreed to put this item on hold.

 Correspondence Received

Sewer problem and pumping capacity issue – it seems that when there is heavy rain, the drains along  Wickham Skeith Road between The White Horse and Gislingham Road overflow from the manholes, causing foul water to come through the manholes and into the water course.  Anglia Water has been contacted who deal with the leak at the time, but they don’t seem to be dealing with the ongoing issue.  Its felt the ongoing issue is with the pumping stations east of Gislingham Road, with either the capacity not being enough or is in need of maintenance.

Network rail e-mail – level crossing questionnaire with a link to complete online.  This has already been emailed to Councillors. Mr J. Miller shared that Network Rail are wanting to re-route a footpath through a field close to Eastlands.

SCC, road investment strategy, about main trunk roads in Suffolk. Wanting feedback about the main roads I Suffolk – this was emailed out to Councillors.

List of Councillors – are councillors happy to have their contact number/email on this list to make it easier for people to contact them? The Councillors shared their numbers which they agreed are happy to be printed to enable them to be more contactable.

Finningham War Memorial – invitation to comment on the consultation report completed by Historic England. The report has been sent to all Councillors.

Pensions – Automatic enrolment pension scheme. A ‘declaration of compliance’ needs to happen before 1^st August.2016.

The annual play inspection will happen middle-end of July.  A Councillor is able to attend during the inspection, at an additional cost of £35.

Finance

Clerk’s Report

Previous meeting, last balance reported was from 27/5/2016

Current account £5,954.95 (after all cheques presented the balance will be £5,398.85)

Deposit account £3,312.13

Balances as of 29/6/2016

Current account £5,146.74 (£262.18 still unpresented, once presented balance will be £4,884.56)

Receipts since 28/05/16 –

Payments since 28/05/16 – £808.21 (£939.09 approved at last meeting, £262.18  not yet presented)

Deposit account £3,312.54 – interest 41p

Requests for payment

Requests for payment as listed below and to review matters coming forth.

Mrs. M. Webb proposed, seconded by Mrs. D. Sewell and agreed to authorise the following payments:

MR C. GODDARD – £5.54 – petrol of the mowers

MR. A. KILBEE – £92.33 – Repairs to the wheeled strimmer

NATALIE HILL – £669.46 – Salary from April – July

NATALIE HILL – £43.93 – Expenses

HMRC – £167.20 – PAYE

MR. A BROWNLIE – £120 – 2 x cuts of the Green

Totalling £1,098.46

Planning

To consider applications –

2759/16 – Fenestration changes to west elevation D1 & W2 locations, revised drawings to proposed conversion of exiting redundant barn approve under listed building consent 1179/15. Barn conversion at Green Farm, Wickham Road,  Finningham, IP14 4HT

The Council have no objections and no comments on this application.

Decisions & to consider planning matters coming forth.

2154/16 GRANTED Lime tree – reduce second limb on south side by approx. 5 metres and reshape canopy on south side to balance. School Lane, Walsham Road, Finningham, IP14 4JF

1817/16 GRANTED variation of condition 2 (approved plans) and condition 3 (external materials) of listed building consent 1178/15, proposed external render.  Green Farm Barn, Wickham Road, Finningham, IP14 4HT

1818/16 GRANTED variation of condition 2 (approved plans) and condition 3 (external materials) of planning permission 0889/15 Green Farm Barn, Wickham Road, Finningham, IP14 4HT

Questions to Chairman

It was mentioned that the state of the B1113, where the works replacing water pipes were taking place,  have left the road in a state where the road is not longer level.  The Chairman was aware of the state of the road and shared information, from the contractors doing the work, that they are aware of the resulting road movement and it’s within allowances and it will not be replaced/resurfaced.

Items to be discussed at the next meeting and included in the September agenda.

Nothing extra was mentioned, apart from what was discussed during the meeting.

Date of the next meeting

The next meeting will be held on Tuesday 13^th September 2016 in the Church, starting at 7.30pm

The Chairman then closed the meeting at 10.02pm

MINUTES OF PAST MEETINGS

Minutes for the Parish Council meeting held on

Tuesday, 14^th. June, 2016,

in St. Bartholomew’s Church, Finningham, starting at 7:33pm