Councillors are summoned to attend the Meeting of Stanton St John Parish Council at The Village Hall on Monday 17^th October at 7.30 pm.

AGENDA

82. Apologies: AC, AS, PC

83. Declarations of interest in Agenda items: none

84. Approve and sign minutes of meeting held on 19^th September 2011. These were accepted as a true record of the meeting and duly approved and signed off by the Chairman.

85. Matters arising to report to Council.

• The ash tree with the broken branch has been reported to new College and Richard Stanley.
• Stanton Wood has been not sold. It is under a new land agent and the access arrangements for Stanton parishioners remain unchanged.
• Councillors are advised to make their electoral returns to SODC asap.

OPEN FORUM OUT OF SESSION AT 7.40pm

From Anne Purse

1. Amenity Land Bayswater Rd. The discussions on the future of the site have been delayed whilst a Property Review is conducted by OCC. Anne is also concerned that the site may be incorporated in an SODC plan to sell off various small pockets of land adjacent to highways.  She suggested that the PC should clarify the status of the site before taking further action.   AP TO CIRCULATE DATES FOR A MEETING
2. Bayswater Road. The verge leading up from Barton has been cut very badly by OCC Highways Agency. The situation has been made worse as SODC have not collected road-side litter. The PC decided to write to request that the verge is left uncut at this time of year: it does not encroach on the highway, nor obstruct visibility; mowing it is a waste of resources and may encourage speeding. CLERK TO WRITE TO OCC AND SODC
3. Wheatley library. Volunteers are needed and it may be necessary to give remuneration to encourage applicants.
4. Planning Policy. Good news for preservation of the Green Belt in Wheatley as the SODC Planning Inspector has decided not to review land for development in the hinterland near Jewsons.

From the floor

1. Oxford Green Belt Network Meeting on November 4^th. A reminder of the importance of the Green Belt and the threat from the National Planning Policy Framework. GM expects to attend the meeting.
2. Woodperry Estate. It was suggested that Steve the gamekeeper should address the PC on issues of dog walking in the estate. Noted.
3. A request for Council minutes and agenda to be distributed via email for interested parishioners. CLERK TO PROGRESS WITH POSTER FOR SHOP AND NEWSLETTER

86. Finance

86.1 Applications for routine subscriptions and donations:

• South and Vale Carers – request for donation (s137). After deliberation the PC declined the request for a donation on the grounds that it has recently donated to a similar more relevant organization
• Hope Africa – request for donation (s137). The PC declined the request for a donation on the grounds that it does not believe that the organisation would be of direct benefit to the parish.
• Ox Repatriation Memorial Bell Appeal – request for donation (s137). After deliberation the PC declined the request for a donation on the grounds that it was not satisfied that it would be of direct benefit to the parish.

86.2 Monthly Finance Report of receipts and payments – noted.

86.3 Accounts for payment were approved and cheques duly signed:

005      Wheatley P School   Donation           30.00

006      OAB         Donation           30.00

007      The Post Office   IR payment            24.20

008      MGS         Grass-cutting           92.00

009      LM Goffey      Clerks salary         393.78

010      LM Goffey      Clerks expenses        17.70

011      Playsafety       Playground Inspection     75.60

86.4 Budget update – noted.

86.5 Arrangements for PC deposit account. After a full discussion Councillors agreed that £12,000 from the PC reserves should be invested in a Scottish Widows 7-day notice Clubs and Associates Savings Account. Current annual interest on this account is 1.6%. GM proposed the proposition, it was seconded  by DG and approved unanimously. CLERK TO PROGRESS

86.6 Bus Shelters. Cleaning arrangements and storage of cleaning materials could not be discussed as the councillors who were dealing with this matter were absent. DEFERRED TO NEXT MEETING

The Clerk up-dated the PC on repairs to wooden bus shelter. There has been an estimate of £250 for substantial repairs to the rotting side-boards. TH proposed to accept the estimate, DG seconded and the PC approved to proceed. The PC also accepted a quote of £100 to repair damaged granite sets in the car park. CLERK TO AUTHORISE REPAIRS

86.7 Training courses for councillors. The newly elected councillors are to be put forward for the Roles and Responsibilities Course in 2012, dependant on dates. Details of other available courses will be circulated as appropriate. CLERK TO PASS ON INFO AS AVAILABLE

87. Planning

87.1 Planning Applications received:

P11/W1446 Orchard Cottage, Cox Lane.

Proposed garage and storehouse

Parish Council response: approve

87.2 Planning Decisions to be noted:

P11/W1076 The Stablehouse, Mill Street.

Erection of double garage and greenhouse

Parish Council response: no strong views

SODC decision; granted

P11/W1135 Rose Cottage, Pound Lane

Single story rear extension.

Parish Council response: approve

SODC decision; granted

P11/W1152 20, Middle Road

Orangery extension to rear.

Parish Council response: approve

SODC decision: refused

87.3 Other planning matters.

• 1 Woodperry Rd. application for inclusion of verge in curtilage of house. Noted.
• John Howell letter responding to CPRE concerns over the National Planning Policy Framework. DISTRIBUTED VIA BUNDLE

88. Playground – the annual ROSPA report was presented. No new issues have been raised in the Report – the ropes on the multiplay equipment need replacing and the gate closure should be modified. TO BE DISCUSSED IN NOVEMBER

The PC decided that the bark level should be replenished in the New Year. The Clerk reported that the car park has been sprayed with weedkiller. CLERK TO GET QUOTE FOR BARK

The PC discussed the feasibility of charging a fee for specific use of the ‘lawn’ area near the playground. TH TO CONSULT WITH VILLAGE HALL COMMITTEE

89. Correspondence Received.

• SODC – courses for councillors. Noted.
• SODC – Town and Parish Council Forum 2011. MORE INFO TO BE OBTAINED
• CPRE – Govt. consultation on the National Planning policy Framework. Noted.
• Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Beacons – information. Noted.
• Open Spaces Society – SGM on 23^rd November. Noted
• OGBN – Special Newsletter. Noted passed round in bundle

90. PC Notice board – progress was not possible in the absence of AC. DEFERRED TO NOVEMBER

91. Newsletters/Bulletins

• ORCC – Annual review
• Wheatley Newsletter
• Letter from John Howe MP
• OGBN Special Newsletter

Matters for the Newsletter: parishioners wanting electronic agendas and minutes to contact the clerk.

Dates of Meetings

SSJ Parish Council Meeting – 21^st November 2011, 7.30pm, Village Hall

SSJ Parish Council Meeting – 19^th December 2011, 7.30pm, Village Hall.

The Chairman thanked everyone and closed the meeting at 9.40 pm

Minutes of the Annual Meeting of Stanton St John Parish Council at The Village Hall on Monday 16^th May 2011 at 7.30 pm.

Present: Gina Moore (Chair), Andrew Clark, Tamsin Hyland, Alex Smith, David Polgreen, Penny Corbett

Linda Goffey (clerk)

3 members of the public

41. Apologies: none

42. Declarations of interest in Agenda items: none

43. Election of Officers and signing of Acceptance of Office Book

43.1 Election of Chairman. Gina Moore was unanimously re-elected as Chairman. Gina signed the Acceptance form, and took the Chair for the remainder of the Meeting.

43.2 Election of Vice-Chairman. Andrew Clark was unanimously re-elected as Vice-Chairman.

43.3 Councillors’ ‘Register of Interests’. Registers were submitted by GM, AC, TH, DP, PC. AS will send his to the Clerk this week and all Registers will be lodged with SODC.

44. Approve and sign minutes of meeting held on 18^th April 2011. These were accepted as a    true record of the meeting and duly approved and signed off by the Chairman.

45. Matters arising to report to Council:

• The gatepost into the Allotments from Pound Lane has not yet been repaired. CLERK TO CHASE UP NEW COLLEGE

OPEN FORUM OUT OF SESSION

From Anne Purse

1. Erection of an agricultural workers dwelling on Breach Farm (P10/W1125). Anne reported that the Chair of Planning at SODC had been taken by surprise and very disappointed at the decision by the Planning Inspectorate to overturn the decision of SODC and grant permission to the planning application.

From the floor

1. A game-shooting tower has been erected beside the hedge in the field adjacent to the B4027 between Stanton and Forest Hill. A parishioner expressed concerned that it could be below a statutory height limit and game shooters may present a threat to people on footpaths and on the playing field. CLERK TO NOTIFY POLICE FIRE ARMS OFFICER
2. Pot-holes in Stanton and Forest Hill. ANNE TO PURSUE REPAIRS WITH OCC

BACK IN SESSION

46. Finance

46.1 Applications for routine subscriptions and donations:

• Open Spaces Society – request for renewal of annual sub of £40 was proposed by AC, seconded by TH, and approved by the Council..
• Open Spaces Society s137 – request for donation to fight the Localism Bill. AC advised the Council that having attended a meeting with OSS where the campaign was discussed, he felt that there was insufficient information to establish how OSS would represent local views in their campaign. After discussion, the PC declined to make a donation as they were not persuaded that the campaign would be of benefit the village.
• St Johns Ambulance s137 – request for donation was declined as it was deemed to be of insufficient benefit to the village.

46.2 Monthly Finance Report of receipts and payments, to include renewal of annual                              insurance premium – noted.

46.3 Accounts for payment were approved and cheques duly signed:

415 Open Spaces                       Annual Sub                                                40.00

416                           MGS                                           Grass-cutting                                           145.00

417                           spoilt

418                           Broker Network                    Insurance premium                              800.21

419                           LM Goffey                               Clerks salary                                              393.78       

420                           LM Goffey                               Clerks expenses                                     25.98

46.4 Council Accounts for 2010/11 Audit – GM confirmed that as Chairman she had checked the financial records as correct and complied with the requirements of the Risk Assessment Schedule. It was noted that the Audit Commission has revised the format by which Parish Councils are required to evaluate their assets. The PC unanimously approved acceptance of the summary of the council’s financial activity for 2010/11 and approved submission to the internal auditor. GM and the Clerk signed the Annual Return 2010/11 as a true record of the financial status of the Council. CLERK TO DELIVER PAPERS TO AUDITOR

46.5 Current banking arrangements. The Clerk indicated that from an initial trawl of banking options appropriate to ‘non-profit organisations’, the Co-op offered the best current account. Various deposit accounts were available from building societies. The Council agreed that the matter should be investigated in more detail. DP offered to undertake the task and report back to the PC before the next meeting.

DP TO RECOMMEND APPROPRIATE BANKING ARRANGEMENTS, CLERK TO FORWARD DETAILS OF REQUIREMENTS

43.6 Arrangements for reimbursement of councillors’ expenses.  Councillors discussed the principal of establishing a mileage payment for those engaged on agreed Council business. The Council were advised of the recommended rates of reimbursement to parish councillors. AC was concerned that this should not be seen as of benefit to the individual, and suggested that the lowest mileage rate should be adopted ie 47p per mile. AS seconded this proposal and the PC voted unanimously to accept reimbursement at 47p per mile.

CLERK TO DESIGN AND CIRCULATE A CLAIM FORM

47. Planning

47.1 Planning Applications received:

P11/W0490 The New House, Cox Lane, SSJ

Single garage side extension.

Parish Council response: approve

47.2 Planning Decisions to be noted:

P11/W0505/AG Rectory Farm, SSJ

Erection of steel framed portal and extension to cover cold store.

Permission not required

47.3 Other planning matters:

• Situation with Walters Buses relocation to new premises. SODC has advised Forest Hill Parish Council that the business is expected to move to the Quarry premises, Holton, in June.

48. Playground

PC received the monthly report; it was noted that the bark covering is thin.

TH informed the PC about a gate that the Village Hall Committee plans to erect at the top of the entrance steps as a safety precaution to stop children running out onto Middle Road. There will also be a barrier at right angles to prevent children from running around the front of the Hall. The PC was not required to take any action on this matter. TH also referred to concerns of the VHC about the car park security and the use of a chain to deter unwelcome use of the car park. GM reminded the meeting that the PC pursued this option in 2010, and the Countryside Agency objected to the installation of a chain across the entrance, as this would present a barrier to users of the footpath.

CLERK TO SEND DETAILS OF CORRESPONDENCE WITH OCC TO TH

49. Correspondence Received

• Keith Stenning, OCC Highways Dept – Update on expenditure etc. Noted.
• OCC – Barton Area Action Plan, consultation dates. Councillors discussed how the village would be affected by the proposals, principally in terms of increased traffic at the Green Rd roundabout. It was agreed that a notice would be posted to inform parishioners about the plan and the implications for Stanton. GM TO WRITE AND POST NOTICE, AND NOTIFY JUNE NEWSLETTER
• Ox Playing Fields Assoc – networking events. Noted.

50. War memorial – Andrew Clark up-dated councillors on the decision to add one additional name to the roll, and to re-establish those original names that have become faint. It was agreed to ask Nikki Mallows to be co-opted to the sub-committee who will meet to discuss details and sources of funding.  AC TO ARRANGE MEETING

51. Newsletters/Bulletins:

• CPRE – Bulletin, Fieldwork
• The Playing Field
• CPRE – Countryside Voice and events for members
• Councils and Clerks Direct

Matters for the Newsletter. Barton Area Action Plan

It was decided that a letter of thanks should be sent to Nikki Mallows in appreciation of her valuable contribution to the Parish Council. CLERK TO WRITE TO NIKKI MALLOWS

Dates of Meetings

SSJ Parish Council Meeting – 20^th June 2011, 7.30pm, Village Hall

SSJ Parish Council Meeting – 18^th July 2011, 7.30pm, Village Hall

The Chairman thanked everyone and closed the meeting at 9.15 pm

The next Parish Council Meeting will be held in the Village Hall on Monday 21st February 2011 at 7.30 pm.  If you are interested in matters in the village then do please contact the Parish Clerk on 873078 or SSJPC@goffey.co.uk

Minutes of the Meeting of Stanton St John Parish Council at The Village Hall on Monday 18^th April 2011 at 7.00 pm.

Present: Gina Moore (Chair), Nicola Mallows, Tamsin Hyland

Linda Goffey (clerk)

3 members of the public

33. Apologies: Andrew Clark. Alex Smith.

34. Declarations of interest in Agenda items: none.

35. Approve and sign minutes of meeting held on 21^st March 2011. These were accepted as a true record of the meeting and duly approved and signed off by the Chairman.

36. Matters arising to report to Council:

• Richard Stanley has erected ‘Irish’ gates in Shepherds Pit Rd and one on Bayswater Rd in order to deter fly tipping.
• There are seven candidates for the six parish vacancies, thus necessitating an election on May 5th.
• The gatepost into the Allotments from Pound Lane is broken. CLERK TO CONTACT NEW COLLEGE

37. Finance

37.1 Applications for routine subscriptions and donations:

• ORCC – annual sub of  £30 was proposed by GM, seconded by TH, and unanimously approved for payment by the PC.

37.2 Monthly Finance Report of receipts and payments – noted.

37.3 Accounts for payment were approved and cheques duly signed:

400                           ORCC                                        Annual sub                                                 30.00

401                           MGS                                           Grass-cutting                                             38.00

402-411                 SSJ residents                       Footlights payment                             180.00

412                           LM Goffey                               Clerks salary                                        339.98

413                           LM Goffey                               Clerks expenses                                     39.54

414                           Sheila Pullen                         Refreshments                                          30.00  

38. Planning

38.1 Planning Applications received:

P11/W0505/AG Rectory Farm, SSJ

Erection of steel framed portal and extension to cover cold store.

Parish Council response: approve

38.2 Planning Decisions to be noted: none

38.3 Other planning matters: none

39. Correspondence Received: none

40. Newsletters/Bulletins

• ORCC – Best Kept Village History
• Wheatley Newsletter
• BBOWT Newsletter
• Wheatley Park school Newsletter
• SODC – Standards Committee Minutes

Matters for the Newsletter: elections, complaint about bonfires.

Dates of Meetings

SSJ Parish Council Annual Meeting – 16^th May 2011, 7.30pm, Village Hall

The Chairman thanked everyone and closed the meeting at 7.20pm

This page will be used to publish minutes from the meetings and provide updates with prior agreement of the Parish Council Committee.

Minutes of the Annual Parish Meeting held at The Village Hall on Monday 19th April 2010 at 7.30pm pm.

Present: PC Paul Gregory, Anne Purse, Rev. Stevie Cross, Richard Ebbs, Geoff Wise, Dave Pullen, Roy Roden, Joyce Roden, Russell Warner, Sheila Pullen, Nicholas Braithwaite, Sally Braithwaite, Henry Towers, Chris Lawson.

Parish Councillors: Gina Moore, Andrew Clark, Jonathan Hall, Tamsin Paling.

Stanton St John Parish Clerk.

Presiding: Gina Moore  (Chairman of Stanton St John Parish Council)

1.              Apologies for absence: Barnie Rhys-Jones; Nicola Mallows, Joan Creese

2. Minutes of meeting held on 20th April 2009 – these were duly signed by the Chairman as a true record of the proceedings.

3. Chairman’s Report

One of the enduring, and possibly endearing, aspects of parish life is the way in which certain issues seem to persist from year to year — but I assure you that your Parish Council stays on the case, bringing these matters to the attention of higher tiers of local government where necessary, with the tact and good humour that our indispensable clerk always brings to these tasks. Maintaining infrastructure with appropriate materials and methods is important, and the long awaited repairs to the raised footway outside the village shop are in the system and should be completed soon. Bus stops and shelters have not escaped our attention and there have been improvements at both ends of the village. May I take this opportunity to thank those who come and contribute to our “Out of Session” segment, and for the matters that they bring to our attention for consideration, and action where necessary.

On the planning front one of the most important issues that we dealt with during the past year was the proposal for development (albeit ostensibly modest) in the Green Belt, in a field near the Bayswater Road end of Shepherd’s Pit. Having researched the planning issues, I addressed the committee at SODC on behalf of the Parish Council, along with other speakers, and to our utmost relief – and, I may say, general surprise in view of the planning officer’s recommendation in favour of permission – the proposal was turned down. Due to its sensitive location in the Green Belt, it has since been bought by a local charitable trust to protect it from development in perpetuity. We continue to keep a watching brief on Breach Farm on the basis of what we hope is constructive dialogue with the planning authority.

We also keep an eye on footpath and rights of way matters, as well as overflowing water and blocked drainage issues (which also seem perennial), and troublesome trees and a section of hedge in Mill Street have been cut back. We have signed up to the campaign for a quieter road surface on the A40 between Wheatley and Forest Hill, although an improvement there is of course competing with other projects in the county for what are always scarce resources.

On the financial front, through the diligent offices of our clerk, we have made savings on our insurance premiums. Finding a decent savings account for our modest funds has proved more difficult in the current economic climate, but that will continue to be actively pursued. We made a very modest increase in the precept [which has been kept at the same level for some years) of £860, bringing it to £9,500 - still less than half what some comparable parishes levy. We continue to receive applications for donations from numerous bodies and organisations, which we scrutinise and prioritise with regard to whether they are of quantifiable benefit to the parish and its residents.

May I finish by thanking once again, on behalf of all councillors and the village, our clerk Linda Goffey, who keeps everything running so smoothly and without whom we simply could not function!
4. Report from Thames Valley Police, PCSO Ken Cooney

A total of 20 crimes were recorded for Stanton St John in the period from 01/03/2009 to 01/03/2010. These can be broken down as follows:

4 x criminal damage to vehicles

4 x theft not classified elsewhere

4 x criminal damage [other]

3 x thefts from m/v

1 x arson

1 x fraud

1 x burglary to dwelling house

1 x threat to commit damage

1 x burglary non dwelling

Crime statistics across the South Oxford policing area show a decrease of 18.3% in the incidents of notifiable crime in the year to date. This is particularly welcome in the categories of burglary, domestic violence and assault. Vehicle crime and in particular theft of older types of cars eg Vauxhall Corsa, Ford Fiesta & Ford Escort continue to be a problem in rural areas. Residents are reminded to review their car security measures by ensuring vehicles are locked at night, garaged if possible, left in illuminated areas. Car keys should be kept secure at night and never left in view through windows or on ledges. Car number plates are also regularly stolen from vehicles parked in rural areas. The stolen plates are then fixed to another vehicle to be used in crime…usually theft of petrol from garages forecourts. Thefts from garden sheds of gardening tools eg lawn mowers, strimmers, drills etc. Now is the time to review the security on places where valuable items of easily transportable equipment could the stolen from.

Phase 1 of the consultation for the Neighbourhood Action Group was completed at end March 2010 and our thanks go to those volunteers who assisted us with the distribution/collection of consultation forms. The NAG met 24/03/10 to decide its priorities for the forthcoming months, in the areas that were consulted. The priority for Wheatley rural area, in which Stanton is located, is FLY TIPPING. The Neighbourhood police team will be working with other agencies over the forthcoming months to try to reduce the nuisance of fly tipping in the villages. Of course other routine police enforcement of speeding, anti social behaviour etc will continue around this priority.

PC Gregory brought along a variety of crime reduction leaflets for distribution at the meeting. Community Messaging & You is a new idea whereby residents can elect to receive community messages direct to their phone or e-mail and get information on: Crime in your area; Action taken by police and partners to tackle crime; Crime prevention advice; Appeals for witnesses or for help tracing missing person; Events and opportunities to meet your local neighbourhood team and to have your say about crime in your area.

There were questions from the floor concerning speed limit enforcement on the B4027 and the use of SID equipment. This was felt to be less useful than a police presence, particularly during the early morning and late afternoon. Village gates were proposed as a device to slow drivers and define the 30mph speed limit. Fly tipping was also mentioned as a problem around the village and this could be deterred by the installation of CCTV and a hot-line to police HQ.

5.         Report from Anne Purse, District Councillor and Vice-Chair of Oxford County Council

County Council Report

This report will be mostly dealing with roads and transport, although the County is responsible also for education, care for the elderly and disabled and for vulnerable children, the fire service, trading standards etc. It will not come as a surprise to anyone that local government has to make cuts in services in the wake of the recession. Basically there is less money from central government, and this situation does not look as if it will improve over the next few years. Money comes from the government both as a settlement to be divided between services and also as pots of money for specific things that have to be bid for, such as the money for Local Transport Plan 3. The County Council sets its priorities etc, and then bids for money for the work needing to be done. I managed to ensure that traffic noise was one of the criteria that could be used to get schemes included under the Local Transport Plan, since noise from the A40 continues to be a very important issue for Wheatley and other affected villages. It is good that the villages affected by this noise problem are now working alongside each other. However, any money from central government is likely to be significantly reduced compared to what we have received in previous years. The Local Transport Plan will be the blue print for Oxfordshire’s roads and transport for the next 30 years. The actually programme of work will be a rolling pone, updated annually. There will be consultations this summer, and it is important that people respond. Last year, villages were suffering from the spate of potholes that followed the bad spell of weather in early February 2009. Repairs happened, but now we are very much back in the same situation with the whole county’s roads feeling the effect of the severe winter we have just come through. Stanton St John certainly has its share of these. The County is putting some extra ‘one off’ money into getting pot holes etc repaired, but several councillors feel that more should have been set out in the budget to deal both with emergency repairs and with the general maintenance of roads and pavements. Also, concerning the two recent episodes of snow and ice, there is to be a Scrutiny Review at the County Council to look at what happened regarding roads and transport in the recent bad weather. I have a place on that review, so all information will be very useful, and I hope the outcome of the review will benefit this area in any future unusually bad weather.

Good news for those who try to use Thornhill Park and Ride is that a planning application for an expansion of parking spaces is due this summer.

District Council Report

There was a slightly bumpy start to the new waste contract, but now it seems to be working well, and it is certainly delivering high levels of recycling…about 70% of waste is recycled currently. The joining with the Vale of the White Horse District Council to share officers has now got down to the 4^th tier of officers, and some very well known people in planning are no longer working at SODC. Fly tipping is again occurring only too regularly in the Bayswater Road/Shepherds Pit area. I am working for a solution at least for Bayswater Road (in the County Council owned areas) with the County Council, which I hope will also have input form local people, and continue to report and chase up the other fly tipping hot spots to SODC as they occur.

6.         Reports from Village Organisations

6.1       Stanton St John Parochial Church Council – Reverend Stevie Cross

April 2021 and another year has gone by. Sheila has been unflagging in her efforts as churchwarden this year, helped by others. Sadly due to our small congregation there has been no-one willing to share the load but I am very grateful for all she does behind the scenes to ensure that regular and occasional services run smoothly. George as usual has done a great job and keeping the accounts in order. There are all the others who give so generously of their time to the church, the cleaning, the flowers, clock winders and overseeing the churchyard. Last but no means least to Dave Pullen and his team for all the hard work they put in behind the scenes making sure things work.

The bell ringing continues to flourish with a range of people getting trained up. But they are always keen to see new members. There is good support at the festivals with Harvest and Carols being especially well supported. It is sad that the regular congregation is small but very faithful.  In 2009 there was 1 wedding, 2 baptisms, 3 funerals.

The church needs some major work to be carried out, both inside and outside the church. We are in the process of obtaining quotes and advice from the diocese, but will need to raise in excess of £70,000. We need to put together a fund raising committee and would be grateful for volunteers.  This is more than a church need, as I am sure that no-one wants it to become unsafe or unusable. Everything may look fine but you cannot see the roof, or come inside and see the plaster falling off the walls. We will be launching a major campaign before the Festival and do need help.

As a start we have 2 concerts planned, One this Sunday with the Oxford Male Voice Choir and again Sunday 23^rd May. Do support us. The Annual Parochial Church Meeting will be held on Monday 26^th April and all are welcome to come along, se a power point presentation of things that have happen and enjoy wine & cheese.

6.2       The Women’s Institute – Joyce Roden on behalf of Joan Creese, President

We have had a successful and enjoyable year with an interesting monthly programme, together with many opportunities and activities for members. It has been encouraging to see a slight increase in our membership bringing the total up to 26. During the past year two members reached the age of 90 and enjoyed a tea party held at Horton-cum-Studley in conjunction with Oxfordshire Federation’s 90^th anniversary celebration.

During the year there have been many occasions for members to attend Garden Meetings at Beckley and Horton-cum-Studley, enter competitions and quizzes, enjoy a Barn Dance and a Day of Dance, and to see a performance of Calendar Girls in London. We welcomed visitors from Bishop Creighton House in Fulham for lunch, and to enjoy the village and a “breath of fresh air”. This is an annual event for them, and an outing they enjoy, though sadly there are often one or two faces missing each year.

Our members collected items and packed over 30 shoeboxes for our troops at Camp Bastion. These were despatched by the Post Office free of charge. We also collected items suitable for children and packed these into over 30 shoeboxes for Operation Christmas Child.

So altogether it has been a busy, enjoyable and fulfilling year.

6.3       The Holford Trust – Roy Roden, Secretary

Stanton St. John School originated from a bequest of £500 in the will of Dame Elizabeth Holford, who died in 1720. The school for the poor children of Stanton St John and Forest Hill was first established in the Vicarage in 1764. It moved to the present site in 1767 when the School House and an adjoining room was built on a piece of land given by New College. The school close in 1984 and the extended premises reverted to the Trustees.

Today the Jan Weller Pre-School and the Old School Nursery have licences to use their areas. This allows the Trustees, out of hours, to rent them to other groups meeting the requirements of the Trust Deed, i.e. for educational purposes, formal, physical or recreational. The last room is divided, the inner section leased and the out section licensed to the Oxfordshire Family Historical Society as their Research Centre. An external assessor sets rents for the rooms and the School House, and the buildings are surveyed every ten years.

The Trustees are planning to convert a part of the old playground into a designated play area for the 40 or so children under 4 years old who use it daily. The present worn tarmac surface, half of the area, would be replaced by an impact-absorbing surface. Hopefully this will take place in the next financial year. Each year the Trustees aim to keep approximately half of the Trust’s normal income of about £20,000 in reserve. Last year the standard running costs, not including maintenance totalled £7,378.

Two major events this year were the installation, with a grant from Awards for All, of a new fire alarm system, and the Open Morning held on the 30^th June 2009. Cllr.Malcolm Leonard, Chair of SODC unveiled a panel commemorating the donors of grants for the improvements.

On 13^th November, John Howell, our M.P. visited the Centre and met representatives from each group.

The Trust offers bursaries to meet the cost of out of school activities to students at Beckley Primary and Wheatley Park who are resident in Stanton St John or Forest Hill. No requests were received this year.

There are 8 trustees: Frank Robson; Roy Roden Hon.Sec; Malcolm Leeding Hon.Chair; Gordon Shepherd; Janine Willcock; Ian Costar, Hon. Archivist; Alison Finch Hon.Min.Sec; Jane Walker

Hon.Treasurer, and Chris Bignal (not a trustee)

Representatives of the resident groups attend Trustee meetings but do not vote.

6.4       Stanton Charities – Richard Ebbs, Clerk to the Trustees

The Charity consists of a group of endowments that provide income to help parishioners with winter heating costs.  The Trustees consist of an Ex-officio Trustee who is the Vicar, two nominated Trustees appointed by the Parish Council for a period of four years and two co-opted Trustees appointed for a five-year period. The current chairman is Mr Roy Roden. Applications are invited annually from individuals or families who would benefit from extra help with heating costs. In the past this was in the direct delivery of coal but with different heating systems applicants currently receive a cheque. Notices are placed in the Village Shop and in the Parish Newsletter in October; previous recipients are contacted by letter.  Any person within the parish may apply but help is usually restricted to those who are dependent on the State Pension or of restricted income. It is also helpful if neighbours or friends of infirm or housebound parishioners could inform the Trustees of deserving cases. The income from the endowments is distributed between the applicants. The income for 2009 was £515 and six applicants each received £85.00. Historical documents concerning the charity have been placed with the village archive at the Holford Centre.

6.5       The Millenium Green Trust – Andrew Clark, Chairman

2010 is the 10^th anniversary of the formation of the Trust and the creation of Hillcroft Millennium Green.  Both were formed by a working party of the then Parish Council who in the process of the creation secured from New College, the freehold of the Field which became the Green, and free of charge the freeholds of the Village Hall and its new Car Park and the new playground to its new location. Many of you would have strolled across the Green and down the field over the years and enjoyed the view to the Great Wood, which is one of the aspects of Stanton St. John that the Green is there to preserve as one of its principle aims. It is very much for all to enjoy and is an asset to the Village owned by Trustees who are villagers and hold it solely for the enjoyment of the public and especially for use by the villagers.

As Trustees of the Green we look after the area and we are very grateful for the help we receive from folk in the village who help practically and support the venture. We are thankful that over the past two years Chris Goffey has helped with the mowing and kept the top area looking tidy.  However, he is not able to continue this year and the Trustees are looking for anyone who might be able to help out, during this year especially in the run up to the Festival in August

During its first ten years the Green has seen the development of the ford across the stream at the bottom and with the Parish and County Council the creation of the causeway crossing to keep you all out of the mud. The Trustees are still in the process of raising sufficient funds to rebuild sections and re-point the front stone wall facing onto the road and to this effect promote the use of the upper part of the Green for hire for events to raise money for this task.  It is anticipated that we will need between seven and ten thousand pounds to complete this repair.

This is an important space in the centre of the village and we do encourage you all to use the area when you can. A big thank you to all those who have helped in one way or another and we would be grateful for any volunteers who may be able to spare time to help repaint the black iron parkland fence which crosses the Green, later on in the summer.

6.6       The Village Hall Management Committee  – Russell Warner, Chairman

The objective of the Committee continues to be the provision of a range of events across a wide spectrum that will attract people from within Stanton St John, but also provide opportunity to bring friends and family to enjoy the Stanton St John atmosphere and hospitality. These have included the traditional events which take place every year plus new initiatives: the 2009 Safari Supper-this was be held a little later in the year than on previous occasions, Sat. 18th July and proved again to be a popular event; Race Night in September; Halloween party in November; Christmas Fair and Christmas Cheer-an excellent addition to the calendar with Festive readings and stories supported by an excellent Christmas tree in the Hall. St George’s evening in April. The Stanton St John web-site is now live. www.stantonstjohn.com.  Content is being added and the design will evolve as we agree the look and feel. To support the communication process a distribution list has been set-up that will refer to up-dates and provide news and details of forthcoming events. It is intended to operate as a community web-site and input is welcomed. The committee continue with a prudent approach to its finances and have identified the need to replace the windows at the front of the hall. This is the key focus for fund raising events and the project planning is currently in process. It has been agreed that window replacement would be tackled as a separate project to any planned potential extension of the Hall.  Securing planning permission for window replacement would be possible in 2010.The major event of the year is, of course, the Stanton Festival. Planning is taking place in earnest with a focus on new ideas and a family friendly event. The format has been changed to 2 days on Sunday and Bank holiday Monday with an earlier starting time of 12 o’clock and finishing at 6pm. From a personal point of view this will be the 3rd Festival I have overseen as Chairman of the committee and I am advised it works on a 3 strikes and out basis! I would like to thank all members of the committee for their support throughout the year. We will be holding our AGM in the hall on Monday 26th April. Everyone is invited to attend and a copy of the VHMC accounts will be available on request.

6.7           Dr Pink’s Charity – Henry Towers, Secretary

Dr.Pink’s Charity came into being through the generosity of Dr. Pink, the Warden of New College, who in 1647 in his will, left £110 to support apprentices in the parish of Stanton St John, so that they could purchase necessary tools. Nowadays the charity also gives grants to students in further and higher education for the purchase of textbooks and other necessary equipment for their studies. In exceptional circumstances the charity also supports students in charitable ventures in poor countries.

For the first time in many years it is pleasing to report that our expenditure has exceeded our income, and we have been able to support the following:

Imogen Stanley at Swansea University, studying geography – £100

Hayley Warner, studying English Literature at Bath Spa University -£100

Daniel Clarke, studying Design at the University of Glamorgan -£150 – the addition being because the trustees felt his course most related to the original bequest of the charity – as an apprenticeship.

Finally, Oliver Warner, -£100 to support his application to go on an expedition through World Challenge, to Costa Rica.

The accounts remain in a sensibly healthy condition, with £2,809 in the Coventry Building Society.

I would like the thank Chris Bignal for continuing to audit the accounts, and my fellow trustees – Sheila Pullen, John Shaw and Stevie Cross.

7. Suggestions and proposals from the floor

There was one suggestion from Andrew Clark that the village might like to consider ‘twinning’ with a similar community from another part of the world. This was left for further discussion.

The Chairman thanked the members of the public and those presenting reports for their attendance and the meeting was closed at 9pm.

STANTON ST JOHN PARISH COUNCIL

2STANTON ST JOHN PARISH COUNCIL

Minutes of the Meeting of Stanton St John Parish Council at The Village Hall on Monday 21st February 2011 at 7.30 pm.

Present: Gina Moore (Chair), Andrew Clark, Jonathan Hall, Tamsin Hyland, Nicola Mallows,

Alex Smith

Linda Goffey (clerk)

Anne Purse, County and District Councillor

3 members of the public

11. Apologies: none

12. Declarations of interest in Agenda items: none

13. Approve and sign minutes of meeting held on 17^th January 2010. These were accepted as a true record of the meeting and duly approved and signed off by the Chairman.

14. Matters arising to report to Council.

• OCC have acknowledged the request to delineate Rights of Way on Breach Farm, and to repair the damaged tarmac footpath opposite the entrance to Breach Farm.
• Mick’s Garden Services will be putting a small premium on the rates for 2011 in the light of fuel and VAT increases.
• The stile on footpath 9 in Mill St is broken and will be reported to OCC and the landowner.
• AC reported that there is a persistent and heavy outflow of water in Mill St originating from the corner near Silver Birches and in icy weather this will be dangerous.                                  CLERK TO REPORT TWO ABOVE ITEMS TO AUTHORITIES
• NM mentioned the dumping of asbestos in Shepherd’s Pit Rd, and advised Councillors that it was more effective to report fly tipping-incidents separately to SODC rather than in a list.

OPEN FORUM OUT OF SESSION

From Anne Purse

1. Bayswater Road ‘amenity’ area. Anne informed the PC that funds may be available under the auspices of The Big Society to pay for schemes such as this. She is prepared to meet the Environment Dept at OCC to discuss the future for this parcel of land, the aim being to dissuade fly-tipping and other abuses of the space. A discussion ensued with Richard Stanley from Rectory Farm and the Councillors about safe-guarding access to the farm land along the Bayswater Rd, and the use of CCTV. It was suggested that Richard Stanley should meet with AP and NM to discuss viable options. ANNE PURSE TO ORGANISE MEETING WITH NM AND RICHARD STANLEY
2. Cuts in OCC spending. Expenditure on road repairs will be reduced this year. However, some last minute additional funding has been made available to support libraries prior to their closure dates. There will be pressure on the Big Society Fund to finance projects as a consequence of the loss of so many libraries.
3. BT Race to Infinity. OCC is attempting to roll out faster broadband throughout the region. ANNE TO FORWARD INFORMATION TO PC
4. Breach Farm planning application P10/W1817. GM explained that permission had been granted by SODC to extend the temporary accommodation but the time scale had been reduced to 2 years.

From the floor

1. It was reported that broadband coverage and speed rates are relatively good in Stanton with minor variations across the parish. On the other hand Forest Hill, on the Wheatley exchange, has poor coverage. It should be possible for BT to rectify the situation.
2. There has been damage to the verges in Middle Rd; opposite the shop and opposite Chequers Close. A barrier may be necessary to deter people from parking on the grass.
3. The Post Office at Barton has closed causing inconvenience to parishioners CLERK TO CHECK IF CLOSURE IS PERMANENT
4. Bayswater Rd is in a poor state of repair.
5. OCC cut back hedges and verges in the parish during the bad weather earlier this winter, and this was regarded as an inappropriate.

BACK IN SESSION

15. Finance

15.1 Applications for routine subscriptions and donations:

• CPRE – annual sub of  £29 was proposed by AC, seconded by NM and unanimously approved for payment by the PC.
• Sue Ryder– request for donation towards special beds. After consideration, the PC declined a donation on the grounds that the organisation did not meet the criterion to be of sufficient benefit to the parish to warrant the expenditure.

15.2 Monthly Finance Report of receipts and payments – noted.

15.3 Accounts for payment were approved and cheques duly signed:

388                  Mick’s G S                    Grass-cutting                                35.00

389                  LM Goffey                     Clerks salary                               340.18

390                  LM Goffey                     Clerks expenses                 15.95

391                  CPRE                           Annual sub                                   29.00

16. Planning

16.1 Planning Applications received:

P11/W0125/RET Rectory Farm, SSJ

Variation of condition 4 of planning permission PO5/W0391

Parish Council response: approve

16.2 Planning Decisions to be noted.

P10/W1817 Breach Farm, SSJ

Retention of existing temporary accommodation for agricultural worker.

Parish Council response: refuse

SODC Decision: granted (for 2 years only)

The Chairman was thanked for her representations to the Planning Committee.

16.3 Other planning matters: none

17. Playground – the monthly report was not available. There has been no further information about the cost of replacing the frayed ropes, but as this is not a safety risk, the PC agreed to delay a decision.

18. Correspondence Received:

• SODC – Election of Councillors and nomination papers for May – noted.         INFORMATION AND NOMINATION PAPERS ARE AVAILABLE FROM THE CLERK
• John Howell MP – surgery dates and request for information about broadband.           CLERK TO REPLY WITH STATISTICS FOR SSJ
• Oxfordshire Play Space Survey – completed on-line.
• CPRE – AGM on 7^th April.
• OCC – information on the Big Society Fund launch.

19. Annual Parish Meeting – arrangements will be as in previous years with refreshments available from 7.20pm. CLERK TO CONTACT SPEAKERS AND SHEILA PULLEN

20. Road Safety Matters – GM raised concerns about the worn out SLOW warnings on Pound Lane and requested that theyt should be re-painted. With regard to Bayswater Rd, GM proposed proper delineation of the outer edges of the carriageway, and the centre line. She felt that as this is a heavily used road, the addition of cat’s-eyes and’ extra line marking would reduce danger for drivers in particular at night. Councillors agreed to raise this with OCC.

CLERK TO CONTACT OCC

21. BT Race to Infinity – the initiative for fast broadband having been discussed earlier, the PC hoped that SSJ would benefit from the county-wide roll-out. Peter Wingfield-Stratford has produced figures for broadband in SSJ and these will be passed on to the PC for inclusion in the response to John Howell (item 18). GM TO DRAFT LETTER TO BT

22. Newsletters/Bulletins

• Oxford Green Belt Network Newsletter
• Oxfordshire Playing Fields Association Report and Newsletter
• Wheatley Park School OFSTED Report

Matters for the Newsletter – support of Rectory Farm.

Dates of Meetings

SSJ Parish Council Meeting – 21^st March 2011, 7.30pm, Village Hall

Annual Parish Meeting – 18^th April 2011, 7.30pm, Village Hall

The Chairman thanked everyone and closed the meeting at 8.45pm

Minutes of the Meeting of Stanton St John Parish Council at The Village Hall on Monday 21st March 2011 at 7.30 pm.

Present: Gina Moore (Chair), Andrew Clark, Jonathan Hall, Nicola Mallows, Alex Smith

Linda Goffey (clerk)

Anne Purse, County and District Councillor

3 members of the public

23. Apologies: Tamsin Hyland

24. Declarations of interest in Agenda items: none

25. Approve and sign minutes of meeting held on 21^st February 2011. These were accepted as a true record of the meeting and duly approved and signed off by the Chairman.

26. Matters arising to report to Council.

• Water overflow in Mill St – no reply from OCC; the dry weather has reduced the problem.
• Barton Post Office closure – this is official during investigations by the Post Office; alternative P.O.s are in Risinghurst and Wheatley.
• Letter to BT – the Chairman’s letter was agreed and signed off.

OPEN FORUM OUT OF SESSION

From Anne Purse

1. Bayswater Road ‘amenity’ area. Anne reported on a very positive meeting with Andrew Bourne from OCC Property Service. He suggested that a bung, possibly with a hedge would be preferable to fencing the area as the latter does not adequately deter fly-tipping. OCC would be willing to conduct an environmental clean up and grants for tree planting may be available in the Autumn. Andrew Bourne will discuss the field accesses with Richard Stanley, and then meet with representatives from Stanton. Funding for erection of the bung may be available from the Big Society Fund and Anne, as the relevant councillor, will submit the necessary ‘expression of interest’.

From the floor

1. Fly-tipping in Shepherds Pit Rd. There was a request for CCTV to monitor the problem and an ensuing discussion on the merits of publicising the names of the offenders. Richard Stanley plans to close the access points to his fields with wire gates.
2. Bonfires. There was a complaint about bonfires polluting the air with smoke. Anne Purse commented that acrid smoke from bonfires is a reportable offence, and the PC advised that a log should be kept of all incidents when bonfires are a nuisance.

BACK IN SESSION

27. Finance

27.1 Applications for routine subscriptions and donations:

• OGBN – annual sub of  £15 was proposed by NM, seconded by AC, and unanimously approved for payment by the PC.
• OALC – annual sub of  £133.07 (inc. VAT) was proposed by GM, seconded by NM, and unanimously approved for payment by the PC.

27.2 Monthly Finance Report of receipts and payments – noted.

27.3 Accounts for payment were approved and cheques duly signed:

392                   SSJ Village Hall             Annual rental                              60.00

393                   OGBN                           Annual sub                                 15.00

394                   OALC                           Annual sub                                 133.07

395                   M Page Elec.                  Repair light                                39.00

396                   JT Services                     Maintenance repairs                      312.00

397                   LM Goffey                     Clerks salary                               339.98

398                   LM Goffey                     Clerks expenses               24.81

399                   Post Office                     IR PAYE                                  186.60

27.4 Budget update. The PC is well within budget for year 2010/11 owing to savings across the board and the deferment to the next financial year of capital expenditure on the War Memorial. The PC agreed to discuss progress on the War Memorial in May, and also the policy with regard to councillors’ expenses. These have not been claimed for the past two years.

27.5 Banking Arrangements. Discussion deferred to after the Elections.

28. Planning

28.1 Planning Applications received: none.

28.2 Planning Decisions to be noted:

P10/W1125 Breach Farm, SSJ

Erection of an agricultural workers dwelling.

After appeal by the applicants, the Planning Inspectorate has overturned the decision of SODC and granted permission to the planning application.

The PC was disappointed at the outcome of the Planning Appeal, about which there were considered to be significant inconsistencies. It was decided that a letter to SODC would be inappropriate however there may be grounds to challenge the decision of the Planning Inspectorate and this approach should be investigated. It was noted that certain restrictive conditions were placed on the planning permission and the PC should ensure that these were adhered to in the future. There was also concern about other aspects of development at Breach Farm, specifically the alterations to the stone barn that have not been submitted to SODC.

NM TO CONTACT OGBN

AC TO SEEK ADVICE ON APPEAL PROCEDURES

GM TO CHECK ON SCHEDULE OF CONDITIONS, AND THE PLANNING STATUS OF THE STONE BARN

28.3 Other planning matters:

• Walters Bus Company is expected to re-locate to The Quarry, Holton, during the school Easter holiday period. There may be a query on the lease that could delay matters. AP has written to OCC to complain about excessive speed of the buses on the village roads.

29. Playground –monthly report received and no problems reported.

30. Correspondence Received:

• Rectory Farm – access points on Shepherds Pit and Bayswater Rd to be gated – noted.
• OCC – response to request to repair stile on Mill St. The PC was pleased to hear that the responsibility for repair had been placed with the landowner, New College. The quality of the repair will be inspected by OCC in due course.
• OCC Highways – response to request for road markings on Bayswater Rd and Pound Lane. Highways have inspected Bayswater Rd and do not consider the safety threshold to indicate a need for additional road markings. Pound Lane SLOW signs will be repainted.
• Thames Valley Police – Community Police Awards 2011 – noted
• Aylesbury Vale DC – update of Local development Framework – noted.

31. Local Election May 6th – completed nomination papers were passed on to the Clerk.

32. Newsletters/Bulletins

• The Local Councils Review
• Parish Matters Newsletter
• Clerks and Councils Direct
• Standards Committee Minutes
• Open Space Newsletter

Matters for the Newsletter: Local Elections and bonfires.

Dates of Meetings

Annual Parish Meeting – 18^th April 2011, 7.30pm, Village Hall

SSJ Parish Council Annual Meeting – 16^th May 2011, 7.30pm, Village Hall

The Chairman thanked everyone and closed the meeting at 8.30pm

Minutes of the Meeting of Stanton St John Parish Council at The Village Hall on Monday 21^st June 2010 at 7.30 pm.

Present: Gina Moore (Chair), Andrew Clark, Tamsin Paling, Jonathan Hall

Linda Goffey (clerk)

2 members of the public

37. Apologies: Nicola Mallows, Barney Rhys-Jones

38. Declarations of interest in Agenda items: none

39. Approve and sign minutes of meetings held on 15^th March 2010. These were accepted as a true record of the meeting and duly approved and signed off by the Chairman.

40. Finance

40.1 Applications for routine subscriptions and donations;

• OALC – annual sub of £130.30 was proposed by AC, seconded by GM and approved by the Council.

40.2 Monthly Finance Report of receipts and payments – noted

40.3 Accounts for payment as shown in Finance Report. Cheques were duly signed:

316                OALC                        Annual sub                        130.30

317-326        SSJ residents                Annual footlight payments        180.00

327                LM Goffey                Clerks salary                        339.98

328                                    LM Goffey                                    Clerks expenses                                      23.20

329                  SSJ Village Hall          Annual rental                             66.00

330                  Sheila Pullen                  APM refreshments                    25.00

41. Planning

41.1 Planning Applications received: none.

41.2 Planning Decisions to be noted:

P10/W0203/AG Rectory Farm, SSJ

Erection of cold store for fruit and vegetables.

Parish Council response: no strong views

SODC decision: planning permission not required

P10/W0092/LD 1-5 Chequers Close, SSJ

Application for a Lawful Development Certificate: resurfacing of existing parking area

Parish Council response: no objections, with caveat

SODC decision: GRANTED

P10/W0120 Nimrod, Middle Rd.

Kitchen extension, new garage, bedroom & rooflights

Parish Council response: refusal

SODC decision: REFUSED

P09/W1224 Breach Farm, SSJ

Extension to agricultural building for secure store and diversion of public right of way.

Parish Council response: refusal

SODC decision: GRANTED

41.3 Other planning matters: none

Dates of Meetings

SSJ Annual Parish Council Meeting – 17^th May 2010, 7.30pm, Village Hall.

SSJ Parish Council Meeting – 21^st June 2010, 7.30pm, Village Hall.

The Chairman thanked everyone and closed the meeting at 7.15pm

to prepare for the Annual Parish Meeting

Minutes of the Annual General Meeting of Stanton St John Parish Council at The Village Hall on Monday 17^th May 2010 at 7.00 pm.

Present: Gina Moore (Chair), Nicola Mallows, Tamsin Paling

Linda Goffey (clerk)

Anne Purse, District and County Councillor

42. Apologies: Jonathan Hall, Andrew Clark

43. Declarations of interest in Agenda items: none

44. Election of Officers and signing of Acceptance of Office

44.1 Election of Chairman. Gina Moore was unanimously re-elected as Chairman. Gina signed the Acceptance form, and took the Chair for the remainder of the Meeting.

44.2 Election of Vice-Chairman. Andrew Clark was unanimously re-elected as Vice-Chairman.

44.3 Changes to councillors’ Register of Interests’. Registers were checked by GM, NC, TP

and minuted as correct.

45. Approve and sign minutes of meeting held on 19th April 2010. These were accepted as a true  record of the meeting and duly approved and signed off by the Chairman.

46. Matters arising to report to Council.

• Handrail at New Cottage – there has been no response from the owner. The PC decided to take no further action.
• Cox Lane – OCC have not responded to the request for bollards to protect the verge.
• Menmarsh Bridge – OCC have inspected the bridge and do not consider that reflectors are required.
• Breach Farm – the clerk has notified OCC that footpaths require reinstating in a ploughed field.
• Breach Farm – it has been noted that significant building work has been carried out around the stone barn, apparently without planning permission. CLERK TO INFORM SODC
• Waters’ Limousines, Forest Hill – the business is still operating and is in breach of planning enforcement. The Company has requested a 3 month extension to find other premises. The PC felt that SODC should enforce the regulations, and should be informed of reports of poor driving by Walters’ employees. CLERK TO WRITE TO SODC

47. Chairman’s Report

Nothing to report this month.

OPEN FORUM OUT OF SESSION

From Anne Purse

1. Bayswater Road ‘amenity’ area. The Environment Dept at OCC is now prepared to discuss the future for this parcel of land, the aim being to dissuade fly-tipping and other abuses of the space. NM suggested that OCC representatives should meet with AP, NM and GM to discuss a planting and fencing scheme. It was agreed that an initial meeting be held with AP, GM and NM to establish a plan to present to OCC. GM TO ORGANISE INITIAL MEETING IN NEXT 2 WEEKS;  AP TO ARRANGE MEETING WITH OCC IN JUNE

BACK IN SESSION

48. Finance

48.1 Applications for routine subscriptions and donations:

• Open Spaces Society – annual sub of £40 was proposed by GM, seconded by NM and approved by the Council. The request for a  donation towards the ‘re-opening gates campaign’ (s137) was declined as it was deemed to be of insufficient benefit to the village.
• NALC – annual sub of £13.50 for the LCR Magazine was proposed by GM, seconded by NM and approved by the Council.
• The Holford Centre – the request for a donation towards the refurbishment of the car park to make a children’s playground was declined. The PC felt that funds would be made available from other sources. It was agreed that general letter of support should be written. CLERK TO WRITE TO ROY RODEN,TRUSTEE OF HOLFORD TRUST

48.2 Monthly Finance Report of receipts and payments – noted.

48.3 Accounts for payment were approved and cheques duly signed:

351                            Broker Network Ltd.          Insurance premium                              810.08

352                            LM Goffey                               Clerks salary                                             339.98

353                            Mick’s GS                                 Grass cutting                                             70.00

354                            Open Spaces Soc             Annual sub                                                 40.00

355                           LM Goffey                               Clerks expenses                                     39.79

356                            NALC                                         Annual magazine sub                          13.50

48.4 Council Accounts for 2009/10Audit– GM confirmed that as Chairman she had checked the financial records as correct. The PC unanimously approved acceptance of the summary of the council’s financial activity for 2009/10 and approved submission to the internal auditor. GM and the Clerk signed the Annual Return 2009/10 as a true record of the Council financial status. CLERK TO DELIVER PAPERS TO AUDITOR

49. Planning

49.1 Planning Applications received: none

49.2 Planning Decisions to be noted: none

49.3 Other planning matters: none

50. Playground – the monthly report was received and no problems noted. The Clerk reported that Mick of MGS had not forked over the bark as he was concerned that the material had decomposed underneath and would be better left undisturbed. The volume was adequate at present.

51. Correspondence Received:

• Open Spaces Society invitation to Open Day on 26/6/10 – noted.
• ORCC invitation to 90^th Birthday Celebrations on 3/7/10 – noted.
• Oxford Community Safety Partnership invitation on 18/5/10 – noted.

52. War memorial – a sub-committee to include AC, GM and NM will specify the work needed to renovate the memorial. AC will liaise with John Lauder for the new names to be added to the roll. AC,GM,NM TO DISCUSS SPECIFICATION

53. Village Hall security measures – The VH Chairman has responded with an estimate of £600 pa to install a CCTV system for the car park. This was considered to be expensive for the PC to finance. An article from the Clerks and Councils Direct magazine had shown that a similar CCTV monitor for a car park had proved to be a waste of time and money as the police were unable to read the images clearly and follow up offenders. The PC felt that a chain on a hook remained the best option.

CLERK TO INFORM RUSSELL WARNER, AND OBTAIN COST ESTIMATES

Tamsin Paling will replace Barney Rhys-Jones as liaison councillor for the Village Hall Committee.

54. SSJ Web site – the monthly Minutes and Annual Parish Minutes are currently available on the web site. It was decided that the Agenda should not be included as this could be time-consuming to update monthly and potentially confusing. The PC agreed to consider further input on the web site: for example, a council profile.

55. Newsletters/Bulletins

• ORCC Review
• Health News
• CPRE – Magazine
• SODC – Standards Committee Minutes
• The Playing Field
• BBOWT Newsletter
• Oxfordshire Nature Conservation Forum Newsletter
• OCC Vulnerable Adults
• Clerks and Councils Direct Magazine

Matters for the Newsletter – details of postings for agendas and minutes.

Dates of Meetings

SSJ Parish Council Meeting – 21st June 2010, 7.30pm, Village Hall

SSJ Parish Council Meeting – 19th July 2010, 7.30pm, Village Hall

The Chairman thanked everyone and closed the meeting at 9.15 pm

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