JANUARY 2007 MINUTES

MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF CLYRO COMMUNITY COUNCIL
held in the Village Hall on
TUESDAY 9th JANUARY 2007 at 8.00pm


108. a. PRESENT: Cllr. B. Morgan (Chairman) Vice Chairman Price Cllr. Herdman Cllr. Hood Cllr. Wheeler

County Cllr. Morris PC Thomas

b. APOLOGIES: Cllrs. Green, Morgan and Smith

The Chairman congratulated Cllr. Hood on his appointment to the Bench.

c. MINUTES: The minutes of the December 2006 meeting were approved by Councillors and signed by the Chairman.


d. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: none.

109. PLANNING MATTERS

- PC Thomas arrived at this point -

a. NEW: PR569205 - Full: Conversion of former shelter range and stable to dwelling, construction of double garage (retrospective/regularisation) at Pen-y-Pwll (4 Boatside Barns, Clyro)
The Chairman reminded Councillors that Martin Goldman had come to the December meeting to explain the circumstances of this application. Minor amendments had been made to the original plans such that a new application had to be submitted. All Councillors were in favour of this application.

b. NEW: PR4766/02 - Full: Change of use of barn to form 2 units for holiday accommodation and installation on new septic tank at Barn at Glyn Farm, Painscastle
All were in favour of this application.

c. NEW - PR569206 - Full: Conversion of redundant farm building to dwelling house, construction of new double garage and installation of septic tank (retrospective/regularisation) at 3 Boatside Barns.
All were in favour.

110. MATTERS ARISING

a. HIGHWAYS MATTERS UPDATE -
i. Hedges. Gordon Griffiths has phoned to say that he will meet up with Councillors asking him to cut his hedge, in order to find out where they think there is a problem. Vice Chairman Price will talk with him, but said that BT have been chopping trees since Christmas and that he thought the problem was better now.

b. Clerk’s post
The Clerk’s post has been advertised, but no-one so far has applied. The Chairman suggested that a newspaper ad might be needed. Councillors agreed that an ad should be placed in both the Hereford Times and the Brecon and Radnor.

111. REPORTS ON DOCUMENTS READ; MEETINGS ATTENDED; ACTIVITIES ETC.

a. DOCUMENTS READ
i. Powys County Council: Code of Conduct with planning matters/applications
The Chairman said he thought that all this had been explained by County Cllr. Morris at the last meeting.

112. SCHOOL GOVERNOR’S REPORT
Cllr. Williams being absent, Cllr. Herdman told Councillors that there were new pupils at the school (as planned intake); that there had been no Governors’ meeting yet this term; that all seemed fine. The last of the four whiteboards is now in the school. There will be a chance to see them during the activity day, which is planned for when the weather is better.

113. POLICE REPORT
PC Thomas gave his best wishes for the New Year to everyone.
Re crime in December: only 2 crimes were reported for the Clyro area. There was a theft from a vehicle – Cllr. Hood’s tools were stolen. Scrap men have stolen a quad bike from a barn. The police were pleased that there was such a good response from neighbours. PC Thomas said that they were hoping for an arrest. This was thought to be due to travelling criminals again.
There have been two incidents involving children from Pentwyn who were missing. (This usually happens though when the children are out for the day rather than being missing while in Clyro.)
PC Thomas asked whether Councillors had any questions for him. Neighbourhood policing is a national initiative; PACT meetings are being set up so that the public can say what their policing priorities are.
The Chairman said he thought that the visible presence of known officers was important, and suggested that a meeting with the police and public could be set up to take place before a community council meeting. Cllr. Herdman said she thought that building a relationship between police, community council and public was valuable.

114. REPORT FROM COUNTY COUNCILLOR MORRIS
County Cllr. Morris said that most of her council work since Christmas had been on the budget. Services will stay, but some staff will go, to cut costs, with up to 56 staff are being made redundant. The Assembly has given Powys less of an increase in money than had been promised. Costs will have to be made by Highways, and no new jobs will be created. Vacancies will only be filled after the committee has looked at them. The various political groups in the council differ as to the rise in council tax they find acceptable, but nothing has been decided as yet. Cllr. Hood asked about the proportions of supporters of different parties amongst councillors.
Cllr Herdman asked about the reviews of primary schools. County Cllr. Morris said that, although she is on the education committee, she had heard nothing further.

115. CORRESPONDENCE

a. DTI – letter re post offices
The Clerk read this to the meeting. It gave reasons for the proposed closures. Cllr. Hood asked for a copy so that he could reply personally, as well. He said that the government had systematically reduced post office services over the last ten years. Discussion ensued about the personal nature of drawing pensions, the difficulties which have been made for those not wanting their pensions paid into a bank account, and the inadvisability, from the point of view of cash-in-transit crime, of the idea of mobile post offices.

b. Powys CC – Draft Rights of Way Improvement Plan Consultation
This was taken by Vice Chairman Price who will pass it on to the Chairman.

c. Tom Fairfield re planning matters
This letter consisted of questions to be forwarded to County Cllr. Morris. A copy to be passed to her. Tom Fairfield, who was at the meeting, asked County Cllr. Morris if she knew that Powys had apparently refused money offered by CCW for a county ecologist. She said that she had not known this, and suggested that Tom address the chief executive about it.

116. FINANCIAL MATTERS

a. BANK BALANCES – Current account: £2,267.11, as at 5th December 2006.

b. Precept request
This was discussed, following which Cllr. Hood proposed, and Cllr. Herdman seconded, leaving the precept as it is, at £2,250. This was agreed by all.

c. Increase in Clerk’s hours?
It was suggested that the Clerk’s paid hours be increased by five to fifteen per month, with a review in six months’ time. The volume of work has gone up over the last few years, and this will help the new clerk. This was proposed by Cllr. Hood, seconded by Cllr. Herdman and agreed by all.

d. CLERK’S SALARY
Payment of £86.95, was proposed by Cllr. Herdman, seconded by Vice Chairman Price, and agreed by Councillors.

e. PAYMENTS
i. Cheques drawn: Clerk’s salary: £86.95.

117. OTHER BUSINESS

a. The Chairman has checked the Council’s assets this month. No problems were noted.

b. Cllr. Wheeler reported that there had been a lot of dumping of refuse and household waste in plastic bags off the lane above the school. PC Thomas will investigate.

c. Cllr. Wheeler asked about the layout of the caravan site. The Clerk to bring the last plans to next month’s meeting.

d. Cllr. Hood thanked the Chairman and Councillors for their comments about his appointment.

The Chairman then thanked all those who had come to the meeting and
THE MEETING WAS FORMALLY CLOSED AT 9.15. Minutes were taken by the Clerk.

 

 

FEBRUARY 2007 MINUTES

MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF CLYRO COMMUNITY COUNCIL
held in the Village Hall on
TUESDAY 13th FEBRUARY 2007 at 8.00pm


118. a. PRESENT: Cllr. B. Morgan (Chairman) Vice Chairman Price Cllr Green Cllr. Morgan Cllr. Wheeler

County Cllr. Morris One member of the public

b. APOLOGIES: Cllr. Williams, Cllr. Herdman, Cllr. Hood.

c. MINUTES: The minutes of the January 2007 meeting were approved by Councillors and signed by the Chairman.
d. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: Cllr. Green, regarding Planning application no. PR632401.

119. PLANNING MATTERS

- Cllr. Green left the room at this point -

a. NEW: PR632401 – Full: Restoration of cottage and conversion of two barns linked to form single dwelling and installation of private treatment plant at Cwm Pelved
The plans were passed round. All Councillors were in favour of this application.

- Cllr. Green was called back to the meeting at this point -

b. Re: PR654000 – Installation of small wind turbine at Llanshiver: permission received.

c. Re PR476602 - Change of use of barn to form 2 units for holiday accommodation and installation of new septic tank at Barn at Glyn Farm, Painscastle – Refusal due to problems associated with access.

d. Re PR569206- Conversion of redundant farm building to dwelling house, construction of new double garage and installation of septic tank (retrospective) at 3 Boatside Barns – Permission received.

e. Re PR569205- Conversion of former shelter range and stable to dwelling, construction of double garage (retrospective) at Pen-y-Pwll (4 Boatside Barns) – Permission received.

120. MATTERS ARISING

a. HIGHWAYS MATTERS UPDATE -
i. A letter from Tony Caine (Highways) to Barry Tomlinson Architectural Services was read to the meeting. This concerned the latter’s request for a 20mph speed limit outside Pentwyn School. As the school is a boarding school, a 20mph zone is considered by Mr. Caine to be inappropriate.

b. Cllr. Wheeler asked last month about the layout of the caravan site, since she wondered whether the current siting of the caravans was in line with current planning permission. The 31st March 05 plans were passed round. The Clerk to make sure there are no later plans.

c. Clerk’s post.
The Clerk’s post is being advertised.
Cllr. Morgan, who had not been present at the January meeting, questioned the large rise in salary for the Clerk, and whether the existing precept would be sufficient to cover it, along with other expenses. The Chairman explained that this was not a rise in salary, but an increase in hours in recognition of the fact that the job now takes many more hours than the average of 10 for which the Clerk has been paid for the last few years. Last month Councillors discussed this and decided that there were sufficient funds in the current account and the reserve account.
The Clerk and Councillors discussed the need for a new filing cabinet for the Clerk.

121. REPORTS ON DOCUMENTS READ; MEETINGS ATTENDED; ACTIVITIES ETC.

a. DOCUMENTS READ
i. Powys CC – Draft Rights of Way Improvement Plan Consultation
The Chairman commented that this all sounded fine, with good ideas, but would it actually be put into action? He thought it sounded as though new people would need to be employed, which is not in line with current county council policy, and said that there was a lot of mention of voluntary workers. He will return the questionnaire.

ii. DTI – letter re post offices
Cllr. Hood, who wished to reply on his own behalf, was not at the meeting. A response is requested by 8th March. The questionnaire to be completed by the Clerk.
122. SCHOOL GOVERNOR’S REPORT
Cllrs. Williams and Herdman were not at the meeting.

123. POLICE REPORT
PC Thomas was not at the meeting.

124. REPORT FROM COUNTY COUNCILLOR MORRIS
Council Tax:
This will go up by about 4%. This has provoked discussion about what the county council should or should not be providing. Economies are to be made in road surfacing, and bridge maintenance is at an all-time low. The council has been looking at its assets. The Hay council office will go, and some lights will be dimmed overnight.
County Cllr. Morris was asked about recycling bags for Hay, to which she replied that Clyro will not get these. Most people in Clyro take their recycling to Hay in any case, and the council could not afford to institute the recycling service in every ward.
There will be meetings soon in South Radnorshire regarding the Community Strategy, with a seminar in March. County Cllr. Morris will ask for some money for South Radnorshire.
The Chairman asked why there were now more speed camera signs through the village, where we understood that there were to be only 40mph repeater signs. County Cllr. Morris will enquire about this, and also as to why the school lights are not turned off when not needed.
County Cllr. Morris and Councillors discussed the dumping of waste above the school on private land. She will look into this. It sounds like a matter for Environmental Health. Vice-Chairman Price commented that there is again rubbish by the lay-by above Pentwyn, and County Cllr. Morris said that it was still a problem by the lay-by near Llowes as well.

125. CORRESPONDENCE

a. One Voice Wales – re membership (£77)
Cllr. Morgan proposed, and Cllr. Green/Vice Chairman Price seconded, membership for the next year, and this was agreed by Councillors.

b. Kirsty Williams AM and Roger Williams MP re their support for threatened post offices.
This letter was read to Councillors. Also enclosed was a consultation pro-forma about the value of local post offices, which the Council was asked to return. Councillors completed this.

c. Kirsty Williams AM: update re proposed closure of local health services
Kirsty writes that the campaign to Save Our Local Hospitals has gathered momentum. Events are planned, alternative proposals are being sought, and Dr. Brian Gibbons will meet with GPs from the constituency on 19th February.

d. Assembly: Consultation paper re Local Service Boards/Local Service Agreements
Taken by the Chairman.

e. Re Walk for Life, March 11th in support of Kidney Wales Foundation
The Clerk to find out where this is taking place.

f. Assembly: "Making the Connections – Delivering Beyond Boundaries"
This was taken by the Chairman.

g Welsh Assembly: Meeting of Mid and West Wales Regional Committee: 16th February in Haverfordwest re Energy and the Environment.
This being so far away, and in the daytime, no Councillor is likely to attend.

h.Tom Fairfield
Tom Fairfield’s letter stated that he had not yet received a reply to his previous enquiries from County Cllr. Morris. County Cllr. Morris told Councillors that she had been advised by the County Solicitor’s office not to reply, and that they have told her that they will be dealing with the matter.

i. Welsh Assembly – Guide to Community Council borrowings.

j. Welsh Assembly – Fire and Rescue Framework Wales. Revisions Order and International Protocol.
Taken by the Chairman.

126. FINANCIAL MATTERS

a. BANK BALANCES - Current account: £2,781.48 as at 5th February 2007.
- Reserve Account: £2,705.05 as at 5th January 2007.

b. Review of Financial Regulations
No alterations were suggested to the regulations. The Chairman proposed adoption of the Financial Regulations for the next year. This was seconded by Cllr.Wheeler. All agreed.

c. Cllr. M. Morgan proposed, and Cllr. Wheeler seconded, payment to the Clerk of £130.42. This was agreed.

d. PAYMENTS
i. Cheques drawn: Clerk’s salary: £130.42
One Voice Wales: £77.00

127. OTHER BUSINESS

a. The Chairman has checked the Council’s assets this month. No problems were noted.

b. Cllr. M. Morgan said that when she walked about during the snow, she found that people had dumped snow on the pavements, which was dangerous. The Chairman said he understood that people were ill-advised to clear the pavements in front of their homes, as this could incur liability.

c. Vice Chairman Price told Councillors that a telegraph pole by the junction of the Painscastle and Rhosgoch roads above the village, which had been broken by a vehicle, has been replaced by one which has been sited, at last, back from the road by BT, after years of complaints that this was what was required.

The Chairman then thanked all those who had come to the meeting and
THE MEETING WAS FORMALLY CLOSED AT 9.18pm. Minutes were taken by the Clerk.

The Chairman then asked the member of the public who had attended the meeting, Ted Brown, if he had anything he would like to say. Ted said that he had found the council here to be very good, and that he thought this a terrific area. There is apathy everywhere; here there are great facilities and people need to be rallied in order to support them.

 

MARCH 2007 MINUTES

MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF CLYRO COMMUNITY COUNCIL
held in the Village Hall on
TUESDAY 13th MARCH 2007 at 8.00pm

128. a. PRESENT: Cllr. B. Morgan (Chairman) Vice Chairman Price Cllr Green
Cllr. Morgan Cllr. Wheeler Cllr. Williams
Cllr. Herdman Cllr. Hood Cllr. Smith
County Cllr. Morris

This meeting took place following interviews for a new Clerk.
Councillors voted to determine to whom the post should be offered.
The Clerk to contact Joy after the meeting to ask her if she accepts the offer to take up the post, and to contact the other applicants.


b. APOLOGIES: PC Thomas
c. MINUTES: The minutes of the February 2007 meeting were approved by Councillors and signed by the Chairman.
d. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: None

129. PLANNING MATTERS

a. NEW: PR305405 – Full: Conversion of existing domestic store rooms into dwelling, demolition of existing shed and erection of extensions to provide hall and kitchen are, installation of treatment plant at Gwernalwye.
All Councillors were in favour of this application.

b. Update re Forest Park
There was nothing new to report on this. The March 2005 plans were passed round. No action taken.

c. County Cllr. Morris told Councillors that Highways have agreed an access onto the road above Pentwyn School in connection with planning application PR233112 –Erection of new accommodation unit, staff bedsits and classrooms, installation of new water treatment plant, creation of new vehicular access and parking spaces at Pentwyn School. The traffic sensor which has recently been sited above the school was paid for by the applicant.

130. MATTERS ARISING

a. HIGHWAYS MATTERS UPDATE -
The Clerk had nothing to report.
i. County Cllr. Morris told the meeting that a ‘no parking’ restriction is to come into force for both sides of the road between Clyro school and the A438. This will mean only that cars cannot be left there.
ii. The Chairman wondered what the posts are for which have appeared beside the A438.
b. Fire Risk Assessment and Action Plan
The Chairman told Councillors about the new Fire Risk Assessment and Action Plan which must be completed by all users of the village hall, including the Community Council. He had prepared plans of the hall and forms for completion. In his view the Hall Committee have not yet met all their responsibilities as hirers. Action notices should be on the walls for example and documentation made available showing that equipment has been tested. This certification must be made available before those renting can be expected to comply with their obligations. He has told the Hall Committee about this. Those renting the hall are also asked to take responsibility for the parking of those attending events. Beyond asking people to park safely, this was considered not feasible. Cllr. Hood said that it would be possible to ask people attending meetings not to park outside next door’s house. It was agreed that a meeting with the Hall Committee was needed. The Chairman will talk to them. Cllr. Hood thanked him for his work on this.

c. Appointment of New Clerk
(see above)

131. REPORTS ON DOCUMENTS READ; MEETINGS ATTENDED; ACTIVITIES ETC.

a. DOCUMENTS READ
i. Assembly: Consultation paper re Local Service Boards/Local Service Agreements.
- and -
ii. Assembly: "Making the Connections – Delivering Beyond Boundaries"
The Chairman reported that this seemed to be rather like the strategies committee, and that another body was being created just to coordinate between departments.

132. SCHOOL GOVERNOR’S REPORT
Cllr. Williams said that he had resigned as school governor, and apologised to the Council, whose representative he has been, for not having told them first.
Councillors therefore decided to choose a new representative. Cllr. Green was proposed by
Cllr. Smith. This was seconded by Cllr. M. Morgan. All voted in favour. Cllr. Green accepted.
(Cllr. Herdman is also, independently of the Community Council, a school governor.)
Cllr. Herdman reported on the latest governors’ meeting. New reading materials are about to be piloted. Staff have monitored each other for the same targeted approach to reading. Money has been raised by the Friends for new reading materials.

133. POLICE REPORT
PC Thomas was not at the meeting.

134. REPORT FROM COUNTY COUNCILLOR MORRIS
County Cllr. Morris said that all was quiet on the county front; she had nothing new to report. The county council’s constitution is under revision.

135. CORRESPONDENCE

a. Village Hall Committee – new contract for those renting
It was decided that this would not be signed at this meeting. The Chairman read it out. Cllr. Williams said he thought that, apart from the parking, these were really standard requirements. Henceforth the monthly agenda and minutes will record the choice of responsible persons at the start of meetings.

b. Clerks and Councils Direct
This was taken by Vice Chairman Price who will pass it on to the Chairman.

c. Powys CC re grant to village hall
Powys County Council have sent a form asking what contribution, if any, the Community Council is making towards the village hall in the next year, in order to determine whether any grant may be payable to the Hall Committee by the county council. The Hall Committee has again not asked for a donation from the Community Council and no contribution will be made.

d. National Grid re new pipeline (which will not now come through Clyro)
The National Grid confirm that the new pipeline is to be laid the other side of the river. Other information about the pipeline was enclosed.

e. Powys CC re Community Strategy – 2 initiatives and forthcoming public meetings.
The nearest meeting will take place in Builth Wells. No action taken.

f. PAVO – Millennium Development Goals – Mapping Powys
No action taken.

- Cllr. Herdman gave her apologies and left the meeting at this point -

g PAVO – Consultation event on Empowering Active Citizens to Contribute to Wales 30th March Llandrindod Wells
No action taken.

h. Powys CC – re Spring Liaison meetings
The Spring Liaison meetings with community councils have been cancelled for the moment.

i. Wales Audit Office – Appointment of External Auditor
The Wales Audit Office have written asking if there are objections to the possible reappointment of BVO as external auditors.

136. FINANCIAL MATTERS

a. BANK BALANCES - Current account: £2,781.48 as at 5th February 2007.

b. Donations.
Current donations were discussed.
i. Cllr. M. Morris proposed, and Cllr. Wheeler seconded, a donation of £100 again to the Hay and District Dial-a-Ride. This was agreed.

ii. Cllr. M. Morgan proposed and Cllr. Hood seconded a donation of £50 to the Samaritans.
Cllr. Williams said that this was not a local charity. (A donation would therefore not be within the Council’s usual policy to restrict donations to local concerns). Councillors voted against this proposal.

c. Advertising Invoices:
i. Brecon & Radnor Express – bill for advertising for a new Clerk: £65.92 inc VAT
Payment was proposed by Cllr. Hood and seconded by Cllr. Smith. All agreed.

ii. Hereford Times – bill for advertising for a new Clerk: £49.70
Payment was proposed by Cllr. Hood and seconded by Cllr. Wheeler. All agreed.

d. Cllr. Wheeler proposed, and Williams seconded, payment to the Clerk of £130.42. This was agreed.

e. PAYMENTS
Cheques drawn:
i. Clerk’s salary: £130.42
ii. Brecon & Radnor Express: £65.92
iii. Hereford Times: £49.70
iv. Hay and District Dial-a-Ride: £100

137. OTHER BUSINESS

a. The Chairman has checked the Council’s assets this month. No problems were noted.

The Chairman then thanked all those who had come to the meeting and
THE MEETING WAS FORMALLY CLOSED AT 9.40. Minutes were taken by the Clerk.

 

APRIL 2007 MINUTES

MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF CLYRO COMMUNITY COUNCIL
HELD IN THE VILLAGE HALL ON
TUESDAY 10 APRIL, 2007 at 8.00pm

1. PRESENT:

a. Cllr. B Morgan (Chairman), Cllr. Price (Vice Chairman), Cllr. Smith, Cllr. Green, Cllr. Wheeler, Cllr. Morgan

IN ATTENDANCE: County Councillor Morris
Two Members of the Public

b. APOLOGIES: Cllr. Hood, Cllr. Herdman

c. Responsible person for duration of this meeting. This was discussed in 3b.

d. MINUTES OF THE LAST MEETING: The minutes of the March 2007 meeting were approved by Councillors and signed as correct by the Chairman, with the exception of 136b - Donations. Minutes should read, Councillor Morgan proposed not Councillor Morris. This was corrected and initialled.

e. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: There were none.

2. PLANNING MATTERS:

PR260603: Full: Conversion of barns to 3 dwellings, installation of 3 new septic tanks and alterations to existing access of Barns at Bryn y Garth, Painscastle.

The Chairman told Councillors that Tom Fairfield had information that raised concerns in relation to the Ecological Survey, this needed to be raised with the planners. It was decided that more information was required by the councillors, before a decision be made. Clerk was to contact Powys County Council requesting that more information be given. Councillors were otherwise in favour of the plans.

3. MATTERS ARISING:

a. Highways Matters Update

Cllr. Morris advised the councillors that the application regarding Pentwyn had been withdrawn because of highways concerns. The applicant intends to reapply with updated plans.

b. Fire Risk Assessment and Action Plan

The Chairman had met with the Hall Committee, and discussed and clarified the booking conditions. Concerns had been expressed regarding the action plan. He informed councillors that he had re-done the plan and proceeded to read the new version. The Responsible Person would be the Chairman or in his absence, a substitute would be chosen on the night. All were in agreement.

c. Hall Booking and New Contract

The Chairman was to book the hall on behalf of the council. The councillors were informed of the changes, which had been made to the new contract. The Chairman signed and all were in agreement.

4. REPORTS ON DOCUMENTS READ; MEETINGS ATTENDED; ACTIVITIES ETC; INCLUDING:

5. SCHOOL GOVERNORS REPORT:

Cllr. Green informed the meeting that Mr Brassington’s kind offer of a portakabin for Clyro School had been turned down, as full planning permission was needed.

Some discussion followed on school closures.

6. POLICE REPORT:

There was no report.

7, REPORT FROM COUNTY COUNCILLOR MORRIS:

Cllr. Morris stated that the Governors were very concerned about Clyro School. There were currently 90 places for children and only one place was void. Hay School had as many as forty voids.

Cllr. Morris was going to meet with the Director of Education regarding the situation. It had been arranged for him to see the School on the 17 April. He had indicated that he saw no reason why planning permission should be refused, as the portakabin would only be used for storage.

8. CORRESPONDENCE:

a. From The Hon. Mrs Legge Bourke - County Service of Commitment to World Peace and Remembrance - The letter was read and it was decided that no one would be attending.

b. Welsh Assembly:Document enclosed: A Shared Responsibility, taken by the chairman.

c. One Voice Wales: Summary enclosed of the Assembly’s ‘A Shared Responsibility’ and Bulletin. The Chairman was to read both of these documents and summarise them for the next meeting.

d. Welsh Air Ambulance: Information and appeal for Support. It was suggested that a donation be given and the Chairman asked how councillors felt. It was to be put on the agenda for the next meeting.

e. Audit Pack

f. BDO (Auditors) - Local Council Briefing - both of these documents were given to the clerk to read for the next meeting.

g. Health Challenge Wales - Spring Issues - These were handed out to councillors.

h. Ombudsman - posters enclosed. The letter was read. Chairman was to see if the posters could be reduced in size in order that they may be displayed on the notice board.

i. Western Power Distribution - Quality of Supply Report 2006. Cllr. Smith to read and report back.

j. Roger Williams MP - re post offices. A joint letter had been received from Mr Williams and Kirsty Williams. The letter was read out.

k. G Butler Consultancy re good practice ideas for community projects. Letter was read out, but declined.

l. One Voice Wales - new membership. Letter was read out in which a representative of the council was requested. The Chairman was to go.

m. Powys County Council Highways - Street Lighting. Letter was read. Contact cards to be kept by clerk.

n. ICO - Letter was read out.

9. FINANCIAL MATTERS:

a. Bank Balances - for the end of the year had not yet been received.

b. Since the end of year balances had not yet been received, the Clerk presented only a provisional set of accounts. These were agreed.

c. Hall Committee: invoice for room rental £96. This was proposed by Cllr. Smith and seconded by Cllr. Green.

d. Cllr. Morgan proposed and Cllr. Smith seconded, the payment to the Clerk of £132.42. The cheques were then signed by the Chairman and Cllr. Price.

e. Payments - Cheques drawn:

i. Clerk’s salary: £132.42
ii. Village Hall Committee: £96

10. ANY OTHER BUSINESS:

a. The Chairman had checked the Council’s assets this month, these were certified correct.

b. Hall Committee - it was requested that the door on the noticeboard be eased as it was difficult to gain access. The chairman asked Ted Brown who is a member of the hall committee and was attending this meeting, if he could pass this on to the committee, Ted said that he would.

The Chairman then proceeded to present the outgoing Clerk, Catriona with a thank you gift.

Cllr. Smith reported that the road below him at Begwyns bluff needed resurfacing. Cllr. Morris to inform council.

The Chairman then thanked all those who had come to the meeting and THE MEETING WAS FORMALLY CLOSED AT 9.00pm. Minutes were taken by the Clerk.

The meeting was then opened for discussion with members of the public.

Tom Fairfield, in relation to his submission to the High Court, and regarding the reply of his letter to County Cllr. Morris as documented in February’s minutes, would like in writing from the county solicitor, that Cllr. Morris had by the county solicitor, been told not to reply to his questions. Clerk to contact county solicitor about this issue.

Catriona - Reported that gullies had been dug quite deeply down the side of the lanes around Llowes common, which made access very difficult. Cllr. Morris reported that there was no hope of anything being done about this as there was no money. However, she would look into it.

 

A. G .M Minutes 2007

CLYRO COMMUNITY COUNCIL

THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
held at7.45pm on TUESDAY 8 MAY 2007
in the Village Hall, Clyro


PRESENT: Councillor B Morgan, Chairman, Councillor S Herdman, Councillor V Price, Councillor M Morgan.

IN ATTENDANCE: County Councillor M Morris, 2 Members of the Public

APOLOGIES: Councillor G Green, Councillor M Smith

1. MINUTES OF THE LAST MEETING:

These had already been accepted as a true record and duly signed, at the June meeting last year.

2. CHAIRMAN’S REPORT:

First of all I would like to thank all Councillors and our County Councillor for their support over the past year.

What has happened over the last year, we have interviewed and appointment a new clerk, so it’s thanks to Catriona for all her work over the last eight years. Now we look forward to working with Joy for at least another eight years.

Moving on, the planning over the last year. Well we lost the old pottery on appeal, a lot of time was spent on the case, and I think lessons have been learned, should we be involved in this kind of case in the future? Over the year we have dealt with 15-20 planning applications.

The step outside the Old Vicarage has been removed, and with it the trip hazard.

We have had meetings about a village pedestrian crossing, although this appears to be a non-starter. We now have 20mph signs that flash at school times and of course, we have had public meetings where we can hear the opinions of the public and act accordingly.

The bollards continue to jump out in front of passing traffic from time to time.

Councillors have attended planning liaison , and Radnorshire Liaison meetings and we can’t wait to go to the next one.

We have read and reported on various documents and recycled quite a few of them.
Our appointed school governor Ashley has resigned from the post, which over the years included him being chairman, many thanks to Ashley for all his work. We have elected Gerrard to take his place, and look forward to lots of reports from him.

We have done our fire risk assessment, produced our action plan and appointed responsible persons.

We new have to do a monthly check on our physical assets, which of course are the village green, four benches, a notice board and the information board.

PC Thomas visits from time to time to inform us of crime statistics and local updates and we find these visits very useful.

WWW.CLYRO.ORG is still attracting quite a number of visitors some from as far away as Australia and the USA, as well as people looking for history on Clyro, and researching family trees.

We have joined One Voice Wales and I hope to be attending some of their meetings.

An annual undertaking for the Community Council is to purchase a wreath for Rememberance Day; this was duly done.

Following the December meeting, Councillors and members of the public stayed on for what has now become an annual event, and that is to share a glass of wine and mince pies with councillors to celebrate Christmas.

Lastly, but most importantly, I think that during the last year we have worked extremely well together, with all meetings having a friendly atmosphere.

The Chairman’s Report was then accepted by Councillor V Price and seconded by Councillor M Morgan.

3. ELECTION OF OFFICERS:

CHAIRMAN 2007 – 2008

It was proposed by Councillor M Morgan that the current Chairman Councillor B Morgan continue in post. This was seconded by Councillor S Herdman.

The Chairman signed the declaration of acceptance of office.

VICE CHAIRMAN 2007 – 2008
It was proposed by Councillor S Herdman that Councillor V Price be Vice Chairman, this was seconded by Councillor M Morgan.
SCHOOL GOVERNOR 2007 – 2008

It was agreed by all that Councillor Green continue as School Governor.

ACCOUNTS:

These were presented to the meeting by the Clerk, and they were accepted as being correct. This was proposed by Councillor M Morgan and accepted by Councillor S Herdman.

The meeting was then brought to a close.



MAY 2007 MINUTES

MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF CLYRO COMMUNITY COUNCIL
held in the Village Hall on
TUESDAY 8 MAY 2007 at 8.00pm


11. PRESENT:

a. Cllr. B Morgan (Chairman), Cllr. D Hood, Cllr. S Herdman, Cllr. V Price, Cllr. M Morgan, Cllr. H Wheeler

IN ATTENDANCE: County Councillor M Morris
2 Members of the Public

b. APOLOGIES: Cllr. G Green, Cllr. M Smith

c. Responsible person for duration of this meeting for fire regulations, Councillor B Morgan.

d. MINUTES OF THE LAST MEETING: The minutes of the April 2007 meeting were approved by Councillors and signed by the Chairman, with the exception of 5. School Governors Report, this should read Mr Brisland not Mr Brassington. This was corrected and initialled.

d. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: There were none.

12. PLANNING MATTERS:

PR438402 – FULL: Change of Use of Land from agricultural to domestic and erection of new garage block SO24 NW, Bythel, Clyro, Hay on Wye.

The plans were approved by councillors, although Cllr. Hood made the suggestion that perhaps stone cladding could be used.

PR579501 – FULL: Change of use from agriculture to domestic and erection of a garage/workshop with loft over on site of existing disused building, Briwnant, Llowes.

The plans were approved by councillors.

13. MATTERS ARISING:

a. Highways Matters Update.

The Chairman informed councillors and Councillor Morris that the potholes at Begwyns Bluff had been filled in.

b. Community Council Assets: The Chairman reported that these had been inspected and that all was as it should be.

c. Clerks Contract Of Employment: This was signed by the Chairman and countersigned by the clerk.

d. Welsh Air Ambulance: Information and appeal for support: Councillors were asked if they thought a
donation should be given. Councillor Hood proposed that a donation of £100 is given, this was seconded by Councillor Herdman. All were in favour apart from Councillor Price, who abstained from the vote.

e. Cllr. Morris stated that in relation to the bus stop in Clyro, that discussion/complaint be withheld until work
had been completed.

14. REPORTS ON DOCUMENTS READ; MEETINGS ATTENDED; ACTIVITIES ETC, INCLUDING:

15. SCHOOL GOVERNORS REPORT:
Councillor Herdman reported that the Amphitheatre was now in the school grounds. The stage was to be extended. The slide was on its way. Groundworks were scheduled for next weekend. The next phase was for parts of the garden to be done, with recycling (sustainable energy). The school had been invited to the Hay Festival but it was not yet known in what context.

16. POLICE REPORT:

There was none.

17. REPORT FROM COUNTY COUNCILLOR MORRIS:

Councillor Morris had nothing to report.

18. CORRESPONDENCE:

The Clerk read a précis of the contents of each letter for councillors information:

a. The Independent Group Montgomeryshire

This group is the largest political group in Montgomeryshire, and intends to also support all other communities in Powys. The group intends to protect services through efficiency savings, rather than service cuts.

b. Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Authority draft risk reduction plan – Consultation was to follow.

c. Standards Board for England – Not relevant to this council.

d. Wye Valley Walk Passport Scheme – Launch of a scheme in Hereford with Iolo Williams on 31 May.
There were 2 places available. Councillor Morris said she would be attending.

e. Wales Audit Office – Extension of external auditor appointment. As there had been no objections to the
extention of the appointment, the letter informed councillors that BDO Stoy Hayward would continue to act as the appointed auditor.

f. Remittance Advice from Powys County Council informing councillors that £750 of the precept had been
Paid into the councils bank account.

19. FINANCIAL MATTERS:

a. Bank Balances: The clerk informed councillors that she had received a letter from the bank asking for identification etc. following the request by the Chairman that statements be sent to her instead of the previous clerk. The Chairman stated that the bank didn’t seem to understand that the clerk was not allowed to write cheques and that it had only been requested that she receive statements. The Chairman was to pursue this matter with Linda Meredith at the Brecon branch.

b. Payments – Cheques drawn:

i. Clerk’s salary: £132.42
ii. Wales Air Ambulance donation: £100.00

20. ANY OTHER BUSINESS: There was none.

The Chairman then thanked all those who had attended the meeting and THE MEETING WAS FORMALLY CLOSED AT 8.50pm. Minutes were taken by the clerk.

The meeting was then opened for discussion with members of the public.

Mr Tom Fairfield informed councillors that he was still pursuing the matter of plans being passed without due consideration of the ecological problems that they would cause. He stated that plans were passed in direct breach of the law and with total lack of concern for the habitat.

JUNE 2007 MINUTES

MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF CLYRO COMMUNITY COUNCIL
HELD IN THE VILLAGE HALL ON
TUESDAY 12 JUNE 2007 at 8.00pm

21. PRESENT:
a. Cllr B Morgan (Chairman), Cllr. D Hood, Cllr M Smith, Cllr V Price, Cllr G Green, Cllr H Wheeler, Cllr S Herdman
Cllr M Morgan
IN ATTENDANCE: County Councillor Mrs M Morris
3 Members of the public

b. APOLOGIES: There were no apologies.

c. Responsible Person for duration of this meeting: Cllr B Morgan (Chairman)

d. MINUTES OF THE LAST MEETING:

These were accepted as a true record. They were initialled and signed by the Chairman.

e. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: There were none.

22. PLANNING MATTERS: with any updates on applications, including

a. PR305405 : Conversion of existing domestic store rooms into a dwelling, demolition of existing shed
and erection of extensions to provide hall and kitchen area, installation of private treatment plant.
SO 14SE – Gwernalwye, Llowes, Hay on Wye

Permission granted subject to conditions specified relating to ecological conditions.

b. PR66406 : Full: Infill of existing occupied areas of the park to position 5 more caravans, move roadway to provide parking spaces.
SO14 SE
This was passed around to councillors. Cllr Hood asked that more information was required as to how many caravans the site was allowed. Cllr Price said he saw no problems with the plans as long as all licence conditions were being met. There were also concerns about added amounts of traffic. It was decided to take a vote. 5 were for 2 against and 1 abstention, but ultimately more information was required.

Cllrs also raised concerns as to whether it was permissible for sale signs for caravans to be placed on give way signs.

c. PR260603 – Conversion of barns to three dwellings, installation of 3 new septic tanks and alterations to existing access, Barns at Bryn y Garth, Painscastle. Permission granted subject to conditions specified relating to ecological conditions.

d. PR23312 : Erection of new accommodation unit, staff bedsits and classrooms, installation of new water treatment plant, creation of new vehicular access and parking spaces, Pentwyn School, Clyro. Permission refused.

23. MATTERS ARISING:

a. Highways Matters Update including:

Latest bollard problems – The Chairman informed councillors that a car had hit one of the bollards by the garage and bent the lamp,post. Someone had also driven straight over the bollard by the school, concerns were raised regarding these incidents as pedestrians could get hurt as well as the drivers. The meeting was informed that the bollards were being removed. Cllr Morris agreed to investigate this matter.

b. Footpath to Hay on Wye, trimming – The Chairman stated that the trimming had taken place prior to
Hay Festival. He asked Cllr Morris if she could request that the trimming be done on a regular basis. Some discussion followed and it was thought that perhaps the Council could arrange for it to be done prior to the next bank holiday. Costs of this would need to be looked at as well as who would agree to do the work, possibly one of the local contractors. It was decided that this issue be put onto the agenda of the next meeting. Cllr. Hood stated that the grass on the pathways was narrowing the width of the path, it was less than 2 feet wide now. Cllr Morris agreed to follow this up.

c. Community Assets – The Chairman informed councillors that these had been inspected and all was as it should be.
24. REPORTS ON DOCUMENTS READ; MEETINGS ATTENDED; ACTIVITIES ETC; including:
25. SCHOOL GOVERNORS REPORT:

Cllr Green reported that the portakabin had been discussed. It had been decided to look at a smaller one now, which could be used for a staff room or storeroom. There had also been discussions on alterations to classrooms, which would cost approximately £20,000. Due to this, it had been decided to put back the alterations to the car park.

An alternative supplier for school uniforms had been looked at. The uniforms seemed of good quality and were reasonably priced.

An internal inspection was to be carried out in the near future.

The school fete was to be held on 29 June 2007. Sports day on 5 July 2007 at 1.30pm.

There was to be another maintenance day on Sunday 17 June and a summer social evening on 13 July at 6.30pm.

26. POLICE REPORT:

There was no report.

27. REPORT FROM COUNTY COUNCILLOR MORRIS:

Cllr Morris spoke on the Wye Valley Walk – Launch a passport scheme, which she had attended. The walkway was 113miles long. The same scheme was being done in Scotland and N. England. The part of the walk on the A438 had raised concerns about the safeness of the road, it was below standards that Powys expected. The verge needed to be firmed up. Cllr Morris had submitted a justification for the work to be carried out, on the grounds that the walk was still well used but there were safety issues. She had asked that the walk was not put on hills etc. as people want to go the shortest way. The path follows the river.

28. CORRESPONDENCE:

a. DEVELOPMENT & PUBLIC RIGHTS OF WAY GUIDE, POWYS – The Chairman read a summary of the letter for councillor’s information.

b. MID & WEST WALES FIRE & RESCUE AUTHORITY DRAFT RISK REDUCTION ACTION PLAN CONSULTATION – Chairman read the summary.

c. WELSH AIR AMBULANCE – Cllrs were shown the certificate of thanks which had been received. It was decided that it could be photocopied and placed on the wall.

d. THE VOICE ONE VOICE WALES – This was passed round.

e. HEREFORDSHIRE COUNCIL ADOPTION OF HEREFORDSHIRE’S STATEMENT OF COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT – The Chairman read this for councillor’s information.

f. UPPER BRIDGE WEBSITE BUILDER – The council currently produced their own website.

g. PLANNING LIAISON MEETING WEDNESDAY 20 JUNE AT 7PM ANTUR GWY, BUILTH WELLS – It was decided that the clerk was to make contact as Cllr Hood, Cllr Smith and the Chairman would like to go.

h. HAY ON WYE DIAL A RIDE - Thank you letter for the donation from the council.

i. HEART OF WALES LINE NEWSLETTER – The Chairman read, the leaflet that was included would be put on the notice board.

j. THANK YOU CARD – from Catriona for her leaving gift.

k. PLAY AUDIT, POWYS – This was done by the Chairman and Councillors.

l. DRAFT INTERIM DEVELOPMENT CONTROL GUIDANCE – Chairman read, he will download information for Cllr Hood.

m. SOCIETY OF COUNCIL CLERKS – Clerk to read and decide by the next meeting if joining is worthwhile

n. DIAL A RIDE – Advert for Administrative Assistant. To be put on notice board.

o. EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES – Equals Celebration Day, Jun 12. This was too late for this meeting.

29. FINANCIAL MATTERS:

a. Bank Balances: Clerk informed councillors of the balance of the current account, which was:

£2,521.18 as at 5 June 2007

Cheques drawn since last statement:

i. Clerk’s salary: £132.42 )
ii. Donation to Air Ambulance £100.00 ) shown in previous minutes
iii. Hay & District Dial a Ride Donation £100.00
iii. Hall Committee – Hall Rental £96.00

b. Summary of Accounts: These were outlined by the Clerk. Proposed by Cllr Herdman and seconded by Cllr Smith.
c. Audit – The Clerk informed councillors that she had met with the Internal Auditor and that the audit was completed and signed. Councillors completed the relevant part of the Annual Return.
d. Purchase of New Printer for Clerk - £34.02 – Cllr Hood proposed and Cllr Wheeler seconded this. All councillors were in agreement.
e. Payments to include:

i. Clerk’s salary: £132.42
ii. Zurich Municipal: Insurance Renewal - £205.00

30. ANY OTHER BUSINESS

Councillor Hood pointed out that the Hay Festival Sign had not been removed. He also questioned whether the sign should be put where it was. Clerk to contact Hay Festival Committee.

Cllr Green asked about the possibility of taking down the basket ball net in the playing field near Castle estate and replacing with goal posts, Cllr Morris to ask although she pointed out that it ought to be checked if the area is safe and that this should be done on a weekly basis. The council haven’t adopted it.

Cllr Morris informed the councillors that she had received a letter from the Legal Department of PCC regarding the complaints made by Mr Fairfield. As this was a personal letter it was decided to close the meeting to the public while it was read out. The members of the public were asked to leave whilst this was taking place.
After listening to Mrs Morris read out the contents of the letter the meeting was reopened and the members of the public were invited back to the meeting.

The Chairman explained to Mr Fairfield that the councillors felt that they had gone as far as they could with the matter, and that the Council could not be of any further help It was therefore felt that this matter should be drawn to a conclusion. Mr Fairfield asked that he have this in writing. It was decided to check with the Legal Department at County Hall if this was possible.

The meeting was brought to a close at 9.15pm. The meeting was then open for discussion with the public.

One member of the public asked why did the council have closed sessions. The Chairman explained that personal matters could not be discussed with members of the public and that this was actually the first time that this particular council had ever had a closed session. Cllr Morris explained that there comes a point when the council can’t go any farther on a particular subject and the there is no suitable answer that can be given.

The subject of the caravan site was brought up and it was explained that non permanent caravans were those that could be lived in for 48 weeks of the year, permanent was when they could be occupied for 52 weeks. The Chairman stated that the council was requesting details of the site.


JULY 2007 MINUTES

MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF CLYRO COMMUNITY COUNCIL
HELD IN THE VILLAGE HALL ON
TUESDAY 10 JULY 2007 at 8.00pm


31. PRESENT:

a. Cllr V Price (Acting Chairman), Cllr D Hood, Cllr M Smith, Cllr M Morgan, Cllr S Herdman, Cllr G Green

IN ATTENDANCE: County Councillor M Morris, PC Thomas, one Member of the Public.

b. APOLOGIES: Cllr B Morgan, Cllr Ashley Williams

c. Responsible Person for duration of this meeting: Cllr V Price

d. MINUTES OF THE LAST MEETING:

These were accepted as a true record. They were initialled and signed by Cllr V Price, Acting Chairman.

e. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: There were none.

32. PLANNING MATTERS: with any updates on applications, including:

a. PR579501 FULL: Change of use of land to domestic curtilage and erection of a garage workshop with loft over on site of existing disused building – Briwnant, Llowes – permission granted subject to conditions.

b. PR292102 – FULL: Alterations and extensions to existing dwelling SO 24 SW
Bloomfield, Clyro, Hereford. No objections were raised.

c. PR476603 – FULL: Change of use of barn to form 2 units for holiday accommodation and installation of new septic tank, Barn at Glyn Farm, Painscastle. No objections were raised.
d. Diversion of Public Footpath Order: No objections were raised.
33. MATTERS ARISING:

a. Highway Matters Update including:

Footpath to Hay on Wye, trimming – Some trimming had occurred but it was currently very overgrown. Cllr Price did not think the community council was insured to carry out this work. Cllr Morris suggested that the matter be checked with the Legal Dept. Cllr Hood felt that it was Powys County Council’s responsibility to cut the grass and that it should be kept in good repair. Cllr Morris stated that the matter should be discussed with the procurement section. Clerk to contact the procurement section and the legal department of Powys County Council.

b. Community Council assets: Cllr Price informed the meeting that the Chairman had inspected the assets and there were no problems to report.

34. REPORTS ON DOCUMENTS READ; MEETINGS ATTENDED; ACTIVITIES ETC. including:

a. Planning Liaison Meeting, Builth Wells:

It was decided that the Chairman should give a report at the next meeting.

35. SCHOOL GOVERNORS REPORT:

There had not been a meeting this month.

36. POLICE REPORT:

PC Thomas gave his apologies for being unable to attend for the last few months. He reported that an operation carried out at Clyro Court had been successful. Four were arrested, for drug offences. Underage teenagers had been turned away. Three persons had been found to be carrying knives. It was felt that an operation such as this highlighted to the youth that the situation is being looked at and dealt with by the Police. They had also been looking at the problem of ‘boy racers’ and other anti-social behaviour, including misuse of motor vehicles. One arrest had been made and they were proceeding with the paperwork to be served. There were problems of speeding in certain areas of Hay, such as Brecon Road and Bridge Street. They were trying to curb speeding, especially during early evening, as they had received letters of complaint from the public. On the whole it had been a very busy couple of months. Hay Festival had been a very well run event.

The police had also been involved with the protest issues involving the pipeline. There had been some disorder, which had been focussed at Three Cocks. Three had been arrested for substantial damage and another three were due to be arrested.

In relation to Pentwyn School, they had continual dealings with missing children. There was pressure on the force to find two missing children, currently one had been found and one was still missing.

At this point Cllr Hood stated that he had received information of a white van going around the schools and the occupants were trying to get children into the van. PC Thomas was not aware of this. Cllr Morgan stated that a letter had gone from the schools to parents warning them. Cllr Hood requested that PC Thomas investigated the claims.

The force had been asked to focus on vandalism, anti social behaviour and parking, by Hay Council. PC Thomas said that they were bringing in a scheme called BOBB – Behave or Be Banned, for license premises to sign up for. It had worked extremely well elsewhere.

Cllr Price thanked PC Thomas for his report.

Cllr. Smith asked Cllr Morris what the position was with Pentwyn School in light of the application being turned down. She informed members that Mr Paul Woosencraft of the Highways Dept. was pushing very hard and that another application was to be made.

37. REPORT FROM COUNTY COUNCILLOR Mrs Morris:

Cllr Morris stated that all her efforts had been aimed at the Highways Dept. to get the bollards repaired. The work was to be brought forward on the work scheme. Some of the bollards were going to be removed and work was currently being undertaken. Cllr Hood stated that the bollards shouldn’t be taken down, asking how people were supposed to cross the roads without them. Cllr Morris advised that they were not there to assist in crossing the roads, but to calm the traffic. She also informed councillors that there have to be through routes and that it was a designated A road.

Cllr Green asked what the position was with the replacement of the basket ball nets with small goal posts in the playing fields near Castle Estate. Cllr Morris asked that the Clerk write to Mr Chris Tulley the Parks and Garden Leisure Officer for Radnorshire requesting this work be done. The use of the goal posts should be confined to small children. It was decided that the basket ball nets could be recycled and used elsewhere.

38. CORRESPONDENCE:

a. POWYS COUNTY COUNCIL – School Closures: Cllr S Herdman to look at this.

b. ONE VOICE WALES – Notice of 2007 Conference and AGM – To be put on the agenda for the next meeting.

c. H AY FESTIVAL COMMITTEE – Confirmation of Removal of Festival Sign. The councillors acknowledged that the sign had been taken down, but was still in situ. Cllr Hood felt that the sign should be removed altogether but it was stated that if Mrs Jackson, whose land the sign was on, was happy with the situation, there was little to be done. It was decided to monitor the situation for a month.

d. LOCAL COUNCILS NEWSHEET – This was passed around to councillors.

e. POWYS WELFARE RIGHTS FORUM – This was informing councillors of the work carried out by the forum and also asking if the council could make a donation. It was decided to put this off until the business meeting.

f. LETTER FROM P SANDERCOCK – Cllr Price read out the letter and stated that the letter was addressed to Powys County Council and that this was purely a copy for the councillor’s information.

g. POWYS COUNTY COUNCIL – Night lighting. Clerk read out the letter asking councillors if there were any areas where they felt that street lighting could be stopped. It was initially decided not to comment and this was proposed by Cllr Smith and seconded by Cllr Herdman. Two were against. It was subsequently decided that a letter be written to Powys County Council suggesting that every other light be turned off on the A438. Clerk to action.

h. ZURICH MUNICIPAL INSURANCE – Letter stating that the insurance premium had not been
paid. The clerk informed the councillors that a cheque had been sent and that this had now
showed on the latest current account statement.

i. SHELTER CYMRU – Request for a donation. It was decided not to make a donation. This was proposed by Cllr Morgan and seconded by Cllr hood.

j. PAVO NEWS – The newsletter was to be passed on to the Chairman.

k. OMBUDSMAN ANNUAL REPORT – To be passed to the Chairman.

l. BRECON ADVICE CENTRE – Annual Report and Accounts, also asking for a donation. It was decided not to make a donation. This was proposed by Cllr Hood and seconded by Cllr Smith.

39. FINANCIAL MATTERS:

Bank Balances: Clerk informed councillors of the balance of the current account and reserve account, these were:

Current Account - £2151.74
Reserve Account - £2734.95

Cheques drawn since last statement:

i. Clerk’s salary £130.42
ii. New printer for Clerk £33.73
iii. Zurich Municipal Insurance £205.00

Payments to include:

Clerk’s salary and expenses £164.15, this was proposed by Cllr Price and seconded by Cllr Herdman.

40. ANY OTHER BUSINESS:

Cllr Hood stated that the for sale sign for caravans was still fixed to the giveway sign. Clerk informed him that a letter had been sent but as yet no reply had been received. Cllr Price proposed that this be left for a month and was seconded by Cllr Morgan, to be put on the agenda for the next meeting. Clerk was asked to contact the Enforcement Officer – Ian Davies and ask for clarification.

Cllr. Herdman reminded councillors that the summer Social Evening, which included a bbq, was to be held at 6.30pm on Friday 13 July, at the school.

Cllr Price, Acting Chairman thanked all who had attended the meeting and THE MEETING WAS FORMALLY CLOSED AT 9.16pm.
Mr Tom Fairfield asked for a copy of the last minutes and also asked to look at the plans, that had been produced for this meeting.

AUGUST 2007 MINUTES

NO MINUTES FOR AUGUST AS MEETING DID NOT TAKE PLACE

 

 

SEPTEMBER 2007 MINUTES

MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF CLYRO COMMUNITY COUNCIL
HELD IN THE VILLAGE HALL ON
TUESDAY 11 SEPTEMBER 2007 at 8.00pm


41. a. PRESENT: Cllr B Morgan ( Chairman), Cllr V Price, Cllr M Morgan, Cllr S Herdman, Cllr G Green, Cllr M Smith.

IN ATTENDANCE: County Councillor Mrs M Morris and one Member of the Public.

b. APOLOGIES: No apologies received.

c. Responsible Person for duration of meeting: Cllr B Morgan (Chairman).

d. MINUTES OF THE LAST MEEING:

There was no meeting held in August due to lack of a quorum. The minutes for the July meeting were accepted as a true record.

e. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: There were none.

42. PLANNING MATTERS:

a. PR390206 – Full: Change of use of land to be used in connection with horses and construction of all weather riding arena. SO 24 NW – Hall House, Clyro. Permission granted, subject to conditions. There were no objections.

b. PR569207 – Full: Erection of a conservatory extension plus new chimney to existing roof. SO 24 SW – Maes y Caer,Boatside, Clyro. Permission granted, subject to conditions. There were no objections.

c. PR66406 – Full: Infill of existing occupied areas of the park to position 5 more caravans, move roadway to provide parking spaces. SO 14 SE – Borders Hideaway Holiday Home park (formerly Forest Park), Painscastle Road, Clyro – Permission granted subject to conditions. There were no objections.

d. PR335301 – Full: Erection of garage/workshop/storage building (partly retrospective) SO 24 NW – Upper Bird’s Nest, Clyro, Hay on Wye – Permission granted subject to conditions. There were no objections.

e. PR476603 – Full: Change of use of barn to form 2 units for holiday accommodation and installation of new septic tank – SO 14 NE – Barn at Glyn Farm, Painscastle, Builth Wells – Full permission granted. There were no objections.

f. PR660900 – Full: Erection of a part single storey and part two storey extension S) 36 SW – 2 Wherby Cottages, Warden Road, Presteigne – Full permission granted (out of Clyro’s area, sent in error.

g. PR292102 – Full: Alterations and extension to existing dwelling SO 24 SW – Bloomfield, Clyro, Hereford – Permission granted in full. There were no objections
h. PR6553901 – Full: Conversion of 2 No barns to 4 dwellings, conversion of 1 barn to holiday let, formation of new access and new domestic garage and new private treatment plan SO 14 NE – Pentre, Rhosgoch, Builth Wells, Powys. There were no objections all councillors were in favour.

43. MATTERS ARISING these will include:

Highway Matters including

a. Footpath to Hay on Wye, trimming – A letter had been sent to both the procurement and legal departments of PCC. An email had been received from Mr Edward Protheroe asking to attend the next meeting. Clerk was to confirm the time of 7.30. The Legal Department was also investigating the matter.

b. Community Council Assets – Cllr Morgan confirmed that the assets had been inspected and there were no problems to report.

c. Replacement of basket ball nets in the playing fields near Castle Estate – The clerk had written a letter requesting that these nets be replaced with small goal posts. No response to this had yet been received. Cllr Morris was going to follow this up.

d. Powys Welfare Rights Forum – A letter requesting a donation had been received. This request was denied, proposed by Cllr Morgan and seconded by Cllr B Morgan.
e. For Sale Sign for Caravans – A letter had been sent to PCC asking if it was legal to put these signs on road signs. A reply had been received, enclosing a leaflet on guidance in these matters. Councillors reported that the sign had been removed and that there were no further problems.

f. One Voice Wales – Notice of 2007 Conference and AGM - The invitation was declined as no councillors could attend.

g. Audit 2007 – Amendments – The Clerk informed councillors that there had been a
problem with this year’s audit and the form had been returned. This had arisen as figures that had been carried over from last year’s audit had been incorrect. This had now been rectified and the form updated, signed and returned to the auditors. Cllr Herdman proposed that the amendments be accepted, Cllr Morgan seconded.

44. REPORTS ON DOCUMENTS READ; MEETINGS ATTENDED; ACTIVITIES ETC, including:

a. Planning Liaison Meeting, Builth Wells – Chairman’s report:

1. Remapping of floor plain areas, as mapping is inaccurate, main rivers should be done by the end of the year.
2. Wind Farms – over 50mega watt sites were not going to local planning, local authorities to get involved with affected town and community councils to ensure that they get a fair deal.
3. UDP draft report should be out now, modification plan for consultation in the autumn. Adoption of UDP in early 2008.
4. LDP Local Development Plan consultation later this year, stake holder meeting later this year.
5. Energy Efficient Developments – supplementary planning guidance in place to ensure energy efficiency in new developments. The target in 2011 that there is zero carbon homes in Wales. Looking for 10% efficiency over new build regulations.
6. Affordable homes – 30/35% affordable homes on sites of 5 or over and can be up to 130 sq metres, site splitting not acceptable.
7. House prices in Powys – 5 person, 3 bedroom house in Llandrindod Wells is currently £118,00 to buy or £240 to rent. In Radnorshire, the cost is £79 per week to rent and in Breconshire £95 per week.
45. SCHOOL GOVENORS REPORT:

There was no report this month.

46. POLICE REPORT:

There was no report this month.

47. REPORT FROM COUNTY COUNCILLOR Mrs Morris:

Cllr Morris asked the councillors if they could think of people who would make suitable governors for Clyro and to let her know. Cllr Morgan volunteered.

In relation to the footpath to Hay on Wye, this was ongoing and she was hoping that it could be curbed as well. It isn’t really suitable with just grass. The hedge should be kept in a better condition, but there was no absolute remedy forthcoming.

There had been problems with the new contract for school transport and she asked that if any of the councillors hear of any complaints, to let her know. Some parents were not letting the children travel on the bus as it was not suitable.

At this point, Cllr Smith asked Cllr Morris about a gender assessment survey he had received. Cllr Morris said she would look into this, in relation to the cost of it, and whom had the questionnaire gone to altogether.

48. CORRESPONDENCE:

1. ONE VOICE WALES – Latest Edition – this was passed to the Chairman.

2. ONE VOICE WALES – Nomination of Chair and Vice Chair – nominations had been invited, but due to the council not having a meeting last month, the deadline had been missed.

3. WALES RURAL OBSERVATORY – questionnaire – Passed to the Chairman, a copy to be taken.

4. WIND FARMS – This had been discussed in the Chairman’s report.

5. LETTER FROM TOM FAIRFIELD – Chairman passed around copies. Mr Fairfield wishes the council to write to PCC and ask that ecological reports are submitted to Clyro Community Council, along with other documents, when a planning application is submitted. He also suggests that the council also request that further time is allowed to get a professional response to ecological issues before we consider them. A vote was taken and the result was 6 to 1 in favour. Clerk to write to the Chief Executive to request that the above be actioned.

6. MACMILLAN CANCER SUPPORT – Coffee morning. The charity asked if the council would consider holding a coffee morning with all proceeds going to Macmillan Cancer Support. Cllr M Morgan was going to look into this.

7. IOG Saltex – Information on play equipment for children, parks, and landscaping. Invitation to visit. The invitation was declined.
8. GLASBURY FARM WOMEN’S CLUB – Invitation extended to councillors to enter a 3 man team for a quiz night to be held on 17 October. The entrance fee was £3. All proceeds were in aid of Children’s Hospice at Ty Hafan nr Cardiff. It was agreed that a team would be entered. Members of the team were Cllr V Price, Cllr B Morgan and Cllr M Morgan.

9. LETTER FROM DOROTHY DEMPSTER – Requesting that 30mph be painted on the road up the hill, towards Pentwyn School, in view of the continued high speed of traffic. Cllr Morris would follow this up. She would also look at getting the sign moved. Clerk to write Mrs Dempster informing her of this.

10. WAG A SHARED COMMUNITY – Consultation on relationship building measures and charters for unitary authority and community and town councils. Three inter-related documents that aim to enhance relationships within local government. Cllr S Herdman to read and report on this.

11. ONE VOICE WALES – Date of next meeting 7.00pm on Friday 14 September at the Strand Builth. The Chairman was to attend this.

12. PART NIGHT LIGHTING – A letter had been received thanking us for supporting the initiative. Clerk to write asking for a meeting with the council in November, to take place at 7.20 to allow for a walk around the area concerned.

13. NOTICE OF REVIEW OF POLLING DISTRICTS AND POLLING PLACES – There was a small questionnaire which was completed at the meeting. Clerk to send.

14. POWYS ASSOC. OF VOLUNTARY ORGANISATIONS – Representatives were invited to attend the first of an ongoing series of events that are intended to help the community groups and voluntary organisations, town and community councils and statutory organisations work together to make the most of the new and existing opportunities. Radnorshire was to be held Friday 14 September at Llanddewi Village Hall. The invitation was declined.

15. ONE VOICE WALES – AGM 13 October Motions for Debate. Motions shown to councillors.
16. PROPOSED TREE WORKS AT ST MICHAELS CHURCH YARD, felling of a tree. There were no objections to this.

17. CHILD LINE – requesting a donation. This was declined.

49. FINANCIAL:

Bank balances – Current account £1,987.59 as at 23 July 2007. No statement had yet been received for the Reserve account.

Payments to include:
Clerk’s salary £130.42 July to August
Clerk’s salary £130/42 August to September

No cheques had been drawn.

Remittance Advice from PCC for Precept Payment paid made to account on 10/8/07 of £750.00

50. ANY OTHER BUSINESS:

Cllr Herdman asked if any further work was to be done following the accident with the road sweeper and the bollards apart for the red tarmac. Cllr Morris would be asking governors to report how they felt about the situation by the school as there was no bollards there now, although there are flashing lights. She had heard nothing officially on why the accident had happened.

THE MEETING WAS FORMALLY CLOSED AT 9.10PM.

Mr Tom Fairfield informed councillors that he had written to the Welsh Assembly and had received a letter back informing him that plans, including one for Bryn y Garth was being returned as no conditions had been adhered to in relation to national survey requirements and standards that had not been followed with regards to European Protected Species. PCC admit failure. It was recognised that PCC needed an ecologist within the Highways Department.

OCTOBER 2007 MINUTES

MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF CLYRO COMMUNITY COUNCIL
HELD IN THE VILLAGE HALL ON
TUESDAY 9 OCTOBER 2007 at 8.00pm


51. a. PRESENT: Cllr B Morgan ( Chairman), Cllr V Price, Cllr M Morgan, Cllr S Herdman, Cllr H Wheeler, Cllr M Smith.

IN ATTENDANCE: County Councillor Mrs M Morris.

b. APOLOGIES: Apologies had been received from Cllr Hood and Cllr Green.

c. Responsible Person for duration of meeting: Cllr B Morgan (Chairman).

d. MINUTES OF THE LAST MEEING:

Minutes of the last meeting were approved by councillors and signed by the Chairman. The Chairman, however, informed the meeting that in future, the signature of the Chairman would be situated after the meeting was closed and above any comments made by members of the public. There would also be a disclaimer at the end of the minutes.

e. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: There were none.

52. PLANNING MATTERS: With any updates on applications, including:

a. PR43802 – FULL: Change of use of land from agricultural to domestic and erection of new garage block SO24 NW – Bythel, Clyro. Permission had been granted, there were no objections by councillors.

53. MATTERS ARISING these will include:

Highway Matters including

a. Footpath to Hay on Wye, trimming – The meeting that had been arranged with Mr
Protheroe had been cancelled. He was under the impression that we wanted to discuss right of way matters and this was not the case. He had given the clerk the name of someone in the Highways Department to contact.

b. Community Council Assets – Cllr Morgan confirmed that the assets had been inspected and there were no problems to report.

c. Replacement of basket ball nets in the playing fields near Castle Estate – Cllr Morris had contacted PCC, who had admitted that they had forgotten about our request. Cllr Morris had been asked to write and justify this again. She had agreed to do this.

d. ,Tom Fairfields Correspondence (relating to planning and ecological matters) – The clerk had been asked to write to the CEO of PCC, there had been no response as yet.

e. Macmillan Cancer – Coffee Mornings - Cllr Morgan had been asked to look into this. She reported that she had made enquiries and asked that the matter be discussed at the community meeting, however, it was found that quite a few coffee mornings had already been arranged in the area, so it was decided not to go ahead with it.

f. Glasbury Farm Women’s Club – This was to be held on Wednesday 17 October, councillors confirmed that they would be attending.

g. Letter from Dorothy Dempster – Signs relating to the 30mph speed limit approaching Pentwyn School. Cllr Morris informed the meeting that she had written a year ago regarding this and was told that the law does not cover private schools, a sign does not have to be placed outside the school. The school could however, negotiate with PCC. The existing sign would be taken out of the hedge. Cllr Price brought to the councillors attention that the sign by 23 The Village was also in the hedge, this should also be taken out. Cllr Morris gave the Chairman the telephone number to arrange this.

h. WAG A Shared Community – Cllr Herdman had been given this at the last meeting. It was a consultation on relationship building measures and charters for unitary authority and community and town councils. The authority was being spread around to create working partnerships with councils. The document contained case studies and outlined the roles and responsibilities of councils, so that there was a clear awareness of who was responsible for what, which would hopefully mean better working relationships.

i. One Voice Wales – Chairman’s Report. The chairman reported that he had been unable to attend.

j. Part Night Lighting – The clerk informed the councillors that Mr Brian Davies, PCC would be attending prior to the next meeting, he would be arriving at 7.20 in order to have a walk about with the Chairman and councillors regarding this matter.

54. REPORTS ON DOCUMENTS READ; MEETINGS ATTENDED; ACTIVITIES ETC, including:

55. SCHOOL GOVENORS REPORT:

There was no report this month.

56. POLICE REPORT:

There was no report this month.

57. REPORT FROM COUNTY COUNCILLOR Mrs Morris:

Cllr Morris reported that there had been an announcement of 3 school closures, none of which would affect Clyro. Three schools had been deferred. The Education Authority was looking at the whole area.

With regard to Shires, she was fighting for Radnorshire. There were lots of things advertised on a shire basis but she did not think if was feasible for us to identify with Machynlleth.

The Chairman informed Cllr Morris that the sewage was back on the road again at Clyro Park Wood.

Also Cllr Price stated that the 30mph sign over the bridge from Hay seemed to be in the wrong place. The canoeing entrance was outside the speed limit. Cllr Morris replied that she would look into this and report back.

58. CORRESPONDENCE:

1. SOCIETY OF LOCAL COUNCIL CLERKS – The clerk had received literature and a joining form from the Association of Council Clerks. She informed councillors that she had also received an email from a more local association clerks and would rather join this one.

2. POWYS COMMUNITY SAFETY PARTNERSHIP – The clerk read out a letter which had been received highlighting the efforts being made to improve communication and information to support social integration in local communities. Also enclosed were 2 booklets, an English and a Polish version which aimed to ensure Polish service users have access to information about UK citizenship procedures and other useful contacts.

3. VILLAGE HALLS REVENUE GRANT 2007/2008 – It had been decided last year that no contribution would be made. The clerk was to send in a nil returns.

4. LOCAL DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK (LDF) – CORE STRATEGY from Hereford Council – Requesting the council to complete a questionnaire. It was decided not to take part.

5. VAUGHTONS – Badge manufactures. A letter and brochure had been received outlining a range of medals and badges. Clerk was asked to keep on file.

59. FINANCIAL:

Bank balances – Current account £2,737.59 as at 31 August 2007. No statement had yet been received for the Reserve account.

Payments to include:
Clerk’s salary £130.42 – This was proposed by Cllr Morgan and seconded by Cllr Wheeler.

No cheques had been drawn.

60. ANY OTHER BUSINESS:

The Chairman informed the meeting again, for the benefit of some councillors who had not been in attendance at the time, that the format of the minutes was changing slightly. In future the Chairman’s signature would be above the public’s comments. Plus a disclaimer was to be put at the end of the minutes. This was agreed by all councillors.

THE MEETING WAS FORMALLY CLOSED AT 8.30PM

 

NOVEMBER 2007 MINUTES

MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF CLYRO COMMUNITY COUNCIL
HELD IN THE VILLAGE HALL ON
TUESDAY 11 NOVEMBER 2007 at 8.00pm


61. a. PRESENT: Cllr B Morgan ( Chairman), Cllr V Price, Cllr S Herdman, Cllr H Wheeler, Cllr M Smith, Cllr Green.

IN ATTENDANCE: County Councillor Mrs M Morris and PC Thomas

b. APOLOGIES: Apologies had been received from Cllr Hood and Cllr Morgan

c. Responsible Person for duration of meeting: Cllr B Morgan (Chairman).

d. MINUTES OF THE LAST MEEING:

Minutes of the last meeting were approved by councillors and signed by the Chairman.

e. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: There were none.

62. PLANNING MATTERS: With any updates on applications, including:

a. PR663500 Full: Erection of new pitched roof to garage and installation of new septic tank. Two Hoots, Rhydspence, Whitney on Wye. There were no objections.

b. PR414906 Full: Renovation and extension to existing living accommodation. Outbuilding at Wern Newydd, Painscastle. There were no objections.

c. PR335301 Full: Erection of garage/workshop/storage building (partly retrospective) Upper Bird’s Nest, Clyro, Hay on Wye – Permission granted.

d. PR57305 Full:Erection of workshop and office with parking area. Part of OS Plot no 2700, near Pwll-Wilkin, Clyro. There were no objections, although there was one abstention.

63. MATTERS ARISING these will include:

Highway Matters including

a. Footpath to Hay on Wye, trimming – Clerk to contact Leah Bywater of PCC.

b. Community Council Assets – Cllr Morgan confirmed that the assets had been inspected and there were no problems to report.

c. Replacement of basket ball nets in the playing fields near Castle Estate - Still no response from PCC. Cllr Morris was to contact them again.

d. Part Night Lighting – The clerk read out the correspondence relating to this matter. The clerk was to write again to Mr Brian Davies asking if he would consider meeting with the Chairman possible 4.30-5.30pm, when it was dark to walk around the area to see where the lighting may be reduced. It was also decided to put a notice on the notice board asking the public what their views on reducing the lighting by 50%. Cllr Morris suggested that a list of councillors names be put on the notice.

64. REPORTS ON DOCUMENTS READ; MEETINGS ATTENDED; ACTIVITIES ETC, including:

65. SCHOOL GOVENORS REPORT:

There had been no meeting this month. Joy Jones had resigned and there was no foundation governor present, so that no decisions could be ratified. Laptops and servers were being installed in the mobile classroom at a cost of £10,000, it was felt that this was a worthwhile step at IT was limited.

66. POLICE REPORT:

PC Thomas apologised for not attending recent meetings but that he had been ill.

He informed the meeting that a PCSO was patrolling and would in Talgarth and Hay. It was hoped to get him in Clyro. The Chairman suggested that perhaps he could attend one of the council meetings.

The BOBB Scheme was underway and being used all over Powys. The scheme was concerned with abusive behaviour on or around licensed premises, which involved alcohol. Offenders could be given a year’s ban from all public houses, three people had already been banned. If offenders then continued to cause problems, then a life ban could be enforced.

The Chairman asked PC Thomas if there had been any objections to CCTV being installed in Hay. PC Thomas stated that this was welcomed. The Chairman stated that he had received a complaint regarding this, but felt it was not Clyro Community Council’s right to object to this.

67. REPORT FROM COUNTY COUNCILLOR Mrs Morris:

Cllr Morris informed councillors that 90% of planning was now being done by a delegated office. This had worked. Julian Edwards was covering most of South Powys and Breconshire. It saved a lot of time. Planning would change in the coming year.

In relation to the footpath to Hay, Gerrard Hughes was sympathetic but there was insufficient money. The were will to get some workmen to cut out rubbish and pull grass back in order that 2 people could walk side by side. The Chairman suggested that perhaps a grant could be applied for to undertake the work on the footpath. It was asked that if a community enablement grants application was successful could the path be curbed. Cllrs were informed that this was not possible as in some places as there was insufficient highway.

68. CORRESPONDENCE:

1. SOCIETY OF LOCAL COUNCIL CLERKS – CPD Brochure with example of plans/records as prepared by the society of local council clerks had been received. This was a national association of council clerks. The Clerk informed the meeting that she would rather be associated with a local group of clerks. The National Society seemed more suited to someone who wished to make a career out of becoming a clerk, rather than a part time job.

2. PLANNING LIAISON MEETING – An invitation had been received to attend the next meeting on 21 November. The Chairman and Cllr Smith agreed to attend.

3. PAVO AGM AND CONFERENCE – An invitation had been received to the conference on 15 November. No councillors would be attending.

4. PCC CONSULTATION ON SECONDARY SCHOOLS MODERNISATION POLICY – Review and consultation document. Report from Cllr Herdman and Cllr Green at the next meeting.

5. ONE VOICE WALES – Latest publication had been received.

6. PCC – A CHANGE IN THE REVENUE GRANT SYSTEM. Enclosed list of payments that have been made to village halls. Chairman to read.

7. PCC - Community Council elections for all 110 community councils will take place on 1 May 2008, together with elections for the 73 County Council electoral divisions. Chairman to read.

8. ONE VOICE WALES – Latest bulletin had been received.

9. CAB – Donation request. This was declined.

10. DYFED POWYS POLICE – Policing plan 2008/11 have set 4 priority areas for the force:

  • Class A Drugs
    Violent Crime
    Anti Social Behaviour
    Terrorism and Domestic Extremism

    The force was anxious to have council’s views on what local council priorities should be. They were also asking for a representative at one of the meetings.

11. DIAL A RIDE – A poster had been received and the council had been asked to display it on the notice board.

12. ONCE VOICE WALES – Informing councillors of a meeting on 7 December at Llanelwedd. There was to be a buffet from 6.30. The Chairman may attend.

13. PCC – Open Spaces Strategy for Parks – Comments were required by 9 November. There were no comments.

14. PCC – Primary School Admission 08/09 – Display Poster. Cllr Herdman to read.

15. MID AND WEST WALES FIRE AND RESCUE AUTHORITY – Risk Reduction Plan. Chairman to read.

69. FINANCIAL:

Proposed donation to British Legion of £30 – This was proposed by Chairman and seconded by Cllr Herman. All were in favour.

Bank balances – Current account £2,476-75 as at 1 October 2007. Reserve Account £2752.38.

Payments to include:
Clerk’s salary £130.42 – This was proposed by Cllr Herdman and seconded by Cllr Wheeler.

Cheques drawn: £260.84

60. ANY OTHER BUSINESS:

Cllr Herdman gave her apologies for the next meeting.

It was agreed that the budget meeting being held in January 2008.

THE MEETING WAS FORMALLY CLOSED AT 9.20

 

DECEMBER 2007 MINUTES

MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF CLYRO COMMUNITY COUNCIL
HELD IN THE VILLAGE HALL ON
TUESDAY 11 DECEMBER 2007 at 8.00pm


71 a. PRESENT: Cllr B Morgan ( Chairman), Cllr V Price, Cllr M Morgan, Cllr H Wheeler, Cllr M Smith, Cllr G Green Cllr A Williams


IN ATTENDANCE: County Councillor Mrs M Morris

b. APOLOGIES: Apologies had been received from Cllr Hood, Cllr Herdman, PC Thomas

c. Responsible Person for duration of meeting: Cllr B Morgan (Chairman).

d. MINUTES OF THE LAST MEEING:

Minutes of the last meeting were approved by councillors and signed by the Chairman.

e. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: There were none.

72. PLANNING MATTERS: With any updates on applications, including:

a. PR663500 Full: Erection of new pitched roof to garage and installation of new septic tank – Two Hoots, Rhydspence, Whitney on Wye – Permission granted. There were no objections.

b. PR664700 – Full: Erection of extensions S0 24 SW, Court Evan Gwynne, Clyro. There were no objections.

73. MATTERS ARISING these will include:

Highway Matters including

a. Community Council Assets – Cllr Morgan confirmed that the assets had been inspected and there were no problems to report.

c. Replacement of basket ball nets in the playing fields near Castle Estate - Cllr G Green informed the meeting that this had now been done. He also stated that he had had a request for a speed bump to be put at the top road to the estate. He was advised to ask Mr Patrick Keylock to write to us making a request for this.

d. Part Night Lighting – The Chairman had met with Mr Brian Davies of PCC.

Meeting with Brian Davies re part night lighting

Part night lighting is lights off at approximately 12.30 am and back on at around 5-5.30 am.
These are converted on a light-by-light basis, and can easily be converted back if required.
Older yellow lights will be changed to more efficient white down lighters as and when they fail.

I met with Brian Davies at 4.30 pm on Thursday 6 th December.

We took a tour of the village, which included all the housing estates, and also went to Bronydd

Suggestions from this meeting are:

  • Lighting by main road not be included in scheme initially.

    We consult each estate separately

    1. Begwyns Bluff, not to include lighting on pavement by roadside.

    2. Castle estate, lighting by old peoples bungalows/flats left on for safety reasons.

    3. Buttercup meadow

    4. Baskerville court

    5. The orchard

    6. Bronydd, only one light on estate, which is not working at present, if residents don’t want lighting the column could be removed.

    There is funding available to place a light opposite the old vicarage, this area has been identified by Brian Davies as a possible danger area, owing to the lower level of lighting. I explained that things had improved since the removal of the step outside the old vicarage. We as a council can write to him and decline this offer, but should there be an accident there in the future it will be stated by the lighting division that the CC had the chance to improve light levels but turned it down.
    We will consult with neighbours that will be affected by this light and make a decision based on that.
    Brian Davies said that if a light should be installed than it could be modified to keep light away from nearby houses.

During our tour lighting on the remaining islands was discussed, as some of them had lights that weren’t working. It may be worthwhile writing to Tony Kane and suggesting that the lights on the islands were changed for the high visibility signs that we had as a temporary measure a while ago. The reasons for this being, safety, environmental grounds, and financial savings.

Some discussion followed and it was decided to discuss this at the next meeting.

74. REPORTS ON DOCUMENTS READ; MEETINGS ATTENDED; ACTIVITIES ETC, including:

a. Planning Liaison Meeting – This had been attended by the Chairman and Cllr Smith.

Planning liaison meeting November 21-2007

Restructuring of the planning dept, with a new head of development control Allan Southerby.

Steve packer is now Specialist Services Manager in the specialist planning division, which deals with wind farms etc.

Matthew Griffiths is a new planning officer to the department

Powys are investing in a new computer system called Northgate

The national planning portal soon to be signed up to.

All planning applications to be online by end of 2008, which means that everyone should be able to follow the stages of progress. (This possibly means that we will have to invest in some display technology in the future)

Weekly list to disappear in January, this is going electronic.

Spring planning liaison meeting will be devoted to the planning portal system and will have a representative at the meeting.

Planning protocol review by 27 November 2007.

Brecon Beacons national park review by June 2008 both hoping to work together.

Wind farms presentation by Steve Packer
New wind turbines are being designed by designers and architects and are supposedly better looking.

New rules under TAN 8 (technical advice note 8) allow wind turbines to be up to 130 mts tall.

25 megawatts or over are considered to be a large wind farm.

Presumption is in favour of wind farms in planning applications.

There are around 18 applications for wind farms in Powys at present.

Most applications will be decided at WAG (Welsh assembly government) level.

There is the possibility of a lot of future construction, which will be the biggest construction project since the dams were built.

If the local authority object to a planning application this will then go to review.

If all the proposed wind farms in Powys are built this would produce over 800 megawatts of power and this would meet the 2010 energy target.

Community wind farm projects can be up to 3 turbines and must be less than 70 mts tall.

Domestic wind turbines can be up to 15 mts in height.

It has been decided at government level that wind farms do have an impact on communities, and there should be planning gain or a contribution for the benefit of the community.

There is a DTI toolkit for guidance, and affected communities could get up to £5000 per megewatt per year.

Small home wind turbines may become exempt from planning.

Community regeneration team responsible for discussion with developers.

Not much chance of county ecologist.

Powys cc may have to monitor all private water supplies.

New European legislation, lots of very concerned Community Councillors from north Powys and some from the south.

Clyro are lucky not to have had any applications, yet!

No limit on wind farms outside designated areas.

Planning enforcement presentation by Andrew Paddison

Use of land for over 10 years immune from planning.
Structure up for more than 4 years immune.

Barn conversion to residential if in use for more than 4 years immune.

There are around 150 enforcement cases ongoing at any one time.

Planning 106 strategy for Powys draft document by 13 December.

UDP some modifications recommended by inspector, Powys disagrees with some recommendations.
Plan may be adopted by April 2008.

LDP reviewed every 4 years year on year.

UDP now used for planning policy although not formally adopted will be superseded in 2112 by LDP.

75. SCHOOL GOVENORS REPORT:

Cllr Green stated that there had not been a meeting this month, although they had now got a new church representative, Mr Robert Tapp. There will be a meeting after Christmas.

76. POLICE REPORT:

PC Thomas had given his apologies via a telephone message to the clerk. He also wished council members a Very Merry Christmas.

77. REPORT FROM COUNTY COUNCILLOR Mrs Morris:

Cllr Morris stated that she had been to Cardiff with other Councillors to object to the awful settlement given by WAG. 1% increase from last year. They had lobbied the am’s, stating that this would have serious implications on the work of Social Services.

She also mentioned that she had a complaint about the state of the verges and roadways by Cwrt Evan Gwynne. Cllr Morris informed the complainant, who had already contacted County Hall, that the correct procedure would have been to inform Clyro Community Council and that this would then have been forwarded by them to County Hall.

78. CORRESPONDENCE:

1. PCC WEEKLY PLANNING REGISER – The Clerk read out a letter which had been received. Due to modernisation, the weekly planning register would be available online only and not in paper format. This facility could be accessed by emailing PCC and giving our email address and details of area. Alternatively, we could access archive copies of planning registers.

2. PLANNING LIAISON MEETING – Following the meeting an email had been received giving information which had been requested at the meeting, of a list of people in Development Control in
the South Region.

3. ONE VOICE WALES - New National Salary Scales for Clerks – Chairman to read.

4. PCC POWYS UNITARY DEVELOPMENT PLAN PLUS ENCLOSED CD – Chairman to read.

5. PCC – PRECEPT – A request for the council to request the precept for 08/09 financial year. PCC would meet at the end of February 2008 to fix the council tax for the year commencing 1 April, it is essential therefore that the request for the precept is made in advance of this in order that the appropriate additions can be made. It also recommended that the council meeting in January would be the appropriate time to discuss this. Also received was a form for funding to be paid by councils to village halls for the year 08-09. Clerk to send back a Nil Return as this had been previously discussed with the Hall Committee and no funding was required.

At this point the Chairman informed members that he had received a letter from Wales Rural Observatory stating that he had not completed the questionnaire which had been sent to the council. He contacted them and informed them that he had completed the questionnaire on line. This had apparently been lost. As the Chairman had kept a copy he was able to re-send the information.

79. FINANCIAL:

BDO – Audit for 2007. This had now been completed and signed by the External Auditor. Two points were raised, these being.

It was felt that the council was holding too much money in their accounts and this should be taken into account when requesting the next precept. Cllrs stated that if there was an election next year then money would be needed to cover the cost of this.

One column of the completed audit form was out by £1, probably due to the columns having to be rounded up. It was asked that this not happen again in the future.

A notice was also enclosed which was to be displayed to the community informing them that the audit and financial records were available for scrutiny. Clerk to action.

Bank Balances: Current account balance as at 27 November 2007 - £2206.59. Reserve Account as at 1 October 2007 - £2752.38.
Payments to include:

Clerk’s salary £130.42. This was proposed by Cllr Morgan and seconded by Cllr Smith
Cheques drawn - £130.42

80. ANY OTHER BUSINESS:

Cllr Morgan asked if something could be done to the Hall Committee Notice Board, it has swollen and very difficult to open. Chairman informed her that she should contact Doreen.


THE MEETING WAS FORMALLY CLOSED AT 9.02. Minutes were taken by the Clerk.

The Chairman wished Councillors a Merry Christmas and asked them to join him in a glass of wine and some mince pies etc, which had been provided by the clerk, vice chairman and himself

Members of the public are invited to attend council meetings and to contribute at the conclusion of business. The Chairman and Councillors accept no responsibility for comments made by the public. Minutes and agenda available by email on request. Also displayed on website.
(01874711866) www.clyro.org

 

 

2007 MINUTES

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