Planning - The following applications were considered:
SW/11/1150 6 Wallbridge Lane – Change of use to a residential unit caring for young mothers- babies. A further response will be submitted to Swale BC. Concern was expressed that some information was still not known, for example, who is behind this planning application, who is going to run the unit? It was noted that the service users would be voluntarily accommodated under S20 of the Children Act 1989 which stated that “Every local authority shall provide accommodation for any child in need within their area...” However, it was commented that they were not aware of any need being identified, therefore it was requested that this evidence of “need” be reported.
SW/11/1369 8 Drakes Close – To convert an integral garage into a habitable room and alteration to front elevation to remove garage door and replace with brick and window. – There were no objections provided neighbours views were taken into consideration.
SW/11/1394 1 Macklands Cottages, Otterham Quay Lane – Erection of single storey conservatory to rear – There were no objections provided neighbours views were taken into consideration.
SW/11/1296 Frogs Farm, Susans Lane – Retrospective application for the building of an agricultural barn. The Planning Review Team will review this proposal.
v) Permissions and refusals
Permission granted:
SW/11/1161 Redbrick Cottage, Poot Lane – Rear extension. To be used as a plant room (To house oil storage & boiler)
vi) Proposal to hold a private party for Scout Leaders, Committee Members and Supporters of the Scout Group on 31 December 2011 at Upchurch Scout Group Headquarters, Drake Lodge Recreation Ground, Oak Lane – There were no objections.
Rural Needs Housing – Members discussed a request from a resident asking that a full declaration of interest be made by each councillor on the working party. It was agreed that sufficient checks were in place to ensure that they all behaved properly in relation to this proposal. It was commented that a register of members interests is maintained, and that at each Parish Council meeting, Councillors were required to sign that they either had no material interest on any item on the agenda or indicate items which they did have an interest. Members noted a suggestion forwarded by Tessa O’Sullivan (ACRK) that it may be viable to build 8 to 10 units. Alison Thompson (ERHA) had also agreed that this might be possible and that the site next to Holywell Primary School could be considered. However, the Planning Officer at Swale BC had commented that it would need to be demonstrated that the other, more preferable sites originally identified, were not able to come forward, and also state the reason. Support for this site would also be subject to the design, bulk and scale of the proposed houses and how they relate to their surroundings. It was decided that the working group would meet to discuss this and report back at the next Parish Council meeting.
Administration – Annual Parish Meeting – This has been arranged for Thursday 26th April 2012 at 7.30pm in the main hall of Upchurch Village Hall. Everyone is welcome and wine and nibbles will be available after the meeting.
Finance – Village Hall Asbestos Problem – A grant application form had been received from the Management Committee and a decision will be made at the meeting in January 2012.
Allotments and Recreation Ground – Bonfire at Allotments – Members considered a request by a resident to stipulate times of the day when bonfires were allowed at the Allotments. It was suggested that allotment holders were reminded to show consideration to the neighbours and ensure that bonfires were not left unattended.
Paddock – Installing a barrier at the entrance by 22 Chaffes Lane – An estimate from M Belsom to the sum of £215 + VAT for installing a Kee Clamp Barrier at this entrance was accepted. It is hoped to arrange this installation as soon as possible. Dumping of garden waste – The Council would like to remind everyone that garden waste must not be disposed of in the Paddock and that it is considered as fly tipping.
Burial Ground and Churchyard – St Marys Churchyard – footpath to Burial Ground- Members were informed that a quote had been received from First Highways Ltd. They requested that the Clerk contact the PCC to see if they would be able to contribute towards this cost.
Environment – Queens Diamond Jubilee – Members are still considering many different ideas on how to celebrate this occasion. Please do consider joining the committee. They hope to plan an event which would be suitable for all ages. If you are interested in being part of this committee, please contact the Clerk who will forward your details to a committee member.
Next meetings – 5th January 2012, 2nd February 2012. Please note that the meetings are held in the hall of Holywell School and start at 7.30pm.
Claire Attaway, Parish Clerk, 33 Church Farm Road, Upchurch. Tel: 01634 363906.
Website: www.upchurchpc.kentparishes.gov.uk
Upchurch Parish Council
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