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Minutes 1st July 2024

BRETBY PARISH COUNCIL

MINUTES OF THE ORDINARY PARISH MEETING HELD
MONDAY 1st JULY 2024 AT 7:30pm
AT ST WYSTANS CHURCH, BRETBY

Present:  Cllr Toone (Chairman), Cllr Meyrick, Cllr G Corner, Cllr Falder.

In Attendance: Cllr Lowe, Cllr Muller (to 8:10pm), 1 Member of the public, Mrs J Storer – Clerk.

24/1051             Apologies
Apologies were noted from Cllr Ballington and Cllr Haines.
As a quorum was established, the Chair commenced the meeting.

24/1052             Variation of Order of Business
There was no alteration to the variation of the order of business.

24/10253          Declaration of Interests:
Cllrs considered their obligations relating to declaration of interests.  No declarations were made.

24/1054             Public Speaking

a) Members of the Public and Council to comment on any matter

A member of the public updated the meeting about the bus shelter close to the Stanhope Arms.  A new shelter was installed 3 months ago, the bus timetable is still sited above a readable height.

The installation of a litterbin on Ashby Road East near to the new bus shelter might be considered by SDDC – no definite answer has been provided by SDDC, but Cllr Lowe agreed to pursue with SDDC about the possibility of SDDC funding a new litterbin.

Part of the footpath on Ashby Road East was previously cleared of weeds by SDDC however the vegetation is now beginning to encroach again.

Water remains in a gully on Ashby Road East even in dry periods, the water comes up between the gully and the edge of the road.  South Staffs Water (SSW)  has carried out investigations via a test dig; the hole filled with water which upon testing, concluded the water is not mains water.  Cllrs noted that there are a lot of springs running now that have not run for many, many years and offered this as a possibility.

Many of the drains along Ashby Road East are clogged up and blocked.

b) County Council and District Council members to raise any relevant matter

Cllr Muller reported that the County Council boundary changes will be published very shortly.

Freeport – nothing new is happening, Cllr Muller reported hearing the delays may be connected with the forthcoming General Election.

A site meeting with Highways Dept is still to be arranged and Cllr Muller has raised it with the relevant Cabinet Member; as a result, repairs have been undertaken at Geary Lane.  Cllr Muller is still pushing for a visit and reported that DCC is very aware of the problems being experienced in the parish.

There has been an influx of diversion signs which are thought to be in relation to the sink hole in Repton.

Cllr Muller explained he has a community fund and offered to use some funds towards a new bin at the bus shelter mentioned earlier in the meeting. Cllr Lowe will continue to look if SDDC can install a bin.

In reply to a question raised by the Chair if DCC controlled the contractors who control traffic lights placed at roadworks, Cllr Muller informed DCC does control the issuing of permits and if there are any issues, these should be reported to DCC.

Cllr Lowe reported that there is a new housing maintenance contractor.  There is a housing review to take place, similar to that undertaken on the planning dept.  The outcomes and recommendations from the planning review are not expected to be known until the autumn.

SDDC former CEO, Mr F McArdle, has received an MBE in the King’s Birthday Honours List.

In relation to Beat the Street project; the project was commended however no locations were available in Bretby.

c) Parish Council Members declaring an interest other than Disclosable Pecuniary Interest wishing to make representation
No representations were made.

8:10pm Cllr Muller left the meeting.

24/1055   To approve the Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of the Parish Council held on 7th May 2024
These were circulated, read, approved and signed as a correct record by Cllr Toone.

24/1056   To approve the Minutes of the Annual Meeting of the Parish Council held on 7th May 2024
These were circulated, read, approved and signed as a correct record by Cllr Toone.

24/1057   To approve the Minutes of the Annual Meeting of the Parish held on 7th May 2024
These were circulated, read, approved and signed as a correct record by Cllr Toone.

24/1058    To determine which items if any, should be taken with the public excluded.
No items were deemed necessary to be taken with the public excluded other than that listed on the agenda.

24/1059    To receive the Chairman’s Announcements
No particular announcements were made, other than to again raise the poor state of the roads which now need urgent major repairs.

24/1060  To receive the Report of the Clerk
The Clerk’s report as previously circulated was accepted with no further comments. 

24/1061   Governance
a) Risk Register update
There are no recommended changes to the risk register, this had been considered at the Annual Meeting of the Parish Council.

b)  General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR)
No changes are recommended and there are no reports of any breaches. 

c)  Parish Council elections, vacancies and co-options
There are two vacancies on the parish council and no expressions of interest have been received.  

d) Environment Act 2021 – to receive any updates and review of the Parish Council’s Plan
There were no reported updates to the parish council’s environmental plan.

e) To approve the new Financial Regulations
The new financial regulations were circulated with the meeting papers.
RESOLVED to adopt the new Financial Regulations.

f) To review and adopt Policies
The policies were circulated prior to the meeting
RESOLVED to adopt all the policies previously circulated.

Child Protection and vulnerable adultsCode of ConductCllr co-operation 
Consent FormComplaintsData Breach
Data PrivacyDignity at workDisciplinary
DispensationsEqual OpportunitiesFreedom of Information
IT & InternetPress & MediaPrivacy Notices
Recording on meetingsScheme of DelegationSocial Media
TrainingVexatious complaintsWhistleblowing

24/1062   Drainage and flooding issues
Min 24/1044 – A request for a site visit with the Highways Dept has repeatedly been made, no response has been received and the matter was discussed earlier in the meeting.

24/1063  Correspondence

  1. DALC – Various circulars and information
  2. DALC – advice on pre election period
  3. SDDC – Gambling Act 2005 Statement Licencing Policy and Local Area Profile Plan deadline 16.08.24
  4. Local Government Boundary Commission for England – Extension of deadline on draft recommendations on review of Derbyshire to 21st June 2024
  5. DCC – Parish and Town Liaison meeting – Highway Development Control
    circulated to Cllrs 30.05.24

All Cllrs have been circulated with the information prior to the meeting.

24/1064             Finance

BACSStaffing – Jun£158.05
BACSHMRC – Staffing NI & PAYE (Jun)£42.20
BACSDCC – Pension contribution (Jun)£53.62
Accounts passed for payment

Mrs J StorerExpenses£18.57
BACSStaffing – July£157.85
BACSHMRC – Staffing NI & PAYE (July)£42.40
BACSDCC – Pension contribution (July)£53.62
Mrs J StorerClerk use of home (Apr-Jun 24)£81.00
For approval

Money Received

Deposit account interest (May 24)£3.26
Deposit account interest (Jun 24)£3.48
HMRC  – Refund VAT 2023/24£512.12

Balance at bank @ 20.06.24

Deposit account£3,059.16
Current account£4,889.88

(b) to consider any requests for funding made under s137 LGA 1971
None received

(c)  To receive the actual t budget report to 20th June 2024
The report had been circulated with the meeting papers.
RESOLVED to accept the financial report with no questions.

24/1065 To consider Planning Applications and to agree the response to SDDC’s comments to the parish council’s complaint including to planning application – DMPA/2023/1579 at 70 Ashby Road East

No planning applications were considered. A request was made for an update relating to the potential solar panel farm in Newton Solney.  The possible application and location was discussed, no actions were agreed as no application has been received.

DMPA/2023/1579 – Ashby Road East application – Cllrs expressed discontent and dismay about the response to its complaint lodged with SDDC, Cllrs noted that work continues at the site and no actions have been taken by the Enforcement Team in relation to what Cllrs perceived to be blatant breaches of the planning conditions.

The application for a leisure centre at Knights Lodge  – Cllr Lowe reported that statutory consultees have no objections so officer’s recommendation is to remove the condition but not to fall back onto the Shades Farm application. However, the planning application is not listed for the Planning Committee meeting next week due to an irregularity noted in relation to the car park.  Planning officers noted the irregularity and have informed the applicant, which as a result, the application will be considered by the Planning Committee at its meeting at the end of July.  Cllrs requested the exercise of control of the conditions previously imposed e.g. lighting and music continues past the curfew times and the landscaping is still outstanding.  These areas were some examples provided at the meeting that parish cllrs urge the Planning and Enforcement Officers to enforce.

SDDC’s reply to the parish council’s complaint and concerns surrounding the planning processes utilised by SDDC were considered to be dismissive and failed to address the concerns raised. 

RESOLVED for Cllr Toone to draft a response based on Cllrs comments made at this meeting.

24/1066 Consultations

National Grid – Chesterfield to Willington Upgrade Phase 1 – deadline 17th September 2024.  This includes the invitation from South Wingfield to join in a meeting to consider the impact and implications of the upgrade.
Cllrs discussed the upgrade and if there will be any impact upon the parish; none were perceived.
RESOLVED no comments will be made and  which the invitation to attend a meeting organised by South Wingfield parish council was noted; no cllr will attend the meeting.

23/1067 Items for information only
(a)        To receive reports from Meetings attended
None received.

(b)       Notification of Forthcoming meeting
None known.

 (c)       Training Sessions – See DALC circulars which have been provided to all Cllrs
No training sessions have taken place since the last meeting. 

23/1068           Date of next meeting

The next Parish Council meeting will be held on MONDAY 2nd SEPTEMBER 2024 at 7.30pm at St Wystan’s Church, Bretby.   

There being no further business, the Chairman thanked everyone for attending and closed the meeting at 8:41pm.

Minutes 7th May 2024

MINUTES OF THE ORDINARY PARISH MEETING HELD
TUESDAY 7th MAY 2024 AT 7:39pm
AT ST WYSTANS CHURCH, BRETBY

Present:  Cllr Toone (Chairman), Cllr Meyrick, Cllr T Ballington, Cllr Falder.

In Attendance:  Cllr Haines, 1 Member of the public, Mrs J Storer – Clerk.

24/1036             Apologies
Apologies were received from Cllr Muller and Cllr Corner.
As a quorum was established, the Chair commenced the meeting.

24/1037             Variation of Order of Business
There was no alteration to the variation of the order of business.

24/10238          Declaration of Interests:
Cllrs considered their obligations relating to declaration of interests.  No declarations were made.

24/1039             Public Speaking

a) Members of the Public and Council to comment on any matter
A resident raised a query about the website and the normal practise to keep it up to date.
The resident provided further information about the lack of a timetable and litter bin at the newly replaced bus shelter o Ashby Road East and made a request for the parish council to liaise with the bus company for a timetable to be installed at a readable height and for a litter bin to be installed.
The road gutter between 70 and 76 Ashby Road East has been poorly cleaned over many years and a request was made for the parish council to request the footway to be cleared and reinstated.

b) County Council and District Council members to raise any relevant matter
Cllr Haines requested responses are made to the Statement of Community Involvement.
The Local Plan sustainability appraisal is an important piece of evidence to help with the assessment of Derby City Council’s unmet need.  By the summer there should be an indication of the sites identified.

c) Parish Council Members declaring an interest other than Disclosable Pecuniary Interest wishing to make representation
No representations were made.

24/1040   To approve the Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of the Parish Council held on 4th March 2024
These were circulated, read, approved and signed as a correct record by Cllr Toone.

24/1041    To determine which items if any, should be taken with the public excluded.
No items were deemed necessary to be taken with the public excluded other than that listed on the agenda.

24/1042    To receive the Chairman’s Announcements
No announcements were made.

24/1043   To receive the Report of the Clerk
The Clerk’s report as previously circulated was accepted with no further comments. 

24/1043   Governance

a)   Risk Register update
There are no recommended changes to the risk register, this had been considered at the Annual Meeting of the Parish Council.

b)  General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR)
No changes are recommended and there are no reports of any breaches. 

c)  Parish Council elections, vacancies and co-options
There are two vacancies on the parish council and no expressions of interest have been received.   The notice of a casual vacancy occurred within LGA 1972 sec 8 created by the sudden and unexpected death of Cllr Bridges has been displayed

d) Environment Act 2021 – to receive any updates and review of the Parish Council’s Plan
There were no reported updates to the parish council’s environmental plan

24/1044   Drainage and flooding issues
The state of some of the roads are causing serious problems, particularly at the bend on Geary Lane which floods regularly.  With this location being so close to the Crematorium and with so many people not aware of the problems, Cllrs expressed concerns that there is an accident waiting to happen.
Over the winter, several vehicles have left Knights Lane and have gone into the ditch; the road at this section slopes down which draws vehicles towards and into the ditch.
A site visit with the Highways Dept will be requested for Watery Lane, Knights Lane, Geary Lane and Bretby Lane; the purpose being to demonstrate the issues faced by motorists and to seek remedial works to avoid accidents or worse, from happening.

24/1045   Correspondence

  1. DALC – Various circulars and information
  2. SDDC – Revising Flood Warden scheme – volunteers are sought, either cllrs or members of the public.

All Cllrs have been circulated with the information prior to the meeting.

24/1046             Finance

a) RESOLVED The following accounts were passed for payment

BACSStaffing – Apr£158.05
BACSHMRC – Staffing NI & PAYE (Apr)£42.20
BACSDCC – Pension contribution (Apr)£53.62

For approval

Mrs J StorerExpenses£51.38
BACSStaffing – May £157.85
BACSHMRC – Staffing NI & PAYE (May)£42.40
BACSDCC – Pension contribution (May)£53.62
BACSClerk use of home (Apr-Jun 24)£81.00
SDDCService Litterbins£283.30
East Midlands Audit Services Ltdinternal audit 23/24£52.50
DALCSubscription for 24/25£347.23
Clear CouncilInsurance 1/6/24-31/5/24
Last year’s premium = £680.28 Budget = £644
£680.28

Money Received

Deposit account interest (March 24)£3.36
Deposit account interest (April 24)£3.15
SDDC – s136 refund for 23/24£3,083.29
SDDC – first half of precept£2807.00
SDDC – Housing Relief Grant£73.00

The request for a bin at the bus stop made by a resident in the public section of the meeting was discussed. The Clerk was instructed to make enquiries of the bus company to provide a bin.

Balance at bank @ 29.04.24

Deposit account£3,052.42
Current account£6,082.23

(b) to consider any requests for funding made under s137 LGA 1971
None received

(c)  To accept the internal auditor’s report for the accounts for the year ending 31st March 2024
The internal audit has been completed and no areas of concern have been raised.
The audit invoice for 2023/24 is £52.50 and should the parish council wish to retain the services of the internal auditor (East Midlands Audit Services Ltd) the fee next year will be £57.00.
Cllrs were circulated with the internal audit report with the meeting papers.
RESOLVED to accept the internal auditor’s report as previously circulated and considered.
RESOLVED  to appoint East Midlands Audit Services Ltd to undertake the  internal audit for the year ending 31st March 2025.

(d)  To complete the AGAR for the year ending 31st March 2024
RESOLVED to approve the accounts for the year ending 31.03.24 with no amendments.
RESOLVED to complete the AGAR for the year ending 31.03.24; no matters of concern were raised.

24/1047 To consider Planning Applications and the action to be taken with regards to planning application – DMPA/2023/1579 at 70 Ashby Road East
DMPA/2024/0345: The retention of a front boundary wall at 92 Bretby Lane, Bretby, Burton On Trent, DE15 0QP (11/04/24)
RESOLVED No objections

In relation to planning application at Knights Lane lodges, there appear to be less vehicles attending the site, it was noted that the application is still to come before the planning committee.

Cllrs discussed the frustrations surrounding the late determination of planning applications, the discrepancies in decisions are of concern and the lack of enforcement and communication continues to be an issue.  The review of the planning dept is underway and feedback and complaints of this parish council about the frustrations surrounding its interactions with the SDDC Planning Dept will be relevant and useful.  Cllr Toone will draft the complaint, which the Clerk will submit to SDDC.

24/1048             Consultations
a) SDDC – Draft Statement of Community Involvement (Local Plan) 18th March to 13th May 2024
b) National Government – An accelerated planning system consultation –  closes 1st May 2024
c) SDDC – Draft Cycle Network Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) – closes 28th June 2024

23/1049 Items for information only

(a)        To receive reports from Meetings attended
DCC and Parish Council Liaison Meeting – 16th April 2024 at 5pm at County Hall – no Cllr attended the meeting.

(b)       Notification of Forthcoming meeting
SDDC – Civic Service 23rd May 2024 – no Cllr was available to attend.

 (c)       Training Sessions – See DALC circulars which have been provided to all Cllrs
No training sessions have taken place since the last meeting. 

23/1050           Date of next meeting
The next Parish Council meeting will be held on  Monday 1st July   2024 at 7.30pm at St Wystan’s Church, Bretby.

There being no further business, the Chairman thanked everyone for attending and closed the meeting at 8:34 pm.

Minutes Of The Annual Parish Meeting 7th May 2024

MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL PARISH MEETING HELD
TUESDAY 7TH MAY 2024 AT 7:30pm
AT ST WYSTANS CHURCH, BRETBY

Present:  Cllr S Toone (Chairman), Cllr M Falder, Cllr L Meyrick, Cllr T Ballington.

 In Attendance: Mrs J Storer – Clerk, Cllr K Haines, 1 member of the public.

  1. Election of Chairman
    RESOLVED Cllr Toone was elected as Chairman.
  2. Chairman to take and sign the Declaration of Office
    Cllr Toone took and signed the Declaration of Office of Chair of the Parish Council.
  3. Election of Vice Chairman
    RESOLVED Cllr Meyrick was elected as Vice Chairman.
  4. Vice Chairman to take and sign the Declaration of Office
    Cllr Meyrick took and signed the Declaration of Office of Vice Chair.
  5. Review/Completion of Register of Interests
    No changes were made to the Register of Interests.
  6. Appointment of Committees – if required
    RESOLVED no committees were formed.
  7. Appointment of Cllrs to External Bodies and arrangements for reporting back
    RESOLVED any Cllr will attend any meetings.
  8. To review the Standing Orders
    RESOLVED no changes were made to the Standing Orders which had previously been circulated.
  9. To review the Financial Regulations
    The Clerk had circulated the new NALC financial regulations.
    RESOLVED no changes are to be made to the existing Financial Regulations however the Clerk will highlight the changes in the new Financial Regulations and bring the changes and the draft regulations to the next meeting.
  10. Review of policies.
    RESOLVED there are no changes to the parish council’s policies.
    The Clerk’s recommendation for a full review during the next 6-12 months and for these to be brought to future meetings will be followed.
  11. Review of inventory of land and assets.
    The inventory of land and assets had been circulated with the accounts for the year ending 31.03.24.  The inventory was accepted.
  12. Review and confirmation of arrangements for insurance cover in respect of all insured risks.
    The parish council insurance falls due for renewal on 1st June 2024; Cllrs have been emailed the insurance renewal information on 24th April 2024
    Insurance 1/6/24-31/5/24 has been quoted at £568.33, last year’s premium = £680.28 Budget = £644
    RESOLVED the level of insurance cover was agreed and will be taken with Clear Insurance.
  13. Review of the Council’s and/or employees’ memberships of other bodies.
    RESOLVED to continue with membership of DALC and SLCC.
  14. Reviewing the Council’s complaints procedure.
    RESOLVED to continue with the complaints procedure with no changes.

There being no other business, the Chair closed the meeting at 7:36 pm.

Min 11:  Review of inventory of land and assets.

                                 The parish council has the following assets at 31st March 2024

PC laptop and scanner£500
Noticeboard on Village Green£1
Noticeboard on Bretby Lane£1
Pump on Village Green£1
Litter bin at Bretby Hall£594.59
Litter bin on Bretby Lane and junction of Oldicote lane near to the noticeboard£594.59
Total Fixed Assets£1692.18

Minutes Of The Annual Meeting of the Parish Meeting Tuesday 7th May 2024

MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL MEETING OF THE PARISH MEETING
TUESDAY 7th MAY 2024 AT 7.00pm
AT ST WYSTANS CHURCH, BRETBY

Present:  Cllr S Toone (Chairman),    

In Attendance: Mrs J Storer – Clerk, 6 members of the public

1. To receive apologies for absence
Apologies were noted from Cllr Muller, Cllr Corner.

2. To receive the Annual report for 2023/24 – Cllr Toone
It is just a year ago since we celebrated King Charles’s Coronation with a well attended barn dance organised by Martin Faulder and family. After a couple of failed attempts to organise a social event for the late Queen’s Jubilee year, it was good to see a large proportion of Parishioners getting together to enjoy this event. Thanks to Martin & co for organising.

In May we convened a new Parish Council with myself, Lee Meyrick, Martin Falder and Michael Bridges as Councillors. Graham Corner was co- opted to the council later in May and Tracey Ballington in September. It was with great sadness that in March we learned of the sudden and unexpected death of Michael Bridges who had been a Parish Councillor for over 30 years. His knowledge of the Parish and region will be greatly missed.

As a Council we now have regard to the Environment Act 2021 and should have an Environment and Sustainability Policy for actions by the Council.

Parish accounts showed that due to increasing costs and the fact that the increase in precept in the previous year was kept to a minimum due to cost of living rises, steps had to be taken to stop the accounts being in deficit. An unusually large increase in the precept of 34% was reluctantly made to avoid this.

Concerns have been expressed by residents this year on several planning applications which will have an impact on the local environment. The Parish Council has raised concerns with SDDC at the public’s use of the leisure facilities at Knights Lodges, proposed change of use of a barn at Shades Farm in the village, and extension of Planters Nursery. Premature and possibly illegal building on Ashby Road East has also been bought to the district council’s attention but in all these issues SDDC’s response to our concerns has been frustrating to say the least and lack of communication from the district council has become untenable. This will no doubt be discussed in the later parish council meeting.

Residents continue to complain about speeding traffic on Bretby Lane in particular 2 buses which appear to use the road daily as a rat run. Also, the amount of heavy goods vehicles which use the road even though there’s a weight restriction in force.

Approaches have been made to Bretby and Newton Solney Parish Councils to consider plans for a Solar farm on land off Newton Lane next to the garden centre. The company involved is planning a meeting with affected Parishes but nothing has yet materialised.

The major concern in the Parish for the last few months has been the appalling weather and ensuing floods. Geary Lane, Knights Lane, Newton Lane and Watery Lane have all had significant prolonged flooding and for a period in March when there was roadworks on Hartshorne Road and Bretby Lane at the junction with Ashby Road every road into the village was affected.

We must thank the County Council and District Council (and Councillors) who made tremendous efforts to alleviate these problems, especially when other areas experienced much worse effects from the floods.

Like everywhere else there has been the increase in vehicle damaging pot holes in roads in the Parish which again the Highways department has fought to contain. Although these pot holes have been exacerbated by the excess road water it has to be said that some of our roads were already in a dreadful state and sooner or later the County Council must do something to improve them, particularly in light of possible increase in road traffic due to proposed developments in the Parish.

One success story that has benefited the Parish is that the bus shelter opposite the Stanhope Arms has been replaced after it was demolished in a road traffic accident in 2022. This was due to the persistence of a resident of Stanhope Bretby who badgered various agencies including the police, the bus company, DCC and SDDC to firstly get the debris removed and then a replacement installed. The process took over 18 months and the resident should be congratulated on her perseverance.

3. Public Questions and comments
No questions were raised.

Mary Freeland from Connect Fibre informed the meeting that Connect Fibre has been awarded the Government contract to build the network for full fibre network in Government identified addresses in Derbyshire and for NE Staffordshire and Staffordshire Moorlands.  This parish is one of the build areas.  In coming months, Connect Fibre will be exploring the existing infrastructure and what other assets/resources are required.  This is a 3 year project; over coming months there will be testing, then the new cabinets or poles will go in and the build will take place some months later. When work is due to start, Mary Freeland will attend a meeting with the parish council and residents to explain what will happen.

The addresses identified by the Government for full fibre will be made available to Connect Fibre soon.

There being no further matters, Cllr Toone closed the meeting at 7.29pm.

Minutes 9th January 2024

BRETBY PARISH COUNCIL
MINUTES OF THE ORDINARY PARISH MEETING HELD
TUESDAY 9th JANUARY 2024 AT 7:30pm
AT ST WYSTANS CHURCH, BRETBY

Present:  Cllr Toone (Chairman), Cllr Meyrick, Cllr Corner, Cllr Ballington, Cllr Bridges, Cllr Falder.

In Attendance: Mrs J Storer – Clerk.

24/1004             Apologies
Apologies were noted from Cllr Muller (alternative meeting), Cllr Haines (alternative meeting), Cllr Lowe (alternative meeting).
As a quorum was established, the Chair commenced the meeting.

24/1005            Variation of Order of Business
There was no alteration to the variation of the order of business.

24/1006             Declaration of Interests:
Cllrs considered their obligations relating to declaration of interests.  No declarations were made.

24/1007             Public Speaking

a) Members of the Public and Council to comment on any matter
Nothing was raised.

b) County Council and District Council members to raise any relevant matter
Cllr Muller’s report had been circulated to Parish Cllrs (Appendix 1).
Cllr Lowe’s report will be circulated to Parish Cllrs (Appendix 2)

c) Parish Council Members declaring an interest other than Disclosable Pecuniary Interest wishing to make representation
No representations were made.

24/1008             To approve the Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of the Parish Council held on 13th November 2023
These were circulated, read, approved and signed as a correct record by Cllr Toone.

24/1009             To determine which items if any, should be taken with the public excluded.
No items were deemed necessary to be taken with the public excluded other than that listed on the agenda.

24/1010             To receive the Chairman’s Announcements
None were made.

24/1011             To receive the Report of the Clerk
The Clerk’s report as previously circulated was accepted with no further comments. 
Cllrs noted that an update is awaited on the inclusion of Brizlincote Farm in the Local Plan.

24/1012             Governance

a)   Risk Register update
There are no recommended changes to the risk register.

b)  General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR)
No changes are recommended and there are no reports of any breaches. 

c)  Parish Council elections, vacancies and co-options
There is one vacancy on the parish council and no expressions of interest have been received.  

d) Environment Act 2021 – to create an action plan (circulated to Cllrs 27.11.23)
The Environmental and Sustainability policy was circulated to all parish Cllrs prior to Christmas.
RESOLVED to adopt the Environmental and Sustainability policy as circulated.
Parish Cllrs agreed to consider the environment in all decisions.

24/1013            Drainage and flooding issues
The recent flooding was discussed along with the resultant deep potholes which are known to have damaged at least five (5) vehicles.  Water continues to lie on the road on the bend of Geary Lane, this was specifically mentioned at the Flood Liaison Committee in November 2023 as an area of concern;  the parish council anticipates that action will be taken to resolve the problem as a matter of priority.

24/1014             Correspondence

  1. DALC – Various circulars and information
  2. Special Constable Council Tax Discount – Commissioner Angelique Foster (circulated to cllrs 1/12/23)
  3. DCC – notification of temporary closure of Greary Lane on 23rd January 2024 for safe access to pole testing (circulated to cllrs on 11.12.23)
  4. DALC – raising awareness of the decision of the District Council’s Finance Committee in relation to future s136 funding (circulated 27.11.23)
  5. Cllr Haines response to concerns raised by this parish council regarding the possible loss of S136 funding (circulated to cllrs 4.12.23)

All Cllrs have been circulated with the information prior to the meeting.

24/1015             Finance

a) RESOLVED The following accounts were passed for payment

BACSStaffing – Dec£157.85
BACSHMRC – Staffing NI & PAYE (Dec)£42.40
BACSDCC – Pension contribution (Dec)£53.62
Accounts passed for payment

                                                                                        

BACSStaffing – Jan£157.85
BACSHMRC – Staffing NI & PAYE (Jan)£42.40
BACSDCC – Pension contribution (Jan)£53.62
For approval

b) Money Received

Deposit account interest (Nov 23)£3.35
Deposit account interest (Dec 23)£3.46
Deposit account interest (Jan 24)£3.14
SDDC s136 refund for the repairs to the war memorial£790.00

Balance at bank @ 08.01.24

Deposit account£3,042.55
Current account£1,352.05*

*This balance includes earmarked reserves of £1,000 grant from Cllr Muller – this was ringfenced for the purchase of  a noticeboard.

Requests for funding via S137
No requests for funding have been received.

c) To consider and set the precept and budget for the year ending 31st March 2025
The budget for 2024/25 was re-circulated. Regarding Min 23/998c (November 2023), no new information had been received and Cllrs being mindful of the consultation relating to the possible withdrawal of s136 funding to parish councils, considered it prudent to set a budget reflecting the future loss of s136 funding.
RESOLVED to set the precept at £5,614 for 2024/25 in order to set a nil budget.
RESOLVED to increase the room hire paid to the Church from £5 to £10 per meeting.

24/1026             To consider Planning Applications

DMPA/2023/1463: The variation of condition no.16 of permission ref. DMPA/2022/0683 (relating to Ecology) for the erection of a detached dwelling at 2 Ashby Road East, Bretby, Burton On Trent, DE15 0PT (19/12/23)
RESOLVED No objections

DMPA/2023/1579: Approval of reserved matters following outline planning permission DMPA/2022/1336 Outline application (matters of access and scale to be considered with matters of appearance, landscaping and layout reserved for later consideration) for the erection of one detached infill dwelling with garaging at 70 Ashby Road East, Bretby, Burton On Trent, DE15 0PT  (14/01/24)
RESOLVED Objections
The proposed building is far too big for the specified plot and has an overbearing impact on the surrounding area.  There is insufficient room for the parking of 5 vehicles and the Planning Dept is asked to inspect the site to see the restrictions.
Under the original application, the applicant stated that the removal of trees and hedges would be kept to a minimum and only where necessary; this application states only 2 trees have been removed however viewing the actual site shows the majority of vegetation has been removed and walls and fences constructed.
The conditions of the first application stated conditions of operation and working hours but these have not been abided by on occasions.
The parish council is concerned about the Planning Dept not fulfilling its duty to monitor planning permissions and to respond to concerns expressed by concerned residents; these concerns are to be made to the Planning Dept.

24/1017             Consultations
SDDC – Draft Plan deadline 8th December (Circulated to Cllrs 14/11/23)
SDDC – Budget proposals 2024/25 (Circulated to Cllrs 18/12/23)
This had been considered at the setting of the precept (Min 24/1025); whilst the s136 income for this parish council is nominal, Cllrs agreed to make representations about the impact of any loss of s136 income on those councils where the s136 funding forms a significant percentage of their income.

23/1018            Items for information only

(a)        To receive reports from Meetings attended
SDDC – flood Liaison meeting 22nd November 2023, 10am – 12pm; Cllr Ballington gave a verbal report including that provided at Min 24/1013 when the lying water on Geary Lane was specifically raised.

(b)        Notification of Forthcoming meetings
The next Area Forum Meeting will be held on 24th January 2024 at 6.30pm at the Newton Solney Village Hall.

(c)        Training Sessions – See DALC circulars which have been provided to all Cllrs
No training sessions have taken place since the last meeting. 

23/1019           Date of next meeting

The next Parish Council meeting will be held on MONDAY 4th MARCH 2024 at 7.30pm at St Wystan’s Church, Bretby. 

There being no further business, the Chairman thanked everyone for attending and closed the meeting at 8:06 pm.

APPENDIX 1 – Report from Cllr Muller

You could say that the last few days have been challenging with the higher than average rain causing  extreme flooding in and around the District. As shown in my attached report pot holes are a huge issue and we have teams out day and night trying to catch up  with the thousands of complaints.  Let’s hope for some dry weather over the next few days.

Please find herewith my report for the meeting

  1. The East Midlands Combined County Authority.  On Monday the  18th December the draft East Midlands Combined County Authority Regulations were laid in Parliament. Consideration is expected in the Spring.  The inaugural election for the East Midlands Mayor will take place on 2 May 2024.
    As known the EMCCA is set to bring in around £4 billon of funding for the region alongside devolved powers for transport, skills and adult education,  housing and environment and economic development.
    If legislation is passed in the coming weeks it would come into force by March 2024 meaning the EMCCA will officially come into existence.
  2. The £2 single fare bus scheme.  This is funded by Government and will continue until 31st December 2024.
  3. No 20 MPH limits for two Derbyshire towns. I think its important to mention that two Derbyshire towns have rejected proposals for a 20 MPH speed limit. In Long Eaton a total of 306 responses were received with 63 in favour and 184 against.
  4. Pot Holes.  Again I have received a considerable amount of complaints regarding pot holes, road surface conditions and of course flooding in and around the Melbourne District.
    So far I have reported everything I know about but please let me know of anything that come from the meeting.
  5. Freeport. Nothing new to report.

APPENDIX 2 – Report from Cllr Lowe

Apologies for sending this out later but have now noted the 3pm request.

Please accept my apologies for tonight’s meeting – been quite busy with work!

Here’s a few things for our District Councillors report,

A Flood liaison meeting was held in November which was quite useful in getting people together and some useful discussions took place. Requested follow up on the issues from DCC affecting both Geary Lane and Newton lane, also noted Watery lane still dreadful! Guessing there will be quite a backlog with so many issues recently and a high workload in general.

With regards to Budgets and S136 Concurrent funding for Parish Councils – please send in your comments as this feedback is really useful for all concerned this ends on Jan 12th. Feedback will be presented with final budgets next month.

A Hybrid Refuse vehicle running on a special Hydrogen fuel is in active service around the district and trials are underway – so let’s see how this progresses.

Bus shelter on A511 nr Stanhope Arms – await installation date but will keep on at them!

Have your say on the 2024/25 budget proposals – see SDDC website for a link to the survey this will close on 26th Jan – the new council budget will be presented to a meeting of the full council for its approval in February.

Let us know if you have anything that needs our attention.

Minutes 13th November 2023

BRETBY PARISH COUNCIL
MINUTES OF THE ORDINARY PARISH MEETING HELD
MONDAY 13th NOVEMBER 2023 AT 7:30pm
AT ST WYSTANS CHURCH, BRETBY

Present:  Cllr Toone (Chairman), Cllr Meyrick, Cllr Corner, Cllr Ballington.

In Attendance: Mrs J Storer – Clerk, Cllr Lowe, 1 member of the public.

23/987 Apologies
Apologies were noted from Cllr Bridges (personal), Cllr Falder (illness), Cllr Muller (alternative meeting), Cllr Haines (alternative meeting).
As a quorum was established, the Chair commenced the meeting.

23/988 Variation of Order of Business
There was no alteration to the variation of the order of business.

23/989 Declaration of Interests:
Cllrs considered their obligations relating to declaration of interests.  No declarations were made.

23/990 Public Speaking

a) Members of the Public and Council to comment on any matter
Nothing was raised.

b) County Council and District Council members to raise any relevant matter

Cllr Muller’s report had been circulated to Parish Cllrs (Appendix 1).

No information has been received about possible development at the Brizlincote Farm, the site being identified as a potential strategic site in the Local Plan; Cllr Lowe agreed to make enquiries.

Recycling cardboard – as there are no other recycling points other than the green bin, Cllr Lowe agreed to make enquiries if card will be collected from the side of the bin.

The East Midlands Airport Liaison meeting was held today and details of the meeting will be circulated.

Due to recent weather, areas of flooding occurred in the parish with many of the areas still having standing water. The areas are:-

Newton Lane which has been flooded for nearly a month, DCC officers have been on site but not action has resulted; it is thought that the drains collapsed due to the large volume of traffic on the lane when traffic was diverted three or four years

On Geary Lane at Blind Sam’s bend Min 23/980; here the gully has flooded necessitating traffic to move over onto the other side of the road to avoid the flooding; this is a serious hazard on a blind bend.

Watery Lane is also bad and the gullies appear to be blocked.

Cllr Lowe agreed to take these matters to SDDC and to DCC.

Cllrs acknowledged there were several areas of the county which were severely affected and priority must be given to threat to life, however the response of the various agencies to the ongoing flooding issues in the parish has been disappointing.

c) Parish Council Members declaring an interest other than Disclosable Pecuniary Interest wishing to make representation
No representations were made.

23/991 To approve the Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of the Parish Council held on 20th September 2023
These were circulated, read, approved and signed as a correct record by Cllr Toone.

23/992 To determine which items if any, should be taken with the public excluded.
No items were deemed necessary to be taken with the public excluded other than that listed on the agenda.

23/993 To receive the Chairman’s Announcements
Cllr Toone was pleased with the turn out for Remembrance Sunday.

23/994 To receive the Report of the Clerk

The Clerk’s report as previously circulated was accepted with no further comments. 

The noticeboard on The Green has been refurbished and reinstated; the noticeboard on Bretby Lane has been taken to be refurbished.

Min 23/977 A trailer advertising a bar in Swadlincote has been parked opposite the entrance to Bretby Business Park was reported to SDDC by Cllr Toone.

One side of Ashby Road has been cleaned but the other side (Golf Club side) had not been attended to; the soil has encroached across the pavement and restricts pedestrian access.  This was reported to Cllr Haines with an additional request to clean out the gullies (see Min 23/964), the gullies have been cleared out twice however, the path has received no attention and is considered to be dangerous to use. The road is a fast busy road, the area is dark and the encroaching vegetation has narrowed the path to the extent that it is difficult to use in single file.

Outstanding matters previously raised.

Min 23/977 Rubble reported dumped at the disused garage at the top of Ashby Road East is not within the district, no action has been taken. 

Min 23/977 Rubbish remains outside the property being renovated on Bretby Lane; the site was inspected by the Enforcement Officer in May, but rubbish remains. 

Min 23/077 A loose drain cover on Ashby Road East has been reported to DCC.

Min 23/947 – Eroding of the road surface query on Watery Lane. The Clerk raised this with Cllr Muller (11th May 2023) and action is awaited.

23/995 Governance

a) Risk Register update
There are no recommended changes to the risk register.

b)  General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR)
No changes are recommended and there are no reports of any breaches. 

c)  Parish Council elections, vacancies and co-options
There is one vacancy on the parish council and no expressions of interest have been received. Two people have expressed an interest in the vacancies: one being in attendance.

23/996 Drainage and flooding issues
This was discussed in the public section of the meeting and no further matters were raised.

23/997 Correspondence

  1. DALC – Various circulars and information
  2. SDDC – Information about the clearing of the road gullies
  3. DCC – notification of road closure of High Street & Main Street, Hartshorne Road Repton, Repton Road, Bretby, Repton Road, Hartshorne
  4. NALC – White ribbon Day 25th November 2023
  5. Resident – requesting update and action on spring formed on Watery Lane (referred to at May 2023 meeting)

All Cllrs have been circulated with the information prior to the meeting.

23/998 Finance

a) RESOLVED The following accounts were passed for payment

BACSStaffing – Oct£148.36
BACSHMRC – Staffing NI & PAYE (Oct)£39.60
BACSDCC – Pension contribution (Oct)£50.33
Accounts passed for payment

Mrs J StorerExpenses£68.28
BACSStaffing – Nov£225.69
BACSHMRC – Staffing NI & PAYE (Nov)£60.60
BACSDCC – Pension contribution (Nov)£76.66
Mrs J StorerUse of home (Oct – Dec)£81.00
Mrs J StorerReimbursement of refreshments at Conference£28.15
RBLDonation for the Remembrance Wreath£50.00
S FaulknerRepairs to noticeboards£948.00
For approval

Money Received
Deposit account interest                        £5.62  

Balance at bank @ 06.11.23

Deposit account£3,026.98
Current account £5,107.52*

*This balance includes earmarked reserves of £1,000 grant from Cllr Muller – this was ringfenced for the purchase of a noticeboard.

The repairs to the war memorial are to be carried out soon.

The Clerk provided a verbal report on the balance of funds and the projected cash balances at 31st March 2024.  Cllrs, noting the low level of projected funds, will consider the level of funding for the remainder of the year together with the draft 2024/25 budget later in the meeting and if necessary at the next full council meeting.

b)  Requests for funding via S137
No requests for funding have been received.

c)  To consider the first draft budget for the year ending 31st March 2025

The Clerk had circulated with the meeting papers; the first draft of the budget for the year ending 31.03.25.

Cllrs reflected that the current year’s budget was set as a deficit due to the cost of living crisis, in addition Cllrs considered the budget, level of reserves and the suggested precept level and having regard to this, agreed to the proposed precept of £5,614 this being an increase in the precept of £1,429.

The setting of the 2024/25 will be formally made at the next meeting when any new facts affecting the budget will be considered.

23/999 To consider Planning Applications

DMPA/2023/1196: Amended scheme to previously approved application DMPA/2023/0804 for the Conversion of the detached garage into gym and utility and a pitched roof with the erection of a ground floor glass link and first floor side extension and alterations to the fenestration of the dwelling at 133 Bretby Lane, Bretby, Burton On Trent, DE15 0QP (12/10/23)
RESOLVED No objections

DMPA/2023/1078: The insertion of 2 new ground floor window openings and installation of hardwood windows at 12 Park Row, Bretby, Burton On Trent, DE15 0RL (17/11/23)
RESOLVED No objections

DMPA/2023/1300: Listed Building Consent for the insertion of 2 new ground floor window openings and installation of hardwood windows at 12 Park Row, Bretby, Burton On Trent, DE15 0RL (17/11/23)
RESOLVED No objections

DMPA/2023/1315: Proposed two storey front/side extension, new entrance canopy, conversion of existing garage into living accommodation and alterations to window and door openings at Town Farm Cottage, Unnamed Road From Geary Lane To Town Farm, Bretby, DE15 0RD (15/11/23)
RESOLVED No objections

23/1000 Consultations
DCC – Proposed changes to recycling centres (3rd October – 26th October 2023) – no comments made.

23/1001 Items for information only

(a)  To receive reports from Meetings attended
The Clerk provided a verbal report on her attendance at the SLCC Conference in October.
The damaged bus shelter at the top of Ashby Road East is hoped to be replaced by the end of December 2023.

(b)  Notification of Forthcoming meetings
SDDC – flood Liaison meeting 22nd November 2023, 10am – 12pm

(c)  Training Sessions – See DALC circulars which have been provided to all Cllrs
No training sessions have taken place since the last meeting.  The Clerk attended a 2-day SLCC conference on 11th and 12th October 2023.

23/1002  Date of next meeting
The next Parish Council meeting will be held on 9th January 2024 at 7.30pm at St Wystan’s Church, Bretby. 

7:57pm RESOLVED in view of the confidential nature of the business about to be transacted (in respect of the personal situation of an employee) it is advisable in the public interest, that the press and public be temporarily excluded and they are instructed to withdraw.

23/1003  EXEMPT SECTION
Clerk’s pay award
RESOLVED to follow the pay award as recommended by NALC and circulated by DALC.

There being no further business, the Chairman thanked everyone for attending and closed the meeting at 8:00pm.

APPENDIX 1 – Report from Cllr Muller

Please find herewith my report for the Parish Council Meeting 14th November 2023.

1. Storm Babet has been high on my agenda over the past few weeks with the expected influx of flooding, overflowing sewage pipes, collapsing walls and pothole issues.
All have been reported and in some cases dealt with.  The additional rain during the past days has also added to the local problems and I thank the South Derbyshire highways teams for their hard work and support.

2. I was going to report at the meeting the £46m gap in this year’s DCC budget which is now being addressed.  Control measures are being implemented across the entire council. These include Freezing recruitment except for essential jobs. Reducing the use of agency staff, reducing overtime, reducing IT equipment, no non-essential conferences and only carrying out health and safety repairs on properties.
A further financial statement will follow after the 2nd quarter of the year.

3.  As from November young people in Derbyshire will be able to travel for only £1.50 for a single fare across Derbyshire and Derby. The £1.50 fares are for all buses in the County and City and include travel on direct services into neighbouring local authority arears. Young people aged 11 to 19 will need a b line cards to able to get the discounted fare. Th cards are available through the County and City Council website. Sign up for a b line cards.  

4. The proposed East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) has moved one step closer to reality after key legislation was approved in Westminster. The levelling up bill has been granted Royal Assent after completing its passage through Parliament paving the way for the first Mayoral election next May.

5. The Freeport proposals have gone very quiet with again nothing new to report.

Minutes 20th September 2023

BRETBY PARISH COUNCIL
MINUTES OF THE ORDINARY PARISH MEETING HELD
WEDNESDAY 20th SEPTEMBER 2023 AT 7:30pm
AT ST WYSTANS CHURCH, BRETBY

Present:  Cllr Toone (Chairman), Cllr Bridges, Cllr Meyrick, Cllr Falder.

In Attendance: Mrs J Storer – Clerk, Cllr Muller (to 8:11pm), Tracy Bollington (co-opting member of the public) members of the public.

23/971 Apologies
Apologies were noted from Cllr Lowe, Cllr Haines, Cllr Corner.
As a quorum was established, the Chair commenced the meeting.

23/972 Variation of Order of Business
There was no alteration to the variation of the order of business.

23/973 Declaration of Interests:
Cllrs considered their obligations relating to declaration of interests.  No declarations were made.

23/974 Public Speaking

a) Members of the Public and Council to comment on any matter
Nothing was raised.

b) County Council and District Council members to raise any relevant matter

Both District Cllrs had submitted their apologies due to training commitments; Cllr Lowe’s report had been circulated to Parish Cllrs on 19th September (Appendix 1).

Cllr Muller reported on the last Area Forum when the PCC was in attendance; attendance at Area Forum meetings were encouraged being the only meetings when the police are in attendance.

Devolution – an elected mayor is to be expected to be in place by spring 2024.  There will be over £1billion provided by Central Government to help cover set up costs.  Governance arrangements are still to be agreed, for example is there to be one fire and rescue service or will separate forces be retained as separate forces.

Freeport – no updates.

DCC – there is a £46m gap in this year’s budget.  A cabinet meeting is to be held on 21st September to discuss and address the problem; the funding gap is mainly through overspend on Adult and Children Social services and on energy costs.

A resident contacted Cllr Muller in relation to the weight restriction on Bretby Lane; the Highways Dept has replied informing currently there is no evidence for any action to be taken. 

The PCC is requesting views on crime and safety in local areas; views can be collated by the Clerk and passed to the PCC.

There is a new CEO at SDDC who recognises the big issues for immediate attention are in planning and housing.

Cllr Muller is expecting to have some community funding for local projects.  Funding is being used to refurbish and repair the noticeboard from The Green,

c) Parish Council Members declaring an interest other than Disclosable Pecuniary Interest wishing to make representation
No representations were made.

23/975 To approve the Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of the Parish Council held on 24th July 2023
These were circulated, read, approved and signed as a correct record by Cllr Toone.

23/976 To determine which items if any, should be taken with the public excluded.
No items were deemed necessary to be taken with the public excluded other than that listed on the agenda.

23/977 To receive the Chairman’s Announcements

Cllr Haines was thanked for her work in getting the pavement cleared outside The Stanhope.

A trailer advertising a bar in Swadlincote has been parked opposite the entrance to Bretby Business Park; Cllr Toone will report this to the police.

One side of Ashby Road has been cleaned but the other side (Golf Club side) has not been attended to; the soil has encroached across the pavement and restricts pedestrian access.  This is to be reported to Cllr Haines with an additional request to clean out the gullies (see Min 23/964). A letter is to be sent to the Golf Club requesting to cut the hedge back which is also hindering pedestrian access.

Rubble is being dumped at the disused garage at the top of Ashby Road East.  The Clerk will report this to the District Council Enforcement Officer.

Rubbish remains outside the property being renovated on Bretby Lane; the site was inspected by the Enforcement Officer in May, but rubbish remains.  This is to be reported to the Enforcement Officer.

Stanhope Green appears to be a waste land and has Japanese Knotweed.

The Green now has fibre broadband.

8:11pm Cllr Muller left the meeting.

A drain cover opposite 23 Ashby Road East rattles when a vehicle passes over it; this is to be reported to DCC.

23/978 To receive the Report of the Clerk
The Clerk’s report as previously circulated was accepted with no further comments. 

23/979 Governance

a) Risk Register update
There are no recommended changes to the risk register.

b)  General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR)
No changes are recommended and there are no reports of any breaches. 

c)  Parish Council elections, vacancies and co-options
There are 2 vacancies on the parish council.   Two people have expressed an interest in the vacancies.
RESOLVED to co-opt Mrs Tracy Bollington as a parish councillor as per LGA 1972, sch12, para 39.
Cllr Bollington singed the Declaration of Office and completed the Register of Interest.

d) Consideration of the Environment Act 2021 (information circulated to Cllrs on 7th July 2023)
The Clerk had previously circulated information to Cllrs which is from 1st January 2024 a public authority but not a parish council, must:

  1. Consider what you can do to conserve and enhance biodiversity
  2. Agree policies and specific objections based on the Council’s consideration
  3. Act to deliver the policies and achieve the objectives.

The parish council has no obligations under the Act however the advice received is for parish councils to give consideration to biodiversity in its decision making.  This advice was noted by Cllrs.

23/980 Drainage and flooding issues

Min 23/947 – eroding of the road surface query. The Clerk raised this with Cllr Muller (11th May 2023) and action is awaited.

Min 23/964 – The gullies on Ashby Road East which required clearing were reported to DCC. 

A corner on Geary Lane, opposite Blind Sam’s gully, is gathering water.  This together with matters raised under Min 23/977, impact upon drainage within the parish. It is suggested that a gully cleaner is required throughout the parish.

23/981 Correspondence

  1. DALC – Various circulars and information
  2. DCC – Survey – Have Your Say – circulated to cllrs 10/08/23
  3. SDDC – Civic Service – 3rd September 2023
  4. Clerks & Councils Direct
  5. Resident – condition of Ashby Road East and providing information about weeds, overgrown hedges and trees

All Cllrs have been circulated with the information prior to the meeting.

23/982 Finance

a) RESOLVED The following accounts were passed for payment

BACSStaffing – August£148.36
BACSHMRC – Staffing NI & PAYE (Aug)£39.60
BACSDCC – Pension contribution (Aug)£50.33
ICOAnnual ICO payment£35.00 (d/d)
Accounts passed for payment

Mrs J StorerExpenses£carried forward to next meeting
BACSStaffing – Sept£148.36
BACSHMRC – Staffing NI & PAYE (Sep)£39.60
BACSDCC – Pension contribution (Sep)£48.34
Mrs J StorerUse of home (July-Sept)£81.00
Royal MailRenewal of PO Box number£132.00
PKF LittlejohnAudit fee 22/23£252.00
Royal MailPostal redirection£16.00
SDDCService litter bins 22/23£1710.31          chq 000566
For approval

** £1200 ringfenced funds used towards the cost of the 2 bins and installation (Bretby Hall and Mimi’s Wood).

Money Received

Gross interest (Aug ‘23)£2.24
Current deposit interest rate = 0.90%
SDDCs136 refund£98.24
SDDCSecond half precept£2,092.50

Balance at bank @ 01.09.23

Deposit account£3,026.98
Current account£5,107.52*
*This balance includes earmarked reserves of £1,000 grant from Cllr Muller – this was ringfenced for the purchase of a noticeboard.

The repairs to the war memorial are to be carried out soon.

The Clerk provided a verbal report on the balance of funds and the projected cash balances as at 31st March 2024.  Cllrs, noting the low level of projected funds, will consider the level of funding for the remainder of the year together with the draft 2024/25 budget at the next full council meeting.

b) Requests for funding via S137
No requests for funding have been received.

c)  Audit report

The external audit report has been circulated and there are no areas of concern raised. The parish council has a clean audit report.

The notice advising the conclusion of the audit is to be placed on the website and on the noticeboard.

23/983 To consider Planning Applications

DMOT/2023/0935: The felling of a Willow Tree and a Birch Tree at Hillgrove Cottage, Watery Lane, Bretby, Burton On Trent, DE15 0RD (24/08/23)
RESOLVED No objections

SCC/23/0099/FULL-MIN for Proposed expansion to include library, dining area & other facilities at Paulet High School, Stanton Road, Stapenhill, Burton Upon Trent, Staffordshire, DE15 9RT
RESOLVED No objections

DMPA/2023/0996: The installation of wall cladding on an existing agricultural building at Shades Farm, Unnamed Road From Geary Lane To Town Farm, Burton On Trent, DE15 0RD (12/09/23)
RESOLVED No objections

DMPN/2023/1044: Prior Notification for the demolition of two storey office element on the northern elevation of Dovedale House Dovedale House, Bretby Business Park, Ashby Road East, Bretby, Burton On Trent, DE15 0YZ (04/09/23)
RESOLVED No objections

DMPA/2023/1021: Demolition of existing garage and construction of single storey side extension at 17 Bretby Lane, Bretby, Burton On Trent, DE15 0QN (13/09/23)
RESOLVED No objections

DMPA/2023/0726: The erection of a wooden garden building at Woodland View, The Square, Bretby, Burton-on-Trent, DE15 0RF (15/09/23)
RESOLVED No objections

DMPA/2023/0966: Installation of a ramp and steps to front entrance, existing rear balcony to be widened along and the re-grading of driveway to allow single ramp, to access the building at 46 Bretby Lane, Bretby, Burton On Trent, DE15 0QW (19/09/23)
RESOLVED No objections

DMPA/2023/1133: Demolition of existing livestock building, erection of new livestock building and garaging to service associated residential property at Shades Farm, Unnamed Road From Geary Lane To Town Farm, Burton On Trent, DE15 0RD (10/10/23)
RESOLVED No objections however the landscaping under previous planning application 9/2017/0448 is still required to be completed.

23/984 Consultations
None received.

23/985 Items for information only

(a)  To receive reports from Meetings attended
The Area Forum meeting was discussed in the open section of the meeting Min 23/974b.

(b)  Notification of Forthcoming meetings
None known.

(c)  Training Sessions – See DALC circulars which have been provided to all Cllrs
No training sessions have taken place since the last meeting.
Next month the Clerk is attending a 2-day SLCC conference; the parish council agreed to make a reasonable contribution towards the costs.

23/986 Date of next meeting

The next Parish Council meeting will be held on MONDAY 13th NOVEMBER 2023 at 7.30pm at St Wystan’s Church, Bretby. 

There being no further business, the Chairman thanked everyone for attending and closed the meeting at 8:47 pm.

APPENDIX 1 – Report from Cllr Lowe as circulated to parish cllrs 19.09.23

SDDC are starting to form their new Council plan later this month which will set out the priorities across the District for 2024-2028. It is expected that the first draft will be ready before Christmas.

The operational service team are currently working on a route optimisation project to help ensure an even number of refuse collections each day. The team is currently testing the proposed new collection routes and we will let you know whether this means any changes to your bin day.

Further to feedback at the last Parish Council meeting that the footway at 78-80 Ashby Road East was very weedy and not user friendly, the team have now been out with the compact sweepers to tidy up the area and pleased to report that it looks a lot better.

East Staffordshire & South Derbyshire business awards 2023 – SDDC is a headline sponsor, closing date 22nd Sept and all businesses eligible to submit across 11 categories for type of business.

Heritage open days have been running across the district during Sept – there seems to have been a good uptake so far with venues such as Calke Abbey & Sharpe’s Pottery having proved popular, these all showcase the district’s rich history.

Swadlincote South By-election held on 31st Aug – to elect one County Councillor due to the devastating and sudden loss of Roger Redfern. County Councillor Alan Haynes was duly elected.

Repton Area Forum held on 7th September

Home Upgrade Scheme (HUG2) info sent out to all Parish’s within the Repton ward – very useful source of green home funding for ‘off-grid’ properties.

Minutes 24th July 2023

BRETBY PARISH COUNCIL
MINUTES OF THE ORDINARY PARISH MEETING HELD
MONDAY 24th JULY 2023 AT 7:30pm
AT ST WYSTANS CHURCH, BRETBY

Present:  Cllr Toone (Chairman), Cllr Bridges, Cllr Meyrick, Cllr Falder, Cllr Corner.

In Attendance: Mrs J Storer – Clerk, Cllr Haines (to 8:29 pm), 2 members of the public.

23/954 Apologies
Apologies were noted from Cllr Lowe and Cllr Muller.
As a quorum was established, the Chair commenced the meeting.

23/955 Variation of Order of Business
There was no alteration to the variation of the order of business.

23/956 Declaration of Interests:
Cllrs considered their obligations relating to declaration of interests.  No declarations were made.

23/957 Public Speaking

a) Members of the Public and Council to comment on any matter

A resident from Ashby Road East raised concerns about a bus shelter opposite the Stanhope Arms, damaged in a road accident 10 months ago.  The resident has been in communication with DCC Highways Dept and with Cllr Haines as there is barely any indication that there is a bus stop at this location. Very recently the site has been tidied and an empty timetable erected high up that any timetable cannot been seen.

Cllr Haines has raised the problems at the District Council meeting earlier this meeting and reported that there are ongoing discussions between District and County Council as to ownership of this bus shelter. Cllr Haines will keep the parish council updated on any progress.

On Ashby Road East near to the Golf Course is a section of unpaved footway which has not been attended to for over a year; the area is covered with weeds.  SDDC was contacted last year by the resident about the condition but despite being told that action would be taken, the footway remains weedy and overgrown, making the footway narrow and dangerous.  If the weeds are cleared the footway would be wide enough for pedestrians to use safely.   A similar situation has arisen about self seeded trees along a boundary wall. Cllr Haines agreed to take the matters forward.

b) County Council and District Council members to raise any relevant matter

Safer neighbourhood grant scheme is available.  The next Area Forum is on 7th September; the venue is to be confirmed.

Cllr Haines was thanked for her help in planning related matters.

c) Parish Council Members declaring an interest other than Disclosable Pecuniary Interest wishing to make representation

No representations were made.

23/958 To approve the Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of the Parish Council held on 10th May 2023

These were circulated, read, approved and signed as a correct record by Cllr Toone.

The surplus funds from the Coronation Event have been donated to the fund to extend the Churchyard. The Church has thanked the Parish Council for its donation of £500.

23/959 To approve the Minutes of the Annual Meeting of the Parish Council held on 10th May 2023

These were circulated, read, approved and signed as a correct record by Cllr Toone.

23/960 To determine which items if any, should be taken with the public excluded.

No items were deemed necessary to be taken with the public excluded other than that listed on the agenda.

23/961 To receive the Chairman’s Announcements

No announcements were made.

23/962 To receive the Report of the Clerk

The Clerk’s report as previously circulated was accepted with no further comments. 

23/963 Governance

a)   Risk Register update
There are no recommended changes to the risk register.

b)  General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR)
No changes are recommended and there are no reports of any breaches. 

c)  Parish Council elections, vacancies and co-options

There are 2 vacancies on the parish council.   It was agreed for a notice to be placed on the website, inviting volunteers to join the parish council.

Two people have expressed an interest in the vacancies and will be invited to the next meeting,

d) Consideration of the Environment Act 2021 (information circulated to Cllrs on 7th July 2023)

The Clerk had previously circulated information to Cllrs which is from 1st January 2024 a public authority but not a parish council, must:

  1. Consider what you can do to conserve and enhance biodiversity
  2. Agree policies and specific objections based on the Council’s consideration
  3. Act to deliver the policies and achieve the objectives.

The parish council has no obligations under the Act however the advice received is for parish councils to give consideration to biodiversity in its decision making.  This advice was noted by Cllrs.

23/964 Drainage and flooding issues

Min 23/947 – eroding of the road surface query. The Clerk raised this with Cllr Muller (11th May 2023) and action is awaited.

The gullies on Ashby Road East require clearing; this matter is a County Council matter which the Clerk will report to DCC.  Flooding occurred on Geary Lane during the recent very heavy rainstorms.

Cllr Falder reminded the meeting that the drainage and sewage systems have not been upgraded to cope with the increase in properties and with the heavy downfalls  

23/965 Correspondence

  1. DALC – Various circulars and information
  2. DCC –  Temporary Road Closure, Water Lane Bretby 15.06.2023 to 16.06.2023 (sent to cllrs 23/5/23)
  3. SDDC – Information about Download Festival 8-11th June 2023 (sent to cllrs 26/5/23)
  4. Windrush 75th anniversary (sent to cllrs 6/6/23)
  5. SDDC –  Planning matters and Mercia Safer Neighbourhood Team (SNT) – May 2023 (sent to cllrs 4/6/23)
  6. Derbyshire PCC – Summer newsletter (sent to cllrs 7/7/23)
  7. DCC – Community News July 2023 (sent to cllrs 12/7/23)
  8. SDDC – Community Grants and SNT grants
  9. East Midlands Airport – Community newsletter (sent to cllrs 7/7/23)

All Cllrs have been circulated with the information prior to the meeting.

23/966 Finance

a) RESOLVED The following accounts were passed for payment

BACSStaffing – May£148.36
BACSHMRC – Staffing NI & PAYE (May)  £39.60
BACSDCC – Pension contribution (May)£48.34
BACSStaffing – June£148.36
BACSHMRC – Staffing NI & PAYE (June) £39.60
BACSDCC – Pension contribution (June)£48.34
Accounts passed for payment

Mrs J StorerExpenses£68.96
BACSStaffing – July£148.36
BACSHMRC – Staffing NI & PAYE (July)£39.60
BACSDCC – Pension contribution (Jul)£48.34
For approval

** £1200 ringfenced funds at 31.03.23 used towards the cost of the bin and installation

Money Received

Gross interest (May ‘23)£1.72
Gross interest (Jun ‘23)£1.92
Gross interest (Jul ’23)£2.05
Current deposit interest rate = 0.90%
SDDCs136£98.24
SDDCSecond half precept£2,092.50

Balance at bank @ 12.07 .23

Deposit account£3,024.74
Current account£5,602.73*
*This balance includes earmarked reserves of £1,000 grant from Cllr Muller – this will be ringfenced for the purchase of a noticeboard.

b)  Requests for funding via S137
No requests have been received.

(c)  To receive the actual to budget report for the period ending 12th July 2023.
RESOLVED to accept the report as circulated.

The work to repair the war memorial will commence very shortly; the Clerk will then make an application under s106 for the repairs to be refunded by SDDC.

23/967 To consider Planning Applications

DMPA/2023/0608: Listed building consent for the removal of the existing bathroom partition wall and replacement with a new partition wall to create a larger bathroom at Apartment 4, Bretby Hall, Unnamed Road Through Bretby Park, Bretby, Burton On Trent, DE15 0QQ (23/06/23)
No comments

DMPA/2023/0808: The installation of replacement windows and doors at Cedar Court Nursing Home, Bretby Park, Bretby, Burton On Trent, DE15 0QX (21/07/23)
No comments

DMPA/2023/0804: Conversion of the detached garage into gym and utility and a pitched roof with the erection of a ground floor glass link and first floor side extension and alterations to the fenestration of the dwelling at 133 Bretby Lane, Bretby, Burton on Trent, DE15 0QP (18/07/23)
RESOLVED: no objections

DMPA/2023/0790: The replacement of all windows, installation of a sliding door to the rear elevation and installation of solar panels at 1 Home Farm, Geary Lane, Bretby, Burton On Trent, DE15 0QE (11/08/23)
RESOLVED: no objections

23/968 Consultations

East Midlands Airport Draft Noise Action Plan Consultation 2023 – deadline for responses 31st July.  Consultation meeting 28th June at 10am. Circulated to Cllrs 24th May 2023

DCC – Boundary review and changes – circulated to Cllrs 12th July 2023

Under the proposals, Bretby parish would move from the Melbourne Ward to a newly created Repton Ward comprising of Bretby, Newton Solney, Twyford & Stenson, Willington and parts of Repton and parts of Stenson Fields.  No formal response will be made.

23/969 Items for information only

(a)  To receive reports from Meetings attended
Some sensors had been placed across Bretby Road very recently and speeding along Bretby Lane has been raised on social media.  Knight’s Lane also suffers from speeding vehicles.

8:29pm Cllr Haines left the meeting.

(b)  Notification of Forthcoming meetings
None known.

(c)  Training Sessions – See DALC circulars which have been provided to all Cllrs
No training sessions have taken place since the last meeting.

23/970 Date of next meeting

The next Parish Council meeting will be held on Wednesday 20th September 2023 at 7.30pm at St Wystan’s Church, Bretby. 

There being no further business, the Chairman thanked everyone for attending and closed the meeting at 8:33pm.

Minutes 10th May 2023

BRETBY PARISH COUNCIL
MINUTES OF THE ORDINARY PARISH MEETING HELD
WEDNESDAY 10th MAY 2023 AT 7:10pm
AT ST WYSTANS CHURCH, BRETBY

Present:  Cllr S Toone (Chairman), Cllr M Bridges, Cllr Meyrick.

In Attendance: Mrs J Storer – Clerk, Cllr Muller (to 7:31pm), Cllr Haines (to 7:42pm), Cllr Lowe (to 7:42pm), Mr G Corner

23/937 Apologies
Apologies were noted from Cllr Fader.
As a quorum was established, the Chair commenced the meeting.

23/938 Variation of Order of Business
There was no alteration to the variation of the order of business.

23/939 Declaration of Interests:
Cllrs considered their obligations relating to declaration of interests.  No declarations were made.

23/940 Public Speaking

a) Members of the Public and Council to comment on any matter
No matters were raised.

b) County Council and District Council members to raise any relevant matter

Cllr Muller receives regular reports about potholes; repairs to potholes are averaging 3,000 per week across the county.

There is nothing further to report on the East Midlands devolution nor on the Freeport.

Cllr Haines reported that “No Mow May” does not apply to this immediate area, however in other areas it may be that the grass will be long.

Dr Justin Ives is the new CEO for SDDC and started last week.

Fly tipping was a particular problem on the first Bank Holiday weekend; this was very quickly removed.  Thanks were given to the Clean Team for the efficient and quick response.

The garage on the A5111 has also been subject to fly tipping.

Enforcement about the house building on Bretby Lane remains outstanding.  Cllr Toone has continued to report the problems occurring at this location including the removal of the highways grass verge. Both Cllrs Haines and Muller will take this matter forward.

Nothing further has yet been received about the Brizlincote area being incorporated in the consultation for the Local Plan.

c) Parish Council Members declaring an interest other than Disclosable Pecuniary Interest wishing to make representation
No representations were made.

7.31pm Cllr Muller left the meeting.

23/941 To approve the Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of the Parish Council held on 10th January 2023
These were circulated, read, approved and signed as a correct record by Cllr Toone.

23/942 To approve the Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of the Parish Council held on 27th March 2023
These were circulated, read, approved and signed as a correct record by Cllr Toone.

23/943 To determine which items if any, should be taken with the public excluded.
No items were deemed necessary to be taken with the public excluded other than that listed on the agenda.

23/944 To receive the Chairman’s Announcements
Thanks were extended to the organisers of the very enjoyable Coronation Barn Dance which was well attended.

23/945 To receive the Report of the Clerk
The Clerk’s report as previously circulated was accepted with no further comments. 

23/946 Governance

a)   Risk Register update
There are no recommended changes to the risk register.
RESOLVED to make no changes to the risk register.

b)  General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR)
No changes are recommended and there are no reports of any breaches. 

c)  Parish Council elections, vacancies and co-options
RESOLVED to co-opt Mr Corner as a parish cllr.
There remain 3 vacancies on the parish council; the Chairman urged cllrs to make enquiries for the next meeting as to possible candidates.

23/947 Drainage and flooding issues
On the top of Watery Lane a spring has appeared; a resident is concerned about the possible shifting of a spring following the development of a new barn in the surrounding location.  Water now continually lies on the road and this is a hazard in cold weather.  The water is eroding the road surface.  The Clerk will raise the matter with the Highways Dept.

23/948 Correspondence

1. DALC – Various circulars and information
All Cllrs had been circulated with the information prior to the meeting.

7:42pm Cllrs Haines and Lowe left the meeting.

23/949 Finance

a) RESOLVED The following accounts were passed for payment

BACSStaffing – April£148.36
BACSHMRC – Staffing NI & PAYE (Apr)£39.60
BACSDCC – Pension contribution (Apr)£48.34
Mrs J StorerClerk use of home (Jan – March 23)£81.00
Mrs J StorerReimburse Avast subscription£28.75
Krystal Hosting LtdDomain annual fee£47.99
Mrs J StorerAnnual payroll licence renewal£62.40
Accounts passed for payment

                                                   

BACSStaffing – May£148.36
BACSHMRC – Staffing NI & PAYE (May)£39.60
BACSDCC – Pension contribution (May)£48.34
Mrs J StorerExpenses£33.80 Deferred from March meeting
Mrs J StorerSLCC subscription£98.67
Mrs J StorerClerk use of home£81.00
BACSStaffing – Jun£TBC
BACSHMRC – Staffing NI & PAYE (Jun)£TBC
BACSDCC – Pension contribution (Jun)£TBC
EMAS LtdInternal audit for year ending 31.3.23£54.00
SDDCService litter bins and install new bin at Oldicote £1710.31**
DALC2023/4 Annual Subscription£321.97
For approval

      ** £1200 ringfenced funds at 31.03.23 used towards the cost of the bin and installation

Money Received

Gross interest (Jan ‘23)£1.29
Gross interest (Feb ‘23)£1.54
Gross interest (March ’23)£1.42
Gross interest (April ’23)£1.91
SDDC first instalment of precept£2.092.50
SDDC LCTR grant 22/23£73.00
HMRC – VAT refund 22/23£49.60
SDDC – Concurrent refund 22/23£98.24
Current deposit interest rate = 0.70%

Balance at bank @ 02.05 .23

Deposit account£3,019.05
Current account£5,628.21*

*This balance includes earmarked reserves of:
£1,000 grant from Cllr Muller – this will be ringfenced for the purchase of a noticeboard.
£1,200 for invoices from SDDC for bins

b) Requests for funding via S137

Cllrs considered a request for funding from the Church for assistance with the costs of a survey that needs to be undertaken as part of the planning application for a new graveyard.  The Clerk advised that funding to the Church was prohibited under s8(1)(i) LGA 1984. Under s214(6) LGA 1972 the parish council is permitted to contribute towards the expenses incurred in providing or maintaining a cemetery. The parish council does not qualify to adopt the general power of competence (GPC) under the Localism Act 2011.

Cllrs agreed that a contribution towards the costs of a survey as part of the process for a new cemetery was beneficial to all residents of the parish.

Cllrs acknowledged that it is early in the financial year and they wanted to ensure that sufficient funds are available for the remainder of the year,  therefore a donation will be made now and later in the financial year the matter maybe reviewed  again.

RESOLVED to make a donation under S137 of £500. 

(c) To accept the internal auditor’s report for the accounts for the year ending 31st March 2023

RESOLVED to accept the internal auditor’s report as previously circulated and considered.

(d) To complete the AGAR for the year ending 31st March 2023
RESOLVED to approve the accounts for the year ending 31.03.23 with no amendments.
RESOLVED to complete the AGAR for the year ending 31.03.23; no matters of concern were raised.

23/950 To consider Planning Applications

DMPA/2023/0356: The erection of a single storey rear extension at 66 Ashby Road East, Bretby, Burton On Trent, DE15 0PT (19/04/23)
No comments

DMPA/2022/1255: Removal of three Georgian style modern windows to be replaced with heritage style bi-fold doors, requires removal of two brick pillars and installation of lintels and header bricks at 1 Bretby Mews, The Stables, Unnamed Road Through Bretby Park, Bretby, Burton On Trent, DE15 0RB (02/05/23)
No comments

DMOT/2023/0300: Felling of 3no. trees protected by Tree Preservation Order 121 at 3 Stanhope Glade, Bretby, Burton On Trent, DE15 0QT (26/04/23)
No comments

DMPA/2023/0543 – The erection of extensions with remodelling and associated works at 40 Bretby Lane, Bretby, Burton On Trent, DE15 0QW (25/5/23)
No comments

23/951 Consultations
None received.

23/952 Items for information only

(a) To receive reports from Meetings attended
No reports were received.

(b) Notification of Forthcoming meetings
None known.

(c) Training Sessions – See DALC circulars which have been provided to all Cllrs
No training sessions have taken place since the last meeting.

23/953 Date of next meeting
The next Parish Council meeting will be held on Monday 24th July 2023 at 7.30pm at St Wystan’s Church, Bretby. 

There being no further business, the Chairman thanked everyone for attending and closed the meeting at 8:12pm.

Minutes Of The Annual Parish Meeting 10th May 2023

Present:  Cllr S Toone (Chairman), Cllr M Bridges, Cllr L Meyrick.

 In Attendance: Mrs J Storer – Clerk, Cllr K Haines, Cllr J Lowe, Cllr D Muller, 1 member of the public.

  1. Election of Chairman
    RESOLVED Cllr Toone was elected as Chairman
  2. Chairman to take and sign the Declaration of Office
    Cllr Toone took and signed the Declaration of Office of Chair of the Parish Council.
  3. Election of Vice Chairman
    RESOLVED Cllr Meyrick was elected as Vice Chairman
  4. Vice Chairman to take and sign the Declaration of Office
    Cllr Meyrick took and signed the Declaration of Office of Vice Chair.
  5. Review/Completion of Register of Interests
    No changes were made to the Register of Interests.
  6. Appointment of Committees – if required
    RESOLVED no committees were formed.
  7. Appointment of Cllrs to External Bodies and arrangements for reporting back
    RESOLVED any Cllr will attend any meetings.
  8. To review the Standing Orders
    RESOLVED no changes were made to the Standing Orders which had previously been circulated.
  9. To review the Financial Regulations
    RESOLVED no changes are to be made to the Financial Regulations.
  10. Review of polices.
    RESOLVED there are no changes to the parish council’s policies.
  11. Review of inventory of land and assets.
    The inventory of land and assets had been circulated with the accounts for the year ending 31.03.23.  The inventory was accepted.
  12. Review and confirmation of arrangements for insurance cover in respect of all insured risks.
    RESOLVED the level of insurance cover was agreed and will be taken with BHB Insurance.
  13. Review of the Council’s and/or employees’ memberships of other bodies.
    RESOLVED to continue with membership of DALC and SLCC.
  14. Reviewing the Council’s complaints procedure.
    RESOLVED to continue with the complaints procedure with no changes.

There being no other business, the Chair closed the meeting at 7: 09pm.