Minutes

PRESENT: Councillor Martin Tomlinson (Town Mayor) - in the Chair
Councillors: Councillor Jim Anderson, Peter Arnold, Debbie Biss, Norman Bull, Kay Charlton, Alan Cox, Jackie Cox, Kevin Hallsworth, Nick Mothershaw, John Nelson, Mick Potter,
In Attendance: Mrs Elaine Hibbert (Outgoing Clerk), Mrs Rosalind Bullimore (Presiding Clerk) County Councillor Chris Jackson, Borough Councillor Peter Makin, Police Sgt Lee Smith, two members of the press (Belper News and Belper Express) and six members of the public.

APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE
Apologies for absence were received from Councillors Mick Nelson and Colin England (holidays) Ben Miller (work commitments)
ORDER OF BUSINESS
RESOLVED to agree the inclusion of a further planning schedule for 2-9 September under Item 13b.
RESOLVED to move forward item 19 (f) to discuss in the public participation part of the meeting and to move forward 18 (k) to discuss after 13 (c).
DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST
Councillors made declarations of Interest as follows.
Prejudicial: Members would leave the room during any discussion
Councillor Jim Anderson - Item 18 - Request from Drop Inn Centre to use Derwent car park.
Councillor John Nelson - Item 14 - Belper Marlin Swimming Club grant application.
Councillor Kevin Hallsworth - Item 14 - Belper Marlin Swimming Club grant application.
TO DETERMINE WHETHER ANY ITEMS SHOULD BE TAKEN WITH THE PUBLIC EXCLUDED
In accordance with Section 1(2) of the Public Bodies (Admission to Meetings) Act 1960, in view of the confidential nature of the business to be transacted, it was RESOLVED that, in the public interest, the public and press be excluded from the meeting during discussion of items a,b,c and d in Part II and they be instructed to withdraw.
ENVIRONMENT AGENCY PRESENTATION
Mr. Morgan from the environment agency department informed the council that the consultation 'Lower Derwent Flood Risk management strategy' starts 10 September and confirmed that the flood defence efforts are to be concentrated on the more populated areas. The strategies that will be put in place will benefit Belper over the long term.
The council raised concerns as to why debris has not been removed from the river Derwent which adds to risk of flooding. Mr. Morgan confirmed that it is not the Environment Agency's responsibility it is the owner's responsibility to ensure that the river is kept clear from debris. Once the consultation has taken place the deciding factors will all come down to finance and the EG priority is to concentrate their resources on where the most homes are. Mr. Morgan welcomed a further meeting with members of the Town Council and Councillor Chris Jackson to discuss various issues regarding flood defences in Belper.
PUBLIC PARTICPATION
1. Teen Shelter at Whitemoor recreation area
  Mr. Allwood as chairman of the Belper Bowls buildings committee and as spokesperson on behalf of the residents whose houses back onto the recreation area asked to address the Council re Item 19 (f) on the Agenda - Teen Shelter at Whitemoor recreation area he is concerned that the Teen Shelter will attract antisocial behaviour and would like to request that the shelter be placed further away from the houses.
2. Car park signage Derwent Street
  Councillor Peter Makin commented over the limited signs for the car park and pointed out that the one sign that is in place is obscured by the hedge. Clerk informed the council that a disclaimer sign has been ordered and awaiting delivery. RESOLVED Clerk to arrange for the hedge to be cut back and the sign to be erected.
3. Overwintering Showmen - Coppice car park
  Councillor Peter Makin asked the council to consider adding an amendment of 'No Fires allowed' to the showmen's rental agreement.
4. Police issues - Theft of metal
  Councillor Peter Makin asked the police if the theft of the lead from Strutt School is still being investigated and can the police give him assurance that there will be continuity in the investigation. He also reported that copper had been stolen from the River Garden band stand roof. Sgt Lee Smith informed the council that extra resources are to be sent to cover the surveillance of the River Gardens and the County Council have assured the police that CCTV cameras are be installed.
POLICE MATTERS
Police Sgt Lee Smith reported that crime had decreased. The main crimes are metal theft. There has been a small amount of public disorder offences and a number of young people had been charged for the public disorder offences.
Regarding the vandalism at the allotments the police had not received a complaint.
Due to the recent disturbances at the Green House public house it is now in the top ten problem licensed premises and subsequently will have more licence checks carried out. The public house already employs door men and has a CCTV system in place. The problems could be due to the close proximity of the take away which allows people to stay in the area after leaving the premises.
Councillor Jim Anderson commented on the thinly stretched police force believing that if Derbyshire has followed the government's recommendations the area should have 27 more officers. Councillor Anderson also commented on the proximity of the smoking shelters and asked if this was a contributing factor to the problem. The tables appear to be too near the entrance and they could also be contributing to some of the noise problem.
Councillor Mick Potter reported on an incident where there had been no police response when some ladies had been accosted at Wyver Lane. Sgt Lee Smith requested more information from Councillor Potter.
Councillor John Nelson asked if it was legal for caravans to be parked on the highway. Sgt Lee Smith confirmed this parking is illegal and will investigate.
COUNTY COUNCILLOR'S BRIEFING
Councillor Chris Jackson updated Members on his progress with various County Council issues.
Speeding Issues: Still in hand.
BT Red telephone boxes: BT are offering red telephone boxes to councils with equipment in at a small charge to and red empty telephone boxes are available free of charge.
Belper Lane: Still considering extending the white lines.
Councillor Nelson asked as to why the one way system to be implemented at Becksitch Lane had been withdrawn and requested County Council write to the residents to explain why. Councillor Jackson explained it was due to lack of funds.
Councillor John Nelson asked why the Height Indicator at Belper Mill had not been working for three months. Councillor Jackson confirmed that it the barrier had been sent for repairs and would be collected when sufficient funds were available.
Councillor Jackson thanked Elaine Hibbert the outgoing Clerk for all her support and welcomed Rosalind Bullimore the new Clerk.
MINUTES OF A MEETING OF BELPER TOWN COUNCIL HELD 10 JUNE 2008
RESOLVED to agree as a true record Minutes 1124-1147 of the Council Meeting held 8 July 2008.
MINUTES OF A MEETING OF THE BELPER FOOD COMMITTEE HELD 4 AUGUST 2008
RESOLVED to note the Minutes of the Belper Food Committee held 4 August 2008.
MAYOR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS
Events in the past month:
The Mayor reported the event attended in the month: Opening of the new old peoples home Ladywell View.
The Mayor reported on a letter relating to the disabled garage on the Coppice car park. RESOLVED the Clerk Councillors Jackie Cox and John Nelson to meet with the Belper Social Club members to discuss the problems.
FINANCE
RESOLVED:
1. To note and agree income and expenditure incurred in the month covering transactions 1849-2114. Schedules are attached to these Minutes showing Income of £11,304.89 and Expenditure of £36,882.53.
2. To note the bank reconciliation for current/public reserve accounts as at 31 July 2008.
PLANNING APPLICATIONS
RESOLVED to note the planning applications listed on the schedules attached to these Minutes, dated 18 August -1 September, 2-9 September 2008. No comments made.
Proposal by Amber Valley Housing for development on land at Mill Lane and Park Road:
Letter received from Amber Valley Housing in reply to Belper Town Councils objection to the proposal to build three houses at Mill Lane. AVH will close off the area in late August to carry out investigatory works. Councillor Biss raised concerns on the legality of building on common land and where there is a public footpath. RESOLVED Belper Town Council continues to object to the proposal to build on the land at Mill Lane. Clerk to write to Amber Valley Council legal department on the legality of building on this land.
DROP INN CENTRE
Request received from Drop Inn centre to use part of the Derwent Street car park for taster driving lessons. RESOLVED to approve the request subject to adequate insurance cover.
GRANT APPLICATIONS
274 - Belper Marlin Swimming Club
RESOLVED to grant an award of £40 to Belper Marlin Swimming Club.
275 - The Sherwood Foresters Western Front Memorial Committee
RESOLVED to grant an award of £100 to Sherwood Foresters Western Front Memorial Committee.
276 - Belper Town Football Club - Advertisement banner for Belper Town Council Farmers Market.
RESOLVED To withdraw advertisement.
OUTSIDE BODIES
1. Fleet Art Centre
  Councillor Jim Anderson informed the Council he had dealt with the noise complaint and it should be a permanent solution.
2. North Mill Trust
  To note Councillor Arnold reported that the number of attendees is down which has had a serious effect on funds.
3. Councillor Debbie Biss requested that the Clerk enquire when the hedge in the Coppice car park would be replaced following the damage caused by because of indiscriminate weed spraying by Borough Council staff.
4. Community Hall
  Councillor Jackie Cox reported of the vacancy for a treasurer for the Community Hall.
5. Cottage Project
  Councillor Jackie Cox reported on the completion of the kitchen renovation and the subsequent opening day of Wednesday 27 October 3.oopm until 8.00pm.
6. Matthew Smith Almshouse Trust - No Council representative appointed.
DERBYSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL MATTERS
1. RESOLVED To note temporary footpath closure public footpath No 40 (part) - Belper, off Chesterfield Road, North of Fellside to facilitate public safety during repairs to wall retaining footpath.
2. Councillor Peter Arnold informed the Council a resident's petition had been sent to the County Council against 'Waiting Restrictions' being introduced at Goods Road. County Council still to make a decision.
AMBER VALLEY BOROUGH COUNCIL
RESOLVED to note the following items for newsletters were presented for perusal at the Council meeting:-
Amber Valley Summer Arts newsletter
Amber Valley NEWS release 100, 105 and 112.
RESOLVED to note Amber Valley 'Issues and Ideas' consultation paper, development up to the year 2026.
RESOLVED to note the Council received £500 from Borough Environmental Grant Scheme award towards the visual improvements project of the traffic island on the main gateway into Belper bringing the total balance received of £1, 9786.63 towards this project.
RESOLVED to note the importance of recording the Councillors personal or personal and prejudicial interest.
The Council considered the Amber Valley Draft Waste Strategy consultation RESOLVED clerk to write to Borough Council to request a recycling amenity in the West of Belper.
CORESPONDENCE
1. RESOLVED to note the sad loss of Jeremy Clegg (Peak Rail)
2. RESOLVED to note Belper Town Council's participation in the publication of the photographs and painting displayed in St John's Chapel in the 'Public Foundation Catalogue'
3. Request received from npower for permission to place an advertisement trailer in Belper. RESOLVED Clerk to suggest they contact Amber Valley Council.
4. The council considered the letter from the police regarding the TEN and premises' licences and issues raised at the Belper Food and Real Ale Festival. RESOLVED Clerk to keep the letter on file.
5. The East Midlands Regional Plan (Regional Spatial Strategy) - Secretary of States proposed changes consultation was presented to the Council for comments. RESOLVED to note
6. Request received from Fulcrum for permission to dig up a section of the Market place to lay a gas supply to one of the premises. RESOLVED request refused due to fears that the surface will not be able to be reinstated to the original condition.
7. The Trent Barton bus company Hot Spots survey report was presented to the Council RESOLVED to note.
8. RESOLVED to note a letter received from local resident regarding the demolition of the 'old school building' at St John's Chapel.
9. Councillor John Nelson informed the Council of the increased interest to the hire St John's Chapel for Civil Ceremonies. RESOLVED Clerk to write to the Diocese to explain how the benefits of the added income would help to meet the costs of the maintenance of the building and to request they reconsider the request.
10. Request received from Proctors Fun Fairs Ltd to hold their annual fair in the Coppice car park and Market Place 30 October to 1 November RESOLVED to approve the request.
MISCELLANEOUS
1. RESOLVED to note the parking request Belper Market place has been withdrawn.
2. RESOLVED to note Babington Hospital is to hold a car boot sale 14 September on the Market Place.
3. RESOLVED to note the receipt of a compliment on the floral displays in Belper from a visitor to the Town.
4. RESOLVED to note the letter received regarding whereabouts of personal possessions left in a Belper residence 30 years.
5. Following a discussion about the location of the proposed Teen Shelter at Whitemoor Recreation Park RESOLVED to agree to the original location.
GROUPS AND ORGANISATIONS
RESOLVED to note the minutes of the following groups and organisations:
Belper & District Road Safety Committee held 9 July.
Belper North Mill Trust held 30 May.
Amber Valley Access group held 10 July
Fleet Arts Management committee held 7 May
Friends of Belper Parks committee held 1 July
Derwent Valley Line Community Rail Partnership management committee held 24 June.
PUBLIC BUILDINGS, CAR PARKS, ALLOTMENTS & STREET FURNITURE
1. The maintenance of the Green Lane car park is still outstanding RESOLVED Councillor Norman Bull to speak to the cabinet at the Borough Council.
2. RESOLVED to note the bus shelter maintenance and cleaning report was presented to the council. RESOLVED not to repair the bus shelters on Derby Road opposite Derwent Avenue and Far Laund near Ladywood Avenue.
3. Request for additional land for allotments received under the 1933 ACT it is the Borough Council's duty to provide this land RESOLVED Clerk to write to the County Council to enquire if any land can be made available.
DALC/NALC
1. RESOLVED to note the following:
  The date of DALC's AGM 6th September 11.00am Matlock Council Chambers.
  The DALC training courses in 'Law and Good Practices for Councils' and 'Being a Good Councillor'.
  DALC Annual Report 2007/2008.
  Circulars
  31/2008 the power of the promotion of economic, social or environmental well being.
  35/2008 Quality Town Council Scheme accreditation, re-accreditation and training.
  39/008 Recruitment for new members of the Derbyshire and Derbyshire Local Access Forum.
  36/2008 Being a Good Councillor - Training Course
  38/2008 CiLCA Training and revision course.
  40/2008 General Circular - Appointment to the Commission for Rural Communities
  44/2008 General Circular - Level of Burial Fees.
2. Consultation regarding moving the date of the English Local Government Elections to the date of the European Parliament Elections in 2009. RESOLVED to oppose weekend elections.

ITEMS FOR INFORMATION
RESOLVED to note the following items for information was presented to the council for perusal.

CONTACT	DETAILS
Local Council Clerks	Continuity management Course
East Midlands Fire and Rescue	Control Centre Ltd
Newsletter explaining the background and expectations for the provision of a new call handling facility.	P M Carney Solicitor
BT pay phones re-align provision consultation feedback report.	Visit Peak District & Derbyshire
Issue 2 Summer - Tourism Bulletin	NALC
LCR Journal Volume 60, No2	M Kemp Portable Appliance Testing Services
May 2008 Pat Testing Log	Recresco
Recycling Solutions Brochure	Derbyshire Rural Community Council
The Playing Field Newsletter	Community Environment Action projects
Resident and disabled access survey	Prices.
Standards Board for England	Bulletin 40 web link

EXEMPT ITEMS
1. RESOLVED to note the minutes of the Staff Working Party held 23 July subject to amendment Councillor John Nelson was in attendance and not present at the meeting.
2. RESOLVED to take no action on the complaint received regarding the Councillor about an incident at a private function held 23 July.
3. Letter received regarding administrative problem at Belper Leisure Centre. Employment issue now resolved.
4. RESOLVED to approve the recommendations in the report on the introduction of car parking charges at the Coppice car park. To include a fine structure inline with Amber valley Borough Council and the issuing of parking permits to the resident in adjacent properties.

Meeting closed at 9.05 pm
Councillor Martin Tomlinson (Town Mayor) thanked the outgoing Clerk Elaine Hibbert for all her services.

BELPER TOWN COUNCIL

MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF 9th SEPTEMBER 2008