Minutes of Meeting held in the Village Hall at 7.30pm on Monday 13 November 2006

Present:- Tim Fox - v. chair, Ailsa Dempster, Terri Meechan, Andy Royle, Phil BromhalI (BC), Vic. Clark, Mark Thompson, Stan Heggs (CC), John Hindle -clerk, Phil Beckett & Louise Fleckney (CPO), Maurice Kellner (Village Web Site), Jeremy Sharman (Public).

Apologies:- Marshall Ferguson, Barry Woolley, Lucy Fox.

Chairman reminded councillors to declare an interest where appropriate.

Phil Beckett (CPO) reiterated that distraction burglaries remain a problem particularly in villages. An initiative developed is the 'Nominated Neighbour Pack' which includes a neighbour' s details printed on Perspex which can be pushed back through a letter box if the caller is not known to the occupant. The neighbour will then get first sight of the caller and can advise the occupant accordingly. Phil is planning leaflet drops on this and general security over Christmas.

Following the Post Office break in recently, two people have been apprehended. Mark. Thompson commented on nuisance vehicles revving engines after dark. on the track below Arnhill Road. He also reported car fires on the village outskirts.

Jeremy Sharman informed the Council of his plans for a charity village cafe in the old Gretton Stores. This building was refurbished by its previous owner and plans are in motion to change the use to 'cafe and premises'. Volunteers will live in the flat above and the cafe will be open between 9am and 6pm. They plan to sell coffee, tea, scones and fruit smoothies. The charitable destination of the proceeds has yet to be finalised.

Maurice Kellner reported that the Village Web Site was well used and contains information on village activities. He is always keen to hear from people who want functions publicised. The website address is :- www.grettvillage.org.uk and Maurice's address is 8, Stafford Road. Maurice was given a vote of thanks by councillors for his valuable work. It was agreed to publicise the website using the Parish Council Notice Board and the next Gretton Newsletter.

The Minutes of the Meeting on 9th October were amended manually relating to the Budget approval for refurbishment of the Traveller's site on Gretton Brook Road but not for the construction of an additional site. Minutes were duly signed.

Report from Borough Councillor:

Phil BromhalI reported that refurbishment plans for the Traveller's site would be quite extensive and Council would receive details for planning consideration in due course. The Speedwatch petition is 150 signatories short (300 needed). Terri Meechan is to contact Kerry Greenan. Speeding in Kirby Road is a real problem. Andrew Leighton of Northants CC will attend the next meeting to discuss traffic calming possibilities.

Report from County Councillor:

Stan Heggs informed Council that new planning measures introduced in August 2006 had resulted in some schemes being passed after revision ie second applications. . Objectors should be aware that they have to register at each stage ie on original application and revised. Furthermore, an objection from Parish Council only counts as one whereas three are needed to ensure the scheme is discussed by the Planning Committee.

The Rural Area Forum reported that the Overview and Scrutiny Panel meeting monthly can put pressure on Corby BC in various matters. Northants CC councillors are discussing giving Parish Councils a budget for minor road works. 50% of County Highways expenditure goes on small repairs. The Council expressed its agreement if such proposals were accepted.

Half-Pipe

A lively discussion ensued as to the future of this particular piece. of equipment. Mark Thompson reported that he had ascertained various prices from the repairer ie Repair and recover £3300; repair in Birch Laminate £1600. Around £8000 would be required to replace completely. In the short term, Mark is to maintain the fencing currently surrounding the Pipe. The Parish Council expressed its great concern for the safety of young people climbing on this fence. Terri Meechan was asked to obtain three quotes to replace and to see what grants may be available.

Correspondence:

Letters from:-

Letters to:-

Circulation :

Village Plan:

Planning:

Finance:
              Current balance 20654.22
Payments due: RBL Poppy Appeal 35.00
BDO Stoy Hayward Auditors 141.00
J.O'Connor Grasscutting 4606.51
Payments received: Gretton School Rent of Playing Field 114.00
Sports Club Rent and sundry repairs       295.00

Any Other Business: