MINUTES of a Meeting of Tatsfield Parish Council held on the 14th January 2008 in the Parish Room, Westmore Green, Tatsfield commencing at 8.00 p.m.

Present: Mr Ian Mitchell (in the chair) Mr Jon Allbutt Mr Giles Hawkes Mrs Carol Jordan Mrs Eileen Pearce

Mrs Sandy Philibert Mr Greg Watkins

In Attendance: Mr John Sandiford (Clerk),

Mr Bob David (Tandridge DC Councillor)

Mr David Hodge (Surrey CC Councillor)

And 3 parishioners.

1. (a) Apologies None
(b) Declarations of Interest:

(1) Greg Watkins declared a personal prejudicial interest in Planning Application No.08/0006 relating to his property Applegarth, Greenway, and in respect of Application No.08/0003 relating to the adjoining semi-detached property Bramblepatch, Greenway. He left the room during the discussion of both those matters.
(2) Ian Mitchell disclosed a personal interest in both Applications Nos.08/0003 and 08/0006 by virtue of the fact that he lived opposite the properties concerned. He took no part in the discussions relating to these matters.

2. Minutes

The Minutes of the meeting held on the 10th December 2007 were approved and signed as a correct record

3. Matters Arising:

(b) Affordable Housing Needs Survey: Carol Jordan confirmed that the questionnaire and accompanying letter had been circulated with the January edition of the Parish Magazine requiring responses by 31 January. As yet there had been 49 responses. It was unanimously agreed that a public meeting should be held in the WI Hall to encourage residents to register their interests and to assist with the completion of forms. It was agreed that Carol Jordan would liaise with the Rural Housing Enabler, Mona Johanssen, as to the best time to have such a meeting.

4. Tatsfield School

The Chairman indicated that, following the last meeting, it had been anticipated that the necessary documents would be ready for signature before the Christmas holiday and he had warned members that he would be calling an extraordinary meeting for that purpose. However at the very last moment, Surrey CC had indicated that it was not ready to sign up because there were still matters to be finalised with Mr Reeve, the owner of the other land involved. As a consequence there would almost certainly be a month’s delay. The latest information was that there had been a meeting between Surrey and Mr Reeve and it was hoped that the several legal issues raised by Mr Reeve could be resolved by the end of January. He expressed extreme disappointment at the delay and indicated that everything would continue to be done to try to ensure that all the documentation was in place so that the matter could proceed when these difficulties had been overcome.

David Hodge indicated that he did not know the exact reason for the delay but understood that it was due to legal matters. He was extremely dissatisfied with the way the project had been handled and it was his intention to request a Complete Scrutiny Review once contracts had been exchanged.

5. Planning Matters
(a) Current Applications: Jon Allbutt reported on the current applications and the action agreed is as listed in Appendix A.
(b) Kemscott Lodge, Ricketts Hill Road: The Chairman drew attention to the fact that Tandridge DC was seeking a fresh planning application for works at this property.
(c) Parish Planning Statement: The Chairman indicated that he had requested an early meeting with Tandridge officers to discuss the Statement.
(d) Next planning Councillor: Giles Hawkes.

1	6. Finance

(a) Grants: The Clerk reported that a formal request had been received from David Bishop for a grant of Ł150 towards the expenses of the Christmas Carol Sing-a-long held on the 21st December. Details of the request had been circulated to members. It was unanimously agreed that a grant of Ł150 should be made as a contribution to the expenses of the evening.
(b) Payments: The payments listed in Appendix B were approved.

1	7. Highways & Rights of Way

(a) Upgrading of FP25 (The Avenue to Clarks Lane) to Bridleway: Eileen Pearce confirmed that she would ensure that she would submit a suggestion for the bridleway to run parallel with and separate from the footpath so as to ensure that the surface of the footpath was not damaged by horse traffic in such a way as to make it impassable for pedestrians.

(b) General Highway Matters: Sandy Philibert indicated that she had circulated a report to members but wished to draw attention to the fact that she was concerned that some repairs that had been carried out were likely to re-occur because either the repair had not been carried out properly or, in one case, not carried out at all, despite apparently having been recorded by the contractor as having been carried out. She intended to monitor these repairs carefully.

David Hodge indicated that he had noted these matters and would be looking into them. He would arrange a site meeting with the Roads Steward to ensure that these were dealt with.
(c) Lorries off Rural Roads (LORD): Carol Jordan indicated she had nothing to report. .

(d) Rights of Way Network: Eileen Pearce indicated she was holding a meeting of interested parties on Monday 28 January with the object of trying to improve relations between walkers and riders over shared routes, maintenance of rights of way and the expansion of the network of routes round Tatsfield. It was her intention to discuss the possibility of a permissive right of way from Tatsfield School to the commencement of FP23 opposite the Church.
(e) Oxted Chalk Quarry: It was noted that Woldingham PC was suggesting that a meeting of local Parish Council representatives be held to consider the recent increase in lorry movements to and from the Quarry and, in particular, the diversion of this traffic through neighbouring parishes. It was agreed that, although it seemed unlikely that Tatsfield would be directly affected, a watching brief should be kept. Sandy Philibert agreed to liaise with Woldingham PC on that basis and report back.
(f) Street Names: The Chairman drew attention to a request from Tandridge for suggestions for names for new streets that might be needed. The idea was to avoid difficulties when new developments occurred and save time. It was agreed that members should submit their suggestions and that the matter should be canvassed in the Parish Magazine.
(g) Transport for London Traffic Census: The Chairman reported that the census takers seen in the village recently were acting on behalf of Transport for London.

8. Notified Matters

(a) ESPLG Tandridge Group: Eileen Pearce indicated only a few councils had attended the last meeting and so no decision had been reached. She had been asked to indicate Tatsfield’s view of the future shape of the Group. It was agreed that as it was only a liaison group, no formal constitution was required and the Group did not need to be affiliated to SCAPTC. It was suggested that the Group’s appointment of a representative to the Local Standards Committee might need a formal constitution but this was a matter to be looked into.

9. Reports from Members and Outside Organisations

(a) County Councillor: David Hodge reported on the following matters: -

(1) Tandridge Local Committee: He invited applications for a grant from local projects as there was some money remaining in the current year’s budget. Applications were required by 15 February.

(2) Budget 2008/9: It seemed likely that the Council Tax would be increased by 4-5%.

(b) District Councillor: Bob David reported on the following matters: -

(1) Budget 2008/9: Surrey Police had recently made a presentation to Tandridge DC to demonstrate how financially squeezed it was as a result of reductions in Government funding. It was taking a number of measures to save money and these included the reduction from four divisions to three.
(2) Core Strategy: The new Core Strategy that would replace the District Plan had now been submitted for approval and, if approved, would be operative within 6 months.
(3) Post Office: The proposals for local post offices in Surrey would be published on 29 January and he hoped that Tatsfield would not be affected.
(4) Clacket Lame MSA: The new gates had now been fitted and were operational and it was to be hoped that they would only be used for legitimate purposes. They should always be shut and he asked to be notified if residents saw them being left open.

1	(d) Biggin Hill Airport: The next meeting of the Consultative Committee would take place on 17 January.

1	(e) Transport Matters: Greg Watkins had nothing to report.

1	(f) Tatsfield Youth Project: Jon Allbutt reported that there had been a meeting with representatives of Surrey Clubs for Young Persons for general discussions.

1	(g) Tatsfield Community Responders: Jon Allbutt reported that it had been a busy Christmas and New Year as the Responders were being asked more often to attend emergencies in Biggin Hill and Warlingham. There were still difficulties with communications equipment. Training of volunteers continued.

(h) Parish Emergency Plan: Jon Allbutt reported that he kept in contact with both Surrey CC and Tandridge DC to keep up with developments. He still wanted to acquire an emergency generator for the Village Hall and hoped to bring forward details of the costs involved.
(i) Risk Assessment: An inspection had revealed that the central heating needed routine maintenance, as there was no heat reaching the radiators in the Parish Room. Jon Allbutt had arranged for this to be carried out.
Eileen Pearce apologised for failing to inspect Tatsfield Green and asked for assistance. It was also noted that the maintenance of the Westmore Green playground was much improved.
(j) Village Hall Sandy Philibert had submitted a written report and drew particular attention to the fact that the Management Committee was asking if the Insurance Company could be consulted following the legal advice received from the Council’s Solicitor as to of the provision of a salt bin for the car park. It was agreed that Giles Hawkes would arrange for the purchase of a salt bin, a supply of salt, a spreader and a shovel for use in the car park area. It was further agreed that arrangements should be agreed with the Village Hall as to the responsibility for spreading the salt when conditions required.

2	10. Parish Council Property

(a) Surgery & Parish Room; Giles Hawkes reported that the repair to the internal door was still in hand and would be dealt with shortly, that he would arrange to circulate details of the proposed broadband connection for consideration by members. He also reported that the long-standing water leak in the Surgery had been repaired.

(b) Pond: Sandy Philibert reported approval had been obtained for the warning sign and it was agree that she would arrange for a doubled-sided sign to be produced and erected.
(c) Parish Land: The Chairman indicated that he considered that the boundaries of some of the Parish land should be clearly defined by suitable fencing. It was agreed that initial a quotation would be obtained to fence the Shaw Road Triangle and that the gaps in the hedge round the Maesmaur Road triangle should be in-filled. Jon Allbutt agreed to deal with the matter.

11. Parish Owned Land

(a) Westmore Green Playground: Giles Hawkes reported that he had not yet arranged a meeting with interested parties but would give the matter urgent attention. Jon Allbutt indicated that he was pleased with the attention to routine maintenance that was now being given to the playground by Tandridge DC

(b) Pond: Jon Allbutt reported that Alec Baxter Brown of the Surrey CC Downlands Project had just submitted a report but he had not had time to consider its contents. He hoped to circulate colleagues with details and recommendations for consideration at the next meeting.

12. Meetings to Attend/Correspondence-

(a) Tatsfield Horticultural Society: The Clerk indicated that he had received a request from the Society to hold its Annual Plant Sale on Westmore Green on Saturday, 10th May 2008. This was agreed.
(b) Tatsfield School: Greg Watkins reported that interviews for the new Headteacher would be taking place on 17/18 January. There had been a very good response and there were some excellent candidates.

13. Any Other Business

(a) Westmore Road Pavement: Eileen Pearce indicated that she proposed writing to the owner of the old Post Office Stores seeking permission to affix a handrail.
(b) Village Centre Notice Board: It had been suggested that this board should be extended and it was agreed to discuss the matter at the next meeting.
(c) Summer Concert: Jon Allbutt agreed to consider what date would be appropriate for the Concert. It was noted that the Christmas Carol Sing-a-long would be held on 19 December 2008.
(d) Broadband Service: It was suggested that consideration should be given to making representations to BT to improve broadband reception in the area.

The Meeting closed at 10.42 p.m.

Subjects raised in Public Adjournments

1. Christmas Carol Sing-a-long

2. Repair or Re-erection of ROW Signs

APPENDIX A - PLANNING

Approved

06/0740 New Tatsfield School Approval of revised details

07/1632 98 Paynesfield Road Comments

Refused/withdrawn
07/1630 Dell Cottage, Goatsfield Road
07/1571 Parkwood Lodge, Rag Hill Road
07/1748 Manor Livery, Manor Road
07/1706 Chart House, Ship Hill

Appeals Pending
06/0818 The Manor House, Ricketts Hill Road
07/1080 Vine Cottage, Westmore Road
07/1077 Bassetts, Westmore Green

CURRENT APPLICATIONS:-

07/1900 The Old Ship, Westmore Green
Erection of 2 x 3 bed detached houses with parking
Recommendation: Objection to be lodged based on difficulties with parking and undesirability of development in a central location.

07/1954 Land adjacent to 39 Paynesfield Road
Erection of attached 3 bedroomed house with 2 parking spaces
Recommendation: Objection to be lodged based on the unneighbourliness of the development and increased traffic difficulties

07/2033 Moorhouse Tile Works, Westerham Road, Moorhouse
Re-Conductoring of existing overhead low voltage line with aerial bunder conductor(ABC) – standard specification.
Recommendation:

08/0003 Bramblepatch, Greenway
Erection of sunroom to rear elevation (Certificate of Lawfulness for a proposed development).
Recommendation: No objection

08/0006 Applegarth, Greenway
Erection of sunroom to rear elevation (Certificate of Lawfulness for a proposed development).
Recommendation: No objection

08/0027 8 The Square. Paynesfield Road
Erection of rear conservatory (Certificate of Lawfulness for a Proposed Development
Recommendation: No objection

MINUTES of a Meeting of Tatsfield Parish Council held on the 11th February 2008 in the Parish Room, Westmore Green, Tatsfield commencing at 7.30 p.m.

Present: Mr Ian Mitchell (in the chair) Mr Jon Allbutt Mrs Carol Jordan Mrs Sandy Philibert Mr Greg Watkins

In Attendance: Mr John Sandiford (Clerk),

Mr Bob David (Tandridge DC Councillor)

Mr David Hodge (Surrey CC Councillor)

And 3 parishioners.

1. (a) Apologies Mrs Eileen Pearce and Mr Giles Hawkes

The Chairman reported that Eileen Pearce was in hospital and that, although her condition had improved, it would be some time before she would be able to resume her duties as a councillor. The Chairman expressed the best wishes of all members for her recovery and return to Tatsfield.

(b) Declarations of Interest: None

2. Minutes

The Minutes of the meeting held on the 14th January 2008 were approved and signed as a correct record.

3. Matters Arising:
(a) Carpark Salting Arrangements: Jon Allbutt reported that, as a result of a meeting with representatives of the Village Hall Management Committee, consideration was being given as to the best way to store and salt/grit and also to the use of a handyman to be responsible for spreading the salt/grit when required and generally to keep the area tidy and report wants of repair. He would prepare the Method Statement covering these duties. It was suggested that this could include the closing of the entrance gates in very icy conditions. He would be arranging a further meeting with the Hall representatives to finalise all these matters so that details of the services required could be advertised.
(b) Post Office Closure decision: The Chairman referred to the fact that Tatsfield Post Office was not included on the list of offices that were to be closed as a result of the recent review. Whilst this was very good news, he urged residents to continue to make use of the Post Office facilities at every possible opportunity to ensure that Tatsfield was not on the list for closure when the current consultation was over. Bob David had details of how residents should respond if they wished to express their support for Tatsfield Post Office.
(c) Affordable Housing: Carol Jordan indicated that she was awaiting the detailed report on the Housing Needs Survey and she hoped this would be available by 3 March. There appeared to have been a very satisfactory response - more than sufficient to establish that there was a need for affordable housing accommodation.
(d) Street naming (7(f) : The Chairman reported that Tandridge DC was taking the question of streamlining the procedure for naming new streets to the Planning and Environment Committee, but that responses to the existing consultation were still welcome. Sandy Philibert agreed to submit the suggestions that had been put forward by members and others.]
(e) Broadband service (13 (d): The Chairman reported that he had received some responses to his appeal in the parish magazine for evidence of deficient broadband access in Tatsfield. Once the deadline for responses had passed he would consider what action the Parish Council should take.

4. Tatsfield School

The Chairman indicated that the only sign of progress to be provided by Surrey County Council towards signature of documents for the conveyance of the L-shaped field and associated matters in connection with the building of the new school had been an email from the Surrey officer responsible for the sale of our land and that of Gordon Reeve.

This stated: that he had “a number of discussions with various parties and felt, after a period of intense discussions, there was clarity about outstanding legal issues on both acquisitions”. He went on to state that the Parish Council solicitors should have been received on Friday 8 February a letter from the County Council solicitors setting out a response to recent correspondence. He believed that the County Council was very close to being able to sign the documents. He had concluded his e-mail by saying that he would not commit to a time table since it never ceased to amaze him how long processes take.

The Chairman reported that, at the time of the meeting, no letter had been received by the Parish Council’s solicitors. No date had been set for signing the legal documents. No new date had been announced for building work to start.

David Hodge indicated that he had been given to understand that all the legal processes were complete and that the documents were ready to sign.

The Chairman indicated that he had responded in accordance with members’ wishes to the Audit Commission Corporate Assessment Stakeholder Survey of Surrey County Council.

5. Planning Matters
(a) Current Applications: In the absence of Giles Hawkes, the Chairman reported on the current applications and the action agreed is as listed in Appendix A.

(b) Tandridge Core Strategy: The Chairman indicated that he would be responding electronically to the consultation on ‘Tomorrow’s Tandridge’.

(c) Parish Planning Statement: The Chairman indicated that he had discussed this at a meeting with Tandridge Planning Department. Very helpful advice and suggestions had been received and there was now work to be done on some aspects of the Planning Statement.

(d) Old Ship Recycling Point: Tandridge District Council was anxious to improve the facilities and this might result in a planning application. Cllr Bob David would report later.

Planning Councillor: Carol Jordan .

1	6. Finance

(a) Grants: The Clerk reported that a formal request for a grant had been received from Surrey Air Ambulance and he had circulated details of the request to all members. It was unanimously agreed that a grant of Ł250 would be made.
(b) Payments: The payments listed in Appendix B were approved.

1	7. Highways & Rights of Way

1	(a) General Highway Matters: Sandy Philibert had circulated a detailed report to all members and this was noted.

(b) Permissive extension of FP23 – Church Hill: In the absence of Eileen Pearce, Bob David reported that some 20 people had been present at a recent meeting to discuss this proposal and also the use of Public Footpaths and Bridleways generally. He had agreed to approach the owner of the Golf Club to see whether he would grant a permissive right for pedestrians along this part of the golf course. It had also been agreed that the Parish Council should be asked to re-publish “Tatsfield Walks”.
(c) FP25 – Conversion to Bridleway: The Chairman reported that a response had been received from the Surrey CC Countryside Legal Officer indicating that the question of the separation of the footpath from the proposed bridleway was not a matter that could be dealt with in the course of this application. He had also indicated that he thought that, in any event, it would not be possible to separate the footpath from the bridleway for financial and other reasons.
(d) Oxted Chalk Quarry: Sandy Philibert reported that she had made contact with Woldingham PC but had not so far heard anything further.
(e) Tatsfield Green – Horse riding: The Clerk drew attention to a letter from a resident who was concerned at the damage being caused by horse riders on part of the Green. It was agreed that this was a matter to be considered in conjunction with the Management Plan being developed for the Millennium Wood and also in conjunction with the revision of the by-laws affecting Tatsfield Green.

8. Notified Matters

Village Centre Notice Board: It was agreed that additional space was needed and consideration should be given to this in the light of the changes due to be made in the Village Centre when it might be possible to adapt the existing bus shelter for use for the display of notices.

9. Reports from Members and Outside Organisations

(a) County Councillor: David Hodge reported on the following matters:

(1) Council Tax: He indicated that this would increase by 4.8% for the coming financial year and he summarised the reasons for this.
(2) Highway Improvements: He indicated that the County Council had borrowed Ł25m for this purpose.
(3) Flood Relief: He also indicated that the County had agreed to spend Ł1.2 on flood relief works.

(4) Tandridge Local Committee: He had received requests from Tatsfield in Bloom, Tatsfield Scouts. Tatsfield Responders and Tatsfield WI for financial assistance and he was giving these attention.

(b) District Councillor: Bob David reported on the following matters: -

(1) Council Tax: The District Council increase had yet to be approved but was almost certain to be 4.4%.
(2) Post Office: He emphasised the need for residents to continue to support the Tatsfield Post Office and he was urging them to write letters supporting the proposed retention of the post office in Tatsfield. It was agreed that the Parish Council would also write in support.

(c) Police: The Chairman reported that the Chief Constable was leaving to take up a senior position with the Metropolitan Police. He also reported that, as yet, no new PCSO had been appointed for Tatsfield but he understood that a new officer had been promised.

1	(d) Biggin Hill Airport: The Chairman reported that he had attended a meeting of the Joint Liaison Committee on 17 January and movements at present were approximately 70,000 p.a. as against the maximum permitted number of 125,000 annually.

(e) Parish Emergency Plan: Jon Allbutt reported that he had circulated a report as to the feasibility of providing a generator to supply power to the Village Hall and the Surgery/Parish Room in the event a power failure. After Discussion, it was agreed that consultation should take place with the Emergency Planning Officers for Surrey CC and Tandridge to try to evaluate the risk involved of an event occurring that would justify the expense of providing such equipment. Jon Allbutt promised to arrange such a meeting.
(f) Village Hall Sandy Philibert had submitted a written report and this was noted. It was noted that there was a reported external crack at the front of the Hall that required investigation.

1	10. Parish Council Property

(a) Surgery & Parish Room: In the absence of Giles Hawkes, there was nothing to report.

11. Parish Owned Land

1	(a) Westmore Green Playground: John Allbutt indicated that he had taken responsibility for this matter and would be setting up the meeting.

(b) Parish Land: Jon Allbutt agreed to obtain an up-to-date estimate for the cost of fencing the Shaw Road Triangle and other areas where similar fencing was required. This would include Kemsley Wood where there was a need to define the boundaries on a permanent basis in order to encourage walkers and discourage horse riders and non-pedestrian traffic. The Clerk was asked to enquire whether Surrey CC would be prepared to install kissing gates on FP570.

1	(c) Ricketts Hill Road - Application for Access: The Clerk reported that he had indicated to the resident the terms on which the right would be granted but had so far had no response.

(d) Pond: Jon Allbutt had circulated the detailed report produced by the Surrey Downlands Project and it was agreed that the following work should be put in hand

(a) Removal of the two weeds identified as being invasive;
(b) The preparation of a detailed biological survey;

(e) Millennium Wood: Jon Allbutt had circulated a report and he proposed that

1. The Parish Council continues discussions with the Surrey Downlands Project Team to develop a management programme to restore this wood. In particular to prepare costings and to identify sources of funding.

2. The Parish Council to encourage and support a local group of volunteers to assist this process.

3. The Parish Council with its partners to consult locally on all proposals to ensure that what we do has community approval.

4. To bring forward progress reports and further proposals for future meetings of the Parish Council

12. Meetings to Attend/Correspondence: None

13. Any Other Business

(a) Summer Concert: It was agreed that the concert would be held in June and that Jon Allbutt would fix the exact date once he had established the availability of the Green and of the Lewisham Concert Band.
(b) The Bakery: It was agreed that Jon Allbutt would discuss the matter with Andrew Bond to establish whether the matter was to proceed.
(c) Tatsfield School: Greg Watkins reported that the existing Deputy Headteacher Kevin Bellinger had been appointed as the new Headteacher of the School.

The Meeting closed at 10.33 p.m.

Subjects raised in Public Adjournments

1. NONE

PLANNING APPENDIX A

RESULTS:-

Approved
07/1758 7 Crossways

07/1878 Woodside, Parkwood Road

07/1930 The Spinney Maesmaur Road

Refused/withdrawn
07/1840 The Spinney, Maesmaur Road
07/1752 2 Park Farm Cotts, Rag Hill Road
07/1900 Land rear of The Old Ship, Westmore Green
Appeals Pending
06/0818 The Manor House, Ricketts Hill Road
07/1080 Vine Cottage, Westmore Road
07/1077 Bassetts, Westmore Green

CURRENT APPLICATIONS:-

08/0068 Woodside, Parkwood Road
Erection of single storey rear extension and roof extension with three dormer windows to front roofslope and one dormer window to rear roofslope.
Recommendation: Further consideration to be given

08/0108 Glendale, Barnfield Road
Conversion of garage to habitable room. (Certificate of Lawfulness for a Proposed Development)
Recommendation: No objection
08/0116 Grove Road
Retrospective permission to reconductor the existing Low Voltage overhead line with ABC conductor.
Recommendation: No objection
07/1501 Kemscott Farm,Lusted Hall Lane
Retention of dwelling and garage (Amendment to development approved under TA/2003/1767).
Recommendation: Objection to be lodged to retrospective nature of application and request for enforcement of conditions previously imposed

08/0080 Grenaun, Parkwood Road
Demolition of garages and erection of detached triple garage

Recommendation: To be considered by next Planning Councillor

08/0173 Rosefield House, Cudham Road
Demolition of existing dwelling and outbuildings. Erection of 2-storey detached house with basement - amendment to permission granted TA/2006/1105.
Recommendation: To be considered by next Planning Councillor

MINUTES of a Meeting of Tatsfield Parish Council held on the 10th March 2008 in the Parish Room, Westmore Green, Tatsfield commencing at 8.00 p.m.

Present: Mr Ian Mitchell (in the chair), Mr Jon Allbutt, Mr Giles Hawkes, Mrs Carol Jordan,

Mrs Sandy Philibert, Mr Greg Watkins

In Attendance: Mr John Sandiford (Clerk), Mr Bob David (Tandridge DC Councillor), Mr David Hodge (Surrey CC Councillor) and 3 parishioners.

1. (a) Apologies Mrs Eileen Pearce. The Chairman said he was glad to report that Mrs Pearce was now recovering and gaining strength.
(b) Declarations of Interest: None

2. Minutes

The Minutes of the meeting held on the 11th February 2008 were approved and signed as a correct record.

3. Matters Arising:
(a) Affordable Housing Project: Carol Jordan reported that due to the illness of Mona Johannson, the analysis of the survey was not yet complete.
(b) Broadband Service: The Chairman reported that 18 people had responded to his pieces in the Parish Magazine inviting comments about the quality of broadband links with the village. Most were dissatisfied with the speeds obtained, but for a third of them, ‘dropping out’ was a significant problem. In two cases however customers reported obtaining speeds higher than a line test indicated was possible, and on the day before unexpectedly high speeds were occasionally attainable, accompanied by periods of exceptionally low speeds. A less than 3% response to the appeal suggested that dissatisfaction was confined to people using broadband for business, but a letter would go to BT asking for details of when improvements would be made.
(c) Summer Concert: Jon Allbutt indicated that this would be held on Sunday 15 June. He hoped that there would be other attractions on Westmore Green and details would be announced in due course. He had booked the Lewisham Concert Band at a cost of Ł250. This was agreed.
(d) Audit Commission Assessment of Surrey County Council: The Chairman recalled that Tatsfield had been one of four parish councils asked for their views. The Council’s response had been critical of the County’s performance in education and on highways but had been positive about the Surrey History Service. The Commission’s findings had been sent to all members and these suggested that other consultees were less critical than Tatsfield.

4. Tatsfield School

The Chairman reported that he had received a message from Surrey County Council stating that the County Council was getting very close to completing the documentation on the land elements of the transfer of land belonging to the Parish Council and to Mr Reeve and there were no legal/covenant issues outstanding. However, a fresh version of the documents and plans had been received on Thursday 6 March but these were defective. One plan appeared to relate to the land deal with Mr Reeve; another was incomplete and there was a reference in one document to an apparently non-existent part of another document. In addition there were a number of textual points that still needed to be settled. Nevertheless, there were no points of disagreement preventing an early signing of documents, but this had been the case for many months.

The Chairman said the Parish Council would have to decide what steps to take if, by the time of the April meeting, the County Council had failed to arrange for signing the papers ready for the builders to move in. He said he would initiate a joint approach with the school to establish how to increase the pressure on the County to deliver the promised improvement in educational facilities for Tatsfield. This could include political lobbying, enlisting the media or calling for an independent review of how the County had managed this important project.

David Hodge indicated that he was unable to explain what was causing the delay and he intended exerting all the pressure he could to remedy the situation. He had been depressed to be informed by the County Council Officers that the anticipated start date for the project was now May 2008 and the anticipated completion date was now in early 2010.

5. Planning Matters
(a) Current Applications: Carol Jordan reported on the current applications and the action agreed was as listed in Appendix A.
(b) Tandridge Core Strategy: The Chairman reported that he had not, after all, made an electronic response to the consultation on ‘Tomorrow’s Tandridge’. There was little in the document which the Parish Council would at this stage wish to challenge and he found that the scope for saying what one might have wanted to say was circumscribed by the mechanical nature of the consultation.
(c) Parish Planning Statement: The Chairman indicated that this would be reviewed over the summer months.
(d) Old Ship Recycling Point: Cllr Bob David would report later.
(e) Next month’s planning Councillor: Ian Mitchell .

1	6. Finance

(a) Clerk’s Remuneration: The Chairman reported that the Clerk’s salary would be raised retrospectively to Ł8712 p.a. in accordance with the National Scale for the year commencing 1 April 2007. This was an increase of Ł211.32.
(b) Payments: The payments listed in Appendix B were approved.

1	7. Highways & Rights of Way

(a) General Highway Matters: Sandy Philibert had circulated a detailed report to all members that covered

the following matters:.

(1) Old Lane: The drain had been cleared out.
(2) Flooding

· Clarks Lane gullies in the kerb stones had been cleaned out.

· Rag Hill Road/The Avenue junction: David Hodge had a possible solution in mind to relieve the occasional flooding that would entail the existing pond being cleaned, with the land owner’s permission. It is likely that this has silted up over many years and the dug out matter would be used to increase the height of the surrounding banking.

· Approach Road; where flooding occurs between Beaconshaw and junction with Clarks Lane, channels had been dug across the verge to take the water into the field.

(3) Potholes

It was disappointing to note that nearly all of the reported potholes are still to be filled – 6 weeks after reporting.

(b) Permissive extension of FP23 – Church Hill: Bob David indicated that he had still to contact the landowner.
(c) Street Names: It was noted that the suggested names had been submitted to Tandridge DC by Bob David.
(d) Ricketts Hill Road: The Clerk drew attention a letter from a resident suggesting that the Parish Council consider the construction of a footpath across Tatsfield Green from Rag Hill Road to Manor Road. The matter was discussed in some detail and it was unanimously agreed that, as a first step, Jon Allbutt would carry out a feasibility study for a pathway between Grey Gables in Ricketts Hill Road and the Church Hill/Ricketts Hill junction.
(e) LORD (Lorries off Rural Roads: Carol Jordan reported a provisional database had been drawn up and this included Church Hill/Tatsfield Lane in Class D and Rectory Lane/ Clacket Lane in Class C. The Government was being lobbied to ban all HGVs from Class D roads.
(f) Speed Limit Review on Tandridge Roads: The Chairman reported that a paper presented at the last Tandridge Local Committee meeting listed most of Tatsfield’s roads as having a 60mph speed limit. He had contacted Surrey in an attempt to get this corrected. He believed this was a repeat of what had happened in 1988 when he and the then Parish Council had prevented the welcome introduction of a virtual blanket 30mph limit for the built-up area of the village being matched by a removal of a limit on Ship Hill. In 1994 Surrey officers mis-understood what had happened in 1988 and tried again to remove the Ship Hill limit. Once again this was thwarted by the then Parish Council which provided copies of the relevant papers from its archives.

(g) FP25 conversion to bridleway: In the absence of Eileen Pearce, Ian Mitchell reported that Surrey County Council was still examining this claim that appeared to be similar to a claim turned down in 1988. He had been asked by the County to check the Parish Council’s archive for as much background information as possible about previous correspondence.

8. Notified Matters

(a) Old Lane Drainage; The Clerk drew attention to a letter from the Residents Committee raising four points concerning

(1) Future maintenance: It was agreed that Jon Allbutt would obtain quotations for the costs of clearance of the ditch after which the matter would be considered again.
(2) The location of a BT pipe crossing the ditch: Jon Allbutt confirmed that he had already taken up the matter with BT and it was awaiting a report from its contractor.

(3) Overhanging Trees; John Allbutt indicated that he was awaiting quotations.

(4) Maintenance of the gullies at the top of Old Lane: These gullies had recently been cleaned out by Surrey Highways.

(b) Annual Parish Meeting: It was agreed that this would be held on Tuesday the 6th May and that detailed arrangements would be discussed at the next meeting.

9. Reports from Members and Outside Organisations

(a) County Councillor: David Hodge reported on the following matters: -

(1) Tandridge Local Committee: he was pleased to confirm that grants would be made to Tatsfield Scouts, The Women’s Institute and Tatsfield in Bloom.
(2) Trees: He was pleased that the tree in Ship Hill had been pruned back. Nothing had been done to the tree in Paynesfield Road as there were questions as to its ownership.
(3) Oxted Quarry: He expressed concern at the possible increase in heavy traffic through parts of Tatsfield if and when a new exit road from the quarry was constructed. The County Council was undertaking an appraisal and he would keep the Parish Council fully informed.
(b) Titsey Hill: He noted concern at the number of accidents occurring towards the bottom of the Hill and would look into the matter.

(b) District Councillor: Bob David reported on the following matters: -

(1) Post Office: Although Tatsfield Post Office had not been scheduled for closure, there was still a possibility that this decision could be changed and he urged everyone to continue supporting the Post office.
(b) Woody End: He drew attention to the fact that this planning appeal had been allowed and suggested that the Inspector’s reasons for that decision were worthy of study.
(c) Recycling: He was disappointed that Tatsfield was not included in the extension of recycling collections for plastics. It would probably be 12 months before Tatsfield was included.
(d) Footpaths & Bridleways: He drew attention to a scheme where recycled rubber was being used as a surface material for footpaths and bridleways and he was endeavouring to obtain details that would be passed to Surrey CC.
(e) Highway Signage: He indicated that there was a local resident who had expressed his willingness to produce signs free of charge.

1	(c) Transport Matters: Nothing to report

1	(d) Tatsfield Youth Project: Jon Allbutt reported that there would be a meeting with the Surrey Association in the near future.

1	(e) Tatsfield Community Responders: Jon Allbutt reported the Responders were awaiting delivery of new SMS mobile phones. He also reported that the Responders had been busy over recent weeks.

(f) Parish Emergency Plan: Jon Allbutt reported that he was hoping to have a routine meeting with the Emergency Planning Officers of Tandridge DC and Surrey CC
(g) Risk Assessment: Nothing to report.

(h) Village Hall Sandy Philibert reported that:

(1) Budget/Hire Charge/Conditions for Hire proposals for 2008/2009 had been agreed.
(2) The Risk Assessment had been forwarded to the professional Risk Assessor.

(3) Stolen lead flashing over the Green Room entrance roof was being dealt with by Jon Allbutt.

(4) A second estimate had been obtained for checking the Hall’s electrical installation.

(5) The committee had requested working PIR lights on the Parish Room for hall users.

(6) Detailed costing for the acoustic improvements had been obtained.

1	10. Parish Council Property

1	(a) Surgery & Parish Room:

(1) Broadband Connection: Giles Hawkes reported that he had negotiated with TalkTalk for a full broadband service at a cost of Ł16.39 p.c.m. to include VAT, all calls and line rental., that he would arrange to circulate details of the proposed Broadband connection for consideration by members. It was unanimously agreed to proceed and Giles Hawkes agreed to make the arrangements.

(2) Central Heating: Giles Hawkes reported that the heating system had been serviced and was now working properly.
(3) Lead Flashing: Giles Hawkes agreed to have the lead flashing on the toilet window repaired where it appeared an attempt had been to remove it.

1	(4) Computer equipment: Giles Hawkes reported on his proposals for the purchase of a laptop computer, projector and screen - a total expenditure of Ł950.00. This was agreed, subject to approval of the final details.

1	(5) Salting of Carpark: Giles Hawkes indicated the cost of a spreader was Ł179.80 and of a storage Ł252.60. It was agreed that further consideration would be given to exactly what equipment was required and how it was to be stored.

11. Parish Owned Land

1	(a) Westmore Green Playground: Jon Allbutt indicated that he was awaiting confirmation of a date for a meeting with the interested parties

(b) Westmore Green Notice Board: It was agreed that Desmond Bishop would be asked to tidy and clean this Notice Board.

(c) Parish Land: Jon Allbutt indicated that he was still awaiting an up-to-date fencing quotation for Shaw Road Triangle and Kemsley Wood. It was agreed that adjoining owners should be notified of the intention to erect a fence to delineate the boundary of Kemsley Wood and the Clerk was asked to draft a letter. Jon Allbutt indicated that he had noticed some rubbish dumping on the Shaw Road Triangle and he had made some enquiries as a result of which most of the rubbish had been removed. It was also noted that the barrier at one end of Hayes Pasture was in need of repair and Jon Allbutt agreed to deal with this.

(d) Ricketts Hill Road: The Clerk reported that the resident had accepted the terms of the wayleave for access to his property and he had submitted a draft deed for approval.
(e) Pond: Jon Allbutt hoped that he would have a further meeting with the Surrey Downlands Project shortly.
(f) Millennium Wood: Jon Allbutt hoped that he would have a further meeting with the Surrey Downlands Project shortly.
(g) Bye-laws: Carol Jordan, Jon Allbutt and Ian Mitchell would continue to consider modernising the byelaws governing the use of Tatsfield and Westmore Greens. The question of horse-riding on the greens would be included.

12. Meetings to Attend/Correspondence-

(a) Chelsham & Farleigh PC APM: Tuesday 15 April at Farleigh Hall, Farleigh Court Road at 8.00 p.m. The Chairman to attend.
(b) Limpsfield PC APM: Wednesday 19th March at St Peters Church Hall, High Street, Limpsfield at 8.15 p.m. Jon Allbutt to attend

13. Any Other Business - None

The Meeting closed at 10.35 p.m.

Subjects raised in Public Adjournments

1. Tatsfield Green Footpath