Tatsfield Parish Council Minutes

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JANUARY TO MARCH 1998

TATSFIELD PARISH COUNCIL
Minutes of the Meeting held on Monday 12 January 1998 in the Parish Room, Tatsfield at 8.00 p.m.
Present: Mr Denis Hayes (in the Chair) Mr Bob David
Mr Tony Erbes Mr Ian Mitchell Mrs Eileen Pearce Mr David Wood
In attendance: Mr John Sandiford (Clerk), Mrs Tina Fry Councillor), Mr Harry Pettifor (SC Councillor), Philip Clark and 2 parishioners.
Apologies: Mrs Margaret Boadella (due to pressure of work).

1 MINUTES
The Minutes of the meeting held on 8 December 1997 were approved and signed as a correct record.

2 MATTERS ARISING:
a T Safety Partnership Award: The Chairman announced that, as a result of the Parish Council's nomination, Mrs Aileen McHugo had been chosen to receive an award and this would be made at a buffet lunch on Thursday 15 Jan at Council Offices, Oxted.
b Westmore Green: The Clerk reported that letters had been sent to residents of Lusted Hall Lane on the subject of parking on the Green. The Clerk also reported that he had written to BT with regard to the erection of telegraph poles on the Green and BT had replied indicating that the Clerk would be contacted in the near future.
c BH Airport Consultative Committee: Eileen Pearce circulated a copy of the reply she had received from Biggin Hill Airport. It was agreed that the offer of a meeting and a flight round the area should be taken up. It was further agreed that Ian Mitchell and Eileen Pearce would represent the Parish Council and that SC Councillor Harry Pettifor and TD Councillor Tina Fry would attend.

3 PLANNING MATTERS
a Bob David reported that, after consultation with fellow members, he had dealt with the current applications as follows:-
97/724 Christmas House, Westmore Road: As the proposed development was close to the adjoining property, concern had been expressed that TDC should be satisfied that the development was fully in accord with its policies for the Green Belt and the Built Environment. Subject to that being the case, no objection was made.
97/1174 Thriftwood Lodge, Broomlands Lane: An objection had been lodged based on the fact that the development was within MGB, AONB and AGLV and was non-essential. 97/1199 Mayfield, Ricketts Hill Road: An objection had been lodged based on the fact that the development was within MGB and outside the settlement area, that it was in a particularly sensitive area and that the existing dwelling was only permitted on a size-for-size replacement basis.
b Surrey Structure Plan: Ian Mitchell confirmed that the response had been submitted on the agreed terms.
c LBB Unitary Development Plan: There was no further comment.
d Planning Councillor: Tony Erbes.

4 FINANCE
a Tandridge Youth Bus: Denis Hayes reported that a meeting with Jane Haines had taken place on 4 January at which there had been a full discussion of the position. It had been suggested that, as the Club would be without a meeting place during the closure of the Village Hall for building work, the Youth Bus should visit the village twice a month during that time. The cost of each visit was estimated at £60 and the Youth Bus would expect a. contribution to the cost
During the ensuing discussion, it was pointed out that the Council's financial assistance to date had been based on the rent payable for the hire of the Village Hall for club meetings. During the closure of the Village Hall later in the year, rent would not be payable and it was therefore agreed that the Youth Bus should be requested to visit the village twice a month during the period of the Hall's closure in return for which the Parish Council would donate a sum equivalent to £30 per visit. This provision would come out of the amount budgeted for the Youth Club in 1998/99. It was further agreed that the sum of £50 be donated to the Youth Bus funds towards its general administration. This sum was to come from the provision in the current year's budget and consideration of any further financial provision direct to the Youth Club in the Present year would be deferred.
b National Westminster Bank charges: the Clerk summarised the contents of letter from the Bank which proposed changes in basis of calculating bank charges. It was agreed that the Clerk seek information from, at least 2 other banks in order to compare terms available.

5· HIGHWAYS & RIGHTS OF WAY
a Road Safety Audit: Bob David reported that the audit first requested approximately 12 months ago had now been completed. Copies had been circulated to all members. As yet, no request for payment of the £400 fee had been received. It was agreed that Bob David would arrange a meeting with SCC Highways to discuss the Audit. All councillors would be notified of the meeting so that they could attend if they wished.
b Road Signs & Other Problems: Bob David indicated that he intended chasing up various matters which were due to be dealt with by SCC Highways. He was asked to check when gritting had been carried out on 4/5 January as it had been suggested that it had not been done early enough and to request clearance of fallen leaves on the Ship Hill pavements. It was also noted that ruts were being caused on roadside verger, in Ricketts Hill Road as a result of buses pulling in to allow traffic to pass. Some subsidence had occurred to the footpath in Westmore Road and would also be drawn to the attention of SCC Highways.
Ian Mitchell reported that the HGV census would be sent to SCC Highways shortly.
c Wood View, Ninehams Road: The Clerk reported that Martin Fry (SCC Rights of Way Officer) had obtained 2 quotations, one for £435 + Vat from 1 D Baldock and one from Thompson Forestry for £176 + VAT per day (estimate 2 days). His recommendation was to accept the Baldock quote as it was definite. It was agreed that the Clerk should order the work from Baldock and that 50% of the cost would then be claimed back from SCC. The Chairman indicated that he would advise Mrs Entwhistle that the work should be completed shortly.
d Gorsey Down Farm: Bob David indicated that he bad been unable to make contact with Mr Harrison. It was agreed to leave the matter in abeyance until March.

6 COUNCIL AIMS & OBJECTIVES
a Future of L-shaped Field & Furze Corner: The Clerk reported that SCC Highways had indicated that the proposal for a multi-sports area was acceptable in principle subject to the provision of bicycle racks. In the light of this, it was agreed that a decision as to how the matter was to be progressed would be deferred to the next meeting in order that members could have time to consider the matter.
7 NOTIFIED ITEMS
a Tatsfield History Project: Eileen Pearce reported that a meeting of the Group would take place later in the months. She also reported that she had been invited to attend the opening of the North Tandridge Local History Centre.
b Biggin Hill Fire Station: The Chairman drew attention copies of correspondence from Councillor Tony Ritchie, the leader of the London Fire & Civil Defence Authority, which had been circulated. This indicated that LFCDA had no responsibility for Tatsfield and consequently the effect on Tatsfield of the changes in manning at Biggin Hill was not relevant as this was the responsibility of SCC. Steve Myers (SCC Deputy County Fire Officer) had offered to visit Tatsfield on 21 January at 9.15 am in order to discuss local concerns. All members were welcome to attend.
c Community Grant for Saltbins: The Clerk reported that a claim for one half of cost had been submitted to TDC.
d Extension of Parish Council Powers: The Clerk drew attention to notes circulated to members on changes made by the Local Government & Rating Act 1997 to the powers of parish councils.

8 VILLAGE HALL
a Management Committee Report: Bob David reported that the Village Hall funds had benefited by £301 from the Titsey Rotary Club’s Christmas Draw and by £230 from the Carol Concert organised by Tony Erbes. Preferential hire rates were still being afforded to the pre-school Group which had decided to move elsewhere from Easter until the alterations were complete. There was a new regular booking of the Hall by the Tai Chi Club.
b VH Building Committee: Its was noted that the ACRE Grant application had been submitted. It was agreed that Bob David would invite Alan Fisher (SVSC) to visit the village and meet members of the Building Committee so that he could familiarise himself with the project on which he was due to submit a report. The Clerk reported that DOE had been notified that the loan sanction would not be utilised before it expired on 31 Jan but that similar sanction would be required shortly.

9 PROPERTY & LAND MAINTENANCE
a Ground Maintenance: Eileen Pearce indicated that she was endeavouring to arrange a meeting with TDC officers to discuss tree replacement policy.

10 REPORTS
a County Councillor: Harry Pettifor mentioned the following matters:-
(1) He understood that a proposal relating to White Lane would be put to the April meeting of the Tandridge Accident Group.
(2) He agreed to look into the use of the mechanical sweeper in Tatsfield roads where there were no kerbs created more, rather then less, blockages.
(3) He indicated the rumoured increase in the Police rate was still under discussion.
b District Councillor: Tina Fry mentioned the following matters
(1) She felt that the proposed inspection flight over Tatsfield should take place in both winter and summer.
(2) She expressed concern as to what the Youth Club would do on those evenings when the Youth Bus was not in attendance.
(3) She drew attention to the fact that, once again, a recent break-in had not been reported to police.
c Parish Constable: Philip Clark reported that December had been a quiet month. There was still difficulties with communication which he was endeavouring to remedy. He drew particular attention to the fact that some crimes were still not being reported and pointed out that this distorted the crime figures and adversely affected the level of policing assigned to the village.
d SCAPTC: A report of meeting held on 10 January had been circulated by the Chairman. The meeting scheduled for 14 February had been postponed to 28 February and the Chairman would not be able to attend. There was no volunteer to attend in his place

11 MEETINGS TO ATTEND
a Surrey Rail Forum: 14 April 1998 at 10.00 am at County Hall - Denis Hayes to attend.
b Tandridge Crime Prevention Convention: 21 March 1998 9.30-4.30 Tony Erbes and Denis Hayes to attend.
c NALC Nat Conference: 24--26 April -- Plymouth -- Reg fee £35.95 + expenses. - no one wished to attend.

12 CORRESPONDENCE
a Rubbish Dumping: The Clerk reported the receipt of a letter on this matter on which it was agreed no further action would be taken unless there was any re-occurrence.
b Use of Westmore Green: The request by Tatsfield Horticultural Society to use the Green for Plant Sales on 9 May and beginning October was agreed. After discussion the request by Lawson’s Circus for the use of the Green on 6-8 April was agreed subject to the Clerk confirming that there was no greater use of animals than had previously been the case and that the Green was left in a clean and tidy condition.

13 ANY OTHER BUSINESS
a Eileen Pearce presented her apologies for the next meeting.
b David Wood indicated that a donation of £65 had been made to Tatsfield Helpline from the proceeds of Christmas Carols performed at The Ship and a donation of £1.200 had been made to Breast Cancer as a result of the recent Tatsfield Triathlon.
c It was noted that there was a defective street light in The Square and this would be reported.
d Tony Erbes enquired whether there was any possibility of arranging for local residents use the Biggin Hill Community Bus Service. It was agreed that this was not possible. He also indicated that he hoped to organise a Summer Dance to raise funds.
e Bob David drew attention to the fact that parish councils were losing their automatic right to be appointed as school governors. In future, parish councillors would have to be co-opted by the School.
The meeting closed at 10.50 p.m.

TATSFIELD PARISH COUNCIL Meeting No.1023
Minutes of a Meeting held on Monday 9 February 1998 in the Parish Room, Tatsfield at 8.00 pm.
_____________________________________________________________________
Present Mr Denis Hayes (in the Chair)
Mrs Margaret Boadella Mr Bob David
Mr Tony Erbes Mr Ian Mitchell
Mrs Eileen Pearce David Wood
In attendance Mr John Sandiford (Clerk), Mr Harry Pettifor (SC Councillor) and 3 parishioners.
Apologies: Mrs Tina Fry (TD Councillor).

1 MINUTES
The Minutes of the meeting held on 12 January 1998 were approved and signed as a correct record subject to the amendment of the second sentence of Paragraph 7d to read "she had been invited to the opening of the N Tandridge Local History Centre".

2 MATTERS ARISING:
a Circus: The Clerk reported the acceptance by Lawsons Circus of the conditions and payment of £100.
b Westmore Green: There was nothing further to report with regard to the telegraph poles and the Clerk would chase this up. Bob David drew attention to the fact that vehicles were driving across part of Westmore Green and causing damage. The identity of those concerned was uncertain. The Chairman requested all councillors to inspect the area before the next meeting so that the matter could then be considered.

3 PLANNING MATTERS
a: The following matters were discussed:-
97/1197 12 Westmore Road: Tony Erbes reported that no objection had been made but concern over parking had been expressed.
97/1168 Church Hall, Church Hill: There was no objection to the amended siting.
97/1324 Portlands, Ricketts Hill Road: The Clerk was asked to request that the new front window should match the existing windows.
b Parkwood Golf Club: The Chairman reported the receipt of letter from Mr Goldsmith commenting on the objection lodged by the Parish Council to the proposed variation of the Planning Agreement. It was agreed that the Chairman would acknowledge this letter without any further comment.
c Planning Seminar for Parish Councils: It was agreed that this Seminar to be held by TDC on 7 April at 7.30-7.45 pm would be attended by the Clerk, Ian Mitchell and Eileen Pearce.
d SCC Review of Old Mineral Planning Permissions: It was agreed that the response to the application by the Titsey Estate to clarify and bring up to date the various permissions relating to Moorhouse Sandpits would be dealt with by Ian Mitchell.
c Planning Councillor: Margaret Boadella.

4 FINANCE
a Tandridge Youth Bus: The Clerk reported that he had written as instructed at last meeting. As yet no reply had been received. The Clerk then read a letter from Ken Munday, the Youth Club Treasurer, raising certain matters concerning the Youth Club's finances. After discussion, it was agreed that the Clerk should reply indicating that the Parish Council had noted the points he had raised but as there appeared to be no immediate financial difficulty the matter would be considered again in the next financial year after the alterations to the Village Hall had been completed.
b NALC Direct Information Service: It was agreed to renew the subscription for a further year. The Chairman requested all members to make a point of reading the monthly issues so that they could assess the value of the service to them.
c National Westminster Bank charges: The Clerk summarised the present position and indicated that he had a written offer of free banking for 12 months from one bank. Another bank would make normal charges for each item but would pay interest on any current account balance above £2,000. It was agreed that the Clerk should make some further enquiries of the Council's existing bankers and then make a recommendation for endorsement at the next meeting. It was agreed that if a change of bankers was to take place, the best time would at the end of the financial year.
d Unmade Road Grant Apllication: The Clerk reported that he had received an application from the residents of Kemsley Road for a grant towards the cost of repairs for this unmade road. After discussion, it was agreed that a grant of £150 would be made subject to the production of satisfactory evidence of payment for materials and of the work being completed.

5 HIGHWAYS & RIGHTS OF WAY
a Road Safety Audit: Bob David reported on the meeting with Simon Hall (SCC Highways) on 5 Feb to discuss the Audit. He indicated that the scheme would need considerable revision to satisfy safety and design requirements, that additional lighting would be required and that SCC would definitely not fund the scheme. Considerable discussion took place and Eileen Pearce proposed that the scheme should be abandoned. This was put to the vote and lost by 3 votes to 4 against. Bob David then proposed that efforts should be made to find a local road engineer to advise without cost on possible solutions. This was put to the vote and passed by 4 votes to 3 against.
b Road Signs & Other Problems: Bob David indicated that SCC Highways hoped to deal with the various highway matters shortly. The HGV Census was being considered by SCC Highways and the Environment Agency would try to investigate the tyre dumping but this was difficult as the tyres had now been removed. It was important for any new instances of tyre dumping to be reported immediately to the Agency. He also reported that gritting had been carried out on 4/5 January late in the evening. He had also had complaints about parking in Crossways but it appeared that very little could be done to prevent this.
c Wood View, Ninehams Road: The Clerk reported that the order for work to be carried out had been given. He agreed to chase the matter up.

6 COUNCIL AIMS & OBJECTIVES
a Future of L-shaped Field & Furze Corner: After discussion of the matter, it was agreed that:-
(1) the Parish Council should proceed with plans for (a) theconstruction of a multi-sports hard surface enclosure without artificial lighting together with small ancilliary storage and changing accomodation in the L-shaped Field and (b) the management of the bulk of the remaining part of the Field as an open wild flower area;
(2)such project to be taken forward by a Parish Council Committee which should:-
(i) prepare a detailed planning application for consideration by the Parish Council;
(ii) investigate possible funding sources;
(iii) investigate and draw up a scheme for the management of the sports facility and
(iv) prepare a plan for the creation of the wild flower area and a scheme for its subsequent management.
(3)the members of the Committee to be Bob David (Chairman), Tony Erbes, Eileen Pearce, Ian Mitchell and Denis Hayes.

7 NOTIFIED ITEMS
a Tatsfield History Project: Eileen Pearce reported that the Group had recently had the benefit of interesting comments from a professional historian and archeologist. She had attended the opening of the N Tandridge Local History Centre and the Group would continue to take an interest in its activities. She hoped that a first draft of the History would be completed shortly.
b Biggin Hill Fire Station: The Chairman reported on the meeting between several councillors and Steve Myers (SCC Deputy County Fire Officer) on 21 January when local concerns had been discussed. The discussion revealed that the down-scaling of Biggin Hill Fire Station was inevitable and that would mean an increase in the response time of up to 5 minutes although it would still be within the Government standard. One important fact to emerge was that smoke detectors were extremely important in reducing possible damage and/or injury. This was something to be urged on local residents. Steve Myers had offered to stage a Safety Demonstration Evening and it was thought that this was an offer to be taken up, possibly during Shopping Week.
c Community Grant for Saltbins: The Clerk reported that payment of the Community grant had been received for the whole expenditure. It was agreed that the amount in hand should be paid out by the Clerk against expenditure on salt for the road concerned.
d Biggin Hill Airport: Ian Mitchell reported that Harry Pettifor, Tina Fry, Eileen Pearce and himself would shortly be meeting the Airport management to discuss overflying problems. This would involve an inspection flight over the area. Another meeting and inspection flight would take place later in the year when the trees were fully in leaf. Flights out at the airport had increased by approx 1% over the last year. The airport was still well within the max permitted movements of 125,00 pa. The new terminal building had recently been opened.

8 VILLAGE HALL
a Management Committee Report: Bob David reported the Pre-School had changed its mind and would contiue to use the Village Hall until building work commenced. Efforts to raise funds were continuing.
b VH Building Committee: Ian Mitchell reported that the meeting with Alan Fisher (SVSC) on 30 Jan had been successful. It was hoped that Peter Ginever, the Case Officer, would pay a second visit shortly.

9 PROPERTY & LAND MAINTENANCE
a Ground Maintenance: Eileen Pearce indicated that Jon Allbutt, Tony Erbes and herself hoped to have a meeting shortly with TDC and SCC officers to discuss tree replacement in the area.
Best Kept Village Competition: It was agreed that the village would not be entered in this competition.

10 REPORTS
a County Councillor: Harry Pettifor mentioned the following matters:-
(1) He expressed his view that SCC should finance the Police for the full amount required even though this would mean a large increase in the Police rate;
(2) He had made enquiries about the possibility of siting a speed camera in Lusted Hall Lane and had been informed that this might be possible in conjunction with a road improvement programme but he advised caution if such a scheme were proposed;
(3) He asked for details of the roads where problems were being caused by use of a mechanical sweeper and it was agreed that the Clerk would write accordingly;
(4) He drew attention to the enormous cost involved in the installation of individual speed limit signs which he felt was a waste of valuable resources. He suggested that the imposition of a blanket speed restriction on the whole village would in the long run save a considerable amount and, at the same time, be of benefit to the village.
b Parish Constable: In the absence of the Parish Constable, Ian Mitchell mentioned the following matters:-
(1) It was possible that the Parish Council would be asked to purchase traffic cones at a cost of approx £200 for use by the Parish Constable to control parking on the occasion of fetes, etc.
(2) There were no reported crimes in the area during January which fact could be used by the authorities in support of the reduction of the level of policing in the area. It emphasised the importance of reporting any crime in order to ensure that the staistics were realistic.
(3) During the visit of the mobile Police Office, an officer had taken the opportunity to visit the Play Group.
(4) He pointed out that drink-driving was receiving more attention in the area at the present time.
d E Surrey Transport Committee: A written report had been circulated.
e Tatsfield/Vern Committee: Ditto
f Millennium Committee: Ditto
g Oxted Hospital: Ditto
h Tatsfield Shops: Ditto

11 MEETINGS TO ATTEND
a Surrey Rail Forum: 14 April 1998 at 10.00 am at County Hall - Denis Hayes to attend.
b Tandridge Crime Prevention Convention: 21 March 1998 9.30-4.30 - Tony Erbes and Denis Hayes to attend.
c SCC Community Transport Working Lunch: 6 March - Bletchingley VHall - 12-3.30 - Denis Hayes, Bob David and Ian Mitchell to attend.
d Limpsfield Parish Meeting: 31 March at St Peters Hall, Limpsfiedl - 7.45-8.15 pm - Ian Mitchell to attend.
eLA21 Forum: 10 Feb at 7-7.30 pm at Red Cross Centre Oxted - Eileen Pearce, Ian Mitchell and Denis Hayes to attend.

12 CORRESPONDENCE
a A request to exhibit signs on Westmore Green advertising the Spring Fair on 4 April by Tatsfield Village Pre-School was agreed.
b Data Protection Act Registration: It was agreed that the Clerk should be registered in place of Ian Mitchell and that the registration should be renewed.
c Surrey Local Area Profile: This would be placed in circulation.
d Survey of Parish Councils & Residents Associations: It was agreed that this would be completed by the Chairman and Vice Chairman and a copy placed in circulation.

13 ANY OTHER BUSINESS
a Bob David indicated that Tatsfield Scouts were intending to apply for a Lottery grant to fund the purchase of a community bus. Whilst the Scouts did not anticipate seeking financial assistance from the Parish Council, they would be asking the Council to support the application.
b Bob David indicated that the Scouts were badly in need of financial assistance to purchase much needed equipment and it was likely that a request would be submitted to the Parish Council in the near future.
The meeting closed at 10.48 pm.

Minutes of a Meeting of Tatsfield Parish Council held on the 9th March 1998 in the Parish Room, Westmore Green, Tatsfield at 8 pm.
_____________________________________________________________________
Present: Mr Denis Hayes (in the Chair)
Mrs Margaret Boadella Mr Bob David
Mr Tony Erbes Mr Ian Mitchell
Mrs Eileen Pearce Mr David Wood
In attendance: Mr John Sandiford (Clerk), Mr Harry Pettifor (SC Councillor), Mrs Tina Fry (TD Councillor) and 2 parishioners.

1 Minutes
The minutes of the meeting held on the 9th February 1998 were approved and signed by the Chairman as a correct record subject to the substitution of “commenced” for “completed” in the last line of paragraph 7a.
2 Matters Arising
a Tandridge Periodic Electoral Review: The Clerk drew attention to the fact that the Commission would publish its recommendations on the 17th March on which date the period of consultation would start. A copy of the Report would be sent to the Council on that date.
b Westmore Green: Bob David indicated that he had made enquiries with regard to the telegraph poles and was satisfied that the new pole was required for safety reasons. It was agreed that the Clerk should now proceed with the negotiation of the wayleave agreement.
He also indicated a lot of the damage to Green had been caused by the TDC refuse vehicle and he had therefore written asking if a smaller vehicle could be used.
Tony Erbes drew attention to the damage to the verges around the Green which was being caused to some extent by buses travelling too fast. It was agreed that the Clerk should take the matter up with Surrey CC Transport Department and ask it to take some action in the matter. It was agreed that if this did not have a beneficial effect, it might be necessary to consider some other traffic calming measure such as bollards to protect the verges in Approach Road and other roads in the parish. The position would be reviewed at the next meeting.

3 Planning Matters
a The following matters were discussed and agreed:
98/101 Chartland, Greenway: No objection.
98/105 The Croft, Westmore Green: Margaret Boadella reported that this application was almost identical to a previous application to which the Council had objected and which had been refused. An objection had been lodged to this application had been lodged in virtually identical terms.
98/115 Clacket Lane Services: After discussion, it was agreed that an objection should be lodged based on the sensitivity of the area and the general proliferation of such aerials in the district. It was also felt that the applicant should be asked to explain why sharing was not possible.
Botley Hill Farm: Ian Mitchell drew attention to this application for the erection of a marquee at the rear of these premises on a permanent basis. TDC Officers were recommending approval subject to a 5 year limitation and to the marquee being dismantled for a continuous 3/4 month period in the summer. Tina Fry indicated that the marquee had not been dismantled as required by the present temporary approval and the applicant had been reprimanded for this. The roof height would now be lower and the roof would be camouflaged. and it would be further behind the existing buildings. It was agreed that an objection should be lodged based on the fact that this site was within MGB and was a departure from the Local Plan. Ian Mitchell read a draft letter to the meeting, the terms of which were approved.
b Moorhouse Sandpits: The Chairman read the terms of the response to this application to the meeting and this were agreed
c Tandridge District Local Plan: Ian Mitchell outlined the outcome of the representations which had been made by the Parish Council and paid tribute to the work of Tina Fry in helping to achieve such a large measure of success. He emphasised that the final outcome would not be known until approx June 1998. A vote of thanks was passed to Tina Fry and to Ian Mitchell for their efforts.
d Planning Councillor: Ian Mitchell

4 Finance
a Tandridge Youth Bus: The Clerk confirmed that he had written to the Treasurer of the Youth Club as requested at the last meeting. He had also written to Jane Haines, Chairman of the Tandridge Youth Bus, but had no reply. Tony Erbes agreed to chase the matter up.
b Tatsfield Youth Club: The Clerk indicated that he had received two letters from Ken Munday, Chairman of 1st Tatsfield Scouts, with regard to (a) the possible purchase of a minibus for use as a community bus and (b) the need for funds to purchase equipment.
The cost of the minibus would be approx £30,000 with a further £10-12,000 required if a garage had to be provided. A 100% National Lottery grant was possible if the bus was available for use by other organisations and there was no similar vehicle in the area. After discussion, it was agreed that the Parish Council wholeheartedly supported the proposed scheme to purchase a minibus for use as a community bus with the assistance of a 100% Lottery grant. It was also agreed that Bob David would be the Council representative on the Management Committee.
The Clerk reported that the Scouts financial reserves were exhausted after the expenditure on their new Hut. A further £6,000 was required to complete the Hut and approx £9,000 was needed for equipment. The letter requested financial assistance in the purchase of two bell tents required to accomodate young girl scouts at a cost of approx £300. It was noted that there was no provision with the current year’s budget or in the coming year’s budget but it was unanimously agreed that a grant of £300 should be made immediately.

c Banking Arrangements: The Clerk had circulated to all members a note setting out the position and it was agreed by 4 votes to 3 that:-
(A) Midland Bank plc be requested to open accounts in the name of the Council and the Bank is authorised to:-
(i) pay all cheques and other instructions for payment signed on behalf of the Council by any two of the authorised signatories, whether any account is in debit or credit;
(ii) deliver any item held on behalf of the Council by the Bank in safe custody against the written receipt or instructions of the Clerk or any of the authorised signatories; and
(iii) accept the Clerk as fully empowered to act on behalf of the Council in any other transaction with the Bank
(B) any debt incurred to the Bank under this authority shall in the absence of written agreement with the Bank to the contrary be repayable on demand;
(C) the Clerk is authorised to supply the Bank as and when necessary with lists of persons authorised to sign, give receipts and act on behalf of the Council, and that the Bank may rely upon such lists;
(D) these resolutions be communicated to the Bank and remain in force until changed by a resolution of the Council and a copy, certified by the Chairman and the Clerk, is received by the Bank.
(E) the authorised signatories shall be the Parish Councillors from time to time.

5 Highways & Rights of Way
a Road Safety Audit: Bob David reported that he had appealed for a Road Engineer in the Parish Magazine but without success so far. The appeal would be repeated in the next issue.
b Road Signs & Other Problems: The following matters were discussed and agreed:-
(1) In the light of the refusal of Surrey CC to erect a sign indicating the unsuitability of Goatsfield Road for HGVs, it was agreed that the residents should be advised of the position and that no action would be taken by the Parish Council.
(2) Bob David reported that he and Tony Erbes had had yet another meeting with a SCC Highways officer who had again indicated that he was very willing to co-operate and deal with the list of items which had previously been agreed.
(3) It was noted that an Environment Agency representative had visited the village to look into the question of tyre dumping and Bob David hoped to hear from him further shortly.
(4) Bob David indicated that two Tatsfield School parents had expressed concern over the safety of their children when walking down Ship Hill. They suggested that vehicles mounted the footpath in icy conditions and asked if a guard rail could be considered. After discussion of the matter, it was felt that there was no real evidence of such a danger and that, in any event, guard rails were unlikely to meet with approval from the Highway Authority.
(5) Bob David drew attention to the bad surface of the roadway leading to the Working Men’s Club. It was agreed that the Clerk should write to the Club expressing the Council’s concern at the bad surface and asking if the Club could take steps to remedy it.
(6) Bob David agreed to ask SCC Highways to ensure that the mechanical road sweeper swept that made-up part of Paynesfield beyond Johns Road.
(7) It was agreed that Eileen Pearce and Bob David would agree the form of the new Tatsfield signs to be erected at the entrances to the village.
(8) Colin Davis had drawn attention to the practice of parking on the bus stop at Westmore Green and had suggested that suitable leaflets should be placed on the windscreens. This was felt not to be a practical solution but it was felt that a suitably worded sign could be displayed on the adjacent Notice Board.
c Wood View, Ninehams Road: The Clerk indicated that the work was still outstanding and he would chase the matter up.

6 Council Aims & Objectives
a L-shaped Field Committee: Bob David reported that the Committee had met on the 3rd March and had discussed matters generally. It had been decided to discuss the matter in detail with one of the possible contractors and this meeting would take place on the 20th March.
Eileen Pearce drew attention to a letter from a resident which raised various points for consideration and it was agreed that this letter would be referred to the committee for consideration. The letter would be acknowledged by the Clerk.

7 Notified Items
a Tatsfield History Project: Eileen Pearce indicated that a workshop meeting was to be held on the 29th March and there would a further report in due course. Ian Mitchell mentioned that he had obtained negatives to old maps of the district which would be very useful for research purposes. It was also noted that Tandridge DC were considering local history projects at a meeting on the 11th March.
b Surrey CC Countryside Estate: The Clerk reported that Surrey CC was considering the transfer of the management of its Countryside Estate to a specially created Trust and its Environment Committee wished to have discussions with Tandridge DC and the Parish Council as to their possible interest in being recipients of parts of the Estate or in transferring management of their own land to a Trust. It was agreed that a meeting should be arranged to discuss the matter with a member of the Countryside & Heritage Group. Denis Hayes, Ian Mitchell and Eileen Pearce would represent the Parish Council.
c Annual Parish Meeting: The Chairman confirmed the Village Hall had been booked. He outlined the content of last year’s meeting and asked for suggestions for subjects to be included for the present year. At Eileen Pearce’s suggestion, it was agreed that the Tree Planting programme should be included . It was also agreed that Stephen Styles, the Surrey CC Community Transport Officer, should be invited to speak in order to help highlight the proposed scheme by the Scouts to purchase a minibus for community use.
d Biggin Hill Airport: Ian Mitchell indicated that it had not been possible to have the proposed inspection flight and meeting to discuss the matter. It was agreed that even if the inspection flight did not take place, it was important to have the meeting with the Airport operators and Ian Mitchell agreed to arrange such a meeting as soon as possible.
e Local Government Modernisation: The Chairman drew attention to the paper circulated by DETR which set out possible changes to be made which, for the most part, would only affect the Parish Council indirectly. Comments on the proposals had to be submitted by the 9th April and it was agreed that Ian Mitchell, Denis Hayes and Eileen Pearce would consider the proposals and formulate and submit a response by that date.
f Tandridge DC Car Parking proposals: The Chairman drew attention to the proposals to impose charges for car parking in Caterham and Oxted. Although these charges would indirectly affect local residents, it was not considered necessary to make any direct comment on the proposals.

8 Village Hall
a Management Committee: Bob David reported that he was pleased to report that bookings were at a high level. He had been advised that the ACRE Case Officer, Peter Ginnever, would not be paying a second visit to the village as had been hoped.
b Building Committee: Nothing to report.
9 Property & Land Maintenance
a Property: Tony Erbes reported that he had gone out to tender to 4 firms but only two had quoted. He recommended that the quotation of Denis H Reeves & Co in the sum of £1071.16 + VAT for the exterior redecoration of the Surgery/Parish Room be accepted and this was agreed. Work would not start until April when better weather was expected. He would take the opportunity when the builder was working to open the roof and investigate the leak.
b Land: Eileen Pearce reported that there had been a recent meeting with representatives of both Tandridge and Surrey councils to discuss the replacement of trees along Approach Road and Tatsfield Green. Unfortunately no financial help would be forthcoming from either Council but the meeting had produced ideas for possible funding elsewhere. She indicated that the cost of removal and grubbing large trees on an individual basis could be as much as £400-500 per tree. She hoped to have a report available for the next meeting.
Tatsfield in Bloom: Bob David reported that the organisation was well in hand. As the Village Hall was likely to be in the middle of building operations, it was hoped to do something special to divert attention from it. Tandridge Council was once again giving the entry its full support and had promised to supply plants to the value of approx £800. It was agreed that the matter should be given proper mention at the Annual Parish Meeting.

10 Reports
a County Councillor: Harry Pettifor mentioned the following matters:-
(1) Surrey County Council would again support Tasfield in Bloom.
(2) The question of mechanical kerb sweeping was being looked into.
(3) It was confirmed that the grant for the Village Hall had been rolled over .
(4) Surrey CC had agreed to pay for rock salt to stock salt bins in Chelsham.
(5) He would endeavour to ensure that Tatsfield received a response to its HGV Survey.
(6) The road scheme at Whites Lane was still under active consideration.
b District Councillor: Tina Fry mentioned the following matters:-
(1) She was very pleased with the results achieved on the submissions relating to the District Plan.
(2) There were difficulties with the implementation of the dog fouling regulations because circumstances differed as between urban areas and country areas in the location of signs, bins, etc.
(3) She had concerns over the proposed changes to the committee structure at Tandridge Council because she considered that single member constituencies would be placed at a disadvantage.
(4) She was anxious for a meeting with the operators at Biggin Hill Airport.
c Parish Constable: No report.
d SCC Community Transport Working Lunch: A written report had been circulated and it was agreed that the Chairman should represent the Parish Council on the Transport Project Group.
e Agenda LA21 Forum: Eileen Pearce indicated that this had been a series of working groups to bring forward suggestions for the re-invigoration of the Group.
f Oxted Hospital: Bob David indicated that he attended a meeting of the Committee that day when Mr AlFayed’s solicitors had been present. It seemed that everything was now open to re-negotiation and it would obviously be some time before a final decision on the future of the Hospital was made.
g Tatsfield Shops: Bob David reported that the Post Office Stores had again been granted a 100% remission from business rates. It was open to other businesses in the village to apply and he would ensure that this fact was drawn to their attention.

11 Meetings to attend:
a Surrey Rail Forum: 14th April 1998 at 10 am at County Hall.
b Tandridge Crime Prevention Convention: 21st March 1998 9.30-4.30 pm - Denis Hayes to attend
c E Surrey Liaison Group: 28th April at 7.30 pm at Crowhurst Village Hall - no one able to attend.
d Limpsfield Annual Parish Meeting: 31st March at 7.45-8.15 pm at St Peters Hall - I Mitchell to attend.
e TDC Parishing Review Group: 18th March at 6.30 pm at Oxted - D Hayes to attend, if possible.
f TDC Planning Seminar: 7th April at 7.30 pm at Oxted - I Mitchell, E Pearce and the Clerk to attend.

12 Correspondence
a Survey of Parish Councils: The Chairman drew attention to this survey which had been completed by himself and the Vice-Chairman. A copy had been placed in circulation.
b Barnfield Road: A letter had been received from Mr P Lawrence drawing attention to the fact that the width of this road was diminishing due to encroachment. It was agreed that the Clerk should look into the question and advise the Council on the position which was undoubtedly far from straightforward.
13 Any Other Business
a Local Environment Agency Plan for Ravensbourne: Ian Mitchell drew attention to this plan, a copy of which was in circulation.
b Bassetts: It was noted that this business was being sold and the Chairman agreed to check the planning position.
c Village Pond: It was noted that Pond Cottage was being sold and it was possible that the new owners would not be prepared to keep the ducks.
d Crossways Court: Bob David indicated that he had written to Tandridge Council with regard to the bad state of the paths.
e Parish Room: Bob David indicated that if councillors needed to use the Room for a meeting, it was important to notify the Booking Secretary, Margaret Parsons.
The meeting closed at 11.21 pm.

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