MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE THURMASTON PARISH COUNCIL HELD ON
TUESDAY 13th JANUARY 2009 at 7.45 p.m. IN THE MEMORIAL HALL
PRESENT:
Councillors:
M D Lowe (Chairman)
S R Campbell
S R Brown
S Coombe
C. Davies
R Davies
D J Gartside
B J Seaton
P S Harley
D J Hill
S D Hill
D Maguire
P Newman
Mrs. A Smith
J Smith
A J Willmott
C A Wooding
ALSO PRESENT:
The Clerk, The Deputy Clerk
3 members of the public
APOLOGIES:
PC Porter
Councillors:
N Bedder
K Dent
***********************************************************************************
MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE FINANCE COMMITTEE HELD IN THE LIBRARY
ON TUESDAY 13th JANUARY 2009 AT 7.15 PM
PRESENT:
ALSO PRESENT:
Apologies:
Councillors; M D Lowe (Chairman)
B J Seaton
D J Hill
The Clerk and the Deputy Clerk
Councillors: K W Dent
N Bedder
ACCOUNTS: Expenditure: The Clerk presented cheque no.s 108662 108689 for invoices and for petty cash and direct debits totaling
£27,003.41.
Electric Eliz Park DJH question expensive.
Income: the Deputy Clerk presented income details for December.
RFO to check income on drapes booking.
It was proposed and seconded that the Council accepts the accounts
Resolved: the motion was carried.
173
ROSTOCK – Bar stock Audit
The Deputy Clerk presented the latest Stock Audit Report for information.
Confirmed and signed this
day of
Chairman
174
2009
MAIN MEETING
Chairman Councillor M D Lowe welcomed all to the January Meeting of
the Parish Council and asked Councillors to stand and observe 1 minute
silence in respect of Mrs. Jean Stokes who died last week. Councillor Lowe
explained that Jean had served as a Councillor for many years.
1.
APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE:
Councillors:
N Bedder
K Dent
Resolved: Reasons given for the apologies were accepted by the
Council.
2. DISCLOSURES OF INTEREST (in respect of items on this Agenda):
3.
Mr. T. Watkinson – Raynsway Properties
Councillor Lowe welcomed Mr. T Watkinson of Raynsway Properties:
Mr. Watkinson introduced himself and explained the current position with
Raynsway Properties and the company’s intentions with regard to the
various development sites. Mr Watkinson explained that following the
death of Charlie Rayns in Oct 2005, the Company is now the responsibility
of Mrs. Rayns.
Mr Watkinson invited questions from Councillors:
Councillor Lowe questioned about the intentions for the proposed Leisure
Club Site.
Mr Watkinson replied that there will be no movement on that site for at
least another year. Although the area would benefit from such a facility,
there will be no progress in the short term.
Councillor Mrs. Seaton expressed disappoint that Raynsway properties
have withdrawn sponsorship of the traffic island, as it was maintained to
high standard throughout the period of sponsorship. Cllr. Seaton
questioned whether the company would reconsider this decision.
Mr. Watkinson replied that the arrangement was not good value for
money and didn’t work for the company; it was felt that the money could
be better spent elsewhere.
175
Councillor Mrs. Seaton explained that Raynsway Properties had previously
agreed to maintain the flower beds on Garden Street Recreation Ground,
but nothing came of this.
Mr. Watkinson agreed to investigate this matter.
Cllr. Willmott expressed thanks to Raynsway Properties for their
contributions to Thurmaston village, and commented that has missed
meeting Charlie at gates of the Cemetery for a chat. Cllr. Willmott
expressed thanks to Mr Watkinson for attending the meeting.
Councillor Lowe thanked Mr Watkinson for attending the meeting and he
left at this point.
4.
REPORTS FROM THE POLICE
Copy of the Police report was issued to all Councillors.
5.
CONFIRMATION OF THE MINUTES OF THE LAST PARISH COUNCIL
MEETING HELD ON TUESDAY 9TH December 2008, pages 164 - 172.
It was proposed and seconded that the minutes and resolutions therein
be adopted as a true and correct record.
Resolved: that the minutes and resolutions therein be adopted.
6.
QUESTIONS FROM COUNCILLORS: None
7.
Adoption of the Freedom of Information Act: Approved Publication
Scheme
The Clerk explained that the existing publication scheme for the Freedom
of Information Act, which was previously adopted by the Council, expired
on 31st December. The act obliges every public authority to adopt an
approved Publication Scheme and the Information Commissioners Office
has produced a new model publication scheme, that all public sector
organisation’s must adopt from 1st January (the Clerk had distributed
copies of the new model publication scheme prior to the meeting).
It was proposed and seconded that the Council adopts the
Freedom of Information Act: Approved Publication Scheme.
Resolved: the motion was carried.
176
8.
Honored Citizen Award - Arrangements for Presentation
The Clerk reported that she had received delivery of the award and it was
on display at the meeting for viewing.
With reference to the arrangements for the presentation, Councillor Lowe
expressed concern that council meetings are held at night, and as such,
in view of recipient being elderly this is not a suitable time for her to
attend. Councillor Lowe suggested that the award is presented during
daytime rather than at an evening meeting.
Resolved: Councillors agreed with Councillor Lowe, Clerk to arrange a
presentation during the daytime.
9.
PRECEPT 2009/2010
Prior to the meeting the Deputy Clerk/RFO distributed copies of five
precept options to all Councillors as follows:
Option A: Represents an increase on last year of approx: 9.4%
Precept as per the committee’s recommendations including provision for
Christmas Lights, all proposed projects project allowance and CCTV.
Option B: Represents an increase on last year of approx: 5.2%
Precept as per the committee’s recommendations including provision for
Christmas Lights, all proposed projects project allowance but minus CCTV
Option C: Represents a increase on last year of approx: 1.8%
Precept Minus Christmas Lights and all projects, but including CCTV
Option D: Represents an increase on last year of approx: 5.6%
Precept including Christmas Lights and CCTV but project allowance
reduced as follows:
Environmental Committee: - minus Hanging Basket project (- £500).
Leisure Centre Committee: project allowance reduced from £10K - £5K
Memorial Hall Committee: project allowance reduced from £4K - £8K
Option E: Represents an increase on last year of approx: 3.8%.
Calculated as follows:
 Environmental Committee: Precept minus hanging basket project,
but this including Xmas lights and a contribution of £4,500
earmarked towards CCTV.
 Memorial Hall Committee: precept with projects budget reduced
from £8k - £6K
177

Leisure Centres: precept with projects reduced from £10K - £7K and
contingency reduced from £6.5K - £5.5K
Chairman Councillor Lowe thanked the Deputy Clerk and the Clerk for
their work producing options for the precept.
It was proposed and seconded that the Council support Option E,
amended to remove provision for CCTV. This option would represent an
increase of 1.9%
Councillors requested a named vote.
Councillors voting in support of the proposition:
P.Newman, J.Smith, D. Maguire, C. Wooding, D J Hill, R. Davies, D J
Gartside, C. Davies.
Councillors voting against the proposition:
A. Smith, S. Coombe, S D Hill, S R Campbell, S R Brown, P S Harley, B J
Seaton, M D Lowe (+ MDL casting vote).
Resolved: the motion was defeated.
It was proposed and seconded that the Council support Option E,
amended to remove provision for CCTV, but increase the project
allowance to affect a budget increase of 3.5%.
Councillors voting in support of the proposition:
A. Smith, S. Coombe, M D Lowe, S D Hill, A J Willmott, B J Seaton
Councillors voting against the proposition:
C Davies, D J Gartside, R Davies, S R Campbell, P. Newman, J Smith, S R
Brown, D Maguire, P S Harley.
Resolved: the motion was defeated.
It was proposed and seconded that all projects, including Christmas lights,
are removed, this would affect a decrease.
Resolved: with a majority of Councillors voting against the proposal, the
motion was defeated.
178
It was proposed and seconded that the Council support Option E,
amended to reduce allocation for CCTV to affect a budget increase of
3.5%.
Councillors voting in support of the proposition:
R Davies, D J Gartside, S D Hill, C Davies, S Coombe, Mrs. A Smith, P
Newman, J Smith, A J Willmott, D Maguire, B J Seaton, C A Wooding, M D
Lowe.
Councillors voting against the proposition:
D J Hill, S R Campbell, S R Brown, P S Harley.
Resolved: the motion was carried.
10.
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
Resident, Barkby Thorpe Lane:
Requested clarification that there is a earmarked contribution within the
precept for CCTV and suggested that consideration is given to
alternative/additional sites to those already proposed.
11.
BUSINESS ARISING:
Charnwood Borough Council
Core Strategy Further Consultation
Thank you for making comments on the above document.
We are hoping to report the comments made to us during the
consultation period to the Council’s Cabinet sometime in the New Year,
although the precise date will depend on how many we receive and the
time needed to process them. In the meantime, officers may contact you
to clarify points or to discuss your comments in more detail.
If you want to find out more about the Council’s Local Development
Framework the Council’s website provides a range of interesting information
and links http://www.charnwood.gov.uk/pages/charnwood2026
We will also provide a summary of what people have said to us during the
consultation period. However, if you cannot find what you need please
contact the Planning Policy Team.
We hope to publish the Core Strategy in the summer of 2009 and you will
be invited to say whether you think it is ‘sound’ or not. The Council will
179
then consider if the plan, and any representations made to it, should be
submitted to the government to be examined in a public inquiry or
whether it needs to be further refined. We will write to you nearer the time
to tell you more about this.
12.
CORRESPONDENCE:
Communities in and Local Government:
Code of Recommended Practice on Local Authority Publicity
Consultation paper inviting views on the content of the code of
recommended practice on local authority publicity.
The Clerk issued copies of the consultation document to all Councillors.
Response required by 16th March.
Resolved: Councillor Willmott offered to prepare a response for
consideration.
Mrs. E J Lowe
Archaeological Warden
Letter as follows:
Please accept this letter as confirmation of my resignation from the post of
Parish Archaeological Warden. I feel that I am unable to give the time to
the position that it deserves, due to work and family commitments.
I have notified Peter Liddle, the keeper of Archaeology at Leicestershire
County Council.
I do however have an acquaintance who is very interested in taking over
the position. She is far more knowledgeable than I am regarding local
history and has a lot more time to devote to the post than I have. Her
name is Jennifer Harris and she lives in Syston. She is a member of our
heritage society and regularly contributes to the Thurmaston Times
regarding local history. She has also contributed to the history book about
Thurmaston. She is far more deserving of the title than I am.
I still have a very keen interest in the subject and will support her in any
way she requires, but I feel I am letting the people of Thurmaston down by
not devoting more time to our archaeology. Should you wish to contact
Jennifer regarding this matter, please e-mail her at
[email protected].
Should you wish to contact me, either write, phone or e-mail me at
[email protected].
Thank you for your support over the last few years, I hope to serve the
community regarding our archaeology in the future as time allows.
180
NHS – Community Health Services Review
Invitation to Stakeholder session
You may be aware that final proposals in respect of NHS LCR community
hospitals (with the exception of Ashby and Fielding Palmer in Lutterworth)
are being presented to the trust Board for approval on 15th January 2009.
I would like to invite you, or a senior representative, to attend the following
stakeholder session: Date: Tuesday 3rd February 2009. Time: 6pm-7pm
Venue: committee room 3, Charnwood Borough Council, Southfield Rd,
Loughborough.
Resolved: Anyone wishes to attend please contact the Clerk.
LRAPLC
Leicestershire County Council and Parish Council Liaison Meeting
Further to the last Newsletter item. I attach a draft agenda for this event to
give you an idea of the topics for discussion. The list is not finalised and
other items can be added. Please therefore let me know if your Council
has anything else it would like discussed at the event.
Resolved:
Anyone wishes to attend please contact the Clerk.
Leicestershire Constabulary
Inspector Yallop
Letter as follows:
I am writing to inform you that with effect from the 20th February 2009 I will
be leaving my post as LPU Commander for the Charnwood LPU. Prior to
retirement I am reducing my hours and will be moving to a new role on
the North Area.
My successor, Inspector 1709 Duncan Southall will contact you to
introduce himself once our hand over is complete.
Thank you for your support to myself and the Neighbourhood policing
Teams and I wish you a happy and peaceful New Year.
Thurmaston Scouts
Request for chairs (surplus from Elizabeth Park following receipt of new
chairs).
We are looking to replace our older chairs at the Scouts, which is around
100 or so chairs, so as many as you could possibly allow.
Resolved: Councillors agreed to the request, clerk to inform the Scouts.
181
The Royal British Legion
Invitation to 75th Anniversary Celebrations
Letter as follows:
The Thurmaston Branch of the Royal British Legion invite a representative
of the Council to other 75th Anniversary Celebrations at the Thurmaston
RBL Club on 27th February commencing at 8pm. The Mayor and Mayoress
of Charnwood together with Lt Col Doffey DL, RBL Leicestershire and
Rutland County President will also be attending.
It was proposed and seconded that the Chairman of the Councils should
attend to represent the Parish Council.
Resolved: Councillor Lowe to attend, Clerk to reply to RBL.
Cllr. Bedder
Path repair - St. Michael and All Angels
Report following inspection by Cllr. Bedder and Cllr. Dent 7th January:
On inspection of the pathway we both found the path to be in a serious
state of disrepair near to the entrance of the church. There are several
pot holes posing a trip hazard to pedestrians.
This needs to be passed onto the Memorial Hall and Cemetery committee
with immediate effect also the H&S committee.
Resolved: to be to be passed onto the Memorial Hall and Cemetery
committee with immediate effect also the H&S committee.
Leicestershire Constabulary - Angela Fielding
Youth Facilities Group - Agenda for meeting 26th Jan and request for free
booking.
Resolved: Councillors agreed to offer a free hire.
13.
PLANNING APPLICATIONS
P/08/2259/2
84 Humberstone Lane, Thurmaston, Leics
Erection of single storey extensions to side and rear of dwelling
Resolved: No comment.
P/08/3160/0
65 Colby Drive
Erection of single storey extensions to side and rear of dwelling
Resolved: No comment.
182
14.
REPORTS FROM COUNCILLORS AND THE CLERK:
Cllr. Gartside:
Reported that he will be writing to the County Council concerning
dangerously parked vehicles on Silverdale Drive near to the junction of
Humberstone Lane. Asked the Environmental Committee to investigate
the problem further.
Cllr. R Davies:
Reported that he a vehicle had left Checkland Road and entered the
wrong side of the dual carriageway. Cllr. Davies questioned whether
there is adequate signage at the junction.
Cllr. Harely:
Reported that he was unable to park at the Cemetery on Sunday due to
vehicles parked belonging to people attending the football match on
the Cemetery extension field. Suggested that the football club is
reminded to park at Elizabeth Park.
Cllr. Mrs. B J Seaton:
Reported that the A607 is very littered and explained that she has
requested clarification of the dates when the last litter pick took place
and when the next litter pick is due to take place.
C A Wooding:
 Reported that the gates at Auster Hamlet site are broken and there
is evidence of fly tipping on the site. Requested that the Borough
Councillors investigate the problems and the intentions for the site.
 Reported that there are vehicles belonging to the car sales business
at the end of Earls Way parked on the wrong side of the road.
Asked Borough Councillors to investigate.
15.
REPORTS FROM THE COUNTY COUNCILLOR AND BOROUGH
COUNCILLORS
Cllr: Mrs B J Seaton:
Reported as follows:

Expressed disappointment that the Parish Council had chosen not
to comment on planning application 931 Melton road two flats and
impressed the importance of thoroughly examining planning
applications as this development is likely to pose parking problems.
183

Reported that the street lighting on Winster Drive is inadequate and
suggested that this may be a contributory factor to problems with
anti-social behaviour. Cllr Mrs Seaton reported her concerns to the
County Council who are investigating the matter.
Cllr P S Harley:
Reported as follows:






Spoke to the Enforcement Officer this morning re the problems with
the Car Sales business on Earls Way, the Enforce Officer is currently
in touch with the business concerned attempting to make them
comply with the planning conditions.
Received a complaint about the littered state of the path leading
to Mc Donald’s Restaurant. Following a complaint to the Store
Manager, Staff from the restaurant cleaned the area.
Pleased to report that remedial work has commenced on the
Bridge on Watermead Park, attended photo opportunity today.
Work currently ongoing in Thurmaston includes :
Prohibition of driving – Ivydale Road
Prohibition of waiting Humberstone Lane/Maple Road bus road.
Prohibition of waiting to safeguard Emergency Vehicle access to
mobile home park, Unicorn Street.
Weighting restrictions on Garden Street relating to Environmental
improvements.
Local Development Framework, 1000 responses were submitted; the
high number of responses has slowed down the whole process, and
are now way behind with the schedule of preparing LDF.
Expressed concern about an email received by Rothley Parish
Council questioning whether they are aware of the recent proposal
from Councillor Harley that the 5000 homes development proposed
by Charnwood Borough Council should be relocated from
Thurmaston to Option D from Birstall to Rothley Brook.
Chairman Councillor Lowe allowed time for questions/responses to the
reports as required.
The Chairman thanked all present for attending and closed the meeting.
Confirmed and signed this
day of
Chairman
184
2009
MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE MEMORIAL HALL AND CEMETERY
COMMITTEE HELD ON TUESDAY 20th JANUARY 2009 AT 7pm IN THE
MEMORIAL HALL LIBRARY
Present:
Councillors:
Also Present:
The Clerk & The Deputy Clerk
1.
K Dent (Chairman)
Mrs. A Smith
Mrs. S Coombe
C Davies
K Dent
M D Lowe
APOLOGIES: Cllrs: D J Hill, N Bedder
Resolved: Reasons given for the apologies were accepted by the
Council.
2.
DECLARATION OF INTEREST None
3.
LISA HANDY – CEMETERY H&S AND DESIGN FOR NATURAL BURIAL
GROUND FOR CEMETERY EXTENSION
Unfortunately Lisa could not attend - Agenda Item deferred to next
meeting.
Councillor Lowe suggested that the Clerk writes to the Environmental
Agency re proposed use of the Cemetery extension field., to verify that
the field is suitable for the purpose of a burial ground.
Resolved: Councillors agreed with Councillor Lowes suggestion, Clerk to
write to the Environmental Agency.
4.
BUSINESS ARISING OUT OF THE MINUTES
Page: Community Facilities Grant:
The Clerk reported that the closing date for Community Facility grant
applications has passed and the assessment process will begin. Part of
this assessment includes the sustainability checklist and this has been
completed and submitted.
5.
PRECEPT 2009/2010
185
The Clerk reminded Councillors that the final budget includes an
allocation of £6K for projects.
At the last meeting Councillors proposed the following projects for
inclusion, however, in view of the reduction to the project budget,
proposed projects will need to be reviewed:
Original list of projects proposed for inclusion:
Cemetery:

Memorial Management course £100 per delegate (min 3)
Estimated cost: £300.00

Cemetery Consultancy Fees; Preparation of Risk Assessment and
Design for Cemetery Extension.
Estimated cost: £1000.00

Tarmac path between ‘F’ Section and the Scattering Section
Quote received from P J Brooks: £960.00

New concrete strip
Quote received from S Hall: £1376.00
The Memorial Hall:

Plastic down pipes and guttering to be replaced with cast iron
fixtures.
Councilor Dent reported that there is a metal covering available for
plastic drains and fixtures, and suggested that this may be a
cheaper alternative to replacing with cast iron fittings.

Clear bramble area at the rear of the Hall (Quotes to hand)
Quote received from Barry Agger : £430.00

Chairs for the Memorial Hall:
Councillor Bedder reported that chairs have fallen into disrepair
and need to be replaced.
* Clerk reported that the chairs were offered at half price, and
have been funded from the current budget.

New external doors for Memorial
At the last meeting, Councillor Lowe agreed to investigate the cost
of new wooden front doors. For inclusion within the projects budget
pending sufficient funding.
186

St. Michael and All Angels - Church Path
The Clerk reported that following receipt of the path inspection
report from Councillor Bedder and Councillor Dent:
‘On inspection of the pathway we both found the path to be in a
serious state of disrepair near to the entrance of the church. There
are several pot holes posing a trip hazard to pedestrians’.
Councillor Dent reported that top area of path is particularly fallen in to
disrepair.
Provision of funding for the path will need to be included in the projects
budget.
Total estimated cost of projects allocated to date (excluding Church
path, Memorial Hall doors and guttering) : £4066.00
Resolved: Councillors asked the Clerk to obtain quotes for the repair of
the path (patched) and for resurface. Following receipt of the quotes,
allocation of the projects budget to be reviewed.
6.
CORRESPONDENCE: None
7.
NEW BUSINESS
Councillor Dent:
Reported that following a request from Councillor Gartside, the Clerk had
suggested that the Flag at the Memorial Hall should be lowered in respect
of funeral of a former Councillor which took place Monday.
Resolved: Councillors did not agree, as they were of the opinion that this
is not standard Council practice and that the Council would be at risk of
setting a precedent.
8.
ANY OTHER BUSINESS: None
9.
DATE OF NEXT MEETING: 17th March 2009
Confirmed and signed this
day of
Chairman
187
2009
MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE, TUESDAY
27TH JANUARY AT 7PM AT ELIZABETH PARK CENTRE
Present:
Councillors:
Also Present:
The Clerk and the Deputy Clerk
1.
A J Willmott (Chairman)
R Davies
P Newman
J Smith
Mrs A Smith
D Maguire
M D Lowe
ELECTION OF TEMPORARY CHAIRMAN
In the absence of Councillor Seaton it was proposed and seconded that
Cllr. Willmott chair the meeting.
Resolved: the motion was carried.
1.
APOLOGIES: Councillors:
2.
DECLARATION OF INTEREST
Mrs B J Seaton, D J Hill, P S Harley
Councillor Willmott declared an interest in any matters concerning G W
Atkinson Ltd.
3.
Page:
BUSINESS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES
REQUEST FOR ALLOTMENT PROVISION
At the last meeting it was agreed that the Clerk should contact the
Allotment Society about the land adjoining the Memorial Hall field for the
provision of allotments, to obtain their advice on the amount of land
required and whether it is suitable for cultivation.
The Clerk reported that she has met with an Allotments Officer to discuss
the potential of the land adjoining the memorial Hall field and whether it is
suitable for cultivation.
In the opinion of the Allotments Officer, the land concerned is of
borderline suitability as it is wet land. From the flood bank towards the
river, approx. depth of 30yds may, potentially be suitable (width 180 yds).
Land nearer to the river would not be suitable. The area concerned
could potentially accommodate 18 – 30 plots, but there is a possible risk of
flooding. Additionally, there would be a risk of geese grazing on the
allotments.
188
It was explained that there is grant funding available and advice on
grants and management of allotments from National Society of Allotment
Gardens, and recommended that it would be beneficial to the Council to
join the society.
The allotment officer recommended that that interested parties form a
constituted Allotment group/society to manage the facilities who could
work in partnership with the Parish Council. Allotment Societies are eligible
for grants.
The Clerk has contacted Syston Town Council and requested information
about the arrangements for their allotments and reported as follows:
Syston Town Council is responsible for the maintenance of the paths,
fences, water supply and collection of rent. Management of the plots,
including allocations and evictions are the responsibility of the Allotment
Society.
The Clerk has obtained c copy of Syston Town Council’s Allotment Rules
for information.
Resolved: it was agreed that the Clerk should contact Leicestershire
County Council re obtaining the land in question and enquire about
joining the National Society of Allotment Gardens.
Page : PEDESTRIAN CROSSING HUMBERSTONE LANE/MELTON ROAD
At the November meeting of the Parish Council, Cllr. Harley reported that
consultation on the proposed scheme is due to commence soon.
No further information to date.
Page : Increased vermin, Councillor Willmott:
At the October meeting, Cllr. Willmott reported that he had read an
article concerning the increase in no of vermin due to the reduced
frequency of bin collections. Councillor Willmott would be interested in
Borough Council’s records/statistics re vermin control.
Councillor Harley offered to investigate the statistics at a meeting which
he is due to attend in January with Environmental Health Officers.
Councillor Harley not present at the meeting to reply.
Page:
PRECEPT 2009/2010
The Clerk presented the final budget as agreed by the Parish Council and
explained that the Budget includes reduced allowances for projects as
follows:
 Environmental Improvements £10,600.00 (Xmas Lights)
189


CCTV £3800.00 (earmarked)
Hanging baskets – project cancelled.
Page:.
TRAFFIC CONGESTION – BARKBY THORPE LANE/TRAFFIC ISLAND
At the last meeting it was agreed that the Clerk should write to ASDA
requesting an update on proposed measures to address the congestion
problems and write to LCC expressing the Council’s concerns and
requesting that a Traffic survey is carried out at peak times before
Christmas to identify the reasons for the congestion problems.
The Clerk reported that there has been no reply from ASDA or LCC to
date.
Councillor Harley has received a further letter of complaint from a resident
as follows:
Dear Mr Harley CC
The situation regarding the Asda roundabout at the Melton Road,A607
and Barkby Thorpe road is now becoming a major problem. I would like to
make an official request that this be urgently addressed. Traffic queuing to
get into the shopping centre now regularly at evening times and
weekends stretches onto the Asda roundabout causing total gridlock. On
Thursday last week the 15th January 2009 I was approaching the Asda
roundabout from the north on the A607 at about 5.30pm, traffic could not
get out onto the roundabout due to the queue of cars trying to get into
the shopping centre who were at one point half way around the
roundabout. It took me 15 mins to do 100 metres as only one car could
get through the traffic signals at a time. My immediate suggestion is that
yellow box markings be installed at various points to address the problem
of vehicles blocking the access onto the roundabout from the A607 and
Melton Road in both directions. Or remove the traffic signals altogether as
they have never worked properly.
I hope you are able to look into this and address the problem.
Resolved: Clerk to chase up reply from ASDA, also, to chase up reply from
LCC via County Councillor.
Page: PARKING SILVERDALE DRIVE
At the last meeting, following concerns raised by, Councillor Gartside
about vehicles parked on Silverdale Drive near to the shops and vehicles
190
regularly double parked, it was agreed that Clerk should to report this
matter to the Police.
At the last full meeting of the Parish Council, Councillor Gartside reported
that he will be writing to the County Council concerning dangerously
parked vehicles on Silverdale Drive near to the junction of Humberstone
Lane, and asked the Environmental Committee to investigate the
problem further.
Councillor J Smith explained the area outside of the Doctors Surgery and
the shops opposite are particularly problematic.
Councillor Willmott explained that the area in question is also the school
bus collection point which exasperates congestion problems at school
times and suggested that the bus pick up should be moved further down
the road.
Resolved: Clerk to write to County Council.
4.
CHARLES STREET BUILDING - Cllr Mrs B J Seaton
The Clerk reported that Councillor Seaton was going to suggest that we
send Hughie a letter from the council to thank him for blocking off part of
the industrial estate from fly tippers and tidying the land next to the
garage and erecting the fencing to stop parking.
Resolved: Clerk to write to Charles Street Building.
5.
CYCLE PATH A607 – Cllr Mrs A Smith
The Clerk reported that Councillor Seaton suggested it would be good
idea to enquire about the possibility of a cycle path from Thurmaston
roundabout to slip rd leading to Hope and Anchor, as it would then join a
cycle path to Birstall and Rothley and Future Park and ride.
Resolved: Clerk to write to LCC.
6.
PLANNING: APPLICATIONS: None.
7.
HIGHWAY MAINTENANCE ISSUES

Cllr. Mrs A Smith reported that there is litter on a section of the
centre reservation of A607 between Pinfold Road and the Chemist
shop.
191

8.
Cllr Mrs A Smith reported that the willow tree located in grounds of
Social Services Office is overhanging the footpath.
CORRESPONDENCE:
.
Leicestershire County Council
Partnership Funding for Rural Bus Shelters
Letter confirming the Partnership Funding for Rural Bus Shelters is available
again this year.
The Clerk reminded Councillors that there is no provision in the new
precept for bus shelters.
Leicestershire County Council
Branchline Newsletter, issue 56, Winter 2008
Filed for information.
Voluntary Action Charnwood
Issue December 2008
Resolved: Councillor Davies took document for information.
Mr E Goodyer, Charnwood Labour Party - Principal Lecturer at De Montfort
University Department of Technology
Letter as follows:
Dear Tracey
I know this may come over as a bit strong - but I feel passionately that the
areas affected by the proposed SUEs, such as Barkby and surrounds, are
not a fair hearing or adequate consultation. You may use this contribution
as you wish, for publication or for discussion. I really do think that we are
not being heard.
best regards Eric Goodyer - Charnwood Labour Party
On Tuesday Leicestershire County Council published an internal report on
Pennbury. This follows closely on a report by Halcrow, and a rebuttal from
the Co-Op. I would like to congratulate everyone associated with
producing this information, it will help to ensure that when the decision on
Pennbury is made by the Harborough & Oadby Councils it will be a well
informed debate. Why is the same not being done for the huge housing
developments proposed for the rest of the County? In July 2007 the
County Council proposed that 6 Sustainable Urban Extensions be built,
with a total of 24875 new homes, and 125ha of industrial sites. These
proposals dwarf Pennbury, yet we hear so little about them. Two of them
will have a major environmental impact on the Charnwood Constituency,
192
one is at Thurmaston and the other is at Leicester Forest East. I have no
objection to Council tax Payer's money being used to ensure that the
village integrity of Stoughton, and Great Glen are protected. Why are the
same resources not being given to examining the environmental impact
on, and protecting the Village Integrities of - Thurmaston, Barkby,
Hamilton, Queniborough, Leicester Forest East, Kirby Muxloe, Braunstone
Town and Narborough? Are the people who live North & West of Leicester
not entitled to the same level of service as those who live in the East? I will
not be satisfied until Leicestershire County Council, and the relevant
District/Borough Councils announce that will also engage Halcrow to
examine the SUE's that will impact on the Charnwood Constituency.
Resolved: Clerk to write to Mr. Goodyear in appreciation of his
comments.
11.
ANY OTHER BUSINESS
Cllr. Mrs Smith: reported that there are no buses serving the Colby Drive
area and requested an agenda item for next meeting.
12.
DATE OF NEXT MEETING - 24th FEBRUARY 2009
Confirmed and signed this
day of
Chairman
193
2009
MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE LEISURE CENTRES/PARKS COMMITTEE ON
TUESDAY 3RD FEBRUARY AT 7PM IN THE MEETING ROOM AT ELIZABETH PARK
Present:
Councillors:
D J Hill (Chairman)
P S Harley
S D Hill
C Davies
C A Wooding
B J Seaton
D J Gartside
M D Lowe
S R Brown
Also Present:
The Clerk and the Deputy Clerk
1.
APOLOGIES: None
2.
DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST
3.
BUSINESS ARISING OUT OF THE MINUTES
Page: Astro-turf Pitch – Elizabeth Park
At the last meeting Councillors were in support of development of a 3G
Astro-turf facility for Football and Rugby and it was agreed that the
council proceed with this project pending it meets the requirements of the
Technical Analysis, Demand analysis and grant funding. 106 funding to be
allocated to the project for matched funding for the grants.
Fenella Bellinger has recommended that the Parish Council approaches a
practice that specialises in astro-turf pitches, but more particularly in
preparing the necessary paperwork that will be required to support the
specific grant application that Julie was talking about. Fenella has
offered to have a chat with Julie to get some names of suitable specialists
and will sort out the drawing and summary of their findings for this project
to help guide the development of the project.
The Clerk distributed copies of a short report about proposals for the
scheme from Fenella Bellinger.
Councillors suggested that business plan should be prepared to identify
the potential level of income which could be generated through the
provision of Astro-turf pitches, and evaluate whether the project is
practicable.
It was proposed and seconded that the Clerk initially contacts the
Football Foundation for advice on whether the proposed specification
would qualify for grant funding.
Resolved: the motion was carried.
194
Page:
PRECEPT 2009/2010
The Clerk presented the final budget as agreed by the Parish Council and
explained that the Budget includes reduced allowances for projects as
follows reduced from £10K - £7K.
Suggestions for the projects budget
 Extension of CCTV to cover new office (check Parish Office budget)
 New or refurbished Kitchen facilities
 Cleaning/lock ups/staff provision for ASDA Pavilion - £5k
contingency in ASDA pavilion allocation.
Page : ASDA SPORTS PITCH
The Clerk reported that she contacted the Borough Council for an update
last week and has received the following reply from Helen Robinson:
We have a meeting ourselves on Tuesday about this very matter with our Legal Services. We
have been unable to date to come to any amicable agreement with Asda. As you know whilst
they continue to say they are willing to carry out remedial works they are not accepting any
liability for what has happened and are unwilling to give us any guarantee that the works they
are proposing are going to resolve the problem once and for all.
As a result I obtained quotes for the remedial work and have put this forward to Asda as you
know and again we have been unable to come to any agreement to date despite all our efforts.
Following our meeting on Tuesday I hope to be able to tell you what action we propose. I will
provide you with an update as soon as I can and hopefully you will have it for your meeting.
Councillors were disappointed and frustrated with the lack of progress
and it was proposed and seconded that the Council reports the matter to
the Press. Councillor Gartside advised Councillors to take legal advice on
the contents of the proposed Press Release
Resolved: the motion was carried, Councillors to formulate a press
release.
4.
CENTRE OPENING HOURS – REVIEW:
The Clerk reminded Councillors that is now six months since the centre
opening hours were increased and suggested that Councillors review the
arrangements.
The Clerk reported that bookings have increased and summarised the
regular bookings for the main hall and the meeting room as follows:
195
Sports
Hall:
Mon
AM
PM
Evening
Aerobics class –
Mature Movers
Jo Ridgley
CBC
Activities
Yoga
Badminton
Badminton
Julie Parker
School of
Dance
Badminton
Tues
Jagaruti Elders
Group
Lee Miveld
School
Weds
Little Movers
Dance School –
Toddlers
Lee Miveld
School
Thurs
Weight
Watchers
Lee Miveld
School
Fri
Blood Donors
Sat
Tumble Tots
Blood Donors Football
Training –
Children with
Disabilities
Badminton
Function Hire
Group
Party Hire
Sun
Meeting
Room
Art Group
Slimming
Class
Weight
Watchers
Badminton
Tetsudo
Badminton
Bowls Club
(from April)
Bowls Club
There are still slots available for hire, but there is a marked increase in the
number of regular bookings/clubs offering a variety of activities for several
age groups.
Drapes:
To date there has been 4 functions have taken place including drapes,
and we are delighted to report that we have a further 12 bookings!
Councillor Harley requested a comparison of income generated from
bookings between Jan-March 2008 and Jan – March 2009. Agenda Item
requested for May Committee Meeting.
Computerised Booking System:
The Clerk reported that the computerised booking system is in place and
staff attended training last Friday. Councillor Gartside reported that there
is an introduction to computers course which runs regularly at Roundhill
196
College and suggested that the Council supports the centre staff to
attend the course if it would be of benefit.
5.
SKATEBOARD PARK - Cllr Seaton
Councillor Seaton presented photographs of the area of land behind the
main football pitch on Elizabeth Park and suggested that this may be a
suitable location for a Skateboard Park. Councillor Seaton explained that
the area is not in the vicinity of any residential properties, and asked
councillors to consider this option.
Councillor S D Hill recommended that the Council seek advice from the
Skateboard Association and check the implications of a skateboard Park
with the Council’s insurers.
It was proposed and seconded that the Council investigates the
suitability/potential of the land behind the football pitch on Elizabeth Park
for the development of a Skateboard Park.
Resolved: Clerk to contact Skateboard Park suppliers for their advice
about the suitability of the proposed area for the development of a
skateboard park and viable options. Also, Council seek advice from the
Skateboard Association and check the implications of a skateboard Park
with the Council’s insurers.
6.
CORRESPONDENCE:
Thurmaston Events Team
Letter requesting a donation towards the cinema event which is due to
take place at the Sports Centre on 28th February.
Resolved: Councillors agreed to give a monetary donation equivalent to
the cost of the hire fee.
7.
ANY OTHER BUSINESS (For Information and Agenda Items Only)
Councillor Harley:
Reported that he has noticed that the ball court’s floodlights are on in
inclement weather conditions when the courts are not in use and
questioned whether a sensor could be installed to detect when the courts
are in use and operate lights accordingly.
8.
DATE OF NEXT MEETING: Tuesday 3rd March 2009
The Chairman moved the meeting ‘In Committee’ (confidential) for the
next item.
197
Confirmed and signed this
day of
198
2009