A W D U R D O D
P A R C
C E N E D L A E T H O L
E R Y R I
THE MINUTES BOOK
2008-2009
Volume (13)
The Authority sustains the environment,
culture and community and promotes
understanding and enjoyment of
the Snowdonia National Park
S N O W D O N I A
N A T I O N A L
P A R K
A U T H O R I T Y
The Minutes Volume
This volume contains the minutes of meetings of the Snowdonia National Park Authority
2008-2009.
Page Nos.
1.
2.
AUTHORITY MEETINGS
16 April 2008
1–6
11 June 2008
7 – 17
25 June 2008
18 – 20
22 September 2008
21 – 29
15 October 2008
30 – 31
10 December 2008
32 – 42
11 February 2009
43 – 51
PLANNING & ACCESS COMMITTEE
16 April 2008
52 – 61
18 June 2008
62 – 75
30 July 2008
76 – 89
10 September 2008
90 – 99
15 October 2008
100 – 107
12 November 2008
108 – 114
17 December 2008
115 – 123
21 January 2009
124 – 130
25 February 2009
131 – 139
4 March 2009
140 – 141
25 March 2009
142 – 147
Page Nos.
3.
4.
5.
6.
STANDARDS COMMITTEE
30 April 2008
148 – 150
1 October 2008
151 – 152
PERFORMANCE AND RESOURCES COMMITTEE
25 June 2008
153 – 157
19 November 2008
158 – 164
11 March 2009
165 – 170
PLAS TAN Y BWLCH COMMITTEE
18 June 2008
171 – 174
22 September 2008
175 – 178
21 January 2009
179 – 182
PANELS
Welsh Highland Railway Panel
7.
10 September 2008
183 – 186
25 March 2009
187 – 193
CELYN, TEGID AND TRYWERYN ADVISORY
CONFERENCE
9 April 2008
194 – 198
SNOWDONIA NATIONAL PARK AUTHORITY
WEDNESDAY 16th APRIL, 2008
Councillor E. Caerwyn Roberts (Gwynedd) (Chairman)
PRESENT:
Members appointed by Gwynedd Council
Councillors E. Edwards, D. Siencyn, Mrs. M. June Jones, Mrs. I.M. Jones;
Member appointed by Conwy County Borough Council
Councillor W.E. Jones;
Members appointed by the Welsh Assembly Government
Mr. G.D. George, Dr. I. ap Gwynn, Mr. D.P. McAteer, Mr. D.L. Roberts,
Mr. J.L. Morgan;
Officers
Mr. A. Phillips, Mr. A. Sturkey, Mr. G.I. Jones, Mr. J. Ablitt, Mr. E. Williams,
Mr. E. Roberts, Mrs. B. Jones, Mrs. A. Gaffey, Mrs A Griffiths.
Apologies
Councillors T.O. Edwards, J.R. Jones, H.P. Hughes, Mrs. E.M.B. Roberts, A.
Todd:
Mr. P. Weston.
1.
Chairman’s Announcements
The Chairman referred with sadness to the sudden death of Councillor
Ernest Williams, Gwynedd Councillor for Bowydd and Rhiw and a
respected member of the Authority. The Chairman on behalf of Members
expressed the Authority’s deepest sympathy to Mr Williams’ family and
Members and officers stood as a mark of respect.
RESOLVED to note that the Chief Executive had written to Cllr.
Williams’ family to express the Authority’s deepest sympathy.
2.
Declaration of Interest
Mr. J.L. Morgan declared a personal interest in item 7 on the Agenda,
under paragraph 11(b) of the Code of Conduct for Members, and left the
meeting whilst the matter was being discussed.
3.
Minutes of Authority
Subject to recording that the Chairman extended the Authority’s sympathy
to Mr Geraint George on the death of his father in law, the minutes of the
Authority meeting held on 6th February 2008 were accepted and the
Chairman signed them as a true record.
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4.
Minutes of the Performance and Resources Committee
Submitted – The minutes of the Performance and Resources Committee
held on 12th March, 2008. The minutes were subject to approval by the
Authority as the meeting did not have a quorum.
Arising thereon, Item (6) Budget 2008-2011
A copy of the 3 year capital programme bid outlining how the additional
£166,000 capital funds would be spent as submitted to the Welsh
Assembly Government was circulated to Members, for information.
The Chief Executive advised that a further report on the 2009/10 and the
2010/11 budgets would be considered at a later date.
RESOLVED to approve the minutes as outlined.
5.
April Annual Report and Improvement Plan
Submitted – A report by the Director of Corporate and Legal Services
seeking Member approval of the April Annual Report and Improvement
Plan.
Reported – The Director of Corporate and Legal services presented the
report and Members made the following observations:− the report was welcomed for being clear and concise.
− Item 1.1 3rd bullet point in the Welsh report – add “ffynnu a’r iaith
Gymraeg”
− under Improvement Objective 5 the Authority should state its
intention to work in partnership to improve the footpath network in
Eryri.
Arising thereon, Members felt that a possible future problem could be
an increase in 4 wheel bike use in Eryri as a result of rule tightening in
mid-Wales. Officers advised that the Countryside Council for Wales
were the responsible body and that a report on the Natural
Environment and Rural Communities Act (NERC) 2006 would be
submitted to a future meeting.
−
Performance Indicators Members considered the indicator which
monitored appeal decisions that upheld the Authority’s decision and
the new indicators on affordable housing units. Jocelyn Davies AM,
the Deputy Minister for Housing had indicated that she would
welcome an invitation to come and discuss such issues with planning
authorities.
Arising thereon, the Chief Executive advised that the Wales Audit
Office had been instructed by the Minister, Jane Davidson, to visit all
2
three National Parks in Wales this year to inspect development
control to look at progress made since 2005 and sharing of best
practice.
RESOLVED
1.
to note the report.
2.
to adopt the April (first stage) Annual Report and Improvement
Plan and approve the publication of the Plan in accordance
with the guidelines.
3.
to ask the Chief Executive in consultation with the Chairman to
extend an invitation to Jocelyn Davies AM to Snowdonia to
speak to Members.
4.
to await a report on the NERC Act to a future meeting of the
Authority.
6.
Rhododendron in Snowdonia and a Strategy for its Control
Submitted – A report by the Director of Land Management together with a
copy of the draft Rhododendron Strategy for approval and confirmation of
the recommendations as outlined.
Reported – The Director of Land Management presented the report and
Members thanked Mr. Peter Jackson for the excellent work in preparing
the strategy. Members agreed that the Authority should ensure the
recommendations were implemented in partnership with other
organisations. Officers confirmed that the strategy would be available on
the internet as were all other strategic documents.
Members noted that schemes aimed at improving the environment by
reducing sheep grazing had not taken into account the environmental
consequence which was the spread of rhododendron. Control problems
arising from organic farming methods were also discussed.
RESOLVED to approve the amended document “Rhododendron in
Snowdonia
and a strategy for its control” as submitted and support the
recommendations as outlined.
7.
Remedial Work Pont Bryn y Felin, Beddgelert – Letting of Contract
Submitted – An information report by the Director of Land Management to
advise the Authority on a contract let for remedial works at Pont Bryn y
Felin.
RESOLVED to note the report and approve the action taken.
3
8.
Membership of Local Access Forums
Submitted – A report by the Head of Warden and Access Service together
with recommended membership of the forums by the Selection Panel.
Reported – The Head of Warden and Access Service presented the report
and advised upon the process and the Selection Panel’s
recommendations.
RESOLVED
1.
to increase the overall membership of the Northern Access
Forum from 14 to 18 and the South Snowdonia Local Access
Forum from 13 to 15.
2.
to approve the applications for membership of the Northern
Area Local Access Forum as outlined:Mr. Edgar Williams
Mr. Gareth Jones
Mr. Ken Owen
Mr. Richard Williams
Mr. Bedwyr Jones
Mr. Eryl Roberts
Mr. David Firth
Mr. Mike Vitkovitch
Mr. David Howard-Jones
Mr. Mike Raine
Mr. Robin Parry
Ms. Margaret Thomas
3.
in order to ensure the required balance of interests, officers
should consult with NFU Cymru for an additional member to
represent “Land Management” interests on the Northern Area
Access Forum, and to delegate authority to officers to make
this appointment.
4.
to approve the application for membership of the South
Snowdonia Local Access Forum as outlined:Mr. Hedd Pugh
Mr. Dewi Owen
Mr. Alun Edwards
Mr. Edmund Bailey
Mrs. Swancott Pugh
Mr. Owain Rhys Evans
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Mr. Aled Thomas
Mr. Eifion Lewis
Mr. Andrew Hall
Mrs. Barbara Rogers
Mrs. Susan Townsend
Mr. Marshall Davies
9.
Calendar of Meetings
Submitted – A timetable of meetings for the period 2008/2009.
RESOLVED to approve the timetable as submitted.
10.
Dolgellau Townscape Heritage Scheme
Submitted – An oral report by the Chief Executive advising Members of
the Authority’s success in obtaining a Stage 1 approval from the Heritage
Lottery Fund for the Dolgellau Townscape Heritage Initiative, and the
preparation of the Stage 2 application.
Reported – Members were advised upon the tendering process for the
appointment of consultants to undertake stage 2 development works. The
successful consultant’s tender was less than the £30k threshold, enabling
the Chief Executive to proceed. This report advised Members that the
contract had been let for the work which was due to commence the
following week, and completed by October 2008. Members were advised
that Heritage and Regeneration Solutions Ltd of Warwick had been
appointed.
The local Member for Dolgellau welcomed the scheme and the importance
of including the community as partners in the development. The Chief
Executive confirmed that the community would be fully included and that
an exhibition was being arranged during the summer.
RESOLVED to note the report and the action taken.
−
11.
A.N.P.A. Conference 2009
Submitted – An oral report by the Director of Communication informing
Members of the Annual National Parks Conference that Snowdonia will be
hosting in Llandudno, 23rd-25th September 2009.
Reported – Members were advised on steps taken by officers to secure
the availability of an assembly room at Venue Cymru and The St Georges
Hotel and The Imperial Hotel in Llandudno for the event. The Director of
Communication reported that 2009 was the 60th Anniversary of the
National Parks Act and it would be a fitting theme for the Conference to
celebrate the work of the National Parks and to look forward to future
challenges. If Members were in agreement, the Chief Executive would
5
advise the National Park Officer’s Group in June and the Chairman would
present the theme to the Chairman of each National Park at the ANPA
meeting in July with an invitation to delegates at the Conference in
September. It was agreed that a working group of Members would be set
up following the Local Government Election in May to assist and advise a
working group of officers.
Arising thereon, Geraint George thanked Members and Officers for
supporting the recent Climate Change Conference in Llandrindod which
had been a great success.
RESOLVED to note the report.
The meeting ended at 9.55 a.m.
6
SNOWDONIA NATIONAL PARK AUTHORITY
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
WEDNESDAY 11th JUNE, 2008
PRESENT:
Members appointed by Gwynedd Council
Councillors E. Edwards, T.G. Ellis, A. Gruffydd, H.P. Hughes, J.R. Jones,
E.C. Roberts,
D. Siencyn, G.G. Williams, G.O. Williams;
Members appointed by Conwy County Borough Council
Councillor G.O. Edwards, H.G. Hall, W.E. Jones;
Members appointed by the Welsh Assembly Government
Mr. G. George, Dr. Iolo ap Gwynn, Mr. D.P. McAteer, Mr. J.L. Morgan, Mr. D.L.
Roberts, Mr. P. Weston.
Officers
Mr. A. Phillips, Mr. D. Edwards, Mr. G.I. Jones, Mr. J. Ablitt, Mr. A. Sturkey,
Mr. E. Williams, Mr. E. Roberts, Mr. P. Trumper, Mrs. A. Gaffey.
1.
Chairman
The Director of Corporate and Legal Services advised Members that in
accordance with Standing Orders 5.2 and 5.3, he had received
nominations proposing Councillor E.C. Roberts for Chairman and a
nomination proposing Councillor G.O. Edwards for Chairman.
Councillor E.C. Roberts was elected Chairman of the Authority.
The Chairman thanked Members for their support.
2.
Vice-Chairman
The Director of Corporate and Legal Services advised Members that in
accordance with Standing Orders 5.2 and 5.3, he had received
nominations proposing Mr. Geraint George for Vice-Chairman and a
nomination proposing Councillor G.O. Edwards for Vice-Chairman.
Mr. Geraint George was elected Vice-Chairman of the Authority.
The Vice-Chairman thanked Members for their support.
3.
Chairman’s Announcements
(1)
The Chairman welcomed the new Authority Members to their first
meeting and welcomed those Members who were returning to
serve a further term. The Chairman went on to thank former
members, Cllr. Greta Jones, Cllr. June Jones, Cllr. Trevor Edwards,
7
Cllr. Arthur Todd and Cllr. Liz Roberts for their contribution to the
work of the Authority over the past four years.
RESOLVED that the Chief Executive should write, on behalf of
the Authority, to thank former Members for their valued
contribution.
(2)
(3)
(4)
(8)
(9)
4.
The Chairman confirmed that Dr. Rod Gritten, the Authority’s Senior
Ecologist, had recently retired after 30 years’ service with the
Authority. Mr. Dafydd Roberts, an internal candidate, had been
appointed to the vacancy.
RESOLVED to ask the Chief Executive to write to Dr. Gritten,
on behalf of Members, to thank him for his commitment to the
work of the Authority and to wish him a long and happy
retirement.
The Chairman advised that the Upland Footpaths Partnership
Scheme had now run its term. The Partnership, a collaboration
between the Authority, the Countryside Council for Wales, the
National Trust and the Welsh Assembly Government, had secured
£6.5 million of Objective 1 funding to improve upland footpaths.
The Chairman thanked Mr. John Ablitt, Mr. Bob Lowe and Mr. John
Morgan for their commitment to the project and hoped that
convergence funding could now be secured to undertake similar
projects in Eryri. Members also expressed their appreciation to the
upland footpath teams for their work and commitment.
The Chairman advised that the Authority had recently been
presented with an award from Excellence Wales. The awards were
sponsored by the Welsh Assembly Government and were
administered by the WLGA, to recognise and promote good
practice within the public sector. The Assessors were impressed at
how biodiversity had been integrated into the Authority’s work,
policies and the enthusiasm of Members and staff. The Director of
Land Management advised that this was the first time that a
National Park Authority had been presented with the award.
The Chairman advised that he would be accompanying the Chief
Executive to a meeting with Jane Davidson AM, the Assembly
Minister for Sustainability and Rural Development on the 1st July,
2008. The Chairman and Chief Executive meet with the Minister
twice a year.
In response to a question from a Member, the Chairman advised
that he had nothing further to add to Gwynedd Council’s statement
in response to the allegations made in the newspaper article.
Public Question Time
Members were informed that no public questions had been received.
8
5.
Declaration of Interest
No declarations of Personal Interests were made in respect of any item.
6.
Membership of the Authority
Submitted - The Chief Executive’s report on current membership of the
Authority.
Arising thereon, Members recommended the inclusion of email addresses
within the report.
RESOLVED to submit an update report with email addresses to the
next meeting of the Authority.
7.
Minutes
The minutes of the Authority meeting held on 16th April, 2008 were
accepted and the Chairman signed them as a true record.
8.
Appointment of Members to serve on Committees, Panels, Working
Groups and External Representation.
Submitted - A report by the Chief Executive to appoint Members to serve
on the following Committees, Panels, Working Groups and External
Representation.
1.
RESOLVED
to appoint Members as follows:-
(1)
COMMITTEES
i)
Planning and Access Committee - All Authority Members.
ii)
Performance and Resources Committee
Councillors T.G. Ellis, A. Gruffydd, H.G. Hall, J.R. Jones, W.E. Jones,
G.G. Williams;
Mr. D. McAteer, Mr. J.L. Morgan, Mr. P. Weston.
iii)
Personnel Sub-Committee
Councillors J.R. Jones, W.E. Jones, G.G. Williams;
Mr. D. McAteer, Mr. J.L. Morgan.
iv)
Personnel Appeals Committee
Councillors E. Edwards, G.O. Edwards; Dr. I. ap Gwynn.
Reserve Members: Councillors H.P. Hughes; Mr. D.L. Roberts.
v)
Standards Committee (Term of Office established by the Standards
Committee (Wales) Regulations 2001)
9
Councillors H.G. Hall, J.R. Jones; Mr. P. Weston.
+ 3 Independent Members
vi)
Plas Tan y Bwlch Committee
Councillors H.G. Hall, H.P. Hughes, E.C. Roberts, G.O. Williams;
Mr. G.D. George, Mr. D. McAteer.
+ 2 Co-opted Independent Members
(2)
PANELS
i)
Single Status Grading Appeals Panel
Councillors E. Edwards, G.O. Edwards; Dr. Iolo ap Gwynn.
Reserve Members: Councillor H.P. Hughes; Mr. D.L. Roberts.
ii)
Snowdon Summit Panel
Councillors T.G. Ellis, A. Gruffydd, H.P. Hughes, G.O. Williams;
Mr. D.L. Roberts, Mr. P. Weston.
iii)
CAE Panel
Chairman - Councillor E.C. Roberts.
(Reserve : Vice Chairman - Mr. G.D. George)
(3)
WORKING GROUPS
i)
Local Joint Working Group
Councillors E. Edwards, H.P. Hughes, W.E. Jones; Dr. Iolo ap Gwynn.
ii)
Member/Officer Working Group
GWEITHGOR PROSIECTAU A
PHOLISIAU
PROJECTS AND POLICIES
WORKING GROUP
GWEITHGOR ARCHWILIO,
PERFFORMIAD, DATBLYGU STAFF
AC AELODAU
SCRUTINY, PERFORMANCE,
STAFF AND MEMBER
DEVELOPMENT WORKING GROUP
Cllr. Elwyn Edwards
Cllr. Alwyn Gruffydd
Cllr. Huw P. Hughes
Cllr. Wyn E. Jones
Cllr. Dyfrig Siencyn
Dr. Iolo ap Gwynn
Mr. Denis P. McAteer
Mr. John L. Morgan
Mr. David L. Roberts
Cllr. G.O. Edwards
Cllr. T.G. Ellis
Cllr. H.G. Hall
Cllr. J.R. Jones
Cllr. E.C. Roberts
Cllr. G.G. Williams
Cllr. G.O. Williams
Mr. Geraint George
Mr. Peter Weston
10
(4)
AUTHORITY ADVISORY COMMITTEES
i)
Celyn, Tegid and Tryweryn Advisory Conference
Councillors E. Edwards, E.C. Roberts, D. Siencyn; Mr. P. Weston.
ii)
Cultural Heritage Advisory Group
Councillors E Edwards, W.E. Jones, E.C. Roberts; Mr. G.D. George.
iii)
Local Access Forums
South: Councillor G.G. Williams
North: Mr. J.L. Morgan
(5)
OTHER BODIES
i)
Fforwm Iaith
Councillor E. Edwards (Jointly with Gwynedd Council)
ii)
Cywaith (Buildings Preservations Trust)
Mr. P. Weston
iii)
Trawsfynydd Stakeholder Group
Mr. P. Weston
iv)
Regional Tourism Partnerships (RTP’s)
Mr. D.L. Roberts (Mid Wales)
Councillor H.G. Hall (North Wales)
v)
Joint Council for Wales
Mr. D.P. McAteer
vi)
Environment Agency, Area Environment Group
Councillor H.P. Hughes
viii)
National Trust, Beddgelert Local Liaison Committee
Mr. P. Weston
ix)
Campaign for National Parks (Co-opted Member)
Mr. D.P. McAteer
x)
Welsh Local Government Association Council
Councillor E.C. Roberts
xi)
Pen Llyn a’r Sarnau (SAC)
Mr. G.D. George
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xii)
Snowdonia Green Key Initiative Executive Group
Councillor H.P. Hughes
xiii)
North Wales Regional Waste Group
Councillor H.P. Hughes; Dr. I. ap Gwynn.
xiv)
Aggregates Regional Technical Statement Members’ Group
Mr. P. Weston
Reserve Member: Dr. Iolo ap Gwynn
9.
Revenue and Capital Outturn Report 2007/08
Submitted – A report by the Chief Finance Officer comparing, at service
area level, the Authority’s budgeted revenue and capital spending plans
for 2007/2008 and the actual outturn expenditure for the year. Copies of
the 2008/09 budget would be circulated to Members at the end of the
meeting, for information.
Reported – The Chief Finance Officer presented the report and provided
Members with details of the slippage in both revenue and capital schemes
for which resources needed to be carried-forward into the new financial
year. Members were also advised that the Statement of Accounts was on
course to be presented to the Authority at the end of the month.
Members noted some concerns over the level of slippage, in the light of
savings which the Authority was required to make over the next 3 years.
Following a detailed explanation of the reasons for the underspend,
Members were reassured and the Chief Executive confirmed that
allocating the underspend as one off projects the following year was
prudent during this financial climate.
RESOLVED
1.
to note the contents of the outturn report.
2.
to approve the virements within the revenue and capital
budgets as outlined in the report (para. 2).
3.
to approve the transfers to and from earmarked reserves as
outlined in the report (para 2.3).
4.
to approve the carry-forward of £270,007 under spend from the
2007/08 financial year to the 2008/09 financial year, subject to a
report to the Performance and Resources Committee outlining
the proposals for allocation of these resources on a one off
basis (para 3.5).
5.
to authorise the Performance and Resources Committee to
allocate the balance carried forward to the 2008/09 financial
year.
6.
to approve the Capital Financing Statement.
12
10.
Treasury Management – Annual Report 2007/08
Submitted – A report by the Chief Finance Officer detailing the Authority’s
Treasury Management during 2007/2008.
RESOLVED to note the contents of the report.
11.
National Park Grant Bid
Submitted – A report by the Chief Executive outlining the basis for
preparing the National Park Grant Bid for 2009/10. The report summarised
bids over and above the present base-line budget.
Reported – The Chief Executive presented the report and Members made
the following observations:- officers welcomed an offer by a Member to provide a letter of support
from the Local Health Board for developing fitness and health projects,
specifically with the aim of reducing strokes within the population, in
order to strengthen the bid.
- concerns over the reduction in CAE funding were raised. This would
have a knock on effect on a number of community scale projects within
the National Park. The Chief Executive had already forwarded his
concerns to the Environment Division of the Welsh Assembly
Government and would bring the matter up at his meeting with the
Minister next week.
RESOLVED
1.
to note the report.
2.
to approve the strategy and bids to the Welsh Assembly
Government as outlined.
12.
Wales Audit Office Regulatory Plan
Submitted – A report by the Director of Corporate and Legal Services
together with the Wales Audit Office Regulatory Plan, for information.
Reported – The Director of Corporate and Legal Services presented the
report and members considered the contents of the Regulatory Plan.
RESOLVED to note the report and the Regulatory Plan for 2007/2008.
13.
The Local Authorities (Model Code of Conduct) (Wales) Order 2008
Submitted - A report by the Director of Corporate and Legal Services on
the formal adoption of a new Code of Conduct for Members.
Reported – The Director of Corporate and Legal Services presented the
report and advised upon the background, the process and the key
changes within the code. He further advised that following the formal
13
adoption of the Code, Members would be provided with an undertaking
which required completion within 2 months confirming compliance with the
new Code when carrying out their functions.
RESOLVED
1)
to adopt the Code of Conduct as set out in the Local
Authorities (Model Code of Conduct) (Wales) Order 2008.
2)
to set a value for acceptance of gifts at £25-00 or over for the
purposes of paragraph 17 of the Code.
14.
Annual Report of Monitoring Officer
Submitted - A report by the Director of Corporate and Legal Services on
complaints referred to the Ombudsman during the period 2007/08 and the
work of the Authority’s Standards Committee.
Arising thereon, Members were asked to note a correction in the welsh
report that item 3.1 should read “not all the site was within the Park’s
boundary”.
RESOLVED to note the report.
15.
Exemption to Standing Orders in Letting of a Contract
Submitted – An information report by the Director of Corporate and Legal
Services to advise on a contract let for urgent works at the Hafod Eryri
scheme on the summit of Snowdon.
RESOLVED to note the report.
16.
Responses to the Members’ Questionnaire
Submitted – A report by the Director of Corporate and Legal Services to
report on the outcome of the Members’ questionnaire and to offer
recommendations in the light of the responses received.
RESOLVED
1.
to continue with the present arrangements to hold meetings at
Plas Tan y Bwlch, using the current days and start times for
the coming year.
2.
to seek the opinion of new Members over the next few months
regarding the timing and location of meetings, and to submit a
further report in due course with the results and any
recommendations.
3.
to ask officers to look for practical answers to the sound
problems in the Library at Plas Tan y Bwlch.
4.
to authorise the Scrutiny, Performance, Staff and Member
Development Working Group to produce a draft training
programme for the year and to submit the Programme to the
14
5.
Authority for adoption in due course.
to ask officers to consider developing written materials in the
future to assist and enable members to access and develop
training in their own time.
17.
Member Working Group Reports and Panel Minutes
Submitted - reports from Working Groups and Panel meetings.
(1)
Scrutiny, Performance, Staff and Member Development Working
Group
Submitted – Report of the Scrutiny, Performance, Staff and Member
Development Working Group held on 18th January, 2008.
Arising thereon, the Chief Executive advised that Naomi Jones had now
been appointed to the full time Bwrlwm Eryri post on a two year contract.
The draft work programme would be considered at the first meeting of the
Bwrlwm Eryri Group.
RESOLVED to welcome the appointment and note the report.
(2)
Snowdon Summit (Hafod Eryri) Group
Submitted – Minutes of the Snowdon Summit (Hafod Eryri) Group held on
8th February and 18th April, 2008.
RESOLVED to note the minutes.
(3)
Local Joint Working Group
Submitted – Minutes of the Local Joint Working Group held on the 7th
March, 2008.
RESOLVED to note the minutes.
(4)
Projects and Policies Working Group
Submitted – Reports of the Projects and Policies Working Group held on
the 26th March and 11th April, 2008.
RESOLVED to note the minutes.
(5)
Celyn, Tegid and Tryweryn Advisory Conference.
Submitted – Minutes of the Celyn, Tegid and Tryweryn Advisory
Conference held on the 9th April, 2008.
RESOLVED to note the minutes.
18.
Members Attendance
Submitted – A report by the Director of Corporate and Legal Services
detailing Members’ attendance at Authority and Committee meetings.
15
Arising thereon, Members requested that future reports should include the
percentages for previous years’ attendance in order to ascertain whether
attendance patterns are apparent.
RESOLVED to note the report.
19.
Annual Conferences
1)
Association of National Park Authorities Conference 2008
Lake Windermere 17-19 September – Lake District National
Park Authority
Submitted – An oral report by the Chief Executive together with a
summary of previous Members’ attendance.
RESOLVED to send 7 delegates to the Conference, including
the Chairman, Chief Executive and one Officer.
The following members were nominated to attend:Councillors Huw P. Hughes, Goronwy O. Edwards, H. Gail Hall;
Mr. Denis McAteer.
2)
Europarc 2008
Submitted – A report by the Chief Executive on the Europarc
Conference,
24-28 September 2008 in Brasov / Poiana Brasov, Romania.
RESOLVED
1.
to note the report.
2.
to authorise the Chairman and the Chief Executive to
represent the Authority at the Europarc 2008 Conference
in Romania.
20.
Meetings of other Organisations
Submitted - Oral reports on recent meetings of organisations which
Members had attended as representatives of the Authority.
−
Mr. J.L. Morgan – Northern Area Access Forum
Attended a meeting on the 2nd June, 2008. Discussed funding for Rights
of Way Improvement Projects, Coastal Paths, and Access to Water. A
report was being prepared on the Forum’s work.
Arising thereon, Members requested an update report on the Green Key
Project.
RESOLVED
1.
to note the report.
2.
to await a report on the Green Key Project to the next meeting
16
3.
of the Scrutiny, Performance, Staff and Member Development
Working Group on the 16th July, 2008.
that Members should in future prepare written reports on
recent meetings attended as representatives of the Authority,
to be circulated prior to the meeting, to improve the current
reporting practice.
21.
Minutes
The following minutes were submitted for information:(1)
Minutes of the CAE Panel meeting held on 23rd November,
2007.
(2)
Minutes of the Plas Tan y Bwlch Committee held on 23rd
January, 2008.
(3)
Minutes of the Standards Committee held on the 30th April,
2008.
22.
Hafod Eryri
Submitted – An oral report by the Director of Communication to update
Members on the Hafod Eryri Project together with a short slide
presentation showing progress at the summit.
Reported – The Director of Communication reported upon the background
and progress to date. It was anticipated that the project would be finished
sometime during August, subject to favourable weather.
The Chief Executive advised that the provisional date for the Official
Opening, agreed with the First Minister, was the 5th September 2008. He
emphasised that this date was one to aim at but was wholly dependent on
the weather and that further delays in construction could result in a
postponement.
RESOLVED to welcome the presentation and note the report.
The meeting ended at 13.15
17
SNOWDONIA NATIONAL PARK AUTHORITY
WEDNESDAY 25th JUNE, 2008
Councillor E. Caerwyn Roberts (Gwynedd) (Chairman)
PRESENT:
Members appointed by Gwynedd Council
Councillors E. Edwards, T.G. Ellis, A. Gruffydd, H.P. Hughes, J.R. Jones;
Members appointed by Conwy County Borough Council
Councillors H. Gail Hall, W.E. Jones;
Members appointed by the Welsh Assembly Government
Mr. G. George, Mr. D.P. McAteer, Mr. J.L. Morgan, Mr. D.L. Roberts, Mr. P. Weston.
Officers
Mr. A. Phillips, Mr. G.I. Jones, Mr. D. Edwards, Mr. J. Ablitt, Mr. E. Roberts, Mrs. A.
Gaffey.
Apologies
Councillors G.O. Edwards, D. Siencyn, G.G. Williams, G.O. Williams; Dr. I. ap Gwynn.
1.
Chairman’s Announcements
(1)
The Chairman thanked those Members who had attended the
Member Development Day and thanked officers for the
arrangements. The Chairman also thanked Mr. Paul Williams of
CCW for the presentation at Dol Idris.
(2)
The Chairman, on behalf of Members, expressed the Authority’s
deepest sympathy to Bethan Hughes, Head of Administration and
Customer Care, on the sudden death of her father.
RESOLVED to forward the Authority’s deepest sympathy to
Bethan Hughes and family.
2.
Declaration of interest
Mr. A. Phillips declared an interest in item 4, page 27, para. v) on the
Agenda.
Councillor Caerwyn Roberts declared a personal interest in item 4, page
27, para i) on the Agenda, under paragraph 10 (2) (a) (i) of the Code of
Conduct for Members.
Mr. David Roberts declared a personal interest in item 4, page 27, para ii)
on the Agenda, under paragraph 10 (2) (a) (i) of the Code of Conduct for
Members.
18
3.
Membership of the Authority
Submitted – A report by the Chief Executive on current membership of the
Authority, including email addresses, for information.
Arising thereon, Cllr. Dyfrig Siencyn advised that his email address should
be changed to [email protected].
RESOLVED subject to the above amendment, to note the report.
4.
Statement of Accounts 2007/08
Submitted – A report by the Chief Finance Officer together with the
Authority’s Statement of Accounts for 2007/08. Revised versions of pages
18, 22, 32, and 43 in the Financial Statement was circulated to Members,
and minor amendments therein were explained. It was noted that these
minor revisions had no impact on the “bottom line” for the Authority.
Arising thereon, Members were asked to note that the Balance Sheet and
comparison of budget expenditure in the Explanatory Foreword (Welsh
version) referred to periods up to 31st March 2008.
Reported – The Chief Finance Officer presented the Statement of Accounts
for 2007/08 and reported upon the following:the purpose of these statutory statements and their contribution
towards proper governance,
relevant financial reports previously submitted to and resolved upon
by the Authority,
the increased pressure and associated risk to accuracy from the
tight timescale for accounts closure,
details of significant variances against the previous year’s figures in
the primary statements on pages 17 – 21,
additional minor amendments to clarify that figures on pages 3 and 4
referred to periods up to 31st March 2008,
that a separate resolution was required in respect of the Statement
of Internal Control,
that these Accounts were subject to audit by the District Auditor,
who could require amendments prior to certification, and
that audited Accounts would be submitted to the Authority on 22
September.
In response to several questions from Members, the Chief Finance Officer
and the Head of Finance advised upon a number of issues of principle and
technical details.
19
The Chief Finance Officer thanked the Head of Finance and the Authority’s
Finance Team for meeting the 30th June deadline for adoption of the
Statement of Accounts.
Arising thereon the Chairman, on behalf of Members, thanked the Chief
Finance Officer, the Head of Finance and his staff for their work.
RESOLVED
1)
to approve the Statement of Internal Control.
2)
subject to revisions as circulated, to approve the Statement of
Accounts (subject to audit) for 2007/08.
3)
that the Chairman of the Authority signs the statement.
4)
to approve the transfers to and from reserves, and the carryforward of revenue and capital budgets, as outlined in section 6
of the report.
5.
Membership of the Standards Committee
Submitted – A report by the Director of Corporate and Legal Services to
advise upon the membership of the Standards Committee.
RESOLVED
1.
to note the report.
2.
to proceed to advertise the Standards Committee vacancy for
a term of five years.
3.
to establish an Interview Panel of five to be made up of the
Chairman and Vice Chairman of the Authority, the Chief
Executive, the Monitoring Officer and one Lay Member, to be
selected by the Monitoring Officer, to interview candidates and
present their recommendations to the Authority.
The meeting ended at 9.50 a.m.
20
SNOWDONIA NATIONAL PARK AUTHORITY
WEDNESDAY 22nd SEPTEMBER, 2008
Councillor E. Caerwyn Roberts (Gwynedd) (Chairman)
PRESENT:
Members appointed by Gwynedd Council
Councillors E. Edwards, H.P. Hughes, A. Gruffydd, G.O. Williams;
Members appointed by Conwy County Borough Council
Councillors G.O. Edwards, H.G. Hall, W.E. Jones;
Members appointed by the Welsh Assembly Government
Mr. G. George, Dr. I. ap Gwynn, Mr. D.P. McAteer.
Officers
Mr. A. Phillips, Mr. D. Edwards, Mr. G.I. Jones, Mr. A. Sturkey, Mr. J. Ablitt, Mr.
E. Roberts, Mrs. A. Gaffey, Mrs. A. Griffiths.
Apologies
Councillors T.G. Ellis, J.R. Jones, D. Siencyn, G.G. Williams;
Mr. J.L. Morgan, Mr. D.L. Roberts, Mr. P. Weston.
1.
Chairman’s Announcements
(1)
The Chairman referred with sadness to the death of Councillor
Owen Edwards, Blaenau Ffestiniog, a former Member of the
Authority. Members and Officers stood as a mark of respect.
(2)
The Chairman reported that the Chair and Vice Chair of both
Brecon Beacons National Park and Pembrokeshire Coast National
Park remained unchanged.
− Brecon Beacons
Chair Mary Taylor and Vice Chair Councillor Krishn Pathak
− Pembrokeshire Coast
Chair Cllr. Simon L Hancock and Vice Chair Mr Richard Howells
(3)
The Chairman advised that the Chair and Vice Chair of ANPA also
remained unchanged.
− Chairman, Cllr. John Riddle, Northumberland National Park
− Vice Chairman, Cllr. Caerwyn Roberts, Snowdonia National
Park. Arising thereon, Cllr. Roberts advised that he would be
standing down as Vice Chairman of ANPA in July 2009 after
serving 3 years as Chairman and 5 years as Vice Chairman of
the Association.
21
(4)
2.
The Chairman referred to a press release, circulated to Members
with the Agenda, which outlined the current position at Brecon
Beacons National Park Authority.
Public Question Time
Submitted – The Chairman advised that a Member of the public had given
notice to speak at the meeting.
Mr. Brian Seears presented three questions as follows:Q1. Within the context of paragraph 7.54 of the Eryri Local Plan which
states that the National Park Authority has a responsibility to work
with the Local Housing Authorities and incorporate their strategies
into its own development policies, will the Authority agree that in
assessing the “need required to be demonstrated conclusively” in
accordance with paragraph i) of Policy T5 of the Eryri Local Plan for
affordable housing developments proposed on rural exception sites
within the area of Gwynedd County Council, this “need” must
always be demonstrated relative to that Council’s Housing
Allocation Scheme?
Officer response
Policy T5 (the exceptions Policy) permits the development of
affordable housing outside boundaries adjoining village
development boundaries under certain circumstances.
One of those circumstances being that a need is clearly
demonstrated by means of a survey or the written advice of the
Local Housing Authority.
In the case of an application for social housing in accordance with
Policy T5, the Authority relies on a Local Housing Needs Survey,
which is usually carried out by the Rural Housing Enabler. The
questionnaire used has been approved by the Local Government
Data Unit and the Welsh Assembly Government refers to this way
of assessing need in rural areas as one of the few practical ways of
proceeding.
This means that social housing developments comply with the
Housing Authority’s Housing Strategies. In addition, most of the
housing permitted are approved under the Social Housing Grant
Programme.
There is no reason why need should be demonstrated in relation to
the Council’s Housing Allocation Scheme. Housing Associations,
for example, have their own special allocations policy specifically
developed for allocating housing in rural areas.
22
Q2.
Considering that one of the special qualities which make
Snowdonia unique listed in paragraph 1.23 of the Eryri Local Plan is
“the sense of place created by natural colours and the texture of
stone and slate reflected in the scale and detail of traditional
buildings and structures”, will the Authority agree that all new house
building and extensions to existing buildings within the Park should
only be permitted with all stone finish in keeping with the
“traditional” preferred look in compliance with paragraph 1.24 of the
Eryri Local Plan which states “This Local
Plan has a clear role in safeguarding these special qualities by
promoting development which enhances them and resisting that
which does not”.
Officer response
I agree that the Authority, through its Development Plan policies,
has a responsibility to promote developments which safeguard the
special qualities of the Park, but the use of stone on all new
buildings and all extensions is not the way forward in my opinion. I
believe that the use of materials such as stone is appropriate and is
to be encouraged in certain circumstances. For example, in
conservation areas or listed buildings. It depends on the individual
circumstances. The question has to be asked would a policy of
using stone in all circumstances be sustainable or even encourage
good design.
Q3.
What is the Authority’s policy on the acceptance of petitions where
they appear to be contrived particularly by having more than one
signature in similar handwriting, less than full addresses which
might be checked as to their genuineness etc.
Officer response
Before any documents are presented to the Authority or
Committees, the Officers from the Authority read them to ensure
that no opinion or statement contained in them are libellous. In the
past we have withdrawn such letters or, if possible, we have hidden
the libellous parts.
The Officers do not make any further enquiries because everybody
has a right to their opinion. It is up to the members to decide how
much emphasis to put on the letters and petitions that are attached
to the papers. It would not be practical for the officers to make
further enquiries when you consider the amount of letters and
petitions that we receive.
23
3.
Declaration of Interests
Mr. Geraint George declared a personal interest in item 10 on the Agenda,
under paragraph 10 (2) (ix) (aa) of the Code of Conduct for Members.
4.
Minutes
The minutes of the Authority meetings held on 11 June and 25 June 2008
were accepted and the Chairman signed them as true records.
5.
Matters for Information arising from the minutes
Minutes of the 11th June, 2008
Item 11 – National Park Grant Bid
Due to the uncertainties at Brecon Beacons National Park, Members were
advised that the joint bid had not been submitted.
6.
ISA 260 – Report to those charged with Governance
Submitted – A report by Mr. Ceri Stradling, the District Auditor, Wales
Audit Office. Mr Stradling apologised to Members for the late submission
of the report and explained the circumstances which were beyond his
control.
Reported – The District Auditor presented his report and advised upon the
main points. He confirmed that he was satisfied that nothing further would
need to be reported to Members. The timing and quality of the accounts
and supporting papers had been improved and the audit team had been
able to work well with the Authority’s staff. Mr. Stradling brought one
qualitative aspect which required amending for future accounts to Members’
attention and also one matter of governance which was an enhancement to
the current reporting process rather than a weakness.
The Chief Finance Officer thanked the District Auditor for his positive
report and for attending the meeting to present his report. The
recommendations outlined in Appendix 2 of the report had now been
implemented and a copy of the relevant parts of the Statement of
Accounts, revised to include adjustments as outlined in Appendix 2 of the
Auditor’s report, was circulated to Members.
The Chairman thanked the District Auditor for attending and for his
positive report, and thanked the Head of Finance and his team for their
work.
RESOLVED to welcome the report and thank the District Auditor for
his work.
24
7.
Budget Update
Submitted – A report by the Chief Finance Officer to inform Members of
the addition of part of the 2007/08 slippage and allocated under-spend into
the 2008/09 baseline budget, and to advise upon significant virements.
Members were asked to note that 3.1 in the Welsh report referred to
Treftadaeth “Diwylliannol” not “Naturiol”.
Reported – The Chief Finance Officer presented the report and the Head
of Finance provided Members with further information on detailed figures.
RESOLVED to note the report.
8.
Revenue Allocation and Capital Spend 2008/09
Submitted - A report by the Chief Executive to update Members on
progress with spending the one-off revenue allocations and the 2008/09
capital programme.
Reported – The Chief Executive presented the report which Members
considered in detail.
Arising thereon, Members discussed the Authority’s role with regards to
affordable housing provision within the National Park. The Chief
Executive advised that whilst the Authority was not a housing authority it
did part-fund the Rural Housing Enabler post. Members felt that ideally
each community should be assessed individually but were aware that this
could cost up to £2400 per community.
RESOLVED
1.
to note the progress with the 2008/09 capital programme.
2.
to note the progress with the one-off revenue spend.
9.
Budget 2008 – 2011
Submitted – An update report by the Chief Executive on progress in
delivering efficiencies.
Reported – The Chief Executive advised that item 2.4.4 - Transport Costs
had been temporarily postponed.
Members considered the report and made the following observations:−
2.4.5 Income Marketing partnerships with local businesses was to
be welcomed and could be the way forward for the future.
−
Members asked that Snowdonia’s bid should be submitted to the
Welsh Assembly Government as soon as possible and that the
Chief Executive should, in his letter to the Minister, note concerns
that priorities under the “One Wales” Agenda may not be delivered
in future without additional funding. Members also asked that the
25
funding inequality between the Welsh National Parks and the
National Parks in England should be highlighted.
The Chief Finance Officer endorsed the steps being taken by the
Authority.
RESOLVED
1.
to note the report and progress in delivering efficiencies.
2.
that the Chief Executive, in his letter to the Minister, raises
Members’ concerns as outlined.
10.
Allocation of 2007/08 Underspends
Submitted – A report by the Chief Executive to allocate outstanding
2007/08 underspends on a one-off basis.
The Chief Finance Officer endorsed the steps being taken by the
Authority.
RESOLVED
1.
to note the report.
2.
to authorise the Chief Executive, in consultation with the
Chairman and Vice Chairman, to re-allocate £23,207 of the
£123,207 on a one off basis, with the remaining £100,000 being
allocated to reserves, as set out in paragraph 2.2 of the report.
11.
Broadband for Authority Members
Submitted – A report by the Director of Corporate and Legal Services to
discuss the provision of broadband for Authority Members.
RESOLVED
1.
to note the report.
2.
to approve the proposal to assist the three members currently
without broadband for a period of 12 months.
3.
to arrange I.S. training for all Members to ensure effective use
of the technology.
12.
Report of the Interview Panel for an Independent Member of the
Standards Committee
Submitted - A report by the Director of Corporate and Legal Services
recommending the appointment of an Independent Member to the
Standards Committee.
Reported – The Director of Corporate and Legal Services reported that the
Interview Panel had met to interview applicants for the vacancy on the
Authority’s Standards Committee.
26
Arising thereon, the Director of Corporate and Legal Services agreed to
consider whether Welsh language capabilities could be a requirement in
any future appointment of an Independent Member to the Standards
Committee.
RESOLVED to appoint Mr. Samindre Soysa to be an Independent
Member of the Standards Committee for a term of five years.
13.
Hafod Eryri
Submitted – An oral update and a short slide presentation by the Director
of Communication following a recent visit to the summit.
RESOLVED to note the report and presentation for information.
14.
Collaboration Operation between SNPA and Gwynedd Council
Submitted – A report by the Chief Executive to request authority to look
into further opportunities for joint working.
Reported – The Chief Executive presented his report which Members
considered in detail.
RESOLVED
1.
to authorise officers to further investigate the options outlined
in point 4.1 of the report in relation to Development Control
and Enforcement.
2.
to note the intention by officers to conduct an outline review of
the opportunities for collaboration within the specialist
planning services, statutory ecology and woodlands.
3.
to await a report on the outcome of the above investigations in
due course.
Note: Councillor Alwyn Gruffydd asked for it to be recorded in the minutes
that he had not taken part in the discussion and had abstained from
voting.
15.
Extension of combined Sustainability Appraisal/Strategic
Environmental Assessment and Habitats Regulation Assessment
external contract.
Submitted – A report by the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage to
advise the Authority on the letting of a consultancy contract.
RESOLVED to note the report.
16.
(1)
Welsh Members Seminar – 4th/5th November 2008
Submitted – An oral report by the Chief Executive on the forthcoming
Welsh Members Seminar, together with a draft copy of the Programme, for
27
information.
Arising thereon, Members were asked to indicate whether they would be
able to attend. The Chairman stressed the importance for Members to
make the effort to attend the Seminar as it was the only forum for
Members of the Welsh National Parks to come together to discuss Welsh
issues.
RESOLVED to note the report.
(2)
Arising thereon, Members discussed the recent ANPA Conference held in
the Lake District. Those members present thanked the Chairman for his
presentation and invitation to Snowdonia in 2009.
RESOLVED to ask officers to establish a working group of those
Members who had attended the Lake District Conference to meet
with officers to discuss arrangements for the forthcoming ANPA
Conference in Snowdonia in 2009.
(3)
W.L.G.A. Annual Conference, North Wales Conference Centre,
Llandudno – 8-10 October, 2008.
RESOLVED that Councillors E.C. Roberts, H.G. Hall, G.O. Williams
and Dr. Iolo ap Gwynn should accompany the Chief Executive, as
representatives of the Authority, to the Welsh Local Government
Association Annual Conference.
17.
Meetings of other Organisations
Submitted – A report by Mr. Denis McAteer on recent meetings of the
Council for National Parks which he had attended as a representative
of the Authority.
RESOLVED to note the report and thank Mr. McAteer.
18.
Minutes
The following minutes were submitted for information:(1)
Minutes of the Cae Panel held on 23rd June, 2008.
(2)
Minutes of Plas Tan y Bwlch Committee held on 18th June,
2008.
(3)
Minutes of the Performance and Resources Committees held
on 25th June, 2008.
19.
Plas Tan y Bwlch Hydro Electricity Power Scheme
Schedule 12A Local Government Act 1972 : Exemption from
disclosure of documents
Submitted – A report by the Director of Corporate and Legal Services
requesting Authority approval for the exemption of the subsequent report.
28
RESOLVED that the “Plas Tan y Bwlch Hydro Electricity Power
Scheme” report be exempt from disclosure for the reasons outlined in
the report.
20.
Plas Tan y Bwlch Hydro Electricity Power Scheme
Submitted – A joint report by the Director of Communication and the Head
of Business to inform Members on progress in developing the Hydro
Electricity Power Scheme at Plas Tan y Bwlch.
Reported – The Director of Communication presented the report. He
reassured Members that the Llyn Mair water level would not be affected.
Members were in support of the proposal and noted that the scheme
would provide a valuable educational resource for students at Plas as well
as providing expertise for advising the public on small scale hydro
generation.
RESOLVED
1.
to note the report and appendix.
2.
to authorise officers to proceed to seek two additional tenders
before letting the contract for the full design of the scheme.
3.
to authorise the Chief Executive to use the capital funding
earmarked for the Headquarters to cover the contract fees.
The meeting ended at 12.45
29
SNOWDONIA NATIONAL PARK AUTHORITY
WEDNESDAY 15th OCTOBER, 2008
Councillor E. Caerwyn Roberts (Gwynedd) (Chairman)
PRESENT:
Members appointed by Gwynedd Council
Councillors E. Edwards, G.O. Williams, J.R. Jones, D. Siencyn, A. Gruffydd,
G.G. Williams, H.P. Hughes;
Members appointed by Conwy County Borough Council
Councillors W.E. Jones, Ms H.G. Hall;
Members appointed by the Welsh Assembly Government
Dr. I. ap Gwynn, Mr. D.P. McAteer, Mr. J.L. Morgan, Mr. D.L. Roberts, Mr. P.
Weston;
Officers
Mr. A. Phillips, Mr D. Edwards, Mr. E. Roberts, Mr. A. Sturkey, Mr. G.I. Jones,
Mrs A Griffiths.
1.
Apologies
Councillors T.G. Ellis, G.O. Edwards; Mr. G.D. George.
2.
Declaration of Interest
No declarations of Personal Interests were made in respect of any item.
3.
Treasury Management Report
This item was not specified on the Agenda but the Chairman agreed that it
be considered as a matter of urgency to enable the Authority to amend its
Treasury Management Strategy in the light of the current crisis in world
banking systems.
Submitted – A report by the Chief Finance Officer to approve an
amendment to the Treasury Management Strategy
Arising thereon, Members sought confirmation that seven days notice for
withdrawal of funds was sufficient and the Chief Finance Officer assured
members that this would be adequate.
RESOLVED to authorise the amendment to the Treasury
Management Strategy and to agree that officers proceed to invest the
Authority’s money with one, or more than one, of three organisations
in addition to HBOS, namely HSBC, Santander and Barclays.
30
4.
Annual Report and Improvement Plan 2008-2009
Submitted – A report by the Director of Corporate and Legal Services
recommending adoption of the Annual Report and Improvement Plan
2008/09.
Reported – The Director of Corporate and Legal Services presented the
report and the Annual Report and Improvement Plan. Members
recommended the following amendment:Appendix 2 – Performance Indicators, Core Indicator Sets 2008/09
−
the column showing 05/06 results should not be included as it was
no longer relevant.
RESOLVED
1.
to note the report.
2.
subject to the above amendment, to adopt the Plan and
approve its publication by the end of October 2008.
The meeting ended at 9.50 a.m.
31
SNOWDONIA NATIONAL PARK AUTHORITY
WEDNESDAY 10th DECEMBER, 2008
Councillor E. Caerwyn Roberts (Gwynedd) (Chairman)
PRESENT:
Members appointed by Gwynedd Council
Councillors E. Edwards, T.G. Ellis, A. Gruffydd, H.P. Hughes, J.R. Jones, G.G. Williams,
G.O. Williams;
Members appointed by Conwy County Borough Council
Councillors G.O. Edwards, H. Gail Hall, W.E. Jones;
Members appointed by the Welsh Assembly Government
Mr. G. George, Dr. Iolo ap Gwynn, Mr. D.P. McAteer, Mr. D.L. Roberts,
Mr. J.L. Morgan, Mr. P. Weston;
Officers
Mr. A. Phillips, Mr. D. Edwards, Mr. G.I. Jones, Mr. J. Ablitt, Mr. A. Sturkey,
Mr. E. Williams, Mr. E. Roberts, Mrs. C. Ranson, Mr. I. Gwyn, Ms. E. Owen, Mrs.
A. Gaffey.
Apology
Councillor D. Siencyn.
1.
Chairman’s Announcements
(1)
The Chairman referred with sadness to the death of Councillor
Arthur Todd, Llandudno, a former Member of the Authority.
Members and Officers stood as a mark of respect. The Chairman
advised that a letter had been sent to the family to express the
Authority’s deepest sympathy.
(2)
The Chairman referred to Barbara Jones, the Head of Warden and
Access Service, who had recently undergone hospital treatment
and wished her a full and speedy recovery.
(3)
The Chairman reported that during November, in co-operation with
Gwynedd Council and the Farmers Unions, Welsh lamb had been
included on every school menu throughout Gwynedd. The
Chairman thanked Mr. David Roberts, Mr. Emyr Williams, Mr. Rhys
Owen and Mr. Dafydd Williams of Gwynedd Council for their input.
(4)
The Chairman was delighted to announce that Mr Rhys Owen, Head
of Conservation and Agriculture, had recently been elected
Chairman of the Wales YFC.
(5)
The Chairman advised upon a recent ceremony to mark the end of
the Rhaglen Tir Eryri scheme in Ysbyty Ifan, attended by Elin Jones
AM. The £4.3 million project was launched in 2003 and was
32
extended to its final value of £5.5 million. The Chairman thanked
Emyr Williams, Rhys Owen and staff for their work in delivering the
scheme in partnership with WEFO and CCW.
(6)
(7)
2.
The Chairman advised that the new Welsh Liberal Democrat leader,
Kirsty Williams AM, who has in the past been critical of the National
Park Authorities, had met with the Chief Executive and his
Management Team for a 2 hour presentation on the Authority’s work.
The Chairman reported that Chris Gledhill, Chief Executive, Brecon
Beacons National Park, had tendered his resignation. Mr. John
Cook would remain as acting Chief Executive.
Public Question Time
Submitted – The Chairman advised that Mr. Alun Pugh, Director,
Snowdonia Society had given notice to speak at the meeting.
Mr. Alun Pugh addressed the meeting and advised that whilst the Society
welcomed the publication of the series of Leisure Walks on the Authority’s
website, he noted some of the Society’s concerns:the variable quality and nature of the information provided.
the lack of readily available printed material for the casual visitor
(the prime target audience).
the ease of following some of the routes on the ground.
that such walks should encourage the use of public transport to
their starting points.
Mr. Pugh requested a statement from the Authority on its strategy for coordinating the information, and the management and development of the
routes to ensure a high quality visitor experience.
Officer response
The Director of Communication advised that:the Authority website held 28 walks covering both upland and lowland
areas.
no complaints had been received about these walks, which were
researched and managed by the warden service, who also checked and
monitored the information given about them for accuracy and quality.
all the Authority's mountain walks were available in print at Information
Centres and elsewhere.
additionally, a selection of other walks were produced in the Eryri magazine,
which had an annual print run of 160,000 and was widely distributed.
there was a variety of other printed walks available and the Authority did not
wish to duplicate the information.
the Authority was currently developing a new Communications Strategy
which would address expanding the walks information available as well as
the balance between on-line and printed information.
33
The Director of Communication advised that he would be happy to meet with
Society representatives to discuss specific concerns.
3.
Declaration of Interest
The Members appointed by Gwynedd Council declared both a personal
and a prejudicial interest in item 15 on the Agenda, under paragraphs 10
(2) (a) (ix) (aa) and 12 (1) of the Code of Conduct for Members, but took
part in the meeting relying on the dispensation granted by the Standards
Committee on 1st October, 2008 unless otherwise stated below.
Cllr. A. Gruffydd declared both a personal and prejudicial interest in item
15 on the Agenda, under paragraph 10 (2) (a) (ix) (aa) and 12 (1) of the
Code of Conduct for Members, and left the meeting whilst the matter was
being discussed.
Cllr. E. Edwards declared both a personal and prejudicial interest in item
15 on the Agenda, under paragraph 10 (2) (c) (1) and 12 (1) of the Code
of Conduct for Members, and left the meeting whilst the matter was being
discussed.
Mr. Dafydd Edwards declared an interest in item 15 on the Agenda and did
not take part in the discusson.
4.
Minutes
The minutes of the Authority meetings held on 22nd September and 15th
October, 2008 were accepted and the Chairman signed them as true
records.
Arising thereon:Minutes - 22nd September 2008
5. Matters for information arising from the minutes
The Chief Executive confirmed that the bid was submitted shortly after the
meeting.
9. Budget 2008 -2011
The Chief Executive advised that a letter, prepared jointly by the three
Welsh National Park Authorities, had been sent to the Minister.
5.
Treasury Management – Interim Report 2008/09
Submitted – An oral report by the Chief Finance Officer to keep Members
informed on the latest position.
Reported - The Chief Finance Officer advised that the Authority’s Treasury
Management Strategy had currently earned £94k interest, which was more
than expected. However, as the interest rate was changing daily, the
second half of the year was not performing as well.
34
The Chief Finance Officer advised that the Authority’s Treasury
Management Strategy for 2009/10 would be submitted to the next meeting
of the Authority in February 2009.
RESOLVED to note the report.
6.
Budget Update
Submitted – A report by the Chief Finance Officer outlining the allocation of
revenue and capital budgets, to request authorisation for foreseen
virements and to update Members on progress against the revenue budget
and projected final position for the financial year.
Reported – The Head of Finance presented the report, which provided a
summary of the revised revenue and capital budgets for the first seven
months of 2008/09.
Members were advised that the £156k had been set aside to provide
match funding for convergence funds which would, if successful, increase
in value and allow the Authority to deliver worthwhile projects.
The Head of Finance advised that under item 4.1, the “expenditure to
date” figures shown in the table were inaccurate and the reporting method
would be improved.
RESOLVED
1.
to note the report.
2.
to confirm the proposed action and approve the virements as
proposed.
7.
Base Revenue Budget 2009/10
Submitted - The Chief Finance Officer’s report seeking approval of the
Standstill Budget as outlined, subject to the savings required, and to
review the level of the Authority’s Reserves.
Reported – The Head of Finance presented the report and advised that
the figures were based on the Welsh Assembly Government’s draft budget
for 2009/10.
-
-
Members considered the report and officers confirmed that:the Authority needs to find an additional £166k to maintain the current
service without having to make strategic changes in 2009/10. The Chief
Finance Officer advised that this was the best estimate of the current
position but the figures could be more liable to change than in previous
years, due to the economic climate.
the Authority’s pension contribution for the next three years had been
agreed and the next review would be in 2011/12.
35
-
the VAT rate change had been included in the Authority’s processes,
although it had not been applied to the income side of the business e.g.
car parking fees etc.
the 2009/10 Budget Report would be submitted to the Authority’s meeting
in February 2009.
Members noted concerns over a possible annual cost to the Authority of
£5k for removing and refitting the “fabric” ceiling in Hafod Eryri.
RESOLVED
1.
to note the report and approve the final baseline budget as
outlined, noting the savings targets identified.
2.
to approve the target level of current reserves.
8.
Budgets 2009/2010
Submitted – A report by the Chief Executive to approve measures to deal
with budget pressures.
Reported – The Chief Executive presented the report and advised that
after careful consideration by the Management Team, savings had been
identified to offset the budget shortfall. The proposed target reductions
were outlined in point 3.1 of the report, and savings in staff costs would be
investigated by inviting expressions of interest for voluntary early
retirement and reducing working hours.
Members considered the report and made the following observations:-
Members supported the report in principle. However, they were unable to
approve the measures recommended in points 3.1 and 3.2 of the report
without more detailed information.
to convene a Working Group for Members to consider the proposal in
detail and make a more informed decision.
the Working Group should also consider the outcome of the Information
Centres review, prior to receiving a report to the Authority in February
2009.
The Chief Executive advised that Members had received regular updates
over the last 18 months and their input was welcomed. The Chief
Executive confirmed that the letter inviting expressions of interests for
voluntary early retirement and reducing working hours had been prepared
in consultation with the Head of Personnel, and care had been taken not
to worry staff unnecessarily.
The Chief Finance Officer welcomed the Chief Executive’s report. The
Authority had to set a balanced budget with no increase in grant and
increasing costs. To defer difficult decisions until the next financial year
36
would not be prudent as the forecast was that the Authority would be in a
similar position in 2010. The report had identified areas for efficiency
savings without affecting the service and whilst costly voluntary early
retirements would not be recommended, the proposed Working Group
would allow Members to fully assess their options prior to the Authority’s
meeting in February 2009.
RESOLVED
1.
to authorise the Chief Executive to issue invitations to staff
inviting expressions of interests for voluntary early retirement
or reducing working hours on a permanent basis.
2.
to convene a special meeting of the Scrutiny, Performance,
Staff and Member Development Working Group on the 14th
January 2009, to consider further reports as outlined and to
consider the response from staff to the invitation for voluntary
early retirement and reduction in working hours.
3.
to cancel the Working Group scheduled in the calendar of
meetings on the 23rd January 2009.
9.
Accommodation and Travelling Allowances for Members
Submitted – A report by the Director of Corporate and Legal Services to
consider and approve revised allowances.
RESOLVED
1.
to note the report.
2.
to adopt and implement the revised Accommodation and
Travelling Allowance for Members with effect from 11th
December, as follows:(i)
Accommodation Allowances
Overnight accommodation for London (incl. VAT)
£105
Overnight accommodation for all other areas (incl. VAT) £90
(ii)
Travelling Allowances
All private motor vehicle sizes:
Up to 10,000 miles
40p per mile
Over 10,000 miles
25p per mile
Private motor cycles
Pedal cycles
Passenger supplement
(iii)
-
Day Allowance
No change
37
24p per mile
20p per mile
5p per passenger per mile
10.
(iv)
that the Monitoring Officer continues to be authorised in
special circumstances to approve expenditure above the
accommodation rate.
(v)
that all other eligibility criteria should remain unchanged.
ANPA Conference – Llandudno 2009
Submitted – A report by the Director of Communication to inform Members
of progress in organising the 2009 Conference in Llandudno.
RESOLVED to note the report.
11.
Scrutiny, Performance, Staff and Member Development Working
Group
Submitted – The report of the Scrutiny, Performance, Staff and Member
Development Working Group held on 30th July, 2008.
RESOLVED to note the report.
12.
Meetings of other Organisations
Members had not attended external meetings as representatives of the
Authority.
13.
Minutes
The following minutes were submitted for information:(1)
Minutes of the Plas Tan y Bwlch Committee held on 22nd
September, 2008.
(2)
Minutes of the Standards Committee held on 1st October, 2008.
14.
Ty Meirion, Stryd Fawr, Dolgellau
Schedule 12A Local Government Act 1972 : Exemption from
disclosure of documents
Submitted – A report by the Director of Corporate and Legal Services
requesting Authority approval for the exemption of the subsequent report.
RESOLVED that the “Ty Meirion, Eldon Square, Dolgellau” report be
exempt from disclosure for reasons outlined in the report.
15.
Ty Meirion, Eldon Square, Dolgellau
Submitted – A report by the Director of Corporate and Legal Services to
seek the Authority’s approval, in principle, to proceed with the purchase of
Ty Meirion.
Reported – The Director of Corporate and Legal Services presented the
report and advised Members of the proposal and resource implications.
38
Members noted that the Authority currently manages 6 information centres
of which Dolgellau and Betws y Coed were the two key centres.
Members considered the proposal and made the following observations:-
-
as the review of Information Centres was currently underway was it
appropriate to consider the proposal at this time without knowing the
outcome of the review?
the Authority could take this as an opportunity to increase income.
as a publicly funded body it would not be appropriate to be in direct
competition with other local businesses in Dolgellau.
Members were concerned that maintenance costs of a Grade 2 listed
building could be restrictive. The Chief Executive’s budget report earlier in
the agenda had referred to securing savings in operating costs of the
Authority’s built assets.
one member recommended that capital funds would be better spent on the
Hydro Scheme and revenue funds used to retain posts.
The Chief Executive confirmed that the outcome of the Information
Centres review would be submitted to the Working Group meeting on 14th
January, 2009.
RESOLVED to authorise the Chief Executive to proceed with the
purchase of Ty Meirion, subject to availability of funds and in
consultation with the Chief Finance Officer.
16.
Draft Eryri National Park Management Plan and Draft Local
Development Plan
Submitted – A report by the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage to
present the draft documents and associated consultation arrangements for
approval.
Reported – The Chief Executive presented the report and thanked the
staff, the Forum Members and the Working Group for the work in
preparing the documents. Both finished documents would be
professionally designed prior to being placed on deposit.
The Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage presented the report and
asked Members to amend the recommendation to accord with the
Scrutiny, Performance, Staff and Member Development Working Group
resolution on the 3rd December, 2008.
Members considered the Eryri National Park Management Plan 2009-14
and made the following observations:-
39
Context
Reference to “raison d’être” in the report should be changed.
Category V protected areas – officers to check whether the
quotation as included was correct.
The Natural Environment – Members revised the first sentence to
read “Climate Change is altering and will alter dramatically the
National Park environment…..”
The Natural Environment – final line of the third paragraph should
read “to sustain the character of the landscape and to cope with the
changes that will occur”.
Healthy and Sustainable Communities – final bullet point to read “to
ensure the use of appropriate …..”
Strategic Objectives
to use a more suitable translation for “Overarching” in the Welsh
report.
Improving Habitats – change the title of item 7 to “Promote the
sustainable management of waste”.
Promoting Opportunities for Understanding and Enjoyment – to
refer to “landowners” as well as land managers in item 15.
Priorities for Action for the first 5 years
rather than using the word “Supporting” Sustainable Communities
to use “Create”.
Members thanked officers for the well written report which was easy to
read and to understand.
Arising thereon, Officers advised that should Members wish to make any
further observations they should contact officers.
The Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage presented the Deposit
Version of the Local Development Plan and advised that the document
would eventually replace the Eryri Local Plan.
Members considered the document in detail and made the following
observations:A Spatial Portrait of Snowdonia National Park
Members recommended that events and festivals should not be
individually named but referred to in general terms.
to include reference to the Welsh Highland Railway, the Snowdon
Mountain Railway and the Ffestiniog Railway in this section.
40
Protecting, Enhancing and Managing the Natural Environment
to note that the document should refer to “harnessing” energy
rather than “generating”.
-
Strategic Policy H : Energy
to reinforce Park Management Plan principles by recognising
that this policy should be applied to alterations and extensions
to buildings that are already constructed.
Protecting and Enhancing Cultural and Historic Environment
Strategic Policy L : Sustainable Design and Materials
the final paragraph should not include “coloured and textured”
and should read “alternative appropriate materials such as
solar panels”, would be considered. Supplementary design
guidance on use of solar panels would be provided.
Development Policy 3 – Listed and Traditional Buildings
Listed Buildings only – to rewrite the first paragraph to allow some
flexibility.
Healthy and Sustainable Communities
Strategic Policy M : Housing
paragraph referring to new affordable housing units should read
“ … fully integrated and as good if not better than market housing
units in terms of external design quality, materials and sustainable
considerations”.
final paragraph to read “All new units and alterations” should be…”
Strategic Policy N : Gypsy and Traveller Sites
ii. remove the word “unduly”.
vi. “not visible from public viewpoint” should be better defined.
Development Policy 9 : Annexe Accommodation and Development
Policy 10 : Extensions – sustainability principles to be included in
both policies.
Supporting a Sustainable Rural Economy
Development Policy 16 : Touring and Camping sites
to reconfirm decision as recommended by the Scrutiny,
Performance, Staff and Member Development Working Group on
the 3rd December, 2008 to rewrite points i. and ii and make it
explicit that new sites would not be permitted.
Promoting Accessibility and Inclusion
Development Policy 19 : Telecommunication
iv. to use a more suitable translation for “radiation” in the Welsh
report.
41
Proposals Map and Inset Maps
Officers were asked to further consider the following:Map 55 Parc – the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage
advised that he had visited the site and that it would be
unreasonable to include the whole garden at Hafod y Nant,
especially whilst there were other more suitable sites in the National
Park.
the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage advised that the
Planning and Access Committee would be provided with
background information and asked to consider whether to modify
the maps of Bryncrug, Ysbyty Ifan, Parc and Bontddu at their
meeting in January 2009 and to consider whether to include Tai
Cynhaeaf as a “small settlement”.
RESOLVED
1.
subject to modifications as outlined, to approve the draft
National Park Management Plan and Local Development Plan
for consultation purposes.
2.
to delegate authority to the Director of Planning and Cultural
Heritage, in consultation with the Chair of the Authority, the
Chair of the Planning and Access Committee and the Chair of
the Scrutiny, Performance, Staff and Member Development
Working Group, to make further amendments and inclusions
to the Draft Eryri National Park Management Plan and Draft
Local Development Plan as required by the Authority.
3.
that the draft Action Plan be submitted to the Planning and
Access Committee for adoption, in January 2009.
4.
to approve and accept the recommendations as outlined in the
Scrutiny, Performance, Staff and Member Development
Working Group report held on 3rd December 2008.
5.
to approve the appointment of a temporary Programme Officer.
6.
subject to noting arrangements to meet with Community
Councils at three different locations within the National Park
during the first week of the consultation, to approve the
proposed consultation arrangements, provisionally arranged
for March / April 2009.
7.
to confirm the Eryri Local Plan, adopted in 1999, as the
Authority’s adopted Development Plan as modified by the
Interim Clarification Note on Affordable Housing, as approved
by the Authority in March 2006.
The meeting ended at 13.40
42
SNOWDONIA NATIONAL PARK AUTHORITY
WEDNESDAY 11th FEBRUARY, 2009
Councillor E. Caerwyn Roberts (Gwynedd) (Chairman)
PRESENT:
Members appointed by Gwynedd Council
Councillors A. Gruffydd, H.P. Hughes, J.R. Jones, D. Siencyn, G.G. Williams,
G.O. Williams;
Members appointed by Conwy County Borough Council
Councillors H. Gail Hall, W.E. Jones;
Members appointed by the Welsh Assembly Government
Mr. G. George, Dr. Iolo ap Gwynn, Mr. D.P. McAteer, Mr. D.L. Roberts,
Mr. J.L. Morgan, Mr. P. Weston;
Officers
Mr. A. Phillips, Mr. D. Edwards, Mr. G.I. Jones, Mr. J. Ablitt, Mr. A. Sturkey,
Mr. E. Williams, Mr. E. Roberts, Mrs. A. Gaffey.
Apologies
Councillors E. Edwards, G.O. Edwards, T.G. Ellis.
1.
Chairman’s Announcements
(1)
The Chairman advised that the Brecon Beacons National Park
Authority were currently advertising the Chief Executive vacancy.
(2)
The Chairman reminded Members that training on Habitats and
Species had been arranged for the afternoon with a further session
arranged on the rising of the Planning and Access Committee on
the 25th February 2009.
(3)
The Chairman welcomed Geraint Norman, Wales Audit Office, to the
meeting.
2.
Public Question Time
Members were informed that no public questions had been received.
3.
Declaration of Interest
Cllr. G.O. Williams declared both a personal and prejudicial interest in item
9 on the Agenda, under paragraph 10 (2) (a) (iii) and 12 (1) of the Code of
Conduct for Members, and left the meeting whilst the matter was being
discussed.
43
Mr. J.L. Morgan declared both a personal and prejudicial interest in items
12 and 13 on the Agenda, under paragraph 10 (2) (a) (ii) and 12 (1) of the
Code of Conduct for Members, and left the meeting whilst the matters
were being discussed.
4.
Mr. G.D. George declared both a personal and prejudicial interest in item
15 on the Agenda, under paragraph 10 (2) (a) (ii) and 12 (1) of the Code of
Conduct for Members, and left the meeting whilst the matter was being
discussed.
Minutes
The minutes of the Authority meeting held on 10th December, 2008 were
accepted and the Chairman signed them as a true record.
Arising thereon:15. Ty Meirion, Eldon Square, Dolgellau
Members were advised that after consideration of a detailed report by the
Head of Property outlining the long term maintenance implications, the
Chief Executive, in consultation with the Chief Finance Officer, had
decided not to proceed with the purchase of Ty Meirion.
5.
Wales Audit Office Regulatory Plan
Submitted – A report by the Director of Corporate and Legal Services
together with the Wales Audit Office Regulatory Plan, for information.
Reported – The Director of Corporate and Legal Services presented the
report. Mr. Geraint Norman presented the Regulatory Plan and outlined
the main focus areas for the plan during 2008/2009.
RESOLVED to note the report and Regulatory Plan for 2008/2009.
6.
Relationship Manager’s Annual Letter
Submitted – The Relationship Manager’s Annual Letter 2007/2008.
Reported – Mr. Geraint Norman presented his report and advised upon
the key messages and statutory recommendations.
Members considered the report in detail and made the following
observations:− the report continued to measure speed of delivery for planning
applications rather than the quality of the decision. Mr. Geraint
Norman confirmed that whilst delivery times were assessed the overall
level of performance was now being measured as part of the Welsh
National Park Authorities Planning Service inspection.
44
− performance comparisons with other Parks was welcomed. It was
important to have benchmarks in place in order to compare like with
like.
− ANPA and WANPA were well placed to compare National Park
Authorities’ performance against a balanced set of PI’s.
− financial pressures were discussed and Members agreed that it was
important to develop the performance management framework to
better target resources to priority areas.
− Members discussed the Authority’s Fleet Management and officers
confirmed that a “Driver’s Handbook” was being prepared and would
be available shortly.
− the Audit Manager confirmed that should the Authority be successful in
their bid for additional grants, there would be additional fees for the
additional work involved.
Arising thereon, the Director of Corporate and Legal Services advised that
the Wales Audit Office Annual Letter Action Plan would be presented to
the next meeting of the Performance and Resources Committee on the
11th March 2009.
The Chairman thanked the Audit Manager for his positive report and
thanked officers for their work.
RESOLVED to note the contents of the Annual Letter.
7.
Authority Response to the Appointed Auditor’s Statutory
Recommendations
Submitted – A report by the Director of Corporate and Legal Services to
advise members on the statutory recommendations and the key messages
of the Wales Audit Office Annual Letter, together with the Authority’s
proposed response.
RESOLVED to note the report and approve the response as outlined.
8.
Authority Budget and Levy on Constituent Authorities 2009/10
Submitted – A report by the Chief Finance Officer requesting approval of
the 2009/10 revenue and capital budget and authority to raise levies on
constituent authorities, together with the revised three year financial
forecast. An update of Appendix 2 was circulated to Members.
Reported – The Head of Finance presented the report and provided
Members with further details. The Chief Finance Officer advised that
forecasts were difficult in the current financial climate and recommended
continuous monitoring and reviewing of the estimates.
45
Arising thereon, Members discussed the following:Response by staff to the invitation for voluntary early retirement
and reduction in working hours. The Chief Executive advised that he
had received 3 expressions of interest for voluntary early retirement
and that the selection criteria would be considered by the
Performance and Resources Committee at its next meeting on 11th
March, 2009 and that a decision would be taken in due course.
Future use of the toilet building, Llanelltyd. The Director of Corporate
and Legal Services confirmed that he had written to Llanelltyd
Community Council and the Prince Albert Angling Society with regard
to the future use of the toilet building, although no response had been
received to date. Members recommended that officers should write
to the Mawddach and Wnion Association to seek their views.
RESOLVED
1.
to note the contents of the report.
2.
to approve the 2009/10 revenue and capital budgets as
outlined.
3.
to authorise levies to be raised on the two constituent councils
to a total amount of £1,487,346 in accordance with the
recommendation in paragraph 5.1 of the Chief Finance
Officer’s report.
4.
to ask the Director of Corporate and Legal Services to write to
the Mawddach and Wnion Association regarding the future use
of the toilet building at Llanelltyd.
9.
Blaenau Ffestiniog Information Centre
Submitted – A report by the Chief Executive to inform Members of the
preferred option to find targeted savings in the Information Centre Budget
for 2009/2010.
Reported – The Chief Executive presented his report and advised that
following discussions with Blaenau Ffestiniog Community with regard to
the proposed closure of the Tourist Information Centre, a request to delay
the closure for one season to allow a community based initiative time to
establish, had been received. The Chief Executive confirmed that the
community had accepted that the Authority would be withdrawing from
running the Tourist Information Centre at the end of the 2009 season and
officers had agreed to provide assistance for the local community to
achieve its aims for the future of the centre.
Members considered the report and made the following observations:this was an opportunity for Blaenau Ffestiniog to provide their own
interpretation and achieve what’s best for the community.
would the town benefit from the Authority handing over control
46
-
-
earlier and to contribute an element of the funding which would
have been used to run the Centre during the 2009 season?
it was important for the Authority to retain its presence in Blaenau
Ffestiniog and Members welcomed the proposal for an Information
Point in the Ffestiniog Railway Station. Officers confirmed that the
initial set-up cost of the touch screen technology and internet
access would be in the region of £4k, which would be a one off
capital cost. The facility would be maintained by the Authority’s
staff.
there was a need to work with partner organisations encompassing
all their proposals to create a broad based strategy.
The Chief Finance Officer confirmed that there was some flexibility in the
budget which would allow the Authority to run the centre for the 2009
season and allow more time to programme the Authority’s withdrawal.
The cost would be met from the flexibility within the inflation provision on a
one off basis.
RESOLVED
1.
to note the report.
2.
to accede to the local community’s request to delay the
closure of the Tourist Information Centre at Blaenau Ffestiniog
for the 2009 season in order to allow time for a community
based initiative to be established.
3.
to agree that an information point be established at the
Ffestiniog Railway Station.
10.
Treasury Management Strategy 2009/10
Submitted – The Chief Finance Officer’s report to approve the Treasury
Management Strategy for 2009/10 and approve recommendations relating
to the Prudential Code.
Reported – The Chief Finance Officer presented the report and
recommended that in order to provide officers with more flexibility, the
Authority’s Treasury Management Strategy should be revised to include
the Abbey, Clydesdale Bank, Lloyds, Nationwide Building Society and the
Royal Bank of Scotland, in addition to the four organisations listed in point
4.2 of the report.
RESOLVED
1.
to approve an Overall Borrowing Limit of £1 million for
2009/10, including a Short Term Borrowing Limit of £250,000.
2.
that no limit be placed on the proportion of interest payable at
a variable rate.
3.
subject to amending the Treasury Management Strategy to
include the Abbey, Clydesdale Bank, Lloyds, Nationwide
47
4.
11.
Building Society and the Royal Bank of Scotland, to adopt the
Capital Borrowing and Investment Strategies for 2009/10 as
outlined.
to approve the Chief Finance Officer’s recommendation in
relation to the Prudential Code.
The Authority’s Risk Profile
Submitted – A report by the Director of Corporate and Legal Services to
update Members on the Strategic Risk Profile Analysis undertaken by
Marsh UK Limited and the Authority’s Risk Profile.
Reported – The Director of Corporate and Legal Services presented the
report and confirmed that the risks were regularly reviewed by the Risk
Management Group and the Management Team.
RESOLVED to note the report and to approve the Authority’s Risk
Profile as outlined.
12.
Extension to WEFO Grant Funding
Submitted – A report by the Director of Land Management to gain
approval in principle to a potential extension for the Upland Paths
Partnership and Rhaglen Tir Eryri.
Reported – The Director of Land Management presented the report and
advised that he was still awaiting notification from WEFO on whether the
proposal as submitted had been successful.
Members expressed concern at the delay in deciding on the proposal and
Members asked officers, through PEG (the Gwynedd Economic
Partnership), to forward a letter to WEFO on this point.
RESOLVED
1.
to note the report.
2.
to approve in principle the offer to extend both programmes (if
an offer is made), subject to authorisation by the Chief
Executive, in consultation with the Chief Finance Officer, to
ensure that the proposals are deliverable and demonstrate a
sound business case.
3.
to request that the Authority, through PEG, forward concerns
to WEFO as outlined.
13.
Convergence Funding Update
Submitted – A report by the Director of Land Management to inform
Members of developments in potential Convergence programmes.
48
Reported – The Director of Land Management presented the report and
advised that the application process had reached the third stage out of five
stages, which was the completion of an EOI Part 2 form.
RESOLVED to note the report and await further report(s) when the
nature and scope of any programme would be submitted to the
Authority for consideration.
14.
Wales Charter for Member Support and Development : An Approach
for National Park Authorities
Submitted – A report by the Director of Corporate and Legal Services to
update Members and to seek authorisation for the Chairman of the
Authority to sign the Statement of Intent to apply for Charter Status.
RESOLVED to authorise the Chairman of the Authority to sign the
Statement of Intent to apply for Charter Status.
15.
Exemption of Standing Orders Relating to Contracts – Management
Development Training and Strategic Leadership
Submitted – A report by the Director of Corporate and Legal Services to
advise the Authority on the letting of a contract for the supply of
Management Development and Strategic Leadership Training.
Reported – The Director of Corporate and Legal Services presented the
report. Members noted the importance of monitoring to ensure that the
course provided value and assisted the Authority to achieve its aims. The
Director of Corporate and Legal Services confirmed that the course would
be focussed on the Authority’s work.
RESOLVED to note the report.
16.
Member Working Group Reports
Submitted - Minutes of meetings.
(1)
Local Joint Working Group held on 7th November, 2008
Arising thereon,
Item 8 – Use of TNT rather than Royal Mail by Gwynedd Pension Fund
Mr. Dafydd Edwards advised that although Gwynedd Council had
employed TNT on this occasion, this had made no difference on the
ground as TNT had used the local postal service to deliver the mail on
their behalf.
RESOLVED to note the report and accept the minutes.
49
(2)
Scrutiny, Performance, Staff and Member Development Working
Group held on 14th January, 2009
RESOLVED to approve the minutes.
17.
Members’ Annual Workshop: Water Management, Broads Authority :
Thursday 23rd – Friday 24th April, 2009
Submitted – The Chief Executive’s oral report with details of the Workshop
and a summary of attendance, for information.
The Chief Executive advised that it would be necessary to travel to
Norwich on Wednesday 22nd April.
RESOLVED to send 6 delegates (4 members and 2 officers) to the
Workshop. The following Members were nominated to attend:Councillors E.C. Roberts, H.P. Hughes (A. Gruffydd reserve), H.G.
Hall (G.O Edwards reserve); Dr. I. ap Gwynn.
18.
Opening of Hafod Eryri
Submitted – A report by the Director of Communication to inform Members
on progress in organising the opening of Hafod Eryri.
Reported – The Director of Communication presented the report and
advised that a further report would be submitted to the Authority in April.
Arising thereon, Members thanked officers and the Chairman for their work
in organising the event. Officers confirmed that a link to Eryri would, in
due course, be available through Google Earth.
RESOLVED to note the report.
19.
Update on the Organisation of the 2009 ANPA Conference in Eryri
Submitted – A report by the Director of Communication to inform Members
of the draft programme and tours for the Conference and to invite
comments.
Reported – The Director of Communication presented the report and
noted the need to record accurately the 24 hour clock and refer to the
hotel as the St. George’s Hotel.
RESOLVED to note the report.
50
20.
Europarc 2008 – Brasov, Romania
Submitted – An information report by the Chief Executive to provide
Members with a feedback report on the Chairman and the Chief
Executive’s attendance at the Europarc 2008 Conference.
RESOLVED to note the report.
21.
Meetings of other Organisations
Submitted - Oral report on recent meetings of organisations which
Members had attended as representatives of the Authority.
−
Cllr. H.P. Hughes – Green Key Meeting
Discussions on the announcement by the Welsh Assembly Government
that funding for the Sherpa Service was to be terminated on 31 March
2009. The Green Key Business Plan anticipated that the funding would
decrease gradually each year. Alternative options for financing the project
through car park fees etc were considered and it was noted that income
figures for the Spring were crucial to the future of the service.
22.
Minutes
The following minutes were submitted for information:(1)
Minutes of the Association of National Park Authorities
Executive Committee held on 22nd January 2008.
(2)
Minutes of the Welsh Association of National Park Authorities,
Annual General Meeting held on 9th July, 2008.
(3)
Minutes of the CAE Panel Meeting held on 3rd October, 2008.
Arising thereon, Members requested that in future CAE Panel
minutes should record more details, for information.
(4)
Minutes of the Performance and Resources Committee held on
19th November, 2008.
The meeting ended at 12.40
51
SNOWDONIA NATIONAL PARK PLANNING AND ACCESS COMMITTEE
WEDNESDAY 16th APRIL, 2008
Councillor E. Edwards (Gwynedd)
PRESENT:
Members appointed by Gwynedd Council
Councillors H.P. Hughes, I.M. Jones, M. June Jones, E.C. Roberts, D. Siencyn;
Member appointed by Conwy County Borough Council
Councillor W.E. Jones;
Members appointed by the Welsh Assembly Government
Mr. G. George, Dr. Iolo ap Gwynn, Mr. D.P. McAteer, Mr. J.L. Morgan, Mr. D.L.
Roberts;
Officers
Mr. A. Phillips, Mr. A. Sturkey, Mr. G. I. Jones, Mr. A. Lloyd, Mr. R. Thomas,
Mr. G.W. Jones, Mrs. B. Jones, Mrs. A. Gaffey, Ms. Llinos Angharad, Mrs. Ann
Griffiths.
1.
Apologies
Councillors T.O. Edwards, J.R. Jones, E.M.B. Roberts, A.R. Todd; Mr. P.
Weston.
2.
Declarations of Interest
Councillor E. Edwards declared a personal interest in item 6 (3) on the
Agenda, under paragraph 11(a) of the Code of Conduct for Members, and
left the meeting whilst this matter was being discussed.
Mr. G. George declared a personal interest in item 6 (7) on the Agenda,
under paragraph 11(b) of the Code of Conduct for Members, and left the
meeting whilst this matter was being discussed.
Mr. G. Iwan Jones declared an interest in item 6 (10) on the Agenda and
withdrew from the meeting when the item was under discussion.
3.
Minutes
Subject to including approval reasons in item 3 of the Schedule of
Planning Decisions as follows:1.
the site is adjacent to housing development boundary
2.
the agricultural need outweighs intrusive sighting of the dwelling
3.
the lack of available land for developing
52
The minutes of the Planning and Access Committee meeting held on the
19th March, 2008 were accepted and the Chairman signed them as a true
record.
4.
Report by the Warden and Access Service Manager
Conwy Rights of Way Improvement Plan – Consultation Draft
Submitted – A report by the Head of Warden and Access Service to inform
Members on the content of the Draft Plan and to agree the Authority’s
consultation response.
Reported – The Head of Warden and Access Service presented the report
and advised upon the Conwy Rights of Way Improvement Plan.
RESOLVED
1.
to note the report and respond to Conwy County Borough
Council’s ROWIP Consultation Draft, commending its
thoroughness and clarity.
2.
to authorise officers to negotiate a more comprehensive
Service Level Agreement in order to assist the Highways
Authority with the specific areas of work detailed in the report,
enabling the Authority to better deliver its Second Statutory
Purpose and current Welsh Assembly Government priorities.
5.
(1)
Inspection Panel Reports
Submitted – The reports of the Southern Area Inspection Panel held on
the 28th March, 2008.
(1) NP5/57/937L
Full application for construction of
split level bungalow incorporating
integral garage on lower level, plot
adjacent to No. 1 Maes yr Helyg,
Uwch y Maes, Dolgellau.
Public Speaking
Richard Duggan, the agent, addressed the Planning and Access Committee and
asked Members to consider the following:− the application site had a number of positive attributes.
− the proposal was for 1 dwelling, contained in an infill parcel of land,
which complied with development criteria for infill as agreed by the
planning officer.
− the dwelling would be located in accordance with the architect’s layout
and the neighbour’s amenities would not be compromised. Windows
53
were not overlooked and there would be no loss of privacy, again as
agreed by the Committee’s professional planning officer.
− the garden area was already subject to a degree of overlooking and this
plot would not exacerbate this.
− having discussed the proposal with the Highway Authority prior to
submitting the application they had not objected to the proposal.
− the development complied with policy T1 of the Eryri Local Plan.
RESOLVED to refuse permission in accordance with the conclusion of the
Inspection Panel on the grounds of its impact on the character of the area,
the adverse effect of the proposal upon the amenity of nearby properties
and the unsatisfactory access.
(2) NP5/69/84B
Conversion of former Smithy into
dwellinghouse and extension
(amended scheme), The Old
Smithy, Llwyngwril.
RESOLVED subject to receiving Environment Agency response to Flood
Consequence Assessment, to authorise the Director of Planning and
Cultural Heritage to determine the application.
(3) NP5/78/2G
Full application for construction of
compound for refuse and re-cycling
bins, land at Trawsfynydd Holiday
Village, Bronaber, Trawsfynydd.
Reported – Case Officer awaiting Agent’s response to Inspection Panel’s
suggested alternative siting.
Public Speaking
Mr. Alun Roberts, the applicant, addressed the Planning and Access Committee
and asked Members to consider the following:− the suggested alternative site was higher up the road and already had
two compounds.
− this proposal was for a compound at the lower end of the site to
encourage cabin owners to stop and dispose of their refuse when
leaving the site.
RESOLVED to grant permission in accordance with recommendations as
outlined in the planning officer’s report dated 19th March, 2008.
54
(4) NP5/78/449
6.
Full application for erection of 8.8m
high monopole with installation of 2
x 300mm diameter transmission
dishes and 1 wind turbine on
monopole and 1 equipment cabin
enclosed by 1.1m high timber post
and sheep net fence, land at
Mynydd Bach, Pantglas, Abergeirw.
RESOLVED
1.
to refuse permission on the following grounds:“By reason of its prominent location the mast and associated
equipment would form an intrusive feature in the sensitive
landscape and would be contrary to Policies PC3 and CC2 of the
adopted Eryri Local Plan which seeks to preserve and enhance the
landscape of the Snowdonia National Park”
2.
to invite Airwave Solutions Ltd to a future meeting to provide a
presentation on national and regional requirements.
.
Planning Applications and Enforcement
Submitted – A report by the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage on
planning applications and enforcement matters.
Please see the Schedule of Planning Decisions attached.
7.
Delegated Decisions
Submitted and Received – The list of applications that had been
determined in accordance with delegated authority.
8.
Application Nos. NP3/21/80A and NP3/21/PIAW80A
Schedule 12A Local Government Act 1972 : Exemption from
disclosure of documents
Submitted – A report by the Director of Corporate and Legal Services
requesting that the Committee approve the exemption of the subsequent
report.
RESOLVED that the “Application Nos. NP3/21/80A and
NP3/21/PIAW80A” report be exempt from disclosure for the reasons
outlined in the report.
55
9.
Application Nos. NP3/21/80A and NP3/21/PIAW80A
Submitted - A report by the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage
requesting that a mortgagee in possession clause be included in the
Section 106 Legal Agreement attached to the above planning permissions.
RESOLVED to agree to include the additional condition in the
Section 106 Legal Agreement as outlined.
The meeting ended at 12.20
56
SCHEDULE OF PLANNING DECISIONS – 16th APRIL, 2008
Item No.
1.
NP2/11/90R – Construction of detached single storey campsite reception office
and warden’s rest room and installation of new septic tank (amended design to
that approved under appeal reference APP/H9504/A/07/2042102/WF dated 25th
July, 2007) Llyn Gwynant Campsite, Hafod Lwyfog, Nant Gwynant.
Reported – Case Officer advised upon the background to the application.
RESOLVED to grant permission in accordance with recommendation with
an additional condition to ensure that the building is not used as sleeping
accommodation.
2.
NP4/29/428 – Proposed car parking and creation of new vehicular access, land to
rear of 4 Cwm Road, Penmachno.
Reported – Bro Machno Community Council no observations.
RESOLVED
1.
Site Inspection.
2.
to authorise the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage, for the
period between 1st May 2008 and 11th June 2008, to exercise all
the powers delegated to him pursuant to the Planning Scheme of
Delegation, notwithstanding the exceptions stated therein, subject
always that these extended powers shall only be exercised where,
in his opinion, the matter cannot be deferred to a meeting of the
Planning Committee in ordinary session without prejudicing the
interests or duties of the Authority as Local Planning Authority.
3.
NP5/53/LB67G – Redevelopment of curtilage building fronting Heol Plasey to
create five residential (holiday cottage) units, Aran Buildings, 88-96 High Street,
Bala.
RESOLVED to grant permission in accordance with recommendation.
4.
NP5/54/330D – Install 2 x 0.3m transmission dishes on existing mast at a height
of 25m, and install equipment cabin and gas bottle store at ground level, within
the existing compound on behalf of Airwave Solutions Ltd., Transmitter Site,
Coed y Brenin Forest, Abergeirw, Dolgellau.
RESOLVED to grant permission in accordance with recommendation with
an additional condition requiring that the existing mast be painted in a dark
colour.
5.
NP5/54/373 – Conversion of barn to dwelling (local occupancy) and installation of
new septic tank, Barn at Penrhiw, Rhydymain.
RESOLVED to authorise the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage to
grant permission subject to appropriate conditions and a Section 106 Local
Occupancy Agreement.
57
6.
NP5/54/377 – Construction of 25 metre high steel lattice tower, installation of 2 x
300mm diameter dishes on the tower, installation of equipment cabin and gas
bottle store within a stock-proof fence at ground level, on behalf of Airwave
Solutions, Ltd., land above Nannau-Is-Afon, Coed y Brennin Forest, Hermon,
Dolgellau.
Reported – Gwynedd Highway Authority and North Wales Fire and Rescue no
objections. 3 further letters of objection reported. Members asked officers to
investigate the possibility of super-imposing a photo montage onto the display
screen for similar applications in the future, to provide Members with an
impression of the proposed development.
Public Speaking
Mr. Gerallt Jones addressed the Planning and Access Committee and asked
Members to consider the following objections:− the local community were uneasy on health grounds and were
concerned that the company had not consulted with them.
− the proposal would be visible from Blaen y Glyn and Hermon and would
be seen by walkers, mountain bikers etc.
− its angle was at 45º and could not easily be hidden by trees.
− Forestry Commission policy was to replant native oak trees or leave
areas to regenerate naturally. This would take years to obscure the
mast which was lower than the present tree line.
− the mast was not acceptable at this location.
− the Planning Committee were charged with the responsibility for
protecting the natural beauty of the Snowdonia National Park.
RESOLVED
1.
to refuse permission on the grounds that:(i)
“By reason of its prominent location the mast and associated
equipment would form an intrusive feature in the sensitive
landscape and would be contrary to Policies PC3 and CC2 of the
adopted Eryri Local Plan which seek to preserve and enhance the
landscape of the Snowdonia National Park”.
(ii)
Without the certainty that the forest behind the mast is to remain as
a permanent backdrop to the proposal, the Authority is concerned
that the proposed mast and associated equipment would become
an even more intrusive feature in the landscape if the forest was
felled at any time.
2.
to ask the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage to arrange a
visit for Members, in due course, to view proposed and present
Telecommunications Masts, including those proposed for
emergency services.
7.
NP5/54/C379 – Consultation under Welsh Office Circular 37/84 for formation of
turning and loading facilities, land at national grid reference SH767 215, Coed y
Brenin, Llanfachreth.
RESOLVED – Site Inspection.
58
8.
NP5/54/380 – Construction of bridge and formation of boardwalk, Clywedog Path,
Brithdir.
Reported – Highway Authority and Countryside Council for Wales no
observations.
RESOLVED to authorise the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage, at the
end of the statutory consultation period, to grant permission subject to
appropriate conditions.
9.
NP5/57/45E – Extension to existing caravan park to provide pitches for 10
touring caravans, Fronalchen Caravan Park, Dolserau, Dolgellau.
Reported – Applicant’s and Agent’s letter read to Members.
RESOLVED – Site Inspection.
10.
NP5/58/465 – Outline application for construction of two detached bungalows and
alterations to existing vehicular access, land off Ffordd y Llan, Dyffryn Ardudwy.
RESOLVED – Site Inspection.
11.
NP5/62/56E – Application to discharge Section 106 Agreement dated 01/10/1996
in its entirety, land to rear of Hen Feudy, Llanbedr.
Reported – Members were asked to note that application no. NP5/62/56D –
Erection of Dwelling – was withdrawn in 2007, and not 1997 as reported.
RESOLVED to accede to the applicant’s request to relinquish the Section
106 Agreement.
12.
NP5/65/278 – Outline application for construction of a single two bedroom
dwelling, land near Bryn Du, Llanelltyd.
Reported – Case Officer awaiting further information from Environment Agency.
Public Speaking
Mr. Martin Humphreys, the applicant, addressed the Planning and Access
Committee and asked Members to consider the following:−
proposal complied with TAN 15 and had passed a Flood
Consequence Assessment.
−
proposal was within the housing boundary for Llanelltyd.
−
Architect’s design would be in keeping with surroundings and
the site had been measured and would be able to
accommodate a larger sized building than what was proposed.
−
the family own the private driveway and the applicant would be able to
grow hedges and have garden space.
−
there were six houses smaller than the proposal within the surrounding
buildings.
−
£144,000 was the assessed cost of affordable housing. The applicant had
lived locally all his life and could only afford to make a home locally by
using this free land.
59
−
the applicant asked Members to consider that he had overcome every
hurdle and made every effort, in time and expense, to conform with
requirements.
RESOLVED – Site Inspection.
13.
NP5/71/L104D – Construction of single storey porch extension to side of
dwelling, Trefechan, Llanuwchllyn, Bala.
RESOLVED to refuse permission in accordance with recommendation.
14.
NP5/72/194 – Change of use from agricultural land to camping site (5
tents) and installation of new septic tank, land at Pant y March, Llangywer.
Public Speaking
Mr. Geraint Jones, the applicant, addressed the Planning and Access
Committee and asked Members to consider the following:−
the applicant quoted Rhodri Thomas AM, the Heritage Minister, and stated
that the proposal met with the Ministers stated objectives.
−
whilst the applicant’s wife and family were from the area, Mr. Jones
currently travelled 300 miles to work.
−
the proposal supported farm diversification and the company the applicant
had selected to provide the facilities were specialists in this type of holiday
which provided tents for farms in green and brown canvas.
−
the tents would be removed in the Autumn, they did not use electricity and
therefore did not cause any light pollution.
−
the aim was to attract the family market with customers who were
environmentally aware. This type of holiday would provide an opportunity
to learn more about the countryside, animal welfare and enable tourists to
make use of cycleways, public footpaths, horse riding etc.
−
there would be no more than 5 additional vehicles at a time.
−
this was not the type of tourism that increased pollution.
RESOLVED – Site Inspection.
15.
NP5/75/T105 – Full application for demolition of existing detached derelict farm
building and construction of a single row of 3 two storey dwellings, associated car
parking and formation of new vehicular access, former farm buildings, Felindre,
Pennal.
RESOLVED subject to receipt of satisfactory amended plans, to authorise
the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage to grant permission subject
to appropriate conditions.
16.
Summary of Compliance Cases – For Information
Arising thereon, the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage confirmed that a
report on Compliance Procedures would be presented to a future meeting of the
Planning and Access Committee.
60
Members requested that in future, officers should brief Members on any
applications subject to media interest.
RESOLVED to note the report and await a further report on Compliance
Procedures in due course.
17.
Planning Appeals awaiting decision – For Information
RESOLVED to note the report.
18.
Section 106 Agreements – For Information
RESOLVED to note the report.
19.
Outstanding Applications where more than 13 weeks have elapsed – For
Information
RESOLVED to note the report.
61
SNOWDONIA NATIONAL PARK PLANNING AND ACCESS COMMITTEE
WEDNESDAY 18th JUNE, 2008
PRESENT:
Members appointed by Gwynedd Council
Councillors E. Edwards, T.G. Ellis, A. Gruffydd, H.P. Hughes, E.C. Roberts, D.
Siencyn, G.G. Williams, G.O. Williams;
Members appointed by Conwy County Borough Council
Councillors G.O. Edwards, W.E. Jones.
Members appointed by the Welsh Assembly Government
Mr. D.P. McAteer, Mr. J.L. Morgan, Mr. D.L. Roberts, Mr. P. Weston;
Officers
Mr. A. Phillips, Mr. A. Sturkey, Mr. G. I. Jones, Mr. A. Lloyd, Mrs. C. Ranson, Mr.
G.W. Jones, Mr. R. Thomas, Mr. R.H. Roberts, Mr. L. O’Connor, Mrs. A. Gaffey,
Ms. Llinos Angharad, Mrs. D. Jones.
Apologies
Councillors H. Gail Hall, J.R. Jones; Mr. G.D. George, Dr. Iolo ap Gwynn.
1.
Chairman
Councillor Elwyn Edwards was elected Chairman of the Planning and
Access Committee.
The Chairman thanked Members for their support.
2.
Vice-Chairman
Councillor Huw P. Hughes was elected Vice-Chairman of the
Planning and Access Committee.
The Vice-Chairman thanked Members for their support.
3.
Chairman’s Announcements
Arising thereon, the Chief Executive advised that it was good practice for
new Members to receive planning training prior to making decisions on
planning applications. On this occasion, as all new Members were from
Gwynedd and Conwy Unitary Authorities and had received an element of
training from their constituent Councils, all Members would be able to take
part in the meeting. New members would be invited to attend a Planning
Training Session arranged jointly with the other two National Parks in
Wales, on the 3rd July, 2008.
4.
Declaration of Interest
The Members appointed by Gwynedd Council declared both a personal
and a prejudicial interest in items 11 (19) and (20) on the Agenda, under
62
paragraphs 10 (2) (ix) (aa) and 12 (1) of the Code of Conduct for
Members, and left the meeting whilst these matters were being discussed.
Councillor Alwyn Gruffydd declared both a personal and prejudicial
interest in item 11 (7) on the Agenda, under paragraphs 10 (2) (c) (i) & (ii)
and 12 (1) of the Code of Conduct for Members, and left the meeting
whilst the matter was being discussed.
Mr. John Morgan declared both a personal and prejudicial interest in item
11 (2) on the Agenda, under paragraph 10 (2) (a) (i) and 12 (1) of the
Code of Conduct for Members, and left the meeting whilst the matter was
being discussed.
Mr. Peter Weston declared both a personal and prejudicial interest in item
6 on the Agenda, under paragraph 10 (2) (a) (ix) (bb) and 12 (1) of the
Code of Conduct for Members, and left the meeting whilst the matter was
being discussed.
5.
Minutes
The minutes of the Planning and Access Committee held on the 16th April,
2008 were accepted and the Chairman signed them as a true record.
6.
Welsh Highland Railway Panel Minutes
Submitted – Minutes of the Welsh Highland Railway Panel held on 19th
March, 2008.
RESOLVED to note the minutes.
7.
Appointment of Members to serve on Panels and a Sub-Committee
Submitted – A report by the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage to
appoint Members to serve on the following Panels and Sub-Committee.
Members were asked to note that Mr. Denis McAteer was a Member of the
Northern Area Inspection Panel and not the Southern Area, as outlined in
the report.
RESOLVED to appoint Members as follows:-
63
(i)
ii)
iii)
Inspection Panels
Northern Area (9 Members)
Southern Area (9 Members)
1) Cllr. G.O. Edwards
2) Cllr. H.G. Hall
3) Cllr. Alwyn Gruffydd
4) Cllr. H.P. Hughes
5) Cllr. J.R. Jones
6) Cllr. W.E. Jones
7) Cllr. G.O. Williams
8) Mr. D.P. McAteer
9) Mr. G.D. George
1)
2)
3)
4)
5)
6)
7)
8)
9)
Cllr. E. Edwards
Cllr. T.G. Ellis
Cllr. E.C. Roberts
Cllr. D. Siencyn
Cllr. G.G. Williams
Mr. D. L. Roberts
Mr. P. Weston
Dr. Iolo ap Gwynn
Mr. J.L. Morgan
Welsh Highland Railway Panel (6 Authority Members)
Local Authority Appointees
(4)
1) Councillor E. Edwards
2) Councillor H. P. Hughes
3) Councillor A. Gruffydd
4) Councillor E.C. Roberts
Welsh Assembly Appointees
(2)
1) Mr. D.P. McAteer
2) Dr. Iolo ap Gwynn
Eryri Combined Policy Project – Steering Group (8 Authority Members)
(to include the Chair of the Authority and the Chair of the Planning and
Access Committee). The Steering Group Members would also represent
the Authority on the Eryri Forum.
Local Authority Appointees
(4)
1) Councillor E. Edwards
2) Councillor G.O. Edwards
3) Councillor T.G. Ellis
4) Councillor E.C. Roberts
Councillor W.E. Jones (In Reserve)
Welsh Assembly Appointees
8.
(1)
(4)
1)
2)
3)
4)
Mr. G. George
Mr. D.L. Roberts
Mr. P. Weston
Mr. D. McAteer
Tree Preservation Order – Prendy, Dolgellau
Submitted – A report by the Head of Natural Environment and
Forestry seeking approval to confirm the above Order.
64
The Chairman welcomed Luke O’Connor, the Authority’s
Arboricultural and Woodlands Officer, to his first Planning and
Access Committee.
Reported – The Arboricultural and Woodlands Officer provided
Members with background to the order.
RESOLVED – Site Inspection.
(2)
Tree Preservation Order – Dol y Cae, Tal-y-Llyn
Submitted – A report by the Head of Natural Environment and
Forestry seeking approval to confirm the above Order.
Arising thereon, the report was withdrawn by the Director of
Planning and Cultural Heritage, A representative from the
Countryside Council for Wales would be invited to join Members on
site to explain the current position at Dol y Cae as part of the
Member Development day at the end of the week.
9.
(1)
Policy Reports by the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage
North Wales Regional Waste Plan 1st Review
Submitted – A report by the Head of Strategic Policy and Plans informing
members of progress on the Regional Waste Plan 1st Review and to seek
endorsement of the Final Version.
RESOLVED
1.
to note the contents of the report.
2.
to formally endorse the Final Version of the Regional Waste
Plan 1st Review.
(2)
Renewable Energy Route Map for Wales : Consultation on the Way
Forward to a Leaner, Greener and Cleaner Wales
Submitted – A report by the Head of Strategic Policy and Plans for
information, and confirmation of officer response to the Consultation.
Reported – The Head of Strategic Policy and Plans presented the report.
Members considered the response and made the following observations:- Members discussed the potential problems of connecting small scale
hydro-schemes to the grid. Officers advised that the Hydro Scheme
65
-
-
proposal at Plas would be reported to the Authority as part of the Plas
Tan y Bwlch minutes.
the challenge of finding cost effective methods of heating listed
buildings and stone houses in Conservation Areas would require
further discussion. The Head of Strategic Policy and Plans advised
that detailed actions would be considered as part of the Park
Management Plan process.
Members asked to be kept informed of all consultations, in order that
they could access documents, prior to approving a proposed response.
Members thanked officers for the well written report.
RESOLVED
1.
to note the report and approve the contents of the officer
response to the Consultation as outlined in Appendix 2.
2.
that Members be kept informed of all consultations, in order
that they could access documents, prior to approving a
proposed response.
(3)
People, Places, Futures : The Wales Spatial Plan, 2008 Update
Consultation
Submitted – A report by the Head of Strategic Policy and Plans for
information, and confirmation of officer response to the Consultation.
Reported – The Head of Strategic Policy and Plans presented the report
and advised that all six spatial plan areas would be reporting to the Welsh
Assembly Government in July to formalise the review document.
Members considered the response and made the following observations
and additions:- to record that the Authority was not against the development of
indigenous, high-tech industries.
- Members agreed that the Spatial Plan did not meet Eryri’s needs in its
present form. The Chief Executive would relay concerns to the North
West Area meeting.
- Officers agreed to circulate the delivery framework to Members for
discussion on the way forward in due course.
RESOLVED
1.
to note the report
2.
subject to noting Members’ observations, to approve officer
response to the Consultation as outlined in Appendix 3.
66
3.
(4)
to provide Members with copies of the Delivery Framework for
discussions on the way forward in due course.
Technical Guidance – Planning and the Welsh Language
Submitted – A report by the Head of Strategic Policy and Plans to review
the initial operation of the technical guidance and to agree interim
guidance to support the Eryri Local Plan policy in relation to the language.
Reported – The Head of Strategic Policy and Plans presented the report
and advised on the background. Of the participating organisations the
Authority, Gwynedd Council and Neath Port Talbot Council were the only
Authorities who had adopted the pilot technical guidance. Members were
concerned over the limited application of the guidance and that the
Inspector had given the document little weight because of its pilot status.
RESOLVED
1.
to note the report.
2.
to adopt the guidance without modification as interim
guidance to support policies within the Eryri Local Plan and
agree to carry the principles forward to support detailed policy
in the Local Development Plan (subject to consideration of
outcomes of consultations on strategy and the deposit draft
plan).
3.
to ask the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage to contact
officers from the Welsh Assembly Government to seek early
implementation of the guidance.
10.
(1)
Inspection Panel Reports
Submitted – The report of the Northern Area Inspection Panel held on
25th April, 2008.
(1) NP4/29/428
Creation of car parking space, rear
of 4 Cwm Road, Penmachno.
Reported – Members were asked to note that the report referred to the
“Northern” Area.
RESOLVED to refuse permission on the grounds of loss amenity to the
residents of White Street and an unwarranted loss of a stone wall, which
was a characteristic feature of the area.
(2)
Submitted – The reports of the Southern Area Inspection Panel held on
23rd April, 2008.
67
(1) NP5/54/C379
Consultation under Welsh Office
Circular 37/84 for formation of
turning and loading facilities, land at
National Grid Reference SH767215,
Coed y Brenin, Llanfachreth.
RESOLVED to note the report and to note that the Director of Planning
and Cultural Heritage, under delegated authority, had forwarded no
objections to the proposal subject to the reinstatement of the boundary
wall and that the facility should not be used for other purposes.
(2) NP5/57/45E
Full application for extension to
existing caravan park to provide
pitches for 10 (ten) touring
caravans, Fronalchen Caravan
Park, Dolserau, Dolgellau.
RESOLVED to note the report and to note that the Director of Planning
and Cultural Heritage, under delegated authority, had refused permission
on the grounds of open aspect and visibility of the site in the landscape.
(3) NP5/58/465
Outline application for construction
of two detached bungalows and
alterations to existing vehicular
access, land off Ffordd y Llan,
Dyffryn Ardudwy.
Reported – Archaeological Officer’s report awaited.
RESOLVED subject to receipt of the Archaeological Officer’s report, to
authorise the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage to determine the
application subject to appropriate conditions or reasons.
(4) NP5/65/278
Outline application for construction
of a two bedroom dwelling, land
near Bryn Du, Llanelltyd.
RESOLVED to support the proposal in principle but to request full details in
order to re-consult with statutory consultees and to ensure the proposal
confirms with Environment Agency regulations.
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(5) NP5/72/194
Application for change of use from
agricultural land to camping site
(5 tents) and installation of new
septic tank, land at Pant y March,
Llangywer.
RESOLVED to note the report and to note that the Director of Planning
and Cultural Heritage, under delegated authority, had refused permission
on the following grounds:1.
the site had very little existing screening and the siting of such tents
on a permanent basis between March and October in each year
would be contrary to the criteria set out in Policy TW7 of the
adopted Eryri Local Plan which requires such sites and proposals to
already be well screened from public vantage points including
hilltops.
2.
a touring caravan/tent site in such a location would impose an
unnecessary additional strain onto the existing narrow roads within
the Snowdonia National Park, which would be contrary to Policy
TW7 of the adopted Eryri Local Plan.
11.
Planning Applications and Enforcement
Submitted – A report by the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage on
planning applications and enforcement matters.
Please see the Schedule of Planning Decisions attached.
12.
Planning Appeal
Submitted and Received – a copy of the following appeal decision:Appeal by Mr. and Mrs. Richard Hyde against the Authority’s refusal to
grant planning permission for conversion of a chapel into a dwelling at
Bethania Chapel, Bontddu, Dolgellau. LL40 2UW (Appeal allowed)
13.
Delegated Decisions
Submitted and Received – The list of applications that had been
determined in accordance with delegated authority.
The meeting ended at 12.55
69
SCHEDULE OF PLANNING DECISIONS – 18th JUNE, 2008
Item No.
1.
NP2/16/T413A – Conversion of disused barn into holiday cottage for letting,
together with installation of new septic tank (revised scheme), Beudy Mawr, Erw
Suran, Cwm Ystradllyn, Garndolbenmaen.
RESOLVED to authorise the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage to
grant permission subject to appropriate conditions.
2.
NP4/31/8E – Construction of steel portal frame extension to existing agricultural
building, Ty Nant Llan, Ysbyty Ifan.
RESOLVED to grant permission in accordance with recommendation.
3.
NP4/32/109D – Full application for demolition of existing detached garage,
construction of detached two storey split level dwelling including external balcony
to front elevation at first floor level, and formation of car parking area, land
adjacent to Ty’r Felin, Trefriw.
Reported –Community Council no objections. Neighbour no objections.
RESOLVED to grant permission in accordance with recommendation.
4.
NP5/57/1004A – Full application for construction of one detached dormer
bungalow, formation of new vehicular access and alterations to existing vehicular
access (revised scheme to application NP5/57/1004 refused on 08/02/08), land at
Prendy, Coed-y-Fronallt, Dolgellau.
Reported – letter from applicant.
Public Speaking
Mr. Davies, the applicant, addressed the Planning and Access Committee and
asked Members to consider the following:− the applicant had paid out for the preparation of plans
− the applicant had discussed the proposal with the Planning Officer
− the objections were on the grounds of trees and bats
− neighbouring sites had received planning permission
RESOLVED – Site Inspection.
5.
NP5/58/463A – Conversion of vacant agricultural building into dwelling (amended
scheme to that refused on 21/01/2008 under reference NP5/58/463), outbuilding
on land adjoining Streamside Development, Dyffryn Ardudwy.
Reported – Community Council observations. CCW observations.
Public Speaking
Mr. Gayden addressed the Planning and Access Committee and asked Members
to consider the following objections:o the refusal reasons in January, TA4 and TA5, still hold true
− the proposal was outside the development plan building line
− the final proposal was unclear
70
− the type of windows proposed, in the gable, did not keep to the
guidelines and were too close to neighbouring property
− the footings intrude on neighbouring property
− the road access is used by the emergency services
− proposed domestic services / water run-off / soak-away would run
beneath the neighbour’s property
− evidence of bats
− removal of tree root would undermine the wall
− Mr. Gayden hoped that both parties could be satisfied with the Planning
Committee’s decision
Ms. Charleen Sussums, the Agent, addressed the Planning and Access
Committee and asked Members to consider the following:o previous application had been refused on design grounds which had now
been overcome and agreed with officers.
o the Highway Authority was satisfied with the access
o the applicant had an established right of way
o the boundary dispute was not a planning issue but a civil matter
o there would be no loss of parking for chalet 14
o the site was within the development boundary
o proposal was in accordance with policies T1 and TA5 of the local plan
o ecology survey undertaken and mitigation measures have been accepted by
CCW
o the gable end does not need to be removed for a single storey
o sewage disposal explained
RESOLVED – Site Inspection.
6.
NP5/59/112C – Full application for demolition of fire damaged dwelling and
construction of new two storey detached dwelling, single storey side extension,
and integral garage, Gwylan, Bala Road, Llan Ffestiniog.
Public Speaking
Mr. Gwilym Williams, the applicant, addressed the Planning and Access
Committee and asked Members to consider the following:− the applicant had been homeless for some months and had lost
everything
− the Committee were requested to look favourably on the proposal
RESOLVED to grant permission in accordance with recommendation.
7.
NP5/59/693C – Conversion of cellar into dining area, kitchen and installation of
toilet, Dolwar, 8 Pen y Bryn, Llan Ffestiniog.
Reported - Neighbour objection and various correspondence from Agent
reported.
Mr. Derec Jones, the Agent, addressed the Planning and Access
Committee and asked Members to consider the following:-
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− property had been in the ownership of the applicant’s family for 40
years and the time had come to carry out improvements to the
property
− applicant would use local labour and materials
− work already carried out was in the belief that it had received permission in
October 2006. No objections were made at that time.
− applicant did not want to cause any inconvenience to neighbouring
properties and had made changes to the application since its first
submission in order to overcome neighbour concerns
− work was within the property’s boundary and did not encroach on the
neighbour’s land
− the toilet extension was raised in order to prevent water penetration which
had been a problem when the building was used as a coal hut.
RESOLVED – Site Inspection.
8.
NP5/59/720 – Construction of single storey conservatory to rear of dwelling, Yr
Hen Weithdy, 9 Maes y Coed, Llan Ffestiniog.
RESOLVED to grant permission in accordance with recommendation.
9.
NP5/61/132E – Full application for construction of retaining walls and
terracing
NP5/61/132F – Full application for removal of rock outcrop to create a level
platform
Pant Mawr Caravan Site, Old Llanfair Road, Harlech.
Arising thereon, Members asked officers to try and ascertain how many other
sites with unrestricted occupancy there were within the National Park.
RESOLVED – Site Inspection. All members of the Planning and Access
Committee to be invited to attend.
10.
11.
NP5/61/CAT298H – Conservation Area Consent to demolish single storey
annexe, Castle Hotel, Harlech.
RESOLVED to refuse permission on the grounds that the replacement
scheme to reinstate the site was inappropriate.
12.
NP5/61/298J – Erection of two 2 storey semi detached dwellings, land at
Castle Hotel, Harlech.
Reported – Case Officer awaiting Environment Agency response to possible
culvert. Neighbour objections reported.
Public Speaking
Mr. Dugdale addressed the Planning and Access Committee and asked
Members to consider the following objections:−
proposal was only 20 meters from the Castle wall
−
the current tea and beer garden was an asset to the Conservation
Area, with wonderful views
−
the tea room was due to open in July
72
−
development was out of scale and character which overshadowed
and dominated the outlook
−
footprint would be twice as large and three times the bulk of the
current building
−
3 dwellings were refused a year ago as over-development
−
Penllech was an interesting and historic lane with 5 pre 19th century
dwellings. The proposal would also have a detrimental affect on Yr
Odyn
−
views would be impeded and winter sunlight reduced to 3 of the
nearby cottages
RESOLVED to refuse permission on the grounds that the site was within
a World Heritage Site and would have a detrimental effect on neighbouring
amenities.
13.
NP5/62/57S – Retrospective application to retain extension to building
used in connection with haulage business for use as a stable block and
offices, Cae Nest Farm, Llanbedr.
Arising thereon, the Authority Chairman brought Members’ attention to the
newspaper article referred to in the 2nd paragraph of the objectors’ letter in
Document Bundle No. 1 (page 93) and advised that the applicant was not
a family friend but an acquaintance. The Director of Corporate and Legal
Services advised that under the Code of Conduct, the Authority Chairman
would not be required to declare an interest since the applicant was only
an acquaintance.
RESOLVED – Site Inspection.
14.
Cae Nest site, Llanbedr.
Submitted – A report by the Head of Development Control and
Compliance to provide an update on the site.
RESOLVED – Site Inspection.
15.
NP5/70/113B – Construction of new access road (revised scheme to that refused
on 26/11/2007 under reference NP5/70/113A), Caerfoty, Glyn Mawr, Cwmyglyn,
Llangower.
RESOLVED subject to receipt of bat survey and cross section details of the
track, to authorise the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage to
determine the application subject to appropriate conditions or reasons.
16.
NP5/71/T192 – Conversion of barn into dwelling and installation of new
septic tank, Barn at Llwyn Piod, Llanuwchllyn.
RESOLVED – Site Inspection.
73
17.
NP5/72/157A – Full application to demolish partly collapsed cottage and
construction of new detached two storey dwelling, Tyddyn Philip, Frongoch, Bala.
Public Speaking
Mr. C. Gwyther, the applicant, addressed the Planning and Access Committee
and asked Members to consider the following:− the applicant wanted to knock down the existing and rebuild the same
re-using the stone
− the property had suffered from damp for around 80 years
− it was structurally unsound with the centre of the house parting
− the property would be rebuilt stone for stone on proper foundations
− the intended use was for retirement purposes
− following the collapse it was now unsafe
− the Committee were requested to grant permission to restore the Welsh
Cottage
RESOLVED subject to receipt of bat survey, to authorise the Director of
Planning and Cultural Heritage to determine the application subject to
appropriate conditions or reasons.
18.
NP5/72/162A – Erection of agricultural building, Fron Uchaf, Parc, Bala.
RESOLVED to refuse permission in accordance with recommendation.
19.
NP5/74/404B – Erection of single storey boiler house, Ysgol Gynradd Dinas
Mawddwy, Dinas Mawddwy.
Reported – Community Council no objections.
RESOLVED to grant permission in accordance with recommendation.
20.
NP5/75/T99B – Construction of proposed single storey extension to
provide toilets for staff and pupils including toilet for the disabled, Pennal
Primary School, Pennal.
Reported – Case Officer noted a correction to the English report text and advised
that the “proposal” was correct in the Welsh report only.
RESOLVED to grant permission in accordance with recommendation.
21.
NP5/78/203 – Erection of shelter to view birds/wildlife “and parking area”, land
near Mooring No. 1, south side of Trawsfynydd Lake, Trawsfynydd.
RESOLVED to grant permission in accordance with recommendation.
22.
NP5/78/430B – Construction of one detached dwelling and integral garage, site of
former Banks Garage, Trawsfynydd.
Reported – Further amended plans displayed.
Public Speaking
Mr. Bryn Jones, the applicant, addressed the Planning and Access Committee
and asked Members to consider the following:-
74
− the application site was on a former garage site where cars had been
parked outside.
− the applicant had discussed development of the site prior to buying the
land and had been led to believe that there were no problems
− the applicant did not wish to have any detrimental effect on the
surrounding houses and had reduced the size of the proposed dwelling
and made other changes to the original plan e.g. slate to conservatory
roof.
− the applicant had 4 children and his wife worked from home
− the first application was made in February 2008 and the amended plans
submitted in June. The applicant felt that the Authority had been slow
to process his application
RESOLVED to authorise the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage to
grant permission subject to appropriate conditions and in accordance with
amended plans as displayed.
23.
Summary of Compliance Cases – For Information
Arising thereon, Members were advised that training on the Compliance Process
would be provided in due course.
RESOLVED to note the report and await the training session.
24.
Planning Appeals awaiting decision – For Information
RESOLVED to note the report.
25.
Section 106 Agreements – For Information
RESOLVED to note the report.
26.
Outstanding Applications where more than 13 weeks have elapsed – For
Information
RESOLVED to note the report.
75
SNOWDONIA NATIONAL PARK PLANNING AND ACCESS COMMITTEE
WEDNESDAY 30th JULY, 2008
Councillor E. Edwards (Gwynedd) (Chairman)
PRESENT:
Members appointed by Gwynedd Council
Councillors T.G. Ellis, A. Gruffydd, E.C. Roberts, D. Siencyn, G.G. Williams, G.O.
Williams;
Members appointed by Conwy County Borough Council
Councillors H. Gail Hall, G.O. Edwards, W.E. Jones.
Members appointed by the Welsh Assembly Government
Mr. G.D. George, Dr. Iolo ap Gwynn, Mr. D.P. McAteer, Mr. D.L. Roberts, Mr. P.
Weston;
Officers
Mr. A. Sturkey, Mr. B. Reese Jones, Mr. A. Lloyd, Mrs. C. Ranson, Mr. G.W.
Jones, Mr. R. Thomas, Mr. R.H. Roberts, Mr. G.H. Jones, Mrs. A. Gaffey, Ms.
Llinos Angharad, Mrs. A. Griffiths.
Apologies
Councillors H.P. Hughes, J.R. Jones; Mr. J.L. Morgan.
1.
Chairman’s Announcements
The Authority Chairman, on behalf of Members, expressed the
Committee’s deepest sympathy to Sara Wynne-Pari, CAE Project Officer,
on the sudden death of her mother.
RESOLVED to ask the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage to
write to Ms Wynne-Pari and family to express the Authority’s deepest
sympathy.
2.
Declaration of Interest
The Members appointed by Gwynedd Council declared a personal interest
in items 7 (12) (14) and (20) on the Agenda, under paragraph 10 (2) (ix)
(aa) of the Code of Conduct for Members.
Councillor Elwyn Edwards declared both a personal and prejudicial
interest in item 7 (18) on the Agenda, under paragraphs 10 (2) (c) (i) and
12 (1) of the Code of Conduct for Members, and left the meeting whilst the
matter was being discussed.
76
Councillor Alwyn Gruffydd declared both a personal and prejudicial
interest in item 7 (20) on the Agenda, under paragraphs 10 (2) (c) (i) & (ii)
and 12 (1) of the Code of Conduct for Members, and left the meeting
whilst the matter was being discussed.
Mr. Denis McAteer declared both a personal and prejudicial interest in
item 7 (14) on the Agenda, under paragraphs 10 (2) (c) (i) and 12 (1) of
the Code of Conduct for Members, and left the meeting whilst the matter
was being discussed.
3.
Minutes
The minutes of the Planning and Access Committee held on the 18th June,
2008 were accepted and the Chairman signed them as a true record.
4.
Member Development Conference 2008
Submitted – Details of the W.L.G.A. Member Development Conference
2008 at the Metropole Hotel, Llandrindod Wells on Friday 24th October,
2008.
RESOLVED to send 4 delegates to the Conference, including a
member of the Management Team. The following members were
nominated to attend:Councillors H. Gail Hall, Goronwy O. Edwards; Dr. Iolo ap Gwynn.
5.
(1)
Policy Reports by the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage
North Wales Regional Waste Plan Members’ Group – Nomination of
Authority Representatives
Submitted – A report by the Head of Strategic Policy and Plans to
nominate a member to represent the Authority on the Regional Waste Plan
Members’ Group (RMG).
RESOLVED that Dr. Iolo ap Gwynn should remain as the Authority’s
representative on the North Wales Regional Waste Plan Members’
Group together with Councillor H.P. Hughes.
(2)
Welsh Assembly Government Draft Guidance: Affordable Housing
Delivery Plans
Submitted – A report by the Head of Strategic Policy and Plans for
information and confirmation of officer response to the Consultation on the
Draft Guidance on preparation of Affordable Housing Delivery Plans.
Reported – The Head of Strategic Policy and Plans presented the report
and Members considered the consultation response as outlined.
77
RESOLVED
1.
to note the report and the arrangements proposed for
preparation of the Affordable Housing Delivery Plan.
2.
to approve officer response to the Consultation as outlined in
4.1 of the report.
(3)
Technical Advice Note 12: Design – Consultation Draft
Submitted – A report by the Head of Strategic Policy and Plans for
information and confirmation of officer response to the Consultation.
Reported – The Head of Strategic Policy and Plans presented the report
and Members considered the consultation response as outlined.
RESOLVED
1.
to note the report and welcome the proposed guidance.
2.
to approve question responses to the Consultation as outlined
in Appendix 1, whilst noting dissatisfaction that the
Consultation was not available in Welsh.
6.
(1)
Inspection Panel Reports
Submitted – The reports of the Full Planning and Access Committee
Inspection held on 2nd July, 2008.
(1) NP5/61/132E
Construction of retaining walls and
terracing, Pant Mawr Caravan Park,
Old Llanfair Road, Harlech.
Reported – Case Officer advised that Agent had agreed to withdraw 2nd
application for removal of outcrop and would provide an overall
landscaping scheme for the whole site.
RESOLVED subject to receipt of satisfactory landscaping scheme, to
authorise the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage to grant
permission subject to appropriate conditions including a landscaping
condition.
(2) NP5/61/132F
Removal of rock outcrop to create
level platform, Pant Mawr Caravan
Park, Old Llanfair Road, Harlech.
Reported – Application withdrawn.
(2)
Submitted – The reports of the Southern Area Inspection Panel held on
2nd July, 2008.
78
(1) NP5/57/1004A
Full application for construction of
one detached dormer bungalow,
formation of new vehicular access
and alterations to existing vehicular
access (revised scheme to
application NP5/57/1004 refused on
08/02/08) – confirmation of
provisional Tree Preservation Order,
both on land at Prendy, Coed y
Fronallt, Dolgellau.
RESOLVED
1.
to refuse permission in accordance with officer recommendation.
2.
to confirm the Tree Preservation Order.
(2) NP5/58/463A
Conversion of vacant agricultural
building into dwelling (amended
scheme to that refused on
21/01/2008 under reference
NP5/58/463). Outbuilding on land
adjoining Streamside Development,
Dyffryn Ardudwy.
Reported – 2 further letters from neighbour reported. Amended plans
received.
RESOLVED subject to approval of amended layout for 3 chalets
(Application No. NP5/58/16U), to authorise the Director of Planning and
Cultural Heritage to grant permission subject to appropriate conditions in
accordance with amended plans.
(3) NP5/59/693C
Full application for conversion of
cellar into dining area, kitchen and
installation of toilet, Dolwar, 8 Pen y
Bryn, Llan Ffestiniog.
Reported – Objection letter from neighbour reported.
RESOLVED to authorise the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage to
grant permission subject to appropriate conditions in accordance with
officer recommendation.
79
(4) NP5/62/57S
Retrospective application to retain
extension to agricultural building,
used in connection with haulage
business for use as a stable block
and offices, Cae Nest, Llanbedr.
Reported – Countryside Council for Wales no objections.
RESOLVED to authorise the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage to
grant permission subject to appropriate conditions including a condition
restricting the use to personal use only.
(5) NP5/62/57L and
NP5/62/181B
Cae Nest site, Llanbedr.
RESOLVED to continue monitoring the site to ensure that conditions
relating to the site are met, and that effective landscaping in accordance
with approval NP5/62/57P, is started by 1st November 2008 and tree
planting by the 1st December, 2008.
(6) NP5/71/T192
Full application for conversion of
barn into dwelling and installation of
new septic tank, barn at Llwyn Piod,
Llanuwchllyn.
RESOLVED subject to retaining external staircase on building and
reducing the building level by 1 metre, to authorise the Director of
Planning and Cultural Heritage to grant permission subject to appropriate
conditions.
7.
Planning Applications and Enforcement
Submitted – A report by the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage on
planning applications and enforcement matters.
Please see the Schedule of Planning Decisions attached.
8.
Planning Appeal
Submitted and Received – a copy of the following appeal decisions:Three appeals by Mr. and Mrs. T. Weedall against the Authority’s:i) refusal to grant planning permission for the siting of a static caravan as
full time residential use for a period of 3 years.
ii) refusal to grant planning permission for the erection of two pig stys.
80
iii) failure to give notice within the prescribed period of a decision on an
application for planning permission.
Land at Ty Nant, Llanelltyd, Dolgellau. LL40 2TB (Appeals dismissed)
9.
Delegated Decisions
Submitted and Received – The list of applications that had been
determined in accordance with delegated authority.
10.
Presentation by the Environment Agency
Received - A presentation by Mr. Emyr Jones of Environment Agency
Wales providing Members with background to the Agency’s work and its
relationship with the Authority, and to advise upon Technical Advice Note
(TAN) 15, Development and Flood Risk, which provides definite and clear
guidelines for Planning Authorities in Wales.
Arising thereon, Members asked for the Environment Agency’s view on:developments in flood risk zones and the implications for the
Authority should the Committee approve an application against the
advice of the Environment Agency?
the Agency’s willingness to work with other organisations to
minimise the effect of Japanese Knotweed and other invasive
species within the National Park.
Mr. Emyr Jones agreed to forward a detailed response to Members in due
course.
The Chairman, on behalf of Members, thanked Mr. Emyr Jones for the
presentation.
The meeting ended at 13.25
81
SCHEDULE OF PLANNING DECISIONS – 30th JULY, 2008
Item No.
1.
NP2/16/200A – Construction of detached single storey summerhouse, Brithdir
Bach, Cwm Pennant, Garndolbenmaen.
RESOLVED to defer consideration at applicant’s request.
2.
NP2/16/L377 – Conversion of barn into a dwelling with a crogloft, Cefn Coch Isaf,
Cwmystradllyn, Garndolbenmaen.
RESOLVED subject to a satisfactory response from the Environment
Agency regarding the sewage treatment system, to authorise the Director
of Planning and Cultural Heritage to grant permission subject to
appropriate conditions together with a Section 106 Local Occupancy
Agreement. Officers to ensure that the public footpath is not restricted.
3.
NP2/16/415 – Conversion of vacant barn to holiday let accommodation,
installation of private treatment plant, and construction of detached single storey
building to keep agricultural machinery, Beudy Cefn, Erw Suran, Cwmystradllyn,
Garndolbenmaen.
Reported – To correct the report to record that Gwynedd Highways have no
objections.
RESOLVED – Site Inspection.
4.
NP4/12/191A – Demolish existing detached dwelling and construction of 2 new
two storey detached houses with balconies to rear first floor, together with
creation of two new vehicular accesses and new pedestrian access, construct
new retaining wall to rear of site, and rebuild existing boundary stone wall
(resubmission of application NP4/12/191 withdrawn on the 16/10/2007), High
Barn, Rowen.
Reported – Petition handed to Case Officer.
Public Speaking
Mrs. Sonia Thornbury addressed the Planning and Access Committee and asked
Members to consider the following objections:− as the next door neighbour Mrs. Thornbury invited the committee to
undertake a Site Inspection prior to making a decision.
− neighbours and 100 residents had signed the petition against the
proposal in the last 3 days.
− there would be no objection to a single storey development of similar
size and properties which was in sympathy with its surroundings.
− objectors noted their amazement that National Park Officers and the
Community Council were recommending approval for 2 houses on this
site.
− the applicant had not provided contextual information such as a block
plan, no amenity space indicated, a revised parking layout, the opposite
82
property was too close, no obscure glass, the design of the dwelling
was unsuitable.
− the applicant was trying to fit a quart into a pint pot.
− the Planning Committee were requested to visit the site and refuse the
application.
Mr. Berwyn Owen, the agent, addressed the Planning and Access Committee
and asked Members to consider the following:− the proposal was within the housing development boundary.
− 2 houses with 2 bedrooms would improve visually an untidy site by
removing an unsightly building.
− there is asbestos on the site.
− it is a brown field site for residential purposes which corresponds with
Welsh Assembly Government policy.
− the proposal has been discussed with officers from the Highway
Authority and the National Park Authority.
− there are more residents in support of the proposal than against it.
− all the objectors do not live in the village.
− there will be enough room for gardens and off street parking.
− the proposal would not affect neighbouring properties.
− the proposal was within policy and the committee was requested to
support officers and the application.
RESOLVED – Site Inspection.
5.
NP4/13/LB97A – Listed Building Consent to replace existing windows with new
purpose made horizontal sliding sash windows. Replace existing internal doors
with new purpose made boarded doors. Replace existing skylights with new
conservation roof-light to rear elevation. Remove cement based pointing and repoint with natural hydraulic lime, Dyffryn Mymbyr, Capel Curig.
RESOLVED to refer the application to Cadw with a recommendation to approve.
6.
NP4/26/PIAW47C – Approval of reserved matters for construction of free range
egg laying unit, Pentre Mawr, Capel Garmon, Llanrwst.
Public Speaking
Mr. Steve Thompson addressed the Planning and Access Committee and
asked Members to consider the following objections:− it would have been better to retain the existing stone building and to
build the new structure in keeping with the present structure.
− the visual impact should be reduced with landscaping to integrate the
building into the landscape.
− access needs to be widened in order that large vehicles are able to
manoeuvre on and off the site, which will affect the hedgerows.
− although the Highway Authority had recommended no increase in
traffic, the Authority had let the permission proceed. The lane was too
narrow and windy.
83
− nearby Cilcennus Farm had been expected to widen the road at their
own cost should they wish to make improvements and it is reasonable
for this application to have the same constraints.
− the proposal would damage the local environment and would cause
problems for the school bus, delivery vehicles and for tourists which use
the lane, as there are no turning areas.
Mrs Ceri Hughes, the applicant, addressed the Planning and Access
Committee and asked Members to consider the following:− the business would support a young family unit of traditional farmers
who were seeking to diversify.
− they supplied a farm shop in Llanrwst and employed up to 7 staff when
the need arose.
− the well being of the chickens was very important and they were
working with the RSPB to ensure this.
− the applicant would have liked to retain the original farm building but
this was not an option as the business required a flat area for the
chickens and the upkeep for such a building would have been
restrictive.
− members were asked to support the application and help keep
agriculture businesses viable in rural areas.
RESOLVED to grant permission in accordance with recommendation
subject to revising condition 5 to read “no vehicles in connection with the
egg laying unit shall use the county highway between the A470 and the unit
hereby approved between the hours of 8.00 a.m. and 10.00 a.m. and 3.00
p.m. and 5.00 p.m. Monday to Friday and at no time during week-ends and
bank and public holidays.
7.
NP4/29/429 – Construction of car park and visitor centre for cycle track and
footpath link to village, Penbryn Meadow, Cwm Road, Penmachno.
Reported – Case Officer advised that the refusal reason in the Welsh report was
incorrect.
Public Speaking
Mr. Sion Parri addressed the Planning and Access Committee and asked
Members to consider the following objections:− following the foot and mouth outbreak and its effects, this proposal was
eagerly awaited to regenerate the village and the local economy.
− as the proprietor of the bike shop in Betws y Coed a new retail outlet
being approved on a green field site would have an effect on his
business.
− Coed Llandegla TilHill Centre was now a successful venture where the
tracks were completely enclosed within the forest.
− to anticipate the creation of 8 jobs was misleading.
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− the proposal was too far from the centre of the village and would
increase traffic and make Penmachno village more dangerous
especially for children to play.
Mr. C. Lewis, the applicant, addressed the Planning and Access Committee and
asked Members to consider the following:− the applicant had been born and raised in Penmachno and had always
maintained the rural way of life.
− Penmachno used to be a busy village but now has lost many
inhabitants resulting in the closure of the hotel, shops, the Post Office,
the Chapel and Church.
− estimated figures expect the number of school children to reduce from
70 to 30.
− the success of the business would regenerate other businesses in the
village.
− it would be impossible to maintain the bike tracks and carry out
maintenance work without this development.
− there was a need to provide facilities and parking for around 60 vehicles
at one time.
RESOLVED to refuse permission in accordance with recommendation as
outlined in the English report with the following additional reason:“The proposed development is likely to generate additional traffic
movement along the B4406 to the detriment of the free flow of traffic and
highway safety. The increase in the volume of traffic through the village
would be to the detriment of both the environment and the amenity of local
residents. The proposal was therefore contrary to Eryri Local Plan Policy
TR7”.
8.
NP5/53/493 – Outline application to construct affordable houses, land to the east
of Coleg y Bala, Bala.
Reported – Case Officer referred to press release dated 19.05.08 from the Rural
Housing Enabler. Letter from Agent reported.
Public Speaking
A representative on behalf of Coleg y Bala Trustees addressed the Planning and
Access Committee and asked Members to consider the following:− Members were provided with background to the application which was
to sell the land in order to release revenue and improve facilities.
− the proposal would be for affordable homes only and was in accord with
the Joseph Rowntree analysis of housing need.
− reference was made to the Rural Housing Enabler’s statement.
− it was difficult to assess need until the houses had been built, but once
the application is approved it was anticipated that people would be
willing to buy.
85
RESOLVED to defer consideration for the applicant to submit evidence of
need for affordable housing in Bala.
Arising thereon, Members asked officers to arrange for the Rural Housing
Enabler to be invited to a future meeting of the Planning and Access
Committee to advise members on the scheme and its achievements.
9.
NP5/53/494 – Outline application to construct affordable houses, part of
garden Coleg y Bala house, Y Bala.
Public Speaking
A representative on behalf of Coleg y Bala Trustees addressed the Planning and
Access Committee and asked Members to consider the following:− concerns that the site was unsuitable would be overcome with good design
and sensitive development.
− there were houses opposite the site.
− the land was part of the college and the development would improve
and blend into the site.
− the proposal was for affordable homes only.
− again, it was difficult to assess need until the houses were on the
market, but once the application was approved young people would
willing to buy.
RESOLVED to defer consideration for the applicant to submit evidence of
need for affordable homes in Bala.
10.
NP5/57/937M – Retrospective application for the retention of retaining
garden wall, plot adjacent to No. 1 Maes yr Helyg, Dolgellau.
RESOLVED to refuse permission on the grounds that:1.
The Planning and Access Committee of the Snowdonia National Park
Authority consider that the proposed wall and fence, by reason of their
height and nature, constitute an undesirable and overwhelming feature that
is detrimental to the amenities of neighbouring properties.
2.
11.
The Planning and Access Committee of the Snowdonia National Park
Authority consider that the level of the raised garden area to the rear of 1
Maes Helyg, and its use by occupiers of the property would result in
serious overlooking and loss of privacy to neighbouring properties to a
serious and unacceptable degree.
NP5/58/210E – Conversion of hay barn into one dwelling and installation of a new
septic tank, Hay Barn, Tyddyn Goronwy, Talybont.
RESOLVED subject to receipt of satisfactory amended plans, to authorise
the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage to grant permission subject
86
to appropriate conditions together with a Section 106 Local Occupancy
Agreement.
12.
NP5/58/469 – Change of use from agricultural land to playing field. Field near
Pentre Uchaf, Dyffryn Ardudwy.
Reported – Letter from Agent reported. Amended plan awaited.
RESOLVED – Site Inspection.
13.
NP5/59/271P – Application to vary terms of current local needs legal
agreement to allow an individual to live in the house while she is the owner
and occupier, 9 Moelgwyl Estate, Llan Ffestiniog.
RESOLVED to accede to the request and allow the release of the
property from the Section 106 Agreement restriction for the period of
primary full time residence of the dwelling by Mrs. Rosina Barnes only.
14.
NP5/59/706A – Construction of two storey extension, Bryn Blodau
Residential Home, Llan Ffestiniog.
RESOLVED subject to receipt of bat survey and no adverse comments
from remaining consultees, to authorise the Director of Planning and
Cultural Heritage to determine the application subject to appropriate
conditions or reasons.
15.
NP5/63/259 – Full application for construction of one detached bungalow,
land near the old station, Frongoch.
RESOLVED to refuse permission in accordance with recommendation.
16.
NP5/68/LB18A – Listed Building Consent to demolish lean-to extension and
form new window opening to south east elevation. Form new window
opening on north east elevation, Beudy Newydd, Llanfrothen.
RESOLVED to refer the application to Cadw recommending approval of Listed
Building Consent subject to appropriate conditions.
17.
NP5/71/19K – Retrospective application to retain extension, Coed y Pry,
Llanuwchllyn.
RESOLVED to grant permission in accordance with recommendation.
18.
NP5/71/L343 – Conversion of barn into dwellinghouse, Ysgubor Glandwr,
Llanuwchllyn.
RESOLVED to defer consideration at Agent’s request.
19.
NP5/72/197 – Outline application to construct one detached dwelling for
affordable local need, land to the west of Hafod y Nant, Parc.
Public Speaking
Mrs Sian Edwards, the applicant, addressed the Planning and Access Committee
and asked Members to consider the following:-
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− Mrs. Edwards’ husband was born and raised in Parc and the family also
wished to raise a family in the village.
− the applicant currently lived in a very small house measuring 20’ x 12’ in
which it would be impossible to raise a family. The application was to
allow the applicants more room.
− Parc needed to keep young families in the village to support the local
school, which was currently under threat of closure. The family were
active members of the community and the Sunday school and
supported social activities in the village.
− the family lived and worked locally and as Members were aware
incomes were low and house prices of £180k - £200k were out of reach.
− housing land availability in the area was scarce and this land had been
offered to the applicants by the landowner.
− the applicant hoped members agreed that local need had been
established.
RESOLVED to refuse permission in accordance with recommendation.
20.
NP5/73/328 – Erection of 6 two storey houses for local need and
installation of underground LPG tanks, playground to east of Minffordd
Terrace, Gellilydan.
Reported – Case Officer advised upon receipt of a further 11 emails and 1 letter
of objection the contents of which were summarised to the Committee. Gellilydan
Tenants and Residents Association support the proposal.
Public Speaking
Mr. K. Sharp addressed the Planning and Access Committee and asked
Members to consider the following objections:−
Mr. Sharp referred to the 10 email complaints forwarded to the
Authority.
−
Tai Eryri had failed to meet neighbours to discuss the proposal prior
to submission of application.
−
site was not appropriate for the development proposed on the
grounds of road safety.
−
there was insufficient community facilities in village to support this
development e.g. the shop was to close, no local jobs etc.
−
the proposal would mean a loss of playing fields.
−
there was insufficient parking spaces within the village.
−
the site and development would be visible from the main road when
travelling south.
−
there was already sufficient local authority housing in Gellilydan.
−
members were asked to visit the site prior to determining the
application.
−
how many more houses would the Committee be prepared to
approve before the village becomes a town?
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A representative on behalf of Cymdeithas Tai Eryri addressed the Planning and
Access Committee and asked Members to consider the following:−
the 6 houses would remain as affordable housing within the village by
means of legal agreement.
−
a housing survey had been undertaken including a questionnaire survey of
local residents. 19 responses had expressed an interest in affordable
housing within the community area.
−
the housing association had been working with the housing enabler since
April 2006 to bring this proposal forward.
−
12 enquiries had already been received for the 6 houses proposed.
−
design and layout had been agreed following discussion with Gwynedd
Council Highways and National Park Planning Officers.
−
this development would comply with the required standard on design and
facilities which were of a high standard.
−
development was aimed at the community’s young people with dwellings
being for rent or part ownership.
−
tenants or owners would be required to have worked locally for 5 years
prior to occupation.
−
Community Council were in support and the proposal did not conflict with
any planning policies.
RESOLVED – Site Inspection.
21.
Summary of Compliance Cases – For Information
Arising thereon, Members were advised that training on the Compliance Process
would be provided in due course.
RESOLVED to note the report and await the training session.
22.
Planning Appeals awaiting decision – For Information
Arising thereon, Case Officer advised that the appeal at Beddgelert Station had
been allowed and the Inspector’s decision would be submitted to the next
meeting of the Planning and Access Committee.
RESOLVED to note the report.
23.
Section 106 Agreements – For Information
RESOLVED to note the report.
24.
Outstanding Applications where more than 13 weeks have elapsed – For
Information
RESOLVED to note the report.
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SNOWDONIA NATIONAL PARK PLANNING AND ACCESS COMMITTEE
WEDNESDAY 10th SEPTEMBER, 2008
Councillor E. Edwards (Gwynedd) (Chairman)
PRESENT:
Members appointed by Gwynedd Council
Councillors T.G. Ellis, A. Gruffydd, H.P. Hughes, J.R. Jones, E.C. Roberts, D.
Siencyn,
G.G. Williams;
Member appointed by Conwy County Borough Council
Councillor G.O. Edwards;
Members appointed by the Welsh Assembly Government
Mr. G.D. George, Dr. Iolo ap Gwynn, Mr. D.L. Roberts, Mr. J.L. Morgan, Mr. P.
Weston;
Officers
Mr. A. Sturkey, Mr. G.I. Jones, Mr. R.H. Roberts, Mrs. C. Ranson, Mr. A. Lloyd,
Mr. R. Thomas, Mr. G.W. Jones, Mr. C. Smith, Ms. Llinos Angharad, Mrs. A.
Griffiths.
Apologies
Councillors H. Gail Hall, W.E. Jones, G.O. Williams; Mr. D.P. McAteer.
1.
Chairman’s Announcements
The Chairman, on behalf of Members, expressed the Committee’s
deepest sympathy to Mrs. Ann Williams, Planning Administrative
Assistant, on the death of her father.
RESOLVED to ask the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage to
write to
Mrs Williams to express the Authority’s deepest sympathy.
2.
Declaration of Interest
Councillor Elwyn Edwards declared both a personal and prejudicial
interest in items
7 (6) and (12) on the Agenda, under paragraphs 10 (2) (a) (ix) (bb), 10 (2)
(c) (i) and 12 (1) of the Code of Conduct for Members, and left the
meeting whilst these matters was being discussed.
Councillor Alwyn Gruffydd declared both a personal and prejudicial
interest in items 6 (2) and 7 (6) on the Agenda, under paragraphs 10 (2)
90
(a) (i) and 12 (1) of the Code of Conduct for Members, and left the meeting
whilst these matters were being discussed.
Mr. John Morgan declared both a personal and prejudicial interest in item
7 (1) on the Agenda, under paragraph 10 (2) (a) (i) and 12 (1) of the Code
of Conduct for Members, and left the meeting whilst this matter was being
discussed.
3.
Minutes
Arising thereon, the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage
recommended amendments to the minutes as follows:Item 20 bullet point 6, Mr. K. Sharp’s address should read “there was
insufficient parking spaces within the development site”. The minutes
should also include reference to the design being out of character with
adjoining dwellings and that Gellilydan was already perceived to be a
disadvantaged village and allowing further social housing would not
change this perception.
After noting the amendment, the minutes of the Planning and Access
Committee held on the 30th July, 2008 were accepted and the Chairman
signed them as a true record.
4.
Tree Preservation Orders
4 (1) Coleg Y Bala, Bala
Submitted – A report by the Head of Natural Environment and Forestry to
seek confirmation of the Order. Further correspondence circulated to
Members.
RESOLVED to confirm the Tree Preservation Order.
4 (2)
Dol y Cae, Tal-Y-Llyn
Submitted – A report by the Head of Natural Environment and Forestry to
seek confirmation of the Order. Further correspondence circulated to
Members.
RESOLVED to confirm the Tree Preservation Order.
5.
(1)
Reports by the Head of Strategic Policy and Plans
Welsh Assembly Government: Consultation on The Policy Statement
on The Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) Issues by the UK
Government’s Department of Communities and Local Government
Submitted – A report by the Head of Strategic Policy and Plans for
information and approval of the consultation draft response.
Reported – The Head of Strategic Policy and Plans presented the report
and Members asked officers to remove the reference to Members
“welcoming” the proposed Levy.
91
Members made the following observations:the charges should be made clear within the emerging local
development plan
it was important that any funds raised by the levy should be
invested locally
RESOLVED
1.
to approve the consultation response as submitted whilst
noting the potential difficulties in its implementation.
2.
to agree to operate the Community Infrastructure Levy within
Snowdonia, to incorporate reference to the levy within the
emerging Local Development Plan and to prepare
supplementary planning guidance on implementing the levy,
and an implementation timetable, for authority approval once
draft regulations are issued.
(2)
Welsh Assembly Government: Further Consultation on Planning for
Climate Change
Submitted – A report by the Head of Strategic Policy and Plans for
information and approval of the consultation draft response.
Reported – The Head of Strategic Policy and Plans presented the report
and Members considered the consultation response.
Members suggested that further training on the topic of Climate Change
would be advantageous.
RESOLVED
1.
to authorise the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage to
forward the Authority’s response to the questions posed in the
document, as submitted, to the Welsh Assembly Government.
2.
to await a further report and training on Climate Change to a
future meeting.
(3)
Welsh Assembly Government: Consultation Paper – Planning Policy
Changes to Support Sustainable Development in Rural Areas:
Meeting Housing Needs
Submitted – A report by the Head of Strategic Policy and Plans for
information and approval of the consultation draft response.
Reported – The Head of Strategic Policy and Plans presented the report
and Members considered the consultation response and made the
following observations:−
“Affordable Housing” should be clearly defined within the document.
−
Appendix 1- Essential Dwellings
92
−
Question 2
Welsh report response should make reference to “power” and not
energy.
Question 4
Response to specify that each case should be assessed on its own
merits.
Question 7
When assessing viability all income based at the farm should be
included.
Arising thereon, Members were advised that Jocelyn Davies AM had been
invited to Snowdonia to speak to Members and officers were in the
process of confirming a suitable date.
RESOLVED to welcome the discussion paper and subject to noting
amendments as outlined, to approve the consultation response.
6.
Inspection Panel Reports
Arising thereon, the Director of Corporate and Legal Services brought to
Members’ attention to the following:− that two decisions made by the last Committee had led to Inspection
Panels. The two applications involved sites owned by Gwynedd
Council, i.e. playing field in Dyffryn Ardudwy and the application for six
local need houses in Gellilydan.
− unfortunately during the last Committee the correct advice was not
given regarding the new Code of Conduct. Gwynedd members
declared a personal interest, but in cases where the matter is linked to
Gwynedd Council and a decision needs to be taken, Gwynedd Council
members were required to declare a personal and prejudicial interest.
− under these circumstances Gwynedd members should have left the
meeting and should not have taken part in the decision taken to
undertake an Inspection Panel. This did not happen.
− also, after the Planning and Access Committee, some Gwynedd
members attended the Inspection Panel. Because these members had
a personal interest and a prejudicial interest they should not have been
present.
− the situation had to be overcome by taking as many steps as
practicably possible to remove the input by Gwynedd members from
the decision taken.
− therefore, when discussing these matters, it would be necessary for
Gwynedd members to declare a personal and prejudicial interest and
leave the room.
− Members were also advised, if there was no change to the applications
themselves, that the Inspection Panels should be re-arranged with a
93
full complement of those members who were qualified to make a
decision in attendance, i.e. members from Conwy and Assembly
appointed members. This would ensure that everyone who was
qualified to vote would have the opportunity to visit the sites before
making a final decision on this matter.
(1)
Submitted – The reports of the Northern Area Planning and Access
Committee Inspection held on 15th August, 2008.
(1) NP2/16/415
Conversion of vacant field barn to
holiday let accommodation and
erection of detached machinery
building, Beudy Cefn, Cwm
Ystradllyn, Garndolbenmaen.
Reported – Application withdrawn.
(2) NP4/12/191A
Demolish existing dwelling and
erection of two detached two storey
houses, creation of two vehicular
accesses and construct new
retaining wall, High Barn, Rowen,
Conwy.
RESOLVED to refuse permission on the following grounds of
overdevelopment, the adverse effect on neighbours and inappropriate
design.
6 (2) Submitted – The reports of the Southern Area Inspection Panel held on
13th August, 2008.
Arising thereon, the Members appointed by Gwynedd Council declared
both a personal and prejudicial interest in items 6 (2) and 7 (6) on the
Agenda, under paragraph 10 (2) (a) (ix) (aa) and 12 (1) of the Code of
Conduct for Members.
RESOLVED to elect Mr. John Morgan to chair the meeting for the items as
outlined above.
(1) NP5/58/469
Change of use from agricultural land
to playing field, field near Pentre
Uchaf, Dyffryn Ardudwy.
Reported – Amended details received and site reduced in size.
94
Public Speaking
Bethan Hughes, addressed the Planning and Access Committee and asked
Members to consider the following:the playing field would be of benefit to the 133 children she
represented.
it would encourage children to be active and avoid obesity
problems.
it would be an attraction and of benefit to visitors.
there were sixty letters of support.
permission had been refused in the past and the community had
been trying to secure a playing field for the past three years.
a contactor had been identified to design and build the play area.
funding was available at this present time
RESOLVED to authorise the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage to
grant permission subject to appropriate conditions.
(2) NP5/73/328
Full application for erection of 6 two
storey houses for local needs and
installation of underground LPG
tanks, playground to east of
Minffordd Terrace, Gellilydan.
Public Speaking
Mr. Ken Sharp addressed the Planning and Access Committee and asked
Members to consider the following objections:the proposed development would be an area that he considered to
be dangerous for families with young children.
no conclusive evidence provided to demonstrate the need for social
housing in Gellilydan.
the design of the houses was not in keeping with the nearby terrace.
the cost of affordable housing in Dyffryn Ardudwy proved to be
higher than a house which was currently for sale by Sandersons
Estate Agents.
RESOLVED – Site Inspection. All Members of the Planning and Access
Committee, with the exception of Gwynedd Council Members, to be invited
to attend.
7.
Planning Applications and Enforcement
Submitted – A report by the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage on
planning applications and enforcement matters.
Please see the Schedule of Planning Decisions attached.
95
8.
Planning Appeal
Submitted and Received – a copy of the following appeal decision:Appeal by Welsh Highland Railway Construction Ltd., against the
Authority’s refusal to remove Condition 8 of Planning Consent
NP2/11/634A dated 21/09/06, Beddgelert Station, Beddgelert. (Appeal
allowed)
9.
Delegated Decisions
Submitted and Received – The list of applications that had been
determined in accordance with delegated Authority.
10.
Scheme of Delegation
This item to be considered at the next meeting of the Planning and Access
Committee.
The meeting ended at 13.25
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SCHEDULE OF PLANNING DECISIONS – 10th September, 2008
Item No.
1.
NP2/11/127C – Conversion of garage (ground floor only) into one
bedroom holiday let, installation of external flue, canopy over front door,
and replace existing car port with wood store, Bryn Felin, Beddgelert.
RESOLVED to grant permission in accordance with recommendation.
2.
NP3/12/60H – Change of use of part of disused quarry to touring caravan site
incorporating 21 pitches (including 1 pitch for manager’s office), construction of
detached single storey toilet/store building and installation of private treatment
plant, former Plas Y Nant Quarry, Betws Garmon.
Public Speaking
Mr. Rhys Roberts, the Agent, addressed the Planning and Access
Committee and asked the Committee to consider the following:the applicant was trying to make full use of the land.
an application had previously been refused and this was now a
new application which conformed with planning guidance.
the view of the caravans were blocked by trees and some of the
caravan pitches had changed location so that they were out of
sight.
this was an opportunity for the family to start a business and help
the local economy.
RESOLVED – Site Inspection.
3.
NP3/13/1D – Amendment to Section 106 Agreement dated 17/12/1990, The
Outreach Organisation, Tanybwlch Farm, Llanllechid
RESOLVED to accede to the request to remove the extant Section 106
Agreement and replace it with a new Section 106 Agreement restricting
occupation of the dwelling to a person satisfying a ‘local person’ clause.
4.
NP4/11/10M – Discharge Section 52 Agreement, Maes Tylluan, Parc Trawsafon,
Betws y Coed.
RESOLVED to accede to the request to remove the extant Section 52
Agreement and replace it with a new Section 106 Agreement restricting
occupation of the dwelling to a person satisfying a ‘local person’ clause
and inserting the ‘mortgagee in possession’ clause.
5.
NP4/32/296B– Conversion and extension of outbuilding into dwelling (local
occupancy), outbuilding, Ty Mawr, Llanuwchllyn.
RESOLVED subject to a Section 106 Agreement, to grant permission in
accordance with recommendation.
6.
NP5/53/480 – Full application for construction of 4 houses for local need, land
near Maes Y Bronydd, Bala.
97
Reported – Gwynedd Council Highway objections withdrawn and Case Officer
advised that application could now be approved.
RESOLVED – Site Inspection. All Members of the Planning and Access
Committee, with the exception of Gwynedd Council Members, to be invited
to attend.
7.
NP5/57/220F – Full application for construction of one detached dwelling, Plot 5,
Ffatri Fawr Site, South Street, Dolgellau.
Reported – Amended plans received. Case Officer advised that further
consultation would now be required.
Public Speaking
Mr. Trevor Sleight addressed the Planning and Access Committee and
asked Members to consider the following objections:the site was too close to the nearby bungalows.
the site had been gutted and trees and shrubs removed.
Inspector had previously only granted planning permission for 4
dwellings on larger site because of access concerns.
plot 5 was outside the previous planning consent boundary.
the boundary wall had partially collapsed after excavation work on
the site.
the proposal was not in keeping with South Street.
Mr. Damien Hudson, the applicant, addressed the Planning and Access
Committee and asked Members to consider the following:CCW objections that the build was on new ground was incorrect as
the build would be on the site of the Old Tannery and its car park.
the applicants were willing to work with the CCW.
plot 5 meets planning requirements.
Highway Authority have not objected to the proposal.
dwelling was away from the river so no flood risk perceived.
the applicants were prepared to reduce the height of the building,
and were willing to comply with other requirements to gain consent.
RESOLVED – Site Inspection.
8.
NP5/57/688 – Conversion of disused workshop into dwelling, Plas Canol Bach,
adjacent Ty Canol, Finsbury Square, Dolgellau.
Reported – Gwynedd Highway Authority objections.
RESOLVED – Site Inspection.
9.
NP5/63/51K – Erection of new building to provide offices and changing
room facilities, National White Water Centre, Canolfan Tryweryn, Bala.
RESOLVED to refuse permission in accordance with recommendation.
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10.
NP5/65/279 – Formation of new vehicular access, land adjoining the
A470(T), Barn near Maes Mawr Farm, Llanelltyd.
RESOLVED - Site Inspection
11.
NP5/65/280 – Outline application to construct a terrace of 4 two storey
houses (low cost starter homes), land adjoining Glan Nant, Llanelltyd.
Reported – Letter from Llanelltyd school’s head teacher objecting on the
grounds that children walked to school over and close to the proposed
site.
RESOLVED – Site Inspection. Officer from Gwynedd Highways to be
invited to attend.
12.
NP5/71/L343 – Conversion of barn into dwellinghouse, Ysgubor Glandwr,
Llanuwchllyn.
Reported – Gwynedd Highway Authority objections re-affirmed following
further information from Agent. Case Officer advised that amended plan
received showing site boundary which included the track/road leading to
the building. Further information concerning ownership of road would now
be required.
RESOLVED – Site Inspection.
13.
NP5/74/422– Change of use from rough/grazing land to car park and
installation of ‘Portaloo’ type toilet, land near Blaen Cywarch, Cwm
Cywarch, Dinas Mawddwy.
Reported – Report to be corrected to record that there would be “no
parking charges”. Snowdonia Society comments reported.
RESOLVED subject to receiving Environment Agency response to Flood
Consequence Assessment, to authorise the Director of Planning and
Cultural Heritage to determine the application, subject to appropriate
conditions or reasons. Any permission to be for a temporary 5 year
period.
14.
Summary of Compliance Cases – For Information
RESOLVED to note the report.
15.
Planning Appeals awaiting decision – For Information
RESOLVED to note the report.
16.
Section 106 Agreements – For Information
RESOLVED to note the report.
17.
Outstanding Applications where more than 13 weeks have elapsed – For
Information
RESOLVED to note the report.
99
SNOWDONIA NATIONAL PARK PLANNING AND ACCESS COMMITTEE
WEDNESDAY 15th OCTOBER, 2008
Councillor E. Edwards (Gwynedd) (Chairman)
PRESENT:
Members appointed by Gwynedd Council
Councillors T.G. Ellis, A. Gruffydd, H.P. Hughes, J.R. Jones, D. Siencyn, G.G.
Williams, G.O. Williams;
Members appointed by Conwy County Borough Council
Councillors H. Gail Hall, W.E. Jones;
Members appointed by the Welsh Assembly Government
Dr. Iolo ap Gwynn, Mr. D.P. McAteer, Mr. J.L. Morgan, Mr. D.L. Roberts, Mr. P.
Weston;
Officers
Mr. A. Sturkey, Mr. G.I. Jones, Mrs. C. Ranson, Mr. A. Lloyd, Mr. R. Thomas, Mr.
G.W. Jones, Miss Sioned Morgan, Ms. Llinos Angharad, Mrs. A. Griffiths.
Apologies
Councillors E.C. Roberts, G.O. Edwards; Mr. G.D. George.
1.
Chairman’s Announcements
The Chairman, on behalf of Members, expressed the Committee’s
deepest sympathy to Mrs. Olwen Jones and family, on the death of her
husband Councillor Les Jones, Penmaenmawr, a former Member of the
Authority.
RESOLVED to ask the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage to
write to Mrs Jones and family to express the Authority’s deepest
sympathy.
2.
Declaration of Interest
The Members appointed by Gwynedd Council declared both a personal
and a prejudicial interest in items 5 (1) and 6 (3), (7) and (10) on the
Agenda, under paragraphs 10 (2) (ix) (aa) and 12 (1) of the Code of
Conduct for Members, and left the meeting whilst item 5(1) only was being
discussed.
Mr. John Morgan declared both a personal and prejudicial interest in items
6 (1) and (8) on the Agenda, under paragraph 10 (2) (a) (i) and 12 (1) of
the Code of Conduct for Members, and left the meeting whilst these
matters were being discussed.
100
3.
Minutes
The minutes of the Planning and Access Committee held on the 10th
September, 2008 were accepted and the Chairman signed them as a true
record.
4.
(1)
Policy Report by the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage
Guidance for Sustainable Design in the National Parks of Wales
Submitted – A report by the Head of Strategic Policy and Plans for
information and to seek approval as Supplementary Planning Guidance.
Reported – The Head of Strategic Policy and Plans presented the report
and Members acknowledged the value of having such a document in place
to raise awareness of the importance of good design and sustainability.
Members considered the guidance and made the following
recommendations:− language of the guidance to be advisory, not prescriptive;
− simplification of the check list;
− improved technical terminology, including appropriate references to
‘energy’, ‘power’ and ‘fuel’;
− redrafting of the Welsh translation to address linguistic looseness,
inaccurate technical terminology and missing content;
− reference to the importance of the linkages between design and
cultural/linguistic identity, including place names appropriate to locality
and language;
− to include guidance on upgrading listed buildings, including secondary
glazing
− reference to recycling facilities / composting / gardening space /
allotments,
− to make appropriate modifications emerging from deliberations of the
other two authorities.
Members further recognised that the supplementary ‘local’ guidance
pertinent to the Snowdonia National Park, being prepared to complement
the guidance, should provide:
− guidance on factors to be taken into account when considering
conversion of old buildings, such as barn conversions in remote rural
areas.
RESOLVED to approve the document as supplementary planning
guidance to the Eryri Local Plan and as the basis for draft
supplementary guidance for consultation alongside the emerging
Local Development Plan, subject to minor amendments /
modifications as outlined.
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5.
(1)
Inspection Panel Reports
Submitted – The report of the Full Planning and Access Committee
Inspection held on 24th September, 2008. (Gwynedd Council Members
were not present)
Arising thereon, it was RESOLVED to elect Mr. John Morgan to chair the
meeting for items 5 (1) (i) and (ii)
(i) NP5/53/480
Full application for construction of 4
Houses for local needs, land near Maes
y Bronydd, Y Bala.
Reported – Letter from Agent with amended plan received.
RESOLVED to authorise the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage to
grant permission for 3 dwellings, subject to appropriate conditions
including a Section 106 Local Affordable Housing Agreement on all units.
(ii) NP5/73/328
Full application for erection of 6 twostorey houses for local needs and
installation of underground LPG tanks,
playground to east of Minffordd Terrace,
Gellilydan.
Reported – Further objection reported.
RESOLVED to authorise the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage to
grant permission, subject to appropriate conditions including a condition
requiring tree planting.
(2)
Submitted – The reports of the Northern Area Planning and Access
Committee Inspection held on 26th September, 2008.
(1) NP3/12/60H
Change of use of part of disused quarry to
caravan site incorporating 21 pitched
(including 1 pitch for manager’s office),
construction of detached single storey toilet /
store building and installation of private
treatment plant, former Plas y Nant Quarry,
Betws Garmon.
Reported – Further late correspondence received from the Agent.
RESOLVED to refuse permission on the following grounds:1.
A touring caravan site in this location would not be adequately
screened from public vantage points to the detriment of the local
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2.
(3)
environment and detract from the environment of the National Park
as a whole and would as a consequence be contrary to Eryri Local
Plan Policy TW7.
This proposal would, in achieving the minimum highway standard
required for safe entry and exit require engineering works that would
have a detrimental visual effect on the environment of the National
Park and consequently be contrary to Eryri Local Plan Policy TW7.
Submitted – The reports of the Southern Area Inspection Panel held on
24th September, 2008.
NP5/57/220F
Full application for construction of one detached
dwelling, Plot 5, Ffatri Fawr Site, South Street,
Dolgellau.
Reported – Amended plan received from Agent reducing the height of the
dwelling.
Forestry Commission recommendations reported.
RESOLVED to defer consideration for further discussions on amended
plan and Forestry Commission observations.
(2) NP5/57/688
Full application for conversion of
disused workshop into dwelling,
Plas Canol Bach, adjacent Ty
Canol, Finsbury Square, Dolgellau.
Reported – Response to parking concerns awaited.
RESOLVED subject to satisfactory outcome to car parking concerns, to
authorise the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage to grant
permission subject to appropriate conditions.
(3) NP5/65/279
Formation of new vehicular access, land adjoining the
A470(T), Barn near Maes Mawr Farm, Llanelltyd.
Reported – Amended plans received.
RESOLVED subject to reconsultation on amended plans and no adverse
comments to same, to authorise the Director of Planning and Cultural
Heritage to grant permission subject to appropriate conditions.
(4) NP5/65/280
Outline application to construct a terrace of 4 two
storey houses (low cost starter homes), land adjoining
Glan Nant, Llanelltyd.
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RESOLVED to defer consideration at applicant’s request.
(5) NP5/71/L343
Full application for conversion of barn into
dwellinghouse, Ysgubor Glandwr, Llanuwchllyn.
Reported - Amended plan shown to Members.
RESOLVED subject to resolving position in respect of ownership of
roadway leading to site and any notice upon other parties, to authorise the
Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage to grant permission subject to
appropriate conditions.
6.
Planning Applications and Enforcement
Submitted – A report by the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage on
planning applications and enforcement matters.
Please see the Schedule of Planning Decisions attached.
7.
Delegated Decisions
Submitted and Received – The list of applications that had been
determined in accordance with delegated Authority.
8.
Scheme of Delegation
This item would be considered at a future meeting of the Planning and
Access Committee.
The meeting ended at 12.25
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SCHEDULE OF PLANNING DECISIONS – 15th OCTOBER, 2008
Item No.
1.
NP2/11/96D – Extension to existing hay barn / sheep shed, Hafod y Porth,
Beddgelert.
RESOLVED to grant permission in accordance with recommendation.
2.
NP2/11/653 – Full application to demolish existing detached bungalow and
construction of new detached two storey dwelling and installation of 1300 litre oil
tank, Glanllyn, Nant Gwynant.
Reported – Highways objections reported.
RESOLVED to grant permission in accordance with recommendation together
with an additional condition to ensure that the visibility splays are adequate.
3.
NP5/50/109C – Construction of annexe including doctor’s surgery to
existing hall and demolition of existing dilapidated outbuildings, Neuadd
Dyfi, Aberdyfi.
RESOLVED subject to negotiations with Welsh Water on position of public
sewer, to authorise the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage to
determine the application subject to appropriate conditions or reasons.
4.
NP5/53/145C - Conversion of outbuildings and refurbishment of former dwelling
to provide 3 town houses, outbuildings to rear Pont Arran, High Street, Bala.
RESOLVED to grant permission in accordance with recommendation.
5.
NP5/53/493 – Outline application to construct affordable houses, land to the east
of Coleg y Bala, Bala.
Reported – Amended plans and letter from Agent.
RESOLVED – Site Inspection.
6.
NP5/53/494 – Outline application to construct affordable houses, part of
garden Coleg y Bala house, Y Bala.
Reported – Letter from Agent.
RESOLVED – Site Inspection.
7.
NP5/55/109A –Construction of spectators stand, Bryncrug Playing Field,
Bryncrug.
RESOLVED to grant permission in accordance with recommendation.
8.
NP5/58/LB86B – Erection of new cattle shed and covered manure store
within curtilage of Listed Building, Egryn, Talybont.
RESOLVED to grant permission in accordance with recommendation.
9.
NP5/58/470 – Outline application for construction of agricultural worker’s
dwelling and installation of new septic tank, land at Bennar Fawr Farm,
105
Dyffryn Ardudwy.
RESOLVED – Site Inspection.
10.
NP5/59/131A – Outline application to demolish existing buildings and
construct flats providing additional care for the elderly, Gwynedd Council
Depot, Peniel, Llan Ffestiniog.
Reported – Letter from applicant.
RESOLVED to defer consideration to await further information on proposed
private sewage treatment system and to reconsult on same.
11.
NP5/62/54C – Retrospective application for retention of use of stables,
tack room converted as stable/tack room and to provide kennels for up to
six dogs and change of use of part of an agricultural field as dog run,
Tŷ Cwn, land opposite Tan y Wenallt, Llabedr.
Public Speaking
Ms. Lisa Shaw addressed the Committee and asked Members to consider the
following objections:rescued dogs would be in a state of distress and would
naturally be noisy.
level of noise would be a disturbance for the 30 nearby neighbours.
the land, whilst in previous ownership, was used for rescued dogs
but on a small scale.
there was concern that as the rescue was now a registered charity
this would increase the number of dogs and the level of noise.
Mr. I. O’Rourke, the Agent, addressed the Planning and Access Committee and
asked Members to consider the following:the previous owner did not use the stables as part of the dog rescue
facility.
the previous owner had rescued and saved over 500 dogs at her
own expense.
the dog rescue was now a registered charity and the applicant
hoped that this could continue.
there was a petition of support with 400 names.
there had been no complaints previously from the neighbours.
there was no potential hazard.
Reported – Gwynedd Council objections.
RESOLVED – Site Inspection. Gwynedd Council Environmental Health
Officer to be invited to attend.
12.
NP5/74/423 – Full application for construction of a detached two storey
dwelling, land adjacent Mallwyd Service Station, Mallwyd.
Reported – Gwynedd Council objections.
RESOLVED – Site Inspection. Gwynedd Council Highways Liaison
Officer to be invited to attend.
106
13.
NP5/75/203A – Construction of kitchen extension/bedroom extension to
the rear and garage/lounge extension to the front (revised application),
25 Felindre, Pennal.
RESOLVED to authorise the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage to grant
permission subject to appropriate conditions on the grounds that the Planning and
Access Committee of the Snowdonia National Park Authority consider that the
proposed development would not have an effect on existing parking.
14.
Summary of Compliance Cases – For Information
RESOLVED to note the report.
15.
Planning Appeals awaiting decision – For Information
Arising thereon, the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage advised that the
Inspector had dismissed the appeal at Gerllyn, Nantlle.
RESOLVED to note the report.
16.
Section 106 Agreements – For Information
RESOLVED to note the report.
17.
Outstanding Applications where more than 13 weeks have elapsed – For
Information
RESOLVED to note the report.
107
SNOWDONIA NATIONAL PARK PLANNING AND ACCESS COMMITTEE
WEDNESDAY 12th NOVEMBER, 2008
Councillor E. Edwards (Gwynedd) (Chairman)
PRESENT:
Members appointed by Gwynedd Council
Councillors T.G. Ellis, A. Gruffydd, H.P. Hughes, E.C. Roberts, D. Siencyn, G.G.
Williams,
G.O. Williams;
Members appointed by Conwy County Borough Council
Councillors G.O. Edwards, H. Gail Hall, W.E. Jones;
Members appointed by the Welsh Assembly Government
Mr. G. George, Dr. Iolo ap Gwynn, Mr. J.L. Morgan, Mr. D.L. Roberts, Mr. P.
Weston;
Officers
Mr. A. Phillips, Mr. A. Sturkey, Mr. G.I. Jones, Mr. A. Lloyd, Mr. G.W. Jones, Ms
S. Morgan, Ms. Llinos Angharad, Mrs. A. Gaffey.
1.
Apologies
Councillor J.R. Jones; Mr. D.P. McAteer.
2.
Declarations of Interest
The Members appointed by Gwynedd Council declared both a personal
and a prejudicial interest in items 5 (3) and (8) on the Agenda, under
paragraphs 10 (2) (a) (ix) (aa) and 12 (1) of the Code of Conduct for
Members, but took part in the meeting relying on the dispensation granted
by the Standards Committee on 1st October, 2008 unless otherwise stated
below.
Cllr. D. Siencyn declared both a personal and prejudicial interest in items 5
(5) and (6) on the Agenda, under paragraph 10 (2) (b) for item (5) and
paragraph 10 (2) (a) (ii) for item (6) and also 12 (1) of the Code of Conduct
for Members, and left the meeting whilst these matters were being
discussed.
Cllr. G.G. Williams declared both a personal and prejudicial interest in item
5 (6) on the Agenda, under paragraph 10 (2) (c) (i) and 12 (1) of the Code
of Conduct for Members, and left the meeting whilst the matter was being
discussed.
108
Cllr. H.P. Hughes declared both a personal and prejudicial interest in items
5 (2) and (3) on the Agenda, under paragraph 10 (2) (a) (ix) (ee) for item
(2) and paragraph 10 (2) (a) (viii) for item (3) and also 12 (1) of the Code
of Conduct for Members, and left the meeting whilst these matters were
being discussed.
Cllr. E.C. Roberts declared both a personal and prejudicial interest in item
5 (8) on the Agenda, under paragraph 10 (2) (a) (ix) (aa) and 12 (1) of the
Code of Conduct for Members, and left the meeting whilst the matter was
being discussed.
Cllr. G.O. Edwards declared both a personal and prejudicial interest in
item 5 (3) on the Agenda, under paragraph 10 (2) (a) (ix) (aa) and 12 (1) of
the Code of Conduct for Members, and left the meeting whilst the matter
was being discussed.
3.
Minutes
The minutes of the Planning and Access Committee held on the 15th
October, 2008 were accepted and the Chairman signed them as a true
record.
4.
Inspection Panel Reports
Submitted – The reports of the Southern Area Inspection Panel held on
22nd October, 2008.
(1) NP5/53/493
Outline application to construct
affordable houses, land to the east
of Coleg y Bala, Bala.
RESOLVED to refuse permission on the grounds of the impact of the
development on the protected trees and on the character of the area.
(2) NP5/53/494
Outline application to construct
affordable houses, part of garden of
Coleg y Bala, Bala.
RESOLVED to refuse permission in accordance with officer
recommendation.
“That the development of the site would constitute an undesirable and
intrusive development in this area of the town of Bala, which would have a
poor relationship with existing houses and existing developments on this
important approach to the town. The proposal was as a result contrary to
the requirements of Policies PC3 and PC5 of the adopted Eryri Local
Plan”.
109
(3) NP5/58/470
Outline application for construction
of agricultural worker’s dwelling and
installation of new septic tank, land
at Bennar Fawr Farm, Dyffryn
Ardudwy.
Reported – Case Officer advised that, following the removal of 63 acres
which had planning permission for a golf course from the proposal, the
independent consultant had confirmed that there remained justification for
an agricultural workers dwelling on this site.
Public Speaking
Mr. Michael Roberts addressed the Committee and asked Members to consider
the following objections:−
Mr. Roberts did not object to the dwelling as he had lived within the
farming community, but was concerned that in tandem with the golf
course permission, the proposal could be developed as a golf club
house in the future.
−
A golf clubhouse would seriously affect noise levels, with a possible
music licence and additional traffic.
−
there was a history of selling a farm cottage to private ownership at
this site.
−
Mr. Roberts asked Members to note his concerns that in the future
an application for a change of use would be submitted as a golf
course could not be operated without a clubhouse.
RESOLVED to authorise the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage to
grant permission subject to appropriate conditions.
(4) NP5/62/54C
Retrospective application for
retention of use of stables, tack
room converted as stable/tack room
and to provide kennels for up to six
dogs and change of use of part of
an agricultural field as a dog run, Ty
Cwn, land opposite Tan y Wenallt,
Llanbedr.
Reported – Case Officer read out 2 emails to Members which had been
omitted in error from the document bundle.
RESOLVED to refuse permission on the grounds that:1.
The National Park Planning and Access Committee considered that
the location of the development, including the metal fencing, was
not sympathetic to, or enhances the character and amenity of the
110
2.
surrounding open countryside. Therefore, the development was
contrary to Policies PC 1, PC 3, PC 5 and
AM 1 of the adopted Eryri Local Plan which aims to safeguard the
amenity and visual appearance of the National Park.
The development, which involves the kennelling of dogs, causes a
significant adverse effect to the amenity of neighbouring residents
due to noise. Therefore, the development conflicts with Policy C 5
of the adopted Eryri Local Plan that permits the change of use of
buildings for business purposes provided the use causes no harm
to the living conditions of neighbouring residents.
(5) NP5/62/54C
Full application for construction of a
detached two storey dwelling, land
adjacent to Mallwyd Service Station,
Mallwyd.
RESOLVED to authorise the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage to
grant permission subject to appropriate conditions.
5.
Planning Applications and Enforcement
Submitted – A report by the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage on
planning applications and enforcement matters.
Please see the Schedule of Planning Decisions attached.
6.
Planning Appeals
Submitted and Received – copies of the following appeal decisions:(1)
Appeal by Mrs. Lynn Cummings against an enforcement notice
issued by the Authority for failure to comply with a planning
condition at Gerllyn, land at and adjacent to OS Field No. 9229,
Nantlle, Caernarfon. The appeal was varied to allow ‘nine months’
for compliance. (Appeal dismissed)
(2)
7.
Appeal by Mrs. K. Isaacs against the Authority’s refusal to grant
planning permission for the change of use to holiday
accommodation for a maximum of 12 people, Capel Bethel, Pen y
Garreg Street, Trawsfynydd. (Appeal allowed)
Delegated Decisions
Submitted and Received – The list of applications that had been
determined in accordance with delegated Authority.
The meeting ended at 11.40
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SCHEDULE OF PLANNING DECISIONS – 12th NOVEMBER, 2008
Item No.
1.
NP3/10/5J – Proposed residential development comprising of a terrace of
4 dwellings, land adjacent to Aber Falls Hotel, Abergwyngregyn, Conwy.
RESOLVED to defer consideration at Agent’s request.
2.
NP3/12/9E – Extension to existing boardwalk, fishing platform and construction of
timber framing structure, land near Cwellyn Car Park, Rhyd Ddu, Gwynedd.
Reported – Countryside Council for Wales no objections. The Director of
Corporate and Legal Services confirmed that path maintenance would be
included within the section’s work programme. Officers would forward Members’
concerns regarding the height of an existing platform.
RESOLVED to grant permission in accordance with recommendation.
3.
NP3/15/204A – Full application for the creation of a boardwalk, land near
Gwastadnant, Nant Peris.
Reported – Case Officer revised the description to read “….creation of a
boardwalk and hard path”. Further details showing the path in its entirety were
awaited.
RESOLVED subject to approval of a sample wall, to authorise the Director
of Planning and Cultural Heritage to grant permission subject to
appropriate conditions and to ensure that the path is suitable for cyclists
and that the gates which access the path were sensitive to their
surroundings.
4.
NP5/57/220F – Full application for construction of one detached dwelling, plot 5,
Ffatri Fawr Site, South Street, Dolgellau.
Reported – Town Council objections. Dolgellau Heritage objections.
Neighbour’s continued objections.
RESOLVED to refuse permission on the grounds that:1.
The Snowdonia National Park Authority Planning and Access
Committee consider that a fifth plot on the site was not appropriate
given the Planning Inspectorate's decision on planning application
NP5/57/220B, which restricted development of the adjoining site to
four dwellings only, due to the nature of the road leading up to the
site.
2.
The design of the proposed dwelling was inappropriate and
unsympathetic to its setting and the proposal would also encroach
further into the countryside setting and be detrimental to the
character of the area and the visual amenities of the locality. The
proposal was therefore contrary to Policies TA10, PC3 and T1 of
the adopted Eryri Local Plan.
112
Note: Councillor G.O. Edwards asked for it to be recorded in the minutes
that he did not support the decision.
5.
NP5/65/278 – Full application for construction of a detached two storey dwelling,
land near Bryn Du, Llanelltyd.
Public Speaking
Mr. Martin Humphreys, the applicant, addressed the Planning and Access
Committee and asked Members to consider the following:Mr. Humphreys wanted to live in Dolgellau.
he had already spent £3,000 on outline plans and nearly £4,000 on
a flood risk assessment.
the Southern Area Inspection Panel had visited the site and
established that the dwelling shown on the indicative plan would fit
into the site area with car parking above the plot.
some of the surrounding houses were smaller than this proposal.
the applicant was currently paying £400-00 a month in rent.
the Environment Agency had no objections.
the applicant had spent approximately £6,000 and had not laid a
brick yet. The plot was all that was left of the family farm and the
only resource left to the applicant to create a better future.
Arising thereon, Members considered that:the applicant had taken all the steps required of him.
there were no Environment Agency objections to the proposal.
the site was suitable for a house.
RESOLVED to authorise the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage to
grant permission subject to appropriate conditions and a Section 106
Local Occupancy Agreement.
6.
NP5/65/282 – Conversion of farm building into dwelling, alterations to
existing vehicular access, and installation of new septic tank, Farm
Building, Hendre Forion, Bontddu.
Reported – Awaiting amended plans.
RESOLVED – Site Inspection.
7.
NP5/75/75C – Construction of new sales office incorporating valetting bay,
extension of car sales area, associated landscaping and installation of
new septic tank, Plas Dyfi Service Station, Cwrt, Pennal.
Public Speaking
Mr. M.R. Moore addressed the Committee and asked Members to consider the
following objections:Mr. Moore lived behind the site. He had discussed the proposal
with neighbours who had agreed that this was an over-development
of the site.
113
-
there were 40 to 50 vehicles on a roadside site in a rural location
within the National Park.
the photograph showing the site at the meeting was of the southern
end of the site whilst the proposed development was on the northern
end.
planning history of this site showed that an almost identical building
was refused in 1995.
concerns were raised at the size of the proposal and that the
applicant was using a piecemeal approach to the planning process.
RESOLVED – Site Inspection.
8.
NP5/77/157A – Erection of link corridor between the school and the hall,
Talsarnau Primary School, Talsarnau.
RESOLVED to grant permission in accordance with recommendation.
9.
Summary of Compliance Cases – For Information
Arising thereon, the Head of Planning would provide an update report on Cae
Nest, Llanbedr at the next meeting of the Planning and Access Committee.
RESOLVED to note the report and await the further report as outlined.
10.
Planning Appeals awaiting decision – For Information
RESOLVED to note the report.
11.
Section 106 Agreements – For Information
RESOLVED to note the report.
12.
Outstanding Applications where more than 13 weeks have elapsed –
For Information
RESOLVED to note the report.
114
SNOWDONIA NATIONAL PARK PLANNING AND ACCESS COMMITTEE
WEDNESDAY 17th DECEMBER, 2008
Councillor E. Edwards (Gwynedd) (Chairman)
PRESENT:
Members appointed by Gwynedd Council
Councillors T.G. Ellis, A. Gruffydd, H.P. Hughes, E.C. Roberts, D. Siencyn, G.G.
Williams;
Members appointed by Conwy County Borough Council
Councillors G.O. Edwards, H. Gail Hall, W.E. Jones;
Members appointed by the Welsh Assembly Government
Dr. Iolo ap Gwynn, Mr. D.P. McAteer, Mr. J.L. Morgan, Mr. D.L. Roberts,
Mr. P. Weston;
Officers
Mr. A. Phillips, Mr. A. Sturkey, Mr. G.I. Jones, Mr. A. Lloyd, Mr. G.W. Jones,
Mr. R. Thomas, Mr. R. Williams, Mrs. A. Gaffey, Mrs. A. Griffiths.
1.
Apologies
Councillors J.R. Jones, G.O. Williams; Mr. G. George.
2.
Declarations of Interest
The Members appointed by Gwynedd Council declared both a personal
and a prejudicial interest in item 8 (7) on the Agenda, under paragraphs 10
(2) (a) (ix) (aa) and 12 (1) of the Code of Conduct for Members, but took
part in the meeting relying on the dispensation granted by the Standards
Committee on 1st October, 2008 unless otherwise stated below.
Cllr. D. Siencyn declared both a personal and prejudicial interest in item 8
(7) on the Agenda, under paragraph 10 (2) (a) (ii) and 12 (1) of the Code
of Conduct for Members, and left the meeting whilst the matter was being
discussed.
Cllr. G.G. Williams declared both a personal and prejudicial interest in item
8 (7) on the Agenda, under paragraph 10 (2) (c) (i) and 12 (1) of the Code
of Conduct for Members, and left the meeting whilst the matter was being
discussed.
Cllr. E. Edwards declared both a personal and prejudicial interest in items
8 (3) and (9) on the Agenda, under paragraph 10 (2) (a) (ix) (ee) for item
(3) and paragraph 10 (2) (c) (ii) for item (9) and also 12 (1) of the Code of
115
Conduct for Members, and left the meeting whilst these matters were
being discussed.
Mr. P. Weston declared a personal interest in item 4 on the Agenda, under
paragraph 10 (2) (a) (ix) (bb) of the Code of Conduct for Members, and left
the meeting whilst the matter was being discussed.
Mr. Aled Lloyd declared an interest in item 4 on the Agenda and withdrew
from the meeting when the item was under discussion.
3.
Minutes
The minutes of the Planning and Access Committee held on the 12th
November, 2008 were accepted and the Chairman signed them as a true
record.
4.
Welsh Highland Railway Panel Minutes
Submitted – The Welsh Highland Railway Panel Minutes held on 10th
September, 2008.
RESOLVED to note the minutes.
5.
Dolgellau Townscape Heritage Scheme
Submitted – A report by the Head of Cultural Heritage to formally adopt
the Dolgellau Conservation Area Appraisal and Management Plan and the
Dolgellau Townscape Heritage Initiative Partnership Vision Statement.
Reported – The Head of Cultural Heritage presented the report and
provided Members with funding details. He confirmed that the Project
Officer’s key function would be to attract private sector interest.
RESOLVED to formally adopt the Dolgellau Conservation Area
Management Plan and Dolgellau Townscape Heritage Initiative
Partnership Vision Statement.
6.
Draft Eryri Affordable Housing Delivery Plan
Submitted – A report by the Head of Strategic Policy and Plans together
with the draft Affordable Housing Delivery Plan for consideration and
approval as a draft for consultation.
Reported – The Head of Strategic Policy and Plans presented the report
and advised that it was a draft Affordable Housing Delivery Statement
rather than a Plan which had been prepared in collaboration with the
Housing Departments of Gwynedd Council and Conwy County Borough
Council. This document reflects the policies within the Draft Eryri Local
Development Plan and would provide the Authority with land use planning
policies in the period up to formal adoption of the LDP.
116
Members considered the draft Affordable Housing Delivery Statement and
made the following amendments:2.8 - Conversions
to include that conversions should be sensitive to the character of
the area.
2.14 – Removal of Agricultural and Holiday Accommodation
Occupation Condition – remove reference to 12 months in relation
to holiday accommodation occupancy.
2.16 – last paragraph should read “issued for consultation in Spring
2009”.
Arising thereon, Members discussed the number of planning permissions
which remained current within the National Park and how they could be
utilised to deliver affordable housing. The Chief Executive agreed to raise
the matter with the Minister and advise Members on the outcome in due
course.
RESOLVED
1.
to approve the draft Affordable Housing Delivery Statement as
a draft for consultation, subject to modifications as outlined.
2.
to approve the public consultation arrangements as proposed
in January/ February 2009.
3.
to await a report on the outcome of the Chief Executive’s
discussion with the Minister on the number of planning
permissions that remained current within the Snowdonia
National Park.
7.
Inspection Panel Reports
Submitted – The reports of the Southern Area Inspection Panel held on
26th November, 2008.
(1) NP5/65/282
Conversion of farm building into
dwelling, alterations to existing
vehicular access and installation of
a new septic tank, farm building at
Hendre Forion, Bontddu.
RESOLVED subject to agreement on details, to authorise the Director of
Planning and Cultural Heritage to grant permission subject to appropriate
conditions.
117
(2) NP5/75/75C
Construction of new sales office,
incorporating valetting bay,
extension of car sales area,
associated landscaping and
installation of septic tank, Plas Dyfi
Service Station, Pennal.
RESOLVED subject to agreement on landscaping details, to authorise the
Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage to grant permission subject to
appropriate conditions.
8.
Planning Applications and Enforcement
Submitted – A report by the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage on
planning applications and enforcement matters.
Please see the Schedule of Planning Decisions attached.
9.
Planning Appeals
Submitted and Received – copies of the following appeal decisions:(1)
Appeal by Cyngor Gwynedd against the Authority’s refusal to grant
planning permission for the change of use of the land to a recycling
centre, the formation of a new vehicular access and the siting of an
office building at the Highways and Municipal Service Depot, Bala
Road, Dolgellau. (Appeal dismissed)
(2)
10.
Appeal by Mr. Gwylfa Davies against the Authority’s refusal to grant
planning permission for the erection of 2 two-storey dwellings,
formation of car parking area and resiting of lpg tanks at Gwesty’r
Castell, Harlech. (Appeal dismissed)
Delegated Decisions
Submitted and Received – The list of applications that had been
determined in accordance with delegated Authority.
The meeting ended at 12.30
118
SCHEDULE OF PLANNING DECISIONS – 17th DECEMBER, 2008
Item No.
1.
NP3/10/5J – Proposed residential development comprising of a terrace of
4 dwellings, land adjacent to Aber Falls Hotel, Abergwyngregyn, Conwy.
RESOLVED to refuse permission in accordance with recommendation.
2.
NP3/12/72F – Change of use of grazing land to water treatment works.
Extensions and alterations including construction of process buildings and
storage tanks, formation of internal site access roads, creation of new vehicular
access to the site, associated landscaping and diversion of part of public
footpath, Cwellyn Water Treatment Works, Betws Garmon.
Public Speaking
Mr. Mark Davies, on behalf of the applicant, addressed the Planning and Access
Committee and asked Members to consider the following:Welsh Water were required to upgrade their facility at Cwellyn in
order to improve water quality. Improvements were also planned at
Penbont and Mynydd Llandygai with a proposed investment of £14
million.
there was now a legal obligation on Welsh Water by the Drinking
Water Inspectorate for the new plant at Cwellyn to be operational by
31st March 2010.
Welsh Water representatives had discussed improvements with the
National Park Planning Officers, e.g. landscaping, acoustic
screening, reduction in height of the building by sinking the tanks
etc.
the applicant’s representative advised that this upgrade was
essential to ensure customer safety.
RESOLVED to grant permission in accordance with recommendation together
with an additional landscaping condition and a condition to ensure that the
existing access is for emergency use only.
3.
NP4/16/357 – Outline application to construct 4 affordable dwellings, land
to rear of 16-18 Pentre Bont, Dolwyddelan.
Reported – Local residents’ objections reported.
Public Speaking
Mrs. Ann Fellows addressed the Committee and asked Members to consider the
following objections:Mrs. Fellows referred to individual letters of objection.
the site was part of Forestry Commission land which was not
designated as land for housing, and should be protected as a
woodland for future generations. It had been expected that this land
would be replanted.
the need for affordable housing was acknowledged but there
remained a number of unoccupied properties in the village.
119
Pentre Bont consisted of a small group of 19th century quarryman’s
cottages.
the site marked the start of many well known and used walks into
the forest.
the proposal did not comply with PPS7 which refers to the continued
protection of open countryside for the benefit of all.
Ms. Cerian Evans, Conwy Rural Housing Enabler, addressed the Planning and
Access Committee on behalf of Dolwyddelan Community Council and asked
Members to consider the following:local residents in Dolwyddelan Community were unable to purchase
homes in the community.
the cost of house purchase was restrictive as a result of in-migration
of people who wished to retire to the area.
local people were in support of the proposal which would enable
young people in the community to purchase affordable homes.
local housing survey had showed there were 15 households in need
of affordable housing.
there were currently 40 children, a nursery group and good transport
links in the area and the proposal should be supported in order to
keep young families in the area.
RESOLVED subject to agreement with the Environment Agency over
possible realignment of stream, to authorise the Director of Planning and
Cultural Heritage to grant permission subject to appropriate conditions and
Section 106 Agreement.
-
4.
NP5/57/AD42K – Advertisement Consent to display externally illuminated double
sided post mounted panel sign, Little Chef, Mile End Services, Dolgellau.
Reported – Amended plans showing the Welsh wording above the English had
now been received. Dolgellau Community Council observations reported.
RESOLVED to grant permission in accordance with recommendation.
5.
NP5/57/937N – Retrospective application for the retention of retaining garden
wall, plot adjacent to No.1 Maes yr Helyg, Dolgellau.
Reported – Application withdrawn.
6.
NP5/57/1008 – Conversion of stables and engine building into 2 holiday
accommodation units, Stables and Engine Building, Penmaenucha,
Penmaenpool.
RESOLVED to refuse permission on highway safety grounds.
7.
NP5/59/131A – Outline application to demolish existing buildings and
construct flats providing additional care for the elderly, Gwynedd Council
Depot, Peniel, Llan Ffestiniog.
RESOLVED subject to Dwr Cymru satisfaction with regard to the
proposed sewerage and surface water disposal measures, to authorise
120
the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage to determine the application
subject to appropriate conditions or reasons.
8.
NP5/62/317C – Change of use of partly-implemented agricultural worker’s
dwelling into one holiday letting unit and one dwelling for local occupancy,
Barns, Cefn Isaf, Nantcol Valley, Llanbedr.
RESOLVED to grant permission in accordance with recommendation.
9.
NP5/62/328A – Erection of reception building and water storage building, Cefn
Uchaf Campsite, Nantcol Valley, Llanbedr.
Public Speaking
Mr. Aled Jones, the applicant, addressed the Planning and Access Committee
and asked Members to consider the following:the applicant explained the reasons for the proposal to the
Committee.
the caravan and camping licence requires that toilets and showers
be provided and the distance from the site to the house requires this
investment. Safety cameras would be erected to ensure protection
of the property.
the reception and toilet would be of the highest possible standard
and the proposal would consist of simple buildings with slate roofs.
the applicant’s family appreciate the beauty of the area and had
received awards for environmental improvements.
the applicant’s livelihood was dependent on the countryside and
tourism.
RESOLVED to grant permission in accordance with recommendation.
10.
NP5/65/280 – Outline application to construct a terrace of 4 two storey houses
(low cost starter homes), land adjoining Glan Nant, Llanelltyd.
Reported – Agent’s letter read to Members.
Public Speaking
Mr. R. Gunn, on behalf of the applicant, addressed the Planning and Access
Committee and asked Members to consider the following:Mr. Gunn advised that he was the applicant’s husband and was an
Engineering and Environment Consultant.
to refuse on the grounds that the proposed development constituted
a cramped over-development of the site should not be supported. In
comparison to other plot sizes this application takes up 20% of the
plot in which it stands whilst other properties had 25% less
surrounding space.
the proposal covers a 144 sq metre area which is similar to a semidetached building on the same road.
the south/east side would be surrounded by trees.
concerns over access, flood risk, trees and visual impact had all
been overcome.
the proposal would provide starter homes for local people.
121
the Council had only 3 properties available for 30 applicants.
RESOLVED to refuse permission in accordance with recommendation.
11.
NP5/66/155E – Change of use of part of field to form extension to existing water
treatment works, construction of new building, formation of internal access roads
within the site, formation of a new vehicular access and associated works,
Rhiwgoch Water Treatment Works, Harlech.
Public Speaking
Mr. Mark Davies, on behalf of the applicant, addressed the Planning and Access
Committee and asked Members to consider the following:the proposal was similar to that approved at Cwellyn Water Treatment
Works, Betws Garmon.
the upgrade was essential to ensure customer safety and was part
of the investment programme.
the building size was at its minimum to accommodate the required
plant and machinery.
an archaeological work programme had been agreed with the
National Park Archaeologist.
there was a legal obligation on Welsh Water by the Drinking Water
Inspectorate for the new plant at Rhiwgoch to be operational by 31st
March 2010.
RESOLVED
1.
to grant permission in accordance with recommendation.
2.
to undertake further discussions on landscaping with developer.
12.
NP5/66/161G – Retrospective application to retain agricultural building which had
not been built in accordance with the notification of intention to construct building
previously given permission under Part 6, Schedule 2, of the Town and Country
Planning (General Permitted Development) Order 1995, Groeslas, Old Llanfair
Road, Harlech.
Public Speaking
Mr. Kevin Millington addressed the Committee and asked Members to consider
the following objections:rather than approve in accordance with policy consideration AM1
and TA2 the proposal should be refused under policy T7.
Mr. Millington provided Members with planning history of the site.
the building currently resembles a bungalow and the Committee
should expect an application for a change of use to a dwelling in the
next 5 years.
concerns were also expressed regarding various other aspects of
the building, e.g. extension to the north elevation, large window
openings inside the building etc.
RESOLVED – Site Inspection.
122
13.
NP5/70/LB7H – Demolition of existing groundsman’s store, garage, and
workshop in curtilage of listed building and construction of new recreation building
for provision of facilities for use as part of the owner’s private staff hotel, Fach
Ddeiliog, (Bala Lake Hotel), Llangower.
Reported – To note that the arrow on the site map on page 189 was incorrect
and should refer to the building located above.
RESOLVED to authorise the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage to
grant permission subject to appropriate conditions and in accordance with
amended plans.
14.
NP5/74/LB286 – Listed Building Consent for conversion of agricultural building
into residential unit, Barn, Wern Gau, Llanymawddwy.
RESOLVED to defer consideration at applicant’s request.
15.
NP5/74/LB286B – Full application for conversion of agricultural building into
residential unit, installation of bio-disc treatment sewerage plant, creation of
garden and parking area (re-submission), Barn, Wern Gau, Llanymawddwy.
RESOLVED to defer consideration at applicant’s request.
16.
Cae Nest Site, Llanbedr – For Information
Reported – Case Officer asked Members to note correction to the report. He had
discussed the issue of scrap vehicles with the landowner, despite this, scrap
vehicles remained on site and a Notice under Section 215 of the Planning Act
was being prepared to secure removal of the scrap cars and other materials from
the site. Case Officer read Forestry Officer’s report to Members.
RESOLVED to note the report.
17.
Summary of Compliance Cases – For Information
RESOLVED to note the report.
18.
Planning Appeals awaiting decision – For Information
RESOLVED to note the report.
19.
Section 106 Agreements – For Information
RESOLVED to note the report.
20.
Outstanding Applications where more than 13 weeks have elapsed – For
Information
RESOLVED to note the report.
123
SNOWDONIA NATIONAL PARK PLANNING AND ACCESS COMMITTEE
WEDNESDAY 21st JANUARY, 2009
Councillor H.P. Hughes (Gwynedd) (Vice-Chairman)
PRESENT:
Members appointed by Gwynedd Council
Councillors A. Gruffydd, E.C. Roberts, D. Siencyn, G.G. Williams, G.O. Williams;
Members appointed by Conwy County Borough Council
Councillors G.O. Edwards, H. Gail Hall;
Members appointed by the Welsh Assembly Government
Mr. G.D, George, Dr. Iolo ap Gwynn, Mr. D.P. McAteer, Mr. J.L. Morgan, Mr. D.L.
Roberts, Mr. P. Weston;
Officers
Mr. A. Sturkey, Mr. G.I. Jones, Mr. A. Lloyd, Mr. G.W. Jones, Mr. R. Williams, Ms.
S. Morgan, Ms. E. Thomas, Mrs. C. Ranson, Ms. R. Jones, Mrs. A. Gaffey, Ms.
Llinos Angharad.
1.
Apologies
Councillors E. Edwards, T.G. Ellis, J.R. Jones, W.E. Jones;
2.
Declarations of Interest
The Members appointed by Gwynedd Council declared both a personal
and prejudicial interest in items 6 (1), (3) and (6) on the Agenda, under
paragraphs 10 (2) (a) (ix) (aa) and 12 (1) of the Code of Conduct for
Members, but took part in the meeting, relying on the dispensation granted
by the Standards Committee on 1st October, 2008 unless otherwise stated
below.
Cllr. H. Gail Hall declared both a personal and prejudicial interest in item 6
(5) on the Agenda, under paragraph 10 (2) (c) (i) and 12 (1) of the Code of
Conduct for Members, and left the meeting whilst the matter was being
discussed.
Mr. P. Weston declared both a personal and prejudicial interest in item 6
(7) on the Agenda, under paragraph 10 (2) (c) (i) and 12 (1) of the Code of
Conduct for Members, and left the meeting whilst the matter was being
discussed.
Cllr. E.C. Roberts declared both a personal and prejudicial interest in item
6 (9) on the Agenda, under paragraph 10 (2) (a) (i) & (vi) and 12 (1) of the
124
Code of Conduct for Members, and left the meeting whilst the matter was
being discussed.
3.
Minutes
The minutes of the Planning and Access Committee held on the 17th
December, 2008 were accepted and the Chairman signed them as a true
record.
4.
Consultation Drafts
Eryri National Park Management Plan and Local Development Plan
Submitted – A report by the Head of Strategic Policy and Plans to provide
a progress update and to consider officer appraisal of potential boundary
modifications, settlement patterns and the Draft Action Plan 2009-11.
Reported – The Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage presented the
report and advised that officers had now met with the Authority Chairman,
the Planning and Access Committee Chairman, and the Scrutiny,
Performance, Staff and Member Development Working Group Chairman
to agree revisions and minor amendments to the Draft Eryri National Park
Management Plan and Local Development Plan as recommended. It was
anticipated that the Consultation Drafts would be placed on deposit from
the 23rd March - 11th May 2009.
Members considered the Draft Action Plan 2009-11 and made the
following observations:the general direction of the Action Plan was accepted
Members noted that the Plan would be updated on a regular basis
some “actions” read more like “objectives” and should be revised
the Action Plan should include a reference to the re-use of the track
between Trawsfynydd and Bala as a cycle route
“Improving accessibility to services, jobs and facilities and
minimising demands on transport infrastructure” in the Supporting
Sustainable Communities section of the draft Park Management
Plan had been omitted, and actions were needed for this section
members should discuss with officers any minor changes in
grammar and layout prior to publication of the document
it was essential to establish a co-ordinated transport system which
linked all the various public transport providers within the National
Park
two of the four branches of the Mabinogi were located in
Snowdonia and should be referred to in the “Promoting Cultural
Identity” section
the Action Plan could influence funding bids by identifying areas
where the Authority was unable to deliver due to financial
constraints.
125
RESOLVED
1.
to approve the recommendations in relation to proposed
settlement / boundary modifications as follows:land adjacent Felin yr Ynys, Bryncrug – No Change
land adjacent Rhyd yr Efail, Parc - No Change
land at Cae Bod Ifan, Ysbyty Ifan - No Change
land at Bryntirion Wood, Bontddu - No Change
land at Taicynhaeaf – To approve its inclusion as a
smaller settlement within the Eryri Local Development
Plan
2.
5.
subject to noting Member observations as outlined, to approve
the draft National Park Management Plan Action Plan.
Inspection Panel Report
Submitted – The report of the Southern Area Inspection Panel held on 7th
January, 2009.
NP5/66/161G
Retrospective application to retain
an agricultural building which has
been constructed contrary to the
notification of intention to construct
a building. The building has
previously been granted planning
approval under Section 6, Appendix
2 of the Town and Country Planning
(General Permitted Development)
Order 1995. Groeslas, Old Llanfair
Road, Harlech.
Reported – Case Officer read applicant’s email correspondence to
Members.
RESOLVED to authorise the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage to
grant permission subject to appropriate conditions and subject to:1.
receipt of amended plans showing no windows/openings on the east
elevation and no developments on the north gable.
2.
restricting the building’s function to agricultural use, legally bound by
a Section 106 Agreement.
3.
withdrawing the holding’s agricultural permitted development rights.
6.
Planning Applications and Enforcement
Submitted – A report by the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage on
planning applications and enforcement matters.
Please see the Schedule of Planning Decisions attached.
126
7.
Delegated Decisions
Submitted and Received – The list of applications that had been
determined in accordance with delegated Authority.
The meeting ended at 11.30
127
SCHEDULE OF PLANNING DECISIONS – 21st JANUARY, 2009
Item No.
1.
NP3/15/11D – Construction of bus shelter, Snowdonia National Park
Authority Car Park, Nant Peris.
Reported – Gwynedd Access Officer no objections.
RESOLVED to grant permission in accordance with recommendation.
2.
NP5/53/132G – Install 6 x 15 metre high floodlights (low glare) to northern and
southern side of 1st team rugby pitch and replace existing floodlights along
western boundary of site with low glare type, Maes Gwyniad, Bala.
Reported – Case Officer awaiting additional information. Letter from applicant
reported.
RESOLVED following receipt of specialist information, to authorise the
Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage to determine the application
subject to appropriate conditions (which would include use restrictions) or
reasons.
3.
NP5/53/445A – Install canopy to form shelter, Ysgol Bro Tegid, Tegid
Street, Bala.
Reported – Gwynedd Access Officer no observations. North Wales Fire and
Rescue Service no objections.
RESOLVED to grant permission in accordance with recommendation.
4.
NP5/55/56F – Change of use from holiday accommodation to local needs
dwelling, Doldeheuwydd, Bryncrug.
RESOLVED to authorise the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage to
grant permission subject to appropriate conditions and a Section 106
Local Occupancy Agreement.
5.
NP5/57/1023 – Demolish existing outbuildings and construct a block of 4
dwellings, garden of Trem yr Eglwys, Pen y Cefn Road, Dolgellau.
RESOLVED – Site Inspection.
6.
NP5/58/475 – Change of use from field to car park for use by patrons of
Dyffryn Ardudwy and Talybont Village Hall, land opposite Village Hall,
Dyffryn Ardudwy.
Reported – Awaiting amended plan. Letter from applicant reported
advising upon willingness to revise the car park layout.
RESOLVED following discussions regarding the wall, lighting, the exact
location of the car park and improved landscaping, to authorise the
Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage to determine the application
subject to appropriate conditions or reasons.
128
7.
NP5/60/AD118 – Advert consent to display non-illuminated ‘V’ shape sign,
land near Junction to Maes Gwm Centre off the A470(T), Ganllwyd.
Reported – Letter from applicant amending proposal to two smaller signs,
1 each side of the road reported. Case Officer to re-consult, observations
awaited.
RESOLVED to authorise the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage to
determine the application subject to appropriate conditions or reasons.
8.
NP5/61/16J – Construction of a pair of two storey semi-detached houses,
plot of land fronting Glan Gors, Harlech.
Reported – Amended plan shown on screen. Cadw observations read to
Members.
Public Speaking
Mr. Richard John addressed the Committee and asked Members to consider the
following objections:−
Mr. John was at the meeting to object on behalf of the residents of
Nos. 1 to 6 Ty Canol and residents of Glan Gors.
−
the residents had not seen any site notices at the application site.
−
the proposal was overdevelopment of this small plot of land.
−
this proposal would be much larger than any of the surrounding
properties at Ty Canol and Glan Gors and Members were provided
with details of ridge heights and the proposed large gable end
which was contrary to Policies PC3, PC5, T1 and T8 of the Eryri
Local Plan.
−
the main sewer ran across the site and partly under one property.
Who would be responsible for this?
−
Members were reminded of Cadw concerns and that the proposal
was inappropriate within the existing landscape.
−
one single storey bungalow would be more acceptable on this site.
RESOLVED – Site Inspection.
9.
NP5/66/146A – Construction of single storey lean-to porch extension and form
new vehicular access to the county road, Sgubor Llanfair Uchaf, O.S. field 4215,
Llandanwg.
Reported – To correct the penultimate paragraph in the Welsh report to read as
the English report with regard to access concerns.
RESOLVED to grant permission in accordance with recommendation.
10.
NP5/70/L87A – Conversion of agricultural building to dwelling for local need and
installation of new septic tank, agricultural building near Fach Ddeiliog,
Llangower.
Reported – Gwynedd Access Officer no observations.
RESOLVED to authorise the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage to
grant permission subject to appropriate conditions and a Section 106
Local Occupancy Agreement.
129
11.
NP5/74/LB286 – Listed Building Consent for conversion of agricultural building
into residential unit, Barn, Wern Gau, Llanymawddwy.
RESOLVED to refer the application to Cadw with a recommendation to approve
with appropriate conditions.
12.
NP5/74/LB286B – Full application for conversion of agricultural building into
residential unit, installation of bio-disc treatment sewerage plant, creation of
garden and parking area (re-submission), Barn, Wern Gau, Llanymawddwy.
RESOLVED to authorise the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage to
grant permission subject to appropriate conditions.
13.
Summary of Compliance Cases – For Information
RESOLVED to note the report.
14.
Planning Appeals awaiting decision – For Information
Arising thereon, the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage advised that the appeal
against the Listed Building Enforcement Notice issued in relation to unauthorised
works at Ty Cennin, Dyffryn Ardudwy, had been dismissed. A copy of the Inspector’s
decision would be submitted to the next meeting of the Planning and Access
Committee.
RESOLVED to note the report.
15.
Section 106 Agreements – For Information
RESOLVED to note the report.
16.
Outstanding Applications where more than 13 weeks have elapsed – For Information
RESOLVED to note the report.
130
SNOWDONIA NATIONAL PARK PLANNING AND ACCESS COMMITTEE
WEDNESDAY 25th FEBRUARY, 2009
Councillor E. Edwards (Gwynedd) (Chairman)
PRESENT:
Members appointed by Gwynedd Council
Councillors T.G. Ellis, A. Gruffydd, H.P. Hughes, E.C. Roberts, D. Siencyn, G.G.
Williams, G.O. Williams;
Members appointed by Conwy County Borough Council
Councillors G.O. Edwards, H. Gail Hall, W.E. Jones;
Members appointed by the Welsh Assembly Government
Mr. G.D, George, Dr. Iolo ap Gwynn, Mr. D.P. McAteer, Mr. J.L. Morgan, Mr. D.L.
Roberts, Mr. P. Weston;
Officers
Mr. A. Sturkey, Mr. G.I. Jones, Mr. A. Lloyd, Mr. G.H. Jones, Mr. G.W. Jones, Mr.
R. Thomas, Ms. E. Thomas, Mrs. C. Ranson, Mr. I. Gwyn, Mrs. A. Gaffey.
1.
Apology
Councillor J.R. Jones;
2.
Declarations of Interest
Cllr. H. Gail Hall declared both a personal and prejudicial interest in item 5
on the Agenda (Inspection Panel NP5/57/1023 - Trem yr Eglwys), under
paragraph 10 (2) (c) (i) and 12 (1) of the Code of Conduct for Members,
and left the meeting whilst the matter was being discussed.
Mr. J.L. Morgan declared both a personal and prejudicial interest in item 6
(2) and (5) on the Agenda, under paragraph 10 (2) (a) (ii) and 12 (1) of the
Code of Conduct for Members, and left the meeting whilst these matters
were being discussed.
Cllr. D. Siencyn declared both a personal and prejudicial interest in item 6
(5) on the Agenda, under paragraph 10 (2) (a) (ix) (aa) and 12 (1) of the
Code of Conduct for Members, and left the meeting whilst the matter was
being discussed.
Cllr. E.C. Roberts declared both a personal and prejudicial interest in item
6 (8) on the Agenda, under paragraph 10 (2) (a) (ix) (aa) and 12 (1) of the
Code of Conduct for Members, and left the meeting whilst the matter was
being discussed.
131
3.
Minutes
The minutes of the Planning and Access Committee held on the 21st
January, 2009 were accepted and the Chairman signed them as a true
record.
4.
Report by the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage
Consultation Drafts Eryri National Park Management Plan and Local
Development Plan
Submitted – A report by the Head of Strategic Policy and Plans to provide
a progress update for information, and to consider ancillary documents for
approval.
Reported – The Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage presented the
report and the ancillary documents as follows:1.
Appendix 1 - Eryri National Park Management Plan – Eryri Local
Development Plan Initial Consultation Report – a factual report for
information only.
2.
Appendix 2 - State of the Park Report – a factual report for
information only. The Head of Strategic Policy and Plans advised
that officers had allowed an additional week for Members to submit
detailed comments if they so wished.
3.
Appendix 3 - Supplementary Planning Guidance: Affordable
Housing – for comments and approval.
4.
Appendix 4 - Draft Supplementary Planning Guidance: General
Development Considerations – for comments and approval.
Arising thereon, Members recommended that the guidance should
also include:reference to a presumption in favour of development in most
cases, and
refer to the Authority’s support for sustainable design.
The Head of Strategic Policy and Plans advised that the meeting with
Community Councils had been arranged on the 23/24/25 March and that
training for Community Council Clerks had also been organised.
RESOLVED
1.
to note the Eryri National Park Management Plan – Eryri Local
Development Plan Initial Consultation Report.
2.
to note the State of the Park Report.
3.
to approve the Supplementary Planning Guidance on
Affordable Housing
as submitted.
4.
to authorise the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage to
make further inclusions, as required, to the Local Plan Draft
Supplementary Planning Guidance: General Development
132
5.
5.
Considerations, and to include Members’ observations as
outlined.
to approve carrying forward the following current
supplementary planning guidance:Design Guidance for Sustainability (for the National
Parks of Wales)
and,
Planning and the Welsh Language;
subject to minor wording modifications, to be delegated to the
Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage, to cross reference
the documents to National Policy and to the Eryri Local
Development Plan policies, in place of reference to Eryri Local
Plan policies.
Inspection Panel Reports
Submitted – The reports of the Southern Area Inspection Panel held on
28th January, 2009.
(1) NP5/57/1023
Full application to demolish existing
outbuildings and construct a block of
4 dwellings, garden of Trem yr
Eglwys, Pencefn Road, Dolgellau.
Reported – Additional photographs received after the Inspection Panel
were shown to Members.
Public Speaking
Mr. John Paul Raghoobar addressed the Committee and asked Members to
consider the following objections:−
Mr. Raghoobar stated that there were 276 and 74 reasons for
refusing this application, which was the number of school children
attending the two schools.
−
Mr. Raghoobar read a letter of objection, written by the applicant
when objecting to a similar application at Cae Deintir. The applicant
had objected on road safety issues which were, in Mr. Raghoobar’s
opinion, very similar to those at the application site.
Mrs. Francesca Olsen, the applicant, addressed the Planning and Access
Committee and asked Members to consider the following:−
Trem yr Eglwys was a Victorian 3 storey building with high ceilings.
−
the proposal was in keeping with the height and appearance of
properties at Pencefn Road and the primary school.
−
this was a new build which would fit into its surroundings.
−
the project would provide best standards of comfort and was within
walking distance to the centre of Dolgellau.
133
−
−
the applicants had spent their working life in Dolgellau and felt that
the proposal would be an asset to the town and would provide
quality, attractive modern homes for all types of residents, with
south facing gardens and views of Cader Idris.
Members were asked to approve the proposal.
RESOLVED to grant permission in accordance with recommendation.
(2) NP5/61/16J
Construction of a pair of two storey
semi-detached houses, plot of land
fronting Glan Gors, Harlech.
RESOLVED to refuse the application in accordance with the conclusion of
the Inspection Panel on the grounds that the development, by virtue of its
scale and siting would look incongruous in the location, resulting in an
unacceptable form of development.
6.
Planning Applications and Enforcement
Submitted – A report by the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage on
planning applications and enforcement matters.
Please see the Schedule of Planning Decisions attached.
7.
Planning Appeal
Submitted and Received – a copy of the following appeal decision:Appeal by LM and NJ Watt against a listed building enforcement notice
issued by the Authority for (1) the unauthorised removal of diminishing
slate course roof and (2) the unauthorised removal of part of the roof
structure, at the dwellinghouse known as Ty Cennin, Dyffryn Ardudwy,
Gwynedd. LL44 2DG (Appeal dismissed - subject to extending the period
for compliance to 2 years)
8.
Delegated Decisions
Submitted and Received – The list of applications that had been
determined in accordance with delegated Authority.
134
9.
Member Training on Habitats and Species
Received – Mr. Dafydd Roberts, the Authority’s Senior Ecologist, provided
Members with training on the Planning and Access Committee’s
responsibilities to European Protected Species (EPS).
The Chairman thanked Mr. Roberts for the Training Session.
The meeting ended at 12.15
135
SCHEDULE OF PLANNING DECISIONS – 25th FEBRUARY, 2009
Item No.
1.
NP2/16/43B – Construct extension and alterations to existing vehicular
access, Pant Hir, Prenteg.
Reported – Case Officer advised that there were no background papers
within Document Bundle 1. Members were also asked to note that the
Welsh report referred to “Traditional” Buildings under Policy TA4.
RESOLVED to refuse permission in accordance with recommendation.
2.
NP3/16/LB11 – Listed Building Consent for internal and external alterations to
derelict garage (curtilage building), Pentre Farm, Nant Ffrancon, Llandygai.
RESOLVED to refer the application to Cadw with a recommendation to approve
with appropriate conditions.
3.
NP4/13/125Q – Construction of timber activity tower, land opposite Plas y
Brenin, Capel Curig.
Reported – Snowdonia Society concerns reported.
Public Speaking
Mr. Bryn Roberts, on behalf of the applicant, addressed the Planning and Access
Committee and asked Members to consider the following:the Community Council’s objections were based on a
misunderstanding and Mr. Martin Doyle, Plas y Brenin Chief
Executive had arranged to meet with the Community Council to
discuss any problems.
this was not overdevelopment of the site.
the location was within an area of 10m tall scots pines which was
ideal for a wooden construction.
the tower was designed as an abseil specialist facility for teaching
instructors on the new training and assessment requirements. Mr.
Roberts did not know of any other facility locally that provided a
similar service.
RESOLVED to grant permission in accordance with recommendation with further
conditions relating to the trees and to ensure the development was for the
exclusive use of Plas y Brenin clients.
4.
NP4/13/191B – Outline application for construction of one local need detached
dwelling, land adjacent to Riverside Bungalow, Capel Curig.
Public Speaking
Mr. Gwynedd Watkin FUW, on behalf of the applicant, addressed the Planning
and Access Committee and asked Members to consider the following:there was a local need for this development and Mr. Watkin found
the report assessment surprising.
136
-
Mr. Jones was not about to retire and intended to continue with the
business for the next 10 years. Mr. Jones had farmed at Bryn Tyrch
for many years and had diversified to a successful tourism business.
Mr. Jones’ daughter had now joined the business as a full partner
and travelled from Dolgarrog every day which was not very
sustainable.
it was not reasonable to refuse on the grounds that the proposal was
outside the development boundary.
there was no appropriate property available within the village.
if the National Park Authority had the will to support a local person,
this was their opportunity.
the design had been discussed with officers and there was no visual
impact.
RESOLVED
1)
to grant permission subject to appropriate conditions on the
grounds that it met the needs of a local business and there was a
need for the dwelling which could not be met in any other way or by
a dwelling in some other location.
2)
in accordance with standing order 10.2, the Director of Planning
and Cultural Heritage as the National Park Officer’s representative
at the meeting, referred the matter to the Authority for determination
on the grounds that in his opinion the proposed development was
contrary to Development Plan policies.
Note: Mr. Geraint George asked that it be recorded in the minutes that it
was with dismay that he had voted to refuse the application.
5.
NP4/31/28A – Construction of new slurry pit, Bryn Bras, Padog, Betws y Coed.
RESOLVED to grant permission in accordance with recommendation.
6.
NP5/54/319A – Removal of Condition 7 (agricultural occupancy) Planning
Consent NP5/25/88 dated 7th January 1985, Troed y Melau, Rhydymain.
Reported – Community Council objections.
RESOLVED to accede to the applicants’ request to remove the
agricultural occupancy condition and to replace it with a Section 106 Local
Occupancy Agreement.
7.
NP5/57/937P – Retrospective application for the retention of retaining
garden wall, garden to rear of 1 Maes yr Helyg, Dolgellau.
Public Speaking
Jan Tyrer, the Agent, addressed the Planning and Access Committee and asked
Members to consider the following:the application was for the retention of 2m high wall and wooden
fence.
137
-
objections to the previous application should not be considered.
events leading to the application were reported to Members, from
the erection of the house in 2000/02 to the settlement of an
outstanding debt in 2007.
the house had been put up for sale but had failed to attract a buyer.
the overgrown garden was made good and the retaining wall was
built to make a safe play area. An offer was then made on the
property.
Construction was stopped when it became apparent that planning
permission was required, leaving a shored up area to await the
permission.
steps and gate down to site below meant that it could still be used
as garden for the property.
the Committee were asked to note that a wall or fence up to 2m
could be constructed without the need to obtain planning
permission.
a retaining wall with fencing was common in the area and the
original garden levels have been retained whilst the one raised level
had improved matters of privacy and overlooking.
RESOLVED to refuse permission in accordance with recommendation.
8.
NP5/61/LB3L – The creation of a new Canolfan Cambria Centre to include
Conference and Exhibition facilities; Business Genesis Units; enhanced
theatre facilities; a new Academic Block; accommodation Block; and Link
Block. With amendments to Theatre Harlech and Wern Fawr (Grade II*
Listed Building) and screen wall (Grade II Listed Building), Coleg Harlech,
Harlech.
RESOLVED
1.
Site Inspection. All members of the Planning and Access
Committee to be invited to attend.
2.
to ask Officers to write to CADW to request that future
correspondence with the Authority should be bilingual.
9.
NP5/61/23L – Demolition of Hotel and College Halls of Residence and
construction of 130 bedroomed Hotel and 75 Holiday Apartments, St David’s
Hotel and Coleg Harlech Accommodation Block, Harlech – For Information
RESOLVED – Site Inspection. All members of the Planning and Access
Committee to be invited to attend.
10.
NP5/63/LB233B – Listed Building Consent to demolish wooden hut, Frongoch
W.I. Wooden Hut, Frongoch.
RESOLVED to refuse permission in accordance with recommendation.
138
11.
NP5/68/LB46E – Listed Building Consent to demolish modern porch and kitchen
extension. Erection of extension to form living room, 2 bedrooms and bathroom
and internal remodelling, Parc Newydd, Croesor, Llanfrothen.
RESOLVED to refer the application to Cadw with a recommendation to approve
with appropriate conditions.
12.
NP5/71/L104E – Construction of single storey porch extension to side of dwelling
(revised scheme), Trefechan, Llanuwchllyn.
RESOLVED to refuse permission in accordance with recommendation.
13.
NP5/73/114A – Install 1 ‘GPS’ antenna on existing equipment cabin, install 1
‘DSO’ meter cabinet and associated ancillary development, Arqiva Transmitting
Station, Plas Tan-y-Bwlch, Maentwrog.
RESOLVED to grant permission in accordance with recommendation.
14.
NP5/77/91A – Retrospective application for conversion of agricultural building into
dwelling for local occupancy, Felinrhydfawr Isaf, Maentwrog, Blaenau Ffestiniog.
RESOLVED to grant permission in accordance with recommendation with a
Section 106 Local Occupancy Agreement.
15.
Summary of Compliance Cases – For Information
Arising thereon, the Head of Development Control and Compliance showed slides
of the replacement windows at Capel Bethel, Llanfair.
RESOLVED to note the report.
16.
Planning Appeals awaiting decision – For Information
RESOLVED to note the report.
17.
Section 106 Agreements – For Information
RESOLVED to note the report.
18.
Outstanding Applications where more than 13 weeks have elapsed – For
Information
RESOLVED to note the report.
139
SNOWDONIA NATIONAL PARK PLANNING AND ACCESS COMMITTEE
WEDNESDAY 4th MARCH, 2009
Councillor E. Edwards (Gwynedd) (Chairman)
PRESENT:
Members appointed by Gwynedd Council
Councillors T.G. Ellis, A. Gruffydd, H.P. Hughes, G.G. Williams, G.O. Williams;
Member appointed by Conwy County Borough Council
Councillor H. Gail Hall;
Members appointed by the Welsh Assembly Government
Mr. G.D, George, Dr. Iolo ap Gwynn, Mr. D.P. McAteer, Mr. P. Weston;
Officers
Mr. A. Phillips, Mr. A. Sturkey, Mr. G.I. Jones, Mr. G.H. Jones, Mr Alun Gruffydd,
Mrs. A. Gaffey.
1.
Apologies
Councillors G.O. Edwards, J.R. Jones, W.E. Jones, E.C. Roberts, D.
Siencyn; Mr. J.L. Morgan, Mr. D.L. Roberts.
2.
Declarations of Interest
No declarations of Personal Interests were made in respect of any item.
3.
Inspection Panel Reports
Submitted – The report of the Full Planning and Access Committee
Inspection Panel held on the 4th March, 2009 together with an oral report
by the Head of Cultural Heritage on the application.
140
(1) NP5/61/LB3L
The creation of a new Canolfan
Cambria Centre to include
Conference and Exhibition facilities;
Business Genesis Units; enhanced
theatre facilities; a new Academic
Block; Accommodation Block; and
Link Block, with amendments to
Theatre Harlech and Wern Fawr
(Grade II Listed Building) and
screen wall (Grade II Listed
Building), Coleg Harlech, Harlech.
Reported – Additional images from the applicant, received after the
Inspection Panel, were shown to Members.
Public Speaking
Mr. Roger Griffiths, on behalf of the applicant, addressed the Planning and
Access Committee and asked Members to consider the following:-
-
Mr. Griffiths thanked the Planning and Access Committee for the
opportunity to address the meeting and provided Members with
background and details of the application.
features of the Cambrian Centre were outlined.
the benefits of the proposal for the college were outlined and more
especially the economic benefit to the region as a whole.
the proposal would also address the backlog of maintenance work
worth £3 million.
the proposed redevelopment of the adjoining hotel site would benefit
greatly from the College development and would dramatically
enhance St. David’s Hotel as a destination hotel. The tower block
had been sold to the St. David’s Hotel.
Coleg Harlech was the single largest employer in the Meirionnydd
area and failure to secure permission would lead to the demise of
the site.
Members were asked to help to protect the Grade II Listed building.
Mr. Griffiths referred to the help received from the Authority’s
architect.
RESOLVED to authorise the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage to
grant permission subject to appropriate conditions including a condition to
ensure the use of non reflective glass and to ensure the use of a least
distracting colour for the theatre finish, to minimise effect on the castle.
The meeting ended at 12.00 p.m.
141
SNOWDONIA NATIONAL PARK PLANNING AND ACCESS COMMITTEE
WEDNESDAY 25th MARCH, 2009
Councillor E. Edwards (Gwynedd) (Chairman)
PRESENT:
Members appointed by Gwynedd Council
Councillors T.G. Ellis, A. Gruffydd, H.P. Hughes, E.C. Roberts, D. Siencyn, G.G.
Williams, G.O. Williams;
Members appointed by Conwy County Borough Council
Councillors G.O. Edwards, H. Gail Hall;
Members appointed by the Welsh Assembly Government
Mr. G.D. George, Dr. Iolo ap Gwynn, Mr. D.P. McAteer, Mr. J.L. Morgan, Mr. P.
Weston;
Officers
Mr. A. Sturkey, Mr. G.I. Jones, Mr. A. Lloyd, Mr. R. Thomas, Mr. R.H. Roberts,
Mrs. C. Ranson, Ms. S. Morgan, Mrs. A. Gaffey, Ms Llinos Angharad.
Apologies
Councillors J.R. Jones, W.E. Jones; Mr. D.L. Roberts.
1.
Chairman’s Announcements
The Chairman conveyed best wishes, on behalf of the Planning and
Access Committee, to Mrs Cath Ranson, Head of Strategic Policy
and Plans, who was leaving the Authority to take up a new
appointment with Pembrokeshire County Council. The Chairman
expressed his thanks for her valued contribution to the work of the
Authority and specifically the preparation of the Management and
Local Plans. The Chairman also conveyed best wishes to Ms.
Sioned Morgan, Trainee Planning Officer (Development Control),
who was leaving the Authority to work with Gwynedd Council. The
Chairman, on behalf of Members, thanked Sioned for her valued
contribution.
2.
Declarations of Interest
The Members appointed by Gwynedd Council declared both a personal
and prejudicial interest in items 5 (1), (2) and (7) on the Agenda, under
paragraphs 10 (2) (a) (ix) (aa) and 12 (1) of the Code of Conduct for
Members, but took part in the meeting, relying on the dispensation granted
by the Standards Committee on 1st October, 2008 unless otherwise stated
below.
142
Mr. J.L. Morgan declared both a personal and prejudicial interest in item 5
(3) on the Agenda, under paragraph 10 (2) (a) (ii) and 12 (1) of the Code
of Conduct for Members, and left the meeting whilst the matter was being
discussed.
Cllr. E.C. Roberts declared both a personal and prejudicial interest in item
5 (8) on the Agenda, under paragraph 10 (2) (a) (ix) (aa) and 12 (1) of the
Code of Conduct for Members, and left the meeting whilst the matter was
being discussed.
3.
Minutes
The minutes of the Planning and Access Committee meetings held on the
25th February and 4th March, 2009 were accepted and the Chairman
signed them as true records.
4.
(1)
Reports by the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage
Disability Equality Act 2005: Eryri Disability Equality Scheme: Annual
Monitoring Report 2008
Submitted – A report by the Head of Strategic Policy and Plans for
information and approval.
Reported – The Director of Corporate and Legal Services advised that the
report was being presented to the Planning and Access Committee due to
time constraints, and in accordance with the Authority’s Scheme of
Delegation. An information report would be submitted to the next Authority
meeting in accordance with the scheme.
RESOLVED to approve the Annual Monitoring Report for submission
and publication as submitted.
(2)
Eryri Affordable Housing Delivery Statement
Submitted – A report by the Head of Strategic Policy and Plans to
consider feedback from the recent consultation and to approve the
modified Statement as Interim Planning Policy.
Reported - The Head of Strategic Policy and Plans presented the report
and advised that the Statement reflected the policies within the Draft Eryri
Local Development Plan and would provide the Authority with land use
planning policies in the period up to formal adoption of the LDP.
Members considered the Eryri Affordable Housing Delivery Statement and
made the following observations:could officers advise upon the outcome of the Chief Executive’s
discussions with the Minister with regard to the number of planning
permissions that remained current within the Snowdonia National
143
-
-
-
Park? The Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage advised that
he was not aware of the outcome although he believed that the
matter was not high on the Welsh Assembly Government agenda.
Members welcomed the statement which was progressive and far
reaching. The existing stock pile of consents strengthened the
Authority’s case and provided more than enough market housing
for the future.
the Authority should have more flexibility towards building materials
used for affordable housing.
Members thanked officers for their promptness in preparing this
statement.
Officers confirmed that national negotiations were underway with
regard to mortgage availability for affordable homes.
concerns were noted that it was currently difficult to secure
mortgages for private sector housing which were not subject to
legal agreements. This policy would not help in the supply of
affordable homes.
Members discussed Local Authority mechanisms to provide
mortgages under certain circumstances. Gwynedd Council were
currently looking into reinstating this facility.
RESOLVED
1.
to note the report.
2.
to agree the schedule of representations and the proposed
reasons for agreeing/rejecting the suggested changes for
publication.
3.
to approve the proposed modifications and finalise the
Affordable Housing Delivery Statement for submission to the
Welsh Assembly Government and publication.
4.
to seek Ministerial approval for access to the Social Housing
Grant by National Park Authorities to facilitate delivery of
affordable housing within the National Parks of Wales, for
example by support for training and for modelling software
such as the Three Dragons Viability Toolkit.
5.
Planning Applications and Enforcement
Submitted – A report by the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage on
planning applications and enforcement matters.
Please see the Schedule of Planning Decisions attached.
144
6.
Planning Appeals
Submitted and Received – copies of the following appeal decisions:(1)
Appeal by The Llys Andreas Trust against the Authority’s refusal
to grant a certificate of lawful use or development for the
‘stationing of a static caravan for holiday use’ at Llys Andreas
Trust Campsite, Ffordd Tyddyn y Felin, Talybont, Barmouth,
Gwynedd. LL43 2AU (Appeal dismissed)
(2)
7.
Appeal by Mr. Charles Bell against the Authority’s refusal to
grant planning permission for the demolition of detached
dwelling and construction of 2 two storey detached dwellings,
creation of 2 vehicular accesses, and construction and
rebuilding of boundary walls at High Barn, Rowen, Conwy. LL32
8YR (Appeal allowed)
Delegated Decisions
Submitted and Received – The list of applications that had been
determined in accordance with delegated Authority.
The meeting ended at 11.40
145
SCHEDULE OF PLANNING DECISIONS – 25th MARCH, 2009
Item No.
1.
NP2/11/655 – Creation of bus stop, construction of bus shelter, new
pavement and associated landscaping, land at Dolfair, Beddgelert.
RESOLVED to grant permission in accordance with recommendation.
2.
NP2/16/390D – Construct storage shed and creation of footpath, Canolfan
Prenteg, Prenteg.
RESOLVED to authorise the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage to
grant permission as submitted, subject to appropriate conditions.
3.
NP4/13/LB97B – Listed Building Consent to install purpose made timber
boarded doors to all door openings in attached building, Dyffryn Mymbyr,
Capel Curig.
RESOLVED to authorise the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage to
grant permission, subject to appropriate conditions.
4.
NP5/52/262A – Conversion of former coach house into dwelling, Taldir Coach
House, Islawr’dref, Dolgellau.
RESOLVED subject to receipt of satisfactory amended plans, to authorise
the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage to determine the application
subject to appropriate conditions or reasons. Any permission would be
subject to a Section 106 Local Occupancy Agreement.
5.
NP5/52/289D – Additional equipment to existing ropes course, Ropes Course,
Abergwynant Farm, Penmaenpool, Dolgellau.
RESOLVED – Site Inspection.
6.
NP5/54/373 – Conversion of Barn to Dwelling (Local Occupancy) and
installation of new Septic Tank, Barn at Penrhiw, Rhydymain.
RESOLVED to refuse permission in accordance with recommendation.
7.
NP5/57/71A – Conversion of one room in former archives building into
language centre, construction of extension, and installation of ramp for the
disabled, Gwynedd Council Offices, Cae Penarlâg, Dolgellau.
RESOLVED to grant permission in accordance with recommendation.
8.
NP5/61/103B – Infilling of 0.1 hectares of land with inert waste, Harlech
Public Cemetery, Harlech.
Reported – Gwynedd Highways Authority no objections.
RESOLVED to grant permission in accordance with recommendation, subject to
amending Condition 3 to read “The use of the land hereby permitted shall be
discontinued on or before 31/3/2010 unless by that time an extension of the
146
period has been approved by the Local Planning Authority” and Condition 5 to
read “All filled areas shall be graded, dressed with topsoil and grass seeded to
the entire satisfaction of the Local Planning Authority no later than during the first
growing season following completion of the infilling”.
9.
NP5/67/296 – Proposed hydro-electric scheme including re-building and
conversion of disused barn into power house, and laying of pipes, barn and land
near Gwastadfryn Farm, Llanfihangel y Pennant.
RESOLVED
1.
Site Inspection. All members of the Planning and Access
Committee to be invited to attend and to invite the Authority
Ecologist to advise Members on the application.
2.
should permission be granted, to arrange a further visit for Members
to view the completed project and assess its impact. A
representative from the Environment Agency to be invited to attend.
10.
Summary of Compliance Cases – For Information
RESOLVED to note the report.
11.
Planning Appeals awaiting decision – For Information
RESOLVED to note the report.
12.
Section 106 Agreements – For Information
RESOLVED to note the report.
13.
Outstanding Applications where more than 13 weeks have elapsed – For
Information
RESOLVED to note the report.
147
STANDARDS COMMITTEE
WEDNESDAY 30th APRIL, 2008
PRESENT:
Member appointed by Gwynedd Council
Councillor Elwyn Edwards;
Member appointed by Conwy County Borough Council
Councillor Wyn Jones;
Member appointed by the Welsh Assembly Government
Mr. Peter Weston;
Independent Members
Mr. Richard R. Pugh, Mr. Peter James Rowland, Mr. David Vaughan;
Officers
Mr. G.I. Jones, Mrs. A. Gaffey;
1.
Declaration of Interest
No declarations of Personal Interests were made in respect of any item.
2.
Minutes
The minutes of the meeting of the Standards Committee held on the 24th
October, 2007 were accepted and the Chairman signed them as a true
record.
3.
The Local Authorities (Model Code of Conduct) (Wales) Order 2008
Submitted – A report by the Director of Corporate and Legal Services
together with a copy of the new Model Code of Conduct.
Reported – The Director of Corporate and Legal Services presented the
report and advised Members upon the background, the process and the
key changes within the Code.
Members were advised that the new Model Code had come into force on
18th April, 2008 and the Authority would now be required to adopt the new
Code within a period of 6 months from this date. The Director of
Corporate and Legal Services advised that the new Code would be
submitted to the Authority for adoption on 11th June and a training session
would be offered at the end of the meeting. The Authority’s Welsh
Assembly appointees would be required to attend and Unitary Authority
Members from Conwy County Borough Council and Gwynedd Council
would have the option of attending either the Authority’s session or receive
training from their respective Unitary Authorities. The Chairman of the
148
Standards Committee had agreed to be present at the training session to
assist.
The Director of Corporate and Legal Services advised that National Park
Authorities had the facility to add to the Code but not to make any
changes, although it was proposed to adopt the Code without any
changes to see how this worked out in practice with a review of the same
in due course.
Members considered the report in detail and made the following
observations:officers were asked to change “niweidiol” to “rhagfarnllyd”, which is
the correct translation of “prejudice”, in para. 2.1 of the welsh
covering report.
−
the new Code contains much of what was included previously but
now extends to include telephone conversations and membership
of private clubs or societies.
−
members discussed the unique situation of the National Parks with
regard to disclosure of Personal Interest requirements which had
not been part of the draft document in 2005. It was anticipated that
the Standards Committee would grant a general dispensation for
this, although it was felt that it was an integral part of the Code and
that dispensations should be granted for issues that arise from time
to time. This matter would be raised when the Code is reviewed in
time and the Authority is able to comment on its operation.
−
Members agreed to present the new Code to the Authority in its
entirety rather than to over-simplify by trying to highlight changes.
−
Members considered that the financial threshold for disclosing gifts
and hospitality under the new Code should remain at £25-00.
The Chairman thanked the Director of Corporate and Legal Services for
his report and guidance.
RESOLVED
1.
to note the report and recommend that the Authority adopts
the revised statutory Members Code of Conduct at its meeting
on 11th June, 2008.
2.
to recommend that the Authority sets a value of £25 beyond
which gifts and hospitality are required to be registered under
the new Code of Conduct.
3.
to await a further report on the granting of a general
dispensation to a future meeting of the Standards Committee.
4.
to ask the Director of Corporate and Legal Services to update
the Guidance Note for members on declaring personal
interests at meetings.
149
Arising thereon, Members were further advised that the Annual Standards
Committee Conference would be held on the 12th September 2008. A
request had been received for ideas for the break-out session for National
Park Authorities which was requested by Snowdonia. The Independent
Members advised that they were unable to attend on this date.
RESOLVED to ask the Director of Corporate and Legal Services to
contact the relevant Conference Organiser to request that this item
be deferred until the next Annual Conference in 2009.
At the end of the meeting, the Chairman advised that he was attending his
last meeting of the Standards Committee as an Independent Member and
thanked Members and Officers for their support. The Director of Corporate
and Legal Services, on behalf of the Standards Committee, expressed
appreciation and thanks to Mr. Richard Pugh for his valuable service and
expertise.
The meeting ended at 3.00 p.m.
150
STANDARDS COMMITTEE
WEDNESDAY 1st OCTOBER, 2008
PRESENT:
Member appointed by Conwy County Borough Council
Councillor H. Gail Hall;
Member appointed by the Welsh Assembly Government
Mr. Peter Weston;
Independent Members
Mr. Peter James Rowland, Mr. David Vaughan;
Officers
Mr. G.I. Jones, Mrs. A. Gaffey;
1.
Appointment of Chairman
RESOLVED
a)
to appoint Mr. Peter James Rowland as Chairman of the
Committee for the remainder of his period of appointment as
an Independent Member.
The Chairman thanked Members for their support.
Arising thereon, the Director of Corporate and Legal Services
confirmed that a letter had been sent to Mr. Richard Pugh, on
behalf of the Standards Committee, to express the Committee’s
appreciation and thanks.
b)
to appoint Mr. David William Andrew Vaughan as Vice
Chairman of the Committee for the remainder of his period of
appointment as an Independent Member.
2.
Apologies
Councillor J.R. Jones; Mr. Samindre W. Soysa.
3.
Declaration of Interest
No declarations of Personal Interests were made in respect of any item.
151
4.
Minutes
The minutes of the meeting of the Standards Committee held on the 30th
April, 2008 were accepted and the Chairman signed them as a true
record.
5.
Grant of Dispensations
Submitted – A report by the Director of Corporate and Legal Services
recommending that the Standards Committee grant a general
dispensation for Gwynedd Council and Conwy County Borough Council
members.
Reported – The Director of Corporate and Legal Services reported upon
the background to the report and advised upon the difficulties which had
arisen following the Authority’s adoption of the new Code of Conduct on
the 11th June 2008. He confirmed that to date the Standards Committee
had not granted a general dispensation.
Members considered the report in detail and agreed to approve a general
dispensation in accordance with the terms outlined in the report in order to
ensure that the Authority could conduct its business effectively.
RESOLVED
1.
to grant a dispensation for Members appointed by Gwynedd
Council to enable them to take a full part in the determination
of issues relating to Gwynedd Council for a period up to 1st
October 2010 unless further extended by resolution of this
Committee prior to the 1st October or earlier revocation.
2.
to grant a dispensation for Members appointed by Conwy
County Borough Council to enable them to take a full part in
the determination of issues relating to Conwy County Borough
Council for a period up to 1st October 2010 unless further
extended by resolution of this Committee prior to the 1st
October or earlier revocation.
The meeting ended at 3.35 p.m.
152
PERFORMANCE AND RESOURCES COMMITTEE
WEDNESDAY 25th JUNE, 2008
PRESENT:
Members appointed by Gwynedd Council
Councillors T.G. Ellis, A. Gruffydd, J.R. Jones, E.C. Roberts;
Members appointed by Conwy County Borough Council
Councillors H. Gail Hall, W.E. Jones;
Members appointed by the Welsh Assembly Government
Mr. G. George, Mr. D.P. McAteer, Mr. J.L. Morgan, Mr. P. Weston;
Officers
Mr. A. Phillips, Mr. D. Edwards, Mr. G.I. Jones, Mr. A. Sturkey, Mr. J. Ablitt,
Mr. E. Williams, Mr. E. Roberts, Mrs. J. Worrall, Mr. Alun Gruffydd, Mrs. A. Gaffey;
Mr. Dewi Morgan – Internal Audit Service;
1.
Election of Chairman
RESOLVED to elect Councillor J.R. Jones as Chairman of the
Performance and Resources Committee.
2.
Vice-Chairman
RESOLVED to elect Mr. Peter Weston as Vice-Chairman of the
Performance and Resources Committee.
3.
Apology
Councillor G.G. Williams.
4.
Declaration of Interest
No declarations of Personal Interests were made in respect of any item.
5.
Minutes
The minutes of the Performance and Resources Committee held on
12th March, 2008 were accepted and the Chairman signed them as a true
record.
6.
Head of Internal Audit Annual Report 2007/2008
Submitted – A report by Mr. Dewi Morgan, the Internal Audit Manager,
summarising the Internal Audit Service’s opinion on internal controls within
the Authority.
Reported – Mr. Dewi Morgan presented his report and answered
questions from Members. He was satisfied with the good overall standard
of the Authority’s internal controls, with an Audit Opinion of “A” and “B” for
153
all areas.
The Chief Executive advised that the upcoming Planning Service Audit
may result in a need to amend the Operational Audit Plan for 2008/09 to
avoid duplication of work.
RESOLVED
1.
to adopt the Internal Audit Strategy for the Authority.
2.
to accept the report as a summary of the Internal Audit
Section’s work for the 2007/08 financial year, and the opinion
of Internal Audit on internal controls within the Park Authority.
3.
to accept the Operational Audit Plan for the period 2008/09
accounting period, subject to amendment in consultation with
the Internal Audit Manager, the Chief Executive, the Chief
Finance Officer and/or Finance Manager.
7.
Allocation of Balances carried forward to 2008/09
Submitted – A report by the Chief Executive to approve the allocation of
balances to be carried forward. Members were also provided with a list of
the unsuccessful bids, for information.
Reported – The Chief Executive provided details of the one off bids
recommended for approval and advised upon the criteria used. In addition,
Members were asked to approve the allocation of up to a further £7k
towards the cost of the Official Hafod Eryri Opening Ceremony, which would
take the Authority’s contribution up to £15k. Officers were also aiming to
raise £7,000 from sponsors.
The Chief Finance Officer advised that he was satisfied with the proposals
as outlined and the opportunity to allocate the remainder of the funds in
September. Increased income and interest were amongst the main reasons
for the underspend and Members were advised that the same level of
underspend was not anticipated next year.
Members considered the report and made the following observations:− Officers should earmark a reserve of small schemes for the 2nd half of
each year to avoid being unprepared in September.
− the Chief Executive confirmed that officers were re-consulting on the
feasibility study for the Hydro Electric Scheme at Plas Tan y Bwlch
and that capital funds were available for this project.
− the Chief Executive confirmed that it was not intended to include any
of the bids within the baseline budget at this time, as the Authority
would be required to take difficult decisions over the next two years.
154
RESOLVED
1.
to note the report.
2.
subject to amending Hafod Eryri opening ceremony amount up
to £15,000, to approve the allocation as outlined in para. 3.2 of
the report.
3.
to await a further report in September, to consider and allocate
the remainder of the balances available for redistribution.
8.
European Funding – Update
Submitted – An information report by the Director of Land Management to
provide Members with an update on European Funding Opportunities.
Reported – The Director of Land Management provided members with
details on the mechanisms of the scheme, emphasising the strategic nature
of future funding based on economic growth of rural areas. The Director of
Land Management advised that he was cautiously optimistic that a bid in
conjunction with other protected landscapes of North Wales could be
submitted in the coming 9 months.
RESOLVED to note the report and await a further detailed report in due
course.
9.
Corporate Work Programme 2007-08
Submitted – An information report by the Director of Corporate and Legal
Services.
Reported – The Director of Corporate and Legal Services advised that in
future the reporting format would change to incorporate the Authority’s
objectives rather than each individual service.
RESOLVED to accept the Corporate Work Programme 2007/08 final
report, as outlined.
10.
Performance Indicators 2007/08: Outturn
Submitted – A report by the Director of Corporate and Legal Services.
Reported – The Director of Corporate and Legal Services advised that as
part of the Authority’s performance management, a report reviewing
current local performance indicators and the possible development of new
indicators would be submitted to the next meeting of the Scrutiny,
Performance, Staff and Member Development Working Group.
RESOLVED to note the report and await a report to the next meeting
of the Scrutiny, Performance, Staff and Member Development
Working Group.
155
11.
Working with Children Policy
Submitted – A report by the Head of Education and Communication seeking
approval for a new Working with Children Policy in the light of new
legislation.
Arising thereon, Members considered the Policy in detail and made the
following observations:−
“children” were defined within the Policy but youngsters and
vulnerable adults were not.
−
the Policy referred to schools, but should also refer to colleges.
−
the Authority should ensure that all staff carrying rucksacks were
able to use the emergency equipment.
−
officers should seek advice from the Personnel Officer on whether all
staff and members need to be ISA registered, or to continue as
present with key staff only.
−
officers should contact other National Parks e.g. the Lake District and
the Peak District National Parks to seek best practice.
RESOLVED
1.
to note the report.
2.
to await a further report to the next meeting of the Performance
and Resources Committee on the 19th November, 2008 with a
revised Policy incorporating Members’ observations as outlined.
12.
Review and Development Control Improvement Plan
Submitted – A report by the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage to
update Members.
Reported – The Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage advised that an
independent report would be submitted to the next meeting of the Scrutiny,
Performance, Staff and Member Development Working Group on the 16th
July, 2008 for consideration.
RESOLVED to note the report.
13.
Welsh Language Scheme Monitoring
Submitted – A report by the Head of Administration and Customer Care to
report on monitoring of the Authority’s Welsh Language Scheme.
RESOLVED to approve the report and to authorise the Head of
Administration and Customer Care to submit the 2007/08 Monitoring
Report to the Welsh Language Board.
14.
Health and Safety Annual Monitoring Report
Submitted – A report by the Head of Personnel, for information.
156
Arising thereon, the Personnel Manager confirmed that near misses were
recorded and discussed by the Management Team and Heads of
Services.
RESOLVED to note the report.
15.
Staff Absences 2007/08
Submitted – An information report by the Head of Personnel summarising
staff absences for 2007/08.
Reported – The Head of Personnel advised that a Sickness Absence
Policy would be submitted to a future meeting of the Performance and
Resources Committee.
RESOLVED to note the report and await the Sickness Absence Policy
in due course.
16.
Welsh Language Training
Submitted – An information report by the Head of Personnel to advise
Members on Welsh Language Training within the Authority.
Reported – The Chief Executive advised that 90% of the Authority’s staff
were Welsh speaking and Members discussed ways to improve the
commitment to learning the language which was currently on
a voluntary basis and at many different levels. Officers confirmed that skills
appraisals were being undertaken over the summer months and progress
would be monitored.
RESOLVED to note the report.
17.
Office Closure Arrangement, Christmas 2008
Submitted – An information report by the Head of Personnel advising
Members of the arrangements.
RESOLVED to note the report.
The meeting ended at 12.05 p.m.
157
PERFORMANCE AND RESOURCES COMMITTEE
WEDNESDAY 19th NOVEMBER, 2008
PRESENT:
Members appointed by Gwynedd Council
Councillors A. Gruffydd, J.R. Jones (Chairman), G.G. Williams;
Member appointed by Conwy County Borough Council
Councillor W.E. Jones;
Members appointed by the Welsh Assembly Government
Mr. D.P. McAteer, Mr. J.L. Morgan, Mr. P. Weston;
Officers
Mr. G.I. Jones, Mr. J. Ablitt, Mr. E. Williams, Mr. E. Roberts, Mr. A. Gruffydd,
Ms. B. Hughes, Mr. P. Trumper, Mrs. C. Ranson, Mr. A. Lloyd, Mrs. A. Gaffey;
1.
Apologies
Councillors T.G. Ellis, H. Gail Hall;
Mr. A. Phillips, Mr. D. Edwards.
2.
Declaration of Interest
No declarations of Personal Interests were made in respect of any item.
3.
Minutes
The minutes of the Performance and Resources Committee held on
25th June, 2008 were accepted and the Chairman signed them as a true
record.
4.
Strategic Grant Letter 2008/09
Submitted – An information report by the Chief Executive to update
Members on progress and achievements with regard to the Welsh
Assembly Government’s Strategic Grant Letter.
Reported – The Director of Corporate and Legal Services presented the
report. Members were advised that the Authority had reduced its carbon
footprint by 18% in last 3 years. The statistics were available to the
Authority from measures taken to achieve Green Dragon Level 4.
Members were advised that Affordable Housing information was currently
being drawn together as part of the Local Development Plan preparation
which would be submitted to a Member Working Group on the 3rd
December 2008. The Authority, whilst not a housing authority, provided
support and worked with the Housing Departments of Gwynedd Council
158
and Conwy County Borough Council, the Rural Housing Enabler and other
public sector organisations e.g. the Forestry Commission.
RESOLVED to note the report.
5.
Wales Audit Office Report on Fleet Management
Submitted – A report by the Director of Communication to advise on the
Audit and the proposed response.
Reported – The Director of Communication advised that the Authority had
not operated its own fleet management policy since Local Government
reorganisation in 1996. This had been highlighted by the Wales Audit Office
as a deficiency.
Members considered the Audit recommendations and officer response, and
were advised that:− it was more practical for the fleet management service to be provided by
Gwynedd Council rather than Conwy County Borough Council as the
Authority’s vehicles were closer to Gwynedd depots.
− a copy of the draft Fleet Management Strategy would be presented to an
appropriate Committee in due course.
− Members noted their concerns that this decision would have an impact
on local businesses and as a result local garages would miss out on this
work. Officers advised that whilst this was the case it would not be a
significant loss of business.
RESOLVED subject to noting the decision in item 6 below, to approve
the response as outlined.
6.
Fleet Management
Submitted – A report by the Director of Communication informing Members
of discussions with Gwynedd Council regarding fleet management.
Reported – The Director of Communication presented his report and
Members considered the following:who would be liable should the record keeping be found to be
inadequate? Officers advised that the responsibility would lie with the
Authority.
had there been a tendering process in order to compare quotations?
Officers advised that the financial amounts were well below tendering
limits.
Members, while being very aware that the Authority was required to
make efficiency savings, were concerned that this decision would
impact on local businesses during this difficult economic period.
to proceed with the proposal would be a further example of working in
partnership as required in “making the connections”.
159
RESOLVED
1.
to note the report and agree in principle that Gwynedd Council
provide a fleet management service for the Authority subject to
the terms of any agreement being satisfactory and the cost
reasonable.
2.
to delegate authority to the Chief Executive to further negotiate
with Gwynedd Council and agree terms for managing the
Authority’s fleet.
7.
Review of Car Parking Charges
Submitted – A report by the Head of Property to approve the annual review
of car parking charges.
Reported – The Head of Property presented the report and advised that if
Members agreed to the proposal at Pen y Pass, the pay and display
machines would be put to re-use at Bala.
Arising thereon, Councillor Alwyn Gruffydd advised that the Authority’s
decision to charge a parking fee at Nant Gwynant car park had caused
problems locally and asked that the matter be reconsidered. The decision
to charge for parking had caused problems for the patrons of the nearby
café following its change of use from a chapel. The Director of Land
Management advised that Snowdonia Green Key were currently looking into
proposals for the old road/lay-by near the chapel, which could alleviate
some of the local issues.
The Director of Corporate and Legal Services advised that as Nant Gwynant
was a Green Key managed car park, the matter would have to be referred to
the Authority for consideration and advised that a report would be submitted
to a future meeting.
RESOLVED
1.
to maintain the existing level of charges on all car parks other
than Pen y Pass.
2.
to raise the charge for car parking at Pen y Pass to £6-00 for a
full day and £3-00 for up to 4 hours from 1st April, 2009.
3.
to purchase and install new machines at Pen y Pass that accept
notes as well as coins.
4.
to await a report to the Authority to consider car parking
concerns at Nant Gwynant, unless matters are resolved as a
result of the Snowdonia Green Key proposals.
8.
Review of Car Parking Concessions
Submitted – A report by the Head of Property to consider granting car
parking concessions at Morfa Dyffryn car park.
160
Reported – The Head of Property presented the report and advised upon
current issues at Morfa Dyffryn. Members were also asked to adopt a
formal policy for free parking for blue badge holders. The Head of Property
confirmed that the Snowdonia Disability Equality Forum had now been
consulted.
RESOLVED
1.
to continue with existing practice to grant parking concessions to
local residents and to organisations who have similar purposes to
the Authority.
2.
to approve free parking permits for Morfa Dyffryn car park for
the residents of Dyffryn Ardudwy and Tal y Bont.
3.
to adopt a formal policy to allow drivers with disabilities, who
clearly display a valid blue badge on the vehicle, to park free of
charge.
9.
Planning Services
Submitted – An information report by the Chief Executive.
Reported – Members were advised that a Service Level Agreement with the
Building Control Department of Gwynedd Council would be signed in the
next two weeks, with the intention of making the same arrangements with
Conwy County Borough Council in the near future.
It was reported on behalf of the Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage,
that external Consultants were to be commissioned to look into
arrangements with Gwynedd Council for the provision of a development
control service in Meirionnydd (outside the Park).
RESOLVED to note the report.
10.
National Park Management Plan and Local Development Plan
Submitted – An information report by the Chief Executive to advise
Members on progress to date and the proposed timetable for the adoption of
the Authority’s Park Management Plan and Local Development Plan.
RESOLVED to note the report.
11.
ANPA Conference 2009
Submitted – A report by the Director of Communication to report on progress
in organising the 2009 Conference.
Reported – The Director of Communication presented the report and
outlined the draft programme, the anticipated Conference costs and possible
sponsorship. Members were further advised that:-
161
−
−
−
−
−
−
−
all the Authority’s Members would be invited to attend, 6 of which
would be full residential delegates.
it was anticipated that attendance at the Conference would be in the
region of 135 residential and 60 day delegates.
Members would be provided with regular progress reports.
the Conference would be fully bilingual and would use and promote
local produce.
Members agreed that hosting the Conference in Llandudno was
advantageous to encourage sustainable travel, and asked officers to
consider granting a discount as an incentive for travelling to the
Conference by public transport.
the draft programme would be discussed with ANPA in early January
2009.
Members felt that the Conference should maintain its green values
and direction in a world making short term economic cuts.
RESOLVED to note the report.
12.
Complaints Monitoring Report
Submitted – A report by the Head of Administration and Customer Care on
written complaints received by the Authority.
Reported – The Head of Administration and Customer Care presented the
report and advised upon various complaints.
RESOLVED
1.
to note the report.
2.
to await a further report to the next meeting of the Performance
and Resources Committee to consider whether response times
as outlined in Stage 2 of the Policy require amending.
13.
Gwynedd Welsh Language Charter
Submitted – An information report by the Head of Administration and
Customer Care on the Authority’s commitment to the Gwynedd Welsh
Language Charter.
RESOLVED to note the report.
14.
Corporate Work Programme 2008/09
Submitted – A report by the Director of Corporate and Legal Services on
progress made to date on the Corporate Work Programme, and the
Authority’s performance against Indicators after the first 6 months of the
financial year.
162
Reported – The Director of Corporate and Legal Services presented the
report in its new format. Members recommended that future reports should
provide more details on projects labelled with a red indicator as being
behind target. Officers agreed to further revise the report format and the
Director of Corporate and Legal Services would forward a supplementary
briefing note to Members to advise why the indicators marked in red were
well behind target and what was being done to rectify the position.
RESOLVED to note the report and await the further details as outlined.
15.
Performance Indicators 2008/09 : Results for the first 6 months
Submitted – A report by the Director of Corporate and Legal Services for
Members to discuss the targets and the results for the first two quarters of
2008/09.
RESOLVED to note the report.
16.
Working with Children and Young People Policy
Submitted – A report by the Head of Education and Communication seeking
approval of the new Working with Children and Young People Policy in the
light of new legislation.
Reported – The Head of Education and Communication presented his report
together with a copy of the revised Policy. Members considered the report
and the policy in detail and recommended the following further amendments
to the Policy:−
Item 1.1
Revise to read “….. well being of the children and young
people with whom we work in all our activities including ..”
to include a bullet point for the Warden Service.
−
Item 1.4
Revise to read “…… staff that are employed by or represent the
Snowdonia National Park” and that “All staff will receive training on
the policy ….”
−
Item 3.2
Revise to “work experience period”
−
Item 5.5
Revise to read “……..OS map and torch and will be trained in the
use of the equipment”.
−
Item 7.1
Final bullet point to read “Ensure that there is a second adult
onboard”.
−
Note
First bullet point to read “…….. receives a copy and is provided with
training”.
163
RESOLVED
1.
to note the report.
2.
subject to including amendments as outlined, to approve the
Working with Children and Young People Policy in accordance
with current ISA practice of registering posts that work directly
with children and young people.
The meeting ended at 12.05
164
PERFORMANCE AND RESOURCES COMMITTEE
WEDNESDAY 11th MARCH, 2009
PRESENT:
Members appointed by Gwynedd Council
Councillors T.G. Ellis, A. Gruffydd, J.R. Jones (Chairman), E.C. Roberts;
Member appointed by Conwy County Borough Council
Councillor H. Gail Hall;
Members appointed by the Welsh Assembly Government
Mr. D.P. McAteer, Mr. J.L. Morgan, Mr. P. Weston;
Officers
Mr. A. Phillips, Mr. D. Edwards, Mr. G.I. Jones, Mr. J. Ablitt, Mr. E. Williams,
Mr. E. Roberts, Ms. B. Hughes, Mr. A. Lloyd, Mrs. A. Gaffey;
In Attendance
Mr. Jason Garcia, Wales Audit Office.
1.
Apologies
Councillors W.E. Jones, G.G. Williams;
2.
Declaration of Interest
No declarations of Personal Interests were made in respect of any item.
3.
Minutes
The minutes of the Performance and Resources Committee held on
19th November, 2008 were accepted and the Chairman signed them as a
true record.
Arising thereon,
Item 7 – Review of Car Parking Charges
the Director of Land Management updated Members with regard to
Nant Gwynant car park. Gwynedd Council were currently
monitoring the use of the car park up to the Whitsun holiday and
would then ascertain the level of any problems. The local Member
advised that the community felt excluded from discussions and their
views on the matter had not been sought.
Item 8 – Review of Car Parking Concessions
the Director of Corporate and Legal Services would provide Mr.
McAteer with the information on the organisations referred to in the
report as being with “similar purposes”.
165
4.
Budget Update
Submitted – A report by the Chief Finance Officer outlining the allocation of
revenue and capital budgets, to request authorisation for foreseen
significant virements, and to update Members on progress against the
revenue budget and projected final position for the financial year.
Reported –The Head of Finance presented the report, which provided a
summary of the revised revenue and capital budgets for the first ten
months of 2008/09, together with an analysis of the figures.
Members considered the report in detail and officers advised that:the specific risk reserve would help address future budget pressures,
such as early retirement.
the final determination of the pay award by ACAS of 2.75% (from
2.45%) represented an additional cost to the Authority of £11k.
the proposed virements would not affect the year’s work programme.
the Statement of Accounts in June would better clarify the Authority’s
financial position.
Members requested finance training particularly relating to European
money and reserves.
The Chief Finance Officer thanked Emyr Roberts for the report. He referred
to the recent pay award which had reinforced the need to be cautious in this
economic climate and the importance to the Authority of having a specific
risks reserve. Members were advised that the table in item 4.1 provided a
summary of expenditure against the budget and the projected position at the
end of the financial year, as recommended by the Wales Audit Office.
RESOLVED
1.
to note the report.
2.
to confirm the proposed action and approve the virements as
outlined.
3.
to ask officers to arrange finance training for Members in due
course.
5.
Annual Letter Action Plan
Submitted – A copy of the Annual Letter Action Plan 2007/2008. Mr.
Jason Garcia apologised that his colleague Mr. Ceri Stradling was unable
to attend.
Reported – The Chairman welcomed Mr. Garcia to the meeting to present
the Annual Letter Action Plan. Mr. Garcia presented his report and
summarised the key issues. Minor issues of a procedural nature, such as
the presentation of information, were also addressed.
166
Arising thereon, the Chief Finance Officer advised that CIPFA training on the
role of Members was being arranged by Gwynedd Council for its Members
on the 26th March. Authority Members were invited to attend and would be
advised of the exact arrangements in due course.
The Chairman thanked Mr. Garcia and the staff at the Wales Audit Office
for the report.
RESOLVED to note the contents of the Annual Letter Action Plan
2007/2008.
6.
Priority Outcomes and Objectives
Submitted – A report by the Chief Executive to discuss and approve priority
outcomes and objectives (2010-2013) for consultation purposes.
Reported – The Chief Executive presented the report and advised that item
2 (d) would be divided into two separate Corporate Objectives. Members
were also asked to note a typing error in the Welsh report.
Members considered the report in detail and made the following
observations:all the objectives should have sustainability and socio-economic
principles as their core.
should the amounts be included in item 1?
objective 5 should be more general in its reference to improving
access.
The Chief Executive welcomed Members’ observations and officers would
consider how best to revise the objectives as outlined.
RESOLVED
1.
subject to suggested amendments as outlined, to note the
report and approve the Priority Outcomes and Objectives and
proceed to publish for consultation.
2.
to ask the working group, at its meeting on the 24th April 2009,
to consider the consultation responses and to make
recommendations to the Authority in June 2009.
7.
Committee and Working Groups
Submitted – A report by the Chief Executive to discuss and seek Members’
views on proposed changes to the Authority’s Committees and Working
Groups, and to agree recommendations to the Authority.
Reported – The Chief Executive presented the report and advised upon the
background to the proposals.
167
Members considered the report and noted some concerns that the new
format could involve long meeting days for members. It was noted that
planning and access meetings were shorter in duration and convening two
meetings on the same day would provide a saving for the Authority.
RESOLVED subject to recommending that two members of the
Authority are formally appointed to represent the Authority on the
Railway Company’s Liaison Group, to recommend that the Authority
approve the changes as outlined.
8.
Proposed Selection Criteria for dealing with expressions of interest to
reduce hours or retire early
Submitted – A report by the Chief Executive to approve the selection criteria
to be used when dealing with expressions of interest to reduce hours or
retire early.
Reported – The Chief Executive presented the report and advised that it
was good practice to have a criteria in place. The criteria would be applied
alongside the business requirements of the Authority.
RESOLVED
1.
to approve the selection criteria for dealing with requests to
reduce hours or retire early, as submitted.
2.
to authorise the Chief Executive to apply the criteria to the pool
of staff who have expressed an interest and to proceed to make
offers to relevant staff as appropriate, subject to proving
acceptable efficiency gains.
9.
Freedom of Information
Submitted – A report by the Head of Administration and Customer Care to
advise upon information requests received under the Freedom of
Information Act 2000.
RESOLVED to note the report.
10.
Corporate Work Programme 2008/09
Submitted – A report by the Director of Corporate and Legal Services on
progress made to date on the Corporate Work Programme, and the
Authority’s performance against indicators after the third quarter of the
financial year.
Reported – The Director of Corporate and Legal Services presented the
report and advised that Appendix 3 provided details on projects which were
well behind target, as requested by Members.
168
Arising thereon, Members welcomed the new format and officers agreed
that in future if there was no progress to report, Officers would report the
reason why.
RESOLVED to note the report.
11.
Corporate Work Programme
Submitted – A report by the Director of Corporate and Legal Services to
approve the Authority’s Corporate Work Programme for 2009/10.
Reported – The Director of Corporate and Legal Services advised that the
Corporate Work Programme linked directly to the Authority’s improvement
objectives, as was recommended by the Wales Audit Office.
Arising thereon, Officers agreed to revise references to “disabled people”
in the work programme to “people with disabilities”.
RESOLVED subject to the above amendment, to approve the
Corporate Work Plan for 2009/10 as submitted.
12.
Performance Indicators 2008/09: Results for April to December 2008
Submitted – A report by the Director of Corporate and Legal Services to
discuss targets and results for the first three quarters of 2008/09.
RESOLVED to note the report.
13.
Performance Indicators 2009-10
Submitted – A report by the Director of Corporate and Legal Services to
propose local performance indicators and service data for 2009-10.
Members considered the report in detail and made the following
observations:the Land Management Directorate should be included within the
framework.
the Director of Corporate and Legal Services would forward concerns
over the lack of targets for Welsh Language training to the Head of
Personnel.
RESOLVED subject to the above observations, to approve the
Performance Indicators and Service Data for 2009-10 as submitted.
14.
Review of Complaints Procedure
Submitted – A report by the Head of Administration and Customer Care to
review the Authority’s Complaints Procedure.
RESOLVED to amend the time frame for response in Stage 1 of the
Complaints Procedure from 5 working days to 15 working days.
169
15.
Business and Improvement Plan, Development Control and
Compliance
Submitted – A report by the Head of Development Control and
Compliance to present the consultation outcome of the Development
Control and Compliance Draft Business and Improvement Plan 2009-2012
and to seek members’ views.
Reported – The Director of Planning and Cultural Heritage presented the
report together with the Business and Improvement Plan 2009-2012 which
Members considered in detail. The Head of Development Control and
Compliance outlined the main changes arising from the consultation and
the actions proposed.
RESOLVED to authorise the Director of Planning and Cultural
Heritage and the Head of Development Control and Compliance to
make detailed amendments to the Business and Improvement Plan
based on the proposed changes in Appendix 1.
The meeting ended at 12.05
170
PLAS TAN Y BWLCH COMMITTEE
WEDNESDAY 18th JUNE, 2008
PRESENT:
Members appointed by Gwynedd Council
Councillors E. Caerwyn Roberts, Gwilym O. Williams;
Member appointed by the Welsh Assembly Government
Mr. Denis McAteer;
Officers
Mr. Aneurin Phillips, Mr. G. Iwan Jones, Mr. John Ablitt, Mr. Alun Gruffydd, Mr.
Andrew Oughton, Mrs Anwen Gaffey.
1.
Election of Chairman
RESOLVED to elect Mr. Denis McAteer as Chairman of the Plas Tan y
Bwlch Committee.
The Chairman thanked Members for their support.
2.
Election of Vice-Chairman
RESOLVED to elect Cllr. Gwilym Williams as Vice-Chairman of the
Plas Tan y Bwlch Committee.
3.
Apologies
Cllr. H.P. Hughes, Cllr. H. Gail Hall, Mr. Geraint George, Mr. Michael John
Francis.
Arising thereon, the Chief Executive advised that Mr. Stan Martin, an
Independent Member of the Plas Tan y Bwlch Committee, had failed to
sign up to the Code of Conduct by the 1st May 2008 as required. This
meant that Mr. Martin could no longer be considered a co-opted member
and the Chief Executive sought approval to write to Mr. Martin to advise
him of the position and to inform him that the Authority would now proceed
to fill the vacancy.
RESOLVED
1.
to authorise the Chief Executive, in consultation with the
Monitoring Officer, to write to Mr. Martin to advise him of the
Committee’s decision and to thank him for his valued
contribution over the last 4 years as an Independent Member
of the Plas Tan y Bwlch Committee.
2.
to authorise the Chief Executive to proceed to advertise for a
co-opted Member for the Plas Tan y Bwlch Committee in
accordance with the adopted appointment procedure.
171
4.
Declaration of Interest
No declarations of Personal Interests were made in respect of any item.
5.
Minutes
The minutes of the Plas Tan y Bwlch Committee held on the 23rd January,
2008 were accepted and the Chairman signed them as a true record.
6.
Matters Arising
Item 6 – Plas Tan y Bwlch Draft Business Plan 2008-2011
Members were asked to note that a further report on “Hydro Electric” costs
would be submitted to the next meeting of the Plas Tan y Bwlch
Committee.
7.
Performance
Submitted – A report by the Head of Business to inform Members of the
Centre’s performance during the 2007/08 financial year.
Reported – The Head of Business presented the report and advised that
the Centre had met its target as predicted. The Head of Business also
advised that bookings were up for 2008/09.
RESOLVED to note the report.
8.
Corporate Work Programme 2008-2009
Submitted – A joint report by the Head of Business and the Head of
Education and Communication, informing Members of the Plas Tan y
Bwlch work programme for the coming year.
Reported – The Head of Education and Communication presented the
report and advised that:− an on-line shop, selling Authority merchandise, was currently under
consideration.
− the remaining 8 bedrooms, which were not en-suite, were adequate for
school groups.
− following the adoption of the business plan in February 2008, the 6
month review and update would be submitted to the next meeting of
the Plas Tan y Bwlch Committee.
− arising from new stringent regulations being introduced by ISA
(Independent Safeguarding Authority) in 2008, officers were currently
developing an updated “Working with Children Policy”. A report would
be submitted for consideration in due course.
172
Members considered the report and recommended that creating additional
parking at the Centre should be a priority.
RESOLVED
1.
to note the report.
2.
to await a report outlining parking proposals at Plas Tan y
Bwlch in due course.
2.
that the Business Plan 6 month review and update would be
submitted to the next meeting of the Plas Tan y Bwlch
Committee.
9.
Plas Tan y Bwlch Hydro Electricity Power Scheme
Submitted – A report by the Head of Business to inform Members of
developments.
Reported – The Head of Business confirmed that Ffestiniog Hydro Power
Station had expressed interest in the proposal. In order to further develop
the scheme, Derwent Hydro Consultants from Cumbria had been invited to
Plas to examine the proposal, assess supply requirements, advise on
available grants and draw up detailed plans for the scheme.
Members agreed to the further investigations as outlined and noted that
the scheme would provide a valuable educational resource for students at
Plas.
RESOLVED
1.
to note the report.
2.
to authorise the appointment of Consultants to prepare
detailed plans for the scheme.
3.
to report back with the detailed plans for further consideration.
10.
Recent Developments in the Education Service
Submitted – A report by the Head of Education and Communication to
inform members of developments.
Arising thereon, new Members would be provided with a copy of the
Jigsaw CD Rom submitted to all schools in Gwynedd, Conwy and Ynys
Môn, for information.
RESOLVED
1.
to note the report.
2.
to provide new Members with a copy of the Jigsaw CD Rom.
11.
Plas Tan y Bwlch Redecoration and Redevelopment Programme
Submitted – A report by the Head of Business to inform Members of
developments.
173
Reported – The Head of Business outlined the next phase of redecoration
and advised upon developments since writing the report:Plas Tan y Bwlch had recently become a Fairtrade establishment
the current charter mark standard was due to expire shortly and it
was proposed that Plas should work towards attaining the Service
Excellence Award by the next financial year. A detailed report
would be submitted to the next meeting of the Plas Tan y Bwlch
Committee.
At the end of the meeting Members were taken to visit the newly
decorated bedrooms.
RESOLVED
1.
to note the report and welcome the programme of redecoration
work.
2.
to await a report on the Service Excellence Award to be
submitted to the next meeting of the Plas Tan y Bwlch
Committee.
The meeting ended at 14.10
174
PLAS TAN Y BWLCH COMMITTEE
WEDNESDAY 22nd SEPTEMBER, 2008
PRESENT:
Members appointed by Gwynedd Council
Councillors Huw P. Hughes, Gwilym O. Williams;
Member appointed by Conwy County Borough Council
Councillor H. Gail Hall;
Member appointed by the Welsh Assembly Government
Mr. Denis McAteer;
Independent Member
Mr. Michael J. Francis;
Officers
Mr. G. Iwan Jones, Mr. John Ablitt, Mr. Alun Gruffydd, Mr. Andrew Oughton, Mrs
Anwen Gaffey, Mrs. Ann Griffiths.
1.
Apologies
Cllr. E. Caerwyn Roberts, Mr. Geraint George; Mr. Aneurin Phillips.
2.
Declaration of Interest
No declarations of Personal Interests were made in respect of any item.
3.
Minutes
The minutes of the Plas Tan y Bwlch Committee held on the 18th June,
2008 were accepted and the Chairman signed them as a true record.
4.
Matters Arising
Item 3 – Apologies
The Director of Corporate and Legal Services confirmed that he had
written to Mr. Stan Martin to advise him of the Committee’s decision.
Officers would now proceed to fill the vacancy.
5.
Plas Tan y Bwlch Business Plan Update
Submitted – A report by the Head of Business to inform Members of
developments following the adoption of the Business Plan in February
2008.
175
Reported – The Head of Business presented the report and advised on
progress.
Arising thereon, Members discussed the artwork in the dining room which
some Members felt might disturb some guests. Officers would provide
better interpretation of the picture and if further strong objections were
received the picture would be removed.
RESOLVED to note the update report.
6.
Budget Forecast 2008/2009
Submitted – A report by the Head of Business to inform members of the
anticipated end of year forecast for Plas Tan y Bwlch.
Reported – The Head of Business presented his report and provided
details of the expected expenditure shortfall.
RESOLVED
1.
to note the report.
2.
to submit a bid through the Management Team to increase the
baseline budget relating to fuel costs by a total of £21,000.
7.
Education Service Performance
Submitted – A report by the Head of Education and Communication
informing Members of the Education Service’s performance and the
Centre’s attendance figures between September 2007 and July 2008.
Reported – The Head of Education and Communication asked Members
to disregard the Geographical Region table which recorded the number of
participants on public courses, as it was incorrect. The Head of Education
and Communication presented the report and Members made the
following observations:− in order to reduce waiting lists for schools who wished to attend Plas,
the Centre could consider increasing its annual programme by making
use of the authority’s specialist staff, buying in expertise and looking
into using supply teachers.
− members welcomed the intention to run courses which would appeal to
the local community.
− officers should contact Gwynedd Council to ascertain whether the
signs at the bottom of the drive could be improved in order to make the
entrance to the Centre more noticeable.
RESOLVED to note the report.
8.
Customer Service Excellence
Submitted – A report by the Head of Business to inform Members of the
requirements of the Award.
176
Reported – The Head of Business advised that it was his intention to
gather the evidence required for the assessment before Christmas 2008
and would aim to achieve the award before the end of the financial year.
RESOLVED
1.
to note the report.
2.
to appoint Mr. Denis McAteer to work with a working group of
officers to prepare for the assessment.
9.
Additional Car Parking
Submitted – A report by the Head of Business outlining proposals for
additional car parking.
Reported – The Head of Business advised on the initial outcome of
discussions with the Property Section who had identified two possible
schemes. The cost of creating the additional parking would be in the
region of £30,000 for each scheme. Members recommended
that the matter should be further considered when the outcome of the
Hydro-scheme proposal was known.
RESOLVED
1.
to note the report.
2.
to defer consideration at this time and to make further
investigations once the outcome of the Hydro Electricity power
scheme proposal was known.
10.
Hydro Electric Scheme Update Report
Schedule 12A Local Government Act 1972 : Exemption from
disclosure of documents
RESOLVED that the “Hydro Electric Scheme Update” oral report be
exempt from disclosure to ensure that the identity of the individual
concerned and the financial information would be protected.
11.
Hydro Electric Scheme Update Report
Submitted – An oral report by the Head of Business informing members of
developments and to discuss the decision taken by the Authority that
morning.
Reported – The Director of Communication presented the report and
advised that following the Authority’s decision, officers would now proceed
to seek two additional tenders for the full design of the scheme, the
outcome of which would be reported to Members in due course. He
further assured Members that the Llyn Mair water level would not be
affected and confirmed that the scheme would generate a maximum of
177
approximately 21 Kilowatts of electricity.
Members welcomed the scheme and the opportunity for the Authority to
advise other organisations/individuals who were interested in small scale
hydro generation. The scheme would also provide a valuable educational
resource for students at Plas as well as possibly providing a basis for
running courses on the topic.
Arising thereon, Members were advised that the heating system at the
Centre was inefficient and that officers, in consultation with The Carbon
Trust, had considered options for replacing the boiler. The
recommendation was to install gas fired boilers rather than use biomass,
which would not be practical in a building such as Plas Tan y Bwlch.
Members were informed that all the lofts had recently been insulated.
RESOLVED to note the report and await a further report in due
course.
The meeting ended at 14.45
178
PLAS TAN Y BWLCH COMMITTEE
WEDNESDAY 21st JANUARY, 2009
PRESENT:
Members appointed by Gwynedd Council
Councillors E.C. Roberts, H.P. Hughes, G.O. Williams (Vice Chair);
Member appointed by Conwy County Borough Council
Councillor H. Gail Hall;
Member appointed by the Welsh Assembly Government
Mr. Geraint George;
Independent Member
Mr. Michael J. Francis;
Officers
Mr. G. Iwan Jones, Mr. John Ablitt, Mr. Alun Gruffydd, Mr. Andrew Oughton,
Mrs Anwen Gaffey.
1.
Apology
Mr. Denis McAteer.
2.
Declaration of Interest
Mr. Geraint George declared a personal interest in item 5 on the Agenda,
under paragraph 10 (2) (a) (ix) (aa) of the Code of Conduct for Members.
3.
Minutes
The minutes of the Plas Tan y Bwlch Committee held on the 22nd
September, 2008 were accepted and the Chairman signed them as a true
record.
4.
Matters Arising
Item 11 – Hydro Electric Scheme Update Report
The Head of Business advised that Consultants had been appointed to
begin work on the full design assessment. This work was funded from the
Welsh Assembly Government Capital Programme.
5.
Update and Performance
Submitted – A report by the Head of Business to inform Members of the
Centre’s forecasts and performance during the current financial year.
Reported – The Head of Business presented the report and advised that
since writing the report in early January, he had received notification from
179
the Countryside Council for Wales that the grant support for Professional
Training Courses for 2008/09 and 2009/10 would increase by a total of
£9,380 over the two years. As the Centre was working towards moving
away from being dependant upon grants from the CCW, the budget
shortfall had therefore been reduced to approximately £700. Officers
would forward an update report to Members to confirm that the Centre
would meet its target for 2008/09.
Members discussed concerns that whilst funding was available to run the
courses, attendance figures should be closely monitored owing to the
economic downturn and the possible knock-on effect on training budgets.
Arising thereon, Members discussed whether the Authority should
continue to provide lunch for Members who attend meetings at Plas Tan y
Bwlch. The Head of Business advised that staff costs were constant
regardless of whether Members were provided with lunch, although
income figures would be less if lunches were no longer required.
Members asked officers to consider options for Members to purchase
meals at the Centre.
RESOLVED to note the report and await the update report as
outlined.
6.
Course Performance September – December 2008
Submitted – A report by the Head of Education and Communication to
inform Members of the current performance levels for the first quarter of
the 2008/2009 academic year.
Reported – The Head of Education and Communication asked Members
to note that the report referred to bednights only.
RESOLVED to note the report.
7.
Customer Service Excellence
Submitted – A report by the Head of Business to inform Members on
progress in achieving the Customer Service Excellence Award.
Reported – The Head of Business advised that the Formal Assessment
was scheduled for 2nd March 2009. The Assessor would provide feedback
and recommend whether the Customer Service Excellence Award should
be approved. The Head of Business expressed his thanks to Mr. Denis
McAteer, who had worked alongside the working group of officers to
prepare for the assessment and lead the Centre through the process. He
confirmed that the Award would be reviewed annually for the first 3 years.
180
Arising thereon, Members noted concerns that the Centre did not have a
facility to accept online credit card purchases. Officers confirmed that this
matter was currently being investigated.
RESOLVED to note the report.
8.
Corporate Work Programme 2009/2010
Submitted – A joint report by the Head of Education and Communication
and the Head of Business to provide Members with the opportunity to
contribute towards the programme of work planned for 2009/2010.
Reported – The Director of Communication presented the report and
invited Members to consider targets for inclusion in the Corporate Work
Programme for 2009/2010, as outlined in Appendix 1 of the report.
Officers advised that a further report on car parking on the Oakeley Drive
would be submitted to the Authority’s meeting on the 11th February, 2009.
Members considered the proposed targets and made the following
observations:members asked officers to review fees and report back to the next
meeting of the Plas Tan y Bwlch Committee.
members discussed the National Grading Scheme with officers.
The Director of Communication confirmed that managers spend an
occasional night at the Centre to see for themselves what is and
what should be provided.
Members felt that teachers should be encouraged to visit Plas to
learn what can be provided and to use the opportunity to promote
the Centre’s expertise.
Officers asked Members to let them know without delay if they
wished to make any inclusions.
RESOLVED
1.
to note the report.
2.
to approve the Work Programme for 2009/2010, as submitted.
3.
to await a report to the Authority’s meeting on the 11th
February, 2009 on car parking options on the Oakeley Drive.
9.
Dates of Future Meetings
Submitted – A report by the Director of Communication to discuss dates
for future meetings of the Plas Tan y Bwlch Committee.
RESOLVED to approve the revised meeting dates as outlined.
181
10.
Oral Report on Redevelopments (Site Visit)
The Chairman brought the meeting to a close and Members were then
taken on a tour of the refurbished bedrooms and to view the new boilers.
The meeting ended at 14.35
182
WELSH HIGHLAND RAILWAY PANEL
WEDNESDAY 10th SEPTEMBER, 2008
PRESENT:
Members appointed by Gwynedd Council
Councillors E.C. Roberts, H.P. Hughes, A. Gruffydd;
Member appointed by the Welsh Assembly Government
Dr. Iolo ap Gwynn;
Officers
Mr. G.I. Jones, Mr. R. Thomas, Mrs. A. Griffiths;
Apologies
Councillor E. Edwards; Mr. D. McAteer;
Mr. Richard Neale, The National Trust.
1.
Election of Chairman
RESOLVED to elect Councillor E.C. Roberts as Chairman of the
Welsh Highland Railway Panel.
The Chairman apologised for the 15 minute delay in starting the meeting.
2.
Welcome and Introduction
The following representatives were welcomed to the meeting:Mrs. Eirlys Ness, Beddgelert Community Council
Mr. Iorwerth Walters, Gwarchod
Mr. Peter Marston, Welsh Highland Railway Construction Ltd
Mr. Brian Bigwood, Campaign for the Protection of Rural Wales
Mr. David Firth, Snowdonia Society
Mr. Richard Brown, Gwarchod
3.
Declaration of Interest
No declarations of Personal Interests were made in respect of any item.
4.
Minutes
The minutes of the meeting of the Welsh Highland Railway Panel held on
19th March 2008 were accepted, and the Chairman signed them as a true
record.
Arising thereon,
Item 6 (1) – Questions to the Panel from Interested Groups
Q.1 Gwarchod Question - When will the bridge abutments at Pont Alun be
stone faced? – Mr. Peter Marston further confirmed that the Railway
Company were working to programme and that timescales were
183
scheduled to coincide with the building of Beddgelert Station. The stone
material would be used at both locations and it would be uneconomic to
arrange two separate deliveries of the same material.
Item 6 (1) – Questions to the Panel from Interested Groups
Q.2. Gwarchod Question – What progress has been made on replacing
stone walls in the completed section in the National Park to Rhyd Ddu? –
The Planning Officer advised that following inspection, he was satisfied
that the work on the wall was of satisfactory standard.
Item 6 (1) – Questions to the Panel from Interested Groups
Q.3. Gwarchod Question - When will the National Park logo be deleted
from the Lon Gwyrfai notice board which is not within the National Park?
Mr. David Firth reiterated that some of the boards depicted the perimeters
of the National Park, which supported the use of the logo.
5.
Planning Matters of Interest
Submitted – An information report by the Development Control Section.
Reported - The Planning Officer advised that the development of the line
was near completion and that there were no other planning issues
currently under discussion.
Arising thereon, Gwarchod asked whether the Authority could further
influence the Inspector’s decision to allow retail sales and a café at
Beddgelert Station. The Planning Officer advised that the process had
been followed and the decision was now final.
RESOLVED to note the report.
6.
Update report on development of the Railway within the National
Park
Submitted – An oral report by Mr Peter Marston, Welsh Highland Railway
Construction Limited outlining progress of work.
Reported - Mr. Marston advised that the track to Porthmadog would be
completed within the next month and that construction work within the
National Park boundary had now been completed. Members considered
whether the Panel should continue to meet and resolved to convene one
further meeting in March 2009 when a report to disband the Panel could
be considered at that time. Any work which remained would be
supervised at officer level.
RESOLVED
1.
to note the report.
2.
to cancel the meeting scheduled for the 17th December 2008
184
and to hold one further meeting on 25th March 2009 when
members could consider whether to disband the Panel.
7.
Questions to the Panel from Interested Groups
Submitted –
(1)
Questions from Gwarchod together with Officer and WHRC
response
Q.1) Why are coal fired engines being used in the National Park given
that they are even more polluting than oil fired engines?
Mr. Marston confirmed that pollution levels from both fuels was very
similar and that coal was used for economic reasons.
Q. 2. When will the concrete structures at Cwm Cloch, Beddgelert, be
stone faced?
Mr. Marston confirmed that the stone facing would be undertaken at
the same time as the construction and stone facing of Beddgelert
Station.
Q. 3. Why did WHR go against the wishes of both the Park Authority and
Beddgelert community in appealing against the restriction on a café
in the Beddgelert station? Will Objective 1 money be used to
finance the construction of the station?
Mr. Marston advised that not all of Beddgelert community objected
as suggested in Gwarchod’s question and that Objective 1 money
had been used for construction of the railway. Mr. Marston noted
that railway funding was not in Gwarchod’s remit.
Q.4.
Why is Snowdon Ranger promoted as a parking place in the WHR
leaflet and why are Sat Nav directions for driving to Rhyd Ddu also
included?
The Panel were advised that the leaflet showed a range of facilities
in the area as a guide for customers, including sat nav details for
Porthmadog.
Q.5.
Will a drip tray be provided under Bryn y Felin bridge to collect oil
spillage?
The WHR had considered this matter in consultation with the
Environment Agency and the National Park Authority and had
concluded that drip trays were not necessary and would not be
provided at Bryn y Felin.
Q.6.
Why aren’t the signs in the Beddgelert station area bilingual?
Mr. Marston advised that the bilingual sign had been removed to
correct the Welsh and the English only signs had been erected
temporarily.
185
Submitted –
(2)
A question from the Snowdonia Society together with WHRC
response
Q. 1) Will the Company please confirm that the railway crossing
improvements near Pont Bryn y Felin will be completed to allow allability access to the improved Fishermans Path by the WHR
opening next Easter?
Mr. Marston advised that the Railway Company were awaiting
confirmation from The National Trust to the release of land outside
the boundary of the railway. The WHR would reconsult with the
National Trust as time was now becoming limited. Mr. Marston
would check whether the plan, prepared by the Railway Company,
had been sent to all parties and would arrange for a copy to be sent
to the Panel Chairman.
The next meeting of the Welsh Highland Panel to be held on 25th
March, 2009.
The meeting concluded at 15.00
186
WELSH HIGHLAND RAILWAY PANEL
WEDNESDAY 25th MARCH, 2009
PRESENT:
Members appointed by Gwynedd Council
Councillors E. Edwards, E.C. Roberts, H.P. Hughes, A. Gruffydd;
Members appointed by the Welsh Assembly Government
Dr. Iolo ap Gwynn, Mr. D. McAteer;
Officers
Mr. G.I. Jones, Mr. R. Thomas, Mrs. A. Gaffey;
Apologies
Mr. Richard Neale, The National Trust
Mrs. Eirlys Ness, Beddgelert Community Council
Mr. Brian Bigwood, Campaign for the Protection of Rural Wales
Mr. Richard Brown, Gwarchod
Canon Edmund Plaxton, Ramblers Association
1.
Welcome and Introduction
The following representatives were welcomed to the meeting:Mr. Rhys Evans, The National Trust
Mr. Iorwerth Walters, Gwarchod
Mr. Peter Marston, Welsh Highland Railway Construction Ltd
Mr. David Firth, Snowdonia Society
Canon Edmund Plaxton, Ramblers Association
Arising thereon, the Chairman read a letter from Canon Plaxton
expressing his thanks to the Authority for establishing the Panel which had
provided an opportunity for all interested parties to meet.
The Chairman advised that the Panel had first met on the 19th January,
2000 and over the years had allowed a full and frank discussion on the
issues relating to the construction of the Railway through the National
Park. He reminded Members that during this time, as part of the Panel’s
remit, they had walked the track from the National Park boundary to
Beddgelert and then onto Hafod y Llyn.
2.
Declaration of Interest
No declarations of Personal Interests were made in respect of any item.
187
3.
Minutes
The minutes of the meeting of the Welsh Highland Railway Panel held on
10th September 2008 were accepted, and the Chairman signed them as a
true record.
Arising thereon, Mr. David Firth expressed his thanks to all parties for the
completion of the Bryn y Felin footpath and associated works.
4.
Disbanding of the Welsh Highland Railway Panel
Submitted – A report by the Director of Corporate and Legal Services
advising that as part of the Chief Executive’s restructuring proposals for
the Authority’s committee and working group structure, it was proposed to
disband the Welsh Highland Railway Panel.
Reported – The Director of Corporate and Legal Services advised
Members of the Panel’s Terms of Reference and that the panel had now
served its purpose.
Arising thereon, Mr. Marston advised that the Liaison Group had also been
terminated as the railway was moving from the construction phase to the
operational phase. Mr. Paul Lewin, General Manager of the Welsh
Highland and Ffestiniog Railway Company, was now responsible for the
operation of the Railway. Mr. Marston and Mr. Lewin would meet in due
course to discuss and consider future meeting options to discuss
operational matters and how the railway works within the local community.
The Panel made a formal request that two members of the National Park
Authority be invited to future meetings, administered and co-ordinated by
the Railway Company, and that possibly members of Gwynedd Council,
representatives from Community Councils and all interests along the route
should be included.
Mr. Marston agreed to draft a response to the Panel’s request, whilst
noting that this first year the railway was not running a normal timetable.
Mr. Marston anticipated that no meetings would be arranged until
sometime during September. In the meantime, the railway company
would have experience of running the railway for one season.
RESOLVED to note the report and await a formal invitation for 2
members to represent the Authority at any future meetings.
5.
Planning Matters of Interest
Submitted – An information report by the Development Control Section.
Reported - The Planning Officer advised that there were no planning
issues currently under discussion.
188
Arising thereon, Mr. David Firth, on behalf of the Beddgelert Community
Council representative who had been unable to attend the meeting, asked
that the Railway Company be particularly careful when siting the
temporary waiting room and toilets.
Mr. Marston advised that, due to cash flow reasons, it was with regret that
a temporary solution had become necessary. He confirmed that the
temporary waiting room and toilets would be located on the only flat area
looking up from the village, to the right of the location of the permanent
building. The Panel discussed the railway’s cash flow issues which had
meant a delay in ordering the lighting systems and resulted in the Railway
Company being unable to run the trains over crossings, which meant no
service to Porthmadog. Mr. Marston confirmed that this work would be
moved forward as soon as they were able as it was in the Company’s
interest to do so.
RESOLVED to note the report.
6.
Update report on development of the Railway within the National
Park
Submitted – A report by Mr Peter Marston, Welsh Highland Railway
Construction Limited, outlining progress of work.
RESOLVED to note the report.
7.
Questions to the Panel from Interested Groups
Submitted –
(1)
Questions from Gwarchod together with Officer response
Q.1) As this meeting will most probably be the last one, could a site visit
be arranged to inspect and to observe the progress of all the trees
that have been planted by the Railway Company for all the
hundreds of trees that they have felled over a period of many years.
As recently as 3rd March, 13 trees near Ty’n y Coed were cut
down?
Mr. Marston advised that tree planting was being undertaken with
the approval of the Authority’s Ecologist and Forestry Officers. It
was anticipated that most of the trees would be planted during the
1st planting season following the railway becoming operational.
Q. 2) At the last Panel meeting it was reported by the Railway Company
that the stone facing of the concrete structures near Beddgelert
station and Pont Alun will be done at the same time as the station
building. When will the National Park insist on this being done and
not allow the Railway Company to procrastinate in the same
manner as they have done with the station building at Caernarfon?
189
The Authority’s response that they had no powers to enforce was
noted and Mr. Marston advised that all surplus materials had been
removed off site.
Q. 3) Now that Beddgelert is to be a temporary terminus, will the National
Park encourage the parking of coaches in Beddgelert as they have
done at Rhyd Ddu?
Mr. Marston advised that the Railway Company would not be
encouraging coaches to convene or pick up at Beddgelert and
leaflets would encourage embarkation at Caernarfon, Waenfawr
and Dinas. The fare structure would also be prohibitive and would
encourage people to embark elsewhere. Traffic concerns were
noted and it was agreed that the matter would be kept under
review.
Q.4)
Although the Nantmor crossing has been approved by the Railway
Inspectorate, it appears to be dangerous for local and tourist road
users. Is the National Park Authority prepared to accept this
dangerous situation?
The Panel were advised that this matter was fully discussed and
approved by the Railway Inspectorate.
Q.5)
We understand that footpath 12B should have been upgraded by
the Railway Company to provide safe access for walkers and
campers from Beddgelert Forest Campsite to the village of
Beddgelert. This is very important from the point of view of safety
and the local economy. Is the National Park Authority going to
insist that this be done immediately?
The Panel were informed that on the advice of Gwynedd Council
bridleway 12b was not suitable, and that the new all purpose path
was a better and more useable route that footpath 12b. The use of
“12b” as reference to the path was a legal term only and enquiries
should be made with the Community Council to ascertain the local
name for the footpath.
Officers agreed to forward the Snowdonia Society’s request to the
National Park Access Officer to re-route this footpath as a priority.
Q.6)
Will ventilation be provided in the main Aberglaslyn tunnel. If not,
will the use of open carriages be restricted?
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Mr. Marston was mystified as to the relevance of this question to
Gwarchod as there was no adverse affect on the environment.
Q.7)
Will the same protection against rock falls be provided at the tunnel
portals at the main Aberglaslyn tunnel as has been provided along
the side?
Mr. Marston advised that the work had been completed to the
satisfaction of the National Park and was now subject to continuous
inspection. It was up to the Railway Inspectorate to set an
inspection timetable which would reflect the nature and condition of
the site and would be set according to the level of risk.
In response to a further question, Mr. Marston advised that establishing a
fire corridor was an operational matter. The Railway Company did not
wish to attract adverse publicity and the situation would be reviewed by
staff on the footplate. He further confirmed that the Railway Company
had no intention of undertaking stock proofing work.
Submitted –
(2)
Questions from the Snowdonia Society
Q. 1) How many trees are to be felled between Rhyd Ddu and to the
line's southern boundary with the Park? Can the Welsh Highland
Railway Company guarantee their replacement and where those
will be located please?
Mr. Marston confirmed that the Railway Company would meet its
tree planting obligation which was currently at a ratio of nearly 2 to
1. The planting scheme consisted of a full mix of native trees and
officers agreed to forward a copy of the tree planting scheme, along
the line of the railway between Rhyd Ddu and Nantmor, onto the
Snowdonia Society.
Q.2) The Snowdonia Society has been concerned since before the
Public Inquiry about the impact that new signs could have on the
area. Assurances were made that these would be kept to an
absolute minimum. We seek assurance that all signs will be kept as
low as possible, that there should be no excess poles visible above
the signs themselves by cutting surplus poles immediately above
the signs. This is especially important at the Beddgelert Cemetery
crossing.
Mr. Marston advised that the Railway Company would not erect any
more signs than was legally required by national regulations. If the
Society could provide a snagging list, the railway company could
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send volunteers to deal with specific examples.
Q.3) The Snowdonia Society welcomes the all-ability crossing at Bryn
Felin, but deplores the excessive amount of fencing used there.
Might this be reduced?
Mr. Marston stated that the work had been completed in
accordance with the plans. If the National Trust and the National
Park Authority were agreed, the Railway Company would remove
any fencing that did not serve a purpose.
In response to a further question with regard to providing a Halt at
Nantmor, Mr. Marston advised that whilst it would be valuable to
have a halt on this route, the railway company only had half the
required funding, as it was not included in the original budget. He
advised that a request to the Green Key partnership for funding had
been rejected.
Submitted –
(3)
Questions from The National Trust
Q.1) Could you explain why the name “hen Hafod” has been adopted for
a location that is called Hafod y Llyn, and how this name was
chosen? Were there any negotiations and consultations with
surrounding landowners and local people prior to this name being
adopted for this site?
Mr. Marston explained that the name had been used on a
temporary basis only, due to another legal halt being named Hafod
y Llyn. The problem had now been overcome and the other Hafod
y Llyn removed from the operational halt list. Hafod y Llyn would
now be referred to by its name in future.
Q.2) It is noted in the press release that a temporary halt will be
constructed on this site (Hen Hafod). Given that adjacent land is
privately owned, and that vehicular access is limited, what
guarantees does the Rheilffordd Eryri give to affected parties that
the number of vehicles would not increase once the halt has been
established?
Mr. Marston advised that the Railway Company would not allow
people to embark and disembark at Hafod y Llyn and would
advertise this fact in leaflets and in their stations.
Q.3) Could the Rheilffordd Eryri indicate when the work regarding
incomplete railway crossings, inadequate field access and fencing
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in the Beddgelert area is likely to be rectified and completed?
Mr. Marston confirmed that there was still some snagging work left,
all south of Beddgelert. If the National Trust could advise upon
specific locations the matter would be further discussed with Ian
Hartill of the Railway Company.
The Panel Members thanked staff for their work in convening and providing
administrative support for the Panel over the years and thanked the Authority
Chairman for his contribution towards the work of the Panel.
The meeting concluded at 14.55
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MEETING OF THE CELYN, TEGID AND TRYWERYN
ADVISORY CONFERENCE
HELD AT BALA LEISURE CENTRE ON THE 9th APRIL 2008
Present:
Cllr. Elwyn Edwards (Chairman)
Cllr. Dyfrig Siencyn
Cllr. E. Caerwyn Roberts
D.H. Roberts
Huw Antur Edwards
Iorwerth Wyn Evans
Megan Pugh
Sarah Lind
Gwilym E. James
Arthur Arrowsmith
Emyr Jones
Dilwyn Jones
Bleddyn Lloyd
John Gorman
Snowdonia National Park Authority
Snowdonia National Park Authority
Snowdonia National Park Authority
Farmers Union of Wales
Gwersyll yr Urdd, Glanllyn
Llanuwchllyn Community Council
Glanllyn Caravan Park
Bala Adventure and Watersports
Bala Sailing Club
Environment Agency Wales
Environment Agency Wales
Bala Town Council
Canolfan Tryweryn
Canolfan Tryweryn
Officers:
Emyr Williams
Iwan Jones
Barbara Jones
Dave Williams
Carys Dafydd
Anwen Gaffey
Islwyn P. Jones
Arwel Morris
Bill Taylor
Snowdonia National Park Authority
Snowdonia National Park Authority
Snowdonia National Park Authority
Snowdonia National Park Authority
Snowdonia National Park Authority
Snowdonia National Park Authority
Snowdonia National Park Authority
Snowdonia National Park Authority
Snowdonia National Park Authority
1.
Election of Chairman
RESOLVED to elect Councillor Elwyn Edwards as Chairman of the Celyn,
Tegid and Tryweryn Advisory Conference.
2.
Apologies for Absence:
Peter Weston, Snowdonia National Park Authority
Aneurin Phillips, Snowdonia National Park Authority
Dr. Rod Gritten, Snowdonia National Park Authority
Lewis Alun Evans, Environmental Health, Gwynedd Council
Alwyn Jones, Llandderfel Community Council
Ffiona Evans, Countryside Council for Wales
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3.
Minutes
The Chairman signed the minutes of the Celyn, Tegid and Tryweryn
Advisory Conference held on the 2nd March 2007 as a true record.
Arising thereon,
Any other business - Item 6 (1)
The Director of Land Management, Mr. Emyr Williams, advised that the
Authority’s Ecologist, Dr. Rod Gritten, would be retiring at the end of the
month. Officers were currently awaiting three reports on the outcome of
the catchment sensitive farming pilot. It was understood that an open day
would be arranged to consider the findings.
Item 6 (2)
Mr. Arthur Arrowsmith of the Environment Agency reported on behalf of
Helen Millband who was unable to attend. He advised that the Agency did
not regularly test for algae, as stated in the minutes, but advised that they
routinely monitor. Blue green algae was still present in the lake at various
times of the year and the bloom had been significant between October and
December 2007. The Agency together with the National Park and
Aberystwyth University continue to monitor the buoy on the lake to record
changes in climate, wind speed, water temperature etc.
Mr. Arrowsmith further advised that routine monitoring had not shown any
evidence of a decrease in phosphate levels in the lake. The incentives for
control report arising from the demonstration project on catchment
sensitive farming was in its final stages and would be forwarded to the
Welsh Assembly Government in the next few months.
4.
Annual Report and Work Programme
Submitted – The Annual Report and Work Programme.
Reported – The Warden and Access Manager presented the report and
advised upon the main points and developments as follows:2.
Charges
Charges had recently been reviewed and increases had been
recommended.
3.
Income
Current figures showed an increase in income with February and
March figures yet to be included. Arwel Morris advised that
because the charge was the same for both fishing and parking, the
figures could not be identified individually and could be misleading.
The green forms previously provided to assess fishing numbers on
the lake had been discontinued for over 5 years.
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5.
Improvements to facilities
Officers advised that a new boat had recently been purchased by
the Authority.
5.3
The initiative by the Authority’s Renewable Energy Task and Finish
Group to install solar panels and equipment to harvest rainwater to
flush the toilets at the Warden Building was welcomed.
5.4
The Warden and Access Service Manager confirmed that the
Authority would not receive compensation following the damage
caused by vandals at the Llangywer toilet block.
6.3
Events
Concerns were raised regarding road closures during the Olympic
Triathlon event and associated problems for motorists when
diversions were not clearly marked. Representatives from Bala
Town Council and the Bala Triathlon Committee would look into the
matter.
Officers agreed to provide more publicity for upcoming events on
the Authority’s website with a link to events at Llyn Tegid. Further
publicity could also be provided through the Eryri newspaper
circulated to all households within the National Park. Delegates at
the meeting would also take the request for more local publicity to
the Wrexham Tri Club.
Concerns were raised regarding the “Demo day” on the lake.
Officers advised that 2 local companies had been invited to take
part in a trial to help local businesses. One business only had
taken up the offer to promote their business on the lake shore,
noting that any goods sold would be from their business premises
in Bala. Concerns that one business was already paying for the
use of the lake was noted.
6.4
Access
Members raised concerns that the toilets at Llanuwchlyn were
under threat of closure, bearing in mind that the cycle trail was due
to finish nearby. It was agreed that Llanuwchllyn Community
Council would take the matter up with Gwynedd Council while the
Authority’s officers would bring the matter to the attention of
Gwynedd Council Officers.
6.6
Litter
Following a request for additional litter bins and recycling bins for
cans etc. on the foreshore, officers advised that the Authority was
196
inclined to remove rather than provide additional litter bins. The
request would be taken to the Authority’s Green Team for
consideration.
Officers confirmed that dog fouling, largely the result of local
residents walking their dogs, was still a problem on the footpaths
along the foreshore and nearby areas. Officers would contact the
Environmental Health Officer for Gwynedd Council and the
Environment Agency advised that they were also looking into the
matter.
RESOLVED
1.
to note the report.
2.
to ask officers to write to Gwynedd Council outlining:(i)
concerns regarding dog fouling problems on the
foreshore and the surrounding area, and
(ii)
to draw attention to the proposed closure of
Llanuwchllyn toilets.
3.
to submit a request for additional litter and recycling
bins to the Authority’s Green Team for consideration.
6.
Any other business
(1)
The Environment Agency advised that otter species were very
numerous at the moment with more otter than mink, especially on
the rivers Llafar and Lliw.
(2)
The Sailing Club representative requested advice from the Authority
regarding storage of boats in the winter. Current policy requires
everyone to remove boats by October and last year had seen
cruisers floating on trailers as the water rose. Officers would bring
this matter to the Property Manager’s attention. Another possible
solution could be to seek planning permission for storage on a
nearby hardstanding to alleviate the problem.
(3)
The Glanllyn representative raised concerns that the Environment
Agency kept the water levels at Llyn Tegid low between March and
October which had a detrimental effect on Glanllyn’s activities and
income levels.
Mr. Arthur Arrowsmith advised that water levels were kept as low as
possible in order to reduce flooding potential. Heavy rain and wind
would have a major impact on flooding and maintaining higher
levels for recreational activities during the winter months would not
be recommended under any circumstances.
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(4)
Tree thinning was again discussed and Officers agreed to forward a
request to Gwynedd Council to cut windows in trees in those areas
near Llangywer, bearing in mind road safety issues.
The meeting was advised that the Countryside Council for Wales
were preparing a Draft Management Plan for Llyn Tegid which
would impact on future management of trees around the lake.
Officers would bring a further report to the next meeting on this
matter.
RESOLVED
1.
to forward concerns regarding storage of boats to the
Authority’s Property Manager.
2.
to await a further report to the next meeting of the Celyn, Tegid
and Tryweryn Advisory Conference on the Countryside Council
for Wales’ draft strategy.
There being no further business, the Chairman thanked those attending for their valuable
contribution and the meeting closed at 11.55 a.m.
198