Among matters considered at the December meeting of Saundersfoot Community Council were the following:
Chairman's Report
Chairman Cleevely said that he had attended the Remembrance Service at St. Issell's Church on November 11 and laid a wreath on behalf of the council and during the previous week had placed a poppy cross on each of the war graves in the cemetery. On November 22, he had attended the Police Consultative Forum in Pembroke Dock. Chairman Cleevely informed members that on November 30, he had opened the St. Nicholas Market on the harbour, with the assistance of Father Christmas. Finally, chairman Cleevely said that on December 3, he had attended a function at St. Brides Hotel, hosted by the Pembrokeshire Coastal Forum. This was entitled 'The Sustainable Coastal Tourism Debate' and was very informative and thought- provoking.
matters arising from the minutes
Meeting with Mr. Brian Maddocks: The clerk informed members that chairman Cleevely and Clrs Brabon, Hayes and McDermott had met with Mr. Brian Maddocks and Mr. Ian Westley, Pembrokeshire County Council, on November 13, to discuss ongoing issues in Saundersfoot as follows: Play Area - Mr. Maddocks said that he would bark over the area near the Sports Club and place a picnic table and seat there. He would also arrange to level the area near the Sports Field and remove the mole hills and place stepping stones to the barked area at the top of the play area. Stream - Mr. Maddocks said that he would arrange for the bank of the stream to be cleared within a four weeks maximum time. The clerk did add that this work had now been carried out. One-way, Cambrian Terrace - Mr. Westley said that the general layout of the signage could be looked at rather than installing further signage there. Mr. Maddocks added that he would liaise with Mr. Alan Hunt, the access officer, regarding improving the dropped kerb leading into the Harbour Car Park. Post Office to Beddoes Court footway - Mr. Westley said that it was rare to prioritise this type of improvement and in his opinion the footway was safe, but could look at improving certain sections which needed work to be done. He went on to say that the best way forward would be to produce an overall programme of improvement works to be carried out for the whole of Saundersfoot rather than carry out minor works. Chairman Cleevely said that a similar plan had already been produced by the Saundersfoot Forum and Clr. Hayes said that she would provide Mr. Westley with one of these copies. Clr. Brabon asked if a section of footway from Stewart Seconds to Beddoes Court could be resurfaced and Mr. Westley said that he would consider this. Wogan Terrace - Mr. Westley said that improvement to this road would come under the 'Safe Routes to School' scheme which was hopefully in the process of being prepared. BT chamber at the top of High Street - Mr. Westley said that Pembrokeshire County Council would write to BT requesting that the cover be raised. Westfield Road, footway - Chairman Cleevely informed Mr. Westley that the Methodist Church was willing to donate land to create a footway from the Ridgeway to the Doctors Surgery and Mr. Westley said that he would investigate this offer. Long tunnel - Mr. Westley said that this tunnel was not in the ownership of Pembrokeshire County Council and Clr. Hayes said that she would speak to Hean Castle Estate regarding providing some lighting there. Clr. Hayes added that it was unsure who actually owned this area and Clr. Cavell said that she had correspondence relating to the ownership and would produce this to Clr. Hayes. Cycle racks - Mr. Maddocks said that he would speak to Mr. Frances Johns on the matter. Sensory Gardens - Mr. Maddocks said that he would power-wash the woodwork around the borders in the gardens and also clean out the drains there. The clerk said that he would contact Mr. Maddocks with regard to the plinth for the seat in Bevelin Hall which was ready for installation. Traffic and Parking Study, Saundersfoot: The clerk read out a letter from Pembrokeshire County Council which stated that a specific Traffic and Parking Study of Saundersfoot had not been included in their current short term programme and the emphasis had been on larger settlements and the programme had been confined to the main towns of the county. The letter went on to say that a Saundersfoot Regeneration Study was shortly to be commissioned and it was understood that issues relating to traffic and parking in the village would be considered as an integral component of this study. Cenotaph, St. Issell's Church: Clr. Hayes informed members that Pembrokeshire County Council staff had visited the cenotaph on two occasions, clearing the area prior to the Remembrance Day Service. She also said that thanks should go to Mr. David Badham for painting the gate and the red flowers on the rail and would carry out further work in the summer. Chairman Cleevely expressed his concern at the condition of the four war graves in the cemetery and the clerk was instructed to find out who was responsible for these. Cambrian Hotel: Clr. Hayes reported that a legal document regarding affordable housing would be signed soon between the developers and National Parks and hopefully work would commence on this development soon. Water supply, Sports Club: The clerk informed members that he had met with Mr. Harry Smith, Saundersfoot Sports Club, to complete a 'Leakage Allowance Form' for Welsh Water which would result in a substantial reduction in the invoice received. Welsh Language Scheme: The clerk informed members that he had spoken to Mr. Huw Grapper, Welsh Language Board, requesting an extension to the deadline of December 3, 2007, for the submission of the council's scheme and had received a letter stating that he was prepared to extend this date to December 3, 2008. The clerk added that he had met with chairman Cleevely regarding the changes the community council requested to the scheme received from the Welsh Language Board and members asked if these changes could be submitted to the Welsh Language Board as soon as possible. Anti-social behaviour, Silcox Coaches: A letter was received from Tenby Town Council stating that the experimental scheme between the police, Greenhill School and Silcox Coaches had now finished and a follow-up meeting was to be held. Christmas lighting: The clerk informed members that the Christmas tree and lights were installed on November 28 and 29, with the help of Clr. McDermott, Mr. Graham Brace and Mr. Paul Brockway. The clerk added that Mr. Brockway had kindly assisted in installing the lights on the Christmas tree. Clr. Hayes asked if extra lights could be purchased for next year to include Milford Street? Clr. McDermott said that he could rewire some lights already in the ownership of the council and these could be used rather than purchase more. Rhodewood development: Clr. Hayes reported that the majority of the 'For Sale' signs had now been removed from the area. Land to the west of the Barbecue: The clerk read out a letter from Pembrokeshire County Council regarding this matter which stated that there could be a misunderstanding with regards to the word 'event', which did not mean a solitary event such as a fete which had taken place on the land, but that the land may achieve registration by one of four means: i) Under statutory dispositions under 514 of the Commons Act 2006; ii) Actual use of the land by local inhabitants for lawful sports and pastimes; iii) By substitution or exchange for other and which had ceased to be a village green; iv) The owner of the land may apply to the commons registration authority to register the land as a village green. Members decided that to make progress on the issue to arrange a meeting with Mrs. Lynne Thomas, commons land registration officer. Regency Hall Car Park charges: Clr. Baker said that after speaking to many local businesses, these charges did have a significant effect on their trade. Saundersfoot Railway Station: Clr. Hayes said that she had received a further letter from a holidaymaker, Mr. Peter Williams, of Bristol. The letter informed Clr. Hayes that he had received correspondence from Arriva Trains stating that the area concerned was on privately owned land and Network Rail was currently liaising with the owner to 'try and have work done to improve the current condition' and hopefully the station would be in a much improved condition when he next visited Saundersfoot.
agenda
Request for donation for Saundersfoot Festivities New Year's Day Swim: Clr. McDermott asked if consideration could be given to assist the Festivities Committee in their New Year's Day Swim, as a donation was given last year. It was proposed by Clr. Baker and seconded by Clr. Lawrence that a donation of £350 be given.
PLANNING APPLICATIONS
Extension, Llysmelin, Rushy Lake, Saundersfoot. Garage with loft, White Horses, Saundersfoot. Two plots, Greenfields, Valley Road, Saundersfoot. Boundary wall, Pinewood, Saundersfoot. Rebuild swimming pool, Hean Castle, Saundersfoot. Alterations, Delfrid, Saundersfoot. Classroom, Netherwood School, Saundersfoot. Dwelling, Enfield, Saundersfoot. Building and platform, Saundersfoot beach. Alterations, 11 The Strand, Saundersfoot. Demolish garage and rebuild, 1 Oakhill Drive, Saundersfoot. Certificate of Lawfulness, Trevelyn, Crane Cross, Saundersfoot. Alterations, The Hollies, Tenby Road, Saundersfoot. Clr. Baker declared an interest in the Lysmelin application and Clr. Lawrence declared an interest in the Hean Castle application and took no part in these debates. Mr. and Mrs. Stewart were in attendance to discuss the application at 1 Oakhill Drive. Mr. Stewart addressed members and said that detailed plans had been submitted to National Parks and he had complied with everything National Parks had asked for. He went on to say that he had visited all neighbouring properties and had received no adverse comments whatsoever on the development. Members discussed this application and were in full agreement, especially as it would provide much- needed affordable housing to the area. With regard to the building and platform at Saundersfoot beach, members were concerned at the visual impact this application could have on the general appearance of the beach, especially during winter months. Members also thought that the plans submitted were somewhat vague and more detailed plans were required prior to making further comments. Members, therefore, asked for a site visit to be arranged to assess what exactly was planned for the area. With regard to the application at Greenfields, Valley Road, members' only concern was that this was a very much mined area and problems could arise if building took place there. With regard to the Enfield application, members thought that this dwelling could cause over- development and were concerned at possible problems and felt it was out of keeping with other properties in the area. With regard to the application at 11 The Strand, members were in full agreement that these alterations would enhance the area and would be in keeping with the majority of properties on the Strand. With regard to The Hollies application, members thought that they were not in a position to pass comment on such a major development.
correspondence received
A letter was received from a resident from Windsor Terrace requesting that an additional street light be installed there. The clerk was instructed to write to Pembrokeshire County Council requesting this. A letter was received from Pembrokeshire County Council with regard to proposed changes to community council electoral arrangements and community area. The letter stated that following submissions received from community councils, the cabinet gave careful consideration to these representations and decided the following for Saundersfoot Community Council: The cabinet noted the council's support for the draft proposal to transfer part of St. Mary Out Liberty area to Saundersfoot Community Council. It was decided to reassess and review further this draft proposal and felt that further dialogue with the community councils affected would be beneficial, together with a reassessment of the proposal. In view of the number of issues deferred by the cabinet, it was accepted that completion of this part review process would take a lengthy period, with the part relating to changes to community area not being fully completed in time to be incorporated into next year's elections and only changes to electoral arrangements would come into effect next year. With regard to electoral arrangements, under the revised councillor/elector ratios, Saundersfoot Community Council would receive an entitlement to 12 councillors from next year, but would not be warded. A letter was received from Pembrokeshire County Council/National Parks with regard to the South Wales Regional Aggregates Working Party and asked for comments from the community council. As this was a complex issue, the clerk was instructed to photocopy details of the statement for members to study prior to making their comments. A letter was received from Adam Hensman thanking the council for the donation of £25 and said that he would be honoured to play again next year at the Remembrance Day Service.
reports from various committees, including county councillor's report
Clr. Hayes reported to members that she had attended the monthly Police Forum meeting and the issues raised were: More parking on The Strand since winter charging on the harbour and residents thought that parking restrictions here should be in place all the year round. Parking in general and speeding on approach roads. Boy racers were now present in the Regency Hall car park, rather than on the harbour, and asked if people could contect Police Community Support Officer Idwal David to let him know if this was happening by ringing 0845 330 2000. An inspector had travelled on the last bus from Tenby at weekends and the rowdyism problem seemed to have been resolved. Dyfed Powys Police had a new website listing contacts, missing people and other information. The behave or be banned scheme was up and running in pubs/clubs. It was reported that a lot of noise was being created by patrons of the Sands Club who after leaving the premises go to the cash point in The Strand to get money to pay for a taxi home. Police Community Support Officer David would look into this problem. On December 4, Clr. Hayes, along with Clr. Brabon, had met with two officers and an architect from PLANED who had a budget of £2,000 for projects in the village. One was to enhance the bank of the stream now that it had been cut back. PLANED would liaise with Pembrokeshire County Council officers with regard to a planting scheme there. The second project was for Friars Brook which had been off course for a number of years and the only solution here was for stepping stones. The third project was for floor lighting and floor maintenance in the long tunnel and PLANED would again liaise with county council officers. Clr. Hayes informed members of a temporary road closure on the C3015 Saundersfoot to Wiseman's Bridge Road from Monday, January 28, for approximately 10 weeks, for work to be carried out on major renewal work to a water main. Chairman Cleevely said that he had attended a Police Consultative meeting in Pembroke Dock and the Acting Chief Constable was present and informed the meeting that the budget for 2008/09 had still not finally been decided. Clr. Cavell said that a meeting had been arranged for January 9, at 6 pm, to discuss formulating a School Travel Plan and as many as possible were invited to attend and a committee would be set up to progress creating this plan. Clr. Baker said that he had spoken to James Peregrine, recycling officer, with regard to placing a bottle bank in the Regency Hall in place of the paper bank, but there was a concern of noise, and the suggestion of placing it in one of the coach bays was not an option. Clr. Baker said that as the Bonville's Court development would not now go ahead, it was suggested placing a solar panel light there, but planning permission would be needed. He went on to say that £1,000 would be given to the group to 'Adopt a site' scheme and they would ensure that the site was kept in good order. Clr. McDermott reported that he had attended the Regency Hall committee meeting and was pleased to say that the issue in respect of the library had been resolved and it would now be an integral part of the Regency Hall and hopefully the refurbishment programme would now move on more speedily. Clr. McDermott thanked Clr. Hayes for her sterling work in helping to bring this issue to a satisfactory conclusion.
any other business
Chairman Cleevely asked why PC Mandy Cresswell was no longer on duty in Saundersfoot as promised by Inspector Smith. The clerk was instructed to write to Inspector Smith asking why this was not the case. Clr. Baker said that as the affordable housing development at Bonville's Court had been withdrawn, he had contacted Mr. Mathew Owens, housing enabling officer, and suggested arranging a meeting to discuss responses from the survey which was sent out to householders in Saundersfoot. Clr. Baker said that 179 responses had been received which was sufficient to prepare a report. The clerk was instructed to invite Mr. Owens to the February meeting of the council to discuss these responses. Clr. Hayes asked if there had been any progress on the matter of removing the trees from St. Issell's Cemetery? Clr. Baker said that he would make enquiries by the next meeting. Chairman Cleevely informed members that he was a member of the Caravan Club which had thousands of members and in one of the magazines it stated that many of the facilities in Pembrokeshire were closed during the winter months, which in his opinion was very disappointing to read.