Category Archives: Parish Council

Parish Council Minutes – 21 January 2015

by Monxton Matters

Minutes of the Monxton Parish Council Meeting held on Wednesday 21st January 2015 in the Monxton Village Hall at 7.30pm.

Present: Cllr Mike Cleugh – Chairman, Cllr Sarah Dowding – Vice Chairman, Cllr Judith Balding, Cllr Adrian Drage, Cllr David Bateman, Richard Waterman – Parish Clerk, Members of the Public – 6, County Councillor Mrs P West

Apologies : Borough Councillor Mr B Few-Brown.

WELCOME – Cllr Mike Cleugh welcomed everyone to the meeting.

DECLARATION OF INTEREST – There were no declarations of interest recorded

MINUTES OF THE PREVIOUS MEETING
The Chairman signed the minutes of the November 2014 meeting as a true record.

MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC
No slots had been booked to address the Parish Council.

PLANNING
There were no new planning applications to discuss.

Cllr Mrs P West gave a progress report on Fox Wood/Pond Ground, Georgia Lane, Amport.

  • A site meeting with Tim Lawson from HCC and Pip Williams, the Enforcement Officer, has taken place. Photographs were taken as evidence.
  • There is a lot of mud on the roads due to there not being a wheel wash on site. HCC have swept the road four times and have pumped water from under the bridge. Mr Nelson has been asked to address the problem and to clear the road. A charge for the clearing work undertaken will be passed on to Mr Nelson.
  • It was noted that the verges are being destroyed by the large lorries visiting the site.

The photographs taken at the site meeting have been passed on to Paul Jackson, Head of planning at TVBC. The Enforcement Officers will be making regular visits to the site.

OAKCUTTS – It was reported that the Planning Enforcement Officer has visited the Oakcutts site after their planning application and appeal were both refused. Mr Flippance reported that the works being carried out comply with the planning guide lines for permitted development and in particular Class E.

ALPINE GROUP – The Chairman reported that the Alpine Group are signing the agreement this month and may move earlier than expected. It has been confirmed that up to 10 dwellings will be built on the site.

GREAT WOOD TRACKS – There was no news to report.

TRAFFIC – Cllr Sarah Dowding

  • Scalpings or similar requested for potholes down the road sides along Broad Road and also by the Village Hall from HCC Highways.
  • Ground works on the verge alongside Monxton Manor to be completed by the end of March 2015 by TVBC.
  • Village Gateways on TVBC list for 2015/2016, along with 30mph speed limit extension.
  • Damaged bollard on village green to be repaired by HCC Highways.
  • Still waiting for bollards around the small green at Abbotts Ann Road/Broad Road.
  • Community Speed Watch due to start very soon – at latest spring 2015
  • Police presence in the lay-by at Sunnybank slowed the traffic down.

ENVIRONMENT – Cllr J Balding

Test Valley Flood Resilience Workshop
Councillor Judith Balding was invited to attend the Test Valley Flood Resilience Workshop on the 29th November 2014 on behalf of Monxton Parish Council. The meeting was chaired by the Leader of TVBC, Councillor Ian Carr, with progress reported from Roger Testall, TVBC Chief Executive, John Elliot from the EA and Alan Williams, HCC Strategic Manager for the Environment, and Caroline Noakes, MP reported on her Ministerial visit to Romsey. There were various workshops including best practice from Shipton Bellinger and case study progress from King’s Somborne and Vernham Dean, villages which all suffered from major flooding last winter. The meeting ended with a question and answer session with a panel made up of representatives from TVBC, HCC, the EA and Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service.

Southern Water
There have been no problems with the pumping station and Southern Water aim to finish work by the spring. The verges by the pumping station were repaired only to be driven over by a vehicle. Steps are being taken to prevent this happening again.

Footpaths and Bridleways
The stile on Footpath 6 has yet to be repaired, but there are no reports of any other problems with the footpaths or bridleways.

Fracking
Although serious concerns about potential impacts on the environment have been raised about fracking, the government plans to allow fracking companies to drill under peoples land without their agreement, despite public opposition. In a consultation on the proposal, 99% of a total of 40,647 responses opposed the legal changes to give oil and gas companies underground access without having to seek landowners permission.

The Department of Energy and Climate Change has said it will press ahead with the proposals to simplify underground access for oil and gas developers despite these objections. This would give companies the right to drill at depths of 300 metres or more under private land without negotiating a right of access.

The government argue that the current ability for people to block shale gas development under their property would lead to significant delays and that the legal process by which companies can force fracking plans through was costly and time-consuming.

FINANCE

EXPENDITURE

Payments December 2014 and January 2015.

R.N. Waterman                   Wages – December (Standing Order)         £200.00
R.N. Waterman                   Wages – January                                             £200.00
Clive Hutchinson                Grass Cutting                                                  £555.00
Mr B Pearce                         Play Area                                                          £  90.00
                                                                                                                   £1,045.00

ACCOUNTS – 1st April 2014 – 21st January 2015

INCOME
Opening Balance BF      = £5,574.65
Precept                        = £5,200.00

=  £10,774.65

EXPENDITURE
Wages                         =  £2000.00
Insurance                    =    £388.45
Notice Boards              =    £133.30
Play Ground Inspection =     £65.40
Village Maintenance      =  £1816.00
Dog Bins                     =     £152.64
Church Grant               =     £500.00

=  £5,055.79

BALANCE IN BANK       =  £5,718.86

MONEY SET ASIDE – NOT INCLUDED IN ABOVE FIGURES

£1000.00 for Village Hall Refurbishment
£2000.00 for Traffic Calming
£1000.00 for Village Project/Maintenance

PRECEPT
The Parish Council discussed the 2015/2016 Precept. It was agreed that there would be no increase in the precept. The Monxton precept for 2015/2016 was set at £5,200.

Cllr Sarah Dowding asked if the Parish Council would release the £1000 set aside for the Village Hall Refurbishment as they plan to improve the outside of the hall? The Parish Council all agreed and a cheque for £1000 was issued.

SUNNYBANK
Cllr Dave Bateman advised no current issues.

MONXTON NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH – Mr David James

REPORTED CRIME

  • Reported crime has been low in our areas over the past two months. In other parts of Hampshire, however, no dwelling crimes continue to cause problems, particularly thefts from outhouses and garages, the Police have had some success with arrests for fly tipping, and thefts of a Kawasaki mule and horse trailer.
  • With the arrival of cold weather and oil tanks being topped up the Police have warned again about possible attempts to steal heating oil. They advise ways to make the oil less attractive to thieves including; a ‘sudden drop’ alarm on the tank, a PIR activated light/alarm and an alarmed padlock.
  • The December edition of the Parish News include a more comprehensive summary of precautions.

CRIME ALERTS

  • Since the last meeting an alert was issued on the 4th December which was distributed in Monxton and posted on Monxton Matters. It covered some of the many telephone scams currently going around that I mentioned at the last meeting. HCC have launched ‘Hitting the Cold Spots’ and ‘Fuel Poverty’ schemes.

Cllr Sarah Dowding reported that a lot of litter was collected from the roadsides around Monxton Parish, particularly along Broad Road and also the lay-by between the Village and Sunnybank, and suggested that a rubbish bin is placed in the lay-by. This was discussed and it was agreed to purchase a rubbish bin and to get TVBC to empty it. The Clerk will organise this.

WEB SITE
The web site is doing well – to date (Jan 2013 – Jan 2015) there have been 60,142 hits and 192 comments.

CLOSE OF THE MEETING
The Chairman thanked everyone for coming and closed the meeting.

DATES FOR THE 2015 MEETINGS

  • 18th March
  • 20th May – AGM
  • 15th July
  • 16th September
  • 18th November

Monxton Parish Council Meeting: 21 January

by Monxton Matters

MONXTON PARISH COUNCIL
NOTICE OF PARISH MEETING

 THE MONXTON PARISH COUNCIL MEETING IS TO BE HELD ON
WEDNESDAY 21st JANUARY 2015
IN THE VILLAGE HALL AT 7.30PM

AGENDA

  1. Welcome and Apologies
  2. Declaration of Interests
  3. Members of the Public (Pre-booked slots if requested)
  4. Minutes of the Previous Meeting sign that they are correct
  5. Planning
  6. Reports:
    1. Environment & Footpaths
    2. Traffic
    3. Neighbourhood Watch
    4. Finance – 2015/2016 Precept
    5. Monxton Web Site
    6. Sunnybank
  7. HCC and TVBC reports (if provided)
  8. Correspondence
  9. Close of the meeting

 

Parish Council Minutes – 19 November 2014

by Monxton Matters

Minutes of the Monxton Parish Council Meeting held on Wednesday 19th November 2014 in the Monxton Village Hall at 7.30pm.

Present: Cllr Mike Cleugh – Chairman, Cllr Judith Balding, Cllr Adrian Drage, Cllr David Bateman, Richard Waterman – Parish Clerk, Members of the Public – 18, County Councillor Mrs P West, County Councillor Mr T Hooke
Apologies : Cllr Sarah Dowding – Vice Chairman and Borough Councillor Mr B Few-Brown.

WELCOME – Cllr Mike Cleugh welcomed everyone to the meeting.

DECLARATION OF INTEREST – There were no declarations of interest recorded

MINUTES OF THE PREVIOUS MEETING
The Chairman signed the minutes of the September meeting as a true record.

MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC
Mr Brian Carre booked a slot under Planning to address the Parish Council.

PLANNING

1. Willow Glen Planning Application 14102358/FULLN – First floor extension; small infill extension at ground floor level; new single car garage with storage area and alterations to fenestration and timber cladding. Erection of 1.8 metre high wooden entrance gates and single storey extension to outbuilding in rear garden.

 

Mr Aidan Jackson the applicant addressed the meeting and reported that he had taken on board the Parish Council’s objections and reported on the amended plans.

Mr and Mrs Jackson have been consulting with their neighbour who has no objections to the planning application. The Parish Council will study the new plans and make comment within the appropriate time frame.

2. Issues with lorries going to dump Rubble at Foxs Wood Georgia Lane. Update from TVBC, HCC and feedback from Forestry Commission.

 

County Councillors Pat West and Tony Hooke have been working together on the issue of Fox Farm and reported at length on their progress.

 

The Chairman reported that he had invited Paul Jackson, the head of Planning to the meeting. Paul Jackson declined the invitation but sent the following response :-

 

To set out the background in this case, the Local Planning Authority (LPA) has not granted a planning permission for the land owner to create tracks. It has determined a prior notification application and approved details (ref 13/00703/FODN) for the `reinstatement of damaged and compacted tracks’. What this means is that the Local Planning Authority (LPA) confirmed the works are considered to be ‘permitted development’ by virtue of the Town and Country (Permitted Development Order) 1995 (as amended) Part 7. As such the conditions that were attached to this approval have since been found to be unenforceable. This is due to the fact that they should never have been placed on the approval in the first instance. Unfortunately as LPA, we where unaware of this at the time the approval was granted. Whilst I appreciate this has given unrealistic expectations to the many interested parties, we are unable to take any action with regard to the conditions.

 

The investigation into the alleged importation, storage and spreading of materials is ongoing. The contractor and Landowner have been advised that this material must be removed by a given date, failure of which is likely to result in enforcement action being commenced. My officers are also discussing this with other agencies so that they are aware of what Test Valley Borough Council is doing in this regard. To date I can confirm that the removal of these materials has commenced and can confirm that this is not at the expense of Test Valley Borough Council.

 

I am aware that Hampshire County Council Waste & Minerals Enforcement Team are currently looking into the matter of the pile of rubble and other materials seen in the woodlands, and further meetings to include site meetings will continue to ensure the removal of all unauthorised material are satisfactorily completed.

 

Whilst I appreciate the residents of Monxton ongoing concerns with regard to the lorry movements, this is not something my officers can comment on or control. I would advise you to seek the advice of the Hampshire’s Highways team in this regard.

 

The Chairman has also contacted Alison Field at the Forestry Commission and received the following reply :-

 

Thank you for your email asking about the Forestry Commission response to the dumping of rubble at Fox Woods. I confirm that a small team of colleagues has been looking into this issue. We are liaising with the Local Authority and Environment Agency to explore options to redress the situation and are also seeking expert advice on the suitability of the tracks as a forest road and the wider impacts of dumping within the wood.

3. Brian Carre spoke about planning applications 14102598/FONN – 1401074IFONN -14/025981FONN – Forestry Notification for internal road alterations to improve access to timber stock – Great Woods and The Groves on Dunkirt Lane , Abbotts Ann and lower Oakcuts Copse in red Rice, Andover.

 

Mr Carre spoke about several inaccuracies relating to this the planning application that have been made by TVBC Planners. HGV movements are 396 not 3960 as stated in the application paperwork. The Parish Council will write to TVBC to clarify not only how the estimate of vehicle movements had been so far off and more importantly to clarify if this is a Planning Notice or Application and how this confusion could have arisen. The planners will also be asked for clarification/conformation that the vehicles involved in the development phase are also subject to the S106 routings.

 

TRAFFIC

  • Bollards installed outside Monxton Manor and new road markings for parking and speed
  • Village Gateways are on order for 2015/16, along with the TRO (see below)
  • Community Speedwatch is starting in the New Year
  • Bollards to be installed on small green (Abbotts Ann Rd)
  • Application for TRO for 30mph speed limit extension.
  • Request for scalpings at highways edge on Broad Road and Amport Road.

 

ENVIRONMENT – Cllr J Balding

THE PILLHILL BROOK
There were several complaints in September about garden waste, including grass cuttings and apples, being dumped upstream of the Black Swan Pub in to the Pillhill Brook.

 

Riparian land owner’s have certain responsibilities including: “To help protect water quality, riverbanks should not be used to dispose of garden or household waste, where it could be washed into the river. This includes grass cuttings which pollute the water. ”

 

If anybody is unsure about what they have to do or are new to living near a watercourse, advice can be sought from the Environment Agency. If riparian landowners do not carry out their responsibilities, they could face legal action.

 

Water and land pollution blockages, which increase the risk of flooding, should be reported to the Environment Agency’s Incident Hotline: 0800 80 7 060.

 

If you see any activity on the Pillhill Brook that could damage the environment or increase flood risk, please report it to Councillor Judith Balding.

 

SOUTHERN WATER
Southern Water recently repaired the damage to the roads and drain adjacent to the pumping station. Further works to the pumping station are due to start shortly.

 

FLY TIPPING
There have been a number of instances of fly tipping in the last few months. To report fly tipping to TVBC, please go to the Monxton Matters website for details.

 

FOOTPATHS AND BRIDLEWAYS
The footpath between Manor Farm and the Grain Store was cut again in October. Councillors Judith Balding and Sarah Dowding inspected the stiles on the majority of the footpaths in October. One was very slippery in the wet weather and chicken wire was put on it for more traction and one was found broken on Footpath 6. This has been reported to HCC. There are no reports of any other problems with footpaths or bridleways. Dog walkers are reminded to keep their dogs under control and not to trespass on private land. Please keep your dogs on leads in the village and near horses, sheep and cattle.

 

TEST VALLEY ASSOCIATION OF PARISH AND TOWN COUNCILS
Councillor Balding attended a meeting of the TVAPTC on 13th November on behalf of MPC, where there were three guest speakers. Mrs Terry Bishop, Chairman of Test Valley Community Services, which supports local communities, explained that TVCS provides numerous discounted and free services, including Dial A Ride, minibus hire, a Shopmobility service, an equipment loan service and training. They always need volunteers and further details will be put on the Monxton Matters website.

 

From TVBC, Katie Rasdall, Senior Planning Officer, spoke about the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) and Frances Cleland, Elections Manager, explained the new voting registration system called the ‘Individual Electoral Registration’ (IER). Details of the IER are on the Monxton Matters website.

MONXTON NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH – Mr David James

RURAL CRIME
There has been a drop in reported poaching incidents recently but we have seen a rise in burglaries to non dwellings. These have included thefts of tools and equipment from sheds but vehicles including quad bikes and off road motorcycles have been stolen. Here in Monxton last Tuesday (11 November) a wallet was stolen from a van parked in a drive. This was posted on Monxton Matters, I hope everybody saw it.

 

TELEPHONE AND COMPUTER SCAMS
These continue to be a source of annoyance to us all, hopefully that is all they are but anyone who watches programmes on television alerting people to crime of this type will realise that many people fall for these tricks.

 

CRIME ALERTS
There have been no alerts since the last meeting. I propose to issue one before Christmas with the usual seasonal warnings and a reminder about the scams.

 

FINANCE

EXPENDITURE
Payments October and November 2014.

  • R.N. Waterman                   Wages – October (Standing Order)   £200.00
  • R.N. Waterman                   Wages – November                               £200.00
                                                                                                                £ 400.00

ACCOUNTS – 1st April 2014 – 19th November 2014

INCOME

  • Opening Balance BF      = £5,574.65
  • Plus ½ precept             = £5,200.00

=  £10,774.65

 

EXPENDITURE

  • Wages                         =  £1600.00
  • Insurance                    =    £388.45
  • Notice Boards              =    £133.30
  • Play Ground Inspection =     £65.40
  • Village Maintenance      =  £1171.00
  • Dog Bins                     =     £152.64
  • Church Grant               =     £500.00

=  £4,010.79

BALANCE IN BANK       =  £6,763.86

MONEY SET ASIDE – NOT INCLUDED IN ABOVE FIGURES

  • £1000 for Village Hall Refurbishment
  • £2000 for Traffic Calming
  • £1000 for Village Project/Maintenance

 

SUNNYBANK – Cllr D Bateman

Cllr Mr D Bateman spoke about various footpaths and provided pictures of how wet and water logged they have become during the recent rain. An issue with a damaged fence was reported. An incident of Fly Tipping was reported, PCSO David Trowbridge got involved  and the issue has now been resolved. Residents should report any Fly Tipping to TVBC.

GROUND WATER LEVELS

A short presentation was given on the recent and current state of the groundwater levels in North West Hampshire as it impacts upon the Western Parishes and Monxton in particular.

The level of the groundwater at the Clanvilles Gate Bore Hole was “Notably High” at the end of August and remained “Above Normal” in September and October. Recent reading show the levels above those of 12 months ago. Thus, if we have another wet winter, the danger of groundwater flooding is high – We do not need as much rain as last winter for there to be problems.

It was reported that the Clanville Gate Bore Hole water levels are higher that at the same time last year. The levels are being monitored and ther are concerns that the levels could cause problems if we continue to have high rain fall.

 

CLOSE OF THE MEETING
The Chairman thanked everyone for coming and closed the meeting.

 

DATES FOR THE 2015 MEETINGS

  • 21st January
  • 18th March
  • 20th May – AGM
  • 15th July
  • 16th September
  • 18th November

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Individual Electoral Registration

by testvalley

Register to Vote

The registration system to vote changed in June 2014, with the new system called ‘Individual Electoral Registration’ (IER).

Test Valley Borough Council have written to anyone who needs to re-register, as everyone is now responsible for registering themselves, unlike the old system when the ‘head of every household’ could register everyone who lived at their address.

If you weren’t registered to vote previously, you can register under the new system.  Go to www.gov.uk/register-to-vote  fill in your name, address, date of birth and national insurance number and get confirmation to say you’re registered.

If you were already registered to vote, you should have received a letter from TVBC to tell you whether you need to take action to join the new register.  Most people who are currently registered have been added to the new register automatically. The letter will tell you if you’ve already been added to the new register. If you need to re-register, the letter will tell you what you need to do.  Registering to vote is free.

If you haven’t received a letter about registration, you should contact TVBC Electoral Services for information on whether or not you need to do anything.

Electoral Services, Beech Hurst, Weyhill Road, Andover SP10 3AJ

Email elecreg@testvalley.gov.uk

Telephone: 01264 368021
 

 

 

 

MONXTON PARISH COUNCIL MEETING

by testvalley

MONXTON PARISH COUNCIL NOTICE OF PARISH MEETING

THE MONXTON PARISH COUNCIL MEETING IS TO BE HELD ON

WEDNESDAY 19th NOVEMBER 2014 IN THE VILLAGE HALL AT 7.30PM

AGENDA

1. Welcome and Apologies

2. Declaration of Interests

3. Members of the Public (Pre-booked slots if requested)

4. Minutes of the Previous Meeting sign that they are correct

5. Planning matters – current applications and status

6. Reports:-

Environment & Footpaths

Traffic

Neighbourhood Watch

Finance

Monxton Web Site

Sunnybank

7. HCC and TVBC reports – Councillors Pat West and Tony Hooke will provide updates on the situation with respect to HCC and the lorries transporting material through the village by Nelsons

8. Correspondence

9. Dates for the 2015 Meetings

10. Close of the meeting

 

Monxton Planning Applications

by Monxton Matters

There are four new applications for Monxton. To see each in more detail please click here and type in the reference number below. You can also comment online should you wish.

  • 14/02180/TREEN: Barn Cottage, High Street, Monxton – Cut down 2 willows and 4 beech trees
  • 14/02234/LBWN: Monxton Manor – Application to regularise alterations and refurbishment to stable building, including installing door and window, re-instate chimney, internal alterations and construct sunken patio with retaining walls to the north to provide workshop and storage.
  • 14/02300/FULLN: Monxton Manor – Retention of alterations and refurbishment to stable building including installing door and window, re-instate chimney, internal alterations and construct sunken patio with retaining walls to the north to provide workshop and storage.
  • 14/02358/FULLN: Willow Glen, Monxton – First floor extension at ground floor level; new single car garage with storage area and alterations to fenestration and timber cladding

Alpine & Manor Farm Update

by Monxton Matters

An update on the progress to secure sites for the relocation of Alpine and Penchard from their agent:

Despite a very thorough search, it was not possible to find existing buildings suitable for Alpine’s and Penchard’s businesses and it took an appreciable amount of time to find sites in an acceptable location which could be developed to provide the accommodation needed by both companies, particularly as the provider of those sites also has to be the purchaser of the Manor Farm site, once the companies have been relocated.

The companies are in the final stages of agreeing designs and specifications for the new buildings for Alpine and Penchard and they will then enter into negotiations to agree terms for the acquisition of the buildings and the sale of Manor Farm. Those negotiations should be concluded before Christmas and then the purchaser of Manor Farm will submit a planning application for the redevelopment of Manor Farm. That application should be determined by the middle of 2015 and, providing it is approved, the construction of the buildings for Alpine and Penchard should commence late summer and be completed by May/June 2016.

Nelsons Planning Application – operating hours (refused)

by Monxton Matters

Application by Nelson Plant Hire Ltd: Variation of condition 3 (operating hours) of planning permission 11/02569/CMAN at Nelson Recycling, Homestead Farm, Weyhill Road, Penton Corner Andover SP11 0QX (application number 14/01527/CMAN)

The Regulatory Committee refused the above application. For any further queries about the case please contact Kristina King on planning@hants.gov.uk

 

Parish Council Minutes – 17 September 2014

by Monxton Matters

Minutes of the Monxton Parish Council Meeting held on Wednesday 17th September 2014 in the Monxton Village Hall at 7.30pm.

Present : Cllr Mike Cleugh – Chairman, Cllr Sarah Dowding – Vice Chairman, Cllr Judith Balding, Cllr Adrian Drage, Cllr David Bateman, Richard Waterman – Parish Clerk, Members of the Public – 13, Mr Ray Alborough – TVBC Highways; Mr Mike James, Richard Andrews and Graham Purvis – Southern Water.
Apologies : Borough Councilor Mr B Few-Brown and County Councilor Mrs P West.

WELCOME – Cllr Mike Cleugh welcomed everyone to the meeting
DECLARATION OF INTEREST – There were no declarations of interest recorded
MINUTES OF THE PREVIOUS MEETING – The Chairman signed the minutes of the July meeting as a true record.
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC – No slots had been booked to address the Parish Council.

REPORTS
ENVIRONMENT AND FOOTPATHS
SOUTHERN WATER – Cllr Judith Balding was pleased to welcome Southern Water representatives, Mike James – Stakeholder Communications, Richard Andrews – author of the draft IRP and Graham Purvis – Hampshire Area Plan Manager, to discuss their draft Infiltration Reduction Plan (IRP).

SW has been working to survey and repair sources of infiltration in the villages of Fyfield, Kimpton, Mullens Pond and Monxton. These villages have been combined into a single IRP because they are on the same sewage network. The gravity flow from Fyfield and Kimpton villages is pumped via Thruxton, Mullens Pond and Amport to Monxton and on to Fullerton treatment works. The success of the infiltration reduction programme will be dependent on the support of the Environment Agency, Hampshire County Council, Test Valley Borough Council and all of the village’s Parish Councils.

Mr Mike James reported that Southern Water have 24,000 miles of sewers, much of it aging and in need of repair. Last year survey work was carried out in the Monxton catchment area. A repair programme was undertaken costing £1 Million.

POINTS FOR DISCUSSION

1) Can SW explain the design and capacity of the sewage system which passes through Monxton WPS and the design and capacity of the pumping station itself.

Answer: The system is a ‘foul system’. Sewage from Fyfield and Kimpton is pumped to Amport. It is then pumped to Monxton and then over the hill to Abbots Ann before being pumped to Fullerton. Monxton Pumping station has two pumps that are sized for the catchment area, they pump 45ltr a second. When needed the pumping station is supplemented by tankers. There is a back up alarm system that alerts Southern Water of problems. It was reported that the Alarm System was not working – Mr James noted this. The alarm system will be reviewed, along with ensuring the electricity system is resilient to any future flooding.

2) When the flooding occurred, why did it take SW so long to start over pumping

Answer: Southern Water have to apply for permits from the EA before over pumping can begin. There are a lot of conditions to meet before consent is given.

3) What are SW doing to prevent a recurrence of flooding to the sewage system and the pumping station this winter.

Answer: The Monxton Pumping Station has been up-graded and pumping capacity has been increased by 50%. The system is checked along the line and an early warning system has been installed at Mullens Pond (Est Cholderton). Repair work to stop surface water entering the system have been undertaken at a cost of £300,000. The work should be completed by the 1st October 2014.

4) What are SW considering for the medium and longer term, as it appears to us laymen that the plant, being sited in an area of high groundwater, is not in the right place?

Answer: The pumping station at Monxton has been sighted at the lowest point and there were no problems with ground water in the pumping station during the recent floods.

5) How does SW monitor the capacity of the system and are they approached or consulted by TVBC and HCC when new building plans are submitted?

Answer: Southern Water are not one of the statuary consultees, however Southern water are consulted on large scale developments. If the Parish Council have any concerns about any new development in the parish please contact Southern Water.

6) What arrangements do SW have in place for compensation to users when the services you provide are unavailable and how are these communicated to your customers?

Answer: Customers must report their claims direct to Southern Water with dates, times etc. Each case is investigated.

7) Is there a panel in place at SW which seeks out the views of your customers and provides feedback to the heads of the relevant departments?

Answer: Southern Water review their business plan every 5 years and customers are consulted. The last consultation was sent out to 31,000 customers.

8) What were the results of the CCTV surveys carried out by SW in Monxton in June at the river crossings and have those repairs identified been completed yet? If not, when will they be done?

Answer: CCTV was carried out on the system, there was not a lot of ground water infiltration detected. There are no current plans to do any work but this will be reviewed at a later date.

9) What is the timeline for implementing the IRP.

Answer: The IRP is a living document at the moment and should be completed within the next two weeks, it will then be sent to the EA for approval. It could take two to three months for the EA to come back with approval. Once approval is granted it could take up to a minimum of two years to implement the IRP. This was deemed unacceptable by those present at the meeting.

MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC – The Southern Water Team were asked questions on Over Pumping, Raw Sewage in the fields and the time it took to sort things out during the problems earlier in the year. The Chairman thanked the Southern Water Team for coming.

FOOTPATHS AND BRIDLEWAYS – Footpaths & Bridleways Boat 11 has been cut back up to the track to Weyhill and most of the footpaths and bridleways have been cleared.

TEST VALLEY ASSOCIATION OF PARISH AND TOWN COUNCILS – Cllr Balding attended a meeting of the TVAPTC on 11th September on behalf of MPC. The Chairman, Charles Milner-Williams welcomed MPC and a very informative presentation was given by the guest speaker, Steve Lees, Head of Planning Policy and Transportation at TVBC.

PLANNING
Subject: Ref 14/01527/CMAN Extension of hours at waste transfer station Homestead Farm, Penton Corner.
Objections had been sent by MPC and several villagers. The main issue for the Monxton is the Lorries transporting material to Georgia Farm. Cllr David Bateman and Cllr Mrs P West attended the Planning Meeting. Cllr Bateman was pleased to report that the application had been refused by the Planning Committee. The Parish Council wished to thank Cllr Mrs Pat West for her support on this matter. A discussion of the dumping of rubble at the Georgia Lane Site followed.

NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH – Mr David James
Rural Crime
You may have noticed the recent coverage of rural crime in the news media. Livestock rustling, traditionally the stuff of westerns, has resurfaced in Britain. In 2013 the number of sheep stolen from farmers around the country increased by 25%. In our area crime has involved the theft of fuel oil and other chemicals, hand tools, tack and increasingly items such as quad bikes. Larger vehicles such as tractors are also targeted, generally to order by organised gangs, and are then usually shipped out of the country.

Incidents of poaching have also been reported. Three men have been found guilty at court of an offence of daytime trespass in pursuit of game in the Andover area. Each received a fine of £150, surcharge of £50 and costs of £85. If we want to tackle rural crime then we all need to work together by ensuring all incidents are reported, helping to ensure that the Police are able to target their resources efficiently.

Rogue Traders
The Police have had several reports of possible rogue traders touting door to door recently, particularly in relation to gardening and hedge trimming or tree surgery. If you have a caller who is aggressive or persistent please call the Police! Hampshire Trading Standards have a useful web page which lists reputable tradesmen:
http://www.buywithconfidence.gov.uk/sitepages/bwchome.aspx

Crime Alerts
Since the last meeting an alert was issued on the 14th August which was distributed in Monxton and posted on Monxton Matters. It covered the points summarised above together with advice on warm weather home security.

TRAFFIC

  • Bollards installed outside Monxton Manor
  • Village Gateways are on order Community Speedwatch is recruiting volunteers
  • Bollards to be installed on small green (Abbotts Ann Rd)
  • Application for TRO for 30mph speed limit extension
  • Request for scalpings at highways edges on Broad Road and Amport Road

Mr Ray Alborough spoke about the bollards that have been installed at Monxton Manor as there have been comments about parking. The project has yet to be finished a suitable coverage of the parking area needs to be agreed and the addition of a solid white line on the highway will further highlight the area and move traffic further into the centre of the road. Highways are waiting for the County Council’s contractor to complete the work. Traffic Regulation Orders were discussed, Mr Ray Alborough suggested that all changes to the speed limits are applied for on one Traffic Regulation Order.

The Chairman reported that the Alpine Group relocation to a new site is progressing. The Chairman thanked Mr Ray Alborough for coming to the meeting.

WEB SITE
An up-date on the Web Site was given

SUNNYBANK
Cllr David Bateman reported that there is still an ongoing problem with the road drains. The drains are blocked from Silver Birch Farm all the way to the village, these have been reported to Paul Walsh at Hampshire Highways and he has promised that they will be dealt with by the end of the week. Cllr D Bateman will monitor the situation.

MISCELLANEOUS
There have been reported incidents of someone dumping grass cuttings in the Phil Hill Brook. Reports of Japanese Knot Weed being dumped have also been logged. Boat 11 has been cut but not its whole length. It has been reported that Hampshire County Council are 18 months behind with their footpath cutting programme.

FINANCE
EXPENDITURE
Payments August and September 2014.
Mr Clive Hutchinson Grass Cutting                           £465.00
R.N. Waterman Wages – August (Standing Order) £200.00
R.N. Waterman Wages – September                          £200.00
                                                                                       £865.00

ACCOUNTS – 1st April 2014 – 17th September 2014
INCOME
Opening Balance BF = £5,574.65
Plus ½ precept          = £2,600.00
= £ 8,174.65

EXPENDITURE
Wages                                 = £1200.00
Insurance                           = £388.45
Notice Boards                    = £133.30
Play Ground Inspection  = £65.40
Village Maintenance        = £1171.00
Dog Bins                             = £152.64
= £ 3,110.79

 

BALANCE IN BANK = £ 5,063.86

MONEY SET ASIDE – NOT INCLUDED IN ABOVE FIGURES
£1000.00 for Village Hall Refurbishment
£2000.00 for Traffic Calming
£1000.00 for Village Project/Maintenance

MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC
It was noted that the Agenda for this meeting had not been put on the Web Site, Cllr Sarah Dowding apologised this had been an oversight. The Agenda however was displayed on the three village notice boards. Questions were asked about the way the Parish Council Agenda is distributed around the Parish. This was discussed and it was agreed that those who are not on email will be sent a copy of the agenda through the post by the Clerk.

CLOSE OF THE MEETING
The Chairman thanked everyone for coming and closed the meeting.

DATE OF THE NEXT MEETING
19th November 2014 in the Monxton Village Hall at 7.30pm

Bollards outside Monxton Manor

by Monxton Matters

As you have probably noticed there are some new bollards outside Monxton Manor, adjacent to the church and village hall. Hampshire Highways carried out a number of site visits to assess both the verge and the traffic situation along that stretch of road and the corner between Bec House and Corner Cottage. These bollards have been installed on Highways-owned land, by Hampshire Highways for a number of reasons:

  • To protect the listed wall of Monxton Manor (which will soon be repaired as consent has been granted)
  • To protect the drain running under the verge, which is in danger of collapse (and could therefore cause more flooding)
  • To improve the state of the verge, particularly in winter. There will be subsequent works to the ground, as the rubber matting installed some 10 years ago is no longer fit for purpose. HCC will improve on this whilst still keeping the grass on the verge.
  • To slow traffic down going around the corner as the road is narrowed when cars are parked there.
  • HCC Highways engineers recommended the narrowing of the road, and there are plans to move the white lines in the road too, to ‘visually’ narrow the road, as the best way of slowing traffic, without cluttering the rural environment with signs or road markings.
  • HCC Highways wanted to install the bollards closer to the road but we compromised to still allow parking for users of the village hall and church.

Even when cars are parked along this stretch of verge the cars do not need to protrude more than 12-18” into the road. Many measurements were taken to ensure that the road would still be wide enough even with cars parked along here. Where the bollards are located, even with cars parked along that entire stretch, the road is 5.5 metres at the widest point, and narrowing to 4.5 metres by the church gates. Measurements were taken from the wing mirror of a standard car to the far edge of the tarmac of the wall of Bec House. There is still another 30cm-plus of ‘verge’ between the tarmac and the wall. Yet just around the corner, the road narrows to just 4 metres between the wall of Bec House and the hedge of Corner Cottage.

The vast majority of cars are between 1.6m and 2m wide, including wing mirrors. The maximum width for any tractor, bus or vehicle to use the highways in the UK is 2.55m. That means that at most of the points past Monxton Manor it possible to fit 2 tractors passing within the 5.5m road width, and it’s comfortable with two cars passing each other, even with other cars parked on the verge.

Where a road is narrowed, to help control vehicle speeds, for example, the minimum carriageway width (kerb to kerb) is 3.7 metres. So even the 4 metre road width by Corner Cottage is still 30cm more than the minimum requirements.