Beckham East and West Parish Council

  • Annual Parish Council Meeting Minutes 14th May 2015

    Minutes of the East and West Beckham Annual Parish Meeting held on Thursday 14th May 2015 at Bodham Village Hall.

    Present: Mr. R. Wilson (Chairman), five parish councillors and six parishioners.

    The meeting opened at 7.30pm.

    Apologies. None.

    Minutes.
    The minutes of the East and West Beckham annual Parish Meeting, held on Monday 10th May 2014 were read to the meeting and confirmed as correct by all present. The chairman then signed the minutes.

    Matters arising from the minutes.

    It was asked if the Community bus was still operating.
    The bus is still operating but travellers wishing to use the service have to pay a subscription to join.

    East and West Beckham Parish Council. Chairman’s Report 2014 – 2015

    It has been an interesting, eventful and busy year for the Parish of East and West Beckham.
    Many thanks to our Parish Councillors, Geoffrey Place (Deputy Chairman), Tim Driver, Roy Simpson, Dick Morton, Barbara Powell for their help and regular attendance over the year and welcome to Julia Dovey who joined the Council during the year. I would like to thank in particular both Tim and Roy, two of our longest serving Parish Councillors who both stood down at the election. I would also like to take this opportunity to welcome Anthea Sweeny to the Parish Council. At this point it is worth mentioning that we have a vacancy on the Parish Council, that East Beckham does not have a its own representative and that both Dick and Barbara have indicated a desire to stand down. So I would ask that everybody gives some thought as to who might suitable and willing to join the Parish Council.
    My thanks go also to County Councillor Mike Baker and retired District Councillor Anthea Sweeney for attending our meetings and for keeping up the pressure on the County Council for improvement to the dangerous junction of Sheringham Road with the A148 at Lodge Hill. It is very frustrating to note that despite the increase in accidents at Lodge Hill over the last year in that there appears to be an indifference to improving or even reviewing this section of the A148 by highways.
    I am pleased to report an occasional increase in the number of Parishioners attending the meetings and hope to see them on a more regular basis in the future.
    Over the year three various planning applications for wind turbines two in Bodham and one in Selbrigg have cast a large cloud over the local villages. I am pleased to report that the first of the three most recent applications has now been withdrawn, the second refused by the District Council. We must be vigilant and continue to resist the last application for the wind turbine at Selbrigg.
    The year saw the first of ten, proposed £10,000 annual payments to the Parish from Hall Farm Solar. The desire by the Parish Council to see this money used in a wise and innovative way in the two villages has given rise to the idea of formulating a Parish Plan. An Information letter and invitation to a Parish Plan drop in day were distributed in the early part of the year culminating in a well-attended day on the 28th March. Lots of ideas came forward and some prospective volunteers. The challenge now is to form a Parish Plan Committee, to keep the interest and drive going forward, to bring some of these ideas to fruition. With the help of some additional grant funding there are some really exciting projects on the horizon. Thank you to everyone who helped to make the day such a very positive and enjoyable experience.
    And finally, I would like to extend my particular thanks to John, our Parish Clerk for his stalwart work during the year, his ongoing interest in the village and contribution to the Parish Plan drop in day which helped to make it such a success.

    Any Other Business none

    The chairman thanked everyone for attending and closed the meeting at 7.45pm.

  • Minutes 10th March 2016

    DRAFT Minutes of East and West Beckham Parish Council

    Meeting Held on Thursday 10th March 2016

    The chairman opened the meeting at 7.32pm

    Present.  Cllrs. R. Wilson, (chairman),  J. Dovey.  G. Place,  R. Lewis, R. Moreton   A. Sweeney

    County Cllr. M. Baker  and one member of the public       J. Stibbons (clerk)

    1. Apologies  Cllr. B. Powell, Dist.Cllr M. Knowles   PCSO Guy Slade

    2. Declarations of Interest.

    Cllrs. Dovey, Lewis and Sweeney declared at interest in item 8 on the agenda.  (Community Fund)

    Cllr. R. Wilson declared and interest in item 7 (Allotments)

    3. Minutes.

    The Minutes of the Parish Council meeting held on Thursday 28th January 2016, having been previously circulated, it was proposed by Cllr. Dovey that they be accepted as correct. This was seconded by Cllr. Sweeney and approved by the members present. The chairman then signed the minutes.

    4. Matters arising from the Minutes.  None

    5. Any reports from the Police, County or District Councillors

    County Cllr. M. Baker  There have now been “No Parking” markers placed at the improved splay on the A148 at Lodge Corner.  It has also been requested that a speed limit survey should be carried out on the A148.

    A new “Trod” is now in place with crossing points on the A148.  Highways are to be contacted with a request to have signs put in place warning of Pedestrians.

    Highways have been notified about pot-holes and overgrowing hedges in Gibbet Lane.

    6. A148 Lodge Corner.

    Cllrs. Place and Dovey attended the meeting of Upper Sheringham Parish Council where the Vehicle Activated Sighs (VAS) at Lodge Corner were discussed. It was finally agreed that the triggers should be installed with the VAS as requested by E&W Beckham PC. The initial reason for Upper Sheringham PC suggesting that the signs should be activated at all times was that there is no sign warning of pedestrians crossing.

    A bid is now in place for a VAS.

    7. Allotments.

    It was felt that it should be made clear that part of the West Beckham allotment site was on top  of a former tip and with a view to the information on the Environment Agency’s site “What’s in your backyard?”,  the parish has a duty of care responsibility not to encourage the growing of food crops on the site due to possible chemical contamination.

    Page138

    Testing would be expensive as it would have to be tested for every toxic chemical known – and then, if any were found they would have to be removed.

    As there is an alternative site at East Beckham, food production should be concentrated there. It was suggested that allotment holders re-locating from West to East Beckham should have a rent free allotment for five.

    An email from Mrs Powell was read to the meeting in which she hoped that public

    access to the West Beckham allotment site  would not be restricted when the Nectar Mix is established.

    8. Solar Community Fund Committee.

    (Minutes of Committee meetings can be viewed on the Website at (BECKHAMEWPC)

     

    The committee is to be known as the SOLAR COMMUNITY FUND COMMITTEE (SCFC).

    This committee is not limited in numbers and consists of volunteers with an interest in village improvements. There will also be a minimum of two parish councillors. A list of names of committee members will appear on the Parish Council web site. The object of this committee is to ascertain the wishes of the majority of residents regarding improvements to the community and prepair suggestions and costings for consideration by the Parish Council.

    Inspection of tree at the Village Green and the East Beckham common has found no unsafe

    branches that could be a hazard to the general public.

    The provision of safety mirrors at Long Lane and Allotment Lane was not approved by NCC Highways.

    The SCFC proposed the following projects for consideration by the Parish Council.

    a. A quotation for grading the track and car park clearance at E. Beckham allotments was presented to the meeting.

    The Parish Council needs to have three quotations before agreeing to this work.

    b. To go ahead with a quote from Community Heartbeat for a defibrillator in the redundant telephone box in W Beckham. Approved.

    c. To tidy up around the bus shelter – cut off some of the lower branches of the trees and ready the area for the relocation of the noticeboard and the installation of the defibrillator. Cost to be met from the Solar community Fund.

    The Parish Council agreed. Mr. Place was asked if he would approach Stuart Thurtle to see if he would undertake this work.

    d.  It was decided to leave discussion of village entrance signs and parish maps to the next meeting.

    Page 139

    9. Financial Matters.

    Community account balances at 28/1/2016  £1430.41

    Transfer of  £2908.73 from  Scottish Widows to Barclays Business account. to close account.

    To approve payments and sign cheques for the following–

     

    NNDC Election costs £38.32

    Cheverton and Son Printing £67.20

    J. Stibbons Salary and expenses £456.24

    HMRC Clerks PAYE £92

    Zurich Insurance £353.93

    Mr. L. Watson was appointed internal auditor for the year 2015-2016

    10. Correspondence

    • HM Queen 90th Birthday commemorative medals  It was decided not to purchase medals.
    • North Norfolk Bid Society Fund –  Noted

    11. Matters for information only or for the next agenda.

    The meeting was informed that there has been severe flooding near the Electricity Sub-station. Highways to be contacted.

    There being no further business the chairman closed the meeting at 9.26pm

    The next meeting will be held on Tuesday 24th May 2016

  • Minutes of the meeting E&WB SCFC 24th March 2016

    Held in Bodham and Beckham Village Hall
    Present: Julia Dovey (Chair) Kathryn Lord (Secretary) David McNeight, Chris Wheeler, Rex Wheeler, Denise Lewis, Rosabelle Batt, Lorraine Marks, Simon Wakefield, Lynne Clark, Andrew Clark, Anthea Sweeney,
    The Meeting opened at 7pm
    1. Apologies
    • John Stibbons
    • Bob Lewis
    2. Review Minutes of last meeting & any matters arising
    • It was agreed the previous minutes were a fair reflection of the meeting.
    • The Constitution: JD advised John Stibbons had minuted in the last Parish Council meeting the Solar Community Fund Committee was a subgroup of the Parish Council and was therefore covered by the same insurances etc. It meant that we could invite guests and experts as needed. There would need to be a minimum of 2 Parish Councillors on the committee and the Parish Council website will need to display the minutes of the meetings. (Which we are doing.) The Subgroup purpose is to reflect the wishes of the community.
    3. Bulletin Issue 2 & Distribution:
    • 140 copies had been printed by Chevertons after compilation by KL
    • The Bulletin was handed out and committee members asked to distribute to the Villages asap.
    4. Progress on action plan:
    • WAR MEMORIAL RESTORATION:
      • Still quotes are slow in coming in or the stonemasons are not responding  The Fakenham company will hopefully be in touch again after Easter. The Weybourne Memorial company (based in Diss) has quoted in Granite for £1890+Vat. A third quote is required. KL suggested looking at a company on the internet for a quote, even if it was for comparison. Designs, materials, finishes, fonts as yet have not been discussed in any detail.
      • JS may have further contacts?
    • TREE SURVEYS: 
      • CW and her husband RW had inspected the West Beckham Village Green. It was noted that as the trees are still doormat therefore harder to see which are thriving or not, however, 4 trees look like they need some attention. (1 x dead near the roadside, 1 x branch across the path but could be cleared with pruners, 2 x larger tree which would need a professional to clear or reduce.
      • It was agreed that RW would clear what was possible and leave material on site. (Ash dieback was mentioned and as a result it was felt material should not be removed from sites)
      • It was felt a H&S notice should be posted on the gate to highlight the danger of over hanging trees and that sensible caution should be taken during high winds.
      • The Village Green has a bench but it is not in good condition. A definite site for a new bench.
      • A dog bin was discussed but also the high cost of hazardous waste at £800pa for emptying. It was felt that dog owners should be responsible for their own dogs waste.
      • JD had contact with the North Norfolk Workout Group. These are a group of volunteers who would welcome sites to improve for conservation with a direction from the Committee. This was seen as a great find.
      • The East Beckham Common had been reviewed by JD and this was generally OK. The Cemetery would be reviewed by The Church.
    • THE READING ROOM:
      • RB confirmed the Reading Room/Mission Hut and land was given to the Church in 1996.
      • A copy of this Deed had been requested by the Parish Council from The Church.
      • Fr Phil Blamire had advised he would review with the Diocese Finance Board Ltd in May 2016.
    • DEFIBRILLATOR UPDATE:
      • JS was not at the meeting so no further info was known, however, another possible site for East Beckham was discussed if the Mission Hall/Reading Room should not be available. Possibly another option could be the newly planned Parking Area on the allotment.
    • SHOP:
      • CW advised that Danielle at the Wheatsheaf had been happy with the inclusion of the shop/Deli in the Bulletin, but nothing would be happening until after they had their B&B up and running hopefully in May/June.
    • ALLOTMENT UPDATE: 
      • BL was not at the meeting so KL read the update in the Bulletin
      • DL asked if it was possible for East Beckham allotment land to be ploughed prior to Allotment Holders taking on the land. It was very difficult work when the daffodils are in situ. This could be done after the daffodils are over.
      • West Beckham Allotment site. JD issued a detailed plan offered by Robert McNeil Wilson (Chairman of the Parish Council)  which identified a 3 – 5 year plan. Year1: weed kill once (ragwort/dock/persistent perennials) green up, cut weeds, weed kill again, cultivate to level the field, spray and plough in autumn  Year2: Cultivate in spring, Spray for weeds, drill & roll in a pollen and nectar mix end May, mow several times during the year, establish pollen/nectar mix Year3: mow paths through pollen/nectar for enjoyment, half area can be cut for autumn flowering and offer a longer source of nectar for bees.
      • Not all members of the committee were happy with this option due to the lack of amenity, but others felt it would be approved of especially by the local residents who back onto the allotment and it was a positive option for wild birds and bees.
      •  KL suggested we could have a community bee keeping group with bee hives?
    • VILLAGE GATES:
      • JD supplied photo options from a supplier. It was felt the white gates had the most impact and those used in Edgefield had been reported to noticeably slow down traffic.
      • A discussion followed about the best sites for Gates to the placed.  The gates come in 96, 150, 200 cm widths.
      • JD asked for suggestions before the next meeting of suitable placements for East and West Beckham.
    • BUS STOP:
      • JD reported (and was included in the March Bulletin) that a discussion with Charles Saunders Coaches had been requested by NNDC though Highways about possible reinstatement of the Bus service. It was welcomed but felt we should raise our hopes too high for a positive outcome.
      • JD advised she had requested the Parish Council request a general tidy of the Bus Stop Shelter (bin emptied etc)
      • A Parish Map could be included in the Shelter but it would be useful to have light. Solar light would be preferred but it is in the shadow of trees. It would be possible to paint inside to brighten up.
      • Discuss next meeting in more detail.
    • CHILDREN’S PLAY AREA:
      • JD reported there is district council funding available through ‘The Big Society’ although this would take time.
      • A young local resident had requested an improved play area and others have requested more equipment (sooner rather than later!)
      • Suggestions to remove the grass and add rubberised flooring or bark in certain sections were discussed, although recently a local school playground had a rubberised surface laid at £150,000 so could be out of our reach.
      • A see-saw, playhouse with slide and toddlers climbing frame would be appreciated.
      • JD asked for a volunteer to review and investigate the area. A&LC volunteered to work on this project and report back.
    • POST BOX PAVING UPDATE: When the weather warms up, this will be tackled.
    • WEBSITE: 
      • DM suggested it would be preferable to buy the domain name for eastandwestbeckham.org and that he could go ahead and do this and be paid back by the Parish Council when convenient. JD advised that if under £100 then we had authority to commit to the spending.
      • KL had been busy compiling the Bulletin so had not made much headway on the website.
      • Suggestions for content are extensive and a short list of priorities needs to be identified.
      • KL will email to members the list of content suggestions or links so far for review. (email subject: Village Website  (http://eastandwestbeckham.org))
    • MEMORIAL BENCHES:
      • How many benches and where would these best go would be discussed at the next meeting.
      • Synthetic material benches seemed a good idea as otherwise they rot and fall into disrepair. (It was noted Bob and Ivy’s memorial Bench in East Beckham was rotting)
      • RB to investigate style options and possible locations
    5. AOB 
    • None recorded
    6. Date of next meeting
     
    • Thursday 28th APRIL 7PM, Bodham and Beckham Village Hall
    • JD scheduled 2 further dates 26th MAY and 30th JUNE

    Meeting closed at 8:45pm

  • Parish Council Agenda 10th March 2016

    East and West Beckham Parish Council.

    Parish Council Meeting

    To all members of the Council

    Your presence is requested at a Meeting of E. & W. Beckham Parish Council on

    Thursday 10th March 2016 at 7.30 pm at the Bodham Village Hall.

    J. Stibbons   Clerk to the Council

    2nd March 2016

    The Public are invited to attend the above meeting

    AGENDA

    1.    Apologies

    2.    To receive declarations of interest.

    3.    To approve the minutes of the Parish Council meeting held on 

           Thursday 28th January 2016.

    4.    Matters arising from the Minutes.

    5.    Any reports from the Police, County or District Councillors

    6.    A148 Lodge Corner.

    Update on VAS.

    7. Allotments.

    8. Solar Community Fund Committee.

    • Status. It would be useful to have the function of the committee defined as an advisory body, and members of the committee named in the minutes. This will ensure they are covered by the Parish Council Insurance.
    • Report from Committee chairman

    9. Financial matters.

    Bank Balances at 28/1/2016  £1430.41

    Transfer of  £2908.73 from  Scottish Widows to Barclays Business account. to close account

    Insurance to consider if cover is adequate. Renewal due 1st April 2016

    To approve payments – 

    NNDC – Election costs £38.32

    Cheverton and Son Printing £67.20

    J. Stibbons Salary and expenses £456.24

    HMRC Clerks PAYE £92

    Zurich Insurance £353.93

    To appoint an internal auditor for the year 2015-2016

    10. Correspondence

    Fire risk management  –   HM Queen 90th Birthday commemorative medals –  North Norfolk Bid Society Fund    Managing local cemeteries and closed churchyards (Training)

    11. Matters for information only or for the next agenda.

  • Parish Council Minutes 28th January 2016

    DRAFT Minutes of East and West Beckham Parish Council

    Held on Thursday 28th January 2016

    The chairman opened the meeting at 7.32pm

    Present.  Cllrs. R. Wilson, (chairman),B. Powell,  J. Dovey.  G. Place,  R. Lewis,

    R. Moreton   A. Sweeney   Dist.Cllr M. Knowles         J. Stibbons (clerk)

    1. Apologies     PCSO Guy Slade

    2. Declarations of Interest.

    Cllrs. Dovey, Lewis and Sweeney declared at interest in item 7 on the agenda.  (Community Fund)

    3. Minutes.

    The Minutes of the Parish Council meeting held on Thursday 19th November 2015, having been previously circulated, it was proposed by Cllr. Lewis that they be accepted as correct. This was seconded by Cllr. Powell and approved by the members present. The chairman then signed the minutes

    4. Matters arising from the Minutes.

    Cllr. Powell felt the West Beckham allotments should not be ploughed too early as the daffodils can be picked for fund-raising and charity. Discussion of allotments will be included on the March agenda.

    5. Reports.

    Dist. Cllr. M. Knowles. The full report is attached to these minutes.

    Cllr. Knowles apologised for missing the last two meetings.

    Job Centre staff are to be based in the council offices. The Dept. of Works and Pensions will pay a good rent.

    A boundary review is to be undertaken ion the near future.

    A backlog is building up in the planning office due to shortage of staff. Planning applications will go paperless in the near future.

    6. A148 Lodge Corner.

    The members were unanimous in their agreement that the Trigger should be installed at the same time as the VAS, not at a later date. If this is in place drivers on the main A148 will know when traffic is joining from a side road.

    The VAS will be more noticed if it is not flashing at every vehicle on the main road as drivers familiar with the road will tend to ignore it after a time.

    Real safety for pedestrians will only be achieved by imposing a 50mph speed limit.

    It was also reported that cars have now started parking on the verge which was recently widened to give a better view of oncoming traffic.

    The members were very concerned at this development. It can only get worse as the summer approaches.

    It was agreed that Highways should be contacted to see if  NO PARKING signs similar to the ones on the other side of the main road could be installed.

    Page 136

    7. EWB Community Fund.

    It was reported that two grit bins had been delivered and one was positioned at the Abbey Farm corner, East Beckham.

    The War Memorial records the names of all who served. The vicar feels that only the men who died should be on the memorial.

    It was proposed by Mr. Wilson that the names on the new memorial should remain the same with no change of names. This proposal was seconded by Mr. Place and carried unanimously.

    The Fund Committee suggested that the provision of notice board types of maps for walkers should be investigated further.

    An opinion was given that the Hall Farm Solar money should be used for a big project and not be frittered away. This point will be discussed at a later meeting when more funds have come in.

    8. Insurance Review.

    Te insurance is due for renewal at the end of April. The existing cover was discussed and the meeting felt the present amount of cover was adequate.

    A letter from the Zurich Insurance, in reply to a query, confirmed that the Parish Council are covered for accidents to third parties, provided all reasonable care is taken. This query was raised because it was unclear what would happen in the event of a tree or branch falling on a passer-by. Any obvious dangers should be reported to the council and action taken to render them safe.

    9. Financial Matters.

    A copy of the cash book to date was circulated to members. This showed the following balances:-

    • Community account of £2816.08
    • Premium account £22455.43
    • Scottish Widows Investment account £2908.73   A letter was signed at the meeting requesting a transfer of £2700 to the business account to cover the cost of the VAS at Lodge Corner.

    Payments for Grit bins (£287.98) and Printing (£90) were approved by the meeting and cheques signed.

    It was proposed by Mr. Wilson that the Parish Plan Committee be authorised to spend up to £100 without prior reference to the Parish Council. This was seconded by Mrs. Powell and carried.

    10. Correspondence.

    A request for a donation from AgeUK   The meeting decided not to make a donation at present.

    11. Matters for information or the next agenda.

    Allotments are to be included in the next agenda for further discussion and progress report.

    There being on further business the chairman closed the meeting at 8.07pm

  • Financial Regulations Adopted

    East & West Beckham Financial Regulations Adopted

  • Solar Fund Minutes 18th February 2016

    Held in Bodham and Beckham Village Hall
    Present: Julia Dovey (Chair) Kathryn Lord (Secretary) David McNeight, Chris Wheeler, John Stibbons, Bob Lewis, Denise Lewis, Rosabelle Batt, Lorraine Marks, Simon Wakeford, Lynne Clarke, Andrew Clarke, Anthea Sweeney
    The Meeting opened at 7pm
    1. Apologies
    • None
    • Julia Dovey welcomed John Stibbons (Clerk to the Parish) as an additional regular attendee. John has a wealth of knowledge so will act as a consultant/advisor and general contributor.
    2. Review Minutes of last meeting & any matters arising
    • It was agreed the previous minutes were a fair reflection of the meeting.


    3. Information Sheet Publication and Delivery 

     
    • The Information Sheet was mostly delivered
    • It was noted that the refuse collection is the same for both West and East Beckham (Friday).
    4. Father Phil Blamire meeting report
    • The Meeting was held on 08/02/16 and minutes previously circulated.
    • There was concern regarding the St Helens Church not being funded past 3 years. What would happen after this period is open to speculation.
    • Gates at the Entrance to the Cemetery are to be dealt with by Warner Thompson Builders for the PPC, and a quote is required by SCFC.  KL to Chase Fr Phil
    5. Progress on action plan:
    • SAFETY MIRRORS: JS advised Steve Wright from Highways advised that Safety Mirrors were not allowed on the verge. They may cause an accident by distraction, and create an obstacle for hedge cutting etc. If placed on private land there maybe legal issues if the mirror is cited as a cause of an accident. No further action and results to be communicated in the forthcoming newsletter.
    • WAR MEMORIAL RESTORATION: No responses so far from 3 stonemasons who have been asked to quote for the WW1 Memorial. Chasing up required JD/SW
    • DEFIBRILLATOR UPDATE:
      • A quote is needed from Community Heartbeat Trust. Discuss at PC Meeting JD 
      •  The Reading Room (when demolished) in East Beckham would be the best site.
    • THE READING ROOM:
      • The Church Registrar Stuart Jones had not been heard from regards their interest or otherwise. KL to chase Fr Phil
      • It was generally agreed a professional builder should be employed to demolish the site.
      • Wood or items from the building could be reused on the allotments for raised beds etc.
      • PM Howell of Sheringham was suggested by CW, or Justin by RB or BL, or Russell 
    • TREE SURVEYS: 
      • The Tree Expert David Gillet had been called by KL but had not responded, too busy?
      • The Churchyard will be reviewed by the Church Tree surgeon.
      • The areas of concern were the Village Green and Footpaths.
      • A walk through the Village Green to see if any dead or obviously dangerous trees could be identified was volunteered by CW and her husband Rex W. KL/JD to walk East Beckham Loke
    • PARISH MAPS:
      • JD reported NPS Graphics had quoted £250 for Artwork and £400 for a display box to put it in.
      • Content needs to be decided and supplied
      • The Parish Walk approx 8K long was suggested for  2 sites. (East Beckham Reading Room site & West Beckham Bus Shelter)
      • It was reported that footpaths about the area had Finger Posts in disrepair – either knocked over or rotten. It is possible to report these on the NNDC Interactive Highway Map.
    • WEBSITE: 
      • Since the last meeting which suggested using the Parish Councils site and amending for the use of the villages it had been determined there are limited Themes or Styles available so only limited changes were possible.
      • JS reported there is no longer a Grant available for the creation of a website, although quotes had been received from 2 companies Amia Design (£750 + annual Hosting fee of £50) and Alysham Computers £420 + annual hosting £50)
      • Amia Design had been singled out as the creator of Whissonsett Village website http://www.whissonsett.com. This was highlighted as preferred design style by KL/JD. Please review and feedback
      • Content needs to be decided and gathered to enable any design to be put together.  Send suggested content to KL
      • A further meeting was to take place Saturday 7pm at the Wheatsheaf to discuss.
    • ALLOTMENT UPDATE: 
      • BL reported a meeting had taken place earlier in the day at East Beckham allotment. All current East Beckham users had been invited.
      • The Allotments had been staked out with posts.
      • The sizes 30 feet (frontage) x 80 feet (deep),
      • West Side 14 allotments. 5 sites are vacant on this side.
      • The East side left 12 allotments free and one would be singled out for use as a carpark.
      • It was agreed that the entrance and slope to the allotment needs levelling, hardcore laid with a drainage channel to one side. The car parking area could also be levelled and hardcore/gravelled at the same time. (Note Builder or person employed to demolish Reading Room could quote at the same time)
      • A water supply was discussed and costs should be investigated
      • West Beckham Allotments closure. Concern regarding the loss of the amenity of the allotment land was voiced if wildflower seed was sewn ‘on mass’ across the allotment. Suggestions such as a Dog walking area (securely fenced), a grassed field for Village events, site for Memorial Benches, plus the existing Village benefit of daffodils that can be picked for home use. Allotments are to be discussed at the next Parish Council Meeting.
    • SHOP:
      • CW advised that Danielle at the Wheatsheaf Pub envisaged a ‘Deli’ shop with some basics within the ‘Tea Room’, possible hours 9-6pm.
      • Therefore there would be no set up costs but volunteers to help run it would be welcomed. JD to contact the interested Volunteers from the Questionnaire. 
    • POST BOX PAVING UPDATE: When the weather warms up this would be tackled. SW/LM & CW/RW
    6. Items for the next Parish Council meeting
    • Allotments
    • Defibrillator Quote required
    • Tidy up area around the Bus Shelter /Phone Box in readiness for Information Board and Defibrillator
    • Village Entrance Gates – can this be explored? (Note Edgefield Village now have these in place)
    • Memorial Benches – costs and suppliers (RB) (post mtg: Catalogue/supplier of various equipment including Village Gates with JD)
    • Parish Maps
    8. AOB 
    • As the solar farm was the reason for the Fund it was agreed we would referred to as the ‘SOLAR COMMUNITY FUND COMMITTEE’ (SCFC)
    • The next newsletter will be put together and finalised in March for the next meeting.
    • The next Lunch at the Wheatsheaf will be held on March 3rd
    • Queen Elizabeth’s 90th Birthday (21st April or official day June 6th) was suggested as a Party in East Beckham / further Lunch celebration
    • Is the meeting open to the Public? A constitution would be required. CW to investigate a possible constitution
    • Minutes of the SCFC meetings should be posted onto the Parish Website. JS advised the Parish Plan tab was for this purpose. DM/KL
    9. Date of next meeting
     
    • Thursday 24th March 7PM, Bodham and Beckham Village Hall

    Meeting closed at 8:40pm

  • Solar Fund Minutes 18th January 2016

    Present: Julia Dovey (Chair) Kathryn Lord (Secretary) Chris Wheeler, Denise Lewis,  Lorraine Marks, Simon Wakeford, Mike Baker, John Stibbons, David McNeight.
    Held in Bodham and Beckham Village Hall
     
    Julia Dovey opened the meeting at 7:05PM
    1. Apologies
    Rosabelle Batt, Bob Lewis, Lynne and Andrew Clarke, Anthea Sweeney

    2. Review Minutes of last meeting & any matters arising
    • The minutes were a fair reflection of the meeting. JD reported that the Oil Buying Group in Gresham is administered by John Rodway and although request for those interested to be in contact had been put in the newsletter, there had been no response.
    • The Gresham Group is happy for the Beckhams to join their Group but a co ordinator would be helpful to call round interested parties in our villages (approx. once a month). It was felt that a ’spot rate’ price from John Rodway on his next purchase would be useful to highlight the benefit to the community. Information regarding the Oil Buying Group would be put in the next edition of the Newsletter together with the most recent price per litre to see if there would be any interest. ACTION JD to contact JR

    3. Finalisation of The Household Information Sheet for printing/issue

    • The Information Sheet was agreed to be sent out asap and before the next Newsletter is issued in March.
    • (See Point 2) inclusion of JD Contact details – amendment therefore needed before printing. ACTION DL/KL
    • A quote from Chevertons Printers to be arranged incl. lamination ACTION KL

    4. Progress on action plan:
    a] Grit Bins 
     
    • Den Lewis communicated Bob’s progress. One bin is now installed, on pavers, next to Abbey Farm (Sheringham Road x Gresham Road) and Highways are asked to fill the bin with grit.
    • Highways are not giving permission for East Beckham proposed Valley Farm site due to various reasons, including cost implications (grit filling etc). An appeal has been written by BL to Steve White of Highways.  Maybe a site could be found on private land, with DIY grit filling either from Highways supplies or perhaps the Parish Council would fund. ACTION JD/BL/Parish Council
     
    b] Safety Mirrors
    • Costs of Mirrors were advised for Allotment Lane exit and also Long Lane exit to The Street in WB. Placement of these would need to bear in mind hedge cutting.
    • 600mm £128 x1, 2-5 £121-150 each  or 800mm £142 x1, 2-5 £135 each ACTION JD/BL/Parish Council
    c] War Memorial restoration
    • SW reported the Quote had not yet been received – awaits the tradesman visit. Also See point 5.
    • It was agreed, if possible, 11/11/2016 would be an appropriate completion date for a service/dedication of a new memorial.
    • Discussion took place over inclusion of names of those who died in other wars (Northern Ireland, Korean, Afghanistan, Gulf, Bosnian, Iraq etc) to make the memorial up to date not just WW1 (would this mean a WW1 grant is not possible?)
    • Investigations into War Graves – names eligible for inclusion to be actioned by Mike Baker ACTION MB 
    d] Defibrillators 
    • John Stibbons reported the charity Community Heartbeat Trust has adopted the redundant phone boxes and has an arrangement with BT to pay for the power if used to house the defibrillator. This Charity appears to be a ‘one stop shop’. KL had concerns regarding the actual costs for training, insurances, ongoing management costs etc. Matlaske phone box photos were shown (who it seems had used a different company  – Arrhythmia Alliance (www.arrhythmiaalliance.org.uk or Heartsease) JS advised Gresham Village already has a defibrillator installed and the training etc was undertaken with 50 or so villagers.
    • Actual costs to be established – A Lottery Grant can be sought for East Beckham or any further ‘non phone box’ sites.ACTION JS/JD
    • An East Beckham site needs to be established. Suggestions are the Reading Room site. ‘The Hut’/Reading Room – authorisation for the dilapidated building owned by the Church to be demolished, and the land, owned by the Batt Family which the building stands on had already been authorised for use by the community.(Rosabelle had agreed this at a previous meeting) ACTION JD/Father Phil
    e] Tree surveys
    • JD advised David Gillett had been recommended to her to site survey the Village Green by footpaths and any other areas of concern – e.g. East Beckham Loke. KL advised he was a very busy man, but would ask his availability and costs for his advise. ACTION KL
    •  It was noted the PC liability insurance suggests ‘reasonable care’ is taken so a regular inspection will take place and be minuted by the PC. Simon Case from NNDC can be contacted if particular trees are a concern. Rosabelle Batt (via DL) advised Gresham Church in a similar scenario had to pay high costs for survey and carry out recommended work however recent high winds have still brought down a branch.She suggested that the expense involved would not be justified.
    •  Mike Baker suggested that a lower cost option would involve a tree surgeon looking at the trees, any necessary work done (possibly annually and then minuted by PC. That should cover any PC liability. ACTION JD/JS/BM
    f] Parish Maps 
     
    • JD advised it was hard to locate a suitable Parish Maps with foot paths therefore ‘Work in Progress’. It was highlighted that some footpaths needed to be registered before they were lost and JS and MB both remembered some paths (including Mill Lane) which are not visible on current maps ACTION JD
    g] Website
    • It was agreed the current Parish Council Website could be expanded for community use, therefore no extra costs to be involved. Changes to the design and content would be investigated.  Content/Structure needs further discussion and KL suggested organising a separate meeting. JD suggested Rose Morton had volunteered regarding the newsletter. KL to arrange including CW, DL from the committee.  ACTION KL
    • John Stibbons will supply password details to DM ACTION JS
    h] Allotments 
     
    • JD advised Ann and Martyn Waring, living in WestB but already using the Allotment site at EastB, had volunteered to organise and host a meeting of the allotment holders. Bob Lewis and John Stibbons have already organised to go and measure up the allotment site in EastB. ACTION BL/JS
    5. Contact with Father Phil on church/cemetery matters
    • JD reported a meeting with Father Phil has been set up 8th February at 11am at St Helen’s and All Saints West Beckham. There is an open invitation for anyone interested to attend. ACTION JD/SW
    • The War Memorial at Weybourne Church was being restored currently. Father Phil advised a Roll of Honour (for those who served in wars) should be inside the Church. Those who died, put on the head stone memorial outside. Currently St Helens Church has a mix of WW1 ‘served and died’ on the memorial. It was agreed any changes must be handled very sensitively.
    6. Ownership of parcels of land near Church, also site of East Beckham church
    • Old Parish Documents had been reviewed by JD and these 2 parcels of land in Parish ownership were discussed. The East Beckham Old Church/registered common (demolished 1896) is currently used for raising game birds.Enquiries to be made as to who owns and manages this land at the moment to perhaps negotiate future access. The access via an old track has been ploughed up and is no longer visible. ACTION JD/Parish Council
    • The second parcel is currently part of Mike Bakers garden but further investigation of the deed written in July 1913 showed that unless the Parish built a Village Hall on the land, it would be bought back by the landowner who had it, for a fee.
    7. Next steps:
    • Possible shop – The Wheatsheaf should be approached more formally by Chris Wheeler as a possible shop site – as the Publican had already expressed an interest. ACTION CW
    • JS advised Gresham had done a lot of work and raised funds for a shop but it failed due to lack of a suitable venue, but there is a lot of help (and experience) available.
    • Paving at postboxes – SW and LM volunteered to pave the ground by the post box near WestB village sign (outside Chestnut Farm) ACTION SW/LM
    8. AOB 
    • Den Lewis read a communication by Kathleen Mace, a resident of East Beckham for more than 36 years and an active/constructive member in village matters. She suggests the site of the Reading Room to be cleared and 2 picnic benches installed. The Village Noticeboard and defibrillator unit could be housed here too.  The Bridgeway is to the right of the noticeboard position, overgrown but recoverable. On the wide verge she suggests large Tubs//Planters (which she would be happy to adopt) to stop parking at this point. Village Parking should be moved to the allotment site.
    • Next issue of Newsletter – any content please send to Kathryn Lord. (Aid memoir – Include Information regards lunches at The Wheatsheaf, Allotment updates, Post Box pavement, Grit bins, Website) ACTION ALL

    9. Date of next meeting
     
    18th February 7pm Bodham and Beckham Village Hall ACTION ALL
    Meeting closed at 8:40 PM

  • Solar Fund Minutes 23rd November 2015

    Present: Julia Dovey (Chair) Kathryn Lord (Secretary) Chris Wheeler, Bob Lewis, David McNeight, Lorraine Marks and Simon Wakeford
    Held in Bodham and Beckham Village Hall

    Julia Dovey opened the meeting at 7pm


    1.  Apologies

    Mike Baker, Denise Lewis, Andrew and Lynne Clarke, Rosabelle Batt, Anthea Sweeney

    2.  Minutes of the last meeting
    The minutes were agreed to reflect the last meeting.

    3.  Matters arising
    None

    4. Report on the Parish Council Meeting
    Julia presented the summary and draft action plan with the Parish Council.
    The Parish Council were generally very supportive of the suggestions made by the E&WBPP Committee and directed certain areas to be worked on first.
    5. Action Plan – Getting started
     
    Church and Cemetery
    The PC decided that it would be sensible to discuss the future plans for the Church Building and Cemetery with the PCC, however as there is no longer an acting PCC, this meant discussing directly with the Rector, The Rev’d Philip Blamire. Ideas that require permissions from the Church before any action can be taken include Cemetery improvements and wildlife management, tree assessments, and any future building change of use. Note: It was felt that Simon Wakeford should continue to review the process for renewal or refurbishment of the WW1 War Memorial. 3 quotes to be obtained from Stone Masons. The Imperial War Museum could be a source to check names serving or deceased in WW1 & WW2 from the 2 villages.
    Allotments
    The PC Agreed East Beckham should be developed and improved for allotment use. This had better soil and more existing allotment holders.
    An allotment poly-tunnel, sleepers for raised beds, and a water supply were suggested. The water supply could possibly be via Geoffrey Clifton-Brown? Parking provision at each of the allotments would be preferable.
    West Beckham allotments have currently only 2 holders and one (Cheryl Finch?) wishes to quit. A notice to quit will be raised by John Stibbons who has taken over the running of the allotments from Cheryl Finch?.
    Robert McNeil Wilson suggested a pollen and nectar seed mix to be sewn over the land which would be good for the soil. The plants would be perennial, leguminous, and would bloom all through the year. The field could also be cut.
    A committee needs to be set up first.
    Progress regarding the Deeds to the allotments need to be raised with John Stibbons by Julia Dovey.
    An Improved Website
    Kathryn Lord and David McNeight agreed to begin this process and to administer the website.
    The name of the domaine name was suggested as www.eastandwestbeckham.org.uk  (rather than .com or .co.uk)
    Guide costs will involve paying for the domaine (2 years for £6.98) and also web hosting at £2.49 per month.
    Website name will need to be approved by the Parish Council prior to purchase.
    It should be established if the current council site “ beckhamewpc.norfolkparishes.gov.uk “ will continue to run.
    Defibrillators
    West Beckham site was suggested to occupy the old Phone box which still has electricity running to it. It had been offered to the Parish by BT in the past for just £1.00. John Stibbons was to investigate if this is still the case.
    Chris Wheeler to investigate further, but the East Beckham site was suggested at the Telegraph Pole close to the Notice Board, which may still have an electricity supply.
    Information on how to use the defibrillators will be needed for both sites, i.e. calling 999, offering the postcode for your location, etc
    Grit Bins
    It was agreed that 2 x Green coloured grit bins will be purchased asap and sited in East Beckham.
    a] Valley Farm bend, by the Post Box
    b] Abbey Farm/Gibbets Lane cross road
    Highways will need to confirm both sites are acceptable. If so, Bob Lewis was happy to arrange for the levelling and paving of the 2 sites for the bins to be installed. Grit to be purchased or supplied by highways, which ever is faster, prior to winter weather.
    General Improvements
    The provision of visibility mirrors opposite the entrance to Allotment Lane and Long Lane was supported. Bob Lewis to investigate.
    Oil Buying Syndicate
    John Stibbons advised John Redway in Gresham Village already runs a syndicate and Julia Dovey will speak with him to get operational details.
    Tree Surveys
    Julia Dovey to discuss with NNDC who has an Advisor.
    Newsletter/Information Sheet
    Denise Lewis has produced a household information sheet with useful numbers and asked for comments/additions.
    All were asked to review and email suggestions to Denise.
    Bin collection days and anything else which would help a new resident to the area. Bob Lewis to ask the new resident in East Beckham.
    Delivery could go with the Link Up in the New Year.

    East and West Beckham Information Sheet.pdf

    6. Communicating progress to the villages
    The Newsletter should be produced to advise the community of the progress so far and the results of the survey.
    A3 folded to a 4 page newsletter with photos along with the text to be produced to be circulated prior to the end of 2015 (preferably in 2 weeks?) Julia Dovey and Kathryn Lord
    Chevertons to produce. The Committee to deliver. KL to advise when available.
    7. A O B
    Chris Wheeler advised that The Wheatsheaf had expressed and interest in being the location for a Village shop.
    Simon Wake asked if a chain barrier might be used to stop vehicles driving over the Village sign grassed area.
    Julia Dovey explained Ownership of the Solar Farm had changed 3 times since the creation. John Stibbons has asked for the latest fund contribution as it is not automatically forthcoming. The Fund is currently £22,000.

    8. Date of next meeting
     
    Monday 18th January 2016
    Bodham & Beckham Village Hall at 7PM.
    Meeting closed at 9pm.

  • Solar Fund Minutes 17th September 2015

    Present: Julia Dovey, Kathryn Lord, Anthea Sweeney, Bob and Denise Lewis, Rosabelle Batt, Simon Wakeford and Lorraine Marks, Chris Wheeler

    Dear All,

    1. Apologies
    Mike Baker, Lynne and Andrew Clark sent their apologies.

    2. Minutes of the last Meeting

    3. Questionnaire update and review
    The questionnaires had all been delivered. Most had been returned or collected. Julia Dovey collated those received so far and will add those from Lynne and Andrew Clark. If any further questionnaires are received please pass to Julia.

    The response rate had been good and this was felt to be a result of the personal delivery and talking through the forms with people in the parishes. There were several comments of support and generally people appreciated being asked to offer their opinion.

    4. Next steps

    A review of the results so far highlighted it was going to be difficult to decide how to handle or proceed with some of the subjects. Julia Dovey suggested the Parish Council would be best to decide a priority list for the various topics and to assist them JD will put together a summary of the questionnaire votes. JD asked for us to proof-read her summary and check content hadn’t been left out or misinterpreted.

    Notes:
    1. Simon Wakeford to do research on the War Memorial regards Public Money available for such projects.
    2. Simon Case at the Council maybe useful discussing public liability to public spaces (cemetery) and the PCC needs to be consulted
    3. Allotments – a new ‘management committee’ would be helpful to further the discussions on this project. Chris Wheeler had volunteered to help (albeit not wanting an allotment). Paperwork – deeds etc to be sorted out by the PC. Testing of WB Allotment ground was discussed which was not going to be very expensive, but the results depending on what found could be. Via the District Council, James Wilson is a contact that could be worth approaching.
    4. Village entrance signs seemed well favoured and KL supplied a photo of an example in Gayton (West Norfolk)
    5. Village information sheet was generally seems a good idea and Denise Lewis offered to create one.
    6. ‘Dial a ride’ ex North Walsham already exists – check if this is possible for W&E Beckham residents.
    7. Street Life was mentioned as a possible Village ‘website’ option
    8. EB reading room – a working party to clear the undergrowth (Rosabelle Batt advised this would be fine as the landowner) Bob Lewis to investigate further.
    9. Wifi in Bodham and Beckham Village hall would be very helpful!
    10. Action plan to be created  – short term, easy, no or little spending, medium term etc, and long term plus some items which are too ambitious or unlikely to succeed. (Via Summary/PC)

    5. AOB  – Update on Lodge Hill Junction
    JD advised the Steering Group that at the last Parish Council Meeting NCC Highways Department representative Mr. Paul Donnachie presented the plans for the A148 Lodge Hill Junction. There are plans to create  footpaths (or trods) in the existing verges. Also they are looking at several other new footpaths/trods that could be created, as a way to answer the Coroners recommendations which would be longer term. Speeds cannot unfortunately ‘just be lowered’ as they follow a district strategy and this junction did not fit the criteria. This was strongly challenged and the ’strategy’ was asked for so we could review and understand the situation. A VAS (Vehicle Activated Sign) is something that the Beckhams can contribute to jointly with Upper Sheringham and the council – each sign had an approx cost of £10, but if the PC agreed Highways would get a survey.  However, It was felt the rolling 3 year ‘list’ of accident stats are such that if we did not act swiftly the Junction would drop further down the listings – it already had from a few years ago.

    6. NEXT MEETING
    Thursday 19th November, 7pm at Bodham & Beckham Village Hall.

    MEETING CLOSED AT 9PM

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