Beckham East and West Parish Council

    Page 226

Draft Minutes of East and West Beckham Parish Council

 Meeting Held on Thursday 12^th January 2023

Present. Cllr. R. McNeil Wilson, (chairman), G. Place, R. Batt, T. Toyne, D. Barrass, 

 J. Dovey, K. Lord    County Cllr. E. Vardy.   J.Stibbons(clerk)

 

The chairman opened the meeting at 7.10pm. to

1. Apologies Cllr. P. Butikofer

2. There were no Declarations of Interest.  

3. Comments or questions from members of the Solar Committee or the public.

It was proposed by T.Toyn that a donation of £100 should be made to the Horticultural

David Barrass is to Show as in previous years. This was seconded by J. Dovey and

approved.

The information sheet, which was delivered to all households in the past, is now out of date.

A quotation for the printing of an updated version is to be obtained.

A check will be made on the web site to advise which updates are needed.

 

 

4.   The minutes of the meeting held on Thursday 17^th November 2022 having been previously circulated, it was proposed by Cllr. Batt that they be confirmed as an accurate record. This was seconded by Cllr. Place and approved by the members.

The chairman then signed the minutes.

   

5.    Matters arising from the Minutes. 

David Barrass reported the Felbeck Trust were unable to maintain the Beckham churchyard.

It appears from the planning office that the large building at Pylons Farm did have permission as it did not require a full planning application. Cllr. Place is to make further enquiries as this seems very irregular.

6.    Reports. County Cllr. E. Vardy. A planning application will be submitted in the spring for the relocation of the Recycling centre. This will also include a second-hand shop.

Cllr. Vardy is now the cabinet member for waste. 

There will be more information in the spring on the proposals for carbon reduction.

Cllr. Vardy`s full report is attached to these minutes.

 

7.  Playing field.  The broken gate and posts have been put in the shed.

It was decided to cut the top off the Kick Board where it is rotten.

Discussions with NNDC concerning the purchase of the land are still ongoing.

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8. Road Safety.    The cost of the SAM2 would be about £40 per movement. It was decided to consider a two-year trial with the SAM2 in place possibly twice a year.

9. Allotments.  Mr. Green is doing a good job in clearing the top plots. He has agreed to relinquish a plot if it is required by a new tenant.

David Barrass has agreed to collect the rents.

10. Financial matters.

 Bank Balances at 11/1/2023 Current a/c £6723.99 Savings a/c £30380.38

The following outstanding invoice were approved and cheques signed. 

J. Stibbons Salary and expenses (Nov – Jan) £664.60

HMRC PAYE £140.40 

GJF Defibrillator electrics £60

Community Heartbeat Battery and pads £301.20

S. Thurtle Grass cutting (Feb. to Nov.) £880

David Barrass will investigate possible investment accounts to give the best returns on the

Savings account.

 

11. Correspondence.

The following correspondence was received by email and forwarded to members as received.

Offshore Wind – Norfolk Parishes Movement for OTN

Community Miyawaki forest project.

Norfolk ALC newsletter October

PCC round-up Sept/Oct.

Horsey Three Community Fund

12. Matters for information only or the next agenda.

It was noted that Horsey 3 will be holding a presentation meeting on 21^st February when the Community Fund will be discussed.

 

 There being no further business the chairman closed the meeting at 8.43pm

    Page 224

Draft Minutes of East and West Beckham Parish Council

 Meeting Held on Thursday 17^th November 2022

Present. Cllr. R. McNeil Wilson, (chairman),G. Place,  R. Batt, T. Toyne,  D. Barrass, 

 J. Dovey, K. Lord

            J.Stibbons(clerk)

The chairman opened the meeting at 7.10pm. 

1. Apologies County Cllr. E. Vardy.

2. There were no Declarations of Interest.  

3.   There were no comments or questions from members of the public.

 

4.   The minutes of the meeting held on Thursday 22^nd September 2022 having been previously circulated, it was proposed by Cllr. Dovey that they be confirmed as an accurate record. This was seconded by Cllr. Barrass and approved by the members.

The chairman then signed the minutes

5.    There were no matters arising from the Minutes.    

6.    There were reports from Parish Councillors

There have been no further cases of bottles being dumped in the bus shelter.

The defibrillator appears to have a problem with the voltage control regulator as the power keeps cutting out. GJF Electrical are to be asked to investigate.

The Defibrillator batteries and pads will need replacing in the near future.

The Community Shop project is not going forward at present due to problems with the proposed site. It is hoped to have new plans out in January.

The Felbeck Trust AGM is to be held in December. David Barrass will attend.

7.  Playing Field There was nothing further to report on the progress of the purchase of the playing field. Andrew Davis is in contact with NNDC.

8. Road Safety.     Bodham Parish Council asked if Beckham would like to have occasional use of their SAM2 traffic speed monitor. Not all the councillors were in favour of this proposal but it was decided by a majority to have a survey carried out before having further discussions on the cost and times in the village.

9. Allotments.  One new tenant is starting in September.

The top five allotments have been cleared. They are vacant at the moment but could be let a one plot as they would be worked by tractor. The members thought this was a good idea but with the condition that if an allotment was needed for a new tenant part of this land would be released. This could be reviewed on an annual basisIt was noted that some of the allotment plots have not been planted although the rent has been paid.  

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10. Planning It has been noted that a new building has been erected at The Pylons. There

appears to be no notification of a planning application on the NNDC planning web site and

Beckham parish council have not been informed. Further enquiries are to be made.

11. Budget A proposed budget for 2023/24 was discussed by the members. This showed a calculated increase in expenditure of £500. After considering likely cost increases due to inflation, it was proposed by Cllr. Place that the precept for 2023/24 should be set at £4250. This was seconded by Cllr. Barrass and approved by the meeting.

 

12. Financial matters.

 Bank Balances at 17/11/2022 Current a/c £7675.56 Savings a/c £30380.38

The following outstanding invoice were approved and cheques signed

Village Hall Ass. Hire of hall £58

J. Stibbons Salary and expenses (Aug;-Oct) £671.12

HMRC PAYE £140.40 

Bodham village hall Hire if hall £58

13. Correspondence.

All correspondence was received by email and forwarded to members as received.

14. Matters for information only or the next agenda.

If was asked if the Felbeck Trust could be involved in carrying out work in the grave yard.  David Barrass will ask when he attends the AGM.

Some residents had complained of intemperance with their television pictures. It was suggested that the newly erected wind turbine could be to blame. Further enquiries are to be made.

 There being no further business the chairman closed the meeting at 8.35pm

    Page 222

Draft Minutes of East and West Beckham Parish Council

 Meeting Held on Thursday 22^nd September 2022

Present. Cllr. R. McNeil Wilson, (chairman),G. Place,  D. Barrass,  J. Dovey,  K. Lord,  

            J.Stibbons(clerk)

The chairman opened the meeting at 7.00pm. 

1. Apologies Cllrs. R. Batt, T.Toyne.       County Cllr. E. Vardy.

2. There were no Declarations of Interest.  

3.   There wee no comments or questions from members of the public.

 

4.   The minutes of the meeting held on Thursday 14^th July 2022 having been previously circulated, it was proposed by Cllr. Lord that they be confirmed as an accurate record of the meeting. This was seconded by Cllr. Dovey and approved by the members.

The chairman then signed the minutes

5.    There were no matters arising from the Minutes.    

6.    There were no reports from County, District or Parish Councillors

7.  Playing Field  The climbing frame has been removed The concrete bases and rubbermettingg have been left in place.

The old seat has been removed and a new one installed in its place.

Any useful materials have been left in the shed.  

A back chain for the swing would cost £420. It was agreed not to add safety chains as the RoSPA inspection comments were purely advisory.  

The chains on the three line swing are satisfactory but the shackles are rusty although this is merely cosmetic and do not need replacing. 

The Kick Board is rotten at the top. It was decided to cut the top section off as the remaining board could still be used as a gickk board. 

The gate will need repair or removal due to its condition but. Consideration for new gates would be considered with other improvements when the ownership of the site is finalised. 

The new solicitor representing the interests of the parish council is Mr. Andrew Davies

8. Road Safety.   An offer was received from Bodham parish council for the occasional use of their SAM2 traffic speed monitor for use on either Sheringham Road or Church Road.

The councillors agreed that the SAM2 could be useful but more details on costs, location etc. were needed before a decision could be made.

9. Bus Shelter.  There were concerns about fly-tipping in the bus shelter and also in the

lay-by opposite the park in Sheringham Road. A careful watch will be kept.

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10. Financial matters.

 Bank Balances at 22/9/2022 Current a/c £5445.56 Savings a/c £30380.38

There were no outstanding invoice.

11. Correspondence.    

A letter of thanks from Mr and Mrs. Wilson for the flowers on the sad loss of their daughter.

NNDC advising that the next parish council elections will be held on 4^th May 2023.

12. Matters for information only or the next agenda.

It was agreed to publish the Bulletin later in the year.

Allotments are to be discussed at the next meeting.

 There being no further business the chairmen closed the meeting at 8.35pm

Page 218

Draft Minutes of East and West Beckham Parish Council

 Meeting Held on Thursday 10^th March 2022

Present. Cllrs. G. Place, (chairman),  D. Barrass, R. Batt, J. Dovey,  K. Lord,  T.Toyne, 

County Cllr. E. Vardy.J.Stibbons(clerk)

The chairman opened the meeting at 7.30pm. 

1. Apologies Cllr. R. McNeil Wilson,  

 

2. There were no Declarations of Interest.  

3.   Comments or questions from members of the public.  J. Dovey reported that the Felbeck

Trust annual meeting has been held and the minutes are to follow.

 

4.   The minutes of the meeting held on Thursday 12^th May 2022 having been previously circulated, it was proposed by Cllr. Lord that they be confirmed as an accurate record of the meeting. This was seconded by Cllr. Toyn and approved by the members.

The chairman then signed the minutes

5.    There were no matters arising from the Minutes.    

 

6.    Reports from County, District or Parish Councillors.

County Cllr. E. Varley.    

A consultation is underway regarding moving the re-cycling centre to a larger area opposite.

It was asked why only one item could be tipped at a time? Cllr. Vardy will investigate.

A feasibility study is underway concerning a possible roundabout at the top of Holloway Road.

It was decided that the further discussions concerning Lodge Corner would be postponed until after

a decision had been reached on the Pretty Corner roundabout 

  

7.  Playing Field  The RoSPA safety report was discussed. The climbing frame needs replacing. It was agreed that as the proposed bench was still unavailable a similar pattern but in blue/grey should be ordered.

It was agreed that as there were several items of play equipment to be discussed, councillors should visit the playing field after the meeting.

A report by Kathryn Lord on the findings of the visit is attached at the end of these minutes. 

 

8. Road Safety.   See item 6 (Reports)

9. Financial matters.

 Bank Balances at 14/7/2022 Current a/c £6369.76 Savings a/c £30887.86

Outstanding invoice were approved and cheques signed:-

Playsafety Inspection report £88.20

J. Stibbons Salary and Expenses £664.60

HMRC PAYE £140.40

G. Place Expenses £50

 

10. Correspondence.    Request for a donation from NARS.

It was agreed that Donations were not being considered at this meeting.

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11. Matters for information only or the next agenda.

Allotments. The un-let allotments are very overgrown and need cutting, action J.S.

Some plots need tidying up as they are becoming weed infested.

Three properties in Church Road have overgrown hedges obstructing the view for traffic. Householders to be contacted and asked to cut them back.

There being no further business the chairmen closed the meeting at 8.22pm

Report on discussions of the Committee visit to  the Playing Field.    By Kathryn Lord

Further to Item 7 (Playing Field) After the meeting councillors moved to the Playing Field to inspect the play equipment.

The following minutes of the discussions and observations were recorded by Cllr. Lord.  

After the Parish Council meeting (14/7/22) we adjourned to the Play Area to urgently review the equipment in line with the recent ROSPA inspection and decide a course of action.

1. It was agreed the wooden Cube Climbing frame should be removed and disposed of asap. If necessary storage of wood can be placed in the ‘garage’ on site.

Action: RB to buy hazard tape to stop anyone using the equipment. (action completed Friday 15th)

TT to discuss with R Wright how the equipment can be removed.

GP to chainsaw sections as needed.

Further discussion about what should replace this unit needed. ALL

2. Picnic bench will be removed and disposed of. If necessary storage of wood can be placed in the ‘garage’ on site.

Action: RB to buy hazard tape to stop anyone using the equipment. (action completed Friday 15th)

TT to discuss with R Wright how the equipment can be removed.

GP to chainsaw sections as needed.

JS to order Grey coloured recycled plastic replacement bench as per PC Meeting. (Not a picnic table)

3. Sprung Rocking car

Action: KL to clean with soap and water.

ALL discuss rust removal and painting, possible repairs needed to top spring?

Plastic cap missing – needs replacement

4.  Three in line swings

Action: KL to investigate cost of replacement rusty shackles or complete chains/seats to present to the PC at the next meeting.

Requires tightening to the existing hanger bolts

(who can action this asap?)

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KL spoke with Playdale who supplied the swing equipment. Unit was to standard when supplied but standards have changed since.

Action: ALL Discuss purchase of TSSS/01 the spare part. The price for this £249.00 + VAT and delivery. (14 July 2020)

Dismantle and inspect regularly according to manufacturers instructions (who can action this asap?)

5.Fencing and Gates

These are still under discussion but it was felt the proposed affordable housing scheme should be integrated with the play area. If this was so it should be reviewed inline with this but removal of the fencing may also improve the site.

Action: Further discussion needed. ALL

6.Kick Wall with Basketball Post

Action: Back board (previously removed)

Splits in timber and timber decayed especially central post rotted at ground level  – suggested to be replaced.
ALL Discuss further.  

Page 221

County councillor’s report for July

Delivering local highway improvements in with Town and Parish Councils

This is to inform you that due to the success of working in partnership with Parish/Town Councils for the last nine years the Parish Partnership Scheme Initiative will again be repeated in the financial year 2023/24. Further supporting information, including possible funding sources for your share of the bid, is available on our website.

The County Council has provisionally allocated £350,000 on a 50/50 basis (There is an upper limit on Norfolk County Council funding support of £25,000 per bid) to fund schemes put forward by Town and Parish Councils to deliver projects that are priorities for local communities. We are particularly keen to encourage and support first-time bids.

This report provides more information on the process, invites you to submit bids, and explains how the County Council can support you in developing your ideas. The closing date will be the 09 December 2022. Please contact your local Highway Engineer based at the local Area Office for agreement and any advice in developing your ideas, especially around the practicalities and cost estimates.

Once all bids have been received, we will assess them and inform you of our decision in March 2023 following approval by the Norfolk County Council Cabinet.

To encourage bids from Town and Parish Councils with annual incomes (precepts plus any another income) below £2,000, we are offering the following support;

• 75% County Council contribution • £5,000 maximum bid value

What sort of schemes would be acceptable?

• Small lengths of formal footway • Trods (a simplified and low-cost footway),

• Improved crossing facilities • Improvements to Public Rights of Way.

• Flashing signs to tackle speeding. We would encourage you to consider Speed Awareness Mobile Signs (SAM2) – which flash up the driver’s actual speed rather than fixed signs (VAS) – which flash up the speed limit. The number of VAS in Norfolk has grown, and checks show that speed reduction benefits can be minimal. Whilst we will still consider bids for fixed VAS, we will need to be satisfied that they will be effective in reducing speed. We consider that SAM2 mobile signs, which are moved around on an agreed rota, are better at reducing speed; SAM2 can be jointly purchased with neighbouring Parishes and would be owned and maintained by the Parish/Town Council.

• Part-time 20mph signs with flashing warning lights, outside schools. The County Council generally supports these as they do show a moderate reduction in average speeds during peak times.

• “Keep Clear” carriageway markings outside schools. Applications will be considered for new school keep clear carriageway markings (which must be supported by the local school) however, these will not be enforceable without a Traffic Regulation Order which is outside the scope of the Parish Partnership Scheme. If you wish to enforce the Order, it would have to be wholly funded by the Parish or the Local Member. (Cllr Vardy)

• New Bus Shelter or Shelter Lighting. A copy of Norfolk County Councils guidance for new bus shelters is available on our web site (click on this link). Any new shelter would be owned and maintained by the Parish/Town Council.

• Electric Vehicle Charging Points. In the first instance we would expect Parish/Town Councils to investigate available grants, for more information please email evehicles@norfolk.gov.uk

scheme may be dependent upon NCC securing additional funding from the Norfolk Safety Partnership

Page 215

 

Draft Minutes of East and West Beckham Parish Council

 Meeting Held on Thursday 12^th May 2022

Present. Cllrs. R. McNeil Wilson, (chairman),  G. Place, D. Barrass, R. Batt, J. Dovey,  K. Lord T.Toyne, 

District Cllr. S. Butikofer J.Stibbons(clerk)

The Beckham Parish Council meeting opened at 7.55pm. 

1. Apologies County. Cllr. E. Varley,  

 

2. To elect the Chairman and Vice-chairman for the coming year

It was proposed by J. Dovey that R. McNeil Wilson should remain as chairman. This was seconded by K. Lord and approved by the meeting.

It was proposed by R. McNeil Wilson that G. Place should be elected as vice-chairman, this was seconded by T.Toyn and approved.

3.   There were no Declarations of Interest. 

 

4.   The minutes of the meeting held on Thursday 10^th March 2022 having been previously circulated, it was proposed by Cllr. Toyn that they be confirmed as an accurate record of the meeting. This was seconded by Cllr. Dovey and approved by the members.

The chairman then signed the minutes

5.    There were no matters arising from the Minutes.    

 

6.    Comments and Questions on the agenda from members of the public and former committee members of the Solar Community Fund.

The solar fund has donated a trophy for the Horticultural show. The show committee thanked them for their support.

7.  Reports from County, District or Parish Councillors.

 County Cllr. E. Varley.    A written report was sent to all Beckham councillors.

A copy of this report is included at the end of these minutes.

8. Jubilee. Two commemorative apple trees have been planted. One at the West Beckham old allotments and one at the East Beckham allotments.

9. Playing Field  -Inspection by K. Lord-. The plastic spikes have been removed from the

swings for safety reasons as the plastic was broken.

Some fencing posts are broken but still standing. The Pic-Nic bench is becoming very rotten. It

was proposed by G. Place that a new bench should be purchased. This was seconded by R. Batt.

and approved. It was agreed that a re-cycled plastic seat would be preferable. The clerk was

instructed to investigate suitable suppliers and report back.

 

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10. Financial matters.

The Certificate of Exemption from Full Audit was approved by the meeting and signed by the chairman and clerk.

The annual governance statement was approved by the members and signed by the chairman.

The accounting statement was approved by the members and signed by the chairman.

The members were made aware of the Public Rights to View the accounts by appointment. The period for public examination is from 20^th June 2022 to 20^th July 2022.

Bank Balances at 12/5/2022 Current a/c £6233.33 Savings a/c £30885.50

The following outstanding invoice were approved and cheques signed:-

J. Stibbons Salary and expenses £664.60

HMRC PAYE £140.40

R. McNeil Wilson Fruit Trees £54

Chevertons Jubilee flyers £48

D. McNeight Web hosting – Tank Tap £83.84

D Barrass Tree removal £70

11. Correspondence

A letter from the Bodham and Beckham Village Hall committee notifying the parish council that the fees are to be increased to £7 per hour.

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

It was noted that Anglian Water has solved the problem of the pump but there are still problems

during heavy and prolonged rain.

Repairs to the footbridge are in hand.

 

There being no further business the chairmen closed the meeting at 8.47pm

The next meeting of Beckham Parish Council will be held on Thursday 14^th July 2022

Page 217

Written report from County Cllr. E. Vardy.

Norfolk County Council owned companies encouraged to cut carbon 

This first item is one that I fully support. As from the 1st May I became the County Councils Cabinet Lead on the Environment and Waste.

Council-owned companies are being encouraged to reduce their carbon emissions, as part of the county council’s efforts to help Norfolk become carbon neutral.

Norse Group, Hethel Innovation Ltd, Repton Property Developments Ltd and Independence Matters are the focus of a report to the county council’s cabinet on 3 May.

Each company will be encouraged to set out carbon reduction targets once it better understands its own carbon footprint.

If cabinet backs the proposal, there will be a follow-up report which outlines the progress of each company in establishing specific carbon reduction targets. 

Further report to follow when initiates are instigated.

Uptake for apprenticeships in Norfolk continues upward trend  

The upward trend in apprenticeship starts is continuing to increase in Norfolk. A 35% increase in apprenticeships has been reported between August 2021 and January 2022,

with 3026 new apprenticeships started in the last 6 months.

Apprenticeships are a government-funded scheme which gives individuals of any age the opportunity to build a new future whilst earning and learning and enables businesses

to harness new skills and improve their productivity and sustainability at the same time.

Local employers, training providers, and Norfolk County Council’s dedicated team of experts at Apprenticeships Norfolk, boosted by incentives and grants, are all working

together to make apprenticeships easier to access and to understand for individuals.

Norfolk Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plans 

Norfolk County Council has secured a revenue grant from central government to support the development of a Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan (LCWIP) for Norfolk.

The LCWIP for Norfolk plays an important part in delivering the Government’s strategy for encouraging everyone to cycle and walk more, especially when making short journeys

in towns and cities. Increased levels of active travel, especially for shorter journeys in towns, will help to reduce congestion, improve air quality, and benefit the environment and local economy.

The County Council is working in partnership with all district and borough councils to create the plan. The Norfolk LCWIP builds on plans already completed for Great Yarmouth,

King’s Lynn and Greater Norwich.

The objective of the plan is to develop a countywide walking and cycling network, and identify infrastructure improvements over the short, medium and long term.

The development of the Norfolk LCWIP also supports the delivery of a low carbon, well-connected transport network in Norfolk.

The plan for Norfolk is in the early stages of development and to support with the development of the plan the County Council has created an online survey to help obtain

insights into current levels of cycling and walking within Norfolk and to identify places where people feel they want to be better connected on foot or cycle.

The initial Norfolk LCWIP engagement runs from the 5 April to 30 May.

to review and comment on detailed proposals within the Norfolk Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan in Autumn 2022 go to www. Norfolk.gov.uk

The initial Norfolk Cycling and Walking Survey is open from 5 April to 30 May.

Councillor Eric Vardy.  County Councillor for Holt Division.

 

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Draft Minutes of East and West Beckham Parish Council

 Meeting Held on Thursday 10^th March 2022

Present. Cllrs. R. McNeil Wilson, (chairman),  D. Barrass, R. Batt, J. Dovey,  K. Lord T.Toyne, 

District Cllr. S. Butikofer J.Stibbons(clerk)

The chairman opened the Beckham Parish Council meeting at 7.23pm. 

1. Apologies Cllr. G. Place, County. Cllr. E. Varley,  

 

2. There were no Declarations of Interest.  

3.   There were no comments or questions from members of the public. 

 

4.   The minutes of the meeting held on Thursday 13^th January 2022 having been previously circulated, it was proposed by Cllr. Toyn that they be confirmed as an accurate record of the meeting. This was seconded by Cllr. Dovey and approved by the members.

The chairman then signed the minutes

5.    There were no matters arising from the Minutes.    

 

6.    Reports from County, District or Parish Councillors.

Dist. Cllr. S. Butikofer. District councillor Pierre Butikofer is seriously ill. 

A report of the proceedings on North Norfolk District Council was sent to all members by Cllr. Sarah Butikofer. A copy of this report is attached to these minutes. At present Sarah will deal with any queries Beckham pc may have with NNDC.

The speed limit on the A149. Upper Sheringham parish council are willing to join in discussions to try and achieve improvements. More traffic is using the Upper Sheringham road to avoid the Holloway Road junction. The National Trust are willing to become involved and Cllr. Butikofer will give full support.

The cables from the off-shore wind farms will be tunnelled under roads and rivers. At present there is not enough technology for a ring main, the cost of which wil not be shared by the various companies involved.

Provision of a ring main must be funded by the Government

County Cllr. E. Varley.    A written report was sent to all Beckham councillors.

A copy of this report is included at the end of these minutes.

Cllr Toyn had a request from the Bodham and Beckham Community Shop committee.

The committee are still waiting for their bank account to be opened but their £240 membership fee to the Plunkett Foundation is due for payment for the coming year. They are asking if this fee can be shared by the two parish councils.

It was proposed by Cllr. Barrass that a donation of £120 should be given by Beckham Parish Council. This was seconded by Cllr. Dovey and approved.

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7.  Playing Field 

Safety inspections were carried out.  The seat will soon need repair. As do the fence and gate. The climbing frame is starting to show a small amount of rot.

A reply from NNDC regarding the possible purchase of the playing field is still awaited.

Cllr. Butikofer will try and move this forward. 

 

8. Road Safety.   See item 6 (Reports)

9. Financial matters.

Bank Balances at at 10/3/2022 Current a/c £6423.33 Savings a/c £31878.02

The following outstanding invoice were approved and cheques signed:-

Chevertons Bulletin£7

Zurich InsurancePolicy renewal£550.05

NALCSubscription£142.68

Priscilla BaconDonation£50

Plunkett FoundationSubscription (50%)£120

10. Insurance review

The three year agreement with Zurich has come to an end.  They are offering:-

Premium with 3 year long-term agreement applied: £568.95 

Premium with 5 year long-term agreement applied: £550.05.

It was proposed by Cllr. Lord that the parish council should request a five year agreement.

This proposal was seconded by Cllr. Toyn and approved.

11. Clerks salary review. The council approved an increase in the clerk’s salary to £12 per hour.

– 

12.   Possible Jubilee Celebrations.

It was suggested that a Bramley apple tree should be planted on each allotment.

Planned celebrations at the village hall may include:-

Trooping of the Colour on the big screen on the Friday. Bring your own pic-nic. 

Also on the big screen the Church service in St. Paul’s.

On the Sunday a bring and share buffet lunch and celebration drink

13. Correspondence

Late planning application PF/22/0476 Back Lane. Erection of a timber building for use as holiday accommodation.

The parish council objected to this application as the access was very poor.

Priscilla Bacon.  Appeal for a donation. It was proposed by Cllr. Dovey that a donation of £50 should be granted. This was seconded by Cllr. Toyn and approved.

All other correspondence received by email had been forwarded to members.

 14. Matters for information only or for the next agenda

There being no further business the chairmen closed the meeting at 8.43pm

The next meeting of Beckham Parish Council will be held on Thursday 12^th May 2022

Written report from County Cllr. E. Vardy.

This month’s report is diverse to say the least. As someone who has suffered the impact of Covid, I can only implore you to continue to be as vigilant and careful as possible. We will all have to learn to live with Covid is the simple message.

Norfolk and Waveney COVID-19 booster and vaccinations

Vaccinations for all healthy 5–11year-olds to launch from April 2022

Following a government announcement, which confirmed that all healthy 5–11-year-olds will soon be eligible for a COVID-19 vaccination, health leaders are asking that

parents and carers be patient and do not contact the NHS to request a vaccine.

The guidance indicates that healthy children will be eligible for a COVID-19 vaccination sometime in April 2022.

At the moment, the Norfolk and Waveney health and care system is continuing to vaccinate clinically extremely vulnerable 5–11-year olds and will continue to do so in the weeks ahead.

Norfolk County Council Budget to “build back better” agreed. The 2022-23 budget proposes significant investment, while addressing continuing severe pressure on services. Plans for a balanced budget and a 2.99 per cent Council Tax rise were agreed by Norfolk County Council. The full council agreed:

A 2.99 per cent rise in the county council’s share of Council Tax, in April – not the maximum permissible 3.99 per cent

To give a little perspective on this a Band D dwelling will be paying less than a £1 per week extra. An increase in the 2022/23 net budget by £25 million compared to this year, to £464.123m A review of the Council and how it operates, to bridge a £60m budget gap predicted for 2023/24

New roles created to improve the link between county and local councils

A significant investment has been made into the relationship between Norfolk County Council and the rest of the county with £160,000 committed over the next 2 years.

The county council have funded the Norfolk Association of Local Councils (Norfolk ALC) to employ two members of staff who will be dedicated to improving the link between

the county council and Norfolk’s town and parish councils

The new roles will help local councils stay up to date on key initiatives and policies that affect them, while ensuring that local voices are heard at a county level.

They will also work to raise the profile of Parish Councils across Norfolk and the work they do for their communities.

The funding will also aim to help local councils build their skills and get access to the right information. That might include help with developing a parish plan, writing

a funding bid, or reaching a wider demographic in their area.

This help will be in addition to the support the Norfolk ALC already provides which has seen a range of initiatives co-ordinating the Parish and Town Councils in Norfolk.

Anyone interested in knowing more about the support available via the Norfolk Association of Local Councils can visit their website which holds information, advice and training on a wide range of subjects.

Page 1 –  March 2022

Hundreds of free activities available for children and young people this Easter

Bookings are now open for The Big Norfolk Holiday Fun, a programme of free activities that will run over the Easter holidays for 5–16-year-olds across Norfolk.

The scheme is provided as part of the government’s Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme and is being delivered by Norfolk County Council in partnership

with Active Norfolk.

There will be a range of activities available all over the county, aimed at various ages. These could include football, basketball, circus skills, arts and

crafts, dance, music, cookery, film-making and much more.

The sessions offer children the chance to learn and develop new skills, alongside receiving a free healthy lunch each day. Booking is on a first-come-first-served basis,

with limited spaces for many activities, so families should book soon to avoid disappointment.

Those who claim means-tested free school meals can claim free spaces on the activities, whilst paid spots are available on many activities for those who don’t.

Page 2 – March 2022

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Minutes of the East and West Beckham Annual Parish Meeting 20th  May 2021.

Mr. R. McNeil Wilson (Parish Council Chairman) opened the meeting at 7.00pm

Present:-  Six members of the parish council

1. The minutes of the E&W Beckham Annual Parish Meeting held on 9th May 2019 were read to the meeting and approved by those present. The chairman signed the minutes.

2. Report by the chairman of the Beckham Parish Council. from May 2019 to May 2021

This has been quite an active 2 years.  The Felbeck Trust have started work on the West Beckham allotment field and are in the process of creating a wildflower Meadow and Pond. This work has continued through the 2 years and  has now reached a very satisfactory condition.

A survey was carried out in Bodham and Beckham with a view to opening up a community shop A grant of £750 was obtained from the Plunkett Foundation and a committee has been formed.The proposal is for the shop to be in bodham

Other various projects have been carried out during the two years including water harvesting at the allotments and also the repair of the allotment track

The bench in the bus shelter at West Beckham has been moved to the bus stop on the other side of the road and a new bench installed in the shelter

Covid-19 lockdown brought many including meetings having to be held by zoom.

Mel Clarke at Bodham coordinated the good neighbours scheme.

This has been a great benefit to the two villages and we would like to send our thanks to Mel and her team.

The parish council donated £200 to help with relief coordination and a grant of £500 was obtained from the government.

Volunteers collect prescriptions and did weekly shopping for people who were isolated and called to check on people living alone

This has highlighted several people needing help all the time in both villages

A new village sign has been been installed at West Beckham and I would like to thank Julia and Catherine for all the work they put in preparing the artwork and to Jeff and the team for helping to put the sign and place

A grant of £2,000 was made to pPage 2/2021rovide 13 laptops for children from Beckham who were attending the Sheringham and Gresham School so they could complete their work at home during the lockdown

There have been  discussions on Affordable housing for West Beckham

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The proposal is for 6 houses on Sheringham Road and 4 near the Wheatsheaf.

This scheme is in the early stages of development and will be an ongoing Project.

Flooding on Sheringham Road has been a serious problem during the severe rainstorms earlier this year. Anglian Water and North Norfolk district council have both been involved and contact has been made with the Environment Agency. Further developments are still awaited.

A meeting with anglianwater representatives has been requested but at the moment has not taking place.

I should like to thank the Solar Community Fund Committee members for all their hard

work.EspeciallyJulia as Chair. The improvements to the village have been appreciated by

everyone.I must also thankKathryn for the professional way she has produced  the Beckham

Bulletins.

3. Questions from the public..    None

There being no further business the chairman closed the meeting at 7.15pm.

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Draft Minutes of East and West Beckham Parish Council

 Meeting Held on Thursday 13^th January 2022

Present. Cllrs. R. McNeil Wilson, (chairman), G. Place, D. Barrass, R. Batt, J. Dovey,  K. Lord T.Toyne, 

County Cllr. E. Varley, Mr. Patrick Peal. D.L. Mrs. M. Clarke, Mr. J. CableJ.Stibbons(clerk)

Mr. Patrick Peel, D.L. as a representative of the Queen was in attendance to present the Queens award is for Enterprise and Voluntary service.

Mr. Peel informed the meeting that the actions of the Lord Lieutenant and Deputy Lieutenants is to support the Citizens. They will help where ever invited.

Mr. Peel them made a presentation of the plaque to commemorate the cooperation shown by the community during the Covid 19 pandemic. The plaque was accepted by Mrs. Mel. Clarke as the main co-ordinator of the volunteers.  

The chairman thanked Mr. Peel and Mrs Clarke and called for a round of applause.

The chairman opened the Beckham Parish Council meeting at 7.23pm. 

1. There were no Apologies 

 

2. There were no Declarations of Interest.  

3.   There were no comments or questions from members of the public. 

 

4.   The minutes of the meeting held on Thursday 11^th November 2021 having been previously circulated, it was noted that a question from the Mr. Clarke concerning any update on the proposed affordable housing had not been included. This section of the minutes will be amended and presented to the next parish council meeting for approval.

5.    Matters arising from the Minutes.  First Aid courses and Defibrillator instruction are to be arranged at a later date.

A footpath leaflet is to be printed.

 

6.    Reports from County, District or Parish Councillors.

County Cllr. E. Varley.    

Norfolk pilot scheme helps pregnant women quit smoking.

Researchers at East Anglia University (UEA) and the University of Cambridge have developed an anonymous text service designed to help mums-to-be quit smoking. MiQuit provides free support, sending tailored advice and information directly to their phones. The results of this pilot being run in Norfolk may help the service be taken up across the country, helping many more people live healthier and happier lives.

Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service

A Team of 16 young people in Norfolk are heading for a brighter future after learning new skills with Norfolk Fire & Rescue Service.

The young people undertook a 12-week personal development course, at Norwich and Dereham, and their hard work has seen them earn the Prince’s Trust Certificate in Employment, Teamwork and Community Skills, as well as Emergency First Aid at work. The learners also did work experience with local charities. All young people aged between 16 and 25, who are not in work, training or education are eligible to take on the 

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Team challenge and learn new workplace skills to help get them into employment or aid

In finding volunteering and training opportunities. Participating does not affect any benefits. Travel costs are reimbursed.

The Team programme is delivered from Norwich, Dereham and Kings Lynn.

Anyone wanting to enrol in the Prince’s Trust Team Programmes in January should email youthdevelopment@fire.norfolk.gov.uk

7.  Playing Field 

Safety inspections were carried out. All was satisfactory.

 

8. Road Safety. A148 Lodge Corner. The Freedom of Information report from the police was very unsatisfactory. It would be very costly to install a roundabout at the junction. There were more audited accidents at the Lodge Corner junction than the Felbrigg junction where a roundabout has been installed however the accidents at the Felbrigg junction were more serious.

NCC Highways will not consider changing the speed limit. 

A firm plan is needed to enable Councillor Vardy to take this problem forward. There is a need to gather information and write a proposal to Highways. It would be beneficial to have a meeting with Upper Sheringham parish council and the National Trust chaired by Cllr. Vardy and to include Steve White – NCC Highways engineer.

Cllr. Wilson will contact the chairman of Upper Sheringham to discuss further.

9. Financial matters.

Bank Balances at 13/1/2022 Current a/c £7041.59 Savings a/c £31878.02

The following outstanding invoices were approved for payment:-

J. Stibbons Salary and expenses £594.45

HMRC PAYE £122.80

S. Thurtle Maintenance £845

 

10. Correspondence C.A.B request for donation.

It was proposed by Cllr. Dovey that the council should give a donation of £50. This proposal was

seconded by Cllr. Lord and approved. 

All other correspondence received by email had been forwarded to members.

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

The sleeper bridge on the footpath has sunk. Cllr. Dovey to report.

A discussion on the Jubilee celebrations will be on the next agenda.

There being no further business the chairmen closed the meeting at 8.43pm

The next meeting of Beckham Parish Council will be held on Thursday 10^th March 2022

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Draft Minutes of East and West Beckham Parish Council

 Meeting Held on Thursday11^th November 2021

Present. 

Cllrs. R. McNeil Wilson, (chairman), D. Barrass, R. Batt, J. Dovey,  K. Lord,  T. Toyne,                  County Cllr. E. Varley   J. Stibbons(clerk)

The chairman opened the meeting at 7.00pm.  

1. Apologies received from Cllr. G. Place.

 

2. There were no Declarations of Interest.  

3.   There were no comments or questions from members of the public. 

 

4.   The minutes of the meeting held on Thursday 9^th September 2021  having been previously circulated, it was proposed by Cllr. Dovey that they be accepted as correct. This was seconded by

Cllr. Toyn and approved by the members present. The chairman then  signed the minutes.

5.    Matters arising from the Minutes.

A First Aid course is to be arranged.

6.    Reports from County, District or Parish Councillors.

County Cllr. E. Varley.  Chances Project

Chances, a £4.9m Norfolk County Council project, co-funded by the European Social Fund, is reaching out to people in Norfolk who have recently lost their jobs or are long-term unemployed who may face barriers to finding work. It aims to help them get back into employment through new opportunities for support and training.

Launched in April 2021, the project has already supported nearly 300 participants on their journey to find employment.
The Norfolk County Council-led Chances for Work and Chances Healthy Living projects are being run by partners Voluntary Norfolk, Citizens Advice Norfolk, Citizens Advice Diss, Thetford and District, and Future Projects. There are local advocates based in each of the seven Norfolk district areas, who work to provide personalised one-to-one support.

Depending on the needs of the individual, the support could include help to identify skills gaps and finding suitable training and qualifications, support to access services to boost health and well-being, or finding ways to overcome barriers such as transport or accessing childcare. Support for those with physical or learning disabilities could also include providing help to access services, or assistance from a mental health specialist or disability support specialist who will be working closely with the Chances team.

The project which officially started in April 2021 will run until September 2023.
Individuals who are keen to find out more are welcome to contact the project team directly – for contact details and further information see www.norfolk.gov.uk/chances

Support for Norfolk Entrepreneurs

The Business & IP Centre Norfolk, managed by Norfolk County Council’s Library and Information Service, is offering a free six-week online programme that will take budding business owners on a journey from ‘Bedroom to Business’.

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Over the past 18 months, many people have had to find alternative sources of income, including considering setting up their own business. This programme will help aspiring business owners develop their idea and provide the tools needed to get started.

Bedroom to Business is being delivered by MENTA Business Support and consists of six two-hour workshops with a chance for questions and one-to-one coaching sessions after each workshop.
Starting on Friday 5 November, the six workshops will run weekly and cover topics including: pros and cons of being self-employed; identifying any additional skills needed; developing a business plan; business funding; registering your business.
Workshops will be limited to a maximum of 10 people to allow participants to get the most out of the sessions. If anyone is unable to attend this programme, Bedroom to Business will run again starting in January.
Participants will need to live, work or study in Norfolk or close to a Norfolk library to be eligible for this programme.
For more information and to register, visit Bedroom to Business or www.bipcnorfolk.eventbrite.com.

There followed a discussion with the County Councillor on safety at Lodge Corner. There had recently been an accident at the junction involving four vehicles. What could be done to improve the situation? 

A firm plan from the Parish Council will be needed to get help from the County Councillor. It was agreed that reducing the speed limit was the most obvious solution. 

As a start a Freedom of Information request is to be sent to the Police asking how many accidents have occurred at this junction.

Cllr. Dovey. The “RAF” boards are being put up in the village hall on 19^th November on the completion of the refurbishment.

A second printing of the footpath walks leaflet is needed as the first batch are all used up. It was agreed to have a second run of the leaflet printed.

It seems likely that the whole of “Lefty’s Lane” in East Beckham will become a public footpath.

7.  Playing Field Discussions on the possible purchase of the Playing Field are progressing slowly.

Safety inspections were carried out by R. Wilson. All was satisfactory.

 

8. News Letter.  Cllr. Lord. is seeking items for the news letter. Input is needed on Social Housing as nothing appears to be happening yet. Other possible items for inclusion were discussed and it was agreed to go ahead with the next edition

9. Budget and Precept A proposed budget for the year 2022-2023 was presented to the

meeting. This also included a possible scenario of the situation when the Hall Farm Solar grants

came to an end in the financial year 2023/24.

It was proposed by Cllr. Dovey that the precept should be raised to £3800. This was seconded by

Cllr. Barrass and approved by the members.

 

10. Financial matters.

Bank Balances at 11/11/2021 Current a/c £7914.04 Savings a/c £31878.02

The following outstanding invoices were approved for payment:-

Chevertons 4xA2 Signs (RAF) £115.20

J. Stibbons Salary and expenses £594.45

HMRC PAYE £122.80

Gresham Village Hall Meeting £13

Bodham Village HallMeetings£27

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11.   Correspondence 

All correspondence received by email had been forwarded to members.

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

It was reported that tractors were travelling at high speed through East Beckham. The local farming company is to be informed.

There being no further business the chairmen closed the meeting at 8.44pm

The next meeting of Beckham Parish Council will be held on Thursday 13^th January 2022

Page  206

Draft Minutes of East and West Beckham Parish Council

 Meeting Held on Thursday 9^th September 2021

Present. 

Cllrs. R. McNeil Wilson, (chairman),G. Place,  D. Barrass, R. Batt, J. Dovey,  K. Lord,  T. Toyne,                  Dist Cllr. P. Butikofer.   Ed. Monford-Smith (Broadland Housing)J.Stibbons(clerk)

The chairman opened the meeting at 7.00pm.  

1. There were apologies from County Cllr. E. Vardy.

 

2. Declarations of Interest. Cllr Batt  declaration an interest in item 7   (Affordable housing)

3.   Comments and questions from members of the public. 

A member of the public has asked a councillor if it was possible to arrange a short

course on using the Defibrillator.  The cost of this would be quite high and there would

necessarily be a limited audience.  The council decided to enquire if St John’s Ambulance

could give the necessary instructions.

 

4.   The minutes of the meeting held on Thursday 8^th July 2021  having been previously circulated, it was proposed by Cllr. Toyn that they be accepted as correct. This was seconded by Cllr. Batt and approved by the members present. The chairman then  signed the minutes.

5.    Matters arising from the Minutes. A mock-up of the boards to be installed in the village hall to commemorate the West Beckham R.A.F. station during the war were displayed for approval. 

It  was agreed to fund the cost of £208 being £52 for each of the four boards.

 

6.    Reports from County, District or Parish Councillors.

District Councillor P. Butikofer. 

The Banksey paintings are causing a lot of interest no the sea wall at Cromer.

Green Build has been cancelled for this year.

The community is being encouraged to work together to improve the environment with re-wilding

and tree planting.

There have been problems with Motorhomes and wild camping during the summer . District

Council car parks are not to be used. Toilets have been emptied in the public toilets and blocked the

drains.

The completion of Splash has been put back due to a delay in the supply of concrete. The total cost

is expected to be £12million. 

An increase in new housing has become a necessity especially in houses to rent. The District Council have already purchased fourteen houses to rent to temporary residents.

Any householder with spare rooms should contact NNDC.

7.  Affordable Housing   Mr. Ed. Munford-Smith (Broadland Housing)  This item was taken after item 2 in the agenda to allow Mr Smith to leave after his presentation. 

The site near the Church had difficulties because of access and also the church being an Ancient Monument. The members assured Mr. Munford-Smith that the building is of relatively recent construction and not listed. The Parish hopes to take over the ownership of the playing field.

 The movement of cars from the two sites was expected to be about 24  per day.

 The plans can be carried forward with either a specific meeting,  an open day or a written discussion paper produced. All the houses will be built with full  insulation and a simple systems for heating.

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If Anglian Water will solve the problems at the pumping station  houses would be connected to the existing sewage system.   Failing that individual disposal systems will be installed. the meeting hoped that Broadland housing would bring pressure on Anglian Water to improve the situation. 

The chairman thanked Mr. Munford-Smith and he left the meeting at 7.47pm

8. Digging up Norfolk.    Councillors agreed to support the pressure group trying to achieve a more rational approach to the route of future underground cables from the offshore wind farms.

9. Playing Field   

The Safety Inspection for July/August was carried out by T. Toyn.   

All the equipment was in a satisfactory condition.

The Inspection for  September/October will be carried out by R. Wilson.

 

10. Financial matters.

Bank Balances at 9/9/2021   Current a/c £6009.04 Savings a/c £20429.51

There were no outstanding invoices to be approved.

12.   Correspondence  

All correspondence received by email had been forwarded to members.

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

Confirm the number of payments left to come from Hall Farm Solar.

There being no further business the chairmen closed the meeting at 8.46pm

The next meeting of Beckham Parish Council will be held on Thursday 11^th November