DNP Working Group minutes 23rd September 2019

DNP Working Group minutes 23rd September 2019

2.30 pm Desford Church Centre

 

In Attendance: Bernard Grimshaw, Colin Crane, David Crocker, Gary Kirk, Jim Houghton, Judy Sharpe, Pat Crane, Martyn Randle¸ Terry Robinson, Scott Wakefield

 

Apologies: Andrew Norton

 

  1. Welcome: Martyn welcomed everyone to the meeting and invited Terry to introduce himself. Martyn asked for apologies to be listed.

 

  1. Minutes of last meeting / matters arising:

The minutes were approved as a true record and signed by Martyn. There were no matters arising.

 

  1. Declaration of Interest:

Bernard declared an interest as his property was on the Local Heritage List.

 

  1. Chairman’s Report:

Martyn said that he had written to Ewan Lindsay and had invited him to reconsider his position and to re-join the DNPWG. Ewan had replied stating that he appreciated the letter but felt that there was a conflict of interest and his position was unchanged.

 

  1. Treasurer’s Report:

Bernard said that there was no change since the previous meeting.

 

  1. Communication Officer’s Report:

Bernard stated that the Communication Officer’s Report would be covered in items 7 and 8.

 

  1. Discussion of SEA Report:
  2. Actions needed to finalise DNP:

It was agreed to combine these 2 agenda items.

Bernard said that he had not heard anything from Ian McClusky since he had sent the amendments to the SEA.

David asked whether there had been any further conversations with AECOM.

Bernard said no, however he had done some research and that he had circulated some notes. He also commented that he had found a very helpful document on the South Cambridgeshire council website. He thought it might be helpful to ask Nik Green, who is in charge of NP for the county, to speak to the county lawyers about this.

Colin said that this would be helpful and it was proposed Bernard should do this. All agreed. Action-Bernard

David stated that he was still waiting for some SSA updates from Derek (Your Locale).

Gary apologised and said that he would contact Derek to try and sort this but he himself had had been on holiday and Derek had extenuating family circumstances.  Gary spoke to Derek on the phone and confirmed that there were 2 SSAs, including Jelson’s, that have submitted detailed responses which need to be incorporated. However the Jelson SSA location map is not exactly the same as the original HBBC map, as it is a smaller area. It was agreed that urgent clarification was needed, as to which map was correct, and which map had been used for the SSA. It was agreed to ask Pat to ask Emily at Avison Young, representing Jelson, to email a copy of their map. Action –Pat

Bernard stated that an updated version of the map would need to be sent to HBBC.

Pat reminded the group that the SSAs could not be put on the website until these are finalised.

Bernard stated that it was very important to check that the SSA reference numbers match up with those on the plan. He also added that the SSAs need to be available on the website for the start of the consultation period and ideally this should be done before.

Jim commented that there were technical issues with the uploading of these documents to the Desford Vision website due to their large size. He also stated that there were now 2 sets of conflicting documents on the Desford Vision website.

Colin reminded the group that at the previous meeting it had been agreed that the consultation documents were only to be on the DPC website and that links to these would be provided on the Desford Vision website and DPC and DNP facebook pages. Bernard asked who would upload the documents to the DPC website. Colin commented that Jenny Crane had done this previously and he would ask if she was willing to do this again.Action -Colin.

David agreed to liaise with Derek as necessary to obtain the final versions of the 2 SSAs referred to above.

Scott reminded the group that there was a need to get the DNP finalised as soon as possible. It was a priority to get the correct documents onto the DPC website and to provide links to these.

Colin said that this does not affect the SEA but does affect other things.

Discussion of the SEA recommendations took place.

Gary stated that the changes recommended by the SEA were innocuous and do not have a significant impact. There was no mention in the report of the Botcheston Bog SSSI. In his view this supports the need for a reduced level of consultation, rather than a repeat of the Regulation 14 consultation as HBBC have suggested.

The responses to the SEA were discussed and agreed by the DNPWG. Gary offered to send a written version of this by email the following day. Action- Gary

Bernard asked about sending AECOM our responses to the SEA. Gary suggested writing a response to AECOM thanking Ian McClusky and sending the responses based on the above discussion. Gary said that he would provide some wording for the responses, but that this, if agreed, would need to be sent by the DNPWG to AECOM and copied to HBBC. Bernard stated that AECOM have not yet sent through the SEA final report. Gary repeated that the DNPWG do not have to do another Regulation 14 consultation but there does have to be a consultation for an appropriate length of time, and all the appropriate authorities have to be informed. HBBC still think that a Regulation 14 consultation is needed and have also told Newbold Verdon NP group this; although they have given no indication as to why it is needed. Gary stated that what the local planning authority say is important and that HBBC have indicated that they will write to the examiner stating that they had recommended a Regulation 14 consultation, and this had been ignored. Gary said that Newbold Verdon PC had agreed not to do a further Regulation 14 consultation on their NP,and that if HBBC write to their examiner on this matter, he will also write to the examiner on behalf of Newbold Verdon NPWG explaining their decision.

Colin noted that since the borough elections in May 2019 the political composition of the council had changed.

Colin agreed to contact the borough councillors and Newbold Verdon PC on this matter and Bernard volunteered to contact Newbold Verdon NPWG and to ask who they had consulted with and for how long. Action-Colin and Bernard

Actions needed to finalise DNP

Gary stated that there have been changes in legislation since the last version of the DNP.  This will need to be acknowledged in the DNP. The recommendations of the SEA report will need to be incorporated. Bernard has provided new narrative for the housing section and this will be added.  However Gary noted it was important not to change too much. Gary said that the consultation statement will need to be revised and that the basic condition statement will need to be sent to HBBC for their comments. Actions –Gary

Bernard agreed to draw up a timetable about the consultation but will need help with the addresses. Bernard also agreed to write a draft for the Graphic Action-Bernard

 

  1. Web page/ Twitter/ Spotted Desford:

Jim reported that the front page of the website was 6 months out of date and he needed help to update this. Suggestions were provided and it was agreed that this would be done. Action-Jim. He also said that the minutes had been uploaded to the website and asked that Judy check they were all there. Action –Judy

 

  1. AOB:

Letter to other parishes about interactions with HBBC

Bernard had written the letter and circulated the responses. Pat stated that there had been mixed views from the other PCs. Gary stated that any action would be counterproductive if not all PCs are agreeing. However there may be changes in the relationship between DPC/ DNPWG and HBBC after the changes in the council make up following May’s elections. It was agreed that nothing further would be done on this matter at the moment.

CERDA planning refusal appeal

Terry stated that he had spoken against the CERDA planning application at the HBBC planning committee meeting and had agreed to present the DPC case at the planning refusal appeal.

He noted that a meeting had taken place on 20.9.2019 at HBBC at which this matter had been discussed. Scott and Terry had met with Sharron Wilkinson and Rhiannon Hill. Notes from this meeting had been circulated and a sample Statement of Case had been provided by HBBC.

Scott outlined the timetable for the appeal. By the 3rd October a Statement of Case will have to be provided by DPC and HBBC.

There will be a conference call with the planning inspector on the 17th October.  Bernard provisionally agreed to help Terry with this. The evidence has to be submitted 4 weeks before the appeal hearing date (30th October). The appeal will take place on the 27th/28th/29th November 2019.

HBBC will have a barrister representing them as will CERDA. The HBBC barrister will not cross examine us but the CERDA barrister will.

Actual evidence needs to be provided to back up what is being said. However local knowledge and impact on the nature of the village can be included.  The hearing will need to be focussed on the areas of disagreement. The planning inspector can be invited to visit the village and the DPC can ask for this to be done at a specific time.

Scott stated that Terry will need support at the appeal and back up on the telephone conference.

Colin stated that he had been advised that anyone who wishes to speak at the appeal can do so, if they register on the first day of the appeal before 10am. He also stated that he hoped to register then so that he would be entitled to speak.  He was reminded that it was possible to register earlier than this but there was a cut-off date for doing so (3rd October?).

Scott stated that HBBC’s refusal of planning permission had been based around landscaping and also that the site was outside the settlement boundary.

Gary reminded the group that until the DNP has been submitted to HBBC it carries no weight. However evidence gathered for the DNP can be submitted. He also noted that NPs are not against all development but that they want to help shape future development.

Scott stated that Terry will provide the Statement of Case for the appeal and that this will be shared, and agreed with, the DPC planning committee. Terry offered to send a draft Statement of Case by the evening of 24.9.2019 and asked Judy to circulate it to the DNPWG. This was agreed. Action-Terry and Judy. A timeline will need to be provided of the DNP’s progress. Bernard agreed to help with this. Action- Bernard

Scott noted that a range of evidence needed to be gathered and help would be needed in doing this. For example: population growth in the past 5 years (pre and post Bellway development) and any extra services that the village has had during this time.  He noted that there had been no growth in the capacity of the schools or doctors.  Judy asked whether the DPC planning committee would have records showing the properties that have been built during this time. Pat stated that there would be minutes available of these meetings but that this information may be easier to access via HBBC.

Colin stated that there was current planning approval within Desford Parish for 97 new properties-80 on the Barns Way site, 13 adjoining Kirby Muxloe and 4 windfall within Desford village.

Martyn asked about whether there are any sanitation issues within the village. Pat responded that Severn Trent state that there are none.

Colin wondered whether DPC should pay for expert advice.  Scott reminded the group that expert witnesses need to be named in advance.

Terry stated that CERDA’s Statement of Case could be found by searching on HBBC’s planning portal website. Ref: 18/01252/OUT

It was asked whether it would be possible to submit the DNP to HBBC before the appeal.  The group were reminded that the SEA consultation needs to take place and the DNP approved by DPC before it could be submitted.

Martyn said that Desford is a key rural centre and therefore a magnet for developers.

Judy asked whether there was any way of publicising the appeal, and ask for the help needed besides social media. It was agreed to use the village noticeboards and A boards. A poster would be created and an email address provided for people to respond to. There would also be a box in the library for written replies. Action- Scott

One way system consultation

Colin said that a leaflet had been circulated to households within Desford village about the possible implementation of a one way system. The suggested one way roads are to help with traffic congestion and HGVs ignoring weight restriction signs. This was being done on behalf of the DPC and any comments needed to be sent in writing, or emailed to DPC, by 31.10.2019.

  1. Date of next meeting:

The date of the next meeting is Tuesday 15th October at 4.30 pm in Desford Library

 

A provisional follow up meeting date of Tuesday 29th October at 4.30pm has also been suggested, provided that the SEA consultation is completed and the comments have been received.

 

Meeting closed 4.55pm.

 

I confirm this is a true record of the meeting:

 

Signed……………………………………………………………..   Name……………………………………………………………

 

Date…………………………………………………………………

 

DNP Working Group minutes 3rd September 2019

DNP Working Group minutes 3rd September 2019

4.30 pm Desford Library

 

In Attendance: Bernard Grimshaw, Colin Crane, David Crocker, Judy Sharpe, Pat Crane (chair), Scott Wakefield

 

Apologies: Andrew Norton, Gary Kirk, Jim Houghton, Martyn Randle,

 

  1. Welcome: Pat welcomed everyone to the meeting and asked for apologies to be listed.

 

  1. Minutes of last meeting / matters arising:

The minutes were approved as a true record and signed by Pat.

Matters Arising:

The following matters arising from the July 9th meeting are still pending due to the absence of the people named              in the actions.

  • Judy and Jim to liaise about the publication of the minutes on to the website- Action pending. Jim has gathered the minutes together ready for publishing. Judy has sent list of minutes’ dates to Jim.
  • Letter to Ewan from the DNPWG- Action Martyn pending

 

Matters arising from the August 16th meeting

Judy apologised that the date on the minutes of the August meeting was incorrect and that she had only just noticed this. Colin stated that the date could be amended and the change initialled.

Letter to other parishes.

Bernard stated that he had found a list of parishes within HBBC who were undertaking NPs. Market Bosworth and Sheepy Magna‘s plans had been made. Burbage, Desford and Newbold Verdon have completed pre-submission. A number of other parishes were at an earlier stage in the development of their NPs.

Scott suggested that the letter to the other parishes could be tweaked slightly, depending upon the state of progress of each NP. This was agreed.

It was agreed that the letter would be written on behalf of the Chair of the PC and the Chair of the DNP group by Bernard and emailed to the clerk of the parish councils. Action-Bernard

Judy said that the addresses of the parish clerks could be found using a search on the HBBC website.

Pat stated that she would not be attending the Parish Forum but Colin would.

 

  1. Declaration of Interest:

Bernard declared an interest as his property was on the Local Heritage List.

 

  1. Treasurer’s Report:

Colin said that he had received an estimate from Gary, on behalf of Your Locale, for the completion of work on the DNP. The PC have accepted this and the funds have been set aside.

 

  1. Communication Officer’s Report:

There was no Communication Officer’s Report

 

  1. Update on SEA:

Bernard stated that he had received an email today to say that the SEA report would arrive before the end of the week. He would then distribute it. Bernard noted that HBBC would also receive a copy of the SEA report at the same time.

 

  1. Actions needed to finalise DNP:

Bernard said that he had revised the housing chapter of the DNP and that this had been sent to Gary. Gary had acknowledged its receipt but there had been no feedback as yet. He stated that he had started it with an explanation and an objective for each policy.

Bernard noted that Gary/ Your Locale will need to rewrite the consultation statement after the SEA arrives. He also noted that there was likely to be minor recommendations which will need attention.

Bernard also thought it was important to proof read the DNP carefully to check that all HBBC’s points of substance have been addressed.

Bernard mentioned that Jhanvi (RCC) is working on the maps. Pat commented that there are a lot of plans/maps particularly in the Environment section. It was important to check on the quality of these. John Martin (YL) had supplied these originally, using Parish online. These will be needed to complete Regulation 15.

Pat suggested that the DNPWG should follow Gary’s advice and do a low key consultation of the tweaked DNP alongside the SEA consultation. Bernard read out some legal documentation that he had found which appeared to support this.

The bodies that need to be notified at the consultation include LCC, HBBC, water and other utility companies, Environment Agency, English Heritage, LCC and HBBC. In addition the land owners of all the assessed sites need to be notified. This can be done by email if the addresses are known; if not a paper letter will sent by the PC clerk. It was noted that either Derek (YL) or Fran at HBBC should have contact details for all site landowners.

The SEA report and the tweaked version of the DNP need to go on to the PC website and a paper copy of these documents also needs to be available. It was agreed that the paper copies would be available in the library, during usual opening hours. Notices will need to be put on the parish noticeboards and Desford Vision and PC websites stating where the documents can be viewed, and when. It was agreed that the documents would only be available on the PC website, but that a link would be provided on the Desford Vision website and facebook pages to them. The notice on the parish noticeboards would provide the website addresses and a date by which responses were needed. Action –Ask Jim to put a link to the PC website from the Desford Vision website

All comments received during the Regulation 14 consultation will be reported on during the Regulation 15 consultation.

Judy asked about the length of this consultation. Bernard said that Gary had indicated that Newbold Verdon had allowed 3 weeks for this. This was to allow for representations.

The version of the DNP sent to the Regulation 15 consultation will have to take note of any comments raised at this next consultation.

Pat asked whether we needed to put a tweaked version of the DNP on the website. Bernard replied that theoretically the previous copy of the DNP could be published. However the tweaked version would enable others to check the more recent amendments before submission of the plan.

Bernard asked whether he should let Fran (HBBC) know that the SEA is expected this week. This was agreed. Action-Bernard.

Judy asked whether the library should be manned on the Saturday mornings by members of the DNPWG during the consultation period. It was agreed to discuss this at the next meeting. She also asked whether paper comment forms and a box would be provided in the library. This was agreed. These comments would then be submitted by the PC clerk.

Pat reported that Jhanvi at the RCC had offered to collate the comments again.

 

  1. Web page/ Twitter/ Spotted Desford:

Jim reported in an email that the revised SSAs and maps are now up on the Desford Vision website. He hadn’t removed the old versions until somebody confirms that the new ones are correct. He asked the DNPWG to note that the complete list of SSAs was too large to upload so he had to split these into 3 groups (2 for Desford and 1 for Botcheston). He noted that the text on the front page is also clearly out of date and he would appreciate help to produce new copy to bring this up to date.

 

  1. AOB:

Scott reported that the CERDA (Peckleton Lane) planning application appeal had been discussed at the PC planning committee meeting on the 2.9.2019. Terry Robinson, who had spoken against the development at the HBBC planning meeting, had raised the idea that there should be an informal traffic survey undertaken and was asking for volunteers to help with this on the Next Door Desford website.

Pat commented that HBBC have employed a barrister to lead their response.

Bernard asked whether it wold be worth the DPC employing an independent planning consultant, or at least finding out the costs for this.

Scott suggested that this matter was put on the agenda for the September PC meeting.

Pat asked about the timescale for the appeal. David stated that he had a letter about this and would send it to Judy to circulate to the group. Action- David and Judy

 

  1. Date of next meeting:

 

The date of the next meeting is Monday 23rd September at 2.30 pm in the Church Centre.

 

Meeting closed 5.30 pm.

 

 

I confirm this is a true record of the meeting:

 

Signed……………………………………………………………..   Name……………………………………………………………

 

Date…………………………………………………………………

 

DNP Working Group minutes 16th August 2019

DNP Working Group minutes 16th August 2019

7.30 pm Desford Library

 

In Attendance: Andrew Norton, Bernard Grimshaw, Colin Crane, David Crocker, Gary Kirk, Jim Houghton, Judy Sharpe, Martyn Randle, Pat Crane, Scott Wakefield

 

Apologies: None

 

  1. Welcome: Martyn welcomed everyone to the meeting and asked for apologies to be listed.

 

  1. Minutes of last meeting / matters arising: The minutes were approved as a true record and signed by Martyn.

Matters Arising:

  • Judy and Jim to liaise about the publication of the minutes on to the website- Action pending. Jim has gathered the minutes together ready for publishing. Judy to send list of minutes dates to Jim.
  • Judy to liaise with Kaye about the publication of the minutes on Facebook-Kaye has emailed to say minutes have been published on facebook.
  • Letter to Ewan from the DNPWG- Action Martyn pending

 

  1. Declaration of Interest: Bernard declared an interest as his property was on the Local Heritage List.

 

  1. Chairman’s Report: Martyn stated that there was no chairman’s report for this meeting.

 

  1. Treasurer’s Report: Bernard stated that the DNPWG have paid all invoices up to date.

Colin said that the request for future DNP funding had gone to the PC resources committee and been approved.

 

  1. Communication Officer’s Report / Relationship between HBBC and DPC:

Bernard said that he had originally intended to submit a complaint about HBBC as a private person, independently of the DNPWG. However he had found out that he could not approach the ombudsman as a private individual in this case. Consequently he had composed a briefing letter which Colin, as the Chair of the DPC had submitted to HBBC. This had been sent initially to two local ward councillors who in turn had sent it to the council leader Stuart Bray. He had then passed it onto Matt Bowers, the new HBBC director (environment and planning). Colin reported that he had received a reply to this letter which had been circulated to the DPC. He had also spoken to Joyce Crooks, chair of the planning committee. Colin added that Nicola Smith has now been confirmed as head of planning.

Gary reported that he had spoken to HBBC in relation to Newbold Verdon’s NP SEA.  Newbold Verdon’s SEA report had just been received and contained 3 very minor suggestions in over 30 pages. However HBBC still recommend that Newbold Verdon go through another Regulation 14 consultation. Gary had attended a meeting with Fran Belcher and Rachel Dexter from HBBC and representatives of Newbold Verdon NPWG about this. AECOM have written to HBBC saying that in their view it was low risk that Newbold Verdon’s NP would not pass examination. However Gary reminded the group that HBBC will send their letter recommending a further Regulation 14 consultation at Newbold Verdon to the examiner. Gary reiterated that planning is rarely clear cut.

Bernard said that although he was naturally cautious he could not see anything that will require Desford to do a second Regulation 14 consultation. Any issues arising from the SEA could be dealt with in the Regulation 15 consultation.

Gary stated that this situation is bigger than just the Desford NP and is impacting on all NP groups within HBBC. He questioned whether it would be possible for NP groups in the borough to work together.

Colin stated that Sheepy Magna and Stoke Golding NPs had passed examination. Burbage and Newbold Verdon NPs were at a similar stage to Desford.  Barlestone is at an earlier stage. Bagworth, Thornton and Stanton, Markfield and Witherley are also progressing their NPs.

Gary said that a letter to HBBC signed by a number of NP groups would carry weight.

Bernard asked what risks the DNPWG were running.

Gary stated that the SEA states that there must be a consultation for an appropriate length of time, but not necessarily a Regulation 14 consultation. It would be possible to speak to Locality, but they process information and are not experts.

Bernard asked if the RCC could offer advice.

Colin stated that NALC could offer legal advice. He also mentioned that there would be a Parish Forum meeting at HBBC in a few weeks’ time which he would be attending. Other parishes will also attend this.

Martyn asked what actions need to take place.

Colin suggested that a letter should be sent to the PC clerks of the other NP groups. This was agreed. Scott suggested that it should include that the DNPWG were finding some of the responses and comments from HBBC quite frustrating. Martyn mentioned that it was important not to be adversarial.  Andrew said examples could be included. Action- Bernard to draft letter.

It was also suggested to ask if this matter could be put on the agenda for the HBBC Parish Forum.  Action- Pat to see if this is possible. If not it could be raised under AOB.

Gary said that the 5 year land supply letter which had been circulated to all NP groups could provide contact details.

Colin said that a meeting with Matt Bowers could be a next step.

Pat said that she would approach the RCC for contact details if needed Action-Pat

 

  1. Update on SEA and any policy amendments needed:

Bernard said that SEA correspondence had taken place and that Fran Belcher at HBBC had been very helpful.  Fran had given Ian McClusky a timetable of sites and sent an explanation of the Jelson site to him. Hopefully this will answer all Ian’s questions.

 

  1. Update on HBBC’s response to the latest consultation:

Gary suggested that a further targeted consultation should take place on the site assessments. David reported that the Jelson site had scored slightly higher than CERDA (Peckleton Lane) on the SSA. The plan could then be finalised and move onto the Regulation 15 consultation. He reminded the group that the examiner will see the letter from HBBC recommending a further Regulation 14 consultation, as at Newbold Verdon. Therefore it is a risk not to do a Regulation 14 consultation.

Scott asked who the examiner will be.

Gary said that the examiner will be appointed by HBBC, but that DNPWG can have a veto and he would be able to advise on this.

David asked about submitting a legal opinion. It was stated that if advised this is a possibility by NALC it can be put forward.

Bernard reminded the group that Jelson’s forms were submitted late and were not yet on the website as the DNPWG had been asked to wait by Emily.

Gary stated that if the SEA report lists significant changes these will need to be considered.

Bernard agreed that there should be a joint SEA and Jelson site consultation period.

Gary said that the SEA consultation has to take place before submission.

Bernard suggested that he should write to HBBC’s Chief Executive Bill Cullen, asking about where the legal authority for another Regulation 14 consultation is. David proposed this should be done and Scott seconded. All Agreed. Action- Bernard

 

  1. Discussion of approach to development /allocations:

It was stated that the Barns Way site had been give outline planning permission. It is intended that the site will be fully developed within 3 years. Pat agreed to look on the website for the officer’s report. Action-Pat

A question was asked about the section 106 money. Colin stated that it need not be spent within Desford Parish.

 

  1. Actions needed to finalise DNP:

Gary stated that Bernard was looking at the housing chapter in light of recent changes.

Pat has a copy of the amended Heritage map and will email this to Gary. Action –Pat

Gary commented that the Planning Practice Guidance changed at the end of May 2019. It was now important to look at bio diversity in respect of ‘net gain’ as opposed to ‘no harm’ so he will look at the wording of this in the DNP. Action -Gary

Gary also mentioned that in two recent NPs the examiner has removed the local heritage list as they stated that this was up to the local council. He will therefore refer to this in the text and rephrase the words ‘local list’. Action-Gary

David asked that the planning approval for the favoured Barns Way site should be added.Action- Gary

Gary commented that he would try to complete these amendments before the 5.9.2019.

 

  1. Web page/ Twitter/ Spotted Desford: This had been covered in matters arising item 2.

 

  1. AOB: None
  2. Date of next meeting:

 

The next meeting of the DNPWG will take place on Tuesday 3rd September 2019 at 4.30pm in the library.

This is provisional upon the date of receipt of the SEA.

A further date of Monday 23rd September at 2.30 pm in the Church Centre/Church has been agreed in case this is needed. Judy will confirm date when known.

 

Meeting closed 4.05pm.

 

 

I confirm this is a true record of the meeting:

 

Signed……………………………………………………………..   Name……………………………………………………………

 

Date…………………………………………………………………

 

DNP Working Group minutes 9th July 2019

DNP Working Group minutes 9th July 2019

7.30 pm Desford Library

 

In Attendance: Bernard Grimshaw, Colin Crane, David Crocker, Gary Kirk, Jim Houghton Judy Sharpe, Martyn Randle, Pat Crane, Scott Wakefield

 

Apologies: Andrew Norton

 

  1. Discussion of Local Heritage Listing

This took place at the start of the meeting to enable any interested parties to arrive after this item. The discussion was regarded as sensitive information.

 

  1. Welcome:

Martyn welcomed everyone to the meeting and asked for apologies to be listed.

 

  1. Minutes of last meeting / matters arising:

The full minutes were approved as a true record and signed by Martyn.

Matters Arising

  • Awards for All grant status? Bernard stated that the end of grant report was now ready to send off
  • Letter about 2026 housing target. This had been sent by Bernard to Colin
  • Robin Webber-Jones (ward councillor) did attend meeting of DNPWG and HBBC
  • HHBC Employment Land & Premises Bernard had sent a form of words to Pat and this had been submitted to HBBC.
  • Minutes from the 31.5.19 had been amended by Judy and approved by Gary for publication on the website.
  • Judy and Jim to liaise about the publication of the minutes on to the website- Action pending Jim and Judy
  • Judy to liaise with Kaye about the publication of the minutes on Facebook- Action pending Judy

 

  1. Declaration of Interest:

Bernard declared an interest as his property was on the Local Heritage List.

 

  1. Chairman’s Report:

Martyn stated that there was no chairman’s report for this meeting as the DNPWG were currently in limbo.

 

  1. Resignation of Committee member

Martyn checked that everyone was aware of the reason for Ewan’s resignation from the DNPWG on a matter of principle.

Martyn and Colin both said that they had spoken to Ewan after the previous meeting.

It was agreed that a letter should be sent to Ewan thanking him for all his work to date and stating that he would be welcome to return to the DNPWG at any point. Action- Martyn

 

  1. Treasurer’s Report

Bernard stated that Invoice 13 had been received on the 9.7.2019 from Your Locale. This is for £2,000 to cover 4 days of SSA work and the redrafting of the housing section of the plan. This payment will come out of the £5000 in the DPC reserve funds for the DNPWG. He said that he had written to the PC clerk asking that this could be put on the agenda for the Resources committee for approval.

Colin asked Gary how much more Your Locale will need to finalise the DNP.

Gary said that he did not expect it to exceed the original PC allowance. He agreed to email Colin an optimistic and pessimistic prediction of the funding still needed; so that he can inform the Resources committee. Action- Gary

Gary was asked how long a NP could take to complete. He stated that it was impossible to say and that one plan was currently 7 years from commencement and was not yet finished.

 

  1. Communication Officer’s Report

Bernard said that the meeting of the DNPWG with HBBC on Monday 17.6.2019 had taken place. Gary, Colin, David and Bernard had attended this with Robin Webber-Jones (ward councillor) and a good discussion had occurred.

Bernard noted that by the end of the meeting he was under the impression that the council planners would recommend approval of the planning applications for Barns Way and Peckleton Lane (CERDA) sites, due to the 5 year land supply issue.

Colin commented that Davidsons now want to be one site, rather than two.

Colin reported that at the HBBC Planning Committee meeting on the 25.6.2019 Terry Robinson (parishioner) had spoken very well against approval of the Peckleton Lane development (CERDA). Colin stated that the Peckleton Lane planning application had been a unanimous refusal and at the Barns Way application the Conservative councillors had voted against and the Liberal Democrats had abstained. He was not aware how the Labour councillor had voted. The applications were noted as being Mandatory refused. This was despite the fact that the HBBC planners had recommended approval for both sites.

Colin noted that he had asked what a ‘mandatory refusal’ meant. He had been told that this means that the developers can go back to HBBC and discuss how they could get the council members to agree to their applications.

Scott stated that he had been led to believe that as long as the current makeup of the HBBC council remains the same, there will be no change in their position regarding these sites. However if the DNP approves the Barns Way site they will agree to this.

Gary stated that he had spoken to Andy Furlong and he was very interested in this.

Gary asked if a new head of planning had been appointed at HBBC. Colin said that yes one had, in the level above. He would be a corporate manager with planning as one part of his remit.

Bernard noted that the information about the 5 year land supply had been released by HBBC, via the RCC, after hours on a Friday. He felt that this was quite wrong and is thinking about making an individual complaint for maladministration, as it did not allow any opportunity for the public or parish council to make any representations about the changed circumstances.

Colin stated that he could take this to the PC and ask them to raise the matter.

Gary said that the PC would carry more weight than an individual, and that other NP groups are considering making a formal complaint. It was debated as to whether this could be a joint objection with other NPWGs.

Colin said that there could be a problem with timing as not all PCs meet in August. He suggested that he should talk to the ward councillors about this.

Bernard stated that if he did make the complaint as an individual, and that the situation was not resolved, he would write to the ombudsman.

After further discussion it was agreed that Bernard, as an individual, would have the backing of the DNPWG to write to Stuart Bray, leader of HBBC council about this issue. Proposed Scott, seconded Colin. All others were in favour. It was agreed that any further action on behalf of the DNPWG/PC would depend upon the response Bernard received. Action –Bernard

 

  1. Update on SEA and any policy amendments needed

Bernard said that he had circulated an email from Ian McClusky stating that he hoped the SEA would be completed by the end of July. There is no indication of the content yet.

Gary commented that if significant changes are required, the impact on the consultation process will need to be considered; particularly the avoidance of a repetition of the Regulation 14 consultation. A tightening of wording would be OK.

Bernard commented that some redrafting may be required in the environment section.

Colin stated that the HBBC planning officers did not seem to understand the scoping report of the SEA.

Gary mentioned that the SEA should be sent to the DNPWG first and then to HBBC.

 

  1. Update on HBBC’s response to the latest consultation

Gary stated that at the meeting of DNPWG and HBBC on the 17.6.2019 HBBC had not agreed to consult with groups first. This does not conform to the SLA agreement with the DNPWG. No apology or acknowledgement was given by HBBC. It was also noted that no formal notes had been taken of the meeting.

Gary said that it was now a year since Newbold Verdon’s SEA had been put in place by HBBC, and that this was still not finalised.

Gary offered to look at the HBBC reponses section of the consultation and will try to soften the wording. Action-Gary

Bernard said that further sites had come in through the Regulation 14 consultation.  Gary said that it should not be necessary to redo the Regulation 14 consultation but that it was reasonable to send out the assessments to all developers and land owners. Colin asked about the Jelson site, as it had only come to light during the second consultation. It was confirmed that this had been assessed by Derek. Gary suggested that it should be put on the website and that all other developers and land owners should be informed of this.

Colin questioned whether Davidsons was one or two sites. Gary stated that HBBC said it should be one site. He asked Bernard to check with Ian McClusky that these will be regarded as minor changes. Action- Bernard

David commented that the land owners ought to receive their assessments before they were published on the website.Bernard said that this had been done in all cases, except for Jelson.

Colin said that there was a need to ask HBBC to supply a map of these locations. Gary agreed that Your Locale would do this. Action- Gary

Gary stated that it was important to amend the DNP to show the process that has taken place, so that the examiner can see this.

David asked what disappointed developers can do. Gary said that they can submit further planning applications and make submissions. A robust response could be expected from them. Colin said that the developers can appeal but hopefully the DNP will have a greater weight.

Jim asked if Pat would let him know what needed to go on the website. This was agreed. Action Pat and Jim

David sated that it was important that there was a record of these discussions.

Colin stated that the next full planning meeting of HBBC will be on 23.7.2019.

 

  1. Discussion of HBBC 5 year land supply

Gary reminded the group that once the DNP is in place, and as long as HBBC have got a 3 year land supply, the DNP will have greater weight than the Local Plan. The DNP Housing Section will however continue to need updating to refer to HBBC. It was important to remember that land supply can change if large sites fail as had happened at Barwell.

 

  1. Implications of latest planning refusals

This had also been discussed earlier.

Scott stated it was interesting to see the comments aimed at the LCC Highways Department at the HBBC planning meeting on 25.6.2019. Gary said that Highways Departments always err on the side of caution. It had been noted that they had also stated that reactive traffic lights at the junction of Dan’s Lane and the A47 were not needed.

 

  1. Actions needed to finalise DNP

Gary stated that it had been agreed that there would not be a reserve site in the DNP. The allocated site and windfall sites should meet the required number of dwellings for the regulations.

Bernard asked about windfall sites.  He said that the current draft of the DNP says there are 5 per annum, but questioned whether it may be better not to state an actual number. For example in the last 6 months there had been 17. Gary asked whether this information could be put in a table and that he would then try to quantify this. Scott suggested that it could state that over the last x years there had been y amount. Bernard asked whether it was necessary to accept more windfall sites to justify plan resilience. Gary said that it was important to err on the side of caution.

Gary said that once the amendments had been completed, the SSA put in to an appendix and the SEA finalised the DNP could be signed off by the PC. Ideally this would take place at the September DPC meeting.

Bernard queried as to whether there should be a settlement boundary included for Botcheston, as he thought that there had been one in the past. Gary stated this was probably unhelpful as Botcheston does not have a housing target, and is classed as countryside. Bernard said that the old fish farm property in Botcheston was currently being used for storage and that the village hoped this would be cleared and used for housing. It had been given a green 5 in the SSA and could provide 9 dwellings. David said that it was reasonable to include this due to the SSA score. Gary said that the settlement boundary could be adjusted to include the site, if it is deemed necessary. Bernard said that if Botcheston does not have a settlement boundary he did not feel one should be done.

Gary reminded the DNPWG that now was the opportunity to look through the DNP and check that items, such as the facilities section information, were up to date.

Jim commented that the sports courts at SiD had been launched on the 6.7.2019, so this would need to be amended. He also mentioned that another party had raised the idea that the 5 acre field between the proposed CERDA site and SiD should be kept as a potential local green space, for potential use in the future. Gary stated this would not currently meet the criteria for a local green space.

Gary asked for any comments / changes to be sent to him and that he would update the DNP as appropriate.

 

  1. Web page/ Twitter/ Spotted Desford There were no further developments. Jim stated that he had posted the latest planning application information on the website and a line to state that these had been rejected.
  2. AOB

None

 

  1. Date of next meeting:

 

 

The next meeting of the DNPWG will take place on Friday 16th August 2019 at 2.30pm in the library.

 

Meeting closed 9.15pm.

 

 

I confirm this is a true record of the meeting:

 

Signed……………………………………………………………..   Name……………………………………………………………

 

Date…………………………………………………………………

 

DNP Working Group minutes 14th June 2019

DNP Working Group minutes 14th June 2019

7 pm Desford Library

 

In Attendance: Andrew Norton ,Bernard Grimshaw, Colin Crane, Ewan Lindsay, Jim Houghton Judy Sharpe, Martyn Randle, Pat Crane,

 

Apologies: David Crocker, Gary Kirk, Scott Wakefield

 

  1. Welcome:

Martyn welcomed everyone to the meeting and asked for apologies to be listed.

 

  1. Minutes of last meeting / matters arising:

Pat mentioned that the minutes from 31.4.19 meeting had not yet been published on the website as Gary had stated that he thought that they contained information of a sensitive nature. This was discussed and it was agreed to amend them appropriately for the website. Action- Judy

Colin noted that the acronym SHELAA had been written incorrectly in the second paragraph on page 2.

The full minutes were approved as a true record and signed by Martyn.

 

  1. Declaration of Interest:

Bernard declared an interest as his property was on the Local Heritage List.

 

  1. Chairman’s Report:

Martyn stated that he had attended the HBBC and RCC workshop meeting in the Atkins Building in Hinckley. It had raised some interesting points and emphasised that maps were crucial for NPs. He had spoken to a number of other local NP delegates and had offered to help John Whitehead from Dadlington if he could. Rob Foers and Fran Belcher from HBBC had also been present.

 

Martyn reminded the DNPWG that it was extremely important that everyone was aware of the procedures that were in place for the WG, and that these should be followed in discussions with outside parties.  All matters should be discussed and agreed in the DNPWG committee meetings and Martyn as chair of the DNPWG should be informed of any discussion or meeting in advance.

 

  1. Treasurer’s Report

Bernard stated that he had circulated the Treasurer’s Report. End of grants reports had been sent for Locality 1 and 2. He said that he was happy to submit the Awards for All report on behalf of DPC if signed off at this meeting. This was agreed. Action -Bernard.

Colin mentioned that DPC were aware that the DNPWG would now need to use their funding. Bernard said that it was important for the DNPWG to do what they could to keep any future expenses as low as possible.

 

  1. Communication Officer’s Report

Bernard said that he wanted to formally remind everyone of the meeting of the DNPWG with HBBC on Monday 17.6.2019. Gary, Colin, David and Bernard would be attending this with three members of HBBC. Gary had written to HBBC about their response to the latest consultation as had been agreed at the previous meeting. Colin, Martyn and Bernard reiterated the sensitivity of this meeting. Colin said that he thought it would be useful to ask a ward councillor to attend the meeting. This was agreed. Action-Colin

 

  1. Discussion of HBBC Employment and Land Premises Study Response

Bernard thanked Colin and Pat for providing him with a hard copy of the draft Plan.  He stated the FATE sub group had discussed employment and land availability during the writing of the draft DNP.

Bernard stated that there was still a lot of available land for employment within the parish particularly at the Caterpillar / Neovia and Crown Crest sites, and along the road to Kirby Muxloe, which has been designated for industrial use. There was also employment being created immediately adjacent to the parish in Peckleton and at Merrylees.

Andrew commented that Crown Crest are closing their Yorkshire site and bringing 120 jobs to Desford.

Bernard offered to email Pat a form of words to help the PC with their response. This was agreed. Action-Bernard

 

 

  1. Update on the SEA

Bernard stated that the SEA was still out for consultation with the statutory bodies and that no date had been received from Ian McClusky. Locality are paying AECOM to do the SEA. It is a full SEA covering 7 out of 9 categories.

 

  1. Update on HBBC’s response to the latest consultation

Colin reminded the group that the latest 6 week consultation had been completed and that there was a meeting with HBBC on 17.6.2019 as Bernard had previously mentioned. He also stated that the SEA will need a consultation when completed.

Pat reported that there had also been four other responses to the latest consultation from Jelson, CERDA, Neovia and an individual, and that Derek would be responding to these. Bernard said that Derek and David would be communicating directly with Jelson and that they may be invited to meet with the housing sub group.

 

  1. Discussion of idea of possible reservation of land to enable the building of a future bypass

Judy had forwarded an email and circulated documents in relation to this for Ewan.

Ewan stated that he had spoken with LCC, who had directed him to HBBC planning department. He had spoken with Fran Belcher on the 14.6.2019. She had said that land reservation for a possible bypass route could not be part of the NP itself but a report could be included as evidence. However, if this was done, a traffic survey would be needed. Ewan stated that he was not pushing for a bypass, only for the land to be reserved.

Comments on this proposal had been received by email from Gary, stating that he personally would not support the inclusion of such a proposal into the DNP at this stage of the process. Scott and Bernard had sent emails agreeing with Gary and in Bernard’s case raising further points.

Martyn stated this was outside the remit of the DNP and Bernard said that it did not conform with the HBBC Local Plan. He also mentioned that a bypass, (if approved) could not be built until at least 2030 due to the lack of council funding. The only way that a bypass could be built before then, would be through housing development funding.

Colin stated that a traffic survey had already taken place. He also mentioned that HBBC were now 5,000 dwellings short due to the fact that the Earl Shilton SUE is no longer taking place and the Barwell SUE is still uncertain.

Bernard stated that he had a letter from HBBC stating that no further allocation was needed in Desford Parish until 2026. Colin said that the newly elected councillors were probably not aware of this letter. Bernard said that he would give a copy of the letter to Colin for Monday’s meeting. Action-Bernard.

 

  1. Discussion of Local Heritage Listing

This discussion was regarded as sensitive information and to be recorded separately.

It was agreed that further specific discussion was needed and that this would take part at the start of the next meeting so that any interested parties would not be present.

 

  1. Web page/ Twitter/ Spotted Desford: Jim stated that he had not posted the minutes on the website recently. He would liaise with Judy over this. Action – Jim and Judy. Judy said that she had heard from Kaye Johnson stating that she had been unable to post the last set of minutes on Facebook. Judy to liaise with Kaye over this.
  2. AOB

Andrew suggested that the information that two planning applications for Desford Parish (CERDA and Rosconn) were to be discussed at the HBBC planning committee meeting on the 25.6.19 should be posted on Spotted Desford and the website.  This was agreed. Jim volunteered to do this for the website if provided with a form of words. Colin agreed to organise this for facebook.  Action-Jim and Colin. Colin stated that there will be three two minute slots for people to speak at the meeting about this and that Terry Robinson would be doing so. Speakers have to have previously formally objected to the planning application.

Martyn stated that he had received an email from the RCC on behalf of the HBBC Planning Team that afternoon (14.6.2019) about the 5 year land supply. It said that: The statement sets out that the council can now not currently demonstrate a five year land supply. Therefore paragraph 11 of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) applies. This sets out that for decision taking [of planning applications] there is a presumption in favour of sustainable development – so that permission should be granted unless any adverse impacts in granting permission significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits, when assessed against the policies in the NPPF as a whole. Martyn agreed to forward the full email to the DNPWG. There was a brief discussion and it was agreed that it will be discussed further.

  1. Date of next meeting:

 

 

The next meeting of the DNPWG will take place on Tuesday 9th July 2019 at 7pm in the library.

 

Meeting closed 8.05pm.

 

 

I confirm this is a true record of the meeting:

 

Signed……………………………………………………………..   Name……………………………………………………………

 

Date…………………………………………………………………

 

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