Meeting Minutes
1. OPEN SESSION : nil 2. PRESENT: Parish Councillors: Mr Ron Barker (Chair), Mr Graham Clarke (Vice Chair), Mrs Norma Grubb (also Parish Clerk), Mr Minty Scaife, Mr Jim Wadsworth. Others: D Grubb (Minutes). NYC: Cllr David Webster. Residents: Mr R Walker APOLOGIES: None 3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF LAST MEETING (7 Jan 2025 - Ref 339): Agreed. Signed by Chair . 4. MATTERS ARISING FROM MINUTES : 1. Speed reduction signage on entering Pickhill: still awaiting response from Highways. 5. PLANNING: 1. Church House, Pickhill (Grade II Listed) : retrospective application re various works discovered during ongoing renovation. Agreed – no objections. 2. Church House, Pickhill (Grade II Listed): change of use of land to domestic; create new vehicle access track and parking; alter existing yard access to pedestrian only. Agreed – no objections. 3. 1-2 The Cottages, Pickhill: retrospective application to convert existing garage to a granny annexe including small extension to create porch. Agreed – no objections. 4. Any updates on earlier applications - none 6. FINANCE: 1. Update since last meeting: Parish Clerk confirmed last statement from bank at end of November. Invoice received for parish council website renewal & domain name at £159.45. Renewal agreed. 2. Grasscutting contract for Sinderby: Following last meeting Mrs Grubb had signed and returned the Pickhill contract and had requested a copy of the plan for Sinderby showing the verges to be cut . Still awaiting a response. Cllr Webster offered to chase that with the member of staff. For next Agenda. 7. PROJECTS: Pickhill Village Green improvements. (i) Seats: Parish Clerk confirmed a grant application was submitted for three bench seats at £900 +VAT. (best of two quotes obtained). Cllr Webster said he had recommended a grant of £500 towards this, for which he was thanked. Design is to match the one existing fixed blue bench seat. Will be heavy but free standing; discussed need to try out positioning. If they get moved by the public we can consider securing them down later. It was proposed that the order be placed with Mr Charlton. Agreed. (Mr Clarke to order) (ii) Signage: Second quote, obtained by Mr Scaife from Swift Signs (£312 + VAT each) beats that from Fox’s. After discussion it was proposed two signs be ordered from Swift. Agreed. (Mr Scaife to order) 8. CORRESPONDENCE: (circulated to councillors in advance of meeting) (1) Speed campaign/road safety in NY villages – update from campaign co-ordinator – this is a campaign to have fixed enforcement cameras in villages, which is resisted by the Mayors office/Police & Crime Commisioner as the policy is to use mobile camera units across North Yorkshire. Noted. (2) Message from All Saints Church. Email received thanking Parish Council for the donation towards Church’s grass-cutting bill. Noted. 9. COUNCILLORS REPORTS: Mr Barker: reports that trees on the Street Lane verge opposite the “Station” wall have again been damaged during hedge trimming. He had spoken to the owner of the hedge who confirms the contractor had reported this back to him. Mr Barker noted that these trees were planted by the Parish Council some 20 years ago, yet it is only in the last 2 winters that this has occurred. The Parish Council had to replace one of the trees last winter and others needed “first aid”. Councillors to go and inspect the damage / layout: to discuss further at next meeting. For next Agenda. Cllr Webster: · NY Council meeting the following day to discuss the deficit. · It is likely that Locality Grants budget will be halved next year (to be applied for in second half of 2025 – applications will close 31 Jan 2026. · Each household will be getting one extra recycling bin. · There is a move to even out each Councillors area (based on number of residents) and it is likely that our Parish Council will not be in his area (Bedale division) by the next NYC elections in 2027. · National target of 1.5 million extra homes during this Government means North Yorkshire having to substantially increase its target on the local plan. Mrs Grubb: on that last point, she had downloaded the Local Plan map of the County showing sites suggested by landowners as possibly available for building/development. There was just one within our Parish Council area (copy viewed). Cllr Webster issued a note of caution in that these sites were unfiltered – ie., had not yet been evaluated. 10. ANY OTHER BUSINESS: none. Signed: R Barker Dated: 15.4.2025 New Paragraph
1. OPEN SESSION : nil 2. PRESENT: Parish Councillors: Mr Ron Barker (Chair), Mr Graham Clarke (Vice Chair), Mrs Norma Grubb (also Parish Clerk), Mr Minty Scaife, Mr Jim Wadsworth. Others: D Grubb (Minutes). NYC: Cllr David Webster. APOLOGIES: None 3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF LAST MEETINGS (12 Nov 2024 - Ref 337 and 3 Dec 2024 - Ref 338): Both Agreed. Signed by Chair . 4. MATTERS ARISING FROM MINUTES : 1. Speed reduction on entering Pickhill: reinstatement of SLOW signs on road at 30mph entry points: Highways have been asked to reinstate them. Awaiting their response. 2. Vehicle damage to Pickhill Village Green: see Item 7(2). 5. PLANNING: 1. Application re land west of Sinderby Lane, Sinderby – change of use of farm buildings to dwelling house and associated building works – discussed. Agreed – no objections. 2. Previous applications: (1) Chancefield, Pickhill – conversion of agricultural buildings into six dwellings - has been refused by the planning department. (2) Church House, Pickhill – staircase/loft hatch, etc – was granted. 6. FINANCE: 1. Update since last meeting: The Parish Clerk outlined position of current account. A cheque for the Church grounds donation (£300) was signed. The proposed precept forms (2025/26) were submitted in November (£4,620). 2. Grasscutting contracts: Quotes for 2025 growing season received.... Pickhill: The NYC contractors will charge £1665.83, whilst Highways will pay £112.34 for cutting their visibility splays. After discussion, this was accepted. Sinderby: NYC originally quoted over £800, but when Mrs Grubb queried the amount it transpired this included the “village green”, as they believed we owned it. They have now accepted that NYC do own it and have re-quoted £416 for just the roadside verges. Highways will pay us £52 for the splays. Councillors queried the £416 as there seems to be little which was not splays. Mrs Grubb to request plans showing the verges to be cut within that quote For next Agenda. 7. PROJECTS: 1. Pickhill Playground improvements : due to winter conditions no further work had been undertaken. 2. Vehicle damage to Pickhill Village Green: Mr Barker had obtained a quote from Fox’s for two signs mounted on posts, at £334 each, plus VAT, and showed images of the wording options. Mr Scaife would obtain a second quote to same specification. For next Agenda. 8. CORRESPONDENCE: (circulated to councillors in advance of meeting) None 9. COUNCILLORS REPORTS: Cllr Webster : will be attending NYC budget meeting the day after, so little to report. Locality Grants available on a 50/50 basis; closing date is 31 January. Discussion regarding seating benches to improve amenities on Pickhill Village Green, which only has one bench currently. Quotes to be obtained. Mr Scaife: recalls earlier suggestion for a flower bed on the verge by Pickhill sign at top of hill – ongoing. Mrs Grubb: a resident at Holme on Swale had asked if our Parish Council could represent their village as their Parish Meeting had ceased to exist. Mrs Grubb had advised her that it was not within our remit and referred her to NY Council. Cllr Webster confirmed that was the position and advised there were other villages in the area in a similar position, such as Ainderby Quernhow and Howe. 10. ANY OTHER BUSINESS: none. Signed: R. Barker Dated: 4.2.2025 New Paragraph
1. OPEN SESSION: nil 2. PRESENT: Parish Councillors: Mr Ron Barker (Chair), Mr Graham Clarke (Vice Chair). Others: D Grubb (Minutes) APOLOGIES : Parish Councillors: Mrs Norma Grubb, Mr Jim Wadsworth & Mr Minty Scaife; also Cllr David Webster (NYC) As the meeting was not quorate, due to short notice unavoidable absences of three Parish Councillors, the Chairman would close the meeting, with a new meeting to be arranged for January 2025. It was determined that two planning applications (documents re both previously circulated to all Councillors) had time limits so could not wait until then and would be dealt with, as follows: Church House – majority had already indicated they had no objections and reply required by 4 December. Pickhill School – email circulation to be sent for councillors’ response as reply required by 10 December. (Subsequently no objections.) The meeting was then closed. Signed: R Barker Dated: 7. 1. 2025
1. OPEN SESSION : nil 2. PRESENT: Parish Councillors: Mr Ron Barker (Chair), Mr Graham Clarke (Vice Chair) Mrs Norma Grubb (also Parish Clerk), Mr Jim Wadsworth. Others: D Grubb (Minutes). NYC: Cllr David Webster. Residents: Mr Walker, Mrs Harvey, Mr Lane, Mr Burgess. APOLOGIES : Parish Councillor Mr Minty Scaife 3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF LAST MEETING (28 May 2024: Ref 336): Agreed. Signed by Chair . 4. MATTERS ARISING FROM MINUTES : 1. School use of public play area. Following liaison with school head, our insurers and parish councillors, this has been agreed and the public playground is now being accessed during school play sessions, with access direct from school grounds and supervised by their staff. Public still have access at these times. 2. Improving water quality in Pickhill Beck: Mr Clarke reported that a grant has been applied for to monitor water quality and explore ways to make improvements. Separately Yorkshire Water is in the process of installing pipe-works between the sewage pumping station at Sinderby and the River Swale, to reduce the run-off that has been overflowed into the beck along that stretch, causing bad smells. 3. Speed reduction on entering Pickhill: it is noted that the “Slow” signs painted on the road on approach to the 30mph area, at both ends of the village, had not been replaced after last years re-surfacing. Highways are being asked to reinstate them. 4. Vehicle damage to Pickhill Village Green: ongoing issue along the school lane side. Mr Barker has monitored this. Biggest mis-use is at school pick-up time when numerous vehicles wait, parked on the green. Also vehicles reversing out from driveways, or when delivery vehicles park. As winter approaches more damage will occur. It is accepted that infrequently a large funeral or wedding may encroach. It was proposed quotes to be obtained for two signs... “No parking or driving on the village green”. Agreed. 5. PLANNING: 1. Applications dealt with since last meeting: The applications for Manor Farm (holiday let rail carriage), Church House (internal & external alterations), Middle Park Farm (agricultural barn), and The Cottage in Pickhill (demolish and rebuild) – were not opposed by the Parish Council; all have now been granted. 2. New Applications: (1) Chancefield, Pickhill – to determine if prior approval is required for proposed conversion of three agricultural buildings into 6 dwellings. Discussed at length, plans examined. The applicant Mr Lane was able to answer Councillors questions. Agreed: no objections. (2) Broadlea, Pickhill – to demolish bungalow and build two detached dwellings. Mr Clarke declared an interest and withdrew from discussion. In 2019 permission was granted to convert this property into two semi detached houses. The new plans were examined. Agreed: no objections. 6. FINANCE: 1. Update since last meeting: The Parish Clerk outlined that in 2017 planning permission was granted to build 3 homes behind the Nags Head and the development was completed in 2020. At that time the Parish Council was told that no CIL money (Community Infrastructure Levy) was payable to us. Last month the Council contacted her to advise that a mistake had been made and there was a CIL payment for this development. We have now received £3,918.75. Noted. Recent payments made for a combination lock for playground vehicle gate, new pads (adult and paediatric) and a new battery for Pickhill defibrillator. We had also paid a contractor to trim the lime tree (around the Knowles seat) on Pickhill Village Green. Noted. 2. Setting the Parish precept: For year 2024/2025 we had received a precept payment of £4,200.This is collected as part of the Council Tax. We now need to set this for 2025/2026 (starts 1st April). A similar increase as the previous year would take it to £4,620. As this was divided by the total number of homes in the Parish and the number of new houses had again increased, the actual rise to each home was minimal (pence per month). Agreed to set at £4,620 3. Request from Pickhill Church – assistance with grasscutting costs. In recent years we had made a donation of £250. It was proposed to increase this to £300 this year and this was seconded. The Parish Clerk said this was a 20% increase and suggested it remain at £250. After a vote it was carried by a majority to make a donation of £300. 7. PROJECTS: 1. Pickhill Playground improvements : Mr Barker reported he had continued improvement repairs on the Playground over the summer, particularly addressing issues identified in the last ROSPA inspection report. Mats fitted under “wear” areas, swing joist replaced; work on timber of climbing tower, all at minimal cost. Mr Clarke proposed a vote of thanks to Mr Barker which was agreed unanimously. 2. ROSPA Report. The annual inspection was carried out in October and the work undertaken by Mr Barker had paid off as there were no items rated as “red” this year. As a lot of the timber equipment is now approaching 30 years old, it is inevitable there will be wear and tear issues, such as ground level strimmer damage to swings and climbing equipment and rot to the top of posts. 3. Defibrillators. Pickhill - routine renewal of pads and battery in October. Pads (separate adult and child sets) cost £172 and expire in Nov 2026; they can only be used once. Battery cost £336 and lasts up to four years. We were alerted just the day before this meeting that the unit may have been used (999 call to Ambulance). Mr Grubb checked and the unit was intact (pads still vacuum packed), but he then had an issue in re-setting; taking advice from suppliers to resolve. No info available to meeting re Sinderby unit. 8. CORRESPONDENCE: (circulated to councillors in advance of meeting) 1. Interest savings account offer for Parish Councils. Hinckley & Rugby Building Society offer an online account which pays 2.4% interest. It can be accessed by a single signatory. The Parish Clerk expressed her discomfort with that and it was agreed this was not viable. 2. Northern Gas Network – Community Initiative Newsletter. Having studied the contents Councillors agreed there was nothing of relevance to the Parish Council . 3. HugoFox Websites for Parish Councils: offering a “gov.uk” website and email facilities to Parish Councils.The annual charges are three times our current arrangements (a “co.uk” address with emails) supplied at cost by Ollie Reade, with design, updates and servicing for no extra charge, providing an excellent facility for the Parish. Councillors expressed their satisfaction with the current arrangements and declined the new offer. 9. COUNCILLORS REPORTS: Mr Barker: explained why we had not had a meeting since May – no issues requiring a meeting and the few planning applications put in over the summer were straightforward and had been dealt with remotely. Cllr Webster : gave an outline of the new North Yorkshire Council’s progress. There would be a deficit next year of some £28.2million. The recent National Insurance increases would add £8million to the Council’s costs as employers. However the second homes premium could bring in an additional £11million. The Council aims to add 800 affordable new homes; several sites being explored. The size and spread of the new Council is causing some communication issues. The old Hambleton District offices at Stone Cross, Northallerton, still houses Planning and Electoral Services but its future is uncertain. 10. ANY OTHER BUSINESS: none. Signed: R Barker Dated: 7. 1. 2025
1. OPEN SESSION : Cllr Webster (NYC) suggested we may want to consider an annual Open Village meeting, inviting organisations like school, church, village hall, charity groups, etc, to report. It is recommended good practice and some Parish Councils incorporate it into their annual general meeting. Noted, to consider. 2. PRESENT: Parish Councillors: Mr Ron Barker (Chair), Mr Graham Clarke (Vice Chair) Mrs Norma Grubb (also Parish Clerk), Others: D Grubb (Minutes). NYC: Cllr David Webster. Residents: Mr Walker APOLOGIES : Parish Councillors Mr Minty Scaife & Mr Jim Wadsworth. 3. MINUTES OF LAST MEETING (5 March 2024: Ref 335): Agreed by Cllrs present. Signed by Chair . 4. MATTERS ARISING FROM MINUTES : 1. Vehicle damage to Pickhill Green: ongoing issue along the school lane side. Some damage caused by vehicles reversing out from driveways, or when delivery vehicles park as well as funerals/large events at Church. Vehicles mount the kerb and damage the grass surface. Always worse in winter/wet weather. Road widening or creation of passing places prohibitive. Posts and chain? To monitor. 5. PLANNING: 1. Application: Church House, Pickhill : work to trees in garden (conservation area). Proposal to remove six trees at front of property, as they are causing damage. Discussed at length. Agreed: no objections. 2. Application: Manor Farm, Pickhill: siting one converted railway carriage for holiday let use. Mr Clarke declared an interest, which left the meeting without a quorum. Reply required by 7 June so no opportunity for another meeting. To deal with this remotely so absent councillors can be involved. 6. FINANCE: 1. Update since last meeting: Precept payment received in full. 2. Exemption from external audit (Agar forms): re accounts for year ending 31 March 2024 . Agreed: Parish Clerk to apply for exemption 7. PROJECTS: 1. Pickhill Playground : Mr Barker has restored the climbing wall with new panels, supports and he replaced missing foot and hand holds. He has also completed the roof tower renewal, all for which he was thanked. Cost of materials only. Mr Grubb has replaced six missing fence palings. 2. Upkeep of trees in Pickhill. Mr Clarke reported that he had trimmed some trees on the village green and replaced the fatally injured cherry tree near Station House. Mr Barker reported that Mr Monkton had kindly trimmed some of the damaged young trees there as he is Forestry Commission trained. 8. CORRESPONDENCE: (circulated in advance, as received) 1. Pickhill School - consultation on expanding local federation of schools: has now gone ahead. 2. Pickhill School – school proposal to utilise Pickhill playground with school play area: Questions raised – how often; would non school youngsters still have access during those sessions; need to consult our insurers, provide our risk assessment to school. (ie the annual ROSPA report). Agreed: Parish Clerk to liaise with Head and report back . 3. NYC Election on 2 May 2024 – Mayor of York & North Yorkshire: election notices posted in April. 4. NYC – Standards in Public Life – document re Councillors register of interests etc. Request to check our Councillors details and declarations are on the NYC register of interests. Checked/confirmed . 9. COUNCILLORS REPORTS: Mr Clarke: Villagers have asked whether Pickhill Beck could be made cleaner, Mr Clarke reports grants are available through Rural Payments Agency to farmers for monitoring/improving. He had met with a group of farmers to explore this. Would the Parish Council support such an initiative? After discussion.... Agreed. Mr Clarke: has been asked re speed warning signs for Pickhill. He is aware flashing speed signs not feasible, but could other warning signs re speed be installed? Clerk to enquire with Highways. 10. ANY OTHER BUSINESS: none. Signed: R Barker Dated: 12 November 2024
1. OPEN SESSION: Mr Robson: discussion re charges for cutting grass in Church grounds compared with village green (same NYC contractor). Concluded charges probably in balance. 2. PRESENT: Mr Ron Barker (Cllr & Chair), Mr Graham Clarke (Cllr & Vice Chair) Mrs Norma Grubb (Cllr & Parish Clerk), Mr Jim Wadsworth (Cllr) , D Grubb (Minutes). Residents: Mrs Harvey, Mr Robson, Mr Walker APOLOGIES: Mr Minty Scaife (Cllr) 3. MINUTES OF LAST MEETING (2 Jan 2024: Ref 334): Agreed by Cllrs present. Signed by Chair. 4. MATTERS ARISING FROM MINUTES: 1. Pickhill road resurfacing – finalisation: Signs and rubble now removed. Mrs Grubb had an email from the contractors thanking her for kind feedback re quality of work and helpful workforce. 2. Tree trimming: Sinderby - trees trimmed, satisfactory outcome; tree surgeon invoice paid. Pickhill – branches by noticeboard and around Lime seats need trimming. Cherry trees damaged during hedge cutting on verge opposite “station” wall, one is dead. Agreed: Parish Council to trim trees and replace dead tree. Mr Clarke volunteered. 3. Vehicle damage to Pickhill Green: less incursions, but still an issue. Mr Barker said we may have to consider installing posts / chains to prevent damage to Green. To be monitored. For next agenda. 5. PLANNING: 1. Appeal to Secretary of State: West Garth Sinderby. As this required response by 5 March, reply agreed earlier – “Parish Council had not objected to the planning application and supported the appeal, as an on-site farm manager was seen as necessary at a large pig breeding unit.” Response submitted. 2. Application: Brook House, Pickhill: work to trees in back garden (conservation area). Again response required by 28 February, so after earlier consultation..... Agreed: no objections. 3. Modification application: 1-2 The Cottages, Pickhill: changes to 2021 drawings to move proposed dwelling forward, square off garage, add 1st floor, dispense with proposed detached barn for gym, fenestration amendments. Plans considered..... Agreed: no objections. 4. Updates on earlier applications: Highthorne Farm, Pickhill (conversion of barn to dwelling) adjudged by planning as permitted development. Pear Tree House in Sinderby (extension) has been granted. Noted. 6. FINANCE: 1. Update since last meeting: Tree surgeons invoice paid. Payment made to NYC for 2023 grasscutting. We have received payments for cutting the splays. Website/domain name invoice paid. 2. Parish precept for 2024/25: increase same as last year – a difference of only pence per household per month on Council tax. More homes in Parish Council area also means slightly less per household. 3. Grasscutting/pitch-marking for 2024: contract agreed with NYC Facilities. Mr Barker queried whether we need the pitch marked now there is no walking football. Agreed to monitor this summer. 4. Cutting splays in 2024: we have agreed to continue cutting the junction visibility splays for which we receive a small remuneration from NYC Highways. 7. PROJECTS: 1. Pickhill Playground: Mr Barker and Mr Clarke reported that the timber has now been delivered. Climbing wall panels and roof of one tower removed to workshop for restoration. 2. Dog Waste bin for Sinderby: Parish Clerk is liaising with the NYC manager who deals with this and is arranging a site meeting. Mr Wadsworth and Mr Barker will also attend. 3. Verge at Pickhill sign – top of hill. Further discussion re shaping of banking and levels. Mr Barker & Mr Clarke will meet there with digger and do some sculpting, before any planting. For next agenda. 8. CORRESPONDENCE: nil 9. COUNCILLORS REPORTS: Mr Clarke: has some historic photographs of village which could be placed on Parish Council website – will be of interest. Agreed. 10. ANY OTHER BUSINESS: none. Signed: R Barker Dated: 28 May 2024
1. PRESENT: Parish Councillors: Mr Ron Barker, Mr Graham Clarke, Mrs Norma Grubb, Mr James Wadsworth. David Grubb (Minutes). Residents: Mr R Walker. 2. APOLOGIES: none 3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF PREVIOUS AGM - 23 May 2022 Agreed and signed by Mr Barker. 4. MATTERS ARISING FROM 2022 MINUTES: none 5. PARISH CLERK’S REPORT: (1) Finance: Audited accounts for year ending 31 March 2023 were presented. Thanks expressed to Mr Chris Robson for once again carrying out the local audit. (2) Planning – summary for year ending 31 March 2023: only seven applications made for Pickhill/Sinderby; the Parish Council had no objection to six of them; one was subject of objections from the Parish Council, but was granted. One application was withdrawn. (3) New Council Structure from 1 April 2023: brief outline of North Yorkshire Council – the single unitary authority, replacing District Councils and the former County Council. Parish Council structure remains unchanged. First mayoral election for York and North Yorkshire will be held in May 2024. 6. CHAIRMAN’S REPORT: Mr Barker reported that we have had a good year and there was no bad news! Planning issues and grass-cutting contracts go on as normal. Playground maintenance is ongoing and the new multi-coloured picnic tables were a welcome addition and are popular with the users. With thanks to Cllr Webster for the grant towards these. The usual issues with potholes, parking & speeding; the road condition through Pickhill has been an issue for some years but major repair work is scheduled to start in the summer 2023. Following local government reorganisation we are pleased that Cllr Webster is still our representative on the new North Yorkshire Council. The parish is one of the most crime free in the County according to recent local press reports; not being on a “through route” must play a big part in keeping us a low crime area. Finally thanks expressed to Ollie Reade who manages our very good Parish Council website free of charge. 7. OFFICERS FOR THE YEAR 2023/2024: Election of Chair: Mr Barker was proposed by Mr Clarke and seconded by Mr Wadsworth. Agreed. Election of Vice-Chair: Mr Clarke was proposed by Mr Barker, seconded by Mr Wadsworth. Agreed. Appointment of Parish Clerk: Mrs Grubb was re-appointed, in tandem with her role of Councillor. Mr Grubb agreed to continue taking the minutes. 8. ANY OTHER BUSINESS: None. Signed: R Barker Dated: 28 May 2024
1. OPEN SESSION: Nil 2. PRESENT: Mr Ron Barker (Cllr & Chair), Mr Graham Clarke (Cllr & Vice Chair) Mrs Norma Grubb (Cllr & Parish Clerk), Mr Minty Scaife (Cllr), D Grubb (Minutes), Cllr D Webster (NYC), APOLOGIES: Mr Jim Wadsworth (Cllr). 3. MINUTES OF LAST MEETING (14 Nov 2023: Ref 333): Agreed by Cllrs present. Signed by Chair. 4. MATTERS ARISING FROM MINUTES: 1. Highways liaison re road works (rubble and signs): Mrs Grubb has spoken to Highways and they will arrange for contractors to remove road works signs and rubble – would be in New Year. 2. Visibility hazard of high hedges Street Lane/Cross Lane junction: the hedges have been trimmed back and sightlines much improved. 3. Tree trimming on village greens – progress: Sinderby trees trimmed – invoice awaited. Pickhill – trimming of trees near beck is in hand. Quote being obtained for trimming round green and play area. 4. Verge at Pickhill sign – top of hill. Discussion regarding planting, shaping and chevrons. Councillors to visit site in light of discussion and come back to next meeting with suggestions. 5. PLANNING: 1. New application: Highthorne Farm, Pickhill: change of use of agricultural building at rear of site, to create a dwelling. Mr Clarke declared an interest - not involved in decision. Agreed: No objections. 2. New application: Pear Tree House, Sinderby: creation of 1.5 storey side extension to south side for a new garage and storage above. Agreed: No objections. 3. Previous application updates: Devonshire House at Sinderby, outbuilding & garage - was granted 6. FINANCE: 1. Grant application re playground improvements: we have now received a £500 grant towards playground project, per last meeting, With thanks to Cllr Webster. 7. PROJECTS: 1. Pickhill Playground: Mr Barker and Mr Clarke reported that the timber has been quantified and ordered from Falls. Hardware from Peter Bowe’s. Will all be delivered and stored off-site until weather improves. 2. Dog Waste bin for Sinderby: Parish Clerk reported that the NYC manager who deals with this is happy to meet on site to discuss. Costs will depend on whether NY Council, Parish Council or private land). The wide verge adjacent to junction at south end of village appears favourite. She will arrange a meeting with her, Mr Wadsworth and NYC manager. 8. CORRESPONDENCE: 1. From Northern Powergrid: Invite to Parish Council - a webinar “Transparency in Network Planning”. 9. COUNCILLORS REPORTS: Cllr Webster: The budget for the new NY Council will have a substantial deficit for 2024/25. Likely it will have to be met from reserves. Mr Clarke: The issue of damage to village green, mainly when residents reverse out across “School Lane”, is still evident. After discussion it was agreed that Mr Barker and Mr Clarke would speak to the residents involved, before considering a wider mailshot. 10. ANY OTHER BUSINESS: none. Signed: R Barker Dated: 5.3.2024
Minutes of Meeting on Tuesday 14 November 2023, at Sinderby 1. OPEN SESSION: 1. 30 mph signs in Street Lane, Pickhill (southern end): by email from a resident who cannot attend. In view of increased traffic and speeds since new housing developments, can the 30mph area be extended out beyond current limits? Discussed at length. Not a simple job as the speed restriction is linked to the area covered by street lighting, as well as village curtilage. It is a matter for Highways at North Yorkshire Council, however the Parish Council would not support a request. Clerk to reply to resident. 2. Street Lane/Cross Lane: high hedges a danger - obstruct sightlines at T-junction. This was raised and agreed last year with the landowners concerned. Mr Barker to speak again to the owners. 3. Mr Robson: The Church wants to place a sign-board at the bottom of Church Hill. Planning Officer has told him would not need planning permission if Parish Council have responsibility for the land and are behind this. Mr Robson to supply details. Agreed: Parish Council will support this. 4. Also, could a resident be thanked for trimming base of Lime tree at bottom of Church Hill. Clerk to write. 2. PRESENT: Mr Ron Barker (Cllr & Chair), Mrs Norma Grubb (Cllr & Parish Clerk), Mr Jim Wadsworth (Cllr). D Grubb (Minutes), Cllr D Webster (NYC), Residents: Mr R Walker, Mr C Robson. APOLOGIES: Mr Graham Clarke, Mr Minty Scaife 3. MINUTES OF LAST MEETING (1 Aug 2023 - Minute Ref 332): Agreed by Cllrs present. Signed by Chair. 4. MATTERS ARISING FROM MINUTES: 1. Road Repairs in Pickhill: Work was completed by end of August. More done than originally envisaged and the top of hill approach into the village has been widened and a very welcome passing place created at the crest of the hill, as the Parish Council had requested. Great improvement to Lowfields Lane. Many positive comments re work & help from contractors getting residents access during the work. Temporary signs still to be removed and some rubble left on school car park. Clerk to liaise with Highways 2. Tree trimming: Councillors inspected the Sinderby trees after the last meeting and agreed the quote from Mr Holmes. Work can now be carried out: invoice required. Pickhill trees – For next agenda . 3. Pickhill Village signs: now been power-washed. Mr Barker thanked for this. He suggested the mound created after road works layout changes around the sign in Street Lane (top of hill), would benefit from some cultivation and planting. To be explored. For next agenda. 5. PLANNING: 1. Devonshire House, Sinderby: application for removal of defective brickwork of existing outbuilding and form new garage/outbuilding. Agreed: No objections. 2. Updates: Miramar, Pickhill – campsite toilet block approved. Charity Farm, Pickhill – withdrawn. 6. FINANCE: Update: payments out: £250 donation to Pickhill Church; Rospa report invoice £106.80. VAT re-claimed from HMRC to year ending 31 July was £760.39, received. Noted. 7. PROJECTS / ONGOING ISSUES: Pickhill Playground: Mr Barker & Mr Clarke have met twice on site: Multiplay has some timber to replace and right hand roof slaits to renew (left tower roof replaced last year). Climbing wall needs new ply sheets. Original suppliers will charge £980 per sheet. However Rubiform sheets are £70 each, plus cost of support timbers etc. If Councillors did the work, materials would be approx £500. Cllr Webster offered to support a Locality Grant application for £500; for which he was thanked; Mrs Grubb to liaise with him re application. Agreed. Cllrs do repairs – apply for grant. Six new mats (£20 each) required for under swings and around springy animals to stop erosion. Agreed. The ROSPA inspection in September only identified issues already in hand. Nothing critical. Noted. 8. CORRESPONDENCE: 1. From North Yorks Council: from April 2024 any Parish Council By-Election cost would be charged to the Parish Council. Does not apply to the four yearly elections. A forecast has been obtained and a Pickhill By-Election would be around £2,900 and Sinderby £2,200. Finance planning needs to take this possibility into account. Cllr Webster advised that payment “terms“ would be negotiable with NYC. Noted. 2. From North Yorks Council: Request to check accuracy of the NYC website entries for our Parish Council, Parish Clerk and Councillor’s details. Checked and in order. Also to check that all our Councillors have Register of Interests entries. Checked – all present on website. Noted. 9. COUNCILLORS REPORTS: Cllr Webster: NYC held a recent seminar on bio-diversity. There will be a Mayoral election in May 2024 for Mayor of York and North Yorks. Transport strategy - low level of public satisfaction – issues are reliability, affordability and safety. Noted. Mr Barker: Peter Barningham has kindly offered to source a new Jubilee oak, planted by his mother last year, as tree succumbed to weather extremes. Offer accepted. To be replaced without ceremony. Noted. Mr Wadsworth: Issue of dog waste bins in Sinderby. Requests for one siting at south end of village. We could re-locate the one from near post-box to there, unless cheaper to just obtain an additional one. Mrs Grubb to cost this with NYC (Refuse). For next Agenda. 10. ANY OTHER BUSINESS: none. Signed: R Barker Dated: 2 January 2024
1. OPEN SESSION: nothing raised. 2. PRESENT: Mr Ron Barker (Cllr & Chair), Mr Graham Clarke (Cllr & Vice Chair), Mrs Norma Grubb (Cllr & Parish Clerk), Mr Minty Scaife (Cllr), Mr Jim Wadsworth (Cllr). D Grubb (Minutes), Cllr D Webster (NYC), Residents: Mrs A Harvey. APOLOGIES: none 3. MINUTES OF LAST MEETING (23 May 2023 - Minute Ref 331): Agreed by all. Signed by Chair. 4. MATTERS ARISING FROM MINUTES: 1. Road Repairs in Pickhill: Work has been in progress since 10 July. Seems to be much more being done than originally envisaged. The top of hill approach has been widened, which has created a passing place, as the Parish Council had requested. Many positive comments regarding the work so far and the helpfulness of contractors in getting residents in and out of their properties during the work. 2. Tree trimming at Sinderby: Mr Barker has got a second quote. Councillors would inspect the trees after the meeting (when they agreed the quote from Mr Holmes & that the weeping trees not to be trimmed). 3. Defibrillators: Sinderby pads have been replaced; both units are regularly checked. Noted. 5. PLANNING: 1. Miramar, Pickhill: Application for a two-toilet block on campsite. Agreed: No objections. 2. Charity Farm, Pickhill: Application for Lawful Development Certificate: Councillors unsure of the status of this property; the paperwork provided does not make it clear. No planning permission? Breach of restrictions such as agricultural ties? Agreed: Parish Council to confirm dwelling and poultry sheds have been there since 1960’s/1970’s. Ask Planning to clarify property status. 6. FINANCE: 1. Update: with the full amount of the precept paid in April, account totals £11,281, plus petty cash of £52. 2. Mr Robson (Parish Church Warden) emailed requesting help with costs of grass-cutting in church grounds, currently over £1,100 a year. Agreed: donation of £250. 3. Mr Robson also wants to place a sign at foot of Church Hill (Vicar’s details/times of services). Clerk spoke to Planning, who ask for Mr Robson to email them a sketch with location, dimensions of board and its construction: they will advise if planning application needed. Mr Robson has been informed. 7. PROJECTS / ONGOING ISSUES: Pickhill Playground: A swing mount had loosened; repaired by Mr Barker. Climbing wall needs new section, removed due to rot; new nut covers, mats, etc.: parts only available from the maker, so usual two quotes not possible. Mr Barker asked Mr Clarke to order the parts. As Rospa report due September, councillors to meet on site to list necessary work. Agreed: expenditure for work needed. 8. CORRESPONDENCE - nil 9. COUNCILLORS REPORTS: Cllr Webster: gave a brief outline of the new Council’s seminars on Planning, IT, Economy, Energy, etc. The seven former district councils each has its own area Planning Office. Efforts being made to ease Councillors ability to “call in” planning applications where there are issues. There will be economies of staffing and accommodation as the new Council progresses. Some parts of Northallerton Civic Centre (former HDC offices) will be mothballed as some functions move to County Hall. Noted. Mr Barker: reports that the stone village name signs at each end of Pickhill require power-washing due to moss & algae build up. Mr Barker offered to undertake this, for which he was thanked. Noted. Mrs Grubb & Mr Barker: The Strawberry Fayre on the Village Green, put on by Friends of Pickhill School, was very well organised, with good attendance despite poor weather on the day. Noted. 10. ANY OTHER BUSINESS: none. Signed: RB Barker Dated: 14 Nov 2023