Wall Parish Council

Minutes of the Annual Meeting of the Council held on Thursday 19^th May 2022 7.15pm at Wall Village Hall.
Present	Mark Wood (MW) (CHAIR), Stephen Blake (SB). John Lamb (JL), Elisa Wyrley-Birch (EWB), Gina Scott Middleton (GSM), Brian Alger (BA) Clerk

Minutes Number Number	Description	Actions
2448	Apologies for absence: Nick Morphet (NM) (County Councillor)
2449	Minutes of the last meeting: The minutes were approved as being an accurate record of the previous meeting.
2450	Election of Vice Chair and Representatives Chair: Mark Wood – 1^st (SB) 2^nd (JL). Vice Chair: Gina Scott Middleton – 1^st (MW) 2^nd (SB) Bonfire Rep: To be decide if the event takes place. Village Hall Rep: Stephen Blake – 1^st (MW) 2^nd (JL)
2451	Wall Parish Council Annual Report May 2022 Introduction: The Parish has had much to deal with in the reporting period, all of the usual matters such as basic administration, budgets and planning matters. All of this was business as usual, what was unusual were Covid, and Storms Arwen and Barr on the 25 November and 5 December respectively. A long serving Parish Councillor (and Chairman) David Mason and Bob Elliot resigned, as has the Parish Clerk, Brian Alger. David was awarded the Freedom of the Village and a commemorative scroll recognising his service at a ceremony on the village green. All have made valuable contributions to village life and will be missed by the Parish Council. We thank them and wish them well. We have in the period also welcomed our new County Councillor Nick Morphet, who has ‘hit the ground running’ and had a positive impact representing the Parish at Local Government level. PLANNING: As ever there have been a number of planning applications, most have been minor. More contentious have been several applications for a ‘Camp Site’ and now ‘Cabins’ on Brunton Bank opposite Black Pasture. A variety of unauthorised, intrusive, and damaging works were undertaken on the site without planning consent. The Parish Council objected strongly to the application. The matter has yet to be resolved by NCC Planning. Typical of the minor planning issues the Parish Council is advised of is the erection of signage by the Hadrian Hotel. A retrospective Planning Application has been made. Residents have also made complaints about breaches of the planning conditions on the old allotment site, and these issues are ongoing and under consideration by NCC. THE GREENS AND TREES: The licensed felling of trees in the conservation area has been undertaken as well as a survey of the woodland for which the Parish Council is responsible. Additional saplings (Some 60 were provided through NCC’s Free Trees Initiative) have been planted behind the swings on the green, and the old concrete cricket wicket has finally been removed. The wildflower project, on the edge of the green is ongoing and Bottle Bins are to be installed next to the existing bins on the green. The Grass cutting contract remains with Chris Mowatt’s firm and the Parish Council remain satisfied with the service provided. A tree survey was conducted which thankfully did not identify any issues. FINANCES: The Parish Council continues to balance its books. But as ever has little if any by the way of reserves. In order to allow for possible unexpected contingencies in the coming financial year and for inflation the Council agreed to a small increase (5%) in the precept for 2022/2023 this will raise the precept to £8,744 and provide some capacity for tree maintenance. The period had seen a gradual relaxation of the rules regarding Covid. These have been welcomed and have enabled the Parish Council to conduct meetings in person rather than over Zoom. Whilst Zoom has become a ubiquitous and valuable tool, it does not match proper ‘in person’ meetings. TRAFFIC MATTERS: Speeding on the main road through the village, and concerns about the threat posed by cars to children playing in the village have resulted in a permanent radar speed limit sign on the northern entrance to the village. (This was provided by Councillor Morphet from his budget.) This is a huge improvement over the former sign which was rotated between Wall and Humshaugh. Signage was also erected on the internal roads in the vicinity of the Old Reading Rooms to warn of children. Despite the effectiveness of the flashing speed sign, it is very likely that speeding will remain (understandably) the main concern of many parishioners and remain a permanent agenda item on Parish Council business. STORMS: Arwen and Barr had a significant impact with extensive damage to trees and forestry across the Parish. As a consequence of downed power lines numerous houses across the Parish were without power and/or water for prolonged periods. The slow recovery demonstrated a number of failings in the utility companies and local authority’s emergency planning. Real hardship was endured across the Parish. Parish Councillors assisted Councillor Morphet in identifying the scope of disruption. Whilst little direct assistance could be provided, residents welcomed the contact. Given such storms the predicted effects of global warming it is hoped that the relevant lessons have been learned by both the County Council and utility companies. In closing this report, the village is looking forward to its forthcoming Jubilee Celebrations on the 5th of June. It is also the 1900th anniversary of the Hadrian’s Wall, from which the village takes its name. A year of celebrations are planned along the wall, Covid appears to be in decline, and we hope we can breathe a collective sigh of relief.	`
2452	Any Other Business No other business was raised.

There being no further business the meeting closed at 7:35pm.

Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting held on Thursday 19^th May at 7:35pm. At Wall Village Hall.
Present	Cllrs: Mark Wood, Chair (MW), Elisa Wyrley-Birch (EWB), John Lamb (JL), Gina Scott Middleton, Vice Chair (GSM), Stephen Blake (SB) Clerk: Brian Alger (BA).

Number	Description
2453	1. Apologies for absence: Nick Morphet (County Councillor) (NM), (a written report updating the Councillors in respect of ongoing concerns (NM) is dealing with was submitted and has been included in the minutes.
2454	2. Minutes of the last meeting: Approved.
2456	3. Declaration of Interests: Nil
2457	4. Matters Arising: a. Traffic Speed Concerns on A6079 Councillors discussed the most recent traffic survey results from CC. The results recorded speeds between 27mph and 63mph through the village, although the percentages indicate that the speeds are within acceptable levels. The feeling was that the survey equipment was placed in the wrong location to record accurate readings, near to a junction where traffic slows to turn, and that it should be placed before or after the junction. (NM) suggests a sight visit with Neil Snowdon from CC to discuss.
2458	b. Footpath between Wall Village and Brunton Crossroads (NM) reports that work is beginning on a funding application for improvements to Hadrian’s Wall National and funding may be possible to include improvements to the footway between Wall and Brunton crossroads as part of a package of measures. This section should be included in the next LTP programme for 2022/23 for consideration.
2459	c. Climate Energy Declaration Councillors continue to discuss various ways in which Wall Village can improve the environment and be more energy efficient. (EWB) stated that from the survey results residents were interested in attending talks on how to make their homes more energy efficient. (EWB) will contact Mat Baker who delivers talks on this subject matter and attempt to arrange an event hosted by Wall Parish Council at which residents would be invited to attend. Further discussions took place regarding the siting of the proposed bottle banks which are due to be delivered end May beginning of June. Further enquiries to be made with the residents at Mithras Court as the noise may impact. The alternative would be to place them at the layby, but this would probably result in residents using there cars to transport the bottles and the bins may be unsightly. Nothing further from (NM) regarding the EV charger but Councillors are aware that where the proposed sighting near to Mithras Court may be problematic as there are usually a number of vehicles parked on the road at this location and may make it difficult for EVs to get close. To be discussed further.
2460	d. Grass Cutting. (BA) the season is underway, and a number of cuts have already been completed. (BA) has spoken to the contractor who is aware that a ‘cut and box’ is required prior to the Queen’s Jubilee celebrations. It was pointed out that the area close to the toilets has not been cut (BA) will speak to the contractor.
2461	e. Wildflower Project (BA) ongoing and being managed by Chris Mowatt.
2462	f. Halton Grange overhanging trees (JL) has not seen the new owners at the property to speak but will do so when he can.
2463	g. Gully Old Lane/Fallen trees and stone wall (JL) reports that the wall and trees have now been delt with and the repair to the wall is excellent. The gully is in the hands of CC and will be monitored.
2464	h. New Lane/ Debris on road Work has been undertaken in the area by CC and the potholes have been patched, the verge has been scraped back and the edges of the road have also been repaired. (NM) has been in touch with Highways Senior Maintenance Team Leader regarding the rubble spilling onto the road from the field, but yet no reply. There are other avenues he can go down but does not hold out much hope and it may fall on the landowner to make good, although again this is unlikely as he created the problem in the 1^st instance.
2465	i. Extreme Weather Plan From (NM): The County Council’s Storm Arwen Review is almost complete. We interviewed Northern Powergrid, Scottish Power, Northumbrian Water and various County Council departments. Northern Powergrid accepted that a large number of their poles were in poor condition before the storm, and that that could be the reason why 775 of them snapped. But when I pointed out that their profit margins were over 30% and asked them why they hadn’t invested their profit into maintaining their infrastructure they argued that their profit margin was really only 4 or 5% and that they have to be careful how they spend public money. They’ve sent me accounts that they claim proves their profit margins are only 4 or 5%, and my accountant has agreed to study them. I’ll let you know what he says! The main focus of the review has been on communications, both between the County Council and the power, water and telecommunication companies and between the County Council and the parish councils. The County Council is working on a Community Resilience Programme which will involve the creation of a network of Community Response Hubs, most of them based in village halls. They’ll be asking for people to sign up as Community Response Volunteers, and they’re hoping to offer training. Another focus of the review has been the sharing of data on vulnerable people. The County Council’s Adult Social Care department holds data on anyone who’s used their services, but they can’t share it with parish councils unless it’s a “life or death” situation. It does seem that in an emergency they might be able to share the addresses of vulnerable people with parish councils. They wouldn’t give names or details of the vulnerability - they would just give a list of addresses and ask Community Response Volunteers to knock on their doors. Adult Social Care’s list of vulnerable people isn’t comprehensive either – for example the healthy elderly are not on it. So, the County Council would like parish councils to invite parishioners to self-identify as vulnerable. The parish council would need to make it clear how long the data would be kept for when they ask people to do this, and everyone would have to be invited to self-declare again when it’s time to dispose of the old data. It’s been suggested that doing this every one to three years would be sensible. Councillors discussed the feasibility of keeping records of vulnerable residents and how this could be implemented and that a special meeting may be required to discuss.
2466	j. Queens Jubilee (BA) the risk assessment has been submitted for the fell run. In respect of the insurance for the marquee it has been suggested that the Parish Council accept responsibility for them and then submit this to the insurance company. Agreed. Councillors also agreed to donate £100.00 to the Jubilee Committee towards the costs. (BA) to deal.
2467	k. uneven road surfaces within Wall Village (NM) states that repairs have been carried out on Warden View and The Chair. Councillors pointed out that the cherry tree roots near to the bus shelter are still uneven and could be a trip hazard. (BA) will relay to (NM).
2468	l. Vacancies arising due to resignations and elect new Chair. Councillors have been actively trying to replace the vacant Councillor position. There may be some interest – ongoing. During the meeting Alexandra Pearson was present and was offered and accepted the role of Clerk to Wall Parish Council commencing 1/6/22. (BA) will liaise with Alix and introduce her to the role of Clerk.
2469	m. Parish Trees (BA) has requested quotes from qualified tree surgeons to expedite urgent work required as identified in the report.
2470	n. Sign off accounts (BA) informed the Councillors that the accounts were now ready and in order, to be examined by the internal auditor. The accounts were agreed by the Councillors and the Annual Governance Statement was completed. (BA) will submit the AGAR.
2471	4. Planning Applications. 21/04496/FUL – The Cottage The Green Wall NE46 4DX – ongoing. 21/03394//FUL – Land on Hadrian’s Wall holiday accommodation Objections raised and submitted to Planning on behalf of WPC – ongoing. 22/00857/FELTOP Bobury NE464DZ - denied. 22/00919/VARYCO Chapel Lane, Holiday Cottages - ongoing
2472	5. Village Hall Report Submitted by S Blake: Village Hall Parish Council Trustee The Village Hall AGM was held on the 20^th April 2022, in the Village Hall. (The first ‘In Person ‘AGM since the Covid Pandemic.) GENERAL OVERVIEW The hall remains in good physical and financial shape. There are some ongoing concerns relating to the roof, but a recent inspection does not suggest an urgent solution is required, though some attention is recommended. All of the Trustee posts are occupied, and attendance/use remains steady. Many village halls have struggled through the Covid Pandemic, we have been fortunate, coming through it in a healthy position. The AGM/ANNUAL REPORT The outgoing Chairman, David Watson thanked the Trustees for their support during his tenure and expressed the hope that people new to the village would ‘step up’ and assist the Trustees in practical ways. The trustees thanked David for his not inconsiderable work as Chairman and were able to persuade him to remain on the Committee as a co-opted member. Steve Blake was subsequently elected Chairman, (He is currently ‘reading in’.) with the other Officers being: Treasurer: R Taylor Minutes Sec: C Jones Bookings Sec: R Say The Trustees: Trustees were noted together with their affiliated interests: Bowls: Chris Jones Parish Council: Steve Blake Parochial Church Council: Muriel Horne Village Society: Mark Wood Entertainments : Rob Say WI: Alison Henson Co-opted: David Watson Finances: The Treasurer’s report has been audited and submitted it shows the Hall to be in a good financial position. The Treasurer is to be commended for his proactive pursuit of Government grants totalling £10,902. The total current assets are £39,663 BOOKINGS Bookings and use continue at a steady pace. The bookings secretary reported that since mid-July 2021 48 bookings had been made and that a further 24 bookings were expected between April 23^rd and December 2022. Aside from some ad –hoc bookings the principal user of the Hall remains, Mrs Say’s Music Workshops, The WI, The Village Society, Hexham Beekeepers, and the Parish Council. Rental charges remain unchanged. OTHER MATTERS: Great work is done keeping the kitchen spotless, and toilets clean though some enhancements to some kitchen utilities may be due. No problems have been reported with any other internal infrastructure of the Hall. (Electrics, Plumbing etc.) THE ROOF Whilst there has been no catastrophic failure, some leakage may have occurred, and the inner boards appear to be deteriorating. There is a concern that the roof is coming towards the end of its life. The most recent inspection by a roofing contractor identified: The roof is showing its age and deterioration is taking place. The integrity of the roof is not yet severely compromised but some treatment/replacement should be considered in the medium term. Investigations should be made into the availability and efficacy of surface treatment. Specialist advice should be taken into improving the insulation in the extension roof space, but it is unlikely anything can be done in other areas without stripping the roof covering. If solar panels are to be considered, then proper calculations will have to done of the load bearing capability of the south slope construction. As panels can only be considered when suitable battery storage is available there may not be any urgency about this. It was not possible to remove an entire sheet on the north slope due to lack of time, but this might be the next task to consider. RESILIANCE At a previous meeting SB suggested that the Hall could be a focus for resilience in the Village and suggested some measures that might help. This remains work to be done, is ongoing and will be reported on in due course.
2473	6. Review of Risk Register, Insurance and Finances. (BA) Nothing to add to risk register. Insurance has been renewed. See item n regarding finances.
2474	7. Date of next meeting Thursday 21st July 2022 at 7.30pm
2475	8. Any other business 1. (EWB) There is a problem with individuals leaving dog poo bags on the wall at the back green and not placing them into the provided bin. Would it be possible to have a sign made to encourage whoever is doing this to either take it home or use the bin. Councillors agreed. To be added to agenda for future action. 2. (EWB) suggested a book exchange scheme in the village. Councillors agreed this would be a good idea (EWB) will look into possibly having a waterproof structure erected. To be added to agenda. 3. (GSM) Possibility of adding further equipment to the play area. (BA) pointed out that the residents close to the area would need to be consulted. Grants are available from CC and he would be happy to assist the incoming Clerk an how to apply when the equipment is identified. Meeting ended 9.27pm

Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting held on Thursday 17^th March at 7:15pm. At Wall Village Hall.
Present	Cllrs: Bob Elliott (BE) Chair, Elisa Wryley-Birch (EWB),, John Lamb (JL). Nick Morphet (County Councillor) (NM), Clerk: Brian Alger (BA).

Number	Description
2424	1. Apologies for absence: Stephen Blake (SB), Gina Scott Middleton (GSM), Mark Wood (MW).
2425	2. Minutes of the last meeting: Approved.
2426	3. Declaration of Interests: Nil
	Guest Speaker – Colin Hall from the Environment Agency – flooding. Colin spoke about his role within the Environment Agency dealing with matters surrounding flood resilience and the risks posed throughout the county to communities. He explained the risks posed to villages and towns due to changes that have occurred in the environment over the past few decades. Although Wall is not at risk and has not historically suffered from flooding there are still ways in which the environment can be managed to help lessen the effect of flood water further downstream. Colin is keen to make contact with local landowners and farmers in an effort to identify areas which could be improved and explain any grants which may be available. Colin can be contacted at NCC Environment Agency through the NCC website. Councillors thanked Colin for his time and informative talk.
2427	4. Matters Arising: a. Traffic Speed Concerns on A6079 (NM) The traffic survey is now complete, and he is awaiting the results from Neil Snowdon. The permanent new speed sign has been installed at the top of the village. (NM) wasn’t aware of the exact date that it was to be installed and it appears it was during the speed survey period which wasn’t ideal, however, it will be interesting to compare results pre and post installation.
2428	b. Land West of Chapel Lane Development. (NM) states that he has been in discussion with planning regarding certain ongoing concerns that residents have expressed about the new buildings, Several issues have been addressed by the builders but there is still an ongoing concern surrounding the fact that the units have been moved from the original positioning on the plans. This is being investigated by the legal department at CC. (NM) has also suggested that the residents concerned seek legal advice. (NM) will monitor the situation.
2429	c. Footpath between Wall Village and Brunton Crossroads (NM) updated Councillors that the landowner has now withdrawn her offer of land to provide a new footpath to the south of Brunton Bank. (NM) liaising with the various departments who could provide funding for future improvements and will keep the Councillors updated.
2430	d. Climate Emergency Declaration. (EWB) presented Councillors with the results of a recent survey she undertook to gauge public opinion on a number of proposed projects to help reduce the negative impact on climate change. The response to the survey was not great but of those who did respond there seemed to be interest in a communal compost heap, advice regarding energy efficiency and a refill station for domestic goods. There were also several people who were interested in the fight against climate change. How to implement these projects will be further investigated. A suggestion to turn off the streetlights late at night or have motion sensors attached was discussed. (NM) advised that motion sensors were very expensive and switching off the lights at night would be subject to a Public Consultation process however, it is something which could be investigated.
2431	e. Grass cutting (BA) the new contract has been forwarded to Chris Mowatt.
2432	f. Wildflower Project (BA) This is ongoing. Chris Mowatt is preparing the site for re seeding.
2433	g. Removal of concrete cricket area. (JL) has completed the work. Councillors thanked John for his time. This can be removed from the agenda.
2434	h. Parish Trees (BA) will seek quotes for the most pressing work identified in the recent report. (BE) Gordon Heslop of Lavender Cottage has 3 or 4 cherry trees which he would like to donate to the Parish and planted on the village green for the benefit of the villagers. Councillors agreed that a suitable spot would be near to the wooded area adjacent to the football pitch.
2435	i. Halton Grange overhanging trees. (JL) is still trying to speak to the owner.
2436	j. Gully Old Lane/Fallen trees and stone wall (NM) the ditch and gully are being attended to by the CC in the near future, but an exact date id not yet known. (JL) states that the landowner is dealing with the fallen trees and repair to the stone wall which should be completed this week.
2437	k. New Lane/ Debris on road (NM has informed the Highways Inspector. The scene has been visited and necessary repairs identified which will be undertaken. (NM) was informed that the large mound of debris in the field is not part of the Highways Inspectors remit. He will try to identify who would be able to deal with this,
2438	l. Extreme Weather Plan (SB) via email asked if CC could contribute towards the proposed generator to be installed at the village hall for use in any future emergencies. (NM) CC has informed him that they would not finance this. However, the consultation into Storm Arwen was still ongoing and will address this.
2439	m. Queens Jubilee Ongoing – committee are still discussing and finalising plans for the day. (BE) asked if VAT could be claimed on any purchases made. (BA) will investigate.
2440	n. uneven road surfaces within Wall Village A letter from a local resident complaining about the uneven road surfaces in the village especially around Church Lane and the path to the bus stop was circulated prior to the meeting. (NM) reported this to the council who have attended and identified problems with tree roots near to the bus stop and have mage repairs to the tarmac on the road. (BE) informed (NM) that the complainant was not satisfied with the repairs as the road was still uneven and not passable for people with mobility issues. (NM) will re contact CC and ask if it could be treated as a safety issue but suggested that this was flagged as a LTP issue later this year.
2441	o. Litter Pick Councillors agreed to the litter pick taking place on Saturday 9^th April 10:30am meeting at the notice board. (BA) to arrange equipment. (NM) David Hunt CC has agreed to have his staff litter pick on the road between Acomb and Wall which would be dangerous for residents.
2442	p. Vacancies arising due to resignations and elect new Chair. (BE) informed the meeting that he would be resigning with immediate effect. (BA) informed the meeting that he would be resigning mid May 2022. A new Chair will be identified and agreed at the next meeting. The post of Clerk will be advertised.
2443	4. Planning Applications. 21/04496/FUL – The Cottage The Green Wall NE46 4DX – No objections. 21/03394//FUL – Land on Hadrian’s Wall holiday accommodation. Objections raised and submitted to Planning on behalf of WPC – ongoing.
2444	5. Village Hall Report (SB) -via email - I attended the last Village Hall Trustees meeting last night, several things were discussed The halls finances are very healthy, total cash in bank is around £36000. The state of the roof remains a significant concern. If inspection reveals it is time for renewal, then much of the capital will be used to replace the roof, and, if it is found suitable install solar panels and storage batteries. Bookings are healthy and the hall continues to be used by a variety of individuals and organisations, the most recent being a new Pilates class. David Watson is going to stand down from his position as Chairman and Bookings at the next AGM. I raised the issue of Resilience and the possibility of the Hall acquiring a small standby generator and some gas heaters. The first to enable the hall to be a hub for charging of phones/laptops and a warm space, should the village lose power. In principle this was accepted with a number of caveats and queries: If the roof is to be replaced and panels and batteries installed, then a charging capability would be built in; and there would be no need for a standby generator or gas heaters. The question of cost was raised. (I estimate around £500.00 would buy a suitable standby generator in gas heaters.) Would either the Parish or County Council pay or contribute towards these costs. (Could Nick be asked in the PC meeting to approach the County Council regarding costs and see if any contribution could be made?).
2445	6. Review of Risk Register, Insurance and Finances. (BA) Nothing to report.
2446	7. Date of next meeting Thursday 19th May 2022 at Annual meeting 7.15pm followed by bimonthly meeting at 7:30pm.
2447	8. Any other business (NM) updated the meeting on the various ongoing concerns/projects currently ongoing. 1/ Bottle Bank – Colin Curtis is looking into this, and it should be possible to place recycling bins at the layby. 2/ Styles – Tim Fish reports that there have been temporary repairs carried out and permanent repairs will be made in the new year. 3/ Discussion regarding the placement of managed grass area, the consensus was that the area at the bottom of New Lane would be the best location. (JL) stated that he can cut the brambles back to give more room. Ongoing. Meeting concluded 9.25pm.

Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting held on Thursday 20^th January at 7:30pm. At Wall Village Hall.
Present	Cllrs: Bob Elliott (BE) Chair, Elisa Wyrley-Birch (EWB), Gina Scott-Middleton (GSM), Mark Wood (MW), John Lamb (JL). Nick Morphet (County Councillor) (NM), Clerk: Brian Alger (BA).

Number	Description
2398	1. Apologies for absence: Stephen Blake (SB)
2399	2. Minutes of the last meeting: Approved.
2400	3. Declaration of Interests: Nil
2401 2402	4. Matters Arising: a. Traffic Speed Concerns on A6079 (NM) the LTP scores regarding requests from Parish Councils will be available soon, he will let us know when he has the results. It appears the new traffic survey has not yet been completed; but is in hand with Neil Snowden (NCC Traffic Programme). The speed sign is on order and awaiting date for installation.
2403	b. Land West of Chapel Lane Development. A discussion took place regarding the ongoing concerns raised by residents about the builders following the plans for the site. (NM) is liaising with the residents concerned and the Planning Officer who is dealing with enforcements. Several concerns have already been dealt with. BE will also contact the Planning Officer to see if WPC can play a role in facilitating a site meeting between the various parties.
2404	c. Permanent Camp Site, Planetrees There is no planning application on record at this time but if a new application is received then it will be discussed. (NM) informed the meeting that Alex Campbell at planning states that a Contravention Notice was issued to the applicant on 7^th January to reinstate the site. Heritage England have also been involved and are opposed to any development on the site.
2405	d. Footpath between Wall Village and Brunton Crossroads Following on from the discussion at the last meeting and the possibility of a new footpath to be provided in the field to the S of the current footpath. He (JL) has spoken to the landowner who is not immediately receptive to the idea. (JL) will speak further with him regarding a possible compromise. (NM) has been in discussion with the owners of the land on Brunton Bank to the S of the current footpath. (JL) has spoken to the landowner who is not immediately receptive. He was informed that the land had been offered several years ago but not agreed, possibly because it involved crossing the road from the paths near a bend in the road. (NM) will speak to Tim Fish (NCC Footpaths Officer) to discuss the proposal.
2406	e. Climate Emergency Declaration. (EWB) has prepared a survey for the villagers to complete. Agreed that 150 paper copies will be produced to deliver to individual properties and post onto WPC website. (NM) discussed possible area where verges could be turned over to wild flowering and the verge at the bottom of New Lane may be suitable, however, line of sight may be a problem in the first 2 or 3 seasons after planting and needs to be investigated further.
2407	f. Grass cutting (BA) Chris Mowatt states that there will a slight increase in the costs, next season, due to rising fuel prices. The increase would be £10 per cut. Councillors agreed.
2408	g Wildflower Project (BA) has been in touch with Chris Mowatt who states he is preparing the land for seeding this Spring.

2409	h. Removal of concrete cricket area. (JL) in hand, will deal when conditions allow.
2410	i Parish Trees (BA) reports that he has received the 1^st of 2 reports from Mr. Birch regarding Heavenfield. It appears there isn’t too much in need of attention. The 2^nd report is due soon which covers the village. To be discussed at next meeting to arrange any work needed.
2411	j. Halton Grange overhanging trees. (JL) the trees have been cut back but still need to be taken back further. He will arrange to have this done.
2412	k. Free tree initiative. Councillors discussed the best areas to plant. Agreed behind the swings on back green and the entrance to the fell and side of the path. Date to be agreed before the next meeting for planting.
2413	l. Gully Old Lane/Fallen trees and stone wall Two trees have fallen during Storm Arwen and taken down the stone wall which has blocked the drainage ditch on the lane. (NM) informed the meeting that CC are dealing with the gully and are going to clear it out and pressure wash it next week. CC are also going to dig out the ditch mid-February. (JL) will speak to the landowner (Geoff White) regarding the removal of the trees and damage to the wall.
2414	m. New Lane/ Debris on road Parish Councillors listened to concerns of Andrea Mckie ,who attended as an observer, about debris on the road near to Middle Brunton, damage to the verges, roadside and fencing caused by heavy tractors dumping debris into the field opposite. (NM) is dealing with the matter at this time and will liaise with CC regarding the issues raised and whether the dumping of waste into the field needs permissions as the resultant mounds look unstable.
2415	n. Extreme Weather Plan Following Storm Arwen WPC discussed the possibility of opening the village hall, when needed, as a safe centre for residents affected by loss of power/services. (SB) has been liaising with the village hall and raised the issue of 'resilience' with the Village Hall Trustees, suggesting the acquisition of a small stand by generator that could charge phones and tablets should power go down, and some propane heaters (the halls rads are electric). (NM) suggested Newbrough CAN may be useful as a contact as they have apparently already put something in place. (EWB) suggested that we have a register of vulnerable properties should this situation arise again to check on the resident’s welfare.
2416	o. Queens Jubilee (BE) suggested that this would be an opportunity for the village to celebrate the Jubilee. A committee should be formed to discuss events to be held on the day (4th June 2022). Ros Elliott and Kathy Rogstad have volunteered to form part of the committee and will keep the Councillors updated with ideas and proposals. (BA) will deal with the insurance and grant application provided by CC which is a maximum of £500. (JL) will organise the beacon on Wall Fell.
2417	p. Hadrian Wall 1900^th Celebration Councillors discussed and did not feel that this was something they should be involved in separately as there are already several celebrations propose by Hadrian’s Wall partnership.
2418	q. Precept (BA) informed the Councillors that the precept was due to be submitted at the end of January for the 2022/23 period. He gave a breakdown of the previous year and projected finances for the coming year. Councillors discussed and decided that the precept should be increased by 5%. to cover likely inflation over the coming months, and to provide more headroom for unexpected extra costs including possible tree maintenance. The precept will be £8,744.00.
2419	4. Planning Applications. No applications on record at this time however Mr. and Mrs. Rogstad attended the meeting as observers to discuss their intention to apply for planning application to convert part of their house, The Cottage, into a holiday cottage which would be designed with persons with physical disabilities in mind. Councillors viewed the plans and there were no negative comments. The matter will be further discussed once the application has been submitted to Planning.
2420	5. Village Hall Report No report.
2421	6. Review of Risk Register, Insurance and Finances. (BA) Nothing to report.
2422	7. Date of next meeting Thursday 17th March 2022 at 7.15pm
2423	8. Any other business 1/ (NM) After Storm Arwen the County Council will be conducting a review into the response to the aftermath. County Councillors including (NM) will be involved, speaking to the Utilities involved and there will be a Public Consultation. Details can be found on the web. https://www.northumberland.gov.uk/News/2022/Jan/Storm-Arwen-review-gets-underway.aspx The report is due in July. 2/(NM) updated the Councillors regarding a second charge point for electric vehicles in the village. He confirmed the charger at the Hadrian is for use by all, not just customers at the hotel. It was agreed that a second charger towards the top of the village would be desirable. (NM) has spoken to Richard McKenzie, Highways Programme Team, with a view to installing another charger close to Mithras Court. 3/(NM) The stiles between New Lane and Old Lane have had temporary repairs and will have permanent repairs made by NCC soon. Tim Fish (NCC) was also looking into repairing a field drain which is causing problems near to Planetrees. 4/(NM) reported that NCC were looking into the feasibility of installing and servicing a bottle bank on the lay-by. Meeting concluded 9.30pm.

Draft

Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting held on Thursday 18^th November at 7:30pm. At Wall Village Hall.
Present	Cllrs: Stephen Blake (Chair) (SB), Elisa Wyley-Birch (EWB), Bob Elliott (BE), Gina Scott-Middleton (GSM), Mark Wood (MW), John Lamb (JL). Nick Morphet (County Councillor) (NM), Clerk: Brian Alger (BA).

Number	Description The meeting was observed by a resident of Wall Village.
2376	1. Apologies for absence:
2377	2. Minutes of the last meeting: Approved.
2378	3. Declaration of Interests: Nil
2379	4. Matters Arising: a. Traffic Speed Concerns on A6079 (NM) updated Councillors on progress so far regarding traffic calming measures. He spoke to Neil Snowden (NCC Traffic Programme) who agreed that there was a problem with speeding traffic through the village. A further traffic survey has been authorised and it was suggested that Neil attends a site meeting with the Councillors once the new data was available from the survey. (EWB) suggested that the road through the village could be limited to 20mph and ‘SLOW’ road markings applied to the road surface. Councillors agree that a site visit would be useful to discuss the various options available with Neil. To be discussed further at the next meeting and (NM) will chase up the survey results with Neil Snowden.
2380	b. Grass Cutting The season is now finished. It was pointed out that (MW) had strimmed an area on the back green which should be attended to by the contractors. (BA) will speak to Chris Mowatt regarding this so it is included next year.
2381	c. Lay By bins and signage. (BA) reports that he and Tim McArdle have erected the signs at the lay by and he appreciated the time and assistance given by Tim. Councillors agreed to have this item removed from the agenda.
2382	d. Footpath between Wall Village and Brunton Crossroads (NM) updated the Councillors on progress since the last meeting. He has been liaising with the various departments which may be able to help or fund the improvement of the footpath. A new area of funding may be available through ‘Borderland Inclusive Growth Deal’ which may provide up to £425 million pounds worth of investment into the area. To apply for funding WPC need to include the footpath in next year’s L.T.P. in order to qualify. (NM) has been in discussion with Tim Fish (NCC footpaths officer) re the possibility of a new footpath to run along the field side of the hedge. This would be dependent on the landowner agreeing to the project. (JL) will speak to the landowner to establish if he would be likely to agree.
2383	e. Wildflower project Chris Mowatt has cut the wildflower area in preparation for planting and re seeding next spring.
2384	f. Removal concrete cricket area (JL) will remove the concrete but this will be done next spring as the area will need to be reseeded. He will require some assistance.
2385	g. Parish Trees (BA) reports that the tree surgeon (Daryl Birch) was due to survey the area first week of November and we await his report.

2386	h. Halton Grange overhanging trees. It appears that some work has taken place but still need to be cut back further. (JL) will speak to the owner of the property and ask if he will cut the trees back further from the path.
2387	i. Open Water Swimming, Chollerford (BA) reports that he has replied by email to Guy Opperman, MP for Tynedale and Ponteland. Councillors agreed to remove this item from agenda.
2388	j. Free tree initiative (BA) has collected the trees. He was advised that they are dormant and can be planted any time up until spring. Councillors agreed to discuss planting at the next meeting in January.
2389	k. Climate Emergency Declaration (EWB) reported to the Councillors that she had attended an online webinar with NCC discussing the ways in which communities and villages can engage in reducing climate change. (EWB) delivered a power point presentation which set out ways as to how this can be achieved, from very small actions, in which individuals or small groups could be involved, to larger projects in which whole communities and villages could participate. NCC have produced a Climate Change Action Plan which can be accessed through the NCC website outlining their commitment and suggestions for ways to reduce climate damage. A discussion took place between the Councillors on how Wall Village could contribute including suggestions of a community composting scheme, rainwater collection points, drop off points for used batteries. Include children in developing ‘bug hotels’ and providing bird boxes. Larger schemes could include recycling bins for bottles, a refill station at the village hall where residents could attend with their own containers to have food or cleaning products supplied. Wild flowering at Old Lane. On road charging points for vehicles and solar panels on the village hall. (EWB) stated she would produce a survey which would be circulated throughout the Parish asking residents if they would be willing to participate in several projects. The results will be discussed at the January meeting.
2390	l. Permanent Camp Site, Planetrees This was discussed by Councillors at the meeting for the first time, as concerns have been raised by residents regarding the development. No planning application for the site has been received by WPC at this time. NCC planning are involved and awaiting a planning application to be submitted by the developer. Work has already been undertaken with the erection of a new fence and widening of the access gate. Levelling off the land, which is on top of the Roman Ditch, has also taken place. Councillors have attended the site and noted that the only access was directly from the main road (B6318) and is potentially dangerous for pedestrian or vehicular access from the site as this is on a downhill bend with a speed limit of 60mph. This road is busy and regularly used by HGV’s. WPC await the submission of a planning application at which time the matter will be discussed further, and comments submitted.
2391	m. Pensioners Christmas gifts/Donation to Peoples Kitchen Councillors agreed to donate £100 to the Peoples Kitchen.
2392	n. Agree Charitable Donations. Councillors Agreed on the following donations to good causes: British Legion £68.00 Citizens Advice £50.00 Air Ambulance £150.00 Tynedale Hospice £150.00 Northumberland Domestic Abuse £50.00 Age UK £50 CORE Music Hexham £25.00
2393	4. Planning Applications: 21/01063/FUL Blossom Hill, High Brunton, NE464EH. Garage Conversion to Holiday Let. Granted. 21/03072/FELTOP Bibury, Front Street, Wall NE464DZ. Removal of Spruce due to overcrowding. Granted.
2394	5. Village Hall Report (SB) nothing to report.
2395	6. Review of Risk Register, Insurance and Finances. (BA) Finances are healthy. Nothing to add to Risk Register.
2396	7. Date of next meeting Thursday 20^th January 2022 at 7.30pm
2397	8. Any other business 1/ (NM) further to the possible footpath on the northeast side of Brunton Bank he is still in discussion with Time Fish. It would need to be widened onto land believed owned by a Mrs. Duggan. Ongoing to be updated at next meeting. 2/(NM) updated the Councillors on the holiday units land west of Chapel Lane development. He has spoken to the planning officer involved and it would appear that the 2 issues concerning the development have been resolved a/ the units have been moved 1m to the south and b/ the height of the build was believed to be 1m too high although the planning department were comfortable with the height of the building. Councillors were not satisfied that the agreed plans had been adhered to. (NM) suggested a site meeting with the planning officer which was agreed. 3/ (NM) Colin Hall from the Environmental Agency is willing to attend Council meetings to discuss flood plans etc. (NM) can arrange his attendance at the next meeting if this was agreeable. Councillors agreed this would be beneficial. 4/ (ELW) suggested that the Gully at the bottom of Old Lane be added to the minutes due to historic flooding and ice forming on the main road. As winter is approaching it should be monitored. Councillors agreed. Meeting concluded 9.40pm.

Draft

Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting held on Thursday 16^th September at 7:30pm. At Wall Village Hall.
Present	Cllrs: Stephen Blake (Chair) (SB), Elisa Wyley-Birch (EWB), Bob Elliott (BE), Gina Scott-Middleton (GSM), Mark Wood (MW). Nick Morphet (County Councillor) (NM), Clerk: Brian Alger (BA).

Number	Description
2351	1. Apologies for absence: Cllrs: John Lamb (JL).
2352	2. Minutes of the last meeting: Approved.
2353	3. Declaration of Interests: Nil
2354	4. Matters Arising: a. Toilets The toilets are clean and in order and cleaning worksheets are being submitted to the Clerk monthly. Councillors agreed to remove from the agenda.
2356	b. Traffic Speed Concerns on A6079 A lengthy discussion took place regarding the continuing problem concerning vehicles speeding through the village and what measures could potentially be put in place to calm the traffic using the A6079. This is a long-standing issue. During the discussion (NM) updated the Councillors on his progress. The main concerns are · Speeding traffic including heavy lorries day and night, increase to pollution. · Disruption to resident’s sleep in the early hours due to speeding heavy lorries and noise created. · Danger to pedestrians using the road, especially around school times when children are at risk. (GSN) cited an incident which occurred recently when a vehicle, in the early hours, obviously lost control on the bend in the road and skidded. By measuring the skid marks on the road, it was calculated that the vehicle was travelling in excess of 50mph. Residents living close to the main road on Front Street have been complaining, for several years, about the increased number of heavy lorries using the road in the early hours and noise pollution. (NM) is in consultation with the Highways department and recently spoke to Neil Snowden (Highways Programme) who is open to the idea of traffic calming measures being introduced if the situation warranted such measures. He is reviewing the speed data from the last survey carried out in 2017, and a new survey is a possibility. (NM) suggested that whatever his decision he and WPC should continue to pressure Highways for action to be taken at County Council level. A site visit would be helpful. (NM) is also obtaining quotes for a permanent interactive speed calming sign to be place on the pole near to the garage. (BA) informed the meeting that the LTP (Local Traffic Plan) is to be submitted by Friday 8^th October and that this problem should be included. Agreed. (BA) will deal.
2357	c. Grass Cutting The season is now at an end. Chris Mowatt has been in touch with (BA) and suggested that, due to the unusual weather conditions during August and September, he would recommend an extra cut as the grass is still growing vigorously. Agreed. (SB) was approached by a resident who expressed concern that an area, previously managed by WPC is overgrown with weeds, (BA) will speak to Chris Mowatt and have the area cleared and cut as part of the grass cutting contract.
2358	d. Lay By bins and signage. (BA) informed the meeting that it would cost about £24 to purchase 2 posts which he would install with the new signage attached. Agreed.
2359	e. Footpath between Wall Village and Brunton Crossroads (NM) updated the meeting on his progress so far. He has been in touch with Neil Carney, Head of Destination Strategy at Northumberland Tourism who informed him that there is a Destination Improvement Plan in place which will include footpaths. There is also a 10yr improvement plan in place. (NM) will forward an email he received with the various departments and organisations who could help with improvements. (NM) suggested that a Project Submission would help with the cause however (BE) pointed out that this would be costly involving outside organisations and not something WPC could fund. (NM) updated Councillors on a meeting he had with Neil Snowden (Highways Programme) where a Feasibility Study to create a path up Brunton Bank to link in with the existing paths which walkers and horse riders could use. It will include pedestrian road signs and extending the 40mph limit. (NM) will keep WPC updated with progress.
2360	f. Wildflower project (BA) will also obtain an update from Chris Mowatt regarding preparing and planting the wildflower area.
2361	g. Removal concrete cricket area (JL) will remove, time permitting.

2362	h. Bench Cleaning playground David Mason will deal with this in due course.
2363	i. Traffic Concerns within Wall Village (GSM) stated that she spoke to the drivers of 2 vehicles which were speeding through the village who were quite abusive. As a result, the local PCSO has also spoken to the parties involved and they have been warned. Councillors discussed potential traffic calming measures including 20mph sign and limit and road markings. (BA) will include this in the LTP.
2364	j. Parish Trees. (BA) reported that he has been in contact with local tree surgeons to supply quotes for the survey of the Parish Trees as required by the insurance company which covers Wall Parish Council. To date he has received 2 quotes 1/ D. Birch - £774.00 inclusive of VAT. 2/ Tilhill Forestry £1088.00 exclusive of VAT. Councillors agreed to award the contract to D. Birch. (BA) will deal. (BE) confirmed that he had carried out this year’s visual inspection which did not reveal any major problems.
2365	k. Halton Grange overhanging trees (BE) states he will introduce himself to the new owners and discuss the ongoing problem with overhanging trees which are obstructing the footpath through the village.
2366	l. Open water swimming, Chollerford Discussed as concerns were raised by the new owners of the George Hotel at Chollerford about the safety of open water swimmers at this location. This area is used by several open water swimming clubs and societies. Councillors agreed that this is not a matter for the Parish Council and any safety issues should be directed to the landowner. It was pointed out that there already exists a safety lifebuoy on the Chollerford bank. (BA) will reply to the email received and offer any help in identifying the landowner so the complainant can contact them direct.
2367	m. Free Tree Initiative (BA) has Applied for 60 saplings from NCC which will be provided free of charge under the Free Tree Initiative which will be planted within the village. Hopefully the application will be successful.
2368	n. Climate Declaration Councillors discussed the County Council Emergency Declaration which set itself a challenge to reduce carbon emissions to ‘net zero’ by 2030. A discussion then took place on ways in which Wall Parish could contribute to the scheme. It was agreed that Wall Parish Council would declare a climate emergency and reply to CC survey. (EWB) stated she would be interested in looking into various ways in which the village could contribute e.g., a village composting scheme or a plastic free day etc., and report back at the next meeting.
2369	o. RoSPA Report (BA) Will fit the new washers to the fixings and try to lift the junior swings higher off the ground as was suggested in the report. (BA) will deal.
2370	p. RBLI ‘Tommy’ Councillors discussed a request from Royal British Legion Industries to purchase a Tommy (a symbolic military figure) to display in the village. Councillors rejected the idea and did not think it was appropriate pointing out that the Parish Council donated to the RBLI every year and are also responsible for the upkeep of the memorial cross.
2371	4. Planning Applications: 21/01063/FUL Blossom Hill, High Brunton, NE464EH. Garage Conversion to Holiday Let. Ongoing. 21/03072/FELTOP Bibury, Front Street, Wall NE464DZ. Removal of Spruce due to overcrowding. Councillors had no objections. (BE) declared an interest in this item and did not take part in the discussion.
2372	5. Village Hall Report (SB) nothing to report currently.
2373	6. Review of Risk Register, Insurance and Finances. (BA) gave the Councillors a detailed breakdown of the finances for the remainder of the financial year which at this stage are healthy. Nothing to add to Risk Register.
2374	7. Date of next meeting Thursday 18^th November 2021 at 7.30pm
2375	8. Any other business 1/ Tim McArdle contacted the Clerk to point out that the Stile which gives access from New Lane to Planetrees has collapsed and the stile from Planetrees to the wooded area is also unsafe. (SB) will investigate. 2/ David Mason reminded the Clerk that an agreement in principle had been discussed at a previous meeting to purchase more white lights for the Christmas Tree this year. Councillors agreed and (BA) will deal. 3/ (MW) the seat on the green near to West Farm needs to be repaired and he will deal. Meeting closed at 9.40 pm.

DRAFT

Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting held on Thursday 15th July 2021 at 7:30pm. At Wall Village Hall.
Present	Cllrs: Bob Elliott (BE), (Chair), Gina Scott-Middleton (GSM), Mark Wood (MW). Nick Morphet (County Councillor) (NM), Clerk: Brian Alger (BA).

Number	Description
2328	1. Apologies for absence: Cllrs: John Lamb (JL), Elisa Wyley-Birch (EWB), Stephen Blake (SB).
2329	2. Minutes of the last meeting: Approved.
2330	3. Declaration of Interests: Nil
2331	4. Matters Arising: a. Toilets The toilets are clean and in order and cleaning worksheets have been delivered to (BA) covering the past 2months.
2332	b. Traffic Speed Concerns on A6079 Police have attended the area on 2 occasions 20^th and 30^th June – (GSM) spoke to the officers whilst they were conducting speed checks. (GSM) had a conversation with the officers about volunteering to do speed checks and was told that the ‘community speed watch’ courses are on hold now but will be recommencing in the future. Two residents have also expressed an interest in the course. (GSM) received a report from the officer involved in the checks. On the 30^{th of}June there were 380 vehicles checked in 1 hour of which 3 were speeding, however, the police car was conspicuous and would have an impact on the results. It was also suggested in the report that Highways should be contacted and asked if they could conduct a survey using their monitoring equipment. (NM) has agreed to pay for another electronic speed sign to be placed at the entrance to the village near to the garage. This will come out of his budget and depends on Humshaugh Parish agreeing. WPC agreed to maintain the equipment when installed. (NM) has requested a full report from Northumbria Police regarding the speed checks through a FIA request, which he should have by 29^th July. (BA) has been liaising with the Highways Department and reports as follows: 1/ The sign for ‘Playground’ has been authorised by the Highways Department and (BA) has forwarded the suggestion for its placement. Highways will look at that and get back to WPC when a decision is made. 2/ The sign purchased by WPC ‘Slow Children Playing’ is now in his possession and ready to be erected. (GSM) will collect and arrange to have it fixed in place. 3/ Highways have agreed to come to the village for a site visit to discuss all traffic concerns expressed by WPC. (BE) suggested that it would be prudent to arrange the meeting after we have the full police report. Agreed.
2333	c. Grass Cutting The season is well underway, and the green is looking good.
2334	d. Lay By bins and signage. (BA) states that he does not believe that the new signs should be affixed to the existing information post, as discussed previously, as it could cause a hazard to walkers. It was agreed that (BA) will obtain estimates with a view to purchasing new fixing posts.
2335	e. Footpath between Wall Village and Brunton Crossroads (NM) states that he attended a site meeting with David Hunt and Andrew Olive from NCC where they discussed the state of the footpath. The footpath was deemed to be in a state of reasonable repair and not thought to be a danger to walkers, although it has been logged with Highways Inspector to look at. It was agreed that NCC would clear and strim the vegetation which is encroaching onto the footpath. During the discussion it was felt that more could be done to improve the footpath and (NM) stated he would make further enquires with the departments responsible for the upkeep of the path and report back.
2336	f. Potholes (JL) has filled the potholes around the church.
2337	g. Wildflower project Ongoing, Chris Mowatt will be preparing the ground for planting later in the season.

2338	h. Removal concrete cricket area (JL) will remove, time permitting.
2339	i. Weed Killing (NM) has attempted to speak to the complainant however, as yet, no response. He has discussed the subject with David Hunt from NCC who states that they are trialling different methods of weed control which do not use chemicals. Remove from Agenda.
2340	j. Bench Cleaning playground David Mason will deal with this in due course.

2341	k. Traffic Concerns within Wall Village Discussed item b.
2342	l. Dog dirt back green (BE) please remove from agenda, this was dealt with at the last meeting.
2343	m. Parish Trees. (BE) As part of the safety management of the trees which are the responsibility of the Parish Council, we are due to have a level 2 inspection by a qualified tree surgeon. (BA) will obtain quotes from companies. (BE) will conduct a visual inspection of the trees in question and report back to the Council.
2344	n. Haughton Grange overhanging trees Awaiting update from (JL)
2345	o. RoSPA Report (BA) the inspection was carried out in June. The play equipment passed the inspection but there were a couple of concerns highlighted which need attention. 1/ A wall is damaged which forms part of the play area. Enquiries will be made as to the owner. 2/ A couple of the fixings on the junior swings were reported as loose. This is not the case. The fittings are as tight as they can be but are still moving in the fixing holes. (BA) has been in touch with the company who provided the swings, and this is not uncommon. The problem can be easily solved by placing washers between the bolts and structure which will allow them to be fully tightened without movement. (BA) will deal.
2346	4. Planning Applications: 21/01063/FUL Blossom Hill, High Brunton, NE464EH. Garage Conversion to Holiday Let. Councillors have no objections but are aware that residents have flagged a possible problem with the current sewerage system and its capacity to deal with any extra property.
2347	5. Village Hall Report No report.
2348	6. Review of Risk Register, Insurance and Finances. (BA) reports all in order. PFK Littlejohn have indicated that there is no need for an external audit this year.
2349	7. Date of next meeting Thursday 16th September 2021 at 7.30pm
2350	8. Any other business (BE) suggested that the award of Honorary Freedom of the Parish to David Mason should be held soon. Two dates were put forward. 7:30pm on Thursday 22^nd July or 3pm the following Saturday. Meeting closed at 8:45pm.

Draft

Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting held on Thursday 20^h May 2021. At St. George’s Church, Wall.
Present	Cllrs: Bob Elliott (BE), (Chair). David Mason, (DM), John Lamb (JL), Elisa Wyrley-Birch (EWB), Stephen Blake (SB), Gina Scott-Middleton (GSM), Mark Wood (MW). Nick Morphet (County Councillor) (RG), Clerk: Brian Alger (BA).

Number	Description The meeting was held at St. George’s church due to a last minute COVID related problem at Wall Village Hall. The Councillors welcomed and congratulated Nick Morphet on his election success. The Councillors introduced themselves to Nick as this was his first meeting with WPC.
2301	1. Apologies for absence: Cllrs: Nil.
2302	2. Minutes of the last meeting: Approved.
2303	3. Declaration of Interests: Nil
2304	4. Matters Arising: a. Co-opt new councillor. Councillors agreed to Co-opt Mark Wood as a new member of Wall Parish Council. He was duly elected.
2305	b. Declaration of Acceptance to Office The Councillors Accepted and signed the forms formally in the presence of the Proper officer (BA).
2306	c. Toilets Nothing to report. The toilets are clean and in order. (BA) reported that there had been a problem with receiving the grant from CC in respect of cleaning. This has now been sorted and the money is in the bank.
2307	d. Traffic speed concerns on A6079 (BE) and (GSM) informed the meeting that they had contacted several local businesses who use HGV haulage in an attempt to highlight the problems of speeding through the village: R&H Scott Haulage, Egger, Barraford Quarry, Haughton Strother Quarry, Keepershield Quarry and Thompsons of Prudhoe. (GSM) spoke directly to the managers of R&H and Egger who promised they would speak to their drivers. (BE) contacted the others listed via email and to date we have had positive response from Keepershield and Thompsons. (BE) updated (NM) as to the problems experienced with speeding traffic through the village and that his predecessor was looking into erecting a permanent speed control sign at the top of the village. (NM) will investigate that.
2308	e. Grass Cutting The grass cutting season is underway and is going well. (EWB) enquired as to whether the strimming should include the front of the houses on the green. (BA) informed the meeting that this did not form part of the contract, but he would have a word with CM Commercial to see if this could be done. Councillors agreed 3 extra cuts to the inner village green over the season which will improve the appearance.
2309	f. Lay By bins and signage. (BA) informed the meeting that he has 2 new signs ready to be erected. He suggested one could be attached to the existing Hadrian’s Wall footpath information post and (JL) stated he could provide a post for the other. Agreed.
2310	g Footpath between Wall Village and Brunton Crossroads A discussion took place where (NM) was brought up to date with the concerns about the footpath (which forms part of the Hadrian’s Wall walk) being in a state of neglect and possibly a danger to walkers. The path is the responsibility of CC. (NM) stated he would contact David Hunt at NCC to see what the current situation is as work has been promised to improve the footpath.
2311	h. Potholes (JL) stated he would attend to the potholes near to the church when he has time.
2312	i. Wildflower Project (BA) this is in hand and awaiting work to be completed by CM Commercials who have been contracted to carry out the task.
2313	j. Removal concrete cricket area (JL) will remove in due course.
2314	k. Repair of seat NEW Lane. Completed, remove from minutes.

2315	l. Weed Killing Following on from the complaint about chemicals used to kill weeds in the village by NCC. (BE) tried to speak to the complainant physically but without success. He sent another email asking her to contact him to discuss the situation but, as yet, has she has not. (NM) stated that there are other ways to remove weeds without the use of chemicals e.g., the use of hot foam, and he is willing to discuss the situation with the complainant. (BA) will let (NM) have the email details in order to make contact.
2316	m. Bench Cleaning playground This is going to be done by David Mason and he will ask for assistance from WPC when he is ready to do it.
2317	n. Traffic concerns Chapel Lane junction The Chair. (BA) states that he has contacted NCC regarding a) the concerns that vehicles are not slowing at this junction and the possibility of white lines being applied. He was informed that this should form part of the LTP later in the year. b) the possibility of warning signs for children playing. NCC have agreed a warning sign to be erected near to the playing field on the road leading into the village. c) A discussion took place on the possibility of WPC providing a warning sign which could be placed in the village near to where children play. Agreed. (BA) to investigate cost implications and design.
2318	o. Dog dirt back green (BA) reported to the meeting that he had made enquiries regarding the costs of NCC providing a bin for the back green. Councillors discussed and decided not to go ahead with this as the probability of it being used on a regular basis was minimal. (NM) stated that Humshaugh had a similar problem, and they enrolled the local school children to make signs asking people to remove dog dirt, this was successful. (EWB) will speak to the school and enquire if this is something that could be repeated for Wall Village.
2319	p. Water Pipes Northumbrian Water. This has now been dealt with and Northumbria Water have provided maps with the location of the water pipes displayed. Remove from agenda. (BA) will collect equipment from CC.
2320	q. New Lane debris on road No longer a problem Road is clear of debris.
2321	r. Honorary Freedom of the Parish (David Mason) Councillors voted and agreed that this would be a fitting recognition of David’s long service and contribution to village life. (BA) waiting for confirmation from NALC regarding formal procedures.
2322	s. Agree end of year accounts. Accounts formally agreed by Councillors.
2323	4. Planning Applications: 20/04147/FUL Toll House, Wall NE46 4EX - granted.
2324 2325	5. Village Hall Report VILLAGE HALL NOTES FOR PARISH COUNCIL MEETING: 20 TH MAY 2021 1. VH AGM has been held S Blake elected to VH Committee. 2. David Watson is Chairman and has taken over the booking process from David Easby. This is in ‘transition’. 3. Rolly Taylor remains Treasurer. 4. The VH finances are in a good state, a Restart Grant £8000 has been awarded by NCC. Current cash in bank is £36800. 5. Throughout the lockdown period all Covid required regulations were complied with. 6. The most recent use for the Local Elections was a ‘success’. 7. Repairs have been carried out to a damp area to the left of the kitchens outside door. 8. The roof has been subject to an informal survey. This has confirmed that the roof is weathertight, but not up to current building standards. A formal survey is planned. 9. Though is being given how best to maintain the fabric of the building and make it less expensive to run and more ‘sustainable’. For example, Solar Panels could be fitted etc. 10. The Carpet Bowls players have retired, this along with the loss of the Pilates classes has affected income. 11. A key question is how best to use the VH so that it remains an asset central to the village while generating an income that covers its maintenance etc. Ideas are welcome. 6. Review of Risk Register, Insurance and Finances. (BA) reports all in order.
2326	7. Date of next meeting Thursday 15^th July 2021 at 7.30pm
2327	8. Any other business 1/ EWB enquired as to the reason kite flying was not allowed on the back green. (BA) explained that it was as a result of high-powered cables above and that it was a requirement for insurance cover. 2/ Horton Grange overhanging trees. (BE) states it is becoming a hazard. As the property has recently been purchased (JL) stated that he would approach the new owners and mention it. There being no further business the meeting closed at 9.45pm.

Draft

Minutes of the Annual Meeting of the Council held on Thursday 18^th March 2021 Remotely by Zoom 7.30pm
Present	Cllrs: Bob Elliott (BE), (Chair). David Mason, (DM), John Lamb (JL), Wyrley-Birch (EWB), Stephen Blake (SB), Gina Scott-Middleton (GSM) Rupert Gibson (County Councillor) (RG), Clerk: Brian Alger (BA).

Minutes Number Number	Description	Actions
2272	Apologies for absence: NIL
2273	Minutes of the last meeting: The minutes were approved as being an accurate record of the previous meeting.
2274	Election of Vice Chair and Representatives Chair: Bob Elliott - To be shared with (SB)(Vice Chair) as agreed. Bonfire Rep: John Lamb - Proposed (DM) 2^nd (BE) Village Hall Rep: Stephen Blake - Proposed (BE) 2^nd (DM)
2275	Wall Parish Council Chairmans Annual Report (March 2021) Overview Given the delayed Annual Meeting last year, and the bringing forward of this year’s Annual Meeting to avoid a clash with planned local elections in May, this report only covers 8 months. Overall, those 8 months have remained a very difficult period for the country as a whole due to COVID, with much of the period subject to one form of restriction on activity or another. As a result activities within Wall Parish have been limited. The most noticeable change within the Parish Council itself is a change of personnel – two Councillors decided to resign at the end of 2020, leading to the appointment of three new members, by co-option. Parish Council meetings have continued to be held online (by Zoom). The Village Hall has remained closed throughout the period due to COVID restrictions. The ongoing issue of planning applications affecting the old Allotment site to the West of Chapel Lane has been resolved in favour of the developer, with permission to erect three holiday homes on the southern end of the site. Perhaps the other biggest non-COVID talking points for the village were the awarding of a Michelin star to the Hjem Restaurant, and the prominent appearance of the village in an episode of Robson Green’s Walking Hadrian’s Wall TV series. Planning The further application by the owner of the Allotment site to erect three holiday homes on the southern end of the Allotment site caused much opposition within the village on the grounds of impact on its neighbours, its surroundings and the entrance to the village from the South. The objections were supported by the PCC, but the application nevertheless succeeded. Many of the villagers were unhappy with the process adopted by NCC in granting approval, and complaints were made to NCC and to the local MP. It is understood that the site (and its neighbouring site to the North) have now been sold to a third party. Permission was given for a new barn to be built at East Cocklaw Farm (unopposed), with ongoing applications for a conservatory addition to Toll House and to use land south of Quarry House, Brunton as Bed and Breakfast accommodation (neither of which is objected to by the Parish Council). Speeding The flashing speed sign at the end of Warden View continues to work, with the occasional addition of a second flashing sign at the top end of the village provided by Rupert Gibson (County Councillor). However, speeding through the village has if anything increased during lockdowns, with a high volume of complaints from parishioners. Police have been seen operating speed guns along the main road on a couple of occasions, and a report of their findings is awaited. Speeding remains perhaps the most important issue for many parishioners, but is proving difficult to combat. It will be one of the Parish Council’s main priorities for the coming year. Finances Wall PCC continues to balance its books, but as in previous years it has little if any by the way of reserves to fall back on. In order to allow for possible unexpected contingencies in the coming financial year and for inflation the Council agreed to a small increase (5%) in the precept for 2021/2022. Incoming and outgoing members Councillors Tim McArdle and Stephen Kendall decided to resign with effect from the end of 2020. Both Councillors are thanked for their efforts on the Parish Council during the past few years, and we are grateful to both of them for their many contributions. Initial concerns about possible difficulties in finding suitable replacements for them (and to fill the existing vacancy caused by Councillor Rogstad’s earlier resignation) proved unfounded as an encouraging number of parishioners expressed interest in the vacancies. This led to the co-opting of three new Councillors at January’s meeting, Stephen Blake, Gina Scott-Middleton and Elisa Wyley-Birch, all of whom are very warmly welcomed onto the Council. Grass cutting The decision to change the grass cutting contract from NCC to Chris Mowatt’s firm in 2019 has led to a considerable improvement with reported high levels of satisfaction among villagers bordering on the Village Green. Other miscellaneous matters The heavily rusted old goalposts have been replaced by new ones obtained with grant funding. A new second wheelie bin for litter has been installed on the lay-by. The Women’s Institute kindly donated some saplings which have been planted on the Back Green, with a Rowan tree also kindly provided by Jemima Westle planted on the lay-by. The old tradition of giving the Parish’s pensioner residents Christmas gifts of chocolate and vegetables was felt to be outdated, and replaced by a donation to the People’s Kitchen in Newcastle. And finally, thanks are due to… …those who continue to be involved keeping the footpaths clear around the village, tending the planters at either end of the village, and painting the bus shelter, Councillor Gibson for his attendance, support, and preparedness to take on issues, and last but not least, Brian Alger, the PCC clerk for all his sterling work during the year (including setting up the Zoom meetings, and keeping abreast of the very many central government edicts relevant to Parish Councils issued throughout the past year. Bob Elliott, Chair, March 2021	`
2276	Any Other Business No other business was raised.

There being no further business the meeting closed at 7:40pm.

Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting held on Thursday 18^th March 2021. Remotely by Zoom 7:45pm
Present	Cllrs: Bob Elliott (BE), (Chair). David Mason, (DM), John Lamb (JL), Wyrley-Birch (EWB), Stephen Blake (SB), Gina Scott-Middleton (GSM) Rupert Gibson (County Councillor) (RG), Clerk: Brian Alger (BA).

Number	Description
2277	1. Apologies for absence: Cllrs: Nil.
2278	2. Minutes of the last meeting: Approved.
2279	3. Declaration of Interests: Nil
2280	4. Matters Arising: a. Toilets (BA) all appears in order at the toilets. The work sheets are being delivered monthly to (BA). (BA) suggested that this is preferable to leaving the work sheets within the toilet block as there is a chance they could go missing prior to collection.
2281	b. Traffic speed concerns A6079 The Councillors discussed the continuing concerns over speeding traffic through the village. (RG) reported that the temporary sign at the entrance to the village is broken. He states that he will endeavour to have a permanent sign installed. (BE) and (GSM) stated they would contact the various HGV operators in the area to express the Councillors concerns about speeding through the village. (EA) suggested that signage and traffic calming measures would be welcome through the village especially near to the back green play area which is being used more frequently now as there are a number of young children residing in the village. (GSM) also raised concerns regarding lack of road markings on the corner opposite the Old Reading Room where vehicles are failing to slow down. (BA) will investigate signage and road markings. (RG) will continue to speak to CC with regards to traffic calming measures.
2282	c. Grass Cutting (BA) Chris Mowatt has now returned the contract for the grass cutting. After returning the contract he sent an email to his clients informing them that he is now VAT registered and will be charging accordingly. (BA) spoke to Chris and pointed out that the contract price agreed was inclusive of VAT. He agreed to keep the price the same. This will benefit WPC as we can claim the VAT back.
2283	d. Lay By / Bins and Signage (BA) has now collected the new signage and is available to be installed at the lay by.
2284	e. St Oswald’s Wall and Gate (BA) reports that he has an invoice from Jeff Hogg for £100.00 as the work on the wall and gate is now complete. (DM) stated that the Friends to St Oswald’s had agreed to pay half of the costs and will arrange for payment to be forwarded to WPC. Agreed that (BA) will pay Jeff.
2285	f. Footpath between Wall Village and Brunton Crossroads. (RG) has spoken to David Hunt at CC regarding the state of the footpath resulting in David agreeing to investigate the problem and hopefully arrange repair work to be undertaken. (BA) reported the blocked gully and subsequent flooding to CC as an emergency however, the gully is still blocked. (RG) will speak to CC.
2286	g. Potholes (JL) has repaired a number near to the pant. He will repair the others near to the church when he has time.
2287	h. Wildflower project (BA) Chris Mowatt has now submitted a quote for the work to be done. This will include ground preparation and re seeding. The cost would be £1,164.00. Councillors agreed to have the work done. There was a discussion about where the bulk of the seeding should take place, bearing in mind that the last attempt failed for various reasons. (SB) suggested the best area would be above the boggy area next to the wall. (BA) will ask Chris to visit the area prior to starting the work when Councillors could speak to him on site.
2288	i. Christmas tree (DM) donated a Christmas tree which has now been planted. This, when grown, should negate the need to buy/acquire a temporary tree. (DM) thanked by Councillors.
2289	j. WI tree donation (BA) a total of 11 trees have now been planted by the Councillors and with help from Tim McArdle. A letter of thanks has been received from the WI who donated the trees.
2290	k. Removal of concrete cricket area (JL) will remove this in the summer when time permits.

2291	l. Repair of seat – New Lane (DM) pointed out that the arm to the seat needs repair and may need a joiner. (SB) and (GSM) volunteered to have a look to see they could assist.
2292	m. Weed Killing A complaint was received from a resident at South View regarding CC using weedkiller spray to control the weeds in the village and specifically spraying onto her garden at the front of her house which decreases the habitat of bees and insects. Councillors discussed: WPC has several complaints each year about the lack of spraying when unsightly weeds appear. The weeding is also necessary to prevent damage by the roots to the edges of the roads and kerbstones. (BA) will reply to the complainant and inform them that WPC is committed to the planting of wildflowers to encourage wildlife and insects.
2293	n. Bench cleaning, playground (DM) states he is happy to clean the bench if he has help to carry it to his garage. Councillors will assist when (DM) is ready.
2294	o. Traffic concerns Chapel Lane junc. The Chair (DM) has received complaints that traffic is pulling out of this junction without stopping. (BA) to make enquiries about having road markings applied.
2295	p. Litter Pick Agreed date Saturday 3^rd April 10:30am with social distancing in place. (BA) will collect equipment from CC.
2296	4. Planning Applications 20/04147/FUL Toll House, Wall NE46 4EX – Passed. 18/01570/FUL Land South West of Quarry House, Brunton – Use as B&B accommodation. – WPC submitted no objections but there is a concern regarding access on the comments section.
2297	5. Village Hall Report (DM) No Village Hall report as it is closed but visited on a regular basis. It has been booked for the elections in May.
2298	6. Review of Risk Register, Insurance and Finances. (BA) Nothing new for the Risk Register.
2299	7. Date of next meeting. Thursday 20^th May 2021.
2300	8. Any Other Business: 1/ (EA) – There is a problem with dog dirt on the back green. Would it be possible to have a dog litter bin placed in the area? (BA) will make enquiries with CC as they would need to agree to empty it. 2/ (DM) There is concern regarding the water pipes within the village and who owns/has responsibility for them. Northumbria Water has been involved and basically state that any repairs to pipes branching off from the watermains is the responsibility of the homeowner. (DM) states that it may be prudent to obtain a map of the pipes for future reference at a cost of £31.50. Agreed. 3/ (BE) The road on New Lane is in a state with mud and debris on the road. Several complaints have been made to WPC. Can we send a letter on behalf of WPC expressing the concerns to the landowner? (BA) will deal. 4/ (GSM) there have been reports of unusual cars in the village and, as there are increased incidents of dogs being stolen, then it may be something to be aware of. 5/ (BE) as David Mason is not standing for election this term and due to his long and valued service to the village that he be awarded an ‘Honorary Freedom of the Parish’. Councillors agreed. (BA) to make enquiries with NALC regarding the process. There being no further business meeting closed at 9:30pm

Draft

Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting

held on Thursday 21st January 2021.

Remotely by Zoom 7:30pm

Present

Cllrs: David Mason, (DM), Bob Elliott (BE), (Chair). John Lamb (JL), Rupert Gibson (County Councillor) (RG).

Also Present: Elisa Wyrley-Birch (EWB), Stephen Blake (SB), Gina Scott-Middleton (GSM)

Clerk: Brian Alger (BA).

Minutes Number Number

Description

2251

1. Apologies for absence:

Cllrs: Nil.

2252

2. Minutes of the last meeting:

Approved.

2253

3. Matters Arising.

a. Co-Opt new Councillors.

Councillors welcomed and agreed to Co-Opt Elisa Wyrley-Birch, Stephen Blake and Gina Scott-Middleton who were duly appointed as Councillors to Wall Parish Council with immediate effect.

2254

b. Toilets

(BA) the sanitisers have now been replaced and all seemed in order when the toilets were last checked.

(DM) suggested that the work sheets should be left in the toilets after each clean. (Ba) will speak to Alan.

2255

c. Traffic speed concerns A6079

The temporary traffic sign is in place near to the garage at the top of the village but does not seem to be working (RG) will investigate.

(JL) informed the meeting that he has seen the mobile police speed camera vehicle in the village twice this month.

(RG) stated that the police would submit a report in due course.

A discussion then took place regarding the problem the village is experiencing with speeding traffic. The new councillors were brought up to date with the actions and various requests WPC has made to CC over the past years and how difficult it is to solve the problem. In the case of heavy vehicles (SB) suggested liaising with EGAR at Hexham as a lot of the HGVs are destined for the factory.

2256

d. Grass cutting

(BA) has been in touch Chris Mowatt who stated the estimate is the same as the past 2 years with no increase. The cost being £3100.00 for the coming season. Councillors agreed to renew grass cutting contract with CM Commercial for another year.

2257

e. Lay By / Bins

(BA) reports that the new bin has been erected on the site by Chris Mowatt.

2258

f. St Oswald’s Wall and Gate

(JL) – Geoff is going to repair the wall but needs a period of dry weather before he can begin. (JL) will liaise with Geoff and ask if the work can be done ASAP.

2259

g. Footpath between Wall Village and Brunton Crossroads.

(BA) Councillors have received complaints about the water lying in the back green and water running from Old Lane onto the main road. (BA) has been in touch with CC about the problem at Old Lane and it appears they have attended and cleared the drains opposite but have not addressed the problem on Old Lane.

(RG) will contact CC regarding the problem and (BA) will submit a complaint through CC Highways.

(BA) with regards to the water colleting on the back green, this is an historic problem. He was contacted by Susie Swan, who was on the Parish Council, and she states that the problem was investigated in the past by CC and Northumbria Water. There is a sluice under the green and the advice was that it will drain naturally and should be left as it is.

2260

h. Potholes

(JL) due to the weather conditions nothing further has been done but will attend to it when time permits.

2261

i. Wildflower project

(BA) reports that Chris Mowatt has cut back the wildflower area. He will submit an estimate for preparing the land and replanting with seeds. Should be ready for the March meeting.

2262

j. Goal Posts

(BA) reports that the new goal posts have been erected and WPC has received the grant from CC which is now in the bank. (BA) will recover the VAT paid in due course.

2263

k. Pensioners Christmas Gifts.

(BA) a donation of £100.00, as agreed, was paid to the People’s Kitchen in Newcastle for which WPC received a thank you card.

A discussion took place, and the new Councillors were brought up to date with the previous arrangements.

It was agreed that WPC could still provide the pensioners with Christmas cards and perhaps some small gift to celebrate the season.

(BA) suggested that this should be revisited nearer to the time and discussed.

2264

l. Christmas Tree,

Councillors thanked (JL) for the impressive tree he provided this year. Also agreed to send a card of thanks to the Harrisons for the use of their electricity which illuminated the lights!

(DM) suggested that the tree could do with some more white lights for next year. Councillors agreed.

(DM) also stated that he has a potted tree which he is happy to donate and plant as a permanent Christmas tree in the area the cut tree is presently erected. This would, eventually, negate the need for a cut tree. Councillors agreed.

2265

m. WI Donation

(DM) The WI have kindly donated 10 trees to WPC to be planted around the village. A discussion took place as to the best locations for the planting. A number will be planted at the layby and possibly the back green and pathway to the fell. They will need to be planted before the end of March and final positions to be decided before then.

2266

n. Precept

(BA) had circulated the finances and projections for the Precept for 2021/22 to the Councillors. The Precept for the previous year was slightly less than the actual spending and it was agreed that the Precept should rise this year by 5% giving a total of £8,328.00p. Councillors agreed (BA) will submit to CC.

2267

4. Planning Applications

20/04147/FUL Toll House, Wall NE46 4EX – No objections

20/00776/FUL (amended) Land West of Chapel Lane NE464DU – ongoing (to be removed from Agenda)

2268

5. Village Hall Report

(DM) No Village Hall report as it is closed but visited on a regular basis to check all is in order for insurance cover.

2269

6. Review of Risk Register, Insurance and Finances.

(BA) Nothing new for the Risk Register.

2270

7. Date of next meeting.

Thursday 18th March 2021.

2271

8. Any Other Business:

1/ (DM) – Removal of concrete on back green re cricket practice area should be added to Agenda until removed.

2/ (DM) the seat at the top of New Lane has a broken arm and needs repaired. This is should be added to Agenda until it is fixed.

3/ (DM) complaint of a white car parked on the path near to Bidury entrance, causing and obstruction. (BE) will attempt speak to owner.

4/ Chair for next meeting will be Bob Elliott.

There being no further business meeting closed at 9:25pm

DRAFT

Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting

held on Thursday 19^th November 2020

Remotely by Zoom 7:30pm

Present

Cllrs: David Mason, (Chair) (DM), Bob Elliott (BE), John Lamb (JL), Tim McArdle (™) Rupert Gibson (County Councillor) (RG)

Clerk: Brian Alger (BA).

Minutes Number Number

Description

2232

1. Apologies for absence:

Cllrs: Nil.

2233

2. Minutes of the last meeting:

Approved.

2234

3. Matters Arising

a. Vacancy Parish - Councillor

Councillors discussed the current situation with regards to vacancies. There is one outstanding vacancy at present and 2 more by the end of December. To date we have one person who is interested in joining the Parish Council. (BE) suggested that it would be advantageous to circulate flyers around the village informing the residents of the vacancies and an explanation of the duties involved, he will compose the flyers. (JL) will speak to Gina Middleton who has expressed an interest. (BE) will also speak to any interested parties as a courtesy

2235

b. Toilets

(DM) – The hand sanitisers have gone missing (BA) to replace.

(BA) reported that the work sheets are now being provided monthly for our records.

2236

c. Traffic speed concerns A6079

(DM) received an email from D. Finlayson about handheld speed check devices however, this would involve residents volunteering to use them. A request for the Mobile Camera to be utilised in the village has been made. (RG) states that the temporary speed warning sign used at the top of the village is now repaired and back in use.

2237

d. Grass cutting

(BA) Will ask Chris Mowatt for an estimate for next season.

2238

e. Lay By / Bins

(BA) reports that the new bin will be fitted next week and the extra signage regarding litter is on order, although held up due to the current COVID situation.

2239

f. St Oswald’s Wall and Gate

(JL) – has spoken to Geoff about the wall which appears to be unstable and a little dangerous. (JL) will ask Geoff to do the work which will entail the wall being taken down and built back up again.

2240

g. Footpath between Wall Village and Brunton Crossroads.

(BA) reports that the previous concerns in respect of the Footpath and signs have been added to the LTP programme Consultation.

2241

h. Potholes

(JL) has repaired the potholes near to the pant and will do the potholes near to the church when time permits.

2242

i. Wildflower project

(BA) reports that Chris Mowatt is to cut back the wildflower area next week and will be supplying a quote for replanting.

2243

j. Goal Posts

(BA) reports that the new goal posts are to be erected next week, all being well.

2244

k. Non-attendance Parish Meetings

(BA) has made enquiries about the problem with non-attendance. If a councillor is absent on 3 occasions without prior authorisation by the Chair, then they are deemed to be no longer in office. If the numbers drop below a quorum then the Parish Council can not continue to carry out its function, however there are systems in place where CC can provide cover until the situation is rectified. If the Parish Council cannot recruit the minimum number to form a quorum then the Parish Council will no longer exist.

2245

l. Pensioners Christmas Gifts.

A discussion took place with regards to the continuation of giving Christmas gifts to the pensioners of the village as has been the case in recent years. It was decided that the practice should not continue and especially considering the COVID-19 restrictions. (DM) suggested that a donation of £100.00, in lieu of this, should be made to the Peoples Kitchen charity in Newcastle. Councillors agreed. (BA) to implement.

m. Christmas Tree

(JL) there may be a problem supplying a tree this year as there is nothing suitable on his land, but he will attempt to locate something suitable. Alternatively, the Parish Council may need to buy a tree. (JL) will keep WPC updated.

2246

4. Planning Applications

20/02185/FUL East Cocklaw Farm, NE464HN - Granted 18/9/2000

20/00776/FUL (amended) Land West of Chapel Lane NE464DU - ongoing

2247

5. Village Hall Report

(DM) informed the meeting as follows:

Hall was cleaned thoroughly, and a risk assessment drafted but it never got opened before new COVID-19 restrictions began.

Because of the restrictions the meeting arranged with Mike Douglas to discuss possible refurbishments didn't take place and no alternative date has been set. The insurers advised that the previous temporary non occupancy conditions should be put in place again during the present 'lockdown' but recommended that extra checks should be done over the winter months to look for possible storm damage etc. A new rota is now in place to accommodate this with all officers and trustees taking their turn.

2248

6. Review of Risk Register, Insurance and Finances.

(BA) informed the meeting that the finances were in line with future projections on spending.

2249

7. Date of next meeting.

Thursday 21^st January November 2021.

2250

8. Any Other Business:

1/ (DM) – The Rowan tree will be planted by (BE) (™) and (BA) in the near future.

2/ (DM) the seat at the top of New Lane has a broken arm and needs repaired. This is not urgent and can be done in due course.

3/ Chair for next meeting will be Bob Elliott.

There being no further business meeting closed at 8:40pm

Draft

Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting held on Thursday 17^th September 2020 Remotely by Zoom 7:30pm
Present	Cllrs: David Mason, (DM), Bob Elliott (Chair) (BE), Rupert Gibson (County Councillor) (RG) Clerk: Brian Alger (BA).

Minutes Number Number	Description
2215	1. Apologies for absence: Cllrs: Tim McArdle (TM), John Lamb (JL), Stephen Kendall (SK).
2216	2. Minutes of the last meeting: Approved.
2217	3. Matters Arising a. Vacancy Parish - Councillor (DM) – As yet has not contacted the 2 interested parties but will attempt to do so to see if they are still interested.
2218	b. Toilets (DM) – It appears that the County Council cleaners are attending daily to clean the toilets. (DM) is devising a check list for the Parish Council cleaner to submit monthly with a record of his visits and duties completed.
2219	c. Traffic speed concerns A6079 (RG) states that the portable speed sign is broken now and needs to be repaired which he hopes will be done soon. Councillors discussed various measures including another survey, speed guns and mobile police speed van. (RG) stated that he would enquire regarding the survey but as there was one done recently then he did not hold out much hope. (DM) stated that the police had been in touch through the Village Hall Committee regarding the handheld equipment, but this would require volunteers from the village to use them and, due to the current restrictions, this has not been progressed.
2220	d. Grass cutting (DM) thought that there may have been an extra cut above what was agreed in the contract with CM Commercial. (BA) will contact Chris Mowatt re costings.
2221	e. Lay By / Bins Residents have expressed concerns regarding an HGV which has been parked in the layby for several weeks without moving. As this is a scenic layby and not intended as an overnight stopping area Councillors agreed to ask the driver/owner (unknown) to move the vehicle. (BA) will place a note on the HGV asking the owner to move it from the area. Still awaiting Chris Mowatt to erect the new bin.
2222	f. St Oswald’s Wall and Gate (DM) - nothing has been done at present. It is believed (JL) was going to speak to a stonemason in an effort to have the wall repaired.
2223	g. Footpath between Wall Village and Brunton Crossroads. (RG) suggested that any issues with signage repairs etc. should be entered onto the LTP. (BA) pointed out that this had been submitted in previous years but had not been adopted as a priority. (BA) will submit a new request.
2224	h. Potholes (DM) the road is poor from the pant to the church. He will speak to (JL) who has volunteered to fill the potholes in.
2225	i. Support for Pennine Journey (BA) reports that the reply has been submitted supporting this (see previous minutes for full details). To be removed from the agenda.
2226	j. Play area/cricket area The concrete on the cricket area still needs to be removed but nothing further to report at this time.
2227	k. Defibrillator (BA) reported to the Councillors that the defibrillator pads have a 2-year life span and 5-year life span for the batteries. He suggested that this information be added to the Risk Register. Councillors agreed.
2228	4. Planning Applications 20/02185/FUL East Cocklaw Farm, NE464HN 20/00776/FUL (amended) Land West of Chapel Lane NE464DU - ongoing
2229	5. Village Hall Report (DM) informed the meeting as follows: Date of last Trustees meeting and AGM – 26/8/20. (Note; Previous AGM was 16 months previous due to Covid lockdown). AGM – a) - All Officers and Trustees were re-elected. b) – The Treasurer reported that the yearend accounts were healthy and the current account total balance included the £10,000 received from NCC as Covid crisis support. It was agreed that this amount should be set aside for the renovation fund and would be used as ‘matched funding’ in future grant applications. 3. Trustees Meeting – a) – The main item for discussion was the potential for re-opening the Hall for public use. To maintain full insurance cover there was a general requirement for a deep clean and a full risk assessment plus an update of the hire contract agreement to include requirements for individual hirers to provide their own risk assessment and to follow full cleaning procedures before and after use. Also, before writing a risk assessment an assessment would need to be made regarding the maximum numbers that could be accommodated both seated and lying down (re Palates etc). When the risk assessment was completed it would then be decided whether opening was possible and if so, individual hirers would need to decide whether it was practical for them to continue under the new requirements. The aim was to have everything in place by mid-September. b) – Preparations would need to be made for a professional inspection of the electricity because the certificate is due for renewal in 2021. c) – A small increase in hire charges was agreed, these to be increased to £15/session for residents use and £30/session for outside use. Date of next meeting – A single item agenda meeting on Monday 5^th. October at 7pm is to be arranged to discuss refurbishment of the Hall.
2230	6. Review of Risk Register, Insurance and Finances. (BA) informed the meeting that the finances were in line with future projections on spending.
	7. Date of next meeting. Thursday 19^th November 2020.
2231	8. Any Other Business: 1/ (DM) – Jemma Westle has kindly offered a Rowan tree to Wall Parish to be planted at the layby if we want it. Councillors agreed to accept the offer and arrange to have it planted from November onwards. There being no further business meeting closed at 8:11pm

DRAFT

Minutes of the Annual Meeting of the Council held on Thursday 28^th July 2020 Remotely by Zoom 7.30pm
Present	· Bob Elliott (BE), David Mason (Chair) Brian Alger (BA) Clerk

Minutes Number Number	Description	Actions
2194	Apologies for absence: Received from David Mason (DM), Stephen Kendall (SK), Tim McArdle (T M), John Lamb (JL), Rupert Gibson (County Councillor) (RG).
2195	Minutes of the last meeting: The minutes were approved as being an accurate record of the previous meeting.
2196	Election of Vice Chair and Representatives Chair: David Mason - To be shared with (BE) as agreed. Bonfire Rep: John Lamb - Proposed (DM) 2^nd (BE) Village Hall Rep: Dave Mason
2197	Wall Parish Council Chairmans Annual Report (July 2020) The year was passing along with business being much the same as usual from May 2019 until March 2020 and then along came the COVID19 Pandemic and the lives and livelihoods of people throughout the world was turned upside down. ‘Lockdown’, starting in this country in March, affected the whole population in some way and this of course meant the disruption of normal Parish Council business with many issues being put on hold and with planned meetings in March and May being cancelled. The AGM, due in May, also had to be put back until later in the year. The main business earlier in the year included: - Settlement on Fell – Further gorse clearance was planned by volunteers and it was also agreed with the Footpaths Officer that improvements would be made to the steps and footpath up the Fell. Possible funding would be sought from Historic England to erect an information board at the entrance to the site. Progress was put on hold initially by the weather and then because of ‘lockdown’. Grass Cutting – The new arrangement with Chris Mowatt, a private contractor, was well received and has largely made the voluntary strimming group redundant. It was agreed to pay for an additional two cuts during the growing season. Cutting in 2020 has recommenced as normal during ‘lockdown’. Speeding – This is an ongoing problem and several residents have made complaints, particularly after ‘lockdown’ was eased. A request to the County Council for the erection of repeater 30mph signs down the main street was refused but it is hoped that another traffic speed survey can be agreed in the hope that the genuine fear of a serious accident happening can be overcome with some positive action by the authorities. Trees – Those trees which the Parish Council are responsible for were inspected and some fairly minor work was carried out for safety reasons. Because they were interfering with the grass cutters and with vehicles entering the village some lower branches were also removed from the trees around the back green and one dead tree was removed and replaced by two saplings. Layby Bin – Arrangements were made for a second wheelie bin and stand to be purchased from the County Council and this will be erected near the centre of the layby later in the year. Camping on Green – Since the erection of new signage no further problems have been encountered. Goalposts – Grant funding has been authorised to replace the goalposts, but progress has been delayed due to the ‘lockdown’. Hollow Project – Growth of the wild planting was badly affected by the dry weather, the contractor resigned, and the purchase of a picnic table (and a new seat for the Coronation tree) has been delayed due to ‘lockdown’. An alternative contractor has been approached to look after the planted area. Finances – No problems have been encountered and spending is under control, but it was considered necessary to request a precept increase of 10% due to increased costs. Planning Applications – A small number of non-contentious applications were received and dealt with but the saga of the old allotment site continues. The latest application is for three holiday cottages and has resulted in more than 30 objections from residents and zero supporting comments. The case has been referred to the Strategic Planning Committee for discussion at the end of August. In addition, an application was made to claim rights of way at East Wood, Fallowfield. Wall Parish Council supported the application along with Acomb Parish Council and the matter is ongoing. Other matters cancelled or delayed, at least in part by the pandemic, have been – the Spring litter pick, the removal of the concrete cricket wicket, pothole repairs near the church, and repair of St Oswald’s church wall. Finally, thanks must be given to Rupert Gibson for his support and help throughout the year, to Brian Alger for another year of efficient ‘clerking’, and to those various volunteers who looked after the planters at both entrances to the village, painted the bus shelter, cleared footpaths, looked after the small garden outside the village hall, and generally made the village look smart and tidy. The parish also owes a debt of deep gratitude to Kathy Rogstad who after many years of dedicated service to the community retired from the Parish Council during the year due to work and family pressures. Her input, both at meetings and in practical matters, has been invaluable. David Mason.	`
2198	Any Other Business No other business was raised.

There being no further business the meeting closed at 7:35pm.

Draft Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting held on Thursday 28th July 2020 remotely by Zoom at 7:35pm
Present	Cllrs: David Mason (Chair), (DM), Bob Elliott (BE), Clerk: Brian Alger (BA).

Minutes Number Number	Description
2199	1. Apologies for absence: Cllrs: Tim McArdle (TM), John Lamb (JL), Stephen Kendall (SK). Rupert Gibson (County Councillor) (RG)
2200	2. Minutes of the last meeting: No minutes to approve due to the last meeting being cancelled due to Corona Virus lockdown.
2201	3. Matters Arising a. Vacancy Parish - Councillor (DM) - There are 2 people showing an interest, to be discussed at next meeting.
2202	b. Toilets Councillors discussed the present situation in relation to the toilet block. (BA) reported that he had contacted CC regarding the matter and Wall Parish Council were to continue their regime of cleaning. CC would provide daily cleaning as well. (DM) suggested a check list be initiated with Alan Dryden (WPC cleaner) to record cleaning. CC, no doubt, will be keeping a record of their cleaning duties.
2203	c. Traffic speed concerns A6079 Nothing further to report. This was to be followed up by (RG) from the last meeting. To be discussed at the next meeting.
2204	d. Grass cutting The grass cutting is ongoing, and all agreed the village green is looking good. Councillors agreed that they would authorise 2 extra cuts for the village green. (BE) reported that he had strimmed the area around St. Oswald’s church.
2205	e. Lay By / Bins (BA) reports that the bin and post has been delivered ready for installation at the Lay By. (DM) spoke to Chris Mowatt, who will be carrying out the work, at the end of the grass cutting season.
2206	f. St Oswald’s Wall and Gate (DM) – no work has been carried out in relation to this matter and it would appear that we need to identify another contractor to carry out the work. It needs to be done this year. (DM) state (JL) may have a contact who could do the repair.
2207	g. Footpath between Wall Village and Brunton Crossroads. No further information on this. This was in the hands of CC prior to lock down.
2206	h. Potholes (DM) to contact (JL) as this was on the list to do before lock down.
2207	i. Support for Pennine Journey Councillors discussed a request from David and Heather Pitt who are seeking to have the ‘A Pennine Journey’ long distance footpath changed to that of a National Trail. Councillors could see no reason not to support this and the advantages it would no doubt bring to the area. (BA) to contact.
2208	j. ROSPA report The report was good with only a couple of points, all of which are in hand. There was one comment which (DM) picked up on and that was the matter of flying kites near to the power lines. This was mentioned in a previous report and since then we have incorporated ‘NO KITE FLYING’ into the permanent notice boards on the back green.
2209	k. Play area A discussion took place regarding WPC responsibility towards the play area on the back green in view of social distancing. (BA) reported that he had placed signs on the swings advising that social distancing should be adhered to when using the equipment. As this is an open play area and not a park it was felt that little more could be done.
2210	l. Parish Council Audit The full Audit details were circulated to all Councillors prior to the meeting so that they could be examined and agreed. The internal verifier found that the accounts were in order and signed them off. Councillors agreed and the accounts were ‘signed off’ for the year 2019/2020.
2211	4. Planning Applications 19/04804/FUL Hadrian Hotel, Wall NE464EE – passed Feb 2020 20/00300/FUL Errington Hill Head NE464NQ – Passed April 2020 20/00776/FUL (amended) Land West of Chapel Lane NE464DU - ongoing
2212	5. Village Hall Report (DM) informed the meeting as follows: · The village hall is still closed and weekly checks are carried out for insurance purposes.
2213	6. Review of Risk Register, Insurance and Finances. (BA) informed the meeting that the finances were in line with future projections on spending. Insurances and Risk Register (reviewed March 2020) is up to date 7. Date of next meeting. Thursday 17^th September 2020.
2214	8. Any Other Business: 1/ Planning application 20/02185/FUL East Cocklaw Farm. Construction of a general-purpose agricultural building. (submitted after agenda but before meeting) No Objections. 2/ (DM) As this was the first meeting conducted during the Corona Virus pandemic it should be pointed out that Councillors have been communicating with each other and the Clerk to discuss and agree on any items which have been raised during these trying times. Hopefully, the next meeting will be in person with social distancing in place when it is hoped that some form of normality will prevail. There being no further business meeting closed at 8:20pm

Draft

Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting

held on Thursday 24th January 2020

in Wall Village Hall at 7:30pm

Present

Cllrs: David Mason (DM), Bob Elliott (BE) (Chair),

Tim McArdle (TM), John Lamb (JL), Stephen Kendall (SK).

Clerk: Brian Alger (BA).

Minutes Number Number

Description

2170

1. Apologies for absence:

Cllrs: Rupert Gibson (County Councillor) (RG),

2171

2. Minutes of the last meeting:

The minutes were approved as being an accurate record of the previous meeting.

2172

3. Matters Arising

a. Claim for public rights of way at East Wood, Acomb

There are no further updates and as this may be a long and protracted claim this item will be removed from the Agenda until any further developments are reported.

2173

b. Settlement area, Wall Fell

(BA) reports that he has been in touch with Tim Fish and Mike Collins regarding any further developments but, as yet, they have not replied. (BA) will recontact. It was agreed that the gorse clearing on the site will take place on Saturday 15^th February.

2174

c. Parish Council’s Strimmer

((DM) nothing to report and as the contractors are doing most of the strimming around the village it was suggested that the strimming group concentrate on areas which are not covered when needed. Agreed.

2175

d. The Hollow Project

Matthew Hope has informed WPC that he is no longer willing to cut the wildflower area as he is worried that his equipment may be damage due to large stones and other items, including a drain surround, being present. (BA) will contact Matthew and ask if he would be willing to continue if the area is cleared. (DM) will obtain a price for the picnic table which will be sited in the area.

2176

e. Toilets

(BA) the outside light to the gents is permanently on. He will inform NCC.

2177

f. Traffic speed concerns on A6079.

As Rupert Gibson is not present, due to illness, there is nothing further to report on subject.

2178

g. Grass Cutting

(BA) reports that he has emailed Chris Mowatt regarding next seasons grass cutting and requesting that he goes ahead with the preparatory work for the bin at the layby.

(BA) will contact the Northumbrian Water Board with regards to a cracked manhole cover on the back green.

2179

h. Parish Trees

(BA) informed the meeting that John Harding has quoted £400.00 for the Parish tree work and for grinding out the stump belonging to the removed dead tree on the back green. Agreed that he should go ahead. Councillors discussed the replacement and decided that it should be 2 trees, possibly Maples, which (BE) will look into and cost.

2180

i. Gully on the green

(JL) Informed the meeting that a new pipe is needed from the stone wall down to the manhole. This will require a mechanical digger which he hopes he will have access to when work is being carried out at the Hadrian Hotel in the near future.

2181

j. Lay By/Bins

(BA) Has an estimate of £100.00 from Chris Mowatt re preparatory work to be carried out. Councillors Agree. (BA) to contact Chris to carry out the work.

2182

k. Parking on the green

The notices in the Village Newsletter seem to have had little effect with the problem persisting. Another notice to be placed in the Newsletter before grass cutting commences.

2183

l. St. Oswald’s wall and gate

(DM) still waiting for Jeff to commence work. (JL) will speak to him and remind him.

2184

m. Footpath, Wall Village to Brunton Crossroads

(BA) The CC have indicated that the paths will be cleared at some point. (BA) to contact CC regarding the safety signs on the sharp bends, which have rusted and collapsed, in an effort to have them replaced.

2185

n. Dead tree, back green.

Discussed at item h.

2186

o. Potholes.

(JL) can fix them temporarily but long term they need to be dug out and fixed permanently. He may be able to do this when he has access to a mechanical digger in the near future.

2187

p. Coronation Tree Seating.

Councillors agreed that a south facing seat should replace the old seating which has been removed. (DM) will cost this when he is making enquiries about the picnic table for the back green.

2188

q. Resignation – Kathy Rogstad

(BA) explained the procedure from this point with regards to electing a replacement. He will place notices on the Village Notice Board and website and inform CC regarding the vacancy and will keep Councillors informed of any developments.

2189

r. Precept 2020/21

It was agreed that the Precept would be increased by 10% to £7,932.00 to cover annual costs and future spending requirements. (BA) will submit Precept to CC.

2190

4. Planning Applications

19/04804/FUL Hadrian Hotel, Wall, NE46 4EE. Extension to dining room.

(BA) reports that he has submitted comments to planning that the Councillors have no objections to the plan.

2191

5. Village Hall Report

(DM) informed the meeting as follows:

· Councillor Mason was unable to attend the last meeting. There is another on 13/2/20 which he will be attending.

2192

6. Review of Risk Register, Insurance and Finances.

(BA) informed the meeting that the finances were in line with future projections on spending.

7. Date of next meeting.

Thursday 19^th March 2020.

2193

8. Any Other Business:

1/ Pensioners Gifts. (DM) whished to discuss the possibility of ending the Christmas Gifts to the pensioners of the village. Councillors agreed to discuss further at the meeting in July.

2/(DM) Mick West has volunteered to replant the planters at the entrance to the village.

3/ Cricket pitch practice area removal. (JL) states that he will be able to remove the concrete when he has access to the mechanical digger.

4/ (DM) There is water running onto Spouty Lane. (JL) Aware and he has cleared debris away from the ditch. This will hopefully improve the situation.

5/ (DM) pointed out that WPC may need to contribute to the use of the mechanical digger and there may be a cost involved in the removal of rubble from the cricket practice area.

There being no further business meeting closed at 8:45pm.

DRAFT

Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting

held on Thursday 21st November 2019

in Wall Village Hall at 7:30pm

Present

Cllrs: David Mason (DM) (Chair), Kathy Rogstad (KR), Bob Elliott (BE),

Rupert Gibson (County Councillor),

Clerk: Brian Alger (BA).

Minutes Number Number

Description

2146

1. Apologies for absence:

Cllrs: Tim McArdle (TM), John Lamb (JL), Stephen Kendall (SK).

2147

2. Minutes of the last meeting:

The minutes were approved as being an accurate record of the previous meeting.

2148

3. Matters Arising

a. Claim for public rights of way at East Wood, Acomb

The meeting was attended by 5 members of the public to discuss an application which has been submitted to the County Council in respect of a public right of way at East Wood near Acomb, which falls within Wall Parish Council boundaries. A letter outlining the application and maps were submitted to the Councillors to view before the meeting took place. After a lengthy discussion the Councillors decided that they would support the application however, it was pointed out by Councillor Mason that he had been informed by Councillor Lamb (not present) that he was not in favour.

2149

b. Settlement area, Wall Fell

Councillors discussed the settlement and it appears that there has been no further progress yet, mostly due to bad weather. (BA) to send emails to Mike Collins (Historic England) and Tim Fish (NCC Footpaths Officer) requesting any further updates on funding and any planned work to be carried out on the site and surrounding footpaths.

2150

c. Parish Council’s Strimmer

(KR) Nothing further to report at present. A lot of the work previously undertaken by the Strimmer Group is now being done by the CM Commercial. (DM) suggested that a new rota should be drawn up with one member per month responsible for strimming

areas not covered by the contractors.

2151

d. The Hollow Project

Nothing new to report. (DM) suggested that the seat should be purchased early next year as we still have the funds from the grant in the bank.

2152

e. Toilets

Nothing new to report.

2153

f. Flashing 30mph sign on A6079.

Sign is in working order. (RG) states that he made a request to CC for 30mph repeater signs to be placed through the village, however, this was refused. He will investigate the possibility of having a speed check van utilised in the village as the problem with vehicles ignoring the 30mph limit is till ongoing.

2154

g. Grass Cutting

(KR) requested that the grass be cut further up the bank on the back green by a couple of meters to assist the wildflower project. (BA) will contact CM Commercial. (BA) reports that Northumbrian Water have repaired the manhole cover and he will investigate a report of another which may be damaged in the same area.

2155

h. Parish Trees

((BA) informed the meeting that John Harding has been requested to look at the trees in need of work and will be submitting a quote soon.

2156

i. Gully on the green

No further updates at present.

2157

j. Lay By/Bins

(BA) awaiting estimate from Chris Mowatt regarding the erection of a post to accommodate the new bin. (DM) has cleared more rubbish from the area which suggests there is a need for the new bin.

2158

k. Parking on the green

There is still a problem and another notice will be placed in the Village Letter to inform villages not to park on the grass as it is causing damage.

2159

l. St. Oswald’s wall and gate

(DM) has had a quote from Jeff Hogg for around £250.00 to repair the wall. This will be completed with a level of urgency.

2160

m. Swings and Play Area

(BA) has now been provided with the tightening tool from the firm that erected the swings. This will be placed on the Risk Register for periodic checks and tightening of bolts, if required. This item can now be removed from Agenda.

2161

n. Footpath between Wall Village and Brunton Crossroads.

CC have been informed and are aware of the problem and stated it will be cleared.

2162

o. Christmas gifts Village Pensioners.

(DM) will order vegetables and chocolates. (BA) will help to collect. Date for packing agreed 19/12/19.

2163

p. Charitable donations.

Charitable donations to be made by Wall Parish Council: -

British Legion £68, Citizens Advice £50, Air Ambulance £150, Tyndale Hospice £150, Northumberland Domestic Abuse £50, North Theatre Company £25, Age UK £25, Core Music, Hexham £25.

Councillors agreed.

2164

q.Precept

To be circulated and discussed at next meeting once the quotes for grass cutting and tree surgery are received by (BA).

2165

4. Planning Applications

19/02880/LBC Town Farm, Wall NE46 4DU replacement windows and boiler (grade 2 listed). Passed

18/03085/FUL Land West of Chapel Lane (appeal) (BA) has now received the full report and confirmation that the appeal was refused. (BA) will contact Planning Department about lack of work on the site which is now looking messy.

2167

5. Village Hall Report

(DM) informed the meeting as follows:

· Last meeting held Tuesday 14^th November 2019.

· 50 new chairs delivered and are now in use

· Mike Douglas has provided his report on hall survey and has following observations and comments. The report is to be considered by individual Trustee Committee members and a ‘One Agenda Item’ meeting is to be held on Thursday 16^th January 2020 to discuss and assess independent thoughts and ideas. (note: - (DM) unable to attend, we probably need representation at this meeting).

· January Hall Clean. No major events booked at this time.

· Date of next meeting Tues 16^th January 2020.

· Note: - It is hoped that Old Years Night event will take place again this year.

2168

6. Review of Risk Register, Insurance and Finances.

(BA) informed the meeting that the finances were in line with future projections on spending.

7. Date of next meeting.

Thursday 23rd January 2020.

2169

8. Any Other Business:

1/ Dead tree on back green ( Omitted from Agenda in error ) Councillors discussed replacing the dead tree with 2 new trees. Prior to the work being done John Harding (tree surgeon) to be asked to give a quote to grind down the old tree stump. (BE) will look into replacements and costs. To be discussed at the next meeting.

2/(DM) states that the Firework fundraising will be needed if the event is to go ahead next year and volunteers.

3/ Potholes have appeared near to the church and pant. (DM) has sourced some filling material and (JL) will collect and fix.

4/ (DM) as the seat has now been removed from the Coronation tree we could look at a replacement seat as it was well used by visitors to the village.

5/ (DM) has been approached by Andrew Mullens who informed him that he has purchased the cottage at the rear of the Chapel. He stated that the cottage will be used for rental and then personal use and if the Parish Council would have any objections to this. (DM) informed Andrew that he could not see any problems with this as long as Planning Application was in order and access agreed with the neighbours.

There being no further business meeting closed at 9:40pm.


DraftMinutes of the Parish Council Meeting held on Thursday 19th September 2019 in Wall Village Hall at 7:45pm
Present	Cllrs: David Mason (DM) (Chair), Kathy Rogstad (KR), Rupert Gibson (County Councillor), John Lamb (JL). Stephen Kendall (SK). Clerk: Brian Alger (BA)

Minutes Number Number	Description
2125	1. Apologies for absence: Cllrs: Tim McArdle (TM). Bob Elliott (BE).
2126	2. Minutes of the last meeting: The minutes were approved as being an accurate record of the previous meeting.
2127	3. Matters Arising a. Settlement Area, Wall Fell (DM) states that (JL) has seeded the area. (KR) has visited the site and there are a lot of stones lying about the site which could possibly be used to mark out the footpath. (JL) the site needs more topsoil and the gorse still needs to be cleared and suggested the date be moved to 19^th October for the work to be done. Councillors agreed.
2128	b. Parish Council’s Strimmer (DM) Very little to report other than the contractors are cutting a lot of the areas previously covered by the Parish Strimmer Group.
2129	c. The Hollow Project (KR) Nothing further to report at present.
2130	d. Toilets (BA) Nothing to report currently. Will monitor.
2131	e. Flashing 30mph Sign A6079 (RG) has spoken to the relevant department at CC regarding erecting repeater speed signs through the village. He has also requested a further survey to be carried out to monitor the speed of traffic through the village,
2132	f. Grass Cutting (DM) has spoken to Chris Mowatt regarding cutting back the grass at Bankside and Warden View which was included in the original contract. A discussion took place as to leaving the grass long for wildlife. (KR) stated if it was to be a wildlife area then it would need to be topped out at the end of the season to promote windflower growth. (BA) will speak to Chris Mowatt. Chris Mowatt also informed (DM) that there are 3 x broken manhole covers on the back green. (BA) will inform Northumbrian Water.
2133	g. Parish Trees (BE) has surveyed the area, report attached, which suggests some minor work be carried out to comply with the Parish insurance policy. (BA) to contact John Harding tree surgeon.
2134	h. Gully on the Green (JL) the area is dry at the moment, but it may require a new drainpipe to be inserted in the future if the problem re occurs.
2135	i. Lay By/Bins (DM) spoke to Chris Mowatt who can prepare the land and erect the post for the litter bin. (BA) will contact Chris and obtain a quote on behalf of the Councillors.
2136	j. Parking on The Green The local newsletter included the request for villagers to park in a way which does not damage the green and to move vehicles when grass cutters are in the area.
2137	k. St Oswald’s Wall and Gate (DM) states there is no further progress but will organise a visit with Geoff and obtain a quote for the work.
2138	l. Swings and Play Area (BA) The swing bolts and fixings have been tightened, they had loosened due to settling in, and the company have supplied the Parish Council with a tool so that they can be inspected and tightened if required.
2139	m. Overhanging trees on path between Wall and Brunton Crossroads. Trees have been cut back and (BA) has informed CC about the weeds and sate of the road. (CC) will have a team to weed and clear debris etc.
2140	n. Christmas Gifts – Village Pensioners To be discussed at next meeting.
2141	o. Bus shelter – painting Request by local resident to Parish Council to provide the paint to decorate the bus shelter outside of the Hadrian Hotel. Council agree and authorise purchase.
2142	4. Planning Applications: 18/03085/FUL Land West of Chapel Lane – (BA) to contact Planning Department and request formal letter outlining the result of the appeal. 19/02880/LBC Town Farm, Wall. Window replacement and relocation of boiler etc. (grade 2 listed).
2143	5. Village Hall Report (DM) informed the meeting as follows: · Last meeting held Mon 19^th September 2019. · Delivery of new chairs delayed but now expected 27/9/19 · Mike Douglas has (for free) done a survey of the Village Hall buildings and a report is awaited. · Finances – Current Account has £4700 plus £538 funds held for bonfire/fireworks event. Savings Account stands at £7370 · Every evening apart from Fridays is now booked for the foreseeable future. · It was noted that NTC events were cancelled due to a lack of a village organiser and through no fault of NTC. Parish Council asked to take this into account when considering donations for the coming year, Hall officials will try to assess the situation for possible future events before the Parish Council meeting in November. · Police Community Officer is dealing with village matters through Village Hall officials rather than Parish Councils because this is thought to be a less official approach. Handheld speed cameras are being made available through these channels, but Hall Committee members seem reluctant to be involved for personal safety reasons. · Strimming group members are to be asked to take part in a volunteer group to clear the footpath opposite the garage. · Date of next meeting Thurs 14^th November.
2144	6. Review of Risk Register, Insurance and Finances. (BA) informed the meeting that the finances were in line with future projections on spending. 7. Date of next meeting. Thursday 21^st November 2019.
2145	8. Any Other Business: 1/ Claim for Public Rights of Way at East Wood, Acomb – to be discussed at next meeting when supporting documents have been received. 2/(JL) states that the Firework display at Wall will be going ahead this year. (BA) to supply previous Risk Assessment for completion before the event. The date has been set for Sunday 3^rd November with a Firework Group meeting to be held on 3^rd October. WPC to donate £150 to the firework fund. 3/ Potholes have appeared near to the church and pant. (DM) will attempt to obtain some filling material and (JL) will help with the work. 4/ Cricket wicket still in need of removal. (JL) will deal in due course. There being no further business meeting closed at 8:50pm.

Draft

Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting

held on Thursday 25^th July 2019

in Wall Village Hall at 7:45pm

Present

Cllrs: David Mason (DM) (Chair), Kathy Rogstad (KR),

Rupert Gibson (County Councillor), Bob Elliott (BE).

Clerk: Brian Alger (BA)

Minutes Number Number

Description

2106

1. Apologies for absence:

Cllrs: John Lamb (JL). Stephen Kendall (SK). Tim McArdle (TM).

2107

2. Minutes of the last meeting:

The minutes were approved as being an accurate record of the previous meeting with one typing error pointed out by (DM) to be rectified.

2108

3. Matters Arising

a. Settlement Area, Wall Fell

No further progress currently. (JL) to be spoken to for an update from Historic England and regarding work and clearing of gorse/scrub in the area.

2109

b. Parish Council’s Strimmer

(DM) All going well although most of the strimming is being done by Chris Mowatt and his team during grass cutting. (DM) has cleared Old Lane. The brambles are coming over the wall at The Chair which will be monitored as they may need to be cut back soon.

2110

c. The Hollow Project

(KR) Nothing further to report at present.

2111

d. Toilets

(DM) reports lights have been replaced after report submitted by (BA) following the last meeting.

2112

e. Flashing 30mph Sign A6079

There have been several incidents where residents have reported speeding vehicles through the village. Although it has been observed that the speed sign is effective in slowing most vehicles down. Councillors asked (RG) if it would be possible to have the speed and traffic survey equipment located in the village again to monitor the situation. It was also suggested that 30mph repeater signs through the village may have an affect on slowing traffic down. (RG) will speak to CC next week.

2113

f. Grass Cutting

Councillors happy with the grass cutting however, the banksides opposite the Hadrian Hotel and towards Warden View have not been cut. (BA) to contact Chris Mowatt and request attention to the area. Councillors also agreed 2 extra cuts for the central green before the end of the grass cutting season. This will be at a cost or £100.00 per cut.

2114

g. Parish Trees

(BE) has not had the opportunity to inspect the parish trees but it will be carried out as soon as possible.

The beech tree on the back green has not yet been removed but is in hand.

(DM) had a complaint from a local resident that the trees overhanging the road on the back green are low enough to scrape along the roofs of vehicles.

A working party to be arranged to tackle the problem during August, possibly the 10^th.

2115

h. Gully on the Green

Gully has been repaired. The repair to the land above has not, as yet, been completed. Awaiting further update from (JL).

2116

i. Lay By/Bins

(DM) and (BA) attended a site meeting with Geoff Cairns (CC) about the placement of a new bin at the layby. It was pointed out that the area identified would need to be dug out and a retaining wall erected as it is on a bank. Geoff suggested that it would be better for a private contractor to carry out the work. (DM) suggested that it may be possible to carry out the work at the gully and at the layby at the same time but would require access to a mechanical digger. Stephen Croxford-Adams has a mechanical digger and will be asked if he is available to carry out the work needed.

2117

j. Parking on The Green

(BA) reported that Signage has been delivered and will be erected as soon as possible. The new toilet information notice has been attached by (BA) and a notice attached by (DM) to the bins on the back green.

(DM) has received complaints from residents about the number of vehicles parking on the green in the centre of the village. Vehicles are parking half on the green under the Coronation tree having mounted the kerb. The grass at the top of Chapel Lane has been badly affected with deep furrows. Vehicles are not being moved when the grass cutters attend and are therefore unable to cut the green properly. (BA) to draft an entry to be placed in the village Newsletter.

2118

k. St Oswald’s Wall and Gate

(DM) states there is no further progress but should be rectified ASAP.

2119

l. Swings and Play Area

(BA) will contact the company who erected the swings again to point out the loose bolts and get them to rectify the problem. Swings will be added to the Risk Register to be inspected every 6 months by the Clerk.

2120

m. Overhanging trees on path between Wall and Brunton Crossroads.

(BE) has received complaints from residents regarding the state of the overhanging trees at this location. Yet again persons using the footpath are having to step into the road to avoid them. The path itself is also in a bad state overgrown and in need of attention. (RG) stated he would speak to the landowner regarding the hedge as it is the landowner’s responsibility to keep it cut back. (BA) to contact CC re paths.

2121

4. Planning Applications:

19/01354/FUL East Grottington, Hallington - Passed.

18/03085/FUL Land West of Chapel Lane – decision has been appealed by applicant; no update received by Clerk at this time.

2122

5. Village Hall Report

(DM) informed the meeting as follows:

· Last meeting held Mon 24^th June 2019.

· New guttering fitted to South elevation

· Agreed to purchase 35 new chairs to replace the present cloth covered chairs which are considered to be in a poor condition. This to be funded from several donations and grants received recently. Discarded chairs to be taken to the tip.

· Toddler group Tots in Shed to be donated to the village fete as group was disbanded several years ago.

Thought to be given to ideas for the future development of the hall.

· NTC productions in October and January Cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances.

· Treasurer reported assets in excess of £1400.00 before purchase of chairs but including £538 held on behalf of the Fireworks Group.

· Hall unavailable on 18/7 due to Police Commissioner elections.

· Date of next meeting – Mon 2^nd September.

2123

6. Review of Risk Register, Insurance and Finances.

(BA) informed the meeting that the finances were in line with future projections on spending.

7. Date of next meeting.

Thursday 19^th September 2019.

2124

8. Any Other Business:

(BA) informed the meeting that he had received the feedback of the Local Transport Plan and unfortunately none of the points raised by the council were included in next year’s priorities.

1/ Traffic enforcing signs (30mph) to be replaced - has been passed to the area office for attention.

2/ Resurfacing of roads out of Wall Village especially towards Brunton Crossroads – will be considered when developing future maintenance programmes.

3/ Footway resurfacing out of wall village towards Brunton Crossroads – to be considered when developing future maintenance programmes.

(DM) suggested clearing the gorse on the fell on Saturday 28^th September at 10:30am. Councillors agreed.

There being no further business meeting closed at 8:55pm.

DRAFT

Minutes of the Annual Meeting of the Council held on Thursday 30th May 2019 in Wall Village Hall at 7.30pm
Present	· Cllrs: Kathy Rogstad (KR), David Mason (DM), Bob Elliott (BE) Chair, Stephen Kendall (SK), Tim McArdle (TM), Rupert Gibson (RG) (County Councillor). · Brian Alger (BA) Clerk

Minutes Number Number	Description	Actions
2084a	Apologies for absence: Received from John Lamb (JL).
2085a	Minutes of the last meeting: The minutes were approved as being an accurate record of the previous meeting.
2086a	Election of Chair, Vice Chair and Representatives Chair: Bob Elliott - Proposed (KR) 2^nd (DM) Vice Chair: Kathy Rogstad - Proposed (DM) 2^nd(BE) Bonfire Rep: John Lamb - Proposed (BE) 2^nd (KR) Village Hall Rep: Dave Mason - Proposed (BE) 2^nd (KR) Councillors agreed that Chair would be rotated.
2087a	Chairman’s Report 2019 Overview Overall, 2018/2019 was a reasonably quiet year in the life of Wall Parish. The most noticeable positive change to parishioners will have been the successful replacement of the swings on the Back Green. The most contentious issues have been the issues of Camping on the Back Green, works to clear gorse around the Iron Age Settlement site on the Fell above the Village, and the ongoing issue of planning applications affecting the old Allotment site to the West of Chapel Lane. Planning Planning applications dealt with by the PCC in the year include a further application by the owner of the Allotment site to erect a dwelling on the Southern end of the site. This was objected to by neighbours on the grounds of impact on its surroundings and the entrance to the village from the South. Those objections were supported by the PCC, and the application was refused. The PCC understands that the refusal is currently subject to appeal. An application by the owners of the Hadrian Hotel to add an extension to their dining area overlooking the North Tyne Valley was supported by the PCC as a positive step to add to the attraction of the venue. However, it was rejected by Northumberland County Council (NCC) as inappropriate in its surroundings. The PCC understands that a revised proposal may be submitted. Permission was given for the interior alterations to the old Methodist Chapel, but currently the works have not been carried out, and the Chapel is apparently back on the market. Campers on the Back Green Regrettably, misuse of the camping permission on the Back Green and significant antisocial behaviour during the summer has led the PCC to withdraw the previously allowed automatic 24-hour camping access. Prior permission now needs to be obtained from the PCC. In addition, vehicular access to the Back Green is banned, except for access/parking for the Village Fete and similar special events. Signage is being installed to reinforce the changes. Settlement on the Fell A contractor clearing gorse around the Iron Age Settlement on Wall Fell for stock grazing exposed stones from the original settlement, which were disturbed in the process, potentially damaging the site. After concern from some parishioners, and the involvement of Historic England and the footpaths officer for NCC, reseeding with grass seed is being carried out. It is proposed that (subject to funding/involvement of third parties) there should be better signage by way of a notice board explaining the nature and extent of the site, and making clearer the line of the footpath through the site, to help better preserve the site for the future. Grass cutting After an unsatisfactory year in which the PCC felt that NCC provided a sub-standard service, in terms of quality and number of cuts, leading to a rebate of 25%, the decision was taken to put the contract out to tender. The contract for 2019 was awarded to Chris Mowatt’s firm, including additional cuts in 2019, and the work so far has appeared to be a significant improvement. More strimming seems to be done by the contractor than by NCC, which may reduce the workload of the Strimming Group this year. Speeding Although the flashing speed sign at the end of Warden View is working, and having some effect on slowing traffic, complaints continue to be received from parishioners concerning speeding both on the main road (A6079) and within Wall village itself. Commercial vehicles seem to be a particular problem. This will need to be monitored, and further action considered. A separate issue in relation to speeding at Low/High Barns was raised with the PCC, but although sympathetic to the concerns raised, the PCC felt that the issue there is primarily one for NCC. Finances Wall PCC continues to balance its books, but as in previous years it has little if any by the way of reserves to fall back on. In 2018/2019 the PCC also had to fund tree surgery work on the beech tree by the village Notice Board on the Green. With the effect of inflation, and additional requirements for the forthcoming year in terms of grass cutting, this has led to a small increase (5%) in the precept for 2019/2020. Other miscellaneous matters The replacement swings are in place, look good, and appear to be well used. The concrete cricket wicket has been removed as it was damaged. It is hoped to obtain funding to replace the heavily rusted goalposts. Damage to the old bin in the lay-by on the A6079 has meant its replacement by a refurbished second-hand wheelie bin. The PCC has commented in the NCC’s consultation over the Local Plan for Northumberland on issues of sustainability, the green belt and windfarms. And finally, thanks are due to… …those who continue to be involved in the Hollow Project, all the participants in the 2 litter picks, those involved in keeping the footpaths clear around the village, the strimming group, the residents who tend to the planters at the entrances to the village, Councillor Gibson for his attendance and preparedness to take on issues, and last but not least, Brian, the PCC clerk for all his sterling work during the year. Bob Elliott, Chair, May 2019	`
2089a	Any Other Business No other business was raised.

There being no further business the meeting closed at 7:40pm.

DRAFT

Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting

held on Thursday 30^th May 2019

in Wall Village Hall at 7:45pm

Present

· Cllrs: David Mason (DM), Kathy Rogstad (KR), Tim McArdle (TM), Rupert Gibson (County Councillor) RG. Stephen Kendall (SK), Bob Elliott (BE) (Chair).

· Clerk: Brian Alger (BA)

Minutes Number Number

Description

2084

1. Apologies for absence:

Cllrs: John Lamb (JL).

2085

2. Minutes of the last meeting:

The minutes were approved as being an accurate record of the previous meeting with two typing errors pointed out by (DM) to be rectified.

2086

3. Matters Arising

a. Settlement Area, Wall Fell

(DM) met with Tim Fish (NCC Footpaths Officer), along with interested parties, who visited the site to discuss future improvements. Tim has agreed to authorise work on the site including new steps at the top of the fell. He suggested sign boards and will improve way marking signs around the area. This needs to be cleared with Historic England before anything can be actioned.

The gorse can not be cut back at this time, due to nesting birds, but can be cleared from September onwards.

(JM) is on holiday at present (TM) will speak to him on his return regarding topsoil and re seeding.

2087

b. Parish Council’s Strimmer

(DM) Strimming commenced on 13/5/19. The grass cutting is going well and reports so far are positive. (BA) will liaise with contractor regarding areas missed. (SK) has been approached by a resident who asked if the corner of Greenhead House could be cut as CC did this in the past (BA) will speak to contractors regarding this request.

2088

c. The Hollow Project

(KR) No further updates at present.

2089

d. Toilets

(DM) reports light off in gents. (BA) to contact CC and also point out the state of interior decoration which is in need of attention.

2090

e. Flashing 30mph Sign A6079

Discussion took place in which it was agreed that in general the electronic speed sign was having an effect, however residents are still reporting speeding vehicles through the village and are especially concerned regarding the heavy quarry and logging trucks. (SK) suggested 30mph reminder signs should be placed on lamp posts through the village and queried whether a 20mph limit could be applied. (RG) pointed out that CC will only act on significant data to support the need for further traffic calming measures and, as at this moment in time, the village is not an accident black spot there is little chance of action being taken. (BE) enquired if a new survey could be instigated – (RG) will enquire.

2091

f. Grass Cutting

Discussed at entry (b).

2092

g. Parish Trees

(BE) states he will conduct an annual inspection in accordance with the insurance policy specifications and report back to (BA).

The beech tree on the back green is dead. At the last meeting (JL) had stated that he would remove it if it had not recovered.

2093

h. Gully on the Green

Gully has been repaired however some further work is required above the gully which (JL) has in hand.

2094

i. Lay By/Bins

(BA) will arrange meeting with CC regarding siting of the bin.

2095

j. Parking on The Green

(BA) reported that Signage has been ordered and should be with us soon.

2096

k. St Oswald’s Wall and Gate

(DM) states that (JL) was arranging to meet Geoff Hogg. No progress at present but the job may be more complicated than first thought. Awaiting update from (JL) on his return from holiday.

2097

l. Swings and Play Area

(DM) The holes have now been filled and area re seeded. Benches still need to be cleaned and treated. (DM) states that with some assistance he can clean the seats and benches at the rear of his house with a pressure hose hopefully before the 20^th July when the Village Fete takes place. (councillors agree to remove from Agenda)

2098

m. Precept

(BA) This was paid but a little later than usual this year.

2099

n. North East War Memorials Project.

(BA) A request for a donation towards the upkeep of the War Memorial website has been received. The donation will be made online. Councillors agreed £25.00 donation. (BA) to expedite.

2100

o. Village Hall Signage

(DM) expressed concerns from the Village Hall Committee that village hall is not adequately signed. Councillors discussed the matter and concluded that they felt that there was no need for further signage in the village, although they had no objection in principle if the Village Hall Committee wanted to procure further signage.

2101

4. Planning Applications:

19/01354/FUL East Grottington, Hallington - No update.

18/03085/FUL Land West of Chapel Lane – decision has been appealed by applicant, no update.

2102

5. Village Hall Report

(DM) informed the meeting as follows:

· Last meeting held Mon 15^th April 2019.

· Accounts have been submitted to WPC.

Total funds - £11,611.00

Charges to remain at £14 a session

Expenditure this year expected to be similar to last year apart from the purchase of new chairs and cutlery.

· There has been a fall in membership of some organisations using the hall.

· Old Years Night and Burns Night were a success.

· New Equipment – agreed in principle to purchase 80 sets of new cutlery plus between 20/50 new chairs. This being dependent on the funding which might be acquired. The hall would be willing to match external funding. As of 30^th May, funding secured as follows

£200 anonymous donation

£500 Bowls Club donation

£750 Book Club grant

Samples of equipment and quotes are being sought.

· Bonfire/Fireworks - There is in excess of £400 held in the Village Hall Accounts on behalf of the ‘Bonfire Group’. Enquires to be made as to the interest/viability/possibility of future events.

· Next cleaning duties for Parish Council 20^th Jan 2020

· Date of next meeting 24^th June.

2103

6. Review of Risk Register, Insurance and Finances.

Yearly Audit report discussed and approved by Councillors. Risk Register and Insurance in order.

2104

7. Date of Next Meeting

Thursday 18^th July 2019 at 7:30pm

2105

8 Any Other Business:

Chair for next meeting will be (DM).

There being no further business meeting closed at 9:00pm.

Draft

Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting held on Thursday 21^st March 2019

in Wall Village Hall at 7:30pm

Present

· Cllrs: David Mason (DM), Kathy Rogstad (KR), Tim McArdle (TM), Rupert Gibson (County Councillor) RG. John Lamb (JL), Bob Elliott (BE) (Chair).

· Clerk: Brian Alger (BA)

· Four members of the public

Minutes Number Number

Description

2061

1. Apologies for absence:

Cllrs: Stephen Kendall (SK).

2062

2. Minutes of the last meeting:

The minutes were approved as being an accurate record of the previous meeting.

2063

3. Matters Arising

a. Settlement Area, Wall Fell

A lengthy discussion took place in respect of the pre-historic settlement area located on Wall Fell above Wall Village. Four members of the public attended the meeting in order to take part in the discussion and to air their views. The area has become overgrown with gorse over the years which, if left unchecked, would cause damage to the site remains. (JL) explained that he has been clearing the site of gorse which is to be grassed for grazing. All present at the meeting agreed that the site needs preserving with better access, notice boards (funding may be available from Historic England) site markers installed and new steps to be extended upwards from the gate accessing the site. It was pointed out that if any further work is carried out on the site then written consent should be sought from Mike Collins, Historic England and advice taken from Sarah Rushton, Area Archaeologist. (RG) informed the meeting that funding may be available from Tim Fish, NCC Footpaths Officer, regarding updating, installing footpaths. (JL) will speak to Historic England to explain what has been proposed at this meeting, and to check what funding Historic England may have. He will also provide written consent as landowner for the proposed works. (DM) suggested that a plan of the site would be advisable as the site would appear to be larger than previously believed. (JL) stated that it would be appreciated if he had help with clearing gorse/scrub from the area. A provisional date was agreed Saturday 30^th March 10:30am for volunteers to attend. Attending members of the public then left the meeting.

2064

b. Parish Council’s Strimmer

(DM) No volunteers yet to make up the numbers so strimmer group consists of six members. Roster will be arranged for mid-May when strimming begins.

2065

c. The Hollow Project

(KR) No further updates at present.

2066

d. Toilets

(BA) recently checked toilets which were in order. (DM) pointed out that the interior could do with decorating (BA) to contact CC.

2067

e. Flashing 30mph Sign A6079

(BE) has been in touch with the manufacturers of the automatic sign regarding maintenance. He has been informed that servicing or re-charging of the batteries is unnecessary.

2068

f. Grass Cutting

(BA) informed the meeting that the new agreement for grass cutting has been signed by Chris Mowatt and we have funds for at least 3 or 4 extra cuts this season. Chris also sent details of the company insurance and liability details.

2069

g. Parish Trees

The previously reported tree on the back green does appear to be dead. (JL) is willing to remove the tree but a stump grinder will be required to remove it fully. A replacement tree should be planted in Autumn/Winter. (BE) will also conduct a visual inspection of the trees identified on the Survey Report from Colin White’s company and report findings to (BA), in case further work needs to be undertaken, as an annual review of condition.

2070

h. Gully on the Green

(JL) - a flagstone has been placed in the hole, but it would appear this is a bigger job than previously thought. The drainage pipe needs replaced and will need to be dug out back to the source of the water. (JL) will ask a colleague, who has a digger, to investigate.

2071

i. Lay By/Bins

(BA) has been in touch with CC about replacement bin. David Hunt from CC has requested a site visit to discuss. (BA) and (DM) will arrange a meeting.

2072

j. Speed limit High/Low Barnes

(BA) reported that following a recent accident at this location the residents involved in attempting to decrease the speed limit in the area have been in touch with Wall Parish Council. (RG) is aware of the situation and informed the meeting that CC are reluctant to decrease the speed limit at this location, but they are aware and have recently implemented traffic calming measures. Councillors agreed that this is a matter for CC.

2073

k. Parking on the green/Signage

(BA) awaiting estimates from ‘Sign and Design’ Hexham, about the new information signs. (DM) suggest posts with chains should be in place before Easter. (JL) has access to some 3 x 3 posts which will do. (KR) suggested information signs to be attached to the chains. (BA) will get estimates for extra signage.

2074

l. St Oswald’s Wall and Gate.

(DM) the job is possibly bigger than initially quoted for. (DM) would be willing to attend with Jeff Hogg and (JL) to discuss. (JL) has a quantity of stone which could be used for the repair.

2075

m. Swings and Play Area

(BA) states that the safety mats under the swings appear to be settling in except for one or two areas. (DM) has some seed and some compost to fill those areas in. (DM) and (KR) will arrange a time to fill the holes in. (DM) informed the meeting that the tables and benches in the play area need a clean as does the bench at Warden View.

2076

n. Precept

(BA) Precept has been submitted and appears to have been added to the Council Tax as a 4.9% rise.

2077

o. Trees overhanging the pavement at Halton Grange

(BA) reports that they appear to have been cut back and no longer present a problem

2078

p. North East War Memorial Project

To be discussed at next meeting

2079

4. Planning Applications:

18/01463/FUL Hadrian Hotel – Refused, but it is believed that the applicant might have submitted altered plans which may be acceptable to CC

18/03085/FUL Land West of Chapel Lane – decision has been appealed by applicant.

2080

5. Village Hall Report

(DM) informed the meeting as follows:

· Meeting has not taken place.

· Burns Night was a success and a donation will be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

· A meeting was held in the hall with the Community Police Officer for the area regarding crime and prevention.

2081

6. Review of Risk Register, Insurance and Finances.

(BA) no new Risks identified. Finances in order and in line with spending requirements.

2082

7. Date of Next Meeting

Thursday 23^rd May 2019 at 7:30pm

2083

8 Any Other Business:

1/ Litter Pick – date to be Saturday 13^th April 10:30am meeting at Notice Board.

2/ (DM) and (BE) attended meeting with Humshaugh regarding footpaths in the area between Humshaugh and Wall Village. Their aim is to publish a guide to circular footpaths in the area, but some of these could benefit from rerouting to avoid busy roads, possibly using paths marked on old maps of the area but are no longer signed or obvious. (DM) and (BE) had indicated support for the proposal, where the paths wee located in Wall Parish. Members of Humshaugh Council will be contacting Tim Fish, CC Footpaths Officer, to investigate reinstating these routes.

3/ (DM) complaints made regarding dog dirt on New and Old Lanes. Suggest a Dog Litter sign attached to the existing footpath sign.

4/ The stream near to Planetrees is eroding the side of the road again. Belongs to Mike Douglas. (JL) will speak to Mike or sort the problem himself.

There being no further business meeting closed at 9:20pm.

Draft

Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting

held on Thursday 24^th January 2019

in Wall Village Hall at 7:30pm

Present

· Cllrs: David Mason (DM), Kathy Rogstad (Chair) (KR), Tim McArdle (TM), Rupert Gibson (County Councillor) RG.

· Clerk: Brian Alger (BA)

Minutes Number Number

Description

2064

1. Apologies for absence:

Cllrs: John Lamb (JL), Bob Elliott (BE), Stephen Kendall (SK).

2065

2. Minutes of the last meeting:

The minutes were approved as being an accurate record of the previous meeting.

2066

3. Matters Arising

a. Parish Council’s Strimmer

(DM) We are still looking for a new volunteer to make up the numbers on the strimming team.

2068

b. The Hollow Project

(KR) Nothing further to report currently.

2069

c. Toilets

(DM) The toilet seat and light have now been repaired by CC on request by WPC.

2070

d. Flashing 30mph sign on A6079

(RG) Speed camera sign has been requested and awaiting delivery. (BE) has been sent the wrong equipment to recharge the speed sign – he has requested further advice from the manufacturers.

2071

e. Grass Cutting

(BA) has heard back from CC who, after the complaint was submitted regarding lack of cuts during last season, have offered a 25% discount. Councillors agree to the discount. (BA) informed the meeting that the bill, due on 11/1/19, has been paid and he will request the discount be refunded to our bank account.

Having now received 3 quotes for grass cutting for the coming season it was agreed that the contract should be offered to Chris Mowatt CM Commercial (NE) ltd.

(BA) will make contact with the company and set out terms, documented, with regard to the areas and number of cuts – this will include extra cuts agreed with Chris as and when needed and within the budget set aside for this task.

2072

f. Parish Trees

(DM) there is still a tree which is leaning next to the toilet block. (BA) reports that this has been reported to CC on 2 occasions, (last time 10/12/18), and they stated it was in hand. (JL) has agreed to remove the tree on the green, which appears to be dead, if it does not show signs of life in Spring.

2073

g. Gully on the Green

Waiting for the ground to dry out.

2074

h. Lay By/Bins

(BA) has received quotes from CC in respect of replacing the damaged,,now removed, bin at the lay by.

Council agreed to CC replacing it with a modern post and bin. (DM) suggests that the new bin is place ½ way down the lay by on the grassed area between the lay by and main road. Agreed.

(BA) to arrange.

2075

i. Speed limit High/Low Barnes

(BA) reports that he sent an email back to the complainant after the last meeting. (RG) informed the meeting that the traffic calming measures have now been completed. Councillors agreed that this can now be removed from the agenda pending any further contact/complaints about the problem.

2076

j. Campers parking on the green.

(BA) is looking into acquiring new signs for the toilet block to replace the existing one with new terms and conditions for overnight campers. (DM) suggested that Top Signs in Hexham provide signs for outdoor use. (BA) will contact them for a quote. (KR) will place a notice in the village new letter regarding camping and the measures being taken by WPC. Sign post for the green to be acquired after the meeting in March.

2077

k. St Oswald’s wall; and gate

(DM) Jeff Hog has been spoken to and is aware of the work needed to be done. (DM) will speak to John Rey but feels the previous quote may be on the low side and could rise due to the amount of work needed to repair the wall and gate.

2078

l. Swings and Play Area

(KR) suggested the levelling the land around the swings and reseeding to take place in March. Agreed. (DM) suggested using soil from the mole hills, which are becoming a problem, is used for levelling. It was also suggested by (DM) that a post and board would be preferable, for information signs, to be place near to the picnic benches and swings.

2079

m. Precept

(BA) circulated, via email to councillors as requested after the last meeting, the suggested increase of 5% in respect of 2019/20 Precept. Councillors agreed that the rise was justified and would help towards the extra grass cuts. (BA) will submit request to CC.

2080

2081

n. Trees overhanging the pavement at Halton Grange

(BA) will attempt to contact the Estate Agents, (Sanderson and Young?), responsible for the sale of the property to inform the owners of the problem. Hopefully this will result in the trees being cut back.

o. Inspection – Parish Buildings etc.

(BA) reports that the six-monthly inspection of land and buildings, the responsibility of WPC, was in order.

2082

4. Planning Applications:

18/03309/FUL, East Grottington, Hallington NE19 2LB – Granted.

18/01463/FUL Hadrian Hotel, Wall, NE46 4EE – comments submitted 24/12/18.

2083

5. Village Hall Report

(DM) informed the meeting as follows:

· Date of last meeting – Mon 14/1/19

· Treasurers report – Approx. £8,000.00 in savings account and £2,000.00 in current account

· A new hire agreement has been drafted with a £50.00 discretionary, refundable, deposit to be applied when food is included in the function. To be ratified at AGM in April.

· A new cleaning rota to be prepared for 2019.

· Burns Night is to be held on 26/1/19. As of now 53 tickets have been sold – hoping to get up to 70 before the night.

· New chairs- have been quoted £29.95 per chair replacement. Further consideration next meeting.

· Community Crime Prevention – A meeting was held in the Village Hall and was attended by representatives from several Village Halls. Community Police Officer will assess comments and arrange another meeting.

· Still no permanent secretary.

· Request for regular users to contact D. Easby with dates for 2019.

· Date of next meeting – Monday 15/4/19 – AGM and GCM

2084

6. Review of Risk Register, Insurance and Finances.

(BA) no new Risks identified. Finances in order and in line with spending requirements.

2085

7. Date of Next Meeting

Thursday 21^st March 2019 at 7:30pm

2086

8 Any Other Business:

(DM) Re Village Information Card: this is out of date. It has been in existence for a number of years and was intended to give residents handy guide to useful telephone numbers and contacts. After discussion it was decided that, due to the development of modern technology, the information held on the card is easily accessible to most people and no longer required.

(DM) Kirsten Francis is intending to publish a booklet showing footpaths and walks around Humshaugh and Wall areas. (DM) suggested a meeting to discuss. (BA) and (KR) would be willing to attend. (DM) to arrange.

(RG) Chapel Lane has not, yet, had the potholes repaired. He has reminded CC and hopefully it will be done soon.

(DM) has a questionnaire from the ‘Centre for Regional Economic & Social Research’ regarding assets owned by the village and usage etc. He will liaise with the Village Hall Committee to complete the form.

(DM) informed the meeting he'd been copied into an email from Jane Wrigley to Historic England concerning work being carried out on the fell.

(BE) Chair for next meeting in March

There being no further business meeting closed at 9:05pm.

Draft

Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting held on Thursday 22nd November 2018

in Wall Village Hall at 7:30pm

Present

· Cllrs: David Mason (DM), Kathy Rogstad (Chair) (KR), Stephen Kendall (SK), Rupert Gibson (County Councillor) RG.

· Clerk: Brian Alger (BA)

Minutes

Number

Description

2039

1. Apologies for absence:

Cllrs: John Lamb (JL), Tim McArdle (TM), Bob Elliott (BE).

2040

2. Minutes of the last meeting:

The minutes were approved as being an accurate record of the previous meeting.

2041

3. Matters Arising

a. Parish Council’s Strimmer

(DM) One of the volunteers, Paul Spear, has dropped out from the rota. (DM) has added the cleaning of the phone box and bus stop to the Strimmer group during the season. (DM) will check them during the winter months.

2042

b. The Hollow Project

(KR) The project is still ongoing, and the wildflower meadow was cut by Matthew Hope and debris cleared. More plugs to be planted in Spring.

2043

c. Toilets

(DM) One of the seats in the gents is broken and in need of replacing also, the interior light in the gents is out. (BA) to report to CC.

2044

d. Flashing 30mph sign on A6079

(RG) has ordered a ‘speed camera’ sign to be attached to the permanent post under the flashing speed warning to slow traffic further.

2045

e. Grass Cutting

(DN) reports that the grass has been cut as follows this season:

7.7 cuts to front green a total of 8

7.75 cuts to rear green

There should be a minimum of 10 cuts between April and September according to the contract between WPS and CC. This also includes strimming around lamp posts and furniture which does not appear to have been completed. (BA) to make complaint to CC.

2 quotes have been received so far in respect of grass cutting. The lowest is from Matthew Hope – C M Commercial – who has agreed to cut the grass at the same price we paid the Council this year.

In principal the Councillors feel inclined to employ C M Commercial for next season but wait to hear from the CC after the complaint is made.

2046

f. Parish Trees

Apparent dead tree on back green is to be monitored and if it does not revive in the Spring then it will be removed.

(BA) enquired with CC regarding responsibility for the copse at the toilet block which they have confirmed belongs to CC and they will have a team check the trees which have fallen branches and one which is leaning.

2047

g. Gully on the Green

(DM) will liaise with (JL) and have the hole covered.

2048

h. Dog Fouling

(DM) appears this is no longer a concern and can be removed from the Agenda.

2049

i. Lay By

(DM) The broken bin has been removed and asked the meeting if it should be replaced with a permanent plastic bin. (BA) will enquire with CC and obtain quotes to replace the bin.

2050

j. Speed limit High/Low Barns

At the request of residents at High and Low Barns, who are attempting to get the speed limit reduced to 40mph in the area of the A6079 at the entrance to their properties as a matter of safety, a discussion took place as to whether WPC would support the proposal. (RG) is of the opinion that as this is an A road CC would be reluctant to reduce the existing speed limit. (RG) stated that CC are in the process of attempting to slow the traffic down at this location by use of signage and road markings. WPC agreed that it would wait and see what impact the traffic calming has before making comment. (BA) to reply to initial email.

2051

k. Local Transport Plan.

(BA) states that the suggestions have been submitted. Councillors agreed to remove this from the agenda.

2052

l. Campers parking on the green

(BA) asked the meeting if they were happy with the wording of the signs to be placed on the toilets and green in respect of camping in the area. Agreed. (BA) will look into having the signs made up. (KR) suggested that ‘No Vehicular Access’ signs be considered and erected in Spring. Agreed.

2053

m. St Oswald’s wall and gate

(DM) reports that Geoff has assessed the wall and gate and it would cost about £230 to have the work completed. The Friends of St. Oswald’s will donate £150 towards the work required.

2054

2055

n. Swings and Play Area

(BA) reports that the swings have now been erected. (DM) feels that the matting around the toddler’s swings should be pegged down which he will arrange. The ground also needs levelling out and re seeded around March time. (DM) is now in possession of the ‘NO Kite’ signs which are to be placed near to the picnic tables on back green. (BA) to look into obtaining posts for them to be attached. (SK) will have cricket concrete wicket removed.

o. Christmas Gifts for Pensioners.

(DM) has the complete list of pensioners who will benefit from the Christmas gifts. He will arrange the purchase of the vegetables etc. Agreed that assembling the gift packages would take place on Thursday 20^th December.

2056

p. Charitable Donations

(BA) presented the meeting with a list of Charitable Donations to agree on.

British Legion £68

Citizens Advice £50

Air Ambulance £150

Tynedale Hospice £150

Northumberland Domestic Abuse £50

North Theatre Company £25

Age UK £25

Core Music (Hexham) £25

2057

q. Precept

(BA) presented the meeting with the current Precept requirements and costings. Councillors requested more time to think about the proposed raise before deciding.

(BA) will circulate costings to all Councillors for consideration.

2058

r. Trees overhanging Halton Grange.

(BE) asked for this to be discussed in his absence. The trees at Halton Grange are encroaching onto the footpath and wondered if the CC would be able to assist and bill the owner for any work undertaken. (RG) stated this was not something CC would get involved in and WPC are responsible for contacting the owner however, he would make enquiries into the matter.

2059

4. Planning Applications

18/01570/FUL – Land South of Quarry House – Granted.

18/03085/FUL – Land West of Chapel Lane - Refused

18/03309/FUL – East Grottington, Hallington, NE19 2LB - Ongoing.

2060

5. Village Hall Report

(DM) Nothing to report as meeting has not taken place.

2061

6. Review of Risk Register, Insurance and Finances.

(BA) Nothing further for the Risk Register. Finances are online with predicted spending for the year.

2062

Date of Next Meeting

Thursday 24^th January 2019 at 7:30pm

2063

Any Other Business:

(DM) There is an amount of money in the book fund which is available for grants etc. if we need it.

(DM) Cleaning of the village hall will take place on the 3^rd Saturday (19^th) January.

(KR) Chair for next meeting.

There being no further business meeting closed at 9:05pm.

Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting held on Thursday 20^th September 2018

in Wall Village Hall at 7:30pm Draft

Present

· Cllrs: David Mason (Chair) (DM), Kathy Rogstad (V/Chair) (KR), Tim McArdle (TM), Stephen Kendall (SK), Bob Elliott (BE), Rupert Gibson (County Councillor) RG.

· Clerk: Brian Alger (BA)

Minutes Number Number

Description

2017

1. Apologies for absence:

Cllrs: John Lamb (JL).

2018

2. Minutes of the last meeting:

The minutes were approved as being an accurate record of the previous meeting.

2019

3. Matters Arising

a. Parish Council’s Strimmer

(DM) Strimming is going well however (BE) pointed out that the strimmer would benefit from a service in the near future.

2020

b. The Hollow Project

(KR) No further update on the project, work is still ongoing, and the location of the new bench has been agreed.

2021

c. Toilets

(BA) checked the toilets recently and found That the gents cubicle light was not working. (DM) states a toilet seat also needs replacing in the gents. (BA) to contact CC.

2022

d. Flashing 30mph sign on A6079

Appears that the sign has been adjusted now and is more visible to traffic. (BE) states he has received complaints about traffic still speeding through the village and suggested the possibility of volunteers assisting in hand held speed camera checks. (KR) reminded Councillors of the possibility of a speed camera sign being attached to the pole. (RG) will look into both points raised.

2023

e. Grass Cutting

(DN) records kept show that there have been six cuts this season to the front green. Six cuts to the back green but at different times. Bankside at Warden View are still being omitted.

(BA) informed Councillors that he had been approached by a firm called Mowatt who are interested in giving a quote to manage grass cutting in the village. Councillors agreed this would be worth looking into and perhaps 3 quotes would be advisable. (BA) to arrange quotes.

2024

f. Parish Trees

(BA) Although the work was due to start a couple of weeks ago nothing appears to have been done. (BA) will make enquiries with John Harding. (DM) pointed out that the new trees planted at the lay by should be monitored as the bands holding them to the posts appear to be slipping.

2025

g. Gully on the Green

(DM) will liaise with (JL) and have the hole covered.

2026

h. Dog Fouling

The problem appears to be ongoing. (DM) has been checking the area and although clear now this may be due to residents removing the waste themselves. A sign in the area may be appropriate.

2027

i. Lay By

(DM) pointed out that the concrete litter bin serving the lay by is broken and the litter signs are in a bad state of repair.

(BA) to contact council re the litter bin and Scenic Lay By as it is the responsibility of CC.

2028

j. Northumberland Local Plan Consultation.

(BA) reports that he has submitted the form to CC and this can now be removed from the agenda. Councillors agree.

2029

k. Local Transport Plan.

(BA) states that the suggestions are due by the 30/9/18 and will be submitted in the next couple of days.

2030

l. Campers parking on the green

Councillors discussed the concerns of villagers regarding unwanted campers parking on the green and causing a nuisance and damage over the summer. A lengthy discussion took place with a view to stopping the problem before it gets out of hand. Suggestions included revoking the 24hr camping right, placing chains between the trees to for a physical barrier against vehicles driving onto the green and new signage. It was also suggested that in future campers would be required to gain permission before setting up their equipment. (BA) will look into signage and was quite prepared to act as first point of contact to potential campers.

The Sign will read as follows: ‘This is a recreational area for Wall Village. No vehicular access or parking permitted and 24hr camping only with advanced permission from Wall Parish Council. No fires or barbeques allowed’. (contact details to be added)

(BA) to deal with signage and enter instructions to campers on website.

2031

M. St Oswald’s wall and gate

(DM) reports that the wall has now been repaired but there is still a problem with the wall adjacent to a tree near to the gate which will need to be attended to soon. It may be that an increase in the Precept to cover the work will be required. (DM) will find out the approximate cost of the work.

2032

2033

N. Swings and Play Area

(DM) has examined the seats in the play area and Warden View. They are in need of pressure clean and treatment and suggested that this could be carried out in Spring. Councillors agree.

(BA) informed meeting that the grant for new swings has now been approved and the replacement of existing swings should be carried out in November. Due to a clerical error there would be a £50 shortfall – Councillors agree to cover extra costs from current funds. He also informed meeting that there may be further funding for extra equipment which he would investigate.

(DM) Has had kite flying warning signs produced for the area.

(DM) the concrete cricket wicket still needs to be removed. (SK) will see if he can arrange removal.

Christmas Gifts for Pensioners.

(DM) suggested that the practice be carried on as last year. Councillors agree. To discuss further at next meeting.

2034

4. Planning Applications

18/10573/LBC – Methodist Church, The Chare NE46 3DU - Passed. Councillors still not happy with potential parking problems and suggested a meeting with the new owners. (BA) to arrange.

18/01570/FUL – Land South of Quarry House - No further update.

18/03085/FUL – Land West of Chapel Lane -Ongoing, comments to be submitted.

18/03309/FUL – East Grottington, Hallington, NE19 2LB - No Objections.

2035

5. Village Hall Report

(DM) reports: -

Held 3rd September

· Still no permanent Secretary

· Problems with Charity Commission website unable to input financial information.

· Agreed to use paper towels instead of electric hand driers in toilets.

· Problems with users of the hall not cleaning thoroughly after use e.g. rubbish bags containing food waste left behind and dishwasher not cleaned out. Also, tables and chairs left in random disorderly fashion. Proposed to take £50 deposit if food is to be served and to monitor more closely.

· Keeping Hire Contract up to date with legislation changes proving problematic.

· Accounts remain healthy with all bills and receipts up to date.

· Following West Northumberland Consortium enquiry regarding availability of WIFI and computers response was that we don’t have either and there is no perceived need in the immediate area however, further discussion to take place regarding possible website for hall.

· Making positive response to a West Northumberland project to tackle local rural crime.

· A donation of £200 has been received from ‘persons who had appreciated the atmosphere of the village’ to benefit the people of the village. Agreed to use this towards replacement chairs.

· Next meeting Mon. 14^th January 2019.

2036

6. Review of Risk Register, Insurance and Finances.

(BA) Nothing further for the Risk Register. Finances are online with predicted spending for the year. The 2^nd Precept payment is now in the bank and the VAT claim has been settled.

2037

Date of Next Meeting

Thursday 22^nd November at 7:30pm

2038

Any Other Business:

(DM) Phone box containing defibrillator could be looked after better, and also Brunton bus shelter. Perhaps Alan Dryden could clean it when doing the toilets? To be added to the strimming rota.

(KR) Chair for next meeting.

There being no further business meeting closed at 9:30pm.

Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting held on Thursday 19^th July 2018

in Wall Village Hall at 7:30pm Draft

Present

· Cllrs: David Mason (Chair) (DM), Kathy Rogstad (V/Chair) (KR), Tim McArdle (TM), Stephen Kendall (SK).

· Clerk: Brian Alger (BA)

Minutes Number Number

Description

1999

1. Apologies for absence:

Cllrs: Rupert Gibson (County Councillor) (RG), Bob Elliott (BE), John Lamb (JL).

2000

2. Minutes of the last meeting:

The minutes were approved as being an accurate record of the previous meeting.

2001

3. Matters Arising

a. Parish Council’s Strimmer

(DM) reports that due to the prolonged period of hot and dry weather the grass has not grown therefore very little strimming was required. The grass and hedge opposite the Wall Garage need cutting back. (DM) and (BE) will deal.

2002

b. The Hollow Project

(KR) reports that due to the hot dry spell a lot of the plants have not taken although the area still looks better than before. The gardener has suggested that locals could be supplied with seed plugs to grow on ready for planting. (DM) pointed out that the table and seat final positioning needs to be established. (KR) will give the gardener the go-ahead to order the seat and table in readiness. A decision will then be made on positioning.

2003

c. Toilets

(DM) checked the toilets recently and found that the work ordered previously has been carried out but not to a high standard. The painting of the woodwork has been carried out but the rotten wood does not seem to have been removed from the facia boards and painted over.

Lighting in the ladies and gents does not appear to be working and the cistern (newly replaced) is not flushing. (BA)to report faults.

2004

d. Flashing 30mph sign on A6079

(DM) reports that the maintenance kit for the permanent sign has now been delivered and is with (BE). Councillors agreed that the sign does appear to be having the desired effect and traffic, overall, appears to be slowing down when warning light flashes.

2005

e. Grass Cutting

The extra cut was carried out in readiness for the fete and grass cuttings removed. No grass cutting has taken place in the rest of the village for some weeks. This may be to do with the hot, dry spell but (DM) made the point that if we do not receive the number of cuts contracted then perhaps we should be asking for a refund. Situation to be monitored.

2006

f. Parish Trees

(BA) reports that John Harding will be carrying out the work required, as highlighted in the survey, for insurance purposes. It will take about 5 weeks for the permissions to be granted by CC. (DM) pointed out that there is a Beech tree near to the bins on the green which may be dead. If it does not recover after the dry spell, then it may need to be removed. To be monitored.

2007

g. Gully on the Green

(DM) will liaise with (JL) and have the work done now that the ground is dry.

2008

h. Dog Fouling

The problem seems to have been resolved and no further incidents at this time reported. (BA) has signs which can be displayed in the area if needed.

2009

i. RoSPA Report

Councillors discussed the report and findings. (DM) believes, due to health and safety, there should be a ‘No Flying Kites’ sign on the back green due to power lines. Agreed.

(DM) also states that the seats and table on the green need treating against the weather. He will assess the job and report at next meeting as to what is required.

(DM) the concrete cricket wicket, mentioned in the report, is cracked and as it is no longer used should be removed. (KR) and (SK) will take a look as they have contacts who may have the equipment to remove the concrete.

2010

j. Northumberland Local Plan Consultation.

A lengthy discussion took place with regards to the plan in which it was agreed that councillors would add their views about the proposals and questions to be asked of CC especially around the areas of Sustainability and Green Belt and how they may affect Wall Village in the future. (BA) will submit the final report to CC.

2011

k. Local Transport Plan.

(BA) states that the request for our submissions to the Local Transport Plan department have been received.

(DM) asks that we suggest road surfaces in and out of Wall Village, especially down to Brunton Cross Roads, are re-surfaced as they are in a state of poor repair.

The path out of the village towards the Cross Roads is also in need of attention as it is a well-used part of the Hadrian’s Wall Walk.

Traffic enforcing signs into the village (30mph) are weathered and are almost invisible and should be replaced.

(BA) to submit report to Local Transport department.

2012

l. Campers parking on the green

Councillors discussed the concerns of villagers regarding campers parking on the green. (DM) pointed out that campers have 24hrs to camp on the land as long as it does not prevent children from playing in the area. As this is in the bye laws of the village then there is not a lot the Parish Council can do. If the campers are causing noise nuisance or damage, then this should be reported to the police by the residents making the complaint.

2013

4. Planning Applications

18/01573/LBC Methodist Church alterations – Still ongoing no correspondence from CC yet.

18/01570/Land South West of Quarry House – Still ongoing no correspondence from CC yet.

2014

5. Village Hall Report

(DM) reports: -

Held 1^st June.

· Funds – over £10,000.00 in various accounts.

· Still looking for a permanent secretary.

· Looking at possible electric hand dryers in the toilets to replace the present worn out units.

· Further discussion to take place on the new Data Protection regulations and Safeguarding policy. This was due to low attendance of members at the meeting.

· There was a note of concern regarding the poor state of some of the village hall chairs.

Date of next meeting Monday 3^rd September at 7pm.

2015

6. Review of Risk Register, Insurance and Finances.

(BA) Nothing further for the Risk Register. Finances are online with predicted spending for the year.

2016

Date of Next Meeting

Thursday 20^th September at 7:30pm

Any Other Business:

(DM) Litter pick to be arranged for Saturday 13^th October. Agreed. (BA) to arrange for collection of equipment from CC.

(DM) The trees at Halton Grange have not been cut back, will check with (JL) to see if he had chance to speak to the groundsman/gardener at the house.

There being no further business meeting closed at 8:55pm.

DRAFT

Minutes of the Annual Meeting of the Council held on Thursday31st May 2018 in Wall Village Hall at 7.30pm
Present	· Cllrs: Kathy Rogstad (KR) (Chair), John Lamb (JL), Bob Elliott (BE), Tim McArdle(TM), Rupert Gibson (RG) (County Councillor). · Brian Alger (BA) Clerk

Minutes Number Number	Description	Actions
1994	Apologies for absence: Received from David Mason (DM), Stephen Kendall (SK).
1995	Minutes of the last meeting: The minutes were approved as being an accurate record of the previous meeting.
1996	Election of Vice Chair and Representatives Chair: David Mason - Proposed (KR) 2^nd (BE) Vice Chair: Kathy Rogstad – Proposed (BE) 2^nd (JL) Bonfire Rep: John Lamb - Proposed (KR) 2^nd (TM) Village Hall Rep: Dave Mason - Proposed (KR) 2^nd (JL) Councillors agreed that Chair would be rotated.
1997	Chairman’s Report Wall Parish Council Chair’s Annual Report May 2018 This last year the Parish Council has been focussing on a number of projects, mainly involving trees. It is lovely to see the four trees in the North layby which were planted in Dave Westle’s memory and a simple plaque to commemorate him. It was a good job well done. Thanks to all involved. The Parish Council are awaiting quotes for works to trees we’re responsible for. We anticipate this to be expensive, the beech tree in the centre of the village potentially needing the most work. Hence we regrettably had to increase the precept in anticipation. Our aim is to have a longer-term plan of work required for the trees, which will help with our future budgeting. The grass cutting in the village so far has been sporadic and not been without disappointment in that areas have been missed. This has been pointed out to those responsible and we will continue to monitor the situation and liaise with those responsible as necessary. The new activated speed sign at the South entrance of the village is a bonus and we’re extremely grateful to County Councillor Rupert Gibson for organising this and for the provision of. It can only help to alert drivers of their speed and encourage them to slow down. Particularly as cars continue to be parked on the main road at times. We have some work to do on the play areas which we’ll endeavour to carry out as time/weather/grants and finances provide. The edges of the back green and the hollow have been seeded and will hopefully be a lovely wildflower border once established. Our thanks go to Ian Robinson for his fundraising and effort with this project. The defibrillator has been moved and has been well housed in the old phone box the Parish has adopted on the Main Road. Regarding planning applications, since the withdrawal of the latest application to build a second property on the old allotments it has been quiet until the application for changes proposed to the Methodist Chapel. Judging by the plans the rumours of it being a drop-in centre may well be true. I daresay at the next Parish Council meeting the issue of parking will be discussed and commented on in our response. Our thanks go to all those involved in the various activities and projects over the last year i.e. the strimming group, the annual litter pick, the checking of the footpaths, the maintenance of the various planters, Christmas tree provision, it’s erection and lighting and to our Clerk who has done a sterling job in his first full year. Kathy Rogstad Chair, Wall Parish Council	`
1998	Any Other Business No other business was raised.

There being no further business the meeting closed at 7:35pm.

DRAFT

Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting

held on Thursday 31^st May 2018

in Wall Village Hall at 7:45pm

Present

· Cllrs: Kathy Rogstad (Chair) (KR), Bob Elliott (BE), John Lamb (JL), Tim McArdle (TM), Rupert Gibson (RG) (County Councillor).

· Clerk: Brian Alger (BA)

Minutes Number Number

Description

1999

1. Apologies for absence:

Stephen Kendall (SK), David Mason (DM)

2000

2. Minutes of the last meeting:

The minutes were approved as being an accurate record of the previous meeting.

2001

3. Matters Arising

a. Parish Council’s Strimmer

Strimming commenced on 28^th May by local volunteers. The areas which are the responsibility of County Council will be monitored to ensure they are cut.

2002

b. The Hollow Project

(KR) reports that this is ongoing and further seeding is to take place in the near future.

2003

c. Toilets

(BA) reports that he has contacted CC with regards to the rotten wood and required painting. He has had a reply from CC stating it will be scheduled for attention soon.

(BA) has reported the damage caused to the lady’s toilet block and dripping pipe in gents to CC.

2004

d. Flashing 30mph sign on A6079

The flashing 30mph sign has been erected near to Warden View however, it was felt that some adjustment may be needed to allow the sign to be seen better by oncoming motorists. (RG) stated that the council should be getting a tool kit for the equipment which will allow the sign to be adjusted as required.

(KR) suggested that another sign attached to the existing pole with a warning of speed cameras may also help to slow traffic down. (RG) will investigate the possibility of having a speed camera sign added.

2005

e. Grass Cutting

(KR) spoke to Geoff Cairns CC regarding the areas which had been missed on 1^st cut and strimming every 3^rd. cut. Grass cutting will be monitored by members of the Council to ensure we are getting the correct number of cuts and CC are adhering to the contract. (BA) will inform CC of the extra cut for the Fete which is on 21^st July.

2006

f. Dave Westle Memorial

(KR) Trees look excellent and plaque has now been erected by (JL). and the plaque attached by (DM). (BE) will attempt to straighten one of the trees which has developed a lean.

2007

g. Parish Trees.

(BA) reported to Council that he has now in his possession quotes with regards to the work needed to make the Parish trees safe and conform with the Insurance stipulations. The cost of the work ranged between £2,100.00 and £600.00. Council agreed that John Harding should be instructed to carry out the work at a cost of £600.00. (BA) will contact Mr. Harding.

2008

h. Gully on the green

(JL) will get it done as soon as possible. The ground appears to be drying out now which prevented the work being carried out previously.

2009

i. General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR)

(BA) reports that Parliament has agreed that there is no need for small Parish Councils to have a Data Protection Controller. The Regulations are 65pages long and most does not apply to Parish Councils. (BA) will monitor any information which is added to the website to ensure it is compliant. Any other information regarding individuals held by the Council should be destroyed if not relevant or ongoing. As the only information held for any amount of time by the Council is concerning Planning Applications, which the Council has already taken advice on, then GDPR should not be an issue. All Councillors are aware of the new regulations.

2010

j. Dog Fouling

It has been reported to and witnessed by members of the Council that dog waste (in bags) is being deposited between The Chare and Chapel Lane instead of taking them home or using the bin provided near to the Notice Board. (BA) will laminate some warning notices to be displayed in the area.

2011

4. Planning Applications.

18/01573/LBC. Methodist Church, The Chare, Wall NE46 3DU.

Council discussed the proposed plans which are mostly internal. There were no objections raised about the work to be completed.

There were however concerns raised about the proposed use of the building and the possible increase in traffic/parking in the village which is already experiencing problems.

(BA) will reply to the Planning Department with the issues raised and object on the Councils behalf until we have clarification on the points raised.

2012

5. Village Hall Report

(DM) not present but left typed report for (BA).

AGM held 30^th April.

· Annual Accounts handed over to Parish Council

· Same officials appointed but still no Secretary. Chris Jones is temporary minutes secretary / David Easby is temporary booking coordinator, Secretary required as a matter of urgency.

· Volunteers will be sought to organise fundraising efforts without which the hall will become unviable in time. D Watson (Chairman) emphasised that this is a community facility and requires the support of the whole community. Note: - A large majority of the present committee are significantly beyond retirement age.

· Joan Proudlock has handed over a large number of photo’s (many mounted on 4 display boards) which are now stored in the Hall and can be brought out at events such as the Village Fete. They depict past events and local people.

· Date of next meeting 1/6/18 at 7pm.

2013

6. Review of Risk Register and Finances

(BA) presented the end of year Audit and Finance returns which were approved by Council.

2014

7. Precept

(BA) informed the meeting that the 1^st payment has been received.

2015

8. Date of next meeting

Thursday 19^th July 2018 7:30pm.

2016

Any Other Business

(BE) has had a request from Susie Swann who asks if paint can be acquired and purchased by Council for the village bus stop. Council agreed.

(BE) expressed concern that the trees outside Halton Grange were encroaching onto the footpath. (JL) will speak to groundsman and inform him of the situation.

(DM) Possibility of 2 litter picks each year starting this Autumn. Agree. Date to be fixed next meeting.

(DM) Stream on Mike Douglas’s land adjacent to ‘Old Lane’, just below the stile, is partially blocked again and is flowing over onto the lane washing away the edge of the tarmac surface. Potholes are also getting worse. (JL) states that the potholes have been repaired and water is no longer washing over the road he will, however, speak to Mike Douglas.

Chair for next meeting Kathy Rogstad (KR)

There being no further business meeting closed at 9:05pm

DRAFT

Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting held on Thursday 22nd March 2018 in Wall Village Hall at 7:30pm

Present

· Cllrs: Kathy Rogstad (Chair) (KR), Bob Elliott (V.Chair) (BE), David Mason (DM), John Lamb (JL), Rupert Gibson(RG) (County Councillor).

· Clerk: Brian Alger (BA)

Minutes Number Number

Description

Actions

1977

1. Apologies for absence:

Stephen Kendall (SK), Tim McArdle TM

1978

2. Minutes of the last meeting:

The minutes were approved as being an accurate record of the previous meeting.

1979

3. Matters Arising

a. Parish Council’s Strimmer

DM states he has 8 volunteers but has not had a meeting as yet but will be organising one for after the Easter period.

DM

1980

b. The Hollow Project

(KR) has been in touch with Ian Robinson and reports that an invoice will be forthcoming in regard to the completed work.

There appears to be a lot of water lying on the green at present which will need to be monitored.

BA

1981

c. Toilets

(BA) reports that they are in need of repainting especially the facia boards which appear to be rotten in places.

(BA) to contact CC.

BA

1982

d. Flashing 30mph sign on A6079

(RG) states that the funding is now available for the erection of the post and sign at the area agreed near to Warden View. (BA) will sign the agreement on behalf of the Council for the work to be completed soon.

(RG) also brought to the attention of the meeting that the pot holes on Chapel Lane would be repaired by CC.

1983

e. Grass Cutting

To be monitored when the cutting commences at the end of March.

1984

f. Defibrillator/Phone Box

(BA) reports that the electrician has been booked to move the equipment from the Village Hall to the phone box on Monday 9^th April.

BA

1985

g. Dave Westle Memorial

(DM) has spoken to the family of Dave Westle and has agreed the wording for the memorial plaque. (JL) will erect a cut down telegraph pole and attach it to that. Council agreed on a gold effect plaque.

(BE) states he has placed protectors around the new memorial trees.

JL, DM

1986

h. Parish Trees

(KR) states that considering the report submitted by CWTS we need quotes by various tree surgeons to proceed with any urgent work identified in the report. (BA) will contact 3 tree surgeons.

BA

1987

i. Gully on the green

This work still needs to be done but hampered by wet weather and sodden ground. (JL) (DM) will deal when the ground is dry.

JL, DM

1988

j. General Data Protection Regulation

(BA) reports that he has read the information with regards to the new legislation and that it should not affect the Council too much and will be attending a training session held by CC.

BA

1989

4. Planning Applications.

NIL.

1990

5. Village Hall Report

DM reports as follows;

· Meeting held 29^th January 2018

· Kate McBride has resigned as Secretary but is still responsible for bookings until AGM. New secretary is sought.

· Chairman has met with Duncan Wise from Dark Skies.

· Thanks to Parish Council for waiving embargo on alcohol sales on premises.

· Treasurer – total funds - £9,306.00

· Inspection of fabric of building indicates that several maintenance projects should be considered to keep the hall in good repair. Initial cost estimates showed that there would be insufficient funds to carry out all of this work.

To help plan for this possible work it was agreed that hire charges would be increased from £12.50 to £14.00 per session for locals and £28.00 for non-local hire. The last increase was in 2011. This is to be ratified at the AGM.

· Date of next meeting 30/4/18 at 7pm.

1991

6. Review of Risk Register and Finances

(KR) asked if the insurance company providing cover for the Parish Council should be informed of the new location of the defibrillator into the telephone box and also inform them of the new speed sign, once erected, as this is an expensive piece of equipment for which the Parish Council is responsible. (BA) to contact Came and Co.

BA

1992

7. Precept

(BA) informed the meeting that the Precept for 2018/19 has been submitted.

1993

8. Date of next meeting

Thursday 31^st May 2018 7:30pm.

Any Other Business

Chair for next meeting Kathy Rogstad (KR)

There being no further business meeting closed at 9:05pm

Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting held on Thursday 18^th January 2018 in Wall Village Hall at 7:30pm DRAFT
Present	Cllrs: David Mason (Chair) (DM), Kathy Rogstad (Vice Chair) (KR), Rupert Gibson (RG) (County Councillor). Bob Elliott (BE), Tim McArdle (TM), Stephen Kendall (SK) Clerk: Brian Alger (BA)

Minutes Number Number	Description	Actions
1958	1. Apologies for absence: Apologies were received from Cllr: John Lamb (JL)
1959	2. Minutes of the last meeting: The minutes were approved as being an accurate record of the previous meeting.
1960	3. Matters Arising a. Parish Council’s Strimmer (DM) Hopes to have a meeting on 7/2/18 to organise rotas.	DM
1961	b. The Hollow Project (KR) reports that there have been no further developments since our last meeting. She will chase up the invoice for work completed.	KR
1962	c. Toilets (BA) CC have been contacted regarding the faulty lights. Electrician will check both interior and exterior lighting.	BA
1963	d. Flashing 30mph sign on A6079 (RG) states that CC will fund the full amount with regards to purchasing, installing and maintaining a traffic speed sign on the A6079 Wall (South). The equipment will be supplied by Unipart Dorman and positioned near to Warden View. Council agreed to the proposal. (RG) will be at County Hall next week when he will set the wheels in motion and order the equipment. (KR) A resident has queried the placement of the speed sign at North end of the village being too far away from the 30mph sign. Council agreed that the sign was in the best position.	RG
1964	e. Grass Cutting (BA) reports that he has contacted CC regarding lack of strimming on the bankside near Warden View. This will be included in the coming grass cutting season.
1965	f. Defibrillator/Phone Box (BA) Electrician stated that he would move the equipment early in the New Year. As yet it has not been moved. (BA) will make enquiries.	BA
1966	g. Dave Westle Memorial. Four trees have now been planted on the lay by North of the village. Council agreed that a memorial plaque should also be added with an inscription dedicated to David. The exact wording will be dependent on consultation with Jemima. (DM) and (KR) will deal.	DM, KR
1967	h. Parish Trees (BE) stated that he was a little disappointed with the report submitted. We asked for a risk assessment on behalf of the Parish Council insurance company however, the report is more concerned with the state of the trees and required pruning etc. as oppose to the risk factor. The accompanying plan of the trees had not been provided by the firm compiling the report. It was decided that Council would wait for the plan before making any decisions and discuss at the next meeting. (BA) will circulate the plan once he receives it.	BA
1968	i. Gully New Lane (DM) states that there is nothing else the Parish Council can do in this matter. The blocked drain has been reported to CC and this can now be removed from the Agenda. Council agreed.	DM
1969	j. Village Hall Governing Document(waver) The Parish Council, who act as Custodian Trustees for Wall Village Hall, have been approached by the Village Hall Committee about functions held at the Hall and specifically in relation to a restriction on the original Governing Document which prevents the sale of alcohol on the premises. It was felt that this restriction, which was added many years ago, is now out of date. It is common practice to allow alcohol to be served at functions today. It was agreed to waiver the restriction and a document was prepared and signed by (DM) and (BE) to this end.
1970	k. Gully, on the green (DM) it is still too wet to make a repair. When the field has dried out the cover will be replaced.	DM
1971	4. Planning Applications. NIL.
1972	5. Village Hall Report. 1.Last meeting held Mon 4^th Dec 17. 2.Quote for replacing gutters - £1,598.00 3.Finances - £3,030.00 in Current Account £7,300.40 in Virgin Account includes £121.85 Fireworks money however the collection from the Fireworks event has not been received as yet. 4.Some minor repairs to the hall will be undertaken by Committee members. Grant Aid being investigated in relation to replacing the roof. 5.Events -10/2/18 Church Fundraising – Tickets £7.50 includes food. May – Wedding. 17/6/18 - Open Garden (for church) Village Hall Committee members will proved tea in Village Hall. 6.Committee have a vacancy for a new Secretary. 7.Next meeting – Mon. 29/1/18.
1973	6. Review of Risk Register and Finances (BA) delivered financial report and current funds available. (DM) queried whether Risk Register should reflect the new banking arrangements now that the bank account is online. (BE) will draft a new Risk Assessment in relation to the new set up. (DM) also pointed out a couple of amendments which need to be addressed. (BA) will update the register.	BE,BA
1974	7. Precept. (BA) Informed the Council that perhaps the agreed 5% increase in the Precept was not enough to cover any unexpected expense and in view of the report on the Parish trees. Council agreed. (BA) to contact CC as Precept has already been submitted with a view to resubmitting an amended request.	BA
1975	8. Letters of thanks Three letters were received from residents thanking the Parish Council for their Christmas gift. These will be filed. Council agreed to send a letter of thanks and bottle of wine to Geoff and Pauline Harrison for the use of their electricity to light the village Christmas Tree.	BA, KR
1976	9. Any other business Chair for next meeting will be Kathy Rogstad (KR) (SK) has received a complaint from a resident complaining about parking on the pavements especially at the entrance to West Farm Court making it difficult to drive out. (DM) will speak to resident involved.
	Date of next meeting: Thursday 22^nd March 7:30pm

	There being no further business meeting closed at 9:05pm

Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting held on Thursday 23^rd November 2017 in Wall Village Hall at 7:30pm DRAFT
	Present; Cllrs: David Mason (Chair) (DM), Kathy Rogstad (Vice Chair) (KR), Rupert Gibson (RG) (County Councillor). Bob Elliott (BE), John Lamb (JL), Tim McArdle (TM) Clerk: Brian Alger (BA)

	Description	Actions
1938	1. Apologies for absence: Apologies were received from Cllr: Stephen Kendall (SK)
1939	2. Minutes of the last meeting: The minutes were approved as being an accurate record of the previous meeting.
1940	3. Matters Arising a. Parish Council’s Strimmer (DM) reports that there are possibly 7 volunteers for the strimmer rota next year. (BE) will purchase a new harness for the strimmer before the start of the new season.	BE
1941	b. The Hollow Project (KR) reports that there have been no further developments since our last meeting. Overhanging branches are still a concern. (DM) will contact council and request branches are cut back near to the toilets and areas overhanging the new Hollow Project. John to cut back branches adjacent to the green.	DM
1942	c. Toilets (BA) The ivy from around the toilets has now been cleared by the County Council. The lighting still seems to be faulty however, a fault report has been submitted to CC. (BA) will monitor.	BA
1943	d. Flashing 30mph sign on A6079 A discussion took place over the NCC proposal of establishing one point of contact for the purchase and maintenance of interactive traffic signs. The cost would still fall on the Parish Council to purchase and pay the maintenance fees. (RG) stated that he is still hopeful that CC will be in a position to finance the purchase of traffic calming measures and this is ongoing. It was agreed that WPC will not opt into the proposed scheme at this time. RG suggested that a permanent sign may be funded out of CC budget.
1944	e. Grass Cutting (BA) reports that after questions were raised at the last meeting concerning the number of cuts undertaken by CC this year that he has now had a reply from CC which shows that we have had the required amount as outlined in the contract. (DM) confirms that he has kept a record and this would appear to be right. (BA) will liaise with the CC in future and supply them with the date of the village fete to arrange the extra cut. (DM) asks if we are happy with CC cutting the grass next year or should we put it out to tender. Councillors agreed that we should continue with CC as quotes in the past were more expensive than those quoted by CC. There was concern that the grass at Bankside near warden view was not being cut. (BA) will bring this to the attention of CC.	BA BA
1945	f. Defibrillator/Phone Box (BA) has been in touch with the electrician who works on behalf of the Stephen Carey Trust and he will be in a position to move the equipment to the phone box early in the new year. The electrician stated that he would be able to obtain signage from the Trust and apply it to the box. There was a question about the green light being too strong on the defibrillator and he will remove that as the phone box has lighting. Entry to be placed in news letter regarding the move.	BA
1946	g. Parish Council Website (BA) reports all is going well. Council agreed to remove this from the agenda and (BA) to report any problem in the future if necessary.	BA
1947	h. Dave Westle Memorial (BE) has placed an order with Trees Please Ltd., for the 4 trees to be planted at the layby. (BA) showed the Councillors the plan from CC indicating where the trees can be planted and distances required from the main road. (BA) will pay deposit to Trees Please Ltd., and send cheque to CC for the required licence.	BA
1948	i. Meeting with Humshaugh Parish Council (DM) As the meeting was predominantly to discuss ways of shared grass cutting with HPC and in view of the fact that WPC has agreed in this meeting to continue the contract with CC in relation to grass cutting then there is no need to meet with HPC. To be removed from agenda.
1949	j. Parish Trees (BE) reports that he has had several quotes with regards to the survey of the Parish trees and that Colin White Tree Surgery Ltd., has been instructed to carry out the survey on behalf of WPC. This will be at a cost of £195.00. There will be a report produced outlining any immediate or future concerns and possible costs involved.
1950	k. Gully, New Lane Following concerns raised by (RG) with regards to water running down New Lane and a blocked cundy (DM) reports that he and (BA) visited the site in question and found that the cundy was clear and was not the cause of the problem. A blocked gully on the main road was the more likely problem. (BA) to report blockage to CC. (DM) raised the problem of water apparently being diverted in the fields adjacent to Old Lane which is having a direct effect on the course of the water running onto Old Lane. A small waterfall at the side of the road is now just a trickle and in wet weather the water is pouring onto Old Lane which was not the case in the past. (DM) suggested possible involvement by DEFRA as there are regulations in place involving the diverting of streams. (BE) stated that WPC should not get too involved with this as the problem was mostly on private land.	BA
1951	4. Planning Applications. Planning application 17/02723/FUL – erection of house on land West of Chapel Lane – Withdrawn!
1952	5. Village Hall Report. (DM) Nothing to report at this time as meeting has not taken place.	BA
1953	6. Review of Risk Register and Finances (BA) Nothing to be added to the Risk Register. Please see item 7 with regards to finances.	BE,RG
1954	7. Precept. (BA) outlined the spending for this financial year and pointed out that WPC would be left with a balance of £200.00. Council agreed that this was not a sufficient buffer should we encounter any unforeseen bills over the next financial year. It was therefore agreed that an increase of 5% should be added to the precept requirement 2018-19.	BA
1955	8. Pensioners gifts and Christmas tree (DM) at this time we have 59residents who are eligible and possibly 2 more. It was agreed that the usual gift of chocolates and vegetables would be handed out and that distribution would take place on Saturday 16^th December. (JL) will provide a Christmas tree for the green and also look into planting a live tree which serve the village in future years.	DM JL
1956	9. Donations Councillors agreed the following donations. Royal British Legion for purchase of wreath and donation £68 Bonfire fund £150.00 Citizens Advice Bureau £50.00 Air Ambulance £150.00 Tynedale Hospice £150.00 Northumberland Domestic Abuse Services £50.00 Northumberland Theatre Company £25.00
	Date of next meeting: Thursday 18^th January 7:30pm
1957	8. Any Other Business (RG) reports that the hedges from Wall Village to Brunton Crossroads will be cut twice a year after complaints made by local residents and walkers. (RG) reports that CC are dealing with potholes throughout the county and will be placing Chapel Lane on the list to be repaired. (DM) the gully on the green has not as yet been fixed. (JL) and (DM) agreed to attempt a repair when the ground is less waterlogged. (JL) reported that the Bonfire and Fireworks night was a great success and raised £415.00 on the night which is a good start for next year’s event. (KR) will purchase winter pansies etc. for the planters for the winter display. (DM) raised the question of parking in the village in relation to the Methodist Hall. If it is to be used as a drop in centre then there may be problems with extra vehicles in the village where parking is already restricted. Council agreed to monitor the situation as and when the hall opens.
	There being no further business meeting closed at 9:35pm

Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting held on Thursday 21st September 2017 held in Wall Village Hall at 7:30pm DRAFT
Present	Cllrs: Bob Elliott (Chair) (BE), Stephen Kendall (SK), Kathy Rogstad (Vice Chair) (KR), David Mason (DM), Rupert Gibson (RG) (County Councillor). Clerk: Brian Alger (BA)

Number	Description	Actions
1917	1. Apologies for absence: Apologies were received from Cllrs: Tim McArdle (TM), John Lamb (JL).
1918	2. Minutes of the last meeting: The minutes were approved as being an accurate record of the previous meeting.
1919	3. Matters Arising a. Parish Council’s Strimmer The rota continues to run successfully however (BE) states that the accessories such as the harness may need attention/repair in the near future.
1920	b. The Hollow Project (KR) reports that clearing has taken place and will be followed by rotavating and planting in the prepared areas. The villagers will also be made aware and encouraged to plant as well. The overhanging branches on trees may need to be cut in that area by County Council as it is envisaged that the area will be used more. (DM) will look into this.	DM
1921	c. Christmas Gifts (DM) has a list of villagers who are eligible to receive gifts. He will check the numbers before ordering items to be distributed to the pensioners. Date for distribution to be discussed at next meeting.	DM
1922	d. Toilets (BA) reports that that the ivy has not as yet been removed from the outside walls but is due to be done in October, he will monitor the situation. It has been reported that there is a fault with the outside lighting which is on during the day – (BA) to contact council in order to fix the fault.	BA
1923	e. Flashing 30mph sign on A6079 (RG) states that he is still pushing for funding from County Council for the erection of permanent traffic calming signs in the village. It appears that there will be a permanent post fitted on land near to Warden View. The council have received the results of the recent traffic survey which indicated that the average speed through the village by vehicles was above the 30mph limit. Following the analysis of the survey the County Council informed the Parish Council that the village did meet the criteria required by Northumbria Safety Roads Initiative for consideration of additional measures and the data has been forwarded onto them by the County Council.	BA
1924	f. Grass Cutting Questions were raised as to the frequency that grass cutting was undertaken in the village and whether or not we have had the requisite amounts of cuts over the period agreed. We certainly did not get the extra cut for the village fete. (BA) to look into this and possible refund.	BA
1925	g. Defibrillator/Phone Box The Defibrillator was to be moved to the phone box. This, as yet, has not taken place. (BA) will make enquiries with the electrician who was going to carry out the move.	BA
1926	h. Dark Skies The Dark Skies proposal is now in the hands of the Village Hall Committee.
1927	i. Parish Council Website (BA) The website is running well and some new items have been added. He will be arranging for the updated data to be added in due course now that the bank transfer has been completed to Lloyds.
1928	j. Dave Westle Memorial (BA) informed the meeting that the County Council agreed to the plan for trees to be planted on the lay by but there would be a £100.00 charge to draw up the licence. Council members agreed to this and (BE) is getting quotes for the 4 trees required.	BE
1929	k. Meeting with Humshaugh Parish Council (BA) will attempt to arrange a meeting now the holiday period is over, hopefully in October.	BA
1930	l. Parish Trees (BE) has been looking into the situation in order to comply with the requirements of the insurance company. He has contacted three local tree surgeons for prices for the necessary survey, prior to work being done. (RG) also states that he knows of a tree surgeon who may be able to help with a quote for a survey and will report back once he has spoken to him.	BE
1931	m. Gully New Lane (BA) informed the meeting that a letter has been sent and awaiting a reply, he will chase up if no reply received.	BA
1932	n. Pavement between Wall and Brunton Crossroads. The council received a number of concerns from local residents with regard to the footpath used regularly by walkers in this area and forms part of the Hadrian Wall footpath. The hedges are overgrown and causing narrowing to the footpath and pedestrians and backpackers are forced onto the road which is dangerous. (RG) who was also contacted by local residents, states that he has spoken to Glen Sanderson, who is the councillor responsible for the Highways department and who is also Chair to the National Park Committee. Glen Sanders has apparently promised a letter outlining what is to be done. (RG) is confident that the problem will be sorted next year and this will hopefully alleviate the problem.	BE,RG
1933	4. Planning Applications. Planning Application – 17/02132/FUL - Garage conversion West Farm Court has now been passed. Planning Application – 17/02723?FUL – Erection of house land West of Chapel Lane – Ongoing with no further updates to report, 16 objections lodged.
1934	5. Village Hall Report DM reports as follows; Meeting held 4th September 2017 The Village Hall is in need of repair/updating. There is Ivy growing on the outside which will need to be removed, the roof and guttering will need attending to in due course. The lighting within the hall is not up to date and the heating will be reviewed in due course. The Village hall is looking into grants available for any work needing to be done. £1734 in Current Account at date of meeting. £7400.00 in Savings Account. Hog roast made over £800 towards Bonfire Fund. The Village Hall is now dealing with Dark Skies Proposal. As a result of an enquiry for a wedding reception to be held at the hall next year it has been pointed out that there cannot be a paid for bar within the hall. Suggested that if alcohol is to be sold it should be from a gazebo outside. It has been suggested that the Parish Council report to the Village Hall in future regarding meetings. This information can be accessed online. Date of next meeting 4/12/17 at 7pm.
1935	6. Review of Risk Register and Finances (BA) the back green (sunken slab) has been added to the Risk Register. The problem still needs to be sorted which is in hand. It may need (JL) to provide mechanical assistance. (BA) reported that the bank transfer has now taken place and we are now online with Lloyds banking.
1936	7. Date of next meeting Thursday 23rd November 7:30pm
1937	8. Any Other Business (KR) mentioned that the weeds in the village have not been treated for some time and damage is now being caused to the footpaths and roads. (RG) states that this is a matter for highways and should be done. Council agreed to add this to the Local Transport Plan. Chairman for the next 2 meetings will be (DM)
	There being no further business meeting closed at 9:05pm

Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting held on Thursday 20^th July 2017 in Wall Village Hall at 7:30pm DRAFT
Present	Cllrs: Bob Elliott (Chair) (BE), Stephen Kendall (SK), Kathy Rogstad (Vice Chair) (KR), Rupert Gibson (RG) (County Councillor). Clerk: Brian Alger (BA)

Minutes Number Number	Description	Actions
1891	1. Apologies for absence: Apologies were received from Cllr. Tim McArdle (TM), David Mason (DM), John Lamb (JL).
1892	2. Minutes of the last meeting: The minutes were approved as being an accurate record of the previous meeting.
1893	3. Matters Arising a. Parish Council’s Strimmer The rota continues to run successfully
1894	b. The Hollow Project (KR) reports that funds are available and work will start in the Autumn.
1895	c. Follow-up from RoSPA Report (BA) the report from RoSPA in June was not particularly good and although the equipment passed the inspection there were a number of faults highlighted mostly involving the swings. The report suggested that the council should look to replacing the swings. (BA) is in the process of obtaining estimates for the work and looking into various grants which may be available. (BE) will look into repainting the goal posts.	BA, BE
1896	d. Toilets (BA) reports that County Council have agreed funds for the removal of the Ivy and this will be done after nesting birds have left. There was concern that the automatic switching for the lights may not be working. (BA) to look into this.	BA
1897	e. Flashing 30mph sign on A6079 Quite a lengthy discussion over road safety and funding for traffic calming measures through the village along the A6079. (RG) reported that there may be funding available from County Council. Although the priority is on villages with schools Wall should get traffic calming signs and poles. It was decided that WPC would wait until a decision is made by County Council on its budget before continuing with considering funding a system. (KR) pointed out that maintaining such a system would be costly. (BE) raised concerns about heavy traffic, quarry lorries and logging lorries) using the A6079. There seems to be an increase in the number passing through, and extension of the times of day involved. (BA) to look into the restrictions in time and numbers (if any) and also try to obtain results from recent traffic survey(which it is assumed has been conducted on behalf of the County Council).	BA
1898	f. Grass Cutting The village did not get the extra cut for the village fete event. Contact in council to be spoken to regarding this.	DM,BA
1899	g. Defibrillator/Phone Box The Defibrillator will be moved to the phone box in due course. Awaiting installation which has been arranged.	BA
1900	h. Dark Skies In the absence of any response from Allendale Estate, it is assumed they do not object to the Village Hall Dark Skies Status. It is not clear what else is required of the Council, as it now seems to be a matter for the Village Hall Committee. (BA) to make enquiries re the current position and will speak to Katherine (previous Clerk).
1901	i. Parish Web Site (BA) reports that the web site is running well and is up to date with requirements for transparency. He has also added a News, Events and Useful Contacts page. This gives links through to various council departments and reports on upcoming events and news in Wall and surrounding areas. He pointed out that the funding for the website would need to be raised as only 10 pages are available at present which is not enough for the amount of data needed. The cost now is £4.99 a month for 10 pages and would rise to £9.99 a month for unlimited pages. Council agreed increase.	BA
1902	j. Christmas Tree (BA) has spoken to Forestry Commission contact who basically stated that the trees they grow are not advisable as they are designed to grow tall without bushing. (BA) to look into obtaining from a commercial grower and cost.	BA
1903	k. Dave Westle Memorial It was decided that the best option would be to plant trees on the lay by and that Rowan and Whitebeam would be ideal. (KR) suggested that it would be handy to have a map of the area so the Council can indicate where the trees are to be placed when requesting permissions from County Council. (BA) to contact David Brooks at County Council re permissions.	BA
1904	l. Meeting with Humshaugh Parish Council (BA) to liaise with Humshaugh Parish Council with a date for a meeting acceptable to both.	BA
1905	4. Planning Applications. Planning application 17/02132/FUL The Byres 1, West Farm Court, Wall NE46 4DW. (BA) has entered concerns regarding the conversion to the County Council with regards to extra traffic using the access road to the property and parking. Any right of access to be maintained. (BA) reports that planning application 17/01479/FUL Hadrian Hotel conversion has now been passed.	BA



1906	5. Village Hall Report (BE) read out (DM)’s report: Meeting held 3rd July 2017 (DM) informed them that it was probably not legal to report on the Parish Council meetings until the minutes were ratified at the next meeting but did however suggest that anyone interested could look on the web site. £2260 in Current Account at date of meeting but real balance was about £1300 taking into account unpaid cheques etc. About £7000.00 in Savings Account. It was agreed to hold one fundraising event each year e.g. BBQ, Hog roast, Burns Night, Coffee Morning. Suggestions would be welcomed on what might be done to improve the hall/increase its use in the long term. There will be a meeting in the Hadrian Hotel at 8pm 25/7 to discuss fundraising event in aid of the bonfire (Sun. 3^rd September). Comments have been passed by individuals who distribute the ‘Newsletter’ suggesting that distribution is becoming a problem. It was suggested that the Newsletter might be displayed on the web site (Wall Parish Council) or a Facebook page. Overall this is a PCC matter as they finance the Newsletter. (DM) has spoken to Allison who will bring it up at the next PCC meeting. She believes if it would be easier done electronically but in the past has been rejected by PCC. Date of next meeting 4/9/17 at 7pm.
1907	6. Review of Risk Register and Finances No new risks were raised, except for the Gully at back of Green, see 8 below. BA reported on the spend to date for the current financial year.
1908	7. Parish Trees Safety (BE) The trees in the Parish should be surveyed to ascertain any problems that may exist with regards to safety, and it appeared that it might be necessary to draw up a plan of action based upon the survey. (BA) has made enquiries regarding this issue and it appears to fall within the insurance maintained by the Council. The Council needs to ensure it complies with any requirements in this respect by Council insurers; (BA) will contact insurers and obtain recommendations and procedures to comply with any safety concerns.	BA
1909	8. Gully at back of Green. Investigate flagstone which appears to have collapsed and place on Risk Register as this may be a safety risk.	BA
1910	9. Date of next meeting Thursday 21^st September 7:30om
1911	10. Any Other Business (RG) expressed concern about water on New Lane causing a hazard. The water is from the burn which runs into the cundy with accumulating rubbish and leaves being the cause of the overspill. The County Council have fixed their part but the burn is on private land and is the responsibility of the land owner. (BA) to write a letter to the farmer who is believed to be owner, checking whether he is indeed the land owner, and if so, expressing concerns and asking for the problem to be rectified.	BA
1912	11. Kielder Cycle Race (RG) asks if the Tour of Britain Cycle Race which takes place in September and has a stage which passes to the North of this area be placed on the news section of Wall Parish Council web site. (BA) to update with times and route etc.	BA
1913	12. Chollerford Bridge (RG) states that work will be starting on Chollerford bridge in September for a period of approx. 4 weeks 9am – 3.30pm. This includes pointing and footpath upgrades. However there will be traffic lights in place and the bridge will not be closed.
1914	13. Local Transport Plan Received from County Council with a request for suggestions for the top 3 highway and transport issues in our area. Discussed and the Council had previously raised 2 concerns(speed of traffic through village and traffic speeds on double bends B6318 at Saint Oswald’s Hillhead Farm) which will be repeated together with another regarding parking on main street (A6079) on footpaths and roads causing obstruction to traffic and parking on footpaths around the village.	BA
1915	14. Speeding in Village (KR) stated that she has had complaints from residents re excessive speeds by motorists around the village green area. This is a problem as there are children and dog walkers in the area on a regular basis. Place article in Newsletter.	BA
1916	15. Path Clearing –message from (DM) in his absence - A great response on the hottest day of the year. Thanks to all involved including (especially) Rebecca who probably saved all our lives with refreshments. Also drew favourable comment from NCC.
	There being no further business meeting closed at 9:35pm

Minutes of the Annual Meeting of the Council held on Thursday 11th May 2017 in Wall Village Hall at 7.30pm (Draft)

PRESENT: Cllrs: Kathy Rogstad (KR) (Vice Chair), John Lamb (JL), David Mason (DM), Bob Elliott (BE) Stephen Kendall (SK) Katherine Collier (KC) (retiring Clerk) Brian Alger (BA) Clerk

1891 Apologies for absence:

Received from Rupert Gibson (RG) and Tim McArdle(TM).

1892 Minutes of the last meeting:

The minutes were approved as being an accurate record of the previous meeting.

1893 Election of Vice Chair and Representatives

Vice Chair - Kathy Rogstad Proposed (JL) 2nd (BE)

Bonfire Rep. John Lamb Proposed (KR) 2nd (DM)

Village Hall, Dave Mason Proposed (KR) 2nd (JL)

Councillors agreed that Chair would be rotated with (BE) as chair for the next two meetings.

1894 Co-Opted.

Councillors agreed to Co-Opt Stephen Kendall as a councillor to serve on Wall Parish Council.

Proposed (KR) 2nd (BE)

1895 Chairman’s Report

The following report was written by KR.

Wall Parish Council Acting Chair’s Annual Report May 2017

In order to help write this report I read through the minutes from the last 12 months. It served as a poignant reminder of what a great Chairman and friend Dave Westle was. His presence, influence and wisdom is sorely missed.

Dave’s passing obviously left the Parish Council without a Chairman. As vice-chairman I have stepped into the breech and would like to thank everyone (including past and present Clerks) for their full support and guidance.

I believe that as a Parish Council we have achieved a great deal over the past 12 months to keep the Parish neat and tidy and modernise. Some of our achievements may not seem enormous but sometimes the small things have a noticeable impact. For example, the new waste bin in the North lay-by seems to be helping to keep this entrance to the village more litter free.

One of our larger achievements is taking over the cleaning of the public toilets meaning the village retains this asset for the wider community. Thanks go to Alan Dryden for keeping them in a good state of cleanliness.

Thanks should also go to Mr and Mrs Longlands who maintain the planters at the South entrance to the village which always looks welcoming. It’s a shame others don’t seem to value the importance of the entrance to the village and clearly felt it acceptable to remove a tree on County Council owned land that was in front of their property.

The creation of the Parish Council’s website is another major achievement. Our thanks go to Bob Elliot and his daughter for creating it, updating it and the Clerks (past and present) for uploading the information we are required to publish.

The purchase and installation of the defibrillator was a fantastically quick addition to the village. Our thanks go to Rose Lewis and all those who donated towards it. The Parish Council have agreed to meet the costs of maintenance so on-going fund raising isn’t necessary and is able to use spare funds to re-site it in the phone box on Main Street.

Regarding the old allotment land, it remains to be seen what happens to this piece of land and if/when the property that planning permission has been granted for, will be built. The community did a fantastic job in coming together to put a strong case forward for the prevention of 2 dormer bungalows being built on this land also.

The village looks well maintained thanks to the Strimming Group, which will continue its good work from this month. Thanks goes to David Mason for organising a planning meeting and rota for the members of the group.

November’s bonfire was a success once again with a fantastic firework display. A meeting has already been held to plan a fund raising event in September.

Our thanks also go to Mr and Mrs Harrington for keeping an eye on the footpaths and reporting in any problems and to the Harrison’s for allowing us to use their power supply for the Christmas tree lights and to Mike Douglas for supplying the tree. It is hoped that a permanent Christmas tree will be planted for the benefit of the village and last for several years to come.

Katherine Collier has been an outstanding Clerk for nearly 4 years. We are grateful to her for her commitment, diligence and efficiency and for helping with the handover to our new Clerk Brian Alger, who is already doing a brilliant job. Brian’s recent employment has brought about changes for the Parish Council in the way it employs Clerks, meaning we are now officially an employer. Our thanks go to Bob Elliot for helping with the process, contract writing and for taking the lead on setting up on-line banking for the Parish Council, which will make the payment process easier.

The village litter pick was well attended this year and had a real community feel to it. The village looks good and can only be improved upon once The Wildflowers Project has begun - potentially in the Autumn with the preparation work due to start then. Our thanks go to Ian Robinson for instigating and progressing this project.

Regarding the play equipment, it is anticipated grants will be applied for to help with the costs of renewing the toddler swings and maintain the larger swings.

I’d like to offer a warm welcome to our new Councillor Stephen Kendall and thank him for initially showing an interest in being a Parish Councillor and for joining us.

It is important that we continue to maintain this wonderful rural Parish we live in to the benefit of the community and pursue those things that will further enhance or protect our environment. One such project would be the installation of a permanent speed activated sign to try and slow drivers through our village approaching from the South. The mobile unit that Rupert Gibson County Councillor organised makes a noticeable difference to traffic speed approaching from the North when present.

Throughout the year Councillor Gibson has been a great support, not least when many residents were objecting to planning applications that would have had a massively detrimental effect to the area.

It was a relief to the village that our local pub is still in existence and will hopefully go from strength to strength. We wait with interest what happens to the Methodist Chapel but must keep watch that the parking problem in the village isn’t further exacerbated

Kathy Rogstad

Vice-Chair Wall Parish Council

1896 Any Other Business

No other business was raised.

There being no further business the meeting closed at 7:40pm.

Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting held on Thursday 11th May 2017 in Wall Village Hall at 7.55pm (Draft)

PRESENT Cllrs: Katherine Rogstad (Vice-Chair) (KR), David Mason (DM), Bob Elliott (BE) , John Lamb (JL), Stephen Kendall (SK), Katherine Collier (Previous Clerk) (KR) Clerk: Brian Alger (BA)

1860 Apologies for absence:

Apologies were received from Cllr. Tim McArdle (TM) and Rupert Gibson (RG)

1861 Minutes of the last meeting:

The minutes were approved as being an accurate record of the previous meeting.

Matters Arising

1862 a. Parish Council’s Strimmer

The rota continues to run successfully, (DM) suggested that the council should strim every 3rd cut and can the strimmer group strim around the church. KR & TM

1863 b. The Hollow Project

Discussion on the progress of the project. (KR) suggested that the quote from Northumberland Water be accepted for the preparation work. This was agreed by Councillors at the meeting.

1864 c. Follow-up from RoSPA Repor t

(DM) reports that he has painted the swings etc. One of the seats is cracked and will need replaced at some point. Discussion re possibility of grants from Wind FarmFund. (BA) to check last report from RoSPA regarding splay on swings. (KR) offered to check out suppliers for new equipment. BA, KR

1865 d. Toilets

(KR) reports that the door is still in need of creosoting which she will complete. (DM) reports the lighting is not working correctly (BA) to write to council re fixing and enquire about the removal of the Ivy from around the building. KR, BA

1866 e. Signs on Planters

A discussion regarding building up the walls on the planters resulted in the work being postponed and revisited later in the year due to the difficulty involved. (KR) to obtain more plants for the planters and (DM) to obtain plants for the tub and pant. KR, DM

1867 f. Flashing 30mph sign on A6079

(KR) wrote to 3 companies for quotes on the work to place a permanent speed sign on the A6079 through the village. Only one company replied with a quote of £3,618.32. A discussion took place with regards to the possible funding and organisations who could be approached. (DM) suggested a subcommittee could be formed to look into this. (JL) questioned whether a sign alone would be enough to calm the traffic. Acomb has now installed cobbles to slow the traffic down however there would be noise implications if they were installed at Wall.

(SK) to form sub group to examine implications and solutions to traffic calming through the village. (BE) also suggested that a one off precept rise may be one solution to the funding. (KR) if the speed signs were erected then extra funding would need to be found for maintenance. SK

1868 g. Meeting with Humshaugh Council

It was agreed that this would be postponed until later in the year and that matters discussed would be shared grass cutting and path clearing. BA

1869 h. Grass Cutting

Is going well and there have been 3 cuts this year there was a discussion about council strimming but decided that this could be looked into later in the year.

1870 i. Defibrillator / Phone Box

(BA) informed the Councillors that the BT phone box now belonged to the village and the paperwork and contract had been forwarded to the Clerk. (KR) to ask Stephen Calvert to move the Defibrillator and dim the light in the box. KR

1871 j. Dark Skies Proposal

A discussion took place regarding the Dark Skies Proposal. There has been no response from Allendale Estates. (DM) states he has a contact through Allendale Estates and he will speak to him regarding an update. DM

1872 k. Parish Council Website

(BA) website is ongoing and information needed for compliance is still being updated. BA

1873 l. Fencing Surrounding Former Allotments.

(JL) will make enquiries into ownership (possibly County Council) however it was agreed that this would be revisited when ownership is established. JL

1874 m. Christmas Tree

No response from Allendale Estates. Forestry Commission have stated they would provide a tree. (BA) to re contact re size of tree and if they will plant it. If not it was decided that W.P.C. would plant it. (BA) to contact Forestry Commission. BA

1875 n. Pothole outside church

This has been fixed - Completed.

1876 o. Dave Westle Memorial

(DM) suggested that planting of trees on the North layby may be appropriate as Dave had mentioned it in the past. (KR) to email (RG) re possibility of 4 trees being planted. KR

∞

1877 4. Planning Application: 16/04341/FUL proposed alterations to roof space 2, Folster Forge, The Green, Wall NE464DZ

This has now been passed.

∞

1878 5. Village Hall Report

(DM) report:

Meeting held 24th April 2017

Charges- to be maintained for this year and looked at again next year.

Expenditure –Over 7K spent on hall during 2016/17

Total funds at 20/4/17 - £9,022.00

Treasurer requests that a letter is sent from W.P.C. for a copy of annual accounts to comply with requirements of Charity Commission (Management Trustees must supply account copy to on an annual basis). BA

Security Box BA

Request filing cabinets are sorted out (disposed of if not required). How long do we need to keep planning applications. BA

Suggests talking to James Reynolds to try to ascertain who is Allendale Estates Manager(Francis Templer?).

Decided not to arrange and event on 17/6 for Jo Cox Day due to other events near that time i.e. NTC fundraiser and Fete.

Meeting held in Hadrian Tues 9/5 involving Hall Committee and Bonfire Committee to discuss a joint fundraiser for Bonfire/Fireworks event in November. It was suggested a joint fundraiser at the village hall with Hog Roast on 3rd September as £750 - £800 needs to be raised.

The possibility of W.P.C. purchasing the fireworks and claiming VAT back was discussed. (BA) to make enquiries. W.P.C. also agreed to increase their donation to the firework fund from £100 to £150. BA

Next meeting – 19th June 20117

∞

1879 6. Review of Risk Register and Finances

No new risks were raised.

BA reported on the spend to date for the current financial year.

∞

1880 7. Sign off accounts and audit forms

(KR) read audit form for the financial year 2016/17 to councillors – agreed.

(BA) to check if toilet cleaning money has been paid in. BA

1881 8. Agree Insurance Renewal

It was agreed to renew the current insurance policy for W.P.C. for a further 3 years which would give a saving of around £60 over the course of the cover. BA

∞

1882 9. Methodist Chapel

W.P.C. were given the opportunity to purchase the Methodist Chapel which will be going up for sale after 19th May 2017. Agreed that there will be no offer made.

∞

1883 10. Banking on line

(BA) reported on the options for banking on line and changing banks with the best deals. It was agreed after discussion that Lloyds Bank would be the preferred choice. The application would need to be made online with 2 signatories with the Clerk having access to set up standing orders etc KR, BE

∞

1884 11. NALC subscription.

NALC subscription due to be renewed. Agreed.

∞

1885 12. Northumberland Day celebrations.

There were no plans put forward.

∞

1886 13. Formally adopt policies regarding new Clerk.

The new Clerk has accepted grievance policies and will have appraisal once a year. No pension will be payable. Agreed.

∞

1887 14. Councillors accept to be contacted via email.

(BA) explained where councillors have agreed to be contacted by email they must formally accept. All agree.

1888 15. Date of next meeting Thursday 20th July 7:30pm

∞

1889 16. Any other business

Planning application 17/01479/FUL conversion of existing roof void into five hotel bedrooms including installation of conservation style rooflights to provide daylight and outlook. Hadrian Hotel, Front Street, Wall.

Brief discussion – no objections.

∞

1890 18. Path Clearing.

Proposed by (DM) to clear paths agreed date Saturday 17th June 2017 10:30 am.

There being no other business meeting closed at 9:45pm

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