DNP Working Group minutes 23^rd September 2019

2.30 pm Desford Church Centre

 

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

 

Apologies: Andrew Norton

 

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

 

2. Minutes of last meeting / matters arising:

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

 

3. Declaration of Interest:

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

 

4. Chairman’s Report:

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

 

5. Treasurer’s Report:

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

 

6. Communication Officer’s Report:

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

 

7. Discussion of SEA Report:
8. Actions needed to finalise DNP:

It was agreed to combine these 2 agenda items.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Discussion of the SEA recommendations took place.

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

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

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

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

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

Actions needed to finalise DNP

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

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

 

9. Web page/ Twitter/ Spotted Desford:

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

 

10. AOB:

Letter to other parishes about interactions with HBBC

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

CERDA planning refusal appeal

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

One way system consultation

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

11. Date of next meeting:

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

 

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

 

Meeting closed 4.55pm.

 

I confirm this is a true record of the meeting:

 

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

 

Date…………………………………………………………………

 

DNP Working Group minutes 3^rd September 2019

4.30 pm Desford Library

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

2. Minutes of last meeting / matters arising:

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

Matters Arising:

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

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

 

Matters arising from the August 16^th meeting

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

Letter to other parishes.

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

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

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

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

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

 

3. Declaration of Interest:

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

 

4. Treasurer’s Report:

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

 

5. Communication Officer’s Report:

There was no Communication Officer’s Report

 

6. Update on SEA:

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

 

7. Actions needed to finalise DNP:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

8. Web page/ Twitter/ Spotted Desford:

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

 

9. AOB:

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

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

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

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

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

 

10. Date of next meeting:

 

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

 

Meeting closed 5.30 pm.

 

 

I confirm this is a true record of the meeting:

 

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

 

Date…………………………………………………………………

 

DNP Working Group minutes 16^th August 2019

7.30 pm Desford Library

 

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

 

Apologies: None

 

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

 

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

Matters Arising:

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bernard asked what risks the DNPWG were running.

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

Bernard asked if the RCC could offer advice.

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

Martyn asked what actions need to take place.

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

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

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

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

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

 

7. Update on SEA and any policy amendments needed:

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

 

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

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

Scott asked who the examiner will be.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

9. Discussion of approach to development /allocations:

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

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

 

10. Actions needed to finalise DNP:

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

 

12. AOB: None
13. Date of next meeting:

 

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

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

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

 

Meeting closed 4.05pm.

 

 

I confirm this is a true record of the meeting:

 

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

 

Date…………………………………………………………………