Sible Hedingham Parish Council

MINUTES OF SIBLE HEDINGHAM PARISH COUNCIL MEETING HELD AT THE VILLAGE HALL, PARKFIELDS, SIBLE HEDINGHAM ON MONDAY 12TH MARCH 2007 AT 7.30 P.M.

In the chair: Dr. N. Edwards
Present: Councillors C. Cannell, P. Day, R. Falco, R. Green, J. Hatfield, D. Holmes, A. Law, G. Massey, M. Rudge, J. Skittrall, E. Snarey & A. Weatherley.
Mr. A. Corder-Birch (Clerk)
Mr. S. Bolter & Mrs. W. Scattergood (District Councillors)
Mr. R. Carter and Mr. J. Tame (Youth Council)
Mrs. H. Carter (Bursar of Hedingham School)
Together with about 100 (one hundred) members of the public.

300. Apologies for absence
Mr. D. Finch (County Councillor)
Mrs. J. Beavis (District Councillor)

301. Declarations of Interest
The following interests were declared:
Mrs. A. Weatherley – planning application relating to 37 Church Street for which the plans were prepared by her son.
Mrs. G. Massey – planning application relating to Hedingham School of which she is a Governor.

302. To confirm minutes of previous meeting held 12th February 2007
The minutes of the previous Parish Council meeting held on 12th February 2007, having been previously circulated, were taken as read, were confirmed and duly signed by the Chairman as a correct record.

303. Matters arising from the minutes

a) Old Parish Council Minute Books
The Clerk reported that enquiries were continuing to ascertain the present whereabouts of Mr. David Moore, a former Clerk, in the hope of tracing the old Parish Council minute books.

b) Development at the former Premdor site
It was reported that the first monthly report of works had been received from Wimpeys.

c) Litter along Crosspath
It was reported that the litter along Crosspath was ‘dreadful’ and as soon as it was cleared up it appeared again. The Clerk reported that he had asked the Community Warden to try and catch the culprits and serve them with FPN. Land Registry searches had been made against Crosspath to ascertain its owner which appeared to be in at least three different ownerships. It was resolved to give further consideration to Crosspath, including Mr. K. Metson cleaning it on a regular basis.

d) ‘No litter’ signs
Mrs. W. Scattergood reported that it was expensive to manufacture ‘no litter’ signs containing penalties because penalties varied. A site meeting with Mr. M. Galley of BDC to agree suitable locations for the ‘no litter’ signs on public property was awaited.

304. Statement of Parish Council
The Chairman welcomed everyone to the meeting and stated that it was probably the best attended PC meeting ever held in the village. The Chairman read a prepared statement on behalf of the Parish Council as follows:

“In order to clear up rumours, gossip and innuendo circulating in the village the Parish Council would like to make the following statement ahead of Public Comment.
There were public discussions regarding the tennis courts throughout last year and more particularly in November and December of that year. In January of this year the Parish Council voted to proceed with the

125

refurbishment of the redundant tennis courts subject to adequate grant money being available. It was never intended that the principal costs would come out of the Parish Rates as some people have inferred. At this time plans are only in the early stages but it is envisaged that the sports available will include football, basketball and, possibly, tennis. Funding of this project will have to come from sources such as Lottery Funding, The Football Foundation and ‘Sport for All’.
There are, understandably, concerns about parking issues, but as stated at last month’s meeting, and recorded in the minutes, the Village Hall Committee have agreed to make their car park available for persons using the Recreation Ground’s sports facilities.
Hedingham School is unable to offer its sporting facilities for community use as they are currently inadequate and there is no funding available from the Essex County Council for the facilities to be improved.
No decision has been made regarding the provision of a Youth Shelter on the Recreation Ground. Most Councillors appear to be ambivalent about the necessity or benefits of such a facility.
Youth problems and antisocial behaviour are constantly being addressed by the Parish Council in partnership with the Police, District Council and Youth Agencies.   There is no easy answer to this one but our District Councillor, Jo Beavis, has arranged a public meeting in the Village Hall on the 21st March to seek positive solutions from within our community.
A hard landing area will not be provided for Essex Air Ambulance – they have quite clearly stated that they do not want or need a hard landing area.
The Parish Council has obtained a grant of £8000 for the long overdue refurbishment of the Toilet Block. Plans have been prepared and tenders are being sought over the next month or so.
The Council has also applied for funding to provide disabled access gates to the Recreation Ground.
There are, of course, anxieties about the changes to the tennis courts and with this in mind a public meeting has been organized for the evening of the 23rd March in the Village Hall to discuss in a more relaxed way the concerns of residents in the area. The hall had been booked and it was due to be advertised. We had met with Mr. Nicholson and some others on the 19th February to arrange the meeting for the 23rd March and he was fully aware of what had been arranged.
The Parish Council is always pleased to have public participation but it deeply regrets the level of misinformation that has been disseminated by some people.
The Parish Council particularly regrets the recent ‘flyer’ that was widely distributed round the village as it contains significant errors and alarmist statements creating unnecessary anxiety. We are very concerned that it was produced anonymously and with no contact details regarding the author. There is a reference to people contacting him so we must assume that it was written by a particular person who presumably must be at this meeting this evening. We hope that he will be willing to identify himself as the author. On first sight many people thought it was a notice from the Parish Council.
In view of the large number of people who have wrongly been persuaded by the author of the ‘flyer’ to come to this meeting, rather than to the properly organized public meeting on the 23rd, when plenty of time would have been available, may I suggest that we spend the limited time we have this evening answering any specific questions you have regarding the refurbishment of the tennis courts. However, one has to be aware that this is not a decision making evening as suggested by the ‘flyer’.   There are no ‘final plans’ for discussion on the agenda this evening. Those ‘final plans’ are some way of at present and they will be brought to the Parish Council by the Recreation Ground Advisory Group before any final decision is made.
When we have finished the discussion regarding the refurbishment of the tennis court I have a note that Mrs. Jacki Kelly and Mr. Dennis Tompkins wish to speak on the problem of antisocial behaviour and some other matters. The normal time for public discussion at a Parish Council meeting is 20 minutes so I trust you will understand the pointlessness of the flyer being circulated, advertising this meeting, when a public meeting had already been arranged for the 23rd March.
Before answering questions and discussing the tennis courts I believe our Vice Chairman, who has been more closely involved in these matters, has a few words to say”.

305. Public Comment
A flyer had been circulated in the village by a member of the public which contained a number of inaccuracies which were highlighted by the Chairman. Mr. J. Nicholson accepted that he was the author of the flyer but he had written it some 4 or 5 weeks earlier and he apologized for the reference to the meeting

126

on 12th March. A meeting between the Chairman, Vice Chairman and Mr. J. Nicholson had taken place shortly after the last PC meeting and a special meeting to discuss Recreation Ground issues had been arranged for 23rd March when more time would be available. Another public meeting had been arranged by Mrs. Jo Beavis to specifically consider Antisocial Behaviour (ASB) and law and order issues on 21st March. The Chairman explained that there was only very limited time available to consider the Recreation Ground and ASB issues this evening. Mr. E. Snarey considered it would be wrong to abandon the PC meeting as cannot do justice to Recreation Ground issues in an hour. It was proposed by Mrs. G. Massey, seconded by Mr. J. Hatfield and carried that the public be asked to decide whether or not the special meeting on 23rd March is to take place or not. Upon being put to the vote the majority of the public required the public meeting on 23rd March to proceed.
Before inviting public comment the Chairman invited Mr. J. Skittrall, (Vice Chairman of the PC and spokesperson of the Recreation Ground and Horticulture Advisory Group) to speak. Mr. Skittrall stated the following facts:

i. The toilet block will be refurbished and specifications are being sent out to tender.

ii.The future of the former tennis courts is still under investigation and quotes are being obtained.

iii. There will be no helicopter pad on the Recreation Ground.

iv. The Village Hall will not be demolished and re-built on the Recreation Ground.

v. Mr. Skittrall is taking legal action in respect of false allegations made against him by a member of the public. He explained that he is not a builder but a manager in industry and that his Solicitor is taking action in respect of these allegations.

vi. Hedingham Hawks Youth Football Teams are dedicated, well organized, maintain strict discipline and are supported by SHPC.

vii. With regard to proposed lighting and fencing, Mr. Skittrall offered to consult the residents living closest namely in the vicinity of Cambridge Avenue so they can assess the proposed lights and express any concerns which they may have.

The Chairman then invited public comment and the following matters were raised:
Mr. Vaughan-Tiller sought an undertaking that an environmental assessment be made of the impact on the area and that the results be published. Mr. J. Skittrall undertook to publish the assessment.
Mrs. Margaret Gaw stated that the Recreation Ground had been given to the village and the wishes of the majority should be followed. The Chairman confirmed that the wishes of the majority of residents could be taken into account by the PC but it would need a referendum to achieve this.
Mr. B. Stunt asked how many Councillors lived in the area affected. He claimed that the car parking facilities offered by the Village Hall will not be used by users of the Recreation Ground. He also referred to ASB at weekends.
Mr. David Rampton reported a broken bench outside 2 Recreation Ground. Mr. J. Skittrall reported that benches were currently being repaired. Residents asked for benches to be located away from dwellings and in more central areas of the Recreation Ground to reduce ASB near dwellings.
Mr. Mark Harrison, a manager of Hedingham Hawks Youth Football Teams explained that ASB was nothing to do with Hedingham Hawks and facilities need to be provided for youth in the village. In order to try and reduce ASB in Alexandra Road and other parts of the village it is important to provide sport for youths to keep them occupied.
Mr. Gareth Scrase also supported sports facilities in the village to keep them off the streets. He reported that many ASB problems were caused by youths from outside the village. Mr. J. Skittrall as a member of SARA advised that all ASB problems must be reported to the Police.
Mr. Norman Gaw questioned if residents were prepared to pay for repairs and replacements when facilities were vandalized by youths. He was advised that substantial fences were proposed and that Hedingham Hawks will strictly supervise the area.
Mr. Harvey Darke referred to the ASB problems in Alexandra Road particularly on Friday nights and was anxious to ensure that this does not escalate to other nights. He was concerned that organized sporting activities would increase ASB in Alexandra Road.
Mrs. G. Massey confirmed that a public meeting to consider ASB will take place in Village Hall on 21st March and encouraged all residents to attend.

127

Mr. J. Nicholson apologized for wrong impression given regarding meeting on 12th March and encouraged all residents to attend both the ASB and the Recreation Ground Public Meetings.
Mrs. W. Scattergood (District Councillor) advised that proposed lighting will be subject to a planning application and strict regulations and environmental directives will be observed. Residents can make representations if and when a planning application is made.
Mrs. J. Kelly stated that provision must be made for youths who use the Recreation Ground properly and these youths need to be given a chance.
Mr. Dennis Tompkins referred to the lack of supervision after midnight and the improper use of the skate board park by two motorbikes on Sunday, 11th March.   Other issues raised by Mr. Tompkins were Police matters and should be referred to the Police.
Mr. J. Jelly reported that Police attended at the Cambridge Avcnue entrance to the Recreation Ground and watched the two unauthorized motorbikes on the skate board park but failed to stop them and drove away.
Mr. Heather suggested the use of the Village Hall for a Youth Club. Questions were raised concerning the use of pitches at Hedingham School but it was reported that unfortunately these pitches were inadequate and not up to standard.
Another resident stated that there were originally swimming pools at both Schools in Hedingham which had both gone and it was a pity that the Schools no longer have good facilities. She therefore wishes to see the Recreation Ground properly used.
Mr. J. Skittrall reported that sixth formers from Hedingham School were banging a football against resident’s fences when they should be in School and not playing football in the road.
Mrs. G. Massey (Governor) and Mrs. H. Carter (Bursar) accepted that the sporting facilities at the School were not up to standard but there were insufficient funds available. There are long term plans to improve sports facilities when funds are available.
Mr. S. Bolter (District Councillor) was pleased to hear resident’s views regarding the Recreation Ground and Law and Order. He explained that SH had expanded quickly without the core facilities and that there was a history of poor policing, with Hedingham being under policed for several years, but new initiatives are coming forward.
At the conclusion of public comment the majority of the public left the meeting.

306. Chairman and Vice Chairman’s reports
The Chairman had nothing to report outside the agenda.
The Vice Chairman reported that houses in Wethersfield Road had come close to being flooded the previous week. Keith Metson had delivered sand bags just in time and the houses were saved from flooding. The residents had expressed their gratitude to Keith Metson and the PC for getting the sandbags and for installing them. The Chairman thanked Mr. J. Skittrall and Mr. K. Metson for all their work in connection with flood prevention in the village.
Tree Preservation Orders had been made in respect of all trees on the Recreation Ground.

307. Youth Council Report
Mr. J. Tame reported that the applications for grants in respect of the tennis court site had been unsuccessful as a grant had been made to Halstead for a similar project. However another application can be made in a couple of months which should be considered more favourably. Mr. Tame also reported upon colour competitions for Primary Schools and the Youth Fest to be held during the summer. Mr. R. Carter reported that a projector had been purchased and should be is use during April. Mr. Tame and Mr. Carter were thanked for their reports.

308. Essex County Council Report
In the absence of Mr. D. Finch no report was given.

309. Braintree District Council Reports

a) Mrs. J. Beavis had arranged an Anti Social Behaviour Public Meeting to be held in the Village Hall on Wednesday, 21st March 2007 at 7.30 pm to which all residents were invited.

b) Mrs. W. Scattergood reported that BDC had set its budget and there was a 3.8% rise. Three amendments to the budget had been proposed by urban Councillors who were opposed to the Rural

128

Development Fund. However the amendments were defeated by the rural Councillors and therefore £100,000.00 will be available for the Rural Development Fund for next year. BDC had completed its responses to the Government upon the East of England Plan. The second runway at Stansted Airport had been opposed. Colchester Borough Council had agreed to continue funding towards the Colne Valley Project and therefore a new part time officer is being sought. Dr. R. A. Green stated that it would be a tragedy if the Colne Valley Project was lost and it was unanimously agreed that SHPC support the scheme at every opportunity.

c) Mr. S. Bolter had nothing to add save that he was pleased that the Rural Development Fund had survived which will benefit the rural areas.

310. Planning
a) Planning applications
Miss. C. Cannell reported that the following applications had been made and recommended as follows:
07/00309/LBC – Kentish Farm, Delvin End – Demolition of modern porch, replace front entrance and reinstate orial window – no objections.
07/00363/LBC – 37 Church Street – Replacement of windows and door rerendering, addition of weather-boarding and external works – concerns were expressed regarding the proposed removal of trees, which should remain but otherwise no objections.
07/00364/FUL – Melbourne House, Halstead Road – Revised vehicular access and gates – no objections and in fact will improve visual splay.
CC/BTE/14/07 – Hedingham School, Yeldham Road – construction of new and the redevelopment of existing hard standing areas to form additional car park spaces, coach/bus parking area, new motorbike/cycle shelters and ancillary works – no objections but the number of car parking spaces needed clarification. One very late objection had been received from a son on behalf of a resident of Christmas Field, which was considered. Mrs. H. Carter (Bursar) explained that the whole scheme is within the limits laid down by ECC and the constraints of the County Planner as to the number of spaces. There would be a net gain in spaces overall and the scheme will improve congestion in the area. Cycle spaces will also be provided which would be protected by CCTV. There would be no loss of parking spaces. The intention is to carry out the work, estimated at twelve weeks, during the summer holidays and extending into the autumn term. Mr. J. Skittrall asked that contractor’s vehicles do not obstruct Christmas Field. The School will do its best to ensure there is no chaos and are very mindful of the interests of residents. The Parish Council unanimously supported the application.
ESS/75/03/BTE – Tile Kiln Farm Sandpit, Hedingham Road – condition 29 – details relating to aftercare report – no objections – excellent idea.
It was proposed by Mr. J. Skittrall, seconded by Mr. A. Law and carried that the above recommendations are approved.

b) Planning decisions
Miss. C. Cannell reported upon the following planning decisions:
06/02345/FUL – Oaklands View, 35 Spring Way – Erection of two storey extension and formation of bedroom within new and existing roof space – granted.
06/02405/FUL – Co-operative Foodstore, 116 Swan Street – Erection of palisade fencing and gates to south elevation to form compound for waste bins – granted.
06/02486/FUL – Shiam Service Station, 142 Swan Street – Minor amendments to previously approved drive-in car wash and new ancillary building to car wash – granted.
06/02500/FUL – 11 Cambridge Avenue – Erection of detached single garage - granted
06/02530/FUL – 20 Grays Mead – Erection of two storey side extension and demolition of existing garage – granted.

c) Shiam Service Station, 142 Swan Street
Miss. C. Cannell and other Councillors reported upon representations received from members of the public who had expressed concern about the new signage at Shiam Service Station, which is bold, ugly, intrusive, excessive and not in keeping with a rural village. It was agreed to ascertain whether or not planning permission had been obtained for this signage and if not to ask the Enforcement Officer to investigate and take appropriate action.

129

311. Village Design Statement
Mrs. G. Massey reported that the VDS exhibition had been arranged for 21st April 2007 in the Village Hall. The exhibition will include a survey from Hedingham School for which Mrs. H. Carter expressed her thanks on behalf of the School. The Youth Council and Hedingham Twining Association will also provide displays at the exhibition. Mrs. Massey was thanked for her report.

312. Footpaths and rolling programme
The Chairman reported that the survey for the footpaths rolling programme in Sible Hedingham had been completed but the full report from the Parish Paths Partnership (P3) had still not been received. Work which had been identified in the survey needs to be carried out by 1st April 2007 to fulfill the promises made to the Parish Council.
Mr. D. Holmes thanked the Clerk for all his work in connection with obtaining title to the footpath in Spurgeon Close and for arranging for tarmac and barriers to be provided.   Over twenty members of the public had already thanked Mr. Holmes and the Parish Council for getting this work done. The contractors had made an excellent job of surfacing the path, which was well used. Pressure is being put upon Shell UK to complete their section of the path.
With regard to the path between Hawkwood Road and Hills Road, ECC has been asked to adopt this ‘urban path’ as a ‘footway’ so that there is sufficient money to maintain it to urban standards as opposed to creating a footpath where it would be unlikely to be surfaced to such a high specification. SHPC was waiting to hear from ECC regarding adoption of this footway.

313. Riverside Walk
It was noted that the S106 Agreement had still not been completed.

314. Water Management

a) Alderford Street brook
The Chairman reported that Mr. S. Tullett of BDC had arranged for contractors to clear out Alderford Brook on 26th February 2007. Thereafter riparian owners would be responsible for clearing it in the future. Thanks were expressed to Mr. L. Crabb for providing the support for this important work to go ahead and to Mr. S. Tullett for the enthusiasm he showed in getting this work so successfully completed.
As the culverts are under the highway it would seem quite clear that the ECC Highways Department is responsible for them. The Highways Department did, in fact, jet out the culvert opposite Alderford House when the other work was taking place, but it was not a sufficiently powerful jetting device and they have said that they will return to satisfactorily complete the work with more powerful equipment. Three sloping grills to protect the entrances to the three culverts are needed and a request is to be made to ECC Highways to ask them to supply and install them. If they are installed Mr. K. Metson will be asked to keep them clear as he does at the present time with the one at Rectory Road. It was noted some banks are at risk due to tree roots and crumbling brickwork and Dr. Edwards offered to speak to the riparian owners concerned. All riparian owners will be encouraged to look after their sections of Alderford Brook in the future.

b) Holding Reservoirs at Wethersfield Road and Cobbs Fenn
Mrs. W. Scattergood reported that Mr. D. Finch was currently on holiday and that she was not aware of any progress regarding the holding reservoirs. Mr. E. Snarey referred to the houses in Wethersfield Road which were nearly flooded and thanked Mr. J. Skittrall and Mr. K. Metson for the flood prevention work which they had carried out. He considered that the Environment Agency should provide funding as the watercourse was a Critical Open Watercourse (COW) and enmained as far as Hedingham and District Garage. Mr. Snarey agreed to ask Mr. D. McGregor of Hedingham and District Omnibuses if he could store sand bags under cover so they were more accessible for his neighbours in Wethersfield Road in future.

315. Update on Recreation Ground including renovation to toilets
Mr. J. Skittrall reported that Mr. D. Gilbrook had completed the plans and specification for renovation to toilets. These had been considered by all members of the Recreation Ground and Horticulture Advisory Group at a recent meeting and approved. Mr. E. Snarey asked for hand driers to be added to the plans and

130

specifications which had previously been omitted. This will be done and thereafter quotes will be obtained from four different builders.

316. To make arrangements for litter pick on 25th March 2007
Mrs. A. Weatherley reported that she had arranged a litter pick in those areas of the village, such as High Street Green and Southey Green, which were not already covered by Mr. K. Metson. Mr. P. Partridge of BDC had kindly agreed to provide litter pickers, plastic sacks and high visibility jackets. Councillors and volunteers will meet on Sunday 25th March at 10.30am at Sible Hedingham Village Hall. Mrs. Weatherley had liaised with PCSO Deb Green who is arranging for young persons to help. The Headmaster of St. Peter’s Primary School is also sending a letter to parents requesting help. The Hedingham Flower Club, the Thursday Club and W.I. were also helping. Mr. J. Skittall reported that two ‘Police Slow’ signs would be provided and he agreed to ask Mr. K. Metson to be available to collect the full sacks in his van and return them to the waste container at the Village Hall. It was agreed to send a letter of thanks to Mrs. Barbara Robinson of Cobbs Fenn thanking her for voluntarily collecting litter in the village.

317. To consider purchase of dog bin for Grays Hall Meadow
It was proposed by Mr. J. Skittrall, seconded by Mr. D. Holmes and carried that a new dog bin is purchased for Grays Hall Meadow to be located near the gateway.

318. To confirm arrangements for Annual Parish Meeting on 18th April 2007
It was confirmed that the Annual Parish Meeting will take place on Wednesday, 18th April 2007 at 7.30pm at the Village Hall. Mrs. G. Massey suggested that Ms. Vicki Hughes, Noise Communications Manager, BAA Stansted is invited as guest speaker to discuss noise and related issues, which are of wide interest to the general public. Mr. J. Hatfield reminded Councillors that Ms. Hughes was meeting them on 13th March in PC Office to discuss the possible near miss over SH, tracking, flight paths, noise and related issues. Eight Councillors indicated that they would attend this meeting. He suggested that consideration is given to another representative from BAA Stansted Public Affairs Department attending the Annual Parish Meeting if it would be considered useful.

319. Report of course ‘The Funding Game and How to Win it’
Mrs. A. Weatherley reported that Mrs. G. Massey and herself, had attended a seminar organized by EALC on 1st March. It had been well attended and there were speakers from ECC CIF, Awards for All, Essex Environment Trust, RCCE funding for Village Halls, Essex County Football Association and other grant making bodies. SHPC will be able to apply to various sources for funding for the village. Mr. N. Perchard. County Development Manager of Essex County Football Association Limited will be meeting Parish Councillors on 16th March in the PC Office and to look at the former tennis courts site.

320. To consider quote for removal, repainting and replacing seat on Recreation Ground
Mr. J. Skittrall reported that Mr. K. Metson had quoted £180.00 for removing old un-level seat on Recreation Ground, repainting and re-site in another area on a new concrete base. It was proposed by Mr. J. Skittrall, seconded by Mrs. G. Massey and carried that Mr. Metson’s quote of £180.00 be accepted. Mr. Skittrall reported that three seats were in storage and ready for use. In view of public comment he confirmed that these will be located away from dwellings.

321. Application for alcohol ban in designated areas
Mr. J. Skittrall requested the Parish Council to pursue an application for alcohol ban in designated areas. The Clerk had discussed this with BDC who had advised that if an application is made for a Drinking Places Order (DPO) then SHPC, PCSOs, Community Wardens, etc., will need to collect evidence of dates, times, locations and details of drinking paraphernalia, (eg number of full and empty spirit bottles found and location) and send to the Community Safety & Development Team (Nikki Brewster) at BDC whereby the possible progression of an application can be made if appropriate and necessary.
(Mr. D. Holmes left the meeting).

131

322. Correspondence
The correspondence received and listed in appendix 1 was referred to relevant Councillors for information and action. Arising from the correspondence the following items were discussed:

a) Letter from Dr. & Mrs. Jefferson to be acknowledged and invite them to attend public meetings on 21st and 23rd March.

b) EALC Guidance note relating to Council Publicity during the Election Period and guidance on purdah was noted. Whilst it is permissible for the Annual Parish Meeting to take place on 18th April as planned it was resolved to defer publication of the Annual Report until after the election period.

c) Plantscape – product catalogue for 2007 was passed to Mrs. A. Weatherley.

323. Accounts for payment
The accounts listed in appendix 2 were presented for payment. It was proposed by Mr. J. Skittrall, seconded by Mr. A. Law and carried that the accounts are paid.

324. Any other business/exchange of information/agenda for next meeting

a) Mr. M. Rudge reported that the Grays Mead street name plate had been removed by persons unknown but he had screwed it back on. He enquired about the Recreation Road street name plate. The Clerk reported that this had been collected by BDC for repair and its return was awaited.

b) Mr. J. Skittrall reported that SHPC was waiting for BDC to carry out work at Parkfields.

c) Mr. E. Snarey reported upon the dangerous condition of the two traffic islands in the road at Crouch Green. This matter had already been raised by Castle Hedingham Parish Council with ECC Highways but no action or work by Highways had been carried out. It was understood that Castle Hedingham PC would appreciate the support of SHPC in getting ECC Highways to attend to this potential accident black spot.

d) Mrs. A. Weatherley reported that Mr. Beagrie had spoken to her about road safety at Sugar Loaves Corner where his new buildings were obstructing visibility on the corner. He had suggested a mini roundabout at the junction. Mrs. G. Massey agreed to raise this at the next meeting of the Halstead Traffic Management Liaison Committee on 11th June.

e) The Chairman thanked Mr. P. Day for providing his loud speaker system for the meeting.

325. CONFIDENTIAL BUSINESS
It was resolved that in view of the confidential nature of the business to be transacted that the public and press be excluded from the remainder of the meeting pursuant to the provisions of the Public Bodies (Admission to Meetings) Act 1960. The Parish Council meeting continued in private session (see confidential minutes on separate page for Parish Councillors only).