Parish Council Meeting held November 19th 2024

November 19, 2024 Parish Clerk

Minutes

Present: Cllr Judge (Chair), Cllr Slater, Cllr Tuffley, Cllr Springs and seven members of the public were in attendance.

No updates and questions were presented by members of the Public:

A resident addressed the Council about their request to remove a sycamore tree adjacent to their property, being deemed too close to the house. The Resident informed the Council that they were in possession of the surveyor’s report which confirmed the high possibility of damage to the foundations of the house if allowed to remain in situ. The Council resolved to agree to the request in principle but agreed with the resident for Cllr Slater to visit the site and the tree to carry out an assessment.

024/023 To receive apologies for absence
No apologies were received from members

024/024 To receive any declarations of interest
No Interests were declared by Members

024/025 To approve the minutes of the meeting held on 16 September 2024
Cllr Tuffley proposed accepting the minutes as a true record the meeting, seconded by Cllr Slater and unanimously approved

024/026 Finance:

The Councillors received the monthly finance spreadsheet
It was agreed for Cllrs Tuffley & Judge and the Clerk to meet to draft the Budget and propose the Precept for 2025-26. The deadline to submit the precept is 31 January 2025.

023/027 Planning applications

Planning Ref 24/03333/APP
Address Temple House 2 Temple Street Brill Buckinghamshire HP18 9SX
Proposal Householder application for demolition of exiting pantry and erection of single storey rear extension, internal alterations and new conservation roof light
PC Comments Object. Brill Parish Council objects to this application. The Parish Council is very concerned about the removal of areas of a Grade II listed building being replaced with modern alterations which are also not in keeping with the local area. The Council is also aware of a significant bat population in the area behind the house and reports that these bats nest in the gable that has been identified to be removed. The Parish Council is also concerned by the heritage and ecology reports which do not seem to highlight any relevant information related to the application. The Parish Council requests that this application along with application 24/03334/ALB be called before committee.

Planning Ref 24/03334/ALB
Address Temple House 2 Temple Street Brill Buckinghamshire HP18 9SX
Proposal Listed building application for demolition of exiting pantry and erection of single storey rear extension, internal alterations and new conservation roof light
PC Comments As above

Planning Ref 21/A4309/DIS
Address Springfield Cottage North Hills Brill Buckinghamshire HP18 9TH
Proposal Application for approval of details subject to Conditions 5 (Ecology) 6 (Tree Protection) 7(Tree Pruning) of planning approval 21/04309/APP
PC Comments For information only

Planning Ref 24/02933/APP
Address 27 Temple Street Brill Buckinghamshire HP18 9SU
Proposal Householder application for demolition of existing single storey rear and side extensions and erection of two storey rear and single storey side extensions
PC Comments Refused

Planning Ref 24/02901/COUAR
Address Fir Tree Farm Wotton Road Brill Buckinghamshire HP18 9UA
Proposal Determination as to whether prior approval is required in respect of transport & highway impact, noise, contamination risk, flooding and locational considerations for the conversion of part of agricultural barn into 1no. dwellinghouse (Class Q(a)) and in relation to design and external appearance of the building (Class Q(b)).
PC Comments Neutral

024/040 Communications Database
No issues raised.

024/041 Section 137 Requests

The Parish Council expressed its thanks to Hannah Hulme Hunter for the hard work on the Newsletter and approved the request to have the newsletter printed in Thame for approximately £30/mth.
The Parish Council also approved the Section 137 request to support the Brill Community Market for £1,650

024/042 Memorial Hall Update
To receive an update on the Memorial Hall and the proposed car park re-surface

Cllr Judge updated the Council that he contacted Buckinghamshire Council for contractors to re-surface the car park. Two companies were suggested and their details had been passed to the manager of the Memorial Hall to take forward. The chair of the new Memorial sub-committee ‘Fit for the Future Together’ will be contacted in addition.
The Parish Council confirmed that it is open to requests for funding repairs or improvements to the Memorial Hall car park, subject to agreement on the funds that could be allocated and the details of the work.

024/043 Hartwell’s Barn Project
To receive an update on the Hartwell’s Barn Project

The Chair of Brill Society confirmed that, at the time of the meeting, the process to purchase Hartwell’s Barn and Saunder’s Field is still ongoing, but there are legal issues raised by the vendor concerning overage that must still be resolved.
The intention is that the barn and the land will be purchased by a local landowner. On completion of the sale, the landowner will lease the property to the Brill Society which will have the right to purchase the property outright at the original purchase price. This effectively gives the village several years to raise the funds needed.
The Brill Society confirmed that permanent vehicle access across the Common to Hartwell’s Barn would be needed, to facilitate maintenance and for village events. It was confirmed that this was not a precondition of the sale but would become essential so as not to unduly restrict use of the new amenity.
The Parish Clerk explained that an easement of this type cannot be granted to an organisation: an easement concerns the property not the owner. It was therefore not possible to start the legal process for an easement at this stage.
There was, to the best of the knowledge of those present, no legal mechanism to bind the current or future Parish Council to granting an easement in due course.

The Parish Council confirmed it was extremely supportive of the project. To demonstrate its commitment, Cllr Tuffley proposed that the Parish Council should contribute to the cost of leasing the property as co-owners with the Brill Society, to demonstrate the Parish Council’s commitment. Cllr Judge commented that, split in this way, the lease cost of £4,000 per annum (split evenly between the Brill Society and Brill Parish Council) was low and would not impact the precept significantly, and any associated risks would be balanced by the benefit to the village of acquiring the amenity.

The motion for the Parish Council to offer to contribute 50 % of eventual cost of the lease was proposed by Cllr Tuffley, seconded by Cllr Judge s and unanimously agreed. The Chair of the Brill Society would take this proposal forward for discussion with the landowner and the vendor.

024/044 King George V Field update

The Clerk fed back a request from a number of residents who use the MUGA asking if another storage shed could be purchased to store additional sports equipment separately from the floodlights.

It was agreed that Cllr Tuffley would check whether an additional shed is needed or whether it is feasible to rearrange storage.

024/045 The Common / The Walks

Fly Tipping on the Common – The Council expressed its thanks to Cllr Tuffley for volunteering to clear the fly tipping. The debris has now been removed by Bucks recycling. Cllr Slater proposed having an agreement with Bucks Recycling to remove any fly tipping dumped on the Common. The was seconded by Cllr Judge and unanimously approved.
Discussion regarding the spread of sycamore in the village. Following the meeting of the Brill Common and Village Greens Advisory Group there have been 65 sycamores identified, some of which are significantly large. Twenty of the smaller seedlings have been removed by Hugh Rowley. Cllr Slater proposed allocating funding of up to £1,000 to the removal of sycamore seedlings. Cllr Springs seconded and the motion was unanimously carried.
Span Green – The Clerk updated that the Estate Manager has been contacted to view the ditch clearance on Span Green, and this will be followed up again.
Ranger – Cllr Slater updated that The Lottery Heritage grant has been submitted and will hopefully have an answer before Christmas.
Rams – A number of residents have complained about the rams particularly the aggressive behaviour and inadequate signage, Cllr Slater proposed meeting the shepherd with the Parish Clerk to discuss the situation regarding the sheep, rams, notification and signage.
Jo Woodman – Cllr Slater confirmed that Jo Goodman has asked to carry out bird ringing on the Common again. This will entail putting up nets 30 mins prior to sunrise and will be completed by late morning. There will also be a number of signs to ask for dogs to put on leads. The Council approved the request.
Bollards on the Common – The Council also agreed to install a bollard on the Common near Monks Hill to control vehicle access near Hartwell’s Barn.

024/046 Devolved Services Agreement
To review the email from Bucks Council regarding the option of 4 Year devolved Services Agreements

Cllr Tuffley proposed continuing a 1-year Devolved Services agreement from Bucks Council and not the four-year agreement. This was seconded by Cllr Slater and unanimously approved.

024/047 Road & Traffic
To receive an update on the current projects in the Parish

Cllr Judge expressed his thanks to Steve Smith from Buckinghamshire Council for arranging the finance for EV charging points.
Cllr Judge also confirmed that Buckinghamshire Council have agreed a budget of £2,000,000 for installation of EV charging points across the County of which Brill has been allocated two charging points.
Survey – The Waddesdon Area Freight Zone project is on pause to allow for more time to see the impact the similar project in the Ivinghoe area before implementing in the Waddesdon Zone.
Dropped curb – Cllr Springs contacted Cllr Rand about the shortage of dropped curbs in the village. He recommended contacting the Local Area Technician regarding the possibility of including further dropped curbs in the village particularly following a near miss of wheel chair user.

024/048 Church Request for path across the Village Green

The Church provided a letter to the Parish Council requesting a path across the village green to the church.
The Council expressed its support of the project in principle however would need to establish the legal position if this is possible and, if so, what surfaces would be permissible.
Cllr Tuffley proposed inviting the Bucks Disability Service to establish as to whether ‘grasscrete’ would be a suitable surface for those with disabilities to cross safely.
Cllr Tuffley will also investigate the use of a wheel chair on grasscrete.

Meeting closed at 22:12

024/049 Income & Expenditure

September 2024 Expenditure

BT - Utilities £89.96
Drax - Street Light £162.16
Amazon - Laptop Case £19.99
R Damerell - Clerk Salary £1,098.37

October 2024

Interest £0.01
Bucks Council - Precept £26,666.00
Xmas Market Stall deposit £30.00
Xmas Market Stall deposit £30.00
Xmas Market Stall deposit £30.00
Xmas Market Stall deposit £30.00
Xmas Market Stall deposit £30.00
Xmas Market Stall deposit £30.00
Xmas Market Stall deposit £30.00
Xmas Market Stall deposit £30.00
Xmas Market Stall deposit £30.00
Xmas Market Stall deposit £30.00
Xmas Market Stall deposit £30.00
Xmas Market Stall deposit £30.00
Xmas Market Stall deposit £30.00
Xmas Market Stall deposit £30.00
Xmas Market Stall deposit £30.00
Xmas Market Stall deposit £30.00
Xmas Market Stall deposit £30.00
Xmas Market Stall deposit £30.00

October 2024 Expenditure

Bucks Council - Bins £33.50
Aspire - Grass Cutting £528.00
ESPO - Laminating Pouches £23.94
Hannah Hunter - Website £200.00
HMRC - PAYE £41.99
MP Printers - Banners £36.00
N Misselbrook - Plants £200.00
AJG - Liability Insurance £3,168.55
Squarespace - Website £6.62
R Timms - Bins - Sept 2024 £135.00
HP - Ink £11.99
Hannah Hunter - Website £200.00
Core Event - Midsummer Music Stage £1,053.88
BT - Utilities £89.96
Bucks Council - electricity £156.96
HM Land Registry - Property Search £6.00
HM Land Registry - Property Search £6.00
HM Land Registry - Property Search £6.00
HM Land Registry - Property Search £6.00
HM Land Registry - Property Search £3.00
Drax - Street Light £86.05
Bucks Council - Bins £73.27
R Damerell - Clerk Salary £1,098.37
Squarespace - Website £19.20
R Timms - Bins and Bench repair £130.00

November 2024 Income

Xmas Market Stall deposit £30.00
Xmas Market Stall deposit £30.00
Xmas Market Stall deposit £30.00
Interest £0.29
Brill Society Contirbution to Midsummer Music Stage £878.24
Xmas Market Stall deposit £30.00
Xmas Market Stall deposit £30.00

November 2024 Expenditure

Aspire - Grass Cutting £528.00
Bison - Bollards on Span Green £1,125.00
HMRC - PAYE - Oct 2024 £41.99
Huw Rowley - Footpath clearance £90.00
PKF Littlejohn - External Audit £378.00
Bucks Council - Bins £36.40
HP - Ink £11.99
Squarespace - Website £6.62
Bucks Recycling - Fly Tipping Clearance £330.00
Taplins - Portable Toilet £90.00
Taplins - Digger Hire £100.00
MP Printers - Xmas Market Banner £91.20
MP Printers - Xmas Market promotional cards £96.00
BT - Utilities £89.96

Read the financial summary for November 2024 (PDF). Please email the Parish Clerk if you need help accessing this document.

Parish Council Meeting held September 17th 2024

September 17, 2024 Parish Clerk

Minutes

Present: Cllr Springs, Cllr Slater, Cllr Tuffley, Cllr Judge (Chair) and seven members of the public were in attendance.

No updates and questions were presented by members of the Public:

No questions were raised by the public. Members of the public were able to ask questions and make comments during the item on ‘Encroachment on North Hills’

024/022 1 Discussion on whether to co-opt for the last 6 months of the Council Term.

Cllr Judge expressed his thanks to all applicants who put themselves forward for Co-Option and encouraged these to also stand for election onto the Parish Council in May 2025 regardless of the outcome of the meeting.

The Council confirmed that currently there is no official policy on Co-option for Brill Parish Council. Following research Cllr Judge confirmed that it is the practice of some other Parish Council’s not to Co-opt on to the Parish Council for the final few months of the term. Some have stated this in a Co-option policy.
Cllr Tuffley expressed that when the Council originally advertised for residents to put themselves forward for Co-option this was following the resignation of two councillors in August 2023 with nearly 2 years left of the Council term.
Cllr Tuffley expressed that this Parish Council is focussing on trying to complete the current open projects and not look to start new projects. The Council is also currently organising the administrative side of the work to ensure a smooth transition.
Cllr Tuffley stated her feeling of the importance of the need for a mandate from the village to serve on the Parish Council and co-opt only when absolutely necessary.
Cllr Slater agreed stating that Co-option in her view is an undemocratic concept best avoided unless absolutely necessary. Cllr Slater also continued that it would be better use the remaining term to focus on the current projects and use the democratic method to determine who should be on the Council at the Local Election in May 2025.
Cllr Springs expressed her support for co-opting new Councillors. She stated this would reduce the risk of meetings becoming inquorate.
Cllr Springs also stated that those joining the Council in May 2025 may not go through an election should there be the same number or fewer applicants to the number of seats.
Cllr Judge brought the discussion to an end and raised the motion that ‘Brill Parish Council will co-opt new applicants onto the Parish Council in the final seven months of the term’
The Motion was defeated with Cllrs Tuffley & Slater voting against the motion and Cllr Springs voted in favour. Cllr Judge highlighted the strong feelings and abstained from the vote, having been co-opted himself onto the council.
Following the vote Cllr Judge reiterated his earlier hope that the applicants would still put themselves forward for election in May 2025. Cllr Judge also expressed a desire to work closely with the applicants on any future Parish Council.

2. Co-option of prospective Cllrs on to the Parish Council

This item was no longer required due to the resolution on Item 1

024/023 To receive apologies for absence

No apologies were received from members

024/024 To receive any declarations of interest

No Interests were declared by members

024/025 To approve the minutes of the meeting held on 1 May 2024.

Cllr Springs proposed accepting the minutes as a true record the meeting, seconded by Cllr Slater and unanimously approved

024/026 Finance:

The Councillors received the monthly finance spreadsheet

The Council resolved to accept the 2024/25 Insurance Quote

023/027 Planning applications

Applications for review

Planning Ref 24/02326/APP
Address Badgers 38 The Lawns Brill Buckinghamshire HP18 9SN
Proposal Householder application for proposed first floor extensions to the rear and one and half storey extensions to the front
PC Comments Neutral

Planning Ref 24/02432/ATC
Address Brill Memorial Hall Church Street Brill Buckinghamshire HP18 9RT
Proposal T1 Yew - Fell to ground level
PC Comments Application approved – For information. No Consultations requested by Buck Council

Planning Ref 12/A1753/DIS
Address Hybanks North Hills Brill Buckinghamshire HP18 9TH
Proposal Application for approval of details subject to Conditions 3 4 (materials) 5 (planting) 6 (Landscape) of planning approval 12/01753/APP
PC Comments Neutral

Planning Ref 24/02168/APP
Address 19 High Street Brill Buckinghamshire HP18 9ST
Proposal Householder application for single storey rear extension and loft conversion with rear dormer and front roof light
PC Comments Neutral

024/028 Communications Database

To review the recent communications

Zip Line – The Council following a report from a member of the public regarding the lack of tension on the zip wire. The Council resolved to contact Discovery to fix the zip line.
Accessibility to the Church – Cllr Springs enquired about the possibility of extending the path from the church across the village green to meet the pavement in order to improve accessibility for all residents. The Council considered the request and suggested sourcing quotes for a path and type of surface and to check the legal status of installing a path on the Village Green.
French Drains – The Parish Council confirmed its agreement for the installation of French drains under the Common as a flood defence to the property on the Chapman’s Lane Crossroads. The resident has confirmed that the Common will be reinstated to its original state after the completion of the works

024/029 Hartwell’s Barn Project

Due to the late hour the Council was updated briefly by the Chair of the Brill Society that the contract has been sent and is currently with the landowner.

Both solicitors have been going through this in detail. The has been drawn up but will only be considered and signed at the exchange of contracts.
The Council expressed its thanks to Brill Society for the perseverance and hard work to secure Hartwell’s Barn and Saunders Field.
The Chair of the Brill Society also updated the Council that he has met with Directors of the Lottery Heritage Fund. He will also soon be to take through the process for application form for future funding but it was unclear to the council what the application would be for and Cllr Slater expressed a desire to discuss the intended application further with the Brill Society and understand better how it would link in with our current heritage application for a Wildlife Ranger to ensure that both applications are well thought through and complement each other.

024/030 King George V Field update

To receive an update on the King George V Field

Parish Council was sad to note the recent vandalism on the playing field, to both one of the benches and a picnic table

024/031 Bucks Energy opt in

To confirm the Council’s decision to opt in Energy Contract regarding the street lights in the village.

024/032 The Common

To receive an update on the Common including:

Feedback from BVCAG – Cllr Slater updated the Council on the main points of the most recent BVCAG meeting:
Walks Committee disbandment – The Parish Council notes that the Walks Committee have made the decision to disband and the Council expressed its thanks the Committee for its hard work over the years.
Ranger Application: Cllr Slater has progressed through to the second stage for the application for the Ranger. Cllr Slater re-iterated the requirement for the Parish Council to provide match funding in support of the application. Cllr Tuffley proposed approving the request to Match fund 10% of the precept per year over a five-year period. This was seconded by Cllr Judge and unanimously approved.
Cuckoo Farm – Following investigation of a possible encroachment of stones being placed on the Common the Council initiated the Encroachment Policy by sending a letter to residence in question.
Fly Tipping – The Clerk raised this with Bucks Council and enquired with Street Scene as to whether they would be willing to remove the Fly tipping and invoice the Parish Council. No response has yet come through. Cllr Springs to make an enquiry with a contact within Bucks Council.
Easement – Easement required under Local Government Act 1972 in order to have vehicular access across the Common. The new property being constructed on South Hills may require an Easement. The Clerk has contacted the owner of the property and will contact them again following the meeting.
Encroachment on the Common

A number of residents enquired about how the Council had followed its Encroachment Policy and were confused and disappointed not to have been informed about the decision prior to the encroachment being removed in order to have the opportunity to appeal the decision.
Cllr Slater clarified the actions carried out by the Council as set out in the May 2024 Parish Council Minutes.
Cllr Slater confirmed that the original request to repair the track was received by the Parish Council in November 2023. This stated a desire to fill the current potholes causing problems on the track. The Parish Council considered and approved the request and pledged £250 towards this work. The area of encroachment was not part of the original request. However, the Parish Council, accepted this encroachment was done in error and not a malicious act, but acted to restore the area which had not been part of the original request.
The primary reason for a letter not being sent to individual residents was that as this encroachment did not relate to a single property, there was not a direct residence to which the letter could be sent.
The Councillors accepted that the encroachment was carried out in good faith and not an intentional act to cause encroachment. Rather than attributing blame to any one person the Council felt it best to remove the Encroachment
The letter was to also inform that there would be disruption not an accusation of an individual of encroachment. The Council accepted that this letter could have been sent sooner.
Cllr Slater explained that the Parish Council has a statutory responsibility to protect the Common from encroachment
A resident stated that on this section of land was a house between 9 North Hills and the Graft House and it is still possible to see where the roof line was even following its demolition. Additionally the resident stated their greatest concern was the treatment of Paul Godwin as he is known to be a considerate and hard-working, resident who would not have acted unless there was a legitimate reason.
Another resident felt at the time it was an aggressive act to turn up with the digger. Subsequent discussions with the Parish Council have mollified this view and appreciate the chance to have dialogue and be able to move forward positively and amicably.
Cllr Judge said it was accepted that there are lessons to be learned from this case, as it was a more unusual situation than a resident simply extending their own boundary. This has been taken on board by the Council: should another similar situation arise, for example, track re-surfacing on other areas of the Common, there should be a clear documented scope of work agreed in advance.
Cllr Judge also restated that it is the Council’s responsibility to ensure the protection of the Common and to balance the requirements of the common and the use of public funds. It is the Council’s opinion that all actions from both the Parish Council and residents are done in good faith, and that in carrying out its decision the Council followed professional advice from Bed, Bucks & Oxon Wildlife Trust (BBOWT) on how to best resolve this situation.
Cllr Judge ended the item by thanking all those that took part in the conversation and it was time to draw the matter to a close.

024/033 Road & Traffic

To receive an update on the current projects in the Parish

The Council extended its thanks to Alison Poland and Bucks Council for the installation of bollards outside the Memorial Hall, completing a project first started in 2011.
SiDs - Following recent thefts of Speed Indicator Signs / batteries and vandalism in the local area, Cllr Judge contacted Truvelo to install additional security measures.
Memorial Hall Car Park - The Clerk has asked Rob Timms to secure the parking sign on the Memorial Hall car park as this has fallen off.
Installation of EV charging points – Cllr Judge updated that a supplier has been chosen to install the charge points, but the process is still going through the contract process, which is estimated to be complete in October 2024. The tentative target date for installation has been advised as is July 2025.
Memorial Hall car park resurfacing - Cllr Judge to contact Alison Poland to obtain quotes to resurface the Village Hall carpark with new drainage.
Village Signs - The Parish Council approved the cost of the new signs which have been confirmed as being classified as low cost (£0 - £5,000)

024/034 Parish Council Meeting Frequency Trial

To review the success of the trial to reduce the frequency of Parish Council meetings

The motion was raised to continue the two month meeting frequency with additional Working Together meetings if required was put to the Council. The motion was carried with Cllrs Slater and Tuffley in support, Cllr Springs opposed and Cllr Judge abstaining

Meeting closed at 21:56

024/034 Income & Expenditure

June 2024 Income

Interest £23.95
Interest £0.01
Interest £7.73
Transfer from Closure of Santander Account £27,090.12
Bucks Council - Devolved Services Payment £1,891.12

June 2024 Payments

Bucks Council – Bins £129.45
Phillipa Tawn - BWU English Lessons £650.00
Phillipa Tawn - BWU English Lessons £650.00
Rob Timms – Bins £105.00
Squarespace – Website £6.62
Canva - Annual Sub for online posters / posts etc £100.00
BT – Utilities £89.96
E Springs - Stob padlock £21.00
Hannah Hulme – Website £200.00
N Misselbrook – Plants £160.00
Playsaftey - Play Area Inspection £170.40
J Tuffley - BWU Expenses £80.00
J Tuffley - BWU Expenses £21.90
Drax - Street Light £162.16

July 2024 Income

Interest £0.01
Brill Sports & Social - Weed & Feed 50% contribution £225.00

July 2024 Expenditure

R Damerell - Clerk Salary £1,098.37
HMRC - PAYE £41.99
Jane Varney - Hustings Refreshments £250.00
Brill Memorial Hall - Hall Hire £75.00
Bucks Council - Bins £33.50
Rob Timms - Bins £135.00
Squarespace - Website £6.62
L Springs - Annual Parish meeting Expenses £53.39
Tim Patrick - Tractor Diesel (Walks Mowing) £37.80
DE & BE Philllips - Weed & Feed £540.00
Phillipa Tawn - BWU English Lessons £760.00
Gordon Govier - Harris Close Strimming £25.00
Trade & DIY - Bench £396.29
BT – Utilities £89.96
Brill Youth United - Section 137 Grant £590.52
Hannah Hulme - Website £200.00
Drax - Street Light £156.96
Aspire - Grass Cutting £528.00
R Damerell - Clerk Salary £1,098.37
HMRC – PAYE £41.99
R Damerell - Printer Ink £35.97

August 2024 Income

Interest £0.01
UKPN - Wayleave £220.05

August 2024 Expenditure

Bucks Council – Bins £36.40
HP - Ink £11.99
Squarespace – Website £6.62
BT – Utilities £89.96
Drax - Street Light £162.16
BBOWT - Common Consultation £561.00
BVCH Q1 Payment £765.00
Tim Patrick - Diesel Oil £36.12
Hannah Hunter – website £200.00
M Cherry - Common Repair £150.00
R Damerell - Clerk Salary £1,098.37
BVCH Q2 Payment £765.00
R Timms – Bins £105.00

Read the financial summary for September 2024 (PDF). Please email the Parish Clerk if you need help accessing this document.

Read the financial summary for October 2024 (PDF). Please email the Parish Clerk if you need help accessing this document.

Parish Council Meeting held May 21st 2024

May 21, 2024 Parish Clerk

Minutes

Present: Cllr Springs (Chair), Cllr Slater, Cllr Tuffley, Cllr Judge and seven members of the public were in attendance.

Updates and questions presented by members of the Public:

A resident brought to the attention of the Council that the Footpath sign on Chapman’s lane is missing. The resident has reported it missing but it has yet to be replaced.
A resident asked the Council where conservation area is and what can or can’t be done in the area. The Council resolved to add a map of the Conservation Area and the rules to the Parish Council website.
A resident asked the Council regarding the works on North Hills track why the Parish Council never attended to view the works being carried out, especially as work that was not requested has been carried out and what is the Parish Council going to do about it?

024/001 To appoint the Chair of the Parish Council

Cllr Tuffley proposed Cllr Judge to be Chair of Brill Parish Council, seconded by Cllr Slater and unanimously approved with Cllr Springs abstaining
The Parish Council expressed its thanks to Cllr Springs for her hard work and dedication as Chair of the Parish Council during 2023/24

024/002 To appoint the Vice-Chair of the Parish Council

Cllr Judge proposed Cllr Tuffley as Vice-Chair of Brill Parish Council, seconded by Cllr Slater and unanimously approved

024/003 To receive apologies for absence.

No apologies were received from members

024/004 To receive any declarations of interest.

No Interests were declared by Members

024/005 To approve the minutes of the meeting held on 18 March 2024.

Cllr Tuffley proposed accepting the minutes as a true record the meeting, seconded by Cllr Slater and unanimously approved

024/006 To approve the Council’s Standing Orders

The Council resolved to approve and adopt the Council’s Standing Orders.

024/007 To approve the Council’s Financial Regulations

The Council resolved to approve and adopt the Council’s Financial Regulations

024/008 To Review the Council’s Asset Register

.The Council reviewed and confirmed the Council’s Asset Register is complete and up to date

024/009 Finance:

The Councillors received the monthly finance spreadsheet
The Council reviewed and approved the annual accounts including receipts & payments account and bank reconciliation for the year ended 31st March 2024
The Council reviewed and approved the Annual Governance Statement 2023/24
The Council reviewed and approved the Accounting Statements in the Annual Governance and Accountability Return 2023/24

023/010 Planning applications

Applications for review

Planning Ref 24/01117/APP
Address 18 South Hills Brill Buckinghamshire HP18 9RR
Proposal Householder application for two storey side extension. Demolition of existing conservatory and partial rebuild of existing single storey side extension. First floor front protrusion
PC Comments Neutral

Planning Ref 24/01163/ALB
Address 14 The Square Brill Buckinghamshire HP18 9RP
Proposal Listed building application for repairs and internal alterations including the replacement of 2no. first floor rear windows, infilling of open section of party wall in roof space, addition of new first floor partition to form new bedroom and removal of a section of ground floor wall to form larger opening between kitchen and dining area, and installation of a new wood burning stove in existing fireplace
PC Comments Neutral

Planning Ref 24/01383/APP
Address Land West Of Ludgershall Road Brill Buckinghamshire HP18 9TZ
Proposal Conversion and alteration of barn to form residential dwelling with ancillary amenity area
PC Comments Neutral

024/011 Communications Database

To review the recent communications

The Clerk to contact Aspire and request the contact the grass areas in Harris Close and the Donkey Field.
The Council approved the request to use the Common for Orienteering on 9 July 2024.
The Council confirmed that the request to cut the hedge back on South Hills could not be approved at this time as it is illegal to cut the hedge back during the growing season. The Council did however approve the request following the end of the growing season.
Write to resident to raise concern about the fence and needing repair.
Cllr Springs feedback from a meeting with … The Council had no objection for… to carry out their work.
Request for funding to print additional signage for directions in the village. The Council suggested observing how long the current sign would last and then review the situation.

024/012 Village Green

To consider the request from a resident to restore their path across part of the Village Green. The Parish Council resolved to agree to the residents request with the stipulation that the path must be repaired with like for like material and width.

024/013 Hartwell’s Barn Project

To receive an update on the Hartwell’s Barn Project

The Council encouraged all members of the public who are interested in receiving an update on the Hartwell’s Barn project to attend the Brill Society AGM on 29 May 7pm at Brill Sports & Social Club

024/014 King George V Field update

To receive an update on the King George V Field

MUGA Tennis net: Cllr Tuffley brought a concern from users of the MUGA for tennis and the difficulty in erecting the tennis net. The Council resolved to not purchase any new equipment for the MUGA at this time but will continue to monitor the situation.

024/015 Trees in the Play Area

To review the intention of residents to remove the trees backing on their fence.

The Council resolved to object to the residents intention to remove the trees in the Play Area as these trees are currently on Parish Council owned land.

024/016 The Common

To receive an update on the Common including:

Statement for Cllr Slater on the Encroachment on North Hills (Appendix A)
Re-laid track on North Hills

The Council expressed its disappointment that no communication was received to carry out the additional work for drainage and the additional parking space.
Cllr Tuffley proposed tightening the Commons Policy including the requirement that type 1 is used for all repairs to tracks on the Common, this was seconded by Cllr Judge and unanimously approved.
Cllr Tuffley proposed paying the agreed nominal £250 stating that this was agreed for the repair of the potholes on North Hills.
Cllr Tuffley also proposed for the Council to invoke its Encroachment Policy as there has been a concern raised by a member of the public and additional works carried out without prior notification or agreement. These proposals were seconded by Cllr Judge, Cllr Slater abstained with Cllr Springs opposing.

Request to re-lay the track on South Hills and Hillbreak

Cllr Slater proposed approving the work requested at the lower end of North Hills and the proposed work on South Hills. Cllr Tuffley seconded, and was unanimously approved.

Beating of the Bounds

The Council resolved to hold the Beating of the Bounds at 1pm on 30 June 2024.

Dead bees on the common

Following a number of bees being found dead on the Common, Cllr Slater asked that it be reminded that all forms of pesticides are prohibited and forbidden to be used on the Common.

Update on the Ranger

Cllr Salter updated that the application has been submitted for funding for a 5 year Common and Wildlife conservation Ranger and three interpretation boards. The total amount requested is £105,815.76. Cllr Slater confirmed that the application was submitted in April and can take up to three months before confirmation is received whether the application was successful or not.

Rights of Way

The Council received a request from the village Rights of way Officer for Huw Rowley to strim and clear the Rights of Ways pinch points in the village.
The Council resolved to raise this matter at the next BVCAG meeting and to invite the Rights of Way Officer to attend and to feedback to the Council.

024/017 Grass Cutting in the Parish

To receive an update on the meeting with Aspire

Cllr Springs updated following her meeting with Aspire. The same areas as 2023 will be left to grow again this year with some minor tweaks. The edge of the Village Green will be cut to allow greater visibility. The Village Green adjacent to the church will be cut in preparation for each village market.
It was also confirmed that the Green will be cut in preparation for the Brill Festival in August

024/018 Roads & Traffic

To receive an update on the current projects in the Parish

Electric Vehicle Charge Points: Cllr Judge confirmed that the proposal for the charge points has been approved and been put out to tender. The Council agreed to use Wellers Hedley solicitors as recommended by Bucks Council.
Cllr Judge confirmed there had been no update regarding the quotes for the renovation of the Memorial Hall Car Park.
The brown tourist sign for the Windmill on Temple Street has been added to the schedule for replacement
Windmill Street pothole: It was confirmed that the issue was a burst water main which Thames Water refused to accept until Bucks Council had dug up the road. Thames Water have no taken responsibility.
Village signs: Bucks Council confirmed that a process has finally been put in place for ordering village signs. The request has been sent through to David Cairney at Bucks Council
Bollards outside the Memorial Hall: The bollards were marked but these markings have been washed away and will need to be re-marked.
Foliage on Temple Street: The LAT and Cllr Judge have been in contact with the resident following the foliage from their garden covering the children crossing sign with no success

024/019 Parish Council Meeting Frequency Trial

To review the success of the trial to reduce the frequency of Parish Council meetings

This item was moved to the July 2024 meeting to be reviewed.

024/020 Brill Hustings Event

To receive an update on the Brill Hustings event scheduled for 9 June 2024

Cllr Judge updated the Council on the upcoming Hustings Event. It was agreed for all questions from the public to be sent to the Clerk and shared with Cllr Judge.
The Council approved expenses of up to £250 towards refreshments for the event

024/021 Income & Expenditure

April 2024 Income

Bucks Council - Precept £26,666.00
Brill Sports & Social - Mower 50% Invoice £1,354.35

April 2024 Payments
Squarespace - Website Annual Domain £158.40
BVCH - Q4 Payment £765.00
Squarespace - Monthly License payment £6.62
Hannah Hunter - Website maintenance £200.00
J Hope - Play Area Expenses £44.50
PKF Littlejohn - External Audit £1,008.00
BBOWT - Common Consultation (Jan - Mar) £3,276.30
BT - Utilities £89.96
J Tuffley - BWU Expenses £79.13
J Tuffley - Dropbox £1,400.00
R Timms - Bins £105.00
Tim Patrick - Link Pin £9.45
Tim Patrick - Link Pin Assembly £23.75
Tim Patrick - Link Lower Link - Mower £22.10
Tim Patrick - Diesel Oil £39.48
Hannah Hunter - Additional website maintenance £200.00
Hannah Hunter - Website maintenance (Error payment repaid 01/05/2024) £200.00
HMRC - PAYE £43.99
Briants - Fence Panel £137.81
Briants - Fence Fixings £21.53
P Tawn - BWU English Lessons £510.00
R Damerell - Clerk Salary £1,096.37
R Damerell - Printer Ink £11.99
Sparkx Ltd - Street Light repair £601.80
Drax - Street Light £163.44

May 2024 Income

Hannah Hunter – overpayment reimbursement £200.00

May Expenditure 2024

Rt Machinery – Mower Service £3,250.43
Bucks Council - Bins £33.25
Squarespace - Website £6.62
R Timms – Fence repair & Bins £165.00

Appendix A

Common Notes for BPC meeting on 21st May 2024

“We know from village surveys undertaken by the PC that most people choose to live in Brill because of its beautiful vistas and natural environment. Many people however still cannot see the link between incremental encroachments (e.g a tiny bit extra on a track or laying a tiny bit of hard standing for parking) and the eventual loss of that natural environment for ever. Having beautiful common land on your doorstep is an incredible and rare privilege in this country and we all need to take more of responsibility in protecting it.

The recent work undertaken by Paul Godwin in good faith on the track at the top of North Hills has resulted in the enlargement/creation of a parking space outside Mr Andy Fishers house which has caused some concern. It is unclear to me at this stage whether the hardcore under it was actually laid by Mr Wheeler when he originally laid the track or not. I believe the dispute about whether or not this is an encroachment has come about because I did not walk the track and agree in detail with Mr Godwin in advance of doing the work which had been agreed by the PC. The photos he sent to the PC (on which we based our decision) were of potholes only – there was no mention of extra parking spaces. I take full responsibility for not checking with Mr Godwin in more detail before the work started and for trusting only in photos. It also looks as if some rubble/bricks have been thrown casually onto the common which Mr Godwin describes as drainage channels. There was no mention of rubble or drainage channels in the proposal submitted to the PC. It is true to say that the volunteers working on the Common have worked very hard over the years to prevent the Common from becoming a dumping groud and it is disheartening to see bricks just dumped like that – it may well encourage others to do the same which is exactly what we need to avoid. There is also a question about whether this rubble was put in the correct place for a drainage channel anyway as the water is more likely to run off on the corner further down the track where it is lower. I am very unclear how to move forward on this. One thing I do know is that it is completely unacceptable for any village residents to harass any individuals in connection with this as has been the case to date.
Regarding another request to repair/make good the track with potholes at the bottom of North Hills outside the Keepings house. I walked the track with the residents and Mr Godwin (who has been asked by the residents to do the work) on Monday 13th May. I am satisfied that the agreed work will not be an encroachment as long as it is carried out in accordance with the photographs taken by me on that day and uploaded for fellow Cllrs on Dropbox. The work will fulfil a genuine need for post and emergency vehicles to turn safely when rain and mud is prevalent as it has been so much lately. The work agreed will use Type 1 to fill pot holes, expose drainage manholes and we agreed 8 drainage channels to the left of the track (walking from Brill to Tramhill). I emphasised that any track laying should be made with respect to the wildflowers coming up at this time of year and that the track laying should follow advice from Natural England to keep grass growing in the middle to maintain it as country track – this grass will grow back naturally when cars drive up the track.
I also walked the track on South Hills with a resident from 18 South Hills and am satisfied that the request to fill in the potholes with Type 1 and add 3 or 4 drainage channels is reasonable and sensible to ensure safety of residents and emergency vehicles and also to prevent the widening of the track (which would be an encroachment in itself) which is clearly occurring every time a car avoids the potholes by driving up onto the Common on either side. Repairing the track will prevent this happening. I also made sure the new resident was aware of the Common and Walks Policy on the PC Website. Again it was emphasized that the grass must be allowed to grow back in the middle of the track.
Of more concern is the concrete aggregate that someone (we don’t know who) has laid on the track leading up from South Hills to Colley Close. The PC did NOT give permission to do this. Please could ALL residents of Brill remember that permission must be sought from the Parish Council by residents for ANY track maintenance on Common land. “

Cllr Emi Slater. 21/5/24

Read the financial summary for May 2024 (PDF). Please email the Parish Clerk if you need help accessing this document.

Parish Council Meeting held March 19th 2024

March 19, 2024 Parish Clerk

Minutes

Present: Cllr Springs (Chair), Cllr Slater, Cllr Tuffley and three members of the public were in attendance.

No updates and questions were presented by members of the Public:

023/112 To receive apologies for absence.

Apologies were received from Cllr Judge

023/113 To receive any declarations of interest.

No Interests were declared

023/114 To approve the minutes of the meeting held on 16 January 2024.

Cllr Springs proposed the Minutes be approved as a true record of the meeting, seconded by Cllr Tuffley and unanimously approved.

024/115 Finance:

To receive the monthly finance spreadsheet. The finance spreadsheet was received and reviewed by the Councillors.

It was decided that the Clerk will set up a new account to be used for project work, to simplify the accounts and ringfence the finances
It was agreed that the proposed new procedure for Purchase Orders will be discussed in detail at a future meeting

023/116 Planning applications

Applications for review

Planning Ref 24/00762/ATC
Address 18 Temple Street Brill Buckinghamshire HP18 9SX
Proposal We seek to reduce the crown of the cherry tree by 4m in height and 2-3 meters of lateral growth. Crown raise to 4m. The tree is twin stemmed with poor union attachment and included bark. A reduction will substantially reduce the risk of failure. The tree is growing under a boundary wall between 18 and 20 Temple Street Brill, causing the wall to fall down.
PC Decision & Comments Neutral – The Council reminds the applicant regarding the laws surrounding tree work in the nesting season.

Planning Ref 22/A3473/NON
Address 1Ley Hill 21 South Hills Brill Buckinghamshire HP18 9TQ
Proposal Proposed non-material amendment to planning permission 22/03473/APP (Demolition of garage workshop and greenhouse. Erection of detached dwelling
PC Decision & Comments No comment required

Planning Ref 24/00524/APP
Address James Farm (Formerly The Old Stables) Ludgershall Road Brill HP18 9TY
Proposal Erection of barn, associated menage and track
PC Decision & Comments Neutral

024/117 Communications Database

To review the recent communications

Request from Art on the Hill – The Council resolved to refuse the request from Art on the Hill to use the Village Green for parking during the event due to the amount of rain and mud. The Council did though suggest using the Memorial Hall Car Park.
The Council confirmed it has received a reference request from a neighbouring Council for Aspire Community Works. The Cllrs agreed to provide a reference following this request.

024/118 Brill Energy Event

To receive an update on the Brill Energy Event held in February 2024.

The report under Appendix A was received prior to the meeting from Cllr Judge

024/119 Brill Parish Council Devolved Services Agreement

To review and approve the Devolved Services Agreement from Bucks Council.

The Council resolved to approve and sign the 2024/25 Devolved Services Agreement with Bucks Council.

024/120 Hartwell’s Barn Project

To receive an update on the Hartwell’s Barn Project

The Brill Society is continuing to lead the efforts to purchase Hartwell’s Barn and Saunder’s Field, with the support of the Parish Council. The Chair of Hartwell’s Barn Sub-Committee fedback to confirm the upcoming fundraising events and Grant applications:

Gravity Race with Sponsorship: Further details to follow but it is hoped this will become an annual event
Midsummer Music – Planning is underway and an agreement has been struck for the stage with a local company.

Two grant applications are underway. The Plunkett Foundation have confirmed they are very keen to assist with further funding applications of up to £240,000 along with other grants for admin costs etc. Fundraising still ongoing, and the groups are still working together on an application to the Community ownership fund. The sale was extended to facilitate the raising of the funds to purchase the barn.

024/121 King George V Field update

To receive an update on the King George V Field

BSSC asked for permission to weed and feed the adult football field.

Cllr Springs proposed to respond to the club to not have the weed and feed on KGV or play area prefer not use Depitox (a selective herbicide) on the adult football pitch due to the glyphosate and would recommend Westland Triple Care - Lawn Feed or Finalsan Weed Control which the Council would be willing to fund. Cllr Slater seconded and unanimously approved

024/122 Trees in the Play Area

To review the request to re-site a tree in the Play Area.

The Council Resolved to require the resident to provide a copy of the legal document granting a right of way from their property onto the Playing Field. Once the Council receives this, it will make a decision over the request to re-site the tree.

To review the request regarding trees backing on to a resident’s fence.

It was confirmed that Cllrs Judge and Springs will visit the residents to discuss the impact the trees on the playing field are having on their fence.

024/123 The Common

To receive an update on the Common projects and the BVCAG December meeting.

Cllr Slater confirmed that The BVCAG meeting took place on the 11 March where the following items were discussed:
The Council has started the preparations to apply for the Countryside Stewardship Agreement and is working closely with Alex Cruickshank to draft the items to be included.
Cllr Slater proposed applying to the National Lottery Heritage Community Fund for £100,000 towards the cost of the Ranger who will work closely supporting all the volunteer groups working on the Common.
The Walks – Jon Vaile and Tim Patrick will be collecting the flail which will be stored on the Walks on two sleepers. Tim and Ken Furminger will then use the BVCH tractor with the flail to cut the nettles in the Walks as and when this is required.
Elaine Dickinson is checking with Brill School as the area used by the Forest School has developed a gap in the fence where sheep can escape from the Walks onto the Common.
South Hills Hedge – Cllr Slater proposed ensuring that when the proposed hedge is received in Autumn, the Council ensure that this must come directly from the Woodland Trust.
The Council received a request from Brill Environment Group for tree protection in both the Walks and Playing Field. Cllr Tuffley proposed approving the request for funding to the protective measures for the trees in the Playing Field and the Walks.
Thanks to the residents who highlighted the problem and then collected close to 100 bags of dog poo off the Common.

024/124 Grass Cutting in the Parish

The Council resolved to use the same areas of the village as 2023 to leave to grow during the growing season. The Council to advertise in the same way as last year on the Bernwode News, noticeboard and website. The Council will also publish the dates for the areas will be cut in August in good time for the Brill Festival.

The Council to also encourage residents to put forward other suitable locations for the project for future years.

The Clerk confirmed that Cllr Judge and the clerk to meet with Aspire to discuss the grass cutting in the village. The date for the meeting to be confirmed.

024/125 Road & Traffic

To receive an update on the current projects in the Parish

No parking options update

The Council agreed to contact Fairhive to enquire whether they would be willing to install a moveable bollard at the entrance to the garages to stop unauthorised parking next to the school.

024/126 Date for Annual Parish Meeting

To arrange and agree a date for the Annual Parish Meeting

14th May 2024 APM – 7pm

023/101 Income & Expenditure

February 2024 Payments

Rob Timms - Bins £105.00
Bucks Council - Bins £33.25
Squarepace - Website £6.62
Squarepace - Website £57.60
BT - Utilities £82.57
P Tawn - BWU English Lessons £480.00
R Damerell - Printer Ink £59.94
Bucks Council £690.57
Hannah Hunter - Website £200.00
R Damerell - Clerk Salary £1,092.48
Drax - Utilities £163.44

March 2024 Payments

Bucks Council - Bins £30.70
Squarepace - Website £6.62
London Hearts - Defibrillator £753
J Hope – Play Area Expenses 302.19
Steven Judge – Brill Energy Event Expenses £77.85
R Timms – Bins £122.89
R Timms - Bins £135.00

February 2024 Income

Interest £24.93
2D Energy Solutions £50.00

March 2024 Income

Interest £25.98

Appendix A : Report on Brill Energy Event

The Brill Energy Event was held on 18 February in response to an enquiry from a resident about the possibility of community energy scheme. The Community Board was contacted for advice, and it was found that a community energy scheme would be complex, but there were other shorter-term opportunities that could be of interest to residents.

A meeting was organised for residents, with help from Buckinghamshire Council and Buckinghamshire Community Energy and the support of a physicist and public speaker. The meeting was advertised on noticeboards, on Facebook and to Community Board contacts. About 35 residents attended, and a report has been published in the newsletter (the presentations can be seen on the PC website).

As part of the Parish Councils remit to support local businesses, companies working in the sector were offered space for an exhibition stand at the event. Companies were identified through web searches, Brill Business Facebook and contacts of Buckinghamshire Community Energy, but it was not possible to identify all the companies in the area. Four companies asked to participate, one had to drop out at the last minute due to illness.

The companies paid a small contribution towards the cost of running the event; the payments covered the hire of the Memorial Hall and a small gift to thank the speakers (who refused to accept a fee or travel expenses). The event was therefore cost neutral to the Parish Council.

Thanks are due to the speakers, Kirsty Shanahan, Vicki Nash and Michael de Podesta, to Elaine Hassell from the Community Board for her support and to Brill Cinema for the loan of the projector and screen.

Energy efficiency is a topic of interest to Buckinghamshire Council, and other opportunities to contribute to the debate will be explored.

Read the financial summary for March 2024 (PDF). Please email the Parish Clerk if you need help accessing this document.

Parish Council Meeting held January 16th 2024

January 16, 2024 Parish Clerk

Minutes

Present: Cllr Springs (Chair), Cllr Slater, Cllr Tuffley and Cllr Judge.

One member of the public was in attendance. No updates and questions were presented by members of the Public:

023/101 To receive apologies for absence.
No apologies were received

023/102 To receive any declarations of interest.
No Interests were declared

023/103 To approve the minutes of the meeting held on 18 December 2023.
Cllr Slater proposed the Minutes be approved as a true record of the meeting, seconded by Cllr Judge and unanimously approved

023/104 Planning applications
Applications for review

Planning Ref 24/00059/ALB
Address Temple House 2 Temple Street Brill Buckinghamshire HP18 9SX
Proposal Listed building for installation of an external swimming pool and plant

Planning Ref 24/00058/APP
Address Temple House 2 Temple Street Brill Buckinghamshire HP18 9SX
Proposal Householder application for installation of an external swimming pool and plant
PC Comments

Object: As the applicant states in document number … 2 Temple Street, Brill is a building with historical merit. It is located in the conservation area of the village, is Grade II listed and is directly adjacent to an archaeological site. Brill Parish Council opposes the construction of an external swimming pool on this property as it is not in keeping with the area and detrimental to the visual character of the building. The Council is also concerned about the noise and fumes from the proposed plant room. The Council is also concerned about the potential noise and disruption to neighbours and wildlife from use of the swimming pool and noise from the plant room. In the future the Council notes the risk of a structure and building to enclose the pool.

Planning Ref 24/00016/ALB
Address 9 The Square Brill Buckinghamshire HP18 9RP
Proposal Listed building application for demolition of conservatory and erection of two storey rear extension and garden store/plant room and Internal alterations
PC Comments Neutral

Update from meeting with Hedges Law Ltd regarding the development on South Hills:
Cllr Judge and the Clerk met with a solicitor from Hedges Law Ltd to discuss the development on South Hills and the drafting of an agreement and a License to protect the Common. Cllr Judge updated that the Agreement would be drafted to protect the Common to ensure no installations such as new drainage manhole covers, removal of trees etc are carried out. The License will include the permissions granted by the Council including but not limited to: Limiting working hours Monday – Friday with no work on weekends and Bank Holidays, prohibiting waste storage on the Common, prohibiting storage of materials on the Common, prohibiting skips on the Common and any other measures to protect the Common for the enjoyment of the public. The Council will continue to take legal advice regarding the inclusions in both the License and the agreement and whether an easement will be required for vehicular access across the Common.

023/093 Communications Database
Drones – Cllr Springs updated that a visitor to the village had used a drone to film a video over the Common without seeking permission of the Parish Council. The Council resolved that whilst it is not possible to enforce the Drones Policy without passing a bye-law the Council would respond to the visitor that the Parish Council would prefer they contact the Parish Council before using a drone on the Common.

023/082 King George V Field update
To receive an update on the King George V Playing Field

Pitchpower report
Neil Shaw of Brill Sports & Social (BSSC) attended the meeting and agreed to answer any questions from the Council regarding the Pitchpower report. Following discussions, The Council resolved for BSSC to investigate the process to apply for the FA grant funding for improvement to the Football Pitch and report back to the Parish Council. BSSC have also agreed to also investigate the feasibility of BSSC managing the project on behalf of the Parish Council should the Council resolve to agree to the project.

023/096 Dropbox
To review the Parish Council Dropbox Membership. The Parish Council resolved to reduce the number of Dropbox Licenses from seven to three

023/097 Parish Council Meeting Frequency
Cllr Tuffley proposed reducing the frequency of Parish Council Meetings to 6 meetings a year. This is due to the reduced numbers of Councillors currently on the Council leading to an increased workload. This will allow Councillors the time afforded to be able to carry out Parish Council duties with an increased timeframe and allow greater productivity.

023/098 The Common

To receive an update on the Common projects and the BVCAG December meeting. No update to report

023/099 Road & Traffic
To receive an update on the current projects in the Parish

Cllr Judge updated that the Buckinghamshire Council Waddesdon Area Freight Zone Consultation Survey to reduce HGV traffic in Ashendon, Brill, Chearsley and Cheddington areas opened in January 2024 with two drop-in events on the 17 and 27 January 2024 at Ashendon Village Hall. The plan is to introduce a freight zone north of the A418, south of the A41, east of the B4011 and west of Rabans Lane, Aylesbury. The Parish Council resolved to respond to the consultation. It was resolved to support the proposal as a suitable boundary

The Council resolved that, in regards to the HGV training school adjacent to Rushbed, that The Spans is not a suitable route for HGVs as a short cut to join the main routes, as it is disruptive to residents and also cause possible damage to houses, roads, verges and be potentially hazardous for pedestrians and cyclists. The Parish Council’s suggestion would be for the HGV vehicles to be directed east past Rushbed Woods towards Kingswood, where the road joins the A41. This would provide access to the A41 and the roads are wider reducing the risk of potential damage to houses, roads and verges.

023/101 Income & Expenditure

January 2024 Payments

Aspire Community Services £528.00
BT – Utilities £82.57
Sanders Electrical - Floodlight Charing - MUGA Storage £480.00
Svitlana Pimkina - BWU Refreshement expenses £45.00
Seagrave Nurseries - Play Area Trees £549.36
R Damerell - December Salary £1,443.01
BMG Section 137 Grant £2,500.00
Hannah Hulme Hunter – Website £200.00
HMRC – PAYE £212.96
J Tuffley - BWU Expenses £143.29
Drax Eneregy - Street Lights £158.15
Bucks Council – Bins £30.70
Aspire – Grass Cutting £528.00
E Slater – English Lessons (BWU) £280.00
P Tawn – English Lessons (BWU) £400.00
M Cherry – Span Green Clearance £360.00
Teide Engineering – Flail Mower Service £280.08
BVCH – Quarterly payment £765.00

January 2024 Income

Interest £24.93
2D Energy Solutions £50.00