2012/2013 1 WISBECH TOWN FULL COUNCIL Minutes … Patrick has given notice that he is serving on the...

2012/2013 – 1

WISBECH TOWN FULL COUNCIL

Minutes of the Meeting of the Full Council of Wisbech Town Council held on Friday 18 May at 12 noon, and Monday 21 May 2011 at 7.30pm.

Present: Cllr JR Farmer (outgoing Mayor); Cllr Mrs VM MacRae (Mayor Elect); Cllr Miss S Hoy (Deputy Mayor Elect); and Cllrs SJ Brunton; MG Bucknor; Mrs V Bucknor; Mrs CR Cox; RL Griffin; M Hill; D Hodgson; DC Oliver; G Tibbs; HB Wegg; and DA Wheeler. In attendance: Town Clerk, Mr Erbie Murat; Father Paul West; distinguished guests; former Mayors; spouses/partners of Town Councillors & Town Clerk; Mayor elect’s guests; Deputy Mayor elect’s guests; Deputy Clerk, Mrs Susanah Farmer; and Town Beadle, Alister Hopkins. Members are NOTED the Order for Mayor Making booklet (as circulated), and as follows. Councillors and the Town Clerk assembled in the Mayor’s Parlour - everyone else was seated in the Council Chamber The Town Beadle announced the Council and the Mayor, and they processed to their seats. The Town Mayor, Cllr Jonathan Farmer welcomed everyone and asked Father Paul West to lead the Council in prayer. 1. Election of the Chairman of the Town Council (to be known as Town Mayor) for the Municipal year 2012-2013. On a proposal from Cllr Mrs Cox and seconded by Cllr Wegg, Cllr Mrs MacRae was elected Chairman and Town Mayor for the municipal year 2012/2013 The outgoing Mayor stood down, and with appropriate ceremony the Town Mayor took her seat. Councillor Mrs Vivien MacRae will make an initial speech, accepting the office of Mayor.

The Town Clerk, Erbie Murat administered ‘The Declaration of Acceptance of Office’, and the Oath of Allegiance, followed by the customary speeches. 2. Election of the Vice-Chairman of the Town Council (to be known as Deputy Town Mayor) for the Municipal year 2012-2013. On a proposal from Cllr Mrs Cox and seconded by Cllr Hill, Cllr Miss Hoy was elected vice Chairman and Deputy Mayor, followed again by customary speeches. 3. Election of the Leader of the Town Council. On a proposal from Cllr Farmer and seconded by Cllr Hill Cllr, Cllr Oliver was elected Leader of Wisbech Town Council for the Municipal year 2012/2013. 4. Apologies and absences Apologies were received from: Cllr McLaren – family illness Cllr Mee – work commitments

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On a proposal from Cllr Farmer and seconded by Cllr Mrs Cox the above apologies were AGREED. Absent without apology: Cllr Patrick 5. Declarations of Interests There were no declarations of interest. 6. Appointment of Mayor’s Chaplain for the municipal year 2012/2013 The mayor Appointed Father Paul West from St Peter & St Paul’s Church as her chaplain. 7. Formal adjournment the annual meeting of the Council until 7.30 pm on Monday 21 May 2012.

The Town Mayor thanked the guests and invited them to stay to partake of refreshments

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Continuation of Annual meeting of Wisbech Town Council - Monday 21 May 2011 at 7.30pm

8. Apologies for absence for 21 May 2011 Apologies were received from Cllr Hill – conference Cllr Mrs Cox - holiday

9. Declarations of Interests Cllr Oliver reminded members that they have a duty to declare interests and to withdraw as necessary. Cllr Mrs and Mr Bucknor will amend their declarations to include the Town Team. Cllr Patrick has given notice that he is serving on the District Planning Committee. Members are asked to up-date their declarations.

10. Up-date from Cambridgeshire Constabulary There will be a Neighbourhood Forum in the Council Chamber on Monday 25 June between 6pm and 7pm prior to Town Council, and the Police community van will be parked outside all day. 11. Up-date from Fenland District Council

To be forwarded – up-date on dilapidated buildings.

Response to be sent to Cllr Patrick about the maintenance on the play equipment in Spider Park and Jasmine Close.

To be forwarded to the Clerk – details of FDC’s use of centralised purchasing.

Officers will investigate parking on Lynn Road again – it seems to have started up again. 12. Minutes of the Town Council meeting of 23 April 2012 Cllr Wegg proposed an amendment to the above minutes – he was present. On a proposal from Cllr Patrick and seconded by Cllr Wheeler the above minutes were AREED with the amendment proposed by Cllr Wegg.

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13. Minutes of the Civic Amenities Committee meeting of 16 April 2012 On a proposal from Cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr Brunton members of Civic Amenities Committee APPROVED the minutes of the Civic Amenities Committee held on Monday 16 April 2012 (circulated herewith). On a proposal from Cllr Oliver and seconded by cllr Wheeler members of Full Council then APPROVED the Minutes and the recommendations. 14. Minutes of the Planning Committee meeting of 23 April 2012 On a proposal from Cllr Hodgson and seconded by Cllr Griffin members of Planning Committee APPROVED the minutes of the Planning Committee held on Monday 23 April 2012 as circulated, and on a proposal from Cllr Hodson and seconded by Cllr Bucknor members of Full Council AGREED minutes and the recommendations. 15. Minutes of the Allotments Committee meeting of 30 April 2012 On a proposal from cllr Hodgson and seconded by Cllr Oliver members of Allotments Committee APPROVED the minutes of the Allotments Committee held on Monday 30 April 2012 (circulated herewith), and on a proposal from Cllr Hodgson and seconded by Cllr Oliver members of Full Council APPROVED the minutes and the recommendations. 16. Membership of Standing Committees for 2012-2013 On a proposal from Cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr Wheeler the following amendments were AGREED to membership of Standing Committees: Wegg and Farmer to be added to Planning Committee membership, and Oliver removed. On a proposal from Cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr Wheeler the following membership was AGREED subject to the amendment AGREED to membership of Standing Committees of this Town Council: Resources; Town Planning, Allotments, Civic Amenities with the Town Mayor and Deputy Town Mayor acting as members ex-officio of all committees (proposal circulated herewith). Members NOTED that all Working Parties will need to be reconstituted and membership determined by the parent committee (as required). 17. Dates for your diary 2012 Members NOTED the dates of events and functions on the reverse of the Committee membership sheet that this Council is organising or helping to organise to the end of the year. (Produced and circulated by the Civic Secretary/Deputy Clerk) 18. Council and Committee meetings dates for 2012/2013 Members NOTED the meetings list attached, as previously agreed by Council with minor amendments. 19 a. Appointment of External Auditor On a proposal from Cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr Wheeler members APPROVED the use of Littlejohn LLP Accountants to be our external Auditor. 19b. Appointment of Internal Auditor On a proposal from cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr Patrick members APPROVED the continued use of Canalbs to provide the Council’s Internal Auditing service as directed by the Town Clerk.

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20. Annual Accounts On a proposal from Cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr Griffin members APPROVED the accounting statements and annual governance statement fro Wisbech Town Council and they were signed by the Mayor, ready to be checked by the Internal Auditor, and forwarded to the External Auditor before the deadline of 1 June 2011 (to be tabled), and to be used at the Town’s Annual Assembly. 21. Annual Report Members NOTED The Annual Report table3d at this meeting and which will be circulated at the Annual Assembly. It contains: the Mayor’s report; the Leader’s report; the report from the Town Clerk and the reconciliation and summary of the annual accounts. 22. Co-option of Councillor to replace Councillor Meekins Members NOTED that following the resignation of Councillor Nicholas Meekins a request for the vacancy to be filled by means of election has not been received by the Returning Officer. The Council is now required to fill the vacancy by co-option, which under the Local Elections (Parish and Communities) Rules 1986, must be done as soon as practicable. The next appropriate meeting to consider nominations for co-option will be the full Council meeting of 30 July 2012. Members are asked to inform the Town Clerk of any nominations by 12 noon on Friday 20 July 2010 in writing, with full name and contact details. 23. CCTV Service Level Agreement 2012-2015 (as circulated) Members NOTED that there have been no further observations on the Service Level Agreement, which includes this Council’s contribution of £25,000 per annum for the next three years. On a proposal from Cllr Farmer and seconded by Cllr Mrs Bucknor members AGREED that this Council formally agrees to support the Service Level Agreement as circulated. 24. Fenland District Council’s request to allow another fair within the annual calendar in Wisbech Members NOTED that FDC have asked us to consider allowing another fair in Chapel Road car park in November each year with the car park closing for one week, and the fair opening on Thursday to Saturday. They envisage that it will not affect Somers Road car park. On a proposal from Cllr Patrick and seconded by Cllr Oliver members AGREED that they will not support any proposals for any further fairs in Wisbech. 25. Leader’s up-date

Members were invited to the formal opening of the Wisbech Information Centre on Tuesday at 1pm.

Loan Sharking initiative is going on for this month including an event at the Oasis at 4pm on 25 May.

The Crimebuster bus is in town next Thursday.

Hopefully CCC will have experimental Order for the Market Place in place soon.

FDC has confirmed that TUPE does not apply to market Supervisor 26. Mayor’s up-date The mayor reported on her visit to a residential art school to encourage young people.

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27. Clerk’s up-date a) The Clerk in consultation with the Mayor and the Leader has authorised an extension of the Asset Supervisor’s hours one month earlier to facilitate a handover on the Market Place. b) Members are advised that all matters for information only that have been circulated by the Clerk and Deputy Clerk will no longer be recorded as part of the Clerk’s up-date. 28. Correspondence from Cambs County Council (CCC) (displayed on notice board) None 29. General Correspondence (displayed on notice board) a) Inside Housing b) Safety & Health Practitioner c) Details of Search for a Star competition staged by Fenland Arts Association. d) 2 Copies of Market Trade News. e) Copy of the Clerk magazine.

The meeting closed at 8.10 pm

Signed…………………………

Dated……………………….

2012/2013 – 6


Minutes of the Meeting of the Full Council of Wisbech Town Council held on Monday 25 June 2012 at 7.30pm.

Present: Town Mayor Cllr Mrs VM MacRae; Deputy Mayor Miss S Hoy; and Cllrs SJ Brunton; JR Farmer; RL Griffin; M Hill; D Hodgson; R McLaren; RM Mee; DC Oliver; GP Tibbs; HB Wegg; DA Wheeler; and Cllr S Tierney following his co-option. In attendance: Town Clerk, Mr Erbie Murat; County Cllr Steve Tierney (joining the meeting after his co-option was agreed); Richard Taylor (remained after Neighbourhood Forum); Elliott Johnson, Chairman Wisbech Youth Council; Annabelle Tighe (FDC); Ged Wilde (FDC); and Gary Garford (FDC). Members NOTED that this meeting had been preceded by a Neighbourhood Forum Meeting organised in partnership with Cambridgeshire Constabulary, Fenland District Council and Wisbech Town Council. The Forum was open to the public. It was attended by Police Officer, Robin Cawston; PCSO Gary Banks; Rob Mitchell (FDC); and Erbie Murat, Town Clerk; together with several Councillors and one member of the public. The Fenland Community Safety Partnership Crimebuster bus was parked outside the Council Chamber from noon to 8pm, and was very well attended attracting over hundred visitors who completed a short questionnaire, the results of which will be used to identify community concerns and influence a multi-agency response. The next Forum will be on Monday 28 January 2013 and will be publicised in the town newsletter. Members were advised that the Town Clerk will be on leave from Friday 13 July to Friday 27 July. Prior to the commencement of the meeting members received the following update from Wisbech Youth Council (circulated)

Wisbech Youth Council Report (WizKidz) September 2011 – June 2012

In the past 9 months the Wisbech Youth Council has gone from strength to strength and has now become an

independent body with its own cash flow, to cover costs and spend in the future. The Youth Council has also

increased the amount of activities it does over each year consequently creating a greater public presence. There

have also been several new members join the Wisbech Youth Council and members from the past have returned

to join in once again.

In September Stuart Murat stood down as chairman and Elliott Johnson was elected to take his place; Elliott’s

previous position of vice-chairman was then filled by new member Chelsea Clarke. Also new was a change to

the meetings as it was decided that the Youth Council should meet every month instead of every three months

and that each alternate meeting should be a games night, which have so far gone very well.

After September the Youth Council moved its meetings to the Octavia Hill Birthplace House. The Youth

Council is charged room hire, and in order to cover this, and to help with events, the Youth Council has raised

monies with fundraising events at the Christmas Lights Switch On, Christmas Market and Jubilee Festival.

Until such time as a bank account is set up, this money is cared for by Susanah Farmer as part of her clerking

responsibilities, and a report made to members at formal meetings.

The Youth Council has taken part in events with other groups helping Peter Clayton with the Arts Festival,

Street Pride and the Wisbech Town Team (who the Youth Council is sharing a Rose Fair Float with).

Furthermore the Wisbech Youth Council has been visited by other groups and organisations including the

Library and Kick Ash, who are helping the government consultation on plain cigarette packets. Elliott is also a

part of the Wisbech Town Team and The Festivals Committee to engage the Youth Council with other groups in

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The Youth Council has also changed its structure so that it is an independent group. Firstly, Susanah Farmer has replaced Erbie Murat as the adult involved with the Wisbech Youth Council; she has done a wonderful job.

The Youth Council is in the process of changing its constitution and is now informally named WizKidz, to be

more attractive to children (although the Wisbech Youth Council will still be its formal name). The age range

for members has also been increased with members able to join from 11 to 21. The new constitution changes

mean the Youth Council has become a separate group to promote the youth of Wisbech but wishes to retain

links with the Town Council, being invited to the opening of the Fair and other activities and events.

For the future the Youth Council looks forward to setting up a music festival for local bands, which it is

planning at the moment, and to future events especially with Street Pride and the Town Council. The Youth

Council will also be looking to expand its membership by talking in schools and other ways; currently there

have been 8 new members and the return of a few from the past.

Overall this has been a very successful year for the Wisbech Youth Council and it is hoping to build upon this

next year.

There was one question to the Chairman of the Youth Council - ‘How are you forging links with other youth organisations in the town’. He advised members that he is a member of the Wisbech Town Team and that the Youth Council was invited on to the Wisbech Town Council Festivals Working Party meetings, which he attended.

The Town Clerk advised members that since Wisbech Youth Council had become free standing in November 2010, he had ensured that Wisbech Youth Council members continued to be invited to the opening of the Mart and Statute Fairs, and were provided with free stall space at Christmas Lights Switch On and the Jubilee Street Party. This level of support is to continue.

30. Apologies and absences Apologies were received from:

Cllr MG Bucknor – holiday Cllr Mrs V Bucknor – holiday Cllr Mrs CR Cox - holiday Cllr DR Patrick – taxi meeting

On a proposal from Cllr Wheeler and seconded by Cllr Tibbs the above absences were approved. 31. Declarations of Interests Cllr Miss Hoy declared an interest as a member of the Peterborough and Cambridgeshire Fire & Rescue Service in relation to item 48. 32. Reports from Cambridgeshire Police Members NOTED the following report as circulated – using ANPR (Automatic number plate recognition) – of 36 vehicles stopped in Wisbech = 7 fixed penalty notices issued , and 2 seized for no insurance (36 officers involved). Members NOTED that Inspector Robin Sissons is on holiday, and also NOTED the details for the Neighbourhood Forum recorded earlier.

33. Reports from Fenland District Council – Members NOTED the following Reports and Welcomed Anabelle Tighe, Ged Wilde and Gary Garford. a) Presentation on Dog Control Orders - to be given by Annabelle Tighe and Ged Wilde. Members NOTED that FDC are in a period of consultation and that they welcome feedback from Councillors – presentation to follow after questions to Gary Garford.

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b) Street Scene up-date April 2012 (as circulated) c) Derelict and Empty Properties (as circulated) d) FDC, having removed the planters from the Market Place has charged us £675 to bring them back. The Town Council is in discussion with them about ownership of the planters. e) We have had confirmation that FDC cleansing patterns mean that there will be cleansing in the town centre from early morning until after 5pm - 7 days a week. f) CCTV update for April 2012 (as circulated). g) The Town Clerk has confirmed with FDC that the SLA for CCTV has been agreed. This is now due to be signed. f) With regard to the purchase of the toilets in Exchange Square and the town park, the Town Council’s solicitor has advised on 15 June that ‘matters now ‘appear to be moving forward,’ and that the FDC are dealing with practical issues that we have raised such as water and electricity supplies so that necessary transfers can be prepared. The Town Council’s solicitor is undertaking appropriate searches of both properties, and has asked FDC to ensure that both properties are registered with Land Registry. Members NOTED that they are currently unregistered. We expect completion within 3 months. Gary Garford took questions with the following outcomes:

Some of FDC’s garages are in a poor state of repair & may be due for redevelopment – all are under review at present.

At this point the Mayor asked that all mobile phones should be switched off while the Council is in session. Mr Taylor left the room and returned after a few minutes.

There have been some problems with FDC’s new toilets, and these are being monitored. Annabelle Tighe made her presentation on Dog Control Orders.

Consultation is to be July and August- Plenty of time to hear Cllrs Views.

Initially there were 40 potential dog order sites considered and this was whittled down to 12 with particular issues and where the orders could be actioned.

The Control Orders were either dogs on leads or dogs excluded (gated areas).

The sites being considered are: Tindell Close (excluded); General Cemetery (excluded); Burcroft Rd (on leads); Mount Pleasant Cemetery (excluded); Jasmine Close (Leads; Walsoken Cemetery (excluded); Wisbech Park all gated areas- (excluded); Barton Rd (on leads; Heron Rd Gated (excluded) open spaces (on leads); Westmead Ave (excluded); and Copperfields (excluded).

Enforcement of Controls will start in October 2012.

On National Trust Land – is used without payment then the powers could be used.

WTC could apply for the power to use on land that it owns. There is a TOOLKIT of information available.

FDC will share expertise.

More staff necessary for enforcement – currently five officers across Fenland.

Bacterial infection can be ingested by touching other surfaces and not the actual faeces.

Appeal to responsible dog owners to report irresponsible ones.

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34. Minutes of the Town Council Meeting of 18 May and 21 May 2012 (herewith) On a proposal from Cllr Tibbs and seconded by Cllr Brunton members APPROVED the minutes of the Town Council Meeting of 18 May and 21 May 2012, with an amendment to the date to be changed from 2011 to 2012. 35. Minutes of the Planning Committee meeting held on 28 May 2012 (herewith) On a proposal from Cllr Miss Hoy and seconded by Cllr Hodgson members who were present APPROVED the minutes of the Planning Committee meeting held on 28 May 2012. On a proposal from Cllr Miss Hoy and seconded by Cllr Hodgson members of full Town Council APPROVED the minutes of the Planning Committee meeting held on 28 May 2012. 36. Minutes of the Mayor’s Annual Town Assembly held on Monday 28 May 2012 (herewith) On a proposal from Cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr Miss Hoy members who were present APPROVED the minutes of the Mayor’s Annual Town Assembly held on Monday 28 May 2012. On a proposal from Cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr Miss Hoy members of full Town Council APPROVED the minutes of the Mayor’s Annual Town Assembly held on Monday 28 May 2012. 37. Minutes of the Festival’s Working Party held on Monday 28 May 2012 (herewith) On a proposal from Cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr Miss Hoy members who were present APPROVED the minutes of the Festival’s Working Party held on Monday 28 May 2012. On a proposal from Cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr Miss Hoy of full Town Council APPROVED the minutes of the Festival’s Working Party held on Monday 28 May 2012 and all the recommendations. 38. Minutes of the Resources Committee meeting held on Monday 18 June 2012 (circulated under separate confidential cover) On a proposal from Cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr Hill members who were present APPROVED the minutes of the Resources Committee meeting held on Monday 18 June 2012. On a proposal from Cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr Hill members who were present APPROVED the minutes of the Resources Committee meeting held on Monday 18 June 2012, and all the recommendations. 39. Co-option to Wisbech Town Council vacancy in Peckover Ward. Members NOTED that the Town Clerk has received one nomination for co-option to the vacant Town Council seat for Peckover ward. The Town Clerk has also received the nominee’s ‘Candidate’s Consent to Co-option’ form. The Town Clerk was therefore able to establish that there was one valid nomination and asked members to consider the co-option of Steven John Tierney to represent the Peckover Ward and to be a Wisbech Town Councillor with effect from the date that he signs his declaration form. On a proposal from Cllr Miss Hoy and seconded by Cllr Griffin members APPROVED the co-option of Cllr Steven John Tierney. The Town Clerk invited Cllr Tierney to sign his declaration of acceptance of office, and was issued with a register of interests’ form, which must be completed and returned to the Town Clerk within 28 days. The Deputy Clerk will monitor this matter. Cllr Tierney joined members to participate in the rest of the meeting. 40. Freedom of the Town Members NOTED that the Town Clerk has received one nomination for members to consider. The Town Clerk has been able to establish that the nominee would be honoured to be considered and willing to accept the Freedom.

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On a proposal from Cllr Griffin and seconded by Cllr Wheeler members APPROVED the nomination and NOTED that the Town Clerk will set in motion the formal procedure to award the Freedom of the Town to Richard Barnwell. Members NOTED that £1,000 would have to be set aside, for the cost of an illuminated scroll and to defray any other costs. The Town Clerk will be calling a special meeting of the Council to bestow the award once a date has been set and the illuminated scroll prepared. The Deputy Clerk will progress this matter 41. Dann’s Clock Members NOTED the removal of the Dann’s Heritage Clock from the frontage of William Brown’s Lettings, and considered what action to take. Members NOTED that various organisations in the town are taking action to have the clock restored to the town. On a proposal from Cllr Griffin and seconded by Cllr Brunton members AGREED that this Council will support any organisation in its bid to have the clock restored to the town. 42. Boundary Commission Review Cllr Farmer moved next item, and the Mayor moved to the next item. 43. Nomination of the Rosmini Centre for the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service On a proposal from Cllr Farmer and seconded by Cllr Griffin members AGREED to nominate the Rosmini Centre for The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service (by groups in the community). The Deputy Town Clerk will progress this matter. 44. Report from the Leader of the Town Council The Leader had nothing to report. 45. Report from the Mayor of Wisbech The Mayor has enjoyed the first Wisbech Arts Festival, and her visits to various organisations and events around Wisbech. The Mayor hoped that there would be a similar event next year. She chose to highlight two visits:

a) NSPCC Kings Lynn & Wisbech Branch – good to be told where the money is being spent with child lines in schools.

b) Impressed with the work of the College of West Anglia – she is glad that the college is being retained in Wisbech.

46. Report from the Town Clerk – Members NOTED the Town Clerk’s leave dates as Friday 13 July to Friday 27 July. The report of the Town Clerk was NOTED as follows with no questions. a) Wisbech Jubilee Street Party great success – excellent coverage in Wisbech standard – Wisbech

Chamber of Commerce congratulated the town council on job well done – Horsefair footfall increase was 160% higher than a Normal Bank Holiday, and 20% higher than a normal Monday – in fact equal to a very good Saturday. The winner of the Shop Window Display was ‘Button Up and Stitch. There were three winners of the Mystery Object Competition - each being awarded £20.00 – Mrs A Hudson; Tara Coward; and Maria Amato. No balloons had been reported at the

time of completing the agenda (60 were purchased during the day and let off at 5pm).

b) FDC confirmed that our licence was issued confirming the latest change we have made for Jessica Oliver to be the Designated Premises Supervisor was hand delivered in time for our planned jubilee event.

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With regard to the DPPO, the Violent Crime Reduction Act 2006 (section 26) amended the Criminal Justice and Police Act 2001 (CJPA) to clarify the time at which certain licensed premises fall within a Designated Public Place (DPPO). Overall the changes mean that where a local authority holds a premises licence or occupies or has managed for it a premises that is subject to a premises licence authorising the sale or supply of alcohol, that premises will only be excluded from a DPPO in which it is situated at times when alcohol is actually being sold or supplied and for 30 minutes thereafter. At all other times, the premises will be subject to the terms of the DPPO. In other words, the changes that have been made mean that the DPPO -one has been introduced by a local authority – would not apply in the area covered by the local authorities premises licence while alcohol sales are taking place. The DPPO would re-apply to the area covered by the local authorities premises licence once the alcohol sales ceased and after the expiry of a 30 minutes grace or wind-down period after the last sales have been completed. So in effect there would be a temporary suspension of the area of the designated public place that is covered by the local authority’s premises licence. Legitimate business premises within the public place that have licenses to sell or supply alcohol (e.g. pubs and clubs etc) will continue to be excluded from a designated public place at all times by virtue of section 14 of the CJPA.

c) FDC has confirmed that ‘planning permission will not be required’ for the works intended to be carried our by Wisbech Town Council ‘as they can be classed as permitted development under the Town and Country Planning General Permitted Development Order, Schedule 2, Part 12. This section allows local authorities (the Town Council is classed as a local authority for the purposes of Part 12) to carry out works and erect small buildings on land belonging to or maintained by them and required for the purposes of any function exercised by them.’ The only restrictions are that any ancillary building, works or equipment must not exceed 4 metres in height or 200 cubic metres in capacity.

d) Cambridgeshire County Council has let us have a copy of their Experimental Traffic Order for the roads around Wisbech Market Place to begin implementing the traffic management proposals agreed between this Council and the County Council in July 2011. First week in September is the agreed date for implementation, and there will be a further site meeting to iron out the details. The parking bays on the South Side will be painted on Wednesday 4 July in readiness, and discussions will take place on further demarcation measures for the pedestrian area on the north side of the Market Place. The ticket machine for free one hour parking in designated parking bays only (on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday) will be installed on Monday 3 September, together with tariff boards etc., and the details will be published in the town newsletter, and around the Market Place.

47. Letters of thanks for Grant support received from Wisbech Town Council. Members NOTED that the following organisations have sent letters of thanks for the grants they have received:

a) Wisbech Music Society b) Wisbech Swimming Club c) Wisbech Stroke Club d) The Vivien Fire Engine Trust e) Wisbech Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society f) Fenland Citizens Advice Bureau

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g) Volunteer Centre Fenland h) Victim Support i) Fenland Arts j) Angles Theatre k) Wisbech & District Talking Newspaper l) Wisbech & Fenland Museum m) Wisbech Social Club & Institute n) Wisbech in Bloom o) Wisbech Tourism Development Group p) Ten cards from members of and one letter from Dramarama

48. Service Level Agreement for North Wisbech Youth Project (as previously circulated). Members NOTED that the Group Commander for Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Fire Authority and the Town Clerk for Wisbech have signed the Service Level Agreement for North Wisbech Youth Project (as previously circulated), and that the first meeting will take place tomorrow with other Stakeholders. 49. Armed Forces day Members NOTED that the Town Council will raise the Armed Forces Day flag on Monday 25 June 2012 to mark a week’s celebration of Armed Forces Day. The celebrations in Wisbech are being organised by the Girls Venture Corps on Wisbech Market Place on Sunday 1 July 2012 between 10am and 2pm. More details to follow. Members NOTED that the main mast on the Council offices roof has lost its rope so we will only be able to use the secondary flag pole for the time being. 50. Correspondence from Cambs County Council (CCC) (displayed on notice board) None 51. General Correspondence (displayed on notice board) a) Inside Housing b) Safety & Health Practitioner c) Market Trade News e) Cambridgeshire Pride The meeting closed at 8.45 pm The Mayor reminded members of the Charity Concert on 5 July 2012.

Signed…………………………

Dated……………………….

2012/2013 – 13


Minutes of the Meeting of the Full Council of Wisbech Town Council held on Monday 30 July 2012 at 7.30pm.

Present: Town Mayor Cllr Mrs VM MacRae; Deputy Mayor Miss S Hoy; and Cllrs SJ Brunton; MG Bucknor; Mrs V Bucknor; Mrs CR Cox; RL Griffin; D Hodgson; R McLaren; RM Mee; DC Oliver; DR Patrick; GP Tibbs; S Tierney; and HB Wegg. In attendance: Town Clerk, Mr Erbie Murat; and Gary Garford (FDC)

51. Apologies and absences Apologies were received from: Cllr Farmer – Cadets Cllr Hill – work commitments On a proposal from Cllr Brunton and seconded by Cllr Tibbs the above apologies were APPROVED. Members NOTED that Cllr Wheeler was also absent without apology. 52. Declarations of Interests There were no declarations of Interest. Members NOTED that there has been a change in legislation requiring this Council to adopt new policies and procedures. The Town Clerk will circulate new policies and procedures being written by FDC as a template for Towns and Parishes to adopt. The requirement is that they are adopted at the first available full Town Council meeting. 53. Reports from Cambridgeshire Police Members NOTED the Wisbech Neighbourhood Patrol Plan, as circulated to members by Robin Cawston on 5 July 2012. 54. Report from Fenland District Council There was no report from FDC. Gary Garford took questions - the outcomes of which were as follows:

a) FDC has put in interim measures to improve the waterfront by improving the hoardings; cleaning the site; putting in regular maintenance; meeting with several developers; talking to housing providers; talking to the Ministry of Justice about the courthouse.

b) The Wisbech 2020 vision workshops have been very positive – 8 themes altogether – political input from all three levels – County, District and Town. The Town Clerk has been asked to arrange for the full Town Council meeting on 17 September to predominantly feature the 2020 vision with officers from County and District if they are available.

c) Gary Garford to contact the Environment Agency about the weeds along the riverbank, await maintenance schedules.

d) Roddons has fallen behind with affordable housing. e) Gary Garford to send to the Town Clerk an updated Horse Fair Plan for circulation to

members. Gary Garford left the meeting. 55. Minutes of the Town Council Meeting of 25 June 2012 (herewith) On a proposal from Cllr Hodgson and seconded by Cllr Griffin members APPROVED the minutes of

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the Town Council Meeting of 25 June 2012. 56. Minutes of Planning Committee meetings held on 18 June and 9 July 2012 (herewith) On a proposal from Cllr Griffin and seconded by Cllr Hodgson members APPROVED the minutes of the Planning Committee meeting held on 18 June and 9 July 2012. 57. Minutes of the Allotments Committee meeting of 16 July 2012 (to follow under separate cover) On a proposal from Cllr Hodgson and seconded by Cllr Miss Hoy members APPROVED the minutes of the Allotments Committee meeting held on 16 July 2012. 58. Report from the Leader of the Town Council Members NOTED the following: a) The County Council is getting ready to implement the experimental order in the Market Place, with bollards, signage etc being installed by 3 September 2012. b) FDC will, be asked to organise a workshop for the 2020 vision in Wisbech Council Chamber to coincide with the full Town Council meeting in September. c) Sunday 5 August is the Bring & Share Festival in Wisbech Park – need more Councillors to help set up and to steward. d) WTC has offered to buy the toilets in Wisbech Park and Exchange Square. 59. Report from the Mayor of Wisbech Members NOTED that the Mayor has attended 21 events. She selected four that she particularly enjoyed: Armed Forces went exceedingly well; Rose Fair was mind-boggling; the Mayor’s charity concert and Civic service went off exceedingly well; and the Centenary Green launch went well as the first step in raising £85,000 to purchase it. The Mayor hoped to see everyone at the Bring & Share festival on Sunday. 60. Report from the Town Clerk Members NOTED the following: a) The Service Level Agreement with FDC for the Market Place ended on 26 July 2012. b) 28 parking bays and one loading bay were marked out on the South Side of the Market Place. c) The ticket machine and tariff boards for free one hour ticket parking in the bays will be installed on 3 September 2012. d) The County Council will be installing rising bollards and signage with additional loading bays and disabled parking bays at the same time. e) The newsletter is being distributed – see section on parking arrangements in the Market Place. f) The Bring & Share multi-cultural festival has been organised for 5 August 2012 in Wisbech Park, again see newsletter. g) We are in the final stages of purchasing the toilets in Wisbech Park and Exchange Square. 61. Further letter of thanks for Grant support. Members NOTED that the Girls Venture Corps Air Cadets have written thanking the Council for their continued support. 62. North Wisbech Youth Project – Wisbech Roots Members are asked to note that the project is due to commence in September – please refer to newsletter for details. Members asked for a regular report on the progress of the project.

Cont ...........................

2012/2013 – 15

63. Correspondence from Cambs County Council (CCC) (displayed on notice board) None 64. Correspondence from Fenland District Council (FDC) (displayed on notice board) None 65. General Correspondence (displayed on notice board) – members NOTED the following correspondence. a) Inside Housing b) Safety & Health Practitioner c) Market Trade News d) Cambridgeshire Pride e) Clerks & Councils Direct f) The Clerk Magazine The meeting closed at 8.45 pm

Signed…………………………

Dated……………………….

2012/2013 – 16


Minutes of the Meeting of the Full Council of Wisbech Town Council held on Tuesday 14 August 2012 at 7.30pm.

Present: Town Mayor Cllr Mrs VM MacRae; Deputy Mayor Miss S Hoy; and Cllrs SJ Brunton; MG Bucknor; Mrs V Bucknor; Mrs C Cox; JR Farmer; RL Griffin; M Hill; D Hodgson; RM Mee; DC Oliver; DR Patrick; GP Tibbs; HB Wegg; and DA Wheeler. In attendance: Town Clerk, Erbie Murat; Susanah Farmer (Deputy Clerk); Michael South (Asset Supervisor); Sara Kedge the interim Chairman and Tracy Moll (Wisbech Town Team); John Elworthy (Wisbech Standard); and Market Traders: Rosemary Burton + 1; Mr Batchelor + 1; Kerr Dickson +1; Paul Bardsley; Lee Martin; Thomas Baluszewski; and Mrs Parker 66. Apologies and absences Apologies were received from the following Councillors: Cllr SJ Tierney - holiday Cllr R McLaren - work commitments On a proposal from Cllr Wheeler and seconded by Cllr Griffin the above apologies were AGREED. The Town Clerk read out a statement from Cllr Tierney that he asked to be considered at item 68. “I fully support the proposals for the market place committee and would urge all councillors to join together in supporting this plan.” 67. Declarations of Interests There were no declarations of interest. Members are asked to note that Ian Hunt, the Chief Solicitor and Deputy Monitoring Officer for the principle authority, Fenland District Council, has written advising us of changes that we need to make following the changes to the member conduct framework for members under the Localism Act 2011. The regulations have recently come out bringing this into force from the 1st July; a very tight timescale for implementation. He said ‘As you are probably aware there are a number of changes and I hope this letter will assist in enabling you and your members to understand our approach to the rules. Please note that there are now criminal sanctions applying to some aspects of the rules so members will need to be aware of these.’ ‘There are four policies that will need to be adopted by Wisbech Town Council as its policy framework, and members are asked to agree each as follows: Code of Conduct; Registration of interests; Declaring interests; Dealing with complaints.’ The Town Clerk asked members to adopt the four policies as circulated to members on Wednesday 8 August 2012. These were not considered and will need to be considered at the next full Town Council meeting. The Mayor moved on to item 68. The policies to be considered are as follows:

Cont ................................

2012/2013 – 17

Code of Conduct:

The national code has gone and it is now a statutory requirement for each council to adopt its

own code of conduct, which conforms to the 7 principals of public life set out in the

legislation.

It is recommended that Wisbech Town Council adopts the Code of Conduct used by the

District Council, which is compliant with the principals. The District Council’s Code of

Conduct was formally ratified on the 26th July 2012.

Given that this is a statutory requirement I suggest that the following policies are agreed this

evening.

Registration of Interests:

Registration has changed; there are three important changes:

There are criminal sanctions for failure to properly register.

The registration of interests is for the member and those interests that they are aware

of for their spouse, civil partner or person they live with as such.

The register must by law be published on Fenland District Council’s website, and on

Wisbech Town Council’s website.

The form of the register has been set out by Fenland District Council; and the Town Clerk

will obtain copies from Fenland District Council. The forms must be completed and returned

to the Town Clerk who will then forward them to the Monitoring Officer. The Monitoring

Officer will provide us with copies of the forms electronically for inclusion on our website if

relevant.

Where a member believes they have a sensitive interest; one where to disclose it may cause

real risk of violence or intimidation you should discuss this with the Town Clerk who will seek

advice from the office of the Monitoring Officer as they may be able to agree a limit on

disclosure.

Declarations of Interests:

Members will now have to deal with a new framework for the declarations of interests. These

relate principally to the declaration of disclosable pecuniary interests.

Where any matter in a meeting relates to an item where the member has a registered interest;

which relates they must not take part in the discussion or voting in relation to the item –

failure to do this is a criminal offence. It is open for you to have standing orders that they

must also leave the room.

If the interest is not on their register of interests then in addition to not taking part or voting

then they must declare the interest at the meeting and then they must register the interest with

the Monitoring Officer (via the Town Clerk) within 28 days; again failure to do this is a

criminal offence.

You may make arrangements for the wider disclosure of interests or the disclosure of interests

other than the disclosable pecuniary interests under the code of conduct; again the Fenland

Code does this.

Cont .........................

2012/2013 – 18

You will note that once a member has a disclosable personal interest they are debarred from

taking part in the discussion – this includes public participation time. The current rules about

speaking but not voting have gone.

Dispensations will be dealt with locally within the Town Council; and Fenland District

Council will deal with dispensations for the District Council. Please note dispensations are

not transferable between bodies so dual hatted members will potentially need two

dispensations.

All dispensations must be applied for in writing to the nominated proper officer (The Town

Clerk), who will have delegated authority to consider dispensations.

Dispensations can be to enable speaking or voting or both and can be granted on the

following grounds:

that without the dispensation the number of persons prohibited from participating in

any particular business would be so great a proportion of the body transacting the

business as to impede the transaction of the business,

that without the dispensation the representation of different political groups on the

body transacting any particular business would be so upset as to alter the likely

outcome of any vote relating to the business,

that granting the dispensation is in the interests of persons living in the authority's

area, or

that it is otherwise appropriate to grant a dispensation.

A dispensation can be granted for a specific meeting or for any period of up to 4 years.

Dealing with complaints:

Complaints against Wisbech Town Council members will continue to be dealt with at Fenland

District Council, who is forming a Conduct committee to deal with these.

The standard town members will be judged against is that of the code of conduct. If

allegations are made members will be given the opportunity to make initial representations

on paper and then the committee will consider if the complaint is suitable for investigation or

other resolution. Members and the Town Clerk will be kept abreast of the situation and the

relevant process.

The Committee at Fenland District Council is likely to be supported by up to two town or

parish representatives – further details of the selection process for this will come out once the

committee has been formed and has considered the best way to achieve this.

Complaints about failures to abide by the disclosable pecuniary interest scheme will be

criminal matters and therefore referred to the police. Each of the offences listed above is

subject to a potential £5000 fine and disqualification from being a councillor for up to 5

years.

68. Management of Wisbech Market Place Members considered the Market Place Finance Report as circulated to members 9 August 2012:

Cont ..................................

2012/2013 – 19

Decisions for members to make at Full Council

1. Agree to set up the Market Place Committee as detailed.

2. Agree the expenditure (below) to be ring-fenced to the Market Place income.

3. Consider the purchasing of the Park and Exchange Square toilets with a one off

payment from Reserves instead of paying for them over a three year period.

EXPENDITURE RING FENCED TO MARKET PLACE INCOME (annual income projected to be in the region of £60,000) Staff costs directly engendered by operation of the Market Place Asset Supervisor 14 hours a week (60% of his time) - £5,480.00 Admin Assistant 10 hours a week (50% of his/her time) £4,073.76 Cleaning costs for Market Place and toilets Market Place cleaning (excluding trade waste) = £835.68 x 13 = £10,863.84 Park toilets opening/closing & cleaning overnight = 886.20 x 13 = £11,520.60 E Sq. toilets opening/closing & cleaning overnight = 886.20 x 13 = £11,520.60 Events Christmas Lights Switch-on + tree + lights (purchase & erection) - £3,500 Christmas Market – grant to FDC – 1,000 Other costs Business Rates - £11,000 Maintenance and Repairs – £5,000 TOTAL COSTS Including all of the above would require £63,958.80 annually.

Members considered that the costs for Christmas events should be excluded from the ring fencing and on a proposal from Cllr Oliver, and seconded by Cllr Mrs Cox members AGREED to the following amendment - that Paragraph 3 of the proposal be replaced by: They will operate all the above activities within a ring-fenced budget, which will balance expenditure each fiscal year to include cleaning contracts for the toilets in the Park and Exchange Square, and all Market Place services, in accordance with Financial Regulations and the Council’s Standing Orders.

After some discussion, on a proposal from Cllr Farmer and seconded by Cllr Hill, members AGREED that the motion be put. On a proposal from Cllr Farmer and seconded by Cllr Wheeler the substantive motion was then put and the following was AGREED:

a) To delegate authority to the Deputy Clerk to be the Market Officer for the day to day management of Wisbech Market Place with the Asset Supervisor continuing in his role.

Cont ............................

2012/2013 - 20

b) That a Standing Committee to be known as the Market Place Management Committee is set

up to manage the Market Place, which is to include all contracts relating to the Market Place

both with traders and contractors; the markets; Market Place events; parking order; and

experimental order plus any interests pertaining to the Market Place.

c) They will operate all the above activities within a ring-fenced budget, which will balance

expenditure each fiscal year to include cleaning contracts for the toilets in the Park and

Exchange Square, and all Market Place services, in accordance with Financial Regulations

and the Council’s Standing Orders.

d) The committee will comprise of Cllr Farmer, Tierney, Mrs V Buckner and Oliver with the

Mayor and Deputy Mayor being ex-officio. In addition two market traders who will be asked

to join the committee, plus two market place retail traders.

e) The Committee will report to full Town Council.

Cllr Mrs Bucknor requested that all abstentions be recorded, which were as follows: Cllrs M Bucknor; Mrs V Bucknor; R Mee; and D Patrick

69. Acquisition of Wisbech Park

Members were asked to consider submitting an initial expression of interest to Fenland District

Council for the acquisition of Wisbech Park by Wisbech Town Council. On a proposal from Cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr Mrs Bucknor members agreed to defer this matter. The meeting closed at 7.45 pm The Town Clerk invited everyone to stay to discuss the Wisbech Market Place Management Committee, together with any Market Place issues, and left, handing over to his Deputy. N.B. a meeting was held and the notes of that meeting will be available to full Town Council at the next meeting, and in the normal way.

Signed…………………………

Dated……………………….

2012/2013 – 21


Minutes of the Meeting of the Full Council of Wisbech Town Council held on Monday 17 September 2012 at 7.30pm.

Present: Town Mayor Cllr Mrs VM MacRae; Cllr SJ Brunton; MG Bucknor; Mrs V Bucknor; JR Farmer; RL Griffin; M Hill; R McLaren; RM Mee; DC Oliver; DR Patrick; GP Tibbs; and S Tierney. In attendance: Town Clerk, Erbie Murat; Gary Garford (FDC); Dan Thorpe (CCC). 70. Apologies and absences Apologies were received from Cllrs: Mrs Cox – Holiday Hodgson – Holiday Miss Hoy – Family bereavement Wegg – Ill health Wheeler – Family illness Cllr Griffin also gave apologies that he would have to leave the meeting at 19.55 On a proposal from Cllr Tierney and seconded by Cllr Oliver the above absences were APPROVED. 71. Gary Garford from Fenland District Council and Dan Thorpe from Cambridgeshire County Council provided a half hour presentation to members setting out progress on the Wisbech 2020 vision and planned next steps. The presentation is available on www. wisbechtowncouncil.org.uk in full, plus there are up-dates on Shape Your Place, and coverage in the media. Cllr Griffin left at 19.55. The question was posed – How can Wisbech Town Council help? Various suggestions were made.

Members were invited to attend the 2020 summit on 26 October at the Boathouse, Wisbech, and to help through the community organisations with which they are involved to survey public involvement and engagement.

Members may access the consultation feedback generated by the 2020 workshops and other consultation forums to inform the refreshing and continued development of the Wisbech Town Plan, and the Town Clerk was asked to include any cross cutting actions when he next refreshed the plan for Member’s consideration.

The Town Council may raise the positive profile of Wisbech through the Town Council’s publications and through its press and other media coverage engendered by press releases and other methods of public engagement.

The Town Council could continue organising inclusive events such as the Bring & Share Multi-cultural Festival.

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2012/2013 - 22

Cllrs Tierney, Farmer, Oliver, and the Bucknor’s volunteered their time to be on the 2020 market stall on Wisbech Market Place during the two days (22 & 29 September 2012).

Members made a series of quick-fix suggestions that GG took away with him: Cleaning Road Signs; Litter picking; contact McDonalds who are having a massive litter pick elsewhere in conjunction with Street Scene Teams.

GG to Give the Town Clerk a matrix of potential projects to coincide with the CCC Corporate Plan, and the FDC Corporate Plan that may be integrated with the Wisbech Town Plan.

Aligning curriculum planning at COWA could provide an immediate return at NIL cost i.e. it was questioned whether COWA is providing funding for vocational qualifications and whether employers are providing apprenticeships.

N.B. There being no transport infrastructure in and around wisbech came up in all the workshops. GG cautioned that they must match delivery with the availbel funding to effect it. Gary and Dan left the meeting at 20.25

72. Declarations of Interests There were no declarations of interest. Following the normal declaration of Interests members considered adopting the following policies: Members NOTED that Ian Hunt, the Chief Solicitor and Deputy Monitoring Officer for the principle authority, Fenland District Council, has written advising us of changes that we need to make following the changes to the member conduct framework for members under the Localism Act 2011. The regulations have recently come out bringing this into force from the 1st July; a very tight timescale for implementation. He said ‘As you are probably aware there are a number of changes and I hope this letter will assist in enabling you and your members to understand our approach to the rules. Please note that there are now criminal sanctions applying to some aspects of the rules so members will need to be aware of these.’ ‘There are four policies that will need to be adopted by Wisbech Town Council as its policy framework, and members are asked to agree each as follows: Code of Conduct; Registration of interests; Declaring interests; Dealing with complaints.’

On a proposal from Cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr Mrs Bucknor members AGREED to adopt the four policies as circulated to members on Wednesday 8 August 2012. Code of Conduct: The national code has gone and it is now a statutory requirement for each council to adopt its own code of conduct, which conforms to the 7 principals of public life set out in the legislation: Members AGREED to adopt the Code of Conduct used by the District Council, which is compliant with the principals. The District Council’s Code of Conduct was formally ratified on the 26th July 2012.

Cont ..........................

2012/2013 - 23

Registration of Interests: Registration has changed; there are three important changes:

There are criminal sanctions for failure to properly register.

The registration of interests is for the member and those interests that they are aware of for their spouse, civil partner or person they live with as such.

The register must by law be published on Fenland District Council’s website, and on Wisbech Town Council’s website.

The form of the register has been set out by Fenland District Council; and the Town Clerk will obtain copies from Fenland District Council. The forms must be completed and returned to the Town Clerk who will then forward them to the Monitoring Officer. The Monitoring Officer will provide us with copies of the forms electronically for inclusion on our website if relevant. Where a member believes they have a sensitive interest; one where to disclose it may cause real risk of violence or intimidation you should discuss this with the Town Clerk who will seek advice from the office of the Monitoring Officer as they may be able to agree a limit on disclosure. Declarations of Interests: Members will now have to deal with a new framework for the declarations of interests. These relate principally to the declaration of disclosable pecuniary interests. Where any matter in a meeting relates to an item where the member has a registered interest; which relates they must not take part in the discussion or voting in relation to the item – failure to do this is a criminal offence. It is open for you to have standing orders that they must also leave the room. If the interest is not on their register of interests then in addition to not taking part or voting then they must declare the interest at the meeting and then they must register the interest with the Monitoring Officer (via the Town Clerk) within 28 days; again failure to do this is a criminal offence. You may make arrangements for the wider disclosure of interests or the disclosure of interests other than the disclosable pecuniary interests under the code of conduct; again the Fenland Code does this.

You will note that once a member has a disclosable personal interest they are debarred from taking part in the discussion – this includes public participation time. The current rules about speaking but not voting have gone. Dispensations will be dealt with locally within the Town Council; and Fenland District Council will deal with dispensations for the District Council. Please note dispensations are not transferable between bodies so dual hatted members will potentially need two dispensations.

Cont ..........................

2012/2013 - 24

All dispensations must be applied for in writing to the nominated proper officer (The Town Clerk), who will have delegated authority to consider dispensations.

Dispensations can be to enable speaking or voting or both and can be granted on the following grounds:

that without the dispensation the number of persons prohibited from participating in any particular business would be so great a proportion of the body transacting the business as to impede the transaction of the business,

that without the dispensation the representation of different political groups on the body transacting any particular business would be so upset as to alter the likely outcome of any vote relating to the business,

that granting the dispensation is in the interests of persons living in the authority's area, or

that it is otherwise appropriate to grant a dispensation. A dispensation can be granted for a specific meeting or for any period of up to 4 years. Dealing with complaints: Complaints against Wisbech Town Council members will continue to be dealt with at Fenland District Council, who is forming a Conduct committee to deal with these. The standard town members will be judged against is that of the code of conduct. If allegations are made members will be given the opportunity to make initial representations on paper and then the committee will consider if the complaint is suitable for investigation or other resolution. Members and the Town Clerk will be kept abreast of the situation and the relevant process. The Committee at Fenland District Council is likely to be supported by up to two town or parish representatives – further details of the selection process for this will come out once the committee has been formed and has considered the best way to achieve this. Complaints about failures to abide by the disclosable pecuniary interest scheme will be criminal matters and therefore referred to the police. Each of the offences is subject to a potential £5000 fine and disqualification from being a councillor for up to 5 years. On a proposal from cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr Mrs Bucknor members AGREED to ADOPT the above policies and procedures as adopted by Fenland District Council and that the Town Clerk should obtain appropriate ‘Declaration of Interest Forms from FDC for members to complete within 28 days, and which would then be published on both FDC and WTC web-sites. 73. Minutes of the meeting of Town Council on 30 July 2012 On a proposal from Cllr Hill and seconded by Cllr Mrs MacRae an amendment was AGREED to the minutes of full Town Council held on 30 July 2012 to the effect that Cllr Hill was not present. On a proposal from Cllr Patrick and seconded by Cllr Mee the minutes of full Town Council held on 30 July 2012, were APPROVED as amended above.

Cont ..........................

2012/2013 - 25

74. Minutes of the meeting of Town Council on 14 August 2012 On a proposal from Cllr Hill and seconded by Cllr Tibbs members APPROVED the minutes of full Town Council held on 14 August 2012. 75. Minutes of the Planning Committee On a proposal from Cllr Hill and seconded by Cllr Brunton members APPROVED the minutes of Planning Committee meetings held on 30 July, 20 August and 10 September 2012. 76. Notes of the preliminary forum of the Market Place Management Committee On a proposal from Cllr Mrs Bucknor and seconded by Cllr Oliver members NOTED the preliminary discussion meeting of the Market Place Management Committee held on 14 August 2012. 77. Minutes of the meeting of the Market Place Management Committee On a proposal from Cllr Mrs Bucknor and seconded by Cllr Oliver members APPROVED the minutes of the Market Place Management Committee held on 4 September 2012. 78. Minutes of the meeting of the Civic Amenities and Mayor’s Charity Fund Committee On a proposal from Cllr Brunton and seconded by Cllr Oliver members APPROVED the minutes of the meeting of the Civic Amenities and Mayor’s Charity Fund Committee held on 10 September 2012. 79. Public Interest Policy On a proposal from Cllr Patrick and seconded by Cllr Tierney members APPROVED the following guidelines and requirements as the Council’s Public Interest Policy that has to be used for agenda items where exclusion of the public is required. It will be hereby moved that in accordance with the Local Authorities (Executive Arrangements) (Meetings and Access to Information) (England) Regulations 2012 and come into force on 10th September 2012: (SELECT ONE PARAGRAPH a or b)

(a) it is likely, in view of the nature of the business to be transacted or the nature of the

proceedings, that if members of the public were present during that item, confidential

Information would be disclosed to them in breach of the obligation of confidence;

(b) it is likely, in view of the nature of the item of business, that if members of the public

were present during that item, exempt information would be disclosed to them;

PLUS

(a) identify the proceedings, or the part of the proceedings to which it applies, and

(b) state, by reference to the descriptions in Schedule 12A to the 1972 Act (access to

information: exempt information), the description of exempt information giving rise to the

exclusion of the public.

Also - a lawful power may be used to exclude a member or members of the public in order

to maintain orderly conduct or prevent misbehaviour at a meeting.

Cont ..........................

2012/2013 - 26

N.B. The public interest test in Section 2 of the Freedom Of Information Act provides that the Council must release the information unless, “in all the circumstances of the case, the public interest in maintaining the exemption outweighs the public interest in disclosing the information”. This requires the Council to make a judgement about the public interest. Where the balance between disclosure and withholding the information is seen as equal, the information must be released. How should we consider the exemptions? Start from the position that you will disclose everything. If there is information that you think should be withheld, check if any one or more of the ten categories apply. If they do apply, consider the public interest test. What is the public interest test? The public interest test in Section 2 of the FOIA provides that the Council must release the information unless, “in all the circumstances of the case, the public interest in maintaining the exemption outweighs the public interest in disclosing the information”. This requires the Council to make a judgement about the public interest. Where the balance between disclosure and withholding the information is seen as equal, the information must be released. What is the public interest? There is no legal definition of what the public interest is but Meredith Cook in her 2003 Study “Balancing the Public Interest: Applying the public interest test to exemptions in the UK Freedom of Information Act 2000” identifies the following as some of the relevant considerations in favour of disclosure:-

the public interest in disclosure is particularly strong where the information in question would assist public understanding of an issue that is subject to current national debate

the issue has generated public or parliamentary debate

proper debate cannot take place without wide availability of all the relevant information the issue affects a wide range of individuals or companies

the public interest in a local interest group having sufficient information to represent effectively local interests on an issue

facts and analysis behind major policy decisions

knowing reasons for decisions

accountability for proceeds of sale of assets in public ownership Cont ..........................

2012/2013 - 27

openness and accountability for tender processes and prices

public interest in public bodies obtaining value for money public health

contingency plans in an emergency

damage to the environment In the introduction to the FOIA the Information Commissioner lists the following public interest factors that would encourage the disclosure of information:-

furthering the understanding of and participation in the public debate of issues of the day

promoting accountability and transparency by public authorities for decisions taken by them

promoting accountability and transparency in the spending of public money

allowing individuals to understand decisions made by public authorities affecting their lives and, in some cases, assisting individuals in challenging those decisions; and

bringing to light information affecting public safety 80. Mayor’s Report The Mayor reported that she had attended 18 engagements since the last full Town Council meeting. She highlighted the following, and a full list may be obtained from the Deputy Clerk: RAF Club; Bring & Share Festival (very successful); Cricket Club; Rose Lodge Summer fete;. She observed that she was staggered by all the good things that go on in and around Wisbech. 81. Leader’s Report The experimental order for the roads around the Market Place is coming into force on from Monday 1 October, with a 6 month opportunity for people to raise any objections. It was advertised in the newspapers, the town newsletter, and on the Town Council web-site. There are also a number of posters also displayed in and around the Market Place. The Car par lining has been com pelted. The ticket machine is operational. Toilets – still with our solicitors. The closure of the park toilets was due to a burst water main in the park – not the toilets. The Festivals Working Party will be meeting soon to organise the Christmas Lights Switch on and other events. Cllr Tierney wishes to be on the Working Party. 82. Town Clerk’s Report Members NOTED the following: a) We have been able satisfactorily to respond to all the requests made by the external auditor, Moore Stephens, in relation to the Council’s Annual Accounts as an Intermediate Council, and accounting for our new assets and responsibilities in accrual terms. b) The Mayor; Deputy Mayor; Leader; Chairman of Resources and the Town Clerk have had

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2012/2013 - 28

a series of initial budget making meetings in readiness for the budget making meeting of Resources Committee scheduled for 15 October 2012. The Town Clerk has been asked to prepare a budget with a nil increase in the precept requirement, whilst maintaining its financial commitment to the Information Centre and other special projects. c) There were 62 applications for the Administrative Assistant post, with eight being shortlisted. It is hoped that the post is filled by the end of October. d) Further to the Council’s decision to organise a celebratory day to celebrate Freeman Jody Cundy’s achievement in the Paralympics, he was awarded a bronze medal. We are awaiting confirmation from his camp on a date, and have arranged for him to be driven around in Vivien the Vintage Fire Engine. e) The Market Place is being transformed according to plan. The Experimental Order has been advertised by the County on 7 September (see attached). f) The Town Clerk has been asked by the Mayor, Leader and Chairman of Resources to reconfigure the Christmas Lights so that we are able to have a bigger tree and better lighting in the Market Place. g) Heritage Weekend was well attended on Saturday, but the other days were rather poorly attended. Thanks you to those members who were able to help with Stewarding. Members NOTED that 150 people had attended the Court House. h) The Market Place Management Committee has got off to a good start and the new arrangements are working well. i) The Mayor, Deputy Mayor and the Chairman of Resources have agreed the material, design and costs to manufacture robes for junior Councillors to complement the Mayor, Town Clerk, Deputy Mayor, Senior Councillors and Town Clerk during processions and civic events. The order has been placed. j) The Mayor, Leader and Deputy Mayor have approved a set of replacement lampshades for the Council Chamber. k) Following Council’s approval to replace the flooring in the Council Chamber the Town Clerk was asked to investigate the possibility of having the floor boards’ repaired/sanded/and treated instead of replacing the carpet. The general consensus from the professionals is that they would not undertake the work without the Council setting aside several thousand pounds as a contingency to cover costs of any extensive repairs on top of normal costs including the specialist removal of artefacts etc., and the sanding, minimal repairs, and finishing with a surface that would suffer minimal damage through the scraping of heavy chairs. The Town Clerk is in the process of obtaining quotes for replacing the carpet. l) The copy date for the next town newsletter is Friday 21 September. This is a free vehicle for local, voluntary & non-profit organsations to publicise themselves and their activities – all we require is an electronic version of what they wish to publish – limited to 100 words and coupled with a photo if at all possible. This issue will be the Christmas issue and we are devoting 8 pages to the Christmas Market. m) We met with Graham Nourse FDC’s Head of Planning. There have been many changes in relation to the Localism Act. Of particular impact may be the changes to section 106 funding and its relationship with the new Community Infrastructure Levy – we should have a draft of FDC’s proposals in the Spring. n) The Boundary Commission has set the timescales for the Fenland Electoral Review. Public consultation will occur from 23 October 2012 – 7 January 2013, with a final scheme published on 25 March 2013.

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2012/2013 - 29

o) A further two sets of minute books have been bound and will be delivered to us on Weds 19 September. This means that the minute books have been bound up –to –date from 1969 to 2012. p) CCTV report for May – July circulated on 3 September 82. General Correspondence – to be found on display unit Members NOTED the following: a) Cambridgeshire Pride b) Inside Housing c) Market Trade News d) Safety & Health Practitioner e) Keeping in Touch with the NHS f) The Clerk Magazine


Signed…………………………

Dated……………………….

2012/2013 – 30

WISBECH TOWN FULL COUNCIL Minutes of the Meeting of the Full Council of Wisbech Town Council

held on Monday 29 October 2012 at 7.30pm.

Present: Deputy Mayor Cllr Miss Hoy in the Chair; Cllr SJ Brunton; MG Bucknor; Mrs V Bucknor; JR Farmer; RL Griffin; M Hill; D Hodgson; RM Mee; DC Oliver; DR Patrick; GP Tibbs; S Tierney; and DA Wheeler. In attendance: Town Clerk, Erbie Murat; and Jane Andrews-Gauvain from the Cambridgshire & Peterborough Environmental Records Centre (CPERC). There being no members of the public present and none wishing to speak, the Mayor commenced with the main meeting at 7.30pm. Prior to the meeting members observed a two minute silence for former Councillor and former Mayor, Mr J Barker; and Councillor and former Mayor, Cllr H B Wegg. 83. Apologies and absences Apologies were received from Cllrs: Mrs MacRae – ill health Mrs Cox – holiday with grandchildren McLaren – work commitments On a proposal from Cllr Tierney and seconded by Cllr Oliver the above absences were APPROVED. 84. Presentation from the Biodiversity Outreach Officer Members NOTED the presentation given by Jane Andrews-Gauvain, from the Cambridgshire & Peterborough Environmental Records Centre, as circulated to members on 26 September 2012. Members were also given copies of the CPERC Recording sheet upon which they were asked to record any native species, and a sheet was circulated giving examples such as the common toads, the great crested newt and the kingfisher. CPERC are interested in all sighting s of all wildlife. 85. Report Back from Fenland District Council. Members noted the following reports from Fenland District Council. There was no officer present to take questions. No questions were raised.

a) Area Project / Work Undertaken

Dog issues

The introduction of Dog Control Orders has moved into the public consultation phase. The areas affected and the types of powers looking to be introduced is being advertised and all feedback welcome. Dog fouling complaints has reduced compared to the beginning if the year with a reduction in complaints received of 72%. Education work is still ongoing with dog

Area Project / Work Undertaken

owners in areas which the community have identified to be ‘hotspots’. Officers are talking to dog owners, handing out dog bags and arranging for bins to be installed where needed.

Fly Tipping Fly tipping was reported to Street Scene at Southwell Road and Harecroft Road Parks and Open Spaces, these were investigated and no evidence was found. All items were removed away.

Abandoned Vehicles

Five vehicles in Wisbech were reported to Street Scene as being abandoned. Following investigation, all Five vehicles were removed by person/s unknown.

Tillery Field Working in partnership with Cambridgeshire Police, Street Scene has been patrolling the park and to assist the Police they have been collating Alcohol Litter statistics.

Street Lighting

Faulty street lights around the town have been reported to Cambs County Council and are awaiting repairs.

Lynn Road We have received reports that the Lynn Road, Vehicle Exchange are still parking vehicles on the grass verge outside their business. All spot checks by various Officers found this not to be the case. The overcrowding of the forecourt is with our planning department. We will continue to monitor this site.

Nuisance Vehicles

On going monitoring is being carried out by Officers at the Lay-By out side Wisbech Park following reports that Vehicles are parked in the lay-by and advertised for sale all day, every day, blocking access for those wishing to use the local amenities. The power available to us as a local authority to tackle this issue is under the CNEA 2005. Using this as an enforcement power is very difficult, lengthy and resource intensive. Currently to commit an offence a person has to leave 2 or more vehicles for sale parked within 500 meters AND we can prove that they are carrying out a business of selling motor vehicles. Upon satisfactory evidence of this Legal have advised we can issue a FPN of £100, failing to pay could result in court prosecution where max fine is £2500. Our monitoring of the area since the new year has shown regular cars parked for sale daily, ranging from 8 being the most down to 2 being the lowest recorded. Traders are displaying hand made signs all with different telephone numbers (presumably they are aware of the CNEA) Officers have been recording and calling the numbers to try and identify if any are answered/owned by the same person. No mobile number has appeared twice but the person on the other end we can assume in some cases to be the same person on an alternative number on another car. Whilst we have suspicions that the traders in some cases are one and the same we cannot prove all elements required for enforcement action. Please contact your local Street Scene Officer, Ged Wilde, if you have any local environmental concerns or queries relating to the above report. Ged is based at the Boat House and welcomes any queries face to face, by email or over the telephone.

Tel: 07979 707826 mobile Email: [email protected]

b) The reconciliation between income and expenditure has been finalised and has resulted in a £919.14 favourable return to Wisbech Town Council under the Market Place Service Level Agreement with Fenland District Council that finished on 26 July 2012. c) Members are asked to note the CCTV incident up-date from July to September 2012 (see notices displayed by the Mayor’s parlour).

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mailto:[email protected]

2012/2013 – 32 86. Declarations of Interests There were no declarations of interest. The Town Clerk reported that there were four Register of Interest forms outstanding – three of those were given to the Town Clerk at the meeting – two of which were submitted on old forms. Those two councillors will need to complete and submit new forms. One form is still outstanding and the Councillor will need to be advised that failure to submit the form by the weekend may lead to his seat being declared a casual vacancy. See item 99 (a). 87. Minutes of the meeting of full Town Council of 17 September 2012 On a proposal from Cllr Tierney and seconded by Cllr Farmer members AGREED the minutes of full Town Council held on 17 September 2012. 88. Minutes of the meeting of Resources committee of 15 October 2012, and annual budget for the financial year 2013/2014. Members considered the minutes and recommendations of Resources held on 15 October 2012, including the recommendation for the annual budget and expenditure as follows: As recommended by Resources committee - Annual Budget and precept for 2013/2014. Members NOTED that this Council has agreed the following items of expenditure that have on-going cost implications for the financial year 2012/2013, and need to be added to the budget requirements for the financial year 2013/2014:

Wisbech Information Centre (paid from reserves this year) ................... £ 5,000 Administrative Assistant + on costs (paid from reserves this year) ......... £10,000 Addition to Christmas Lights Budget (paid from reserves this year) ........ £ 3,000 Grit Bin provision - ..................................................................................... £ 1,000 Purchase of toilets – Park and Exchange Square (paid from acquisitions budget (£20,000) + reserves (£2,500) this year). Market Place cleaning and services + toilet cleaning ( paid for from Market Place Income projected at £60,000 per annum but requiring no precept increase). Members considered the level of precept that is to be raised for 2013/2014. On a proposal from Cllr Miss Hoy and seconded by Cllr Oliver members AGREED to the above items of new growth; the additional salaries and on-costs requirements of the new Admin Assistant’s post; and an additional contingency fund for road signage etc. (small highways works) - with the necessary adjustments made to Salaries; Pensions; Tax/NI; Special Projects; Christmas Lights; Market Place; and Acquisitions to facilitate the changes with a NIL increase on the overall budget spend for 2013/2014, and a NIL increase to the precept requirement that is to be notified to Fenland District Council to collect on behalf of Wisbech Town Council.

Further to the above recommendations members noted that the Town Clerk had received a lowest quotation for Christmas Lights for 400 metres of new strings, and 500 new LED bulbs of £2,345.76 (INC VAT), and that the Council’s electrical contractor had given a verbal quotation of £8659.00 (PLUS VAT) to provide the new configuration of lighting making use of the new strings and LEDs to improve the lighting in the Market Place. This quotation was substantially similar to last year with an approx. increase of £700.00, and does not require new quotations under the Council’s financial regulations.

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2012/2013 – 33 On a proposal from Cllr Farmer and seconded by Cllr Oliver members of Resources committee AGREED the above minutes, and AGREED the budget and expenditure requirements as detailed above, and that there is to be NIL overall increase on the budget and a NIL increase on the precept producing a budget for 2013/2014 of £323,800.00 and a precept of £249,200.00 On a proposal from Cllr Wheeler and seconded by Cllr Tierney members of full Town Council AGREED the above minutes, and the budget requirements as detailed above. The Town Clerk is to make the necessary adjustments to the overall budget to account for the above, and to make the annual precept request of £249,200 to Fenland District Council to collect on our behalf. On a proposal from Cllr Farmer and seconded by Cllr Oliver members also AGREED the above two quotations for the Christmas Lights with any spend over budget to be paid from reserves. On a proposal from Cllr Farmer and seconded by Cllr Oliver members also AGREED the cost of the additional election expenses (£2789.10) to be paid from reserves.

89. Minutes of the meeting of the Acquisition’s Sub-committee of 1 October 2012 On a proposal from Cllr Hill, and seconded by Cllr Miss Hoy, members of the Acquisition’s Sub-committee AGREED the minutes of the above committee. On a proposal from Cllr Hoy, and seconded by Cllr Brunton, members of the full Town Council AGREED the minutes and recommendations of the above committee. 90. Minutes of the meetings of the Festivals Working Party of 24 September and 4 October 2012. On a proposal from Cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr Mee members of the Festivals Working Party AGREED the minutes and recommendations of the above meetings. On a proposal from Cllr Bucknor and seconded by Cllr Wheeler members of the full Town Council AGREED the minutes and recommendations of the above meetings. Cllr Miss Hoy gave assurances that spend on festivals would remain within budgets. The Town Clerk called for volunteers to hand out free mince pies at the Switch on. The following Councillors volunteered: Hodgson, Wheeler, Hill, and Farmer. 91. Minutes of the Allotments committee meeting of 15 October 2012. Members NOTED that the above meeting was cancelled due to insufficient business. On a proposal from Cllr Hodgson and seconded by Cllr Hill members of full Town Council AGREED that the Allotments committee would meet once a year for the allotments inspection and annual report, and that any additional meetings may be called should they be required, but would not be scheduled on the meetings calendar. The Chairman of Allotments committee will continue to be eligible to sit on Resources committee.

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92. Minutes of the Planning committee meetings of 1 and 22 October 2012 On a proposal from Cllr Brunton and seconded by Cllr Griffin members AGREED to the minutes of the above meetings. On a proposal from Cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr Hill, members of full Town Council AGREED to the minutes and recommendations of the above meetings. 93. Minutes of the Market Place Management committee of 22 October 2012 On a proposal from Cllr Mrs Bucknor and seconded by Cllr Tierney members of the market Place Management committee AGREED the minutes of the above meeting. On a proposal from Cllr Oliver and seconded by Cllr Tibbs, members of full Town Council AGREED to the above minutes and recommendations. Plus the cost of cleaning the Market Place - at £2189.79 four weekly (INC VAT - totalling £28,467.27 per annum). PLUS the cost of the provision of the parking ticket machine, tariff boards etc - at £2,908.20 (INC VAT). 94. Mayor’s Report There was no Mayor’s report 95. Leader’s Report Market Place - Cllr Oliver reported that the experimental order is going well, and that there was an increase in the number of traders, most noticeably on the Saturday market. Loyalty Cards - Cllr Oliver reported on the proposed scheme and asked members to consider participating in the scheme. Members NOTED that the set up costs will be £8,000 for : 10,000 loyalty cards; 10,000 forms; 150 window stickers; Two 8' X 3' vinyl banners for the launch day; Distribution of letters to national brands; Visiting all independent businesses in Wisbech; Creating and populating the local website; Ensuring that enough distribution points are available for people to collect their loyalty cards - with an option of a further £1,564 for the cards to be put into presentation envelopes before distribution. On-costs will be £5,000 per annum. The Horsefair will be contributing 25% of the costs of the scheme and is seeking additional sponsors. Specsavers may be a major sponsor. On a proposal from Cllr Wheeler and seconded by Cllr Brunton members AGREED to ask the Town Clerk to investigate further and to report back to full Town Council. 96. Local Highway Improvements 2013/14 Members NOTED that the County Council is keen to work with local communities to help deliver local improvements to their highways and streets. We now wish to invite proposals from community groups who wish to submit a bid for funding from the Local Highway Improvement Scheme. This was previously known as the Jointly Funded Minor Highway Improvements scheme. Schemes will be jointly funded by the County Council and the applicant. Applicants can seek

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up to £10,000 from the County Council as a contribution to their scheme. This could include minor improvements for as little as £500.The applicant is expected to provide a contribution towards each project of at least 10% of the scheme cost. When applications are received, we will provide an estimate of the scheme cost to the applicant, who will be asked to confirm that the contribution will be met and that they wish the application to proceed. Requests for schemes can come from local groups, as well as district, town and parish councils. Projects could involve any highway measure or improvement that is considered to offer benefit to the local community. The applicant will be required to make a statement supporting their application, highlighting the benefits that it may provide. Please circulate this information to any groups in your parish that you think may be interested in this initiative. One bid per applicant only will be assessed. Applications will be assessed and prioritised by Member Advisory Panels, comprising 4-6 local County Councillors from within each district council area. The member panel will prioritise proposals based on the information provided by the applicants, with a maximum of five pages of supporting documentation.

County Council officers will advise on issues such as safety implications and deliverability. Each panel will make a recommendation on which applications to take forward to the Executive Director: Economy, Transport and Environment Services, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Community Infrastructure. Long-term maintenance of schemes will normally be the responsibility of the County Council, provided that the scheme is built to normal County Council standards. However, we recognise that communities sometimes want to implement a higher standard of design, such as incorporating special materials or features to enhance the local environment. We are happy to work with applicants who wish to adopt this approach, provided that they are prepared to take responsibility for the additional maintenance liability. The Member panels will need to reflect on any implications of adopting a higher design standard. If a scheme involves on-going operating costs such as power supplies or regular safety maintenance inspections for any highway equipment, the applicant would also be required to meet these costs. Any application that Wisbech Town Council wishes to make must be made by email or by post to: [email protected] - by 21st December 2012. One suggestion from Cllr Farmer is that we identify brown signs to signpost tourist attractions in and around Wisbech. Members NOTED that the provision of more brown signs is to form part of the 2020 Vision ‘Quick Win’ actions, and that the Highways Officer has had a number of suggestions. 97. Boundary Report – Draft recommendations Members NOTED that the draft recommends that Wisbech Town Council should return 18 parish councillors, as at present, representing eight wards: Clarkson (2); Kirkgate (2); Market (1); Medworth (2); Octavia Hill (3); Peckover (2); Staithe (20; and Waterlees village (4). Full

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details of the draft proposals for Wisbech were forwarded to members on 24 October 2012. On a proposal from Cllr Mrs Bucknor and seconded by Cllr Wheeler, members AGREED to a letter being sent by the Town Clerk in collaboration with Cllr Farmer, to the commission, querying the proposed new Market Ward. 98. Election of Police & Crime Commissioner Members NOTED that the elections for the Cambridgeshire Police Area Police & Crime Commissioner are due to take place on Thursday 15 November 2012, and that details were circulated to members on 24 October 2012. 99. Town Clerk’s Report Members NOTED the following items and considered proposals in the Town Clerk’s report. a) There are still a few members that have not yet handed in their Wisbech Town Council Register of Interest forms. The Town Clerk will be sending off copies of the completed forms to the principle authority, and notifying the principle authority of the names of members who have not handed in their forms to the Town Clerk (Refer to item 86). b) Reportable incident under RIDDOR, and Carpet Replacement in the Mayor’s Parlour The Beadle tripped in the Mayor’s parlour and has submitted a certificate for fractured ribs. The accident has been reported and temporary repairs have been carried out to the carpet, similar to previous repairs carried out to damaged areas of carpet in the Council Chamber. The Town Clerk further advised members that this was the normal area of work of the Beadle and that no report had been received by the Town Clerk prior to the accident of any damage to the carpet in the Mayor’s Parlour. Members NOTED that this Council has agreed to replace the carpets in the Council Chamber, and this proposal is to include the replacement of the carpet in the Mayor’s parlour. The total cost will be in the region of £8,000 for both (and the landing outside the Mayor’s parlour perhaps) using a good quality Axminster type carpet, and including a good quality durable underlay. On a proposal from Cllr Farmer and seconded by Cllr Oliver members AGREED a budget of £8,000 to be paid from reserves for carpeting of the Council Chamber and the Mayor’s Parlour. c)Tracy Bidwell-Hazell is joining us as the new Administrative Assistant on Monday 5 November 2012. The post is subject to National Joint Council Terms and Conditions of Employment. d) The Town Clerk and his wife attended the funeral of John Barker, former Mayor of Wisbech on Thursday 4 October 2012. In addition Cllr Bruce Wegg has passed away and we are awaiting details of the funeral and service. The Town Council flag was flown at half mast appropriately. Members asked that we consider providing an honour guard as we have done in the past if Mrs Brenda Wegg wished us to do so. e) Two Councillors attended the presentation day at the North Level Drainage Board on 10 October 2012: Mrs Bucknor; and Hodgson. Cllr Farmer was unable to attend. f) The Town Clerk has had copies bound of the Minutes for Wisbech Borough and Town

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from May 1969 to April 2012 to bring our set of bound copies up-to date. He also had an extra set done which have been lodged with Wisbech Town Library for their reference section, and the originals are now with the museum for archiving purposes. g) The Town Clerk has nominated the Rosmini Centre for the Queens Award for Voluntary Service. h) An email received from Sue Beel about cycling in the Market Place has been referred to the Market Place Management Committee to consider. Cllr Oliver advised that this had been referred to Cambridgshire County Council. i) See attached leaflet called Connecting Cambridgeshire + (see notices display by Mayor’s parlour). j) The IT security system has been agreed and a contractor appointed. We are awaiting the static IP number for the broadband for the information Centre where the back-up system will be located. The Town Clerk has offered to make the purchases of the necessary hardware on-line to maximise cost savings, and then claim a re-imbursement. Members NOTED that staff generally purchase items themselves, then provide receipts so they can claim re-imbursements to make cost savings as a matter of course. These are monitored closely by the signatories to the bank accounts as required by financial regulations. On a proposal from Cllr Farmer and seconded by Cllr Miss Hoy it was AGREED that the Town Clerk do so for the IT equipment needed for IT security up to a value of £1,600. k) Macmillan Cancer Support Group has written to thank the council for the opportunity to have a stall at the Bring & Share. They raised £238.78 l) Wisbech Rose Fair group, has written to thank the Council for their continued support. They spent £989.00 on Park & Ride and £163.99 on administration using the £1,000 grant under special project s from Wisbech Town Council. The letter will be referred to Resources Committee to consider in the next round of grant and special projects allocations. 100. General Correspondence – (see notices). Members NOTED the following correspondence displayed by Mayor’s parlour a) Inside Housing & Housing Practice b) Market Trade News c) Clerks & Councils Direct d) Victim Support Literature e) Age Concern Literature f) CCVS newsletter The meeting closed at 8.20 pm

Signed…………………………

Dated……………………….

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Minutes of the Meeting of the Full Council of Wisbech Town Council

held on Monday 3 December 2012 at 7.30pm.

Present: Deputy Mayor Cllr Miss Hoy in the Chair; Cllr SJ Brunton; MG Bucknor; Mrs V Bucknor; JR Farmer; RL Griffin; M Hill; D Hodgson; RM Mee; DC Oliver; DR Patrick; GP Tibbs; S Tierney; and DA Wheeler. In attendance: Town Clerk, Erbie Murat; Susanah Farmer, Deputy Town Clerk; Luke Cornwell and Lisa Mann, PCSOs; Gary Garford, FDC; and two members of the public Michelle Tanfield and Janet Tanfield. Public participation Janet Tanfield wished to raise the issue of speeding on Elm Road. The PCSOs would take details and refer on. Cllr Hodgson reported that he was already involved in Speedwatch. 101. Apologies and absences i) Cllr Patrick – holiday and wedding abroad ii) On the proposal of Cllr Mrs Bucknor, Seconded by Cllr Wheeler the above absence was approved. iii) No other absences 102. Report Back from Fenland District Council. Members noted the following: a) Development Services Report Back from Alison Callaby, Planning Performance Manager, Development Services’ Fenland District Council. Direct Dial: 01354 622309: I would confirm the guidance given by Mr Murat in that in planning terms our only consideration would be the appropriateness of the use in terms of impact on the retail centre/amenity of adjacent occupiers. The majority of occupancy changes do not require planning permission as premises are authorised by the Use Classes Order in a number of categories, the primary one being retail shop which is Class A1. For information a brief summary of the use classes is as follows: · A1 Shops - Shops, retail warehouses, hairdressers, undertakers, travel and ticket agencies, post offices (but not sorting offices), pet shops, sandwich bars, showrooms, domestic hire shops, dry cleaners, funeral directors and internet cafes. · A2 Financial and professional services - Financial services such as banks and building societies, professional services (other than health and medical services) including estate and employment agencies and betting offices. · A3 Restaurants and cafés - For the sale of food and drink for consumption on the premises - restaurants, snack bars and cafes. · A4 Drinking establishments - Public houses, wine bars or other drinking establishments (but not night clubs). · A5 Hot food takeaways - For the sale of hot food for consumption off the premises. Changing the type of retail goods sold would not require authorisation in terms of a planning submission. Applications would be required if the intended occupant wished to change an existing shop unit into a financial and professional services office use, or food premises (over and above a sandwich bar style activity or similar). In such cases Officers again would only consider the impact in planning terms not the user, type or extent of existing provision.

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b) Mark Mathews, Head of Environmental Services, Fenland District Council. 01354 602164 reports that Ged Wilde, the street Scene Officer, who has been working in Wisbech, has returned to work following him witnessing and assisting at a traumatic road traffic accident a few weeks ago where a young person unfortunately died. As part of supporting his return to work the team have come together and are relocating their work to some extent. As a result of this, Gemma has volunteered to be the primary point of contact for Wisbech for a minimum period of six months and Ged Wilde will now support March Town Council. There will be an initial period of handover and both officers will work together to ensure a smooth transition. Cllr Hoy asked about Give Way markings near the Boathouse onto De Haviland Road – a response was awaited re the link road. Cllr Farmer asked about reports that salt and vinegar was being restricted at fish and chip shops – GG would investigate. Update from Gary Garford: Street Scene questionnaires were handed out and the Street Scene Officer would collect the next day. The new taxi rank would be completed on Wednesday 5 December. FDC were looking at on-street facilities around the town for taxi stations. Cllr Oliver questioned the additional crossing requirement from the taxi rank. It was noted that the scheme would be monitored. Questions were raised regarding signage at the Horsefair Bus Station regarding no-entry to the public, however, there should be access to the Conservative Club and other businesses in Hill Street. Cllr Tierney raised a question regarding syringe disposal, having found discarded items he had to borrow gloves and a sharps box from Boots and deal with the matter himself, as he had been told the FDC Officer was unable to attend from out of town. Questions were also raised regarding pathways full of rubbish from the Oasis to Silver Street, (including Eastfield Way and York Terrace). Mention was also made of rubbish between Elm Road and Elm Primary School, and between Bramley Road and Bath Road – GG would investigate. 103. Declarations of Interests Members noted that all Registration of Interest forms have been received by the Town Clerk, and that they are due to be published on the Council’s web-site. No declarations of interest were made. 104. Minutes of the meeting of full Town Council of 29 October 2012 On the proposal of Cllr Wheeler, seconded by Cllr Brunton the minutes of full Town Council held on 29 October 2012 were agreed.

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105. Minutes of the meeting of the Festivals Working Party of 26 November 2012. The minutes having been tabled; on the proposal of Cllr Mee, seconded by Cllr Hodgson the minutes of the Festivals Working Party of 26 November 2012 were agreed. On the proposal of Cllr M Bucknor, seconded by Cllr Tierney the minutes of the Festivals Working Party of 26 November 2012 were recommended to council and agreed. 106. Minutes of the Planning Committee meeting of 12 November 2012 Having been circulated, on the proposal of Cllr Oliver, seconded by Cllr Tibbs the minutes of the Planning Committee of 12 November 2012 were recommended to council and agreed. 107. Mayor’s Report The Mayor reported having attended 18 events, including an early morning tour of Wisbech with Inspector Robin Sissons. Issues noted were problems with drinking and human excrement. The Mayor wished to thank Cllr Oliver and his family for their help and efforts with the At Home. She also wished to give praise to the Royal British Legion and the veterans organisations for the excellent turn out at Remembrance Sunday. She had attended an Interfaith Forum meeting which highlighted what could be done by working together. The Mayor also wished to thank everyone involved in the Christmas Lights Switch On, which was an excellent evening. 108. Leader’s Report No issues to report.

109. Local Highway Improvements 2013/14 Members noted that at the last Council meeting members were asked to put forward proposals for Local Highways Improvements where the Town Council would contribute 10% of the overall costs. Any application that Wisbech Town Council wished to make must be made by email or by post by 21st December 2012 to: [email protected] On the proposal of Cllr Griffin, Seconded by Cllr Wheeler, it was Agreed that the following proposal be sent: Time limited waiting in parking bays, and double yellow lines to join up with existing lines on the approach to roundabout on Lynn Road from Townshend to St Augustine’s on the Park side, and outside Bodgers Shop; to address the issues of cars being sold on the public highway, and obstructive parking, by easing traffic congestion on heavily used arterial road, and parking restrictions will free up available parking, and prevent cars being left all night. N.B. Members also noted that suggestions for further brown tourist signs were taken forward by the County Council under the 2020 vision and have been commissioned by them. There will also be black signage installed pointing out the Council Chamber.

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110. Town Clerk’s Report Members noted the following items: a) Applications for the council’s small grants (total available £4,250 – max £1,000 & min £100) must be received by the office by the end of December – to be submitted to Resources Committee Meeting of 14 January. N.B. there were 12 successful applications last year. b) The Town Clerk has undertaken a review of Market Place income and expenditure, and is able to report that the Council is on target to achieve parity between expenditure and income at the year end to include the cleaning of the toilets in the park and excluding staffing costs and Christmas lights. A full report is to be presented to Resources committee. c) The Town Clerk is pursuing a number of staffing issues in accordance with the National Terms and Conditions of Local Government, and the Staff Handbook, which forms part of the employment contract for Town Council staff, and in accordance with the Annual Return agreed by Councillors in June 2012. A full report will be presented to Resources committee. d) Our publisher is in the final stages of selling advertising for the next Town Guide due to be published in the Spring of 2013. Sufficient advertising has been sold to enable the Town Council to produce a 68 page Guide, and to negotiate 15,000 free copies. e) The copy deadline for the town newsletter ‘Wisbech Town Matters’ is the end of December – organisations in Wisbech are invited to send to the Town Clerk 50-100 words and an electronic picture for any articles. f) The Town Clerk is preparing the Town Plan to be reviewed by members. This will be circulated to all members for their input, and then taken to Resources committee. g) The Town Clerk has finalised the half yearly internal audit with the Independent Internal Auditor, and circulated it to members: the checklist showed that all areas checked by the Internal Auditor on this visit were satisfactory; and her report has highlighted the next phase of development for this council and members are asked to agree her report and the findings on the checklist at item 111 of this agenda. h) The Town Clerk has submitted the Town Council’s precept request for 2013/2014 to FDC at £249,200. i) Carol Pilson, the Corporate Director at Fenland District Council dealing with the Boundary Commission submission on their behalf met with Cllr Farmer and the Town Clerk to discuss this council’s response as follows: The main issue was the 184 electors from Market Ward that the Boundaries commission has proposed. Several options were presented to Carol Pilson and she will look at the possibilities to see whether they will satisfy the criteria required. This will be reported to Resources http://www.lgbce.org.uk/__documents/lgbce/submissions/fenland-fer/fig-subs/fenlanddc-warding-submission-2012-07-06.pdf - is the website to look at FDC’s options j) The Town Council has offered to provide the Council Chamber to host a Heritage Open

Days ‘organiser forum’. k) The December pay date for staff will be Thursday 20 December, and the council offices

will be closed from Monday 24 December to Friday 28 December. l) The new lampshades for the Council Chamber, hand made by Caithness Crystal, have

been made, and we are awaiting delivery. The old shades could not be replaced. m) The council has been successful in its re-application to hold marriages etc. in the

chamber. n) The Town Clerk has arranged to meet with Richard Cassidy and Mark Mathews on

instruction for the Chairman of the Acquisitions sub-committee to finalise the purchasing of the toilets in the park and in Exchange Square. FDC have told us to close the toilets in the interim, and we are seeking to ensure that closure will not be necessary.

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http://www.lgbce.org.uk/__documents/lgbce/submissions/fenland-fer/fig-subs/fenlanddc-warding-submission-2012-07-06.pdf

http://www.lgbce.org.uk/__documents/lgbce/submissions/fenland-fer/fig-subs/fenlanddc-warding-submission-2012-07-06.pdf

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o) There has been a further meeting of the Roots project and it has been agreed to

continue supporting and to focus the project’s limited resources to the three activities already agreed: martial arts; dance; and scouting. There were a number of reasons why boxing could not be supported by funding from the project at this stage.

111. Correspondence from Cambridgeshire County Council Members noted the following (previously circulated). a) Key issues briefing – Health & well being from Cllr Tierney as circulated. b) Report from Matthew Pickering, Traffic Engineer, North Highways Division of Cambridgeshire County Council reported that Network Rail have today closed the old level crossing down New Bridge Lane, Wisbech. The level crossing was officially closed in the 1980s but now large concrete blocks have been installed which will prevent vehicles getting through. A right of way does not exist over this land but Network Rail have allowed a 1.2m gap in-between the blocks which acts as a permissive right of way for the public and this has been constructed in asphalt to ensure it is safe for use. Cambridgshire County, as the Highway Authority, have installed reflective bollards either side of the blocks and as a temporary placed Road Closed boards and cones in advance of the area. c) Report from Andy Fisher, Technical and Liaison Officer, Traffic Manager Team, Cambridgeshire County Council. Tel: 01223 715910 Twitter account @Cambs Traffic. They are keen to get information on road works and incidents, etc direct to large employers, district councils and town councils, so that more people can be made aware of road conditions. The hope is that if more commuters know about what is happening then the impact should be less. d) Report from Matthew Pickering, Traffic Engineer, North Highways Division of Cambridgeshire County Council reported on parking /access issues in St Augustine’s Road. He is working with Cambs Constabulary, and others to identify possible solutions and will report back. 112. General Correspondence – Members noted the following: (displayed on shelves by Mayor’s parlour). a) Cambridgshire Pride magazine b) Inside Housing & Housing Practice c) Market Trade News d) Clerks & Councils Direct e) CCVS newsletter f) Lisa Bulbeck, Carry on Cooking Project Officer, Age Concern, Mobile: 07759 699748, Tel: 01354 696650 Email: [email protected], Address: County Office, 2 Victoria Street, Chatteris, Cambs. PE16 6AP. She writes that she has taken over completing a body of work, which involves updating and maintaining their database of clubs and activities available to older people in Cambridgeshire. This enables them to send out information, such as their newsletter, which may be relevant to members, but also allows them to pass on the details of clubs/societies that older people in our locality can access if they ask Age Concern for information. If you have any clubs who would like to be added please could you forward her a contact list and she will make contact with the relevant person and discuss if they would like to be added. If you have any questions, please contact her or Lynne Byrne on 01354 696650.

Cont ...

mailto:[email protected]

2012/2013 – 43

113. Independent Internal Auditor’s Checklist and Report. Members noted the Internal Auditor’s checklist and Report which had been circulated. (Copy attached to the Minute Book). On the proposal of Cllr Oliver, Seconded by Cllr Hodgson, it was agreed the report be put to the Resources Committee.


Signed…………………………

Dated……………………….

At the end of the meeting PCSOs Luke Cornwell and Lisa Mann wished to give a report and take any questions from councillors. Members noted: There had been a reduction of 14% in crime figures across Fenland. The police cannot give fines for littering FDC officers must. Market traders had requested a police presence on Market Days, specifically to assist with traffic violations. Enforcement of single yellow lines in Walsoken was dependent upon resources available. There had been issues with people sitting outside the Five Bells in the early hours of the morning people drinking. Following the meeting the Mayor drew the winning tickets for her Prize Draw. 1st prize – flight for two people - I Gray 2nd prize – £50 - S Hircock 3rd prize - £25 - K Rodgers

2012/2013 – 44



held on Monday 14 January 2013 at 7.00pm.

Present: Town Mayor, Cllr Mrs V MacRae, Deputy Mayor, Cllr Miss Hoy; Cllrs SJ Brunton; MG Bucknor; Mrs V Bucknor; Mrs C Cox, JR Farmer; RL Griffin; M Hill; D Hodgson; RM Mee; DC Oliver; DR Patrick; GP Tibbs; S Tierney; and DA Wheeler. In attendance: Ian Dewer, County Executive Officer, Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Association of Local Councils. Apologies were received from Cllr McLaren – work commitments. Absence approved. The meeting commenced at 7.10pm In accordance with the Local Authorities (Executive Arrangements) (Meetings and Access to Information) (England) Regulations 2012 and come into force on 10th September 2012: It is likely, in view of the nature of the business to be transacted or the nature of the proceedings that if members of the public were present during item 115 confidential information would be disclosed to them in breach of the obligation of confidence. Under the Public Bodies (Admission to Meetings) Act 1960, the public and representatives of the press and broadcast media were excluded from the meeting during the consideration of the item of business as publicity would be prejudicial to the public interest because of the confidential nature of the business to be transacted. The information under discussion was confidential and covered by Local Government (Access to Information) Act 1985 as inserted into the Local Government Act 1972 Schedule 12A Access to Information: Exempt Information Part I Descriptions of Exempt Information 1 Information relating to a particular employee, former employee or applicant to become an employee of, or a particular office-holder, former office-holder or applicant to become an office-holder under, the authority. 11 Information relating to any consultations or negotiations, or contemplated consultations or negotiations, in connection with any labour relations matter arising between the authority or a Minister of the Crown and employees of, or office-holders under, the authority. 115. Report and recommendations on staffing issues. Members were asked to receive a report on the current staffing situation and make appropriate recommendations. Cllr Farmer stated an interest in staffing matters and left the meeting at 7.12pm before discussions took place. It was noted that Ian Dewer would remain during the meeting.

Cont ...

2012/2013 – 45

After giving a briefing to members regarding the situation of Monday 7 January 2013, Cllr Oliver left the meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 7.30pm. The meeting recommenced at 7.37pm. Present: Town Mayor, Cllr Mrs V MacRae, Deputy Mayor, Cllr Miss Hoy; Cllrs SJ Brunton; MG Bucknor; Mrs V Bucknor; Mrs C Cox; RL Griffin; M Hill; D Hodgson; RM Mee; DR Patrick; GP Tibbs; S Tierney; and DA Wheeler. In attendance: Ian Dewer, County Executive Officer, Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Association of Local Councils. It was noted that a staff member was suspended for a maximum of thirty days from 7 January 2013.A discussion took place regarding the circumstances of the suspension and the way forward. On the proposal of Cllr Mrs Bucknor, Seconded by Cllr Patrick it was agreed that a committee will be formed to investigate if there is a case to answer, and then recommend a solution to full council. This solution may be for a second committee group to meet. If this is the case, members of the first committee would not be able to sit on the second committee. The Mayor would write to the Clerk informing him that a committee has been set up to discuss various issues of HR, and that the HR issues under current discussion will be treated as confidential. The meeting was closed at 8.05pm.

Signed…………………………

Dated……………………….

2012/2013 – 46



held on Monday 28 January 2013 at 7.30pm.

Present: Town Mayor, Cllr Mrs V MacRae, Deputy Mayor, Cllr Miss Hoy; Cllrs SJ Brunton; MG Bucknor; Mrs CR Cox; JR Farmer; RL Griffin; M Hill; R McLaren; DC Oliver; M Tanfield; GP Tibbs; and S Tierney. In attendance: DeputyTown Clerk, Susanah Farmer (Minutes), PCSO Mann, PCSO Walker, PCSO Banks, Gary Garford and Kim Winterton, FDC. Public participation None requested. The meeting commenced with the Mayor congratulating Michelle Tanfield on her success in the recent by-election to the Town Council, and asking her to come forward to sign her Declaration of Acceptance of Office. On completion, Cllr Tanfield took her seat and the agenda items commenced. 116. Apologies and absences i) Cllr Patrick – illness Cllr Wheeler – illness Cllr Hodgson – AGM commitments Cllr Mee – work commitments ii) On the proposal of Cllr Tierney, Seconded by Cllr Tibbs the above absences were approved. iii) No other absences 117. Declarations of Interests Cllr Bucknor declared an interest in the Waterlees Boxing Club Cllr Miss Hoy declared an interest in the Wisbech Adventure Playground Cllr Mrs Cox declared an interest in the Waterlees Boxing Club Cllr Hill declared an interest in Wisbech In Bloom Cllr Farmer declared an interest in the GVCAC, ATC and ACF Cllr Oliver declared an interest in WisARD, Wisbech Institute, Wisbech Information Centre, and GVCAC 118. Police Update Updates were given on the following recent incidents: No suspects have yet been identified for the Magazine Lane murder. A £10,000 Crimestoppers reward has been advertised for information. It is hoped that forensic and community information will lead to this dreadful murder being solved. The murder at the Hare & Hounds appears to be the result of a domestic incident. A man is on remand. Two main ongoing operations within Wisbech: Operation Eclipse – ongoing operation in relation to scrapyard thefts, headed by Sgt Plitsch Operation Pheasant – dealing with issues of safety, legality and exploitation in Houses of Multiple Occupation (HMO), headed by Sgt Williams. An update on crime figures shows an 11% reduction in the past year. A high proportion of incidents remains shoplifting, but this has shown a slight reduction, and has a 83.3% detection rate.

Cont ...

2012/2013 – 47

Habitual Drinking Order – convictions have led to deportations, and also the refusal of entry into the UK for previous drinking offences in Wisbech. The Wisbech Police van had been in the Market Place during the day (28 January) for Wisbech Neighbourhood Forum consultations and to take comments from the public. It had been found that face-to-face meetings had been better than paper questionnaires. The main issues raised (42%) had been anti-social behaviour and street drinking. For the next six months, these would be the key issues. Dog fouling and fly-tipping were also issues raised, and the police would liaise with FDC regarding these problems. Following the recent murder incidents, the Mayor asked if there were any schemes to advise the elderly and vulnerable on home security. It was advised for concerned residents to contact PCSOs (who would be able to do a security survey if required), AgeUK or the local Bobby Scheme. Post meeting note for information: The Cambridgeshire Bobby Scheme is a local charity which provides a free service to victims of burglary aged 60 and over, by improving home security. The two Bobby Scheme security advisors visit every victim promptly, assess their security and fit security devices such as door chains and window alarms. They also spend time with the victim providing security advice and reassurance. The advisors will leave their contact details with the victim, so they are able to keep in touch for any further help or assistance required. They also make re-visits with updated devices or to replace batteries, as well as identifying any further needs. The Bobby Scheme also works with a number of partner agencies, including the Local Authority and other charities, and will make referrals, as and when necessary. For further information about the scheme contact the Bobby Scheme office on 01480 413311 or 07866 602100 or visit the website www.cpstrust.org. Cllr Tierney stated that residents had noticed, and welcomed, an increased police presence. The PCSOs left the meeting. 119. Report Back from Fenland District Council. a) Cumulative Impact Zone Kim Winterton, (FDC Licensing Team Leader) gave an overview of the Cumulative Impact Zone (CIZ) proposal, the consultation of which ends on 8 March 2013, before going to Committee in April. Consultees included businesses, and current licensed traders, as well as the public. Full details could be found on the FDC website. She explained that the proposal came from police recommendations and shows how FDC will approach the issue if the CIZ goes ahead. Currently, anyone applying for a licence gives their details and when and where they wish to be licenced. The proposal is that applicants will have to show what measures they have in place so that their outlet will not have a further impact on any issues within the area. In 2012, 23 hearings were required of the 39 new applications received due to issues after licences were granted. Of these only 3 had been rejected, and of those 1 had appealed and had the decision overturned. Hopefully, the new scheme would be robust enough for these situations not to arise. On being questioned by Cllr Farmer about tackling the largest suppliers (i.e. supermarkets), it was stated that the cumulative impact was directed at number of outlets not volume of sales.

Cont …

http://www.cpstrust.org/

2012/2013 – 48

The proposed CIZ was a circle drawn to cover the town centre. On a question from Cllr Farmer on how this arbitrary zone was reached, Kim Winterton responded that it was a proposal, and up for discussion as were all aspects. She also said that it was specific to Wisbech rather than all Fenland towns, as the problems appeared to be specific to Wisbech at the moment. b) Members noted the report back from the meeting of the 3rd of December which had been circulated for members information. Cllr Hoy wished to pass on thanks for the improvements to the area around the Boathouse, including the litter picking teams. No further questions were raised. Kim Winterton and Gary Garford left the meeting. 120. Minutes of the meeting of full Town Council of 3 December 2012 and 14 January 2013. On the Proposal of Cllr Griffin, Seconded by Cllr Tibbs, the minutes of full Town Council held on 3 December 2012 and 14 January 2013 were agreed and signed as a true record. 121. Minutes of the Planning Committee meeting of 3 and 17 December 2012 and 14 January 2013. On the Proposal of Cllr Brunton, Seconded by Cllr Tibbs, the minutes of the Planning committee meeting of 14 January 2013 were agreed and signed as a true record. On the Proposal of Cllr Hill, Seconded by Cllr Tibbs, members agreed to accept the minutes of 3 and 17 December 2012 and 14 January 2013. 122. Minutes of the Resources Committee meeting of 14 January 2013. Members noted that the meeting of the Resources Committee commenced on 14 January was adjourned and completed on 21 January 2013. On the Proposal of Cllr Miss Hoy, Seconded by Cllr Oliver, the minutes of the Resources Committee meeting of 14 and 21 January 2013 were agreed and signed as a true record. On the Proposal of Cllr Bucknor, Seconded by Cllr McLaren, members agreed to accept the minutes of Resources Committee meeting of 14 and 21 January 2013. 123. Small Grants allocations Members were asked to accept the recommendations of Resources Committee for Small Grants within Wisbech. On the Proposal of Cllr Oliver, Seconded by Cllr Griffin, the allocation for small grants as recommended by Resources Committee was agreed as follows:

Dramarama (now known as the Secret Mole Society) 200.00 Friends of St Peter and St Pauls (annual membership) 100.00 Waterlees In Bloom 350.00 Wisbech Music Society 200.00 Wisbech Girls Venture Corps Air Cadets (GVCAC) 450.00 Wisbech Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society (WAODS) 250.00 Talking Newspaper 450.00 Wisbech Social Club & Institute 500.00 Volunteer Service Fenland 500.00 Wisbech Army Cadet Force 200.00 Centenary Green 400.00 Adventure Playground 250.00

Cont ...

2012/2013 – 49

Waterlees Boxing Club 450.00 Headway 250.00 Lifesaving Club 200.00 Arts Festival 500.00

124. Special Projects – community activities Members were asked to accept the recommendations of Resources Committee for Special Projects within Wisbech. On the Proposal of Cllr Oliver, Seconded by Cllr Farmer, the allocation for Special Projects funding for community activities as recommended by Resources Committee was agreed as follows:

Wisbech Area Regeneration and Development Trust (WisARD) 500.00 Museum - Town Library 500.00 Citizens Advice Bureau 1000.00 Rose Fair 1000.00 Wisbech in Bloom 1000.00 Information Centre 5000.00 Museum 5000.00 Vivien Fire Engine Trust 500.00 Angles Theatre 1000.00 Minor Highways 1000.00 Grit Bins 1000.00 Roger Green Sports Award 500.00 Newsletter 2000.00 Roots Project 6000.00

a) On the Proposal of Cllr Oliver, Seconded by Cllr Tierney, it was agreed that a grant for Wisbech Old People’s Welfare Association (WOPWA) would be set aside to cover costs of the annual Rose Fair band concert (to a maximum of £500). b) On the Proposal of Cllr Tibbs, Seconded by Cllr Bucknor, it was agreed that £1000 would be allocated to support arts activities in Wisbech. Members noted that the Roots Project money should be funded externally and monies reimbursed. Cllr Miss Hoy had had a meeting with the Fire Service Head of Community Safety, and it was hoped that the money would be forthcoming. An update will be given when this is confirmed. 125. Special projects - festivals Members were asked to accept the recommendations of Resources Committee for festivals within Wisbech. Rock Festival 4000.00 Multicultural Festival 4000.00 Christmas Lights Switch On 1000.00 DJ Event 1000.00

On the Proposal of Cllr Oliver, Seconded by Cllr Hill, it was agreed that the allocation for festivals be as recommended, as long as costs stay within budget, and that the budgets would be monitored and used by the Festivals Working Party.

Cont ...

2012/2013 – 50

126. Precept 2013-2014 Members considered the recommendation from Resources Committee to accept the amended precept of £203,133 as recommended at Item 33 in the Resources Committee Meeting Minutes of 14 and 21 January 2013; retaining a budget of £323,800 (a nil increase for 2013/14).

On the proposal of Cllr Oliver, Seconded by Cllr McLaren, the recommendation was agreed and the Deputy Clerk was instructed to send the amended request to FDC. 127. Mayor’s Report The Mayor had attended 24 events since the meeting of the 3rd of December, many of which had been Christmas events. She was delighted to have attended carol services, and also Christingles ( a new experience). The two highlights of the winter had been the Christmas Lights Switch On and the Christmas Market, and she wished to congratulate all those involved in both.

128. Leader’s Report Nothing to report. 129. Cumulative Impact Policy for Wisbech Town Centre. Members were asked if they wish to give a response to the FDC Cumulative Impact Policy Consultation.

What is cumulative impact? Cumulative impact is not mentioned specifically in the Licensing Act 2003, but is covered within the Section 182 Guidance issued in conjunction with the Act, which refers to it as 'the potential impact on the promotion of the licensing objectives of a significant number of licensed premises concentrated in one area'. This may include potential impact on crime and disorder or public nuisance resulting from a concentration of licensed premises in an area which is likely to undermine the promotion of the licensing objectives. When can a Cumulative Impact Policy be implemented? Following consultation and subject to a supporting body of evidence from either an interested party and/or the Responsible Authorities as listed in Section 5(3) of the Licensing Act 2003, a decision can be taken to subject an area to a Cumulative Impact Policy. Where the council is satisfied that such a policy is appropriate and necessary in order to promote the Licensing Objectives, it must be included in the Licensing Policy Statement. The Cumulative Impact Policy will indicate that the Council is adopting a policy of refusing applications in a specified area whenever it received relevant representations about the cumulative impact of such on the licensing objectives. However, the adoption of the policy does not prohibit applications in the designated cumulative impact area, and it is for the applicant to demonstrate that the operation of the premises involved will not add to the cumulative impact already being experienced. What will happen following the consultation? The responses will be summarised and included in a report to the Council's Licensing Committee so that they may take regard of the responses before making any decision on a Special policy for inclusion in the Council's Statement of Licensing Policy.

Cont ...

2012/2013 – 51

Any such recommended amendments to the Statement of Licensing Policy will then be included in a report to Full Council for approval.

A debate followed where members raised issues of: the efficacy of such a proposal; the possible impact upon traders and retailers and economic growth in the town; questions of current enforcement; social issues of well-being and the need for remedial action towards alcoholics; the role of the police; other social factors (HMOs, hot-bedding) that need to be addressed. On the Proposal of Cllr Mrs Cox, Seconded by Cllr Griffin it was agreed that the response of this council was: Wisbech Town Council supports the introduction of a CIZ, with a strong recommendation that the police carry out duties to enforce public drinking and drunkenness disorders. However, it was felt that the proposals did not fully address the issues and on the proposal of Cllr Tierney, Seconded by Cllr Oliver an amendment was agreed: That FDC be required to have the policy independently reviewed in one year and brought back to this council for consultation. 130. Correspondence from Fenland District Council Members noted the following (previously circulated by email. Members were asked to contact the Clerk’s office with any requests for paper copies). a) CCTV updates for October and November 2012 b) Information relating to By-Election for Hill Ward c) Street Scene update November 2012 d) Members noted the questionnaire for FDC’s Corporate Priorities which was tabled for members’ information, and were asked to respond individually by 7 February.

131. Correspondence from Cambridgeshire County Council Members noted the following (previously circulated by email. Members are asked to contact the Clerk’s office with any requests for paper copiers). a) Progress report on the County School – the steel frame is now up and concrete

planks in place. b) Adult Social Care Key Issues January 2013 c) Heavy Commercial Vehicle Strategy (HCV) webpage. This allows parishes to work through the assessment, which is the first stage of the HCV strategy and submit results to the team. The details of the HCV Strategy can be found at: http://www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/transport/trafficmanagement/heavy/hcv+strategy.htm Please contact the team via the details provided on the webpage if you have any queries. d) Acknowledgement of receipt of Local Highway Improvement Bid 2013/2014. 132. General Correspondence Members noted the following (previously circulated by email. Members are asked to contact the Clerk’s office with any requests for paper copiers). a) Notice of street lighting on Osborne Road and Mount Pleasant Road. b) Members noted a letter from Wisbech In Bloom outlining their work within Wisbech.

Cont ...

http://www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/transport/trafficmanagement/heavy/hcv+strategy.htm

2012/2013 – 52

133. Wisbech Town Council update Members noted the following: a) Transfer of toilets - The draft Transfers were now in final approved form. Brian Bowser was waiting for the Fair Copies which should be through from Fenland any time. They will then be sent on to WTC for signing by councillors on behalf of the Town Council and Bowsers asking for the money so that the transaction can be completed. b) The first draft of the next Town Guide had been received and circulated to members for proof-reading and any suggested amendments. Any members wishing to have a paper copy, were asked to contact the Deputy Clerk. c) The next edition of ‘Wisbech Town Matters’ had been sent to the publisher for final collation and printing. 134. General Information Members noted the following (on the shelves by the Mayor’s Parlour) a) Cambridgshire Pride magazine b) Inside Housing c) Clerks & Councils Direct d) Safety & Health Practitioner


Signed…………………………

Dated……………………….

2012/2013 – 53


Minutes of the Extra-Ordinary Meeting of Wisbech Town Council

held on Monday 18 February 2013 at 7.30pm.

Present:- Town Mayor, Cllr Mrs MacRae, Deputy Mayor, Cllr Miss Hoy; Cllrs Brunton, Mrs Bucknor, Bucknor, Mrs Cox, Farmer, Hill, Hodgson, McLaren, Mee, Oliver, Patrick, Ms Tanfield, Tibbs, Tierney, and Wheeler. 135. Apologies and Absences i) Apology from Cllr Griffin (Hospital apt) ii) On the Proposal of Cllr Mrs Bucknor, Seconded Cllr Wheeler, the absence was approved. iii) Absence – no further absences. 136. Declarations of Interest Cllr Farmer declared an interest – his wife is Deputy Town Clerk. 137. Report and recommendations on staffing issues. It was hereby moved that in accordance with the Local Authorities (Executive Arrangements) (Meetings and Access to Information) (England) Regulations 2012 and come into force on 10th September 2012: It is likely, in view of the nature of the business to be transacted or the nature of the proceedings that if members of the public were present during item 135 confidential information would be disclosed to them in breach of the obligation of confidence. Under the Public Bodies (Admission to Meetings) Act 1960, the public and representatives of the press and broadcast media are excluded from the meeting during the consideration of the item of business as publicity would be prejudicial to the public interest because of the confidential nature of the business to be transacted. This information is confidential and covered by Local Government (Access to Information) Act 1985 as inserted into the Local Government Act 1972 Schedule 12A Access to Information: Exempt Information Part I Descriptions of Exempt Information 1 .Information relating to a particular employee, former employee or applicant to become an employee of, or a particular office-holder, former office-holder or applicant to become an office-holder under, the authority. 11 .Information relating to any consultations or negotiations, or contemplated consultations or negotiations, in connection with any labour relations matter arising between the authority or a Minister of the Crown and employees of, or office-holders under, the authority. The Deputy Clerk left the meeting and passed the minute taking to Cllr Miss Hoy Cllr Mrs Bucknor circulated notes from the meeting of the Investigatory Working Party. The Mayor adjourned the meeting until Mr Alan Williams, HR advisor arrived. Mr. Alan. Williams (HR Adviser) arrived at 7:45 and the Mayor restarted the meeting.

Cont ...

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The council looked at the recommendations made by the Working Party. Mr Williams noted that although Cllr MacRae had a grievance against her this did not stop her from speaking at, or chairing, the meeting.

a) On the proposal of Cllr Tierney, Seconded by Cllr Brunton, it was agreed that this Extra-Ordinary meeting of Wisbech Town Council could be chaired by Cllr Mrs MacRae.

On a query regarding the attendance of Cllrs Oliver and Farmer and the Deputy Clerk at this Extra-Ordinary Meeting; Mr Williams advised that Cllr Farmer could have the notes of the Working Party and remain in the meeting, however, he advised that Cllr Oliver could have the notes but should leave the meeting for the item b) relating to the suspension of the Clerk as he had direct involvement in this matter. The Deputy Clerk would not have access to notes of the Working Party, nor attend the meeting.

Cllr Oliver left the meeting, as advised, at 8pm and Cllr Farmer also left the meeting voluntarily. The Deputy Clerk had already left the meeting.

b) On the proposal of Cllr Mee, Seconded Cllr Hodgson, it was agreed that endorsement of the Leader’s decision to suspend the Town Clerk was approved.

Cllrs Farmer and Oliver re-entered the meeting.

c) On the proposal of Cllr Wheeler, Seconded by Cllr Tibbs, it was agreed that a letter was written to the Town Clerk advising an open ended suspension on full pay whilst further investigations were made. Cllr Farmer and Oliver abstained.

d) On the proposal of Cllr Brunton, Seconded by Cllr Tibbs, it was agreed that the Town Clerk

and his representative would be invited to meet with the Investigations Working Party and Mr Williams. Cllr Farmer and Oliver abstained.

e) On the proposal of Cllr Wheeler, Seconded by Cllr Bucknor, it was agreed that the

Investigation Working Party could question Wisbech councillors and staff for information relating to matters regarding the 7 January. Cllr Farmer and Oliver abstained.

f) On the proposal of Cllr Wheeler, Seconded Cllr Mee, it was agreed to reinstate a Staff

Committee. Cllr Farmer and Oliver abstained. g) On the proposal of Cllr Brunton, Seconded by Cllr Tibbs, it was agreed that the remit of a

Staff Committee would include responsibilities, recruitment, and appraisals, for subsequent agreement by the Town Council. Cllr Farmer and Oliver abstained.

h) On the proposal of Cllr Hodgson, Seconded by Cllr Wheeler, it was agreed that a councillor

be nominated as Liaison Member in order for staff and councillors to discuss any issues of concern and to monitor management. Cllr Farmer and Oliver abstained.

The meeting closed 9:15

Signed ...........................

Date ...............................

2012/2013 – 55


Minutes of the Extra-Ordinary Meeting of the Full Council of Wisbech Town

Council held on Monday 25 February 2013 at 7.30pm.

Present: Town Mayor, Cllr Mrs V MacRae, Deputy Town Mayor, Cllr Miss S Hoy, Cllrs S Brunton, M Bucknor, Mrs V Bucknor, Mrs C Cox, J Farmer, R Griffin, M Hill, D Hodgson, R Mee, D Oliver, D Patrick, Ms M Tanfield, and G Tibbs. In attendance: Richard Barnwell Esq; Mrs Barnwell; Father Paul West; Cllr K Reynolds, Vice-Chairman Cambridgeshire County Council; Cllr M Humphrey, Chairman Fenland District Council; Mrs M Humphrey, Mr & Mrs J Cundy (representing Jody Cundy MBE Honorary Freeman of Wisbech); Cllr M Cotterell, Mrs M Cotterell; Mr R Symonds, Mrs K Brennan, Mrs A Gilliatt (Past Mayors of Wisbech); Mr I Stocks; Mrs P Stocks; Mr R Wicks; Mr P Clayton; Mr Johnson; Mrs S Hopkins; Mrs T Bidwell-Hazell; Mr A Hopkins, Town Beadle; Mrs S Farmer, Deputy Town Clerk (Minutes); At 7.30pm the Town Beadle called upon the Assembly to be upstanding. The Mayoral Procession entered the Council Chamber through the Mayor’s Parlour. The members of the Mayoral Procession stood at their seats. The Mayor invited Father Paul West to say prayers. The Mayor occupied the Mayor’s Chair and the assembly was seated. The Mayor opened the meeting. 138. Apologies and absences a) Apologies and reasons for absences. Apologies were received from: Cllr S Tierney – committee engagement. Cllr D Wheeler – health problems b) Approval of absences. On the Proposal of Cllr Farmer, Seconded by Cllr Oliver the above absences were agreed. Apologies had also been received from: Mr James Crowden Mr J Cundy MBE 139. Declarations of Interests None. 140. Freedom of the Town of Wisbech By the power vested under chapter 5 of the Local Democracy, Economic Development and Construction Act 2009, Wisbech Town Council members were asked to consider formally bestowing the Honorary Freedom of the town of Wisbech upon Richard Symond Gyles Barnwell Esq., Deputy Lieutenant of the County of Cambridgeshire, for his outstanding commitment to the support and promotion of the town of Wisbech.

The Mayor gave a speech detailing the achievements of Richard Barnwell (attached to the Minute Book).

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The Mayor called upon Councillor Farmer: Cllr Farmer proposed ‘That the Mayor, and Councillors of the Town of Wisbech do hereby confer upon Richard Symond Gyles Barnwell Esq Deputy Lieutenant of the County of Cambridgeshire, The Honorary Freedom of the Town of Wisbech as an expression of the high esteem in which he is held in this Town’. The Mayor called upon Councillor Oliver, who Seconded the Motion. The Mayor put the resolution to the Council and it was agreed unanimously. The Mayor called Richard Barnwell Esq. to come forward to take the Oath. Richard Barnwell Esq was sworn in as a Freeman of the Town as follows:

“You swear to be true to the Sovereign Lady the Queen; you shall be obedient to the Mayor of this ancient Town for the time being and obey his Warrants, Precepts and Commands. And you shall, as much as lies in your power, contribute and do every act and thing for the good government and safety of the rights and privileges of this ancient Town and the inhabitants thereof. So help you God”.

Richard Barnwell Esq accepted the oath and signed the Roll of the Freeman. The Mayor presented the Freeman with a Scroll showing the Coat of Arms and Seal of the Town. The Freeman took his seat. The Mayor asked councillors to ensure that everyone had a full glass for the formal toast. The Mayor called upon the assembly to rise and toast the Freeman. Richard Barnwell Esq, Freeman of Wisbech responded (copy attached to Minute Book). The Mayor closed the meeting, and announced that the formal ceremony had been completed and guests were welcome to stay for refreshments. The meeting was closed at 8.20pm.

Signed…………………………

Dated……………………….

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held on Monday 4 March 2013 at 7.30pm.

Present: Town Mayor, Cllr Mrs V MacRae; Cllrs SJ Brunton; MG Bucknor; Mrs V Bucknor; Mrs CR Cox; JR Farmer; RL Griffin; M Hill; D Hodgson; R McLaren; DC Oliver; M Tanfield; and GP Tibbs. In attendance: DeputyTown Clerk, Susanah Farmer (Minutes); Mrs Boyce (Minutes for Items 146 and 157); Wisbech-Arles Twinning Club – Mr R Powell, Mrs K Powell, Mr R Claxton, Mr A Twitchett, Mrs N Hammond, Cllr S King. Public participation The Wisbech-Arles Twinning Club wished to make a representation to members. Mr Twitchett noted that there had been difficulties in recent years with membership numbers, with suggestions that the club be either mothballed or disbanded. However, he did not wish this to happen to the club which had been inaugurated in 1964 and was thus approaching its 50th Anniversary. He was therefore here to ask the Council if members were still interested in twinning with Arles? If so, the club needed ideas. It has had ups-and-downs before, and he was hopeful that rejuvenation was possible. There were enough people to keep it going, but commitment and clarification was needed from the Council. Cllr Simon King added that he had been involved with the Twinning Club as a District and County Councillor and that Wisbech was fortunate to be twinned with such a fantastic and important city. The current members (in attendance) plus a representative from the Thomas Clarkson Academy (TCA) would form the core of a Committee, but additional volunteers, members or ideas were welcomed. Mr Claxton advised that the club once had over 1000 members, who organised exchange visits, sporting contests and exhibitions (especially of the renowned Arles Photography Festival). He acknowledged that times have changed, but that there is the opportunity and enthusiasm to revive interest, especially through school links with Wisbech Grammar School (WGS) and TCA. Cllr Cox informed members that she had been honoured to represented Wisbech on the 40th Anniversary of the Twinning, and had found the twinning group in Arles to be extremely friendly and welcoming. Mrs Hammond was pleased to report a successful WGS rugby tour supported by the Twinning Club in October 2012. Cllr King also raised the point that many aspects of twinning support National Curriculum subjects, and the availability of new technology such as electronic communication and online contacts offer much scope. Mr Powell had been involved in the twinning since 1971. He saw the twinning a s a vital link for Wisbech with the opportunity to experience different ways of life. Virtual contact was important, but also cheap flights make opportunities for visiting easier than in the past. He wished it noted that the twinning with such a significant European city was prestigious for Wisbech.

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The Mayor thanked everyone for their representation and noted that the issue would be raised at Item 147 on the agenda. Everyone was given the opportunity to remain for the meeting if they wished. The meeting opened at 7.47pm 141. Apologies and absences i) Cllr Patrick – family emergency Cllr Wheeler – family bereavement Cllr Miss Hoy – family commitments ii) On the proposal of Cllr Hill, Seconded by Cllr Ms Tanfield the above absences were approved. Post meeting note: Cllr Tierney had emailed Annual Parish Council meeting commitments. 142. Declarations of Interests Cllr Hodgson declared an interest in being a member of the Twinning Club. 143. Police Update No police representatives were present No issues were raised by members. 144. Report Back from Fenland District Council. Gary Garford had sent apologies due to illness. No other FDC representatives were present. No issues were raised by members. 145. Minutes of the meeting of full Town Council of 28 January 2013 (attached). Cllr Farmer proposed that Item 119 minutes be amended to read:

Currently, anyone applying for a licence gives their details and when and where they wish to be licenced. The proposal is that applicants will have to show what measures they have in place so that their outlet will not have a further impact on any issues within the area. In 2012, 23 hearings were required of the 39 new applications received due to issues after licences were granted. Of these only 3 had been rejected, and of those 1 had appealed and had the decision overturned. Hopefully, the new scheme would be robust enough for these situations not to arise. On being questioned by Cllr Farmer about tackling the largest suppliers (i.e. supermarkets), it was stated that the cumulative impact was directed at number of outlets not volume of sales.

This proposal was Seconded by Cllr McLaren, and on agreement by all members, the minutes of full Town Council held on 28 January 2013 were amended and signed as a true record. 146. Report of full Town Council of 18 February 2013. Members were asked to receive a report of the meeting of full Town Council held on 18 February 2013 and agree any recommendations thereof.

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Under the Public Bodies (Admission to Meetings) Act 1960, the public and representatives of the press and broadcast media are excluded from the meeting during the consideration of item 144 as publicity would be prejudicial to the public interest because of the confidential nature of the business to be transacted. This information is confidential and covered by Local Government (Access to Information) Act 1985 as inserted into the Local Government Act 1972 Schedule 12A Access to Information: Exempt Information Part I Descriptions of Exempt Information 1 Information relating to a particular employee, former employee or applicant to become an employee of, or a particular office-holder, former office-holder or applicant to become an office-holder under, the authority. 11 Information relating to any consultations or negotiations, or contemplated consultations or negotiations, in connection with any labour relations matter arising between the authority or a Minister of the Crown and employees of, or office-holders under, the authority. Members of the public left the Chamber. Mrs Farmer left the Chamber, and the minutes were taken by Mrs Boyce. Cllr Farmer left the Chamber. The minutes of the Wisbech Town Council Extraordinary General Meeting held on 18 February 2013 were circulated to all members present. It was proposed by Councillor Mr.Bucknor, seconded by Councillor Mee and agreed by the council that the minutes were a true record of the meeting. Regarding Item 137 h), it was confirmed that Councillor Oliver would continue in this role temporarily until the Staff Committee had been established. Cllr and Mrs Farmer and members of the public were re-admitted to the Chamber. 147. Mayor’s Report The Mayor reported that she had had a relatively quiet month with only 12 events. However, there had been some significant occasions:

The launch of Wisbech2020 – this had been a very optimistic occasion and she looked forward to results from it.

The opening of the Tydd St Giles Leisure Centre – this was an impressive site and she hoped it would bring tourists to the area.

The opening of the Delamore new onsite Cash & Carry development – it was good to see opportunities being provided for young people to experience the working environment. Delamore are seeking to train people with appropriate skills as they were having difficulties recruiting locally.

The Mayor had had the honour and pleasure of presenting the Honorary Freedom of Wisbech to Richard Barnwell.

On the 1 March, the opening of the Fair had been very enjoyable; and the Poet Laureate’s event at Wisbech Museum had shown a very good standard of work.

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a) The Mayor asked members if they wish to form working parties to look at the following: i – Arles Twinning Cllr Hodgson had contacted photography groups within Arles to assist with Wisbech Arts Festival. He had also tried contacting the Arles Council and try to rejuvenate links between the councils. The was an opportunity to build on the links formed between schools. The working party could look at assistance to the Twinning Club, perhaps in exploiting new technology. On the proposal of Cllr Farmer, Seconded by Cllr Mrs Cox, it was agreed that a Arles Twinning Working Party be formed. Members would be agreed at a later date. ii – Wisbech Town Matters Newsletter The Mayor hoped that councillors would be more involved in collecting material and promoting their wards within the newsletter. It was agreed that the format of the newsletter was now settled and work was needed on advertising and items for inclusion. It was also agreed that there should be more ‘forthcoming’ items. On the proposal of Cllr Mrs Bucknor, seconded by Cllr Brunton, it was agreed that the Deputy Clerk would set deadlines and inform councillors, and that Cllr Oliver would chase members for material if and when necessary. iii – Historical Assets The Mayor wished that the historical assets of the Council be regularly checked and monitored for anything that may need repair or conservation. It was suggested that this be added to the Health & Safety Officer’s duties as part of H&S assessments. It was confirmed that the Council does have an asset register. It was suggested that the Beadle be asked to give a talk to members so that they have an idea of the artefacts within the Chamber to assist with being a guide at Heritage Weekend and other occasions. It came to members’ attention that the seal on one of the Charters was broken and in need of attention. The Deputy Clerk would contact Wisbech & Fenland Museum to ask for advice. Cllr Oliver proposed that the Charters not be removed from the cabinet unless being taken for repair or under special conditions, this was seconded by Cllr Bucknor and agreed. 148. Leader’s Report Cllr Oliver reported that he had made regular visits to the office to check that Town Council business was being carried out as necessary. He was pleased to report that all seemed well and the Deputy Clerk had taken on extra work as necessary. The newsletter had been produced on time, and the new Town Guide was on schedule. On his way to the meeting he had noted that work had taken place on the Cromwell Road new Tesco site, but he was not sure to what extent this would continue. He asked members to note the Atkins Report on the Wisbech-March Rail Link, copies of which were available online, and some paper copies were on the noticeboard. He thanked councillors for their support.

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Cllr Bucknor wished to ask the Leader if the Town Council could write to Moy Park re the recent proposed changes and reported redundancies. After discussion, the proposal was seconded by Cllr Griffin and it was agreed that the Deputy Clerk write to Moy Park asking why the decision re the Wisbech and Grantham sites had been made, and was there not another option as this council was concerned over the potential loss of over 300 jobs, and the significant impact this would have on Wisbech. 149. Minutes of the Planning Committee meeting of 4 February 2013. Members were asked to approve the minutes of 4 February 2013 and any recommendations (previously circulated). On the proposal of Cllr Hill, Seconded by Cllr Brunton, the minutes of the Planning Committee meeting of the 4 February 2013 were agreed. 150. Minutes of the Planning Committee meeting of 25 February 2013. a) Members of the Planning Committee were asked to approve the minutes of 25 February 2013 (tabled). On the proposal of Cllr Hill, Seconded by Cllr Oliver, the minutes of the Planning Committee meeting of the 25 February 2013 were agreed and signed as a true record. b) Members were asked to approve the minutes of 25 February 2013 and any recommendations. On the proposal of Cllr Oliver, Seconded by Cllr Miss Tanfield, the minutes of the Planning Committee meeting of the 254 February 2013 were agreed. 151. Minutes of the Markets Committee meeting of 21 January 2013. a) Members of the Markets Committee were asked to approve the minutes of the 21 January 2013 (previously circulated). On the proposal of Cllr Oliver, Seconded by Cllr Mrs Bucknor, the minutes of the Markets Committee meeting of the 21 January 2013 were agreed and signed a s a true record. b) Members were asked to approve the minutes of 21 January 2013 and any recommendations. On the proposal of Cllr Bucknor, Seconded by Cllr Brunton, the minutes of the Markets Committee meeting of the 21 January 2013 were agreed. It was noted that there was a vacancy on the Markets Committee following the resignation of Cllr Tierney. Cllr Griffin volunteered and on being seconded by Cllr Brunton it was agreed he be admitted to the Markets Committee. 152. Market Rents 2013-2014 Members were asked to approve market rental rates for 2013-2014 which had been circulated for members’ information. The Deputy Clerk confirmed that the rates for licenced traders had been reduced slightly for the forthcoming year. On the Proposal of Cllr Mrs Cox, Seconded by Cllr Brunton the rates for 2013-2014 were agreed.

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153. Experimental Traffic Order a) Members noted that a meeting has been requested by Cllr Simon King to discuss market place bollards. The Deputy Clerk has contacted Cllr King, Matt Pickering (Traffic Engineer), Inspector Robin Sissons and Cllr Oliver to ensure all information is included in discussions regarding market place issues. Members were advised that this meeting would now take place on Friday 8 March, and issues that had been raised with the Council would be taken for discussion. This included correspondence from Mr & Mrs Wicks (see Item 160g). It was noted that the correspondence was directed to CCC and the police and copied to WTC. This correspondence covered wider issues that the ETO, but relevant items will be raised at the meeting. Members were reminded that on receipt of agendas they are able to contact the office for further information or copies of items if possible. It was also confirmed that the white roadblocs were just a temporary measure until a more permanent, aesthetically suitable solution could be found. 154. Love Your Local Market 2013 a) Members noted that the Love Your Local Market Roadshow was to be held in the Council Chamber on 7 March. Blachere kindly offered to gift each host some Christmas lights as a gesture of thanks for holding the Roadshow, and these have now been received. 155. CAPALC Members were asked if they wish this council to join CAPALC. After discussion on the Proposal of Cllr Farmer, Seconded by Cllr Mrs Bucknor it was agreed to defer this decision until alternatives had been researched. 156. Zurich Insurance a) Members noted that renewal of the insurance is now due. The new policy has been received and is being reviewed. b) Members were asked to approve the request from David Bull, Claims Inspector. Under the Public Bodies (Admission to Meetings) Act 1960, the public and representatives of the press and broadcast media are excluded from the meeting during the consideration of item 144 as publicity would be prejudicial to the public interest because of the confidential nature of the business to be transacted. This information is confidential and covered by Local Government (Access to Information) Act 1985 as inserted into the Local Government Act 1972 Schedule 12A Access to Information: Exempt Information Part I Descriptions of Exempt Information 1 Information relating to a particular employee, former employee or applicant to become an employee of, or a particular office-holder, former office-holder or applicant to become an office-holder under, the authority. 11 Information relating to any consultations or negotiations, or contemplated consultations or negotiations, in connection with any labour relations matter arising between the authority or a Minister of the Crown and employees of, or office-holders under, the authority.

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Members of the public left the Chamber. The letter was tabled for members’ information. On the Proposal of Cllr Mrs Cox, Seconded by Cllr Mrs Bucknor, it was agreed that David Bull be advised to proceed. 157. Deputy Clerk’s Annual Leave Due to conflict of interest on the next item, Mrs Farmer and Cllr Farmer left the room. The minutes were taken by Mrs Boyce. Members were requested to allow the Deputy Clerk to carry forward 16 days extra outstanding leave if unable to take it before 31 March 2013. On the proposal of Cllr Oliver, Seconded by Cllr Mrs Cox it was agreed that the 16 days could be taken over but could not be used consecutively. It would be investigated to see if payment could be made in lieu if necessary. Mrs Farmer and Cllr Farmer rejoined the meeting. 158. Correspondence from Fenland District Council Members noted the following: a) Street Scene update (attached) b) CCTV update (email – copy on notice board) c) Nominations for Conduct Committee (email) d) Agendas for Council and Cabinet Meetings of 21 February (email) e) Invitation to Thomas Clarkson Academy on 26 February (email) f) Wisbech2020vision document (on Wisbech2020 and WTC websites – paper copy on noticeboard). g) Electronic set (CDROM) of grounds maintenance maps received (please ask to borrow if required). h) Draft Leisure Strategy 2013-2018 (email, letter attached, copy of draft on noticeboard) i) Fenland Local Plan - Core Strategy copy printed and tabled for information. Final round of consultation starts 28th February and closes on 10 April. 159. Correspondence from Cambridgeshire County Council Members noted the following: a) Cycling event Sunday 14 April – This will be one of a series of events to be held in all the market towns across Cambridgeshire, with the aim of encouraging people to cycle more often, or to get on a bike for the first time. It will be completely free for members of the public to attend, and will include features such as: - A selection of different types of bikes for people to try out - Free bike repairs - A pedal-powered smoothie maker - Information and advice on cycling Wisbech Market Place has been offered for the location. The Deputy Clerk gave an update. Susan Rooke, Cycling Projects Officer, had asked for clarification on activities including street collections, trading and highways issues and been asked to direct the queries to the relevant authorities. b) February 2013 copy of the County Council key issues newsletter (email – paper copy on noticeboard)

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160. General Correspondence Members noted the following: a) Railfuture (email – attached) b) Fenland Poet Laureate Awards evening – 1 March 2013 (email) c) Young Curators Exhibition - Friday 8th March 2013 (email) d) Wisbech Rose Fair Meeting minutes (email) e) Wisbech Tourism Development Group minutes (email) f) The Cambridgeshire Local Access Forum (LAF) meetings (on noticeboard) g) Copies of letters written to Cambridgeshire County Council and the Police regarding parking and traffic issues has been received from Mr & Mrs Wicks (on noticeboard) h) Letter from Wisbech Churches Together advising of the Good Friday Walk of Witness in the town centre from 10.20am to 11am approx. i) Community Transport Fund (email) j) Letter received proposing a Blue Plaque for former Wisbech Grammar School buildings, North Brink. This has been forwarded to the Wisbech Society and was to be put before their Committee Meeting of 21 February. The Deputy Clerk would contact the Wisbech Society requesting an update. 161. Publications/General Information Members are asked to note the following (on the shelves by the Mayor’s Parlour) a) Rose Fair leaflet 2013 b) Peckover House events 2013 c) Marshland Newsletter January 2013 d) War Memorials Trust Bulletin 56 e) Wisbech Grammar School Riverline, including Wisbech Town Charter of Edward VI. Members noted that if, on receipt of the agenda, they wished to view copies of items prior to the meeting, or read paper copies of items previously circulated by email, they could do so at the office or ask for it to be sent if needed. The meeting closed at 9.40 pm

Signed…………………………

Dated……………………….

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Minutes of the Extra-Ordinary Meeting of the Full Council of Wisbech Town

Council held on Monday 29 April 2013 at 7.30pm.

Present: Town Mayor, Cllr Mrs V MacRae, Deputy Town Mayor, Cllr Miss Sam Hoy, Cllrs S Brunton, M Bucknor, Mrs V Bucknor, Mrs C Cox, J Farmer, R Griffin, D Hodgson; R McLaren, R Mee, D Oliver, D Patrick, Ms M Tanfield, G Tibbs, S Tierney and D Wheeler. In attendance: DeputyTown Clerk, Susanah Farmer (Minutes) Public participation None requested so the meeting commenced at 7.30pm 162. Apologies and absences i) Cllr Hill – working away from Wisbech ii) On the proposal of Cllr Tibbs, Seconded by Cllr Griffin the above absence was approved. 163. Declarations of Interests Members had nothing to declare but if anything was raised during the meeting it would be declared. 164. Investigation Working Party. Members were asked to receive an report and recommendations on staffing issues. Under the Public Bodies (Admission to Meetings) Act 1960, the public and representatives of the press and broadcast media are excluded from the meeting during the consideration of item 144 as publicity would be prejudicial to the public interest because of the confidential nature of the business to be transacted. This information is confidential and covered by Local Government (Access to Information) Act 1985 as inserted into the Local Government Act 1972 Schedule 12A Access to Information: Exempt Information Part I Descriptions of Exempt Information 1 Information relating to a particular employee, former employee or applicant to become an employee of, or a particular office-holder, former office-holder or applicant to become an office-holder under, the authority. 11 Information relating to any consultations or negotiations, or contemplated consultations or negotiations, in connection with any labour relations matter arising between the authority or a Minister of the Crown and employees of, or office-holders under, the authority. Mrs Farmer left the Chamber. Notes and recommendations from the Investigational Panel were tabled for members’ information. Cllr Farmer declared an interest and left the meeting whilst a discussion took place which included reference to the Deputy Clerk. Cllr Farmer was invited to rejoin the meeting.

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2012/2013 – 66 Following a discussion the Deputy Clerk was invited to rejoin the meeting to minute the decision of the Council. On the proposal of Cllr Mee, Seconded by Cllr Ms Tanfield, and agreed unanimously, the Investigation Panel will call an independent Disciplinary Panel made of non-Wisbech Fenland District Councillors. This Disciplinary Panel will have a recommended budget of £1000 + £30/hour for a specialist advisor. The Disciplinary panel will make a recommendation to Full Wisbech Town Council for a decision to be made. The meeting closed at 9.00 pm

Signed…………………………

Dated……………………….

2012/2013 1 WISBECH TOWN FULL COUNCIL Minutes … Patrick has given notice that he is serving on the...

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