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Minutes of the Full Council Meeting held At Pontycymmer OAP Centre Monday the 20th April 2009 Members Present: Councillor D. H. Barnes (Chairman) Councillors: C. G. Andrews; G. Davies; W. Davies; E. Dunster; D. T. Griffiths; W. J. Hillier; F. J. Hughes, Mrs. T. M. Jenkins, W. Pinches, D. R. Pugh & Mrs. M. Thomas (arrived at 7.30pm) Police: PCSO's J. Ireland and A. Baker The meeting commenced at 7.00 pm and was chaired by Councillor D. H. Barnes No. Minute 01/10 Apologies for Absence An apology was received from Councillor Mrs. H. Griffiths 02/10 Declarations of Interest Councillor D. R. Pugh on all Bridgend CBC matters and those of Creation Development Trust - County Borough Councillor and an employee of Creation Development Trust Councillor Mrs. M. Thomas on all Bridgend CBC matters - County Borough Councillor 03/10 Minutes of the March 2009 Meeting Councillor W. Davies said that Minute No.145.09 should have read youths under sixteen years of age and that the club referred to was in Blaengarw. With this being accepted by Members present it was: - Resolved: That the Minutes of the meeting held on Monday the 16th March were a true record - the Chairman duly signed the Minute Book
04/10 Police Matters Crimes reported since the 20th March 2009: - Bettws Criminal damage - 1 Aggravated taking away - 1 Drug offences - 2 Attempted burglary - 1 Dwelling burglary - 1 Theft from motor vehicle - 2 Theft other - 1 There were six incidents of youth anti social behaviour one of which included scrambler annoyance Blaengarw Criminal damage to a motor vehicle - 2 Criminal damage other - 1 Criminal damage to a dwelling - 1 There were three incidents of anti social behaviour two of which related to scrambler annoyance Llangeinor Criminal damage other - 2 Theft other - 1 Theft of motor vehicle - 1 Dwelling burglary - 2 Criminal damage motor vehicle - 1 There were no reported anti social behavioural incidents Pontycymmer Theft other - 2 Property crime (commercial) - 1 Burglary other - 1 Criminal damage dwelling - 1 Drug offences - 3 Criminal damage motor vehicle - 1 There were seven reported anti social behaviour incidents all youth related Other matters There have been five drug related arrests in Pontycymmer - community intelligence assisted with this operation. There was a scrambler bike operation on Sunday the 19th April at Blaengarw, three local PCSO's assisted an off road team in detecting offenders. Results were positive with quad riders being cautioned. Observations revealed that the offenders were from the Caerau area. S. 59 orders were issued and it was explained that these are effective for two years; should there be a re-offence the vehicle can be confiscated. Councillor W. Pinches reported regular occurrences of youth annoyance at the Bettws shopping precinct where people are now known to be terrified of entering the area. The police are aware of this problem ad the main culprit has been identified. Councillor G. Davies complained of motorists driving at excessive speed along Heol Llangeinor (Llangeinor) and near the Green Meadow public house, the councillor requested that police monitor the situation. PCSO Ireland suggested that hand held speed cameras will be deployed in Llangeinor as soon as possible. It was also mentioned that traffic police, because of local PACT concerns are showing a greater presence in the community. Councillor W. J. Hillier questioned the removal of trees by a Pontycymmer resident in order to fuel a wood burning stove. The ownership of said trees was questioned and it was agreed that the Clerk would make enquiries into the allegation. Councillor D. R. Pugh explained his concerns of rumours that Pontycymmer Police Station was to close. PCSO Ireland said that she was unaware of such talk and that the only changes had been that local officers now report to Aberkenfig Police Station before commencing duties - this was part of the new Neighbourhood Policing Strategy. Councillor Hillier said that this was the "thin end of the wedge, as it is likely that you will be moved to other parts of the borough at the expense of the Garw Valley. Your presence has helped to reduce crime and anti social behaviour and should be allowed to continue". Councillor Griffiths thanked PCSO Baker for helping resolve the issue of a dangerous dog in Bettws and also congratulated the officer on being accepted into the police force as a constable. Councillor Dunster asked that officers monitor the illegal parking at the junction of Bettws Road and Heol Llangeinor where one motorist in particular always seems to be parked on the pavement and thereby causes obstructions. The Clerk requested that officers make regular patrols of Parc Calon Lân where it has been reported that youths are participating in drug and alcohol abuse. With police business concluded the officers were thanked for their contributions and then left the meeting place at 7.30pm.
05/10 Matters Arising from the March 2009 Meeting
146.09 - No response as yet from Councillor David Sage - Highways Department has been requested to forward specific costs for the development of 20MPH zones. Members were informed that Bridgend CBC's Cabinet has agreed to scrap its current system of prioritising reactive areas (high incidents of accidents) to a proactive system whereby those areas where accidents are likely to occur will receive attention 146.09/133.09 - Correspondence from Mrs. Janice Gregory is attached (Bettws carriageway) - states that it is likely work on improving the carriageway will commence next year 146.09/135.09 - (Christmas deco) - request has been submitted to Bridgend CBC and sites have been inspected 147.09 (15) - The delay on completing a 30 year lease continues 147.09 (16) RDP claim - Clerk to report 147.09 (17) Cycling Strategy - Report to be given to Members 147.09 (18) Clerk to report (Rights of Way and cycling) 149.09 - (Forestry) - a tree planting programme has been produced and planting has commenced in the Garw Valley
06/10 Correspondence - Bridgend CBC Reports and Minutes (available from the Clerk)
- "Help Wales Reduce its Carbon Footprint" - invitation for members to attend a meeting to debate community action for climate change network - Cardiff 20/05/2009
- Local Government Boundary Commission - Newsletter "A Line in the Sand"
- Play for Wales - Quarterly update
- Garw Valley Heritage Society - acknowledgement of £25.00 donation
- Davies School of Dancing Pontycymmer - acknowledgement of £25.00 donation to two of its students who came second in the British Dance Championships at Blackpool
- Mayor of Bridgend County - Mayor's Gala Dinner - invitation for the Chairman to attend
- Parks Consultancy Services - Offer of Health and Safety inspections (fee involved)
- Bridgend CBC - Notice of Town & Community Council Forum for the 14th April 2009
- Charter - between Bridgend CBC and all Town & Community Councils (available from the Clerk) - Councillor Mrs Thomas explained some of the aspects of the charter and the priorities set by other town and community councils
- Information Commissioner's Office - Freedom of Information Act details (CD ROM)
- Really Welsh - details of retailing daffodil and leek bulbs - consideration is to be given to purchase bulbs for planting in the four wards - Clerk is to make enquiries
- Councillor R. D. Jenkins - Pontycymmer referrals made - copies given to the four ward members
- Bridgend CBC - Weirs on the Garw River - correspondence out to Environment Agency - acceptance of contract to adopt a maintenance programme
- Environment Agency - Agreement for Garw Valley Weirs Project
- Mr. Alwyn Furley Garw Angling Association- response to the Weirs project - objects to parts of the contract
Resolved: That the above items of correspondence are noted - Bridgend CBC - Llangeinor and Tourism signposting (4 items of correspondence) with the probability of this council being asked to contribute to the scheme
Resolved: That this matter is left on the table until additional information is known - Janice Gregory AM - Bettws Road carriageway - refers to an enquiry into upgrading the local carriageway particularly near Bettws Primary School - a response from Bridgend CBC states that the section of Bettws Road in the vicinity of the school is on the works register for resurfacing and is being proposed for inclusion in next year's resurfacing programme of works.
The comment of the A4064 in the Garw is receiving preferential treatment, is incorrect as all road schemes are prioritised and was at the time considered more important than Bettws Road. - Clerk - to Valleys to Coast Housing - referrals for Heol Y Felin and Brynawel
- Clerk - to Welsh Sports Council - Mountain Biking and a call for a meeting
- Creation Development Trust - Funding for tourism meeting details - Clerk to report (Minute 15/10)
- Creation Development - Sub leasing land on the western side of the Garw Valley (Minute 15/10 explains)
- Clerk - response to above item
- Welsh Water - refusal to allow the drainage connection for the Visitor Centre - (Minute 15/10)
- Bridgend CBC - Rights of Way Agency Agreement for 2008/09 - notification that council's expenditure is to be reimbursed
- Mrs. Linda James (Internal Auditor) - notice to terminate position because of family matters - the Clerk was given permission to seek and employ another Internal Auditor
- Bridgend CBC - confirmation of Precept payment for 2009/2010
Resolved: That the above items of correspondence are noted - Anthony Childs-Cutler - financial request
- Royal Welsh Agricultural Society - financial request
Resolved: that items 28 and 29 remain on the table
07/10 Planning Matters
Bettws Ward - Applications
P/09/199/FUL - Provision of a new bunkhouse facility at Bettws Boys and Girls Club - Heol Dewi Sant - Bettws Boys and Girls Club Appeal - National Assembly P/08/630/FUL - appeal made by Valley and Vale Community Arts against refusal to allow the development of a two storey extension to existing Arts Centre, Heol Dewi Sant Blaengarw Ward - Applications
P/09/180/FUL - Rear single storey utility/shower room and kitchen extension - replace first floor flat roof and reconstruct retaining wall at Brynheulog, James Road - Mr. K. Weeks
Bridgend CBC Decision
P/09/110/FUL - permission granted for extension and alteration to ground floor kitchen at rear of 16, Pwllcarn Terrace Llangeinor Ward - Decisions only P/09/24/FUL - permission granted for extension to the Bungalow, Gwernllwyn Fawr Farm, Llangeinor Road P/09/100/FUL - permission granted for a proposed porch extension to front of "Dyffryn Erw" Heol Llwynffynon Pontycymmer Ward - Applications P/09/174/FUL - alterations to existing shop front at the Co-operative, Victoria Street P/09/197/FUL - Change of use from shop to dwelling and alteration of front elevation at 73, Oxford Street - Mr. D. Williams P/09/230/FUL - retention of single storey rear extension at 4, High Street - Mr. D. Davies Bridgend CBC Decision
P/09/68/FUL - permission granted for a detached dwelling on land adjacent to 133, Victoria Street P/08/959/FUL - permission granted for a detached dwelling (amended house design) - plot of land at Blandy Terrace
08/10 Emigration Councillor G. Davies said that a local family has emigrated to New Zealand and probably the parents will soon join them. The Councillor proposed that a letter from this council to the parallel council in New Zealand could possibly cement a new relationship. Councillor Davies added that such a gesture would honour the immense local charity work of Mrs. Brookes (the emigrant). Councillor Hillier said that this lady was not unique in emigrating from this valley but that her charity work was worthy of honouring. "We cannot have connections with every country a local person emigrates to". Councillor Davies said that a letter rather than a plaque would suffice (as had been suggested). Members agreed that as it was unsure when Mrs. Brookes was leaving the country, it would be wise to make a decision at the appropriate time. Resolved: That this matter remains on the table
09/10 Hand Railings - Bettws Councillor F. J. Hughes proposed that enquiries are made into having handrails installed on the steps leading from Heol Glannant in Bettws. "There are eleven steps that are currently overgrown and dangerous for the elderly to ascend and descend, there is also the need for a barrier near the base in order to stop very young children from running onto the carriageway". Councillor Mrs. Thomas said that she has attempted to have Handrailing installed on the steps adjoining Tyn Y Heol Primary in Llangeinor only to be informed that there is no money available for such a scheme. (See Minute 11/10) Councillor Dunster suggested contacting Mr. John Brown a Bettws School Liaison Officer to enquire if he has money available for the Bettws proposal. Following a brief discussion in which Councillor Hughes proposal was agreed upon it was: - Resolved: That enquiries are made in having the handrail installed by either Valleys to Coast Housing or by other sources of funding
10/10 Llanharan Villas - Wayside Seat Councillor Mrs. T. M. Jenkins said that there was a need for a sitting out bench at near Llanharan Villas at Nantyrychain Terrace. Senior citizens are finding it difficult to climb the steps and require a rest having done so. The Councillor proposed that funding is found to develop this proposal. Councillor Hillier commented that it would be wise to canvass local people to see if they would accept the proposal as there are many unwilling to have a bench near their home as it attracts anti social behaviour. Councillor Mrs. Jenkins assured the meeting that those requesting the bench live in direct line to the proposed location. Resolved: That the Clerk would make the necessary enquiries
11/10 Christmas 2009 - Llangeinor Councillor E. Dunster said that the funding available to install Christmas decorations in the Llangeinor Ward was insufficient when considering the area to be covered and suggested that such a scheme for 2009 is not viable. Councillor G. Davies agreeing with the comment, proposed that the money available is used to purchase new handrails on the steps at Tyn Yr Heol School. The proposal was seconded by Councillor Dunster. Councillor Hillier said that we are no longer in a position to decorate all areas of the community and to consider that Llangeinor has the lowest tax base of all the Wards. The proposal to purchase new handrails was put to the floor and with all Members in agreement it was: - Resolved: That the cost of new railing for the steps at Tyn Yr Heol School would be met from the Llangeinor Village budget
12/10 Schools Traffic Calming Lines Not discussed
13/10 Bus Stops/Zig Zag Lines Not discussed
14/10 Blaengarw Community Centre Councillor D. R. Pugh explained that Blaengarw Community Centre was used a maximum of three times a week and suggested that it should be used to its full potential. The Councillor proposed that the Clerk enquires of Bridgend CBC why this facility is so under used. It was also mentioned that there are toilets at the centre and yet, are not being made available to the public. This is a major issue and if allowed to be used by the public could attract additional funding from the senior council. Councillor Hillier said that he was concerned that public toilets would attract youngsters to which Councillor Pugh replied that access to the toilets would only be available to users of the community centre. Resolved: That the Clerk would make the necessary enquiries 15/10 Clerk's Report - Cycling and Rowan Sorrell report -a copy of the in-depth study conducted by Mr. Sorrell had been presented to members for consideration. The study suggests that the Garw Valley has the potential to be the nation's leader in biking excellence and to this end the cycling arm of the Welsh Sports Council has expressed an interest in being involved. A meeting with them is to be arranged.
- Funding - sublet to Creation Development Trust - the report suggests that existing trails are not up to the required standard but offers the alternative of creating a 25K route that incorporates the easy to very difficult trails; the estimated cost is £470,000.
This requires extensive fund and this council is unable to bid. To overcome this, Creation Development Trust has offered to apply for the necessary funding, but in so doing, will require leasing the land necessary for such a scheme from this council. Members having debated the immense possibilities: resolved that those parcels of land in this council's governance that will be used for mountain bike trails is sublet to Creation Development Trust for a period of thirty years. - BBC A BBC production team has visited the upper Garw Valley in order to find a suitable location for a new programme called ‘Framed' starring Trevor Eve; filming will be for one day only and on the 14th May 2009.
The company will require the use of the Visitor Centre; metal storage container, Blaengarw Lake and the surrounding mountainside. The proposed fee is £300 for one day's use of the facilities. - General mess dog owners in particular are showing scant regard or respect for the park or its surrounding trails; the two wardens need every day to clear and remove a vast amount of dog waste.
- Stolen plaques - it is believed that one or more people are responsible for removing the plaques which are sited in Parc Calon Lân
- Car park - is used by drinkers perhaps drug takers and this matter has been reported to the police - their enquiries reveal that nothing untoward is occurring at the park
- 30Year Lease - there has been no movement in finalising this document
- Welsh Assembly there have been pedantic interventions from Welsh Assembly civil servants who now demand that original estimates for the RDP bid are re-scrutinised. This will result in delays with reimbursing this council with its expenditure which causes in some instances cash flow problems. Councillor David Sage is to intervene with in this matter.
- Welsh Water/Dwr Cymru - has refused permission for the development of a sewage system at Parc Calon Lân - the plan is to be resubmitted
- Bridgend Road and speeding vehicles - Councillor Mrs. H. Griffiths has requested that Members be made aware of motor bikes riding at excessive speeds along Bridgend Road in Pontycymmer. The police have been made aware of this problem.
- Bridgend CBC/Rights of Way and Cycling - Rights of Way Officer has accepted the council's plans for new cycle trails in the upper Garw Valley and there was a compromise with cyclists being able to use the existing bridleways to enable them enjoy their pastimes.
Resolved: That the report is noted and that those parcels of land in this council's governance that will be used for mountain bike trails is sublet to Creation Development Trust for a period of thirty years
16/10 Finance & Accounts 1 The Clerk presented accounts for approval totalling £16786.95 (schedule attached) Resolved: That the accounts were approved for payment 2. Members resolved to note the Receipts and Payments accounts prepared for the periods 01/04/2008 to 31/03/2009 and 01/04/2009 to 20/04/2009 17/10 Items for the May 2009 Agenda Rights of Way (GD)/Council Meeting Venues (DTG)/Damaged fences at Pontycymmer (WD) Commemoration Sign for Garw Valley Coalminers (GD) 18/10 Date of the next Meeting Resolved: That the next meeting of the Council will be the Annual Meeting followed immediately by the May 2009 Full Council Meeting and are to be held on Monday the 18th May 2009
With business concluded the Chairman closed the meeting at 8.50 pm. Chairman_______________________________ Date____________________________
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