Public Question Time:
Public representation was made from parishioners attending the meeting about the proposed affordable housing development at Pound Lane. Views received were concerns about the fears of extra traffic in close proximity to the primary school. There was apprehension over the increase in  volume with regard to the narrow lane and the speeding problems which already occur. Many people were concerned about the linear instead of courtyard design of the properties and some about the number. The Housing Survey was explained, the results of which were the basis for the Rural Housing Enabler calculating the number of dwellings. The back ground to Malvern Hills District Council  Planning Department decision in favouring this site of the four initially submitted by the Parish Council was also explained. The sewage system was mentioned and the potential noise factor from the play area adjacent to the development. Also arising was the biomass boiler and the frequency of fuel delivery. The Parish Council agreed that in principle it was in favour of the development and that regard to those who wish to occupy the new homes must also be taken into account.

There was one further question about the positioning of the green CPFA container. The Parish Council is in favour of this removal and as long as there is nothing in the BP Agreement which forbids the move, there should be no reason why it cannot take place.

.Deed of Easement:
The firm of solicitors Hallmarks has been instructed by the Parish Council to act on it's behalf for the Deed of Easement negotiations.  Hallmarks have in the past acted for the Parish Council and had possession of the deeds. It was agreed to ask Hallmarks to register Parish Council owned land whilst other legal issues are addressed. A surveyor will be instructed to ascertain the value of the easement. Ideally estimates will be sought.

Progress Reports:
The Chairman reported that he and Cllr Jones had looked at the site and discovered a stone wall which is likely to be that of the Village Pound. The documents mislaid by WCC have been found and returned. The hatched area agreed NOT to be part of the Highway and thought to be the Pound appears to be an animal enclosure in the ownership of Mr Carpenter.

Precept and Budget:
The Budget was used to determine the precept which will be set at £9,500.00. There was discussion about the appropriate use of funds for community projects.

Finance:
Cheque 495 £564.00 Mr R Wilks
Cheque 496 £703.88 Mrs J Speyer
Cheque 497 £47.01 CALC
Cheque 498 £32.59 Ray Fletcher for notice board repairs, to be reported under urgent decisions at the next meeting.
All items approved for payment.

Planning:
To consider 07/01790/FUL Erection of 10 new build affordable dwellings, biomass boiler enclosure, car parking, access road and associated external works at OS 7141 6132 Pound Lane Clifton. There was no objection but the potential traffic problems and unattractive liner design was brought to the planners attention.
To consider 07/01852/FUL  Amended plan to one already approved. (see below). Erection of stable block , 2 loose boxes 1 hay store and 1 tack room at Hope Barn Cottage. There was no comment on the application.
MHDC Decisions.
07/01226/FUL Hope Barn Cottage, erection of stable block 2 loose boxes 1 hay store and 1 tack room. Approved.
07/01417/FUL Hoppe Croft 34 The Village. Replace delapidated gate to main driveway. Approved.

Correspondence:
WCC Budget Information Meeting 17th January 2008
Malvern Hills Area Committee Meeting 23rd January 2008 7pm Priory Lodge.
Regional Spatial Strategy for the West Midlands 23rd January 2008 Kidderminster Library 6.30
Go West Teme Valley  coach tour 10am Saturday January 5th.
Drain outside Village Hall: Highways Control has informed the Council by email that Severn Trent has not contacted it in any way about the drain outside the Village Hall.
Willow tree in Manor Road. This has not been attended to as stated by Highways Control. It is thought they had confused this with the tree work undertaken in Manor Road.

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Date of the next Meeting:
The next meeting of Clifton Parish Council will be held on Thursday 7th February 2008 at the Village Hall following Public Question Time at 7.30pm.