Busy Old Buckenham Parish Council

 Parish Council in December

The following report has been written by the village blog editor from the draft minutes so may contain information that is amended at a later date.

Old Buckenham Parish Council met on Thursday 5 December 2024 at Old Buckenham Methodist Church. Those present were Councillors Naomi Bailey (Chair), Doug Irons (Vice Chair), Stan Burton, Lesley Evison, David Taylor (would be late) and Pete Twissell. Also attending were Rachel Noyes (Clerk), Donna Oakley (RFO) and three members of the public. Apologies received from Steve Gowers. The minutes of the meeting held on Thursday 7 November were approved after an amendment was made to a Stan Burton report which should read “£110 plus VAT”

Financial matters. Cheques totalling £2081.96 were approved which included Information Commissioners Office £40, West Norfolk Web Design £217.80, Wave Water £15.76, Donna Oakley (3 months pay) £750 and Rachel Noyes (3 months pay) £1058.40. Community car drivers were paid a total of £53.75. These payments were approved (5 in favour).

A £500 donation had been received from County Broadband towards the playground. Also a VAT reclaim submitted. The annual website maintenance cost for the next 12 months is £217.80. This has been paid upfront for the next year as a gesture of good will because of previous late payments. There is no difference in total cost if it is paid monthly or yearly.

External Auditors have issued a Public Interest Report as the Parish Council failed to submit the AGAR (Annual Governance and Accountability Return) on time this year. Donna Oakley has now prepared accounts and AGAR for 2023/24. She is concerned whether we can get an internal auditor to review it, so will ask external auditor for advice. Accounts, AGAR and Public Interest Report all need to be displayed on our website. The Minutes reference required for the public interest report and the AGAR.

(David Taylor arrived)

Donna Oakley has prepared the AGAR and sent to councillors to review. The Parish Council shouldn’t have gone overdrawn but it did and this means that our Precept Agreement was broken. As this is now sorted, it will be put in the letter for clarification. A proposal to approve the AGAR was approved (6 in favour). Similarly the 2023/24 Accounts were approved (6 in favour) and a proposal to agree the receipt of the Public Interest Report and to publish it online was also agreed(6 in favour).

Councillors’ reports. County and District Councillor Steve Askew said he has been chasing several issues around Old Buckenham with limited success. This includes the drains on the corner near Fearne and Harrow and the steps opposite the Stud. At recent Saturday Surgery, Stan Burton explained that two residents raised concerns about flooding/ditches on Cake Street as water is running down all of Harlingwood Lane into Cake Street. Steve Askew offered to come and join upcoming meeting with Highways Officer and Naomi Bailey.

On entering village from the New Buckenham direction, the 40mph signs are overgrown and not clearly visible. Stan Burton offered to trim back vegetation. Lesley Evison highlighted that the village has developed since speed limits were initially introduced and so are no longer suitable for the number of cars now using the roads. Steve Askew explained that the change of speed limits is an expensive process and so is difficult to get. A member of the public enquired who manages the hedges on Abbey Road as branches are getting broken by lorries which are then causing issues for drivers. Steve Askew thinks it may be Chapel Green School so will make contact and enquire.

Naomi Bailey reported that a meeting was scheduled for after Christmas regarding the youth club. An item had been posted online about defibrillator training. Appears to have a lot of interest and may team up with New Buckenham Parish Council. The village Christmas tree has been installed and lights are on. Switch on is at 4pm onwards on Sunday 8 December. Highways are aware of the flashing speed sign by memorial needing repairing.

She would like to thank Donna Oakley and Rachel Noyes for returning to the Parish Council and their work over the last few months to rectify issues. As Chair, would also like to thank all councillors for all their work over the last year which has been challenging and when they could have easily stepped down. The councillors all gave their thanks to Naomi Bailey for everything she has done and leading the Parish Council through a difficult year.

Steve Gowers had submitted a report that was read out. They now have another volunteer for Community Speed Watch Team and another volunteer has stepped up to complete much of the administration, moving the SAM sign and downloading data. Enquired about setting up a Speed Watch email address to help with continuity in the future. Have had residents raise concerns about lorries over the weight limit (7.5 ton) using Hargham Road. Could the Parish Council write to the companies involved? We also need to have control over future developments, such as the Solar Farm on Attleborough Road. Naomi Bailey highlighted that the traffic plan for developments will often provide alternative routes and that the Parish Council stipulated this fact in their response to the application. Lesley Evison explained that Old Buckenham is sometimes a diversion when there is an accident on A11 and that there are strict rules about photographing vehicles as evidence. Meeting arranged with Highways on about speeding vehicles on Cake Street. Both Naomi Bailey and Steve Askew will be attending.

Stan Burton apologised for the technical issues for the lack of last post at Remembrance Sunday service. He has collected the wreaths and will keep them for next year. Some groups struggle with this yearly cost but will still make a donation. Last year, wreaths from the Old Buckenham memorial were collected by people outside the village for this reason. A risk assessment has been completed for the sound system for the Christmas Tree Switch-on. Also have some posts to help direct people. Will need contingency in case of bad weather. Naomi Bailey to make a call about weather by 1.30pm.

A drainage company had jetted out the Ottomer Pond drainage pipe. They traced the jet washer down the pipe and found it came to edge of wall by West View Farm but could not go any further. Dug down next to wall and found two concrete slabs. Company believe that it may go in to ditch by West View Farm and there may be a drain that comes down from Sunnyside. Need to dig down with a digger to the concrete slab and find what is below. Don’t know if it goes under the road, pipe must lead somewhere as water level in the pipe decreased. Naomi Bailey will speak to Highways and Lead local flood authority (LLFA) and see what can be done. Doug Irons suggested drilling down and putting an endoscope down to investigate what is under the concrete slab. The drainage company were there about two hours.

Pete Twissell had planted hedge down side of recreation ground with support from High School and Chapel Green School. Did not have any response from the Primary School. Lesley Evison has received contacts and plan for the allotments. One user is still unhappy about the security at the allotments. She raised concerns about whether the allotments are financially viable. Lesley Evison, Doug Irons and Donna Oakley to compile review of allotments.

Doug Irons said the Green Working Committee have identified a suitable seed for the repair of the Green by the Ox and Plough but wanted to highlight the need for soil too. Lesley Evison and Stan Burton (as Green Rights Holders) confirmed that any good quality top soil would be suitable. He had attempted to create a central sharepoint with the Clerk’s laptop but discovered it could not be done for free. Will liaise with David Taylor to try and find a solution. Has a reply prepared to Freedom of Information request. Tried to get NALC to proof read who recommended the ICO who were unable to help as they must remain impartial. Councillors can look at and review his draft reply. He enquired about an update on the Barclays bank account. Donna Oakley explained that they were just waiting for the card reader still. Rachel Noyes said the Lloyds bank account paperwork was delayed. Have chased and now received. Will get councillors to sign forms and send off as soon as possible. Donna Oakley also required to provide ID in branch.

New planning applications. Shardalows Farm, Fen Street. Erection of a new agricultural building for the secure storage of agricultural machinery, hay, straw and haylage (3PL/2024/0503/F). This application was previously highlighted to the Parish Council and due to a lack of information meant it was not discussed. A resident has sent a detailed report as to why they objected to the application. Proposal by Naomi Bailey to object due to volume of traffic and issues with the application and this was approved (6 in favour).

There were no Amended Applications or Planning Decisions by Breckland Council. Breckland Council are changing the system used for planning applications and this is causing issues with communication. Clerk has confirmed new email address with Breckland Planning.

Precept Grant applications. Councillors were reminded that they previously voted to limit the amount given out in Precept Grants this year to £3500. This is to prevent any significant increase in the council tax paid by residents.

Robert Cocks Almshouses: Request £5000 for roofing project that is still ongoing. Last year, they didn’t cash cheque until reminded by a councillor. However due to changes with our bank, the cheque did not cash in. This will have to be re-issued and they will be reminded that the money needs to be spent on the project stated by the end of the financial year. Proposal to give £600 was approved (6 in favour).

Primary School Families Association: Request for £750 towards a school trip to Norfolk Show. Naomi Bailey to abstain from vote due to conflict of interest. Parents will be asked to donate and Families Association will be contributing (through fundraising). Coach costs have increased significantly in recent years but felt it was important to support and educate about our local community. Doug Irons highlighted that this is good value for the number of children that would be attending. Proposal to give £750 was approvd (5 in favour, 1 abstain).

Fawns: Request for £624 for the cost of hiring the hall to enable the group to be free. Member of the public explained that attendees make voluntary donations if they can and that they also hold fundraising events themselves to minimise costs to the families. Councillors felt that with no nursery in the village, it provides good support for young children and new parents. Proposal to give £624 was approved (6 in favour).

Monday Mardle: Request £150 towards running costs and hiring premises. Proposal to give the full £150 was approved (6 in favour).

Old Buckenham Youth Group: Request for £1000 towards set up costs. Naomi Bailey to abstain from vote due to conflict in interest. Group is looking to get running at Easter and will be fundraising some money too. While it is being held at a Methodist Church, it is not anything to do with the Church so the Parish Council is able to accept applications. Councillors felt it was important to support and give it a chance. Proposal to give £500 was approved (5 in favour, 1 abstain).

Village Hall: Requesting £1200 to replace the stage curtains and the curtains in the Memorial Room. PT to abstain from vote due to conflict in interest. They need to be fire retardant and are now out of date. Cost of re-treating them is similar to having new ones. Curtains also offer thermal insulation to the hall. Propose to give £700 (5 in favour, 1 abstain). 

Cricket Club: They had requested £1500 towards furniture and work on their new pavilion. Councillors felt that the Parish Council has given a lot of money in previous years and the Cricket Club has good revenue. Proposal to give £200 was approved (6 in favour).

Precept Grants approved totalled £3,524.

Green Working Party report. The Green Working Committee met in November. A new resident has joined to replace Adrian Joel. Ryegrass seed is needed for the repair of Green by David Tranmer. There are some trees on the Green with silver discs on. This was after every tree was surveyed and all the trees were identified and logged to aid with maintenance. The Clerk to send report to Lesley Evison. Going to look for volunteers to help tidy the Green by clearing branches, etc. Litter picks to also be organised. Possible meeting in June for residents about the Green. Rachel Noyes suggested combining it with Annual Parish Meeting.

Lesley Evison would like a clear list of workers and their contacts. She struggles with IT so would like a paper document. Naomi Bailey highlighted that the Terms of Reference has to be discussed and approved before they can proceed. Doug Irons has drafted a copy on their behalf which can quickly be amended/approved at next meeting. Stan Burton volunteered to keep the footpaths on the Green clear. Next meeting will be on Monday 13 January with plan for grass cutting for 2025 to be discussed.

Dog bin on Recreation Ground. Breckland Council have now confirmed they would collect and dispose of the waste from a dog bin on the Recreation Ground. However as it is not public land, the Parish Council would need to pay for this. Cost of new bin installed would total £253.82. Would also cost £239.78 a year to have this bin emptied. Councillors felt this was a good solution to the problem of dog waste being repeatedly put in the litter bin which is emptied by the Village Hall cleaner. Proposal to go ahead was approved (6 in favour).

Disclosure and Barring Service. It was felt that employees should have DBS checks as an extra level of security for the Parish Council. It costs £53 for an enhanced DBS check. Current Clerk already has one and will provide evidence to Chair.

Register for filming locations. Clerk has been contacted about being added to a list of filming locations by a Norfolk-based filming company who are partially funded by Norfolk County Council. A proposal to agree to be added to this list was approved (6 in favour).

Allotment rent. Discussion on this will be delayed until report about financial viability of allotments is collated.

Community Car Scheme. The village Community Car Scheme is run by volunteers and many appointments are being given at hospitals far afield and at some private hospitals. The Community Car drivers have discussed and have amended the wording of the definition of Old Buckenham community car use to “Only NHS appointments, in a radius of 50 miles of Old Buckenham, including Hospitals, visits to Doctors Surgeries, Physiotherapy Clinics, Opticians and Dental Surgeries”. Councillors felt that if this is what the drivers are happy to do, then the Parish Council should support them. Doug Irons suggested adding the words “at the drivers discretion”. Proposal was approved (6 in favour).

To consider the document: OBPC Financial Risk Assessment Rev A. Proposal to approve and adopt was carried (6 in favour).

Public participation. None.

Items for next agenda. These will include the precept, the allotments and the date for the Annual Parish Meeting in 2025.

The next Parish Council meeting on will be on Thursday 9 January 2025 at Old Buckenham Village Hall starting at 7.30pm.

Changes over Christmas period in Old Buckenham

 Either open or shut

In the run-up to Christmas the village shop has its revised opening hours posted on the front door. On New Year's Day it will be open from 9am to 12 noon.

The Old School Bookshop is opening from 10am to 4pm on both Monday 23 and Tuesday 24 December so that you can buy those last minute books, cards, wrapping paper and other little presents you may suddenly decide that you need. Lucie will then be having a well-earned rest and working on getting the second room open. The bookshop opens again on Friday 10 January when normal service will resume.

The Pop Up Pantry at the Village Hall will start again in 2025 on Wednesday 8 January and its opening hours have changed and will now be 9.30am to 11am. New times to pick up your bargains...

Carols in Old Buckenham

Go along to the Methodist Church 

Plenty of chances to sing. The Carol Service is at 10.45am, tomorrow Sunday 15 December (mince pies after the service).

Then there is a Christmas Singalong – 7.30pm on Wednesday 18 December – a mix of carols and other well-known Christmas songs. Organ to be played by Sarah Dye. Followed by mince pies, coffee and mulled wine (non-alcoholic).

 

Festive refreshments in Old Buckenham

Visit the Village Hall on Saturday

Come along and see all the stalls on Saturday 7 December as well as partaking in festive refreshments between 2pm and 4pm. Enjoy yourself and help to raise funds for All Saints Church.

History of Old Buckenham blog

 When it all started

This blog began on 1st December 2008 which is 16 years ago. According to some not particularly accurate software, it has had 157,460 visits since then and is now getting about 600 visits each month. It may be looked at by people from all over the world but is a pretty small fish in a very large ocean.

Since it started the readership has been around 85% UK, 6% USA, 1% Germany, Norway, France and India with no other country reaching one percent. Recently these figures have changed and over the last three months the UK has dropped to 81%, USA risen to 9% and Germany has reached 6%. There has only been one visit in 16 years from about twenty countries including Gambia, Aruba and Guam.

Long may it continue...

Opportunity for Old Buckenham learners

Maritime Heroes

Start 2025 by learning about  Norfolk  maritime heroes with this series of three local talks.

Old Buckenham Parish Council minutes

Latest discussions

The following notes of the meeting have been written by the blog editor from the draft minutes and so contain information that may be amended at a later date.

Old Buckenham Parish Council met on Thursday 7 November at Old Buckenham Village Hall. Those present were councillors Naomi Bailey (Chair), Doug Irons (Vice Chair), Stan Burton, Lesley Evison, Steve Gowers and Pete Twissell. David Taylor arrived later in the meeting. Also attending were Rachel Noyes (Clerk), Donna Oakley (RFO)and five members of the public. 

Election of Vice Chair. Ali McWilliam has stepped down from the Parish Council. On behalf of all the councillors, we would like to send many thanks for all of her help over the last few years. It was agreed to appoint Doug Irons as Vice Chair (5 in favour, 1 abstain). The minutes of the meeting held on Thursday 3 October were approved (5 in favour, 1 abstain).

Declaration of interests. Stan Burton will be receiving payment for his band playing at the Ox and Plough pub.

Financial matters. Payments totalling £1,974.64 were approved (6 in favour). These included room hire, web design, paper for the village newsletter, poppy wreath, defibrillator pads and the community car drivers. As the new Vice Chair, Doug Irons to become internal auditor of finances in place of Ali McWilliam. He requested that any payments/claims are given to Donna Oakley in advance of a meeting otherwise they will not be processed until the following month.

Councillors’ reports. At the Saturday Surgery, four members of public attended with the primary topic of roads and road safety. Naomi Bailey has communicated with Highways Engineer and is now awaiting responses. She has also spoken to Highways about potentially placing posts or a bank along Abbey Road and Sunnyside Track. This will require further research. The ditch alongside footpath to the Village Hall has been cleared by Sapientia Trust. Will liaise with residents about clearing ditch around the back of houses on Sunnyside Track.

There needs to be a big push on getting a replacement for the editor of the village newsletter editor. The current editor will put an advertisement together and the Parish Council will also help to publicise. A Youth Club will potentially be starting in Easter. It will be located in the Methodist Church but run by independent volunteers. Research has also been done about other local Youth Clubs. Have received more feedback from villagers and there seems to be more initial interest from primary school than secondary school children.

There was a recent news article about the village Christmas Tree. Acting on the information given to the Parish Council by the previous clerk, the Parish Council had committed to plans to ensure there would be a Christmas Tree in the village, albeit in a new location. It has come to light that the information given to us from the previous clerk was incorrect. Additionally, it is worth noting that the Christmas Tree has been outside Ox and Plough for seven years and so it is nice to allow other local businesses to benefit from it. As this story was picked up from social media, it highlights the need to raise any concerns or issues with the Parish Council directly rather than on social media.

Doug Irons asked to receive financial information a little earlier as councillors only received data just before the meeting. Rachel Noyes to update Donna Oakley with all contact details so that they can be sent directly, rather than via the clerk, to save time.

The Green needs repairing from Two Wheel Tuesday erosion, as per agreement with David Tranmer, as it is now the end of the season. Peter Twissell volunteered to assist and asked if the Green Working Committee can ensure that the correct type of grass seed and type of soil is identified for David Tranmer. During a recent meeting with David Tranmer, his Christmas Fayre will take place within the Ox and Plough property and not on the Green. As part of this, there will be a Christmas Tree being lit but again located on the property of the pub. The Financial Risk Assessment needs completing. The Clerk has been unable to complete this during the previous month but will be a priority for next meeting. Also the Freedom of Information (FoI) request is still in progress. The Parish Council is collating all relevant information, ready to feed back.

Peter Twissell reported he has had two new keys cut for Village Hall post box, one for the RFO and one for the Clerk. The saplings have arrived for the planting the back hedge of Recreation Ground. He has been in contact with Chapel Green School and first planting session to take place on Tuesday 12 November.

Stan Burton has been dealing with Ottomer Pond. He had hired a digger to get to pipe at a cost of £100 (agreed at previous meeting). Also dug two ditches to look for outlet but couldn’t locate it. Contacted Company A to investigate cost for blasting it clear. They cannot do it all in one go and would charge nearly £1000 for a day. Company B could blast the whole thing at a cost of £110/hour (including VAT) and is predicted to take five to six hours. They will also be able to locate exact locations of blockages within pipe using sensors. Steve Gowers thanked Stan Burton for all his work on the issue and suggested that it might be worth adding inspection chambers for the future. Lesley Evison felt that this will give a clearer picture of the problem (blocked/broken, etc) and location. Stan Burton suspects it is not damaged but simply blocked and suggested building a weir box in the future. Steve Gowers proposed that Company B is asked to blast the pipe and locate any blockages in the overflow pipe from Ottomer Pond. This was approved (6 In favour). Stan Burton has also mowed and tidied the area around the War Memorial in advance of Remembrance Sunday service.

Steve Gowers said the new magnets are now on playground gate. He has been collecting quotes for repair of the surface near roundabout and will complete soon. During a recent Speedwatch event on Cake Street, 14 people were recorded in one hour travelling at speeds ranging from 35-45mph. These speeds are done when they know the Speedwatch are there so there is concern about speeds travelled when no one is there recording. One car was recorded travelling on Hargham Road at 53mph. Sent correspondence to County Councillor Steve Askew about the issue. Steve Gowers  is concerned that there will be a fatality in the village one day and wants to do everything possible to prevent this from happening. He wanted it noted that the Police do not tell them when they’re doing a speed check, they choose the location based on data sent to them by Speedwatch and they’ve been on Cake Street twice in the last month. Lesley Evison asked about a resident’s query at getting the 30mph limit extended (to replace the 40mph) due to popularity of Country Park but after Naomi Bailey raised the issue with Highways, they explained that this would not be possible. Naomi Bailey has also had concern from resident about speed on Hargham Road outside of the main village.

(David Taylor arrived)

Rachel Noyes gave news of arrangements on Remembrance Day. Poppy wreath has been delivered ready for Sunday. Road closure of B1077 was rejected by Highways due to difficulty in closing a B Road and creating a diversion. However, an alternative solution of a TO15 was offered as this would allow us to simply block the road for 15 minutes and not require a set diversion in place. Crown Road would be closed also to prevent drivers travelling straight back down next to the Memorial. The Village Hall has offered to lend us some traffic cones to assist with blocking the road. Councillors volunteered to be in place to put road closure in place and direct drivers. Stan Burton has offered to read the list of names on the Memorial and will be providing a PA system. He is a member of Attleborough British Legion. He discovered that last year, our wreaths were collected without our knowledge after the event and sold this year at a discount price (still for the British Legion). Will be speaking to the group to ensure this is not done again.

Two new sets of defibrillator pads purchased and installed in the defibrillators located at the Ox and Plough and on Fen Street. A Green Working Committee meeting booked for Wednesday 13 November. New Parish Council bank account has been started. Now awaiting mandate and information to be sent in the post. Had expected it to arrive by now so will chase up.

David Taylor had contacted the Tree and Countryside Officer about whether sandbags can be left in place at Ottomer pond and covered with soil. They explained that this would leave the plastic from the bags in place and so is not advised. Would need to remove the bags, but could leave the sand before building up bank. Last meeting, it was agreed that trees on the Green that are over hanging a residents property could be cut back. Wanted to highlight that if any TPOs are in place on those trees, then permission would need to be sought and approved by Breckland Council. Tree surgeons would be able to assist with this.

Planning applications. There had been no new planning applications, no amended applications and no planning decisions by Breckland Council since the last Parish Council meeting.

To consider the document “Terms of Reference OBPC Template rev A”. A proposal to approve was agreed (7 in favour).

To consider the document “Terms of Reference Green Lease Committee Rev A v1.0”. This was previously approved and mistakenly added to agenda. Will require another Terms of Reference for Green Working Committee.

To consider the document “OBPC Grant application 2025-2026 Rev A_Optimized”. A proposal to approve was agreed (7 in favour). Rachel Noyes is to publicise and send out as soon as possible as deadline is Friday 29 November.

To consider the document “OBPC Quotation approval Rev A.pdf”. A proposal to approve was agreed (7 in favour).

Parish Council’s Saturday Surgery. Initially set up for a year’s trial. While there were lots of attendees initially, numbers have dwindled in recent months, with the same people in attendance every month. The approximate cost of renting the room for two hours a month is £240 a year. Councillors highlighted that there are many ways to contact the Parish Council and the councillors: email, phone, the website, the monthly meeting and in person. A proposal by Naomi Bailey to reduce to meeting to every other month and then review after six months was approved (7 in favour).

Defibrillator Training. After recent loss in the village Steve Gowers researched defibrillator training and discovered a charity that offers an hour’s CPR and defibrillator training for free (with donations greatly appreciated). Cost to Parish Council would be rental of the Village Hall for an hour or two. Councillors felt it would be very popular with villagers. Proposal to offer CPR and defibrillator training for the village was approved (7 in favour).

Signage on the Green. As the Parish Council is responsible for leasing out the Green to interested parties, there is a duty to display signs explaining that “Commercial use of the Village Green is not allowed without prior permission”. These have been purchased and will be displayed at prominent locations around the Green.

Prince Harry’s Wood. The Registry Office is processing the Parish Council purchase of Prince Harry’s Wood. They have spotted a small error as there is a sliver of land that was originally included in the agreement that actually belongs to someone else. Will require Parish Council to agree and re-sign relevant documents. Proposal to approve these amendments was approved (7 in favour).

Public participation. Flashing 30mph signs aren’t working. Naomi Bailey confirmed she had already informed Highways about it and will chase up.

Items for next agenda. These will include Green Working Party, Cemetery and DBS checks for Councillors.

The next Parish Council meeting will be on Thursday 5 December at the Methodist Church starting at 7.30pm.

Lighting up Old Buckenham

 Doing different this year

The lit-up Christmas tree on the village Green will be on a different site this time.

Christmas Market in Old Buckenham

 Come and enjoy

These posters give all the details so put the dates in your diaries and then come along and enjoy yourselves. Also buy your raffle tickets now...

Remembrance in Old Buckenham

Extra views of villagers this morning

The service at the war memorial on the Green was well attended. Several photos have been put on the Old Buckenham Facebook page and some others are here.

Christmas Markets in Old Buckenham

Where you can spend your money

You can go to the High School for their Christmas Market on Saturday 16 November from 2pm to 5pm

You can also to Chapel Green School for their Christmas Market on Saturday 30 November from noon to 4pm.

The choice is yours.

New in Old Buckenham village hall

Come and have a look this Monday

The Shelf Pop Up Pantry will be coming to our Village Hall every Monday (except Bank Holidays) between 1.30pm and 3.30pm. This is an initiative by Citizens Advice Diss and supported by Breckland Council and the Norfolk Community Foundation. The Shelf Pop-up Pantry provides and supports rural communities across Breckland with affordable food and groceries and health and wellbeing support services too. 

Please pop in and see what is on the shelf for you!

Latest from Old Buckenham Parish Council

 Parish Council in October

These notes were written by the blog editor from the draft minutes and therefore may contain information that is amended at a later date.

Old Buckenham Parish Council met on Thursday 3 October 2024 at 7.30pm in Old Buckenham Methodist Church. Those present were Councillors Naomi Bailey (Chair), Ali McWilliam (Vice Chair), Stan Burton, Steve Gowers, Doug Irons and Pete Twissell. Apologies for non-attendance had been received from David Taylor and Lesley Evison. Also attending were Rachel Noyes (Clerk) and seven members of the public.

The minutes of the meeting held on Thursday 5 September were approved (5 in favour, 1 abstain). Also the minutes of the extraordinary meeting held on Tuesday 17 September were approved (4 in favour, 2 abstain).

Financial matters. Payments of £2249.45 were approved (6 in favour). These payments included £85 on room hire, £408 to William Morfoot Limited, £1200 to Stuart Barker and £449.45 to the community car drivers.

Councillors’ reports. Doug Irons said he had obtained three quotes to purchase paper for newsletter. He is happy to purchase the paper and claim money back. A proposal to accept the cheapest quote was approved (5 in favour, 1 abstain).

The Terms of reference for the Green Working Committee have been drafted and will need approval at next meeting. There is a need to meet with the Clerk to deal with share point for central access of documents. An FOI request has been received by the Parish Council. It has been responded to and we are dealing with the request. New email addresses had recently been created and he wished to know if councillors wanted to change to these. Naomi Bailey wished to keep things the same for now but keep the emails for potential future use.

Pete Twissell could not attend the meeting with the Village Hall Management Committee but sent thanks for use of the post box. Enquiry had been sent about getting a second key cut which they are happy with.

Stan Burton had received an email enquiring about drainage on land. East Harling drainage board should clear ditches every year. He will chase up. He has also found the drain by Ottomer Pond but needs a digger to gain better access to pipe which can then be adapted to control the water level in the pond. Propose to approve the investigation stage of the project which will involve hiring of a digger (copies of public insurance liability to be sent to Naomi Bailey before work commences) with a maximum spend of £250 towards the project. This proposal was approved (5 in favour, 1 abstain).

Steve Gowers said the Speedwatch Group and the police had a Day of Action across Norfolk and Suffolk in September. The police turned up three times and was a very positive day. Have a meeting coming up with police where data from the SAM sign will be shared to better inform them of times of day and speeds involved. Cake Street has become a road of concern due to the speeds some people drive there. He has the magnets for the Play Area gates but still collecting quotes for repairing hole by roundabout. Naomi Bailey has received call from County Broadband recently who would like to make a donation of £500 towards Old Buckenham playground. Steve Gowers is to also look at topping up rubber chippings.

Naomi Bailey has received call from a Village Hall Management Committee member. They are getting fed up with emptying the red bin on the recreation ground as it frequently contains dog waste. She will publicise and send out requests not to use for dog waste. While a dog bin at this location has been rejected by Breckland before, she will contact Breckland to see if a solution can be found.

At the last Saturday surgery four members of the public attended. One member of the public requested an extension of 30mph limit to the entrance to Doe Lane due to lack of footpath and increasing numbers of people walking between the village and Country Park. Have contacted Highways but they have stated it is not possible.

Have contacted George Freeman MP for updates following meeting regarding flooding in the Spring.

Need to start looking for someone to start taking on the monthly production of the village newsletter. The Parish Council will help publicise and co-ordinate a recruitment campaign. Update request about radar tower awaiting response..

Would like to acknowledge that there is concern around village about flooding this winter after recent rainfall and not wanting a repeat of last year. Would like to reassure villagers that there are ditches being cleared, etc, around the village, to ensure better drainage.

Fence at back of Recreation Ground (alongside Chapel Green entrance road) is starting to fall into disrepair. Previously believed this to be Chapel Green School’s responsibility but it transpires that it is the Parish Council’s. Pete Twissell to arrange for more hedging to be planted and work with the school.

Have been in contact with a company to investigate the feasibility of the suggested plot of land for a graveyard. They were able to complete a preliminary desktop check. There is significant expense just to get preliminary checks and surveys completed. No grants available from Breckland. Graveyard Working Group will have a meeting due to the high volume of work and information.

Rachel Noyes has arranged for road closure requested for Remembrance Day. Will need to arrange traffic cones/signs. Stan Burton may be able to arrange a PA system. Ali McWilliam explained that after doing some reading, there is a need to ensure the service is inclusive to all faiths. Rachel Noyes to contact All Saints church about the arrangements for this year’s service.

Defibrillators have had a maintenance check. Will need to order and install two new sets of pads. Will be completed as soon as possible.

Have contacted Solar Farm to update contact details and begin enquiries about the building schedule. No reply yet, will chase up.

Initial email sent to last year’s provider of the village Christmas Tree but no response yet. Will continue to collect quotes but also need to establish desired height of tree. Doug Irons explained that the tree will be in a different location this year due to need to have a power supply. Businesses around the Green have been approached and Harrow and Fearne have agreed to provide electricity to the tree which can then be placed on corner of the Green. The Parish Council will cover cost of electricity. Switch-on date will be Sunday 8 December. Rachel Noyes to arrange PAT test of tree lights.

County and District councillor Steve Askew said the new Highways engineer is quite proactive and so lots happening in background such as drains being cleared. He has discussed the Cake Street scenario with him but it will take a while to get things done as there was a lot of inaction before. Attleborough Road corner needs dealing with and is going to be assessed properly. Wants to get the right things with the steps opposite the Stud entrance and will take a little bit of time due to volume of work. Will get to it as soon as possible, possibly with a different design. However, the Parish Council won’t be putting any more money towards it. Rachel Noyes enquired about a Highways speed limit review scheme. Fen Street was put forward but wasn’t selected.

Planning applications. There have been no new planning applications, no amended applications and no planning decisions by Breckland Council.

Review of Code of Conduct. (OBPC Code of Conduct Rev A.pdf). Steve Gowers highlighted page 5 which refers to expecting “respectful behavior from the public” and stated that this should also be highlighted on the website. A proposal for this to be done was approved (6 in favour).

Review of Data Protection Policy. (OBPC Data Protection Policy Rev A.pdf). This was approved (6 in favour).

The GDPR Record Retention Schedule (OBPC GDPR Record retention Schedule Rev A.pdf) was also approved (6 in favour).

Review of the Grants Policy (OBPC Grant Policy Sept 24 Rev A.pdf). Steve Gowers suggested the policy should be sent out with an application form and the application form should include a tick box to show they have read and understood it. This was approved (6 in favour).

Precept Grants 2025/2026. Last year a total of £3,575 was spent on Precept Grants. With the high cost of living, there was a question about whether the total Grant amount should be capped as any increase would cause an increase to residents’ Council Tax. Councillors all felt that a cap total of £3500 would be fair. Some application forms have been quite vague previously but the Parish Council do require a clear break down of what the money would be used for and calculations of the amount. Receipts will also need to be provided for the work. Application form to be updated to include bank details for payment. Applications for Precept Grants for 2025/2026 will be open soon with a deadline of Friday 29 November. Application forms can be downloaded from the website or requested from the Clerk.

Pump and pump fittings. Lesley Evison currently has the pump purchased last year, along with long section of flat pipe. If the pump is required this winter, then additional fittings and a solid section of pipe are required (they were borrowed last year). Stan Burton estimated £60 for the fittings. Proposal to spend up to £200 to purchase fittings and pipe was approved (5 for, 1 abstain). Trees on corner of the Green. A resident has contacted Naomi Bailey as large tree branches are frequently falling in to his garden. The tree has previously been identified as having ash die back and requiring work. Resident has offered to hire a contractor to make the tree safe and is happy to keep the wood, with Parish Council approval. Ali McWilliam explained that the Parish Council needs to prioritise trees that are causing risk to people and their homes. A proposal to allow Ben Devlin to deal with the identified trees to make them safe was approved (6 in favour). Village Country Fayre. A resident has contacted the Parish Council as they feel that there is a lot of demand in the village for some kind of summer country fayre. They are happy to lead the group and find a date/plan that works well within the village. Naomi Baily would like to organise a village meeting to assess interest and plans. Public participation. At the last meeting there was a statement about the Community Car drivers not going outside Norfolk. Naomi Bailey explained this was an idea that the community car drivers were going to discuss but the Parish Council has not heard anything since. New legislation around graveyards has been published which may impact on Parish Council research on a new graveyard site. One resident stated that police did not catch anyone speeding on Cake Street during their visits. Steve Gowers explained that they often act as a deterrent and that the data from the SAM sign will help police identify peak periods of speeders on the road. Road signs at Harlingwood Lane junction are covered with greenery and need cutting back. Where is the other end of the drainage pipe from Ottomer Pond? Stan Burton will find its exact location and ensure no flooding is caused by the pond overflow pipe. Would the Parish Council consider getting sand/sandbags in preparation for any flooding this winter? Naomi Bailey explained that she could access sand quickly if needed. She would look at obtaining some empty sandbags which can be stored. There has been an escalation of parking on the Green, which is causing damage and will get worse over winter. Residents are looking at funding posts themselves but need help understanding where the utilities run. Rachel Noyes to investigate a possible option.

Items for next agenda. These will include Abbey Road posts, Graveyard, Christmas tree switch-on, Remembrance Day Sunday arrangements, Ottomer Pond, dog bin on the Recreation Ground and Allotment payments.

The next Parish Council meeting will be on Thursday 7 November in Old Buckenham Village Hall starting at 7.30pm.

Celebrating in Old Buckenham

 Women's Institute fifty-seventh birthday

On Thursday 24 October Old Buckenham WI had their Birthday Party for members and friends. It was an excellent evening with lots of lovely food and entertainment provided by Neil Hunt, a Toastmaster, with all his tales of the top tables. He came dressed in his official outfit and looked very regal. Members supplied plates of food and the WI committee had cooked up the tasty desserts.

Early Christmas in Old Buckenham

 Listen to our own local singer

This looks like being a great evening to get you in the mood for all those Christmas celebrations. Not for a while yet but you can put it in your diaries now and possibly buy you tickets too...

Future in Old Buckenham

 Come and meet Paul

An evening with a difference in our Village Hall. You never know what you might find out...

Latest Old Buckenham news

 The October village newsletter is here

Thanks to valiant efforts from our printer the printed copies of the latest newsletter arrived about about 8pm yesterday. It has now been distributed around the village and some lucky people will already had it put through their letterbox thanks to one or two people who live near the editor. Thank you everybody.

September Parish Council minutes

Ready for you to read 

These notes have been written by the blog editor from the draft minutes so may contain information that is amended at a later date. 

Old Buckenham Parish Council met on Thursday 5 September at 7.30pm at Old Buckenham Village Hall. Those present Naomi Bailey (Chair), Ali McWilliam, Pete Twissell, Stan Burton, Lesley Evison and David Taylor. Apologies for non-attendance had been received from Doug Irons and Steve Gowers. Also in attendance were Rachel Noyes (Clerk), County Councillor Steve Askew (from 8:45pm) and ten members of the public. A proposal to approve the minutes of the meeting held on Thursday 8 August was agreed (6 in favour). 

Declarations of interests not already recorded in the current Members' Register of interests. Ali McWilliam stated that her employment has changed. She is now doing supply teaching and setting up her own education business, as well as working as a singer.

Matters arising from the minutes: The Chair said the Christmas tree requires ordering and Remembrance Sunday wreaths and road closures to be arranged. Ali McWilliam said public comments regarding cutting grass around speed signs needed following up.

Steve Askew provided other information. The Breckland Food Hub started last year by attending our Village Hall in a mobile van but constant issues with the van caused it to cease coming. Breckland will be re-launching the service in the next few weeks under a different model. lt was also highlighted that someone from the Kenninghall Pantry (who are part of the set up) will be attending the Produce Show to provide further information.

When attending the Parish Council surgery on Saturday, a lady enquired about the recent footpath registration request (Ragg's Lane). He had looked into it and they are still going through the legal process. This may take a while and he will provide updates when possible. Community Groups (which includes the Parish Council) can put forward applications for a grant. Steps opposite the Stud have been closed off. Highways will be looking at possible solutions. `

Planning applications.  Note that Breckland have informed that there might be a slight delay to new applications due to switching over of their computer systems.

New planning application. Shardalows Farm, Fen Street. Erection of a new agricultural building for the secure storage of agricultural machinery, hay, straw and haylage (3PL/2024/0503/F). Naomi Bailey explained that this would be placed behind the existing barn. Lesley Evison raised concern that this might be linked to a previous application for a trucking business on the same road. Further information to be requested from Breckland.

Woodland Trust Report. Peter Twissell and Stan Burton attended this public meeting. Plan looks very favourable with a mix of some evergreen but mostly deciduous trees. All trees will be native British trees and will be managed woodland, therefore some trees will be coppiced as they grow. Both areas will be accessible with footpaths and picnic benches. However this will be after several years, in order to allow trees to become established. Stan Burton highlighted that there were some concerns that this would cause British farmland to be going out of production.

Ali McWilliam produced an anonymous note that had been left for the Paris Council on the phone box noticeboard. The note objected to the Woodland as it would affect the view and reduce visibility for cars on Abbey Road. Member of public raised concern that when walking their dog recently on the fields that may be used for this woodland that there were signs stating that pesticides had been used and to keep dogs on a lead.

Finance Working Party. Proposal to set up a Finance Working Party was approved (6 in favour). 

Play Area repairs. Magnets needed for the playground gate. Doug Irons has ordered and will install them. There is a hole that needs filing near the roundabout. A suggestion has been made for a substance to use but Naomi Bailey requires time to research and ensure it is the right product for the job. A proposal to get both repairs completed was approved (6 in favour). Playground requires a new inspection and the Clerk will arrange. 

Graveyard update. Unfortunately this process needs to start again. Pete Twissell to assist Naomi Bailey and Ali McWilliam and will report back next month. 

Puddledock Corner. Naomi Bailey has been in correspondence with a resident regarding some cutting of a tree which is causing visibility issues on Puddledock Corner. She has requested a local tree surgeon to attend site and quote for work. Two other quotes will also be needed. Will also speak to Steve Askew and Highways.

Prince Harry's Wood. A couple of residents from March Field Way have complained that the brambles are growing through their fences. While they have cut them back on their own side, the issue needs addressing on the wood side too. There are several areas around St Andrews Close and March Field Way where grass has not been cut or bramble have overgrown, which is resulting in a small number of residents refusing to pay their ground rent. A local resident will inspect and feedback. Possibly look at getting quotes for bramble work.

Sandbags at Ottomer Pond. Have been contacted by a resident who enquired as to why the sandbags are still around the pond, now that we are in the summer months and the flooding risk has subsided and they look a mess. The resident with them outside her house wants them to stay. Stan Burton suggested that the sandbags be covered with soil and used to build up the bank, including the area near the playground corner. As the overall issue of the drainage has not been resolved, there is a risk of flooding again during winter months. David Taylor questioned whether this was environmentally friendly as the bags may contain plastic and could degrade.  

Stan Burton has found the outflow pipe and marked its location. He made a suggestion for reinstating the outlet, which would not cause the current water levels to drop too low either. This would allow flood water to flow towards the ditch which runs alongside the High School. David Taylor to investigate the environmental impact of sandbags, Lesley Evison to estimate the volume of soil required and Stan Burton to investigate feasibility and cost of reinstating the overflow pipe. 

Green Working Party meeting. The Green Working Party is made up of two Green Rights Proprietors, two members of the Parish Council and two members of the public. Email has been sent out saying that they should liaise between themselves to arrange a meeting as they are long overdue a meeting. Meeting needs to take place on neutral ground, such as the Methodist Church, which the Parish Council will pay for. Adrian Joel (resident) has stepped down from Green Working Party so there is a space for a member of the public. Another resident who has expressed a large interest in the Green was put forward by Naomi Bailey and is willing to accept the position.

Public participation. One resident suggested that there should be a sub-committee to take a lead on Prince Harry’s Wood, rather than including it in the Green Working Party responsibilities.

Another resident said there were large weeds growing in ditch near St Andrews Close as they have not been cleared for two years. Naomi Bailey to chase up and clarify responsibility and arrange cIearing. Also asked if there is a timeline for the graveyard and what the next steps are. Ali McWilliam explained she cannot give a timeline. They are investigating an area of land and will need to contact people leasing the land from us and discuss possibility. Will also need a survey for suitability of the land. While no timeline can be given, it will be worked on as quickly as possible.

A further resident pointed out that as they weren't available for the village meeting with the Woodland Trust, an online response was made. However, they were disappointed to see how few responses the villagers had made. Stan Burton explained that the meeting was well supported and they and will try and adapt planting of the trees to take the concerns into consideration. The general response was positive and the Woodland Trust did appear to take on all points mentioned by those attending the meeting.

A further resident asked when the contents from the High School ditch were being removed. Lesley Evison explained that they are ready to remove them but have not found a suitable location to move them to in order to burn the material. A resident highlighted that they have seen two hedgehogs living in there and Lesley Evison explained that care would be taken to remove everything without hurting hedgehogs.

One more resident raised concerns around the management of the Green including tractors without grass wheels compounding the soil and cuttings being left which are becoming hay and creating a fire risk in hot weather. Resident felt that the Green Working Party and Parish Council need a clearer strategy and consultation with the village about the areas being left wild, as there is clearly a clear divide in opinion. The Sunnyside Track struggle with parking from the school which has even resulted in cars double parking next to each other on the Green which is causing severe damage. Residents on Sunnyside have been doing research themselves in to maintenance options, which could be quite expensive. Enquired what could be done to stop teachers and parents parking there. There are also rumours of closing Reg's Way (small section of track which meets Sunnyside Track half way). Request that homeowners are consulted, which Lesley Evison assured them would take place. Resident has now joined the Green Working Party.

Another resident said thank you for putting the agenda on Parish Council Facebook page while new website is being completed. He also gave a Community Car update: Two drivers have returned and, once paperwork is completed, there will be five drivers. Will be having a meeting soon and a suggestion has been made that they only go to NHS appointments in Norfolk or private hospitals with NHS appointments in order to cut costs as it is getting expensive. Ali McWilliam explained that she has previously been offered medical appointments in Cambridge and Yarmouth. Residents will often take the earliest appointment available, regardless of location. Lesley Evison explained that some hospitals will contract out work to private hospitals. Feedback to be made and discussed during Community Car Drivers meeting. lnvoices to be given to Donna Oakley as the new Registered Finance Officer (RFO). 

Items for the next agenda. These will include graveyard update, minutes for July, play area repairs, Puddledock corner, sandbags, Prince Harry’s Wood, Christmas tree and road closures for Remembrance Sunday. 

The next Parish Council meeting will be on Thursday 3 October at 7.30pm at the Methodist Church.

Hiring Old Buckenham Village Hall

The new charges

From the beginning of September new charges will apply when booking the village hall. Regular users of the Main Hall will pay £11 an hour and occasional users £12 an hour. For the smaller Memorial Room it is slightly cheaper at £8 an hour for regular users and £9 for those using the facilities occasionally.

Commercial users pay more. Regular commercial users are charged £13.75 an hour for the Main Hall and occasional users £15 an hour.

For children’s parties (under 12s only) there is a minimum 4 hour hire for £60, then £15 per hour for longer. Social events such as social gatherings/celebrations, weddings and wakes, there is a minimum hire of 4 hours (hire charge on application). Daily commercial rates also available on application.

Slow down in Old Buckenham

 Community Speed Watch update

On Tuesday 17 September there was a higher than normal police presence in the village. This was due to a Day of Action across Norfolk and Suffolk with Community Speed Watch teams being supported by the police. The police were especially interested in Cake Street and Hargham Road because of the information that has been collected by our Speed Watch team and the SAM sign that indicates the speed of vehicles and flashes the phrase ‘SLOW DOWN’.

Old Buckenham Garage Sale

 Taking part?

This year's Garage Sale is on Saturday 21 September from 9am until 1pm. Not long to go so reserve your entry on the official map now. Deadline to guarantee entry on the official map is 1pm on Sunday 15 September. Reservations cost £5 and can be made via Ticketsource. All money raised goes to the Friends of Old Buckenham Windmill charity, to support restoration and maintenance of the mill.

The windmill will also be open 9am to 1pm on the same Saturday for tours of the mill. The tea hut will be open serving hot and cold drinks and refreshments. Pop in for a brew and something tasty as you're walking around the village.
Maps will be available free of charge from the windmill on the day and will be available in advance from village locations or to download online. Make your reservations, mark your calendar and keep your fingers crossed for good weather.

Ownership of Old Buckenhan Green

 An often asked question

This answer to an important question is written by Parish Councillor Stan Burton. Old Buckenham Green is common land. Common land is an area over which certain people have Rights. That does not make Old Buckenham Green a common. It is registered as a Green.

It all goes back to the Enclosure Act and Apportionment Act where rights were granted. These can be Green Rights, Grazing Rights, Planting Rights, Estovers, Rights of Common and Sporting Rights (shooting and fishing).

Originally there were forty Rights for Old Buckenham green but one was given up by the then Lord of the Manor for the War Memorial.

In 1965 all Common land, including Greens, and any Rights had to be registered with the County Council. If they were not registered, they were lost.

In a court case a few years ago, a Judge ruled that as ownership of Old Buckenham Green had not been registered, ownership passed on to the Public Trustee, a Government body, and any person with registered Rights could set up a management committee to look after the Green. This responsibility has since been passed over to the Parish Council Green Working Party.

 

Commons Registration Act 1965

Definition of Town or Village Green.

Town or Village Green means land which has been allotted by or under any act for the exercise or recreation of the inhabitants of any locality or on which the inhabitants of any locality have a customary right to indulge in lawful sports and pastimes or on which the inhabitants of any locality have indulged in such sports and pastimes as of right for not less than twenty years.