Diary dates for January 2016
Friday 1 New Year's Day walk, 10.30am from Church Rooms
Sunday 3 Wargames Club, Village Hall, 2.30pm to 6pm
Monday 4 Monday Mardle, Church Rooms, 2.15pm to 4.15pm
Wednesday 6 Luncheon Club, Village Hall, 10am to 2pm
Thursday 7 Parish Council, Village Hall, 7.30pm
Monday 11 Whist drive, Church Rooms, 2pm
Thursday 14 Breckland Flower Club, Village Hall, 2pm
Thursday 14 Social and Wine Circle, Church Rooms, 7.45pm
Monday 18 Monday Mardle, Church Rooms, 2.15pm to 4.15pm
Wednesday 20 Luncheon Club, Village Hall, 10am to 2pm
Thursday 21 Pantomime, Peter Pan, OB Players, Village Hall, 7.30pm
Friday 22 Pantomime, Peter Pan, OB Players, Village Hall, 7.30pm
Saturday 23 Pantomime, Peter Pan, OB Players, Village Hall, 2.30pm
Saturday 23 Pantomime, Peter Pan, OB Players, Village Hall, 7.30pm
Thursday 28 Women's Institute, Village Hall, 7.30pm
Thursday, 31 December 2015
Wednesday, 30 December 2015
First Old Buckenham newsletter in 2016
Starting a new year
A few thousand words for you to read in another 28-page newsletter. In all the usual places around the village or you may be lucky enough to have one put through your letter box.
A few thousand words for you to read in another 28-page newsletter. In all the usual places around the village or you may be lucky enough to have one put through your letter box.
Tuesday, 29 December 2015
Old Buckenham Gamekeeper open again
Open for business
The Gamekeeper in Old Buckenham is now serving food and drink once more after being closed for a month. Pop in and say hallo to Michelle and Daryne and check out what they have available. They would love to see you.
They also have vacancies for people who might like to work at the pub.
You can ring them for more details on 01953 860397.
The Gamekeeper in Old Buckenham is now serving food and drink once more after being closed for a month. Pop in and say hallo to Michelle and Daryne and check out what they have available. They would love to see you.
They also have vacancies for people who might like to work at the pub.
You can ring them for more details on 01953 860397.
Friday, 25 December 2015
Monday, 21 December 2015
Senior Citizens' party
There has been a change in the date of the Senior Citizens’ party and it will now be on Saturday 27 February (a week later than originally announced). Please make sure you have the new date in your 2016 diaries.
There will be room for more people to come this year. You are eligible to come along if you live in Old Buckenham and you are over 60 years old (for couples only one has to be over 60). If you would like to join the party on that day then please contact Eileen Oliver on 860664 or email her at feetease@btinternet.com as soon as possible.
It's free to attend the event but the organisers never mind a donation towards the cost if you wish to make one.
There will be room for more people to come this year. You are eligible to come along if you live in Old Buckenham and you are over 60 years old (for couples only one has to be over 60). If you would like to join the party on that day then please contact Eileen Oliver on 860664 or email her at feetease@btinternet.com as soon as possible.
It's free to attend the event but the organisers never mind a donation towards the cost if you wish to make one.
Friday, 18 December 2015
News of Old Buckenham Players panto
Going to Neverland?
Old Buckenham Players are busy rehearsing their pantomime offering for 2016, 'Peter Pan' written by their very own Maris McCann.
Staying true to the much-loved story, a night of fun, music and lots of audience participation awaits as they go on a magical adventure with Peter, Wendy, the Lost Boys and the villainous Captain Hook and his band of somewhat, unorthodox pirates. Old Buckenham Players, who are now in their 38th year, will ensure that you enjoy classic slapstick scenes, one-liners and show-stopping musical numbers. Just sit back and enjoy the ride as you are transported to Neverland, the place where you never grow up - so there is no excuse for big kids not to enjoy themselves.
Performances are being held in Old Buckenham Village Hall and start at 7.30pm on Thursday 21, Friday 22 and Saturday 23 of January with the ever popular matinee performance on the Saturday starting at 2.30pm. There'll be a raffle and a very reasonably-priced bar serving a range of soft and alcoholic drinks.
Tickets are on sale now and cost £8 for adults and £4 for those under 16. They can be purchased by calling 01953 861336 or in person from Old Buckenham Village Stores or Nuts 'n' Bolts in Attleborough.
Old Buckenham Players are busy rehearsing their pantomime offering for 2016, 'Peter Pan' written by their very own Maris McCann.
Staying true to the much-loved story, a night of fun, music and lots of audience participation awaits as they go on a magical adventure with Peter, Wendy, the Lost Boys and the villainous Captain Hook and his band of somewhat, unorthodox pirates. Old Buckenham Players, who are now in their 38th year, will ensure that you enjoy classic slapstick scenes, one-liners and show-stopping musical numbers. Just sit back and enjoy the ride as you are transported to Neverland, the place where you never grow up - so there is no excuse for big kids not to enjoy themselves.
Performances are being held in Old Buckenham Village Hall and start at 7.30pm on Thursday 21, Friday 22 and Saturday 23 of January with the ever popular matinee performance on the Saturday starting at 2.30pm. There'll be a raffle and a very reasonably-priced bar serving a range of soft and alcoholic drinks.
Tickets are on sale now and cost £8 for adults and £4 for those under 16. They can be purchased by calling 01953 861336 or in person from Old Buckenham Village Stores or Nuts 'n' Bolts in Attleborough.
Thursday, 17 December 2015
Old Buckenham WI, this year and next year
Busy, busy, busy
Old Buckenham WI held their Annual Meeting on Thursday 26 November. This meeting gave members the opportunity to look back over the past year and to review plans for 2016. This past year has been an exceptionally busy one, being the Centennial Year for the National WI. Activities here in the village included an open evening in April with food, wine and entertainment in the company of some of the villagers who had been supporters of the Old Buckenham WI over the years. In June three members attended the Royal Garden Party and two days later two of members attended the AGM at the Albert Hall. The Village Hall Management kindly arranged for this special meeting to be screened directly to the village hall for the benefit of members and others visiting from neighbouring WIs. A very successful Garden Party was held later in June and members enjoyed helping at the village fete in July. They helped with the catering for the Tour of Britain cycle ride that came through the village in September and then organised a very successful Village Produce Show the following day - so an exceptionally busy week-end. When you add in the Scrabble, quizzes, country rambles with pub lunch, darts matches and theatre trips, OB WI are a very busy group.
The new committee was approved at the meeting, Susan Hunter being elected President for 2016. Members heard reports from Alison Frank, Jean Wade and Betty Stacey who had enjoyed a few days at Denman College. Members also had a report from Judith Thompson who had recently attended a briefing day to hear about the Resolutions which will be considered for 2016.The full programme of meetings for 2016 is given below. Meetings take place at the village hall on the fourth Thursday of each month and start at 7.30pm and new members are most welcome. If you are interested please do come along – there is no requirement for you to join at your first meeting.
Thursday 28 January, Yoga for Everyone, Eileen Oliver
Thursday 25 February, My Suitcase, My Patience and Him, Ann Newmeir
Thursday 24 March, Prison Monitoring, Mary Graydon
Thursday 28 April, History of Toys, David and Angela Knock
Thursday 26 May, Resolution Meeting
Thursday 23 June, For the Love of Cows, Helen Reeve
Thursday 28 July, Pension Gap Year, Marilyn Bartrup and Lynn Ready
Thursday 25 August, My time at Lachasse, a London Fashion House, Kathleen Dentton
Thursday 22 September, Forensic Science, Brian Heard
Thursday 27 October, Birthday Party
Thursday 24 November, Annual Meeting
Thursday 1 December, Christmas Lunch
Tuesday, 15 December 2015
Old Buckenham's Christmas presents
High School provides for the homeless
Old Buckenham High School once more collected up food and gifts to go the the St Martin's Trust in Norwich to provide that bit of extra cheer this Christmas. Throughout the school, class competed against class to put together decorated hampers filled with as many items as possible.
Judging took place in the school library earlier today. There were a wide range of judges including members of the school council, representatives from the Sainsburys store in Attleborough, two volunteers who raise money each Christmas for St Martins and the editor of the village newsletter and blog. They had a very hard job to choose the three best decorated hampers and the one full of the most goodies.
After the results had been announced it was time to pack all the boxes and their contents into a van which was taking them off to Norwich.
Old Buckenham High School once more collected up food and gifts to go the the St Martin's Trust in Norwich to provide that bit of extra cheer this Christmas. Throughout the school, class competed against class to put together decorated hampers filled with as many items as possible.
Judging took place in the school library earlier today. There were a wide range of judges including members of the school council, representatives from the Sainsburys store in Attleborough, two volunteers who raise money each Christmas for St Martins and the editor of the village newsletter and blog. They had a very hard job to choose the three best decorated hampers and the one full of the most goodies.
After the results had been announced it was time to pack all the boxes and their contents into a van which was taking them off to Norwich.
Monday, 14 December 2015
Pre-Christmas in Old Buckenham
Giving and collecting
Yesterday provided a couple of opportunities to sample home-made mince pies, cake and mulled wine.
On Sunday 13 December Lily Freake held a Cake and Coffee morning in the Church Rooms to help raise money for Childreach International. A group of York University students intend to travel out to Nepal next September to help build schools. Earlier this year in April, Nepal endured a devastating earthquake that destroyed communities across the country. The £272 raised from the cake and coffee morning will help towards hitting her fundraising target and getting her out to Nepal to help start rebuilding communities.
Many people came along to support the cause and to enjoy the cake and coffee as well as participating in a large raffle.
At the same time, people of all ages were turning up at Old Buckenham windmill. The inside was festooned with colourful decorations and activities for the younger children while there was mulled wine and mince pies for the slightly older visitors.
A special visitor was awaiting on the first floor of the mill where Father Christmas was ready to meet and chat to the children. The children came back to the ground floor clutching a present, watched over by the Elf and Safety representative as they negotiated the wooden staircase.
Yesterday provided a couple of opportunities to sample home-made mince pies, cake and mulled wine.
On Sunday 13 December Lily Freake held a Cake and Coffee morning in the Church Rooms to help raise money for Childreach International. A group of York University students intend to travel out to Nepal next September to help build schools. Earlier this year in April, Nepal endured a devastating earthquake that destroyed communities across the country. The £272 raised from the cake and coffee morning will help towards hitting her fundraising target and getting her out to Nepal to help start rebuilding communities.
Many people came along to support the cause and to enjoy the cake and coffee as well as participating in a large raffle.
At the same time, people of all ages were turning up at Old Buckenham windmill. The inside was festooned with colourful decorations and activities for the younger children while there was mulled wine and mince pies for the slightly older visitors.
A special visitor was awaiting on the first floor of the mill where Father Christmas was ready to meet and chat to the children. The children came back to the ground floor clutching a present, watched over by the Elf and Safety representative as they negotiated the wooden staircase.
Saturday, 12 December 2015
Mardle away from Old Buckenham
Time for a Christmas lunch
The regulars who attend the Monday Mardle throughout the year left their normal meeting place in the Church Rooms, Old Buckenham, and travelled to the Queen's Head in Heathersett. The mardlers had their annual
Christmas lunch in December and a fine time was had by all. This was due to a kind donation of £100 and other monies that members had put away during their meetings in 2015. Thanks also to Enid Jolley who had done all the organising.
Sunday, 6 December 2015
Latest from Old Buckenham Parish Council
Parish Council meeting in December
These notes have been written by the blog editor from the draft minutes so may contain information that is amended at a later date.
There were seven members of the public at the December parish council meeting which was also attended by Sarah Roberts of Roberts Molloy Associates.
These notes have been written by the blog editor from the draft minutes so may contain information that is amended at a later date.
There were seven members of the public at the December parish council meeting which was also attended by Sarah Roberts of Roberts Molloy Associates.
Apologies had been received from three councillors, Sarah Hornbrook, Terry Cracknell and Mike Farrington.
Public Recess. A resident raised the matter of only being able to raise matters on the agenda under public recess. Steve Milner said that was what Standing Orders dictated. The new proposed path across the Green was raised with a resident saying it was a waste of money. Steve Milner responded with the road safety measures it would have, especially for children crossing the road to get to school. A resident raised the matter of HGVs on Hargham Road. The Clerk said Highways could not enforce it, only the police can and they have said they do not have the resources either. Residents were encouraged to take pictures of the offending lorries and send them to Steve Milner. A resident raised the blocked drain opposite The Grange on the Green, the Parish Clerk to speak to Highways on it. A resident raised the question of a wire across Crown Road and the NCC investigating the possibility of a path across the Green. Chapel Road School was raised and a resident asked what the current situation was. Steve Milner responded and an item is to be put on January agenda. One resident presented a cheque for £312 raised by Bucks Just Play for the play area and asked if it would be OK for them to continue raising funds, this item too would be put on the January agenda.
Minutes of the November Parish Council meeting. It was proposed and seconded that they be signed as a true and accurate record of the meeting, this was agreed unanimously.
Matters arising from the minutes. Adrian Joel said the Parish Council must get permission of the Green Right Proprietors to put a footpath across the Green. Steve Milner said he would speak to them about this.
Minutes of the Precept Meeting in November. It was proposed and seconded that they be signed as a true and accurate record of the meeting. This was agreed with six for and one abstention.
Matters arising from the Precept minutes. Adrian Joel raised the question of having a form to be completed by organisations requesting Parish Council grants. Also regarding national organisations requesting grants, should there be a maximum amount allocated to them?
Proposed developments in Old Buckenham. Mrs Sarah Roberts explained she represented two landowners in Old Buckenham who wished to submit planning applications for houses in the village. There would be 15 houses in total with nine for market sale, four shared equity houses and two affordable rental houses. The properties would be situated in Hargham Road and Fen Street. She explained the history of past applications in Fen Street and why such applications had failed. She explained in detail what the schemes would offer and also that section 106 monies due on the developments could be used by the Parish Council to pay for projects in Old Buckenham. Steve Milner raised the question of poor broadband in the village and that they were looking at alternative wifi schemes like WiSpire. Mrs Roberts indicated the developer may pay for the scheme to be installed in the village. The question of drainage and water pressure levels in Fen Street were also raised. Sarah Roberts responded by saying she would seek expert guidance from Anglian Water on the matter. Another councillor raised the question of parking spaces and the meeting was informed that parking spaces would be provided for the affordable rental properties and the shared equity properties. The market sale houses would have garages provided. The developers hope to submit an outline planning application in January 2016. Steve Milner thanked Mrs Roberts for her presentation.
Play Area fencing. The meeting was informed that a quote had been received to replace the perimeter fence at the play area with bowtop fencing at a total cost of £7,583.25 and for the middle fence £1,053. It was then reported that another supplier could do all the fence for £5,515. Adrian Joel suggested using Parish Council fund money to pay for the scheme. The Parish Clerk said he would have a better understanding of what Parish Council funds available for the project would be known in April 2016 when the financial year ends. Graham Hart said he would be willing to undertake the repairs to existing fence and also raise funds to contribute towards the repairs. The item will be put on May agenda for further discussion. Ben Devlin asked about the funds given to Parish Council and the Parish Clerk informed the meeting that he had spoken to the Hockey Club who donated £731.29 for a bench with a plaque for the Green. They were happy to let the Parish Council spend any surplus funds on any other project. Ben Devlin then left the meeting to attend to other matters. Adrian Joel thanked Ben Devlin for all his work on the play area and fence.
Four year plan. Adrian Joel circulated a form listing all the possible projects that the Parish Council may carry out and asked councillors to prioritise projects so they could be discussed at the January meeting.
Transfer of reserves. It was proposed, seconded and agreed (with six for and one abstention) that the £1000 in Road Safety Reserve be transferred to the Neighbourhood Plan Reserve. The Parish Clerk to arrange.
Grant Application Working Party. Steve Milner said that comments from the public after the Precept meeting suggested that the Parish Council should have a formal approach to awarding grants. He proposed that a working party be set up. It was agreed that Terry Cracknell, Rona Boggia and Steve Milner serve on the working party. Jonathan Kemp suggested having a member of the public on the working party and Steve Milner said he would speak to a possible candidate.
Planning application. Tudors, Cake Street. Extension and alterations. No objections from the parish council, agreed with six for and one abstention.
Planning decisions received from Breckland. The Granary. Cake Street. Installation of a set of French windows and roof light to rear elevation. Permission granted.
The Clinic on the Green. Change of use from class C3 (dwelling) to class D1 (osteopathy). Permission granted.
Vine Cottage, 64 Fen Street. Change of use of land to residential and erection of garage and ancillary office. Permission granted.
Chairman’s report. Steve Milner said he had received correspondence from County Councillor Stephen Askew that NCC were proposing to shut three local recycling sites and replace them with one new larger site along the A11 corridor. Steve Milner had responded with his concerns by email. Stephen Askew had sent a letter regarding the new access road to Chapel Road School which would be for the new school only. An item will be put on the January agenda.
District Councillor’s report. Adrian Joel reported that Breckland Council had a report on empty homes in the district covering the period 2014/2015 which showed a reduction of 128 empty homes. Thirty-four had been empty for over six months and they had been returned to normal use. Currently there are 1150 registered as empty, many of which will be for a short time only and Breckland’s focus will be on bringing back into use those that are long term empty. The Breckland Local Plan: Preferred Directions Development Plan and Emerging Sites Options Consultation will be subject to full approval by Breckland Council in December and will be available for public consultation from Monday 11 January to Monday 22 February 2016. The Parish Council need to decide how they are going to respond to this lengthy document and the best way to consult residents. The consultation document will be on the Breckland website and in hard copy. The recent Breckland Town and Parish Forum meeting included consideration of Breckland’s budget for the coming year. Breckland have introduced a voluntary no smoking scheme at all public play areas, parks, entrances to schools and children’s nurseries throughout the district.
Parish Councillors’ reports. Adrian Joel raised the matter of general correspondence and letters sent to the Parish Council. The Parish Clerk said that any important letters would be scanned and sent out to all parish council members but at present most correspondence received is via email and any of these which concerns the Parish Council are always forwarded to parish councillors. Rona Boggia asked about the problem hedge in Harlingwood Lane, the clerk said he would deal with it later in his report. Tom Johnson said the village hall management meeting had agreed that children attending the matinee performance of the film Cinderella and accompanied by an adult would be free for the child. The Old Buckenham Players are putting on a show of Peter Pan from Thursday 21 to Saturday 23 January. He recently attended SNAP meeting at which he again raised about HGVs using Hargham Road and damage to the play area and said not all concerns are being met by the police due to reduced resources. Police had asked residents to take photos of offending vehicles and send them to Steve Milner with information regarding the date and time of offence who will then forward it on to police.
Parish Clerk’s report. The Clerk read out an email from the NCC Highway Engineer for our district on various matters including the problem hedge at Harlingwood Lane and he has sent a letter to the owner. He has had jetting contractors in to deal with various drainage problems. Hazard markers will be installed at Rod Alley Pond between the give way sign on Hargham Road and the end of the path. He raised concerns about vehicle damage to grassed areas close to play area. He suggested repair of the damaged areas or the installation of another soil bund to the left of the last parking bay or installation of wooden posts.
Highways. Potholes on the footpath from The Clinic on the Green to the High School, the Parish Clerk to speak to Highways on the matter.
The Green. Potholes on Post Office Terrace were reported. A letter had been received from Terry Cracknell in which he wished to offer the Church Green to the Parish Council as a gift. Steve Milner said the legal ownership of the Green was in dispute and he will raise matter with Terry Cracknell at the January meeting.
Public Recess. Resident who is on the Play Area working party suggested he would stand down and Kerry Talbot, who was responsible for the original working party that created the play area, take his place and she had agreed to this. Adrian Joel would contact her direct. A resident raised the matter of a time limit on someone addressing the Parish Council at meetings.
The next meeting of Old Buckenham Parish Council will be on Thursday 7 January at the Village Hall commencing at 7.30pm.
Public Recess. A resident raised the matter of only being able to raise matters on the agenda under public recess. Steve Milner said that was what Standing Orders dictated. The new proposed path across the Green was raised with a resident saying it was a waste of money. Steve Milner responded with the road safety measures it would have, especially for children crossing the road to get to school. A resident raised the matter of HGVs on Hargham Road. The Clerk said Highways could not enforce it, only the police can and they have said they do not have the resources either. Residents were encouraged to take pictures of the offending lorries and send them to Steve Milner. A resident raised the blocked drain opposite The Grange on the Green, the Parish Clerk to speak to Highways on it. A resident raised the question of a wire across Crown Road and the NCC investigating the possibility of a path across the Green. Chapel Road School was raised and a resident asked what the current situation was. Steve Milner responded and an item is to be put on January agenda. One resident presented a cheque for £312 raised by Bucks Just Play for the play area and asked if it would be OK for them to continue raising funds, this item too would be put on the January agenda.
Minutes of the November Parish Council meeting. It was proposed and seconded that they be signed as a true and accurate record of the meeting, this was agreed unanimously.
Matters arising from the minutes. Adrian Joel said the Parish Council must get permission of the Green Right Proprietors to put a footpath across the Green. Steve Milner said he would speak to them about this.
Minutes of the Precept Meeting in November. It was proposed and seconded that they be signed as a true and accurate record of the meeting. This was agreed with six for and one abstention.
Matters arising from the Precept minutes. Adrian Joel raised the question of having a form to be completed by organisations requesting Parish Council grants. Also regarding national organisations requesting grants, should there be a maximum amount allocated to them?
Proposed developments in Old Buckenham. Mrs Sarah Roberts explained she represented two landowners in Old Buckenham who wished to submit planning applications for houses in the village. There would be 15 houses in total with nine for market sale, four shared equity houses and two affordable rental houses. The properties would be situated in Hargham Road and Fen Street. She explained the history of past applications in Fen Street and why such applications had failed. She explained in detail what the schemes would offer and also that section 106 monies due on the developments could be used by the Parish Council to pay for projects in Old Buckenham. Steve Milner raised the question of poor broadband in the village and that they were looking at alternative wifi schemes like WiSpire. Mrs Roberts indicated the developer may pay for the scheme to be installed in the village. The question of drainage and water pressure levels in Fen Street were also raised. Sarah Roberts responded by saying she would seek expert guidance from Anglian Water on the matter. Another councillor raised the question of parking spaces and the meeting was informed that parking spaces would be provided for the affordable rental properties and the shared equity properties. The market sale houses would have garages provided. The developers hope to submit an outline planning application in January 2016. Steve Milner thanked Mrs Roberts for her presentation.
Play Area fencing. The meeting was informed that a quote had been received to replace the perimeter fence at the play area with bowtop fencing at a total cost of £7,583.25 and for the middle fence £1,053. It was then reported that another supplier could do all the fence for £5,515. Adrian Joel suggested using Parish Council fund money to pay for the scheme. The Parish Clerk said he would have a better understanding of what Parish Council funds available for the project would be known in April 2016 when the financial year ends. Graham Hart said he would be willing to undertake the repairs to existing fence and also raise funds to contribute towards the repairs. The item will be put on May agenda for further discussion. Ben Devlin asked about the funds given to Parish Council and the Parish Clerk informed the meeting that he had spoken to the Hockey Club who donated £731.29 for a bench with a plaque for the Green. They were happy to let the Parish Council spend any surplus funds on any other project. Ben Devlin then left the meeting to attend to other matters. Adrian Joel thanked Ben Devlin for all his work on the play area and fence.
Four year plan. Adrian Joel circulated a form listing all the possible projects that the Parish Council may carry out and asked councillors to prioritise projects so they could be discussed at the January meeting.
Transfer of reserves. It was proposed, seconded and agreed (with six for and one abstention) that the £1000 in Road Safety Reserve be transferred to the Neighbourhood Plan Reserve. The Parish Clerk to arrange.
Grant Application Working Party. Steve Milner said that comments from the public after the Precept meeting suggested that the Parish Council should have a formal approach to awarding grants. He proposed that a working party be set up. It was agreed that Terry Cracknell, Rona Boggia and Steve Milner serve on the working party. Jonathan Kemp suggested having a member of the public on the working party and Steve Milner said he would speak to a possible candidate.
Planning application. Tudors, Cake Street. Extension and alterations. No objections from the parish council, agreed with six for and one abstention.
Planning decisions received from Breckland. The Granary. Cake Street. Installation of a set of French windows and roof light to rear elevation. Permission granted.
The Clinic on the Green. Change of use from class C3 (dwelling) to class D1 (osteopathy). Permission granted.
Vine Cottage, 64 Fen Street. Change of use of land to residential and erection of garage and ancillary office. Permission granted.
Chairman’s report. Steve Milner said he had received correspondence from County Councillor Stephen Askew that NCC were proposing to shut three local recycling sites and replace them with one new larger site along the A11 corridor. Steve Milner had responded with his concerns by email. Stephen Askew had sent a letter regarding the new access road to Chapel Road School which would be for the new school only. An item will be put on the January agenda.
District Councillor’s report. Adrian Joel reported that Breckland Council had a report on empty homes in the district covering the period 2014/2015 which showed a reduction of 128 empty homes. Thirty-four had been empty for over six months and they had been returned to normal use. Currently there are 1150 registered as empty, many of which will be for a short time only and Breckland’s focus will be on bringing back into use those that are long term empty. The Breckland Local Plan: Preferred Directions Development Plan and Emerging Sites Options Consultation will be subject to full approval by Breckland Council in December and will be available for public consultation from Monday 11 January to Monday 22 February 2016. The Parish Council need to decide how they are going to respond to this lengthy document and the best way to consult residents. The consultation document will be on the Breckland website and in hard copy. The recent Breckland Town and Parish Forum meeting included consideration of Breckland’s budget for the coming year. Breckland have introduced a voluntary no smoking scheme at all public play areas, parks, entrances to schools and children’s nurseries throughout the district.
Parish Councillors’ reports. Adrian Joel raised the matter of general correspondence and letters sent to the Parish Council. The Parish Clerk said that any important letters would be scanned and sent out to all parish council members but at present most correspondence received is via email and any of these which concerns the Parish Council are always forwarded to parish councillors. Rona Boggia asked about the problem hedge in Harlingwood Lane, the clerk said he would deal with it later in his report. Tom Johnson said the village hall management meeting had agreed that children attending the matinee performance of the film Cinderella and accompanied by an adult would be free for the child. The Old Buckenham Players are putting on a show of Peter Pan from Thursday 21 to Saturday 23 January. He recently attended SNAP meeting at which he again raised about HGVs using Hargham Road and damage to the play area and said not all concerns are being met by the police due to reduced resources. Police had asked residents to take photos of offending vehicles and send them to Steve Milner with information regarding the date and time of offence who will then forward it on to police.
Parish Clerk’s report. The Clerk read out an email from the NCC Highway Engineer for our district on various matters including the problem hedge at Harlingwood Lane and he has sent a letter to the owner. He has had jetting contractors in to deal with various drainage problems. Hazard markers will be installed at Rod Alley Pond between the give way sign on Hargham Road and the end of the path. He raised concerns about vehicle damage to grassed areas close to play area. He suggested repair of the damaged areas or the installation of another soil bund to the left of the last parking bay or installation of wooden posts.
Highways. Potholes on the footpath from The Clinic on the Green to the High School, the Parish Clerk to speak to Highways on the matter.
The Green. Potholes on Post Office Terrace were reported. A letter had been received from Terry Cracknell in which he wished to offer the Church Green to the Parish Council as a gift. Steve Milner said the legal ownership of the Green was in dispute and he will raise matter with Terry Cracknell at the January meeting.
Public Recess. Resident who is on the Play Area working party suggested he would stand down and Kerry Talbot, who was responsible for the original working party that created the play area, take his place and she had agreed to this. Adrian Joel would contact her direct. A resident raised the matter of a time limit on someone addressing the Parish Council at meetings.
The next meeting of Old Buckenham Parish Council will be on Thursday 7 January at the Village Hall commencing at 7.30pm.
Friday, 4 December 2015
Get your Old Buckenham calendar now
Soon be 2016
The 2016 village calendar is for sale at the village shop. It will cost you £5 with all the profits going back into the village.
This year's calendar is illustrated with pictures of many of the village organisations ranging through the Women's Institute, the Scouts, the Carpet Bowls Club, the Old Buckenham Players and many more.
They have again been produced by the Old Buckenham 2000 Trust and any money raised goes back into the community as local groups within the village can apply for grants from the Trust.
The 2016 village calendar is for sale at the village shop. It will cost you £5 with all the profits going back into the village.
This year's calendar is illustrated with pictures of many of the village organisations ranging through the Women's Institute, the Scouts, the Carpet Bowls Club, the Old Buckenham Players and many more.
They have again been produced by the Old Buckenham 2000 Trust and any money raised goes back into the community as local groups within the village can apply for grants from the Trust.
Sunday, 29 November 2015
Treasure Quest around in Old Buckenham
Finding a clue in Puddledock
Puddledock is in the parish of Old Buckenham although near the northern boundary. Clue 3 on today's edition of the BBC Radio Norfolk Treasure Quest programme led to Puddledock and the road sign that points out that it is not served by any buses. The search for this sign proved a little entertaining with the radio car whizzing past within a couple of yards before doing a tour of country lanes involving both Attleborough and central Old Buckenham.
Eventually the clue was found and the car was off on its way again around Norfolk. And despite the time taken getting to the location at Puddledock, the final treasure was found in Watton just before noon with a mere thirty seconds left.
Puddledock is in the parish of Old Buckenham although near the northern boundary. Clue 3 on today's edition of the BBC Radio Norfolk Treasure Quest programme led to Puddledock and the road sign that points out that it is not served by any buses. The search for this sign proved a little entertaining with the radio car whizzing past within a couple of yards before doing a tour of country lanes involving both Attleborough and central Old Buckenham.
Eventually the clue was found and the car was off on its way again around Norfolk. And despite the time taken getting to the location at Puddledock, the final treasure was found in Watton just before noon with a mere thirty seconds left.
Saturday, 28 November 2015
Latest events in Old Buckenham
Diary dates for December
Tuesday 1 Coffee and chat, Church Rooms, 10.30am to 12 noon
Wednesday 2 Women's Fellowship, Methodist Chapel, 2.30pm
Thursday 3 Parish Council, Village Hall, 7.30pm
Thursday 3 Women's Institute Christmas lunch
Friday 4 High School Christmas Fayre, 7pm to 9pm
Saturday 5 Cinderella film, Village Hall, 3pm and 7pm
Sunday 6 Wargames Club, Village Hall, 2.30pm to 6pm
Wednesday 9 Luncheon Club, Village Hall, 10am to 2pm
Thursday 10 Breckland Flower and Garden Club, Village Hall, from 12 noon
Thursday 10 Social and Wine Circle party and AGM, Church Rooms, 7.15pm
Thursday 10 Christmas entertainment, Methodist Chapel, 7.30pm
Sunday 13 Coffee and cake morning, All Saints, 10.30am to 12.30pm
Sunday 13 Father Christmas at Windmill, 11am onwards
Monday 14 Whist drive, Church Rooms, 2pm
Wednesday 16 Christmas Songs of Praise, Methodist Chapel, 7.30pm
Friday 18 Carol singing on Green, Church Rooms, 6pm for 6.30pm
Thursday 24 Church Rooms open for food donations, all day
Thursday 24 Christmas Eve carol concert, All Saints, 7pm
Friday 25 Christmas Day service, Methodist Chapel, 10.30am
Friday 25 Christmas Day Parish Eucharist, All Saints, 9.30am
Tuesday 1 Coffee and chat, Church Rooms, 10.30am to 12 noon
Wednesday 2 Women's Fellowship, Methodist Chapel, 2.30pm
Thursday 3 Parish Council, Village Hall, 7.30pm
Thursday 3 Women's Institute Christmas lunch
Friday 4 High School Christmas Fayre, 7pm to 9pm
Saturday 5 Cinderella film, Village Hall, 3pm and 7pm
Sunday 6 Wargames Club, Village Hall, 2.30pm to 6pm
Wednesday 9 Luncheon Club, Village Hall, 10am to 2pm
Thursday 10 Breckland Flower and Garden Club, Village Hall, from 12 noon
Thursday 10 Social and Wine Circle party and AGM, Church Rooms, 7.15pm
Thursday 10 Christmas entertainment, Methodist Chapel, 7.30pm
Sunday 13 Coffee and cake morning, All Saints, 10.30am to 12.30pm
Sunday 13 Father Christmas at Windmill, 11am onwards
Monday 14 Whist drive, Church Rooms, 2pm
Wednesday 16 Christmas Songs of Praise, Methodist Chapel, 7.30pm
Friday 18 Carol singing on Green, Church Rooms, 6pm for 6.30pm
Thursday 24 Church Rooms open for food donations, all day
Thursday 24 Christmas Eve carol concert, All Saints, 7pm
Friday 25 Christmas Day service, Methodist Chapel, 10.30am
Friday 25 Christmas Day Parish Eucharist, All Saints, 9.30am
Thursday, 26 November 2015
Last Old Buckenham newsletter of year
December newsletter now available
Copies of this latest issue have been distributed around the village today and also passed on to those delivering the Six Villages newsletter to much of the village.
Copies of this latest issue have been distributed around the village today and also passed on to those delivering the Six Villages newsletter to much of the village.
Sunday, 22 November 2015
Opera in Old Buckenham
Livewire Opera Company performance
Steve and Lynn have provided a review of last night's entertainment at the village hall:
Steve and Lynn have provided a review of last night's entertainment at the village hall:
Old Buckenham folks that braved the appalling weather were rewarded with a rare musical treat as the Live Wire Opera Company performed Gilbert and Sullivan's Mikado. We were not sure what to expect but on entry to the village hall we were all pleasantly surprised, the heating was working (thanks Mike), a small orchestra were tuning up in the corner and a super Japanese set was on the stage.
We all sat back to enjoy the impressive cast sing their hearts out especially when Yum Yum, Pitti Sing and Peep Bo broke into the well known "three little maids", and the plot developed. Costumes and makeup were fantastic especially Katisha (daughter in law elect) whose threatening presence was established with face make up that had the audience quaking. As we reached the end, another great song as Ko Ko wooed Katisha with "willow, tit willow" and we were treated to some rousing choruses with the voice of Yum Yum carrying above the troupe with a power and clarity that had me fearing for the glass as she hit the high notes. The entire company put their hearts and souls into the performance, for which, Lynn and myself, and all I spoke with are very, very grateful.
Fingers crossed that the troupe may be able to visit us again next year. Three cheers.
We all sat back to enjoy the impressive cast sing their hearts out especially when Yum Yum, Pitti Sing and Peep Bo broke into the well known "three little maids", and the plot developed. Costumes and makeup were fantastic especially Katisha (daughter in law elect) whose threatening presence was established with face make up that had the audience quaking. As we reached the end, another great song as Ko Ko wooed Katisha with "willow, tit willow" and we were treated to some rousing choruses with the voice of Yum Yum carrying above the troupe with a power and clarity that had me fearing for the glass as she hit the high notes. The entire company put their hearts and souls into the performance, for which, Lynn and myself, and all I spoke with are very, very grateful.
Fingers crossed that the troupe may be able to visit us again next year. Three cheers.
Friday, 20 November 2015
Old Buckenham precept for 2016/17
Decisions on funding
These notes have been written by the blog editor from the draft minutes and so may contain information that could be amended at a later date.
The Parish Council Precept meeting was held on Wednesday 18 November. There were two members of the public present and two parish councillors (Terry Cracknell and Rona Boggia) had sent their apologies for not being able to attend.
Declaration of interest in items on the agenda. Carol Marshall declared an interest in the Almhouses, the Over 60s annual party and the Monday Mardle Group while Adrian Joel also declared an interest in the Monday Mardle Group.
Public recess. The matter of how grants were given last year was raised. Also charities outside Old Buckenham were applying for grants and it was suggested that some guidance for future grant applications be introduced. One resident raised the matter of due diligence on grant applications and also raised points on the proposed budget for the next financial year. Both the parish clerk and the chairman responded on some of the points raised.
Budget proposals for financial year 2016/17. The Parish Clerk, in his role as Responsible Finance Officer, put forward a suggested budget which showed a small decrease in expenditure over the current financial year’s budget and asked for the councillors’ views. Councillors then went through each individual overhead and after detailed discussion proposed the following amendments.
Grant applications. The parish councillors discussed all grant applications and many varied views were expressed. The following applications for grants were considered.
These notes have been written by the blog editor from the draft minutes and so may contain information that could be amended at a later date.
The Parish Council Precept meeting was held on Wednesday 18 November. There were two members of the public present and two parish councillors (Terry Cracknell and Rona Boggia) had sent their apologies for not being able to attend.
Declaration of interest in items on the agenda. Carol Marshall declared an interest in the Almhouses, the Over 60s annual party and the Monday Mardle Group while Adrian Joel also declared an interest in the Monday Mardle Group.
Public recess. The matter of how grants were given last year was raised. Also charities outside Old Buckenham were applying for grants and it was suggested that some guidance for future grant applications be introduced. One resident raised the matter of due diligence on grant applications and also raised points on the proposed budget for the next financial year. Both the parish clerk and the chairman responded on some of the points raised.
Budget proposals for financial year 2016/17. The Parish Clerk, in his role as Responsible Finance Officer, put forward a suggested budget which showed a small decrease in expenditure over the current financial year’s budget and asked for the councillors’ views. Councillors then went through each individual overhead and after detailed discussion proposed the following amendments.
- Community Car Scheme be reduced by £50 to £1,300 for the year.
- Maintenance of Recreation Area be reduced by £50 to £600
- Contingency Fund be reduced by £500 to £2,000.
- Play Area and Recreation Area repairs be increased by £250 to £1,000.
Grant applications. The parish councillors discussed all grant applications and many varied views were expressed. The following applications for grants were considered.
- Almshouse Trustees: it was proposed, seconded and agreed with 7 for and 1 abstention to give a grant of £1,415 for new locks.
- Old Buckenham team for Norfolk Village Games: it was proposed, seconded and agreed unanimously to give a grant of £150 for team T shirts for next year’s village games.
- Over 60s Annual Party: it was proposed, seconded and agreed with 7 for and 1 abstention to give a grant of £500 towards the annual party.
- Buckenham Pre-school and Nursery: it was proposed, seconded and agreed with 7 for and 1 abstention to give a grant of £220 to buy two gazebos for the children.
- Monday Mardle Group: it was proposed, seconded and agreed with 6 for and 2 abstentions to award a grant of £100 for future activities.
- New Buckenham Football Club: it was proposed, seconded and agreed by 6 for, 1 abstention and 1 against to give a grant of £257 for football related equipment.
- East Anglian Air Ambulance: it was proposed, seconded and agreed by 7 for and 1 abstention to give a grant of £100.
- East Anglia Children’s Hospice: it was proposed, seconded and agreed by 3 for and 5 abstentions to give a grant of £100.
- The total of the grants awarded was £2,842.
Sunday, 15 November 2015
Bingo in Old Buckenham
Two chances next weekend
Buckenham Pre-school Group are hosting a bingo night on behalf of Bucks Just Play to raise money to help with the refurbishment of the Old Buckenham children's Play Area. It will be held at the Pre-school on Friday 20 November, doors open at 7pm for a 7.30pm start.
It will cost £5 for all the evening's play. There will also be a raffle if you wish to spend more money for this good cause.
Please park cars in the Primary School grounds, bring along your own refreshments (disposable crockery provided) and, as the event is in the Pre-school, you might like to bring along your own adult size chair.
Sorry but this is not an event for children.
On the following day, Saturday 21 November, there will also be an afternoon of prize bingo in the Church Rooms starting at 2pm. There will be refreshments and a raffle, the event being held to raise funds for All Saints Church. All welcome.
Buckenham Pre-school Group are hosting a bingo night on behalf of Bucks Just Play to raise money to help with the refurbishment of the Old Buckenham children's Play Area. It will be held at the Pre-school on Friday 20 November, doors open at 7pm for a 7.30pm start.
It will cost £5 for all the evening's play. There will also be a raffle if you wish to spend more money for this good cause.
Please park cars in the Primary School grounds, bring along your own refreshments (disposable crockery provided) and, as the event is in the Pre-school, you might like to bring along your own adult size chair.
Sorry but this is not an event for children.
On the following day, Saturday 21 November, there will also be an afternoon of prize bingo in the Church Rooms starting at 2pm. There will be refreshments and a raffle, the event being held to raise funds for All Saints Church. All welcome.
Friday, 13 November 2015
Old Buckenham village calendar now available
Pick yours up from the village shop
This year's calendar is illustrated with pictures of many of the village organisations ranging through the Women's Institute, the Scouts, the Carpet Bowls Club, the Old Buckenham Players and many more.
The calendars cost £5 each and can be bought from the village shop.
They have been produced by the Old Buckenham 2000 Trust and any money raised goes back into the community where local groups within the village can apply for grants from the Trust.
This year's calendar is illustrated with pictures of many of the village organisations ranging through the Women's Institute, the Scouts, the Carpet Bowls Club, the Old Buckenham Players and many more.
The calendars cost £5 each and can be bought from the village shop.
They have been produced by the Old Buckenham 2000 Trust and any money raised goes back into the community where local groups within the village can apply for grants from the Trust.
Thursday, 12 November 2015
November market in Old Buckenham
A light lunch?
This coming Saturday why not come along to the November Market in the Church Rooms, Old Buckenham? It will be a pleasant way to help raise some funds for All Saints Church while picking up a bargain or two from the stalls and having the chance to win something on the tombola or raffle.
Many people come along to enjoy a light lunch with tasty home-made soups, made all the better by being able to chat with other friends and villagers.
This coming Saturday why not come along to the November Market in the Church Rooms, Old Buckenham? It will be a pleasant way to help raise some funds for All Saints Church while picking up a bargain or two from the stalls and having the chance to win something on the tombola or raffle.
Many people come along to enjoy a light lunch with tasty home-made soups, made all the better by being able to chat with other friends and villagers.
Monday, 9 November 2015
Old Buckenham remembers
At the Airfield and on the Green
There were plenty of people at Old Buckenham Airfield yesterday to take part on the Remembrance Service at the 453rd War Memorial Garden.
Following the service there was the official opening of the new 453rd Bombardment Museum in the recently-built Nissan Hut style building which soon filled up with visitors. Many made a point of signing the visitor's book and leaving their comments.
In the afternoon a crowd gathered by the village war memorial on the Green for a short service and to lay wreaths in memory of those villagers who lost their lives in the two world wars.
There were plenty of people at Old Buckenham Airfield yesterday to take part on the Remembrance Service at the 453rd War Memorial Garden.
Following the service there was the official opening of the new 453rd Bombardment Museum in the recently-built Nissan Hut style building which soon filled up with visitors. Many made a point of signing the visitor's book and leaving their comments.
In the afternoon a crowd gathered by the village war memorial on the Green for a short service and to lay wreaths in memory of those villagers who lost their lives in the two world wars.
Sunday, 8 November 2015
Old Buckenham Parish Council's November meeting
Parish Council in November
These notes have been written by the blog editor from the draft minutes and so may contain information that is amended at a later date.
There were seven members of the public at the November meeting and Stephen Askew (Norfolk County Councillor) along with all the members of the Parish Council apart from Jonathan Kemp who had sent his apologies. Terry Cracknell and Graham Hart both declared an interest in individual planning applications.
There were no items raised in the public recess.
Minutes of the October Parish Council Meeting. These were signed as a true and accurate record of the meeting, this was agreed unanimously.
Matters arising from minutes. Carol Marshall said SNAT are now known as SNT. The phone box in the village has a broken pane of glass, the Parish Clerk to report this to BT. Adrian Joel raised the matter of pointing out voting intent of the Parish Council on planning applications. Terry Cracknell raised the matter of issues raised, but not voted on, being forgotten and they should be followed up. Steve Milner agreed to do a ‘to do’ list on such matters. The Remembrance Day Parade was raised and the meeting informed that the police would not be available to close the road alongside the memorial. Volunteers were sought from the Parish Council to control traffic whilst the service in progress.
Minutes of Personnel Committee meeting. It was proposed and seconded that they be signed as a true and accurate record of the meeting and this was agreed unanimously by the three councillors who attended the meeting.
Approval of staff appraisal. Steve Milner gave an overview of how the appraisal was carried out in terms of performance standards and objectives of the Parish Clerk. He also said that a new objective had been set in regard to maintaining a new Parish Council website. It was agreed unanimously that the appraisal of the Parish Clerk be approved.
Planning applications. Keele Cottage, The Green. Erection of two semi-detached dwellings and partial demolition of existing cottage. Graham Hart gave a brief explanation of modifications to the planning application and then left the room. After a discussion it was proposed and seconded to continue to oppose the application due to over-development. Although the application had been modified, the original concerns had not been overcome. This was agreed with eight for and two abstentions.
Asparagus Field, Cake Street. Erection of four dwellings and garages. This application has been withdrawn.
The Clinic, The Green. Change of use from dwelling/residential to consultation rooms. No objections from the parish council, this was agreed with nine for and one abstention.
64 Fen Street. Change of use of curtilage land to residential and erection of garage with office over. No objections from the parish council but with stipulation that change of use of land is restricted to proposed garage which is for storage and office use only and that it is kept within ownership of the dwelling. This was agreed with eight for and two abstentions.
The Granary, Cake Street. Proposed installation of set of French windows and roof light to rear elevation. No objections from the parish council, this was agreed with nine for and one abstention.
Cherry Tree Cottage, Loss Wroo. Construction of summer house. No objections from the parish council, this was agreed with nine for and one abstention.
Poplar Pigs, Doe Lane. Change of use to D2 Leisure and erection of five holiday cabins. Terry Cracknell answered questions on this and then left the room. Discussion by councillors followed. This application was then agreed with eight for and two abstentions.
Planning decisions received from Breckland. Stone Cottage, 56 Fen Street. Erection of garage block and bedroom over. Application approved with Parish Council’s conditions included.
Adrian Joel informed the meeting that the Shrublands development is coming up again in the next two months and Parish Council should be aware.
Grant to Primary School. No discussion, item to be put on the December agenda.
Four year plan. Adrian Joel circulated a list of suggestions and asked councillors to look at them and then prioritise them for discussion at the December meeting.
Play Area fencing. Adrian Joel gave details of cost of the repairs to the play area equipment (£2,143.13 plus vat) following an inspection report from Playdale Ltd. This will be funded from grants from the Six Villages magazine, Breckland Council and the Play Area reserve. Adrian Joel thanked Graham Hart for carrying out repairs to the gate. It was proposed and seconded that the repairs to the equipment be carried out and this was agreed unanimously. Regarding the play area fence, Adrian Joel had obtained three quotes for repairs and a full discussion took place. It was agreed that further investigations be carried out and to get three quotes for double sided fencing with bolts and the matter to be put on the December agenda.
Parish Council website. Steve Milner said the cost of having a website hosted to a ‘gold standard’ would be approximately £30 per year. It was agreed unanimously to proceed with this.
Business Directory. Terry Cracknell suggested that the Parish Council should have a business directory at an approximate cost of £1 per copy. The Parish Council should invite other local Parish Councils to take part in producing such a directory.
Footpath safety. Steve Milner reported that he had contacted an organisation who advised on the possibility of putting in advisory cycle lanes in the village. NCC Highways had advised it would not be possible to have them on the B1077. Adrian Joel gave information of a possible new footpath across the Green at a total cost of £8000 which would be 50% funded by NCC under the Town and Parish Partnership Scheme. Other councillors expressed views on the subject and it was proposed and seconded that the Parish Council make an application for grant funding under the scheme for the new footpath, this was agreed unanimously.
Chairman’s report. Steve Milner reported that the Play Area has been plagued with vandalism and he had written to the school on the subject. He recently attended a Speedwatch meeting and that the scheme is having an effect of speeding through villages. The number of incidents is reducing. Old Buckenham are to get the use of SAM2 signs on a regular basis. Broadband in the village is still a problem and he has written to the County Council, Breckland Council and our MP to try to get improvements in the village. All Saints Church is looking at the WiSpire scheme for a possible solution to broadband issues. The Parish Council has been approached by architects for possible development in village and they have suggested attending a Parish Council meeting to put forward their ideas. The Parish Clerk to invite them to the December meeting. Steve Milner had received comments regarding the chairmanship of meetings and sought the views of other councillors on the matter. It was agreed that the Chairman continue to filter issues but would seek councillors’ views before responding. It was reported that Joan Jenkins, who was a past clerk to the Parish Council and was also active in other village organisations, had recently died. The Parish Clerk is to send a letter of condolence to the family.
District Councillor’s report. Adrian Joel reported that the public consultation on the Local Development Plan had been pushed forward to a six week period during January/February 2016 with anticipated adoption in December 2016. The local Council Tax Support Scheme to Breckland Council from central government is being reduced every year and Breckland will be reducing the Local Council Tax Support Grant in line with the reduced funding from central government. There will be a Parish and Town Meeting on 2 December at the Green Britain Centre in Swaffham starting at 6.15pm. It is hoped that Old Buckenham will be represented.
Parish Councillors’ reports. Tom Johnson had recently attended a meeting of the Attleborough Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group and it was revealed their Neighbourhood Plan would cost around £55,000 and he wondered how much the Old Buckenham Plan would cost. Four thousand houses are being planned and are likely to acquire land south of the A11. He had also attended a meeting of the Village Hall Management Committee. They have resurfaced half of the village hall car park. The cost was £10,440 and one third of the cost was met from revenue of the parking permits scheme and the balance from Village Hall reserves. On Saturday 21 November they are having a live show of the Mikado and on Saturday 5 December there will be a film night showing ‘Cinderella’ with an afternoon showing at 3pm and an evening showing at 7.30pm. Tickets were still available. He also raised the matter of the outstanding road works at St Andrews Close. Terry Cracknell said the Attleborough Neighbourhood Plan needed a wider level of consultation and 1,500 of the 4,000 new homes have already been built and feels the development could impact on Old Buckenham. Graham Hart reported that the CCTV suggestion is awaiting a report from the police. Adrian Joel said grants for a Neighbourhood Plan are available and up to £16,000 was available from central government and Breckland Council. Mike Farrington asked that those living on the outer limits of Old Buckenham are not forgotten when developing the Neighbourhood Plan in terms of road safety. Carol Marshall said that there has been no recent incidents of damage in the play area but the recreation area has been subjected to some vandalism. The RoSPA report on the Recreation Area is due in November. Sarah Hornbrook said the Neighbourhood Plan Working Party will have another meeting on Monday 9 November and will be looking to create a village survey for consultation with villagers. Ben Devlin reported that the Green Right Proprietors had recently had a meeting and various issues were discussed. Another meeting was due in November and they could pull out of DEFRA but will consult with others before a decision is made. There is a blocked drain at Manor Corner opposite Manor Pond. Reflector posts are required at Rod Alley Pond and Manor Pond. The Parish Clerk is to contact NCC Highways on the matter. The Green Right Proprietors will allow parking outside pub and along the path once shingle has been laid, this work will hopefully be carried out in the next few weeks. He asked about some of the grant from the Hockey Club being used once a new seat has been provided.
Parish Clerk’s report. The Clerk read out an email from Highways on the matter of a hedge causing problems and they will be writing to the owner of property. He also gave details of the cost of a proposed new path across the Green.
The next meetings of Old Buckenham Parish Council will be the Precept meeting on Wednesday 18 November and the normal monthly Parish Council meeting on Thursday 3 December. Both meetings will be held at the Village Hall starting at 7.30pm.
These notes have been written by the blog editor from the draft minutes and so may contain information that is amended at a later date.
There were seven members of the public at the November meeting and Stephen Askew (Norfolk County Councillor) along with all the members of the Parish Council apart from Jonathan Kemp who had sent his apologies. Terry Cracknell and Graham Hart both declared an interest in individual planning applications.
There were no items raised in the public recess.
Minutes of the October Parish Council Meeting. These were signed as a true and accurate record of the meeting, this was agreed unanimously.
Matters arising from minutes. Carol Marshall said SNAT are now known as SNT. The phone box in the village has a broken pane of glass, the Parish Clerk to report this to BT. Adrian Joel raised the matter of pointing out voting intent of the Parish Council on planning applications. Terry Cracknell raised the matter of issues raised, but not voted on, being forgotten and they should be followed up. Steve Milner agreed to do a ‘to do’ list on such matters. The Remembrance Day Parade was raised and the meeting informed that the police would not be available to close the road alongside the memorial. Volunteers were sought from the Parish Council to control traffic whilst the service in progress.
Minutes of Personnel Committee meeting. It was proposed and seconded that they be signed as a true and accurate record of the meeting and this was agreed unanimously by the three councillors who attended the meeting.
Approval of staff appraisal. Steve Milner gave an overview of how the appraisal was carried out in terms of performance standards and objectives of the Parish Clerk. He also said that a new objective had been set in regard to maintaining a new Parish Council website. It was agreed unanimously that the appraisal of the Parish Clerk be approved.
Planning applications. Keele Cottage, The Green. Erection of two semi-detached dwellings and partial demolition of existing cottage. Graham Hart gave a brief explanation of modifications to the planning application and then left the room. After a discussion it was proposed and seconded to continue to oppose the application due to over-development. Although the application had been modified, the original concerns had not been overcome. This was agreed with eight for and two abstentions.
Asparagus Field, Cake Street. Erection of four dwellings and garages. This application has been withdrawn.
The Clinic, The Green. Change of use from dwelling/residential to consultation rooms. No objections from the parish council, this was agreed with nine for and one abstention.
64 Fen Street. Change of use of curtilage land to residential and erection of garage with office over. No objections from the parish council but with stipulation that change of use of land is restricted to proposed garage which is for storage and office use only and that it is kept within ownership of the dwelling. This was agreed with eight for and two abstentions.
The Granary, Cake Street. Proposed installation of set of French windows and roof light to rear elevation. No objections from the parish council, this was agreed with nine for and one abstention.
Cherry Tree Cottage, Loss Wroo. Construction of summer house. No objections from the parish council, this was agreed with nine for and one abstention.
Poplar Pigs, Doe Lane. Change of use to D2 Leisure and erection of five holiday cabins. Terry Cracknell answered questions on this and then left the room. Discussion by councillors followed. This application was then agreed with eight for and two abstentions.
Planning decisions received from Breckland. Stone Cottage, 56 Fen Street. Erection of garage block and bedroom over. Application approved with Parish Council’s conditions included.
Adrian Joel informed the meeting that the Shrublands development is coming up again in the next two months and Parish Council should be aware.
Grant to Primary School. No discussion, item to be put on the December agenda.
Four year plan. Adrian Joel circulated a list of suggestions and asked councillors to look at them and then prioritise them for discussion at the December meeting.
Play Area fencing. Adrian Joel gave details of cost of the repairs to the play area equipment (£2,143.13 plus vat) following an inspection report from Playdale Ltd. This will be funded from grants from the Six Villages magazine, Breckland Council and the Play Area reserve. Adrian Joel thanked Graham Hart for carrying out repairs to the gate. It was proposed and seconded that the repairs to the equipment be carried out and this was agreed unanimously. Regarding the play area fence, Adrian Joel had obtained three quotes for repairs and a full discussion took place. It was agreed that further investigations be carried out and to get three quotes for double sided fencing with bolts and the matter to be put on the December agenda.
Parish Council website. Steve Milner said the cost of having a website hosted to a ‘gold standard’ would be approximately £30 per year. It was agreed unanimously to proceed with this.
Business Directory. Terry Cracknell suggested that the Parish Council should have a business directory at an approximate cost of £1 per copy. The Parish Council should invite other local Parish Councils to take part in producing such a directory.
Footpath safety. Steve Milner reported that he had contacted an organisation who advised on the possibility of putting in advisory cycle lanes in the village. NCC Highways had advised it would not be possible to have them on the B1077. Adrian Joel gave information of a possible new footpath across the Green at a total cost of £8000 which would be 50% funded by NCC under the Town and Parish Partnership Scheme. Other councillors expressed views on the subject and it was proposed and seconded that the Parish Council make an application for grant funding under the scheme for the new footpath, this was agreed unanimously.
Chairman’s report. Steve Milner reported that the Play Area has been plagued with vandalism and he had written to the school on the subject. He recently attended a Speedwatch meeting and that the scheme is having an effect of speeding through villages. The number of incidents is reducing. Old Buckenham are to get the use of SAM2 signs on a regular basis. Broadband in the village is still a problem and he has written to the County Council, Breckland Council and our MP to try to get improvements in the village. All Saints Church is looking at the WiSpire scheme for a possible solution to broadband issues. The Parish Council has been approached by architects for possible development in village and they have suggested attending a Parish Council meeting to put forward their ideas. The Parish Clerk to invite them to the December meeting. Steve Milner had received comments regarding the chairmanship of meetings and sought the views of other councillors on the matter. It was agreed that the Chairman continue to filter issues but would seek councillors’ views before responding. It was reported that Joan Jenkins, who was a past clerk to the Parish Council and was also active in other village organisations, had recently died. The Parish Clerk is to send a letter of condolence to the family.
District Councillor’s report. Adrian Joel reported that the public consultation on the Local Development Plan had been pushed forward to a six week period during January/February 2016 with anticipated adoption in December 2016. The local Council Tax Support Scheme to Breckland Council from central government is being reduced every year and Breckland will be reducing the Local Council Tax Support Grant in line with the reduced funding from central government. There will be a Parish and Town Meeting on 2 December at the Green Britain Centre in Swaffham starting at 6.15pm. It is hoped that Old Buckenham will be represented.
Parish Councillors’ reports. Tom Johnson had recently attended a meeting of the Attleborough Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group and it was revealed their Neighbourhood Plan would cost around £55,000 and he wondered how much the Old Buckenham Plan would cost. Four thousand houses are being planned and are likely to acquire land south of the A11. He had also attended a meeting of the Village Hall Management Committee. They have resurfaced half of the village hall car park. The cost was £10,440 and one third of the cost was met from revenue of the parking permits scheme and the balance from Village Hall reserves. On Saturday 21 November they are having a live show of the Mikado and on Saturday 5 December there will be a film night showing ‘Cinderella’ with an afternoon showing at 3pm and an evening showing at 7.30pm. Tickets were still available. He also raised the matter of the outstanding road works at St Andrews Close. Terry Cracknell said the Attleborough Neighbourhood Plan needed a wider level of consultation and 1,500 of the 4,000 new homes have already been built and feels the development could impact on Old Buckenham. Graham Hart reported that the CCTV suggestion is awaiting a report from the police. Adrian Joel said grants for a Neighbourhood Plan are available and up to £16,000 was available from central government and Breckland Council. Mike Farrington asked that those living on the outer limits of Old Buckenham are not forgotten when developing the Neighbourhood Plan in terms of road safety. Carol Marshall said that there has been no recent incidents of damage in the play area but the recreation area has been subjected to some vandalism. The RoSPA report on the Recreation Area is due in November. Sarah Hornbrook said the Neighbourhood Plan Working Party will have another meeting on Monday 9 November and will be looking to create a village survey for consultation with villagers. Ben Devlin reported that the Green Right Proprietors had recently had a meeting and various issues were discussed. Another meeting was due in November and they could pull out of DEFRA but will consult with others before a decision is made. There is a blocked drain at Manor Corner opposite Manor Pond. Reflector posts are required at Rod Alley Pond and Manor Pond. The Parish Clerk is to contact NCC Highways on the matter. The Green Right Proprietors will allow parking outside pub and along the path once shingle has been laid, this work will hopefully be carried out in the next few weeks. He asked about some of the grant from the Hockey Club being used once a new seat has been provided.
Parish Clerk’s report. The Clerk read out an email from Highways on the matter of a hedge causing problems and they will be writing to the owner of property. He also gave details of the cost of a proposed new path across the Green.
The next meetings of Old Buckenham Parish Council will be the Precept meeting on Wednesday 18 November and the normal monthly Parish Council meeting on Thursday 3 December. Both meetings will be held at the Village Hall starting at 7.30pm.
Friday, 6 November 2015
Sky high in Old Buckenham
Ignoring the dampness
It has been a rather wet day with heavy rain at times. But it brightened up a bit in time for the evening's firework display on the sports field of Old Buckenham High School. There was a bit of mizzle when the sparks started flying and it had become drizzle when the spectators were wending their way home when the display was over.
Members of the Old Buckenham 2000 Trust were hard at work selling burgers and hotdogs to eat as well as lots of light sticks to keep the youngsters amused before the display started. Then things went with a bang (well, lots of bangs) and the crowd applauded as the final fireworks were let off.
It has been a rather wet day with heavy rain at times. But it brightened up a bit in time for the evening's firework display on the sports field of Old Buckenham High School. There was a bit of mizzle when the sparks started flying and it had become drizzle when the spectators were wending their way home when the display was over.
Members of the Old Buckenham 2000 Trust were hard at work selling burgers and hotdogs to eat as well as lots of light sticks to keep the youngsters amused before the display started. Then things went with a bang (well, lots of bangs) and the crowd applauded as the final fireworks were let off.
Thursday, 5 November 2015
Mikado comes to Old Buckenham
Coming to the Village Hall
Tickets are available from 01953 851734, or 01953 851543, or through their online box office www.ticketsource.co.uk/livewire
Livewire Opera Company is a friendly group of all ages dedicated to performing local shows and concerts. It was formed in February 2001 by a group of six friends, under the musical directorship of Susan Booth.
Livewire have always felt that there is a need locally for a group to take music and shows to the ‘people’ in a local venue rather than expecting them to travel some distance to see them.
The productions and concerts are as professional as it is possible for an amateur group to make them.
Tuesday, 3 November 2015
Remembrance services in Old Buckenham
Two services on Sunday
The traditional Service of Remembrance will be held at Old Buckenham Airfield around the War Memorial, starting just prior to 11am, on Sunday 8 November. The occasion is expected to be honoured with the presence of veterans and relatives of those who fought and died here at the airfield during World War 2. Entry to the airfield is open to all.
There is also a Remembrance Day at the Old Buckenham war memorial on the Green on Sunday at 2.30pm (with a few Royal British Legion members, the Scouts and others present) leading into a short service in All Saint's Church afterwards. Come along to remember those people from the village who died during the two World Wars.
The traditional Service of Remembrance will be held at Old Buckenham Airfield around the War Memorial, starting just prior to 11am, on Sunday 8 November. The occasion is expected to be honoured with the presence of veterans and relatives of those who fought and died here at the airfield during World War 2. Entry to the airfield is open to all.
There is also a Remembrance Day at the Old Buckenham war memorial on the Green on Sunday at 2.30pm (with a few Royal British Legion members, the Scouts and others present) leading into a short service in All Saint's Church afterwards. Come along to remember those people from the village who died during the two World Wars.
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