Old Buckenham August meeting

 More minutes than in newsletter 

These notes have been written by the blog editor from the draft minutes of the delayed August meeting. As the minutes  arrived after the newsletter copy date, not all the information is in the printed newsletter. Being written from the draft minutes they may also contain information that is amended at a later date.

Old Buckenham Parish Council met on Monday 22 August at Old Buckenham Village Hall. Those present were Councillors Steve Milner (Chair), Adrian Joel, Terry Cook, Andy Nicholls, Naoni Bailey and Jonnathan Hicks (once co opted on to the Parish Council). Also present were Rachel Noyes (Clerk) and six members of the public. Apologies for non-attendance had been received from Doug Irons and Mike Farrington. Jonnathan Hicks has volunteered to return to the Parish Council. A proposal to accept Jonnathan Hicks on to the Parish Council was approved (5 in favour)

The minutes of the meeting held on Thursday 7 July 2022 were approved (3 in favour, 3 abstain)

Financial matters. The Community account balance now stands at £30,648.52. Payments for approval were £1,586.63 which included £600 for mowing the Green and nearly £200 for the community car drivers. Proposal to accept was approved (6 in favour). Pension re-declaration completed. VAT claim resubmitted due to change of form.

Councillors' reports. The chairman reported on the filming has taken place around the village in the early half of August. Charged £435 for use of the Green which was based around rent for Two Wheel Tuesday and scaled up. Adrian Joel suggested that it might be worth asking the production company for a copy of the completed series that we could screen in the Village Hall. Application for Use of the Green and Risk Assessment was completed by film crew. Terry Cook highlighted the need to have a separate heading within the bank account for ‘Green Income’. The Clerk will liaise with Registered Finance Officer.

The Clerk said that following feedback from the Annual Parish Meeting, she had made contact with Breckland regarding the lack of notification to immediate neighbours about planning applications. They were asked to confirm if the number of neighbours notified was in line with their guidance. No reply yet. Will contact again and copy in the District Councillor Steve Askew. The Playground ‘spring chicken’ has been removed as it was too close to the fence. Can now start saving for a replacement piece of equipment. The “No glassware” sign has delivered for playground and will arrange installation. A Tree Preservation Order confirmed at Evergreen, Cake Street and also served for trees in  Fen Street (between 28 and 32). Highways have suggested three options for Sunnyside Track – awaiting costings of all three options before discussing further.

The Weather Radar appeal has been supported and so permission granted. MP George Freeman has made contact and passed on copy of Met Office letter he received. He has emphasised the need for positive and proactive engagement with the community. It will be approximately six months until construction work commences and take a further six months to complete. They have highlighted that there are plans to minimise construction traffic in the vicinity and will liaise with the Parish Council to avoid traffic going through the village. It will also be manufactured off site before then being transported and constructed on site.

The Jubilee Street Party was cancelled due to bad weather. Many feel there is no appetite for it in the village as the moment has passed. Could send out a questionnaire in newsletter but this would take time and money. Proposal not to have street party was approved (5 in favour).

Received information from Barclays Bank on our account which required Adrian Joel and Andy Nicholls to phone up and confirm their identity. Both have tried several times but have been unsuccessful. The RFO and the Clerk to look at other banking options. Missing finger posts reported on Footpath 12 (Mill Road and Grove Road. There is one missing from outside the Church Rooms too. The Clerk to report this. New Buckenham Neighbourhood Plan has been adopted and will now form part of the Breckland Local Plan

Terry Cook gave feedback from Village Hall. Would encourage residents to use recycling bins as much as possible as provides a great source of income for the Village Hall. The main boiler has been replaced and insulation has been improved. Improvements have been made in car park, such as signage. Village Hall has put off raising fees until January. The increase in bills is not due yet and they want to assess the impact of the solar panels and new boiler on the bills first. Treasurer is retiring so setting up new management system and looking at grants to improve the hall further. Bookings at the Village Hall are back to normal after COVID.

Nnaomi Bailey said that Hargham Road closure has resulted in more traffic using Fen Street. Residents’ hedges between Barkers Lane and Fen Road are quite overgrown and ditches under hedges are being hidden so difficult to see if you don’t know the road. Adrian Joel stated that at the APM there were discussions about when the Green was being cut and it was a different schedule this year due to Jubilee plans. Was initially cut three times a year but has only been twice a year since then. Rod Alley Pond is a bit overgrown and causing difficulties for drivers pulling out of Hargham Road. It was highlighted that the Parish Council own a strimmer and extension pole which could reach and happy for handyman to use it.

Public participation. A resident asked if it was worth clearing the ponds of silt/overgrowth while the water levels are so low. This could reduce problems in the future. The Clerk to pass comment on to Green Working Party.

New planning applications. Thatch Cottage, Cake Street. Single storey side extension (3PL/2022/0841/HOU). No comments on the portal. Very little information on there. Simple extension of a wet room and bedroom. Member of the public highlighted that the site plan is not correct – a neighbouring property has been included within the boundary. No planning officer has been appointed. Proposal to not vote due to lack of information available was approved (6 in favour).

 Old Buckenham Country Park, Doe Lane. 8 new holiday lodges (3PL/2022/0783/F). Removing 27 caravan sites and replacing with 8 cabins. This will significantly reduce the number of vehicles on the road and so not expecting any objections from Highways. Only two comments on portal so far, which both support it. Previous application submitted for 4 cabins was approved by the Parish Council. Evergreen trees should block the view for some neighbours. Proposal to support approved (5 in favour, 1 abstain). A resident whose property backs on to the Country Park had not been notified about the application by Breckland District Council. This is not the first instance of some immediate neighbours not being notified about planning applications that could affect them. Clerk not sent notification email either, so was missed off agenda. The Clerk to raise the issue with Breckland District Council again and copy in District Councillor Steve Askew.

Planning Decisions by Breckland Council. The following applications have been considered and have been approved. 60 Fen Street. Proposed two storey rear extension to form study and bedroom & proposed carport to side (3PL/2022/0427/HOU).

The Kenyons, The Green. Detached Cart Shed Garage with Mansard Roof (3PL/2022/0689/HOU).

Coal Storage Yard Road from Stacksford Lane to Hargham Road. Outline permission for 3 no. dwellings (3PL/2021/1564/O).

The following applications have been considered and have been refused.

Hammonds Farm, Stacksford. Conversion & extension of an existing barns to form Annexe

The following appeals have been considered and permission has been granted. Part of Anglian Water Drilling Unit Site, Abbey Road, Old Buckenham, NR17 1PZ. Appeal reference APP/F2605/W/21/3280426.

September Parish Council meeting. The Clerk is away for the next meeting which was due to take place on Thursday 1 September. As August Meeting has been delayed, would work better to postpone September meeting too. Propose to postpone September meeting by two weeks to Thursday 15 September. The Clerk to confirm location.

Allotments. Sseve Milner had a meeting with allotment holders regarding the poor state of the allotments. The main issues are a lot of theft and vandalism, empty allotments are covered in weeds which affects neighbouring plots, current state is very poor and would put off any potential new holders, taps are all damaged or in a very poor state and fly tipping. There are many vacant or unmaintained plots which make the situation worse. Those that are left are keen to carry on but it is increasingly difficult. To attract new people, it first needs to be improved and restored to a decent state.

Suggested possible improvements included all holders of current leases are asked if they plan to continue. Several are planning on giving up this year and should be asked to clear away their equipment/waste (sheds, fencing, etc) and leave allotments in the state they were received. Allotments nearest Crown Road could be taken out of service as there is a problem of flooding in this area. Water taps need maintenance. Main path to be mowed and hedges cut back. Also protected access with allotment holders given a key/code. Currently open and people use as a footpath but this increases risk of vandalism, etc. Could block off Cake Street end, leaving car park as only entrance. Need new allotment holders to help keep the area used and possibly a central shed for holders to use which is more substantial. Other suggestions and options to research were put forward including reducing the site by half and then possibly reduce sizes of plots. Could also look to see if there is a better/more secure plot of land in the village to use instead. However the existing allotments would still need clearing and returning to original state. Will need to look at quotes for clearing the overgrowth as allotment holders felt it was too much to take on by volunteers. It was highlighted that in its current state, it is not much of an asset to the village. If there is demand in other villages for allotments then why is it not in Old Buckenham?

(Jonnathan Hicks left meeting)

Pub Rental Agreements. Agreement with Ox and Plough has been completed and signed by Landlord and Parish Council Chairman but has not been submitted to the Parish Council. Issues need to be raised around the fact that the agreement is not being kept to as several tables are outside the agreed boundary. As agreement has not been submitted to the Parish Council for discussion and possible ratification, an invoice has not been produced. Gamekeeper has not returned the completed application yet. Agreement to be collected from Ox and Plough and that from Gamekeeper to be chased up.

VAS Sign for Puddledock Corner. Ran out of time to discuss. Will be on next meeting’s Agenda.

New burial site for Old Buckenham. Ran out of time to discuss. Will be on next meeting’s Agenda.

Items for next agenda. To include allotments (how much are we willing to subsidise it/quote from handyman for clearing/start looking at Plan B), pub rental agreements, feedback on planning complaints, sign for Puddledock and possible new burial site.

Date of next Parish Council meeting will be Thursday 15 September. Venue to be confirmed. 

Old Buckenham visits Norwich

 Evening walk with the WI

Old Buckenham Women's Institute organised a walk around the back streets and alleyways of Norwich last Friday evening. Guide Paul Dickson led them around lots of places they had never seen before while explaining lot of local history at the same time.

Cycle for Old Buckenham

Get around the churches

Book the date now and see how many you can visit. There are sponsorship forms on the table at the back of All Saints church, or phone Lydia Darrah (01953 861360 / 07900 911793) to drop one off to you. There is also a rota for people to sit in church for an hour to welcome cyclists and sign their forms. If anyone might like to join in with that contact Lydia.    

Filming at Old Buckenham

How big is support team?

One look at the car park at Chapel Road School will give you an idea of how much is needed to keep the film crew operating.

Old Buckenham Players production

 Coming at the end of September

Following the success of their production of the thrilling Agatha Christie classic 'And Then There Were None' in May, Old Buckenham Players are now in the throes of preparing for their September production.

There'll be laughs a plenty on offer with their choice of play: 'Give Us A Sign' by Tony Domaille. This modern and clever comedy, rehearsals of which are well under way, is poised for its first showing in Norfolk and promises to be a more than worthy premiere.

You'll meet Kev and his hard working and long-suffering wife, Rachel, in their modest but comfortable home. With Kev's background in Sales, his unemployed status of the last few months looks set to end as he makes a bold leap and starts his own business - Clairvoyant Kev's Clairvoyancy Services. How much harder than sales could it really be? Rather, as it turns out. Through visits from mysterious clients and more than a little incompetence, the play culminates in a big reveal that has dramatic consequences on Kev and Rachel's life. But is it the very final 'reveal'...?

To find out, you'll have to come and see it. Performances are held at Old Buckenham Village Hall, starting at 7.30pm on Thursday 29 Friday 30 September and Saturday 1 October. Tickets are available via Ticketsource, all details of which can be found on our website (www.oldbuckenhamplayers.co.uk) and our social media pages (just search for Old Buckenham Players on Facebook and Instagram and make sure you give them a 'follow' at the same time.) They'll be priced at just £10, so couple this with the bar and raffle, and you'd be hard pressed to find a night out of better value for money anywhere in the County.It's been a strange couple of years, so why not indulge in some quality, local entertainment, for an evening of something that's funny in the truest and most welcomed sense of the word. Your continued support and appreciation makes all the hard work well and truly worth it, so thank you, and we can't wait to see you there. 

August Old Buckenham newsletter

 Out and about, colour or black and white

There were printing problems with the newsletter this time which means that some of you will get black and white copies. The words are the same, it is just pot luck which one you will get. 

We expect to be back to normal for the September issue.

Zumba in Old Buckenham

 Now in a new form

Lou has been doing her Zumba in Old Buckenham Village Hall for over ten  years now and has decided it needs a freshen up. All the details are on the poster. Why not come along on Tuesday mornings at 9.30am?

Old Buckenham Yard Sales

Some thing to get rid of?

You must have some things you have been going to dispose of sometime. Steph is going to once again organise this yard sale to take place on Saturday 17 September. If you would like to take part and have your details on the map, please message your name and address to  stephaniegipp@hotmail.com or ring 07565 419620

Deadline day to enter is Sunday 4 September.

Council minutes from July

 What the council have been up to

These notes are written by the blog editor and based on the draft minutes and so may contain information that is amended at a later date.

Old Buckenham Parish Council met on Thursday 7 July 2022 at Old Buckenham Village Hall. Those present were Councillors Steve Milner (Chair), Adrian Joel, Terry Cook, Doug Irons and Mike Farrington. Apologies had been received from Naomi Bailey and Andy Nicholls. Also attending were Rachel Noyes (Clerk), Steve Askew (Breckland and County Councillor) and six members of the public.

The minutes of the meeting held on Thursday 5 May were approved (3 in favour, 2 abstain).

Financial matters. The Community account balance was £32,320.37. This included Old Buckenham 2000 Trust donation for mugs of £600 and £335 from the selling of mugs. Cheques paid out in June totalled £1859.61 and included £78.15 on community cars, £100 on cutting the grass in the recreation area and £696.80 on the council’s annual insurance. In July payments totalled £2273.15 including a further £185.65 on community cars, £600 on cutting the grass on the Green, a further £100 on cutting the grass in the recreation area and £758 for repairs to the recreation area fencing and work in the play area. Approval to pay these was approved (5 in favour).

Annual Governance and Accountability Return (AGAR) forms sent to external auditors and displayed on website. Bank mandate forms sent to Barclays in order to add Registered Finance Officer (RFO) and Clerk to the account. Have also ensured that if there are any problems, the bank will phone for further verification. Awaiting response.

Councillor's reports. Steve Milner said the allotments had problems of vandalism, wildlife, drainage. Vacant allotments have become covered in weeds. Need to increase security, cover vacant allotments and improve drainage. A meeting has been arranged with allotment holders to look at list of options for improving it, in order to bring a list of requests to the Parish Council. Phone transmitter update. There is a lack of connection between the transmitter and electricity company and could take another four months to become active. Letter received from County Broadband about wayleaves. In the letter they were discussing wayleaves for Sudbury for some reason. A resident has a good contact and has written to them for clarification. 

The Parish Clerk said that thanks had been received from groups in receipt of their Precept Grants. The Annual Parish Meeting is on Saturday 16 July at 10am. Village Hall has been asked to notify shows performing there that the bus shelter is  not a noticeboard. Recreation Ground fencing has been repaired. The third defibrillator has been passed to Clerk in order to install in box at Ox and Plough. Will get this installed and registered ASAP. Will also produce a map of the locations and information for the Newsletter.

Have been contacted about poor parking on Fen Street, which is causing difficulties for residents to pass by cars parked on the narrow road. A request to residents to ensure that there is always enough room for vehicles, especially emergency vehicles, to pass your car. Letter written to request large hedge opposite the new footpath on Hargham Road is maintained up to the boundary of the property, in order to stop drivers mounting the footpath.

Adrian Joel mentioned that at previous meeting it was decided to give Community Car drivers the option to claim an extra 10p a mile, if they wanted, from start of June. As fuel prices are not coming down, he would like to propose that this is extended until end of December. This was approved (5 in favour).

Terry Cook asked Steve Askew about the reduction in hours at recycling centres and whether the County Council have made a decision. He felt that previous investigations into closing Recycling Centres was very short sighted as it would create fly tipping issues in the long term. Steve Askew informed the Parish Council that the decision for hours to be cut has already been made. It was felt that those that fly tip are those that will do it anyway, regardless of when the Recycling Centres are open. Could a request for volunteers for the Village Hall and the Parish Council be put on the Annual Parish Meeting agenda. Lay bys have become informally created by people parking on Crown Road, which are technically part of the Green. They look awful and it is illegal to park on the Green. Can we repair and look at options for stopping people and school buses from parking there.

Public Participation relating to agenda items only. A resident queried if the rental agreements with the two pubs had been completed, and if not, why not? This is causing a lack of funding towards the Green as payments have not been made. Steve Milner explained that together with Doug Irons and Terry Cook, they were in the process of creating a new formal system for the application and agreement for renting the Green. Both public houses had been contacted and the applications were in progress. The Manager of the Gamekeeper is having to raise it with the Brewery. The application for a regular event at the Ox and Plough has had to be re-submitted due to the lack of detail and poor risk assessment. The Parish Council had recently entered in to a new Insurance Policy which required the Parish Council show due diligence that we ensure all businesses using the Green are insured, organised and run according to the rules agreed. There are concerns amongst councillors that issues discussed verbally are already not being followed. A lack of communication between Parish Councillors has resulted in serious delays to the process. A new application for an event at the Ox and Plough has just been resubmitted by Steve Milner but Doug Irons and Terry Cook were not aware this had been completed. A new risk assessment will still need to be completed to a satisfactory standard. Additional applications are still required from the Ox and Plough for each event they host. Councillors will be held personally responsible for liability if there are any accidents until this is sorted. Steve Milner, Doug Irons and Terry Cook to meet with a priority to review and ensure the process is completed by the next PC meeting for both pubs.

To consider planning applications and to receive Breckland District Council’s decisions made on any planning applications received before the meeting. (All planning applications are available for viewing on the Breckland District Council planning portal – www.breckland.gov.uk/article/2933/Search-Planning-Applications - Parish Councillors have been asked by the chairman to view the new applications in advance of the meeting).

New planning applications. Sustainable Urban Extension Land South of Attleborough. Variation of Condition No's 3,4,5, 8 & 25 on 3PL/2017/0996/O for 4,000 houses and associated infrastructure (3PL/2021/1668/VAR). Councillors felt the Parish Council should support the residents that have issues with some of the conditions. 'There are also conditions still to be addressed as raised by Flood & Water Management Team, Community and Environmental Service. There are concerns primarily about surface water. Proposal to support the objections made by residents was approved (5 in favour).

Downmore Farm, Banham Road. Proposed change of use of an existing agricultural building to dwelling house together with the building operations reasonably necessary to facilitate the conversion (3PL/2022/0604/F). The Environmental Health Officer has reservations about it being too close to a chicken shed and concerns about noise and odour. The application lacked enough detail in order to fully assess and assurances that the treatment plant was solely for the property. Proposal to request assessments are complete before making a judgement was approved (5 in favour).

Hammonds Farm, Stacksford. Conversion and extension of an existing barns to form Annexe (3PL/2022/0641/F). Councillors noted that it is a narrow public access road and would be a difficult for construction vehicles. The Highways planning statement advises that the accommodation is to form an annexe to the main farmhouse and, subject to this being the case and that it not be let or sold separately, it would be difficult to substantiate a highway objection. Proposal to accept as long as Highways conditions are met was approved (5 in favour).

The Kenyons, The Green. Detached Cart Shed Garage with Mansard Roof (3PL/2022/0689/HOU). Councillors could see no problems with the application and had no objections. Proposal to accept was approved (5 in favour).

Clay Barn, Attleborough Road (Barn C complex). Proposed Conversion of former agricultural buildings for residential use forming two dwellings (3PL/2022/0736/F). Have planning permission for three dwellings but want to reduce it to two. The Parish Council previously approved the application. Mike Farringdon highlighted that there would be no pedestrian access to any areas and will have to use car to go everywhere. Proposal to accept was approved (5 in favour).

Land adjacent Snetterton Farm, Banham Road. Self build three bedroomed dwelling, detached timber garage and ground mounted solar panel array (3PL/2022/0750/F). Previous application was rejected by Breckland. Have re submitted the application with more information. Access to property would still be via existing driveway. Highways have suggested some conditions about the joining of the road and cutting back hedges. The Parish Coucil previously supported the application and a proposal to support was approved (5 in favour).

60 Fen Street. Proposed two storey rear extension to form study and bedroom & proposed carport to side (3PL/2022/0427/HOU). Main objections are windows overlooking neighbouring properties. Highways also have some conditions. Proposal to approve as long as Highways conditions are met and windows are changed was approved (4 in favour, 1 abstain).

Appeals. The following application has been appealed. Rear of 41 Hargham Road. Erection single storey dwelling and two bay cart lodge (self build) (3PL/2021/0830/O). Proposed two storey rear extension to form study and bedroom & proposed carport to side. Appeal reference APP/F2605/W/22/3295975 and appeal start date Friday 24 June 2022.

The following appeal has been dismissed. Beckwood, Stacksford, Old Buckenham, NR17 1PD. Appeal Reference APP/F2605/W/21/3283028.

Puddledock Corner, VAS sign. Steve Askew met with Highways to discuss options after issues being raised at previous meeting. A flashing “Slow Down” or “Bend Ahead” sign is a suggested option that would be supported by Highways and would cost approximately £7000. This could be purchased through the Parish Partnership Scheme (PPS) in which the PC would only have to pay half (£3500) and the other half would be met by Norfolk County Council. The verge on the corner does not all belong to Highways however they will ensure that it will all be cut up to fence. The Landowner has been very helpful and has cut back the long grass within the field. It was highlighted that vegetation can only be cut back so far and while one of the trees over hangs a little bit, it belongs to the landowner.

A resident suggested a special paint that would provide better grip in all weather but this had not been suggested or approved by Highways.

Mike Fariington explained that there had been several accidents recently which had destroyed a lot of a residents fencing. He felt that while most are down to driver error, there is not enough done to try and stop/reduce driver error. It was explained that the camber was changed on that corner 4/5 years ago and, as a consequence, the areas of most accidents have changed. This emphasises that the camber affects the location of accidents and that it is still not right on this corner. He felt that the flashing VAS sign would be a good help but it would be further helped if it was backed up with a speed limit. Doug Irons felt that the majority of drivers take that corner at very low speeds and so a speed limit would have little impact. He also felt there is a danger of ‘sign blindness’ so questioned if the signs be rearranged to keep them fresh in people’s minds. The issue will be raised at Annual Parish Meeting for feedback from Old Buckenham residents before deciding if this is something that the Parish Council wish to purchase.

Parking and driving on Sunnyside Farm. Steve Askew spoke to Highways about the Sunnyside track and the possible idea of a trod (a footpath with a loose surface) was put forward. This would provide a safe area for walking but there were concerns that it might encourage drivers to increase their speed as there would be no pedestrians on the track. Highways suggested that while it looked feasible, it may be a bit difficult due to the proximity of BT and power lines. There is no quote for the cost of a trod, but it would be a significant cost. While the track is a public highway and so cars are in their right to drive down it, it was questioned if there was a speed limit in place on the track and why it has always been left as a track and not tarmacked. Clerk to contact Highways to seek answers to questions raised.

There are also an increasing large numbers of cars parking on the actual Green, as well as the footpaths. It is believed that many of them belong to the High School staff. Clerk to email Headteacher to arrange meeting to discuss the issue.

Holding OB 2000 Trust Funds. The Old Buckenham 2000 Trust are wishing to deregister and close down the Trust due to a lack of volunteers to continue it. There is just over £2000 still remaining and they would like to provide an asset for the village with the residual funds. However, as they haven’t made a final decision on what it should be, they have requested that the funds be temporarily held by the Parish Council, while the Trust is deregistered and closed. Clerk spoke to the Parish Council’s Registered Finance Officer (RFO) who had said that this would cause no problems. Proposal to support approved (5 in favour.)

Filming in Old Buckenham. The Parish Council have been contacted by a Production Company who wish to film some of a TV series in and around Old Buckenham. While discussions are taking place with individual landowners, there has been a request to film on the Green and also to ensure there is suitable parking for their 12 trucks. Filming will take place between Friday 5 and Monday 15 August. Locations for parking their vehicles have been suggested to the Production Company who are looking in to the most suitable. These do not include parking on the grass of the Green. The Green Working Party contacted and general feedback was quite positive. Proposal to support was approved (5 in favour).

New date for Street Party. Due to bad weather, the village Jubilee Street party had to be cancelled. Steve Milner has spoken to the Street Party organiser and suggestion of early September was put forward. Will look in to the possibly combining with Jubilee Tree planting.

Tree Planning Organisation. Resident who suggested idea of seven trees for each decade of the Queen’s reign is going to speak to a local Tree Surgeon for advice about suitable species. Adrian Joel will liaise and investigate possible suitable locations.

Children’s playground. After broken glass has been found in the playground, the Parish Council would like to purchase a “No glass beyond this point” sign for each gate. Propose to accept was approved (5 in favour). During inspection, the ‘spring chicken’ was highlighted as being too close to the fence (must be 1 metre away). Builder investigated removing it, only to discover that the concrete base it is set in is approximately 1.5m square and 50cm deep. Some of the base also goes under the fencing between the two play areas. Option 1 is to cut off the spring at the base and make it safe, which would cost roughly £50 for labour. Option 2 would be using a digger to remove and replace the original which would cost about £450. Proposal to go with Option 1, with the idea of purchasing a new piece of play equipment in the future, was approved (5 in favour).

Items for next agenda. These will include Neighbourhood Plan, flashing sign at Puddledock (following feedback at Annual Parish Meeting), Allotments and Pub rental agreements.

The next Parish Council meeting will be held on Thursday 4 August at 7.30pm in Old Buckenham Village Hall.

Latest Old Buckenham village newsletter

Lots of original content

Printed copies of the July 2022 newsletter didn't arrive in the village until the afternoon of Friday 1 July but their distribution has started and you may have had one delivered already. Its brightly-coloured cover looks like this:

Inside there are plenty of original articles written by local people as there were no parish council minutes to take up much of the available space. Take time to read them all and even consider writing something yourself for future issues.

Did you go to Old Buckenham fete?

 All go at Chapel Green School

It was very busy at the Chapel Green School fete on Saturday. The weather was ideal, loads of people came and they all seemed keen to spend their money. First indications are that it raised at least twice as much as the previous fete.

Enjoying the sunshine...

...while eating hot dogs and burgers

The police and fire brigade came along as well

Drawing the prizes for the raffle took over half an hour

Chance to visit Old Buckenham School

Go exploring

Fete in 2019, now back again

Have you ever felt reluctant to go down the entrance road to Chapel Green School and past those barriers? Tomorrow, Saturday 25 June, they are holding their fete and would love you to visit them between noon and 3pm. See the buildings and grounds, meet some of the staff, pupils and members of the Friends of Chapel Green School. Try out some of the many stalls and just have a good time.

You can enjoy yourselves while making some money to support the school get those little extras that will make life even better for the pupils. See you there.

Old Buckenham Green

Cleaning up

Two requests from the Green Management Committee, One is for the bunting to be removed from alongside of Crown Road, the proposed site for the Jubilee street party that was cancelled. The other is to remind everyoneto come along and help to “litter pick” this coming Sunday 19 June. Meet at 11am by the play area. All equipment provided!

Family groups welcome, the children love it.

Old Buckenham school celebrating at fifty

A chance to visit Chapel Green School

The Friends of Chapel Green School (formerly of Chapel Road School) are celebrating their 50th anniversary this year hosting a Summer fete on Saturday 25 June. They hope to see you all to celebrate this special occasion. They have some fantastic raffle prizes to be won, craft stalls, music from the brilliant Stardust Duo, Emergency vehicles, Cinders the pony lucky dip, lots of fun and games for all the family, refreshments/pancakes/waffles etc from Flippin Marvellous, BBQ and lots more. They look forward to seeing you all.

History of Old Buckenham

 Jubilee exhibition

Try to get to the Village Hall during Friday 3 or Saturday 4 June to see various displays relating to activities in the village during the Queen's reign. Information about All Saints Church, the Women's Institute, commemorative postage stamps, memorabilia collected by Roger Wilson and the recent work on Ottomer Pond. 

If you go on Friday's Village Walk you will end up at the Village Hall so you can look around then. Also your opportunity to pick up your Jubilee mugs.

Old Buckenham's Street Party

 Take part at another time

The weather is now forecast to be heavy rain so the organisers have decided to cancel this event. Please let others know. Thanks.

The weather is looking promising for Sunday 5 June so get organised to come along and enjoy a traditional British Street Party in honour of Her Majesty's Platinum Jubilee.

Party scene from 2012

Grab some food and drink and come along for a celebratory afternoon as a village. There should be tables and chairs for approximately 200 people. If you have your own tables/chairs/picnic blanket then it would be great if you could bring them along too. The more the merrier!

Bring your own food and drink (and maybe some extra to share) and games for the kids. We look forward to seeing lots of villagers there.

Old Buckenham June newsletter

 Late delivery

Good news, copies have arrived and will be distributed over the next couple of days.

Unfortunately problems have arisen with the availability of the June newsletter. The printer's machine gave up after only a couple of hundred copies had been produced and the necessary spare parts have been difficult to obtain. They will go out for delivery as soon as they are available.

Old Buckenham's Jubilee Walk

Enjoy fresh air, exercise and chatting on the move

Why not come out and enjoy some fresh air with friends on the Jubilee Walk? It will leave from outside the Church Rooms at 10am on Friday 3 June, finishing off at the Village Hall at approximately 11.30am depending on your walking speed. The walk is 4.5 miles walking on fields and roads, dogs on leads will be welcome.

It will head off down Mill Road, through Stacksford, turn left at the Georgian House down the track, left over the bridge before Hammonds Farm, straight over at the road by Rose Cottage, across the Permissive Path, left back down Sandy Lane, turn right to Mill Road, back to the village hall.

Tea coffee, soft drinks and biscuits will be available at the village hall at the end of the walk and walkers are encouraged to return to the hall to view all the displays of village history in the exhibition there.

Four days in Old Buckenham

 Plenty to choose from

Plan your time carefully  and take advantage of all the activities that will be going on.

Jubilee events in Old Buckenham

 Get your cake and eat it

One event to pop along to next week.

More Old Buckenham Parish Council decisions

May Parish Council meeting

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

Old Buckenham Parish Council met on Thursday 5 May at 7.30pm in Old Buckenham Village Hall. Those present were Councillors Steve Milner (Chair), Adrian Joel, Naomi Bailey, Doug Irons and Andy Nicholls. Apologies for non-attendance had been received from Terry Cook. Also attending were Rachel Noyes (Clerk), Donna Oakley (RFO) and Steve Askew (District and County Councillor) as well as nine members of the public.

Election of Chair and Vice Chair. Steve Milner nominated to be Chair (all in favour). Naomi Baily nominated as Vice Chair (all in favour).

Minutes of April meeting were approved (4 in favour, 1 abstain).

Financial matters. The Community account balance is £39,118.86 which includes first precept grant of £10,970.50. A VAT claim has been submitted for £1,615.11. Precept grants already approved totalled £3,106 (£500 held back for Almshouses). Cheque payments approved (5 in favour) totalled £4,863.93 including £814.45 for Jubilee mugs and £30 for Jubilee leaflets.

The Clerk, Donna Oakley (the RFO) and Adrian Joel are going to have another meeting with the bank to try and update bank details and sort various issues. These include changing names on the account and setting up online banking. This has been attempted several times with no success. Propose to have RFO, Clerk and Chairman to be authorised for cheque signatures, although only one signature will be required. Approved (5 in favour). As there is no Parish Council meeting in June, a proposal to pre-approve cheques that require payment in June was also approved (5 in favour). The Annual Governance and Accountability Return (AGAR) had been sent out to Councillors. While there was a slight over spend on the playground, the Parish Council were still within their budget last year. Once approved by the Parish Council, AGAR is sent to internal and external auditors. A proposal to accept the AGAR and a proposal for AGAR to be sent to internal auditor were both approved (5 in favour).

Reports from Councillors. Doug Irons updated on the Neighbourhood Plan. Grants have been approved for another year by Breckland. He has made contact with a couple of residents who have already showed interest and will be meeting with them to try and understand issues/participation, etc, from previous work. Will then start forming a sub-committee if enough interest can be found.

Naomi Bailey, Adrian Joel and Rachel Noyes had attended a meeting at Old Buckenham High School with the Deputy Head and Year 11 students. Meeting was well received and positive. On Friday 27 May the school are planting a tree to mark the Jubilee – this could be included within the seven trees planned for the village in October. Students from all three schools will look at designing the plaques. School Council will make a regular item in their meetings to raise issues in the village and Parish Council, which will then be communicating via Naomi Bailey, for the Parish Council to discuss. Also discussed a possible Open Day at the end of term for the community and a working party to look at painting bus shelter.

Adrian Joel said there was a need to chase up defibrillator to be put in the box at Ox and Plough. Also the recreation ground fencing still needs attention. The Clerk explained that there was some miscommunication which has been sorted now and local tradesman will fix it soon. The Parish Council’s trailer is still at an ex Councillor’s house and needs to be moved. Agreed can be moved to Chairman’s property for storage. Meeting required with Gamekeeper management about Green rent and car park maintenance. There had been vandalism at the allotments and Police need to be notified.

The Clerk thanked Terry Cook for taking the minutes at the previous meeting when she was unable to attend. The Green Working Party had reported that the Recreation area has been cut and the Handyman has started regular maintenance around the Green. He has mown paths where necessary and also the grass by Crown Road for the Street Party. Will mow it again shortly and the Green will be cut ready for Jubilee weekend. Relation of an Almshouse resident has contacted the Parish Council to ask for help with high electric bills and possible renewable energy sources. The Parish Council are unable to help with this directly and the Almshouse Trust can research possible alternative energy options. However, as high cost of living is affecting lots of residents of all ages, the Clerk will put together a collection of advice for all residents for managing these costs/grants/alternatives, etc, to be published online and in the newsletter.

The bill for mowing the Recreation Ground had been given to Andy Nicholls and it was agreed to add this to the list of cheques for approval (5 in favour).

Bin collection issues were discussed by Steve Askew. While collections after the changes were initially on track, there have recently been several issues, eg Stacksford black bins had not been collected for two weeks. He had contacted Serco who explained it is down to staffing issues. Have strongly advised that issues are sorted and collections are caught up straight away. Issues regarding parking and speeding on Sunnyside track (between schools and B1077) have been passed on. He has contacted the local Highway Engineer to arrange meeting at the site. He will keep the Parish Council informed and keep them updated after the meeting. After discussions with Highways about Puddledock corner, the option of a Vehicle Activated Sign (VAS) has been suggested, which could be paid through the Parish Partnership Scheme (PPS). This will be added to next agenda for full discussion by the Parish Council.

Public participation. A parishioner would like Parish Council to take in consideration that as the village has met its housing quota, there will be increasing levels of applications on arable land. In the long term, this could cause problems for food production. Andy Nicholls explained that Breckland are not currently meeting their 5 Year Plan (an allocation of land for 5 years worth of planning). This could possibly result in more rural areas being approved for planning applications.

A resident from Sunnyside track explained that during the start and end of the school day there is excessive amount of parking on the track and people are sometimes travelling at quite excessive speeds while families are walking along it. Due to a lack of parking at schools for their staff, some cars are parked all day. The track is getting in to a poor state, especially during wet weather. Some drivers are also abusive and aggressive when asked to slow down. Steve Milner advised that it would be useful to record incidents of near misses or abuse as this would help support any future actions. Parish Council will discuss fully at next meeting.

New planning applications. 60 Fen Street. Proposed two storey rear extension to form study and bedroom & proposed carport to side (3PL/2022/0427/HOU). Highways have no issue with the application. Proposal to support was approved (5 in favour).

Arenal, New Buckenham Road. Extension to existing building for tractor/log storage and additional hardstanding area. (retrospective) (3PL/2022/0433/F). Supplies wood for local area. Due to other local suppliers stopping, they are having an increase in demand for fire wood. This is a sustainable fuel source. Neighbours have no objection to the application. Parish Council found no problems in the application and happy to support a local business. Proposal to support approved (5 in favour).

Land opposite Arenal, New Buckenham Road. Use of site for storage, cutting and timber log distribution business (certificate of lawfulness - existing use) (3PL/2022/0434/EU). Proposal to support approved (5 in favour).

Land at Rosedale, Fen Street. Erection of 1. No C3 dwellinghouse and part demolition of outbuilding to be used as garage (3PL/2022/0429/F). No issues from Highways or other consultees. Looks in keeping with the village. Proposal to support approved (5 in favour).

Cuffer Lane. Erection of a New Agricultural Building (3PL/2021/1528/F). New location plan, proposed site layout, proposed elevation & floor plans, vulnerable questionnaire survey, design & access statement and preliminary ecological appraisal. Need to be consistent. Proposal that the Parish Council stand by their original objection and comments was approved (5 in favour).

Planning decisions by Breckland Council. The following application has now been considered and the application has been refused. Hammonds Farm, Stacksford. Conversion & extension to an existing barn to form Annexe (3PL/2022/0058/F).

Annual Parish Meeting. Village Hall booked for Saturday 16 July from 10am to 12 noon. Could be an opportunity to raise the Neighbourhood Plan and Churchyard. Clerk and Chairman to compile agenda.

Community Car costs. The Community Car scheme is a vital service for the village to help get vulnerable residents to medical appointments. The passenger pays 50%, Breckland 25% and Parish Council 25% of the 45p per mile cost that can be claimed. With fuel costs on the rise, councillors were concerned about the drivers losing out financially. However, after 45p/mile, they will have to pay tax. Proposal of a temporary increase of 10p per mile for three months was approved (5 in favour).

Insurance company quote. Quote received from BHIB Councils Insurance, who work in partnership with NALC. Total premium of £740.60 (inclusive of 12% insurance premium tax). A three-year Long Term Undertaking would reduce the annual premium to £696.80. This would be £142.48 more a year than previous premium. Documents had been emailed to Councillors to read and raise any questions in advance. Two issues were raised. Were Councillors covered by the policy when working with other community groups, on behalf of the Parish Council? This has been confirmed by BHIB who stated “if the Councillors are carrying out their duties for the Council then the Council policy will extend”. Doug Irons enquired about the cover for a Neighbourhood Plan Working Group, which would contain residents. The Clerk is to enquire. Also the policy requires playgrounds to be inspected every seven days. This has been confirmed by BHIB Insurance. Parish Council currently carry these out monthly and felt that once a week was excessive. Naomi Bailey explained that during the course for playground inspections, she was advised once a month was sufficient. A proposal to accept the BHIB Councils Insurance quote with the request that the playground inspection be amended to once a month was approved (5 in favour).

In line with new Insurance agreement, Terry Cook has been ensuring that the Ox and Plough has the relevant insurance to provide cover for hosting events on the Green. When asked whether the Public Liability extended to events on the Green (rented land) and not just the pub premises, the Landlord assured that “yes, any event on the Green is covered” and had been assured by his Insurer several times on the matter. He will also provide extra documentation for clarity.

Chapel Green Pupil Extension. Consultation has opened for increasing the numbers of pupils at Chapel Green by 50, from 110 to 160. The Parish Council has been contacted as part of the consultation process for feedback. A statement provided in advance from Terry Cook said “I agree that expanding the number of pupils with complex needs at this successful and purpose built provision is educationally sound and would best meet the needs of complex needs pupils within the Authority. I also agree that these places for each pupil will be additionally funded. However, where I am in complete disagreement with the plan is that Norfolk County Council will only provide additional funding for minor building alterations. This is a dereliction of their duty of care to the current and future pupils at Chapel Green School. When this resource was first planned and built it was undertaken in recognition of the special and individual needs of complex needs pupils. As such, specialist resource areas were built to provide the pupils with the facilities that would enable them to be cared for, to develop and grow as active and participative members of society. For these pupils life skills, communication skills and the development of personal skills that will enable each and everyone of them to function fully as members of society is vital. To this end transition skills, confidence building and the acquisition of the skills to function as an equal member of society is crucial. The plan being put forward by Norfolk County Council would mean the loss of specialist resources and skill development areas to be turned into general classrooms. This means the current cohort of pupils at the school will have their opportunities greatly diminished. This is not equal or fair. It will also mean that future pupils will not receive the level of care or provision their predecessors have enjoyed. These young people are some of the most vulnerable in society we must fight to ensure their rights are guaranteed. If Norfolk County Council wants to increase numbers at the school they must provide extra capital funding to ensure the buildings and facilities are fit for purpose and fully meet not only the educational, personal, life-long skill needs and community needs of this most vulnerable group of pupils but also the priorities on which the initial Chapel Green School was built.” Councillors were in strong agreement with Terry Cook’s comments and points. They also highlighted the impact this would have on the roads and parking. With high staff-to-pupil ratio, a lot of extra staff will need to attend and park at the school. The existing car park is already full and there does not seem to be any plans to accommodate the extra cars. The Clerk to provide feedback on the consultation. Several Councillors plan to attend the online consultation meeting with the school.

Solicitor Quote and Prince Harry’s Wood update. Require conveyancy solicitor to deal with transfer of Prince Harry’s Wood (PHW) from Breckland. Requested quotes from three solicitors but only one provided: £1000 + VAT + disbursements. Proposal to approve quote was approved (5 in favour). The Clerk will send solicitor details over to Breckland, along with a list of items that the Parish Council feel are in need of clarification and rectifying before purchase. These include the removal of all litter and request for some trees to be coppiced: the trees which boundary the Marchfield Way properties are causing overhang issues and on the road side, they protrude onto the footpath and are starting to impede vision for motorists.

Jubilee update. An open meeting was held on Saturday 23 April for an update on plans. Most plans are in place or in progress. Decided to add to the Exhibition by displaying the history of Old Buckenham over the 70 years and have had good response to request for photographs/items from community groups and residents. Due to time constraints, standard Platinum Jubilee mugs had to be ordered as the commemorative gift for residents. Order forms have been printed and distributed in Newsletter. The Old Buckenham 2000 Trust have kindly offered to donate £600 towards the cost of the mugs for residents. A schedule of events has also been printed to provide an overall guide for residents. The Royal Scarecrow Trail will be advertised and promoted during May.

Items for next agenda. These will include Puddledock corner and Sunnyside track traffic.

Next Parish Council meeting. This will be held on Thursday 7 July starting at 7.30pm in Old Buckenham Village Hall. Note there is no meeting in June due to Platinum Jubilee Celebrations.

 

Waste paper collection in Old Buckenham

 Where's our bin?

The Village Hall car park has been promised a new one by the end of the week. It appears that we wore the other one out and it's having to be repaired...

New bin has arrived, bright blue and with no lettering on it. Now let's quickly fill it up.

Consultation on Old Buckenham school

Consultation by Governors of Chapel Green School

The Governors would like to hear your views on their exciting plans at Chapel Green School, Attleborough Road, Old Buckenham, NR17 1RF.

They are proposing to increase the number of pupils with complex needs, to 160 from 1st September 2022. They are committed to expanding the successful provision, for the needs of their current pupils and to meet demand for future pupils. Currently there is an increased need to provide places for children and young people with complex needs in this area of Norfolk. This proposal will provide much needed specialist educational capacity to meet this increased need.

They are running a consultation on the proposals from Monday 25 April to Friday 10 June 2022. By creating extra places at Chapel Green School, they can offer more children and young people an opportunity to learn with them. These are children and young people who currently would have to travel long distances to school to access their educational needs or continue to struggle in their current schools, without the specialist help that they require.

This will not be 50 children in one term, but phased over several terms. Chapel Green School will receive additional funding based around the increase in number of pupils. This will provide the additional staffing and resources needed for the extra pupils. Norfolk County Council is proposing to provide additional funding for minor building alterations.

This consultation is an opportunity to express your views and ask questions on their proposal to increase the pupil numbers.

You can take part by completing the online questionnaire via this link: https://norfolk.citizenspace.com/childrens-services/chapel-green-school or by obtaining a questionnaire from the Headteacher’s Personal Assistant, either by post or emailing to jcox@chapelgreenschool.org.uk

Another Old Buckenham newsletter

Lots more news

The May newsletter may have already dropped through your letter box so read it carefully all the way through and find out what has been going on. Also there is an insert listing the local activities happening for the Jubilee celebrations at the start of June and an order form if you would like a commemorative mug. 

Murders galore in Old Buckenham

Find out who did it

Old Buckenham Players are proud to present their latest production for this May, the mystery thriller And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie on Thursday 19, Friday 20 and 21 May at Old Buckenham Village Hall.

Eight people arrive on a small, isolated island off the Devon coast, each having received an unexpected personal invitation. During the first evening a gramophone recording accuses all ten people of past crimes that went unpunished by the law. Soon they start dying one at a time, and the remaining guests deduce that the murderer is one of their own.

This highly acclaimed, tense thriller is one not to be missed and we are expecting high demand for tickets so book early at www.ticketsource.co.uk/oldbuckenhamplayers or call 07783 461803