Meetings

1.Apologies for absence      

Cllr R Dover

Cllr. F James

            County Cllr Arwel Jones

2. To record Declarations of Interest in items on the agenda

None

3. To confirm the minutes of the meeting held on Tuesday 30^th April  2024

The minutes of the meeting held on 5^th March 2024 were agreed as a correct record, proposed by Cllr Fynes, seconded by Cllr Jones and approved unanimously.

4. Matters arising from the minutes

4.1. ref: min 5.2. IRPW Determinations

The Clerk reported that only 2 councillors had sent him notice in writing that they did not want to receive the statutory payment. If any other councillors wish to do the same, they must do so before the next meeting. Any councillor who does not write to the Clerk will receive the statutory payment.

4.2. ref min  4.2 Flag for Peace

In her absence Cllr James shad sent a message to say that the owners of Pen-y-Foel Hall would fly a flag for peace to mark the anniversary of D Day on 6^th June. Cllr Fynes pointed out that the flag would not be seen except by people on Pen-y-Foel and felt that this would not be a good use of the Council’s resources. This was agreed and no further action will be taken.

4.3 ref min 12.1  Portrait of King Charles III

The Clerk displayed the portrait which had been received from the British Government. All agreed that it was a fine portrait and it was given to Cllr Jones to arrange that it be displayed in a prominent place in the Village Hall. Cllr Done offered to help put the portrait up.

5 Finance

5.1.   Current position

The Clerk reported that the Council’s accounts as at Thursday 25^{th t} March  2024 were as follows: -

Deposit account:         £ 14547.09 This includes a £74.00 interest payment.

Current account:         £ 781.58  .

Pension account          £ 74.46

5.2.   End of Year Financial Statement

Council received the End of Year Financial Statement as printed in the papers for the meeting. The clerk pointed out  that there were notes to the statement and offered to take questions . There were none and adoption of the Statement was proposed by Cllr Parry, seconded by Cllr Jones and passed unanimously.

5.3.  Approval of Payments

Council approved the following payments as listed in the papers for the meeting:-

• Clive Heaton: Grounds maintenance contract First Quarter - £895.19
• Sutcliffe Play: Materials for repair of playground equipment  -  £234.66
• Zurich Insurance: Annual Insurance Premium  -  £910.57
• Traditional Products Ltd:  Materials for bench repairs  -  £208.80

 6. Planning

There were no planning applications for consideration.

7 Other matters

7.1 Montgomery Canal Development Project

This item was taken at the beginning of the meeting.

Council noted the update in the papers for the meeting provided by Katie Woodroffe. It was also noted that Ms Woodroffe had stated in her update that she was  looking at arranging the info days in early June, but would update the Council once the dates and locations have been confirmed. However, a member of the  public present said that a meeting had already been arranged at the Village Hall for the next day (1^st May).

7.2 Community Shop

The Clerk gave a report of a meeting between the Chairman, Cllr dover, Cllr Bond, Chair of Llanymynech & Pant Parish Council and Mr and Mrs Row of Llanfechain Community Shop.  Mr and Mrs Row had been the lead members in developing the project to put a community shop into Llanfechain Village Hall. However, during the presentation it was pointed out that the new tenant in the old village shop building had agreed to run a mini-mart so that there was no further need to proceed with a shop project for Llanymynech. However, it was noted that the new tenant would not be running a post office and steps would be taken to see if either a post office van could attend once a week or if the postmistress who attends Llanfechain and Llandrinio shops could visit Llanymynech Village Hall if a room is made available. The Clerk offered to speak to Mrs Jones when she was next in Llanfechain.

ACTION: Clerk

Subsequent to the meeting an email was received from Cllr Bond confirming the points set out above.

7.3. Walls Bridge Playground – Annual Safety Inspection

Council received the notice from RoSPA set out in the papers for the meeting relating to the annual inspection. The Clerk said that the cost this year would be £78 each for the children’s playground and the adult gym equipment. This was slightly cheaper that 2023’s inspection.

Council noted that a specific date on which representatives of the Council could attend could be agreed for an additional cost and that RoSPA also provide a play area checklist, again at an additional cost. Council decided not to take advantage of these offers.

7.4. Public Consultation re the Severn Valley Water Management Scheme’s (SVWMS

Council noted the consultation as set out in the papers for the meeting but felt that there was no need for comment.

7.5. Green GEN Cymru Vyrnwy Frankton proposal

Council noted the statement from the Green GEN Cymru Vyrnwy Frankton Project Team. Cllr Hall stated that she had taken advice and that landowners were not obliged to allow representatives of Green Gen to have access to their land.

Cllr Fynes recommended that the Council maintain its stance of waiting for an official consultation before making its views public. This was agreed.

7.6. Social Media activity – standing item

Cllr Parry reported that the main areas of interest from members of the public on the Council’s Facebook page were the loss of the village shop and parking by the football field. A comment re the repair of the skateboard park was an issue for Llanymynech & Pant Parish Council.

It was noted that volunteers from Llandrinio were organising a trip to clean the Carreghofa Trail. It was confirmed that this was, in fact, being organised by Calum Carr, Powys County Council’s Footpaths Officer the people undertaking the work were his team of volunteers.

Cllr Parry mentioned that walkabout that councillors had undertaken last year and suggested that the exercise should be repeated this year. He asked councillors to bring their diaries to the next meeting so that a suitable date could be arranged.

ACTION: ALL

 8 Amenities

8.1.  Walls Bridge Playground and Football Field

Cllr Jones noted that the plaque on the Women’s Institute memorial tree had gone missing since the tree had been transplanted to the new Community Space. It was agreed that the matter be raised with Katie Woodroffe of the Canal & Rivers Trust but that, if necessary, the Council would pay for a replacement.

ACTION: Clerk

8.2. Olive Nial’s Memorial Bench

Cllr Done said that he now had the materials for the repair of the bench and it would be affected by the next meeting. Cllr savage asked about the condition of the rest of the wood and Cllr Done said that it is in good condition. Once the repairs are done the bench should last for another ten years.

ACTION: Cllr Done

9.  Highways and Byways

9.1  And 9.2. Verges and potholes

Council noted the feedback from County Cllr Arwel Jones in the papers for the meeting. Most matters would be left until the next meeting when, it is hoped, County Cllr Jones would be in attendance. However,  the matter of signage of public parking at the Dolphin Car Park was raised. It was felt that the Council could put up its own sign. The Clerk said that, if this was on the highway, permission would need to be sought from the Highways  department. It was decided to ask County Cllr Arwel Jones whether or not the Council could erect its own sign

ACTION: Clerk

9.3.  Speed limits

Cllr Fynes raised the issue of whether the speed limit of 20pmh should be maintained on the stretch of the A483 that passes through the village. This is a major trunk route and should be at 30mph. There was confusion with the quick changes in speed on the English side of the border in Pant from 30mph to 40mph and then 20mph when crossing into Wales. Cllr savage spoke in favour of keeping the 20mph limit. It was agreed that a poll should be undertaken on the Council’s Facebook page to ascertain the views of local residents before any recommendation be put to the Welsh Government.

ACTION: Cllr Parry

10 To receive reports on Meetings from Outside Bodies

10.1.  Burial Board

Nothing to report

10.2. Powys C. C. and Town and Community Councils meeting

Nothing to report

10.3. Village Hall

Nothing to report

10.4 CHC meeting

Nothing to report.

11. Correspondence

11.1 Correspondence for Decision

There was no correspondence for decision

11.2. Correspondence to note.

Council noted the correspondence sent out by the Clerk since the last meeting and itemised in the papers for the meeting.

12. Any other business

12.1 Sustainable Powys Webinar

Cllr Savage reported on the Sustainable Powys Webinar. Essentially the message was that Powys County Council does not have sufficient resources and is encouraging local councils to take more responsibility and encourage local groups to support things.

12.2 Repairs to play equipment

Cllr Done said that repairs needed to play equipment would be carried out before the next inspection.

12.3 Planters

Cllr Done gave a laptop presentation of the types of planters and suggested locations. These would be high profile tubs situated in strategic locations. He emphasised that they would have to bee in places where they would be safe. Locations suggested were:-

·       The Border Stone

·       The entrance to the Walls Bridge playground,

·       West side of Walls Bridge

·       Tan-y-Foel

·       Wern

·       Williams Bridge

·       Near the Viaduct.

The planers would have ‘high vis’ panels and each would have a QR code with information about the location. The capacity is 130 litres . They will be lined with pond liner and it will cost in the region of £13 to fill with compost.

Volunteers will be required to plant, water   and maintain the tubs. Cllr Parry said that he would put an item of the Council’s Facebook page inviting people to come forward as volunteers.

The overall price per planter, depending on the number purchased, is estimated at between £150 and £200.

Cllr Parry thanked Cllr Done for his presentation and the work that he has done on the project. This will be a major item for the next meeting.

12.4 The Green, Cae Haidd

 The Clerk tabled an email received from a resident. He stated that the grass on Car Haidd green  has been mown but the cut material now blankets the field preventing light getting through to the grass underneath. The wind has also blown some of this material into the surrounding gardens. He pointed out that this is a particular problem this year given the height the grass grew to during the prolonged period of heavy rain. Five years ago, when the grass was left to grow until mid-summer he and a few elderly neighbours bagged some of the cut grass but this is no long an option.

 On another matter related to the trees on the field one has since collapsed. The others are still growing vigorously and desperately need pruning back.  He said that he had contacted Powys County Council but had been told that this was not their responsibility.

The Clerk said that this had been raised some time ago. He believed that the responsibility is with the County Council but, at that time, the Community Council had taken some action as a goodwill gesture.

The Council needs to ascertain where the responsibility for this land lies. The Community Council is minded to help if possible and Cllr Done offered to see the resident to assess what is needed and report back to the Council.

ACTION: Cllr Done

13. Date of the next meeting:

The Council’s Annual General meeting will take place on Tuesday 28^th May at 7.00pm at Llanymynech Village Hall. The Council’s May meeting will take place immediately following the AGM>

ACTION: All to note

1.Apologies for absence      

Cllr C Savage

Cllr C Hall

2. To record Declarations of Interest in items on the agenda

None

3. To confirm the minutes of the meeting held on Tuesday 30^th January 2024

The minutes of the meeting held on 5^th March 2024 were agreed as a correct record, proposed by Cllr Fynes, seconded by Cllr Jones and approved unanimously.

4. Matters arising from the minutes

4.1. ref: min 7.4 Cross Border Rugby.  The Clerk reported that he had written to Mr Symons of  W Communications  relaying the Community Council’s suggestion and had received the following reply:-

Unfortunately, we are no longer pressing ahead with this activation – but thank you for your help.

4.2 ref: min 12.4  Flag for Peace

Cllr James said that she had been in touch with St. Agatha’s Church but they did not have a flag pole. She said that there are flag poles at Pen-y-Foel Hall and offered to approach the owner to see if they would be willing to fly a flag.

ACTION Cllr James

5 Finance

5.1.   Current position

The Clerk reported that the Council’s accounts as at Thursday 21^st March  2024 were as follows: -

Deposit account:         £ 14547.09 This includes a £74.00 interest payment.

Current account:         £ 1275.58  This includes a payment of £695.72 VAT refund. The Clerk pointed out that last year the VAT repayment was higher due to the purchase of equipment for the playground. This year’s amount was in line with the Council’s usual expectations.

Pension account          £ 74.33

5.2.   IRPW Determinations

Council considered the Determinations that applied to Community Councils and made the following decisions:-

·       Extra Costs Payments: The Clerk said that this determination had become Mandatory this year. In previous years all councillors had declined the payment. Because of its mandatory status any councillor wishing to decline to accept the payment MUSY do so in writing to the Clerk. An email would be sufficient.

·       Senior Role:  Declined

·       Chair of Council:  Accepted  - Allocation £100.

·       Vice Chair of Council: Accepted – Allocation £50

·       Attendance Allowance: Accepted

·       Financial Loss: Accepted

·       Travel & Subsistence:  Accepted

·       Cost of Care or Personal Assistance:  Accepted

5.3.  Approval of Payments

There were no payments for approval this month.

 6. Planning

There were no planning applications for consideration. Cllr Fynes pointed out that the time to

Put existing planning permissions into effect for three houses on Gwelfryn had now elapsed.

The Chair asked County Cllr Arwel Jones if there was any further news on the status of the LDP. He

said that he had no new information.

7 Other matters

7.1 Montgomery Canal Development Project

This item was taken at the beginning of the meeting.

7.1.1. Update

The Chairman welcomed Katie Woodroffe from the Canal & Rivers Trust who gave the following report of progress with the Restoration Project:-

The Dredging from Four Crosses has now been completed. Additionally, the banks have been reinforced with coir matting to protect them from erosion and provide a habitat for plants and animals.

The final stage of the dredging to Llanymynech Bridge would begin in October and end in March 2025.

Most of the work on planning applications for both bridges and the Wern nature reserve had now been completed. The design for Williams Bridge had changed but this would not affect the planning application.

The Canal & Rivers Trust would be hosting two information events prior to submitting planning applications for the new Carreghofa Lane bridge and Williams Bridge. These would be on 30^th April at Llandysilio Village Hall and 1^st May at Llanymynech Village Hall. The events would have displays, plans, maps, pictures and drawings. Ms Woodroffe,  the Dredging Manager and Bridges Manager would all be in attendance to answer questions and receive comments from members of the public.

Local residents would receive a ‘post card drop’ to inform them of the events.

An archaeological investigation would take place in May / June prior to the submission of planning applications.

7.1.2 Community Space

The memorial trees had been successfully replanted on the north side of the canal in the area which will become t=a Community Space. They are doing well and the cherry tree is now in blossom. The Clerk said that newly planted trees needed constant watering for the first 6 weeks. Ms Woodroffe said that, so far, the weather had been very wet but, if needed, she lives nearby and would undertake to water the trees.

The Chairman then asked if there were any questions from councillors or the members of the public present.

Cllr Fynes asked for the target date for starting the work. Ms Woodroffe replied that the expected start would be the end of the summer.

Cllr Jones asked about the situation re the stretch of canal at Pant on the English side of the border. Ms Woodroffe said that the volunteer group had got some funding and was applying for further funds.

7.2. Social Media Activity

Standing Item: Nothing to report

7.3.  Community Shop

In the absence of Cllr Bond (The Chairperson of Llanymynech and Pant Parish Council) Mr Borthwick, a member of the public present and also the current shopkeeper confirmed that the shop would close on Friday 29^th March. He said that the landlord did not want a post office on site and that two new tenants would be moving in. He pointed out that the shop was a focal point fore the village and many people came in for advice as well as for shopping.

The Chairman said that something in place of the shop was clearly needed although he accepted that this may not include a post office. It was generally agreed that a community shop would be a good solution and Mr Borthwick said if  a community shop could be established, he would be prepared to run it.

The Chairman asked for views for members of the public present at the meeting and the general view was that a project to  set up a community shop would be supported by the community.

The Chairman felt that the village hall could be used to provide community advice sessions and suggested that the two local councils might cooperate in hiring a room for a session each week.

Cllr Fynes proposed that the community advice idea be supported and that progress should be made with Carreghofa C. C. and Llanymynech and Pant P. C. and the Village Hall committee and that the matter be reviewed in six months. This was agreed unanimously.

7.4. National Eisteddfod Appeal

Council noted the request for funding in the papers for the meeting but, acting on the Clerk’s advice agreed that the request did not meet the criteria of the Council’s Donations Policy and, therefore, decided that the request could not be supported.

7.5. Wind Turbines and Pylons – Letter from Llandrindod Wells Town Council

The Clerk tabled a letter from Llandrindod Wells Town Council, received that morning. The letter is set out below:-

Dear Clerk,

The Members of Llandrindod Wells Town Council voted unanimously on February 20^th 2024 to ask Powys County Council to hold a referendum on the proposal to erect a series of wind turbines and Pylons in Powys.

Llandrindod Town Council has written to every County Councillor, the Leader of the County Council and the CEO requesting they do this and we await responses. We are also making contact with the local press and media as we believe this is the best way to gain the wider publicity this deserves because many local people appear to be poorly informed about this.

We are also asking other Powys Community Councils if they will ride with us on this and propose similar moves in writing to the Council CEO and County Councillors so they fully appreciate the strength of feeling and apply some pressure and also invite the local press in order to give further coverage and to keep local people informed.

Our view on this was and remains that the air of publicity is key to those wishing to fight against these proposals which are being pushed through by a business without a democratic mandate.

We would appreciate if you would distribute this invitation to your respective members for their views and we hope to gain your support working together on this and look forward to your response.

Kind Regards

Jane Johnston PSLCC, CiLCA (Wales)

Town Clerk

Llandrindod Wells Town Council

The Council agreed to maintain its current stance of waiting until a formal consultation is launched before putting forward its own views.

 8 Amenities

8.1.  Walls Bridge Playground and Football Field

Cllr Done said that Sutcliffe Play had dispatched the equipment needed to repair the ‘helicopter’ in the playground and that the repairs should be effected in the next two weeks. He had asked Sutcliffe to send an invoice direct to the Clerk.

8.2. Olive Nial’s Memorial Bench

Cllr Done reported that he had examined the bench and found the uprights in good condition but the deck was completely rotten. He showed councillors a piece of the wood and pointed out that it was  of the cheapest type and advised that it be replaced by a better-quality long-lasting wood. He said that he would be willing to repair the bench once the new wood was to hand.

The Chairman thanked Cllr Done for his offer and Council agreed to pay for new wood up to a limit of £200. In response to a question by Cllr Jones, Cllr Done said that the bench would be fixed by the next meeting.

ACTION: Cllr Done

9.  Highways and Byways

9.1  Verges and potholes

County Cllr Arwel Jones reported despite repeated emails he had had no response from the Highways Department.

The Chairman  asked if the resourcing problem was one of money or staffing. He said that part of the difficulty was in recruiting lorry drivers who could earn more from the private sector. However, Powys C. C. had improved its offer on lorry drivers pay. Road repairs were a county wide problem and, because of current pressures, only pothole deeper that five inches were receiving attention.

Cllr James asked again about the drainage on Pen-y-Foel and the flooding at Talltopeen. County Cllr Arwel Jones said that he had reported this and the requisite work would be done.

Cllr Done said that he had identified 4 locations for planters and asked that this matter be placed on the agenda for the next meeting.

Cllr Fynes reported that the owners of the Dolphin public house had posted a notice saying that there would be no parking facilities for anyone taking over the shop premises. He asked how long the County council lease. County Cllr Arwel Jones said that he would find out the exact terms of the lease but, understood that it was for 99 years at its commencement so that there was no fear that the public spaces would be lost.

ACTION County Cllr Arwel Jones

9.2. Flooding in Tan-y-Foel

County Cllr Arwel Jones said that there had been no progress  to date on this issue.

10 To receive reports on Meetings from Outside Bodies

10.1.  Burial Board

Nothing to report

10.2. Powys C. C. and Town and Community Councils meeting

In the absence of Cllr Hall there was no report

10.3. Village Hall

Nothing to report

10.4 CHC meeting

Nothing to report.

11. Correspondence

11.1 Correspondence for Decision

There was no correspondence for decision

11.2. Correspondence to note.

Council noted the correspondence sent out by the Clerk since the last meeting and itemised in the papers for the meeting.

12. Any other business

12.1 Portrait of  HM King Charles III

The Clerk tabled an email, received that morning, from the Cabinet Office offering local councils a free framed portrait of King Charles III  to be displayed in a public building. He pointed out that although only received that day the email stated that the offer had been dated 14^th November2023 and the cut off date for responses was 28^th |March 2024.

Council agreed that it would apply for a portrait.

ACTION: Clerk

12.2 Tipping on meadows by Llanymynech Bridge

County Cllr Arwel Jones reminded councillors that he had raised this issue at an earlier meeting. He could now report that he had been in touch with the landowner and the tipping was being carried out by and environmental waste disposal company which has a licence for this. He also confirmed that the  tipping was on land above the flood level.

12.3. Narrowboat

Cllr Done raised the issue of the narrowboat moored at Llanymynech Wharfe. He felt that this was in need of cleaning and painting and wondered if the Community Council could help. Cllr Jones said that this was already in hand and the boat would shortly be moved onto the Motofix site.

13. Date of the next meeting:

Tuesday 30^th April at 7.00pm at Llanymynech Village Hall.

ACTION: All to note

1.Apologies for absence      

Cllr. I Done

Cllr. F James

2. To record Declarations of Interest in items on the agenda

None

3. To confirm the minutes of the meeting held on Tuesday 25^th July 2023

The minutes of the meeting held on 27^th June were agreed as a correct record, proposed by Cllr Fynes, seconded by Cllr Hall and approved unanimously.

4. Matters arising from the minutes

Ref: min 7.4 Community Awards

The Chairman reported that he had spoken to Mr Borthwick and suggested the nomination agreed by the Council. The Awards ceremony will take place on 4^th November.

Ref: min 7.5 Winter Warm Bank

Cllr Parry confirmed that the Winter Warm Bank will go ahead again this year. The organisers are asking users for a donation of £2 - £3 but this will be voluntary. A donation from the Community Council would be appreciated. The Clerk asked that, for audit purposes, the Church should write formally to seek a donation which could then be approved at a future meeting. Cllr Parry was asked to convey this to the organisers.

ACTION: Cllr. Parry

5. Finance Report

5.1. Financial Position

Council noted the financial position as set out in the papers for the meeting.

Deposit account:         £17578.84. The second tranche of the Precept had been received on 31^st August

Current account:         £412.13

Pension account          £73.63

5.2. Internal Audit Report

Council received the Internal Audit Report as set out in the papers for the meeting. The Clerk confirmed that he and the Chairman had reviewed the report and it had duly been sent to the External Auditor.

Cllr Fynes proposed acceptance of the report. This was seconded by Cllr Parry and agreed unanimously.

5.3.  Approval of Payments

The following payment was proposed by Cllr Hall, seconded by Cllr Jones and approved:-

TEEC 12 months website hosting. Transfer of Domain. Transfer/purchase .org.uk domain £583.19

 6. Planning

There were no planning applications for consideration.

7 Other matters

7.1 Montgomery Canal Development Project

This item was taken at the beginning of the meeting.

Ms Woodroffe gave a presentation on progress to date. She accepted that there was considerable overgrowth on sections of the towpath but explained that the Trust has had to reduce mowing frequency to three times per year. However, Phase 1 dredging is now complete between Llanymynech Bridge and Walls Bridge. Bids for Phase 2  (New Bridge to Persons Bridge) have been sought and a contract should be awarded in the near future.

Habitat creation is ongoing and diversions will be in place from October. Consultancy work is being undertaken in the form of Ecological surveys and Tree and Hedgerow assessments. Archaeological assessments will also be undertaken and a transport statement is awaited.

Carreghofa Lane Bridge

There has been little progress to report since the last update. The Trust has appointed a new architect and Ms Woodroffe showed some pictures of how the bridge might look.

Williams Bridge

Again, there has been little progress to report. There are now two options for the preliminary design:-

1.     A Lift Bridge

2.     2. A fixed Crossing

The second option is the preferred one and it is hoped that the Highways Authority will adopt the Bridge if this option is chosen.

Ms Woodroffe informed the meeting that considerable damage has been found on the Aberbechan Aqueduct and this has now been listed as ‘at risk’ by CADW.

Further developments include an open water reserve at Wern (near Pool Quay)  and Red Lane (Welshpool). Alternative sites at Arddleen and Guilsfield are also being considered.

There has also been engagement with local schools. Ms Woodroffe concluded by distributing an ecology leaflet. The Chairman thanked Ms Woodroffe for her presentation.

The Chairman then allowed comments and questions from the meeting.

The Clerk referred to a question put forward by a resident who could not be present.:-

Q: The funding is from Powys County Council and, therefore, applies to Wales. What funding is there, if any, for the English part of the canal to connect Llanymynech to the navigable sections beyond Pant. If the canal cannot be made navigable then it is pointless spending money to put in new roads and bridges and take away a large part of the Council’s playground for no economic benefit from canal traffic.

Ms Woodroffe said that the Trust is exploring means of funding in order to re-establish the connection between Llanymynech and the canal at Pant. Ms Gilmour added that a group of county councils, including Shropshire, were looking at ways of improving the canal network. The gap is only ½ mile long.

A member of the public queried the use of the money when there were other higher priorities in Powys. Ms Gilmour explained that the monies are from the UK Government  Levelling Up fund and cannot be used for any other purpose.

Ms Woodroffe offered to return in two months’ time to give a further update.

7.2.  Social Media Activity

Cllr Parry reported that he expected to have access to the Council’s website in the next two weeks. And hoped that it would be completely updated for the next meeting. The Clerk was asked to send a letter of authority that Cllr Parry could use with the web-site company.

ACTION: Clerk

Cllr Parry reported that the Council’s Facebook page had been suspended for a period of one day. It is not known why this was done and the page has now been reinstated.

The item generating most interest at present is the proposal to erect pylons through the area to connect with an electricity sub-station north of Oswestry. The Chair noted that this substantive item would be addressed as AOB to enable full discussion.

7.3. Village Hall Governing Document

The Chairman outlined the background to this matter. In 1947 Carreghofa Community Council and Llanymynech & Pant Parish Council were bequeathed land to build the Village Hall, to be used to serve the social and cultural benefits of the village community.  Both councils became trustees of the Hall. The document has since that time only had two amendments.

The committee of Llanymynech Village Hall recognised that there was a need to update the document in order to comply with changes in the law and on the advice from Graham Betts from Community Resource have produced an amended First Schedule.

Both Councils were sent the new governing document (attached with the papers for the meeting) which has been sent to the Charity Commission for approval. The Committee has also been advised to have the hall vested in the Official Custodian and to update the land registry details to reflect this.

The Chairman asked if the meeting felt that any action was required of the Council at this point. Cllr Fynes opined that the two councils have vested power in the Village Hall Committee and the Council receives regular reports from our representative on that Committee. He felt that, if the Council is content with the way in which the Hall is run, there is no need for further action.

The Clerk suggested that the Council’s relationship with the Village Hall could be reviewed at the AGM each year. This was agreed.

The question of the Council’s liability as a trustee was raised. County Cllr Arwel Jones said that he would look into this.

ACTION: County Cllr Arwel Jones

 8 Amenities

8.1.  Walls Bridge Playground and Football Field

Football field

An email had been received from the football club asking for more frequent cuts to the grass and also commenting on the general state of the pitch. The Clerk said that increasing the frequency would be feasible  financially. As far as renovation of the field is concerned, he suggested contacting the council’s grounds maintenance contractor for advice.

The Chairman said that the field is a valuable community resource. He suggested increasing the number of grass cuts and felt that a meeting with the Football Club would be useful in taking the matter forward.

ACTION: Clerk to ask the contractor to increase grass cutting frequency and provide advice re the renovation of the pitch.

Chairman to arrange a meeting with the Football Club.

9.  Highways and Byways

9.1  Verges and potholes

Cllr Hall said that the state of Carreghofa Lane is getting worse and worse particularly towards Wildboar Farm. County Cllr Arwel Jones said that a new Highways Manager is in post and he will try to arrange for him to visit the area and look at the problems that require action.

The Chairman asked if the road at Gwelfryn has been adopted. County Cllr Arwel Jones agreed to check this.

ACTION: County Cllr Arwel Jones

9.2. Cae Haidd

There has been no further movement on the matter of the land housing gas tanks in Cae Haidd. County Cllr Arwel Jones said that he had heard nothing further but would seek further information.

ACTION: County Cllr Arwel Jones

9.3 Chapel Lane

Cllr Parry reported that he had been unable to make any contact with the owner of the property on the corner of Chapel Lane, but would continue to make enquiries. Cllr Hall suggested that a mirror placed on the opposite side of the A483 at the junction with Chapel Lane would allow traffic exiting on to the A483 to have sight of oncoming vehicles. County Cllr Arwel Jones said that this would require the agreement of the Trunk Road Agent. He would ask if this was feasible.

ACTION: Cllr Parry & Cunty Cllr Arwel Jones

10 To receive reports on Meetings from Outside Bodies

10.1.  Burial Board

Cllr Jones reported that a comprehensive meeting had been held. The Board feels that the situation as regards finding a new burial site is getting desperate. There is only sufficient room for new burials for the next 6 years. There is a suggestion that it may be possible to re-open parts of St. Agatha’s church yard. It was suggested that a joint meeting of the Burial Board, the two local Councils and St. Agatha’s Church Council should be arranged to discuss the feasibility of this idea.

ACTION: Chairman

10.2. Powys C. C. and Town and Community Councils meeting

No meeting had been held

10.3. Village Hall

It was noted that a recent meeting of the Village Hall committee had been held. Cllr Jones reported that all is well with the Village Hall and there are no problems.

10.4 CHC meeting

Nothing to report.

11. Correspondence

11.1  Correspondence for Decision

There was no correspondence for decision

11.2. Correspondence to note.

Council noted the correspondence sent out by the Clerk since the last meeting and itemised in the papers for the meeting.

12. Any Other Business

21.1 Boundary Commission consultation

The Chairman reported that the Council had received a request for feedback on its deliberations. A response was required before the date of this meeting and this had been completed. It was noted that the proposals had had no impact on Carreghofa, but the Chairman also noted that information about the consultation had been limited.    County Cllr Arwel Jones confirmed that there is to be no change locally to the current arrangements.

12.2. Pylons

Concern was raised at the proposal for a private company to erect pylons through the area to connect with an electricity sub station north of Oswestry. Cllr Hall said that there have already been a number of public consultations; she had attended one in Meifod. There has, to date, been no planning application and the company doesn’t have a licence to sell electricity. She suggested that the Council keeps a watching brief on developments.

County Cllr Arwel Jones had also attended a meeting and produced a map showing the possible routes for the pylons. The pylons would be 250 metres apart and 26 meters high.

A member of the public attending. the meeting declared an interest as a landowner. He said that at present the company involved has no right to come onto private land but this could change. He felt that, unlike the last time such a scheme was proposed, Powys County Council will have no say in the matter and there will be no public enquiry. The matter would be decided at Welsh Government level.

12.3  New speed limits

Cllr Savage asked why the B4393 between Wern and Carreghofa Lane, apart from the section immediately outside the school, was not included in the new 20 mph speed limit, County Cllr Arwel Jones said that he would check

ACTION: County Cllr Arwel Jones

12.4.Carreghofa Trail

The problem of fallen trees on the Carreghofa Trail was raised again. The Clerk said that he had refereed the matter to Calum Carr, Powys County Council’s Footpaths officer.

Note: subsequent to the meeting a message from Calum Carr has been received saying that he is looking int the problems.

14 Date of Next meeting

Tuesday 31^st October at Llanymynech Village Hall at 7.00pm.

ACTION: All to note.

1. Apologies for absence

County Cllr Arwel Jones

Cllr F. James

2. To record Declarations of Interest in items on the agenda

None

3. To confirm the minutes of the meeting held on Tuesday 24^th May 2022

The minutes of the meeting held on 24^th May were agreed as a correct record; proposed by Cllr Parry, seconded by Cllr Jones and agreed unanimously.

4. Matters arising from the minutes

4.1. ref: min 4.1. Donation to Carreghofa Primary School

The Clerk reported the monies had been paid to the school and an acknowledgment received. Cllr Dover said that the School had also mentioned the donation in the Parish Magazine and that the children were delighted with their Jubilee coins.

4.2. ref: min 7.5.2.

The Clerk confirmed that the cheque to the organisers of the Jubilee celebrations had been paid into the bank.

4.3. ref: min 7.7

The Clerk confirmed that he had contacted the Mayor of Oswestry and given the Council’s agreement to his attending an event at the school in his mayoral attire. The Mayor has sent his thanks.

4.4. ref: min 7.8.

The Clerk confirmed that he had written to Cadnant to point out the need for cross border referencing when making LDP planning decisions.

5. Finance Report

5.1. Financial Position

Council noted the financial position as set out in the papers for the meeting.

Deposit account:  £ 18496.25

Current account:   £846.59

Pension account   £72.76

5.2  Approval of Payments

Three invoices had been received since the papers for the meeting had been sent out. They are:-

TEEC – upgrade of 1 month on current contract - £31.20

TEEC – Premium service website hosting for 2022 / 23  -  £583.19

RoSPA – playground safety inspections - £168.00

Payment was proposed by Cllr Jones, seconded Cllr Dover and agreed unanimously

5.3. Internal Audit

The Clerk said that the internal audit had been delayed because JDH had informed him that the invoice for the previous year had not been paid. He had responded that this was because no invoice had been submitted but following consultation with the Chairman he had used his devolved powers to pay the invoice of £320.40.

The internal audit would be presented to the July meeting and the appropriate notice displayed on the noticeboard and website.

6     Planning

There were no planning applications to consider.

7 Other matters

7.1  Elections

It was agreed that the remaining vacancy for a seat on the Council would be re-advertised.

7.2  Website

The Clerk reported TEEC has now included Carreghofa Community Council in its Premium Service and would manage the website from now on.

7.3  Canal

Cllrs Done and Jones had attended the canal development meeting in Newtown on 26^th June. Cllr Done felt that much of the information given was irrelevant to Carreghofa. It is expected to take two years to make the canal navigable as far as Llanymynech.

As far as Walls Bridge is concerned there is a number of options for diverting the road but none has to date been agreed. There is likely to be a low rise bridge but this has not been finalised. The same applies to Williams Bridge.

Cllr Done said that everything was still open for discussion but the group must spend the monies available soon or they will lose it.

Cllr Dover said that any canal crossing must take account of the fact that heavy agricultural machinery will be using it.

The Chairman informed the meeting that he had a meeting scheduled for 14^th July with representatives to discuss the Council’s reservations on the loss of amenities at the Walls Bridge playground. He estimated that some 40 metres of space could be lost and this would include the Chris Backshall memorial tree and the WI tree, both of which would need to be transplanted. The new road would also be very close to the playground equipment.

Cllr McCluskey asked about contingency funding to create a new playground area on the opposite side of the B4398. He was also concerned that traffic approaching Llanymynech across a new bridge would mean that car headlights would shine into the houses opposite the playground.

7.4. St. Agatha’s Clock

Council considered the note from Ms Caroline Stewart set out in the papers for the meeting. The Chairman felt that the project was too large for one person (Ms Stewart) to handle. He was concerned that there were no costings from the third company that had quoted for the work. He also noted the disparity between the two quotes already given.

Cllr McCluskey felt that this should be a joint project with Llanymynech & Pant Parish Council.

The Clerk pointed out that the original note was to St. Agatha’s Parochial Church Council with copies to the Community Council and, presumably Llanymynech & Pant Parish Council; The Church Council should take the lead on this with support from the local councils and the diocese might be expected to share in funding the project.

Cllr McCluskey said that we should contact the Church Council and offer support but that the Community council needed to see some detailed plans.

The Chairman said that a joint meeting with Llanymynech & Pant Parish Council should be held and the Church Clock could form part of the agenda.

7.5. Statutory Guidance

The Welsh Government’s statutory guidance circulated via One Voice Wales had been forwarded to councillors. The Chairman had made some comments which were reported in the papers for the meeting. He now felt that there should be a sub-committee formed to consider the guidance in detail and report to the September meeting of the Council on what action should be taken. Cllr McCluskey felt that we should first approach One Voice Wales and / or Powys County Council to ascertain what  advice they can give.

It was agreed that the Clerk would report the Council’s discussion to One Voice Wales and ask what advice and support is available. It was also felt that County Cllr Arwel Jones be asked what stance other community councils are taking.

ACTION: Clerk

7.6.   LDP Settlement Audit

Council noted the survey from Cadnant in the papers for the meeting. Cllr Dover offered to fill in the survey and circulate to the Council for comment and agreement at the next meeting. Council considered the questions one by one and various points were made. Cllr Dover will complete that survey with these comments in mind.

ACTION: Cllr Dover

8. Amenities

8.1.  Walls Bridge Playground and Football Field

The Chairman reported he that had received an email from Clive Heaton advising that one of the pieces of apparatus had been vandalised. The Chairman had discovered that one of the "springee" rides had been snapped off the base fitting - the steel spring having been sheared through. He had  placed an entry on the Llanymynech Community Facebook page asking for any information.

He had also contacted Carreghofa Primary School and spoke to the Head, advising her what had been found. She agreed to speak to each class and ask them to be careful when  in the play park - as the ground fitting was above ground level.

The Chairman had also contacted the equipment suppliers - Sutcliffe NW - & spoke to Sarah Russell. She said she had never heard of the spring shearing through as the spring was made of high tensile materials which would unlikely to snap.

She did say that spares were available and said she would forward details of the parts/costs. A mail was received later outlining the parts and giving a total cost of £167 (inc. delivery) exc. VAT.

The meeting thought the costs were acceptable and Cllr Done said he would look at the fitting and the seat to see if all the parts listed were required or whether only a new spring was necessary.

The Clerk said that the money could be claimed via the insurance cover (this may need checking to ascertain if there is an excess and whether the premium would rise at the next renewal).

ACTION: Chairman, Cllr Done & Clerk

RoSPA Inspection.

The RoSPA inspection had been received after the papers for the meeting had been sent out but had been circulated by the Clerk on the day of the meeting.

The Chairman said these report (and faults identified) were almost exactly in line with those reported in previous years

1) The vegetation by the entrance gate at Carreghofa Lane would be cut back.

2) The hedge by the gate on the towpath was growing in and was locked (as previously requested). Although the report said the gate could still be scaled, no action to be taken.

3) 1/4 rubber edging required for the seats on the slide. (These will be ordered at the time the order for the replacement spring is done.)

4) The loose swing bolt is unlikely to come free as it is rusted on tight and will not move. It has been oiled previously to no effect.

5) The wooden bench requires attention but when it gets to the point that is will cause a danger, it will be dismantled and scrapped. leaving only the new benches in place.

6) The fault on the adult equipment (tread step), where a cap is missing. The Chairman will check who the manufacturer / fitters are and obtain a quote for a replacement.

7) "Dogs Banned" signs missing. These have been put up and subsequently removed (by unknown persons). The Chairman agreed  to check prices.

ACTION: Chairman,

8.2. Email from Resident re Cae Haidd

The Clerk read out  an email from a resident as follows:-

Further to your email we have been trying to contact the relevant person at Powys about the maintenance of the trees on the green. After months of promises that someone would ring back I finally managed to speak to the lady with responsibility for this area. According to her Powys has no responsibility for the green but she would discuss the need for the trees being lopped at her next meeting with the county councillor. She did promise to ring me back but thus far we have heard nothing more.

Therefore if Powys has nothing to do with the green can I ask again that the community council employs someone to cut back the cherry tree and perhaps to re stake some of the other trees. The Rowan planted by councillors a decade ago is now growing at an angle far from vertical and will surely blow over in the next gale as the support we have attached to it was only intend as a temporary measure.

The Clerk referred to previous emails on this subject. It is the Council’s opinion that the land at Cae Haidd is the responsibility of the County Council but he pointed out that the Community Council had, at a previous time, done some work here as a goodwill gesture in the light of no action from Powys County Council.

It was agreed that the Council should contact Powys County Council and ascertain the actual responsibility for this area.

ACTION: Clerk

 8.3. Dolphin Car Park

No further action. To be kept on the agenda.

9.  Highways and Byways

9. 1. Road Repairs and Potholes

In the absence of County Cllr Arwel Jones this matter was held over until the next meeting.

ACTION: County Cllr Arwel Jones

10. To receive reports on Meetings from Outside Bodies

10.1.  Burial Board

No meeting held in last month

10.2. Powys C. C. and Town and Community Councils meeting

There will be a Zoom meeting on 14^th July

10.3. Village Hall

The meeting was in progress at the same time as the Council meeting.

10.4 CHC meeting

A meeting will be held on 7^th July

11. Correspondence

11.1  Correspondence for Decision

There was no correspondence for decision

11.2. Correspondence to note.

Council noted the correspondence sent out by the Clerk since the last meeting and itemised in the papers for the meeting.

12. Any Other Business

12.1 Chair advised that he has a "Zoom" with Dyfed-Powys police scheduled for 29^th June at 3:30pm regarding the speeding problem on B4398. A post meeting note will be issued to Councillors separately

12.2 "Cllr Done reported that an elderly neighbour living by the canal tow path in Orchard Green who, it is believed, was burgled a couple of years ago (she was alone in the house at the time) has since that time she has become somewhat reclusive and difficult to communicate with (probably expected in the circumstances).

She has had her garden fence removed but as yet not made any effort to have replacements fitted. The problem is that 2 swans have taken up residence on the towpath, opposite her house, and with 5 cygnets are very protective when people try to go by their "spot".  Rather than turn round and walk away, people are actually walking off the towpath and walking through her property/garden onto Orchard Green. This could be considered trespass. Cllr Done asked if there is anything that could be done via Social Services? The Chairman said he would contact the local PCSO to report the situation and see if there was anything could be done to help.

Post meeting note PCSO Pocock responded that she would ask a colleague to call to check the matter."

12.3.Cllr McCluskey reminded members of the fund raising concert in aid of the North Wales cancer Appeal to be held at the Village Hall on 1^st July.

13  Date of Next meeting

Tuesday 26^th July at 7.00pm at Llanymynech Village Hall

 ACTION: All to note.