Dinnington Parish Council

Minutes of the Parish meeting held on

17th June 2015
Present:
Cllr Raymond Thompson

Chairman

Cllr Mike Wood

Vice Chairman

Cllr Alan Biggins

Cllr Audrey Dellow
Cllr Sylvia Hood
Cllr Tom Laidler
Cllr Steven Phelps
Cllr Joyce Porter
Cllr Brenda Scott
Cllr Gill Smith
In Attendance:
Brenda Joyce

Clerk

Cllr Anita Lower

Newcastle City Council (NCC)

Cllr Brian Hunter

Newcastle City Council (NCC)

3 members of the public

Minute

16.

Action

WELCOME, INTRODUCTIONS AND APOLOGIES

The Chairman welcomed everyone to the meeting of the Parish Council (PC).
Apologies were received from Cllr Ian Graham (NCC).

17.

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST
Cllrs Hunter and Lower (NCC) declared an interest as members of the
Newcastle City Council Planning Committee.
Members were reminded to declare interests at relevant items if necessary.

18.

NIAL SOLAR PROJECT

Erin Robson Senior Advisor; Planning, Environment and Corporate Affairs,
Newcastle International Airport was in attendance to outline proposals for a
field of solar panels that the airport wanted to install, approx. between
Dinnington Green and the Airport boundary fence. One field over from
Dinnington Green (South of the existing tree copse) & East of the Public
footpath over Toft Hill.
Erin Robson informed the PC that the objective of the policy was to promote
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energy efficiency, improve supply efficiency and to utilise renewable energy

the airport aimed to reduce its carbon footprint from 2010 levels by 15% in
2015, 20% in 2021 and up to 25% by 2030. Money saved would be reinvested
in the airport.
The proposal was for over 16,000 panels to be installed over two phases on a
50 acre site. The scheme would have a 20 year lifespan and would directly
supply energy to the airport as it was generated. Planning permission for this
type of scheme was usually granted for 25 years.
In summary the project would cost 4.45M, utilise existing farm land and have
environmental and reputational benefits for the airport as well as community
benefits. It was acknowledged that there were some challenges to overcome.
Screening was already provided near the village as the airport had planted a
bank of trees 15-20 years ago. This land had been purchased to act as a buffer
to retain the open nature of the land between the airport and the village.
There would be 6 weeks of delivery vehicle movement during the construction
phase followed by irregular maintenance vehicles accessing the site once or
twice per year.
In response to issues raised and questions asked by members Erin Robson
advised that:Each panel would be 2.5-3 square metres.
The panels would run north to south and have a surrounding 2m high green
mesh fence for security.
A flood risk assessment had been done there was no risk to the site but
the airport would put in any mitigation measures required.
The project would generate 35% of the airports power.
With regard to the glint or glare factor, the angle of the panels and the
possible risk of reflection towards the flightpath, E Robson stated that a
solar glare hazard analysis tool had been used. Two studies had been
conducted; a major issue for pilots was known to be after-glow but this was
understood to be negligible. However, a further independent study had been
commissioned and was currently being carried out.
It was stated that the angle of the panels was likely to be 22% (following the
glint and glare study) to get the optimum amount of light to the panels.
It was stressed that safety was a paramount concern and that the operation
of the airport would never be compromised.
The reason for the location was because there were development
aspirations for the south side of the airport.
Inverters indicative locations were shown on the plan circulated; in the
middle of the site for phase 1 and more dispersed around the site for phase
2.
E Robson stated that the construction period would see 40 approx. wagons
over a 3-4 day period and that this would have a very short term impact.
Although it was impossible to say what type of technology would be
available in 25 years it was the intention to return the area to agricultural
land, after 25 years.
At the moment Gatwick had a small amount of solar panels parallel to the
runway with plans to increase the scale.
The airport intended to write to residents on the borders of the
village/scheme and also hoped to hold a meeting in the village hall. The PC
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asked, and E Robson agreed, that all village residents be contacted and
advised of the proposals in the spirt of openness and transparency. Contact
details were available from NCC Electoral Services Section.
E Robson confirmed that the offer of community benefit was not a one-time
offer and asked that members consider what funding could be used for.
It was likely that the proposals would be submitted to Planning in July and
estimated that 12 weeks was required for consideration of major schemes.
There was some urgency regarding the timeline as government subsidies
meant that the scheme would need to be operational by the New Year.
E Robson also agreed to feedback to the Taxi associations about the issues
and problems caused by speeding in the village.
The Vice Chairman informed all attendees that during the consultation process
for NCCs One Core Strategy there had been a strong mandate against any
kind of development on the greenbelt. As such, the PC had an obligation to
continue to protect the greenbelt a solar farm on this scale would further
reduce the amount of green fields & agricultural land surrounding the village.
The solar farm would be a problem visually and it would reduce residents
enjoyment of the countryside even with additional screening. Although the use
of science to reduce the carbon footprint could be seen as a positive measure,
as could benefits to the village from the scheme. However, the PC would, on
principal, continue to support the majority view of village residents and oppose
further development on the greenbelt, surrounding the Village.
19.

OPEN FORUM

19.1

Traffic layout near Regent Centre Gosforth

A member of the public raised concerns about problems with the new traffic
layout at Regent Centre/Asda/M&S in Gosforth. Many local children attended
school near the new road layout and it was worrying for parents and families.
Cllr Lower said that she had made several complaints about the situation
including the bus lane/island issues and the crossing being too close to the
junction. The number of lanes would also increase with the introduction of cycle
lanes. Cllr Lower advised that the Engineers had reported no problems with the
layout but said that she would take the issue back again.

19.2

AL

Speeding
A resident expressed strong concerns about speeding traffic on Prestwick
Road, especially at night. The traffic calming measures were no use on this
stretch of road. NCC councillors confirmed that there were no plans to lower the
speed limit to 20mph or to put in yellow lines.
With regard to speeding coming into the village, from both entrance roads,
there was some discussion about proactively trying to stop it. This was raised at
a recent SNAPs meeting and the police were asked to carry out speed checks
in the village. It was agreed that speed traps would make a difference and Cllr
Lower said that she would contact Chris Patton tomorrow to see if anything
could be done.

AL

The Clerk also agreed to contact Northumbria Police to ask them to revisit the
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speeding problems on March Terrace and Main Road.

BJ

Members commented on the fact that again there was no Northumbria Police
presence at the meeting.
19.3

The Paddock (West end of March Terrace)

A large permanent structure had now been erected in accordance with planning
regulations. However, residents of March Terrace had not been consulted and
the structure was far bigger than could have been anticipated and that it was
poorly positioned. The VC had informed Planning, when Planning permission
was being applied for, that the near neighbours would need to be consulted
about this. He also pointed out that greenbelt restrictions did not apply to
agricultural buildings. Cllr Lower said she would take photos and talk to the
Planners about this to ascertain whether or not the building complied with the
permissions. The VC agreed to forward the planning reference number to Cllr
Lower.

19.4

Pavements
It was reported that some loose curb stones on Oak Avenue still had not been
re-laid and also repairs carried out to footpaths near the coal board cottages.
Cllr Lower agreed to take this back as well as issues with tarmac lifting in Ash,
Oak and Sycamore Avenues.

20.

AL /
MW

AL

DONKEY FIELD DEVELOPMENT

The Vice Chairman (VC) advised that he had now been invited to attend the
monthly liaison meetings of NCC and Keepmoat as a representative of the PC.
This was moved and duly seconded by the PC.
The VC intended to report back after each meeting or contact members by
email if there were any urgent issues.
It was now likely the development would start on site in July.

21.

MEMBERS ITEMS OF CONCERN

21.1

Sycamore Avenue the problems with inconsiderate parking were raised

again.
The minutes from March 2015 record that, Northumbria Police had been asked
at the last meeting to monitor the situation with regard to inconsiderate parking
at the school. A member stressed that the problems were now getting worse.
CSO Dunn reminded members that causing an obstruction was a police
matter.

Clerk

The problems with inconsiderate parking/obstruction by a resident (on the

green at the West end of Sycamore Ave) were also raised again. The Clerk
would email Northumbria Police to ask what action had been taken.
AL
Cllr Lower said she would ask YHN if they would fund a project to stop vehicles
parking on the green. However, it was stressed that the majority of residents
would have to approve the scheme for it to go forward.
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21.2

21.3

Footpaths it was reported that the tarmac was lifting off in Ash and Sycamore
Avenues and that the footpath in Oak Avenue was incomplete Cllr Lower said
she would take this back to NCC.
Post Office (PO) there were rumours in the village that the PO was going to
close, since the retirement of the current Postmaster. The Post Office had been
identified by residents who responded to a PC consultation as a vital facility in
the village. The Clerk was asked to contact Post Office Counters and find out
the current situation and encourage them to retain the PO in the village.

21.4

Litter - it was reported that there was an increase in litter on the school path.
Members were reminded to report these types of issues to Envirocall. The Vicar
also said that he would mention this when he was at the school tomorrow.

21.5

Venture Bank/30mph - Cllr Lower confirmed that the sign would be moved but it
would have to be advertised via a Traffic Regulation Order in the first instance.
Following the advertisement a hearing may be required. The Castle Ward
Committee had agreed to pick up the costs.

21.6

Big Waters - a member advised that they had approached by a member of the
public complaining about the difficulties in using the footpath from the
Recreation field down towards the Big Waters, due to it being overgrown. It was
pointed out at the meeting that the footpath from the recreation Field had been
cut. The rest of the path could not be cut because it was a hay field.

22.

MINUTES OF THE PREVIOUS MEETING AND MATTERS ARISING

22.1

The minutes of the previous meeting were agreed as a correct record.

22.2

Matters arising

AL

Clerk

Minute No 121.1 (15thApril 2015)

Cllr Lower informed attendees that YHN could have funds available to fence off
the grass to stop people parking/driving on it. A majority of residents would have
to agree on the type of scheme wanted. She would make enquiries at YHN.
Minute No 121.3 (15thApril 2015)
Grass cuttings the VC and Cllr Laidler had met with Mark Lamb (NCC
Horticultural Specialist) on 8th June to look around the village.
M Lamb advised that the problem of the cut grass not being picked up was a
consequence of the budget cuts. It was possible to pay for extra cuts during
high growth periods and a quote had been requested.
It was confirmed that the problem thistles behind the Raj would be attended
to and that the uncut grass adjacent to the school entrance had now been
confirmed as Education land and would be cut.
The edges of the verges on the access roads to/from the village were cut by
operatives riding on the grass rather than the road travelling to / from the
village.
Grass verge towards Horton this was a Highways responsibility but would
not be considered a problem as the white line was visible on the side of the
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road.
Weather permitting grass in the village would be cut again before 6 July as
would where the daffodils grow.
Old school field this was now considered to be a wild flower meadow. Cllr
Lower would ask for more information.
Minute No 107.4 (18th March 2015)
Footpath between Bracken and Shaftoe Cllr Lower reported back that the issue
was not severe enough to warrant action at this time.

23.

CORRESPONDENCE

23.1

Womens Guild enquiry Cllr Porter agreed to respond to this enquiry. Clerk to
forward contact details.

Clerk

23.2

Prestwick boundary enquiry the PC confirmed that the reply to this enquiry
was that Prestwick was not within the boundary of Dinnington Parish Council.

Clerk

23.3

Resignation letter the Clerk formally notified the PC of her intention to resign.
Although contractually obliged to four weeks notice the Clerk would assist with
the recruitment process and handover requirements, within reason.

24.

PLANNING

24.1

Planning Applications Cllr Biggins agreed to forward notifications of planning

applications from NCC to all parish councillors.

24.2

Members discussed the proposed development at Woolsington Hall. The

minutes of Woolsington Parish Council (January 2015) stated that all
construction traffic should be diverted away from Woolsington and this would
have a direct impact on Dinnington (at the same time as the disruption from the
Donkey Field development). Cllr Hunter said that he would find out the situation
and report back; the VC asked that he take this PCs concerns back to
Woolsington. Cllr Lower advised that she had submitted an objection, on behalf
of Dinnington, stating that the planned access route was not suitable for any
traffic and access was crucial to any development. The development would be
going to Planning Committee on 26 June 2015.

24.3

Neighbourhood Plan the meeting was informed that the Assistant Director
Planning Investment and Development had agreed to fund the initial scoping
meeting with the consultant. She had also requested the main issues and
themes arising from the PCs consultation. It was anticipated that David Cross
would arrange a meeting in the next month, after he had secured a second
quotation for this work.

25.

UPDATES

25.1

Village Hall nothing to report at this time.

25.2

Adopt a Planter / Northumbria in Bloom

JAB

BH

The school had responded to the Clerk that they would be delighted to be
6

included in the judging tour for the Northumbria in Bloom and welcomed the
PCs invitation to take part in the event. The school would be contacted
regarding the timings for the judges to visit the school.
A letter encouraging local businesses to lend support to the entry into
Northumbria in Bloom had been delivered in the village.
The club was interested in the two-tier planter and would get back to the PC
about this.
Attendees were warned to watch out for petty vandalism of the planters and
report problems to the police on 101.
It was reported that F Renton had received plants free of charge from Plants
Plus for the three planters he maintained on behalf of the village.
25.3

Newsletter the latest edition of the newsletter had recently been hand
delivered by PC members. Outlying addresses would have received copies in
the post.

25.4

Library the library was running smoothly.

25.5

Allotments nothing to report at this time.

25.6

Website the amount of 83.70 was due to HCI Data Ltd. for the website
domain name.

26.

FINANCIAL MATTERS

26.1

Cheques for approval / signing

MW

Clerk

100902 - 464.58 Zurich Municipal

100903 - 136.66 Digital Print, NCC
100904 - cancelled
100905 - 253.16 Digital Print, NCC
100906 - 246.20 NALC annual subs
100907 - 85.00 Garden Girl
100908 - 17.46 Clerk (newsletter postage)
100909 - 83.70 - HCI Data Ltd.
100910 - 22.50 - A Graham (Adopt a Planter)
100911 - 23.96 T Laidler (village plants)
26.2

Annual accounts and governance statement approval

(a) The PC approved the accounting statements for the year ended 31 st
March 2015.
(b) The PC approved the annual governance statement in accordance with
the BDO LLP guidance.
The accounts would be submitted to BDO, the external auditor, for the predetermined date of 13th July.

27.

DATE AND TIME OF NEXT MEETING - 7.00pm on Wednesday 8th July 2015
Meeting ended 9:10pm.