A meeting of Heddon on the Wall Parish Council was held on Wednesday, 12th January, 2000.

PRESENT: Dr. Selman (Chairman); Mr. Armstrong: Mr. Tailford: Mr. Watson: Mrs. Thompson: Mr. Iley; District & County Councillor Avery and the Clerk (Mrs. Lockey)

The Chairman opened the meeting and wished everyone a Happy New Year and Millennium.

1. APOLOGIES: Mr. Waugh: Mr. Merridew and Mr. Young.

2. MINUTES OF LAST MEETING

These were approved and signed.

3. MATTERS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES

a. Heddon Mill Bridleway

Reply received from Mr. J. Howe, NCC, confirming that it was Bridleway No. 6 and not Bridleway No. 16 as stated. The Clerk was asked to write asking that, as previously offered, hardcore be added to the surface of the Bridleway.

b. Electoral Arrangements for Northumberland County Council

Further response from Peter Atkinson MP, again confirming his support for the Parish Council.

c. Moveable Security Camera in Heddon

It had been reported in the newspaper that six out of the eight Parish Councils agreeing to financially support a camera in their village had, for one reason or another, withdrawn. The question was asked whether this would mean that the costs would now be divided by two or would the original amounts only be requested. The Clerk to investigate.

d. Purchase of Allotments

This had now dragged on for a number of years and Councillor Avery was investigating.

e. CMBC 2000/2001 Budget Review

The Chairman had received a letter from Michael Davey, Leader of the Council regarding the Budget Review and noted that there would be extra charges made for Home Care Services

4. COUNTY REPORT

Proposed Sports Field - Safe Route

Councillor Avery was clarifying the position with the NCC Highways Department and the CMBC Planning Department as to what was still needed. The Parish Council felt that all necessary information had been submitted. The Official documentation advising the Parish Council that permission had been granted had not yet been received.

4. DISTRICT REPORT

The application to discharge the Town & Country Planning - Section 106 planning obligation in relation to trees on properties 20-38 (evens) Heddon Banks is being discussed at a Planning Meeting on 13th January and it is understood the Officers are recommending a site visit.

It was again stressed that the 106 Agreement is only one of many problems in this particular area and also in the village as a whole. New ways of dealing with problems regarding trees should be looked at.

Councillor Avery was asked when council houses in Centurion Way would be painted. He would investigate.

6. ACCOUNTS - received

a. Village Trust Account - Charifund £377.33

b. Village Trust Account - Charibond £66.33

c. Village Trust Account - Charibond £1.24

d. Knott Hall (P.Edmondson invoices) £560.37

e. Memorial Park - dividend £13.00

To pay

f. P. Sewell (Handyman) up to and including 12.1.2000 this includes various extra hours worked 13 hours @ £3.60 per hours £46.80

g. A. Lockey (January) £241.37

The above accounts were agreed for payment

7. PLANNING

91/D/269D All applicants. 28-38 (evens) Heddon Banks, Heddon on the Wall.

To discharge the Town & Country Planning - Section 106 Planning obligation (dated 12 Dec, 1991) in relation to the properties known as.

Copy of detailed objection sent to Mr. Woodcock, CMBC, by Mr. W.H. Lowes, 6 Killiebrigs, Heddon on the Wall, had been passed to the Parish Council.

Decisions -

99/D/507 M. Watson, Rudchester Manor.

Change of use of cartsheds to provide 4No. single and 1No. double garages. Permitted.

99/D/544 Bays Leap Dairy Farm Limited, Bays Leap Farm, Heddon on the Wall.

Demolition of Calf House and Viewing Gallery and erection of Dairy Parlour. - Permitted.

8. VACANCY FOR PARISH COUNCIL CLERK

To date no applications have been received for the position.

It was suggested that the Hexham Courant be asked to write an article on the difficulty of obtaining a Clerk. Also, that the Chairman write a short article for the next issue of Heddon Gossip. This was agreed.

9. CORRESPONDENCE

a. From Community Council of Northumberland

1. Introducing Fiona Renner-Thompson, Manager of the Millennium Community Marquee.

It was agreed that various items could be put forward for inclusion in the Millennium Community Marquee - 25th & 25th June, 2000, in the Northumberland Festival at Alnwick, i.e., Heddon Butterfly Haven, St. Andrew’s Flower Festival.

2.The Lieutenancy of Northumberland - Details of Ecumenical Church Service to Celebrate the Millennium. Hexham Abbey - Sunday 23rd January, 2000, at 2.30pm. Mrs. Thompson said she would like to attend.

3. Comments re the future role of the Parish Council. Possibly ‘more democracy at work in local government’. The Parish Council supported the Northumberland Association of Local Councils in their thinking that Parish Councils could do more for their local community and agreed that Parish Councils could take over some of the powers at present held by District and County Councils.

4. Contributions to Northumberland Community News were requested.

b. Tyne Valley Voluntary Action News

This publication offered a wealth of information for grant seekers.

c. Castle Morpeth Disability Association - Winter 1999 Newsletter

d. Heddon on the Wall Email Information Service.

After a trial period of several months this service ceased on 31.12.99 due to lack of support.

10. ANY OTHER BUSINESS

Mrs. Thompson asked if the Parish Council was doing anything to mark the millennium, say plant a tree. Mr. Armstrong would investigate the possibility of including a tree in the Heddon Butterfly Scheme.

Mr. Iley reported that the University had put up a notice at the entrance to Close House saying that it was private property and warning of the dangers of being hit by golf balls. Another notice had been put up at the Waggonway entrance warning of being hit by golf balls. The notice stating ‘private property’ was out of order and the Clerk was asked to write saying that a public bridleway crossed the golf course and although the Parish Council was in agreement with the warning of being hit by a golf ball, the notice stating ‘private property’ was misleading, and state that the same notice as was posted at the Waggonway entrance be used throughout.

It was asked if arrangements had been made to have a joint meeting with the Parish Council and the Knott Hall Committee. It was agreed that a date should be fixed. A number of matters needed investigating, especially the insurance claim, on the Parish Council’s Policy, in September, 1999, not yet finalised. It was reported that a burst water pipe in the Knott Hall between Christmas and the New Year had caused considerable damage and would be the subject of an insurance claim.

It was reported that work had appeared to have continued beyond normal working hours, on a planning application at 11 Aquila Drive, when it was understood that all work had been stopped awaiting a further planning application. Councillor Avery would investigate.

Mr. Iley asked that the piece of ‘sinking’ road at the junction of Trajan Walk and Mithras Gardens be reported and repaired.

Mr. Armstrong asked if there was any news on the Traffic Calming Road Signs which had been promised for Heddon some months back. The Clerk had tried on a number of occasions to contact the Police Officer dealing with the matter but to no avail. It was suggested that a letter be sent to the Chief Constable to try to get some action.

There being no other business the Chairman closed the meeting at 8.55pm

A meeting of Heddon on the Wall Parish Council was held on Wednesday, 9th February, 2000, in Heddon Library.

PRESENT: Dr. Selman (Chairman): Mr. Armstrong: Mr. Iley: Mrs. Thompson: Mr. Merridew: Mr. Watson: Mr. Tailford: Mr. Young: Mr. Waugh and the Clerk (Mrs. Lockey)

Visitors - Mr. Bates

1. APOLOGIES: Councillor Avery

2. MINUTES OF LAST MEETING - these were approved and signed.

3. MATTERS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES

a. Millennium Community Marquee

A questionnaire had been received for completion re space needed, etc. There were display boards at the Knott Hall which it was agreed to borrow for the 24 & 25th June. Information regarding BTCV’s input, if any, was awaited.

b. Marking the Millennium

The Chairman suggested that possibly a Yew tree could be planted just within the boundaries of the Butterfly Haven to mark the Millennium. Mr. Armstrong agreed to discuss this with Nick Vagg, BTCV.

The Chairman also asked if a Norway Maple which he had grown could be planted in the Welfare Field near the gate to the school. This was agreed.

c. Speeding Traffic

Through the persistence of the Parish Council and Mr. Maurice Locke, radar checks are ongoing on the approach roads to Heddon. Northumberland County Council had also confirmed to Mr. Locke that Heddon was included in the ‘Local Transport Plan to embark on a rolling programme to introduce gateway features to emphasise speed limits’.

4. COUNTY REPORT

Councillor Avery sent a written report.

Transfer of West Heddon Allotments to the Parish Council. Another attempt will be made to speed up this process. It was, however, agreed that the question of buildings on the allotments which were not approved must be sorted out before the Parish Council would accept ownership of the allotments.

The County Council was setting its budget on 16 February

Speeding Traffic. As previously reported Heddon had been added to a 5 year rolling programme emphasising speed limits.

Rudchester. As set out in the Council’s corporate plan, work on the site at Rudchester is hoped to start in the Spring of this year. It is intended to have the Visitor Facility in place by March 2001.The Local Interpretation Plans have been drawn up for all areas along the Wall except for the Heddon Area. Dr. Selman had protested very strongly about this exclusion and was to attend a meeting on 21st February to address this omission. There will be four public meetings, one will be in Heddon, to address problems relating to farmers, transport, parking and Hadrian’s Wall Trail. If anyone can foresee problems please get in touch with Dr. Selman.

The Parish Council will be asked to comment on a discussion paper out shortly from Hadrian’s Wall Management Committee.

5. DISTRICT REPORT

Heddon Common. Councillor Avery and Colin Marlee (CMBC Countryside Officer) were trying to ‘gee-up’ the Legal Department to get the agreement between CMBC and the Parish Council finalised as soon as possible.

Painting Council Houses in Centurion Way. This would be done later in the year. More definite dates will be available when the contracts for the work are awarded.

Mrs. Thompson pointed out that some of the outside window sills were rotten and needed replacing and wondered if this work would be included.

Castle Morpeth Borough Council set its Budget today, 9th February.

S.106 Agreement - Heddon Banks. The decision of the Planning Committee was to retain the Agreement but looked to re-negotiating its details to make it more acceptable to all parties and therefore more enforceable. The authority will bring together all concerned residents, the Chair/vice-Chair of Planning, Councillor Avery and Parish Council representatives to try to achieve some sort of consensus on this matter.

Councillor Avery was a member of the Local Transport Plan Committee and said that submissions from the Parish Council would be welcome.

6. ACCOUNTS - received

a. From Knott Hall for ‘Pinocchio £245.00

To Pay -

b. P. Sewell (Handyman) up to and including

week commencing 7 Feb. 2000 £28.80

c. A.Lockey - February £241.37

d. NTC - Production of Pinocchio £287.88

Cheque drawn on Bank of Ireland to cover above £300.00

The above accounts were received for payment

7. PLANNING - circulated

98/D/361 I.Allen, 11 Aquila Drive Heddon on the Wall - amended plans

The Parish Council considers that Mr. Allen should be instructed to lower the dormer windows to the level shown on the original plans (18" below the roof ridge); to change the present gable end on the rear extension to a hipped roof as shown on the original plans. i.e. to ensure the alterations complied with the original approved plans otherwise submitting planning applications is pointless.

The Parish Council would await written confirmation of the Planning Committee’s decision before writing to the Chairman of the Planning Committee.

It was agreed that it would be useful if the Planning Officer was invited to attend a Parish Council meeting to explain how and why Planning decisions were made, and to discuss the ‘setting of precedents’.

91/D/269D Discharge of Condition - 28-38 Heddon Banks.

Following a site meeting on 2nd February a decision detailed under District Report had been made.

8. NATIONAL TRAILS ALIGNMENT - HADRIAN’S WALL PATH - PROPOSED VARIATION AT HEDDON ON THE WALL

Reply from Mr. Tim Fish, Northumberland County Council, saying that the Ramblers Association had objected to the variation.

The Parish Council was at a loss to understand why the Hexham Group of the Ramblers Association were objecting to the proposed variation of the Hadrian’s Wall Path away from Heddon Common. The Public Rights of Way and Bridleways on Heddon Common were not being closed and could still be used by ramblers. The Parish Council was proposing the variation to divert the thousands of Hadrian’s Wall Trail walkers away from Heddon Common which was a Local Nature Reserve. Mr. Tailford confirmed the the Heddon Ramblers Club supported Heddon Parish Council.

9. REGISTER OF ELECTORS

The final Register for 2000/2001 had been received. Mr. Iley offered to print a copy for each Parish Councillor.

10. ZURICH INSURANCE - Schedule Inspection Summary - Play Equipment in Welfare Field.

Nothing needed to be done but it was suggested that the bays under the equipment be in-filled with wood/bark chips.

11. TRIMMING OF HORSE CHESTNUT TREE IN SHOPPING AREA

A quotation of £150 to carry out the work was accepted. The Clerk suggested that the off-cuts could be chipped and placed under the play equipment. After discussion the Clerk agreed to find out how much material would result and whether using the chips was a viable proposition. The work to be carried out on 19th February. A letter of explanation to be sent to residents in close proximity to the tree.

12. VACANCY FOR PARISH COUNCIL CLERK

To date, one application had been received from a resident of Heddon and one from someone living in Hexham. The Chairman had written an article about the difficulty of getting a Clerk from the village which was published in Heddon Gossip being delivered at the present time. It was agreed to wait two weeks before interviewing applicants.

13. CORRESPONDENCE

a. Village Appraisal

Do we want the questionnaires returned? No.

b. Northumberland Minerals Local Plan

Venues of deposit draft plan

c. Northumbria Police - Moveable CCTV System

To celebrate another successful year with the acquisition of a mobile police and community office and a portable CCTV systen South West Northumberland Area Command invited members of the Parish Council to drinks and light refreshments on Friday, 31 March, 2000.

d. Knott Memorial Hall

A set of audited accounts for the year to 31st December, 1999, had been received.

14. ANY OTHER BUSINESS.

The Chairman informed the meeting that members of the Youth Forum were to meet with Martin Weeks and Susan Butler on Monday, 21st February, 2000, to get the Outreach Workers back to Heddon.

Mr. Merridew asked if the sunken manhole cover near the Knott Hall could be raised.

Mr. Iley asked if there was any news of the re-cycling bins being re-installed in Heddon. No.

Mrs. Thompson asked about the ‘horse’ road sign missing from the bottom of Houghton bank,

also the 30mph sign knocked over on the approach road from the A69. The Clerk said both had been reported and were in the system for replacement. The 30mph sign needs the electrical supply re-fixed.

The sign at the junction of Heddon Banks and Towne Gate had been damaged beyond repair and would be replaced.

It was reported that the car park behind the shops was usually full with cars which seem to be parked all day. Some were cars of local employees. Ramblers had been seen parking their cars before going on a circular walk around Heddon. As parking in Heddon was at a premium this matter should be kept to the fore and checks made with the local shops to ascertain their customer’s requirements.

On behalf of the Knott Hall Committee, Mr. Waugh said that with regard to the letter from the Parish Council to the Knott Hall Committee requesting a joint meeting, the Hall Committee wondered why the request had been made. The insurance claims were now nearing completion and therefore the Hall Committee felt the meeting was unnecessary. The Parish Council Chairman said that they had been concerned that the insurance claims had taken so long to complete.

The Parish Council also felt that an Annual Meeting with the Hall Committee would be useful.

Mrs. Thompson pointed out that the original request for a joint meeting was to discuss grant applications for the Hall.

The Parish Council agreed that a joint meeting with the Hall Committee would be useful and Mr. Waugh agreed to take this back to the Hall Committee.

Mr. Waugh had been approached by a number of residents and on their behalf he asked where the money had come from to finance the Butterfly Haven.

Mr. Armstrong said that from this question it was obvious that some residents had not been reading the last 2 or 3 issues of Heddon Gossip where exact details had been given, however, he gave the information again - application had been made to the Millennium Fund via Age Concern and a grant of £10,000 had been made together with a grant of £5,000 from Barclays Site-Savers (this money could not be spent on anything but the Butterfly Haven). The requirement was one applicant and five other named persons. Everyone had to over 55 years of age. These conditions were complied with and together with the expertise of BTCV (British Trust for Conservation Volunteers) the area of land has been transformed to its present state. The project must be completed by the end of February, 2000, and with the large community involvement it is on target.

Mr. Iley asked when the bollards were to be installed on Mithras Gardens. In the very near future.

Mr. Watson said with regard to the NE15 article in Heddon Gossip, someone had recently moved to Heddon and their insurance company had automatically sent a refund because of change of post code.

There being no other business the Chairman closed the meeting at 9.10pm.

A meeting of Heddon on the Wall Parish Council was held on Wednesday, 8th March, 2000, in Heddon Library.

PRESENT: Dr. Selman (Chairman): Mr. Armstrong: Mr. Iley: Mr. Merridew: Mr. Young: Mr. Waugh: Mr. Watson: Mr. Tailford: District & County Councillor Avery (asked permission to join the meeting later to give his reports) and the Clerk (Mrs. Lockey) Visitor - Mr. T. Bates

1. APOLOGIES: Mrs. Thompson

2. MINUTES OF LAST MEETING. These were approved and signed

3. MATTERS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES

a. Speeding Traffic It was evident that action is being taken against speeding motorists - radar checks have been on both the Military Road and the Old Hexham Road. A digital camera had been in place on the Military Road. The Police had confirmed that there was a problem with speeding traffic.

b. Trimming of Horse Chestnut Tree in shopping area This work had been carried out on 19th February and the result is a nicely shaped tree.

c. Outreach Workers in Heddon After a meeting and discussions it was confirmed that the Outreach Workers will be back in Heddon in the very near future.

4. COUNTY REPORT. as per attached sheet.

5. DISTRICT REPORT The return of the re-cycling bins to Heddon is held up until the new site at Tritlington gets the necessary planning permission. Mr. Watson asked about the £92,000 reported in the press as being used to provide District Councillors with computers, the money coming from the Education Budget. Mr. Watson felt this was entirely wrong when his child was coming home with a Smartie tube to collect money to enable the school to buy computers for the children. Councillor Avery assured Mr. Watson that the money was not coming from the Education Budget and the project of computers for councillors was being monitored to see if savings were being made. Regarding access to the proposed sports field, Councillor Avery said that the Officer dealing with it was away ill but he would see if the matter could be progressed. The Parish Council needed something on paper. Mr. Merridew felt that delays in both the District and County Council Legal Departments should be brought to the attention of the Leaders of the Councils and, if necessary, to the Ombudsman. Councillor Avery suggested that making a complaint through the Official Complaints Procedure was one way forward.

6. ACCOUNTS - Received

a. From Knott Hall for Matthew Charlton's invoice £140.00

b. Charibond Investment Fund - Village Trust £54.27 Charibond Investment Fund - Village Trust £1.01 Charifund Investment Fund - Village Trust £130.95

To Pay -

c. Matthew Charlton - work on Knott Hall £164.50

d. P. Sewell - Handyman. Up to and including week commencing 6th March, 2000. Plus 30min owing £30.60 2.

e. A. Lockey - March £241.37

f. J.N.Trenowden (Tree Surgeon) £150.00

g. NCC - Hire of Library - Nov.Dec.99 & Jan. £60.00 Cheque for £510 drawn on Bank of Ireland to pay above. The above accounts were accepted for payment

7. INSURANCE CLAIMS MADE BY KNOTT HALL The claim made after the NTC production had been rejected - the Hall is not covered for this occurrence. The claim made by the NTC is being dealt with by their own insurance company and the Parish Council's insurance company. The claim made for all work following the burst pipe has been accepted and permission given to finish work. The insurance of the Knott Hall was checked and agreed by the Hall Committee some years back but it is obvious that it must now be updated. The Clerk was asked to obtain prices to update the policy.

8. PLANNING - for discussion

91/D/269D - Discharge of Planning Obligation (Section 106 Agreement) covering 28-38 (even) Heddon Banks. At Castle Morpeth Borough Council's Planning and Development Control Committee on 2nd Feb. members initially resolved that because the primary reasons for the agreement had not changed it be retained but that re-drafting is necessary. The Parish Council agreed and supported the suggestion that residents of Heddon Banks be allowed to replace the trees with more suitable species. Also suggested that consideration be given to the two Poplar trees being removed and replaced with more suitable larger trees.

00/D/61 J. Bellyou. Outline Erection of 1 No. detached dwellinghouse. Land south west of 10 Station Road After discussion the Parish Council had no objections but made the following observations -

1. That access be from Station Road and
2. That the dwelling should be a bungalow with a low roof level.

00/D/60 J. Bellyou - Change of use of land from agricultural use to residential. Land south of 10 Station Road The Parish Council had no objections. It was agreed to request that access to all five proposed dwellings on the site should be from Station Road and that the original proposed access to two of the dwellings from Centurion Way be abandoned. Mr. A. Watson declared an interest in these planning applications and signed the Declaration of Interest Book.

99/D/268a. J. Merridew - Conservatory 35 Aquila Drive Mr. Merridew explained the confusion with this application. His original application had been refused and a second modified application had been submitted by his architect but, in the meantime, Mr. Merridew had decided to carry out internal alterations instead of adding a conservatory. Mr. Merridew confirmed that he would not be adding a conservatory to his property. The Parish Council felt they were obliged to give observations and the Clerk was asked to reply saying that for the future a smaller conservatory would be considered.

3. 00/D/70 Bays Leap Dairy Farms Limited - provision of cattle shed. Bays Leap Farm. The Parish Council had no objections but flagged up the fact they understood that the Farm already had its full quota of buildings before this application was made.

Decisions - 99/D/602 J.Bellyou -Outline erection of 2 No. dwelling houses with associated access. North and rear of 10 Station Road, Heddon on the Wall. - Permitted.

9. HADRIAN'S WALL WORLD HERITAGE SITE - MANAGEMENT PLAN Discussion paper - Issues affecting the Hadrian's Wall world heritage site. The Parish Council was not in a position to answer all the questions asked but stressed that Heddon village should be represented and close contact and discussions should be had with all concerned i.e., Parish Council, Bus Tour Operators and English Heritage. Offer of speaker from Hadrian's Wall Unit. This offer would be taken up.

10. REVIEW OF PUBLIC TRANSPORT CONTRACTS IN SOUTH NORTHUMBERLAND AREA 5. Mrs. Thompson reviewed the public transport affecting Heddon on the Wall and commented as follows - No. 684 Newcastle - Ovington. This is a reliable service and it is hoped that the contracted journeys stay as now. The buses are fairly comfortable and usually clean. The fares are slightly higher than Stagecoach 83 service. No. 685/85 Newcastle - Hexham - Carlisle. This is the most reliable service of the three serving Heddon. Recently, extra buses have been added. No.83 Newcastle - Heddon. This journey is not in the review but it is worth mentioning that this is the least reliable of our buses. It is frequently late or does not arrive at all. When enquiries are made about missing buses the answer is usually 'it has broken down'. When a bus is needed for another journey 'it is easier to take the Heddon bus off'. The worst problem on our route is the difference in fares. There are four bus operators and four different fares. No.83 Heddon to Newcastle, the half fare is 71p No.684 the half fare is 74p No.685 the half fare is 75p The biggest fare difference is for intermediate journeys. Heddon-Throckley No.83 - 25p No. 684 - 30p No. 685 - 34p No. 685 operated by Cumbria Motor Services - 50p The 685 operated by Cumbria Motor Services charge £1.10 for a child fare from Heddon to the Fox & Hounds but only 75p from Heddon to Newcastle!

11. Definitive Map and Statement of Public Rights of Way for the County of Northumberland. NCC Definitive Map (Reclassification) Order No. 8.1999. Carriage Road Bridleway No.2. Reclassify as Bridleway No.2. Bridleway No.2. Reclassification of CRB No. 2 with existing Bridleway No.2. (to west of Bays Leap, under motorway tunnel, east to motorway sliproad, north to 500m metres south of Allerburn) 4. NCC Definitive Map (Reclassification) Order No.9 1999. Newburn Urban District. Carriage Road Bridleway No.2. Reclassify as Byway No.2. Newburn Urban District. Byway No.2. Reclassification of CRB No.2. (Newcastle City Boundary, underneath northern boundary of A69 to point 160 metres south east of Burnside Farm)

12. RECYCLING FACILITIES IN HEDDON ON THE WALL These facilities will be back in Heddon as soon as the legal details of the new site are finalised.

13. REQUESTS FOR DONATIONS

a. From the NTC Touring Theatre Company - It was agreed not to give a donation

b. Community Council of Northumberland. It was agreed to give a donation of £25 c. Morpeth Northumbrian Gathering . It was agreed not to give a donation

14. LOCAL TRANSPORT PLAN 2001 - 06 Parish Council can be involved in the process of Local Transport Plan (LPT) Development.

15. CLOSED CIRCUIT TELEVISION - HEDDON ON THE WALL Installation cost to remain as agreed at £600

16. VACANCY FOR PARISH COUNCIL CLERK There are five applicants for the position, four living in the village and one at Hexham. It was agreed that first consideration would be given to the applicants living in Heddon. It was proposed and agreed that the most suitable way to conduct the interviews would be for an informal meeting to be held with the applicants and the Parish Councillors when questions could be asked. This was arranged for Tuesday, 14th March. Individual interviews would then be arranged for applicants still wishing to be considered.

17. THE BIG BUS Following receipt of letter from Mr. David Newman suggesting The Big Bus would be useful in Heddon further investigations were made. A double deck bus offering activities for children between the ages of 9 and 14 years is available. It is available on a Monday night and could come to Heddon. It offers arts & crafts, computers, indoor games and music. In the summer outdoor sports activities could be organised in the Welfare Field. The total cost would be £2,000 per year, covering all term time and some holidays. This amount can be invoiced term by term. After discussion it was agreed that this would be a good idea. Various sites were suggested but these would need to be finalised with the Big Bus organiser.

18. CONCESSIONARY TRAVEL PASSES Cost to remain the same, i.e. £10. Passes will be distributed on Friday, 17 March between 10am and 12 noon from WI Hall, Heddon on the Wall

19. CORRESPONDENCE

a. National Lottery Charities Board - Consultation 2000 Details of meetings in the area.

b. Royal Garden Party 25 July 2000 Invitation to current Chairman to attend. The Chairman declined the invitation this year.

c. Recognition of Meritorious Service. By Friday, 24th March, 2000 5. After discussion it was unanimously agreed that Hazel Thompson be nominated.

d. Millennium May Ball - Friday 5th May, 2000

e. The Northumberland & Newcastle Society - copy of City & County

f. Copy of letter Mrs. Laws has sent to NCC re 'horse' sign missing and street lights not working.

g. Northumberland & Tyne and Wear Valuation Tribunal Appointment of members to the Tribunal. No-one wished to be nominated.

20. ANY OTHER BUSINESS. Mr. Waugh reported that he had been in touch with Mr. Pat Farnaby who manages the Heddon Website who was getting requests for addresses of B&B's in the Heddon area. There is a distinct shortage of tourist accommodation in the area. It was agreed that an article in Heddon Gossip to this effect would highlight the situation. Mr. Young reported that Heddon in Bloom would be happy to co-operate with the planting of the Memorial Park and also to meet Mr. Hanby the gardener looking after the Borders. Councillor Avery said that at present there is a Farmers Market in Hexham and Morpeth and further sites are being investigated, Ponteland and Heddon were being proposed. Mr. Waugh felt that it was worth trying a site at Heddon and he was very interested in organic produce. Mr. Tailford was totally against it. Local farmers did not produce goods which could be sold direct to the public. Mr. Watson agreed. Farmers selling the produce would be drawn from a wide area and local trades people would suffer. WI Markets also played a part in the Farmers Markets. Mrs. Thompson sent a note asking that the following be considered - 1. Abacus Nursery School be asked to level the paving stones around the Nursery School, especially those close to the telephone box and repair the area around the manhole cover at the bottom of the ramp which was in a dangerous condition. 2. There was a hole in the roof of the shelter in the Memorial Park 3. Outside 8 Overhill the area around the manhole cover needs to be repaired. There being no other business the Chairman closed the meeting at 9.40pm

HEDDON ON THE WALL PARISH COUNCIL A meeting of the Trustees of the Memorial Park was held immediately following the Parish Council meeting on Wednesday 8th March, 2000, in Heddon Library.

PRESENT: Dr. Selman (Chairman): Mr. Armstrong: Mr. Iley: Mr. Young: Mr.Waugh: Mr. Watson: Mr. Tailford and the Clerk (Mrs. Lockey)

1. APOLOGIES - Mrs. Thompson

2. MINUTES OF THE LAST MEETING. These were approved and signed

3. MATTERS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES

a. Grass Cutting in Memorial Park Mr. Chris Rand has agreed to cut the grass in the Memorial Park. He will cut it once and let the Parish Council know how long it has taken. A price for the work will then be agreed.

b. Tidying the Borders in the Memorial Park Mr. Hanby, recently moved into Heddon, met the Clerk and the Chairman to discuss tidying the borders in the Park. He has a lifelong background in horticulture and is willing to do two hours work each week to keep the borders tidy. This is his contribution to the village. Arthur Watson has agreed to clear away the cut branches, weeds, etc., once each week. Mr. Hanby suggests the borders are filled with low maintenance colourful shrubs (not highly prickly ones as these collect the litter) which he will look after. His advice and suggestions on the type of planting most suitable will be offered.

4. ANY OTHER BUSINESS None There being no other business the Chairman closed the meeting at 9.50pm.

A meeting of Heddon on the wall Parish Council was held on Wednesday, 12^th April, 2000, in Heddon Library.

PRESENT Dr. Selman (Chairman), Mr.Armstrong, Mr. Iley, Mr.Young, Mr Watson, Mr. Tailford, Mrs. Thompson, District and County Councillor Avery, and the Clerk (Mr. T. Bates)

Visitor: Mrs Lockey, and one other

1) APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE

Mr. Waugh

2) MINUTES OF THE LAST MEETING

These had been previously circulated. They were approved and signed.

3) MATTERS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES

a) The appointment of the new clerk, Mr T. Bates was accepted unanimously. The chairman expressed his thanks and the thanks of all of the Parish Council to Mrs Lockey, for all the hard work she had carried out over the past nine years. He especially mentioned the healthy financial state of the Council.

b )The reason for not making a donation to the NTC was queried. It was stated that NTC were putting up their prices and this meant that it was unlikely that they would visit Heddon in the future. It seemed that they were aiming for bigger venues.

c) Further information on the BIG BUS youth club was requested. The school headmistress was in favour of siting the BIG BUS on the school upper car park on Monday evenings. The vehicle is completely self contained and requires no external services, and has its own generator. This could be a problem in the future though the bus will be sited so that the generator faces the Common. The youth club will be running through the school holidays in the summer. It will not start until after Easter. When a date has been obtained this will be publicised by the BIG BUS organisers.

d) Mrs Hazel Thompson thanked the council for nominating her for a Meritorious Service Award.

e) It was stated that the Outreach workers were back and working in the village.

4) COUNTY REPORT

Post Code Most of Heddon has been covered by the petition. It is hoped to present the petition to the Royal Mail. Further measures include offering to meet Alan Johnson, the Minister responsible for the Royal mail, and contacting insurance companies asking how they use postcodes in assessing premiums.

Schools Extra funding was to go direct to Schools - £3000 - £5000 for small schools and £30,000 - £50,000 for large schools. Estelle Morris the Minister for Education has written suggesting Match Funding to realise a greater resource. The New Deal for schools has brought in £6.5m, which compares with £1.9m last year. The majority of this will go on a new school at Blyth. The Capital Receipt from this project will help the existing repairs programme

Administration The County Council abolished its Committee system last May. It has been replaced by a system based on executive and scrutiny functions.

Communications Every household in the County would receive a copy of the County Councils Local Performance Plan. This sets out the performance for last year and targets to improve performance this year.

Library The importance of the Library has been highlighted in the "HEDDON GOSSIP". The staff deserved praise for their efforts to ensure that so many new initiatives had come to fruition.

5) DISTRICT REPORT

Administration The District Council has proposed re-organising its Officer structure. A new Strategic Services Officer has been appointed bringing the number upto four. Nine new Unit Managers had yet to be appointed because drawing up Job Descriptions has taken longer than intended.

Leisure Centres The Morpeth and Ponteland Leisure Centres are to be managed by a private company – Leisure Connection. It is hoped that this will mean less subsidies.

Recycling The contract for the new re-cycling company should be working by the summer. Once this happens it should be possible to have re-cycling back in Heddon.

Compensation for earlier rent increases The administration proposes to give every tenant one low energy light bulb.

6) ACCOUNTS

Received:

a) Dividend, Memorial Park, £13.00

b) Parish Council Precept, for 2000 - 2001

£24,000 less election expenses of £624.45 £23,375.55

To pay:-

a) CCTV cameras in Heddon £600.00

b) T. Bates (clerk) -April £241.37

c) Petty Cash £100.00

d) P. Sewell, Handyman £28.80 up to and including w/c 3/4/00

e) P. Farnaby, managing web site £250.00

Cheque drawn on the Bank of Ireland for £1300

The above amounts were accepted for payment.

INSURANCE POLICY

The insurance policies have been reviewed. Several items emerged as a result of this. Volunteers were not insured but they are now at no extra cost. The caretaker of the Knott Hall is not covered by the parish council insurance because the Knot Hall Committee employs him. The Knott Hall Committee is to take out Employer’s Liability Insurance with the Zurich. A "Disaster Plan" should be drawn up for the Knott Hall in case something goes seriously wrong. There was discussion about the insurance of the War Memorial. It is not currently insured.

The premium would be £118.12 per year for full insurance. Impact only insurance would be £70.80 with a £100 excess in both cases. After general discussion it was concluded that because the Memorial was well protected it was not worth spending money insuring against an event which is probably not going to happen.

As a result of the discussion it was decided to obtain quotations for the replacement of the letters on the Memorial, which have been removed by vandals.

The Knott Hall Committee are concerned about a situation which might occur if a private event had to cancelled due to a fault (a burst pipe, gas leak etc) resulting in expense to the hirers. It was recommended that a quotation should be obtained to cover this eventuality.

8) PLANNING

00/D/121 L& J.G Gibson, 11a Military Road, Heddon on the wall. Erection of a Rear Porch. The Parish Council had no objections.

99/D468 A & K Watson, Heddon Banks Farm. Outline permission to erect a detached dwelling house - Permitted.

00/D/70M Bays Leap Farm . Erection of Additional Cattle sheds. A letter was received from the Planning Department. There was no limit to the number of cattle sheds on this property provided they were contained within the "shelter belt". There would be no significant increase in the number of cattle on the farm. Straw bedding would be used to absorb excrement. The agent, Mr. Mandel of Clark Scott Haden is to invite the Parish Council to visit the farm in the near future.

9) JOINT MEETING WITH REPRESENTATIVES OF THE KNOTT HALL COMMITTEE

Dr. B. Selman, Mr. I. Armstrong, Mrs A. Lockey and Mr T. Bates of the Parish Council met Mr. K.Quinn and Mr. M. Furlonger of the Knott Hall Committee on Thursday, 6^th April. Future developments in the Hall were discussed, and it was agreed that the Parish Council and the Hall committee would work closely together on this and other matters It was agreed that the Knott Hall Committee would discuss proceeding with the upgrading of the toilets, to include a disabled toilet. The possibility of a shower was also to be considered.

The Parish Council was to work closely with the Knott Hall Committee in raising funds. and obtaining grants The Parish Council would receive a copy of the Knott Hall Committee minutes each month. It was suggested that an item should be placed on the Parish Council agenda each month and a member of the Parish Council who was also on the Knott Hall Committee could present the background to the minutes. The formulation of a programme of future events for the Hall was also discussed. This was fully supported by the Parish Council. It is possible that the Parish Council could offer to underwrite some of the items on any such programme. It was also agreed that there should be a regular (probably annual) joint Parish Council/Knott Hall Committee meeting. There was some discussion over the name of the hall. The Hall Committee were invited to give a presentation at the next village Annual Meeting.

10) HADRIAN’S WALL TRAIL

Mr Tim Fish wrote to say that the Ramblers Association had withdrawn their objections to the proposed change in the route. It was now going forward to the Secretary of State for the Environment for approval. This will take some time. In the meantime consideration should be given to the Signing of the Trail through Heddon.

It is essential that walkers on the Trail get clear directions in the village, whilst not detracting from the signing of other Rights of Way. Mr. Fish issued an invitation to those interested councillors to meet him and discus the matter further. It was decided to accept Mr. Fish’s offer.

a) Heddon Soccer School

David Newman has closed the Heddon Soccer School as a result of malicious gossip circulating in the village ( as reported in the the last edition of "HEDDON GOSSIP"). He has passed all of the financial details and monies over to the Heddon Parish Council for safekeeping. This consists of a cheque for £612.94. He would like some of the money to be used for the Church football club and the rest to be used at the Council’s discretion, for the youth of Heddon, and in particular anything to do with sports facilities. The church football club has indicated that it does not need any extra money.

It has been suggested that there should be a Village youth soccer team, and this in turn leads on to progressing the Sports field. There are hopes that Mr. Newman may be prepared to form a youth team in the future.. The Parish Council will hold the funds until this happens. The Clerk is to open a special account -The Heddon Soccer School account.

b) Mayor of Castle Morpeth’s Service and Parade

No one expressed an interest in attending

c) 11, Aquila Drive.

The Parish Council has received no communication from Castle Morpeth regarding the developments at this address. Some residents have had letters from the planning department but not others. A letter to one resident was read out explaining the Planning Departments views. Approval for the larger dormer windows was given by 7 votes to six at the Planning Control Committee meeting. Approval was subject to certain restrictions with which the applicant was requested to comply. The applicant did not apply for Building Regulations approval so that CMBC did not know that construction had started until complaints arose. The addressee was assured of the CMBC’s concern for Heddon but outlining the confines in which they have to operate. The Planning Authority is to communicate with Mr. Allen expressing their displeasure at the way in which this project has proceeded. The Parish Council expressed concern at the manner in which the regulations have been flouted

d) Valerian Avenue

A complaint was received by telephone about conditions in Valerian Avenue. It was stated that businesses were being conducted from houses and that this was causing distress to other residents. After some discussion it was agreed that the running of business from a house was a very grey area, and the Parish Council could do little about it. If the main complaint was obstruction of the highway then the Police authority should be contacted.

Dog Fouling Notices in the Butterfly Haven

There was no notice in the entrance to the cut. It was suggested that this should be remedied. .

Car Park Charges in Wylam Car Park

It was stated that that this was a County responsibility being part of the Countryside Park. It was County policy to charge for car parks.

"NO CYCLING" signs by the Shops

It was observed that the sign at the top of the ramp was no longer present.

There being no further business the meeting closed at 9.45pm

The Annual Meeting of Heddon on the wall Parish Council was held on Wednesday, 17^th May, 2000, in Heddon Library commencing at 7.00pm

PRESENT Dr. Selman (Chairman), Mr. Armstrong, Mr. Iley, Mr.Young, Mr Watson, Mr. Tailford, Mrs. Thompson, Mr. Waugh, Mr. Merridew and the Clerk (Mr. T. Bates)

Visitors Mr Jueres, (from 7.30) Mr Watson, Mr. J. Boyle and one other (from 7.45, leaving at about 8.00pm)

1) APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE

Councillor Avery

2) APPOINTMENT OF CHAIRMAN

The Chairman called for nominations for the position of Chairman of the Council. Dr Selman was proposed and seconded. As there were no other nominations Dr. Selman was appointed as Chairman of the Council. An Acceptance of Office form was signed by Dr. Selman and countersigned by the Clerk.

3) APPOINTMENT OF DEPUTY CHAIRMAN<

The Chairman called for nominations for the position of Deputy Chairman of the Council. Mr. Armstrong was proposed and seconded. As there were no other nominations Mr. Armstrong was appointed Deputy Chairman of the council. An Acceptance of Office form was signed by Mr. Armstrong and countersigned by the Clerk

4) APPOINTMENT OF REPRESENTATIVES

Northumberland Association of Local Councils Mr. Armstrong was appointed.

Heddon First School Governors Dr. Selman was appointed.

Knott Hall Management Committee Mr. Waugh was appointed.

The Airport Committee Mr. Armstrong was appointed

5) MINUTES OF THE LAST PARISH COUNCIL MEETING

These had been previously circulated. They were approved and signed.

6) MATTERS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES

Three quotations for the repair of the War Memorial have been received. They varied enormously. G. F. Brown quoted £150 for replacing missing letters and cleaning the cross. Strettle Memorials quoted £650 plus £113.75 VAT. making a total of £763.75. Coleman and Co. Memorials quoted £223.50 plus £39.11 VAT making a total of £262.71. The point was made that each firm seemed to quote for a different number of missing letters. This was difficult to understand. It was decided to reject the quotation from Strettle Memorials. It was decided to confirm the number of missing letters and to check if the Coleman quotation included cleaning.

Vacancy for a Handyman. No applications had been received up to the date of this meeting. The Chairman asked that if any Councillor knew of anyone who might be suitable, to persuade them to apply.

Monies from the Football Coaching School. These have now been placed in the Village Trust Account. Mr. Newman has requested a receipt for the funds. There would be no problem with this. A letter of thanks is to be sent to Mr. Newman for his efforts with football coaching and hoping that he might be called upon in the future.

The current situation in Valerian Avenue. The situation appears to have improved. Some of the building materials have been removed to another location.

7) COUNTY REPORT

In his absence Councillor Avery submitted written reports.

Electoral Review of Northumberland. The Local Government Commission has completed its review. Ministers have decided to accept its recommendations without amendment. The recommended name for the division including Heddon is PONTELAND SOUTH. Suggestions have been put forward that the division be called HEDDON ON THE WALL. Representations to this effect must be made by 13^th June 2000. Mr Robert Wooton is to be contacted with this suggestion and the County Council is to be sent a copy of the letter.

8) DISTRICT REPORT

Safe Route to the proposed Recreation Field. Highways staff have passed on to CMBC Planning Department proposals concerning the proposed access to the recreation field. Plans/Specifications have been requested by 2^nd June. The plans are to be up to the standard required to activate Planning Permission. It was commented that the suggestion of moving the access further south would present more problems because this is County owned land.

Heddon Common A further request has been made to the legal department at CMBC to speed the transfer of the management of the site from CMBC to the Parish Council. The actual trust arrangement is to be so arranged as to allow the maximum access to external funds.

9) ACCOUNTS

Received

a) Insurance claim for Knott Hall Damage due to burst pipes, £1170.35 less £250 excess and VAT

b) Bank of Ireland, interest for April £222.40

c ) Village Trust Account, ex Football School £612.94

d) VAT Refund £443..68

To Pay

a) Refund of Insurance Claim to Knott Hall £1170.35

b) Mr. P. Sewell, outstanding sum from last month £31.50

c) Mr. C. Rand, grass cutting in the Memorial Park (3 times) £37.50

d) Clerk, Mr. T. Bates £241.37

Cheque for £800 drawn on the Bank of Ireland to cover the above and to restore the balance in the Co-operative Bank to greater than £2500

The above amounts were accepted for payment.

10) GRASS CUTTING IN THE MEMORIAL PARK

After some discussion Mr. Rand’s costs were accepted.

11) INSURANCE

a) Employers Liability Insurance for the Knott Hall is in hand. The Chairman of the Knott Hall Committee has the forms from the Zurich Insurance Company, but quotations are being obtained from other sources.

b) Insurance against loss of a private function due to some problem in the hall was not available from the Zurich Insurance Company.

12) PLANNING

Decisions

a) 00/D/60 Mr. J. Bellyou Land south of 10 Station Road, Heddon on the Wall. Change of use from Agricultural to Residential. Permitted

b) 00/D/121 L & J.G. Gibson, Greycroft, 11a Military Road. Erection of Rear Porch. Permitted

For Discussion

d) Mr. A Watson, South Houghton Farm, Change of Use of a Milking Parlour to a Micro Brewery. Mr. Watson and his party arrived to discuss this project. The party consisted of Mr. K. Watson, Mr. J. Boyle, and one other. The manufacturing process was described in detail and it was established that there would be no bottling, the product being draught beer. Concern was expressed about the possibility of noxious odours. Mr. Boyle stated that if there were such a possibility it would be simple to install a scrubber to remove the odour. The possibility of extra traffic was raised. The developers expected a delivery van per week bringing in raw materials and removing product. The name of the product was raised. This had not yet been decided but the hope was expressed that there would be a Heddon association. All used cleaning fluids would be held in holding tanks. The used hops and the malt residues are a good cattle feed. The overall attitude of the Council was one of support and the Chairman wished the developers luck in their venture.

13) HADRIAN’S WALL TRAIL

A telephone call had been received from Mr. Fish. He wished to delay discussion on sign posting until he had received approval from the DTI for the changes to the route through Heddon. He anticipates no problems but cannot give a date as to when this will be obtained.. When approval is obtained he will be in touch and arrange a meeting with all interested parties.

14) HEDDON MILL BRIDLE WAY

A telephone call had been received from Miss MacEachern. In this she outlined the problem, particularly of responsibility for the pathway. The Heddon Mill part is the landfill licensee’s whilst the part alongside the A69 could be the responsibility of Bays Leap or the Highways with Road Link as their agents. Miss Mac Eachern is reluctant to put aggregate down. The Council thought that aggregate was the only solution. Miss MacEachern is to be contacted putting forward this view.

15) ALLOTMENTS

A copy of a letter from Eversheds Solicitors (Parish Council solicitors) to the County Council asking if they were in a position to reply to previous correspondence.

16) HEDDON WEB SITE

Mr. P. Farnaby has developed a very interesting web site for Heddon and some financial support has been provided. It has already created international interest. It is a project which is well worth supporting. His expenses to date are £72.50. Problems exist because the site has been set up as cheaply as possible and it is currently held in two locations on the web. Mr. Farnaby would like to amalgamate the sites but this increases the expenditure, perhaps as high as £300 per year. It was agreed to leave the site as it is for now and review the situation later. Mr. Farnaby would be contacted with this information.

17) HADRIAN’S WALL TRANSPORT STRATEGY

A document had been received from N.C.C. for comment It outlined plans for car parking charges, and the future of the Military Road as a tertiary route rather than a secondary route It highlighted the importance of the A69 and improvements to it.

The Council agreed that sensible speed limits on the Military Road would be acceptable but that the idea of preventing its use as a cross -country route was unrealistic. A link between the Iron Sign junction and the A69 road is important. This will divert the military traffic and the quarry traffic, which currently passes through Heddon. The problem of buses visiting the Roman Wall site in Heddon is also important. There is a need for some parking facilities to be constructed, preferably near the site.

18) DRESSING THE WAR MEMORIAL CROSS

Arrangements have been made to dress the War Memorial Cross at Whitsun. The cross will be dressed in red and white flowers.

19) COMMUNITY MARQUEE

Heddon is providing an exhibit in the Community Marquee at Alnwick Fair on June24/25^th. Mr. Armstrong and Mr. Tingate are providing photographic exhibits of the Butterfly Haven and the Flower Festival. The display boards are to be borrowed from the Knott Hall. Lighting would not be needed. Mr. Armstrong agreed to liase with Mr. Tingate to arrange the exhibits on behalf of Heddon.

20) BOLLARDS IN MITHRAS GARDENS

Bollards in Mithras Gardens promised for the beginning of February were still not installed. In a telephone call to Mr. Bell he promised that N.C.C. would install them as soon as possible but did not give a date.

21) CHANGE OF SIGNATORIES

With the change of Clerk,signatories need to be changed on accounts with the Halifax Building Society, Barclays Bank, Bank of Ireland and the Co-operative Bank. The signatories were changed for all of these accounts.

22) CORRESPONDENCE

Acknowledgement of a cheque for £600 for CCTV cameras in the village

NALC regarding Parish Council involvement in the Community Partnership and related topics. Two representatives invited to a meeting on Wednesday, 7th June. Dr. Selman and the Clerk are to attend.

Notification of a road closure. This was duly noted

Samares Trust. This organisation gives donations to both the Knott Hall and the War Memorial. They request acknowledgement of the funds and also request brief financial details of both organisations. The Knot Hall chairman has already provided the financial details, and the Parish Council will follow suit.

23) ANY OTHER BUSINESS

a) BIG BUS Youth Club starts in Heddon on Monday, 5^th June. The organisers will distribute publicity. It will be sited in the school car park and will be there every week. The Parish Council is subsidising this undertaking.

b) Approaches have been made regarding outdoor basket ball. It was thought that the Knott Hall could accommodate basket ball, but reservations were expressed regarding the windows. The tennis court in the school was suggested as an alternative, depending upon whether the court markings could be incorporated into the present markings. This location is also near houses which is undesirable. The absence of wire netting was also seen as a problem.

c) Grass cutting around the village was thought to be reasonable but the wish was expressed that the grass could be picked up after cutting.

d) Change to the status of Heddon School. Heddon School is currently a Church Controlled School where the vicar has the right to teach religious topics in the school, but all costs are paid by the N.C.C. The Governing Body is a balance of interested parties in the welfare of the school. There is pressure from the Church to change this status to a Church Aided School. In this case the Church owns the property and they receive a proportion of their funding directly from Whitehall and not through the N.C.C.. They (the Church) are responsible for 15% of the costs. There would be a change in the structure of the school management such that the Church will appoint a majority of the Governors. They will have the ability to out vote other governors. At the moment should the P.C.C. take an interest in the school they have the right to do so. Church Aided status could also give rise to serious financial difficulties. Heddon School is a village school and the wishes of the people in the village have to be considered. There is a large Methodist contingent in Heddon and there are Roman Catholics at the school. Considering all of the above points the Parish Council was unanimously opposed to any change in the status of Heddon School.

e) The latches on the gates at both ends of the Welfare Field need attention and the gate into the school has no latches at all. These need repairing.

g) Condition of the slip road between the garage and the turning down to Throckley appears to be in a very poor condition. N.C.C. is to be contacted.

h) Burial Ground provisions. The Church has been asked to inquire about land. It was suggested that the new owners of Bays Leap Farm be contacted with a view to selling the small triangle of land lying between the Throckley Road and the new slip road.

h) Mr Joures, a visitor, was invited to speak by the Chairman. He made a point about poor publicity for the Annual Electors Meeting. It was pointed out that notices were put up around the village Mr Joures asked why the HEDDON GOSSIP could not be used more effectively. He was told that on this occasion there was a problem with synchronising publishing dates. Mr. Joures carried on with a question about the lighting in the village, making the point that several lights had been out for a long time. It was explained that everyone was responsible for monitoring the streetlights but it emerged that there was no clear reporting system. Mr. Joures continued with a point about the lack of maintenance of the burial ground. He made the observation on which he based his comments in February. He was informed that the burial ground is regularly maintained, and that it was a church responsibility.

i) The Clerk was asked if he was prepared to hold the spare keys for the Knott Hall. He replied that he already had the keys in his possession.

j) When the substation was built in Centurion Way a pile of rubble was left. The grass cutting contractors can not cut the grass because of it. The Generating Board and the C.M.B.C. need to be contacted to remedy the situation.

k) It was reported that on the old Hexham road entrance to the village there was a Derestriction sign, which immediately follows a 30MPH sign. After some discussion it was suggested that the Derestriction sign had been turned around and that it should have been facing East instead of West as it was. N.C.C. were to be contacted to remedy the situation.

There being no further business the Chairman declared the meeting closed at 9.00pm

A meeting of Heddon on the wall Parish Council was held on Wednesday, 14^th June 2000, in Heddon Library, commencing at 7.30pm.

PRESENT Dr. Selman (Chairman), Mr. Armstrong, Mr. Iley, Mr. Merridew, Mr. Waugh, Mrs Thompson, District and County Councillor Avery. (until 8.00pm), and the Clerk (Mr. T. Bates)

1) APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE

Apologies were received from Mr. A. Watson, and Mr R. Young.

2) MINUTES OF THE LAST MEETING

These had been previously circulated. After some minor corrections they were approved and signed.

3) MATTERS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES

1. Bays Leap Dairy Farm. After a site meeting it was agreed that the siting of the large new storage building was unsuitably near the village It should be built in place of the present structure which should be pulled down. These comments were to be passed on to CMBC, stressing the original agreement about developments on this site only taking place within the strategic planting screen. Any smaller structures that are needed should be constructed on the Northern side of the site.

2. Bollards in Mithras Gardens have now been installed. There appeared to be no adverse comments. A point was made about the parking arrangements at the shops. It was thought that if the parking bays were marked out more cars could be accommodated. Councillor Avery was asked to bring this up with CMBC.

3. Repairs to the War Memorial. The quotation from Coleman was only for repairing the letters. Cleaning was extra. In view of this the quotation from G. F. Brown was accepted. Work was expected to start w/c 19^th June.

4. No applications for the post of Handyman have been received. The post was to be publicised in the next edition of "HEDDON GOSSIP"

5. 1 Valerian Avenue. A site visit by a sub-committee took place on Thursday, 18^th May in the afternoon, in the absence of the owner, because he could not be contacted. The sub-committee found that apart from some minor comments this development was satisfactory.

6. CCTV Cameras. There was nothing further to report on this subject. Northumbria Police are to be contacted.

4) COUNTY REPORT

Playing Field and the Safe route to it. Work is in progress on the plans for this but the deadline set has been overrun

Electoral Boundaries. The County Council is supporting calling the new ward Heddon on the Wall, although the Ponteland representative is supporting Ponteland South with Heddon.

5) DISTRICT REPORT

Recycling. The new re-cycling plant has received its waste management licence. Biofilters need to be put in place but the projected start date is 1^st July, 2000. Recycling facilities should be in place in Heddon shortly after this.

Community Partnership The concept of Community Partnership was proceeding within CMBC . Early meetings to establish the concept have been held with a good mix of participants.

Code of Practice for Planning A new Code of Practice for elected officers and officials has been published. There were also guidelines for site visits which the Parish Council might find of value. A Standards Committee has also been set up to monitor the conduct of councillors.

Leisure Centre Management Contracts for the private operation of leisure centres have been signed. A company called CONNECTIONS is now operating the centres. This should make available more disposable income

6) ACCOUNTS

Received:

Interest from Bank of Ireland, May, 2000 £297.68

To pay:-

1) Northumberland Association of Local Councils Subscription £ 169.98

2) Chairman’s Expenses £ 6.00

3) Mr. C. Rand, Grass Cutting, Memorial Park £ 25.00

4) Zurich Insurance Company Terrorism Cover £ 52.50

Engineering Inspection £ 158.63

Combined Local Council Policy £1289.16

5) Clerk, Mr. T. Bates Salary £ 241.37

Cheque drawn on the Bank of Ireland for £1920 to cover these costs.

The above amounts were accepted for payment

7) PLANNING

a) 00/D/61 J. Bellyou. Land south west of 10 Station Road. Outline erection of a dwelling house as amended by agents letter, 28.3.00. Permitted

For Discussion

00/D/249. Mr K. Watson, South Houghton Farm, Heddon on the Wall. Change of use of a Dairy Unit to a Microbrewery. It was observed that in spite of assurances received at the last meeting the brewery was to be called Wylam Brewery. Concern was expressed about smells and the brewery effluent. The effluent was to be contained in a holding tank but there was no holding tank on the plans. There was also no indication as to how often such a tank would be emptied. In general the Council was supportive provided the foregoing concerns could be dealt with.

8) CASTLE MORPETH COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP

The Chairman gave a summary of a meeting held in Morpeth on June 7^th 2000.The meeting explained the significance of the Castle Morpeth Best Value Local Performance Plan 2000 – 2001 and the Northumberland County Council Local Performance Plan 2000 – 2001. An inspection scheme similar to the OFSTED inspections for schools was being imposed on Local Authorities. The Councils are taking this very seriously. A Senior Officer (Mr. Trevor Walker, Head of Strategic Services) has been appointed to oversee the introduction of the

Best Value strategies. They were completely re-organising and were moving towards a Cabinet system of decision taking. It applies to all councils, including Parish Councils with an income of more than £100,000. Heddon does not fall within this bracket, but we could be involved in inspections with regard to interfacing with the County and the District. A Castle

Morpeth Community Partnership is being set up with representatives from various bodies in the county including parish councils.

9) PLAYING FIELD

A letter from Mr C. Thompson of NCC to Mr H. Edmundson of CMBC relating to the access road to the proposed sports field was read out. The implications of the letter were discussed. The letter appeared to imply that major road improvements were required to the approach road before permission would be granted. Such works were not within the Parish Councils capabilities. It was decided to write to Councillor Avery and request him to find out what the next step should be.

10) REPAIR OF WELFARE FIELD GATES

The quotation of £80 plus VAT from Roman Wall Forge for the repair of the Welfare Field gates was accepted.

11) NORTHUMBERLAND MILLENNIUM FESTIVAL

Due to a combination of circumstances it was found to be impossible to meet commitments to this function. It was decided to withdraw.

12) HEDDON IN BLOOM

Heddon in Bloom requested that they be allowed to plant up a part of the Memorial Park. This project was enthusiastically supported. The Parish Council would provide the funding.

13) CORRESPONDENCE

a) BIG BUS. The school car park was being locked at 9.00pm causing difficulties with the Big Bus. It was agreed that the Chairman would negotiate with the school authorities both about this problem and the possibility of using the school car park site during the school holidays.

b) REQUEST FOR A NEW POLLING STATION Castle Morpeth Borough Council had requested suggestions for sites for a polling station. After some discussion it was agreed that the Library was the best available site. The lack of a dropped curb made wheel chair access difficult. However as this was a County owned building then it was their responsibility to provide this improvement. CMBC were to be informed of these views.

c) THE MAYOR OF CASTLE MORPETH. As part of his Mayoral duties Councillor Frank Harrington would like to meet the Parish Council during one of the meetings. It was agreed that Councillor Harrington should be invited to attend a meeting some time during his term of office.

d) INVITATION TO THE AGM OF CASTLE MORPETH CITIZENS ADVICE BUREAU. An invitation was received but no one wished to attend.

e) NEWCASTLE AIRPORT CONSULTATIVE COMMITTEE. A report was submitted by Mr. Armstrong:-

1) The Airport Board of Management is actively pursuing a partner from the private sector. It is expected that a contract will be signed within the next few months. This partner would hold 49% of the shares whilst the Local Authorities would hold the remaining 51%. This would make available more funds for expansion of the airport.

2) A mobile Noise and Track monitoring system is now functioning. If this is required we should be on the list. There is a permanent installation at Walbottle Campus, which covers Heddon.

3) A map was displayed of the monitored aircraft usage over the airport. The aircraft take off and turn over Heddon. They arrive and line up on the beacon at the allotments. The map and the distribution of air lanes were discussed at length.

4) Extension of the present 2332m runway by another 84m was being discussed. This would take place inside the Airport boundary at the eastern end. This was an important extension.

5) Due to a change of policy of the CAA there is likely to be a change of policy at the airport with regard to birds and wetland sites.

f) EDUCATIONAL CHARITY FUND. Mr. Tingate has completed the formation of an educational charity. He would like to meet the Parish Council to discuss this project. It was agreed that he should be invited to a meeting. Mr. Tingate has also been discussing with the planners at NCC the possibility of turning the library into a Heritage Centre.

g) CAR DUMPING AT THE SOUTH END OF THE COMMON It was reported that a number of cars had appeared in a field at the south end of the Common. CMBC have been told and they promised to keep the Parish Council informed of developments.

h) OWNERSHIP OF LAND IN CENTURION WAY was queried because of the height of nettles growing on it.

i) TURNING POINT ON STATION ROAD. The pile of hardcore is still there but nothing has happened. It was agreed to contact CMBC about this.

j) THE PRESENT STATUS OF HEDDON HOME. There seemed to be nothing happening at this site. It seemed to be deserted.

k) THE CONDITION OF THE LISTED FARMBUILDINGS AT EAST HEDDON. Concern was expressed about the condition of the listed farmbuildings at East Heddon. It was agreed to write to CMBC expressing this concern.

Mr. Armstrong moved that the Council go into Private Session to discuss confidential matters of importance. This motion was carried unanimously and the Council went into private session.

The meeting was declared closed at 9.30pm

A meeting of Heddon on the Wall Parish Council was held on Wednesday, 12th July, 2000, in Heddon Library commencing at 7.30pm.

PRESENT Dr. Selman (Chairman), Mr. Armstrong, Mr. Iley, Mr. Young, Mr Watson, Mrs Thompson, and the Clerk (Mr. T. Bates)

Visitor: Mr. E Tingate and Ms F. Phillips from 7.45 until 8.30pm

1) APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE

Apologies were received from Mr. R. Waugh, Mr. Merridew, and Councillor Avery

2) MINUTES OF THE LAST MEETING

These had been previously circulated. After a minor correction they were approved and signed as a true record.

3) MATTERS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES

a) CCTV CAMERAS

A letter from the Northumbria Police giving the latest situation was received The camera is to be mounted on a lamp standard on the old Hexham road. A new camera system using modern telecommunications technology has been found. This has several advantages. Final approval from the Home Office is awaited and a start date of 1^st October has been set. The project may be extended to give 24months evaluation.

b) REPAIRS TO THE WAR MEMORIAL

c) PLAYING FIELD ACCESS ROAD

This is mentioned in Councillor Avery’s report.

d) REPAIRS TO THE WELFARE FIELD GATES

These have been completed. The gates now have new latches.

e) CAR DUMPING AT THE SOUTH END OF THE COMMON

CMBC are pursuing this

f) HARD CORE ON STATION ROAD

The ownership has been established.

f) POLLING STATION<

h) HEDDON REPRESENTATION ON CMBC COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP[

4) ACCEPTANCE OF THE MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL ELECTORS MEETING, 1999.

The minutes had been on display in the Post Office since the 12^th May, 2000. As there have been no queries or objections the minutes were signed as a true record of the meeting.

5) VILLAGE EDUCATIONAL TRUST

Mr E. Tingate addressed the Council on the foundation of an Education and Training Trust Mr. Tingate listed the objectives of the Trust and named the present trustees. There was a substantial sum of money in the trust but the initial plan is to use the interest for the award of any grants. An article about the Trust is to appear in the next issue of HEDDON GOSSIP

Mr. Tingate carried on and outlined the work which he and Ms Phillips had been carrying on for the church. The ramifications of this work he saw as very far reaching, involving an Internet net work of churches in which Heddon would be a leading member. This in turn could give rise to an increase in the prominence of the position of Heddon on the tourist "map" with the possibility of the establishment of a Heritage Centre in Heddon He was very enthusiastic about all the possibilities and wished to ensure that every one was in favour of the project. He promised to keep the Parish Council informed of all future developments.

The Chairman thanked Mr. Tingate for the time and effort he had put into both of these projects and assured him of the support of the Council.

6) COUNTY REPORT

The question of the passing places on the access road to the proposed playing fields has been addressed. Bids have been submitted under the N.C.C.’s Small Schemes Programme to finance the necessary road works and to finance the pathway and signage. These are being costed now. A bid has also been made to finance a lay-by to accommodate tour buses at the eastern end of Towne Gate.

In spite of County Council Cabinet advice to call the new Electoral Division Heddon on the Wall the Business Management Panel decided to call it PONTELAND SOUTH WITH HEDDON

7) DISTRICT REPORT

Recycling Site The site is to be visited to decide on the best location. When this has been decided recycling should follow quickly.

Heddon Banks, Section 106 Agreement A meeting has been arranged with the residents on 1^st August, in the Knott hall at 7.00. This meeting will hopefully resolve this matter.

Castle Morpeth Community Partnership The first meeting was held on 6^th June, and the County Council is represented by Councillor Avery. The first meeting was well attended by representatives from numerous bodies. The Aims of the Community Partnership are:-

8) ACCOUNTS

Received:

a) Dividend, Memorial Park £ 13.00

b) Interest, Bank of Ireland, June 2000 £ 335.05

c) Dividend, Charifund May, 2000 Village Trust £ 1.12

d) Dividend, Charifund May, 2000 Village Trust £ 60.30

e) Dividend, Charibond May, 2000 Village Trust £ 286.15

To pay:-

a) Mr. C. Rand, grass cutting, Memorial Park £ 25.00

b) Halls of Heddon, plants for the Memorial Park £ 171 29

c) Amos Bros, repair of Welfare Field gates £ 94.00

d) G.F. Brown, repair of War Memorial £ 150.00

e) Castle Morpeth Citizens Advice Bureau (see item 19) £ 25.00

f ) Crime Stoppers (see item 19) £ 25.00

g) Clerk, Mr. T. Bates. Salary £ 241.37

A cheque for £540 was drawn on the Bank of Ireland and one for £150 drawn on Barclays Bank (War Memorial Fund) to cover the above expenses.

9) PLANNING

Decisions

1. 00/D/188 Mr. T. Coates, 1, Valerian Avenue., Heddon. Two storey extension to form reception, utility, W.C., bedroom, en suite bathroom, loft space, conservatory, porch and garage re-build. Permitted.

2. 00/D/201 Mr Rainey, Turpins Hill House, Heddon on the Wall. Extension to provide sitting room with two bedrooms and en suite bathroom above together with internal alterations. Permitted.

1. 00/D/303, J. Innes, 42, Trajan Walk, Heddon on the Wall. Erection of bedroom and bathroom above garage. Plans circulated. No Objections

2. 000/0929/01/NOT Vodaphone, Black Row Farm, Drove Road, Throckley. Replacement of present mast with a slim line lattice mast. This mast will accommodate a larger antenna array. A larger compound will be required. Newcastle City Council requested comments on this development. There were no objections.

3. 00/D/352 Telecom Securicor Cellular Radio (B.T. Cellnet) Notification of Part 24 of Town and Country Planning General Permitted Development Order, 1995 of installation of 6 antenna and 2 micro-wave dishes on existing pylon together with equipment cabin, meter cabinet, and 1.8m high mesh fence. There were no objections but it was suggested that the developers might be prepared to put in a screening hedge to hide the development

10) HEDDON IN BLOOM

Heddon in Bloom have planted up the Memorial Park as arranged. They have not planted up the ramp by the Abacus Nursery School. The Parish Council has already received the invoice.

11) ALLOTMENTS

A letter from Mr P. Wilson, Chief Executive of CMBC was read out. The letter did not address the problem of the structures on the allotments which was one of the sources of difficulty. It was decided to attempt to convene a meeting of all interested parties, CMBC, N.C.C. and the Parish Council, in order to expedite this matter.

12) BAYS LEAP FARM

The latest correspondence from Mr. H. Edmundson, CMBC planning department proposed moving the new large building approximately 2m Northwards whilst at the same time introducing a much heavier screen of trees to lessen its visual impact. After vigorous discussion it was decided to ascertain how much storage the farm needed, and to recommend that the new building be constructed on the site of an older building at right angles to the present proposed site. The required floor area on this proposed site could be obtained by sacrificing some of poorly established shelter belt to the west. It was decided to communicate these views to CMBC.

13) LOCAL GOVERNMENT COMMISSION RECOMMENDATIONS

As has been already mentioned in Councillor Avery’s report, the name of the electoral division in which Heddon has been placed is to be PONTELAND SOUTH WITH HEDDON.

14) THE BIG BUS YOUTH CLUB

There had been a lack of communication with the school. The Big Bus failed to turn up one night when there was a Governors Meeting and this did nothing to improve the situation. After the Carpet Bowls club had moved from the school it was necessary to have the school gates opened for the Big Bus. This entailed paying the caretaker. Although a satisfactory conclusion was reached it was too late for the Bus to return on Monday evenings for the remainder of this school year. The Bus would start on a summer schedule starting on 24^th July from 10.00am to 3.00pm. In the autumn term the Big Bus will return in its usual Monday slot starting on 11^th September. The Parish Council will be paying 50% of the £12.50 for the caretaker..

15) WELFARE FIELD PLAY EQUIPMENT

A resident made claims about the unsatisfactory state of the play equipment and the general condition of the surroundings. The Zurich Insurance Company inspects the play equipment twice a year, and it was due to be inspected on the 12^th July. It was also understood that the regulations regarding play equipment surroundings had changed. Grass is now the recommended background for play equipment. However the uprights are set in concrete. The loss of bark has left these exposed. . It was decided to turf the play areas and the goal mouths on the football pitch and remove the timber surrounds. It was also decided to carry out a "user survey" of play grounds in the area to assess the type of surfaces used and the type of play equipment currently available.

16) REPAIRS TO THE WELFARE FIELD WALL

An estimate of £180 had been received from G. F. Brown for repairs to the Welfare Field wall. It was decided to accept this estimate.

A STRATEGY FOR THE NORTHUMBRIAN COUNTRYSIDE

A draft document had been received from N.C.C. for discussion and comment. It was thought to be a sensible document. The detailed maps however do not include Heddon. They appear to stop at Wylam.

HEDDON SCHOOL

Correspondence had been received from the Rev. Bryars. criticising the Parish Council for discussing the change of status of the village school. It was explained that this topic was discussed by the Parish Council only in the light of giving instruction to the Parish Council Representative on the School Governors. After further vigorous discussion it was decided to reply to the Rev. Bryars that the Parish Council was empowered to discuss all matters which could affect the welfare of the village. It was also decided that next time changing the status of the school was raised the Parish Council intended to invite the Diocesan Director of Education to address them so that they may obtain an experts view.

19) CORRESPONDENCE

Copies of various publications were tabled

CASTLE MORPETH CITIZENS ADVICE BUREAU. Castle Morpeth Citizens Advice Bureau appealed for funds. It was decided to donate £25.

CRIME STOPPERS Crimestoppers appealed for funds. It was decided to donate £25

20) ANY OTHER BUSINESS

THE MATTER OF A PAVEMENT ON STATION ROAD partly blocked by shrubbery was to be referred to CMBC.

HEALTH ACTION ZONE The possibility of obtaining funds from the HAZ for the provision of a defibrillator was to be investigated.

HADRIAN’S WALL PATH The changes to the Hadrian’s Wall Path have now been officially approved. The matter of sign posting is to be progressed with Mr. Tim Fish.

OUT REACH WORKERS. The Out Reach workers have returned to Heddon.

HEDDON COMMON It was decided to call a meeting of the Common Management Committee in the near future. It was also mentioned that the paths on the Common were in poor condition.

VERGES are in a poor condition. CMBC are to be contacted about the state of the verges near the bus shelter on the Throckley Road.

It was decided that the next meeting would be held on September 13^th 2000

There being no further business the Chairman closed the meeting at 10.00pm.