Present: Cllr. E J Derrick (Chairman)

Public Session - there were no comments or questions.

1. Minutes of a Planning Committee meeting held on 16^th December 2002

These minutes, which had been previous circulated were taken as read agreed a true record and signed by the Chairman.

2. Matter arising from the minutes of 16^th December 2002

Ashgrove Motors Site

Copies of letters between the applicants and their architects and a letter from B&NES Library Services were received. The letters referred to the fact that the applicant has asked B&NES if they are interested in using one of the units for a library. It seems that when B&NES have finished their ongoing review of services they may be very interested in getting a permanent home in the village. One letter also referred to the fact that a new plan is about to be submitted. Clerk was asked to convey support to Mr. Gould and to question the progress, or hopefully nil progress, of the tree preservation order on the site. The Clerk's letter dated 17^th December to B&NES Legal Department has yet to be answered.

3. To consider further suggestions for the 20-mph zone in Bath Road

A letter from Ken Williams (B&NES Highway Development) was received which suggested that the 20-mph zone proposed by Neil Terry (B&NES Area Traffic Engineer) should be considered for extension to the new platform at Belle Vue Close. This would allow for speed restriction right through the main shopping area and take in the new platform which drivers, in Mr. Williams' view, still take at an excessive speed. Members agreed with the idea and the Clerk was asked to convey support to Mr. Williams. The Clerk was also asked to ascertain if Mr. Williams and Mr. Terry have taken on board our points concerning our suggested extensions to the area.

4. New Applications

Four new plans and one revised plan were viewed - all received no objections.

5. Report by the Clerks' of Works on the new POS

A lengthy report on the poor progress on the site and a copy of a letter to the contractor had been previously circulated to committee members. Cllr. McInnes answered questions and then gave an update on the response from the contractor. Cllrs. McInnes, Bolwell and Butt and the Clerk will meet with the contractor on Thursday morning at 10 a.m. on site. A further report will then be given at the Council meeting on 27^th January.

6. Planning Decisions made by B&NES

Several decisions were reviewed by members, all for approval except for one at 39 Pippin Close, which has been refused due to the over-development of a limited site.

7. Any Other Business

Cllr. McInnes asked if the Clerk could look into several planning problems surrounding Beacon Field and Laxton Way. Bollards are still missing which allow cars to access Beacon Field and eventually Belle Vue Close. A hedge in Laxton Way, in the latest area, needs to be attended to before the road is adopted. The first problem has already been taken up with Mr. Williams and the Clerk will check on progress.

Meeting closed at 7.35 p.m.