MINUTES OF THE ICKLEFORD PARISH COUNCIL MEETING
WEDNESDAY 10th September 2025 AT 7.00PM
PRESENT: Parish Councillors: K Goldie (Chairman), R Blake (Vice Chairman)
M Jones, P Seal, E Furr, S Gamble and R Day
OFFICER IN ATTENDANCE: Steven Patmore Parish Clerk
ALSO IN ATTENDANCE: District Councillor L Peace County Councillor David Barnard
MEMBERS OF PUBLIC: Nine (9)
Councillor Goldie welcomed everyone to the meeting.
90.1 Recruitment of Clerk/RFO
Item 90.1 agenda, introduce Steven Patmore our new Parish Clerk, who everyone knows plays a vital role at the heart of the Council’s work.
- Apologies for Absence
83.1 Apologies were received from Cllr Crowe.
- Chairman’s Notice
84.1 The Parish Council’s policy for openness and transparency was read out by Cllr Goldie.
- Declaration of Interests
85.1 No declarations of interest were received.
85.2 No written requests for dispensation for declarable interests were received.
85.3 The granting of requests for dispensation was not applicable.
86 Minutes of the previous Meeting
86.1 Minutes of the meeting on the 9th of July 2025 were unanimously approved, and the Chairman was duly authorised to sign the minutes.
- Public Participation Session
87.1 Mr Frank Gollogly, a representative of The River Hiz Conservation Group reported on their current and on-going works.
- Police Report
88.1 No report received.
- Reports from County and District Councillors
89.1 Please see Appendix.
- Ongoing Projects
90.1 Recruitment of Clerk/RFO
Please refer to above.
90.2 To receive updates on the legal documentation for the lift and the arrangements for insurance and ongoing maintenance at the Ickleford Sports and Recreation Club.
Progress has been slow due to management staffing changes and holidays, A meeting with solicitors is yet to be arranged. This Item to remain on the agenda.
Action: Cllr Jones and Cllr Crowe
90.3 Rights of Way Report
Cllr Goldie reported that on footpath 5 a very tall and overhanging tree opposite Raymond Cottages is of concern that in high winds if the tree was to come down it could damage the properties.
It was resolved for Cllr Goldie to obtain quotes for topping and make safe the tree. Proposed Cllr Jones Seconded Cllr Furr and unanimously agreed by all.
Action: Cllr Goldie
Cllr Goldie reported that the fence has come down on footpath 7 near the kissing gate at Snailswell Lane. Report has been made to HCC as they installed the fence in the first place. HCC officer will investigate the matter and report back to IPC if they are going to fix/replace the fence.
Cllr Goldie reported that the ‘horse friendly gate’ at the end of Westmill Lane has now been replaced.
90.4 Land to the front of the Old George Public House
Cllr Goldie informed the meeting that the HCC Definitive Map Officer had reported that Greene King have withdrawn their objection to evidence put forward and that HCC no longer needed to send the case to the Planning Inspectorate for determination, as it could now be determined internally. Cllr Goldie wished to express the thanks of IPC to Colin Thurstance for all the hard work he has contributed on their behalf.
90.5 Highways
Cllr Seal reported that drainage issue on Chambers Lane has now been resolved by HCC Highways.
Cllr Blake reported that the flooding on the road outside the old Bowmans Mill has been reported. Cllr Peace reported that Dyno Rod has been out rodding the drains in the last few days at Laurel Way and encouraged everyone to take a photo of the flooding if it persists and report it on the HCC Highways website portal.
Cllr Blake raised concerns from two residents on the condition of the BOAT Snailswell Lane it is an ongoing problem which Herts County Council are not wanting to take ownership of. HCC Rights of Way have stipulated many times that the condition is of an acceptable standard for a BOAT (Byway Open to All Traffic). After listening to the public comments Cllr Barnard explained he would report the matter to the Highways officers again and went on to say that the unmade road was not designed to take HGVs and the regular movement of traffic that is seen today.
It was resolved for Cllr Goldie to write again to HCC Rights of Way officer Robert Lloyd and ask him to come out and look at the condition of the BOAT and meet the residents of Snailswell Lane.
Action: Cllr Goldie
90.6 To receive update on the electricity metering on Upper Green
Cllr Seal updated. The only issue that was raised was the cabinet could not be locked whilst in use because of projecting cables. Cllr Seal informed the meeting that the installation electrician has a potential solution to the problem and has therefore been asked to submit a quote for the works needed. It was also stated for the record there is three keys to the electric cabinet, these are currently held by 1) Cllr M Jones 2) Cllr P Seal 3) Parish Clerk
Action: Cllr Seal
It was resolved that the Clerk would look to draft a usage and charging policy for the external/hire use of the electric.
Action: Clerk
90.7 Arnold’s Farm Development and HGVs on Turnpike Lane during school hours
District Councillor Peace reported that she has yet to see any Constructional Transport Plan from the Developer but as part of the conditions section G states that construction traffic management plan shall include details of timing of the construction activities, including delivery times, removal waste and to avoid school pickup/drop-off times.
90.8 Marquee Storage Boxes
It was resolved the IPC would purchase two of the 42ltr storage boxes at a total cost of £61.00
Proposed Cllr Seal Seconded Cllr Gamble and unanimously agreed by all.
Action: Cllr Seal
90.9 To receive update and approve any actions regarding the damage of the ‘restriction bar’ at the burial ground.
Cllr Goldie reported that the repair works have now been completed.
90.10 To receive update on the purchase of a new printer and mobile phone for the sole use of the Clerk/RFO
Parish Clerk updated the IPC there no need to purchase a new printer as he is happy to use the current printer he has and for the IPC to provide ink replacement as and when required.
The Clerk updated the PC on the current mobile phone contract, informing them that because it was in the previous Clerk’s name, it has now been disconnected by the mobile phone company and as we are unable to retain the old number and the handset is now obsolete, a new handset and number will be purchased. It was resolved for the Clerk to arrange for a new Contract and to report back for Council’s approval.
Action: Clerk
90.11 To receive update on siting of new bench on Bridleway 6, as requested and supplied by local Resident Mr S Heath
Cllr Goldie reported that the location site for the proposed new bench, had been agreed. Mr Heath who had requested the location, has informed Cllr Goldie that he wished to construct the new bench himself and would inform the PC when it was completed and ready for installation. Cllr Goldie has requested of Mr Heath, that the build should be the same design as those already sited throughout the Parish. An estimated cost for installation has been received from William Crosse of between £125-£150.
Permission to install the bench – Proposed by Cllr Jones, seconded by Cllr Furr and unanimously agreed by all.
Estimated Installation cost of £125-£150 by William Crosse – Proposed by Cllr Seal, seconded by Cllr Gamble and unanimously agreed by all.
90.12 To discuss and approve the repair/replacement of the Map Boards on Upper and Lower Green.
Cllr Jones reported that he has received three quotes from different companies/suppliers which are all slightly different types, and he would send these around with the photos of the different styles and if councillors could reply to Cllr Jones with their preferred type, we can then move the project forward.
Cllr Jones reported on the new design and layout of the information
Action: Cllr Jones
90.13 To discuss and approve the repair/replacement of Sports Club Ground fencing
Cllr Jones reported that he is due to meet with William Crosse within the next week and will look into what types of fences are available to suit the location.
90.14 Update on safety sign request by Resident at Lavender Grange and approve possible decision.
Lavender Grange is a private estate, we would need to seek permission from the Management Company overseeing the Estate, to install the sign. To date we have not received any response from the management company. District Cllr Peace has also offered to try and get a response from the Management Company. This Item will be added to the next Agenda.
90.15 Update on Planning Application 25/01904/FP Land to the rear of 34 Arlesey Road, Ickleford known as Local Plan IC1
Cllr Goldie reported that after their initial objection highways have now responded with no objection to this planning application. The questions we raised as IPC have still not been answered so Cllr Goldie requested the IPC permission to write another letter to the planning officer at NHC.
It was resolved to re write to the Planning Officer at NHC seeking answers to our questions.
Proposed Cllr Seal Seconded Cllr Gamble and unanimously agreed by all.
Action: Cllr Goldie
90.16 Update on concerns raised by residents pertaining to Groundworks ongoing at Lodge Court Development, Ickleford.
Cllr Peace reported that the enforcement officer who is assigned to this case updated her at the end of August saying that she was intending to go back to the site next week and take some measurements now the roofs are going on and will report back to Cllr Peace. This Item will be added to the next Agenda for an update.
Action: Cllr Peace
90.17 Update on concerns raised by Residents pertaining to overgrown hedging on Arlesey Road.
Cllr Jones reported that he had delivered the letters to the houses concerned and it was reported that works are in hand and should be completed by the end of October.
90.18 Update on Allotments
Cllr Day updated the IPC that a full contact list for plot holders has now been completed, and all payments have been received. Cllr Day reported that there had been dumping of rubbish on plot 15 and an unauthorised planting of a cherry tree on the same Plot. A written warning instruction has been given for the removal of both the rubbish and tree.
91 New Matters
91.1 To receive information to request by resident to reinstall posts on Common Land on Arlesey Road.
Cllr Goldie reported that a resident wanted two wooden posts to be reinstated on the Common Land citing that NHDC had installed them in the first instance. After reviewing the legislation legal restrictions, common land is protected under the Commons Act 2006 and further regulations, it was unanimously resolved to not reinstall the post and to write to the resident explaining the reasons.
Action: Parish Clerk
91.2 To receive information regarding Chapel Field and its prospective dangers.
Cllr Louise Peace reported that Chapel Field has now been withdrawn from being put forward as part of NHC’s Local Plan. After discussion it was resolved to investigate the options for either renting or purchasing Chapel Field from HCC, for the benefit of the Village.
91.3 Update on letter sent to NHC regarding Anglian Water.
Cllr Goldie reported that we had received a letter stating they are investigating the matter and will respond to the IPC Chair, to date no update received.
91.4 To discuss and approve new Disciplinary Procedure
Cllr Goldie reported that this is now complete, having be signed off by all Councillors and will be placed on file.
Proposed Cllr Furr Seconded Cllr Gamble and unanimously agreed by all.
91.5 To receive information regarding report by CPM Playground Ltd on the condition of our equipment, including waste bin.
Cllr Goldie reported that the issue with the bin not being emptied because the lock was broken, has been resolved. It has been agreed with the Contractor that the bin will remain unlocked, but if it is seen as being vandalised, then a new combination lock will be fitted. The Contractor and NHC to be informed of combination lock number.
Further work to repair the wooden step will take place and if an outside contractor is needed, a quote will be obtained by Cllr Seal.
Action: Cllr Seal
91.6 To discuss and approve location of new dog bin near Footpath 5, Chambers Lane
Cllr Seal reported he has spoken to both residents either side of the proposed location and no issues have been raised. This is an ongoing project and will be added to the agenda for update next month.
Action: Cllr Seal
91.7 Update on Icklefest
Cllr Seal reported that the weekend was a great success and was very well attended. The warm sunny weather being a contributing factor. Money raised for the two selected charities, these being The Garden House Hospice and Young Carers, amounted to £900 per charity.
92 Planning Applications
92.1 New Planning Applications Received since the last Meeting
92.1.1 25/01920/FPH 29 Turnpike Lane Ickleford Hitchin Herts SG5 3XB
. Cllr Goldie reported that planning has been approved
92.1.2 25/01790/FP Land Known as The Orchard, Snailswell Lane Hitchin SG5 3TS
The IPC discussed the planning application, and it was resolved to object to the planning application as listed above.
Proposed Cllr Jones Seconded Cllr Gamble and unanimously agreed by all.
Action: Cllrs Goldie and Parish Clerk
92.1.3 25/01822/FP Glencoe Villa Snailswell Lane Ickleford SG5 3TS
Cllr Goldie reported that planning has been approved
92.1.4 25/01857/FPH 30 Turnpike Lane Ickleford Hitchin SG5 3XB
Cllr Goldie reported that planning has been approved
93 Planning Decisions
93.1 Application 25/00990/FPH Planning Decisions received since the last meeting
Permission Granted
94 Finance
94.1 To note receipts between meetings.
None
94.2 To approve payments made between meetings and any payments made at the meeting.
94.2.1 Invoice for £50 from J. Shambrook
For work carried out on car park barrier.
94.2.2 Invoice for £116.70 for Village Hall hire.
94.2.3 Invoice for £57.14 form Stinky Ink.
For printer cartridges ordered by K. Goldie
94.2.4 HMRC outstanding National Insurance Payment Contributions £1,159.85.
Outstanding Payment
94.2.5 July Invoice for £421.09 from Mark Walker Ground Maintenance.
Ground Maintenance for burial ground
94.2.6 Invoice from Evolution Trees for £1680.00
Urgent tree works on Lower Green.
94.2.7 Invoice for £12.99 from P, Crowe
Padlock to secure Allotments barrier.
94.2.8 Invoice for £9.76 from E.ONE Next
Electric on Upper Green.
94.2.9 Invoice for £296.25 from CP Associates
HR Assistance in producing Draft Contract.
94.2.10 Invoice for £632.40 from RJ & WR Crosse
IPC Maintenance Contract.
94.2.11 August Invoice for £421.09 from Mark Walker Ground Maintenance
Ground Maintenance of Burial Ground
It was resolved that all payments are approved.
Proposed Cllr Jones Seconded Cllr Furr and unanimously agreed by all
Action: Cllr Blake
94.3 Updates with Unity Bank and to approve any changes necessary
Cllr Blake reported on the banking mandate change, it was resolved to appoint Cllr Blake, Cllr Jones, Cllr Crowe, Cllr Seal as the signatories for the Parish Bank Account and the Parish Clerk will be added to the account as key user admin only
Proposed Cllr Gamble Seconded Cllr Furr and unanimously agreed by all.
Action: Cllr Blake Parish
Clerk the second part of the Parish Precept (£31,458.12) has been paid into the bank account.
95 Reports
(For information only from Organisations represented by Councillors on their Committees)
95.1 Rands Educational Foundation Governors (RANDS)
No Report
95.2 Ickleford Sports and Recreational Club Committee
Cllr Jones positive feedback for the new staff changes and ISRC is moving forward with becoming cashless.
95.3 Ickleford Village Hall
Cllr Goldie reported that the Village will be having a celebration to mark their 100th year anniversary on Saturday 20th September from 10am. All Councillors, villagers and users of the hall are welcome to come along.
95.4 Ickleford Burial Ground Trustees
Cllr Goldie reported that the vandalised bench had now been replaced along with the gate which was also broken due to vandalism.
96 Chairmans Report
96.1 To Receive urgent matters from the Chairman – Information only
Cllr Goldie reported that Fly tipping on Westmill Lane has seen an increase and has advised anyone witnessing fly tipping in progress to report to the Police or if anyone comes across deposited fly tipping to report it to NHC.
97 Next Meeting
97.1 To Suggest agenda items for the next meeting
Sponsorship Policy
Parish Christmas Tree
Parish Christmas Lights
97.2 To Confirm the next meeting date as the 8th October 2025
Cllr Furr, Cllr Crowe and Cllr Blake give apologies for being unable to attend.
97.3 Meeting Closure
21:32
Signed by Chairman _______________________________ Date ________________________
Print name of Chairman __________________________
APPENDIX
Ickleford Parish Council – 10th September 2025.
My thanks go to the organisers of Icklefest and welcome Steven Patmore.
Waste and recycling
Some issues with missed collections and failed assisted collection. All raised with waste team. Please continue to encourage residents to report issues and to escalate to me if required.
Fly-tipping on Westmill Lane escalated to waste team. Contacted NPT – PCSO Skinner confirmed that they patrol this area and will ask colleagues to increase their patrols here.
Planning and enforcement
Pre-application:
– Hawbridge Land at Turnpike Lane / Bedford Road
– Land south of Pound Farm / Bedford Road. Dwellings, SEND school and sports pitches
Active applications
As agenda items.
Outline granted
* I have an interest in the following item *
– Bowmans Mill update
Enforcement update
– Lodge Court (on agenda)
– Pestol Farm
Local Government Reform
There is a consultation on the NHC website for residents to have their say on LGR. It will run to 30th September. I have shared on local Facebook groups.
Community
Southern Rural Forum is at Great Ashby community centre tomorrow at 7.30pm.