Minutes

Approved minutes of meetings

Minutes of the Meeting Held on 10th May 2018

Published: 15th May 2018

DRAFT Minutes of the Meeting Held at 7pm on 10th May 2018 at St.Mary`s Church Hall, Blaengwrach

PRESENT: Councillors – Carolyn Edwards (Chair); Menna Mortimore (Deputy/Vice Chair); Amanda Doherty; Andrew Hippsley; Julia Hippsley; Philippa Richards.

EMPLOYEES PRESENT: Clive Baker (Clerk to the Council).

054/18 – APOLOGIES: Councillors Rhian Watts, Rhian Williams, Bethan Rosser & Chris Kelly had sent their apologies.

055/18 – DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: Councillor Carolyn Edwards declared her interest as a County Councillor of Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council (NPTCBC).

056/18 – CONFIRMATION OF THE MINUTES OF THE LAST MEETING AS A TRUE RECORD: – The minutes of the meeting held on 12th April 2018 were accepted as a true record of that meeting. (Proposed by Councillor Edwards & seconded by Councillor Mortimore).

057/18 – MATTERS ARISING & AGENDA ITEMS: a) Quotes for the Fire Alarm System – Still awaiting further quotes. The Clerk will contact the Fire Station Manager for Glynneath Fire Station to ask his advice before further quotes are obtained; b) Charities Commission – Call back still awaited; c) Wild Flowers on the Roundabout – No update available. Councillor Edwards will “chase” the County Officer; d) Litter Bin/Dog Bin in Parish Road – Councillor Edwards will “chase”; e) Update of Hire Agreements – Councillor Richards will liaise with the Clerk over the next few months to review the agreements (H&S, Insurance Liability etc.); f) Parking in Heol Y Felin – The County Traffic Officer has NOT attended to date; g) NPT Play-Scheme – Dates, times etc. are still awaited; h) The Repair to the Flat Roof at the Welfare Hall – The Clerk will contact the contractor to get the repair done as soon as possible; i) Leases – The Clerk has examined the copy leases & after some discussion it was decided to consult the NPTCBC, Legal Department to seek advice for updating the leases; j) Agenda item 3 – Celebrating Armed Forces Day – Armed Forces Day is 30th June 2018 & Councillor Andrew Hippsley will contact Glynneath Town Council & Resolven Community Council to try to arrange some form of joint celebration; k) Agenda Item 4 – Waiving the Fee for Hall Hire for Public Meeting (re: garage at bottom of Empire Avenue) at the Hall on 14th May 2018 – The Council resolved to waive this fee; l) Agenda Item 5 – “Holiday Cover” for the Hall – After a discussion it was decided to ask Leighton Collins if he would open & close the Hall in Julie Raine`s absence with “time off in lieu” being given:

058/18 – PLANNING APPLICATIONS: 24th April 2018 – Ref: P2018/0306 from Mr Stuart James of 24, High Street, Cwmgwrach – Change of use of shop stock store room to an office/store & cafe with associated kitchen area @ 24 High Street, Cwmgwarch, Neath SA11 5TA; 27th April 2018 – Ref: P2018/0336 from Mr S Jehu, Waterstone Estates Ltd, Number One, Waterton Park, Bridgend CF31 3PH – Lawful Development Certificate for Petrol Station & Restaurant on Land @ Glynneath Business Park, Blaengwrach, Neath:

059/18 – CRIME & POLICING: The reported crime figures for the Blaengwrach/Cwmgwrach area for March 2018 was 10. They were: Two (2) Anti-Social Behaviour; Three (3) Criminal Damage & Arson; One (1) Drug Related Crime & Four (4) Violent & Sexual Offences;

There was a PACT meeting held in the St. Mary`s Church Hall yesterday evening but the priorities agreed at the meeting have not yet been published;

The next PACT meeting will be held in the Bethania Community Centre, High Street, Glynneath on Wednesday 25th July 2018, starting at 6.30pm. Everyone is welcome to attend.

060/18 – FINANCE: For period 1/4/2018 to 9/5/2018:

Payments Made: NPTCBC – Rates on Hall – £413.00; NPTCBC – Rates on Cemetery – £46.04; Welsh Water – Water Rates @ Cemetery – £22.50; Welsh Water – Water Rates @ Hall – £119.00; SSE SWALEC – Electricity @ Hall – £4.03; St. Cadoc`s Church – Hire of Church Hall – £30.00; Viking Direct – Paper Towels – £12.05; British Gas – Gas @ Hall – £1,247.20; Viking Direct – Toilet Rolls – £15.47; Welsh Water – Water Rates Outstanding for the year for Cemetery – £14.95.

Income Received: NPTCBC – Precept – £11,845.00; Hall Hire – Nil; Credits Paid in – Nil.

The Clerk reported that the Council`s Insurance was due for renewal on 16th June 2018 & the renewal premium with Zurich Municipal was £1,329.82. It was agreed to renew with Zurich for a further twelve (12) months.

061/18 – CORRESPONDENCE: 5th March 2018 from the Wales Air Ambulance Charity – Request for donation under Section 137 Grant; 12th April 2018 from One Voice Wales – request for details of 1st & 2nd Representatives for the Neath Area Committee; 17th April 2018 from Bobath Children`s Therapy Centre Wales – Request for donation under Section 137 Grant; 1st May 2018 from One Voice Wales – Clarification from the Information Commissioners Office of details in the GDPR changes to come into force on 25th May 2018; 1st May 2018 from NALC – Details of fees payable under the GDPR changes; 1st May 2018 from NPTCBC, Electoral & Democratic Services Department – Details of change of contacts within the department; 2nd May 2018 from the Welsh Government – April Newsletter on the Review of Community & Town Councils in Wales; 2nd May 2018 from South Wales Police – Notice of a new Neighbourhood Sergeant in the Neath & Dulais Valleys (PS5237 John McCumesky – tel: 101, ext. 54 210).

062/18 – COMMITTEE REPORTS: Councillor Carolyn Edwards reported that a meeting of the Vale of Neath Practice Patients Participation Group had taken place but she had been unable to attend.

063/18 – MATTERS RAISED BY COUNCILLORS: Councillor Andrew Hippsley reported that some-one had removed a gate near McDonalds. The Council are unsure who owns the land on which the gate stood but Councillor Carolyn Edwards will speak to the NPTCBC, Estate Department to see if they own the land.

064/18 – SET DATE, TIME, VENUE & PROPOSED AGENDA ITEMS FOR THE NEXT MEETING: The next meeting will take place in the St. Mary`s Church Hall, Blaengwrach on Thursday 16th June 2018. It will start at 6.30pm. There were no agenda items proposed at this time.

THE MEETING CLOSED AT 8.10pm.

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING – 2018

Published: 14th May 2018

(DRAFT) MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING HELD ON THURSDAY 8th May 2018, 6.30pm At ST. MARY`S CHURCH HALL, BLAENGWRACH:

PRESENT: Councillors – Amanda Doherty; Carolyn Edwards; Andrew Hippsley; Julia Hippsley; Menna Mortimore; Philippa Richards:

Employees: Clive Baker – Clerk to the Council:

AGM 01/18 – APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE: Councillors Chris Kelly; Bethan Rosser; Rhian Watts & Rhian Williams had sent their apologies.

AGM 02/18 – DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: Councillor Carolyn Edwards declared her interest as a County Councillor of Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council;

AGM 03/18 – NOMINATION(S) FOR CHAIR OF THE COUNCIL: Councillor Carolyn Edwards was nominated & seconded. There were no other nominations. Therefore, Councillor Carolyn Edwards is elected as Chair for 2018-2019;

AGM 04/18 – NOMINATION(S) FOE DEPUTY/VICE CHAIR – Councillor Menna Mortimore was nominated & seconded. There were no other nominations & therefore, Councillor Menna Mortimore is elected as Deputy/Vice Chair for 2018-2019;

AGM 05/18 – COUNCILLORS TO SERVE ON INTERNAL COMMITTEES; THE PARK PROJECT COMMITTEE: All Councillors (Carolyn Edwards, Menna Mortimore, Amanda Doherty, Andrew Hippsley, Julia Hippsley, Chris Kelly, Philippa Richards, Rhian Watts, Bethan Rosser, Rhian Williams); CEMETERY COMMITTEE – It was decided NOT to appoint individual Councillors to this Committee & that all items would be discussed at the monthly meetings, when required; EVENTS/CHRISTMAS COMMITTEE: It was decided NOT to appoint individual Councillors to this Committee & that all items would be discussed in the monthly meetings, when required; HALL COMMITTEE: It was decided NOT to appoint individual Councillors to this Committee & that all items would be discussed in the monthly meetings, when required; HUMAN RESOURCES COMMITTEE: Councillor Amanda Doherty, Councillor Andrew Hippsley & Councillor Chris Kelly;

AGM 06/18 – COUNCILLORS TO SERVE ON EXTERNAL COMMITTEES: ABERGERGWM SITE LIAISON/GRANT COMMITTEE: Councillor Philippa Richards; BLAENGWRACH PRIMARY SCHOOL BOARD OF GOVERNORS: Councillor Andrew Hippsley; COUNTY BOROUGH TOWN & COMMUNITY COUNCIL LIAISON COMMITTEE: Councillor Carolyn Edwards & Councillor Philippa Richards; ONE VOICE WALES NEATH AREA COMMITTEE: Councillor Chris Kelly (with the Clerk, Clive Baker, as the Deputy Representative); SELAR COMMUNITY BENEFIT FUND PANEL: Councillor Amanda Doherty & Councillor Menna Mortimore; VALE OF NEATH PRACTICE PATIENT PARTICIPATION GROUP: Councillor Julia Hippsley & Councillor Rhian Watts;

AGM 07/18 – ADOPTION OF THE COMMUNITY COUNCIL`S STANDING ORDERS: It was resolved to adopt the Standing Orders without amendment for 2018-2019;

AGM 08/18 – ADOPTION OF THE COMMUNITY COUNCIL`S FINANCIAL REGULATIONS: It was resolved to adopt the Financial Regulations without amendment for 2018-2019;

AGM 09/18 – ADOPTION OF THE COMMUNITY COUNCIL`S SOCIAL MEDIA POLICY: It was resolved to adopt the Social Media Policy without amendment & NOT to set up a Council Facebook page;

AGM10/18 – OFFICERS & SIGNATORIES: The Clerk, Clive Baker, was confirmed as the Council`s Responsible Officer & the Authorised Signatories were confirmed as Councillor Carolyn Edwards, Councillor Menna Mortimore, Councillor Philippa Richards & the Clerk, Clive Baker.

The Meeting Closed at 7pm.

Minutes of the Meeting of 12th April 2018

Published: 13th May 2018

MINUTES OF THE ORDINARY MEETING HELD at 6.30pm on THURSDAY 12th April 2018 at St. Mary`s Church Hall, Blaengwrach:

COUNCILLORS PRESENT:

Philippa Richards (Chair); Carolyn Edwards (Vice Chair); Andrew Hippsley; Rhian Watts; Chris Kelly; Menna Mortimore

EMPLOYEES PRESENT:

Clive Baker (Clerk w.e.f. 16/4/2018);

043/18 – APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE: Rhian Williams, Amanda Doherty, Bethan Rosser & Julia Hippsley;

044/18 – DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST: Councillor Carolyn Edwards declared her interest as a County Councillor of Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council;

045/18 – CONFIRMATION OF THE MINUTES OF THE LAST MEETING AS A TRUE RECORD OF THAT MEETING: Councillor Carolyn Edwards proposed to accept the minutes of the meeting of the 8th March 2018 as a true record of that meeting. This was seconded by Councillor Menna Mortimore and the Council resolved to accept the minutes;

046/18 – MATTERS ARISING & AGENDA ITEMS: a) Quotes for the Fire Alarm System – Still awaiting further quotes. Councillors decided to contact Barry Hughes of Glynneath Fire Station to give an overview of what exactly is needed then quotations can be arranged accordingly; b) Charities Commission – A call back is still awaited; c) Removal of the Telephone Box – as the box still has a dialing tone, it was decided NOT to “chase” BT in case they then decided to remove the box. THIS ITEM IS NOW CLOSED; d) Wild Flowers by the Roundabout – The Councillors are looking to purchase wild flower seeds and to sow them on the roundabout. Councillor Edwards will contact the County prior to this being done to check there will be no ongoing obstacles (see agenda item 6); e) Litter Bin/Dog Bin on Parish Road – There was no update available on this item. Councillor Carolyn Edwards will chase the County Council; f) Update of Hire Agreements – Councillor Philippa Richards will liaise with the Clerk over the next few months to review the arrangements (H&S, Insurance Liability etc); g) Parking in Heol Y Felin – The County Traffic Officer has NOT attended as of the date of this meeting; h) Appointment of the New Clerk – At a Special Meeting held on 29th March 2018, it was decided that the Council will appoint Mr Clive Baker as the new Clerk. He will take up the role from Monday 16th April 2018; i) Cwmgwrach Moving Foward (agenda item 3) – A representative of the group was in attendance & requested that they hold an event in the park on Sunday 27th May 2018 (on the tennis courts) between 1pm & 9pm, with music being played between 3pm & 8pm. (The Hall will ge used for toilet facilities). The Group will remove all litter & clean the hall (if necessary) before they leave on 27th May. This was agreed & it was also agreed that if the weather was wet, the group could use the Hall on the day. It was then agreed that the group could use the Hall on the 31st May 2018 for a “film afternoon”; j) It was reported that NPT Playscheme had requested that they hold a summer play scheme at the park during the schools summer holidays. This was agreed in principle. The Clerk will liaise with the Scheme Leaders for times, dates etc; k) The Office Ceiling – A quote had been received to repair both the roof & the office ceiling (£1,416.00 plus VAT of £283.20 – total £1,699.20). However, it was agreed that the Clerk would work from home as much as possible & would be spending very little time in the office. Therefore, it was decided to only get the roof repaired at the moment; l) Leases – The Clerk & Chair and/or Vice Chair will review over the next few months:

047/18 – PLANNING APPLICATIONS: There had been no notices of planning applications received since the last meeting;

048/18 – CRIME & POLICING: No update available. The Clerk will obtain up dated figures in readiness for the May 2018 meeting;

049/18 – FINANCE: This item was not reviewed as the new Clerk will officially commence the role on 16th April 2018;

050/18 – CORRESPONDENCE: As minute 049/18 above;

051/18 – COMMITTEE REPORTS: No reports presented;

052/18- MATTERS RAISED BY COUNCILLORS: There were no matters raised by Councillors at this meeting;

053/18 – SET DATE, TIME, VENUE & PROPOSED AGENDA ITEMS FOR THE NEXT MEETING: The next meeting will be held on Thursday 10th May 2018 in the St. Mary`s Church Hall, Blaengwrach. The Annual General Meeting will commence at 6.30pm and the monthly meeting will follow the Annual General Meeting.

There were no proposed agenda items at this time.

THE MEETING CLOSED AT 7.50pm.

Blaengwrach Community Council- Notice of Meeting 19 February 2018

Published: 15th February 2018

BLAENGWRACH COMMUNITY COUNCIL

PUBLIC BODIES ( ADMISSION TO MEETINGS) ACT, SECTION 1(4) and the LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 1972, Schedule 12 Paragraph 26(2)(a)

Notice is hereby given that a special meeting of Blaengwrach Community Council will be held at St Mary’s Community Centre at 6.30 on Monday 19th February 2018. The agenda is set out below.

Note : AS THE ITEM ON THE AGENDA RELATE TO PERSONNEL THE MEETING WILL BE HELD IN “CLOSED SESSION” AND THEREFORE MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC CANNOT ATTEND

ONLY ITEMS ON THE AGENDA WILL BE DISCUSSED AT THE MEETING.

Presiding
2. Apologies for Absence
Declarations of interest
Discuss the position of the clerk to the council

Minutes January 2018

Published: 12th February 2018

Present: Philippa Richards (Chairperson), Carolyn Edwards (Vice Chairperson) Chris Kelly

Clerk: Donna Roberts

001/18 Apologies: Amanda Doherty, Menna Mortimore, Julia Hippsley, Andrew Hippsley, Rhian Watts, Rhian Williams.

002/18 Declaration of Interest.

Cllr Edwards due to County Borough Status

003/18 Minutes.

The minutes of the Meeting on 9^th November 2017 of the Blaengwrach Community Council were accepted as a true record, proposed by Cllr Edwards, seconded by Cllr Richards.

004/18 Matters Arising

Trees in Edwards Street will be pruned in February.

The gates at Unity mine remain locked.

Dog poo bags. Action: DR to purchase bags for distribution, Cllr Richards to speak to LC re depositing bags at Premier Store.

005/18 Planning

P2017/1148 emailed to Cllrs on 21/12/17

P2017/1063 emailed to Cllrs on 27/11/17

No replies received.

006/18 Crime and Disorder.

There were 9 crimes reported in the area. Clerk gave website address www.police.co.uk for further information. Cllr Richards requested that the details of the crime be listed in the minutes.

007/18 Finance

Payments agreed to 30^th December 2017

HMRC 104.60

NPTCBC Rates 402.00

Dwr Cymru 141.50

St Cadoc 36.00

Bookers (Christmas) 170.09

Amazon (signs) 54.78

WAFERS – Sleigh (Christmas) 150.00

OVW training 391.20

Dwr Cymru (cemetery) 17.34

Simon Sparkles (Christmas) 190.00

Tesco (Christmas) 203.00

Tesco (phone) 25.00

SWALEC 161.37

British Gas 502.97

Payments Received

Hall Rental 617.00

Precept 11845.00

Budget discuss in line with cash flow forecast. Budget approved for December

008/18 Correspondence

9/1/18 OVW H&S Training Bridgend 7^th Feb

10/1/17 High Sheriff award nominations request

1/1/18 OVW public toilets consultation

27/12/17 Pen Y Cymoedd fund

20/12/17 NPT CBC budget consultation – http://www.npt.gov.uk/budget

21/12/17 High Sheriff Awards

18/12/17 OVW training Feb to July 2018

16/12/17 OVW CEO speech

16/2/17 Neath Port Talbot Public Services Board Draft Priorities Consultation – 09 November 2017 – 01 February 2018. https://www.npt.gov.uk/5808?lang=en-gb

16/12/17 OVW Job vacancy

15/12/17 OVW Information form Envisage Tackling loneliness

15/12/17 Written Statement: 21st Century Schools and Education Programme

14/12/17 Urdd – request for donhttps://www.npt.gov.uk/5808?lang=en-gbation

14/12/17 Planning law in Wales consultation – emailed

14/12/17 Effective partnership working Health Board Bridgend emailed

14/12/17 OVW – Police budget precept – emailed response required by 28/12/17

12/12/17 OVW Expert Panel on Assembly Electoral Reform Report

12/12/17 Community Health Board application form deadline 22/1/18 emailed

12/12/17 OVW One Voice Wales Community and Town Council Consultation Events – Next Steps emailed deadline 15/1/18

8/12/17 OVW “Tackling loneliness in older people”

7/12/17 Appointment of Members Community Health Councils emailed

5/12/17 OVW International Music Eisteddfod

1/12/17 OVW National Resources Wales newsletter

1/12/17 OVW NRW funding information emailed deadline 14^th January 2018

1/12/17 OVW Review of planning laws deadline March 2018

3011/17 OVW Newsletter

Mail

Planning P2017/1148 emailed 21/12/17

Planning P2017/1063 emailed 27/11/17

Welsh Government Appropriate sum under section 137(4)A

CVS Voluntary Voice

OVW Wall planner

Christmas cards Christina Rees,Neath Town Council, Jeremy Miles

National Assembly Jeremy Miles advice surgery dates poster

009/18 Committee Reports

No reports presented

010/18 Matters Raised by Cllrs

Clerk reported that although she has contacted the contractors re the roof at The Welfare Hall they have not inspected the premises. Action: DR to contact contractors.

Smoke alarms – Action: DR to get quotes for necessary work to be carried out at The Welfare Hall.

The Christmas festivities were a success, records of expenditure and quantities were recorded by Cllr Edwards to enable quantities to be calculated next Christmas.

Christmas tree – DR has contacted contractors and the lights have been removed. Action: Cllr Richards to speak to LC about recycling the Christmas tree. Cllr will discuss the planting of a Christmas tree at the next meeting. Action: DR to research cost of solar lights.

011/18 Telephone box at entrance to village

Councillors discussed the dilapidated state of the telephone box and asked the clerk to make enquiries to BT regarding removal of the box if it is no longer in use

012/18 The Welfare Age Connects

The Age Connect two year project has now finished and funding is no longer available for that project. Age Connects have not approached the council in regard to future use of the hall.

Cllr discussed the possibility of other groups using the Hall to generate income. ACTION: Cllr Richards volunteered to take photos of the Hall and advertise availability through social media.

013/18 Human Resources – add to closed session agenda for next meeting

014/18 Welfare Park Project – add to agenda for next meeting

Set Date & Time of next meeting

Next meeting: 6.30 p.m. on Thursday 8^th February 2018 at St Mary’s Church.

Meeting closed 8.00 pm

Minutes November 2017

Published: 22nd January 2018

Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on

Thursday 9^th November 2017 at 6.30 p.m.

Present: Philippa Richards (Chairperson), Carolyn Edwards (Vice Chairperson), Amanda Doherty, Menna Mortimore, Julia Hippsley, Andrew Hippsley, Chris Kelly, Rhian Watts, Rhian Williams.

Clerk: Donna Roberts

121/17 Apologies: Bethan Rosser

122/17 Declaration of Interest.

Cllr Edwards due to County Borough Status

123/17 Minutes.

The minutes of the Meeting on 10^th October 2017 of the Blaengwrach Community Council were accepted as a true record, proposed by Cllr Watts, seconded by Cllr Mortimore.

124/17 Matters Arising

Trees at Edward Street – Cllr Edwards has spoken to NPTCBC and will re contact for progress report.

Road at Unity Mine – to be reviewed at a later date.

Planning issues re development of land at Empire Ave. There are problems with sale of land.

125/17 Planning

No planning applications received

126/17 Crime and Disorder.

No crime figure received. Action: DR to contact Claire Rogers and request figures on a monthly basis.

126/17 Finance

Payments agreed

NPTCBC Rates 402.00

Dwr Cymru 141.50

SWALEC 135.47

Gwasg Morganwg 120.00

NPTCBC Waste 210.34

RLB donation 50.00

ROSPA 105.00

DD Plumbers 2988.00

Viking-printer 215.74

Viking 157.79

Water rates 80.37

Hags/SMP 633.60

Amazon 140.49

Payments Received

Hall Rental £484

Budget discuss in line with cash flow forecast. Budget approved for October.

128/17 Precept 2017/2018

Cllrs discussed the request for annual precept, all agreed not to increase the annual precept. Action: DR to respond to NPTCBC.

129/17 Correspondence

Letter from resident – Letter re bus routes. Cllr Richards has replied.

Letter from resident – Various issues. Cllr Edwards has replied as NPTCBC Coulcilor

Rospa – Play Safety Inspection Report

British Gas – information on new tariffs. Action: DR to get quotes for new supplier

Community Safety Newsletter

Mid and west Wales Fire & Rescue Service

Boundaries Commission for Wales

Catalogue, park equipment

Wickstead – Play equipment

Right of Way Improvement Plan

Mid and West Wales Fire Service

One Voice Wales

Burial charges for Children

Flanders/Wales: A First World War Symposium
The Ombudsman’s Casebook
Review of the Community and Town Council Sectors,

One Voice Wales Innovative Practice National Awards 2018
Devolution of Services/Community Asset Transfer Training course.
Welsh Government News: Scheme to promote closer working with local government
One Voice Wales Bulletin
Survey on burial of children
The Equality, Local Government and Communities Committee of the National Assembly for Wales are undertaking a consultation on its inquiry into Local Approaches to poverty reduction: The Well-Being of Future Generations Act and public service boards
The Royal Town Planning Institute Competition to Picture Wales’.
Local Authorities (Capital Finance & Accounting) (Wales) Regulations 2003.
Advertisment for the position of the Welsh Language Commissioner’s Audit and Risk e Member
Boundaries Commission
Consultation on Green areas

130/17 Committee Reports

No reports presented

131/17 Matters Raised by Cllrs

Cllr Mortimore has contacted Bookers Warehouse re discount card and agreed to be the cardholder for the account. Action: DR to write letter of authority to be signed by Chairperson

Selar Mining will donate a Christmas tree to be erected at The Welfare Park. Action: DR to contact Centregreat re lights.

Action: DR to print tickets for Christmas party and confirm sleigh booking.

Dog fouling was discussed, residents have to be willing to make a statement to police if the report dog fouling. Cllr Edwards has contacted NPTCBC to empty bins. Action: Cllr Richards to purchase dog fouling bags to be distributed to resident at the Premier Store in Cwmgwrach.

All new bank accounts at TSB are now running. Action: DR to contact Barclays to close accounts.

Cllrs discussed the need for a security alarm for Caretaker when locking up the building. Action: DR to discuss with Caretaker and order alarm.

Code of Conduct training was attended by seven Councillors at St Mary’s Church on 25^th October.

Cllrs will meet with Paul Hinder re grant application for development of The Welfare Park. Action: DR to book St Mary’s Church for 23 November at 6.30pm.

132/17 The Welfare Hall and Park

Councillors discussed

An accident book is now in place at The Welfare Hall. Action: DR to copy entries in the book to bring to monthly Council meeting.
The issue of children riding bikes in the park. Action: DR to order new signs stating “no bikes in the park”
There has been damage to the grass in several places. Action: DR to order “no Ball Games in This Area” to encourage children to use the football pitch for ball games.
Lighting – Councillors decided that new lighting is needed at the rear of the Welfare Hall and on the front corner of the building. Action: DR to contact electrician re quote.
Cllr Kelly to speak to Gardener re water holding at the entrance to The Park.

133/17 Set Date & Time of next meeting

Next meeting: 6.30 p.m. on Thursday 11^thJanuary 2017 at St Mary’s Church.

Clerk left meeting at 8:25pm

Councillors discussed the arrangements for the Christmas celebrations and Remembrace Service.

Councillors discussed the deeds of The Welfare Hall and park in closed session.

Minutes

Published: 29th August 2017

Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on Thursday 7^th June 2017 at 6.30 p.m.

Present: Philippa Richards (Chairperson), Carolyn Edwards (Vice Chairperson), Amanda Doherty, Menna Mortimore, Julia Hippsley, Andrew Hippsley, Chris Kelly, Rhian Watts, Rhian Williams.

Clerk: Donna Roberts

060/17 Apologies: Bethan Rosser

061/17 Declaration of Interest.

Cllr Edwards due to County Borough Status

Cllr Watts due to personal planning application

062/17 Minutes.

The minutes of the Meeting on 11^th May 2017 of the Blaengwrach Community Council were accepted as a true record, proposed by Cllr Edwards, seconded by Cllr Mortimore.

063/17 Matters Arising

Planning application development at bottom of Empire Avenue – Cllr Edwards has spoken to NPTCBC planning department. There will be a formal complaint made to the Leader of NPTCBC and a silent demonstration held at Empire Avenue. Cllr Edwards will pursue the option of making an appeal against the development.

Trees at Blaengwrach Primary School – Cllrs have been unable to visit Blaengwrach Primary School to discuss the problem – carried forward.

Issues with access to Unity Mine Road – carried forward.

064/17 Planning

P2017/04222 – Twyn y Deri, Parish Road, Cwmgwrach SA11 5SW. Single storey side extension – no objections

065/17 Crime and Disorder.

No issues raised

066/16 Finance

Payments agreed

£1897

Payment Received

£2852

Budget discuss in line with cash flow forecast. Budget approved for May.

067/17 Approval of Annual Accounts

Approved by Councillors

068/17 Approval of annual Accounting statement and annual governance statement Approved by Councillors

069/17 Correspondence

Seafarers UK – Request to fly the Red Ensign for Merchant Nave Day – Cllrs declined Zurich Insurance – Risk Engineering, Annual Seminars 2017 – Action: DR to file NPT CVS – Membership information – Cllrs decided to renew membership.

One Voice Wales – Information on next meeting on 14^th June 2017. Cllr Kelly to attend.

Age Connects – Copy of cinema License, request to speak to attend meeting to discuss services provided with Blaengwrach Community Council. Action: DR to invite to September meeting One Voice Wales – New Cllr training, Training to be held in September at St Mary’s Church. Action: DR to contact Glynneath Town Council re Town Cllrs attending training and check dates available. Quote received for abatement of asbestos at The Welfare Hall – Action: DR to contact contractor to arrange date for work to be carries out.

070/17 Committee Reports

The Park Project Committee have met with a fencing contractor regarding replacing the fencing around tennis courts and Muga. Action: DR to contact contractor re quote. Cllr Richards to meet with second contractor to obtain second quote.

071/17 Matters Raised by Cllrs

All organizations to be issued with revised Terms & Conditions of hire.

Chair’s allowance to be used towards the Christmas activities at The Welfare Hall.

Christmas Sleigh and entertainer booked for Christmas event on Saturday 2^nd December 2017. Picnic in The Park – Very successful event which closed at 8:00pm, Cllrs agreed that future events should also close at 8:00 pm.

Cllr Edwards agreed to complete Food Hygiene certificate training.

Cllrs requested a meeting with Caretaker and gardener/handyman. DR to contact to meet at 5:00pm on 21/6/17 at The Welfare Hall.

Cllr Kelly to meet with electrical contractor at Welfare Hall re CCTV and electrics at The Welfare Hall.

Cllr Doherty to meet with plumber re replacing water tank at The Welfare Hall.

072/17 Set Date & Time of next meeting

Next meeting: 6.30 p.m. on Thursday 10^th August 2017 at St Mary’s Church.

Meeting closed 8:45 pm

Minutes of the Extra Ordinary Meeting held on 4th^h July 2017 at 6.00 p.m.

Present: Philippa Richards (Chairperson), Carolyn Edwards (Vice Chairperson), Amanda Doherty, Chris Kelly, Rhian Williams.

Clerk: Donna Roberts

073/17 Apologies: Julia Hipsley, Andrew Hippsley, Menna Mortimore, Bethan Rosser, Rhian Watts

074/17 Declaration of Interest.

Cllr Edwards due to County Borough Status

Cllr Doherty due to contractor used by personal business.

075/17 Quotes for removal/abatement of asbestos

Councillors discussed the quotes for the removal and/or abatement of asbestos to the rear of the stage at The Welfare Hall. Unanimously voted to use Enviro Savers Ltd at a cost of £998.00

076/17 Caretaker’s holidays.

Councillors decided to put together a rota of opening and closing times to be allocated to Councillors during the period.

077/17 The Clerk will be on annual leave from Week commencing 17th July for 2 weeks.

078/17 A plumber will be conducting a site visit on Monday 10^th July at 9.30 am. Cllr Doherty to accompany Clerk on site.

079/17 Cllr Edwards agreed to contact another electrical contractor to allow for cost comparison.

080/17 Extra information has been requested for TSB regarding transferring the bank accounts from Barclays. TSB have requested a copy of the minutes naming the Cllrs to be signatories and authorizing the bank accounts to be transferred. Cllr Julia Hippsley has decided that she does not want to be a signatory on the new bank account after careful consideration. Cllrs agreed that another person could be added as an authorised signature at a later date.

081/17 Cllrs agreed to pay employees three weeks’ pay to ensure payments are made during the transfer of bank accounts.

Meeting closed 7.15 pm

Minutes

Published: 7th August 2017

Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on

Thursday 11^th May 2017 at 6.30 p.m.

Present: Philippa Richards (Chairperson), Carolyn Edwards (Vice Chairperson), Amanda Doherty, Menna Mortimore, Julia Hippsley, Andrew Hippsley, Chris Kelly, Rhian Watts, Rhian Williams.

Clerk: Donna Roberts

047/17 Apologies: Bethan Rosser

048/17 Declaration of Interest.

Cllr Edwards due to County Borough Status

049/17 Minutes.

The minutes of the Meeting on 20^th April 2017 of the Blaengwrach Community Council were accepted as a true record, proposed by Cllr Edwards, seconded by Cllr Richards.

050/17 Matters Arising

Application for funding for stage curtains – Cllr Edwards reported that the funding application had been refused with the suggestion that a stronger application which included other organisations may be looked at more favorably.

051/17 Planning

There will be a site visit in relation to P2017/0112 on 5^th June prior to the planning meeting. Cllr Edwards will present a case for an objection to the application. Action: DR to contact Jane Ralph Woodman @ NPTCBC planning department to request a member of Blaengwrach Community Council to speak at the planning meeting.

052/17 Crime and Disorder.

No notices due to purdah – general election in June.

053/16 Finance

Payments agreed

Playsafe £105

Dwr Cymru £134

Payments Rec’d

Hall Rental £980

Cemetery Fees £250

Budget discuss in line with cash flow forecast. Budget approved for May.

The Cllrs agreed to transfer the Council’s bank accounts from Barclays Bank to TSB in Glynneath, Signatories to be Donna Roberts, Menna Mortimore, Philippa Richards and Julia Hipsley, any two out of three to sign. Postal address for statement etc to be Donna Roberts, 12 Heol Wenallt, Cwmgwrach, Neath, SA11 5PT

Council agreed to continue using current signatories until change of Bank Account.

054/17 Correspondence

Zurich Insurance – Cllr approved the renewal of Community Council insurance policy with Zurich Insurance.

055/17 Committee Reports

No reports presented

056/17 Matters Raised by Cllrs

Cllrs decided to hold an afternoon tea event at The Welfare Hall on Sunday 11^th June between 3pm and 5pm to consult with residents and discuss ideas for the future development of the area.

New fencing in Welfare Park – The Park Project Committee will meet with Paul Hinder to discuss the availability of grant funding through Selar Community Benefits Fund. Committee to meet with fencing contractor on Wednesday 17^th at 6.30pm. Action: DR to confirm date and time.

A resident has made an enquiry re the trees in the school yard. Action: Cllr Edwards and Cllr A Hippsley to visit school to discuss the situation.

There has been a fly tipping incident at “the red bridge”. Action: Cllr Edwards to contact NPTCBC.

There is an issue with the access road to Unity Mine. Action: Cllr Edwards to contact NPTCBC.

The new Gardener/Handyman has started working and Cllrs agreed to meet with him in July.

057/17 One Voice Wales Membership

All Cllrs agreed to membership of One Voice Wales. Action: Cllr Edwards will contact OVW regarding membership.

058/17 Councillor Training

A list of training courses to be requested from OVW.

059/17 Set Date & Time of next meeting

Next meeting: 6.30 p.m. on Wednesday 7^th June 2017 at St Mary’s Church.

Meeting: 6.30 p.m. on Wednesday 7th June 2017 at St Mary’s Church.

Published: 17th May 2017

Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on

Thursday 20^th April 2017 at 6.30 p.m.

Present: C Pavett (Chairperson), C Edwards, C Harries, S Whitrow, P Richards

Clerk: D Roberts

035/17 Apologies: M Aveyard, G Harries, J Price, A Price (Deputy Chair)

036/17 Declaration of Interest.

Cllr Edwards due to County Borough Status

037/17 Minutes.

The minutes of the Meeting on 9^th March 2017 of the Blaengwrach Community Council were accepted as a true record, proposed by Cllr Edwards, seconded by Cllr Richards.

038/17 Matters Arising

027/17 Application for funding for stage curtains – Cllr Edwards to check status of application.

027/17 Traffic survey – Additional barriers and yellow line will be installed outside school on Heol Wenallt. NPTCBC indicated that a one way traffic system is not practical, the access gates to Blaengwrach Primary School will be moved to increase safety on School Street.

033/17 The cost of replacing the insulation and the removal of the old insulation will be met by the company who carried out the work.

028/17 The appeal for Planning application P2016/0966 has been declined and decided in favour of NPTCBC planning Committee.

039/17 Planning

P2017/0112 – amendment

P2017/0245 – no objections

P2017/0343 – no objections

040/17 Crime and Disorder.

Increased police presence in the area of Forestry Houses due to increase in reports of incidents in the area.

041/16 Finance

Payments agreed

Viking £38

Recycling bins £32

The Range/Tesco £11

British Gas £134

NPTWaste £194

Timpsons keys £15

Amazon (mats) £74

PRS £139

St Cadoc £12

PHH Services £744

Tankard (gift) £26

Small Plant £585

Payments Received

Hall Rental £71

Budget discuss in line with cash flow forecast. Budget approved for April.

042/17 Correspondence

Rospa – Safety Inspection of WelfarePark will be completed in June.

Houses of Parliament – Information on Parliament week.

Cwmgwrach Moving Forward – The projector has be repositioned and the cost met by the contractors.

Letter received from resident – issues raised, road surface at Brynberllan Road, water on Heol Wenallt and silt on Unity Mine Road junction. NPCBC issues, Cllr Edwards will reply in her County Borough Council status.

043/17 Welfare Hall ceiling/Improvements to Welfare Park

Cllrs agreed that the insulation in the Welfare Hall will be replace with new and existing insulation will be removed by the original contractor who agreed to do the work at no extra cost to Blaengwrach Community Council.

Cllrs agreed to meet with contractors to discuss the replacement of the fencing at The Welfare Park.

044/17 Committee Reports

No reports presented

045/17 Matters Raised by Cllrs

Email re license to show films at The Welfare Hall – email forwarded from NPTCBC Trading Standards – no license required for number that will attend.

Cllrs discussed the need to replace the water tanks at The Welfare Hall. Action: DR to speak to contractors and collate quotes.

046/17 Set Date & Time of next meeting

Next meeting: 6.30 p.m. on Thursday 11^th May2017 at St Mary’s Church.

http://www.blaengwrachcommunitycouncil.org/110-2/

Minutes November 2016 to March 2017

Published: 10th May 2017

Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on

Thursday 10^th November 2016 at 6.30 p.m.

Present: C Pavett (Chairperson), A Price (Deputy Chair), G Harries, J Price, C Edwards, C Harries, P Richards, S Whitrow

Clerk: D Roberts

Cllr Pavett congratulated both Cllr Edwards and Cllr Richards on their success in the recent election and welcomed Cllr Richards to Blaengwrach Community Council.

550/16 Apologies: M Aveyard

551/16 Declaration of Interest.

Cllr Edwards declared an interest due to her County Borough Council status.

552/16 Minutes.

The minutes of the meeting on 13^th October 2016 of the Blaengwrach Community Council were accepted as a true record, proposed by Cllr Edwards, seconded by Cllr Pavett .

553/16 Matters Arising

Cllrs discussed the appointment of an internal auditor as highlighted in the 2015/2016 audit report. All Cllrs agreed to appoint HR Harris & Sons. Action: DR to contact to arrange agreement and terms and conditions.

554/16 Planning

P2016/0966 – no objections

555/16 Crime and Disorder.

Cllr A Price highlighted that there have been a number of hoax calls made by someone claiming to be a delivery company to arrange the delivery of a parcel. Several houses had been broken into as a result of these calls in local areas.

Cllrs urged to encourage residents to report any incidents by ringing either 101 or 999.

556/16 Finance

Payments agreed

Zurich Insurance £114

St Cadoc’s Church (Rent for monthly meetings) £12

Atom Heating (new water heater for Welfare Hall) £305

RBI donation £50

Expenditure for Christmas activities £889

Payments Received

Hall Rental – £413

Budget discuss in line with cash flow forecast and Council assets. Budget approved for November.

The Chair’s allowance will be used towards the Christmas activities.

Annual Return to external auditors Year end 31^st March 2016 – Following discussion on points raised, approved unanimously.

Cllrs approved a thank you gift for Santa.

557/16 2017/2018 Precept

Following analysis of the cash-flow forecast projections for 2017/2018 and assets of the Council, The Cllrs decided by a unanimous decision not to increase the precept for 2017/2018.

Hall rental fees and pay increases will be discussed in March meeting.

558/16 Correspondence

CISS – Information. Action DR to file

Digital by Choice – invitation to attend event on 30^th January 2017 at Princess Royal Theatre, further information to follow closer to date – decision will be made when information is received.

Pen y Cymoedd Wind Farm Community Fund – information on micro fund. Blaengwrach has not been eligible in the past to apply for this funding. Action: DR to contact to check eligibility.

559/16 Committee Reports

No Committee reports

560/16 Matters Raised by Cllrs

There may be a vacancy for a gardener/handyman in 2017. Action: DR to itemise the possibility of the vacancy on the agenda for February’s meeting.

Delivery of Christmas tree and lights have been booked.

Dates of Council meetings set for 2017, to be published in notice board, meetings will be held second Thursday of each month at St Mary’s Church with the exception of August and December when meetings will not be held.

There is a vacancy on The Selar Community Benefits Fund panel for a Cllr to represent Blaengwrach Community Council. Following a ballot Cllr Adrianna Challenger was elected to represent the Council.

Cllrs discussed the possibility of a “one way traffic system” which would follow the same route as the public bus service in Cwmgwrach and also the possibility of parking restriction at the corner of Bryn Berllan and High Street. Action Cllr Edwards to discuss the issues with NPTCBC.

Cllrs agreed that any surplus selection boxes will be donated to St Cadoc’s Church for the food bank.

The refurbishment of the gent’s toilets at The Welfare Hall was discussed and Cllrs approved the quote from Atom Heating. Works to commence January 2017.

Cllrs discussed refurbishment of the ceilings at The Welfare Hall and new curtains and motorized mechanism for the stage at The Welfare Hall. Action: DR to obtain quotes.

561/16 Set Date & Time of next meeting

Next meeting: 6.30 p.m. on Thursday 12^th January 2017 at St Mary’s Church.

Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on

Thursday 12^th January 2017 at 6.30 p.m.

Present: A Price (Deputy Chair), M Aveyard, J Price, C Edwards, S Whitrow, P chards

Clerk: D Roberts

001/17 Apologies: G Harries, C Pavett (Chairperson),

002/17 Declaration of Interest.

Cllr Edwards re County Borough Council status.

003/17 Minutes.

The minutes of the Meeting on Thursday 12^th January 2017 of the Blaengwrach Community Council were accepted as a true record, proposed by Cllr J Price, seconded by Cllr C Edwards.

004/17 Matters Arising

Internal auditors have been contacted awaiting response re letter of agreement.

Wind Farm funding – Cwmgwrach is eligible to apply for funding. Action: DR to contact and book appointment to discuss.

Traffic at Bryn Berllan Cottages/High Street junction. Cllr Edwards has spoken to Highways Department @ NPTCBC and is awaiting the results of meeting.

Gents toilets at The Welfare Hall. The refurbishment is currently being completed. Cllrs approval for purchase of new flooring pending costs.

New ceiling at Welfare Hall/Stage curtains and closing mechanism. Awaiting quotes

005/17 Planning

Appeal hearing for the “McDonalds” development will be held at The Quays on 8^th February at 10am. Cllr Edwards will speak at the hearing as County Councillor. Action: DR to contact NPTCBC re Cllrs attending meeting.

006/17 Crime and Disorder.

PACT meeting on 18^th January at St Mary’s Church.

007/16 Finance

Payments agreed £5205

Payments Received £816

Budget discuss in line with cash flow forecast. Budget approved for November.

Mandates for additional signature – Cllr Richards agreed to become additional signature of bank accounts. Action: Cllr Richards to complete form and return to Clerk.

008/17 Correspondence

Boiler maintenance contract has been cancelled – No longer required due to new boiler being fitted.

PRS – information re music license. Action: DR to respond.

Information of recruiting new Cllrs. Action DR to display in noticeboard.

Mrs Sedgemoor – thank you letter

009/17 Committee Reports

Cllr Edwards – Vale of Neath Practice, meeting to be held on Monday 16^th January.

010/17 Matters Raised by Cllrs

There will be a vacancy for a gardener/handyman in 2017 due to the retirement of the current employee. Action: Item to be added to February meeting’s agenda.

The equipment for the Community Cinema will be fitted in January with the launch of the cinema club scheduled for February, date to be confirmed. There will be a regular monthly showing of films on Saturday mornings once a month.

The date for April’s Council meeting will now be on Thursday 20^th April due to Easter services at St Mary’s Church.

Cllrs agreed to print new order of service for Remembrance Day Service. Action Cllr Edwards to obtain costs.

011/17 Set Date & Time of next meeting

Next meeting: 6.30 p.m. on Thursday 9^th February 2017 at St Mary’s Church.

Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on

Thursday 9^th February 2017 at 6.30 p.m.

Present: C Pavett (Chairperson), A Price (Deputy Chair), J Price, C Edwards, S Whitrow, P Richards

Clerk: D Roberts

012 /17 Apologies: G Harries, M Aveyard

013/17 Declaration of Interest.

Cllr Edwards – County Borough Council status

014/17 Minutes.

The minutes of the Meeting on 12^th January 2017 of the Blaengwrach Community Council were accepted as a true record, proposed by Cllr Edwards, seconded by Cllr Whitrow.

015/17 Matters Arising

Blaengwrach is eligible for Pen y Cymoedd Wind Farm funding. Ction: Cllr Edwards to apply for funding to replace the stage curtains and mechanism at The Welfare Hall.

Traffic issues around Blaengwrach Primary School, Cllr Edwards has spoken NPTCBC and arranged for the “zigzags” on Heol Wenallt outside the school to be repainted. Awaiting traffic survey from NPTCBC re School Street.

Planning appeal for the hotel/restaurant/fuel station development to the rear of McDonalds. The appeal result will take 6 weeks to be published.

New mandates received form Cllr Richards re bank account signatures.

Costing of Order of Service – awaiting quote.

016/17 Planning

P2016/1102 – Discharge of planning permission P2013/0720

P2017/0112 – Park Garage PLC, development of new roadside services, to include sales building (use class A1), forecourt canopy, underground storage tank, car care facilities, coffee shop/restaurant with drive through facility (A1/A3) car parking, landscaping and associated works.

Cllrs expressed concerns regarding, pedestrian access to Cwmgwach, safety issues for children using the subway, traffic access from A465, increase in traffic within the village, pollution issues near domestic dwellings, impact on local businesses, too close to residential housing, no fry zone just over limit from local school.

017/17 Crime and Disorder.

Several issues have been raise by residents regarding the increase in police activity near the Heol y Graig residential facility. South Wales Police will monitor the activity.

018/16 Finance

Payments agreed –

Centregreat Ltd £ 720

Paint – £9

Postage stamps £64

Cleaning supplies £237

Wales Audit £268

Gardening supplies £18

Precept due end of April 2017

Payments Received – Hall rental £376

Budget discuss in line with cash flow forecast. Budget approved for February.

Three quotes received for replacing the ceiling, installation of LED lighting and decoration at The Welfare Hall. Cllrs to award contract to CGL Ltd, at a cost of £8301

Funding to be applied for new stage curtains and mechanism. Cllr Edwards agreed to complete application form.

020/17 Correspondence

Request for Jeremy Miles to hold a surgery at The Welfare Hall on Friday 17^th March. Approved

Copy of Electoral register – Action DR to file

Neath CVS – Voluntary Voice – Action DR to file

021/17 Committee Reports

Cllr Edwards – Vale of Neath Practice

Cllr Edwards – Community Liaison Committee

022/17 Matters Raised by Cllrs

Blaengwrach Primary School – Cllr Pavett is now a LEA governor which results in a vacancy for a Community Councillor on the Board of Governors. Item to be added to May 2017 agenda.

023/17 Staff Vacancy

The current Gardener/park keeper has given informal verbal notice to retire on April 25^th 2017. Cllrs agreed to advertise the post in both notice boards with a deadline for submission of applications being Friday 3dr March.

024/17 Cwmgwrach Moving Forward

A brief discussion was held regarding the rental of The Welfare Hall/Welfare Park by Cwmgwrach Moving Forward. Cllrs raised concerns regarding events in The Welfare Park going on until 11.00pm. Suggestions were discussed at a meeting with members of the group to discuss the terms and conditions of the use of The Welfare Hall and Park. Action: DR to contact committee and arrange a meeting for Thursday 16^th March at The Welfare Hall.

023/17 Set Date & Time of next meeting

Next meeting: 6.30 p.m. on Thursday 9^th March 2017 at St Mary’s Church.

Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on

Thursday 9^th March 2017 at 6.30 p.m.

Present: C Pavett (Chairperson), A Price (Deputy Chair, J Price, C Edwards, C Harries, P Richards, S Whitrow

Clerk: D Roberts

024 /17 Apologies: M Aveyard, G Harries

025/17 Declaration of Interest.

Cllr Edwards due to County Borough Status

026/17 Minutes.

The minutes of the Meeting on 9th February 2017 of the Blaengwrach Community Council were accepted as a true record, proposed by Cllr Edwards, seconded by Cllr Whitrow .

027/17 Matters Arising

Application for funding for new stage curtains @ The Welfare Hall – ongoing, six week application decision process.

Traffic survey – ongoing awaiting results

Designated signatures on Bank accounts – postponed until May meeting.

028/17 Planning

No plan applications received

Result of appeal for Planning P2016/0966 will take six weeks.

029/17 Crime and Disorder.

No notifications

030/17 Finance

Payments agreed

Celtic Mowers £58

St Cadoc £12

Phil Barber Flooring £1524

Small Plant Machinery £585

Tesco £6

PRS £139

Timpsons£15

Amazon £19

Tankard £26

Payments Received

Hall Rental £216

Budget discuss in line with cash flow forecast. Budget approved for March.

031/17 Correspondence

Tesco Bags Funding – Discuss at May meeting

CVS emails – Clerk to filter emails and forward relevant information.

032/17 Committee Reports

Cllr Edwards – Community Council Liaison Committee

033/17 Matters Raised by Cllrs

There has been further damage to the front of the stage at The Welfare Hall by Celtic Archers. Action: DR to send letter with charges for repairs to any further damage.

Work on replacing the ceiling at The Welfare Hall and decoration has been completed, Extra hours approved for Caretaker for cleaning.

Cllr J Price raised concerns that the insulation had not be replaced to standard and will take photos as evidence of the workmanship.

034/17 Gardener Vacancy

Shortlist of 2 applicants.

Interviews to be held on Thursday 23^rd March at 6.30pm and 7.15pm at The Welfare Hall.

Cllrs to meet prior to interview to discuss questions.

Action: DR to send letters to confirm interview.

035/17 Cwmgwrach Moving Forward

Cllrs discussed terms and conditions of contract of hire of The Welfare Hall for cinema showings.

Councillors agreed to Picnic in the Park and suggested closing the Welfare at 6.30pm and The Welfare Park at 7.30pm to be discussed at meeting.

Councillors to meet with Committee members on 21^st March to discuss issues raised and confirm terms and conditions of rental.

034/17 Set Date & Time of next meeting

Next meeting: 6.30 p.m. on Thursday 20^th April 2017 at St Mary’s Church.

Minutes of Blaengwrach Community Council 2016

Published: 7th January 2017

Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on Thursday 14th January 2016 at 6.30 p.m.

Present: C Pavett (Chairperson), A Price (Deputy Chair), M Aveyard, A Challenger, J Price, C Edwards, C Harris.

Clerk: D Roberts

444/16 Apologies: M Aveyard, G Harris, A Siddley

445/16 Declaration of Interest. No declarations of interest 446/16 Minutes. The minutes of the Meeting on 12th November 2015 of the Blaengwrach Community Council were accepted as a true record, proposed by Cllr Edwards, seconded by Cllr A Price .

447/16 Matters Arising No matters arising

448/16 Planning No planning applications received.

449/16 Crime and Disorder. PACT meeting dates for 2016 emailed to Cllrs. Action: DR to display in notice board.

450/16 Finance Payments agreed £926 Payments Received £622

The Cllrs decided by a unanimous decision not to increase the precept for 2016/2017. Hall rental fees and pay increases will be discussed in March meeting.

451/16 Correspondence NPTCBC – Letter with query regarding repairs to footpath between Heol y Felin and Empire Avenue. Confirmed that Blaengwrach Community Council has not funded any maintenance work to the footpath owned by NPTCBC. DR to reply to NPTCBC. Welsh Government – Road safety Review, information distributed to Cllrs. ROSPA – information on safety inspections and training. 452/16 Committee Reports Cllr Edwards – Community Liaison Committee report.

Blaengwrach Community Council Cyngor Cymuned Blaengwrach

453/16 Matters Raised byCouncillors The Christmas celebrations were a great success. The date for 2016 was decided and booked for 26th November 2016. Cllrs approved the booking of sleigh and entertainer. The planting of wild flower seeds was discussed and purchase of seeds up to the value of £40 was approved. The purchase of bedding plants for the Welfare Park was approved. NPTCBC are no longer providing dog fouling bags. Cllrs agreed to purchase bags to be distributed free of charge. Summer Fair @ The Welfare Park – to be discussed at next meeting. Cllrs approved the erection of a flag pole at The Welfare Park.

454/16 Vacancy – Community Councillor NPTCBC have not been contacted regarding holding an election therefore a new Community Councillor will be co-opted to Blaengwrach Community Council. Action: DR to display appropriate information in notice board.

455/16 Set Date & Time of next meeting

Next meeting: 6.30 p.m. on Thursday 11th February 2016 at St Mary’s Church.

Meeting closed 7.45pm

Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on

Thursday 18^th February 2016 at 6.30 p.m.

Present: A Price (Deputy Chair), M Aveyard, A Challenger, J Price, C Edwards,

Clerk: D Roberts

456/16 Apologies: C Pavett (Chairperson), A Siddley, G Harries, C Harries.

Letter from Cllr Siddley with apologies due to serious ill health. Cllrs agreed to accept apologies and agreed to non-attendance at Council meetings.

457/16 Declaration of Interest.

No Declarations of interest

458/16 Minutes.

The minutes of the Meeting on 14^th January 2016 of the Blaengwrach Community Council were accepted as a true record, proposed by Cllr Edwards, seconded by Cllr J Price.

459/16 Matters Arising

NPTCBC have yet to decide if they are going to withdraw the supply of dog mess bags. Blaengwrach Community Council has distributed over 1500 bags to date.

460/16 Planning

No planning applications received.

461/16 Crime and Disorder.

PACT meeting – Vandalism in the Welfare Park was identified as the priority, PCSO agreed that there would be a higher police presence at the Welfare Hall, following an incident involving the Old Age group meeting at the Hall on 16^th February 2016.

Dates requested for “Cuppa with a Copper” which are held at Blaengwrach Primary School.

462/16 Finance

Payments agreed £784

Payments Received £280

Transfer £6000.00 from General Account to Saver Account

Age Connect – discussion on rental of The Welfare Hall. Cllrs decided that rental for the Hall would be charged. The decision was made on the grounds:

the project is grant funded and the cost of hall rental is included in the grant.
Age Connect have used The Welfare Hall free of charge from the end of the last grant funding in May 2015 and the start of the current grant funding which was secured in December 2015.
The Hall is not available for alternative rental while Age Connect has it booked for two day a week.

Action: DR to inform Age Connect of the Council’s decision.

463/16 Correspondence

NPTCVS – invitation to The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service

Derek Vaughan – Public meeting announcement

NPTCBC – Local Development Plan Information

464/16 Committee Reports

Cllr Edwards – Community Council Liason Committee.

Cllr Edwards – Vale of Neath Surgery Committee, request for a new committee member. Action: item to be discussed at March meeting.

465/16 Matters raised by Councillors

A public meeting will be held at Cwmgwrach Rugby Club ON 3^RD March 2016

466/16 Election of Co-opted Councillor

Three applications were received for the vacancy at Blaengwrach Community Council. Sheila Whitrow was co-opted by the Cllrs present. Action DR to notify and arrange paper work.

467/16 Set Date & Time of next meeting

Next meeting: 6.30 p.m. on Thursday 10^th March 2016 at St Mary’s Church.

Meeting closed 7.15pm

Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on

Thursday March 10^th 2016 at 6.30 p.m.

Present: C Pavett (Chairperson), A Price (Deputy Chair), M Aveyard, J Price, C Edwards,

Clerk: D Roberts

468 /16 Apologies: C Harries, A Siddley, G Harries, A Challenger, S Whitrow

469/16 Declaration of Interest.

None declared

470/16 Minutes.

The minutes of the Meeting on 2016 of the Blaengwrach Community Council were accepted as a true record, proposed by Cllr A Price , seconded by Cllr J Price.

471/16 Matters Arising

There is a limited supply of dog mess bags still available from NPTCBC.

No dates received for “Cuppa with a Copper” at Blaengwrach Primary School. Action: DR to email to request a list of dates to publish in notice board.

472/16 Planning

Planning Application P2015/1117. Change of use of rear of building from retail to martial arts centre. No objections

473/16 Crime and Disorder.

No reports

474/16 Finance

Payments agreed £488.

Payments Received £534

475/16 Correspondence

Selar Community Benefit Fund – details of next deadline. Action: DR to display in notice board.

Post Office – details of closure of current Post Office and transfer to Premier Store at Cwmgwrach. Cllrs agreed that the facility was essential in the village. Action: DR to respond in a positive manner to the plans.

476/16 Committee Reports

No Committee reports

477/16 Matters Raised by Councillors

Cllrs raised concerns regarding the graffiti project in the Welfare Park. It was suggested that the content was not relative to Cwmgwrach and that a more historical content should be considered before the actual work started. Action: Cllr A Price to discuss with the young people and artist.

Blaengwrach Primary School has been awarded a “green” level. Action: DR to write a letter of congratulations to the head teacher.

Fire Service – Cwmgwrach is now covered by the Fire Station in Seven Sisters, Cllrs raised concerns that the station is only manned on a part time basis. Action: Invitation to be extended to Gordon Walker to attend a meeting to discuss the situation.

There is maintenance work needed to safety rails at the Welfare Park. Action: DR to get quote to be approved at next meeting.

Vale of Neath Surgery Patient Participation

478/16 Set Date & Time of next meeting

Next meeting: 6.30 p.m. on Thursday 14^th April 2016 at St Mary’s Church.

Meeting closed 7.00pm

Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on

Thursday 14^th April 2016 at 6.30 p.m.

Present: C Pavett (Chairperson), C Edwards, S Whitrow.

Clerk: D Roberts

479 /16 Apologies: A Price (Deputy Chair), A Siddley, G Harries, J Price, M Aveyard, A Challenger, C Harries

Cllr Pavett welcomed Cllr Whitrow to her fist meeting at Blaengwrach Community Council.

480/16 Declaration of Interest.

No declarations of interest.

481/16 Minutes.

The minutes of the Meeting on 14^th April 2016 of the Blaengwrach Community Council were accepted as a true record, proposed by Cllr Edwards, seconded by Cllr Pavett.

482/16 Matters Arising

Cllr A Price was not present, update regarding graffiti project to be discussed in May meeting.

Clerk stated that she has not had any response from Fire Service, Action: Cllr Pavett to contact Fire Service re joint meeting with Glynneath Town Council.

483/16 Planning

P2016/0117 – no objections raised

P2016/0254 – no objections raised

Action DR to write letter of support from Blaengwrach Community Council for the project.

P2016/0135 – No objections raised

Cllr Edwards declared that she had responded to the planning application as a resident stating concerns regarding road safety and access issues.

484/16 Crime and Disorder.

The next PACT meeting will be on 18^th April. Action: DR to email PCSO requesting dates for “Cuppa with a Copper” meeting at Blaengwrach Primary School Community room.

485/16 Finance

Payments agreed £1702

Payments Received £1803

Cllrs discussed and approved annual pay increases and summer working hours for park keeper/gardener.

Quote received for repairs to railings at the Welfare Park approved, Action: DR to contact contractor.

486/16 Correspondence

NPTCBC – Boundaries Commission for Wales – Review. Action: DR to file.

487/16 Committee Reports

Cllr Edwards – Patient Participation Committee

Cllr Pavett – Cwmgwrach Old Age

488/16 Matters Raised by Cllrs

Cllrs have received complaints about dog mess and litter in the village. Action: DR to write letter of complaint to NPTCBC

Cwmgwrach Scouts are in the process of putting together a litter picking project. Cllr Pavett will give the Scout leader information regarding funding available from Aberpergwm Colliery fund and Selar funds.

489/16 Set Date & Time of next meeting

Next meeting: 6.30 p.m. on Thursday 12^th May 2016 at St Mary’s Church.

Meeting closed 7.40pm

Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on

Thursday 12^thMay 2016 at 6.30 p.m.

Present: C Pavett (Chairperson), A Price (Deputy Chair), M Aveyard, A Challenger, J Price, C Edwards, , S Whitrow.

Clerk: D Roberts

490/16 Apologies: G Harries, C Harries, A Siddley,

491/16 Declaration of Interest.

None

492/16 Minutes.

The minutes of the Meeting on 14^th April 2016 of the Blaengwrach Community Council were accepted as a true record, proposed by Cllr Edwards, seconded by Cllr Whitrow.

493/16 Matters Arising

The contractor has been contacted regarding the repairs to the railings in the park and work will go ahead as soon as possible

New boiler, action DR to arrange to quotes to replace the boiler.

The graffiti project will commence next week with amendments to the original drawings.

Chairs at the Welfare Hall. Action: Cllr Pavett to contact the scouts to ask if they would agree to Blaengwrach Community Council donating chairs to the organization.

494/16 Planning

No planning applications received

495/16 Crime and Disorder.

No issues raised.

496/16 Finance

Payments agreed £234

Payments Received £1535

497/16 Correspondence

Post Office – information on date of relocation of Post Office. New post office will open on 24^th June 2016.

Marie Curie – Poster. Action DR to display in notice board

CAB Leaflet – Action: DR to file

NPT CVS – Voluntary Voice. Action: DR to file

Zurich Insurance – notification of annual renewal, awaiting quote.

498/16 Committee Reports

Selar Community Benefit Fund – The two community counsellors representing Blaengwrach Community Council have completed their term of office on the Committee. Cllrs voted for Cllr A Price and Cllr Edwards to represent Blaengwrach Community Council. Action: DR to contact Paul Hinder with names and contact details.

499/16 Matters Raised by Cllrs

Cllr Challenger raised concerns regarding the information on the notice board at the cemetery as it was faded and could not be read. Action: DR to replace with up to date information.

Planning applications P2016/0117 petrol station & P2016/0254 restaurant/pub/carpark- Cllrs discussed the importance of the development of the area in relation to job creation and economic development. Action Cllrs to contact AM’s and MP’s re letter of support for the project. Action: DR to place a petition in Cwmgwrach Post Office in order for residents to sign in support of the project.

Cllr raised concerns regarding the lack of outdoor space at Blaengwrach Primary School since the erection of the building to be used by Flying Start. Action: School governors to raise the issue at the next meeting.

500/16 Set Date & Time of next meeting

Next meeting: 6.30 p.m. on Thursday 9^th June 2016 at St Mary’s Church.

Meeting closed 7.45pm

Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on

Thursday 16^th June 2016 at 6.30 p.m.

Present: C Pavett (Chairperson), A Price (Deputy Chair), J Price, C Edwards, C Harries, S Whitrow.

Clerk: D Roberts

501 /16 Apologies: M Aveyard, A Challenger, A Siddley, G Harries,

502/16 Declaration of Interest.

No declarations of interest

503/16 Minutes.

The minutes of the Meeting on 12^th May 2016 of the Blaengwrach Community Council were accepted as a true record, proposed by Cllr Edwards , seconded by Cllr Whitrow.

504/16 Matters Arising

Replacement of central heating boiler – awaiting quotes.

Donation of chairs to Scouts. Action: Cllr Pavett to contact scouts.

Outdoor play space at school – Cllr Pavett has spoken to the head and they have plans to develop further outdoor space.

506/16 Planning

P2016/0410 – no objections

P2016/0117 – letter of support to be sent to NPTCBC.

Letter of support submitted by Bethan Jenkins AM.

507/16 Crime and Disorder.

Dates for Cuppa with a Copper sessions to be held in the community room at Blaengwrach Primary School emailed to Cllrs.

508/16 Finance

Payments agreed £2632

Payments Received £637

Further quotes are required for the replacement of the central heating boiler at The Welfare Hall – to be discussed at July meeting.

509/16 Acceptance of Annual Accounts 2015/2016/Annual return to year end 31^st March 2016.

Annual accounts and internal audit

Approved unanimously.

Annual Return to external auditors Year end 31^st March 2016

Approved unanimously.

510/16 Correspondence

Letter from resident requesting information on the cost of renting The Welfare Hall. Information posted.

Notification of polling station requirements for 23^rd June 2106.

Age Connect – letter requesting reduction in rental cost. Cllrs regretfully could not agree to a reduction in rental cost for the grant funded project due to rising fuel costs. Cllr discussed the implication of the reduction in cost for all community groups using the Welfare Hall as it would not be fair to reduce the cost for one group and not others and the impact on the budget of the Community Council. Action: DR to respond.

511/16 Committee Reports

Cllr Edwards – Vale of Neath Surgery

512/16 Matters Raised by Cllrs

Further development of the Welfare Park. Cllrs requested that suitable companies would be contacted with the view of obtaining quotes.

Dog mess bags – NPTCBC will no longer be able to supply bags for distribution in the village. Cllrs agreed that the service goes some way to addressing the problem and agreed to fund the purchase of bags.

Cllr Edwards raised the issue of membership for One Voice wales and Cllr agreed to invite a representative to the next meeting.

513/16 Set Date & Time of next meeting

Next meeting: 6.30 p.m. on Thursday 14^th July 2016 at St Mary’s Church.

Meeting closed 7.55pm

Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on

Thursday 14^th July 2016 at 6.30 p.m.

Present: Cllr Pavett (Chairperson), Cllr Edwards, Cllr Whitrow

Clerk: Apologies – D Roberts

514 /16 Apologies: Cllr Siddley, Cllr A Price, Cllr J Price

515/16 Declaration of Interest.

Cllr Whitrow declared interest re St Mary’s Church.

516/16 Minutes.

The minutes of the Meeting on 16^th June 2016 of the Blaengwrach Community Council were accepted as a true record,

proposed by Cllr Edwards, seconded by Cllr Whitrow

517/16 Matters Arising

Valley services have withdrawn the quote – will re submit quote to include industrial boiler

British Gas – 2 no shows

Atom Heating Ltd – quote received

Rhys Williams – awaiting quote.

Clerk and Chair authorized to continue with works if quotes under £10,000.

No change is circumstance at Blaengwrach Primary School re Flying Start. Porta Cabin should be finished by September, children able to start after 2^nd birthday.

Dates given for “Cuppa with a Copper”

518/16 Planning

No planning applications received.

519/16 Crime and Disorder.

There was a drugs raid in Empire Avenue during June.

520/16 Finance

Payments agreed

Flowers Mrs Sedgemoor £19

Postage £7.25

St Cadoc’s £6.00

Swalec £383.30

Brit gas £709.80

Celtic flags £61.20

Fuel(mowers) £24.52

Payments Received – nil

521/16 Correspondence

Thank you card from Gwyneth Sedgemoor for flowers.

Letter from PCC re upkeep of Church Road to respond to Jennifer Jenkins PCC.

Letter from PCC re upkeep of church yard – clerk to respond to Jennifer Jenkins – advised to get quotes to get work done and bring back to CC to investigate possible grants.

Letter from BM James Grave Digging Services – carried forward.

522/16 Committee Reports

None

523/16 Matters Raised by Cllrs

Fun day at Welfare Park – 6^th August – Council notes fun day in park organized by residents. Clerk to check all necessary insurances are in place. Bar supplied by Cwmgwrach Rugby Club, Burger Van.

All expenses to be met by the organising group including insurance – co-ordinated by Stuart James.

Chief Executive of One Voice Wales has agreed to attend.

Cllrs received a delegation from residents.

Allowed to speak on several issues/concerns

Age Connect re funding – Cllrs explained that Age Connect had received funding for the cost of rental of The Welfare Hall.
Seat needed at bottom end of park and Cwmboyle Road.
Water at bottom gate of park
Cemetery gates – weeding needed. Needs a shelter/closure of gates
Trees at bottom of Empire Avenue need cutting

524/16Adoption of amended Code of Conduct

Code of Conduct accepted. Query training.

525/16 Set Date & Time of next meeting

Next meeting: 6.30 p.m. on Thursday 8th September 2016 at St Mary’s Church.

Meeting closed 7:55pm

Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on

Thursday 8^th September 2016 at 6.30 p.m.

Present: C Pavett (Chairperson), A Price (Deputy Chair), J Price, C Edwards, C Harries, S Whitrow

Clerk: D Roberts

Guest Speaker: Lyn Cadwallader, Chief Executive, One Voice Wales

Guest Speaker: Jeremy Miles AM

526 /16 Apologies: A Challenger, G Harries, M Aveyard

527/16 Declaration of Interest.

No declarations of interest.

528/16 Minutes.

The minutes of the Meeting on 16^th June2016 of the Blaengwrach Community Council were accepted as a true record, proposed by Cllr Edwards , seconded by Cllr Whitrow .

529/16 Matters Arising

No matters arising

530/16 Planning

P2016/0748 – No objections

P20160556 – No objections

P2016/653 – No objections

531/16 Crime and Disorder.

Next meeting of Cuppa with a Copper will be held at St Mary’s Church on 21^st September 2016 at 6.30pm.

532/16 Finance

Payments agreed

Dog mess bags £46

LH Evans £96

Maintenance materials £37

Flowers £12

Payments Received

£1095

533/16 Correspondence

Cwmgwrach Moving Forward – Information on Family Fun Day. Action DR to invite committee members to January meeting.

Trem y Glyn Consultation information. The information has been displayed in the notice board.

NPTCBC – “Alleged public footpath between High Street, Empire Ave and Heol y Felin Community of Blaengwrach”. Deadline for representations 19^th September 2016.

NPTCBC – Invitation to Partnership Event, Tuesday 11^th October 2016. Cllr Pavett to attend. Action DR to reply to invitation.

One Voice Wales – Invitation to meeting on 14^th September 2016 at 7.00pm. Cllr Pavett to attend.

534/16 Committee Reports

No committee reports

535/16 Matters Raised by Cllrs

Deadline for requests for election for Blaengwrach Community Councillor is 13/9/16 and a provisional date for the election has been set for 20^th October 2016.

Party in the Park organised by Cwmgwrach Moving Forward was a great success. Action: Invite Committee member to January meeting to discuss how Blaengwrach Community Council can support future events and activities.

New water heat required in kitchen at The Welfare Hall. Spend approved. Action: DR to contact contractor.

Cllr Edwards and Cllr A Price to gather quotes re the demolition of the pumping station and development of The Welfare Park.

The required three quotes were discussed for the replacement of the central heating boiler at The Welfare Hall following discussion the contract will be awarded to Valley Services. Action DR to contact company to arrange suite date for installation.

536/16 Set Date & Time of next meeting

Next meeting: 6.30 p.m. on Thursday 13^th October 2016 at St Mary’s Church.

Meeting closed 8:45pm

Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on

Thursday 13^th October 2016 at 6.30 p.m.

Present: C Pavett (Chairperson), A Price (Deputy Chair), A Challenger, G Harries, J Price, C Edwards, C Harries, S Whitrow.

Roger Hopkin, Shirley Hopkins (Cwmgwrach Moving Forward)

Clerk: D Roberts

537 /16 Apologies: M Aveyard, C Harries

538/16 Declaration of Interest.

None received

539540/16 Minutes.

The minutes of the Meeting on Thursday 8^th September 2016 of the Blaengwrach Community Council were accepted as a true record, proposed by Cllr Pavett , seconded by Cllr Edwards .

541/16 Matters Arising

Quote received for replacement of water heater, approved.

542/16 Planning

P2016/0770 – sent via email, no objections

543/16 Crime and Disorder.

No information received

544/16 Finance

Payments agreed

Rental £12

Sundry supplies for Welfare Hall £132

Wired up Wales £90

Fuel for gardening machinery £19

British Gas £281

NPT Waste £180

Dog mess bags £15

Payments Received

Hall Rental £537

In line with cash flow forecast. Budget approved

Council approved two new signature on bank accounts – Cllr Edwards and Cllr Whitrow. Action Cllr A Price to contact bank.

545/16 Correspondence

Email received re rental of Welfare Hall for new dance group. Action: DR to reply with availability, suggest classes start after Christmas as Blaengwrach Primary School use the Hall for practice and school concerts which restricts availability.

Boundaries Commission – The 2018 review of Parliamentary Constituencies in Wales – Initial proposals, deadline 5/12/16.

NPTCBC – Alleged footpaths between High Street and Empire Avenue and Heol y Felin – Notice of confirmation and copy of Notice of its making.

NPTCVS – Invitation to AGM – Cllr Pavett to attend, Action: DR to confirm attendance.

Cwmgwrach Moving Forward – letter requesting support for the cinema project re funding application to Selar Community Benefits Fund. Action: DR to write letter of support.

546/16 Committee Reports

Cllr Edwards – Vale of Neath Surgery.

Cllr Pavett – NPTCBC budget meeting.

Selar Liaison Fund – five grants approved. Education grant will be for full time university education for two year @ £250.

547/16 Approval of amended external Audit documentation.

Actions – Date of appointment for internal auditor and letter of engagement for internal auditor.

Matter of budget monitoring during financial year – although the budget is monitored on a monthly basis with approval of payments and bank balances provided for Cllrs this is not recorded in the monthly minutes as budget formally being monitored and approved. Action: DR to minute the budget approval in the monthly minutes.

548/16 Matters Raised by Cllrs

Membership of One Voice Wales – Cllrs decided not to apply for membership. Action: DR to write and thank Lyn Cadwallader for attending the meeting and note to review the membership at the AGM in May.

Cllrs approved the replacement of the water heater at The Welfare Hall. Action: DR to contact contractor.

Celtic Archers have been notified that The Welfare Hall will not be available on 20^th October as is required as a polling station.

The new gas boiler has been installed at The Welfare Hall.

549/16 Set Date & Time of next meeting

Next meeting: 6.30 p.m. on Thursday10th November 2016 at St Mary’s Church.

Meeting closed 8.00pm

Minutes of Blaengwrach Community Council 2015

Published: 7th January 2017

Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on Thursday 8^th January 2015 at 6.30 p.m.

Present: A Price (Chairperson), M Aveyard (Deputy Chairperson), A Siddley, G Harries, C Pavett, J Price, J Bodman, C Edwards

Clerk: D Roberts

333 /15 Apologies: C Harries, A Challenger

334/15 Declaration of Interest.

None declared

335/15 Minutes.

The minutes of the Meeting on 2014 of the Blaengwrach Community Council were accepted as a true record, proposed by Cllr J Price, seconded by Cllr Edwards.

336/15 Matters Arising

Martin Hooper (NPTCBC) has been contacted re the pollution monitor at The Cemetery.

Glynneath Historical Society will meet on 9^th January to discuss the storage of documents at The Welfare Hall, the documents will be insured by Glynneath Historical Society.

337/15 Planning

No planning applications received.

Discussion on the development of the new health centre – concerns raised over allocated space for community/district nurses and health visitors. Action: Cllr Siddley to discuss with NPTCBC, letter to be sent requesting information on accommodation to practice manager at Vale of Neath Practice if accommodation is not allocated.

338/15 Crime and Disorder.

No issues raised

339/15 Finance

Payments agreed £8867

Payments Received £390

Cllrs decided to increase the cost of the rental of The Welfare Hall – notification to be sent to all groups. Cllrs also decided to increase the cemetery fees to bring them in line with the costs at Glynneath.

Precept – following examination of cash flow forecast it was decided unanimously that the precept would remain the same.

340/15 Correspondence

Gwenda Thomas AM – information on office hours and contact details.

NPTCBC – Information on applying for 2015/2016 precept. Action DR to complete.

341/15 Committee Reports

Cllr J Price – Selar Community Fund.

342/15 Any Other Business

Due to the increased use of The Welfare Hall Councillors decided to increase the caretaker’s hours by three hours per week.

Discussion regarding the extension of the cemetery was held and the issues of appropriate licenses, health and safety, insurance, planning application, cutting down trees and environmental/wildlife were highlighted, these issues would need to be addressed before any decisions were made. No action will be taken until all these issues have been addressed.

On line banking – application forms completed awaiting documentation.

A public meeting is being held at The Welfare Hall on 14/1/15 to discuss an application to Selar Community Fund by Cwmgwrach RFC.

Discussion on the development of the entrance to the village, Cllrs decided that a large stone with a welcome sign would be the best option.

Selar Community Fund – two applications were received for the vacancies on the panel, Paul Hinder will contact the residents with regard to training.

343/15 Set Date & Time of next meeting

Next meeting: Thursday 12^th February 2015 at 6.30 p.m. at St Mary’s Church.

Meeting closed 7.45pm

Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on

Thursday 12^th February 2015 at 6.30 p.m.

Present: A Price (Chairperson), G Harries, J Price, J Bodman, C Edwards.

Clerk: D Roberts

344 /15 Apologies: C Harries, M Aveyard, A Siddley, A Challenger, C Pavett.

345/15 Declaration of Interest.

None declared

346/15 Minutes.

The minutes of the Meeting on Thursday 8^th January 2015 of the Blaengwrach Community Council were accepted as a true record, proposed by Cllr Edwards, seconded by Cllr Bodman.

347/15 Matters Arising

Health Centre consultation has been completed, without any objections, plans to be passed to developer.

Glynneath Historical Society have agreed to purchase cabinets for archived material to be stored at The Welfare Hall. Action: DR – letter to be sent stating that Glynneath Historical Society is responsible for insuring the items stored.

348/15 Planning

Details of planning application P2015/0018 e-mailed, no objections.

349/15 Crime and Disorder.

Newsletter and dates of PACT meetings emailed to Cllrs.

350/15 Finance

Payments agreed £1418

Payments Received £1246

351/15 Correspondence

SIA – request for donation – declined

Wales Kidney Foundation – request for donation – declined

RCT – information on RCT Draft Supplementary Planning Guidance Consultaion.

Letter from resident regarding location of bus stop at High Street and request for the erection of bus stop sign. Action: DR to contact First Group

352/15 Committee Reports

Cllr Edwards – Community Liaison Committee.

Cllr Bodman has been unable to attend meetings due to a prior appointment and requested that another Cllr be appointed to the committee. Action: to be discussed at next meeting.

Cllr J Price – Selar Fund

353/15 Any Other Business

Discussed decoration to ceiling in The Welfare Hall, to be discussed at next meeting.

Residents had raised concerns regarding the closure of Glynneath Leisure Centre due to budget cuts at NPTCBC, now managed by Celtic Leisure not NPTCBC.

Closure of Cwmgwrach Post Office, more information required, Glynneath Post Office may also close, concerns raised regarding the lack of a Post Office.

354/15 Set Date & Time of next meeting

Next meeting: 6.30 p.m. on Thursday 12^th March 2015 at St Mary’s Church.

Meeting closed 7.20pm

Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on

Thursday 12^th March 2015 at 6.30 p.m.

Present: A Price (Chairperson), G Harries, C Pavett, J Price, J Bodman, C Edwards

Clerk: D Roberts

355 /15 Apologies: C Harries, M Aveyard A Challenger, A Siddley.

356/15 Declaration of Interest.

None received

357/15 Minutes.

The minutes of the Meeting on 12^th Feb 2014 of the Blaengwrach Community Council were accepted as a true record, proposed by Cllr Edwards , seconded by Cllr J Price .

358/15 Matters Arising

Glynneath Post Office – under consultation

Cwmgwrach Post Office – no notice of consultation

Ceiling at Welfare Hall – the cause is possibly a leak will be investigated.

359/15 Planning

Planning application P2014/1137 emailed to Cllrs, no comments received.

360/15 Crime and Disorder.

Nothing to report

361/15 Finance

Payments agreed £53

Payments Received £1730

Cllrs discussed and approved annual pay increases and summer working hours for park keeper/gardener

362/15 Correspondence

Mazars – information on external audit for 2014/2015

NPTCBC – Consultation on Court Deputy Proposals – Cllrs A Price to seek clarification.

363/15 Committee Reports

No reports

364/15 Any Other Business

The matter of charging rental for The Welfare Hall if it was not used was discussed and it was decided that there would not be a charge if the Hall was not used.

Welcome to Cwmgwrach Project– Cllr Pavett has met with Aled Jones and Steve Owen of NPTCBC who have asked to be included in the costing process and will assist with the planning and highways issues related to the project, NPTCBC will provide a quote for the cost of the work. Application will not be completed to submit for next panel meeting.

The issue of damage at the cemetery has been resolved by placing large stones painted white and planting shrubs where cars had been driving over the grass.

There has been some damage to the stage at the Welfare Hall by the Celtic Archers. Celtic Archers have been made aware of this and have been asked to use barriers to prevent their arrows hitting the front of the stage.

Selar Community Fund – Friends of the Cabin would like to apply for funding for a graffiti project on the wall below the Scout’s Hall in the Welfare Park. No objections raised. Application for 50 chairs to be submitted by Blaengwrach Community Council, approved.

365/15 Set Date & Time of next meeting

Next meeting: 6.30 p.m. on Thursday9th April 2015 at St Mary’s Church.

Meeting closed 7.30pm

Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on

Thursday 9^th April 2015 at 6.30 p.m.

Present: M Aveyard (Deputy Chairperson), G Harries, C Pavett, J Price, J Bodman, C Edwards

Clerk: D Roberts

366 /15 Apologies: A Price (Chairperson), C Harries, A Challenger, A Siddley.

367/15 Declaration of Interest.

No declarations of Interest

368/15 Minutes.

The minutes of the Meeting on Thursday 9^th April 2015 of the Blaengwrach Community Council were accepted as a true record, proposed by Cllr Edwards , seconded by Cllr J Price.

369/15 Matters Arising

It was stated that there is a possibility of the Post Office moving into The Costcutter.

370/15 Planning

No planning applications received.

371/15 Crime and Disorder

Nothing to report.

372/15 Finance

Payments agreed £1477

Payments Received £1057

Cllrs discussed and approved annual pay increases and summer working hours for park keeper/gardener.

373/15 Correspondence

Mazars – information on annual audit

Play Works – Information update, Action: DR to file

374/15 Committee Reports

No reports

375/15 Any Other Business

AGM – agreed to hold AGM prior to monthly meeting on May 14^th 2015, Action DR to email nomination forms.

Cllr Pavett has spoken to Aled Jones (NPTCBC) regarding the erection of the welcome to Cwmgwrach project who will in turn submit a map and information on the project to Nicola Lake (NPTCBC) for advice on issues relating to the Highways Department.

376/15 Set Date & Time of next meeting

Next meeting: 6.30 p.m. on Thursday 14^th May 2015 at St Mary’s Church. Meeting closed 7.10pm

Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on

Thursday 14^th May 2015 at 6.30 p.m.

Present: A Price (Deputy Chairperson), M Aveyard, A Challenger, A Siddley, G Harries, C Pavett (Chairperson), J Price, C Edwards, C Harries

Clerk: D Roberts

377/15 Apologies: J Bodman

378/15 Declaration of Interest.

Cllr Challenger – Nu Generation

Cllr Siddley – NPTCBC

379/15 Minutes.

The minutes of the Meeting on 2015 of the Blaengwrach Community Council were accepted as a true record, proposed by Cllr C Edwards, seconded by Cllr J Price.

380/15 Matters Arising

Welcome to Cwmgwrach project – Head of planning has been on annual leave, Cllr Pavett will contact her next week on her return to work.

381/15 Planning

No planning applications received.

382/15 Crime and Disorder.

The PCSO has been made aware of the issue of dog fouling around the school and has accompanied a member of the Council to view the problem.

383/15 Finance

Payments agreed £4435

Payments Received £5116

384/15 Correspondence

The Council has been copied into a letter sent by Bethan Jenkins AM to The Environment Agency regarding an incident in Cwmgwrach. No action to be taken until outcome has been decided as Blaengwrach Community Council have only been copied in on the original letter.

Glynneath and Cwmgwrach Historical Society – Letter of thanks re storage and confirming the society will comply with the terms and conditions.

The Ombudsman – Information on Revised Guidance on the Code of Conduct. Action: DR to email website address to Cllrs.

Age Concern – Request for Community Council to postpone payment of the rental of the Welfare Hall for three months while the application to Selar Community Fund is processed to ensure that the service will continue without a gap in provision. The service will be run by volunteers during this period. Agreed by all Cllrs present. Action DR to reply.

385/15 Committee Reports

Cllr Price – Selar Community Fund have approved application for the new chairs for The Welfare all. Some of the old chairs have been donated to Cwmgwrach RFC. Action: Dr to contact Enfys re recycling existing chairs.

386/15 Any Other Business

A local business woman has requested that a flyer is placed in the notice board. – approved.

Clun y Bon is due to close with the residents moving to Glynneath.

Nu Generation has requested a reduction in rent of the Welfare Hall for their presentation event. Approved – nominal charge of £20 to be paid.

Keep Wales Tidy will no longer be able to fund the skip that is available on a monthly basis. An application the Selar Trust Fund will be submitted to fund the skip on the middle Wednesday of each month.

387/15 Set Date & Time of next meeting

Next meeting: 6.30 p.m. on Thursday 11^th June 2015 at St Mary’s Church.

Meeting closed 7.35pm

Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on

Thursday 18^th June 2015 at 6.30 p.m.

Present: A Price (Deputy Chairperson), M Aveyard, A Challenger, G Harries, C Pavett (Chairperson), J Price, Joan Bodman.

Clerk: D Roberts

388 /15 Apologies: C Harries, G Harries, A Siddley

389/15 Declaration of Interest.

No declarations of interest

390/15 Minutes.

The minutes of the Meeting on 14^th May 2015 of the Blaengwrach Community Council were accepted as a true record, proposed by Cllr J Price, seconded by Cllr Challenger .

391/15 Matters Arising

Some of the old chairs from the Welfare Hall have been donated to Cwmgwrach Rugby Club.

The Welcome to Cwmgwrach project is still at the planning stage and NPTCBC have asked for more details for the structure. Action: to be discussed at September meeting.

392/15 Planning

No planning applications received.

393/15 Crime and Disorder.

There is a new PCSO in Cwmgwrach, he will continue to use The Cabin. Cllrs requested information on the date of the next PACT meeting. Action: DR to re-email newsletter with dates.

394/15 Finance

Payments agreed £1316

Payments Received £546

395/15Annual Return & Accounts

The Annual Accounts and return to the external auditors approved for submission.

396/15 Correspondence

Letter received form a resident with several issues. Action: Cllr Pavett (Chairperson) to reply.

397/15 Committee Reports

No reports

398/15 Any Other Business

Cllr Challenger has been approached by a local artist asking for use of the Welfare Hall to display and sell her works. Action DR to contact and invite to the next meeting.

Discussion on the development of the Welfare Park and pumping station to be added to the agenda for August.

Plans for Christmas festivities – The activities will take the same format as Christmas 2014.

It was suggested that a summer event could also be held in Cwmgwrach with outdoor activities in the Welfare Park. Action: to be discussed at next meeting.

Cllr Bodman is unable to attend the Community Liaison Committee meeting. Action: DR to add to agenda for next meeting.

399/15 Changing rooms at The Welfare Park

Cwmgwrach RFC has replaced the roof of the changing rooms. There were concerns regarding the disposal of the old roof, the chair of Cwmgwrach RFC has reassured the Community Council that all the legal issues have been adhered to and he the rubbish will be disposed of by a company who has all the necessary certificates and documentation.

Set Date & Time of next meeting

Next meeting: 6.30 p.m. on Thursday 13^th August 2015 at St Mary’s Church.Meeting closed 7.45pm

Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on

Thursday 13^th August 2015 at 6.30 p.m.

Present: A Price (Deputy Chairperson), A Siddley, G Harries, J Price, C Edwards, M Aveyard, C Harries

Clerk: D Roberts

400 /15 Apologies: C Pavett (Chairperson), A Challenger, J Bodman,

401/15 Declaration of Interest.

Cllr Siddley due to County Borough Council status

402/15 Minutes.

The minutes of the Meeting on 16^th June 2015 of the Blaengwrach Community Council were accepted as a true record, proposed by Cllr J Price seconded by Cllr Aveyard.

403/15 Matters Arising

There has been no contact from Mazaars.

404/15 Planning

No planning applications received.

Planning Inspectorate – Information on Planning Act 2008.

405/15 Crime and Disorder.

There have been two incidents in Cwmgwrach in the last month.

406/15 Finance

Payments agreed – £2776

Payments Received – £800

407/15 Correspondence

Barclays Bank – information on Glynneath branch closing – to be added to September’s agenda.

Letter from resident regarding the condition on the road side on the A465. Action: Issue to be raised at County Borough Council/SWTRA by Cllr A Siddley.

Age Concern – request to sore equipment at the Welfare Hall. The foyer has to be cleared due to risk of fire hazard. Seating and corner unit to be removed, Age Concern will be able to use the storage cupboard until next fire inspection.

Age Concern have been granted a rental holiday until the October meeting of Selar Community Fund.

408/15 Committee Reports

To be discussed at September meeting

409/15 Any Other Business

Cllr Pavett is progressing with the planning application for the welcome to Cwmgwrach project.

Cllr Siddley has received a request to have yellow lines on the road along Bryn Berllan Cottages. Action: Cllr Siddley to contact Highways Department at NPTCBC.

There has been no progress with the development of the rugby field at Fothergill road.

There has been a cow in the cemetery, all repair to damage to the cemetery have been completed.

A local artist has requested to hold an exhibition of her work at the Welfare Hall. Cllrs agreed to a commission of 15% of sales to be charge which will be used for the Christmas activities in Cwmgwrach.

The dram donated by Selar has been installed in the Welfare Park and secured free of charge. Cllrs agreed to the purchase of bulbs for spring.

410/15 Set Date & Time of next meeting

Next meeting: 6.30 p.m. on Thursday 10^th September 2015 at St Mary’s Church.

Meeting closed 7.30pm

Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on

Thursday 17^th September 2015 at 6.30 p.m.

Present: A Price (Deputy Chair), M Aveyard, A Challenger, A Siddley, G Harries, C Pavett (Chairperson), J Price, C Edwards

Clerk: D Roberts (Apologies)

411 /15 Apologies: C Harries, M Aveyard J Bodman

412/15 Declaration of Interest.

None

413/15 Minutes.

The minutes of the Meeting on 13^th August 2015 of the Blaengwrach Community Council were accepted as a true record, proposed by Cllr Edwards, seconded by Cllr J Price.

414/15 Matters Arising

Entrance to Cwmgwrach – Cllr Siddley and Cllr Pavett to visit NPTCBC to discuss progress.

415/15 Planning

No planning applications received.

416/15 Crime and Disorder.

No matters to report.

Next PACT meeting will be held on 23^rd September at 6.00pm at Church Hall Cwmgwrach

417/15 Finance

Payments agreed £406

Payments Received £598

Accounts set up on line banking as queried in last meeting

418/15 Correspondence

Mazars – There were no issues highlighted by the external auditors.

Accounts to be displayed at The Welfare Hall on 17^th October 11.00am to 12.00pm

Thanks were expressed by the Councillors to the Clerk for the completion of the paperwork for the auditors.

419/15 Committee Reports

Cllr A price will replace Cllr Bodman on the Community Liaison Committee.

420/15 Any Other Business

Christmas Party booked for Saturday 28^th November, Santa will arrive at 5.30pm, Children’s party in The Welfare Hall, tickets to be arranged by Blaengwrach Primary School as per last year.

Santa, Sleigh and entertainer booked. Cllrs agreed that refreshments will be provided for the children and turkey rolls will be on sale for the adults.

Residents have spoken to the Cllrs with regard to applying for a grant to show films in The Welfare Hall. It was agreed that a joint application would be made by Blaengwrach Community Council and a residents group which will be set up. The residents group will open a bank account and put together a constitution to enable them to apply for the grant.

Dram in the park – Cllrs to bring to the next meeting suggestions for the wording on the plaque to be put on the stone near the dram, acknowledging where the dram came from etc, Pandy Colliery and Selar.

Cllr G Harries brought up that the road to the underpass is in a very bad condition and as it is the only access out of the village for disabled people. Action: Cllrs Siddley to contact Mr Ian Carter @ NPTCBC regarding resurfacing the road to allow this road to be used.

A report from residents at Empire Avenue of the overgrown state of the rear of their gardens which is causing water towards houses. Action: Cllr Siddley to make enquiries

421/15 Set Date & Time of next meeting

Next meeting: 6.30 p.m. on Thursday 8^th October 2015 at St Mary’s Church.

Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on

Thursday 8^th October 2015 at 6.30 p.m.

Present: A Price (Deputy Chair), G Harries, C Pavett (Chairperson), J Price

Clerk: D Roberts

422 /15 Apologies: C Harries, M Aveyard, A Challenger, A Siddley, J Bodman, C Edwards

423/15 Declaration of Interest.

None declared

424/15 Minutes.

The minutes of the Meeting on 17^th September 2015 of the Blaengwrach Community Council were accepted as a true record, proposed by Cllr A Price , seconded by Cllr J Price .

425/15 Matters Arising

Cllr Siddley has spoken to NPTCBC and they have agreed to fill in the potholes on one side of the access to the underpass.

The “Welcome to the Village” is ongoing, policy at NPTCBC has now changed and it now has to made as a formal planning application, Cllr Pavett agreed to collate the costings and an application will be made to the Selar Community Fund.

Discussed the wording for the plaques on the dram located in the Welfare Park, Action: DR to email proposed wording to all Cllr to be discussed at next meeting.

Work to the rear of the gardens on Empire Avenue is scheduled for next year’s budget by NPTCBC.

426/15 Planning

No planning applications received.

427/15 Crime and Disorder.

Three attendees at the PACT meeting, crime is down.

428/15 Finance

Payments agreed £527

Payments Received £1185

The bank accounts at Barclays bank will be reviewed at the AGM, sue to the local brach closing.

429/15 Correspondence

NPTCBC consultation on the Licensing Act – web address given to Cllrs.

NPTCBC consultation on the Gambling Act – web address given to Cllrs.

Wales Audit Office – notification that there will be changes to the external audit next financial year.

Glynneath Town Council – request for information on funding for a skip at Glynneath Leisure Centre. Action: DR to contact Glynneath Town Council, Cllrs are willing to support an application to Selar Community Fund.

Blaengwrach Primary School – letter of thanks. Action: DR to post in notice board.

430/15 Committee Reports

No Committee Reports

431/15 Issues raised by Councillors

The Remembrance Service will be the same format at pervious years on 8^th November 2015.

McMillan Cancer Support requested the use of the Welfare Hall for a fundraising coffee morning on 12^th November – agreed by Cllrs.

432/15 Set Date & Time of next meeting

Next meeting: 6.30 p.m. on Thursday 12^th November 2015 at St Mary’s Church.

Meeting closed 7.55pm

Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on

Thursday 12^th November 2015 at 6.30 p.m.

Present: A Price (Deputy Chair), M Aveyard, A Challenger, A Siddley, G Harries, C Pavett (Chairperson), J Price, C Edwards, C Harries

Clerk: D Roberts

Cllr Pavett informed the Council of the sad news of the passing away of Cllr Joan Bodman, a two minutes silence was held as a mark of respect.

433/15 Apologies: A Siddley

434/15 Declaration of Interest.

Cllr Challenger re planning application

435/15 Minutes.

The minutes of the Meeting on 8^th October 2015 of the Blaengwrach Community Council were accepted as a true record, proposed by Cllr J Price, seconded by Cllr A Price.

436/15 Matters Arising

The coffee morning held in The Welfare Hall was a great success.

The wording for the dram in The Welfare Park will be bilingual.

The Remembrance Service was well attended and support by The Old Age group who organized and served refreshments to all attendees.

437/15 Planning

P2015/0984 – no objections

P2015/0962 – no objections

P2015/0847 – no objections

P2015/0872 – no objections

438/15 Crime and Disorder.

Report emailed to Cllrs.

439/15 Finance

Payments agreed £652

Payments Received £602

All Cllrs agreed to a donation in lieu of flowers to Alun Lewis for Cllr Bodman.

he “Chair’s Allowance” has been used for the Christmas activities.

440/15 Correspondence

NPTCBC – RDP scheme, Cllr requested further information regard in the scheme. Action: DR to Contact NPTCBC

Invitation to Thanksgiving Service at St Cadoc’s Church.

Letter of complaint received regarding parking at Remembrance Service. Action: Chair to reply.

Art Exhibition was poorly attended, commission waived by Council.

441/15 Committee Reports

Cllr Edwards – Glynneath Health Centre

442/15 Matters Raised by Councillors

There is now a vacancy for a Councillor. Action: DR to contact NPTCBC as to the process and the cost of an election and the possibility of co-opting a new Councillor. Information on the funeral to be displayed in the notice board.

The number of children at Blaengwrach Primary School is increasing.

443/15 Set Date & Time of next meeting

Next meeting: 6.30 p.m. on Thursday 10^th December 2015 at St Mary’s Church.

Meeting closed 7.00pm

Published: 7th January 2017

Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on

Thursday 12^th June 2014 at 6.30 p.m.

Present: A Price (Chairperson), M Aveyard (Deputy Chairperson), A Challenger, A Siddley, J Price, J Bodman

Clerk: D Roberts

265/14 Apologies: G Harries, C Pavett, C Harris, C Edwards

266/14 Item one: Declaration of Interest.

Cllr. Alf Siddley. Declared an interest with regards all Planning Matters in view of his County Borough Status.

267/14 Item two: Minutes.

The minutes of the Ordinary Meeting on Thursday 15^th May 2014 of the Blaengwrach Community Council were accepted as a true record, proposed by Cllr Bodman, seconded by Cllr Challenger .

268/14 Item Three: Matters Arising

Cllr E Jones of Glynneath Town Council will liaise with the Police Commissioner regarding the patrol of the area by PCSO’s.

There has been no reply to the request for a quote for the repairs to the roof of The Welfare Hall. All Cllrs present agreed to use the quote from the company already received.

269/14 Item four: Planning

P2014/0070 – no objections raised.

270/14 Item five: Crime and Disorder.

The incidents of vandalism in the park have been captured on the CCTV and the quality of the images is very good.

The vandalism in the park is to be raised at the next PACT meeting with the view to making it a priority in the area.

271/14 Item six: Finance

Payments Agreed – £4716

Payments received – £20198 (inc precept)

272/14 Item seven: Correspondence

Me,Myself and I Club – request for funding – declined.

273/14 Item eight: Committee Reports

New Health Centre – Cllr Siddley

274/14 Item nine: Any Other Business

There is an issue with dog fouling in the cemetery. Action: DR to get quotes for new metal signage to attach to the gate.

A request has been received from a resident requesting new nets for the tennis court. Action: DR to get quotes and email Cllrs to approve costs.

The youth group based at The Cabin have requested a litter bin in The Welfare Park. Action: DR to get quotes re costs.

275/14 Item ten: Set Date & Time of next meeting

Next meeting: 6.30 p.m. on 10^th July 2014 at St Mary’s Church

Meeting closed 7.20pm

Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on

Thursday 10^th July 2014 at 6.30 p.m.

Present: A Price (Chairperson), M Aveyard (Deputy Chairperson), A Siddley, J Price, J Bodman G Harries, C Pavett, C Harris, C Edwards,

Clerk: Apologies – D Roberts

Minutes take by Cllr Pavett.

276/14 Apologies: A Challenger

277/14 Item one: Declaration of Interest.

Cllr. Alf Siddley. Declared an interest with regards all Planning Matters in view of his County Borough Status.

278/14 Item two: Minutes.

The minutes of the Ordinary Meeting on Thursday 2012 of the Blaengwrach Community Council were accepted as a true record, proposed by Cllr J Price, seconded by Cllr J Bodman.

279/14 Item Three: Matters Arising

Cllr A Price reported more vandalism at The Welfare Park has been reported. Cllr Price urged all Cllrs attend the next PACT meeting.

Repairs to the roof of The Welfare Hall to be carried out over the summer.

280/14 Item four: Planning

P2014/0475 – details emailed – no objections

P2014/0233 – no objections

281/14 Item five: Crime and Disorder.

Other than matters arising, no new items.

282/14 Item six: Finance

2013/2014 Accounts discussed and approved. Proposed by Cllr Aveyard and seconded by Cllr Bodman

283/14 Item seven: Correspondence

ROSPA safety report for Welfare Park

Planning Inspectorate letter received, invitation to Ty Newydd 22/07/14.

284/14 Item eight: Committee Reports

Cllr Siddley – Health Centre and care home

Cllr Siddley – NPTCBC Committee meeting – savings of £23 million need to made this year.

285/14 Item nine: Any Other Business

Cllr Bodman – not enough drop kerbs around the school – reported by a resident.

Cllr A Price – The right hand side of the road to the underpass is overgrown. Cllr Siddley to investigate and see if anything can be done.

Cllr A Price – School has had grant for underpass project and it is close to getting underway. Approval from Welsh Government is needed for the design.

The concrete for the memorial benches has been laid in the park and has been funded by Selar.

Entrance to Cwmgwrach – Cllr Siddley investigating options and funding.

286/14 Item ten: Set Date & Time of next meeting

Next meeting: 6.30 p.m. on 11^th September 2014 at St Mary’s Church

Meeting closed

Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on

Thursday 11^th September 2014 at 6.30 p.m.

Present: A Price (Chairperson), J Price, G Harries, C Pavett, C Edwards, A Challenger

Clerk: D Roberts

287/14 Apologies: M Aveyard (Deputy Chairperson), A Siddley, C Harris, J Bodman

288/14 Item one: Declaration of Interest.

No Declarations

289/14 Item two: Minutes.

The minutes of the Ordinary Meeting on Thursday 10^th July 2014 of the Blaengwrach Community Council were accepted as a true record, proposed by Cllr Edwards, seconded by Cllr J Price.

290/14 Item Three: Matters Arising

PCSO did not attend PACT meeting 10/9/14

There is a new Sergeant in Glynneath. The overgrown area at the underpass is privately owned.

Awaiting planning permission from Thw Welsh Office before starting work on the underpass.

Memorial benches have been delivered.

291/14 Item four: Planning

P2014/0826 – details emailed – no objections

292/14 Item five: Crime and Disorder.

Two hour delay following the reporting of an incident at Heol Wenallt – to be raised at the next PACT meeting.

PCSO is now taking his breaks at The Cabin to increase police presence in Cwmgwrach.

293/14 Item six: Finance

Payments Received – £2039 plus precept

Payments approved – £3317

294/14 Item seven: Correspondence

Consultation on bus routes – details emailed to all

NT CVS – Nomination form for board members

295/14 Item eight: Committee Reports

No reports

296/14 Item nine: Any Other Business

Cllr Edwards has received information on The Charter via NPTCBC – Action: information to be forwarded to clerk to add as an agenda item.

Unveiling of the memorial benches will take place on Saturday 11^th October 2014 followed by a buffet and guest speakers.

Remembrance Day Service will take place on Sunday 9^th November

Complaint received from resident re motorbikes damaging footpaths, advised to report to South Wales Police and raised at next PACT meeting.

First Response attended the meeting and explained the role of the service, they will apply to Selar Community Fund for extra equipment.

297/14 Item ten: Set Date & Time of next meeting

Next meeting 6.30 p.m. on 9^th October 2014 at St Mary’s Church

Meeting closed 7.55 pm

Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on

Thursday 9^th October 2014 at 6.30 p.m.

Present: A Price (Chairperson), M Aveyard (Deputy Chairperson), A Challenger, G Harris, C Pavett, J Price, J Bodman, C Edwards

Clerk: D Roberts

298/14 Apologies: C Harris, A Siddley

299/14 Declaration of Interest.

None received

300/14 Minutes.

The minutes of the Meeting on 11^th September 2014 of the Blaengwrach Community Council were accepted as a true record, proposed by Cllr Edwards, seconded by Cllr J Price .

301/14 Matters Arising

No matters arising

302/14 Planning

No planning applications received.

303/14 Crime and Disorder.

No issues raised

304/14 Finance

Payments agreed £2312

Payments Received £947

Mazars audit report 2013/2104 – Reply from Mazars received, issues raised regarding audit report not being submitted by 30^th June 2014 (submitted 8^th July due to timing of Council meetings)and certification not received by 30^th September (submitted 9^th October due to timing of Council meetings) No other issues.

305/14 Correspondence

Wales Audit Office – refund of £30 can be applied for. Action: DR to complete paperwork.

306/14 Committee Reports

Cllr Edwards – Liaison Committee

Cllrs A Price – Budget cuts at NPTCBC

Cllr J Price – Selar Liaison Committee

307/14 Carter Agreement

All Cllrs have received a copy of the Charter Agreement. Action: carry forward to next meeting to discuss.

308/14 Any Other Business

Community Council website – the website has been developed. Action: DR to email link to all Cllrs to discuss and approve at next meeting.

There are overgrown trees on privately owned land on the road leading to the underpass. Cllrs Siddley to contact NPTCBC to arrange for the road to be swept when all the leaves have fallen from the trees.

Petition relating to playing fields at Fothergill Road – Cllrs stated that any development of the area would be discussed with residents at a public consultation meeting. Action: Copy petition to be taken to NPTCBC by Cllrs Siddley and original returned to resident.

Groundworks – The development of the entrance to the village is under discussion and may be redesigned.

Remembrance Service will take place at The Welfare Hall on Sunday 9^th November.

Selar Community Fund – Match funding is no longer required for applications under £15000.

309/14 Set Date & Time of next meeting

Next meeting: 6.30 p.m. on Thursday 13^th November 2014 at St Mary’s Church.

Meeting closed 7.00pm

Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on

Thursday 13^th November 2014 at 6.30 p.m.

Present: A Price (Chairperson), G Harris, C Pavett, J Price, C Harris

Clerk: D Roberts

310 /14 Apologies: M Aveyard, A Siddley, J Bodman, C Edwards, A Challenger

311/14 Declaration of Interest.

No declarations of interest.

312/14 Minutes.

The minutes of the Meeting on 2014 of the Blaengwrach Community Council were accepted as a true record, proposed by Cllr Pavett , seconded by Cllr J Price .

313/14 Matters Arising

No matters arising

314/14 Planning

P2014/1011

No issues raised

315/14 Crime and Disorder.

No issues raised

316/14 Finance

Payments agreed £604

Payments Received £1300

Dormant bank accounts to be combined and utilised as contingency funding. Action: Cllr A Price to contact Barclays Bank.

317/14 Correspondence

NPTCBC – Family Information Service. Action: leaflets to be placed in foyer at The Welfare Hall.

Welsh Government – Truck Road Speed Limit Review. Action DR to complete and return.

Natural Resources Wales – Trees in Towns & Cities. Action: DR to file.

Llangollen International Music Eisteddfod – Information on LLangollen 2015.

318/14 Committee Reports

Cllr J Price – Selar Community Benefit Fund – Two applications submitted.

319/14 Charter Agreement

The Charter Agreement was discussed and approved by all members present.

320/14 Any Other Business

BCC Website – further information is needed to comply with Welsh Government Legislation.

The opening ceremony for the Underpass project will take place on Friday 5^th December at 2.30 pm.

Bro Morganwg will not be hiring The Welfare Hall after December due to cuts in funding.

There is a Community Councillor vacancy on the Board of Governors at Blaengwrach Primary School. Cllr Pavett has agreed to represent the Community Council.

Plans were discussed and agreed for the switching on of the Christmas tree lights and family entertainment on Saturday 29^th November.

321/14 Set Date & Time of next meeting

Next meeting: 6.30 p.m. on Thursday 4^th December 2014 at St Mary’s Church.

Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on

Thursday 4th December 2014 at 6.30 p.m.

Present: A Price (Chairperson), M Aveyard (Deputy Chairperson), G Harries, J Price, J Bodman, C Edwards

Minutes take by Cllr Edwards

322 /14 Apologies: A Siddley, C Pavett, C Harries, D Roberts(Clerk)

323/14 Declaration of Interest.

None declared

324/14 Minutes.

The minutes of the Meeting on Thursday 13^th December 2014 of the Blaengwrach Community Council were accepted as a true record, proposed by Cllr J Price , seconded by Cllr G Harries .

325/14 Matters Arising

Opening of the underpass 5/12/14b at 2.30pm

Christmas party went well, better controlled this year due to ticket holders only attending. Father Christmas went around the village on sleigh, looked well again this year. Letters of thanks to be sent.

326/14 Planning

No planning applications received.

327/14 Crime and Disorder.

One house break in in Parish Road.

328/14 Finance

Payments agreed £358

Payments Received £937

Precept due in, outstanding payment for repair of guttering approx £5000.

329/14 Correspondence

Email – defibrillator cabinets – prices for cabinets noted

Funding for equipment agreed

Blaenhonddan Community Council – Hall hiring fees – agreed copy to be sent to clerk.

Pen y Cymoedd Construction Liaison Committee – Re-structuring committee – Cllr J Price 10/12/14 at 10 am.

Age Well in Wales – Older Person’s Commissioner in Wales

Letter of thanks from Enfys Brown.

330/14 Committee Reports

Liaison meeting NPTCBC 10^th December 2014.

First Responders – clothing and equipment agreed, 3 defibrillators and bags.

Police gong to The Cabin at lunch times, rota to be published when available.

331/14 Any Other Business

Young Mothers asked if they could hold a BBQ in the summer

Guides in Welfare Hall overnight

Service in Calfaria 14^th December 2014 at 2.30pm

Historical Society requested storage space for archived items

332/14 Set Date & Time of next meeting

Next meeting: 6.30 p.m. on Thursday 8^th January 2015 at St Mary’s Church.

Meeting closed 8:00pm

Accepted as a true record

http://www.blaengwrachcommunitycouncil.org/93-2/

Published: 7th January 2017

Blaengwrach Community Council

Cyngor Cymuned Blaengwrach

Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on

Thursday 9^th May 2013 at 6.00 p.m.

Present: A Price (Chairperson), A Challenger, A Siddley, C Pavett, J Price, J Bodman, C Edwards

Clerk: D Roberts

131/13 Apologies: M Aveyard (Deputy Chairperson), C Harries, G Harries

132/13 Declaration of Interest.

Cllr. Alf Siddley. Declared an interest with regards all Planning Matters in view of his County Borough Status.

133/13 Minutes:

Amendment: 117/12 Cllr Edwards requested that it be noted that she stated that correct procedure had not been followed and therefore the discussion relating to 113/13 had not been held in camera. The Chair stated that the issue was of a personal nature and therefore it had been discussed confidentially as stated at the time. Cllr Edwards requested it be noted that she did not agree.

The minutes of the Ordinary Meeting on Thursday 2013 of the Blaengwrach Community Council were accepted as a true record, proposed by Cllr C Pavett, seconded by Cllr J Price.

134/13 Matters Arising

The servicing for the park equipment is in progress.

135/13 Planning

P2013/0280 Proposed restoration & aftercare scheme under conditions 70&79 of planning permission P2009/1040. No objections

P2013/0269 Single storey rear extension. No objections

136/13 Crime and Disorder.

Cllr Bodman reported that there was an incident in Glynneath on Good Friday, a call was made to the police and considerable time lapsed before the police arrived at the incident. Cllr Bodman will contact South Wales Police regarding police cover of the area.

The issue of police cover will be raised at the next PACT meeting and an invitation sent to Superintendant Julian Williams to attend the meeting.

Groups of young people have been gathering in the Welfare Park, this will be raised at the next PACT meeting and request that a there is a higher police presence in the village during evenings and at weekends

137/13 Finance

Payment approved £972

Payments received £376

138/13 Correspondence

Celtic Energy – invitation to Councillors to attend public exhibition at The Welfare Hall n 21^st May. Cllr Price asked that Blaengwrach Community Councillors attend the exhibition.

Tidal Lagoon Swansea Bay – Invitation to informal forum event.

Mid & West Wales Fire & Rescue Service. Annual Improvement Report

Food Standards Agency. Information on Food Hygiene Ratings.

Bethan Jenknin AM. Request to attend Community Council meeting. Action: DR reply inviting Ms Jenkins hold a meeting at The Welfare Hall to meet the residents of the ward and discuss any local issues that affect the area.

Zurich Insurance. Information on renewal process.

Mazars LLP. Annual Return for Year End 31 March 2013.

139/13 Committee Reports

Cllr A Price, WCAGA drug bus will be in the area in the near future to raise awareness regarding the dangers of alcohol and drug abuse.

Cllr Bodman, Disability Network – discussions regarding the seating at Neath Port Talbot Hospital.

140/13 Training/One Voice Wales

Councillors discussed the issue of training provided by One Voice Wales and the renewal of One Voice Wales membership. To be carried forward to next meeting in order for Cllrs to investigate the alternative organisation (SLCC) and the cost implication, support and services offered by both organisations.

140/13 Any Other Business

Cllrs agreed to increase the hours of the gardener at The Welfare Park Cemetery on a seasonal basis.

Discussion regarding repairs to roads – NPTCBC have excess road cover materials which can be purchased to be used on un-adopted roads. Action: Cllr Challenger to approach the residents to ensure they are aware that the repairs could be carried out and that the roads would remain un-adopted. Cllr Edwards stated that the repairs would need to be to a high standard and the residents made aware that Blaengwrach Community Council were not responsible for future repairs. The work will be carried out by a locally based business at no cost. Payment approved with these conditions.

141/13 Set Date & Time of next meeting

Next meeting: 6.00p.m. on 13^th June 2013 at 6.00 pm at St Mary’s Church.

Meeting closed 7.10 pm.

Accepted as a true record

Signed:

S Ann Price (Chairperson)

http://www.blaengwrachcommunitycouncil.org/91-2/

Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on Thursday 10th July 2014

Published: 23rd September 2014

Minutes July 10 2014