Allotment Committee Minutes 1 July 2009

Mrs M Weston (Clerk to the Council).

An apology for absence was received from Mr G Bisson (first part of the meeting) and Mr Clark.

The Clerk asked for nominations for the position of Chairman for the ensuing year. Mr Alexander proposed that Mrs Butcher continue as Chairman. Mr Böckle proposed that Mrs Klaassen be elected to the position of Chairman and this was seconded by Mr Rollé.

RESOLVED: That Mrs Klaassen be elected Chairman for the ensuing year.

Mrs Klaassen proposed that Mrs Butcher be elected as Vice Chairman and this was seconded by Mr Alexander.

RESOLVED: That Mrs Butcher be elected as Vice Chairman for the ensuing year.

(a) Plot 98

It was noted that the asbestos shed still remained on this plot. The Clerk reported that she was experiencing difficulty in obtaining estimates for its removal.

RESOLVED: That the Clerk continue to pursue this matter.

(b) Stockproof Fence at Romsey Road End

Work had now taken place and it was noted that the entire allotment gardens were now securely fenced.

It had been necessary to place notices on the new fence asking members of the public not to climb over.

The Clerk drew the Committee’s attention to the fact that it had been necessary to place notices on all the taps as on several occasions they had been left turned on all night.

RESOLVED:

(a) To investigate the possibility of putting the water on a timed supply, perhaps solar powered, whereby the supply could be switched off at night.

(b) To enquire of NFDC regarding the provision of water butts for allotment holders where appropriate.

Chickens

RESOLVED:

(a) To adhere to the previously agreed resolution and to remind allotment holders that from October 1 only six poultry would be allowed per tenant.

(b) To make it clear to new tenants that poultry would not be allowed on small plots.

The Clerk reported that Mr Luke Parsons had agreed to judge the allotment competition.

He had already been given a map of the allotment gardens which outlined each plot, but not the name of the plot holder, and had paid a preliminary visit to the site although judging had not taken place.

This would be done at Mr Parsons’ discretion during July after which he would report to the Parish Council.

RESOLVED: That the Clerk look into the purchase of suitable prize(s) which could be engraved with the winner’s name.

Allotment Inspection – Condition of Plots

The Committee conducted an inspection of the allotments and found several plots in poor condition that required action to be taken to withdraw tenancies in October.

Several other plot holders would receive letters asking that remedial action be taken or tenancies would not be renewed in October.

RESOLVED: That the Clerk be authorised to send out the necessary letters.

It was noted that the problem with vermin was once again prevalent and several sites were identified where the problem was particularly rife.

RESOLVED:

(a) That the Clerk provide Mr Böckle with a letter of authority so that he could take his dog into the allotment gardens to identify the main sites requiring vermin control. The Clerk would also purchase biodegradable marker for use in identifying the likely infestations.

(b) That letters be sent to those tenants that were found to have bad infestations on their sites asking them to take remedial steps.

(c) That consideration be given to asking the Environmental Protection Department of NFDC to visit the site if this proved necessary.

(d) To request that allotment holders whose sheds were positioned “off the ground” be asked to provide mesh around the perimeter of their sheds.

It was noted that once tenants had relinquished plots it would be necessary to undertake plot clearance in order to bring them up to a standard whereby they could be re-let.

RESOLVED: That consideration be given to the best way to undertake this problem in the fullness of time and that the Clerk contact the NF NPA to ascertain whether it might be possible to obtain a sustainable development grant.